Vision. Leadership.Service.

ABOUT GARY ENGEL

Dedicated to Gilmer County

Gilmer County is a special place to live, work, and raise a family. I am committed to protecting what makes our community unique while planning responsibly for the future.

My life has been defined by service. I served our country for 28 years in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Colonel, and have continued that commitment as a business executive, entrepreneur, local business owner, and community leader. Those experiences have prepared me to bring disciplined, transparent, and people-focused leadership to Gilmer County.

Throughout my career, I have led large organizations, managed significant budgets, and worked in environments where accountability, efficiency, and measurable results were essential. I believe county government should be held to that same standard.

I am running to serve Gilmer County with integrity, strong leadership, and a clear commitment to responsible growth, sound financial stewardship, and preserving the character of the community we call home.

A Campaign Built on Three Principles

VISION

For Responsible Growth

Gilmer County is growing, and that growth must be managed wisely. I support detailed, thoughtful planning that protects our rural character while preparing responsibly for the future.

We must:

Promote positive, quality growth while preserving our community’s character
Encourage reasonable-cost housing options
Work with developers to ensure they help fund infrastructure needs created by new developments
Plan effectively for sustainable, long-term community growth through smart, forward-looking policies

Growth should strengthen our county — not burden taxpayers.

LEADERSHIP

Through Experience

My qualifications reflect a lifetime of leadership and service:

Christian
Retired U.S. Army Colonel and Combat Veteran
Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies, United States Naval War College
Recipient of the Bronze Star, Legion of Merit, and numerous additional military honors
Vice President, Anteon / General Dynamics Corporation
Member, Gilmer County Board of Tax Assessors
Owner and Founder, Engelheim Vineyards
Chairman, Georgia Wine and Grape Commodity Commission

SERVICE

To our Community

Service means listening. I will actively seek input from the citizens of Gilmer County and pursue innovative, collaborative solutions to community challenges.

I am committed to:

Reducing burdensome county debt
Striving to lower taxes and limit the size of government
Increasing efficiency and accountability within county operations
Supporting education while protecting taxpayers
Strongly supporting our first responders and military personnel

I also believe in investing wisely in our

future by enhancing cost-effective recreational opportunities for our young people and families — improving quality of life without increasing the tax burden.

"This campaign is about protecting what makes Gilmer County special while making smart, fiscally responsible decisions for the next generation. It is about smaller, more effective government, lower taxes, and leadership grounded in service".