Lynn Greene is running for Manassas City Council with a goal to eliminate wasteful spending and lower taxes.

Name: Lynn Greene

Party: Republican

Town: Manassas

Running for: Manassas City Council

Website: lynnforcouncil.com, Facebook, Twitter

Work: I’m an accomplished C-Suite administrative professional with two decades of experience. Currently, I serve as Project Manager at Korn Ferry, providing project management, business administration, and research support to the Advancing Women team.

Education: Project Management Professional Certification (PMP)
In process [Through Project Management Institute (PMI)]

Fiduciary Administration Courses, Cannon Financial Institute, Florida
(Investment Fundamentals I, Fiduciary Administration I – III)

High School Diploma (General/Office Management Studies), Vicenza American High School, Italy

Community Involvement: For over 20 years, I have actively contributed to the City of Manassas in one way or another. I used to serve as team mom for all of my daughter’s activities to include dance team and step team or participate in school and community fundraisers. I continue to contribute to SERVE and provide backpacks/school supplies for Manassas City students annually. Currently, I serve as chair of the Keep Manassas Beautiful Advisory Committee and as a member of the Manassas City Parks, Culture & Recreation Committee. Last year, I participated in the Manassas City Leadership Academy, which allowed me the opportunity to deepen my understanding of public safety, public works, and economic development. I also gained valuable exposure to mock admin & budget exercises that the council regularly participates. Additionally, you will often find me at city council meetings or work sessions.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Greene: High Taxes, Wasteful Spending, & Lack of Transparency

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Greene: The council needs to be more fiscally sensible while adopting policies to ensure responsible growth. Attracting high-quality small and medium-sized businesses to the area will help Manassas City trend towards a more robust, diversified commercial tax-base. Ultimately, this will lead to lower taxes while providing more opportunities to residents.

Regarding wasteful spending, we must incorporate additional town halls that focus on community engagement and approval of projects before they go on the comprehensive plan. Citizens agree some projects fall under “want” not “need.”

Closed-door meetings, especially ones where votes are taking place, should concern everyone. Residents deserve increased accountability and transparency. Besides, it will allow for greater understanding and encourage more community involvement.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Greene: City councils serve as the legislative branch of local government. They vote on laws, policies, and projects to manage the city’s goals. They are acting as a fiduciary over the city resources.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Greene: I bring a host of personal and professional experiences with me. As a long term resident and parent of an Osbourn High School graduate, I am very aware of just how much our schools & community have changed. From that, I offer a perspective which translates as a direct connection to the concerns & issues currently top of mind for our residents. Professionally speaking, I have a background of diverse project management experience in legal, finance, tax & accounting, and executive search. I also have the communication & interpersonal skills necessary to build positive relationships with my fellow council members, school board members, and administration. I believe my expertise correlates well with what I would need to be a successful council member.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Greene: Unfortunately, it is difficult for the average citizen to understand the inner workings of local government when so many topics are discussed behind closed doors. My goal is to increase transparency to foster a more open dialogue with our citizens. I will work hard to offer additional opportunities for the public to participate in decisions, including advocating for reoccurring quarterly town hall meetings. Also, I will work to ensure all communications are available in both English & Spanish.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Greene: Everyone makes mistakes. The challenge is learning the lesson from that experience and moving forward.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Greene: Manassas City residents should vote for me because I am the right candidate. I love my hometown, and I love the people here. We are a unique community. I do not want to see Manassas turned into Arlington. (No offense Arlington) My motive for running does not come from political aspirations. I consider myself a strong, influential leader. Influential leaders have visions and rally people behind that vision. My vision is one where Manassas City is a trendsetter. Let’s start the trend of maintaining our small-town feel. Let’s reject the idea that more equals progress. After all, our motto is Historic Heart Modern Beat. We could easily be more purposeful in the selection process when investing in projects. Resident input should be included not only at the beginning when identifying projects to go on the comprehensive plan but also sought throughout the entirety of the project. We should invest in our community and schools first. Making these small adjustments will shift the perception of our city. In doing so, we create a place where people desire to live & stay. If you feel like I do, I hope you will vote for me on Nov. 5th.

