In the 2021 calendar year, there were almost 29,000 calls for service including fire, EMS and law enforcement. If someone has any questions, they can come to the meeting and state their concern or contact the administration department. I am glad to present this record as my credentials for why I want your support to serve on the team of county commissioners who direct our local government. Following the example of other county governments, I would see an Organizational Vision as follows: Ashe County will be the best local government service provider in the mountain counties of North Carolina. I left CSC to pursue Small Business Development and have owned several businesses one of which I still own today. Ashe County is the greatest place to live and raise a family. 6. Be Proactive. A project proposal always comes with a lot of promises, fancy wording and should be for the betterment of the community. Another huge attribute is fiber optic service to our county. Making information quick and easy to find will go a long way to maintain trust and confidence in local government. Let our high schools train and qualify our students/future employees in the school setting so that when they graduate, they can go to work here in our hometown rather than having to leave family and loved ones to find work somewhere else. Our most pressing item is getting the new middle school under way. Be Proactive. Jim Cain: For the 20 years that I have lived full-time in the county I have seen the same group of problems which never seem to disappear or be solved. WebCounty: Appling Atkinson Bacon Baker Baldwin Banks Barrow Bartow Ben Hill Berrien Bibb Bleckley Brantley Brooks Bryan Bulloch Burke Butts Calhoun Camden Candler Carroll Catoosa Charlton Chatham Chattahoochee Chattooga Cherokee Clarke Clay Clayton Clinch Cobb Coffee Colquitt Columbia Cook Coweta Crawford Crisp Dade Dawson Decatur DeKalb Republican incumbents Todd McNeill and Chuck Olive are seeking re-election to the board. I am not a fan at all for raising taxes on the county property owners because of the failed attempt in the past for the new middle school. In 1991, after graduation from The Federal Executive Institute, I was appointed to the senior executive Service (The top 2000 government civilians, all reporting to political appointees, normally Department heads). Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. If you forget it, you'll be able to recover it using your email address. Ive been driven to serve my community since I was in college at Appalachian State in the 1990s where I began volunteering to help others while also learning valuable skills. Except for a few areas, all county activities are a matter of public record. 7. I came to Ashe County in 1994 when I was a member of the North Carolina Highway Patrol. 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. 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. We must invest in our land to protect it for future generations and to grow our outdoor economy. We want to establish a community center for people on the west side of the county. Tell us a little about yourself and why you want to be an Ashe County Commissioner. As we all know our children are our future, these programs must receive any help we can give. After attending Northwest Ashe High School, I earned a BS in Education from Appalachian State University. Democratic Elections Commissioner Edward McDonough, left, and Republican Elections Commissioner Jason Schofield, right, speak to poll workers in 2020. We also need to work with the school board to provide quality afterschool care and summertime programs that keep our children engaged, stimulated and active. They should listen to the people and work hard to create a better place for everyone to make a living and reach their fullest potential. In your view, what is the boards role as a whole?Jonathan Jordan: Ashe County commissioners are our elected board of directors for our county government. I was appointed to the BROC Board (Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission) when I was an Ashe County Commissioner (2016-2020). I know that the budget meetings that take place in June are open to the public. Active Those businesses could get a tax break for bringing their business to Ashe County for the few years and, in turn, our citizens could thrive on a good paying job and make a home for the family they want to have and build on. Our citizens and communities certainly deserve better than that. Former Sheriff J. J. Jones is 63. I know we need a safe county, and there I support back the blue. Also, when we think along those lines we need never forget our fire and rescue squads. The industrial park is a step in the right direction, but we need to look at how we can use our resources to entice more business and revenue. Our children need a career choice beginning in their freshman year and continuing through graduation. Continued problems with drug and alcohol abuse in portions of Ashe County. Not everyone can go to college and not everyone can qualify or make it in the Military. In order for a unit of local government to operate as a good and just government, it must have the trust of the citizens it serves. Be Truthful. Leslie A. Wallace, an assistant for constituent relations for Rensselaer County, and her attorney, Joel Abelove, leave federal after she was arraigned We have two sons, Kelly Joe who graduated from Ashe Central, and Jared who graduated from Northwest. