Charles A. Harris (D)
Office Sought: Treasurer
Age: 63
Residence: Ashburn.
Education: BA, environmental studies/sociology, Baylor University; MS, industrial engineering, Kansas State University.
Occupation: Principal engineer, Mitre Corp.; lieutenant colonel, U.S. Army, retired.
Web site:http://www.harris4treas.com
E-mail address: harris4treas@aol.com
Offices and positions held: Loudoun Board of Supervisors, 2000-04; president, Fresh Air/Full Care; board of directors, Vietnam Veterans of America; member, Project Management Institute, NAACP, Friends of the W&OD; past chair, Route 28 tax advisory board; past president, Ashburn Girls Softball League; board of directors, Loudoun Youth Lacrosse Association; board of directors, Keep Loudoun Beautiful; past vice chair, Great Falls Sierra Club.
Why should voters elect you?
"I will work to eliminate the unneeded office of county treasurer. While in office, I will change the current Republican 'culture of conflict of interest.' "
What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
"Loudoun is too dependent on residential property taxes for its revenue. The proportion of business to residential land use must be increased while the preservation of rural agricultural uses is encouraged. Agriculture is the most cash-positive county land use, followed by businesses, with residential use/growth generally being a cash-negative. I will also formulate and champion prudent investments now for Loudoun's future. Governments that include pollution control, energy conservation and natural resource management in their strategy can cut costs, reduce risks and enhance image. Just as corporations no longer leave energy efficiency out of long-term business plans, neither can county government."
What is your plan to address the traffic problems in Virginia?
Champion and advocate measures to raise the revenue needed at the state level to meaningfully fund significant transportation system improvements in Northern Virginia. Put special emphasis on rail to Loudoun (underground in Tysons) and mass transit solutions that can be implemented immediately. Actively support the election/re-election of state representatives such as Loudoun's Senator Herring and Delegate Poisson who work to pass reasoned legislation to raise these needed investments.
Do you think current policies governing growth & development in your area are too restrictive, not restrictive enough or just right?
not restrictive enough
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