Ann Wheeler running for Prince William Chair, top priority: schools

Ann Wheeler, a former energy consultant with many years of experience as a financial manager, is running to be Chair of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors.

Republican Corey Stewart currently holds the seat and is not seeking reelection.

Name: Ann Wheeler

Party: Democrat

Town: Haymarket

Running for: Chair Prince William County Board of Supervisors

Website: wheelerforpwc.com, Facebook, Twitter

Work: Former Energy Consultant

Education: BSME Mechanical Engineering Tufts University MBA University of Chicago

Community Involvement: 14 years on the NOVEC Board, currently on the Hylton Performing Arts Center Board for the past two years, immediate past President of the Committee of 100, on the Board of Social Services for five years (2006-2011) Chairman the last two.

Less recent involvement includes Leadership Prince William, Alvey Boundary Committee, Stonewall Middle School Advisory Board, Gainesville Budget Committee, and Shelter Lakes HOA President.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Wheeler: Overcrowded classrooms and below-average teacher pay, transit solutions to help alleviate road congestion, Economic Development

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Wheeler: 1) Make schools a top budget priority, adjust the revenue sharing agreement and advocate for more state funding for our schools

2) Support fixing Route 28, studying the Metro Blue Line to Woodbridge, expansion of VRE service, development near transportation nodes and expanded commuter bus service

3) Target medical and biotech industries to build off the GMU campus, further support technology innovation companies that support data centers and be a small business incubator.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Wheeler: The Chair will have a vision for the county and work with the district supervisors to best serve each area. The chair will work collaboratively with all board members to set the agenda and focus priorities. The Chair will represent the county and set the tone for leading us into the next phase of change.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Wheeler: I managed multi-million dollar projects in my energy career. I have sat on the board of NOVEC, a very successful $500 million company. I have experience within the county budget from budget committee work as well as when Chair of the Board of Social Services and have a background in Finance. I have successfully lead various organizations I have been involved in and know how to get the best out of people I am working with.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Wheeler: I think the average citizen pays little attention to the workings of local government as they live their daily life. I would like to use more of today’s social media to reach our average citizen and inform them about county happenings that they may want to be involved in.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Wheeler: I have definitely made mistakes thorough out my pubic service career and have learned from each one how to be more effective.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Wheeler: They should vote for me because I know the county well and I know I can make improvements to enhance not only its reputation, but its operations. I am a proven leader who knows people throughout the county and works well with others.

I am a capable financial manager, as well as someone who can see the big picture and have a vision to lead us where we want to go. I love Prince William County and want to make it the best place to live in Northern Virginia for everyone who resides here.