Grass Roots Effort Sprouts Write-in Campaign for Sheryl Bass

A group of citizens has risen up in support of Sheryl Bass, who they say is the only candidate for city council who has the experience to take Manassas in a positive direction, especially when it comes to education and competing on the regional stage.

Manassas City School Board Member Pam Sebesky said Bass is a "big advocate for education."

Bass is also noted for her involvement in the community, serving local government for 12 years, three of which have been as council member. Before that she served on the Manassas City School Board for nine years and the Manassas Education Foundation Board.

As a parent of two daughters who attended Manassas City Schools from kindergarten to graduation, Bass has also volunteered in the classroom, at school events and as PTA president,  according to documents provided by the write-in campaign.  She's also served on many regional boards, including the Prince William County Public Library Board of Trustees, Prince William Library Foundation,  Virginia Municipal League, George Mason University Advisory Board, Prince William 4-H and the Virgina Parent Teacher Assocation, among others. 

"Her involvement speaks for itself, Sebesky said. "She is an important voice for our city and represents the best interest of Manassas."

The Shery Bass Write-in campaign sprouted as part of a grass roots effort among citizens after many were disappointed

"There was an overwhelming response," Sebesky said. "People are interested in having her continue to serve the city because they feel she is the right candidate and the Republican convention was not reflective of the party."

Diversity is among the top reasons given to write in Shery Bass, who is the only woman currently serving on city council.

"We need diversity in local government," Sebesky said. "All voices need to be heard, especially one that understands the importance of quality education."

Bass has voted twice in the last two years to beef up police patrols in the city. She also voted to , allowing many smaller business to be exempt from paying any business license tax.

Bass, who has lived in Manassas for 30 years, has made it a priority to make Manasas attractive to families and visitors as well as businesses by supporting the arts, according to campaign materials.  She serves as president of the Board of Directors and was instrumental in the development of the and the

Bass said it is different having others campaign for you, but she is "very humbled."

Will you be voting for write-in city council candidate Sheryl Bass on May 1? Tell us why or why not in the comment section below.