Stacy Hall Is Running For Fairfax City Council: 2024 Candidate Profile

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — While most of the attention this political season has been on the presidential race, Fairfax City residents will not only be voting for candidates running in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives (11th District) races, they will also be casting ballots for mayor, city council and school board candidates.

Incumbent School Board Member Stacy Hall, a controller for ACI Biosciences since 2009, is on the Nov. 5 ballot running for one of the six open seats on the Fairfax City Council. She is facing incumbents Anthony Amos, Billy Bates, Kate Doyle Feingold and Jeff Greenfield, as well as newcomers, Amini Elizabeth Bonane, Taylor A. Geaghan, Stacey Hardy-Chandler, Rachel McQuillen, Tom Peterson and Jack Ryan.

As part of its coverage of the 2024 election, Patch has asked each of the candidates in the Fairfax City Council race to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to fill the job they're running for.

Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins on Sept 20. More information about the election is available on Fairfax City's Voter Registration & Elections page. Non-city voters can visit the Fairfax County Office of Elections or the Virginia Department of Elections for more information.

Your Name

Stacy Hall

Position sought

City Council

Age (as of Election Day)

45

Campaign Website

stacyforfairfax.com

City elections are traditionally non-partisan and candidates must run as independents, according to both the city charter and the Code of Virginia. No party affiliation or "mark" will appear next to any of the candidates' names on the Nov. 5 ballot. Have you been endorsed by a recognized political party or have you aligned yourself with a group of candidates representing themselves as independent, non-partisan candidates, including candidates running in other city races? Please check the answer that is most appropriate.

Please elaborate on your answer to the previous question and explain how this will affect the way you will serve on the school board.

I am working together with other independent candidates to keep our local elections nonpartisan, and to provide our residents with qualified representation that is responsive to our residents . I encourage you to learn more about each candidate by visiting www.independentfairfaxcity.com.

How does your status as described in the two previous questions help Fairfax City voters choose a candidate that aligns with their particular political beliefs?

Per www.urbandictionary.com, the definition of a “political agnostic” is “one who is a registered voter and is politically informed, but is basically indifferent and non-committal toward the popular political parties (Democrat or Republican in the US)”. If residents choose to label an independent candidate as politically agnostic, so be it. For me, this perspective allows me to concentrate on our city and our residents’ needs without getting entangled in broader state or national politics. I am beholden only to you, our city residents. While those larger issues are important, they affect us differently. What truly matters to residents are the decisions made at the local government level, as these have the most direct and daily impact on their lives.

As we grow older and gain new experiences, our perspectives often shift, and we might find ourselves aligning with ideals that could be considered more democratic or more republican. Personally, my experiences place me somewhere in the middle, with my views shifting depending on the issue at hand. From my conversations with residents, it’s clear that many share this sentiment. What I frequently hear is that residents are less concerned with their council members' national political views and more focused on local issues. They want to know how their council members feel about preserving trees and green spaces, ensuring public safety (including their own and their loved ones’), managing high-density housing and the potential impact on our local city schools, addressing traffic, and handling other transportation matters. These are the true tasks for your local council members.

Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the candidates and their stances on these and other local issues that matter to you

Names, ages and any pertinent details you wish to share about your family.

My husband, Russ, and I have lived in the city since 2011. Our two boys, Ryan (15) and Andrew (13), have attended city schools, including Providence Elementary School, Katherine Johnson Middle School and Fairfax High School.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you are a candidate in.

No

Education

Bachelors of Science in Finance and minors in Economics and Biology from the University of Delaware

Occupation - Please include years of experience.

Controller for ACI Biosciences (2009 – present); Small business owner – tax and accounting services (2003 – present); Public Accounting (2001-2009)

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Political Office

City of Fairfax School Board Member (finishing up my first term) and member of the Environmental Sustainability Committee. PTA President at Providence Elementary School (Fall 2019-Spring 2022), VP of Membership at Providence Elementary School (Fall 2018-Spring 2019)

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am seeking office because I am deeply committed to making a meaningful impact on our community. I have served our community as a School Board Member for nearly 2 years. However, I am ready to continue serving my community in a different way. My goal is to address the issues that matter most to our residents, such as improving public safety, preserving our green spaces, and managing local infrastructure effectively. I believe that by serving in this role, I can contribute to positive change and help shape policies that will enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community. My passion for these issues, combined with my experience and dedication, drives me to take on this responsibility and work towards a better City of Fairfax.

As a current school board member, I absolutely understand the importance of showing up...showing up for our students, teachers, staff and administration. I'm often out in the community speaking with our students and families and I know that community outreach and engagement are key to understanding how our community feels about current topics. Listening to our families and community members is a vital part of my current role, and it is equally important as a council member.

