Candidate Forums

As part of its mission, VPIS holds forums, often in partnership with the League of Women Voters, giving candidates for City office opportunity to meet directly with voters and present their plans for office if elected.  On September 26, 2025, the two groups hosted a two-hour forum for City Council candidates. An overflow audience packing the American Legion Hall on 400 N. Oak Street heard from Arthur Agin, Laura Downs, Brian Pendleton and James Thompson.  Each candidate described their current positions on issues facing the City and fielded questions submitted by VPIS, LOWV and audience members. Representatives from candidates Marybeth Connelly and David Synder, who could not attend, presented prepared statements. Synder’s son Richard Synder spoke on his father’s behalf and Falls Church Treasurer Jody Acosta spoke on behalf of Connelly.