Lorena Bruner is running for Commissioner of the Revenue for Stafford, with a focus on enabling accessibility for all Stafford citizens by utilizing new technology. The seat is currently held by Scott Mayausky.

Name: Lorena Bruner

Party: Democrat

Town: Stafford

Running for: Commissioner of the Revenue-Stafford County

Website: bruner4revenuecommissioner.weebly.com, Facebook

Work: Account Manager, Business Entrepreuner and Consultant/Graduate Student of Kreiger School of Arts and Sciences/Johns Hopkins University

Education: Strayer University/Completed BSBA with Minor in Human Resource Mgmt/Johns Hopkins University-MBA Graduate Certificate in Minority Leadership and Management/Johns Hopkins University-Graduate Student of Dual Degree Program: MA in Government/MBA

Community Involvement: Ex-POSE-( Ex-Partners of Service Members for Equality) Member-counseling and helping former military spouse and children gain military benefits through divorce-15 plus years. Fredericksburg, VA Branch President and Member of AAUW, ( American Association of University Women), for 2 year Term. Virginia State VP of Public Policy/Board Member of AAUW (American Association of University Women) for 2 year Term. Member of Virginia League of Women Voters, Member of the Society of Human Resource Management- 7 years, and Member of Ebenezer UMC of Stafford Virginia for more than 25 years along with community volunteerism.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Bruner: 1) Ensure Assessment Process Accessibility – to our neighbors of all literacy, language and disability levels through updated computer system, and written hand brochures and materials.
2)Support Military Retired Veterans with provisions for exemptions in local property tax.
3) To assure that the Stafford Citizens receive current updates on the website of local and federal laws that apply to them through the Commissioner of revenue’s Office, such as the Master Barber and Cosmetology regulatory Law which went into effect on April 1, 2019.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Bruner: 1) In addition to the updated website, make sure that there is an option for information that’s online to be available in written material form as well as in Spanish and other literacy forms.
2)To research what can be done to extend provisions for exemptions for Military Retired Veterans.
3) Keeping up to date on current laws and make sure they are provided on the website as they apply to Stafford County citizens.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Bruner: To work at the pleasure of the citizens of Stafford County… in other words to provide information, access, and understanding of information as it applies to each Stafford County citizen’s needs with regards to their individual property taxes, their assessment of their taxes and an explanation of how this information may apply to creating and /or running one’s own business needs, per the Commissioner of the Revenue’s office.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Bruner: My background in counseling in higher education and business background and service on military installations with veterans and military members, as a volunteer in the fields of military family law, public policy and equality on Capital Hill, business experience working as an Account Manager and volunteer community service with families in Stafford Community.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Bruner: I know for a fact that the average citizen is NOT well-informed and does not understand the workings of local government, because when I talk to them about running for office, I am often asked what does the Commissioner of Revenue do as well as what is the role of the Supervisors in Stafford County and can they help the individual citizen and their concerns, regarding property taxes as well as other decisions largely made by district supervisors.

I intend on working towards communicating and ensuring accessibility and transparency to our neighbors at all literacy, language and disability levels including updated computer software and providing updates on the website, along with providing access to materials/paperwork on hand,that’s important for the public on a regular basis. Thus informing the citizens of new laws and provisions that apply to community, giving the access to information provided through the office of The Commissioner of the Revenue.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Bruner: No I haven’t made any major mistakes in public life. Privately everyone makes mistakes…that’s a part of being human and also how we can learn to be better for our future as well as working towards a better future for those around us.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Bruner: Our citizens of Stafford County are looking for leaders in local government who have not just lived in the community with their families, but someone who have experienced many of their same frustrations and is willing to take the time to listen to their concerns and work towards creating a better government that cares about them and their needs on an individual basis. As someone who has experienced living and working in Stafford County and the nearby military community for over 25 years, raised five children in Stafford County Public School System and worked with disadvantaged families through higher education and one of the largest churches in the community, I am one who has experienced many of your concerns and frustrations from our government and I ask that you work together with me so that we can solutions to help our community become a more comfortable and better environment in which to live in.

