I would also like to see more opportunities for youth, including after-school and summer parks programming that they will want to participate in and make them proud to be part of this community. or anything. 1. County Commission candidate Christine Cruz is 54. 5. And I dont have all the answers, so we should always seek input from others to come up with good ideas to consider. I also believe with criticism comes the opportunity to improve upon myself. I think the people of Ashe County should know how their tax money is being spent. A good job is a main reason for success for everyone. 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. 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. 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. UT professor Mark Harmon, former county commissioner and Create a password that only you will remember. Candidates for Ashe County Board of Commissioners answer questions ahead of election, Compiled By Bailey Little Teachers and school staff are working on the front lines with the young people who are going to lead this country in the future, and they should get the support and respect that they deserve. We should work in keeping morale high. In the meantime, the county government needs to seek opportunities through grants and other incentives, aimed at starter homes, lower rent apartments, and rent-to-buy options. Education and law enforcement have been two areas that I have voted to support with added funds during my term in office. Allocation of tax dollars toward any project demands thorough review and due diligence. If it contains any language other than that, I am certainly not on board with it. The need for good-paying jobs is also a priority. Steady employment and an opportunity to have a job to earn a decent living can set any person on the path to success. Jim Cain: I am a trained, certified and experienced manager of taxpayer and federal government money and have planned and executed those expenditures wisely and for their intended purposes for more than 30 years. Tell us a little about yourself and why you want to be an Ashe County Commissioner. We'd love to hear eyewitness racist or sexually-oriented language. Error! 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. Elected Officials City of Adamsville City of Crump Town of Saltillo City of Savannah City of Milledgeville hardin.commission@tn.gov MON, TUE, THUR, FRI - 8:00AM - 4:00PM WED- 8:00AM-12PM CLOSED 12:00PM - 1:00PM FOR LUNCH More people always involves needing all of the above. I am not running with a political agenda. Don't knowingly lie about anyone But most importantly, lending support to ensure we are producing a quality, well-educated student upon graduation is first on any strategic plan. Education is not a line item in a school board budget- its the only item. 4. Ive also been talking to Ashe Memorial administration to establish a clinic on site like the one in Fleetwood that will give medical access to people on that side of the county instead of traveling all the way to Jefferson or West Jefferson. I graduated from Ashe Central High School in 1979 and Mendenhall School of Auctioneering in 1987. As of 2021 the median household income was $43,962 and per capita income was $25,282. If you forget it, you'll be able to recover it using your email address. We need to give incentives to builders in the local population to build homes that the average person can afford. 6. Jim Cain: I would love to see Ashe County become a tourist destination of choice and not just the place to come buy a Christmas tree each year. You have permission to edit this article. Threats of harming another Jerry Powers: Most of my lifes usefulness has been spent as a farmer, growing conifer transplants, strawberry transplants and vegetables, which my wife is quite good at selling(if I leave her alone). Making information quick and easy to find will go a long way to maintain trust and confidence in local government. 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. I am proud to have been unanimously elected by my fellow commissioners as chairman for each of the last 4 years. Veterans and senior citizens are a group often overlooked. I want to be a county commissioner because I have the experience working with people to do some real good for the people of Ashe County. Republican incumbents Todd McNeill and Chuck Olive are seeking re-election to the board. We won't share it with anyone else. In 1987, I returned to the U.S., was assigned to the Armys Intelligence and Security Command, was promoted to GS-15 (The Senior grade for government Civilian employees) and became the Director of the Armys Plans, Programs, and Low Intensity Conflict Divisions. Our employees, including teachers, often have to take second jobs to make it. I then spent the next 14 years as a Department of the Army Civilian Intelligence Specialist handling Human Intelligence operations as a member of a highly classified intelligence program buried in the bowels of the Army, designed for continuity of human Intelligence operations overseas. Board Vice Chair 2019-Present. 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. I also do this with my personal spending. that is degrading to another person. An example is the new Agriculture Center that construction will begin on this year. Upon completion we will have shovel ready sites to offer new or expanding businesses. What qualifications make yo WebWes Greene For Ashe County Commissioner Let's Work Together For Ashe County Republican Candidate For County Commissioner I believe in the people of Ashe County and protecting what we have while looking to improve where we need improvement. Extra money should be used to attract other businesses into the county along with assisting the law enforcement, schools and waste management etc. They make policy decisions that affect our community and direct the expenditure of public taxpayer funds. