Jonathan Way seeks another term on the Manassas City Council.
Over the years, Way has focused on development issues in the city. He’s also made the preservation of a now defunct water tower next to a city fire house a key pet project.
We sent a questionnaire to Way, and all other candidates seeking office for the Manassas Park Governing Body. His responses are below:
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Manassas Park residents will head to the polls for the November 8, 2016, General Election to choose two people to fill two open council seats, and a new mayor.
We sent a questionnaire to Way, and all other candidates seeking office for the Manassas Park Governing Body. His responses are below:
PL: What are the top three major issues facing Manassas residents?
Way: 1. Balanced economic development. 2. Transportation improvement 3. Schools must become a magnet to attract and retain population
PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?
Way: 1. Evaluate the city infrastructure’s ability to absorb projected growth. (water, electricity, sewer) without becoming over-extended. Tailor growth prospects, of which we have many, to infrastructure capability.
2. Advocate in regional bodies for Route 28 expansion and bypass from Godwin Drive to Interstate 66 to help our commuters. Support pending state-sponsored enhanced commuter bus links on I-66. Focus residential development in areas conveniently served by VRE and PRTC.
3. Council fully funds school needs at a per capita level 10-15% higher than neighboring jurisdictions. Operations are controlled by an independently elected School Board. We need to encourage and support them in their mission
PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?
Way: Council members are elected to serve the entire city so members must have a balanced perspective. Members must be fiscally prudent and socially inclusive of all citizens. Members should have the ability to evaluate ideas, understand cost control, and manage the “business” of being a city.
PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?
Way: Thirty-seven years with one international oil company in a wide variety of managerial and professional positions in the USA and four overseas countries. I understand economics, budgeting, prioritization, and handling conflicting pressures. 15 years serving Manassas in the Planning Commission and City Council. No other candidate even approaches this level of experience.
PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well informed and understands the workings of city government? If not, how do you intend on improving communication with your constituency?
Way: I believe the average citizen does understand the workings of government, even if he/she doesn’t always agree with the actions. The city has an extensive outreach throughout every department to acquaint citizens with issues and seek their input in the decision process so as to provide fullest practical transparency. Council is looking at expanding real time TV coverage of meetings beyond the Council and the School Board. All meetings are “open” except personnel and business negotiation.
PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?
Way: Yes. I have learned that those who do not agree with me still have valid positions and ideas which should be considered in reaching decisions. The “my way or the highway” approach should be minimized.
PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?
Way: I bring long experience, strong commitment, enthusiasm and a proven record of accomplishments whcih benefit the city and all its citizens.