Carol Medawar, an experienced educator from Fredericksburg, is running to represent the George Washington District in the Stafford School Board. She lists school safety and educator retainment as high priorities.

Name: Carol Medawar

Party: Independent

Town: Stafford County

Running for: Stafford School Board, George Washington District

Website: medawar4schoolboard.com, Facebook

Work: Director of School Engagement

Education: BS – Elementary Education, West Virginia University Masters – Instructional Technology, George Mason University PhD Student – Instructional Leadership, Virginia Commonwealth University

Community Involvement: Church volunteer, PTA or PTO volunteer, Math Tutoring, Fundraiser and Organizer of Various Community Organizations

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Medawar: School Safety, Recruiting and Retaining Educators, Collaboration and Partnerships with Community Stakeholders

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Medawar: Increase Analysis of Data to inform actions. Empower educators to have a voice in the solutions to improve working conditions. Examine exit interviews of employees who are leaving. Increasing pay across the scale and not just increasing starting salaries. Work collaboratively with the Board of Supervisors, Businesses, and Industry to create a long term plan to address workforce needs and solutions for our area.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Medawar: Set the vision and goals for the district. Adopt policies that give the district direction to set priorities and achieve its goals. Hire and evaluate the superintendent. Adopt and oversee the annual budget process.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Medawar: I have 23 years of classroom and education experience. I have worked at the high school, middle school, and elementary level as well as working with students who struggle and students who excel. I have served as a board member at the local, state, and national level of education institutions. I have studied best practices and education research and believe in making research and data-informed decisions.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Medawar: I believe increasing communication and developing an easy way for citizens to be involved in local government is very important. Having information readily available so that citizens have access to them through digital means makes the most sense. I also believe that hosting town halls that make it easy for parents and community members to meet and hear from their elected officials is important. Some communities even have the technology in place to allow citizens to connect in virtual ways and I believe this could be helpful given the number of people who work outside of the county.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Medawar: I do not believe there is a person who has not made mistakes. What matters most is how you reflect on the mistake and use the experience to grow as a person and a decision-maker.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Medawar: I have been involved in education policy for over two decades in Stafford County. I am prepared to take office knowing the issues and with ideas for improvement from day one. My background and experience bring a vast amount of perspective on many levels of education. As a foster parent, biological parent, and former math teacher, I believe in problem-solving and collaborating as well as checking the solution to see if it works. There is simply no problem we encounter in Stafford that we can not solve should we simply make the decision to tackle the issue together. Our students deserve school board members who have demonstrated long term commitments to them and their futures. I humbly ask for your support on November 5th.

Elizabeth Guzman, a social worker, is running for re-election to represent District 31 in the House of Delegates. She has held the position since 2018.

Name: Elizabeth Guzman

Party: Independent

Town: Woodbridge

Running for: House of Delegates, HoD 31

Website: elizabethguzmanforvirginia.com, Facebook, Twitter

Work: Social Worker

Education: Associates Degree in Public Administration: NOVa Community College Bachelors Degree: Capella University Masters in Social Work: University of San Diego Masters in Public Administration: American University

Community Involvement: In between ballet and tap lessons, Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts activities, judo practices, and swimming lessons at the Dale City Recreation Center, Elizabeth works tirelessly as a Court Appointed Service Advocate for CASA CIS to prevent child abuse, a PTO representative for Penn Elementary School, and as a “Cookie Mom” for her youngest daughter’s Girl Scout troop. The Guzman family are active and long-time members of Harvest Life Changers Church in Woodbridge. The Guzmans also attend Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Guzman: Paid sick leave, more investments in public education, and investing in public transportation

