Economic Development
Manassas is surrounded by major economic development. While we have little open land, we do have the capability and the need for balanced infill development which brings both commercial and residential modernization and economic strength. I support the city’s Comprehensive Plan, the several sector plans, and the progressive zoning concepts which I had a significant hand in developing.
Illegal Aliens
This is a cointinuing issue for all citizens, affecting our economy, our schools and our social fabric. We are pressing on the true criminal element with the highest priority. Our active participation in the 287(G) program has been highly successful and without the feared intrusion on law-abiding citizens/residents. Since July 2008, 2,600 immigration detainers have been filed by Prince William jail officers and 2,400 individuals turned over to ICE for deportation. The "rule of law" is alive and well in Manassas and a model for other jurisdictions and states.
Residential Overcrowding
Residential overcrowding poses health and safety issues as well as quality of life issues. We must enforce our zoning and fire code ordinances and do so while protecting the constitutional rights of our citizens. This is a delicate balance. Council’s re-emphasis of neighborhood services and blight abatement, which involves citizen participation as well as city government enforcement, is a significant step forward in controlling the negative impacts, and will continue in 2010 and beyond.
Tax Rates and Services
I believe the services provided by Manassas are excellent and would not want to see major curtailments in core services. As a Councilman, I do work to require efficiencies in government departments and limit government control of private enterprise. We must pay attention to the evolving philosophy of the "Tea Party" to take back our government and recover our economic freedom.
Family & Family Values
Shirley and I have been happily married 44 years. Our strong family values have been tested in economic downturns, in the first Arabian Gulf War while we were living in Saudi Arabia, in countless job-related moves and in integrating into new communities. Our two daughters are productive, hard-working adults and we are closely tied to them. Our son-in-law is a Virginia native who has made a true success of his energy distribution business. We also have a really cool grandson, but he is only four years old, so his contributions are yet to be measured.
