To the editor:

In this November’s election, Susan Draper’s professional experience makes her the clear choice for Suffolk’s Commissioner of the Revenue.

First, she is qualified for the office. A lifelong Suffolk resident, with 16 years of experience in the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office, Susan has worked diligently to fill her time with above-board and practical fiscal actions.

She is a graduate of the former Forest Glen High School, Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School and Old Dominion University. A Certified Public Accountant, she has earned the designation of Master Commissioner of the Revenue from the Weldon Cooper Center at the University of Virginia.

Susan is a member of the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Association, Virginia Association of Local Tax Auditors and Virginia Association of Local Elected Constitutional Officers.

Second, she is motivated to improve our city. Since becoming Commissioner of Revenue, Susan has worked tirelessly for the good of our city, one customer at a time. She served the people of Suffolk as the chief deputy Commissioner of the Revenue from 2007 to 2014 and worked closely with citizens on a daily basis. Those years reinforced her dedication to serve all customers in a fair, professional and equitable manner.

An active part of our social fabric, she currently serves on the executive boards of the Coalition Against Poverty in Suffolk and Suffolk Business Women.

Finally, Suffolk needs an experienced and compassionate Commissioner of Revenue to ensure a solid financial future. Proper administration of taxes will mean continued vitality, instead of lost opportunities.

If you want a strong Suffolk, vote for the experienced candidate. Vote for Susan Draper on Nov. 7.

Kerry B. Holmes

Suffolk