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Parr: Manassas residents will have say on new public safety facilities, pay

Rex Par is one of three Democrats vying for three open seats on the Manassas City Council.
 
We sent a questionnaire to Parr and all other candidates seeking a seat on the Manassas City Council. Parr’s responses are below: 

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PL: What are the top three major issues facing Manassas residents?

Parr: Schools, Public Safety, and Economic Development

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?
 
Parr: We need to engage a broad cross-section of our community in creating a new vision and strategic plan for Manassas, Citizens will weigh in on funding for schools, replacing Jennie Dean Elementary School, universal pre-K and Career and Technical Education. They will give us direction on new facilities and competitive pay for Public Safety. They will give opinions on the adequacy of our Economic Development efforts and our transportation network. Once they have spoken we can begin the process of moving Manassas forward, together.
 
PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Parr: Do the right things, the right way, for the right reasons.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Parr: Business skills honed over years as CEO of a very successful company. Governance skills learned in service to important community institutions. Proven strategic planning skills that help move organizations forward. Good people skills and a penchant for collaboration.
 
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? 
 
Parr: I think the average citizen has so much on their plate that they don’t typically make time to keep up-to-date on local government. I am committed to a new, citizen-driven strategic planning process. We will have to engage people in multiple ways at multiple times and places. Education will need to precede visioning and planning. With the help of the City’s professional staff and skilled facilitators, we can get it done.
 
PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?
 
Parr: Although I have been involved in governing, leading and managing several local institutions, I’ve not held elected public office. So my mistakes are still before me. I hope to learn from them and avoid repeating them.
 
PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?
 
Parr: Leadership Prince William awarded me their inaugural ‘Vision’ award. The Prince William County Human Rights Commission named me a ‘Humanitarian’. The Coalition for Human Services awarded me for lifetime achievement. I was Grand Marshall of the Greater Manassas Christmas Parade. The Chamber of Commerce awarded me their inaugural ‘Sen. Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award’. Senator Charles J. Colgan and many others have endorsed me.

Read more Project: Election 2016 candidate profiles.

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