RESTON, VA — Fairfax County Supervisor Walter Alcorn plans to appoint longtime Reston resident and community leader Paul D. Thomas to represent the Hunter Mill District on the Fairfax County Planning Commission, replacing retiring Commissioner John Carter.
Alcorn is expected to make the appointment at the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors' Aug. 25 meeting. If approved, Thomas will begin serving Sept. 1. Carter announced his retirement from the Planning Commission on July 22.
The appointment places a longtime Reston civic volunteer and former educator into one of the county's most influential land-use positions, where commissioners review and make recommendations on major development proposals, Comprehensive Plan amendments, rezoning applications and changes to the county's Zoning Ordinance.
"I'm pleased to appoint Paul Thomas as Hunter Mill Planning Commissioner," Alcorn told Patch exclusively. "He brings a community first perspective to this important role that helps guide future development in the Hunter Mill District. His experience and insights will effectively allow him to listen and engage with residents, neighborhoods and the business community to evaluate and shape development proposals for the benefit of our community."
Thomas said his experience working on major planning initiatives and serving local organizations has prepared him for the role.
"My experience serving on the Reston Master Plan Special Study Task Force — alongside many community leaders including Commissioner John Carter and the late Bob Simon — and deep knowledge of Fairfax County as a teacher, coach, parent, and volunteer will help me be an effective Planning Commissioner who can work with staff, developers, and community members," Thomas said. "I look forward to helping ensure that growth in Fairfax County is responsible, orderly, balanced, and equitable."
A lifelong Reston resident, Thomas previously taught mathematics and computer science at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. He currently works as an education consultant specializing in mathematics and computer science curriculum development and has spent the past three decades developing curricula for startups, public corporations and nonprofit organizations.
Thomas has held leadership roles with several Fairfax County and Reston organizations, including the Reston Community Center Board of Governors, Fairfax County Human Services Council, Reston Association Board, Reston Historic Trust Board, South Lakes High School PTSA and the school's Band Boosters.
He earned both his bachelor's degree and a master's degree in operations research and management science from George Mason University.
Planning commissioners serve staggered four-year terms and advise the Board of Supervisors on matters involving land use, growth and development throughout Fairfax County. Each member is appointed by the supervisor representing their district.
Thomas would succeed Carter, who has represented the Hunter Mill District on the commission and played a key role in planning decisions affecting Reston and the surrounding area.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Reston Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.