Herndon Town Councilmember Keven LeBlanc Historic Bid for Mayor

Herndon, VA – Herndon Town Councilmember Keven LeBlanc has announced today his candidacy for Mayor in the upcoming November 2024 elections. If elected, LeBlanc would become the first openly LGBTQ+ mayor in Herndon's `history.

LeBlanc has already made a significant impact on the town, spearheading highly successful community events like the Herndon WinterMarkt that drew over 12,000 attendees. He has also focused on economic development, transit and safety issues, historic preservation, and bridging Herndon’s identity with strategic growth.

With endorsements from state Senator Jennifer Boysko, Delegate Irene Shin, former Mayor Lisa Merkel, Schoolboard members McDaniel and Lady, and former Dulles Chamber of Commerce and Fairfax County Housing Authority chairs, LeBlanc is poised to lead Herndon towards an inclusive, innovative future.

LeBlanc states, "I am dedicated as Mayor to leading with empathy, while driving us forward. My priority is pursuing balanced and sustainable growth that preserves what we cherish most about our hometown, while propelling Herndon into an inclusive and vibrant future.”

Boysko, Shin, Olem, and Merkel issued the following joint statement:

“As fellow residents who are raising our families here, we care deeply about Herndon's future. Keven understands the need to nurture Herndon’s loyal community spirit while bringing fresh economic energy to our town. His integrity and inclusive vision make him ideally suited to lead Herndon into its next chapter.”

During his time on the Council, LeBlanc has played an integral role in negotiating tax decreases for residents, creating small business groups, pushing for economic development plans, and engaging with regional partners on key issues. His background as an executive and engineer makes him well-suited to oversee Herndon's growth at this pivotal time. If elected mayor, LeBlanc will continue his balanced, inclusive, and strategic leadership.

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LeBlanc singled out affordable housing as a key component of his vision for the plan. Melissa McKenna, Former Chair of the Fairfax County Housing Authority said, “During the 13 years I served the Town and County, I developed a deep understanding for the complexities of any development project, whether it be one accessible dwelling unit or a multimillion dollar affordable housing community. During that time, it was clear to me that Keven is committed to finding solutions to meet the need for diversified housing stock. Keven as Mayor, I feel confident we will have a leader at the helm who understands that diversified and affordable housing ensures inclusivity, socioeconomic diversity and community resilience, ultimately fostering a more equitable and sustainable environment for all members of our community.”