In the Mount Vernon District, we are lucky to have two great citizens associations to represent us, the Mount Vernon Council of Citizens’ Associations and the South County Federation. Councils of citizens associations are comprised of many local neighborhood organizations that work collectively for the betterment of their community and our area. Whether influencing land use decisions, lobbying for transportation improvements or monitoring zoning changes, these organizations are a collective voice for the communities they serve, and act to protect and preserve the interests of those engaged.
Here in the northern part of the District, I have been fortunate to work with the Mount Vernon Council and the highly engaged Mount Vernon community for over 15 years. I have witnessed first-hand the Council’s unique ability to successfully influence legislators mobilize residents on important issues and get things done. My partnership with the Federation allows me to be a more effective representative of the community and to achieve community goals.
For the past 49 years, the Council has proven its ability to work collaboratively and speak as a strong voice. It is an invaluable resource to me and is the first organization I look to for guidance when Mount Vernon issues arise. Our collaborative efforts result in community-driven decisions. A perfect example of this is the Council’s participation in the extraordinary multi-year effort that culminated in the Embark Comprehensive Plan changes. Embark will guide the growth and development of the Richmond Highway corridor for the next 20 years, ultimately bringing Metrorail from Huntington to Hybla Valley. The Council took a lead role in organizing and educating the community about the opportunities, challenges and long-term impacts to the residents and the county. These efforts make a positive difference for all of us.
The Council also provides an opportunity to build new relationships with other community members and associations. Learning about one another’s needs leads to a better understanding of each other’s issues and provides an even stronger voice when working with legislators. Working collectively often results in bringing positive change to the quality of life not only in one community, but to the whole of the Mount Vernon District.
If your civic association is already a member of the Council, I congratulate you and urge you and your members to actively participate in the issues that are facing Fairfax County. If your association is not yet a member of the Council, I encourage you to join today and get involved. It is your involvement that will continue to bring about positive change for all of us who live, work, educate and recreate in Fairfax County.
I take this opportunity to thank the Mount Vernon Council for their collective leadership in advocating for issues on behalf of the community, for their endless volunteer hours, and for continuing to foster collaboration, communication and a better community.