Bob W. Lazaro Jr.*

Office sought: Mayor Purcellville
Age: 50
Residence: Locust Grove.
Web site:
http://www.boblazaro.com
E-mail:
boblazaro@gmail.com

* Incumbent

Occupaton: Director, communications, Piedmont Environmental Council.

Education: BA, public administration, St. John's University.

Elected offices/civic activities: Mayor, Purcellville, 2006-present; member, Purcellville Town Council, 2004-06; two-term board member, Locust Grove Homeowners Association; member, Northern Virginia Regional Commission; chairman, Energy and Environmental Policy Commission; charter member, Towns Association of Northern Virginia; former member, Purcellville Planning Commission, Economic Development Advisory Committee.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?

A: Our community faces a number of challenges, including water and transportation. With respect to water, we have completed and are now implementing a comprehensive water resources plan. Since January 2007, we have increased our access to water by up to 473,000 gallons daily. New wells will be online this spring. Regarding transportation, we have completed a number of transportation and pedestrian projects and have obtained state funding to assist with larger projects, including the completion of the Southern Collector Road. Working with the county in 2006, we successfully obtained preliminary engineering funding for the Route 690/Bypass 7 interchange.

Q: How would you rate your town’s relationship with Loudoun County officials and what, if anything, would you do to improve that relationship?

A: Together we have successfully worked on projects, including; the new Fire Station, the Youth Football complex, road improvements and park & ride lot. I have proposed a Town/County Committee to improve communications and planning.

Q: Do you believe additional steps are needed to control the pace of development in your community?

A: I have voted on a Comprehensive Plan that takes hundreds of residential units off the planning map and working towards its implementation. We have protected Fireman's Field from development. Defending our growth management contract.

Q: In March, the Virginia Supreme Court ruled the transportation package passed by lawmakers last year unconstitutional, endangering major projects across the region. What steps, if any, should the county, region and state take to address funding issues for transportation projects?

A: Transportation funding is a statewide responsibility and local taxpayers should not bear the burden of the State's failure to act. We will continue to work with our Legislators to ensure our fair share of funding.

Q: Why should voters elect you?

A: I have demonstrated the leadership and judgment in working with my colleagues and citizens to protect and enhance the quality of life of Purcellville.

Your Thoughts...

With the current state of the economy, how have your finances changed when compared to last year?