The Falls Church Insider All About the City of Falls Church, Virginia, For & By The Folks Who Live & Work There

Mike is spreading the word that four of the seven seats on the Falls Church City Planning Commission (PC) are up for grabs this month.  Like other boards, this is a part-time volunteer opportunity.  In my estimation, it’s also the most significant volunteer opportunity available in the community in terms of having a long-term impact.

The term goes for four years.  Over these next four years, our City will go through significant changes.  The City Center projectwill start (with any luck parts of it will be completed) and, if we’re fortunate enough to see the economy rebound, many new, ambitious projects will begin.  These changes will impact what the City looks like for the next 100 years.  In fact, the decisions being made by right now — many with the influence of the PC — could very well make-or-break the economic viability of Falls Church as an independent city.

My limited experience with the Cable Access Corporation has already shown me a few things:

1. Getting involved is easy.  The people who are already involved in community volunteerism are eager to have “new blood” participate.  Now, as with anything in life, you get out what you put in — so making progress will take work, but that initial step is not difficult.
2. Competition is good for everyone.  Even though I lost the open election, I feel strongly that just having the election was a great thing for FCC-TV.  It raised awareness and re-energized the group.  So, even if you don’t think you’ll be selected by the city council, if you’re passionate about it throw your hat in the ring.  The more people who show interest the better, and you never know what other opportunities will pop up as a result.
3. You really can have a big impact.  I’ve volunteered in lots of ways in the past, usually for big organizations where my little input felt relatively inconsequential.  Not so in the opportunities in Falls Church City — passionate, productive people can make a lot things happen.

I don’t personally have the background to be effective on the PC.  I know what I think the City should look like and have my opinions as a resident (which I plan to voice).  I also don’t know much about the current commissioners, or who plans to go out for the open seats.  I would love to see knowledgeable, thoughtful, practical people join the board who can balance the short-term needs of the City with a long-term vision for how we can maximize our potential. 

There is such a broad array of experienced professionals living here.  I just hope that the right folks become aware of this opportunity to give back to the community — and that they’re willing to step up and go for it.