2024 Ashe County Commissioner candidates questionnaire

ASHE COUNTY — With the 2024 primary quickly approaching on March 5, the Ashe Post & Times sent out a list of five questions for each Republican and Democratic candidate to answer. The questionnaires were emailed to each candidate to email addresses provided by the Ashe County Board of Elections on Feb. 5.

There are nine Republican candidates and three Democratic candidates seeking election to three seats that will be decided in November. The Republican candidates are Chuck Olive, Jerry D. Powers, Wes Greene, Rich Brown, Joshua Biggers, Gary Roark, Darryl Vaughn, Crystal Coldiron Miller and Russell M. Killen. The Democratic candidates are Tanya Robinson, Ann Rose and Nancy Beth Weaver.

The participating candidates’ responses to each question are below. Democratic responses are in alphabetical order, Republican responses are in the order as they appear on the primary ballot.

1. Please introduce yourself and explain why you would like to be an Ashe County Commissioner.

Wes Greene — I am Wes Greene, and I am excited to serve Ashe County on the board of commissioners. Having spent 44 years in public service — 37 of which were devoted to the fire service — I will bring a unique perspective and skillset to the county board. I am an avid listener who fervently believes that our county only benefits from its government and citizens working on the same team with solution-first mentalities. I am always looking for opportunities to connect with and hear from fellow Ashe County residents, whether I’m out and about in the community or serving in my capacity as president of the Rotary Club of Ashe County, board member of the Ashe County Chamber of Commerce, chairman of the Blue Ridge Energy Members Advisory Council or member of the Ashe County Wildlife Club. As a lifelong Republican and fiscal conservative, my experience as fire chief in two municipalities and my hometown volunteer fire department has prepared me to carefully evaluate budget requests and balance them with input from the taxpayers about the levels of service they want and are willing to fund. As a retired government employee, I will staunchly support our county employees to make sure they have all the tools and support they need to accomplish their work and goals. County employees who love their jobs will provide quality services to our citizens. That translates into happy county citizens, which should be the goal of every elected government official. I am pro-business. Our corporate citizens are incredibly important to our economy, not only because they grow Ashe County’s tax base, but they also offer job opportunities to our citizens. It’s an important time in Ashe County history, and we need customer service-minded leaders to help guide us through it. A graduate of Ashe Leadership, I have served in leadership capacities in state fire associations, including past president of the N.C. State Firefighters Association and N.C. Association of Fire Chiefs. I served on the N.C. Fire and Rescue Commission, and upon retiring from the fire service, I began a career with the National Park Service on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For seven years I served the Park Service as occupational safety and health manager with additional duties of structural fire coordinator, facility inspector and safety instructor.

Russell M. Killen — I am Russell Killen, a lifelong resident of Ashe County. I have owned and operated Mountain Auction Company in Ashe County since 1987. I enjoy helping people sell their items and seeing people find new treasures. I have been married to Diane Roland Killen for 38 years. We have two daughters: Jessica Hamilton who works with children that are on the autism spectrum, and Whitney who is a paramedic. Being a citizen and business owner in Ashe County has led me to want to run for county commissioner. I have interactions with a lot of people and hear what they think are the needs of the county. I feel that I am a strong decision maker, fair minded, and would be an asset to the group of commissioners. I truly want to see Ashe County be the best that it can be.

Crystal Coldiron Miller — My name is Crystal Coldiron Miller, I am a lifelong resident of Ashe County. My husband Dustin and our two sons live in West Jefferson. I am a former Town of West Jefferson Alderman. My term expired in 2023. I am running for county commissioner because I want to serve my community and the people of Ashe County. To be an advocate for the citizens of Ashe County and to be conservative with taxpayer’s dollars. I believe that elected officials are to fairly represent, listen to and understand the needs and concerns of the citizens and to make the best decisions that will positively improve Ashe County and the citizens that live here. I want to see all of my neighbors and community succeed. I will strive to make good things happen across the county, to put our citizens and youth first, so that Ashe County remains the kind of place that my sons and future generations want to work, live and raise their families some day.

Chuck Olive — I’m Chuck Olive, the current vice chairman of the Ashe County Board of Commissioners. This is my second time running for reelection. I retired from the Highway Patrol after 28 years in 2014. I’ve been a resident of Ashe County for 30 years. My wife Shannon is from Todd and our three children and four grandchildren all live here in the county. I’ve been able to help with a lot of projects since becoming a board member, and there are several more I would like to see begin. I want Ashe County to continue to be a great place to live and raise a family. With my children and grandchildren here, I have a vested interest in helping that to happen.