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism We need to give incentives to our schools to train and certify our youth in a career field before graduating high school. I think we should recruit quality corporate citizens that enhance the property tax base and offer meaningful employment opportunities. We need to continue to develop all the potential of Ashe Early College. How would you encourage employment and economic development in Ashe County? 1. If not, he or she is going to have a hard time convincing me to support that project. We need to start planning now to accommodate this demand. From 1997-2007, I worked for Computer Sciences Corporation when it was one of the Big Three computer corporations in America. 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. Tax incentives would be another step. Ashe County, North Carolina, held elections for local offices in 2022. Click the links below to learn more: Click here to use Ballotpedia's sample ballot to find every election that Ballotpedia has on file for your address. = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. 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. Party: Dem Education: Bellefonte Area High School, U.S. Army Signal School, course work job I have ideas for how to work with our community college and companies to prepare our workforce for 21st century work. I still have strong contacts in Raleigh, which is an important way I can call in help or resources when we need them. As a county commissioner, what role the county plays in the process should be addressed to streamline any plan review, permitting, inspections, and/or obtaining certificates of occupancy. The school board represents the communitys voice in public education and sets the standard for achievement in the school district. We are tasked with making sure the countys tax dollars are spent wisely and the citizens are receiving the most return on every dollar spent. Invalid password or account does not exist. I was an active duty Army Intelligence Officer from February 1967 until August 1973. Four years ago I was proud to raise my hand in support of the Wilkes Community College expansion project. I currently serve as the secretary on the board for Ashe, Alleghany, and Wilkes. 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. Ive seen the spectrum of how people live here, from broken-down trailers to million-dollar cabins and I believe I have some perspectives that others may not have. Jim Cain: Unemployment, underemployment and the lack of enough technical businesses and technical jobs in the county. 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). North Carolina has mandated several programs but has not given the money to carry out those programs, let alone this new scale. 8. WebElected Officials Hardin County Election Commission Elected Officials Hardin County, TN Elected Officials Misc. 2. We have two sons, Kelly Joe who graduated from Ashe Central, and Jared who graduated from Northwest. Supporting the school system with current and future capital projects will always be challenging when allocating tax dollars for such long-term investments. I studied anthropology and sustainable agriculture, which led me to serve in the Peace Corps in East Africa. During my 37-year career in the fire service, I was fortunate to have served in the capacity of fire chief in two municipalities and in my hometown volunteer fire department. 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. In delivering services, I would want to review the county functions that assure the basic needs of the citizens are being met such as food, water, warmth, and rest as well as safety and security. Ashe County has about 26,000 citizens according to the latest census. (See Attachment). 5. 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. Be Truthful. The public is welcome to contact any of the commissioners in regard to the actions that might take place. WebCounty of ASHE 2022 PRIMARY Election Date: 03/08/2022 This is an official notice of an election to be conducted in Ashe County on 03/08/2022. May 2: Restaurant owner Randy Burleson is 57. Beth Sorrell(D) 1.2. I look forward to laying the groundwork for projects to come though my membership of the board. Russell Killen: My role, as any of the commissioners should be, is to serve the citizens of Ashe County as a whole and not for my benefit. With the help of God I will be able to not only better myself but Ashe County as well. The first thing I would consider is how many people will the proposal benefit? What would you say your role would be as a member of the Ashe County Board of Commissioners? AsheAshe County Board of Commissioners 1.1. Good salaries take some of the sting out of a rising mortgage or rent payments. Secondly, we must have no child in our school system that goes without food other than what they receive in the school setting. Russell Killen: First of all, we need to have some kind of study as to what impact 221 is going to have to the county. But, housing costs have raised 17.7% in Ashe over the last year. 