John K. Collins

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Name: John K. Collins

Age: 68

Profession: Retired educator and real estate agent/broker

Political History: Never held public office.

Why are you seeking this office?

I’ve held several positions in public service throughout my life and career. I am the former vice president of Surry Community College. I have served as the president of the Rotary Club and the president of the Kiwanis club. I am currently chairman of Mount Airy Planning Board and Co-Chair of the Historical Preservation Commission.

I just enjoy public service and feel like I could contribute a lot as a county commissioner.

How do you feel you can help residents of Surry County if you are elected?

I have a background in agriculture, education and small business. I feel like my experience in small business gives me a background that could allow me to contribute a lot as a commissioner.

But my main interest is going to be trying to improve the economy by bringing in business and industry. I want to do what I can to help the people of Surry County.

Is there one issue you feel isn’t being addressed or you would like to specifically focus on if elected to the Board of Commissioners?

I think the commissioners over the years have done a good job in Surry County. We have a progressive county and I want to do everything I can to ensure that we keep that image.

My main emphasis will be the economy of Surry County. We’ve lost so many jobs that I feel like it’s our responsibility to help the economy. That means working with existing industries, and the economic development commission to help existing industry and seek new industry.

I also feel like we need to do everything we can to foster and help the farmers in the county because there is still a lot of agriculture here.

What would you like to say to the voters of Surry County?

All my life and my career I’ve been in a position to help people. I’ve helped students find jobs, career goals and career skills. I’d like to continue that work by doing everything I can to provide jobs and help the people of Surry County in any way I can.

I can promise the voters of Surry County that I will study each issue and make the best and most fair decision I can.