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Todd A. McNeill(R) 1.4. We often will use our contacts with the state legislature or organizations like the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners or the High Country Council of Government to see if the proposal is already being implemented somewhere else in the state and what they might have used to make a proposal a reality. Because of leaning more toward tourism in recent decades, we have failed the industry that existed before. This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. William Sands: As commissioner, in spending the taxpayers money, I have always tried to make wise decisions and justify spending with information I have at that time. Don't knowingly lie about anyone If you have a house fire, and I have before, you know the value of those guys and gals firsthand. 7. 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. I dont even mention apartments because I could not even find any for rent. 4. Its become a normal part of my life and Im ready to put that practice to use as a county commissioner. I am a proud enrolled member of the White Earth Band or Mississippi Band, Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, (Ojibway) Indians. Deaett R. Roten(D)Ashe County Sheriff 1.1. But, housing costs have raised 17.7% in Ashe over the last year. I feel that a project manager must come to the table with all Is dotted and Ts crossed. It is never acceptable for someone to conceal any deal that concerns we the people. Backroom and secret deals are against all that we, as commissioners should be held accountable for. The lack of broadband and cell phone coverage in significant portions of Ashe. B. Phil Howell(R)New Riv Nothing is free and everything should be earned. And finally, we need a program to help our citizens who abuse prescription drugs daily and especially with children in the home. The Ashe Post & Times fielded eight questions to each of the commissioner candidates via email, whose responses are as follows: Jonathan Jordan: My name is Jonathan Jordan. Success! The county population is 26,577, according to the United States Census Bureau. 3. I would encourage individuals to look at the employment field that is available as a career and not just as a job. Error! I may have helped you or your family draw up your wills or business contracts. County Commission candidate Christine Cruz is 54. 1. Jerry Powers: It is yet to be determined how the 2020 pandemic will affect next years budget, a cost not of our own making but dictated by state and federal mandates. My children have gone to school here in Ashe for many years it means a lot me. During that time I spent two more years in Vietnam (1973-1975), two more years in Bangkok, Thailand, a year in German language school and then 10 consecutive years in Germany. Having lived outside the U.S. for 20 years I obviously have some ideas and will be happy to add them at the right time. UT professor Mark Harmon, former county commissioner and congressional candidate, is 66. WebAshe County is a county in North Carolina. There was an error processing your request. I know of one bus driver that works at Walmart after he delivers the students to school. I was born and raised in Lansing, North Carolina by Kenneth and the late Stella Massey. Russell Killen: I am 59 years old and have been married to Diane Roland Killen for 35 years and we have two daughters and two grandkids. As a United States Marine, you can surely bet that my feet as well as my fellow Marines feet were always held to the fire and to account for our mistakes, shortcomings as well as our successes. Use the 'Report' link on 2. Transparency is a basic component of a local government and allows for the citizens to know about the activities, decisions, conducting public business, and allocation of taxpayers dollars. I will work toward making Ashe County a greener, healthier place to live for everyone. I know our county, our people and their needs. I am a combat veteran of the Iraq War, serving three combat tours and achieving the highest rank for the enlisted force of Marines as a Sergeant Major/E9. The new buildings are now complete and full of students! ASHE COUNTY Six candidates are running for three open seats on the Ashe County Board of Commissioners one incumbent and five challengers. Once a project is approved, I will need to see the whole plan, blueprints, and monies expected up front before any money is approved. When I manage other peoples money there is no such thing as fraud, waste or abuse. Also, I back the blue and all law enforcement. Imagine bringing other companies here to open manufacturing plants so that we can be proud of making products on American soil rather than on the soil of our enemy nations. Education is not a line item in a school board budget- its the only item. I am a 2016 graduate of Columbia Southern University at Orange Beach, Alabama receiving a Bachelors/Science Degree in Business Administration and Management. Use the 'Report' link on I was honored to serve as Ashe County Commissioner in the past and would be honored to serve again. Pam W. Barlow(R)Ashe County Register of Deeds 1.1. Without a doubt, the construction of the new middle school is the biggest challenge facing Ashe County Schools at the moment. Why do you want to be an Ashe CountyCommissioner? Education and law enforcement have been two areas that I have voted to support with added funds during my term in office. Were also looking at doing the same type of program for EMS in the fall of 2023. My name is Terry D. Wagoner and I would like to represent you as county commissioner. 