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. We have been obligated to a debt that we can not yet measure. Although I love traveling and living among other cultures, Ive always been drawn back to my roots in the Appalachian Mountains. Not all of my decisions were always popular but were always in the best interest and well-intended with positive outcomes for the taxpayer. I feel that a project manager must come to the table with all Is dotted and Ts crossed. To view our latest e-Edition click the image on the left. Share with Us. Choose wisely! William Sands: I was part of the Board of Commissioners that planned the 2020-21 budget. 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. Victor Ashe. There was a problem saving your notification. or anything. 3. And those citizens need places to live and housing is a big issue here. This is actually how a lot of projects begin. I believe that candidates are elected by the people, for the people and to conduct the peoples business at the will of the people. Jim Cain: Starting with the 40-plus acres recently purchased by the Ashe County Government upon which to start a new Industrial Park, I would like to see built and developed a High Technology Teaching and Service Center with several key businesses tied into ASU, Wilkes Community College, Ashe High School and supported by one or more large contractors like Lowes and Vannoy Construction, where we could truly start training of our local working population in technical, 21st Century skills with higher wages and more job opportunities. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. 4. 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. I would also uses high technology to improve business processes and other areas where I have quite a bit of experience and could contribute. Ashe Medics serves our county well and they deserve our support. Also, I back the blue and all law enforcement. We are a tourist destination and we need to help make the citizens of Ashe proud of the place in which we live. There is still much uncertainty in our future. 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. 1. 5. Nothing is free and everything should be earned. While there, we built up several good-sized rainy day funds that have been critical in this pandemic. The wait is long because of the lack of skilled labor in these areas. Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. We'll send breaking news and news alerts to you as they happen! Let me help you make improvements in Ashe County. This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. ACSO apprehends suspect with over 25 felony warrants, Multiple injuries reported after deck collapses in West Jefferson, Jimmy & Jeans Family Arcade and Entertainment hosts ribbon cutting, Christmas In July announces entertainment lineup. 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. 8. My question is, How does someone working part-time afford housing even if it were available? This doesnt include food, utilities or medical care (that is not included with a part-time job). I can take constructive criticism but will not accept disrespect or hatefulness. Ive always sought opinions on decisions and Im not afraid to ask when I may not understand something or have all the available information. I feel that I can contribute in a positive way if elected to serve the citizens of Ashe County. Good local government works best with engagement and input from citizens. The taxpayer dollars are being spent, so be up front with the people who elect you to an office. Look at requirements for lot size for building, what restrictions are on the manufactured homes, multi-family (duplex) homes, and apartment buildings. These local resources can be used to create good jobs and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation leading to healthier communities and reduced health care costs while preserving our local culture. Sugar coating a problem is only kicking the can further down the road knowing it will have to be dealt with eventually. I have always welcomed a healthy and civil discussion of any decision I have made or been part of, and have accepted that sometimes philosophies in reaching decisions are just different. Leslie A. Wallace, an assistant for constituent relations for Rensselaer County, and her attorney, Joel Abelove, leave federal after she was arraigned I am currently advocating for and will vote in support of adding a fourth ambulance to serve Ashe County. Tax money should be spent wisely and should benefit the majority of our residents. Whether it was intelligence operations in some far flung part of the world, analysis of the five core infrastructural areas of the Egyptian government for the U.S. Embassy: Cairo, or building the River Flood Forecasting System in Central America for NOAA. One-stop, in-person early voting begins on April 28 and ends on May 14. When looking at the cost would it be fully on the county or be partially funded by other means? I have been a licensed insurance agent since 1980 and enjoyed working with people and getting to know them and serving them. The county population is 26,577, according to the United States Census Bureau. 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. These are: 1. If you were able to increase funding for county programs, departments or projects, what would be your top priorities? Your purchase was successful, and you are now logged in. 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. Our role as a board, should be to work together in solving issues and improving the quality of life for our citizens, without increasing taxes. I was honored to represent our county in Raleigh for 8 years in the state House of Representatives. Our citizens and communities certainly deserve better than that. A project proposal always comes with a lot of promises, fancy wording and should be for the betterment of the community. These are just some of the issues Id like to address. I would hope to strengthen our relationship with state government and continue to obtain our fair share of state tax revenues. I obtained a BS degree in Business Management from the University of Alabama and retired as Manager of Energy Control with Duke Power Company. We cant satisfy ourselves with just reacting to things. Working and coaching for 35 years often came with criticism so I know not everyone is going to be happy with every decision made. 