ashe county commissioner candidates

Beth Sorrell: Again, we have to listen to the people which means we need to find better ways to engage the community in that decision-making. Something like an apprenticeship program that accumulates documented hours of training and work toward a journeyman status or thereabouts. I am not running with a political agenda. 5. I will strive to understand where the criticism is coming from and use it constructively in my work serving the people of Ashe County. People often get frustrated when they dont have correct information and base their opinions on rumors. Dawn Ford is 77. Any and all decisions should be public knowledge to show that we are working for everyone to be glad they live here in beautiful Ashe County. How do you know where you are going without a road map? Our most pressing item is getting the new middle school under way. Throughout my career, I have served in various capacities of leadership in local and state positions. We want to establish a community center for people on the west side of the county. ASHE COUNTY Six candidates are running for three open seats on the Ashe County Board of Commissioners one incumbent and five challengers. Vote for ONE. This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. An incoming freshmen could certainly have a plan and a tool to use for employment after graduating in four years. This notice contains a list of all of the ballot measures and federal, State, and local offices this county expects, as of this date, to be on the ballot on the date of the election. The affordable housing problem is not an easy task. We will through land use planning, strategic capital investments and change management plans ensure a good and improving quality of life in our communities. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. 3 of 11 4 of 11. As with this challenge, a tried-and-true method of defining this problem starts with collaborating with community stakeholders to identify the issues that contribute to the lack of affordable housing, arriving at conclusions which define a path to correct the problem, and then initiating a plan of action. I came up here in January of 1994 to go skiing near Boone and I saw the sign at US 421 and NC 16 for Jefferson so I took a detour and came up this way. I dont consider it a county responsibility to try a lot of different pilot programs; that is more the job of state government. This notice contains a list of all of the ballot measures and local offices this county expects, as of this date, to be on the ballot on the date of the election. Habitat for Humanity may be a source for home buyers and a program that the county government can converse with. The primary duty of County Commissioners is approving a budget that spends your tax dollars wisely with a focus on helping our citizens fulfill their basic needs of affordable housing, food, and healthcare, in addition to education and recreation. Our job is to work with the town boards to ensure the infrastructure is in place to attract future construction and growth. Good local government works best with engagement and input from citizens. Now I am hearing from folks that I speak with that we may see if we have not already, yet another .04 cents on the dollar for the middle school to the tune of over $60,000,000 that will fall on the backs of our taxpayers. Occasionally the county can take on projects funded by the state, if the county can commit to funding those programs in the future when state (and possibly federal) funds will inevitably dry up. 3. Our county government should continue in making every effort to see this happen. 8. The first thing I would consider is how many people will the proposal benefit? Ashe County's newly elected officials | wcnc.com We need more affordable housing before we can begin to entice new job opportunities to help our residents and young adults stay in Ashe County. A: 1. Were looking at making a park along the river similar to the Creeper Trail Park in Lansing. How would you address the lack of affordable housing in Ashe County that both current and potential Ashe County residents are dealing with? The job of a county commissioner can be thankless work how do you feel about keeping a level head, handling dissenting views and managing/ resolving conflict?Jonathan Jordan: Well, in matter of fact, that is exactly what I spent eight years doing in Raleigh. During my career, I was often tasked with defining community problems and their root cause. WebCANDIDATE LIST GROUPED BY CONTEST ALAMANCE BOARD OF ELECTIONS CRITERIA: Election: 11/08/2022, Show Contest w/o Candidate: N, County: ALL COUNTIES, Data Source: FULL COUNTY VIEW ALAMANCE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS CARTER, STEVEN JEFFERY Steve Carter 12/06/20212779 S CHURCH ST SUITE 331 REP Nothing is impossible and everything is possible. Imagine if Leviton, AEV, United Chemi-Con and GE could bring on more employees, meet the shortfalls due to present inflation, raise pay to meet the needs for folks to earn a good living without having to live from paycheck to paycheck and maintain quality paying jobs for the citizens of Ashe County. Were working with Wilkes Community College to tailor training to suit a potential employer. We have been obligated to a debt that we can not yet measure. Another project Im excited about is the establishment of a community center at the current middle school site after the new middle school opens. Don't Threaten. When any project is presented to the Board for consideration my first questions will be how will it improve Ashe County and what will the tax burden be both now and into the future. My children have gone to school here in Ashe for many years it means a lot me. I feel that a project manager must come to the table with all Is dotted and Ts crossed. Jason T. Schofield, the Republican