Pat R. Troy

Candidate for City Council

Age: 64

Residence: Old Town, Alexandria.

Education: Butler training, Birr Castle, Ireland.

Occupation: Owner, the Irish Walk and Ireland's Own Restaurant and Pub in Alexandria.

Elected offices/civic activities: Member, Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association board of governors, Alexandria's King Street Advisory Committee and Alexandria Motor Coach Task Force; founder and 25-year chairman, annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Alexandria; founder and 17-year chairman, annual Alexandria Irish Festival; volunteer fundraiser, Project Children; member, St. Mary's Catholic Church.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "The most urgent issue facing the voters of Alexandria is deciding the fiscal course for the next three years. We must lower the real estate tax rate and gain fiscal control over the city budget. We are a compassionate city, but soaring real estate taxes are making it impossible for many of our residents, especially our seniors, to continue to reside in Alexandria. This council has sacrificed the welfare of its citizens in an effort to appeal to developers. The people of Alexandria must come first."

Why should voters elect you? "I will be an independent voice on the council, one that brings 34 years of business experience and fiscal discipline to the table."

Web site: www.pattroy.org

E-mail address: troyforcouncil@comcast.net