Councilmember Keven LeBlanc announces bid for Herndon mayor

RestonNow.com February 7, 2024 at 10:20am

Herndon Town councilmember Keven LeBlanc announced his candidacy for town mayor yesterday (Tuesday).

If elected, LeBlanc says he would be the town’s first-ever mayor to openly be part of the LGBTQ community. No other candidates have officially announced their intentions to run.

Herndon Mayor Sheila Olem didn’t immediately return a request for comment on her future plans, but in his campaign announcement, LeBlanc included a joint statement apparently endorsing him by Olem, state Sen. Jennifer Boysko, Del. Irene Shin and former mayor Lisa Merkel.

“As fellow residents who are raising our families here, we care deeply about Herndon’s future,” the statement said. “Keven understands the need to nurture Herndon’s loyal community spirit while bringing fresh economic energy to our town. His integrity and inclusive vision make him ideally suited to lead Herndon into its next chapter.”

LeBlanc said his top priorities are balance and sustainable growth. Building the stock of affordable housing will also be a key part of his plan for the town.

“I am dedicated as Mayor to leading with empathy, while driving us forward,” he said. “My priority is pursuing balanced and sustainable growth that preserves what we cherish most about our hometown, while propelling Herndon into an inclusive and vibrant future.”

He says his background as an executive and engineer makes him well-suited for the position. His candidacy statement highlights his work negotiating tax decreases for residents, pushing for economic development and spearheading events like the Herndon WinterMarkt.

The town plans to issue a formal release of candidates in June, following filing deadlines.