Sizemore Heizer to focus on constituent services

Rachna Sizemore Heizer, the newly installed Braddock representative on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, told residents at an open house on Feb. 4 that her top priority is constituent services.

“Braddock to me is a community made up of communities,” Sizemore Heizer said. “People look out for each other. I want to find ways to build on that engagement and connection.”

She spoke about the need to provide support to seniors aging in place while also building peer-to-peer and intergenerational connections. “I want to reach out to those communities whose voices often don’t get heard.”

Sizemore Heizer also plans to forge stronger connections with George Mason University. “We’re so lucky we have this premier institution in Braddock, along with NOVA. So I want to build some pride around that.” One way she plans to do that is by hosting “tailgate with the supervisor” events.

Two of the big issues in the Braddock District that she plans to work on are the preservation of Lake Accotink and the Braddock Road multimodal improvement project.

Related story: Sizemore Heizer elected to the Board of Supervisors

Other priorities include helping small businesses, economic development, and support for education, parks, and trails.

“Economic development is important, she said, because “the downturn in the commercial real estate market increases pressure on homeowners.”

Sizemore Heizer invited Braddock residents to the Neighborhood College, a free six-session program on how the Fairfax County government works, how to get involved, and how to use problem-solving skills to improve neighborhood livability.

Sessions will feature guest speakers, interactive activities, breakout discussions, networking opportunities, and information about advisory boards and other volunteer opportunities.

Apply here by March 6. An orientation session is scheduled for March 12. For more information, contact Toiya Godfrey, [email protected].