Politics

Mills River mayor endorses Orr for county commission

By Lightning Reports, Published: January 10, 2026

Henderson County Board of Commissioners candidate Rudd Orr has won the endorsement of Mills River Mayor Shanon Gonce, the Orr campaign announced.

“I would like to thank Mills River Mayor Shanon Gonce for his support of my campaign,” said Orr, who like Gonce is a Mills River-based homebuilder. “Shanon is not only a great leader, but a good friend whose advice and perspective on local government I truly value. When folks work together, we can accomplish great things for our community.”

Orr added in a news release that the mayor’s endorsement “adds momentum to Orr’s campaign, which is focused on practical solutions and leadership that supports the first responder and farming communities in Henderson County.”

Orr also said that strong partnerships between municipal and county leaders are essential to addressing shared priorities such as infrastructure, public safety and strong conservation practices.