My name is Rick Harbin, and I’ve called Transylvania County home for 36 years, 27 of those right here in Brevard. I grew up just down the road in Haywood County and graduated from Pisgah High School in 1976. Over the years, I’ve worked in local factories, drove a semi truck long distance and for local deliveries until 1994, spent 16 years in the propane business, and wrapped up my career in law enforcement. I retired in 2024 as a Lieutenant with the Brevard Police Department after 14 years of service.
I’ve been married to my wife, Pam (maiden name Owen), for 34 years. She graduated from Brevard High School. We attend Holly Springs Baptist Church where I am Co-Chair of the Deacon Board. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, bowling, playing golf, and spending time with my new grand baby.
So why am I running for city council?
Because I believe Brevard is starting to lose what makes it special. It’s beginning to look more like Asheville every day, and if I wanted to live in Asheville, I’d move there. The city council seems to be steering Brevard in a direction that doesn’t reflect the values or needs of the people who actually live here.
I’m running to bring common sense and moral grounding back to city government. I believe our focus needs to shift back to the citizens of Brevard and Transylvania County, not just tourism. Yes, tourism matters, especially since we lack strong industry, but we can’t build a lasting future on breweries and weekend visitors alone. We need real, sustainable jobs and a local economy that supports the people who live and work here year-round.
I appreciate your support in this election. I know I’m just one voice, but sometimes that’s all it takes, someone willing to ask the hard questions and push for decisions that truly serve the community.
If you or someone you know lives in Brevard and shares this vision, I encourage you to vote this November and invite others to do the same. Every voice matters, and together we can help put common sense, integrity, and the people of Brevard first.