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Guzman: I have already drafted legislation that mandates all employers who employ more than 5 people must provide at least 40 hours to paid time off so all workers can visit a doctor or take care of their sick loved ones. I will continue to advocate for larger investments in education during the next biannual budget to address the funding gaps for pre-k education, school councilors, and special education. I will fight for transportation funding for Northern Virginia for new construction of roads. Furthermore, I will advocate for large investments in mass transit that will create thousands of jobs, take more people off the roads, and get families back to their homes sooner in the evening.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Guzman: My job is about giving a voice to all of my constituents, regardless of party or partisan belief. I am both an advocate and listening, leaning into the conversation with town halls and listening sessions. I advocate for my constituents in public settings and work with them to solve any issues they might be facing in their lives by providing constituent services. And I fight for the priorities of my district in office, ensuring that we are getting the resources we need to make our schools great, improving roads, and uplifting all hardworking families living here.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Guzman: Firstly I’m a mom of four who works a full-time job, so I know how to multitask and bring the human side of things to the floor of the house. Having worked in local government and the public school system, I have experience with issues at the cross section of education and social services. I understand how adding more guidance counselors will help our kids become more successful inside and outside the classroom. I also understand why we need to raise the minimum wage and pass paid sick leave, so that more parents do not have to work two or more jobs to make ends meet, and spend more time with their children.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Guzman: No, I don’t think so. That’s why I have sent newsletters and surveys. I am proud to have held 22 town halls throughout the district. I believe that the communications department for the County should find more innovative ways to get residents involved. Partnering with HOA’s to have a column in their newsletter is a great idea.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Guzman: My public life has started almost two years ago. So far so good.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Guzman: When I was elected, I promised that I would make healthcare more affordable, help our public schools, and get more funding for our roads and public transit. With my colleagues, we expanded Medicaid, got our teachers a pay raise, secured funding for more guidance counselors for our students, brought millions of dollars in funding for our roads, and forced VDOT to fix Rte 29. I kept my promises, and there is still too much to do. I have, and will continue to fight for women’s access to healthcare, pay parity, and to pass the Equal Rights Amendment. I fight for policies that uplift all hardworking families, such as paid sick leave and more public transportation for all residents here in Prince William.

Joshua Cole, a pastor in the Stafford area, is running for Delegate to the 28th District. He has proposed a cap on prescription drug costs and reallocating state budget funds back to schools. The seat is currently held by Bob Thomas.

Name: Joshua Cole

Party: Democrat

Town: Stafford

Running for: Delegate – 28th District

Website: Facebook, Twitter

Work: Pastor and Administrative Assistant

Education: North Stafford High School
3 years at Liberty University

Community Involvement: President – Stafford NAACP
Former Mentor – Rappahannock Area Boys and Girls Club
Member – Stafford County Public Schools Equity Diversity and Opportunity Committee Fredericksburg Area Interfaith Council

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Cole: Transportation/Traffic, School Funding and Healthcare

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Cole: Creating an RTA to address the traffic and transportation issues, returning school funding to pre-recession rates by reallocating funds in the state budget back to our schools, introducing legislation to cap prescription drug costs.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Cole: To be the voice of the people in Richmond and make sure the people of the district are aware of the issues facing them.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Cole: I’ve been a former staffer for the Senate of Virginia and a Delegate’s Chief of Staff, so I’m familiar with the General Assembly cycle and how the system works. I’m familiar with reading and creating legislation and already have connections in Richmond to help get legislation passed.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Cole: I don’t believe they are, and this is evident when communicating with neighbors and knocking doors. My desire is to make sure everyone, or at least the majority of the constituency, knows who their delegate is and the issues going on during every General Assembly session. I intend to Facebook Live every subcommittee and committee I sit on for transparency, sending weekly updates while in session, numerous townhalls throughout the year and hosting accessible and reasonable office hours for constituents to visit and communicate their issues and concerns.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Cole: Everyone has made mistakes. I try to maintain a relatively quiet personal life so I don’t have any major issues. However I speed sometimes, I’ve received a trespassing charge in 2016 that was dismissed (hanging out on school property in Richmond after dark with a friend). During our 2017 campaign I was informed that suits and various items could be purchased with campaign funds. I was told it wasn’t a good look so I paid the funds back. (It still comes up as a concern for people.)

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Cole: As a Pastor for over 10 years I know how to effectively communicate to different people and make plans. As a homegrown citizen whose family has deep community connections I’m indebted to the Stafford/Fredericksburg community. This is home for me and I’m ready to fight to make it a little better and protect the great things about our area that we love. It’s also time for a different style of leadership, and that’s exactly what I bring to the table.

