Key Facts
Background
James Walkinshaw graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics in 2005 [1]. Walkinshaw is the former Vice President of the Ravensworth Farm Civic Association and Chief of Staff to Congressman Gerry Connolly [2]. As Chief of Staff, Walkinshaw worked with state and local officials to offer advice on various issues. In addition, Walkinshaw serves as the Operations Board Chair for the Northern Virginia Transportation Commission, Chair of the Board of Supervisors’ Legislative Committee, and Vice Chair of the Public Safety and Older Adults Committees. He has volunteered as a mentor to at-risk children through the Befriend-A-Child program, and for the the Friends of Lake Accotink Park Foundation. He is currently Chair of the Council to End Domestic Violence where he has advocated for the county’s “Make the Call” campaign which helps victims of sexual violence gain access to resources [1].
Key Issues
Economy
Walkinshaw aims to assist small and innovative businesses through targeted programs. In 2020, the Fairfax RISE Program granted 52.3 million dollars of funding to small businesses and nonprofit organizations and the PIVOT program granted 16.8 million dollars to sectors that were heavily impacted by the COVID-19 recession, both of which were approved by Walkinshaw [6].
Environment
Walkinshaw supports the expansion of renewable energy and has focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He has advocated for the implementation of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems as well as the use of electric vehicles and solar panels [5].
Housing
Walkinshaw supports the creation of more affordable housing units for low and moderate income families. During his time as the head of the board of directors, he approved 14 million dollars worth of funding towards the development of a 279-unit rental community that aims to be fully constructed by 2024 [5].
Healthcare
Walkinshaw supports expanding access to healthcare services in Fairfax county, particularly for underserved populations. Additionally, he has approved funding towards mental health programs in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Transportation
Walkinshaw believes in increasing funding towards more efficient transportation methods. He advocates for the use of the Virginia Railway express to reduce traffic congestion and oversees the implementation of the Regional Zero-Emission Bus Strategic Plan [3].
Endorsements
Gerry Connolly, Congressman; Sharon Bulova, Chairman of Board of Supervisors; Megan McLaughlin, Braddock District Representative; Jeff McKay, Lee District Supervisor; Stacey Kincaid, Fairfax County Sheriff; Fairfax Education Association; Fairfax County Professional Firefighters & Paramedics; UFCW Local 400; Laborers’ International Union of North America
Sources
1 Fairfax County, Virginia – About Supervisor Walkinshaw
2 James Walkinshaw
3 Northern Virginia Transportation Commission
4 Fairfax County, Virginia – Affordable Housing…
5 Fairfax County, Virginia – Department of Economic Initiatives