The upcoming election for Reston Association’s board of directors will be a quiet one.
Only two candidates applied and were certified by the association’s elections committee to appear on the ballot, each vying for a different seat. A third open seat representing the Lake Anne and Tall Oaks District didn’t receive any candidate applications, so current director Irwin Flashman will continue serving, according to an RA spokesperson.
In contention are Matthew Mullenix, who’s running for one of the board’s four at-large seats, and Michael Lanza, who’s seeking to represent the North Point District. Both men will serve three-year terms if elected.
Voting, which is open to all RA members, will begin on Friday, Feb. 28 and continue through the end of March. Votes can be cast online or with a mail-in ballot. At least 10% of members need to vote in order for the election results to be validated.
Before voting begins, RA will host a candidate forum at its headquarters (12001 Sunrise Valley Drive) at 7 p.m. next Tuesday, Feb. 25. Members are encouraged to submit a question in advance by 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 24. The forum will be live-streamed on RA’s YouTube channel.
Who are the candidates?
Currently the executive vice president of Bowman Consulting, an engineering firm based in Reston, Mullenix says in a candidate statement that his work in the technology and business worlds gave him experience with leading teams, managing budgets and making decisions “that balance innovation, efficiency, and financial responsibility.”
As an RA director, he would “prioritize financial responsibility, transparency, and strategic planning to ensure the association serves residents effectively while maintaining long-term sustainability.” He also pledges to make decisions based on the needs of all members and provide oversight and support for RA’s staff.
“With my experience in leadership, governance, and technology, I will advocate for modern, efficient solutions that improve communication, operations, and resident engagement,” Mullenix wrote. “My focus will be on preserving what makes Reston special while ensuring smart growth, responsible stewardship, and a well-run association that serves its members above all else.”
According to his candidate statement, Lanza has lived in Reston for most of his adult life, first moving to the area as a renter before buying a home in the North Point District. A civil engineer, he has been volunteering with RA, including as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) for the past two years.
His goals if elected to the board would include the development of an amenity master plan, maintenance and beautification of RA’s lakes and streams, and collaboration with both Fairfax County and prospective developers “to bring the maximum benefit and return on investment” for members.
Lanza also noted that he would advocate against a casino in Northern Virginia. A bill seeking to allow one in Tysons was tabled by a House of Delegates subcommittee last week, though potential developer Comstock Companies indicated that it plans to continue pushing for a referendum in the future.
“If elected, I would pursue a budget with emphasis on member needs and anticipating future Reston Association community advancements,” Lanza said in his statement. “I would focus on enhancing Reston for everyone, of all ages. I believe strongly in maintaining and defending Reston’s open space and natural resources, including our lakes and trails, both paved and unpaved.”
RA’s Board of Directors consists of nine members who establish policies, approve a budget that includes an annual assessment fee, and determine the goals and long-term plans for the community association.
