Who: Paul Long, 59
Where: Born and raised in Philadelphia. Moved to Charlottesville 11 years ago.
|
Independent Paul Long has announced his run for a seat on City Council. On November 3, Long will face fellow Independent candidate Bob Fenwick, and Democratic nominees Dave Norris and Kristin Szakos. |
What do you do: “I have two jobs at UVA. Both of them are not professional jobs. During the day I work as a transport, I am one of the people who take patients down for X-rays, EKGs, MRIs, and I have a part-time job as a patient companion/sitter.”
Why: Two issues concern him the most. First, drug use should be decriminalized in the state of Virginia. Second, the Charlottesville Transit Service is good, but could be better. “I would have all the bus routes operating on Sundays, as well as legal holidays. Life goes on and there are still things to do on Sundays and legal holidays.”
Why now: “Why not make the effort and bring my opinions and viewpoints out to the public to consider?”
Why Independent: “I have been a life-long Democrat. I have a problem with the caucus system. I would like to see an open primary for local candidates as well. I think the caucus system discourages people from participating.”
Charlottesville’s number one challenge: “Mayor Dave Norris and others have called for a discussion about race, which I think is important, but I also think that there is the need for a discussion about class differences in this city. I do think they exist.”
What do you bring to the table: “Charlottesville prides itself on being a world-class city, and Charlottesville is a good town, but I think that Charlottesville has to outgrow just being a college town. I think Charlottesville should be actively enticing new businesses to come in the city.”
C-VILLE welcomes news tips from readers. Send them to news@c-ville.com.