So much of the political process is about compromise. All parties interested in an issue fight for their point of view. Since many issues are made up of shades of gray rather than black and white solutions, the resolution to these issues is often a compromise. Being a successful legislator is often dependent on the ability to see the middle ground, to negotiate a solution, and to bring about a compromise.

Restonians are facing an issue that is a notable exception to the need for compromise. It truly is one of those unique situations that is a win-win for our community. The issue is the lease of Reston Association land to Fairfax County on which the County will construct a multi-use community facility. That facility would be built at 12125 Pinecrest Road near Glade Drive, the site of the former Southgate pool.

The covenants in the deed to Reston Association lands require that Reston Association homeowners must give their approval before land can be sold, or in this case, leased. The documents require a whopping 40 percent participation rate in a referendum, and two-thirds of those voting must vote to approve the sale or lease.

That is why you got a ballot in the mail in mid-September from Reston Association. If you returned it already, great! If not, dig it out of the mail pile and return it right away. It must be returned by November 7. If you lost or misplaced your ballot, call 703-435-6514 or visit the website www.Reston.org to find out about replacing your ballot.

How is this a win-win proposition? If we lease the land to Fairfax County, the County has agreed to construct a $2.3 million facility on the property that will be designed for multiple recreational, community, social, and/or educational programs. In addition, Fairfax County has agreed to maintain the facility and to provide programs in it. All this will be done at Fairfax County’s expense. It will return more of our County tax dollars to our community. It will save us from having to build a facility or conduct programs out of our RA dues.

Seldom have I seen such a winning proposal for our community. That’s why I returned my ballot soon after it came. Join me in reminding others to do the same. We need to ensure a positive outcome for this vote.