Patricia Richie-Folks answers Manassas Observer’s Candidate Questionnaire

Why are you running for office…Or why are you running for reelection?
When I ran for the post of Manassas City Treasurer last year, I did so because the opportunity was presented for me to use the full range of the skills I have acquired over my career in a position of public service.
As you know, I was elected to complete the final year of a four-year term.  I am running for reelection because, although I feel I and my staff have accomplished a great deal in a brief period, there is much to be done. 

What do you hope to accomplish overall?
My goals for my office going forward includes assessing all resources at our disposal and determining how we can maximize our efficiencies.  We have just recently successfully implemented the 2nd phase of the office’s financial management system replacement but we have other phases that we must put into place. 
I am currently taking courses offered by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service to acquire my Master of Governmental Treasurer certification.
This certification is the highest level of achievement recognized by the Treasurers’ Association of Virginia (TAV), of which I am a member.  Through this membership, I have been able to collaborate with my peer treasurers across the Commonwealth to identify best practices and assess their potential application to enhance operations in my office.  Rather than reinvent the wheel, I want to build on experience that we can tap so we can realize the vision I have to make this office one which is recognized for its superior customer service and efficiency.

What are your constituent service goals?
I want to ensure that every transaction related to serving our individual taxpayers is accurate and performed efficiently.  My goal is optimum customer service.  I believe in thinking outside of the box.  As opposed to working in a vacuum and arbitrarily determining services and how they are delivered, where appropriate, I would like to seek the input (ideas) of our customers to identify ways in which we might possibly provide even better, more responsive service.

What are the 3 topics people talk to you about most as you are campaigning?
The main topic of discussion is the Citizen’s Self Service (CSS) portal.  Our newest service allows taxpayers to go on-line and search their real estate and personal property tax bills and make payments.  People are also interested in our efforts to expand on-line payment options for other fees.

Name and party affiliation:  Patricia Richie-Folks, Democrat

Candidate for:  Manassas City Treasurer (reelection)

Occupation:  Manassas City Treasurer

Special award if any:

Experience:

Top Campaign issues: (limit 3 and 1-3 words) for example; education, law enforcement, taxes, etc.:  Integrity, transparency and customer service