Why I support Byrd, Chapman for Council

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Why I support Byrd, Chapman for Council
(Graphic/Jessica Kim)
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To the editor:

The purpose of this letter is to tell you why I am voting for Roy Byrd and John Chapman for City Council in this fall’s general election and to ask you to join me with your vote. Both Byrd and Chapman embrace important traits and values that are key to serving our city.

The values or traits that I think are key include:

1. Respecting residents: Respect is shown in many ways. Listening and allowing residents to be heard is a key trait evidenced by a good Council member. Dismissing residents in any manner is not a trait that belongs on the dais.

2. Fairness: Conducting business on an even playing field. No voting decisions should be made prior to a public hearing, no secret meetings, no bias toward one side, no monies from outside entities and a willingness to share information when asked.

3. Doing the work: Putting in the hard work to educate yourself as a Council member on each docket item. The result of educating yourself results in not relying on the staff position as the default position.

4. Sharing information: Residents should be colleagues, and not viewed as bankers or idiots. When residents seek information that is readily available, they should not be required to pay for it or be stonewalled. Any and all information used by Council in decision making should be part of a written record under the docket item or meeting transcript.

Chapman has illustrated his concern and respect for residents during the many years of his service. He has worked hard to listen and offer a fair and even playing field. He has educated himself on the issues and has kept an open mind for when new information surfaces.

Byrd is running as an Independent. He is the only candidate in recent history who has organized and assisted residents in speaking out on issues. Byrd chairs the Coalition for a Livable Alexandria. He has put his time, energy and assets into trying to improve our quality of life. Whether you agree or disagree with Zoning for Housing, you have to acknowledge Byrd’s leadership, respect and caring for the city and its residents. Throughout the hearings, Byrd was courteous, educated, respectful, fair and competent. I also like that he is retired military and served our country.

Finally, I believe that our City Council will be better with the diversity of an independent member rather than all Democrats.

Please join me in voting for Byrd and Chapman. Early voting starts Sept. 20. You can also absentee vote or you can go to the polls Nov. 5.

-Barbara Beach, Alexandria

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