Rosabelle Gorman has picked up qualifying papers for the District 3 seat on the Hamilton County Commission.
She is seeking the Democratic nomination in the May 1 primary. Incumbent Greg Martin so far has no opposition in the Republican primary. The general election is Aug. 2.
Gorman said in a news release her top priorities are attracting high-quality employers who provide living wages for our citizens, offering equal public education opportunities for children in all areas of the county, and giving small, local businesses the advantages they need for growth.
"Our government should be working harder to make our community better," Gorman said. "I'm eager to contribute."
Gorman, a Realtor with Crye-Leike Hixson, is a 20-year resident of Chattanooga who moved to Middle Valley in 2008.
For two years, she owned and operated Brix Nouveau, a wine bar in the North Shore, which gave her a "unique perspective on the joys and challenges of running a small, local business," she said in the release.
Her additional experience includes three years in vendor relations and budget/cost management with Volkswagen of Chattanooga and facilities/operations management with First Tennessee and CB Richard Ellis.
Gorman holds a bachelor's degree in business and organizational management from Bryan College and is a graduate of the Bill Holmberg Arts Leadership Academy.
Gorman and her husband, Marshall, have a young son. She's part of a military family and lived in various parts of the U.S. and across the world.
"I can definitely appreciate what a wonderful place Hixson is to live, work and raise a family. We need to keep our community's identity while we promote responsible development here and throughout the county," she said.
The filing deadline for the May 1 primaries is Feb. 15.