Every election cycle, Moore County voters are asked to make decisions about the people who will govern their daily lives — their roads, their taxes, their public safety, their schools. Too often, those decisions get made with too little information.

The Lynchburg Times is committed to changing that. This election season, we submitted an identical set of questions to every candidate seeking office in the August 2026 General Election. The questions were designed to go beyond biography — to surface values, priorities, and the kind of thinking voters deserve to see before they mark a ballot. We asked about community connection, relevant experience, the single issue each candidate considers most urgent, where they might diverge from conventional wisdom, how they’d navigate a budget crisis, and how they plan to serve constituents who didn’t choose them.

The answers are published exactly as submitted, without editing or rewriting. What you read is what the candidate gave us. We’ll let you take it from there.

{Editor’s Note: The Lynchburg Times does not endorse candidates.}

The Times: Tell us about yourself and your connection to this community. How long have you lived here, and what has your involvement in local civic life looked like? In brief, how might voters know you?

Lanier: I have lived here for three years and worked here for six. I serve as a Deputy with the Sheriff’s Department, helping keep our neighborhoods safe. I have volunteered for the last three years with the Lynchburg Youth Softball League and now serve as president-elect. Voters may know me through my work, my volunteer efforts, or everyday interactions in the community.

The Times: What specific experience — professional, civic, or personal — has prepared you to serve in this role?

Lanier: I served eight years in the United States Marine Corps, including four as a Sergeant, developing leadership and accountability. I work as a Deputy with the Metro Moore County Sheriff’s Office. These experiences give me the skills, judgment, and community perspective needed to serve with integrity.

The Times: In your opinion, what is the single most important issue facing our community right now, and what concrete steps would you take to address it in your first year in office?

Lanier: A major challenge in our community is the rising cost of property taxes. In my first year, I would explore options such as adjusting the local sales tax to capture revenue from visitors, helping reduce the burden on residents. At the same time, I would review spending and identify other ways to manage resources efficiently, ensuring that public safety, schools, and essential services continue to operate effectively.

The Times: Is there an issue where your position differs from what many your predecessor might support? If so, what is it and why do you hold that view?

Lanier: I approach issues based on what will best serve the community, rather than party lines. While I may have different perspectives at times, my focus is on listening to residents, evaluating the facts, and making decisions that support the needs and well-being of everyone in our county.

The Times: Local government budgets involve real tradeoffs. If you had to choose between cutting services or raising revenue to close a budget shortfall, how would you approach that decision?

Lanier: I would approach budget decisions by carefully reviewing all spending and evaluating priorities. My goal would be to ensure essential services, including public safety, remain effective while considering options that balance the needs of the community with the financial impact on residents. Transparency and thoughtful planning would guide every decision.

The Times: How do you plan to stay accessible and accountable to constituents who didn’t vote for you?

Lanier: I plan to stay accessible through community events, open communication, and listening to all residents. I will serve the entire community fairly and respectfully, regardless of political views.

The Times: What do you want voters who don’t yet know you to understand about why you are running?

Lanier: I’m running to serve this community and help ensure it remains safe, strong, and a great place to live. My experience in the United States Marine Corps, law enforcement, and community volunteering has been centered on service, and I want to use that experience

The voter registration deadline for the upcoming election is Tuesday, July 7 and early voting will begin on Friday, July 17 and extend through Saturday, August 1. Absentee ballots must be requested by Monday, July 27. The Moore County General Election will take place on Thursday, August 6. •

About The Lynchburg Times: The Lynchburg Times covers Moore County elections as part of its commitment to community accountability journalism. This work is supported by readers, small business partners, and corporate underwriters.