PUBLISHER’S NOTE:Page Valley News will be publishing profiles of seven local candidates in three contested races in this fall’s general election from Aug. 11 through Sept. 1. These Q&As will be published around midday on Mondays and Thursdays.
In September, PVN will be broadcasting pre-recorded candidate forums among the candidates in these three contested races through our YouTube channel. Click on the link here or the YouTube icon in the upper right on our Home page to subscribe to our channel ahead of time.
Jared Burner
Age: 41
Education: Luray High School, 2002; B.S., Animal and Poultry Science, Virginia Tech, 2006; B.S., Agricultural and Applied Economics, Virginia Tech, 2006; M.S., Agricultural and Applied Economics, Virginia Tech, 2009.
Organizations/Appointed positions: Virginia State FFA Officer, 2002-2003; Virginia Cattle Industry Board, 2018-2020; Luray-Page Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, served as Chairman; F&M Bank Agriculture Advisory Board, 2022-present; Page County Planning Commission, 2019- present, Chairman, 2021-present.
Elected office: None.
Family: Wife, Holly.
• Why are you running for public office?
I’m running because I believe Page County is at a crossroads. With the Planning Commission updating our zoning ordinance, and with potential turnover on the current board, we face an important moment. We have the opportunity — and the responsibility — to shape a future that protects the character and traditions we cherish, while also planning for smart, balanced growth that benefits our families, businesses and future generations.
• What makes you the best candidate for chairman of the Page County Board of Supervisors?
What sets me apart is the combination of hands-on experience and leadership that drives my vision for Page County. I bring both an academic foundation and real-world knowledge to the table. I earned a dual bachelor’s degree in both Animal and Poultry Science and Agricultural and Applied Economics, along with a master’s degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics from Virginia Tech.
For the past six years, I’ve served on the Planning Commission — four years as Chairman — where I’ve worked directly with the Board of Supervisors, county administration, and zoning officials to thoughtfully balance growth with preservation of our county’s character.
Beyond public service, I’ve been deeply involved in our business and agricultural community — Past Chairman of the Luray-Page Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, current member of F&M Bank’s Agriculture Advisory Board and a Governor-appointed past member of the Virginia Cattle Industry Board.
I live the values I talk about. I operate Trio Farms, Inc. with my Dad and run Burner’s Beef LLC with my wife, Holly. I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses and families, and I’ll bring that perspective to every decision I make.
• What is the most pressing issue facing Page County and how would you address it?
The most pressing issue facing Page County is how we manage growth while protecting the values and traditions that make our community special. We are at a turning point, and the decisions we make now will shape our county for generations to come.
My key priorities as Chairman will be:
– Expanding affordable housing options
– Increasing access to quality, sustainable jobs
– Evaluating the role of data centers and emerging industries
– Promoting efficient land use and smart subdivision planning
– Defining a clear, unified identity for Page County
Our economy has always been rooted in agriculture and tourism, and those industries must remain strong. But we also need to create space for new businesses to thrive. With thoughtful zoning and strategic planning, I believe diverse industries can complement each other and strengthen our economy without sacrificing what makes Page County unique.
• What is the bestthing about Page County and how would you maintain or improve it?
The best thing about Page County is that it’s more than a place — it’s a community deeply rooted in history, tradition and connection. My family has lived here for several generations, and I know firsthand that what makes our county special isn’t just the natural beauty or rural charm, it’s the people, our strong sense of community, and the shared potential we have when we work together.
As Chairman, my focus will be on preserving those strengths while preparing for the future. That means following our comprehensive plan as a guide for sustainable growth, ensuring thoughtful land use, and making decisions that reflect the voices of all residents. I will lead with an open mind, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to transparency.
I believe in practical, long-term solutions that keep Page County strong, whether it’s infrastructure, land use, or economic development. My approach is simple — people before politics. I hope to earn your trust, your ideas, and your vote so that together, we can build a future that is united, sustainable, and true to the values that make Page County such a special place to call home.
• Briefly describe a decision you have made in a leadership role and tell why you made that decision.
The decision that stands out the most for me is voting to recommend approval of the Solar Ordinance that was generated by the Planning Commission to the Board of Supervisors. Generating that document required listening to the community to determine valid concerns to address in the ordinance, such as setbacks and screening. Being in a leadership role while discussing controversial topics requires you to take the emotion out of a decision so that you can develop a clear path forward that benefits a larger share of the community without sacrificing potential opportunities.
Im glad you are open and willing to study the prospect of bringing jobs to our community .There are too many people leaving Page County every morning to work at a job that pays a fair wage so they support their families .Also thank you for donating food to the hungry in our community.
I commend the work the Planning Commission has done, particularly guarding against unchecked solar factory expansion. The research done by the PC, under your leadership, was critical to creating an ordinance that would withstand legal challenges while offering opportunities for small scale properly sited solar
For data centers, it is a similar situation. It is essential to understand risks and benefits, incorporate citizen input, and craft a clear plan of action that will hold up to any legal challenge
Your work on the PC demonstrates a commitment to listening to the views and wishes of the people who live here
Im glad you are open and willing to study the prospect of bringing jobs to our community .There are too many people leaving Page County every morning to work at a job that pays a fair wage so they support their families .Also thank you for donating food to the hungry in our community.
I commend the work the Planning Commission has done, particularly guarding against unchecked solar factory expansion. The research done by the PC, under your leadership, was critical to creating an ordinance that would withstand legal challenges while offering opportunities for small scale properly sited solar
For data centers, it is a similar situation. It is essential to understand risks and benefits, incorporate citizen input, and craft a clear plan of action that will hold up to any legal challenge
Your work on the PC demonstrates a commitment to listening to the views and wishes of the people who live here