Sarah Townsend is making a run for public office to represent the 31st District in the Virginia House of Delegates.
The district encompasses portions of Prince William and Fauquier counties. The seat is held by Republican Scott Lingamfelter.
Potomac Local sent a questionnaire to Townsend and she sent us the responses below:
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PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent?
Townsend: Prioritizing our schools and education system Promoting good paying jobs in our communities Improving transportation and reducing traffic congestion.
PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?
Townsend: Education – As a teacher I have seen first-hand the devastating effects of increased high-stakes testing. We need to reduce the number of standardized tests so our children receive quality classroom time and are not just taught to a test. Improving education can’t be just be rhetoric. We need more people with teaching experience in Richmond advocating for our students.
Jobs – We need to recruit high tech jobs to our area, promote apprenticeships and connect our local businesses with community college so that people have the proper skills to compete for 21st century jobs.
Transportation – We should extend the blue line to Prince William County, extend VRE options, promote tele-commuting, and increase job growth in our community so less people have to travel to Fairfax and DC for work.
PL: From your prospective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?
Townsend: My job is to be a voice for constituents in Richmond and work to solve issues they face daily. Unlike my opponent, I’ll be willing to compromise to get things done if it benefits my district.
PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?
Townsend: I grew up in Prince William County and Fauquier County, which are the two counties within my district. I served as a middle school teacher and professional development instructor and seen first-hand the successes and the changes that are needed in our educational system. I’m also not an entrenched, partisan incumbent politician, like my opponent is.
PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government? If not, how do you intend on improving communication with your constituency?
Townsend: I believe the average citizen could be better informed, as between the horrible traffic in our region and people working hard to raise their families, there often is not enough time in a day to focus on what is happening in our government. My opponent has abused his power in Richmond, often killing important legislation that would keep our communities safe, like protecting our kids from online sexual predators, without even allowing a vote. I would make myself more available both in the district and in Richmond. I would provide regular updates to constituents and work to make sure legislation is approved or vetoed in the light of day, so that everyone can be aware of what is happening.
PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they effected you?
Townsend: I have made mistakes in my life, but no major mistake that I am aware of.
PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?
Townsend: I hope to earn their vote because I’m not an entrenched incumbent. I was raised to vote for the person, not the party. In January I witnessed our legislators in Richmond, and how many, including my opponent, prioritize their own interests and partisan agaenda, instead of what’s best for their district. I’ll work with Republicans and Democrats to actually get things done and stand up to anyone who gets in the way.
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Join us on Friday, January 10, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m., with a special Ribbon Cutting at 2 p.m. Be inspired by keynote speaker Rita McClenny, President & CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation while enjoying a light reception featuring classic Fredericksburg favorites.
Location: 601 Caroline Street, 1st Floor, Fredericksburg
For event inquiries, contact: 540-372-1216 | [email protected]
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Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.
The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.
The Stafford location features state-of-the-art equipment, including strength machines, free weights, a dedicated area for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a functional training room with turf for agility exercises. Members can also access amenities such as fully equipped locker rooms with showers, a mobility and stretching space, and free WiFi.
A highlight of the facility is the Black Card Spa, available to those who pay for a higher membership tier. The spa includes Hydro Massage Loungers, massage chairs, recovery loungers, and salon-grade tanning beds, offering members an opportunity to relax and recover post-workout.
Called to Jail
A 44-year-old man found himself back at Rappahannock Regional Jail after making a false report and harassing a jail officer with obscene phone calls. Initially, deputies responded to a call about a death and gunshot outside the jail, which turned out to be false. The suspect, located at a local motel, was arrested and charged with using obscene language and filing a false report.
Assault
– Marion Manor Nursing Home: A staff member assaulted another during a disagreement. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and held without bond.
– Shasta Place: A male suspect bit the victim during a verbal altercation. He was charged with assault and battery but released on personal recognizance.
DUI
Deputies discovered a car in a ditch on Courthouse Road. The driver admitted to drinking beer, with three empty cans found in her vehicle. She was charged with DUI, drinking while driving, and refusal, and held on a $3,000 bond.
Hit and Run
A vehicle struck a VDOT sign and two unoccupied trucks at EZ Auto Sales before the driver fled. Deputies identified the suspect using evidence left in the vehicle, and warrants for hit and run and property destruction were issued.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions and inclement weather. Here is the latest list of updates:
Spotsylvania County Public Schools
Spotsylvania County Public Schools are closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions.
Code 2: 12-month employees report two hours late as safety permits.
Essential personnel will report at specified times.
All school-sponsored activities and student externships are canceled.
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King George County Public Schools
King George County Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to adverse road conditions and inclement weather.
Code 2: 12-month employees report at 10 a.m.
Liberal leave will be in effect.
We’ll update this post with additional school closures and delays as they are announced.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