Joshua Biggers — Greetings! I am Joshua Biggers, a proud U.S. Army veteran with a profound dedication to Ashe County. My journey began straight out of high school when I enlisted, leading me to serve in Afghanistan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, and at the Pentagon. Along this path, I earned my BA in Political Science & Leadership Studies, followed by an MBA with a concentration in Marketing. After which, I pursued my doctorate, focusing on “Veteran Soft Skill Competencies & Veteran Mental Health Behavior.” In the course of my doctoral studies, I founded Operation Restart Now, Inc., a veterans’ nonprofit dedicated to assisting Ashe County veterans in securing the benefits they rightfully deserve. Currently, I serve as the Ashe County VFW Adjutant Officer and the Moderator for Ashe County Young Professionals. These roles enable me to directly engage with the people of Ashe County, a community that has undergone significant changes in recent years. Not all change is negative, but it requires vigilant monitoring. I believe my close connection with Ashe County, coupled with my diverse experiences, positions me as an ideal candidate for Ashe County Commissioner. Ashe County deserves a leader who understands its people — from the struggles to success. I have personally navigated the challenges, progressing from food stamps to a PhD, and this journey has instilled in me a deep understanding of the hardworking individuals in Ashe County. I am committed to representing their voices, ensuring that every decision made reflects the needs and aspirations of our community. Ashe County deserves a commissioner who not only empathizes with their journey but is also dedicated to standing up for each and every resident.

Tanya Robinson — My name is Tanya Robinson. I have resided in Ashe County most of my life. My family and I now call Ashe County home, and I intend to spend the rest of my days here. I would like to be an Ashe County Commissioner because I have carefully followed local politics for quite some time, and during this time I have watched the residents of Ashe County be ignored and disregarded by their current elected officials. I want to bring about change that truly has a positive impact on all residents of Ashe County and not just a select few. I want citizens to have safe, affordable housing options, jobs that pay a living wage, and many more of their needs met that simply aren’t being met at this time. This requires bold, innovative steps that the current county commissioners are not willing to take, but I am willing to go the distance to actualize an improvement in the quality of life of all Ashe County residents. I want to be representative of everyone and be the listening ear that they certainly do not have currently.

Ann Rose — My name is Ann Rose and I am a Democratic candidate running for a seat on the Ashe County Board of Commissioners. For years I have been dissatisfied with some of the past decisions of the board of commissioners and their effects on the citizens of the county. Rather than complain about my grievances, I decided to take personal action. One of my greatest concerns has been the lack of female representation on the board. I feel strongly that the board should have a representative speaking for the concerns of women in the county. My hope is to increase an awareness of these issues. The primary focus of my campaign will be to support, improve and guarantee the basic rights and freedoms of all people, especially women. In addition, in the future, I, as an elected commissioner, will not entertain any resolutions or decisions which are outside the basic duties of county commissioners. This includes any actions or decisions which intrude or interfere in any private health decisions between a woman and her physician. I will adhere to the basic responsibilities of a county commissioner which is to balance the county budget and oversee the general operations of the county.

Nancy Beth Weaver — My name is Nancy Beth Weaver. I am a seventh generation Ashe County resident. I believe that it is important that every voice in Ashe County is represented. I believe that the people who are closest to the problem are also those who are closest to the solution. We have fostered a wonderful tourist industry in Ashe County while sacrificing our local folks to low wage, no benefits, service industry jobs and now the people who live and work here are drowning. I believe that I am uniquely qualified to facilitate finding solutions to these problems. I believe that everyone who lives in Ashe County can and should prosper.

2. When it comes to spending tax dollars in Ashe County, what programs or projects do you feel make the greatest impact on the citizens here, and what programs do you feel need additional support from the county?

Greene — Essential services — fire, rescue, EMS and law enforcement — are called essential for a reason. There’s no question about the impact these services have on our community, and as a former fire chief, I am acutely aware of the importance of having boots on the ground to protect, serve and save lives in Ashe County. Outside of essential services (and those required by state statute), the services with the greatest impact on Ashe County — and those needing more of our support — are recreation, travel and tourism. With parks, creeks, rivers, streams, bike trails and two game lands, recreation is a huge Ashe County attraction. We are home to three state parks and a national park. Last year, we recorded 16.3 million visits to the Blue Ridge Parkway; tourism gave $108 million back to our county coffers and, according to the Chamber of Commerce, saved every Ashe County resident $319 on last year’s tax bill. Recreation, travel and tourism bring in people and their pocketbooks. This makes a difference for Ashe County citizens by offsetting personal taxes that we would otherwise have to pay to live here. Recreation is an economic driver, and as a commissioner, I will doggedly pursue like-minded recreational outfits and businesses to sink roots and create jobs here.

