ELECTION GUIDE
MEET THE CANDIDATES
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF
ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
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Mr. Ralph Northam CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR (DEMOCRAT) I grew up on the Eastern Shore, working odd jobs during the summers. I’m the product of good public schools, and was able to get a great education at VMI, Eastern Virginia Medical School, and medical training at Johns Hopkins through the Army. As an army doctor, I took care of wounded soldiers during Desert Storm. In the state senate, I led the fight against the transvaginal ultrasound mandate and passed the smoking ban. I’m a pediatric neurologist, and have served as the volunteer medical director for a hospice care facility for nearly twenty years. For the past four years, I have served as Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking?
While serving as a pediatric neurologist, I began having serious frustrations with insurance companies. We were spending more time talking to insurance companies than to our patients. I was telling this to our chairman and he said, why don’t you do something about it? So that’s what first got me thinking about running for office. Having grown up on the Eastern Shore, I’ve watched the demise of the bay over the years. I figured I could either be a bystander or I could jump in and try to make a difference. So, I decided to run for office here in Virginia.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking?
As a doctor, State Senator, and Lieutenant Governor here in Virginia, I’ve had the great pleasure of getting to know so many Virginians. Throughout my time in public service, I have fought hard to improve people’s lives here in the Commonwealth. I’ve run my campaign based on the idea that there should be economic opportunity for every Virginian, no matter who you are, no matter where you’re from. I believe I have the experience
and vision to continue fighting for Virginia’s best interests, and will work to ensure economic opportunity, access to quality education and affordable healthcare for all Virginians.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? The economy, healthcare, education and the environment are some of the most important issues that our next governor will have to address. My entire career has been committed to serving the people of Virginia, and I will continue to be a voice for them as governor. My opponent has spent his career lobbying for special interests, often at the expense of Virginians. These issues – ensuring economic opportunity for all Virginians, affordable healthcare and education and protecting our environment – will affect all Virginians. It is critical that our next governor is working for the people of Virginia and not powerful special interests.
How would you address those issues? With all of the uncertainty surrounding healthcare in Washington, there’s no more important time to have a doctor at the helm. It’s time to expand Medicaid in Virginia and extend health coverage to 400,000 hardworking Virginians. Our children
have so much potential, but if every child doesn’t have access to early childhood education, that’s where the gaps between the haves and the have nots begin. I was proud to lead our administration’s effort to secure a grant that gave us the power to expand pre-K education to 13,000 students, and as governor I’d like to expand the opportunity so every child has the chance for a promising future.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? I’m running for governor to ensure economic opportunity for all Virginians. To make this a reality, I have called for a bipartisan tax commission to create a tax code that is fairer, simpler and fiscally responsible, and will create economic opportunity for all Virginians. I have called for cutting the regressive grocery tax for Virginians under a certain income threshold and exempting startups from certain locally-imposed business taxes to incentivize rural economic development. My G3 plan -- Get Skilled, Get a Job, Give Back -- program will train workers for 21st century jobs, and will supply last-dollar tuition and fees for any Virginian to get trained in targeted, new-collar job areas in exchange for one year of public service.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I’ll work tirelessly to ensure that all Virginians have access to opportunity, including a quality and affordable education by increasing teacher pay and expanding early childhood education. I’ll dedicate myself to creating an economy that provides opportunity to all Virginians through job training programs and sensible tax reform. I’ll also fight to make sure Virginians have access to healthcare, work to expand Medicaid in Virginia, and ensure women and their doctors have the freedom to make their own health decisions. I am running for governor to build on Virginia’s economic progress and defend our values against those who want to take us back.
