Dumfries candidate fights for gutters, sidewalks

DUMFRIES — Sue Cornell is running for her third four-year term on the Dumfries Town Council.

“I would just love to see some of the projects we have started get finished,” Cornell said.

She highlights the recent effort under way to secure $2 million in bonds with the money going toward infrastructure.

“I would love to see sidewalks, curbs and gutters throughout the town in the areas that don’t have them,” Cornell said.

Another project Cornell believes is important is continuing to improve the town’s storm water management. Last year, a new culvert was installed under Possum Point Road in an area prone to flooding near Quantico Creek.

A recent decision by the town to pursue delinquent town taxes and fees also finds favor with Cornell.

“I am so glad we’ve started to collect those delinquent real-estate taxes and trash fees,” Cornell said.

Infighting among Dumfries elected officials is an area that could use improvement, Cornell said.

“I’m tired of the good ol’ boy system,” Cornell said. “I think we all have to learn how to work together and be concerned about what is best for the town.”

The decision made by the county Democratic Committee to present a slate of candidates for this Dumfries town election has upset some members of the council.

“I hope this doesn’t lead to a situation that we don’t get along [even further,]” Cornell said. “We just need to get things done.”

If relationships on the council improved, “I would be the happiest person,” she said.

Cornell has lived in Dumfries for more than 40 years. She has been a Prince William County school bus driver for 35 years.

Cornell is a member of the Dumfries United Methodist Church and serves as its recording secretary. She also is a member of the United Methodist Women’s Organization and a volunteer for the “Reading Is Fundamental” program.

The town election will be held May 7.

Six candidates are vying for the three open seats on the Town Council. Dumfries staggers the four-year terms on the six-member council.

Staff writer Aileen Streng can be reached at (703) 878-8010.