Daniel X. Sze

Candidate for City Council

Age: 55

Residence: City of Falls Church.

Education: BA, architecture, Howard University; MS, urban design, Columbia University; completed two years of study in aerospace engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Occupation: Team leader, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, U.S. Department of Energy.

Elected offices/civic activities: Vice chairman, Falls Church Economic Development Authority; advisory board member, School of Architecture and Design, Howard University.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "The city of Falls Church will soon face its ultimate test as an urban village. Will we be able to grow without losing all the charm and character that make our city such a special place to live? The recent mixed-use projects in our commercial areas are important to achieving economic vitality; still more will come. How will our small neighborhoods balance quality-of-life concerns and adjust to the coming density and congestion? Only by having the right investment in the future will our community have continuity in its rich historic and cultural heritage, and our world-class public schools."

Why should voters elect you? "Having both Economic Development Authority and 'smart growth' experience, I will assure a balanced perspective for Falls Church City citizens going forward."

Web site: None given.

E-mail address: dansze1@verizon.net