Mr. Ed Gillespie CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR (REPUBLICAN) I am a small business owner, a former Counselor to the President of the United States, Capitol Hill aide, and the 2017 Republican nominee for governor of Virginia. I grew up working in my parents’ grocery store, the JC Market, but I started my career as a Senate parking lot attendant while going to college and eventually worked my way up to become Counselor to President George W. Bush. I served as Chairman of the Republican National Committee, and I was also the Chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia. My wife Cathy and I have three grown children, and we live in Fairfax County.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I know that I can make a difference for my fellow Virginians. If you love our Commonwealth and you can serve and make a difference, then I believe that you have a moral obligation to try. I know I can do it, I know I have the right ideas, and I’m able to. If our next governor does not respond to the challenges we face as a Commonwealth with the right policies and a sense of urgency to get them done, we will fail our fellow Virginians. I have the right policies, and I have that sense of urgency. And I will not fail us.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I grew up working in my parents’ grocery store, the JC Market, and I started my career as a Senate parking lot attendant and eventually worked my way up to serve as Counselor to President George W. Bush. I have started three small businesses and served as Chairman of the Republican National Committee and Chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia. I have spent my career fighting for principles of limited, effective government and personal liberty that help make life better and more prosperous for Virginians. I’m fighting
to make sure that the American Dream my family has experienced continues to be in reach for future generations.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? For the last six years, Virginia’s economic growth trailed the national average. Last year, Virginia saw 0.6 percent economic growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, from July 2016 to July 2017 the average hourly earnings in Virginia rose only 1. 7 percent. Further, S&P Global Ratings changed the outlook on Virginia’s status from stable to negative. That’s infuriating. With our vast natural resources, our fertile lands, our port, our people, our world-class colleges and universities, our natural beauty—and our location — when it comes to economic growth, Virginia should be first in the nation.
How would you address those issues? I put forward the “Cutting Taxes for ALL Virginians” Plan which includes a 10 percent across-theboard cut to the individual income tax rate will make it easier for our small businesses, our most dynamic job creators, to expand and create jobs here. I also released the “Removing Barriers to Job
Creation for ALL Virginians” Plan to enact meaningful reform to remove barriers to job creation, reform Virginia’s regulatory climate, reform occupational licensing processes to tear down barriers to entry in the marketplace, and ease excessive burdens on entrepreneurs.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? We’re at a critical juncture, and we need to get our economy moving again. We must spark the natural, organic economic growth our Commonwealth needs. Providing for public safety is an essential responsibility of government, and one that must be addressed with the utmost seriousness. As governor, I will coordinate efforts between our partners in federal, state and local law enforcement to put in place policies that will combat dangerous gangs, including MS-13, reduce crime, and provide support for the brave men and women who selflessly serve their communities to make our Commonwealth safer for ALL Virginians. If I am entrusted with the governorship of the Commonwealth we love, I will be an honest, ethical, principled, hard-working faithful servant leader worthy of Virginia.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I have a positive vision for Virginia and the policies we need to get us there. We are at a critical juncture and if our next governor doesn’t respond to the challenges we face with a sense of urgency, we will fail our fellow Virginians. I have that sense of urgency, and I will not fail us. I have put forward 19 detailed policy proposals on the most pressing challenges facing Virginians including plans to, provide tax relief, reform the mental health system, improve our K-12 and higher education system, and reform the criminal justice system. Read them all online at ForALLVirginians.com.
Mr. Cliff Hyra
Mr. Justin Fairfax
Ms. Jill Vogel
CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR (Libertarian) No Response Provided At Press Time
CANDIDATE FOR LT. GOVERNOR (Democrat) No Response Provided At Press Time
CANDIDATE FOR LT. GOVERNOR (Republican) No Response Provided At Press Time
Attorney General Mark Herring CANDIDATE FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL (Democrat) I was raised by a single mom and worked my way through school at the University of Virginia and University of Richmond Law School. After school, I moved home to Leesburg with my wife to start our family and establish my law practice, working as an attorney in private practice for more than 20 years serving clients from the small businesses and professional communities. I got my start in public service on the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, served eight years in the Virginia Senate, and have had the honor of serving as Attorney General of Virginia for the last four years.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I’m running for reelection to continue working to keep Virginians and their families safe and to build safer and stronger communities all across our Commonwealth. I want to build on the work my office has done fighting the heroin and opioid crisis, cracking down on dangerous gangs and illegal guns, and defending taxpayers against fraud and abuse. I will also do everything I can to protect Virginians’ healthcare coverage, keep premiums affordable, and protect coverage for those with pre-existing conditions. I hope to earn the opportunity to continue serving as your attorney general.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? As Attorney General I have built strong relationships with law enforcement and prosecutors, encouraged community policing, and provided law enforcement with tools and resources to reduce violence and better protect our communities. Whether it’s tackling the heroin/opioid crisis, reducing gun violence, or cracking down on violent gangs, child predators, human traffickers and drug traffickers, we’re tackling Virginia’s most pressing public safety challenges head-on.
