Reston resident Marie Huhtala has decided to challenge Catherine Hudgins (D) for the Hunter Mill District Supervisor seat on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.
The perception of secrecy behind the now defeated development at the South Reston Park and Ride sparked Huhtala’s interest in running for the position. The development was proposed under the Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act (PPEA) of 2002, which protects the developer’s proprietary rights and allows the developer to conceal details of the project until a contract has been awarded. "The secrecy really bothered me," said Huhtala, who lives next to the lot.
Another reason for Huhtala’s candidacy is her dissatisfaction with the current board’s land use decisions. She said some of those decisions were made without taking into consideration such things as transportation planning and school improvements. She said she feels there is a need for more leadership on the board.
This is her first time seeking political office. A retired Foreign Service officer, Huhtala served as the U.S. ambassador to Malaysia from 2001 to 2005. She joined the Foreign Service in 1972. "I have managed large organizations and I am experienced in public policy," said Huhtala.
As of press time, Huhtala, who is running as an Independent, had not yet filed her candidacy papers, but said that she is preparing to do so.