First in a series.
Both of the Town of Herndon mayoral candidates and each of the eight candidates for Town Council will stand for election on Tuesday, May 7. Between now and Election Day the candidates will be asked a series of questions in order to provide the voters with some insight as to who they are and where they stand regarding the crucial issues facing the Town of Herndon.
This week’s question is: "Why are you running for the office you are seeking?"
MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Richard "Rick" Thoesen – Town Councilman
"I want to help us work together to ensure a sound economic and social future and to finish some of the programs I started in my first administration. I believe my experience and leadership ability will help create an inclusive environment resulting in a shared vision among our hometown residents and businesses."
William "Bill" Tirrell, Sr. – Town Councilman
"Herndon expects a mayor positive in approach who can exercise leadership ranging from assertive to consensus-building. That's me — experienced leadership. I have a thorough experience base in Herndon government (elected and appointed) and a proven professional and civic leadership record (Navy, post-Navy, and inclusive of national civic groups)."
COUNCIL CANDIDATES
Carol Bruce - Mayor
"We face many challenges in Herndon today. They include protecting/revitalizing our older neighborhoods; ensuring high quality, architecturally appropriate, mixed-use downtown development; and managing the issues associated with the day laborers. I care about Herndon and I care about the issues. I would like to continue to serve the community."
Judy Downer - Challenger
"The enjoyment of teamwork for the betterment of the community. With my negotiating experience through both eight years on the Fairfax County Planning Commission and over 30 years as a Realtor in Herndon, I can bring valuable skills to the citizenry to make a positive difference."
Dennis Husch – Town Councilman
"I bring my commitment to community and my management skills to the Herndon Town Council. I will continue to work hard, do my homework and be a vocal advocate for fiscal responsibility, strategic planning, fairness with business, active recreation, protecting our heritage and building on our shared sense of community."
Connie Hutchinson - Challenger
"As a Herndon native, I'd like to see Herndon develop its full potential to be a place people want to come to. A place with a vibrant downtown that residents can walk to in safety and that out-of-towners want to visit again and again."
David A. Kirby - Challenger
"I want to give the voters of Herndon an additional choice and a different perspective in electing those who make the decisions for the town. I believe I will bring a more "grassroots" element to the council and I will be a new voice and representative for the residents of Herndon."
Michael O’ Reilly – Town Councilman
"I want to continue to work for our town residents. My experience as an attorney practicing in Northern Virginia and my town government experience (Town Council, Planning Commission, Architectural and Heritage Preservation Reserve Boards) provide me with the necessary background to be an effective member of the Herndon Town Council."
Harlon Reece – Town Councilman
"As a relative newcomer to the council, I will continue to bring a fresh perspective to the job. My experience as a first-term member of the Town Council, past experience on town boards, and involvement in local civic organizations has given me significant insight into important issues facing our town."