League of Women Voters Forum Wrap Up

On Wednesday, September 16, I participated in a forum with the candidates for Leesburg Mayor and Town Council hosted by the Loudoun County League of Women Voters.  The forum was an opportunity for Leesburg residents to hear the candidates on the ballot this November.  The forum was very well run and Mr. Norm Styer, from LoudounNow, acted as the moderator.  

I enjoyed answering questions on a range of issues from my priorities if elected--helping our small businesses--to Westpark all the way to our town plan.  As I said many times, Leesburg is growing and the opportunities our town has cannot be pushed aside.  Our town council must look at every option and act accordingly.  We were asked about our priority if elected, my priority is to help our small businesses survive the current health crisis and thrive after we come out on the other end.  

We discussed the WestPark opportunity, I said that I support the green space and that the council needed to do their homework to find out how to pay for the land and work with the community to determine what type of park it should be.  We're seeing a need for green space with more families looking for social distanced activities.  

The discussion came around to ending the gridlock on town council. I believe that we will see a change on council with fresh blood coming on in January--no matter who wins!  Additionally, our elected officials have to do a better job of communicating and disagreeing without being disagreeable.  

Finally, we discussed the town plan.  The town plan is our governing document that highlights the town vision for the next five to ten years. The town council and planning commission use the town plan to analyze development proposals as they come in front of the these bodies.  Under state law, the plan must be updated every five years.  We're currently re-writing the town plan and the new council will vote for the final draft next year.  We must re-evaluate our town plan more often than every five years or more.  Our town is growing quickly, COVID-19 has changed the needs for green space, office space, and housing.  Our town cannot wait to adjust our plans especially when so many decisions rely on the town plan. 

The main takeaway from the forum is that there are many folks running that care about our wonderful town.  Again, I had fun engaging and answering questions.  I look forward to answer more questions!  Feel free to email info@zachcummings.com with your questions. 

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