Party: Democrat
Slogan: Everyone Deserves a Place at the Table
Profession: Former programmer, systems analyst
Residence: Asheville
Funding: I have not filed a report yet, but I am the largest donor
having given $20,000 to my campaign, roughly 2/3 of the $29,422.71
that I’ve raised so far.
Endorsements: Sierra Club
1. Do you favor A) creating a regional water authority, B) giving the existing system to the Metropolitan Sewerage District or C) leaving it under Asheville’s control? Why?
I certainly do not favor having this decision made by the state legislature, without any representation from the city, and who will then have no responsibility for the actual operation of the system. This is a political move that has nothing to do with providing water.
2. Do you support granting domestic-partner rights and/or benefits to Buncombe County employees? (Yes/No) Why?
I strongly oppose Amendment One. As a county commissioner, I would work to make sure our compensation package is in line with similar organizations.
3. Do you favor offering tax breaks and other economic-development incentives to companies that agree to move here or expand existing facilities and hire local workers? (Yes/No) Why?
Short-term tax breaks that promise jobs actually can increase revenue in the long term. That makes sense. The devil is in the details. Impact on existing businesses must be taken into account, and incentives must be structured to hold businesses accountable for the outcomes promised.
4. Do you think the county should make funding the Connect Buncombe greenways a high priority? (Yes/No) Why?
YES! Our mountains are one of our greatest economic engines and a huge competitive advantage to luring people and businesses.
5. What’s the most important role of county government in job creation? Technical assistance for small businesses and startups so they can take advantage of existing programs, efficient and responsive enforcement of codes, promotion of Buncombe County outside the area.
