It goes beyond just a vote. To serve on council requires engaging the community, considering different views, and working to get resources needed to achieve the desired outcome. A councilman should be judged on what they have done.

During the eight years Matt Kelly served on city council, working with the community groups and residents the city saw the opening of two new schools, a downtown parking garage, a hotel, a police station, community pool and the protection of the Rappahannock River for generations through a river easement. In each case he insisted the city go above and beyond just meeting the letter of the law in “informing” the public, and actively engaged residents– addressing concerns, answering questions, considering suggestions, and explaining the costs and benefits. Through building a consensus with the community these projects became a reality.

The public needs to be actively engaged in the issues facing the city. If the issue is preservation, education, or public safety there are people and organizations, including HFFI and Friends of the Rappahannock, which bring expertise to the table. The most important collaboration is always working with city residents. They are whom we serve and who supplies the funding that provides the quality of life we enjoy.

With the downturn in the economy Fredericksburg will be expected to do more with less as more cuts come from state and federal sources. The city cannot afford to continue with the current “business as usual” approach. We must look for new and innovative approaches to continue the progress made without becoming a growing financial burden on those we serve.

While on City Council Matt Kelly negotiated an agreement with the Silver Companies to provide the land and support for a fire station. He worked with regional, state and federal officials to establish a Toll Road Authority to deal with significant congestion on Rt.3.  Through these, and other efforts, the financial burden on city residents was reduced and projects that could not have been considered under the “business as usual” approach were now possible.

Matt Kelly has shown through his actions that he recognizes that Fredericksburg needs to change with the times to meet its goals of protecting its unique character while also working to provide a good quality of life for residents and insured the city’s future prosperity.He has also shown he recognizes that community involvement t is critical in moving forward.

Matt's answers to Area Realtor's questions are here