Political party: Republican
Residence: Fairview
Occupation: Wholesale auto dealer
Political experience: Have worked on many different issues associated with the city and county.
Endorsements: None
1) How much money have you raised for your campaign? Who are your top three donors, and how much has each contributed?
Total: $6,588.94
Top three: Wendelll Howard, $500, William Stamey $500, Kathie Lack $250.
2) What most distinguishes you from your opponents in this race?
“I have worked on issues that I feel are important issues that concern the citizens of Buncombe County. Let Asheville Vote was one project. And I feel that the government should be more transparent. Being a small-business owner, I understand the concerns and needs of small-business owners.”
3) What do you consider to be your most controversial policy position?
“Property rights.”
4) Do you favor expanding zoning in the county, reversing it or keeping it at its present level? Why?
“I feel that the commissioners did not listen to the citizens regarding this issue. Reversing this decision and letting it be voted on by the citizens regarding zoning. I will abide by what the citizens choose.”
5) What would you do to attract better-paying jobs to the area?
“Reduce the tax and regulatory burden.”
6) Has the present Board of Commissioners conducted its business with sufficient transparency? If not, what would you do to increase openness?
“Absolutely not. And that needs to be changed so that there is more open and transparent government.”
7) Should the public-comment period before and after board meetings be televised? Why or why not?
“Yes. All public comment should be televised. Public comment is just as important as what the commissioners have to discuss.”
8) The recent gas shortage revealed that this area is uniquely vulnerable to disruptions in fuel supply. What steps would you take to remedy this?
“I would encourage the state government to open up off-shore drilling, and I would encourage them to open up the possibility of a supply facility for Western North Carolina, instead of relying on facilities in other states.”
9) What is your position on the Sullivan Acts and the water dispute with the city of Asheville?
“This has been challenged a number of times at great expense to the taxpayers. I do not feel that more money should be spent on lawsuits regarding this issue.”
10) Are current slope-construction regulations appropriate? How, if at all, would you change them?
“I believe in private-property rights, and we need the right amount of regulations in place to keep people safe but not infringe on property rights.”
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