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. I came home and earned an MA in Public Health Education. I would look at the purpose of the proposal, who it benefits, and will it have a long-term effect. Keep it Clean. That is a very good time for anyone interested to come and see exactly what is done to set up the yearly budget. I am very deliberate to not get in the weeds on social media, opting instead for face-to-face interactions that form relationships and affect real change. I think I should respect all ideas and input on issues, do my research, and make decisions based on what is best for the majority of our people. 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. But we should continue to be very wise and careful with our spending. I would ask for a cost benefit analysis and I would seek community input and listen to perspectives from those who would be affected by the project before deciding whether to support it. I anticipate this demand to only increase over time. The commissioners role is to see that the county runs smoothly and to help bring and keep industry and businesses in the county. 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. It would be tough to say on this without reviewing the budget, but I feel that there are needs in helping with the Veterans programs and the childrens programs. I want to continue to work well with the school board. We can start by giving tax relief to people impacted by the pandemic, as well as public servants, like teachers, law enforcement and firefighters. As Commissioner, I will work to make Ashe County an even better place for everyone to live. We all need to be more aware of what is creeping into the educational programs that they want taught to our children. Because of leaning more toward tourism in recent decades, we have failed the industry that existed before. I believe the best way for county government to tackle this challenge is to be attractive to new and expanding employers that pay good wages. County governments biggest role in the project is to provide funding, which we have already committed to. Having survived 49 of those meetings makes me believe I wont have many problems to face. Seeking out those businesses go beyond just waiting for them to come to us. I understand the great trust the public puts in me as a commissioner to do the most good for as many people as possible. We should utilize our rich natural and cultural resources to invigorate the community and insprire healthy and sustainable improvements in the lives of the people of Ashe County. Now on to May 17, 2022. I dont even mention apartments because I could not even find any for rent. Being an elected official often comes with criticism from the general public. Better health care for significant portions of county residents and providing help for individuals with drug and alcohol dependencies. Everything the government does needs to be public knowledge unless for sensitive reasons, otherwise it would seem that an official or those officials have something to hide. Be Proactive. I have been a North Carolina licensed auctioneer since 1987 and the owner and President of Mountain Auction Company Inc. If you forget it, you'll be able to recover it using your email address. (See Attachment) Second, if the proposal is feasible, how can we find the funds to implement the proposal? 6. Up for election are the following six candidates: Republican Jonathan Jordan, Republican Jerry D. Powers, incumbent Republican William Sands, Democrat James D. Cain Jr., Democrat Beth Sorrell and Democrat Russell M. Killen. William Sands: The main issue we face at this time is COVID-19 and its results. I subsequently left the Department of the Army and became the Director of Management and Administration for the Bureau of Indian Affairs: Department of the Interior a job much like a County Commissioner but for members of the 623 Federally recognized tribes of American Indians and Alaska Natives in America. Items such as the budget, meeting agendas and salaries are all available to any citizen that wants to see them. 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. Our non-certified employees, custodians, bus drivers, office staff, and assistants have not had a raise since 2008. 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. 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. I believe in the Constitution as written, as well a constitutional government. 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. 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. Local government has very little, if any, impact on the price of homes. I served eight years in Raleigh representing our area in the State House, where I was a strong advocate for all our citizens. Unemployment, underemployment, and a lack of technical jobs in the county. I served as chairman or co-chairman of numerous committees while in the State House and still have a strong relationship with my former colleagues in state government, who continue to remain in the majority at the legislature. 2. I have worked public jobs from self-employment to retail and held management positions since I was 15 years old.
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