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ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
I’ve also fought to protect Virginians’ access to affordable healthcare and a woman’s right to make her own healthcare decisions without interference from politicians. We’ve made progress, but there is more work to do to.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? This election is about choosing an Attorney General who will keep Virginians and their families safe, and fight to protect their rights. In addition to the efforts we’ve taken to build safer and stronger communities, the Attorney General should be fighting to make sure that every Virginian has access to affordable healthcare, preventing insurance companies from denying coverage to Virginians with pre-existing conditions, and protecting a woman’s right to choose and access to contraception.
How would you address those issues? I will continue my efforts to build safe, successful communities, including my work to tackle the heroin and opioid epidemic, which is Virginia’s most pressing public safety and public health crisis. We launched a multifaceted approach that includes enforcement, education, prevention, and legislation designed to save lives. I’ve also implemented new law enforcement initiatives, engaged
the medical community, supported recovery and treatment efforts, and I’m working with a bipartisan group to investigate the role pharmaceutical companies may play in this crisis. I won’t stop working because we are still losing too many friends and loved ones to this epidemic.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? 1) Continue addressing the heroin/opioid epidemic with a comprehensive approach that includes tough, smart, effective enforcement against dealers and traffickers, along with education, prevention, and treatment programs. 2) Combating sexual/domestic violence and completing our program to eliminate a decades-old backlog of more than 3,000 untested rape kits around the state. 3) Protecting taxpayers, veterans, and seniors from scams, fraud, and abuse. My team and I have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of Virginia consumers and taxpayers, including $100 million for veterans and military families, and more than $70 million through our Medicaid fraud unit.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? As Attorney General, I will continue to work hard each and every day to keep Virginians and their families safe and to build safer
and stronger communities in every corner of our Commonwealth. I’ll also proudly stand up and fight for the constitutional rights and civil liberties of all Virginians. Whether it’s ensuring that treatment and rehabilitation services are available to someone combatting an opioid addiction, getting illegal guns off of our streets, or fighting to protect access to affordable healthcare for women and families, I’ll continue fighting for justice, equality, and opportunity for every Virginian.
Mr. John Adams CANDIDATE FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL (Republican) John Adams grew up in Chesterfield County. He attended the Virginia Military Institute for college. After college, he was commissioned as a service warfare officer in the United States Navy. At the completion of his service in the Navy, he went to law school using the G.I. Bill at the University of Virginia. After law school, John attained a clerkship with Judge David Sentelle on the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., and later with Justice Clarence Thomas on the United States Supreme Court. John went on to work as an Associate White House Counsel for President George W. Bush. He then returned home to the Richmond area to serve as a federal prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s office. In 2010, John went into private practice at McGuireWoods LLP, Virginia’s largest law firm, where he chairs the Government Investigations Department. John and his wife, Lisa, live in Chesterfield County, raising their four sons in the same Chesterfield Public Schools they attended.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I got into the attorney general’s race because of the over-politicization of the office by Mark Herring. I have never run for political office before, but I believe that Mark Herring has repeatedly pursued his own personal political agenda and refused to do his job – defend his client, the Commonwealth of Virginia – far too many times. The attorney general of Virginia is the lawyer for Virginia, and when the Commonwealth needs defending it is the attorney general’s job to do that. But on multiple occasions, Mark Herring has decided not to, and has even turned against Virginia and joined the other side. Virginia needs a new lawyer, and that’s why I am running for attorney general.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I am not a politician and have never run for political office before. Instead, I have spent the majority of my professional career in public service. I served in the Navy, clerked at the Supreme Court, and served as a federal prosecutor. Most recently, I have helped run a large law firm representing many clients with complex and serious legal issues.
I believe I have the legal experience to be the best possible lawyer for Virginia. Whether it is advising senior government officials, making difficult prosecutorial decisions, or representing Virginia in complex constitutional matters, I have the experience to get the job done and keep Virginians safe. And, I have experience working with law enforcement at all levels of government.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Virginia has two public safety issues that need serious leadership. The heroin and opioid crisis is only getting worse, with fatal opioid overdoses increasing 66% since my opponent, Mark Herring, took office. Additionally, we are seeing a rapid increase in violent crime in communities across Virginia, much of this due to gang activity. We need an attorney general who will take these issues seriously and provide real leadership, rather than focusing on a personal political agenda.
local law enforcement was instrumental in lowering the city’s crime rate. As attorney general, I will take violent crime seriously and fight it head on. I’ve done it before as a prosecutor and I will do it again as attorney general.
the largest law firms in Virginia, I will use my experience outside of politics to be the best possible lawyer for Virginia.
