Name: Jon Douglas
Party: Democrat
Age: 62
Education: High School Graduate; Small Engine Certifications; Trade School Certifications
Professional experience: 25 years Henderson County School Maintenance
Current occupation: HVAC Technician, Henderson County Schools
Family: Wife, Sandy; Children, Stefon (Megan), Jacob (Linzi), Eli (Madison); and Grandchildren, Conner, Emerson, Alinia, Cole, Drew, Elizabeth, Stella, Meave and Colter
Why did you decide to run for this office?
I decided to run for magistrate because I care deeply about this community and its future. I’ve spent over 25 years working in and supporting our local schools. I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with students, families, and educators, and I’ve seen first-hand how decisions at the local level affect everyday lives. I care deeply about our youth, the next generation, and continued growth of our community. My family has also been closely connected to public service, with my children having backgrounds in first responder roles, which has further shaped my appreciation for those who serve our community every day. I believe it’s time to give back in a new way—by helping guide responsible growth, protecting what makes our county special, and ensuring decisions are made with the best interests of our citizens in mind.
Why do you believe you are the best choice for this seat?
I bring a long history of service, accountability, and commitment to this community. My work in education has taught me how to listen, collaborate, and make decisions that directly affect people’s daily lives. Through my family’s involvement in first response, I’ve seen the sacrifices our law enforcement officers, volunteer firefighters, and emergency personnel make to keep us safe. I understand the importance of balancing growth with tradition—supporting our schools, our local businesses, our agricultural roots, and those who protect our community. I’m not running for personal gain; I’m running to serve.
What are your top priorities if elected?
My top priorities are supporting our youth, strengthening the local economy, and ensuring responsible growth throughout the county. That includes continuing to invest in our schools and creating opportunities that help keep young people rooted here for the future.
Another key priority is supporting our local farmers and agricultural community. Agriculture has always been the backbone of our county, and our farmers deserve leadership that understands their challenges and values their contribution. I will work to protect farmland, support infrastructure that helps farmers succeed, and ensure county decisions respect agriculture while balancing smart, sustainable development.
Public safety is also a top priority. I strongly support our local sheriff’s department and our volunteer fire departments. These men and women put themselves on the line for our community, often with limited resources. Having children with backgrounds in first response has given me a personal understanding of the dedication and sacrifice this work requires. As magistrate, I will advocate for the resources, training, and support our first responders need to continue keeping our community safe.
A final brief statement to support your candidacy
I, as a magistrate, will be accessible and responsive to citizens, while working collaboratively with other local leaders to support responsible development and strong local economy. Supporting opportunities that help our community grow—while keeping it safe and welcoming place for families and young people—is essential. Everything I do will be guided by respect for the public and a commitment to the well-being of our county. I have the opportunity to drive to extracurricular activities for Henderson County Schools and when talking to other people in different counties throughout the state they always complement Henderson on how clean it is and what we have done to grow our community and have the best interest in our citizens. It warms my heart to hear this. If you know me, you know I love my job and I love my County. I will be available at any time for any of my constituents in this community by phone call or E-mail to speak about any type of concerns or issues they have in our community if elected to this position of Magistrate District 1.
