ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Heather Watland
MY BACKGROUND
I am a dedicated community advocate with a strong passion for public service. My journey began when I learned that my children's school was burdened by a significant lunch debt. Having grown up in a middle-class household with a single father who did not qualify for assistance, I understood firsthand the challenges many families face. Motivated to help, I organized my first fundraiser to support those in need. The event was a success, enabling us to pay off nearly half of the school's outstanding lunch debt. This experience reinforced my belief that with commitment and collaboration, meaningful change is possible.
Since then, I have continued to serve my community through a variety of leadership roles. I currently serve on the City of Arlington Parks Commission, act as Secretary for the PTA, Vice President of the Gleneagle Homeowners Association, and Treasurer of the Citizens Committee for Arlington Public Schools. Through these roles, I remain committed to building a stronger, more supportive community.
Family
I met my husband during our freshman year at Arlington High School. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army, and a few years after returning home, we were married. We’ve now been married for 12 years and are proud parents of two young sons who attend school in the Arlington School District.Service to our country runs deep in my family. My great-grandfather, Delmar Anderson, was a World War II pilot who survived being shot down over Germany and held as a prisoner of war. His son—my grandfather, Gary Anderson—served in Vietnam and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. My uncle, Greg Anderson, also served with distinction, retiring as a colonel. With a strong family legacy of service, I am ready start my own journey by serving our community as your next city council representative.
MY VISION FOR ARLINGTON
I am committed to building a safe, vibrant, and thriving Arlington. Public safety is a top priority, and I will advocate for the addition of community outreach officers and social workers to help address issues related to homelessness and substance abuse with compassion and effectiveness.
Supporting local businesses is essential to maintaining the unique character of our town. I will work closely with business owners by actively seeking their input, encouraging open communication, and promoting community events that attract visitors and boost economic activity. Our small businesses are the heartbeat of
Arlington, and our city would not be the same without them.
As Arlington’s population continues to grow, our infrastructure must keep pace. I will champion smart, long-term planning, including advocating for the widening of 172nd Street, to ensure our roads are safe, efficient, and prepared for the future.
CAMPAIGN MISSION
Empowering Arlington's Future
My campaign is driven by the belief that every resident deserves equal access to opportunities and a voice in shaping the city's future. I'm focused on creating a transparent and connected local government that works for the benefit of all. This is a great space to elaborate on my vision for Arlington and the specific initiatives and policies I plan to champion. Let the community know how I intend to bring positive change and make Arlington an even better place to live, work, and thrive.