James A. Vickery
Office Sought: Herndon Town Council
Age: 54
Residence: Town of Herndon.
Education: BA, political science, Radford Univ.; MPA, George Mason Univ.; graduate, FBI National Academy.
Occupation: Special investigator, Kroll Government Services; retired, chief deputy, Fairfax County Office of the Sheriff.
Web site:http://vickeryforcouncil.com
E-mail address: jim4herndon@aol.com
Offices and positions held: Member, FBI National Academy Associates; vice president 1987, president, 1989, Fairfax County Sheriff's Association; program chairman,1999-2000, board of directors,1999-2003, Leadership Fairfax, Inc.; vice president, 2001-02, president 2002-03, Alternative House The Abused and Homeless Children's Refuge; board member, Herndon Community Television, 2000-03.
What is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
Residential overcrowding is by far the most pressing issue that the Town of Herndon is currently facing. Over a period of years, this problem has resulted in deterioration of not only neighborhoods, but has affected the quality of life throughout the entire town. Herndon is no exception, as this problem has manifested itself throughout Fairfax County, Prince William County and the entire region. However, as a town we can control our own destiny. The current remedy in place that Mayor DeBenedittis and the town council have initiated is not only fair but effective in its implementation.
Why should voters elect you?
The Herndon voters have a chance with my election to challenge the issues facing the town from a public safety management perspective. No special interest/agenda.
What steps, if any, should your county take to mitigate the affects of a slowing economy?
A line of business review, similar to the ones Fairfax County conducted in the 1990's, would provide great value in evaluating the must-have programs from the nice-to-have programs. In challeging economic times, leadership is critical.
What is your position on illegal immigration and the affect it has had on your county?
Illegal immigration is criminal. The traffickers, fradulent document providers, unregistered and illegal boarding houses, residental overcrowding, all create more victims which we have allowed to deteriorate our quality of life. The law of unintended consequences.
In March, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled the transportation package passed by lawmakers last year unconstitutional, endangering major projects across the region. What steps, if any, should the county, region and state take to address funding issues for transportation projects?
The general assembly must change the antiquated and unfair Transportation Funding Formula. Providing vacant highways in rural areas when Fairfax County's taxpayers are log-jammed on roads is shortsighted and reflects poorly on our Commonwealth.
-- The Washington Post | Submit a correction request.
