top of page
WIX background.png
WIX background.png

Casey's Platform

My platform overview

Here’s what I’ll be focusing on as your county commissioner, if elected:

1. Taking Care of Ourselves, Taking Care of Our Families, Taking Care of Our People: At the end of the day, we all want the same basic things; to be able to live healthy, happy, prosperous lives in a community where we can pay our bills, get health care, and provide for our families.

​

2. Public Libraries: Our libraries are a lifeline for kids, families, senior citizens, job-seekers, and young professionals. We need clear, transparent leadership around both our schools and libraries, and elected officials who listen to the needs and wants of the people who live and learn here.

​

3. Education: Good schools are the heart of a healthy community. A large portion of our county budget goes directly to Jackson County Public Schools, and I'll use my background in education to ensure every school gets the support it needs, so every child can get the strong start they deserve. 

​

4. Community Relationships: From Cherokee and Qualla to Western Carolina University, SCC, and our neighboring counties, we’re better when we work together and learn from one another. I’ll reach out, build alliances, and work with our neighbors to improve life for all of us.

​

5. Sustainable Development and Economy: When Jackson County spends money, it should come back to Jackson County - and it should go toward projects that make sense for our community.

​

6. Policy Transparency: You have a right to know what your county government is doing and how your tax payer dollars are being spent. I’ll make sure you have a seat at the table and a clear understanding of what your leaders are doing, and how it benefits you. 

​

7. Data Centers: Jackson County must have leaders committed to staying on top of this evolving issue and making sure we have plans in place to keep our beautiful mountain community safe from harmful development.  

 

 

​

WIX background_edited.jpg

A letter to my constituents

​I'm Casey Walawender, and even if you don't vote for me, I urge you to vote your conscience. 

I'm Casey Walawender, and I'm running for county commissioner. Sometimes, we lose sight of how much local government impacts us. In the past few years, we've seen a Jackson County Board of Commissioners that shows little interest in the input of residents. I know what it's like to be ignored by the people who should be representing us. Whatever your politics, if elected, I will not ignore you.  

 

We are people first and constituents after that. I want to share my humanity and to receive the humanity of others. This starts with me asking not for your vote, but for your insights. Let me know who you are and what is important to you.

 

I am firmly committed to my values, and I have worked hard to develop a platform that I believe will benefit all of us in Jackson County. But I will not be rigid in the face of community input because rigid thinking is the enemy of democracy. 

 

Please take a moment to look over the information on this website. From supporting our schools and fighting for affordability, to preventing the installation of new data centers and ensuring unrestricted access to our public library, I am passionate and excited about my ideas. I'm also passionate and excited about your ideas! 

 

Thanks for your time. Let's put good energy out there! 

​

- Casey Walawender

bottom of page