An Introduction

Hi Neighbor,

Nice to meet you - I'm Kyle Wheeler, running for Lewis County Commissioner District 3!

I was raised in a small, rural mountain community with a heavy focus on tourism. Growing up I developed a deep appreciation for close-knit environments and the ebb and flow in tourist towns. This background gave me a strong sense of community and resilience as well as a deep appreciation for local enterprises and small businesses. My first professional job at the age of 18 was assisting to run the community visitors center and supporting small businesses, lodging, and short term rentals through the community’s central reservation system.

After a 5 year adventure to Texas where I met my husband and gained a few certificates from the University of Texas related to small business development and accounting while I worked in the animal welfare field, my journey eventually led me to Lewis County in 2016. We initially moved here to establish and operate a dog boarding and daycare facility from 2016-2020. This provided invaluable experience in small business ownership, community engagement, marketing, as well as let me see the happier side of a dog's life after my time in welfare.

Beginning in 2020 after multiple local politicians began dehumanizing constituents and political grandstanding in areas I don’t believe the government or its agents should, I took an interest in citizen watchdog efforts and community advocacy. During all this, I tried to remain focused on consistent engagement in local politics, holding elected officials accountable, and championing various community causes with a particular focus on making our communities feel safe and welcoming.. I played a critical role in monitoring government activities, increasing transparency, fundraising for numerous worthwhile efforts and ensured public funds were being spent responsibly. As a community advocate I helped organize volunteers, speak out on behalf of underserved populations, and establish a reputation as a committed and vocal proponent for positive change in the region. With my dedication to civic engagement I’ve served on numerous non-profit boards, school and levy committees, and other public and private working groups. These roles have given me practical experience in collaborative decision-making, governance, budgeting, and advocating for our communities and their betterment.

Today, I am the proud owner of the Toledo Cheese Depot, a business that serves as both a local fixture and a draw for visitors as they explore throughout Lewis County. Community, placemaking, and revitalization are my top three passions, which are reflected in Toledo Cheese Depot’s focus on Toledo's history of community collaboration and hospitality.

As a queer individual, I grew up observing the world from a unique perspective. This experience of "being different" fostered a highly observational nature and a knack for problem-solving. I was the quiet kid in the corner watching everything most of my life. This perspective has always been an asset in identifying and addressing others needs and something I hope to utilize as a your next commissioner committed to listening to the constituency.

I look forward to showing your vote in me is worth it as we take a practical approach to bridging divides and working toward our shared goals of safe, connected, and supportive communities.

Kyle Wheeler

Independent candidate

Lewis County Commissioner District 3