A Vision For Swain County

Swain County is a special place. We live in a beautiful part of North Carolina, with strong communities and deep roots. But we also know that beauty alone doesn’t pay the bills or keep our families secure. I’m running for County Commissioner because I believe Swain County deserves steady leadership focused on the basics that make life work: strong infrastructure, affordable housing, good jobs that last, and a serious response to drugs in our community.

These aren’t talking points to me. They’re everyday realities for people I talk to across the county.

Infrastructure that works for everyone

Good roads, reliable water and sewer systems, and modern broadband are not luxuries, they are necessities. When roads are unsafe, businesses hesitate to invest. When internet access is unreliable or unavailable, our kids fall behind and remote workers look elsewhere.

As commissioner, I will work to bring in state and federal funding to repair and maintain our infrastructure, expand broadband access throughout the county, and make sure public dollars are spent wisely and transparently. Strong infrastructure supports public safety, education, healthcare, and economic growth. Everything else depends on it.

Affordable housing for local families

Too many people who grew up in Swain County are struggling to find a place they can afford to live. Rent is rising, available housing is limited, and many older homes need repairs. If we don’t act, we risk becoming a county where only tourists can afford to stay, and locals are forced to leave.

I support practical solutions: encouraging the renovation of existing homes, supporting affordable housing developments that fit our communities, working with nonprofits and state programs to help first-time homebuyers, and cutting unnecessary red tape that slows down responsible building. Our goal should be simple: people who work here should be able to live here.

Jobs beyond tourism

Tourism matters to Swain County, and it always will. But we cannot rely on it alone. Seasonal and low-wage jobs leave families vulnerable when the economy shifts.

We need to grow jobs that are stable and diverse,jobs in trades, light manufacturing, small businesses, remote work, and local services. That means investing in workforce training, supporting entrepreneurs, expanding broadband so people can work from home, and attracting employers who respect our environment and want to be part of the community long-term. A strong local economy gives our young people a reason to stay and build their lives here.

Taking drugs out of our community

Drugs are hurting families across Swain County. This is not a problem we can ignore or solve with slogans. We need a balanced approach: strong law enforcement to stop drug dealers, and real support for treatment and recovery for those struggling with addiction.

I believe in working closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to reduce the supply of drugs while expanding access to prevention, mental health services, and recovery programs. Keeping our community safe also means helping people get back on their feet.

Accountable, transparent leadership

County government should be open, honest, and focused on results. As commissioner, I will listen to residents, show up for public meetings, and make decisions based on what’s best for the whole county—not special interests. I believe in careful budgeting, clear communication, and working with towns, neighboring counties, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to solve shared challenges.

Swain County’s future depends on the choices we make now. If you want a county with solid infrastructure, affordable homes, good jobs, and safer communities, I ask for your support. Together, we can build a Swain County that works for everyone, not just today, but for generations to come.