Haywood commission incumbent ousted
Republican Primary Election results have put an end to years of drama.
Cory Vaillancourt photo
After nearly four years of drama, incumbent Haywood County Commissioner Terry Ramey won't be a commissioner much longer.
Ramey, known for his contentious tenure marked by public disputes and ethical questions, has drawn both criticism and controversy during years of board turmoil, with opponents citing decades-long tax debts, questionable YouTube appearances and, most recently, an anonymous tax payment made on his behalf.
With 17% in a six-way Primary, Ramey finished fourth, just ahead of newcomer TIffany Collins (13%) and Canton restauranteur Howard Knepper (6%). With three seats available, Ramey missed the cut.
Instead, two-term incumbent Tommy Long (22%), longtime Haywood County Schools board member David Burnette (22%) and retired Waynesville Public Works director Jeff Stines (20%) will advance to November, where they will face Democrats Carly Pugh and former Commissioner Mike Sorrells.
Democrats couldn't field three candidates; however, voters may choose any three candidates — including unaffiliated candidates, if they qualify — in the General Election.
Check back with The Smoky Mountain News for full results and detailed analysis across Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties in our March 11 issue.
