Preparing for the future.
Priorities
Safety
Based on the recent community survey, safety was ranked as the top priority for our residents. My approach to building a safer city has two key components:
1. Building a strong, accountable police force that is equipped to prevent crime and respond effectively when it occurs.
2. Improving the quality of life for all residents, which helps reduce the motivation for engaging in criminal activity. I believe (1) Everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a career or job they enjoy that pays a decent wage; (2) Every resident should have access to a safe, affordable, and high-quality neighborhood; and (3) Every child should be able to receive a quality public education that sets them up for success.
Jobs: Everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a career or job they enjoy that pays a decent wage.
1. Develop targeted workforce development – to match required skills to local jobs.
The core business sectors in Newport News—Advanced Manufacturing, Maritime, Aerospace & Aviation, and Technology—offer high-paying jobs that contribute to a higher quality of life for those employed in them. However, only 30% of Newport News residents are employed by companies within these sectors, even though they are located right here in our city.
While general workforce development is important, targeted workforce development—focused on preparing residents for careers in these specific industries—is even more effective. By aligning training programs with the needs of these high-wage sectors, we can increase employment opportunities for our residents, grow our pool of skilled talent, and attract additional businesses to Newport News.
2. Develop a childcare working group to explore ways to reduce cost for parents seeking quality learning childcare centers.
The Childcare Working Group continues a conversation I began during my first term in office. Recognizing the critical need for affordable, high-quality childcare, the City of Newport News partnered with United Way and First Spark to host a Business Leaders Breakfast focused on addressing this issue. The event brought together local employers and stakeholders to explore solutions and strengthen support for working families.
Lack of quality childcare options directly impacts parents’ ability to work and contribute to our local economy. It limits their career advancement and, ultimately, affects our community’s overall productivity.
Furthermore, as we strive to attract talent to our region, we must recognize that quality childcare is a significant factor in potential residents' decision-making process. When families consider relocating, they prioritize schools and access to quality, affordable childcare.
Moreover, enhancing childcare options is not just a benefit for families—it’s an investment in our future workforce. Providing parents with the support they need to balance their careers and family responsibilities fosters a healthier, more engaged community.
Housing: Every resident should have access to a safe, affordable, and high-quality neighborhood.
During my first term, I’ve focused heavily on improving housing conditions across our city. I’ve led several key initiatives:
• Completion of the Newport News’ first-ever Housing Study, providing critical data to guide policy decisions.
• Creation of the Strategic Housing Initiatives Plan (SHIP) – our comprehensive roadmap for housing development and preservation.
• Expansion of the Rental Inspection Program to ensure rental properties are safe and up to code.
• Deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in city vehicles to proactively detect code violations and reduce blight.
• Expansion of the First-Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program to include working-class families, not just low-income households.
These accomplishments are laying a solid foundation for stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods. During my second term, I will focus on maintaining appropriate funding to meet the goals of SHIP.