As a council member, this time and dedication I currently show to our families will become time spent with our community residents, city business owners and city staff. I know firsthand how important it is for people to feel seen, heard and recognized. I will expect kindness and a respectful conversation from each resident, and in turn I will provide the same. While we won't always agree on every issue, I promise to listen with an open mind and decide what is right for the city. As my website and other materials state, “This is YOUR city and YOUR opinion matters”.

The single most pressing issue facing voters is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

To say there is a single pressing issue facing our voters would be to potentially trivialize other issues. We are faced with many issues that need to be addressed.

However, if I had to sum it up to a single statement it would be this two-prong concern - our residents need to feel safe in their community, and they need to feel they are being seen and heard.

They need to feel that their safety and well-being in our city is a top priority for their elected officials. They need to feel comfortable allowing their children to play in our parks, ride bikes on our streets and walk to school and other destinations. They need to know that we are empowering our police and public safety officials with the support and materials they need to do their job, enforce the law, and help our residents feel secure. They need to know that if a resident, or an entire street or neighborhood brings an issue to the council, that issue will be taken seriously. They need to know that we will consider the environment, advocate for trees and green spaces and fight to protect these even when it would be “easier” to slash and burn to allow a path/trail or housing development to be built. They need to know that our small-town charm will not be lost with the current influx of high-density housing. Most of all, they need to feel that their concerns are being heard, discussions are ongoing, and action will be taken to address these concerns.

While residents may not agree with every decision the council makes, they should at least be able to say that their leaders were open and transparent with the information, and made every effort to meaningfully engage with residents throughout the process

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I think a key difference between me and some other candidates is that I did not seek a political party endorsement. In addition, I do not have aspirations of any higher political office beyond City Council. This independence from a political party allows me to be solely accountable to you, the city residents, rather than being influenced by the priorities or agendas of a state or national political party.

I am also very focused on our residents, and how they think and feel about a proposed project. I think community engagement is one of the most effective methods of information. Actively involving residents in the decision-making process not only fosters transparency but also builds trust and collaboration within the community. By prioritizing open communication and soliciting feedback through town halls, surveys, and public forums, I ensure that every voice is heard and considered. This approach helps to identify potential concerns early, address them proactively, and create solutions that reflect the collective interests of our community. My dedication to community engagement means that I am not only responsive to immediate concerns but also attentive to long-term community goals and aspirations. This commitment to actively involving residents in shaping our city's future ensures that the projects and policies we implement have broad support and contribute to a shared vision of progress. It also fosters a sense of ownership and participation among residents, making our community stronger and more cohesive.

Additionally, my track record as a School Board member reflects a commitment to pragmatic solutions and tangible improvements, such as upgrading facilities, enhancing security measures, and fostering partnerships with local institutions. Unlike candidates who may align with broader political platforms, my focus has been on addressing our community's specific needs and ensuring that decisions are made with the best interests of our schools and students at heart.

Furthermore, my experience with grassroots community involvement, including serving as PTA President, demonstrates a deep understanding of the local educational landscape and a strong connection with parents and educators. This background equips me with a unique perspective and an ability to advocate effectively for our schools without the constraints of partisan politics.

As I turn this focus toward City Council, I will bring the same level of commitment to our community and our residents needs. This independence from political parties ensures that my decisions and actions are driven by the needs and priorities of our community rather than partisan agendas, making me a more neutral and focused advocate for local issues. I have a voting record that demonstrates my ability to effectively manage and improve public services and deliver tangible benefits to our schools and community. My extensive involvement in the PTA and my leadership roles highlight my deep understanding of and connection with the community. This background equips me with insights into the needs and concerns of residents, enabling me to advocate effectively for your interests and build strong, collaborative relationships with other community stakeholders.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

There is always room for improvement, and one of the significant shortcomings of the current council has been the perceived lack of genuine consideration for public input and feedback. The engagement process often feels like a formality rather than a meaningful effort to involve the community. This approach has led to decisions moving forward despite a lack of true engagement or support from residents.

For example, residents were taken aback by the sudden installation of the neighborway on Fair Woods Parkway. Those directly affected by changes to curbs and parking were surprised to return from vacation and find significant alterations to their neighborhood, which they had not been adequately informed about.

While not every council decision can be subject to a public vote, residents should still be directly notified or consulted if their property or daily life is likely to be impacted. Not everyone regularly checks the Engage Fairfax page or can attend public outreach events or council meetings. In our close-knit community, more proactive communication methods such as mailing notices, making phone calls, or even visiting residents personally could ensure that those affected are well-informed.

Door-to-door communication is a highly effective method for candidates to connect with constituents and build relationships. Similarly, it should be considered a standard practice for notifying residents about projects that could significantly impact their homes, parking, and property values. This more personal approach to communication would demonstrate a genuine commitment to involving the community in decisions that affect their lives.

