Brevard City Council & Mayoral Candidates: What to Know for Nov. 4 Election

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Brevard Voters Head to the Polls for Key Municipal Elections

Brevard voters are preparing to cast their ballots in the upcoming municipal elections on November 4. This year, three key positions are up for election: mayor and two City Council seats. The Times-News reached out to all candidates with a set of questions, and here’s what they had to say about the challenges facing the city and their plans for its future.

Early voting will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 1 at the Transylvania County Election Center located at 150 S Gaston St. in Brevard. On Election Day, voting will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at local precincts. For more information, visit the Transylvania County Board of Elections’ website.

Brevard Mayor Candidates

Maureen Copelof

Maureen Copelof, a retired U.S. Navy captain and current mayor, emphasized the need to balance growth with preserving Brevard’s small-town charm. She highlighted several pressing issues:

• Managing Growth: Ensuring that the city grows without losing its unique character.
• Affordable Housing: Addressing the lack of housing options for workers, teachers, and essential service providers.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Expanding and modernizing the wastewater treatment plant.

Copelof stressed that affordable housing is the most urgent issue, as it impacts the quality of life for residents and the ability of businesses and schools to function effectively. She also outlined her commitment to working collaboratively with local, state, and federal governments to secure funding for infrastructure and community projects.

Chris Wiener

Chris Wiener, a candidate focused on reducing government spending and supporting law enforcement, pointed to neglect as the root of Brevard’s challenges:

• Neglected Infrastructure: Aging water and sewer systems, deteriorating roads, and insufficient housing.
• Lack of Accountability: A need for transparent governance and prioritization of basic services over special projects.

Wiener proposed a generational infrastructure plan, affordability initiatives, and a return to transparency. He emphasized the importance of government serving the people rather than controlling them. His approach includes strengthening partnerships with county, state, and federal officials to support Brevard’s development.

Brevard City Council Candidates

Aaron Baker

Aaron Baker, a first-term City Council member, focused on affordable housing, responsive government, and economic growth. He highlighted the need to prevent Brevard from becoming a resort town where only the wealthy can live. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, and water systems.

Baker stressed the need for a clear vision for Brevard’s future, ensuring that working families can afford to live in the city. He promised to work with local government to address these challenges and maintain the city’s small-town feel.

Doug Miller

Doug Miller, a small business owner, campaigned on safe streets, affordable housing, and responsive government. He pointed to the rising cost of housing as a major challenge, noting that essential workers like teachers and nurses can no longer afford to live in the community they serve.

Miller also emphasized the need to update water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure to prepare for natural disasters. He called for safer streets through better traffic enforcement, more crosswalks, and improved bicycle infrastructure. His goal is to ensure that Brevard remains a welcoming and safe place for all residents and visitors.

Collaboration Across Government Levels

Both mayoral and City Council candidates emphasized the importance of working with county, state, and federal governments. They highlighted the need for partnerships to secure funding, improve infrastructure, and address housing shortages. By leveraging resources and fostering collaboration, they aim to create a stronger, more resilient Brevard that supports its residents and businesses.