government

chesapeake Mayor Richard W. West

“leaders in each municipality will likely proclaim their unique and rich contribution to our region. chesapeake is no different. we are proud of our history and our place in the evolution of Hampton Roads. But if we are ever going to realize our enormous potential as a region and acknowledge that we need one another we cannot truly be economically competitive. we must continue our joint effort.”

fraNkliN Mayor Frank Rabil

“Home to just over 8,000 residents the small but resilient city of Franklin is driven and focused on diversifying our local economy. located between two major metro areas, the city of Franklin provides convenient access to Highway 58 and interstate 95. the city’s well positioned location makes a trip to the city, the beach or the mountains a breeze. we invite you to come enjoy our local charm, explore our scenic rivers and experience our business friendly environment.”

Gloucester couNty Chairman Robert J. Orth

“gloucester county continues to grow in ways that are both attractive to its residents and people that want to visit that highlight its history in the growth of our nation. with the addition of a federal park recognizing the location of chief Powhatan’s primary tribal location, and a new state park, Machicomoco, set to open in 2021, and the many other historical and recreational opportunities, gloucester is truly “the land of the life worth living”.

hamptoN Mayor Donnie R. Tuck

“Hampton’s motto, “From the sea to the stars,” showcases how our historic assets continue to reflect our life in Hampton today. seafood and boating remain local businesses and recreation, and we have repeatedly been named one of the most affordable beach towns in america. stars were once used by sailors for navigation, and today represent our military at langley air Force Base as well as nasa’s mission to Mars. However, beyond its literal meaning, “From the sea to the stars” symbolizes the vast diversity of our people, businesses, neighborhoods, music, recreation and restaurants. For 411 years, we have reached for the stars — from our 100% accredited school system to the 18 times we have been named a top 10 Digital city. Hampton is the region’s best place to live, work and play”.

isle of wiGht couNty Chairman Joel C. Acree

“isle of wight county is home to over 37,000 residents and has long been known for its local Roots and global Reach. located in the heart of Hampton Roads, the county provides an excellent quality of life that balances rural tranquility and easy access to urban conveniences we are proud of our commitment to providing world-class educational opportunities and vocational resources focused on preparing a sustainable workforce for the future to complement our business attraction and retention efforts. Residents enjoy the natural beauty of waterfront and rural vistas and regularly hosts visitors from all over the world. we invite you to visit us, see the natural beauty of our community, and you will find that we are indeed a community of cHoice that caRes.”

James city couNty Chairman Michael J. Hipple

“whether you are looking for great schools, outdoor adventure, culinary delights or history, you can find it all in James city county. From the time settlers landed on our shores in 1607 to form the first permanent english colony in america until today, James city county remains a premier community in which to live, work and play. we take pride in our exceptional public services, high quality education and fiscally efficient government. we are committed to developing a sustainable longer term water supply and expanding and diversifying our local economy. From multi-million dollar companies to small start-ups, we are open for business. James city county is leading the way and we would love to have you stop by and see for yourself.”

Newport News Mayor McKinley L. Price, DDS

“over the past year, our community has come together like never before to battle the coronavirus. throughout the pandemic, newport news has remained a city of opportunity – where technology and innovation intersect, international commerce abounds, and arts and culture bring about global understanding. we are proud to be a city where businesses of all sizes can launch and expand, relocate or make a capital investment. our schools offer more advanced Placement courses than any other school district or private school on the Peninsula and utilize steM practices and cutting-edge curriculums to develop tomorrow’s leaders. we invest in our businesses and residents so each person can realize their dreams in our great city. we are home to newport news Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country, and 36 other unique parks with breathtaking views. in newport news, you can recharge and reconnect while watching aircraft carriers, submarines and other impressive vessels travel down the Hampton Roads Harbor. our historic city by the sea is a great place to live, work, relax and do business”.

Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander

“For more than 300 years we have served as coastal virginia’s cultural and economic center, mixing ideas, connecting people and creating new businesses and experiences. For more than 100 years, naval station norfolk has served as a critical partner for the city of norfolk and we are the location of choice for facilities supporting operations for every branch of our armed services and nato. norfolk is a regional leader in health care and technical education. transformational projects including the Main, waterside District, norfolk Premium outlets, the glass light Hotel and iKea are attracting new visitors who are excited to experience norfolk. spend the day at Harbor Park enjoying a norfolk tides game, or an evening at the scope enjoying norfolk admirals hockey. our evolving waterfront city is among the most connected cities in the country. we have passenger rail that connects us to other major cities on the east coast, the only light rail system in virginia which connects our diverse and unique neighborhoods, an airport less than 20 minutes from our downtown that has direct connections to the west coast, and a cruise terminal steps from our city hall that connects travelers to cuba. we are home to colleges and universities, world class art, theater, festivals, opera, the virginia Zoo, norfolk Botanical garden, more than seven miles of beachfront, a growing innovative economy, and a resilient spirit that is creating the coastal community of the future.”

poquosoN Mayor Gordon C. Helsel Jr.

