Editor’s note: Between now and Election Day, the Free Press is inviting candidates for state office whose constituencies include the Fredericksburg area to make their case in their own words through a candidate questionnaire. The following responses have been edited only for formatting.
Please provide a brief bio outlining your background and qualifications for office.
- Lived my entire life in this community
- Raised on a dairy farm, the youngest of 8 children
- Graduated Ladysmith HS ‘74, attended Germanna Community College, graduated from Virginia Tech, ‘78, Masters from Virginia State University ‘85
- Taught Agricultural Education for 39 years., five in Hanover County, 34 at Spotsylvania High School, worked for New Holland Ag. Machinery Company, one year
- Part-time radio announcer WFLS since 1988
- Virginia House of Delegates since 1990
- Married with three children, five grandchildren
- First wife, Betsy, special education teacher in Caroline and Spotsylvania counties, deceased 2021
- Wife, Debra, school nurse at John J. Wright Educational and Cultural Center
Why are you running for office?
Running to continue service to my community.
Press the Issue
For more information on Bobby Orrock, visit his website.
What is one piece of legislation you plan to introduce if elected?
Amend existing property assessment statute that requires assessments to be at “fair market value” to include based on the current zoning. Current assessments consider the sale price of properties that were made contingent on a rezoning to higher market value.
What role should the state, and particularly, the General Assembly, play in regulating data center development in Virginia?
I believe the current status of state law, leaving the decisions about any land use or allowable commercial development is sufficient. Just as the state has not taken authority away from local government to permit or restrict solar operations, residential developments, other large commercial projects, etc. I don’t see the need for the state to do so for data centers.
Please provide an example of an issue that is unique/specific to your district and how you plan to represent your constituents’ interests on said issue if elected.
While not unique to our district, I believe that we need to further examine our current highway system priority methodology. Our current practices do not adequately address the maintenance required of our existing roads and right of ways. This has led to inadequate ditch maintenance, mowing, and repaving. Given the statewide nature of this problem, I will work with my colleagues to find a sustainable solution.
In terms of incumbent members, the House of Delegates currently has 51 Democrats and 49 Republicans. How do you plan to reach across the aisle as a legislator?
Throughout my tenure in the Assembly, I have always worked with my colleagues, regardless of party affiliation, to reach a consensus on any issue. I have always offered my suggestions and concerns and worked to explain the specific needs of my district and its constituents. Of late, this has become more challenging. However, I feel that makes my method of representation more important. It is incumbent of every member of the legislature to recognize their responsibility to represent all of their constituents, not just those of their respective parties.
