Last week, those interested in knowing more about me as a candidate for Manassas City Council, my positions, and my vision for the city gathered at Okra’s Louisiana Bistro at the corner of Center and Battle in Old Town Manassas.
While there was plenty of good Cajun food, the main course was meaty discussion (sorry for the pun, it was tough to resist) about real issues facing Manassas City. My running for office, the whole campaign of “Ken Elston for Manassas City Council,” is based on my affection for Manassas. A vote for me is a vote for public safety, a vote for our public schools and a vote for economic development in the city.
Guests at the event heard me speak about the value of the diversity of ideas and community. The son of a teacher and a civil rights activist, with a background studying political science and economics, as well as a professional background as both a longtime union member and administrator responsible for multimillion-dollar budgets and managing personnel, I am hoping to bring a strong voice for strategic planning to the City Council.
As the Director of George Mason University’s School of Theater, I have a strong track record of fiscal responsibility. As an educator and collaborator, I have a passion to serve the entire population of our growing city. Mine in a commitment to transparency in decision making and community building. That is what the next generation deserves. I am grateful Osbourn High School students manned our volunteer sign-up table at the event. When it comes to leadership, if we aren’t doing it for our kids and the next generation, then why are we doing it?
Myself a product of public schools, I equate the health of the schools to the health of the city. Excellent schools make the city competitive, as well as a great place to live. This sentiment is echoed in the campaign’s introductory video, which is available on the campaign website kenelston.org. You can link from the homepage to see a video that features my children urging me to be myself. I am a man who cares about this community and will listen to diverse points of view. After watching the video, you might get a sense of my other values, too.
Early in the evening, Senator Mark Warner and longtime State Senator Chuck Colgan stopped in at the Okra’s event. They shook hands and posed for pictures with the guests.
As we take the turn toward the end of summer and Election Day comes into view, campaign events are drawing interest. Manassas City is considered a bellwether for both federal and local elections. With fewer than ninety days until voters line up to express their opinions and their power of the vote on November 4, candidates are working to raise support and learn how voters feel about the issues. Please get to know me and get informed about the issues. And, please vote on November 4.
