Dewayne on the Issues
Fighting for Culpeper’s Future - Rooted in Faith, Farming, and Freedom.
Dewayne Payne is a lifelong conservative, full-time farmer, and proven advocate for the people of Stevensburg and Culpeper County. As a Republican candidate for the Board of Supervisors, Dewayne brings deep roots in our rural community, a strong work ethic shaped by the land, and a no-nonsense commitment to protecting the values we hold dear. He’s not a career politician—he’s one of us. Dewayne understands firsthand the challenges facing farmers and families in small-town Virginia, and he’s ready to fight for lower taxes, less government debt, and stronger protections for property rights and agricultural livelihoods. With real-world experience, common sense, and a record of leadership you can trust, Dewayne Payne is ready to stand up for Culpeper and keep our county free, self-reliant, and proudly conservative.
Farmland Preservation
Farmland is not only a crucial part of our heritage but is still the largest industry in our local economy. I will work to keep farmland in agricultural production by creating an environment that preserves the farmer/landowner. Low taxation, flexible agricultural zoning, and voluntary conservation programs are tools in preserving our farmland. We must create an environment that allows our farmers to survive/succeed and they will preserve their land. We must support our farmers. Agriculture is now a diverse industry in Culpeper County. There are many of us still requiring large tracts of land but many can survive on a much smaller footprint. No matter the scale or scope of the operation we must simply provide stability so they can accordingly plan their future. Farmers are already faced so much uncertainty. Our local government cannot continue to be another source of uncertainty. We must preserve agriculture as the largest industry in our local economy, not just to preserve land for simply open space.
Fiscal Responsibility
Prudent budgeting, pay‑as‑you‑go, and zero tolerance for waste. I believe our local government must live within its means. I will prioritize efficient use of taxpayer money, focus on essential services, and carefully scrutinize spending to eliminate waste. We must create a balance of providing services and infrastructure while eliminating our debt and keeping taxes low. Proffers: developers must pay, upfront. Not up to the taxpayers. It is a fact that increasing debt will increase our taxes.
Planned Growth
Smart land‑use planning without sacrificing rural character or straining our roads, schools, and emergency services. I am aware of the approved rezonings from previous boards and may not agree with the decisions but now we must plan for the future. We must plan our infrastructure around existing by right zoning. The taking of property rights isn’t a strategy or the answer for managing growth in our county. No new residential rezonings. We simply cannot afford it! It’s a simple NO to large major divisions requested by big developers. We must continue to support a vision of Culpeper County that preserves prime farm land, protects historical sites, and provides adequate infrastructure for residents and businesses. While carefully planned growth is important to our future, it must be balanced against the need to preserve our rich heritage and quality of life.
Property Rights
I will defend the rights of property owners against unnecessary regulations and government overreach. Private property is the foundation of our freedom and local economy, and I will work to ensure those rights are upheld and respected.
Government Transparency
The public has a right to know how decisions are made and how tax dollars are spent. I will push for open meetings, accessible public records, and clear communication from local officials. All meetings should be televised including work sessions. We need to make Culpeper County’s website more user friendly. Accountability begins with transparency.