Background

Engineer, farmer, and lifelong Ashe County resident, Les Colvard brings decades of practical experience and community service to his campaign for Ashe County Commissioner. Born in Nathans Creek, Les grew up working on the family farm—raising cattle and crops that helped sustain local families and economy alike. After attending Wilkes Community College, Les pursued a Mechanical Engineering degree from Virginia Tech. His professional career spanned the Southeast, holding engineering and leadership roles with organizations such as DuPont, Takeda Chemicals, Nestlé Frozen Foods, Alstom (now GE), and BAE Systems, Inc. When he retired in 2019, he returned home to Ashe County to manage his farm, producing and selling hay for horses, cattle, and small livestock. Les has long been active in civic life—serving as Treasurer of the Museum of Ashe County History, board member of the Ashe Cattlemen’s Association, former co-founder of an antique farm equipment collectors group, and organizer of community school reunion efforts. 

Forward for Ashe County

Les is running for Ashe County Commissioner because he believes Ashe can do better—and he’s ready to help lead that change, bringing thoughtful leadership to make life more affordable for working families and young professionals. His top priority is tackling Ashe County’s affordable housing shortage. Working with members of the Ashe County Democratic Party and other community organizations, Les is exploring creative ways to finance, acquire, and build housing suitable for local workers and families. He emphasizes collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and long-term planning to strengthen the community’s foundation for growth.

As a commissioner, Les will focus on spending tax dollars effectively, investing in people, and preparing Ashe County for the future—supporting new economic development while preserving the rural charm and integrity that residents value.

Issues & Advocacy

Les’s platform is grounded in practical solutions and a deep sense of stewardship for Ashe County’s people and environment. His priorities include:

• Affordable Housing: Develop pathways for attainable homeownership and rental options that meet the needs of young professionals and hourly workers.

• Local Economic Growth: Support small business startups, expand agricultural and manufacturing opportunities, and attract sustainable industries.

• Education & Training: Partner with schools and technical programs to prepare residents for evolving jobs in technology and manufacturing.

• Infrastructure Advancement: Improve utilities—power, water, sanitation, telecom—to support growth and keep Ashe competitive statewide.

• Community Well-being: Champion affordable childcare, healthcare, and mental health resources while addressing homelessness and addiction.

• Environmental & Agricultural Preservation: Protect Ashe’s natural beauty and promote farming practices that sustain local livelihoods and tourism.

Les Colvard’s vision is clear: to make Ashe County stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous for generations to come.

To learn more about Les Colvard and his campaign for Ashe County Commissioner, visit his campaign website HERE.