Position/philosophy statement
Conserving Our Future
Current Occupation
retired
Age (optional)
74
Campaign Phone
828-231-1457
I am a lifelong Buncombe County native and retired co-owner of Jesse Israel and Sons Garden Center. Through that experience one learns what it takes to begin and sustain a small business. I will bring a farmers' perspective to local government by cutting unnecessary red tape, supporting smart growth that protects our mountains, and championing fiscal responsibility so tax dollars are managed with transparency and common sense. I serve as Treasurer on the Upper Hominy Fire Department Board and know first hand that our fire fighters and first responders need support and continued advanced training.
I have served on several boards during my lifetime, NC Association of Nurserymens Board, President NC Arboretum Board of Directors.
The most important issue facing our residents is the continuing Helene recovery efforts by our local government. Our county adopted a Helene Recovery Plan along with its six municipal partners on November 18, 2025. This plan aligns with the five year 2030 Buncombe County Strategic Plan. The Helene Recovery Plan road maps 114 projects designed to rebuild housing, repair infrastructure, restore natural resources, strengthen disaster preparedness, and support long-term community resilience.
As a farmer and outdoorsman I know the value of our streams, forests, and open areas. As co-owner of our Israel 7 Generation Family Farm, I know the importance of limiting soil erosion and planting of native trees and shrubs along our streams.
Buncombe County Public School System is the largest single item the county funds. Commissioner objectives include supporting sustainable and resilient school campuses creating equitable access to high quality education, supporting efforts to advance early childhood education, increasing the number of high school seniors applying to post secondary education.
I would support additional funding through facilities that focus on STEM education, innovation, and advanced manufacturing. Partnering with A-B Tech and universities would accomplish this. Also, expanding and improving our vocational education in all the county's high school and A-B Tech.
I would agree with the policies in the Buncombe County 2043 Comprehensive Plan.
These include:
Adopt land use regulations to allow for the development of larger projects over several years.
Update the development regulations to allow for the use of development agreements.
Raising the thresholds for Planned Unit Developments in commercial and manufacturing areas.
Identifying available inventory of suitable sites and buildings for economic development.
Increase training programs that build the capacity of farm businesses through market development.
Create place based community gathering destinations that would also serve as shelters during disasters.
Create a Buy Local program in the county.
I support working with our residents to restore and revitalize neighborhoods which will strengthen communities. The NC Disaster Case Management Program is available to residents. The program helps them make a recovery plan and comments to available resources.
Recently I have volunteered at food pantries and have donated firewood to residents in my community. Initiatives such as strengthening economic growth and increasing support to the elderly will improve our social service outreach.
Also, expanding affordable housing and connecting to improved transit will improve the quality of life. I would support increased funding for mental health in the county.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Position/philosophy statement
I want the people of Buncombe County to work less for its county government and more for themselves.
I view change as an opportunity not an obstacle. I am focused on critical thinking, problem-solving and common-sense solutions. County government continues to evolve, static skills are not enough, the ability to learn, unlearn, and collaborate across disciplines is critical. These skills will be critical for no more tax increases.
Greatest need reducing the cost of living. High tax rate is driving up rent, creating higher prices for goods and services. Families are having to sell homes and move out of Buncombe County. As county commissioner I will advocate reducing taxes and putting more money back in pockets of residents.
That every classroom is staffed with competent, certified, well trained teachers. Also that every school is provided for in the most cost-effective manner and have the resources necessary to support effective instruction within that school so that all children,
including at-risk children, have an equal opportunity to
obtain a sound basic education.
As your county commissioner, I will stand for a tax system that focuses on Economic Growth, Individual Liberty, and Efficiency. I believe in lower taxes and greater freedom. I want the people of Buncombe County to work less for its county government and more for themselves.
It is time that Buncombe County addresses the pan handling, drug use and high crime rates. As your county commissioner I will demand a return on your tax dollars. It is time to start enforcing the laws and cleaning up the streets. The county law enforcement agency’s need to be held accountable for the millions of taxpayer dollars they receive every year. I will also advocate for all Fire and EMS departments to be treated equally and are supported so that they can provide essential services that the people of Buncombe County deserve
I am a proud Western North Carolina native, a devoted Christian, a husband and father, and a dedicated member of the Buncombe County community. Whether I am helping on the farm, coaching softball, or spending time with his family, I believe in hard work, strong values, and giving back. I also believe local government should serve everyday people, not special interests. I am committed to protecting Buncombe County’s natural beauty, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring working families can afford to live and thrive in the community they call home. I stand for responsible growth, transparent government, and common-sense solutions to the challenges facing our county from public safety to affordability and environmental stewardship. I am running to bring accountability, strong leadership, and a voice for the people back to county government, because everyone deserves to be heard.