Killen — My hope is that all county funded programs/projects benefit the residents of Ashe County. Programs that offer support to the health and well-being of the citizens are a priority to me. Citizens that are healthy, both physically and mentally, and have their basic needs met are more likely to be productive citizens. People living in Ashe County want to feel safe and need law enforcement supported to a level that provides coverage to all of Ashe County. I think it is important that the county supports Parks and Rec with the building of a recreation center that is accessible to all citizens. A facility of this nature will enhance the opportunities of citizens to become healthier through exercise. The renovation and addition to the local health department needs to move forward quickly so the staff can start serving a larger number of people at one time again.

Miller — When spending tax dollars in Ashe County, I believe that the most important programs and projects for our citizens are making sure that the citizens’ needs are met. Such as healthcare, safety, housing and childcare. I am glad that the Health Department is being renovated and repaired, the health department is a huge need for our community. In the future we need to be proactive that our county buildings are safe and updated as often as possible. It’s important that the citizens feel safe in our community. We also need to make sure that the sheriff’s department continues to receive the support they need to protect our citizens. The agricultural complex and the parks & rec expansion will also be a great asset to so many in our county for youth and adults alike. I feel that housing, childcare, foster care, drug, alcohol, and mental health education is something that the county could offer additional support for.

Olive — As a steward of taxpayer money, I believe all programs that utilize tax dollars are important. Every dollar we spend makes an impact on somebody. Whether it’s on services to our citizens like fire, EMS, or law enforcement, or tax dollars to social services to help people who need a hand or money to schools to help educate our children, it’s important to spend our tax dollars wisely to get the greatest impact for each dollar spent. That being said, it’s just as important that, as a board, we are smart with the use of that money. Last year, we cut our local tax rate by six cents and took $7 million off the budget while still providing the services our citizens deserve. My job as commissioner is to advocate for the county on the state and federal levels. Every time I go to Raleigh, I try to get money for projects that we need. Working with Representative Ray Pickett, Senator Ralph Hice, and former Senator Deanna Ballard, we’ve been very successful over the last few years. We’ve gotten funds for things like the 163 canoe access, the Ashe Park expansion, and the Agriculture Center to support our farmers. All this was done with money from the state and federal government and local partnerships with groups like the New River Conservancy and the Blue Ridge Conservancy.

Biggers — I believe Ashe County would benefit tremendously with the introduction of impactful programs catering to both the youth and the elderly. Foremost among these initiatives is the proposed Family Central Expansion, a project that holds immense potential for the entire community. The expansion not only promises to introduce diverse youth sports programs but also includes the creation of an indoor track accessible to individuals of all ages throughout the day. This all-round approach not only encourages physical fitness but also provides Ashe County residents with engaging activities, particularly during the colder months. Beyond recreational benefits, the Family Central Expansion carries the potential to generate employment opportunities for Ashe County residents, contributing to the economic well-being of the community. I wholeheartedly endorse this project, recognizing its capacity to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages in Ashe. Additionally, drawing inspiration from a successful model in Mecklenburg County, I would endorse a program targeting both youth and seniors. Specifically, I envision implementing a “Youth Financial Literacy” program at Ashe County High School & Wilkes Community College: Ashe Campus. This initiative aims to equip students with essential knowledge about credit scores, home buying, and understanding interest rates, providing them with the tools for financial success. We must set our youth up for success. Simultaneously, this program would seek to empower our retired population by offering information that safeguards them from potential scams and fraudulent activities. Far too often, our seniors fall victim to deceptive practices through phone calls, emails, and text messages. It is crucial to end such exploitation, and this program aims to educate and protect our elderly and retired residents. In summary, these forward-thinking programs represent significant strides towards the betterment of Ashe County. By investing in the well-being, education, and security of our youth and elderly population, we can build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.

Robinson — I believe the programs that make the greatest impact on citizens here are housing and economic development. I believe that these are critical issues here that are not being addressed effectively with the tax dollars that could be applied to them. I also think a significant amount of tax dollars are not directed to the programs that will provide the greatest good. I believe that housing and economic development need to be top priorities as far as programs and projects are chosen and undertaken. However, I think that there needs to be a gentle decrease in the amount of tax dollars dedicated to creating an outdoor economy and tourism because these programs are not providing the greatest good for the full-time residents of Ashe County.

