In his last official speech to the nation, President Barack Obama said, “Change only happens when ordinary people get involved, get engaged and come together to demand it.” 

I couldn’t agree more. Ever since sixth grade, I have been an active participant in our political process, have often volunteered on political campaigns, and have worked to influence government for the betterment of our community. I am a proud patriot and a firm believer in the fundamental principles of our Constitution, especially the equal application of rights and liberties to all people. Like many others, I was stunned by the outcome of the 2016 presidential election and I worry about the future direction of our great nation.

Although it wasn’t an easy decision, I am pleased to announce that I have decided to run for Alderman of Evanston’s 6th Ward. This is a decision that I have given a great deal of thought to and been talking to our current alderman, Mark Tendam, about for many months. Mark is running for Mayor and I hope to replace him as Alderman of the 6th Ward. I am honored to have his support and the support of many of my neighbors and community leaders.

As the founder of TREE (To Rescue Evanston Elms), I worked with the community and elected officials to help change the way Evanston cares for our elm trees. Today, rather than cutting-down our majestic elm trees, the City injects them as part of a program that has proven to be 98% effective in preventing Dutch elm disease. This has reduced the high cost associated with removing them. I have also been involved in the Perkins Woods Steering Committee, helped lead the effort to stop inappropriate development at the Presbyterian Homes and helped bring attention to the problems at the City’s animal shelter.

 If elected Alderman, I promise to be a proactive and responsive representative for the residents of the 6th Ward and the entire city. As I always have, I will get things done for our community.

 My priorities include:

 • Responsible use of City resources

• Responsive City government

 • Sensible residential and commercial development

 • Support for commercial districts

 • Improved safety for all communities

 • Active pest control where needed

 • Active communication with residents

 • Closer relations between city governments and schools

Evanston is a great place. I am proud to call this my home and to live in a vibrant, caring community where people regularly join together to find solutions that make Evanston a better place to live, work and play for everyone. I hope you will give me the opportunity to continue to do that as your alderman.

To learn more about my campaign and to stay up-to-date on the issues, please follow me on Facebook. I am listed under Virginia Mann for Alderman.  Here is a link to the page:

https://www.facebook.com/Virginia-Mann-for-Alderman-715022025329616/