Lieutenant governor hopeful visits Waynesboro

Jon Bowerbank immigrated to the United States with his family from England at age 11, and truly found a land of opportunity.

After spending his early years near British coal mines and industry, Bowerbank embraced his new homeland and earned a degree from Michigan State University. Today he runs a Tazewell County energy services company that employs nearly 200 people.

Now, the Russell County resident and member of that county’s board of supervisors wants to contribute to his adopted state of Virginia by serving as lieutenant governor.

“The commonwealth of Virginia helped me start a business and this is a chance to give back,’’ said Bowerbank, who said he would work seven days a week if elected lieutenant governor.

Bowerbank, who will be opposed by former Kaine administration official Jody Wagner and Richmond political consultant Rich Savage in the June Democratic primary for lieutenant governor, visited Waynesboro Wednesday night to meet with local Democrats.

He has spent the past 11 months traveling the state, and discussing a platform that includes alternative energy sources, economic development and infrastructure improvements. Bowerbank believes Virginia voters are hearing what he has to say.

“Everyone wants good jobs and safe rides,’’ he said. Bowerbank said he is not a political insider, and said the ultimate test of his candidacy will come in June.

“This will work well with the residents of Virginia,’’ said Bowerbank of his candidacy. He believes former Gov. Mark Warner changed the perception of voters when he won in 2001. Warner came to the job as a successful millionaire businessman.

Bowerbank is banking on his business experience being the key with Virginia voters.