JIM on the issues

Jim Lay: Independent Leadership for All Alexandrians

Government accountability and fiscal responsibility: City government must function within a sensible budget while it looks to leverage the National Harbor project to boost revenue and decrease our dependence on real estate taxes. You can count on me to champion long-term thinking that accounts for the inevitable ups and downs of the real estate market while we continue to fund that which makes our city great.

Excellence in Schools: Great cities have great public schools, and Alexandria is no exception. As a member of Council I will work to support school officials’ efforts to boost parent involvement, tapping our highly educated parents to enable school excellence, increase teacher salaries to create a competitive advantage with competing jurisdictions, and ensure accountability in our school budgeting process.

Preserve our Quality of Life: Open space and historic resources are at the vital heart of Alexandria’s quality of life. I believe that development is unavoidable and desirable, but must be managed to ensure it doesn’t destroy the fabric of our neighborhoods. Planning for infrastructure, affordable housing, public transit-centered density, and creative local transportation solutions will be among my top priorities.

Shut down Mirant: I will continue to be a stalwart champion of the City’s efforts to close for good the coal burning plant that spews poison into our neighborhoods, and I will offer pro bono legal services to the fight.

Remain a Tolerant Tourist Destination: I’m proud of Alexandria’s status as one of America’s 50 most gay-friendly cities. Our city is and should be a beacon of welcome and acceptance. I will sponsor a City ordinance that makes the use of disparaging statements relating to race, religion, or sexual orientation punishable under Virginia’s current “fighting words” statute. As we return to our historic role as Virginia’s gateway, let the world know that Virginia celebrates its diversity.