Eric Olsen is running for Stafford Commonwealth’s Attorney. He has held the position since 2011 and has prosecuted crime in Stafford since 1989.

Name: Eric Olsen

Party: Republican

Town: Stafford

Running for: Stafford Commonwealth’s Attorney

Website: VoteEricOlsen.com, Facebook

Work: Pastor and Administrative Assistant

Education: Ferry Farm Elementary
Montfort Academy
James Monroe High School
Mary Washington College

Community Involvement: I have been in the Stafford Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for 30 years.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Olsen: Gun Violence
Impact that growth has on the criminal justice system
Victims rights.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Olsen: By holding offenders accountable; by using diversion programs, drug court and probation for first offenders; and by tenaciously prosecuting violent and recidivist offenders with my 30 years of prosecution experience. I have been able to meet the challenges that come with a complex criminal justice system in a fair and balanced manner, protecting the rights of the accused and the rights of victims. This is what law-abiding citizens expect from the public prosecutor.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Olsen: To be a minister of justice.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Olsen: 30 years as a prosecutor here in Stafford. Virginia’s Prosecutor of the year in 2008. My expertise in the area of child abuse led to me being asked to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee in the hearings held on the USA Gymnastics scandal in 2017.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Olsen: Most citizens know that the District Attorney is the public prosecutor for their county.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Olsen: We all make mistakes. The key is to learn from them.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Olsen: I am a leader in my community as the public prosecutor, in the Commonwealth of Virginia as past president of the Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys and on the national level as vice president of the National District Attorney’s Association. A vote for me is a vote for the experienced prosecutor that I have been since first being elected in 2011.

Jess Foster, a criminal defense attorney from Remington, is running to represent District 88 in the House of Delegates. Mark Cole currently holds the seat.

Name: Jess Foster

Party: Democrat

Town: Remington

Running for: House of Delegates – District 88

Website: JessFoster.org, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Work: Criminal Defense Attorney

Education: High school in Belgium, then 3 years of law school in Belgium at Université Catholique de Louvain Northern VA Community College (Associates Degree in Criminal Justice)
George Mason (Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice)
Law school in Lansing, MI at Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Finally finished college in 2009.

Community Involvement: Active member of the Prince William County Bar Association for ten years. Participated in a number of community events organized through the bar association such as the Beat the Odds Banquet which provides scholarships to college for children who have come through the court system and have overcome adversity. I help with middle school tours of the court house. Providing pro-bono assistance to victims of domestic violence. Judging student-led mock trial competitions. Overall using my experience as a lawyer to give back to the community.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Foster: Education and transportation funding, affordable and accessible healthcare, over-development

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Foster: Fully fund education, change some of the smart scale parameters to affect prioritization for the Fredericksburg region, build upon Medicaid expansion, review regulations on proffers

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Foster: To represent the best interests of the residents of the 88th house district of Virginia. This requires hard work, transparency, and a willingness to set aside my own personal agenda.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Foster: I am a litigation attorney skilled in negotiation and advocacy. The key is to reach a common agreement by forming relationships and being a steadfast advocate.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Foster: No. Social media outreach and continued voter contact through emails, town halls, etc.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Foster: In public life, no — but only because my public life has been short. I have made mistakes in my professional career. I’ve taken those experiences, learned from them, and taught others not to make those same mistakes. What is most important is to recognize we are all human, we all make mistakes, and it is always best to own those mistakes and learn from them, no matter how painful that can be.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Foster: I have been making sure everyday people get a fair shake for 10 years. I have made sure they were well represented and I make client communication a priority in my law firm. I believe in a transparent and accessible government that works for the people (not corporate or self interests). I have the will and desire to work hard, just as I do in my law practice, to make sure the needs of the residents of my district are well represented in the General Assembly. By contrast, my opponent who has served for nearly two decades is anti-transparency, funded primarily by corporate interests, and puts his personal agenda ahead of the will (and the needs) of the people. He is inaccessible, unresponsive, and tows the party line.

Prince William County and NOVA BMX have been selected to host the ‘East Coast Nationals’ August 14 – 16, 2020.