We need to get serious about addressing the heroin and opioid epidemic as well. My substance abuse policy proposal includes looking at more community-based approaches to treatment. Additionally, I will use the attorney general’s office to provide leadership on this issue and serve as a convener, bringing together law enforcement, government, and service providers to better coordinate the state’s response to this issue.
3. Bring together local, state and federal law enforcement officials and stakeholders to keep our children and communities safe. This includes working to combat the heroin and opioid epidemic and rising violent crime in neighborhoods across Virginia.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected?
We need an attorney general who will represent all Virginians by defending the laws they pass through their elected representatives in the General Assembly. Currently, we have an attorney general who has repeatedly picked and chosen what laws to defend based on his own personal political beliefs. That is not the role of the attorney general. Virginia deserves a lawyer who will actually do his job. As attorney general, I will provide the best possible defense for the Commonwealth of Virginia, provide timely legal advice to those who seek it, and be a community partner working to end the violent crime and substance abuse issues our communities are facing.
How would you address those issues?
1. Get the politics out of the office. I’m running for attorney general because of what I see is the over-politicization of the office by our current attorney general. Mark Herring has spent the last four years advancing his own personal political agenda, rather than representing the citizens of Virginia.
Virginia needs real leadership and someone who will get serious about the rise in violent crime. As a federal prosecutor, I prosecuted Project Exile cases in the city of Richmond. This joint effort between federal, state and
2. Provide the best legal representation possible for the Commonwealth of Virginia. I am not a politician and have never run for office. As a Navy veteran, former federal prosecutor, and lawyer in private practice at one of
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve?
Ms. Sheila Bynum-Coleman CANDIDATE FOR 62ND HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Democrat) I was born and raised in Chesterfield County where I attended Monacan High School. At Monacan, I was an active member of the track and basketball team. I went on to attend Virginia Commonwealth University where I studied Political Science and International Studies. I am a wife and mother of five. My children attend Chesterfield County Public Schools. My oldest child received her B.A. from Virginia Wesleyan College and will be attending Eastern Virginia Medical School this fall. I began my career as a licensed real estate agent, and I expanded my real estate services and founded R.H. Coleman Enterprises LLC. I was the first African-American woman appointed to the Board of Contractors by the Governor. I have volunteered as a mentor with at-risk youth, and I have volunteered with Veterans Helping Veterans, Guardians, and other community organizations.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? A few years ago I went to our current Delegate, Riley Ingram, because my son has a learning disability, and he was not receiving the proper services from his school. I went to Riley Ingram to ask for help, but instead he wouldn’t give me the time of day. Before this current legislative session, I asked about his priorities for the session, he told me, “The way you stay successful in this business is to vote with your party and do the least possible.” He then proceeded to say that his priority for the upcoming session was to reform the use of antique license plates. He didn’t mention jobs, education, or healthcare. He told me that he was worried about antique license plate. At this moment, I decided that it was time for a change. I had to run.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? As a lifelong resident of the district, I know what it’s like to pursue the American Dream here in Chesterfield County. I have grown a small business, was appointed to the Virginia
Board of Contractors, and I am a mother to five public school students. So, whether it’s creating jobs, improving our schools, or ensuring everyone has access to affordable health care I know what it takes to bring about change for the residents of our district. My opponent has been in office for more than 25 years without a real challenger, it’s time for a change
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Too many in our community are without access to adequate health care. I feel that the Commonwealth should expand its Medicaid program through the Affordable Care Act. Over 400,000 Virginians, who would otherwise be covered through Medicaid Expansion, are without adequate access to healthcare they need. And yet Riley Ingram has opposed this expansion that would help 2,200 of his constituents, so that he can fall in line with his party leaders. I also feel that we need to adequately and fully fund our local schools. Since 2008, per student funding for Hopewell City Public Schools has dropped 7.8% when adjusted for inflation.
