Jones Cottrell has announced he will run for the District 3 seat on the Hall County Board of Commissioners.

The District 3 seat is currently held by Steve Gailey, who does not plan to seek re-election.

This is Cottrell’s first bid for elected office, though he has held appointed positions.

He previously served on the Hall County Planning Commission for more than seven years. He also served on the Watauga County Planning Commission in Boone, N.C.

Cottrell, 61, lives near Clermont with his wife Tracy. He has lived in Hall County since 1987.

“I have a heart for public service,” Cottrell said. “I enjoy what I do on the planning commission and I think I can bring some experience to the table that will be helpful to Hall County.