• USA BMX last hosted a national event in the County in 2016.
• The Board of County Supervisors recent investment in track refurbishments and lighting enhancements at the county-owned BMX track, leased and operated by NOVA BMX, aided in soliciting the event’s return to the County.
• “On behalf of the Board of County Supervisors, we are pleased to welcome back USA BMX and its thousands of athletes and spectators to Prince William County,” said Ruth M. Anderson, Occoquan District County Supervisor whose district includes the County’s BMX track. “Sporting events such as these are vital to providing new opportunities for county residents while supporting our $619 million tourism economy including the many world-class sports facilities and attractions that call Prince William home,” she added.
• “We are excited to return to Prince William County in 2020 for our East Coast Nationals competition,” stated John David, Chief Operating Officer of USA BMX. ”We plan to work hand-in-hand with the County’s Office of Tourism to attract many out-of-town competitors to make this year’s event one of the biggest yet,” he added.

The Prince William County Office of Tourism in partnership with USA BMX will open a pop-up visitor center at the event to distribute exclusive deals as part of its ‘Show Your Card & Save Program’ to encourage spending at local businesses.

USA BMX EVENT QUICK FACTS

• August 14th thru August 16th, 2020 at NOVA BMX located adjacent to the Prince William County Government Complex
• USA BMX last hosted a National event in Prince William County in 2016
• The 2016 event attracted over 2,500 participants and spectators from all 50 states to compete over the 3-day event
• The event is relocating from Severn, Maryland to Prince William County, Virginia in 2020
• The County’s BMX track is the only official BMX track of its kind in Northern Virginia

The event highlights a significant win for the County’s sports tourism initiative designed to attract large-scale sports tournaments and athletic events.

• Sports tourism in the United States is a $11.4 billion economy according to the Sports Events and Tourism Association (SportsETA).
• Spending by sports tourism impacts the Prince William economy by attracting out-of-area visitors to the county to shop, dine, play, and stay supporting local businesses and generating ancillary tax revenue that benefits residents.

Photo: NOVA BMX

Gwen Bell is running to represent Rock Hill District for the Stafford County Board of Supervisors with a platform of improving education and county pay parity. The position is currently held by Wendy Maurer.

Name: Gwen Bell

Party: Democrat

Town: Stafford

Running for: Stafford County Board of Supervisors, Rock Hill District

Website: gwenbellva.com, Facebook, Twitter

Work: Co-Owner of Beltway Commuter Service

Education: Master of Science: Business Administration May 2008, National Louis University Bachelor of Science: Criminal Law May 2005, Saint Leo University

Community Involvement: Have served as a community volunteer with the church for over 15 years as a marriage mentor to the community, Bag of Hope to those in need of food, Back to School Giveaway and Christmas events. My most memorable community service was a volunteer with the Sheriff’s office for 20 years, Shop with the Sheriff-Back to School events each year. The latest community involvement was 2019 Summer School lunch Program for kids in Stafford County.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Bell: Education system.
Lack of Pay parity and benefits with surrounding jurisdictions for county employees. Recruiting and retaining employees.
Congested and dangerous roadways.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Bell: My plan for improving the education system: As supervisor of the Rock Hill District, I will ensure that our neighborhood public schools are provided with all the necessary resources to ensure that every student have equal access to the best educational programs to prepare them for our 21st century.

• I will ensure that all funds state funding allocated for education will be strictly used for education purposes.
• Ensure funding the STEM/STEAM educational and school programs because these opportunities are critical to our children’s future.
• I will ensure that developers invest in Stafford County by requiring road and school proffers prior to building.

My plan for road improvements: Virginia Department of Transportation is a state agency and therefore we should be advocating for improved roadways throughout the county. I will work with our local delegates to ensure that we utilize state resources for road improvements, to include solution for our current congested and dangerous roadways. In addition, I would strongly recommend that we utilize our Sheriff’s Office to regulate the rural roadways.

My plan to improve pay and benefits as well retaining employees: We have phenomenal educators throughout our districts. Our educators, administrators, first responders, public servants and all county employees serve the local residence of Stafford. As supervisor of the Rock Hill District, I will ensure that our county infrastructure progresses with the 21st century.