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. I want to continue to work well with the school board. Jerry Powers: Allowing those who have ideas and personal funding to enhance our county, while assuring that citizens are not adversely affected by such activity. This would also serve to create more jobs and support a healthier community. 2. 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 racist or sexually-oriented language. These are just some of the issues Id like to address. Election Day takes place Tuesday, Nov. 3. I would try to be understanding if they are in disagreement and would like for them to be clear with me what they do not like about the action that was or will be taken. I will work with the school board in any way that I can to help stop the challenges that the administration and teachers are facing that are not beneficial to the students. I dont believe we will see normal as we knew it before. Steady employment and an opportunity to have a job to earn a decent living can set any person on the path to success. If you were able to increase funding for county programs, departments or projects, what would be your top priorities? I make myself available by phone or in person to meet with folks who have concerns and I have found that a friendly handshake and listening ear can quell almost any disagreement. We need to train our workforce in skilled labor jobs such as masonry, plumbing, and electricity. I believe that candidates are elected by the people, for the people and to conduct the peoples business at the will of the people. Beth Sorrell: Affordable housing is a huge and growing issue here. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. We won't share it with anyone else. As an elected official, it is important to remember that almost all frustration and complaints are coming from a place of genuine concern for our community, and as your commissioner it is my job to LISTEN and take action. WebFor Candidates For Candidates Running for Office Filing for Candidacy Terms of Office Candidate Challenges Withdrawal of Candidacy Petitions Results & Data Results & Data Election Results Voting Maps/Redistricting Candidate Lists Voter Turnout Absentee & Provisional Data Voter Registration Data Voter History Data Polling Place Data Campaign We will actively seek to establish partnerships between government, private sector, nonprofit organizations and the faith community to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to ensure our county is resilient and able to address and solve the problems of various communities in our county. Our biggest problem for Ashe County Schools is that the Ashe County taxpayer has been on the hook in the past for $1.6 million dollars for blueprints for the middle school that never came to fruition. That is definitely one of the most complex problems facing Ashe County and the nation as a whole. A good job is a main reason for success for everyone. We as a board cant control market forces but if we can help have the infrastructure in place to make building for a developer more enticing. I am married to Glenda Miller Wagoner. Now is the time to find ways to help those people who are struggling. Party: Dem Education: Bellefonte Area High School, U.S. Army Signal School, course work job related at Penn State University Email: Djohnson@bellefontepa.gov Q: If elected, what will be your top three priorities, and how will you address them? GE, AEV, United Chemi-con and Leviton are the heavy hitters as far as employment goes here in Ashe. The affordable housing problem is not an easy task. 6. My name is Mike Eldreth and i am a lifelong resident of Ashe County and am married to Dianne Eldreth, who is a member of the Ashe County Board of Education. In having the economic growth, there would be more employment opportunities for careers. I am running for Commissioner because I think it is my civic duty to give back to the community that has been so good to me. 1. Four years ago I was proud to raise my hand in support of the Wilkes Community College expansion project. What would you say your role would be as a member of the Ashe County Board of Commissioners? 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. The hourly wage and monthly income for a home in Ashe County these days is most unattainable by the average citizen in Ashe. We'd love to hear eyewitness Having to make a choice between multiple worthy projects is one of the hardest parts of being a Commissioner. Uneven distribution of healthcare to County residents. Error! 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 Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in. 