Why I’m Running for Alexandria City Council
My name is Darryl Nirenberg and today, I filed to run for Alexandria City Council.
My wife, Lori, and I settled here twenty-two years ago for many of the same reasons that attract so many to our city.
A tight-knit, caring community; distinct and diverse neighborhoods; a history and charm that attracts visitors from around the globe. A community which recognizes our diversity as a source of strength and where everyone counts, no matter one’s income, age, race, ethnic background or religion. With a government traditionally focused on the quality of life for all who live here, and seeking consensus on major decisions.
However, over the past few years, we have seen our city government lose its way - pushing divisive policies such as:
Building adult housing on school grounds when the focus should be on reopening schools.
Eliminating traffic lanes on major roadways when the goal should be to alleviate traffic.
Promoting density when our schools and infrastructure can’t keep up with the population we already have.
Bulldozing forests when the focus should be on preserving green space.
Continuing to raise taxes when so many households and businesses are struggling through the pandemic.
I decided I could not stand on the sidelines and watch our city so dramatically transformed — and lose what makes it unique.
Alexandria is a great city, and a unique one at that. Lori and I feel so lucky to have raised our two children here, with our dog, and now our new pandemic puppy. There is no reason Alexandria can’t continue to be a special place.
But that will take a City Council that focuses on quality of life issues, takes account of diverse viewpoints and seeks to build consensus on major issues. Only then will we be able to maintain the sense of community that defines our city and makes Alexandria an ideal place to live.
That is why I am running.
As I have listened to Alexandrians, I find a common theme. A general sense our city government is off track, and no longer reflects residents’ priorities. Residents across the city are yearning for a government that brings us together as opposed to dividing by pursuing controversial policies. They sense we need new blood and different perspectives.
And the issues facing our city are not partisan. They are common sense.
So, if you, too, believe we can do better, I hope you will visit www.darrylforcouncil.com and join me in this campaign to bring common sense government back to our very uncommon city.