• I will implement the DROP Program for all Stafford County employees. The DROP is a benefit for employees as well as the county. It provides the county the opportunity to retain some of the most experience employees for an additional three years. DROP provides the ability for an employee to retire for purposes of the pension plan, while continuing to work and receive a salary for a period of up to three years. During the DROP period, the pension plan accumulates the monthly benefit in an account balance identified as payable to the member only at the end of the DROP period. Similar plans have been successfully implemented across many other States (e.g. Columbia South Carolina) and what it basically does is help with cessation planning for our more experienced educators to mentor new teachers and reduce the high turnover rate throughout our educational system.
• I will recommend the ROP Program to the School Board as a solution to attrition and benefits for school officials. ROP is the acronym for the Retirement Opportunity Program. ROP provides additional income for employees eligible for VRS retirement but not yet eligible to collect Social Security. ROP also utilizes the valuable experience of retirees in continued employment in work assignments compatible with the retiree’s training experience, and qualifications.
• I will implement a Compensation Pay Scale for county employees.
• I will work to ensure that county employees pay adjust to the current market rate.
• I will work with our state delegates to develop state codes that will afford Stafford County mixed-use development with a range of affordable housing choices to retain our local workforce of first responders, law enforcement officers, teachers, and social workers. Let us make Stafford our home-at-large for us all to work, learn and play in our community.

We need thriving shopping and entertainment multi-centers for our family-oriented communities and neighboring military-based families. Economic development is sorely lacking throughout the county.

• I will work to recruit business that the citizens of Stafford so desperately desire. Local businesses will provide more local job opportunities, in addition to citizens spending their money in Stafford County, which increases revenue and allows Stafford to remain competitive with the surrounding jurisdictions. Let us begin to invest more of our citizen’s money here in Stafford so that our assets are used to develop world-class public-school system.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Bell: The job description for this highly respected office rests on the attributes and values that I hold myself to the highest esteem. Stafford County residents demand these attributes of their elected officials. Each and every Stafford County Supervisor is a public servant not just within the constituent but that they serve but at large.

This is not merely a “job”, the qualities that I bring to this highly esteemed office should be the focus.

• Transparency and accountability for the decisions that are made in the management and uses of our finite resources (i.e. taxpayer’s dollars).
• This job requires frequent and consistent community engagement to get feedback from our residents on our long-term vision.
• Highest level of competency is required in getting this job done. We can no longer be mired in mediocrity and incompetency because we are competing with surrounding jurisdictions
• Creative innovation because not every problem that we face can be fixed by more taxes or more finances.
• Drive and determination…. these are perhaps the two qualities which I assure you that I bring to the table putting the interest of Stafford County is my No. 1 PRIORITY.

Ultimately, I am working to fulfill the mandate that our Stafford County residents demand; improved transportation options; fixing the infrastructure woes; better living wages for our public servants; and of course a world-class educational system.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Bell: I have firsthand knowledge the challenges we face in Stafford County in relations to transportation issues, attrition rate of county employees, and economic development in Stafford. My experience as a successful business owner of a transportation business has provided me with experience in procurement process to secure government contracts, leveraging funding sources, holding performance measures, developing strategic plans, hosting listening session to gain community input so as to ensure that our residents’ concerns are vetted and considered as part of the decision-making process.

I have been a public servant for over 20 years and have firsthand knowledge of what our law enforcement handles daily, the effects of the prescription drug crisis. My experience provides me the opportunity to forge a relationship with our Sheriff and support him in his efforts in fighting the drug issues in Stafford County.
As a mother of two sons, my husband and I understand that it takes a village to raise a child. Stafford teachers and administrators invested so much more than a good education in my children. I will support our public-school system and educators ensuring that we are schools are equipped to meet the 21st century, highest caliber of educational opportunities.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Bell: I do believe the average citizen needs clarity of the functions and responsibilities of the office based upon my interaction with my constituents. I’ve had the pleasure of communicating so many citizens throughout Stafford during this election cycle. Many are not aware of the particular district they reside. I’ve been utilizing this opportunity to explain the make up of Stafford County and the duties and responsibilities of the board of Supervisors.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Bell: None that I’m aware of.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Bell: The reason I decided to run for public office is because I believe that I, as well as the citizens of Stafford, are stakeholders of this county. We are the glue that holds this county together. The basis of decisions that are made should reflect what’s in the best interest of the residence of Stafford and that can only be accomplished when we are included in the conversations and in the meetings.