Rensselaer County Board of Elections commissioner, leaves James T. Foley U.S. To view our latest e-Edition click the image on the left. That is dead on arrival with me. The new facility which opened this year is our opportunity to create training programs to establish a strong work force to attract business to our county. We'll send breaking news and news alerts to you as they happen! As you asked in an earlier question, the housing shortage needs to be addressed. Economic development includes any initiatives that improve infrastructure, enhance our education system, better our public safety, improve parks, and foster ways that incentivize and attract new businesses and jobs. Were also looking at doing the same type of program for EMS in the fall of 2023. Despite construction delays, county administration is setting aside those funds so they are in place and available when needed. I would seek to understand the environmental, cultural and economic impacts of the project in the short term as well as the long term. Jerry Powers: I would hope to be a voice of reason, as I hope I was perceived in my prior term, with no interest in dictating Ashe Countys future. About when one thought the House GOP could not handle any more scandals or politically dumb decisions, reporters revealed the House Ethics Committee had investigated state Rep. Scotty Campbell from Mountain City (the northeastern tip of Tennessee) for alleged sexual harassment of legislative employees. I believe that candidates are elected by the people, for the people and to conduct the peoples business at the will of the people. Too much secrecy can lead to abuse of power and a lack of accountability. My office is located in Jefferson, just around the corner from the courthouse. I am a member of Bald Mountain Baptist Church. As long as you make the best decisions and you can go to sleep at night feeling you did your best for the county, that is all that can be expected from anyone. Once a streamlined process is in place to educate and inform the public, initiate a builder and developers summit to recruit projects for affordable housing. Deaett R. Roten(D)Ashe County Sheriff 1.1. But most importantly, lending support to ensure we are producing a quality, well-educated student upon graduation is first on any strategic plan. Its our job that our citizens get the fair share of the opportunities available through the state budget and available statewide programs. 3. 6. If someone offered a project proposal to the board of commissioners, how would you evaluate whether the project was worth funding? I will always try to have the answer and if not, I will surely get back with that person with the answer to their concern. 4. I want to continue to work well with the school board. William Sands: I was part of the Board of Commissioners that planned the 2020-21 budget. Russell Killen: There is usually going to be conflict on decisions that are being made and you are never going to make everyone happy. I have served in the role of commissioner since January 2018. Except for a few areas, all county activities are a matter of public record. We must change this for our people to thrive in this housing market. Russell Killen: As stated, I am not running with an agenda. In January, former Rensselaer County Elections Commissioner Jason Schofield pleaded guilty to unlawfully using the names and dates of birth of voters to fraudulently I want very much to meet the needs of our people. Upon completion we will have shovel ready sites to offer new or expanding businesses. But we should continue to be very wise and careful with our spending. Russell Killen: We as commissioners should look at using taxpayers money as if it was our own and make common sense decisions based on what the needs of the county and its offices are. ASHE COUNTY Eight Ashe County Commissioner candidates that are hoping to be elected to one of three seats in November answered questions on a wide variety of topics that included government accountability, affordable housing and economic challenges that many county residents have to deal with each day. Im driven to find solutions and solve problems so that everyone can have a better quality of life here. Its true that some people dont make responsible decisions and save for tough times, but I believe that most people are working hard to support their families and still not able to pay the bills and provide a healthy, stress-free home for their families. I attended Nathans Creek and Mountain View Elementary schools then Ashe Central and Ashe County High where I was a member of the first graduating class. Russell Killen: With the COVID-19 pandemic we as a community have seem to adjust to our new norm. Many citizens are unemployed. In September 1997, I retired from government service after 33 years. We have three children, one grandchild, and eight ninths of another grandchild on the way. WebAshe County Clerk of Superior Court Republican Party Pam W. Barlow (336) 219-1400 Website Ashe County Commissioner Republican Party Charles Perry "Chuck" Olive (336) 846-5501 Email: administration@ashecountygov.com Website Republican Party Jerry D. Powers (336) 846-5501 Email: administration@ashecountygov.com Website Republican Party 8. William Sands: I grew up in nearby Surry County, purchased property in Ashe 37 years ago and have lived here over 26 years. We may need to increase resources to law enforcement. Not everyone can go to college and not everyone can qualify or make it in the Military. I spent three years in East Africa and saw the importance of good public health and community-based solutions. I will not budge on wasting taxpayer dollars on projects that are never completed, or that do not benefit Ashe County and its people. 