Rose — The remodeling and mediation work on the county health department should receive the highest priority and be completed with all due haste. Basic healthcare should be a common right for all. The staff of the Department of Social Services should have the unconditional support of the board of commissioners. The staff must have the ability to make in-house decisions for the welfare of the department and their clients. The budget for the construction of the new middle school should be trimmed to a more reasonable amount and be reflective of the present and future school-age demographics of the county. Daycare is a critical economic and infrastructure concern for all families with children in the county. It is necessary for parents to have daycare to pursue employment. The county should strive to expand day care facilities and facilitate hiring the necessary licensed staff. In light of food security issues that we now face, the county should support farmers markets and Co-ops, which provide fresh and local food. In addition, farmers and gardeners could be encouraged to utilize the Commercial Kitchen to preserve and offer processed food for local consumption.

Weaver — Our state, county, and municipal parks are our greatest asset. Our new recreation center at Family Central is going to be an amazing facility, and the plans for a new Agricultural Complex are just breathtaking. Our arts community is thriving. We are so fortunate to have local arts permeating every corner! From JAM (Junior Appalachian Musicians) to the Florence Thomas Arts School and our wonderful public murals and barn quilts, you can’t throw a rock without encountering the arts. Our schools are state of the art and do such an incredible job of serving ALL our children. Our Appalachian Health Care. What an amazing service, from dental care to counseling, that’s a lot to be proud of! There is a whole lot more right with Ashe County than there is wrong. We have a few things that don’t get much attention though:

- Peer supported substance misuse programs are a necessity. We need to be actively chasing Federal and State grants as well as Opioid Lawsuit money and making sure it is being used for things that directly impact the families that were purposefully targeted by this scourge for the last 40 years. It is vital that we treat this as a public health emergency, so we can begin to heal as a community. Substance misuse has harmed multiple generations of our county and it will take multiple generations for us to heal. We need to get started now. I feel that it is unconscionable that we in Ashe County are still treating substance misuse as a crime when decades of research and even court cases prove that it is a physiological condition. I would love to see an attitude within our justice system that offers folks a realistic way forward.

- Affordable and accessible child care

- Easier access to quality mental health care

- Focus on reducing the suicide rate in our county

- Our unhoused population

- Better wages

3. Affordable housing continues to be an obstacle for a lot of residents in Ashe County, both new residents and longtime residents. In what ways can the board of commissioners address this problem?

Greene — The mean value of a house in Ashe County is currently $369,000. Attracting jobs here will help the tax base, which makes life more affordable for every resident. But the people who will fill those jobs must be able to afford to live here, too, and many currently can’t. I’ve learned during my public-service career that the best way to define and address a problem is to work together with all the stakeholders — in this case, realtors, builders and housing-industry professionals — to form a fact-finding commission that will then reach out to other communities that have faced a similar issue to learn how they tacked it. For all new or existing projects, the county, specifically, should streamline plan review, permitting, inspections, and/or obtain any needed certificates of occupancy. This would help entice new construction, both commercial and residential, and single and multi-family dwellings. Once a streamlined process is in place to educate and inform the public, the county could initiate a “builder and developers’ summit” to recruit affordable housing projects.

Killen — There are policies from the county, state, and federal government that must be adhered to for building. Local commissioners can review the county policies to determine if they contain strategies that support the housing market and citizens of Ashe County. To support builders, the county inspections offices need to be staffed to meet the demand and have the most efficient equipment, including technology, to work with. Commissioners can consult with leaders from neighboring counties to find out what they are finding to be successful with the challenges of affordable housing. They can also be part of a local team that comes together to discuss how to help make housing more affordable for various family income levels. Programs that teach trade skills need to be supported so there are more qualified workers in all areas of the building industry; well drilling is one service that people often must be on a wait list.

Miller — I think housing is a huge obstacle in Ashe County for many residents and this issue goes hand in hand with several other issues within the county. Such as lack of childcare and workforce. Housing, in my opinion, should be at the forefront and addressed immediately. We need to be proactive and look outside of the box for a solution. To work with other departments and organizations to seek out any existing properties that could be converted into housing, any available land that could be used for a “tiny home”community, we need to work closely with the towns of West Jefferson, Jefferson, and Lansing on searching for available properties as well. This would make building multi unit buildings easier to connect to town water and sewer. The citizens of Ashe County deserve to have affordable and reasonable long term housing options.