Being elected is the first step, but continuing to engage with the community, especially those directly impacted by a proposed project, is a priority for me.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Other issues that define my platform for council include the following:

• Independent candidates and independent nonpartisan elections
• Public safety
• The environment and sustainability
• Fiscal responsibility
• Transparency and community engagement
• Strong city schools
• Housing and affordability
• Sidewalks and connectivity

Please visit my website www.StacyForFairax.com to learn more about these concerns.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Over the past 21 months as a School Board member, I’ve gained valuable insights into the inner workings of our city and the opportunities to enhance our schools. During my tenure, we've achieved significant improvements, including the installation of turf fields for baseball and band practice, upgrades to the field house concession stand, and new washer/dryers to support our high school sports programs. We've also added EV charging stations, enhanced auditorium sound, installed new curtains, and completed ADA renovations to the stadium railings and steps. Additionally, we upgraded the weight room flooring at the high school and the fitness area at Katherine Johnson Elementary. We were thrilled to be the first elementary schools in the county to have on-campus school security specialists, funded by the City of Fairfax.

In partnership with George Mason University, we introduced a Direct Admissions Program, allowing FHS students with a GPA of 3.25 or higher to gain admission without application fees, teacher recommendations, or essays. This initiative aims to simplify access to excellent local higher education opportunities at GMU for our high school students.

We also commissioned an outside agency to conduct a Facilities Condition Assessment of all our school buildings, including Green Acres, to identify renovation needs, particularly for our elementary schools and the high school roof. This assessment has resulted in the bond you’ll see on the ballot, and I encourage you to vote YES to support these essential repairs.

Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 school year, we have several exciting projects underway, including a new concession stand, ticket booth, and restrooms at the stadium, as well as the replacement of the condemned press box. We will also be installing exterior PA speakers and a new stadium scoreboard, and both the middle school and Daniels Run Elementary will receive new Security Vestibules. Our elementary schools will also be the first traditional schools in the county to feature interior security cameras, as part of our 2024 Capital Improvement Plan.

My involvement with the Environmental Sustainability Committee has highlighted our innovative ideas for protecting forests and green spaces, though achieving true progress remains a challenge amidst competing priorities.

Additionally, serving as PTA President at Providence Elementary School for three years and being an active PTA member for the past decade has been a source of great pride and accomplishment for me

The best advice ever shared with me was:

"With great power comes great responsibility".

Living with a comic fanatic husband and two boys who have watched every Marvel movie about six times, I have seen Spider-Man many, many times. This proverb has always stuck with me, and it can be applied throughout most areas of my life. When viewed through a city council lens, it has some new meaning. If I am elected to serve our great city, I will ensure that the principles of accountability and stewardship are at the forefront of my actions. Just as Spider-Man uses his abilities to protect and improve his community, I will use my position to advocate for policies and initiatives that serve the best interests of all our residents. From improving public safety and infrastructure to fostering inclusive growth and environmental sustainability, I am committed to harnessing my role to create a positive and lasting impact. My goal is to work collaboratively with fellow council members and the community to build a city where everyone can thrive, knowing that with the power of public service comes the responsibility to act with integrity and dedication.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I love our city - these 6.2 square miles and ~24,000 people are our home. Fairfax City truly is a gem, and I want to help protect, maintain and enhance what makes us shine. I want to keep our charm and small town feel, support our local businesses, and preserve our green spaces and waterways. I want our future generations to be proud of what we accomplished in our lifetime, and to appreciate that we left it better than we found it. Paving over our city's paradise is happening right before our eyes - it is time we hold our leaders accountable for the decisions they are making. We may qualify for the "Tree City USA" designation based on the general criteria from The Arbor Day Foundation, but tearing down trees for "progress" isn't the right choice.

I am choosing to run as an independent candidate for the City of Fairfax. I think many of the concerns our residents have do not fall along party lines, and do not require a republican or a democrat to make a decision. Rather, it takes a council dedicated to open dialogue, communication and putting the needs of our current and future residents first. Consideration of projects requires an open mind. It also demands alternate options, potential impact to our existing infrastructure, exploring both pros and cons to our existing residents and much, much more. It requires outreach to our communities, especially those who will potentially be most impacted by a project. It requires conversations and open houses to ensure we understand how all residents think and feel. It's not making decisions based on what may help our region, but what is best for our city and its residents.

Regardless of your political affiliation, I ask that your vote is made in the best interest of our city, and not be based on politics that live outside these 6.2 miles. As a city council member, I know I work for YOU, a city resident, who has chosen to call our beautiful city home.

Also See...

• Early Voting Begins For 2024 Election: What's On Fairfax City Ballots
• Trump Signs Replace Missing Harris-Walz Signs At Polls: City Dems
• Poll Fuels Debate Over Partisan Vs. Nonpartisan Elections In Fairfax
• Fairfax City Democrats Endorse 4 Candidates In 2024 Election
• Former Fairfax City Senator's PAC Backs Independent, Nonpartisan Group