1. I am married to Glenda Miller Wagoner. All the facts must be verified for disclosure when legally possible so all affected parties are fully aware of the circumstances surrounding the issue. I also see a need for more apprenticeship opportunities with our high school and local businesses to provide more options for our young people who want to live and work in the county. 8. (See Attachment). If elected as your commissioner, the person or persons presenting their project will have to be well prepared. The board of county commissioners directs these matters to bring a fair and prosperous environment where all our citizens who work and apply themselves can succeed, and contribute to our overall economy. I still have strong contacts in Raleigh, which is an important way I can call in help or resources when we need them. After that, I went to graduate school for public health and spent some time in Ethiopia doing community health education. Use the 'Report' link on I believe that I have the skills, experience, and willingness to listen and work together with my fellow citizens in protecting and advancing Ashe County as an incredible place to live, work and play. Visiting and recruiting potential clients, showcasing our new industrial business park and boasting how Ashe County is a special place to live, work, and play will produce dividends that increase our tax base and create new jobs. As we all know our children are our future, these programs must receive any help we can give. Active William Sands: The main issue we face at this time is COVID-19 and its results. I am not one for spending taxpayer dollars on something that never becomes reality. We should continue to invest wisely in our local educational system, prioritizing programs that directly help our students learn and succeed in the classroom. County If you have a house fire, and I have before, you know the value of those guys and gals firsthand. Otherwise, I have failed those who may have elected me to the office of Commissioner. I enjoy helping people and have a genuine belief that Ashe County is the best place on earth, which is what led me to this job in the beginning! We are working with the Ashe Early College and Wilkes Community College to provide fire training beginning this fall so we can continue to have a personnel pool to staff our volunteer fire departments. Our nation deserves better than this and it starts at the local level. 5. I think drawing new industry to Ashe County is going to be difficult at best without some major incentives; its hard for us to compete with transportation and population advantages below the mountain. I am applying for the job of Ashe County commissioner based on my record of service and achievement to the citizens of our great county. racist or sexually-oriented language. We understood then and are still aware of the unknown future with COVID-19. Party: Dem County: Philadelphia Occupation: Judge of the Pennsylvania Superior Court Education: Temple It should therefore be used for things beneficial to the public at large, or for things that individuals cannot do for themselves (roads, other infrastructure, economic development programs to improve our overall economy, etc.) UT professor Mark Harmon, former county commissioner and congressional candidate, is 66. that is degrading to another person. I think we are better when we work together in a civil manner. When transparency and accountability are missing, people get hurt, money is wasted, and our entire community suffers. But it doesnt matter how ready the site is without a sustainable workforce to staff a new business. Jim Cain: As a longtime planner, one thing I would think we need to do is a total analysis, to the maximum extent possible to see how the county has done during the pandemic, in a variety of functional areas. Beth Sorrell: This pandemic has put a spotlight on the wide range of struggles that too many people in Ashe County have been living with for too long. Downtown Bellefonte pedestrian We are always being presented with opportunities to fund a wide variety of great programs and ideas. Lets use our scenery, fishing, canoeing and hiking to create opportunities for smaller, community owned businesses. I love our county and have a passion for working with others to help keep taxes down and to make it an affordable place to raise a family. Recently we installed new video and sound equipment for broadcasting meetings. We need a program that makes parents responsible for the development of their children. Then, it would be good to find out from all that present this project, what the long-range effect might have on the county as a whole. We need to teach our children what will help them to be able to compete with any school, whether in the USA or any other country. If elected by the Ashe County voters, I plan to continue my record of Promises Made, Promises Kept, in local government as I did in the State House. Russell Killen: I would like to be one of Ashe Countys commissioners as to have a voice in what is happening within the county. I look forward to laying the groundwork for projects to come though my membership of the board. Lets help Ashe County High School and Wilkes Community College strengthen work-ready training where our residents can find full time jobs that let them come closer to paying the cost of living. Email: steve.carter@alamance-nc.com Phone: 336-214-7606. General election for Ashe County Board of Commissioners (3 seats) Beth Sorrell, Mike Eldreth, Todd A. McNeill, and Chuck Olive ran in the general election for Ashe I am invested in our community and am prepared to go to work again for all our Ashe County citizens. Discover More Why do you want to be an Ashe CountyCommissioner? ABOUT US | Ashe County, NC | Ashe County Democratic We all need to be more aware of what is creeping into the educational programs that they want taught to our children. Republican incumbents Todd McNeill and Chuck Olive are seeking re-election to the board. And of course, part of that job is to provide things our citizens cannot do for themselves, such as roads and law enforcement, among others. Keep it Clean. I am human like anyone else, and welcome questions from the public on their concerns for our county business conducted on a weekly, monthly, and yearly basis. I will also work to grow existing partnerships with the community college and local businesses to create more apprenticeship and training programs, focusing on local agriculture and innovative economic opportunities. It has been my job, as Commissioner, to take an objective look at each project and determine those that will serve the most citizens and be financially sustainable into the future. racist or sexually-oriented language. 