Additionally, there should be an equal representation on our current Board of Supervisors that reflects the make up and desires of the people. Stafford is changing and our local government must be progressing with the times. Our differences are one of the things that makes our country and county so great.

I believe I have a proven record of 20 plus years as a public servant; a record of integrity, respect and honor. One who cares about our community and has dedicated my life to public service. People matter to me and will do my best to represent our community.

In 2004 my husband and I founded a transportation business in Stafford County. Our services contribute to decreased traffic (the removal of 1 lane of traffic from I-95 each day) and pollution. Our initial goal was to contribute to the solution of resolving the communities traffic congestion issues in Stafford County. I have experience in problem-solving as well as a commitment to overcome by maximizing our resources. I believe there our opportunities in Stafford that have not be explored. I’m ready to get to get to work.

Ronnie Ross is seeking the office of State Senate for District 27 with a focus on healthcare, schools, and the rural economy.

Name: Ronnie Ross

Party: Democrat

Town: Middleburg

Running for: State Senate District 27

Website: RonnieRoss.com, Facebook, Twitter

Work: I teach high school English and coach high school soccer.

Education: I have a B.A. from Wittenberg University and an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania.

Community Involvement: Besides teaching and coaching during the school year, I also offer summer school and tutoring. I have volunteered with Boys & Girls Club, the Middleburg Humane Foundation, and the Goose Creek Association, among other organizations. I am also an active member of Holy Trinity Church. Finally, I am a member of the NAACP, the Arbor Day Foundation, and Phi Beta Kappa, among others.

Questions and Answers

PL: What are the top three major issues facing the district you wish to represent? 

Ross: Our healthcare, our schools, and our rural economy.

PL: What concrete solutions do you propose to address these issues?

Ross: In terms of healthcare, we first must work to protect the advances that we have already made. Then, the next step is to work to bring down the costs of prescription drugs, similar to what Maryland has already done.

In terms of schools, we need to fully fund them, to pay our teachers appropriately, and to increase mental health services. All of them are currently at pre-recession levels.

Finally, in terms of our rural economy, we need to expand broadband to our rural houses. Then, we need to be sure that we are appropriately investing in agri-tourism and direct to consumer programs. We also need to provide funding for Ag BMP’s.

PL: From your perspective, what is the job description of the office you’re seeking?

Ross: The General Assembly represents the bridge between our federal government and our local governments. Whether it is health, education, and economic policy, state legislators have to work with all stakeholders, including and most importantly the people of the district, as the they forge solutions to our problems.

PL: What expertise will you bring to the office?

Ross: I grew up in Appalachia, and so I bring a practical, pragmatic, common sense approach to governing, one that is focused on results and not partisan gridlock. Moreover, I am a teacher, and we need more educators making our education policy.

PL: Do you feel that the average citizen is well-informed and understands the workings of local government?

Ross: The average citizen does the best they can to be informed given the stresses of day-to-day life. It is the representative’s job to make it easier for people to participate in the political process. While, yes, it is important to hold frequent town halls and office hours, newer technology allows for virtual town halls and even more access to our elected representatives.

PL: Have you ever made any mistakes in your public life? How have they affected you?

Ross: All of us have made mistakes in our lives. What is important is that we learn from them and continue to grow. This is exactly what I tell my students.

PL: Our readers want leaders in local government. Why should they vote for you?

Ross: Our politics have become mired in partisan gridlock. We need leaders and voices who present common sense, pragmatic solutions. Politics should not be about scoring points or “got ya’s.” People’s lives are at stake. I take that seriously and will bring that perspective with me. As the Constitution tells us, our democracy should be about “We the People.”