Whose financial legacy is truly at stake—Purcellville’s or Fraser’s?
In this final installment of our series, we delve into the assertions made by Kwasi Fraser regarding the growth and development of Purcellville during his tenure. By examining the claims surrounding business growth, infrastructure projects, and financial management, we seek to uncover the truths that may have been overlooked in the narrative presented by the past Mayor and now Interim Town Manager.
15. STATEMENT: Welcomed Business Growth: Numerous businesses, including Chipotle, Chick-Fil-A, Petite Loulou, Mod’s Pizza, Purcellville Pub, Giant, Catoctin Creek Distillery, Southern States, and McDonald’s, opened or expanded under our administration—98 new businesses in 2021 and 83 in 2022.
IN REALITY: Businesses that did not require any approvals from the Planning Commission or Town Council continued to locate in Purcellville. As the hub of Western Loudoun and home to five Loudoun County Schools, businesses recognize Purcellville as a prime location for retail and restaurants. Unfortunately, since 2014, the Town Council has discouraged all other business opportunities that required a special use permit or rezoning.
16. STATEMENT: Laid the Groundwork for FIOS Expansion: We led discussions with Verizon management to position Purcellville for future FIOS expansion, paving the way for better internet service for all residents. The contracts are now in the process of being signed, and FIOS will now be coming to town.
IN REALITY: FIOS was installed through the Town to connect to Loudoun County facilities. Mayor Fraser wanted to use ARPA funding to run “dark fiber” in Town; however, he was informed this was not a feasible solution. Verizon would not utilize fiber run by a company that did not have ongoing support. For years, Councils have been unsuccessful in enticing Verizon to extend a network of fiber in Town.
17. STATEMENT: Secured a Natural Gas Study: We championed and obtained a study from Washington Gas to explore the potential for extending natural gas service to Purcellville.
IN REALITY: Any Council can initiate a study if they are willing to pay the consultant. Gas lines would have to be extended from Leesburg, which is not cost-effective at this time.
18. STATEMENT: Doubled Meals Tax Revenue Without Raising Taxes: By boosting local business activity, we doubled meals tax revenue, all while keeping taxes stable.
IN REALITY: Purcellville is fortunate to have restaurants that provide a wide range of menu options and continue to locate in Town. These restaurants benefit from Purcellville’s position as the western hub of Loudoun County, and we benefit from the meals tax. It is difficult to understand why Fraser originally wanted to eliminate this source of revenue, which is primarily obtained from community members outside of Purcellville.
19. STATEMENT: Completed Major Infrastructure Projects: From the 21st Street road and utility construction to multiple road and sidewalk upgrades, we ensured the town’s infrastructure was beyond par.
IN REALITY: Purcellville was fortunate to have Loudoun County approve grants and loans for most of our infrastructure projects. However, it should be noted that, with the increasing traffic problems in Town, Fraser turned against a significant transportation project he endorsed for years—the 690 Interchange. Additionally, Fraser did not pursue a light at Main and 32nd Street, which had been requested by his Council and endorsed and funded by VDOT. Fraser’s Council did approve the traffic circle at 32nd and A Street.
20. STATEMENT: Secured Millions in Federal Funding: Through lobbying efforts, we secured $10.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds, allocating $8 million to vital water and sewer infrastructure improvements.
IN REALITY: ARPA funding was provided to all town governments based on population. There was no lobbying involved, as this funding was received automatically.
21. STATEMENT: Built Recurring Revenue Streams: We established new revenue sources from fiber optics in town rights-of-way and cell tower leases, ensuring consistent financial support for years to come.
IN REALITY: Segra, under a contract with Loudoun County, ran fiber optic cables between County facilities. This fiber optic cable was installed in Purcellville’s right of way, and the Town Attorney worked with all parties to achieve revenue for any impact to Purcellville’s roads and maintenance.
22. STATEMENT: Commissioned the Train Station Kiosk: Collaborating with the Makerspace and town committees, we built a kiosk at the Train Station to promote our businesses and provide visitors with a rich history lesson on Purcellville.
IN REALITY: Purcellville’s Committees and Boards are fortunate to have volunteers who initiate these programs that benefit the community.
23. STATEMENT: Empowered Entrepreneurship: From Discover Purcellville’s painted benches to town-wide tag sales, we encouraged the entrepreneurial spirit, making Purcellville a vibrant place for creativity and business.
IN REALITY: Purcellville is fortunate to have Discover Purcellville, volunteers, and many non-profits, such as BetteraLife, as well as the Purcellville Volunteer Fire and Volunteer Rescue Departments, which give back to our community in countless ways.
24. STATEMENT: Debt Management: We effectively managed and reduced the town’s debt, setting clear paths for paying off obligations without burdening taxpayers. This led to upgrading the town’s Fitch rating from AA+ to AAA rating spurred by Fitch’s updated rating process.
IN REALITY: Purcellville’s financial department, financial consultants, and Town Managers have repeatedly stated that utility rates needed to be raised if the Town did not have future availabilities (new buildings being developed). Debt was restructured, extending the length of our bonds (similar to going from a 15-year loan to a 30-year loan). Fraser championed upgrading police headquarters in a short-term leased building for a total cost of $1.4 million instead of building a permanent police headquarters on Town-owned land. During a budget session, Purcellville’s financial consultants remarked, “Rarely do we say this is a no-brainer; however, building a permanent police station while interest rates are historically low instead of spending considerable funds on a leased facility is a no-brainer.” However, Fraser was adamant about not taking on any new debt so his campaign brochures could continue to state “he reduced the debt.” This has proven to be misleading and not in the town’s best interest.
In conclusion, this examination of Kwasi Fraser’s claims and their underlying realities reveals significant discrepancies that could have lasting implications for the future of Purcellville. The contrast between stated achievements and actual outcomes underscores the necessity for transparency and accountability in local governance. With this final part, we conclude our series, encouraging continued dialogue within the community about the importance of informed leadership and responsible decision-making.
