Sam Rasoul's Conversation with the Voters

With an increased amount of housing in our area, and an upsurge of subdivisions developing in every empty field, the beauty of this part of Virginia is becoming damaged. People from all over the Valley are disappointed in the amount of land not being preserved. Is it possible at the Congressional level to provide any guidelines or programs to prevent this kind of damage since the local board of supervisors is reluctant to do so?

I believe we should find a balance between responsible growth and maintaining the beauty of the land. In Botetourt County, where I live, the development of suburbia is everywhere and it is sad to see our landscape altered so much. From a Congressional level, funds can be provided for the purchase of development rights and allowing for conservation easements. You should also push for lower taxes on a LOCAL level when it comes to special use/land use property tax breaks so that farmers do not feel pressured to sell off land to cover expenses.

What is your plan to do to satisfy your constituents while maintaining positive growth?

One way to promote growth and also advocate for responsible new development is by encouraging redevelopment of dilapidated areas. Through responsible grants, we can try to restore areas that were once vibrant which would encourage new economic growth and help to limit development that sprawls throughout the country side.

Katie S. Rockingham County

After the tragedy at Virginia Tech last year involving the deaths of 32 students at the hands of a person who suffered from mental illness, what is the stance of each candidate concerning gun control in the realm of mental illness? Would you support HR 709 in the Virginia General Assembly that would amend the Code of Virginia relating to the purchase of firearms that would require the applicant to disclose information regarding their previous mental health history?

I believe that the tragedy at VT was a failure of our mental health system. At that time, Virginia was ranked 48th in the nation in mental health. This is unacceptable for our state. While I would support legislation that would require someone to be flagged if they have serious mental health issues when purchasing a firearm, we as Virginians must fix our mental health system.

Thank you for your consideration of these questions.Alli R. and Stephanie D., Harrisonburg