Olive — This is a problem that is not unique to Ashe County. When I speak to my contemporaries on other boards across the state, they are having the same problem. The geography and beauty of our county sometimes works against us. We will never be able to have a county-wide water and sewer system, which has historically spurred a rise in residential construction in other counties. So, we need to concentrate on advocating for the construction of more apartment-style housing in our incorporated areas that already have water and sewer capacity. A “more people on a smaller footprint” approach. We helped get more money in the last state budget cycle to redo the wastewater system for the town of Lansing to help promote growth there. We are also exploring the possibility of affordable public service housing for people like teachers, police officers, nurses, and other occupations that serve our community.

Biggers — Addressing the escalating issue of affordable housing in Ashe County demands a comprehensive and strategic approach. The challenge is multifaceted, involving key aspects such as attracting investors, identifying suitable property locations, and fostering relationships with builders. While ongoing projects like the Days Inn redevelopment represent positive steps, it is crucial not to be swayed into thinking that singular efforts can remedy the entire situation. To make substantive progress, a concerted effort to attract investors willing to invest in Ashe County is paramount. Financial resources are essential to initiate any meaningful change in this current situation. However, amidst these efforts, the core principle remains steadfast: Ashe County residents must be prioritized. Their needs, concerns, and well-being should be at the forefront of every decision and initiative. It is essential to view the challenge of affordable housing as a phased endeavor, recognizing the interdependence of various factors. By actively engaging with investors, strategically selecting property locations, and cultivating strong relationships with builders, we can lay the foundation for sustainable solutions. The ultimate goal is to establish a framework that will benefit Ashe County residents both now and in the future.

Robinson — The first step that must be taken to ease the burden of housing on residents of Ashe County is enacting a minimum housing standard that will require all rentals meet the standards set forth, but it must also include the penalties that property owners face when they refuse to repair and maintain homes to meet the standards. This will protect the existing stock of rental homes in the area. The next step that the county must take to eliminate the obstacle of housing is to invest in housing. This can be done in a variety of ways. However, many counties across the state and the country are purchasing properties, taking ownership of abandoned properties, and investing in builds of high-density housing. This is a major investment, but it can pay off if carefully undertaken. There are many abandoned properties in Ashe County that could easily be purchased by the county or taken as a direct result of delinquent property taxes that could be repurposed into housing that the county would manage and offer as affordable housing. Affordable housing development projects are coming to Cumberland, Hoke, Robeson and Sampson Counties. Federal tax credits and other financing awarded in 2023 will build more than $973 million in affordable apartments in 29 North Carolina counties, but Ashe didn’t even bother to apply or consider this funding to ease the burden of housing. Longtime residents are generally homeowners, and they are offered discounts on their property taxes, but they are limited in time frame. Furthermore, they aren’t offered any leniency if they miss the deadline regardless of the circumstances. Although, Ashe is also failing to collect property tax revenue that could be used for housing projects within the county. As of Jan. 23, 2024, there were still 375 pages worth of delinquent taxes for Ashe County. Some of these property tax accounts date back 10 years or more. This lost revenue should be collected and applied to affordable housing.

Rose — The board of commissioners should incentivize developers to build multi-unit family housing and encourage the construction of mixed-income housing utilizing standard HUD allowances. The commissioners should also encourage developers to build small-home communities with low energy footprints i.e., 400 square foot maximum, composting toilets, skylights, high-efficiency insulation and options for renewable energy applications, such as wind and solar. The board should also discuss the merits of implementing a Vacancy Tax similar to the one recently instituted in Watauga County. Generally, this program imposes new taxes on vacant dwellings which would increase opportunities in the rental market.

Weaver — Safe housing and affordable housing are not mutually exclusive! This is a situation that has been bad for years and is worsening exponentially by the day. The first thing I would suggest is that we put our heads together with the people who are experts in this field both here and across the state, experts in agencies and nonprofits that have been working on the issue of affordable housing day in and day out for years. The people who are on the ground in Ashe County serving those who need help. These are the people who can help us find the answers. Let’s use our best resources to solve this problem, for our people! We need to make sure our local working folks have an income that will support being able to live here. Wages must go up in Ashe County. My concern is that we will allow developers to build “affordable housing” and our local people will be forced, once more, into living in substandard housing. A much better solution is to work to bring employers who aren’t just attracted to our cheap labor, but who value our gifts and will pay fair living wages. Working on our substance misuse issues will also impact our housing issues. People who are deep in substance misuse have a hard time maintaining a home. Landlords can’t be blamed for having stringent qualifications for renters, or for trying to price out the folks they are afraid could cause their property to be condemned. We need to bring people together from both sides of the table to find creative ways to house people and also protect housing stock. I firmly believe we need to tax the short term rental owners and use those funds to assist folks who live and work here to remain here. If it weren’t for the landscapers, housekeepers, restaurant staff, gas station attendants, and so many other hardworking people who support the short term housing industry, it couldn’t exist. Don’t these folks deserve to be able to afford to live in Ashe County, too?

