Jim Adams announced his candidacy for a seventh term as the Henry County Board of Supervisors’ Blackberry District representative in the upcoming November election against challenger and local businessman Ray Reynolds.
Adams, who has held the position since 2002, is currently serving his 13th year as the board’s chairman. He previously served as vice chairman for four nonconsecutive years.
He said he is seeking reelection to continue work on several ongoing projects that he hopes to see through to completion.
“I feel we’ve got a lot of positive things that we’ve worked toward….” including “a good, strong fund balance. Henry County’s strong financial position allows it to participate in economic development, match grants, and solidify infrastructure that puts us in front of other localities,” Adams said.
He said the board prioritizes securing grants to fund infrastructure projects in order to minimize the need to draw from the county’s reserves.
“It’s also used as an economic incentive on occasion,” he said.
Adams noted that ongoing site development at Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre will provide space for expansion and create opportunities for new businesses.
“The two that we have been game changers. Press Glass, of course, liked the work ethic of people, liked the location. In August 2023, they announced another addition to it that was a $155 million addition,” he said.
The presence of Press Glass and Crown Holdings at Commonwealth Crossing has contributed to economic growth, Adams said, as local businesses have increased wages to remain competitive.
“So, that’s a good thing. Wage levels are up, jobs are still plentiful, our unemployment is low, and as with anything else, there are always opportunities month in, month out,” he said.
One of the financial challenges the board will face in the coming years is the debt service associated with the Henry County Detention Center.
“It carries quite a bit of debt on it that we haven’t had to face for the first couple of years, so a good, strong, healthy fund balance is part of that,” he said.
Adams said housing is another key issue that will require attention is localities must focus on providing quality housing to retain residents.
“Or if they’re attracted by the job, come live here and spend your money versus carrying it across the state line or another county and living there,” he said. “So, we’ll be working on some housing initiatives, and continue to keep our eye on infrastructure, keep a hand in to making sure we stay fiscally responsible in what we’re doing.”
Despite occasional differences of opinion, Adams said the board works well together and maintains a productive and respectful dynamic.
“At least we’re civil in our discussions. The board members come well prepared with the background information, and they ask questions, and it’s a pleasure to work with them. It’s a pleasure to work with citizens,” he said.
As part of his platform, Adams said he will continue efforts to stabilize the county’s fire and emergency medical services (EMS) system through supplemental staffing and refining service needs.
“This is important to our area, as the needs for service increase. Support of public safety through our fire departments, rescue squads, 911 Center, as well as our sheriff’s department ensures timely response to the needs of the community,” he said.
Adams serves on the Executive Board and is chairman of the West Piedmont Planning District Commission. He is also the chairman of the regional Transportation Technical Advisory Committee. He has previously served on the Henry County Board of Zoning Appeals, the Henry County Schools Facilities Improvement Committee, and the Executive Board of the Smart Beginning for Early Childhood Development.
Adams has been a member of the Sanville Ruritan Club since 1979, serving as Zone 1 & 3 Governor as well as several other club offices. He is a past recipient of the Ruritan DRM award. He is a member and serves on the Board of Directors of the Bassett Kiwanis Club, Patrick Henry Volunteer Fire Department, Marc Workshop and Habitat for Humanity. He is a member at Stella Christian Church.
Adams is married with two children and two grandchildren.
