I strongly support the beautiful rural area that we refer to as the Rural Crescent. I believe that the citizens’ goals of preservation, conservation and growth can be achieved by maintaining the rural crescent through careful and balanced planning. By protecting approximately 80,000 acres from dense urban and suburban development the county can focus limited resources for expensive infrastructure such as schools and roads in the designated development areas, which helps to lower the tax burden for all residents. In recent years, there have been attempts to dismantle the rural crescent. New discussion involves permitting sewer connections in cluster developments. This could lead to pressure for higher densities. Also under consideration is implementing a Transfer of Development Rights Program (TDR) to preserve more open space. The issue deserves debate and it’s important to build consensus by listening to all stakeholders as we move forward in evaluating the Comprehensive Plan and our rural area. In 2013 residents were surveyed and the results were not surprising. A strong majority agreed that preserving this rural area in Prince William County for all to view and enjoy is important. I couldn’t agree more. 
The Rural Crescent is a vital part of what makes Prince William County a great place to live and I support protecting it for future generations to enjoy. The Rural Crescent ties us to our rural and agricultural history and should be preserved as it is today.
As a father of three, I understand the importance of having a place for our kids to run, play, and learn about nature. I also know that many, like myself, enjoy outdoor activities that would simply not be possible in Prince William if we allow for the development of the Rural Crescent.
Prince William has been growing at an alarming rate over the past decade or so. Existing zoning would allow for between 30,000 and 40,000 new housing units to be built in the county without changing the character of the Rural Crescent. As your next supervisor, I will work with community members and leaders to preserve and protect it.
I have lived in the Rural Crescent for 26+ years. It's where I grew up, graduated high school, started my business and raised my family- I love this area. Large lot zoning offers no permanent land preservation and there is nothing keeping this land from being further developed in the future. The comprehensive plan says the purpose of the rural area is to preserve open space and agriculture. With the current tools available, we are not achieving meaningful preservation of either. We need to take a long, hard look at the decisions made over the past 15-20 years and figure out what worked and what we can improve upon. There are examples of effective preservation public policy tools being implemented around our region and around the country. As a long-time resident of this area and as someone who wants to make sure that we respect the natural beauty of our district, I will actively fight for meaningful informed policies to ensure that the Brentsville that we know and love is preserved.
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