After talking with many of you about your concerns, we agreed that the following issues are the most important in this election for the 40th District:

Transportation: A strong transportation infrastructure attracts businesses, improves the value of our homes, and improves our quality of life. I propose:

• Increased funding for mass transit with a special emphasis towards the creation of light rail system or a dedicated fast bus lane which will link Centreville into the Metrorail system.
• Increase VDOT funding for road expansion on heavily congested Northern Virginia highways.
• Tax incentives for smart business and residential development near mass transit hubs.
• Tax credits for employers providing alternate work schedules and telecommuting to reduce congestion and pollution.

Education: Implement an “ABC” approach to education focusing on Academic excellence, fiscally sound Budgets and Creative programs which will prepare our students to be competitive in the global economy. I will work hard to:

• Focus on funding core competencies of reading, writing, math, science and ESOL and foreign language study.
• Change the formula for state education funding, so Northern Virginia will get its fair share of school funding and lessen our property tax burden.
• Expand capacity at Virginia universities and community colleges to accommodate graduating high school students, adult learners and business professionals.

Economic Development: An educated workforce, combined with a solid infrastructure will encourage business development and creates jobs in the 40th District. As your representative, I will work to:

• Provide tax incentives to local businesses creating new jobs.
• Expand grant funding to entrepreneurs and university researchers developing innovative green technologies and small business incubators.
• Exempt retirement/pension income from Virginia income taxes.

Together we can move the 40th District ahead. Please vote for Susan Conrad as your Delegate.