Ludwig P. Gaines

Candidate for City Council

Age: 41

Residence: Quaker Hill.

Education: BA, political science, Hobart and William Smith Colleges; JD, Howard University School of Law; public policy fellowship, Sloan Foundation; leadership program participant, John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

Occupation: Lawyer; former law professor, Howard University School of Law; former visiting fellow for ethics and social justice, Hobart and William Smith Colleges; former subsitute teacher, Alexandria City public schools.

Elected offices/civic activities: Member, Alexandria City Council, 2001-present; former member, Alexandria's Planning Commission and Human Rights Commission; former jury commissioner, Alexandria Circuit Court; board member, Child and Family Network Centers; member, West End Business Association and Seminary Hill Association; former chairman, Alexandria Landlord-Tenant Relations Board; former board member, Alexandria Transit Co. (DASH bus) and Quaker Hill Homeowners Association; former trustee, Inova Hospital Foundation; member and former vice president, NAACP; volunteer legal adviser, Coalition to Save Burke Library.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "Affordability issues, including the high cost of living and rising property taxes, are hitting the wallets and pocketbooks of hard-working Alexandrians. Ensuring government operates efficiently and effectively, reducing the tax burden while maintaining quality core services, and meeting the needs of the less fortunate are critical. This election is about preserving and expanding what matters: our rich history, strong economic standing, small businesses and diverse neighborhoods. City Council's ability to protect these core assets, while meeting the serious challenges of being an increasingly urbanized community (public safety, affordable housing, education, gridlock) will define our city's future."

Why should voters elect you? "The city has gained with Ludwig Gaines on council! I'll continue to deliver results and provide a reasoned, diverse and principled voice for everyday Alexandrians."

Web site: www.gainwithgaines.com

E-mail address: ludgaines@aol.com