As I pondered the question of running for City Council, I decided I wanted to invest in this great community of ours. A community is only as strong as those who are willing to step up and work hard to protect it. 

 I am a strong believer in the City’s tradition of public involvement.   This community provides opportunities for citizens to actively participate in the political process and have their voices heard in decisions that will have a long-lasting impact on our city.  

 I plan to bring an energetic perspective to City Council.  As I listen to citizens here, I am ready to step up with innovative ideas that will give our city government a fresh approach to issues that will allow us to maintain and build upon our fifty years of independence. 

 When I moved four years ago, it was a decision based on location. But as time passed, I chose to stay in the City because of the people.  It is the people of Falls Church that create this unique urban village we call home.  I have been on the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board since moving here. While serving on the Board, I have worked diligently, with my colleagues, to complete the master plans for all our city parks. The Board has acquired additional land as opportunities arose, working together with the Planning Commission and City Council to purchase these plots of land. If elected to City Council I will continue to work to make our parks some of the best in the region, as well as more user friendly to the residents and families of the community.

 As a higher education professional, I know first hand how important it is to have a strong educational system. I knew when I moved to the city that Falls Church schools were some of the best in the nation. As a college recruiter, each year I look forward to reading applications from students coming from George Mason High School because I know that they are going to be some of the brightest applicants. I look forward to continuing the relationship that has begun with the School Board and Council on budgetary issues.   There are some difficult economic times approaching and some tough decisions will have to be made. However, I  have every confidence that when it comes to funding our schools  the School Board and Council will work toward a plan that will continue to support our stellar school system.

 Additionally, I am a strong advocate of affordable housing in the City of Falls Church.  I am convinced that a solid affordable housing plan will allow our city to prosper with the rich diversity that we have enjoyed throughout our history.  Also, more affordable housing will allow those who teach our children and protect our jurisdiction the chance to live and work in the same community. 

 I am ready to roll up my sleeves and make the hard decisions when it comes time to review our budget.  I will conserve where we can and delay when necessary to try and hold the line on our tax rate. 

I pledge to you today that I will work hard to make the City of Falls Church a stronger and more sustainable community and I ask for your support on May 6^th.