Richard M. Collier
Candidate for County Commissioner, New Hanover County
Background
- Occupation
- Civil engineer
A civil engineer for more than 30 years, he has lived in New Hanover County since 1997.
Documented positions
Taxes & budget
Opposes a tax increase without documented need
He wants to grow the tax base rather than the tax rate and review county spending program by program.
ReportRepublican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of CommissionersCandidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
“I would not propose a tax increase without a clear, documented need.”
Public safety
Supports canceling the county's Flock camera contract
He would consider a future license-plate reader proposal with documented benefits, enforceable data limits and independent audits.
ReportRepublican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of CommissionersCandidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
“I support the board’s decision to cancel the Flock camera contract.”
Education
Supports the $320.5 million school bond
ReportRepublican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of CommissionersCandidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
“I support the $320.5-million school bond on this year’s ballot.”
Housing
Supports awarding workforce housing funds through open competition
ReportRepublican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of CommissionersCandidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
“I would keep the remaining $2 million available through an open, competitive process.”
Roads & infrastructure
Opposes bridge toll, favors 65-foot movable bridge design
If the choice is between a toll and a local-option sales tax, he would put a clearly defined regional sales-tax proposal before voters.
ReportRepublican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of CommissionersCandidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
“I oppose tolling the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. … On the design, I favor the 65-foot movable bridge”
All sources (3)
- 2026 General Election Candidate Listing (New Hanover County offices and districts)
Election filing · North Carolina State Board of Elections · s3.amazonaws.com
- 2026 General Election Candidate Listing
Election filing · North Carolina State Board of Elections · s3.amazonaws.com
- Republican challenger Richard Collier is running for a seat on the New Hanover County Board of Commissioners
Candidate questionnaire · WHQR Public Media (WECT, Port City Daily, WHQR and The Seahawk questionnaire) · Sep 22, 2026 · whqr.org
Positions are summarized from the sources listed and are not inferred from party affiliation. Items marked “Provided by” were published by the candidate's verified campaign or party office under our campaign content standards. See something wrong? Use the Report link beside it, or contact us.