Alan Thompson Seeks Another Term Representing Riverdale Park's Ward 2

Ward 2's Councilman Alan K. Thompson is seeking a second term for office to represent his ward.

Thompson, 47, lives at 4711 Sheridan Street, with his wife Sarah Wayland and children Justin, 13 and Oliver, 9.

Although he grew up in Austin, Texas, he moved to the area in 1994 and has been regularly attending meetings since 1995.

He earned my bachelor's degree from Rice University in Houston and a doctorate  from MIT.

Patch asked Thomspon about his run for office.

Riverdale Park-University Park Patch: How can residents benefit from your representation on council?

Alan Thomspon: Because I've been involved with town government for as long as I have, I know a lot of the history behind things going on now, such as the development happening in the M Square area. I also have a good knowledge of the town's laws, and have a good relationship with the other members of the Town Council. Finally, I have a good head for numbers, so I can easily monitor the town's budget and will use my skills during the upcoming changes to the town's wards.

Patch: What are your goals for your time on council?

AT: My main goal is to make sure the town efficiently provides essential services  like police protection, maintenance of roads, sidewalks and public spaces, trash pickup, and the administrative work needed so all of those services can be delivered. 

Patch: What do you hope to change?

AT: I want to make progress on having more businesses in our Town Center.  This is a difficult problem, and has been for longer than I've lived in town.  I don't think it can be solved in two years, but I do think we can get started. 

Patch: What are some issues that concern you or your ward? How will you address them?

AT: Vacant properties -- commercial and residential -- are a concern for me and Ward 2 residents.  Motivating and helping property owners to rent or sell vacant properties will require coordinated efforts in property tax structure, code enforcement, and promotion of economic development opportunities.  I will work with the Mayor, town staff, and other members of the Town Council to make this happen. 

Patch: Why do you love living in Riverdale Park?

AT: I love the tremendous diversity of the people who live here, the beautiful parks within easy walking distance, and access to fabulous food, music, and art, both in Riverdale Park and in nearby towns and cities. 

Patch: Anything you'd like to add?

AT: I am grateful to be a resident of Riverdale Park, and to everyone who worked over the years to make it the town it is.  While we are a great town, there are always opportunities for further progress. I hope that residents reading this article will join with town officials and contribute their ideas, time, and energy to make our town an even better place to live and work.   

Contact Thomspn by phone 301-927-7407, or e-mail twacks@gmail.com (campaign related) or akthompson@riverdaleparkmd.gov (for town business)