The election will determine leadership for the county’s four incorporated towns: Sylva, Dillsboro, Webster and Forest Hills. The profiles were published in The Sylva Herald.
A total of 17 seats across the four municipalities are up for election, including mayoral and town or village board positions.
Residents must live within a municipality for at least 30 days before Election Day to vote in municipal elections. Those in unincorporated areas are not eligible.
Voters can confirm their eligibility and view sample ballots using the North Carolina State Board of Elections’ Voter Search tool.
Forest Hills
Mayor
Marcia Almond has lived in Forest Hills for 37 years and is dedicated to building a stronger, healthier and more connected community. She aims to address aging septic systems and secure funding for a sewer line project to protect water quality in Cox Creek. Almond emphasizes sustainability, community health and long-term planning. She serves on the executive board of the Southwestern Commission to ensure the Village has a voice in regional decision-making. Almond plans to maintain strong relationships with local, state and federal leaders. She hopes to boost community engagement and ensure resources are allocated efficiently. Almond is committed to guiding Forest Hills toward responsible growth while preserving its unique character.
Ron Mau is a professor and department chair at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and has lived in Forest Hills for 37 years with his wife, Rochelle. Previously, he worked as a geotechnical engineer and holds a B.S. and M.S. in civil engineering, an MBA, and a Ph.D. in finance. Mau has served on several local boards, including the Village council, Jackson County Tourism Development Authority and Tuckaseigee Water and Sewer Authority. He emphasizes transparent, law-abiding governance and fiscal responsibility. Mau seeks to improve infrastructure, oversee responsible development and strengthen communication with residents. He plans to implement strategic planning, including long-range capital improvement projects. Mau is committed to serving Forest Hills and prioritizing the needs and long-term growth of its residents.
Village Council
Amy Bollinger did not respond by press time.
James Hartley moved to Forest Hills in 2023 and has served on the Village planning board. He is a semi-retired professional engineer with more than 40 years of experience in civil engineering, real estate and construction. Hartley aims to preserve the village’s character and guide long-term development. He plans to protect natural beauty and keep open spaces. Hartley emphasizes community involvement and improving infrastructure, like sewer services. He hopes to make sure new development aligns with the village’s long-term goals. Hartley is dedicated to careful planning and making Forest Hills a welcoming and sustainable community.
Daniel Shields was born and raised in Western Carolina and is an alumnus of Western Carolina University. He aims to make Forest Hills a welcoming home for young families and improve infrastructure and utilities. Shields plans to advocate for residents in village and county affairs. He wants to take measures to reduce wildfire risk and control invasive species. Shields hopes to maintain the safety, character and livability of the village. He stresses thoughtful growth and responsible decision-making. Shields is dedicated to helping Forest Hills thrive for all families now and in the future. Shields did not provide a photo for publication.
Dillsboro
Mayor
Tim Parris is running unopposed for mayor.
Town Board
Keith Clark, James Cochran, David Gates, John Miele, and Gladys Pilarski are all running unopposed for the town board.
Webster
Mayor
Leigh Anne Young is running unopposed for mayor.
Town Board
Brad Reisinger did not respond by press time.
Dale Collins is a longtime Webster resident, business owner and assistant soccer coach at Smoky Mountain High School. He also serves as a deacon at Webster Baptist Church. Collins emphasizes responsible stewardship of residents’ tax dollars and steady leadership during growth and change. He hopes to expand services such as garbage collection or adjust the tax rate if needed. Collins is committed to representing his community effectively and thoughtfully. He aims to provide practical solutions to local challenges. Collins plans to maintain Webster as a safe and connected community.
Susan Raaf moved to Webster in 2017 and has a finance background with a BBA from East Tennessee State University. She wants to improve communication between the board and residents. Raaf emphasizes keeping minutes and financial reports current and maintaining safe roads. She hopes to strengthen town services and increase public engagement. Raaf is committed to transparency and responsiveness, aiming to make town governance accessible and effective. She plans to ensure residents’ voices are heard in decision-making. Raaf did not provide a photo for publication.
Daniel Riggs and his family moved to Webster in 2020. He wants to represent young families and improve pedestrian safety and traffic management. Riggs also hopes to restore a local post office and enhance community engagement. He emphasizes creating a safer, more walkable town and is committed to prioritizing residents’ needs in local decision-making. He aims to foster community connections and maintain public safety. Riggs plans to strengthen Webster as a family-friendly and accessible town. Riggs did not provide a photo for publication.
Sara Stahlman has lived in Webster for 10 years and served on the town planning board. She brings experience in community health, communication and project management. Stahlman is dedicated to maintaining Webster as a connected, safe and family-friendly community. She emphasizes preserving parks, sidewalks and public spaces for residents. Stahlman hopes to improve the quality of life and strengthen neighborhood connections. She is committed to providing accessible and inclusive governance. Stahlman aims to keep Webster a vibrant place for residents of all ages.
Sylva
Mayor
Johnny Phillips is running unopposed for mayor.
Town Board
Calvin Alvoyd Autrey Jr. and Brooklyn Joan Brownie did not respond by press time.
Dwight D. McMahan has withdrawn from the race.
Taylor Armstrong is a longtime resident of Sylva and graduated from Smoky Mountain High School in 2011. She works in financial services with Jackson County Farm Bureau. Armstrong is running to help develop Sylva’s future through business growth and to oversee the N.C. 107 Project to completion for local residents. She stresses fiscal responsibility, safeguarding taxpayers’ interests and maintaining essential services. Armstrong is dedicated to public safety and preserving Sylva’s small-town charm. She aims to position the town for future expansion while keeping it vibrant and livable. As a mother, she says her priorities include long-term stability and opportunities for families in the community.
Samuel McGuire was born and raised in Sylva and earned a Ph.D. in Appalachian History. He teaches history at Western Carolina University and is running to provide steady, transparent leadership. McGuire aims to restore trust and accountability in local government. He emphasizes practical problem-solving and guiding residents effectively. McGuire hopes to preserve the town’s character while helping the community thrive. He intends to focus local politics on residents’ daily needs rather than partisan conflicts. McGuire plans to support long-term growth while safeguarding Sylva’s heritage and traditions.
Joseph Waldrum has strong roots in Sylva and holds a degree in accounting and corporate finance from WCU. He has experience in business ownership, public service and government operations, including budgeting and planning. Waldrum emphasizes thoughtful, transparent leadership and sustainable community growth. He wants public decisions to reflect resident input and long-term considerations. Waldrum plans to advocate for policies that keep the town safe and welcoming. He is committed to responsible governance and practical solutions. Waldrum hopes to help Sylva remain vibrant and inclusive for all residents.
Town Board (Unexpired term)
Perry Matthews did not respond by press time.
Jon Brown currently serves as a Sylva commissioner and has held leadership roles in schools, churches and hospital governance. He wants to help Sylva grow through business development and expanded recreational opportunities. Brown emphasizes the importance of supporting first responders and improving local infrastructure. He prioritizes integrity, thoughtfulness and inclusive leadership. Brown hopes to guide the town through upcoming challenges and transitions. He aims to ensure residents have multiple ways to provide input. Brown is committed to representing the entire town effectively and fairly.
