By: Bella Timmerding
Four candidates are vying for three open seats on Lexington’s City Council. Here’s a look at their views on issues facing the city:
Marylin Alexander
Marylin Alexander, 71, Lexington vice mayor and city council member, believes the city needs to emphasize economic development and renovation of old buildings to combat the housing crisis.
“We want to encourage developers to look at Lexington to invest in our city to build more housing, including affordable housing,” Alexander said. “We need to fill vacant spaces downtown with retail and commercial businesses that will enhance the vitality and survivability of Lexington being a destination.”
The Lexington native said city and business leaders need to push for more diversity in workplaces and throughout the community.
“We need to send an even stronger message that we strive to continue being a welcoming city where everyone is made to feel comfortable to live, work and play here.”
Madeleine Robinson
Robinson, 31, an assistant public defender in Charlottesville, wants to join the council to amplify the voices of those who are underrepresented.
“I believe in advocating for diverse perspectives, particularly for our LGBTQ+ community and communities of color,” Robinson said. “I want to push for quantifiable change that aligns with our comprehensive and strategic plans and addresses the needs of every resident, not just those with the loudest voices.”
Robinson wants to improve the social programs offered to all Lexington residents including affordable housing, childcare and public transportation to ensure that young people and families can build their lives in Lexington.
“Increasing housing density is essential to keeping our city livable and accessible for people of all income levels, ages, and needs,” Robinson said. “By partnering with developers committed to creating affordable and low-to-moderate-income housing, we can prevent gentrification and offer improved housing opportunities for individuals and families without compromising our city’s character.”
Leslie Straughan
Leslie Straughan, 51, office manager for St. Patrick Catholic Church, believes the city must continue to upgrade infrastructure.
“We are in the process of replacing or repairing most of our water and sewer lines,” Straughan said. “In addition, the water treatment and sewage plants require major upgrades, as do our roads, our stormwater system, City Hall, the Public Works facility, the high school, the jail and the Department of Social Services building.”
Straughan also believes the city must address the lack of housing and improve resources for Lexington residents.
“The city must continue to focus on allowing more housing options, supporting our excellent schools, improving amenities such as Jordan’s Point Park, and welcoming new businesses.”
John Driscoll
John Driscoll, 72, member of the planning commission, is running for council to increase opportunities for residents to participate in council’s deliberations and decisions.
“As a city, we need better ways beyond public hearings for citizens to have a voice in local government and all its plans,” Driscoll said. “I have witnessed how we all benefit when a city engages its residents, businesses and significant institutions through a community-based planning process.”
Driscoll also backs investment in more affordable housing and improved social services.
“When I joined the Lexington planning commission, we developed the city’s comprehensive plan, which won an American Planning Association award for its focus on engaging residents and businesses,” Driscoll said. “I have been committed to seeing that plan used actively to inform the delivery of services and guide future equitable development in all our neighborhoods.”