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. Citizens will come to us with a concern or need and we as commissioners should be here to address those needs and concerns. That is unsatisfactory and extremely poor management at the School Board level, the Commissioners of Ashe County, and a blow to the Ashe County taxpayer in the form of more monies from landowners in the form of taxes. I feel this starts with the Commissioners and the School Board. I think there are things we can do to incentivize property owners to provide long-term rather than short rentals and come up with ways to rehab and use abandoned houses. Beth Sorrell: After working and volunteering in many places and differing capacities Ive learned how to work with people from all walks of life and more importantly, how to listen. William Sands: My hope will be to get our businesses going again, more jobs, less unemployment, schools operating as in the past, and the completion of our Middle School and the Wilkes Community expansion. I encourage all citizens to attend and participate in meetings. 3. Second, if the proposal is feasible, how can we find the funds to implement the proposal? How do you know where you are going without a road map? A: 1. Otherwise, I have failed those who may have elected me to the office of Commissioner. I think we are better when we work together in a civil manner. 3. Why will it be for the betterment of Ashe County and how will it positively affect the citizens without a tax burden on the citizens? William Sands: I was part of the Board of Commissioners that planned the 2020-21 budget. County government needs to get the basic job done for its local citizens with the most efficient use of resources provided by its citizens. Habitat for Humanity may be a source for home buyers and a program that the county government can converse with. William Sands: I believe that money coming into the county from tourism should be used in assisting small businesses and to make improvements and/or create the things that draw tourist and their money. I believe in being fiscally responsible, while protecting our taxpayers by carefully evaluating budget requests that are consistent with the level of service which the taxpayers are willing to pay. How will we be able to measure the outcome, is it attainable, is it relevant and can it be completed in a timely manner? If not, he or she is going to have a hard time convincing me to support that project. 2. The need for good-paying jobs is also a priority. Some of the best carpenters, mechanics, welders and plumbers to name a few careers, came from my peers in our school system from my days in the Ashe County School System. I think the people of Ashe County should know how their tax money is being spent. Service delivery is not only an important function of county responsibilities but is one that taxpayers should expect a level that is second to none. If it contains any language other than that, I am certainly not on board with it. I also am a conservative Constitutionalist. I have had a small law office here in Ashe County for many years. Working and coaching for 35 years often came with criticism so I know not everyone is going to be happy with every decision made. Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. The county has the industrial park and has purchased more land to have site-ready locations for economic development. Were working with Wilkes Community College to tailor training to suit a potential employer. I think it is very important. 3 of 11 4 of 11. If elected, what actions will you take or would like to see being taken to help the county rebound from the effects of the pandemic?Jonathan Jordan: The Ashe County Board of Commissioners should always take a conservative, cautious approach to budgeting. How would you address the lack of affordable housing in Ashe County that both current and potential Ashe County residents are dealing with? Ive also learned about the many programs and grants available to communities like ours that we can utilize to develop more affordable housing options for our residents. With climate change here now, we need to do a county or regional agricultural assessment to better prepare our farmers to continue our largest income producer for the county. The Bible says count the cost before you begin. 8. Russell Killen: There is usually going to be conflict on decisions that are being made and you are never going to make everyone happy. Our county government should continue in making every effort to see this happen. The commissioners role is to see that the county runs smoothly and to help bring and keep industry and businesses in the county. But we should continue to be very wise and careful with our spending. 8. Rentals here in the county are rare. I have gained a reputation as a person who asks a lot of questions in an effort to solve problems and I am a business Process Reengineer and a Change Manager. May 2:Restaurant owner Randy Burleson is 57. I think each project should be researched completely looking at whether the return to Ashe County residents is worth the amount of money we would need to invest in the project. After high school I attended Wilkes Community College and Appalachian State University graduating with a degree in Public Relations.