Paul C. Smedberg

Candidate for City Council

Age: 45

Residence: Old Town.

Education: BS, BA, economics and history, Allegheny College; fellow, University of Virginia's Sorenson Institute for Political Leadership.

Occupation: Director, policy and public affairs, American Society of Nephrology.

Elected offices/civic activities: Member, Alexandria City Council, 2003-present, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Public Safety Policy Committee, Northern Virginia Regional Commission, Northern Virginia Transportation Commission, Alexandria Pension Study Committee, Alexandria Economic Opportunities Commission, Alexandria Sister Cities Committee, Eisenhower Partnership, Inova Alexandria Hospital Task Force; board member, Alexandria chapter of the American Red Cross and Senior Services of Alexandria; former member, Alexandria Budget and Fiscal Affairs Advisory Committee; former chairman, Alexandria Democratic Committee.

What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction? "Fiscal responsibility is the number one concern of many citizens who bear increasing property tax burdens. I have advocated lower property tax rates and pushed for the city to implement a program of audits to increase efficiency in the city departments. I am committed to using the results of the audits to prioritize spending to move essential needs forward and defer or drop nonessential items. We cannot accomplish our strategic goals for safe and healthy neighborhoods, responsible development and excellent schools unless our fiscal house is strong and our financial policies have wide taxpayer support."

Why should voters elect you? "I listen to voters and aim for a thoughtful, balanced approach. I will work for leaner, more responsive city government that focuses on core functions."

Web site: www.PaulSmedberg.org

E-mail address: Campaign@PaulSmedberg.org