Manassas Journal Messenger | Cunha to rejoin Occoquan Town Council
A familiar face is back on the Occoquan Town Council.
Joao Paul “J.P.” Cunha was recently appointed by the Town Council to serve out the remaining term of Jene Lyons.
Lyons, a newcomer to the council, beat out Cunha during last year’s town election.
Lyons, in a letter to Mayor Patricia Conway, submitted her resignation. She cited becoming a new parent has prompting her decision.
“The birth of my daughter Cameron Grace has completely changed our needs and lifestyle as a family,” Lyons said.
Lyons and her family have moved out of Occoquan.
After last year’s election, many members of the five-member council expressed surprise that Cunha had not won his bid for re-election. He was the only incumbent not to do so.
“I was amazed when he lost,” said Councilman Jim O’Connor. “People just don’t realize what he has done behind the scenes.”
The council also did not want to lose Cunha’s interest in the town. He was soon appointed to the voluntary post of director of public works.
Cunha remained active in town government, overseeing the several construction projects underway, including the Mill Street Improvement project and the ongoing work to reestablish the port of Occoquan. Cunha is in the construction business.
“I never really felt like I left,” Cunha said of his official return to town government. “I want to do anything I can to make sure the town of Occoquan prospers.”
“I enjoy being on council because I love this town,” Cunha said.
“I’m very pleased he’s back. He brings a wealth of knowledge,” O’Connor said.
Councilman Chris Hardy agreed. “I think we are very fortunate to have him back on council.”