2026 Accomplishments

  • Led the development and adoption of the Strategic Housing Initiatives Plan (SHIP) to expand housing opportunities, improve affordability, and strengthen neighborhoods.  

  • Championed collective bargaining for public employees, supporting an ordinance that gives eligible City workers a formal voice in negotiating workplace matters.

  • Secured funding for neighborhood improvements and home repairs, providing residents with new resources to invest in their homes and strengthen their neighborhoods.

  • Expanded funding for down payment assistance, helping more Newport News residents overcome financial barriers to homeownership.

2025 Accomplishments

  • Strengthened Community Investment: As a member of the City Council Subcommittee on Finance and Government Performance, the Community Support Agency Grant Program was modified to ensure funding aligns with city goals and that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.

  • Supported Workers’ Rights: Championed the creation of a Collective Bargaining for Public Workers Task Force. The task force’s final report is now under review by the Finance and Government Performance Committee to be developed into a draft ordinance.

  • Improved Housing Oversight: Expanded the Rental Inspection Program to include the area between Mercury Blvd., J. Clyde Morris Blvd., the Hampton City Line, and Jefferson Ave., to improve housing safety and accountability.

  • Addressed Neighborhood Blight: Sponsored a new Blight Reduction Ordinance targeting spot blight abatement, derelict structures, and clutter to revitalize neighborhoods and enhance community pride.

  • Modernized Code Enforcement: Championed an AI-powered inspection program to proactively identify code violations — transforming our system from reactive to preventive.

  • Promoted Food Security: Launched the inaugural City Council Thrive Takeover to raise awareness of food insecurity and strengthen community partnerships that combat hunger.