4. What steps do you think the county can take to bring better paying jobs to Ashe County?

Greene — Ashe County has fiberoptic everywhere; that’s a big economic boost, and we need to take advantage of it by recruiting companies here that will bring well-paid technology-based jobs from all over the world. We’re a recreational county; we just made a four-lane highway, and the Blue Ridge Parkway runs right through our county. Let’s make that work for us. We need to recruit industries that will complement what Ashe County is known for and does best. No matter what’s going on in the world, people are always going to participate in recreation. We should actively recruit companies that manufacture sporting goods and recreational equipment such as mountain bikes or kayaks and canoes. Those companies bring jobs to Ashe County, and our county’s parks and land can be used as test grounds for the company’s equipment — it’s win-win.

Killen — Supporting education helps the county to be able to have better paying jobs. The county must have people that are qualified to fill positions that new businesses would bring. Educators need to understand what the needs of a workforce are so they can make students aware. As businesses consider locating in Ashe County, the commissioners should enter conversations with management of the potential businesses to see what support and incentives the county can provide. High quality broadband must be available to support businesses.

Miller — I believe that with some of the projects currently happening in the county such as the Agricultural Center and the expansion of Parks & Rec that better paying jobs will be available in the near future. However, we need to actively seek out interest, possibly offer a county incentive and fill the space at the Industrial Park site. Ashe County High School and Wilkes Community College have both been great at offering CTE and Workforce development classes in helping our citizens and youth with the knowledge that they need to get better paying jobs in Ashe County. Ashe County has several well paying businesses that are continually struggling to fill employment. I believe this is for several reasons, one being the lack of housing. If we can’t supply housing for the employees they are not going to stay in Ashe County and also with the lack of childcare, if parents cant get safe and affordable childcare for their children then ultimately they are not going to be able to be in the workforce.

Olive — We are already taking steps in that direction. We’ve finished the new industrial park on Ray Taylor Road and are actively promoting it nationwide to attract new industry to our area. We work with our partners at Wilkes Community College and our employers, such as AEV and GE, to incorporate tailor-made training programs to support these industries. We also gave money to WCC to help expand the Ashe Campus. Poe Hall now houses a nursing program that allows local people to get an RN certification without having to leave the county and provides a pool of capable people for our hospital and local medical practices.

Biggers — Fostering economic growth and attracting higher-paying jobs to Ashe County hinges on an all-purpose strategy that centers around cultivating a thriving environment for small businesses. The key lies in empowering local enterprises to expand and become robust contributors to the community’s economic landscape. Without this growth, the prospect of generating new, higher-paying job opportunities becomes limited. One avenue for encouraging economic expansion is to actively promote Ashe County as an attractive destination for tourists. By enticing visitors to spend their money locally, we can stimulate the economy and provide a boost to existing businesses. Creating an environment that supports local businesses in exploring innovative ideas and crafting unique opportunities is essential. This approach not only diversifies the local offerings but also positions Ashe County as a desirable destination where people are inclined to spend their hard-earned money. In essence, the strategy involves a symbiotic relationship between the growth of small businesses and the attraction of tourists. As local businesses thrive, they can offer more job opportunities, thus contributing to overall economic prosperity. By fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and embraces the unique qualities of Ashe County, we can position our community as a sought-after destination. This, in turn, has the potential to attract more visitors, create additional job opportunities, and elevate the economic landscape for the benefit of all residents. While the idea of inviting large companies to Ashe County may seem appealing, it is imperative to consider the potential consequences, particularly in terms of skill sets and the housing crisis. The focus should remain on the residents of Ashe County. Introducing industries that align with the existing skill sets of the local workforce is key to ensuring that job opportunities benefit the current residents. This approach not only supports the community’s growth but also mitigates the risk of external talent influx, which could exacerbate the existing housing challenges. A thoughtful and strategic approach involves identifying industries that complement the skills of Ashe County residents, providing opportunities for local employment. Simultaneously, initiatives aimed at enhancing the skill sets of the local workforce should be prioritized, ensuring that residents are well-equipped for potential job opportunities that may arise. By keeping Ashe County residents at the forefront of every decision, we can strike a balance between economic growth and community well-being.

