While serving as the sheriff, Van sought ways to reduce recidivism. He partnered with local, state, and federal organizations to help those on society’s fringes turn away from a life of crime. Van is a strong advocate for equality in all facets of life, particularly in the justice system. Van served on the North Carolina Innocence Commission for eight years. He implemented the COPS Team program to help communities organize initiatives to combat crime. In 2013, Van received a national award for his efforts.

Affordable housing is one of Van’s top priorities. Having little to no available housing for our local workforce is unsustainable to our community. The lack of affordable housing makes recruitment and retention of first responders, nurses, service-industry staff, etc., extremely difficult. Van understands that for businesses to succeed, they require sufficient personnel, a safe environment, and reasonable accommodations. Van is fully aware that home ownership is a

primary generational wealth builder in America. He recognizes how hard it is for most families to obtain a home, and he desires to reduce any unnecessary burdens placed upon those families. Van believes a comprehensive and common-sense approach to this dilemma is required. That includes removing the bureaucratic obstacles currently restricting the development of affordable housing. We all recognize that our county will grow and change, but together we can ensure it

grows in a manner consistent with our values and collective goals.

After retiring from the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department, Van believed his life in politics had ended. He enjoys living in Leicester, with his wife of 31 years, Shana, and their beloved dog Sampson. Van loves spending time with his children and grandchildren, and he had no intention of running for another public office. But, like you, Van saw what was happening to our community. He witnessed the increased homeless population, the garbage and human waste littering our streets, and the feeling of unease as he walked within our city. But equally troubling, Van realized the tremendous debt our community was facing. He was concerned about the burden this level of debt would be to his children and his grandchildren. Van knew he possesses a unique set of skills that could help turn this situation around and place our wonderful community on more sound footing. That is what convinced Van to campaign for this position. His love of family, his devotion to the county that has given him so much, and his heartfelt desire to serve his community once again.

Van hopes you will join him in this endeavor, and he humbly asks for your vote in November.