Position/philosophy statement
My philosophy is simple: plan ahead, invest wisely, listen to our citizens, and make decisions that strengthen Transylvania County for current residents and future generations alike.
Current Occupation
Owner of Davidson River Outfitters and Trading Company inc. and Pesca Consultants LLC
Age (optional)
55
Campaign Phone
8283935760
Over the past 30 years, I have grown Davidson River Outfitters from a three-day-a-week operation into a company conducting more than 3,000 guide days annually and offering destination travel worldwide. From 2006–2020, I was a managing partner of Set Fly Fishing in Argentina, helping grow it from a single-guide business into the country’s largest outfitter before turning my part over to my business partner. I have served as President of the Transylvania County Chamber of Commerce, on the Tourism Development Authority, and the Transylvania Economic Alliance. I am a founding member of the NC Youth Outdoor Engagement Commission, which distributes approximately $2 million annually to support outdoor education statewide.
The county faces several issues in the coming years, The largest issues are infrastructure, water, sewer, high speed internet. The County also has to start planning for a new landfill or how it will hand solid waste as we are quickly running out of capacity at the current landfill.
One of the largest issues education is going to face in the coming years is going to be a shortage of educators, principals and staffing in the school system. The board of Commissioners is going to have to work with the School board to find creative and effective ways to entice quality educators to our county and then retain them once they are here. That may be bonus structures, housing allotments or other creative measure to find attract and retain quality staff.
Having served on the Economic Alliance our county is at a crossroad, We have no space to place business that want to relocate to Transylvania County, or we do not have enough wastewater, capacity or lack of highspeed internet all are hindering our economic growth. Working with state legislature to find a way to redevelop parts of the former Ecusta site and strengthen the counties infrastructure. Will help us attract and grown more business opportunities for our residents.
We need to continue the expansion of TIM (Transylvanian's in Motion) van/bus system to provide transportation to those who need it in the more rural parts of the county. We also need to continue to grow programs that helps those residents with mental health needs, that otherwise would not have access to mental health care.
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Position/philosophy statement
“Fighting for Transylvania Taxpayers”
What makes me the best fit for this office is a combination of lived experience, service, and a deep commitment to this county. I grew up here, I live here, and I’m raising my son here. That means I don’t look at decisions as political talking points. I look at them as choices that directly affect my neighbors, my child’s future, and the long-term health of Transylvania County.
Infrastructure!!! We are already feeling the strain of growth, tourism, and aging systems. The challenge isn’t just building infrastructure it’s doing it smartly. That means prioritizing projects that support working families, emergency services, schools, and local businesses, not just tourism driven growth. It also means aggressively pursuing state and federal grants, partnering where it makes sense, and planning long-term so we’re not constantly reacting to crises.
The most effective way a county commissioner can help our schools is by being a responsible, supportive partner, not by micromanaging the school board and it classrooms. That means planning ahead for maintenance and growth so we’re not constantly reacting to emergencies.
First, I would focus on infrastructure investment done responsibly improving water and sewer capabilities via helping the municipalities. Economic growth can’t happen without the basics in place, and smart infrastructure attracts employers without driving up taxes.
Second, I support diversifying our economy so we’re not overly dependent on one industry. That means creating an environment that attracts manufacturing, skilled trades, and professional services that provide stable, year-round jobs with good wages.
Third, I would push for smart tax and incentive policies. That doesn’t hurt the hard working families in this county.
To support social services in our county, I believe in policies that help people get back on their feet while being responsible with taxpayer dollars. I support funding essential, front-line services especially child welfare, senior services, and emergency assistance making sure caseworkers have manageable caseloads and the tools they need to do their jobs effectively.
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