5. The things that are being implemented now such as the US 221 construction were begun years ago. There will be times that difficult decisions have to be made and there will be times that people will disagree on these decisions. Commissioner candidates share their thoughts on numerous topics ahead of 2022 election season. My approach is that you can never have too much information on a given topic. Its become a normal part of my life and Im ready to put that practice to use as a county commissioner. 3. As a candidate for commissioner of Ashe County, I feel that the lack of industry and higher paying jobs in Ashe County is our first problem. Once the trust is lost, it could become years before trust is reestablished. 3. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, Where do you think that money should go?Jonathan Jordan: The first thing to keep in mind is how much of our citizens money we can return to them while making sure we responsibly fund local government. Jonathan Jordan: Should I be elected to serve on the Ashe County Board of Commissioners, it would be my hope to end that term as a good steward with the county continuing to remain on a sound financial footing, with strong financial reserves, a low tax rate for our citizens, and continued economic opportunity and progress. County governments biggest role in the project is to provide funding, which we have already committed to. We as commissioners need to be willing to try and help any way we can to help the citizens of Ashe County to adjust and succeed. I came home and earned an MA in Public Health Education. There should be no hidden agendas in any government body. One priority would be to increase funding for our environmental services to protect the resources we have, enforce those protections and educate the community on how to take care of our land and water. Wes Greene For Ashe County Commissioner I think it is very important. In other words, you do not hand someone $1.6 million and say go draw up blueprints for the Middle School and then receive nothing in return. You dont have to guess; you know from my record that when I promise something, I keep that promise. 3. Our non-certified employees, custodians, bus drivers, office staff, and assistants have not had a raise since 2008. Threats of harming another AsheAshe County Board of Commissioners 1.1. For seven years I served in the capacity of occupational safety and health manager with additional duties of structural fire coordinator, facility inspector, and safety instructor for the Park Service. Party: Dem Education: Bellefonte Area High School, U.S. Army Signal School, course work job Our children need a career choice beginning in their freshman year and continuing through graduation. 1. My education, experience in management and as commissioner supplies me with knowledge in operating county government. We have had some amazing folks that really care about our kids working in Ashe County and need to keep them working. 7. In being a commissioner, you are presented with many requests which you would need to review and sort out, but just because something cannot be funded at the time does not mean that it isnt important. 4. The Bible says count the cost before you begin. Also, I support bringing more jobs to our area, but we have to have the citizens to fill those jobs, who have the skills and experience that can be accomplished through workforce training programs with our community college. If you were able to increase funding for county programs, departments or projects, what would be your top priorities? The commissioners role is to see that the county runs smoothly and to help bring and keep industry and businesses in the county. We are a tourist destination and we need to help make the citizens of Ashe proud of the place in which we live. If elected, what are you hoping the Ashe County Board of Commissioners will achieve by the end of your term? I know our county, our people and their needs. County Commissioners Every community deserves attention and support from county government. 1. 5. Weve been working with the school board to secure funding which I hope will take a lot of the burden off Ashe County taxpayers. I would look at the purpose of the proposal, who it benefits, and will it have a long-term effect. In June 2022, Republican Troy Councilwoman Kimberly Ashe-McPherson pleaded guilty to a felony charge after admitting that she also fraudulently submitted absentee ballots in elections held in 2021. Vote Informed on the Entire Ballot Jonathan Jordan: I am asking for your support to become an Ashe County Commissioner because I want to continue to help and give back to our community in any way I can. I have been a North Carolina licensed auctioneer since 1987 and the owner and President of Mountain Auction Company Inc. We are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. We cant satisfy ourselves with just reacting to things. Tennessee House Republicans pile on unforced error after unforced

Wirecutter Included In Nytimes Subscription, Collin County Candidates 2022, Which Of The Big 4 Is The Most Prestigious?, Articles A