Gerry Hyland recently demonstrated that he is indispensable in Mount Vernon during the crisis after Hurricane Isabel. He called it "an interesting test of emergency procedures," but he spent day and night offering support and coordinating access to services.
He likened the recovery from the flooding "like a death," for the 2,500 families affected.
Hyland represents his district impeccably, has a thorough understanding of the issues, solutions and roadblocks. From the revitalization efforts along Richmond Highway to saving Mount Vernon Hospital as a community resource, Hyland is the right man for this job.
Hyland's opponent, Purvis Dawson, is a long-time police officer and native of Mount Vernon, whose long record of community service has been important to the community.