District 3: Ashley Gilles

In 2009, I combined my passion for Equine Management and Training with Practice Administration to provide equine therapy services in diverse populations including children with physical and developmental disabilities. This also includes individuals recovering from trauma, and veterans experiencing PTSD. I combined my experience of understanding and having a deep connection with horses and innovative therapeutic interventions allowing myself to create meaningful and transformative experiences for my clients.

      I moved to Lamar County in 2016 with my family. Immediately, I realized the sense of community and quality of life here was one of a kind. So, I immersed myself in the community by volunteering whenever I could. I served on the long term comprehensive plan, the community assessment survey as a poll worker, and Rebuild Lamar where I am still an active volunteer. I also joined the Republican party where, as secretary, I was instrumental in collaborating across the aisle and implementing the first bipartisan voter registration drive at Buggy Days. I served with the republican party for 4 years where my leadership and dedication aided in our party earning the statewide achievement of "Top 5 best Local Parties". 

      In 2021, I was elected Second Vice Chairman of the Third Congressional District and also GAGOP Chairman of the Under 80k Counties (counties with a population of under 80,000) where I represented 129 GOP county parties and was also the first from Lamar County to do so. I also worked with state leadership on legislation in 2021 and 2022 where I helped block legislation that was detrimental to smaller counties within the state. I soon stepped down from my position to run for the District 3 position on the Board of Commissioners where I am now currently. I still continue to actively engage with state legislatures and policymakers to influence legislation and secure resources that will benefit the county.

      I strive to be passionate for my constituents' needs and concerns and also hope to be accessible and responsive in my representation of the citizens of this county. I am fully committed to always being as transparent as possible and having open communication with citizens as it is one of the key elements in helping a community thrive and empowering the people that live here.