Our county is rapidly changing, and we need leadership that understands the pulse of our community. Strategic planning is often named as the primary tool for controlling growth. But we need action and can-do people that will implement those plans. By electing commissioners who have courage and know-how, we can preserve and protect the pristine views and rural scenic beauty of Polk County for our children and grandchildren. Through strong leadership we will turn challenges into opportunities that respect the traditional culture that makes Polk County the friendliest area in the South.

&bsp;Gifted with creativity, passion and a joy for life, I have a proven track record of success in building community consensus that translates vision into reality. I believe we must strive for communication in order to forge new paths that lead to a bright future. I can deliver that kind of leadership to the citizens.

My priorities include: water rights, lower taxes, growth, care for the elderly, historical preservation, conservation, farmland, steep slope and erosion protection, farmers market, education and jobs for young people, affordable housing, roads and other infrastructures, local business and economic development. Many of these concerns are reflected in the Visioning Committee Survey Report where a majority of residents, both local and newcomers, lacked confidence in government institutions. Your voice is heard loud and clear, and I will work hard to deliver better solutions.

I bring with me a unique understanding of Polk County issues and advocate bringing together citizens from Sunny View, Saluda, Tryon, Columbus, Mill Spring, Green Creek, and Hunting Country to empower our community. Everyone should have a voice in the future.

Columbus is my home where my husband Michael Blackwell and I live. Together we operate Blackwell Electric. Both of my children, Meriah and Sonny Miksa, graduated from Polk County High School. Meriah&bsp;has completed her M.S.A.P. from UNCW and is employed by Dixon Hughes in Charleston, and Sonny graduates in May from ASU with a B.S. in Communication.

I earned my B.S.B.A. from WCU and will graduate from WCU with a Masters of Entrepreneurship in May. My education coupled with non-profit and business experience makes me a good choice for county commissioner. Since 2002 I have served on the Economic Development Commission and currently serve as chair of the ECD Certified Entrepreneurial Community, which is an initiative of Advantage West. I am a business developer for Mountain BizWorks, which helps local entrepreneurs start or expand small businesses. I provide marketing services for Utility Audit Company in Tryon. Prior work history includes administrative director for Pacolet Area Conservancy, where I had the privilege of working in land protection with founding members.

Polk County is a wonderful place to work-live-play. Let&squo;s make sure it&squo;s here to stay!