Stirrup plans future not as supervisor

On Jan. 1, 2012 while many people will start on new courses to make good on their New Year’s resolutions, John T. Stirrup will start down a new path after serving as a dedicated public servant.

“I have served Prince William County for almost 10 years now,” Stirrup said. “Almost eight as [Gainesville] supervisor and two years of service on the Park Authority and the Zoning Ordinance Review Committee.” He decided not to run for reelection representing Gainesville on the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, but instead ran for the GOP nomination for the newly formed 13th District of the state senate. He narrowly was defeated by Dick Black in the primary on Aug. 23.

“Before deciding to run for the state senate, I discussed this opportunity with my wife and family extensively,” he said. “Had they not been universally supportive of the decision, I would not have gone forward.” His decision to run was based on two factors. He wanted to take a record of accomplishment in the county to Richmond and build on it. He also believes Republicans have a real opportunity to take control of Virginia senate, giving it a good chance of advancing Gov. Robert “Bob” McDonnell’s legislative agenda. Stirrup is not sure had he not chosen to run in the primary that he would have run for reelection as supervisor. He believes that government officials stay in particular offices too long.

Looking back on his tenure as supervisor, Stirrup is pleased with many accomplishments the Board of County Supervisors has achieved. Near the top of the list is reducing the infrastructure deficit, providing parks, roads, schools to improve the quality of life in western Prince William County. Starting in March 2004, Stirrup held 33 Town Hall meetings throughout his district, giving residents the opportunity to voice their opinions. He also is proud of a recent task of which he was part.

“I had the opportunity to travel to New York City with Chairman [Corey] Stewart, Sup. Caddigan and staff to select steel artifacts from the World Trade Center to be utilized in the County’s memorial to the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks,” Stirrup shared. “Having been instrumental in making that dream a reality is something I will always be proud of.”

Stirrup has plenty to keep himself busy as a business owner representing businesses primarily before Congress and administrative agencies, a horse farmer, a member of at St. Katherine Drexel Mission, a husband and father. Heidi, his wife of 24 years, has her own active career and Sarah, their 17-year old daughter, is a top student involved in sports and other activities while she tries to find the right college to attend.

Read the full story in the print version of the Bull Run Observer.