As you fill out your ballot, you may want to know more about our most important yet most underrated local races: the Single Member District ANC commissionership! These brave and generous souls volunteer their time to make sure we can have good governance at the most local level. Meet your ANC candidates and let us know if you have any questions! The candidates’ answers have been lightly edited for clarity. Don’t know YOUR Single Member District? Click here and find it! ––María Helena Carey
Your name
Tori Collins
Your ANC single member district
ANC 6/8F05
What is a landmark people may know your SMD from?
Navy Yard [the area is anchored by the AC Marriott Capitol Hill and several residential buildings like Ore 82]
Why are you running for ANC?
I am choosing a Write-In campaign for ANC 6/8F05 because there is a need due to the vacant office. And I am devoted to being a voice for everyone in my SMD. I believe I am the right voice, and this is the right time.
I have been asked by community members during a few past election cycles to run for ANC in my SMD. This seems to be the right time because our ANC needs some diverse, straightforward, and experienced voices who understand the needs of the neighborhood while understanding the trajectory of our city.
Why do you believe ANC is an important office?
The history of the ANC is entrenched in grassroots organizing. It was formed to bridge gaps between local citizens and the local structure of government in the District of Columbia, and it is important to have an office that addresses issues or makes recommendations that directly affect our neighborhoods.
Why should your neighbors vote for you?
Three things that neighbors should consider when voting for me:
1. I like solving problems; thus, I am a solutions-oriented person. Parking, traffic, public safety, tenant relations and property management are all common issues that stay in rotation at the ANC meetings. Solutions are possible, if diverse voices are at the table.
2. I believe in authentic collaborations and partnerships when serving the community. From DDOT to MPD to the BID, we must make sure we are working together to get solutions in place BEFORE problems arise. Proactive and practical approaches are necessary.
3. I am willing to serve, listen, and learn: my work ethic can be described as assiduous and persevering. I work hard to achieve goals. I am resourceful and I like things to be done well and efficiently.
Why should we all keep an eye on Advisory Neighborhood Commissions as a whole?
The ANCs have an important job. That job is to be the community’s voice. We should all be concerned with the “why” of the person who is seeking this office because they speak for you on matters that directly affect your neighborhood.