Robinson — There are several ways the county can bring better paying jobs to Ashe County. The first is to consider what services or goods people leave the county to purchase in the first place. Once this is analyzed we must consider tax incentives to draw in firms of all sizes. We must also work with our local education system to provide training and educational programs that offer the skills necessary for the businesses we are trying to attract. I am sure many people in this county remember when the county was filled with manufacturers of various goods, and that can happen again if we offer the right incentives to draw them back in. Another way to draw in business is to market the area affectively highlighting the area’s unique advantages such as low startup costs, access to natural resources, and the quality of life. One key strategy is to streamline the permitting and zoning processes for businesses, making it easier and more affordable to get started. Economic developers can work with local officials to create a clear and consistent process for obtaining permits and approvals. They can provide resources and support to help businesses navigate the process including networking events, mentorship programs, and other resources to help businesses connect with each other and access the support they need to grow and thrive in our rural community. This will also fall back on the housing problem Ashe currently has because businesses are not willing to come to an area where people are having a hard time just obtaining and maintaining long-term housing. Finally, the county can consider aiding large firms apply for economic development grants through the state in exchange for them locating to Ashe County.

Rose — First, advertise and promote the diverse natural attractions and resources the county can offer new businesses and industry for the benefit of their employees. Pursuits such as camping and hiking in the Blue Ridge mountains, fishing and boating on the historic New River and hiking and sightseeing in Mount Jefferson State Park are examples of outdoor-related activities to attract new businesses. Also, describe the various social and civic activities available: fine dining facilities, clubs and theators, diverse art galleries. Offer monetary incentives and/or business partnerships to lure interested business investors. In other words, remove obstacles that may initially deter interested parties from relocating or investing in the county. Encourage local lending institutions to offer low interest loans to interested business groups, thereby reducing overhead expenses for various industrial and business investors interested in building or relocating to Ashe County. Promote awareness of our current strong infrastructure system so new companies can take advantage of the benefits; i.e., fast internet services, road improvements, access to public spaces. Have commissioners become more actively involved in promoting county business opportunities. Attend more business and industrial conferences and hold “meet and greets” with developers and trade organizations.

Weaver — I have never understood the reason we can’t have good jobs here. It used to be that if you went up north and said you were from Ashe County NC you were just hired automatically. Just ask some of the generation that went north for jobs after WWII. Our work ethic and character were well known. Seems like we’ve always sent our workforce away instead of fostering employment here. Twenty five years ago, the data management company that my husband worked for wanted to locate in Ashe. The starting salary was around $10 and I was told that having a salary that high would be too much competition for our other employers and would put our Tier 1 economic status in jeopardy. (We are now classified as a Tier 2 county). Here’s the thing, our folks who live,work and raise families here are the ones who are trying to live below poverty level. Is this so we can be a ready and hungry workforce for the folks controlling the assets Cynical? I reckon I probably am. But who is profiting from cheap labor? It’s been working this way for an awfully long time and it’s hard to believe it is accidental. Again, I would say that the primary job of a county commissioner is to connect the people of Ashe County with solutions that are good for all of us. Let’s elect people who are willing to work tirelessly to find and facilitate connections between the people who want to bring good jobs and the people who want to work at jobs that pay a living wage.

5. What challenges do you envision Ashe County and its citizens could be facing in the short-term and long-term future?

Greene — Once Ashe County is recruiting more and better-paying jobs, we will face another issue: Where will the kids go? We don’t have sufficient childcare centers for working professionals’ children to attend. Finding solutions may require some creativity and thinking outside the box, which are two unique abilities that I bring to the table thanks in large part to my public-service experience. During my time as fire chief in Mt. Airy, for instance, I watched the successful implementation of a business park that worked together to build a childcare center for its employees with a specific number of reserved spaces for children of non-employees. Businesses become cooperating partners in childcare. This solves multiple problems: Corporate citizens bring in high-yield tax revenue in the form of businesses, so they pay the bills and offer higher-paying jobs and childcare for their employees and the community.

Killen — Ashe County is facing a labor shortage. There are jobs but not people to fill them. The lack of childcare is another challenge. Parents need care for their children so they can go to work and/or school. Affordable housing is a long-term challenge. This is an issue that can’t be solved quickly. As environmental concerns continue to grow, the county commissioners must work with the citizens to protect the environment and beauty of Ashe County.

