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Voters in the Buchanan District -- the precincts of Buchanan, Mill Creek, Roaring Run and Springwood -- have a contested race for the Board of Supervisors on Nov. 3. We put the same five questions to each candidate and here’s what they had to say.

Here's a link to Crystal Ware's answers. Terry Austin's answers are below:

1. What is the most important issue facing Botetourt County during the next four years?

The most important issue facing Botetourt County in the next 4 years will be maintaining the level of service we have provided, with the decline of revenues, it will become increasingly difficult to continue the service we have grown accustomed to. However I feel it is our elected responsibility once we establish a level of service that we continue to provide that level of service. Our schools, public safety, emergency services, parks and recreation, building inspections, all depend on our ability to fund their needs. These are difficult times in the economy, and I believe as we have previously the economy will grow stronger as a result of this recession, however it will be challenging.

2. How do you propose to deal with this issue?

I plan to budget wisely, I have served as a member of the budget committee all 12 years, that I have served as a supervisor, Mr. Clinton and I together approximately 7 of the 12 . It is very important we work withthe departments and conserve as much as possible. The school administration is aware and working with us in everyway. The constitutional officers are all the best in the state; they are always receptive to our requests, and very conservative. This team approach will be what helps us overcome this situation.

3. What is the best decision that Botetourt County has made in the past four years, and why?

Our best decision has been to reinvest in our facilities when we retired debt. We built a new jail/ public safety building that was very much needed and renovated James River High School. Both of these projects will serve Botetourt County for many years. Emergency Services continues to expand, we have a positive relationship with the volunteers; this improves response time and saves money.

4. What is the worst decision that Botetourt County has made in the past four years, and why?

Our worst decision was to challenge the Glebe on their tax status. We all struggled with this decision. The Glebe is truly a great asset to Botetourt County. I regret we created a bump in the road for both them and us along the way and I wish them all of the success they deserve.

5. What else should voters know about you before they vote?

I have truly enjoyed my years of service. I served four years on the planning commission and have served 12 as a supervisor. The residents of Botetourt County have are great understanding people. In the past 12 years I have helped bring jobs to the area, to name a few Altec, Jteck, Litesteel, Expansions at Dynax, Lawrence Transportation, Matalsa, Virginia Forge. We have also improved facilities, Circuit Court, Jail/Public Safety, Buchanan Park, Eagle Rock Library, James River High School, and Botetourt Sports Complex. All in my time of service we have reduced the tax rate two times both by five cents per one hundred dollars. I will continue to work to move the county forward in services and improved lifestyle and be a good steward of the tax payer’s dollar.