VOTE411 Voter Guide

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I am currently seeving on the Town Council. For over 25 years, I have served as a public school teacher and athletic coach. All of the experiences combine to give me a unique perspective on the various needs of our community. My entire adult life has been in the Town of Ashland. I am actively involved in many significant parts of our community, such as Kiwanis, Ashland Theatre, the Strawberry Faire, and Train Day, to name a few. I am always open to suggestions and new ideas. This Town is special to me.

Preserving our rural character while maintaining responsible growth is a significant challenge. We need to attract young adults to live, work, and play here. However, new ideas bring their own unique challenges. For this reason, we must listen to all voices and be sure that we zoning property properly, and encouraging the types of businesses that people say they want to establish their business here.

We need to preserve our Downtown and our historic land marks, like Berkleytown and other unique areas. This can be done by reading federal standards for establishing preservation. We love our translation, but a third rail will devastate our community.

The Fall Line Trail is slowly coming online. We must prepare ourselves for the change in transportation that this will bring. Having wayfinding signs and adequate parking and open businesses will enhance the experience of the people who use the trail.

I will prioritize looking closely at our zoning rules and ordinances. We need to make sure that our laws reflect our standards and core beliefs. After talking with many residence, it is clear that many people feel appreciated and connected. But, our standard should be that all people are appreciated and connected. That is not a slight on the Town. We are doing great things, but there is always room for improvement.

I have managed, supervised, and led teams responsible for budgets ranging from $1 million to $450 million, for the development and implementation of policies, plans, programs, and projects which led to positive change in individuals, government agencies and community-based organizations. Currently, I serve on the Town's Parks and Recreation Committee, participate in the Town's Community Ambassadors program, serve as Vice-President of the Ashland Kiwanis Club, and volunteer at the YMCA/FeedMore monthly mobile pantry. I have completed the Town's Citizens Leadership Academy and served on the Board of the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. I have served as President of both national and state community corrections associations. I have a deep commitment to listening and learning from residents and businesses, asking questions on their behalf, and seeking solutions to their concerns and issues. I also have a commitment to ensuring that moving Ashland forward is thoughtful and deliberate.

The challenges are developing large tracts of land in a thoughtful manner, maintaining the safety of citizens and businesses as development occurs, ensuring the concerns of citizens and businesses are heard and addressed, continuing and expanding the positive relationships with Hanover County and Randolph Macon College, sustaining a balanced budget, and maintaining the Town's small town character. To address the challanges I will work cooperatively with Town staff and fellow council members, and most importantly, seek input from citizens and businesses, listening to them and valuing their input. It is also important to research the issues and seek acceptable solutions. The Town has excellent Comprehensive and Strategic Plans, along with a strong budget, which assist in addressing these challenges. However, these are dynamic documents and we must be prepared to adapt to changes in the federal, state and Town enivironments as we follow the guidance in the plans and budget.

First and foremost, my main priority is be a representative of all Ashland residents and businesses. Again, it will be about listening to, learning from, and responding to residents and businesses. I will strive to be a thoughtful Town leader, fair and just in decision making, and readily available to both residents and citizens. I will work to bring new businesses to Ashland to increase foot traffic in the downtown area. I want to ensure that new residential and business development is well planned and thought-out, with input from current citizens and businesses. I will work cooperatively and positively with fellow council members and Town staff as we move forward on developments and attracting new residents and businesses.

As park superintendent with fifteen years of experience, I have overseen nearly every function in a small community like Ashland. My responsibilities include managing a $5–8 million budget, supervising law enforcement, facilities and maintenance, handling HR and labor relations, and engaging with city mayors and federal representatives. These roles have given me a comprehensive understanding of local government operations and the ability to work collaboratively across departments and with diverse stakeholders.

Growth impacts many aspects of our town, including traffic congestion, cost of living, crime, and transportation. I am committed to ensuring Ashland’s business environment remains vibrant, and I will work to build partnerships and relationships that help address congestion and transportation challenges. By collaborating with community leaders and stakeholders, we can find solutions that support thoughtful growth and maintain the quality of life for everyone in Ashland.

My priorities will focus on actively listening to residents and understanding their needs. I will study the Town of Ashland Strategic Plan and pursue new ideas that support sustainable growth while preserving our town’s unique character. Addressing congestion and transportation concerns, as well as supporting local businesses, are vital to Ashland’s continued success. I want to ensure that our community grows thoughtfully and remains a welcoming place for everyone.