Miller — I’m afraid that Ashe County’s youth and working age population is going to continue to decrease for a few reasons, but mainly because of the current housing and childcare issues that our county is facing. We need to be proactive and work diligently to prevent this from becoming a long term issue. We must Invest in “youth priorities” actively engage and consult youth. Make sure they know their ideas and opinions matter. Involve them in community planning and local government, in addition to surveys and focus groups. We must offer better paying jobs and opportunities for the youth as well as affordable housing to keep them in Ashe County. I am very excited about the parks & recreation expansion and I do believe this will give our youth more to do, but we also need to look at the possibility of building a youth center.

Olive — Ashe County is changing. We are no longer “the lost province.” We need to prepare for that change. My role as a commissioner is to embrace the positive aspects of inevitable change while keeping the aspects that make this a great place to live and raise a family, all while being a good steward of taxpayer dollars.

Biggers — In the short-term, Ashe County may face challenges related to affordable housing, particularly with the ongoing growth and potential influx of new residents. Addressing the immediate housing needs while ensuring that local residents are not disproportionately affected is crucial. Economic diversification and the creation of higher-paying job opportunities may also pose short-term challenges, requiring strategic initiatives to attract businesses and stimulate growth. Long-term challenges for Ashe County could include sustaining economic development without compromising the county’s rural charm. As industries evolve and technology advances, ensuring that the local workforce is equipped with relevant skills may become a long-term priority. Additionally, managing the delicate balance between growth and preserving the county’s natural resources and cultural heritage is essential for long-term sustainability. Addressing educational needs to prepare future generations for evolving job markets and fostering a sense of community to withstand potential social challenges are also considerations for the long-term future. Proactive planning and community involvement will be vital in navigating these challenges to ensure the continued well-being and prosperity of Ashe County and its citizens. In conclusion, I think it’s our responsibility as Ashe County residents to support the next generation of leadership!

Robinson — Ashe County is already experiencing the short-term challenges of housing and economic instability. Families are struggling to find and sustain housing while also struggling to locate jobs that pay a living wage. Ashe County is also facing the challenges of providing services for its citizens such as veterinary practices, specialty healthcare services, and lack of addiction treatment services. Long-term Ashe County and its citizens are facing a shortage of healthcare professionals and housing to house the aging population. For example, we have a large population of 2nd homeowners and visitors that are consistently choosing Ashe County as their retirement location. This population is consistently aging, and we lack the services and healthcare options necessary to support this influx of aging citizens. Long-term we are also facing a problem of transparency in local government. There is a complete lack of transparency that impacts the involvement of citizens in their local government. Most people have zero clue what is occurring in their county and how they can have a say in their government. Finally, in the long-term, Ashe County and its citizens must educate themselves on local government and what issues they feel affect them to better help them ascertain who to vote for. Most people are what I would consider legacy voters that vote for the same people year after year without ever considering what these people are in support of or in some cases who the person even is. This is a long-term problem because it only compounds the other problems facing the county and its citizens, especially if the issues the people face are not being addressed in any effective way.

Rose — I believe the ongoing degradation of our environment and the unforeseen but inevitable changes in our climate will be the greatest challenge to the health and well-being of our people for generations to come. The resulting loss of quality of our natural resources (soil, air, water) may be a burden we may not be able to overcome. As a full-time farmer in Ashe County, I have seen first-hand the effects of long-term drought on my farm production. Over the last two decades, it has not snowed nor rained as much as it did in the past and the water table is drastically lower than it has ever been. Big Horse Creek was lower last year than anyone has ever seen. The great challenge for Ashe County, as well as the rest of the country, will be to ensure we have enough high-quality water to provide for the needs of the populace. As a result of these stresses on our natural resources, food security will become a major concern for Ashe County in both the long-term and the short-term. Historically, Ashe County always had the capabilities and abundance of resources to provide sufficient, fresh, high-quality food for our citizens. In the not-too-distant future this may no longer be the case.In my position as county commissioner, I vow to support only those related policies that work to improve and sustain the quality and quantity of our natural resources.

Weaver — Young Ashe Countians are leaving in droves, because they have no choice. Those who can’t are being faced with:

- The lack of affordable child care.

- Lack of child caregivers

- The loss of more of our children to the drug epidemic.

- The unique health needs of people who are victims of the drug epidemic.

- Mental health challenges

- The loss of future generations to better jobs elsewhere

- The loss of more housing stock to the short term market

These are the short-term problems AND the long-term problems. Locals know it’s true, we’ve seen these same problems get steadily worse for years.

Without addressing these soon, how can we claim to be “The Coolest Corner”? If we can’t fix it, then who is Ashe County really here for?