Sanio Seeks To Continue Reston Sustainability

In his professional life, Michael Sanio is Director of Sustainabilty for the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Sanio, who has lived in Reston with his wife and three sons since 2004, would like to use his skills to help Reston Association look towards its future growth. 

Sanio is running for one of two spots against Realtor Eve Thompson, lawyer John Farrell, lawyer Donna Miller Rostant and incumbent board member Tom Vis. The other At-Large spot is the one held by Paul Thomas, who is not running again.

"What better way to 'think globally, act locally?' " said Sanio, 54, a resident of North Reston, said about his decision to run. "When Robert E. Simon set up Reston, he really has the foundation of the community pretty much right. Now we need to think about what we can do to ensure it remains viable for everyone."

Sanio says he will be focused on Simon's principles of community and diversity and continuing to add and maintain affordable housing options, recreational amenities and natural areas.

Like many of the other candidates, Sanio says Reston is at a critical time in its history. With Metro opening its first station here in 2013, the next three years are an important time in ensuring smart growth.

"We need to ensure development around the Metro stations is done so it becomes an asset," said Sanio, who has served on RA's Environmental Advisory Committee. "We need to ensure pedestrian and bike access. You can't do that after the big decisions have been made."

Another key point to Sanio's platform: to promote sound stewardship of RA's financial resources and better communication with Reston's renters.

He also says his experience in non profits, as well as a stint at the World Bank, will aid him in wise spending decisions.

"The assessments have been growing, but given the ameneties Reston has, to me they are not too unreasonable," he said. "These are difficult financial times for everyone. I have a lot of confidence that I can work with RA staff to make sure money is spent in a responsible way."

Ballots will be sent to RA members in early March.