In the latest episode of the Potomac Local News podcast, host Uriah Kiser sat down with former Manassas City Councilwoman Lynn Forkell-Greene to unpack a whirlwind week in local politics and ongoing development issues facing the city.
Forkell-Greene, a longtime community advocate and active voice in Manassas affairs, provided insight into the surprise resignation of Delegate Michelle Maldonado and its ripple effects on city leadership.
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles is expanding its free Advanced Rider Training program to Manassas this spring. New courses, including the popular StreetMasters, will help experienced riders sharpen skills just in time for riding season.
The training includes three options: Circuit RiderCourse, StreetMasters and Advanced 3-Wheel Training. Certified instructors provide real-time coaching while riders practice on their own motorcycles. Sessions are set for May 16–17 in Manassas for both StreetMasters and Advanced 3-Wheel Training.
Delegate Michelle Lopes Maldonado (D-Manassas) announced her resignation from the Virginia House of Delegates effective May 31, 2026, after more than four years representing House District 20.
In a formal letter dated May 4, 2026, and shared publicly on May 5, Maldonado tendered her resignation to the Speaker of the House. She described her service as “a profound honor” and expressed gratitude to constituents, fellow delegates, leadership, and community partners.
Lori Balta has lived on Sandy Court in Manassas since 2005. For 21 years, she and her husband planned to retire right here in the city they call home. Now that dream is slipping away.
Her January electric bill hit $750 — the highest in all her years here — followed by $650 in February and March. With her husband nearing retirement and her own close behind, Balta told Manassas City Council on April 27 that the combined impact of rising property assessments, local utility rate increases, and a surprise Dominion Energy shock may force them to sell and leave.
Manassas City Council is considering a budget amendment to cover $172,000 in unexpected snow removal costs from this winter’s significant storm, known as “snowcrete.” The request, outlined in Resolution R-2026-896, would transfer funds from the general fund contingency to the Public Works Department.
Public Works staff briefed council members during a recent work session, explaining that the additional funds are needed for extra salt, pretreatment chemicals, and contracted services following the “pretty significant winter event.” Typical annual budgeting for salt, pretreatment chemicals, and contracted services falls between $170,000 and $60,000, making this year’s demands far exceed normal allocations.
City officials learned of the change the same day it was announced during a City Council work session. The city was notified the same day of a 250% fuel adjustment rate increase effective in April that will appear on May bills.
For a typical home using 2,400 to 2,500 kilowatt-hours, the increase will total about $50. A typical townhome will see an increase of about $30. A business using 10,000 kWh would see roughly $240 more.
Manassas City Library marked its fifth anniversary this year, showcasing progress as it enters year three of its strategic plan.
During her State of the Library presentation at aManassas City Council meeting, Senior Library Manager Lena Gonzalez Berrios highlighted three core focus areas: partnership development, growing programs and outreach, and making the branch more inviting and accessible to all residents.
