Vice Mayor Faraldi discusses Ward 4's victory and council priorities

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WDBJ) – After a close race, Republican Chris Faraldi claimed victory with just 51% of the vote, a narrow 167-vote lead over Democratic challenger April Watson.

At a press conference on Thursday, WDBJ7 spoke with Lynchburg’s newly re-elected Councilman and Ward 4 Vice Mayor Chris Faraldi.

Even with added pressure from a registration campaign launched by Peter Alexander, Faraldi says he is grateful for the win.

“We would certainly like to have more support overall and not a write-up to adjust the numbers a bit, but regardless, I’m grateful for the win and happy to continue serving at City Hall,” Faraldi said.

Faraldi knows he enters this new term with challenges ahead.

With what some call a divided council, he says he’s focused on putting aside differences for the benefit of Lynchburg residents.

“The voters are looking for people who are focused on the work and nothing else, and that is what I am committed to,” Faraldi said.

Faraldi says some of the council’s first priorities include ensuring Sandusky Elementary stays open and gets needed renovations, completes a major sewer project and secures better wages for teachers. Public safety and tax reduction are also high on his agenda.

Despite the divided council, Faraldi is hopeful. He says Republicans are united on key issues like lowering the tax rate and keeping schools open. And he believes if the council can unite around what’s best for Lynchburg, they can move forward.

“I think if we unite behind the common cause of delivering solutions for the good of Lynchburg, we will do well,” Faraldi said.