“Poquoson’s unsurpassed quality of life includes an enviable combination of outstanding schools, a civically-engaged citizenry, and a dedicated group of city employees. our citizens enjoy a variety of shopping and dining opportunities in a conveniently accessible business-friendly corridor and the city is home to excellent recreational facilities. given these attributes, our city is the perfect place to live, play and work. encompassed by 87 miles of beautiful shoreline, Poquoson honors its rich coastal history while moving resiliently forward to a bright future for its community of 12,500 residents. we encourage you to visit us soon and learn more about this jewel of Hampton Roads.”

The leaders of Hampton Roads’ cities and counties are dedicated and diverse individuals who work tirelessly to improve the quality of life in their respective communities. Yet, they share a common vision and commitment for the future and recognize the value of collaboration on matters of mutual concern. And, while they may work independently to serve the needs of their constituents on some issues, they understand the interdependencies of their individual municipalities and work hard in transcending traditional boundaries to strengthen and enrich the larger economic unit, the region, to succeed together where each individually can not.

Past collaboration efforts have resulted in the consolidation of several government functions under the management of public authorities: trash disposal, sanitation, bus service, airport management and port services. Today, Hampton Roads’ leaders are addressing a myriad of regional issues by actively participating in or providing oversight to a variety of commissions, boards and committees focused on fostering economic growth, improving the region’s competitiveness in the global economy, workforce development, education, transportation/ congestion management, emergency response, water resource and storm water management, senior services, health services, cultural enhancement, and conservation coordination, to name a few.

portsmouth Mayor Shannon E. Glover

“From the first explorations of captain John smith in 1608, to the town’s establishment in 1752, Portsmouth has played a pivotal role in the history and development of our country. Portsmouth’s historical and nautical significance makes us a major contributor to the nation, the commonwealth of virginia, and Hampton Roads. we are home to the nation’s oldest and largest naval shipyard, and home to america’s oldest continuously operating naval hospital, Portsmouth naval Medical center. Portsmouth is also home to the largest privatelyowned marine container terminal in the United states, virginia international gateway, on the elizabeth River - one of the deepest working harbors in the world. as a regional partner in a fiber optic network project, that will provide high-speed internet connectivity for businesses, schools, libraries, hospitals and governmental agencies, our future is full of economic potential.”

southamptoN couNty Chairman Dr. Alan Edwards

“southampton county is the quintessential blend of preserving tradition and engaging in the future. our area is surrounded by both picturesque farmland and crucial transit corridors connecting you to the entire east coast. southampton is a beautiful place to visit, live and work. it offers outdoor activities: kayaking, fishing, hunting and the like and provides limitless business opportunities. we are committed to dreaming boldly, planning strategically, investing sacrificially and working faithfully to create and sustain a robust and diversified economy.”

suffolk Mayor Michael D. Duman

“there are a multitude of reasons so many people and businesses are calling suffolk home. For many, it’s the small–town charm, rich history, eco-adventures, and abundant natural resources. our city is also proud of our strong schools, aaa Bond Rating, and robust community support of indepedentlyowned businesses. the Downtown District is inspiring locals and visitors to continue to explore our unique shops and eateries. Businesses such as amazon, target, and Massimo Zanetti Beverage Usa, have invested in suffolk in part due to our ample commercial land opportunities, capable labor force, and ideal central location. of course, the food and beverage industry has long been an important foundation of suffolk’s business core, with legacy companies such as Planters and lipton employing a large portion of the workforce.

with an ever-increasing population and influx of new industries, we keep an eye on growth and thoughtful planning, while remaining committed to our values. it truly is a good time to be in suffolk”.

williamsBurG Mayor Douglas G. Pons

”in 2020, williamsburg, virginia was recognized in southern living’s fourth annual south’s Best awards as the Best small town. we are an internationallyknown travel destination and a central hub for culinary and visual arts, education and business. while colonial williamsburg continues to inspire new and returning visitors with interactive programming and adventures, visitors and locals alike are enjoying a multitude of emerging eclectic art galleries, shops and eateries that provide farm-to-table cuisine and local dishes not to mention a craft brewery and beer hall, distillery and even a meadery. as the home of the second oldest university in the nation, the city values the students and faculty of william & Mary, encouraging them, and many others, to start or grow their families and business ventures here in the city. williamsburg is known for its legion of awards and designations for open government, outstanding regional planning and for innovative green programs. we are not just the best small town, we are a thriving community rich in historical precedence with our eyes on the future.”

oUR l ea D e R s

VirGiNia Beach Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer

”virginia Beach is a city of the future. whether serving as a digital port for technology giants like Microsoft or google or paving the way for new and emerging industries to thrive, we are constantly working to improve the quality of life for our residents, visitors and businesses. we are powered by the will of the people and are grateful to our citizens, who help us improve the services provided by the city. named the safest metropolitan city in the United states and one of the best places to start a business, there’s never been a better time to be in virginia’s most populous city.”

york couNty Chairman W. Chad Green

“what makes York county such a great place to live and work is the quality of life provided to our residents. our schools, public parks, and waterways are the pride of the Peninsula and Riverwalk landing is a destination for thousands of tourists each year. My fellow supervisors and i continue the tradition of serving our citizens with an open government, customer friendly workforce, full funding for our schools, and support for public safety initiatives –all represented in the Board’s strategic priorities. we have been america’s future since 1781 and maybe, if not already, York county will be in your future too!”