I would like to see this as a place where families remain from generation to generation,'' she said. Commissioners District 1, 1996-present. Associate's in civil engineering technology, Central Piedmont Community College. During his first term he's been a loud critic of what he sees as big government and big spending. A native of the Avery County mountains, Carter's a plainspoken man who prides himself on telling things as they are.
Supporters say a generous heart lies below the gruff exterior.
Critics say he can distort things and bully people. Both his fans and foes agree that he's dogged in pursuing his goals. He has persuaded commissioners to support a Cornelius library. Carter is pushing for a 1-cent sales tax to pay for schools and jails. Maggi Markey says she's not above a catfight if it means beating Joel Carter.