DUMFRIES, Va. – Dumfries Town Council heard from a group of community leaders, entrepreneurs, and development experts during its July 1, 2025, meeting — each vying for a seat on the town’s newly created Economic Development Authority (EDA).
The EDA, formally established in April by ordinance, will operate as an independent legal entity tasked with helping the town attract new businesses, support existing ones, and guide redevelopment along key corridors such as Main Street and the Quantico Creek waterfront. While the Council retains appointment power and oversight, the authority’s independence will allow it to pursue economic growth strategies more flexibly than town government alone.
The July 1 meeting marked the first time candidates publicly introduced themselves and their vision for Dumfries’ future. Eight individuals appeared in person, while three submitted written statements due to last-minute emergencies. Council members agreed to delay appointments until the next meeting on August 6, giving the remaining candidates a chance to present in person.
“It’s one thing to see names on paper,” said Mayor Derrick Wood. “It’s another to hear from you directly.”
Who’s Applying
Dr. Sean Antonio Spence
An Army Corps of Engineers veteran, Spence has led major infrastructure projects around the world and now teaches strategy and finance at George Mason University. He emphasized a data-driven approach to long-term economic planning.
“The creation of this EDA signals that Dumfries is taking control of its future.”
Ebony Lofton
A Dumfries resident for over a decade, Lofton brings nearly 15 years in commercial finance and public sector lending. She previously ran for both mayor and town council and currently serves as treasurer of Northern Virginia Food Rescue.
“I understand the challenges of starting and sustaining a business — and the importance of local economic growth in building strong communities.”
Nathan Daly
CEO of Preparedness Planning, Daly specializes in critical infrastructure protection and anti-displacement strategies. He described his work as a proactive buffer against gentrification.
“We have to make sure the people here now still belong here when the growth arrives.”
Andrew Sloss
An attorney and former economic development executive, Sloss has worked for firms including Alvarez & Marsal and Ernst & Young. He stressed balancing investment with community benefit.
“Growth is good, but the key is making sure that growth is inclusive and strategic.”
Tyrone Brown
A former Dumfries councilmember, Brown recently retired from the federal government, where he oversaw small business contracting and procurement. He called for renewed focus and structure.
“We’ve got to start planning intentionally — and building the partnerships to get us there.”
Benjamin Geppi-Garbra
Managing Director at Satig LLC, Geppi-Garbra has two decades of experience structuring infrastructure and renewable energy deals across global markets.
“I bring international capital expertise and a deep personal commitment to the town.”
Kenneth [last name not stated]
A business analyst and software strategist, Kenneth spoke about transforming Dumfries into a destination community and even proposed launching a town radio station to improve economic visibility.
Other candidates who submitted written statements:
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Gordon Wilson
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Sharae Harris
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Flavio Garcia
Vice Mayor Monaé Nickerson and Councilman Shaun Peete both emphasized the importance of hearing from all candidates before making selections. The town clerk confirmed efforts will be made to bring the remaining candidates forward at the August 6 meeting.
About the EDA
The Dumfries Town Council voted to create the Economic Development Authority on April 15, 2025, following a public hearing in which no residents spoke. The measure passed 6–1, with Councilman Peete casting the lone dissenting vote.
At the time, Chair Pro Tem Selonia Miles raised questions about the authority’s independence and accountability. Town Attorney Sandra Robinson explained that while the EDA operates as a separate legal entity under Virginia law, its board members are appointed by and report to the Council. Removal of members is governed by state code.
“The General Assembly has determined by empowering them in this way that these are not unchecked powers,” Robinson told the council in April.
With appointments likely to be finalized next month, the EDA will soon begin its work in earnest — setting goals, identifying priority projects, and potentially leveraging new partnerships to accelerate development in Virginia’s oldest chartered town.
