Reese Would Advocate For Volunteer Recruitment
Steve Reese is a life-long resident of Raphine and has spent more than 30 years working in public service. After graduating from Rockbridge High School in 1990, he worked as a dispatcher for the Rockbridge County sheriff’s office before being appointed as the 911 technical director for the county, playing a “key role” in implementing the regional enhanced 911 system. After working in the newly established regional 911 center for 12 years, Reese went to work for Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital as the patient access manager. He served in that role for the past 12 years before taking the same position at Roanoke Memorial Hospital earlier this year.
“My lifelong commitment to Rockbridge County, through both professional service and volunteer leadership, reflects my deeprooted dedication to the safety, well-being, and prosperity of our community,” he said. “I decided to run for election because I believe I can continue making a meaningful impact. My goal is to strengthen our community by improving the services we offer, supporting our emergency responders, and ensuring that every citizen feels heard and represented. I want to bring practical experience, local insight and a collaborative spirit to the Board of Supervisors to help shape a better future for Rockbridge County.”
Reese told The News-Gazette that he believes that “economic development and responsible zoning go handin- hand.”
“Rockbridge County needs targeted growth in areas where development makes sense – places with infrastructure, accessibility and community support,” he said. “At the same time, zoning regulations must be thoughtfully applied to preserve the character of our communities and protect agricultural and residential areas. I support a proactive approach that encourages smart development while maintaining transparency and public input through the Planning Commission and zoning boards.”
With nearly four decades of experience as an emergency services volunteer in the county, Reese said he’s “seen firsthand the critical role volunteers play in keeping our communities safe,” but that the county has “unfortunately … not taken an active role in helping these organizations recruit new members.” If elected, Reese said he would “advocate for a county-led initiative to support volunteer recruitment.”
“We must also explore incentives, such as training stipends, additional tax credits, or recognition programs, to attract and retain volunteers,” he said. “Without meaningful support, the cost of delivering fire and EMS services will continue to rise, placing greater strain on taxpayers and risking slower response times. Rockbridge County’s volunteers deserve more than gratitude. They deserve action. I’m committed to making sure they get it.”
Reese said he’s heard from many residents who are “frustrated” with the longterm solid waste plan, especially with the removal of unmanned dumpster sites.
“While I understand the intent behind transitioning to manned collection centers, the current implementation has left many citizens without convenient access to waste disposal,” he said. “People are now traveling miles from their homes to reach sites that used to be just around the corner. … A solid waste plan should serve the people, not inconvenience them.”
If elected, Reese said he plans to work with county officials and the Blue Ridge Resource Authority for “more strategic placement of manned sites to ensure they are truly accessible to the communities they serve,” and for “improved oversight at existing locations,” noting that the Timber Ridge site “frequently has trash scattered on the ground for days at a time.”
“That’s unacceptable, and it’s a clear sign that more attention and resources are needed,” he said.
Reese promised to support Goshen’s continued efforts to make improvements to the town to provide more resources to residents and make the town more attractive to visitors and businesses by “advocating for infrastructure improvements, helping secure grants and development incentives, and ensuring that county planning aligns with Goshen’s long-term goals.”
“As a representative on the Board of Supervisors, I would work to ensure that Goshen – and similarly positioned towns like Glasgow – receives the county-level assistance they need to continue making progress,” he said. “Economic development in our smaller towns strengthens the entire county. I’m committed to being a hands-on, responsive advocate for Goshen’s continued success.”
Other priorities for Reese are providing quality education for children, lower taxes for citizens and improved county services through “streamlined government.”
“These priorities are not just campaign promises,” he said. “They’re a reflection of my lifelong dedication to Rockbridge County and my belief in practical, community- driven leadership.”
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