News

Nicholas ‘Nick’ Haley, 41, and his wife, Shonda, have one child, Hannah Aaron. He is a graduate of Edgewood High School and the East Texas Police Academy. Haley is currently employed as a Wood County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Deputy.

Samantha Smith is currently serving on the Van City Council having been appointed in July 2024 to fill the unexpired term of former councilman Linzy Neal. Before serving on the council, Smith served on the City of Van’s Planning and Zoning Board.

“My name is Ernie Burns, and I am excited to say that I am running to fill the unexpired term of Mayor for the City of Van,” said Burns. “I have served the citizens of Van in an official capacity since 2016.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The News did not receive questionnaire responses and photos from mayoral candidate Don Smith; and unopposed city council candidates Bill Dwyer (Place 3) and Mark Heatwole (Place 4). The News did not receive a photo from Michael Jarrett.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The News did not receive questionnaire responses and photos from school board candidates Michael Martin and Jeremy Gunnels. .

“I am Kathy Smith, and I am seeking the position of mayor on the Grand Saline City Council,” said Smith. “Having been born and raised in Grand Saline, I proudly attended Grand Saline High School. Following my retirement, I was afforded the remarkable opportunity to reside on the property that has been cherished by my family for over a century. I consider myself truly fortunate to live in the neighborhood and town where I grew up, surrounded by familiar faces. This is my home, and my roots run deep here.

Melissa Jose, 29, is a graduate of Grand Saline High School and Tyler Junior College. She is currently employed at Salt Lickers in Grand Saline.

Kobe Blue, 49, and his wife, Brittany, have three children. He is a graduate of Grand Saline High School and is employed in maintenance for the Grand Saline Housing Authority.

John C. Haverly, 66, and his wife, Peggy, have three children: John P.

Elijah Browning, 37, and his wife, Amy, have two children: Raynee and Ryker. Browning, a high school graduate, works as a sales representative for PR Equipment.