The Green Party of Virginia (GPVA) voted Sunday, October 27, 2002 to endorse the bond proposals put forth for consideration on the November 5th ballot. While there was general consensus that parks and education should be priorities within the general budget, not afterthoughts which require special means, it was acknowledged that both areas would have been under-funded regardless of the recent economic downturn. "It's lamentable that the Commonwealth has allowed itself to be so vulnerable," stated one member, "but it makes sense to take advantage of the silver lining and borrow while the rates are historically low". Virginia's park system, while having been very effectively run despite severe under-funding, is due for some serious attention, particularly in the acquisition, classification, and protection of natural area preserves. The GPVA strongly supports the new acquisition this funding would bring, and would like to see an increase in the percentage of funds reserved for this purpose.

As for education, new facilities at Virginia's colleges and universities would not only help students compete for better jobs, but would promote lifelong learning for entire communities.

The Northern Virginia transportation tax referendum is opposed by all affiliated Green Party local organizations in that area (Arlington, NOVA, and Loudoun). The concern is that such a tax promotes sprawl and subsequent environmental degradation, by continuing to subsidize the already powerful construction and real estate industries. These Green locals point to the many highway projects yet unfinished as testament to the transportation department's unacceptable record in meeting its goals, and suggest better land-use planning as a more cost-effective means of reducing traffic congestion.

Additional information on the Green Party of the United States can be found at: http://www.gp.org
Additional information on the Virginia Green Party can be found at: http://vagreenparty.org/
GPVA Press Secretary: Miriam Gennari