How would you address those issues? We can address the coverage gap by simply expanding Medicaid. If we expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, 400,000 Virginians would gain insurance coverage. 2,200 citizens in the 62nd District would gain coverage under the Medicaid Expansion. We also need to adequately fund our community service boards and public mental health facilities such Central State Hospital. On education, I would appropriate funds so that the state share of public school funding grows.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? My top priorities are: fully and fairly fund our local schools, ensuring that everyone has access to quality and affordable healthcare, and creating good-paying jobs for our community. I want to make sure every kid has the opportunity to have a quality education that rewards creativity and problem solving. We need to stop teaching to the test. We also need to address the coverage gap and fully fund our mental health facilities. We also need to lower taxes and regulations for small businesses, so small business owners can
create jobs.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? As your Delegate, I would be a much needed change for this District that has suffered under politics as usual with Riley Ingram for the past 25 years . I would improve healthcare outcomes, by voting to expand Medicaid. I will work to ensure every child has access to a great education, and I would introduce a bill to bring down the costs of college for many of our students. I would increase access to the American Dream through workforce development, education, behavioral health services, and job creation. I want to lower barriers to business through regulatory and tax reform.
Delegate Riley Ingram CANDIDATE FOR 62ND HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Republican) I was born in Halifax County, Virginia, but moved to Chester early in life and attended Enon Elementary School. I eventually graduated from Prince George High School. I started working odd jobs at the age of 10 and have been working ever since. As an adult, I worked at English Construction Company, the U. S. Post Office in Hopewell, and opened my own real estate business. I have lived in Hopewell since 1951 where I was elected to the Hopewell City Council in 1986 and then in 1988 was elected as the Mayor of Hopewell. I am also a veteran of the Virginia National Guard.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I am running for re-election to continue to represent the people of the 62nd House District. Over my tenure I have always been responsive to any and every constituent need, going through every channel possible to try and help anyone that contacted my office. I am running for this seat because I want to make sure that Virginia is moving forward into the future with a fiscally conservative balanced budget and that we are creating jobs and a better life for our families. It is important to me that the next generations coming along here in Hopewell, Prince George, Chesterfield and Henrico enjoy the same quality of life and have the same opportunities I have had without feeling the need to pick up and move to different areas.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? In my lifetime, I have served in many capacities including past Mayor and City Councilman in the City of Hopewell and
member of the Hopewell Redevelopment Housing Authority. I know this area and what it takes to get things done at the local level. As the current House of Delegates member for the 62nd District, I’ve used my time in office to become a leader on issues that affect veterans, realtors, and small business owners. I’m the Chairman of the Counties, Cities, and Towns committee that oversees all issues affecting local government. I know how to get results here in the Commonwealth and have always made sure the 62nd District is my top priority.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? One of the main issues is ensuring that we are making fiscally responsible decisions at the state level. We cannot do this without a strong economy here in the Commonwealth. As your Delegate, I’ll make sure Virginia has a real plan for economic growth that focuses on entrepreneurs, small businesses, and innovation.
How would you address those issues? As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to work diligently to ensure the Commonwealth passes a balanced budget that
funds the core functions of government. Every year I hear proposals to raise taxes on our citizens as a mechanism to generate revenue. I do not support this approach. Instead of raising taxes, I believe we should encourage more economic growth through lower taxes and common-sense regulations that make it easier for our small businesses to succeed. By supporting these strategies, we broaden our tax base and diversify our economy so that we’re less reliant on the federal government and more attractive to entrepreneurship and innovation.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? If I am re-elected to represent the 62nd district my three top goals would be: 1. To continue serving the people of my district to the best of my abilities. I have always made myself available to any and every person that has reached out and contacted me or my office. The people of my district have always been priority number one. 2. Continue to work towards better preparing our workforce and creating more jobs here in the 62nd district. 3. Building on our quality public education systems by eliminating burdensome red-tape that takes our teacher’s time away from what matter most: educating our children.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? First, I have always strived to be as accessible as possible to my constituents and help them in any way that I can. Whether it is advocating for their behalf on an issue with a state agency or answering questions about the laws of the Commonwealth, I will continue to serve the people of the 62nd district. With the many hardworking teachers, state employees, and law enforcement officers that live in our community, I will continue to support pay raises to reward their hard work. Lastly, we need to continue to grow Virginia’s economy by keeping our taxes low and allowing for our smaller businesses to flourish. In doing this we can impact everyone by allowing you to keep more of your hard earned tax dollars in your pocket.
ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
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Ms. Emily Brewer CANDIDATE FOR 64TH HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Republican) I am a small business owner from Holland, Virginia and am proud to be the Republican Nominee for the 64th District. I currently serve on the board of a local community college and the board of Suffolk Business Women. I have previously served on the board of a local domestic violence shelter working to provide housing and care for victims of domestic violence. I have also served as a volunteer emergency responder. I own and operate UnCork’d, a small wine and gourmet shop in downtown Suffolk.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I’ve lived in the region my entire life. Having grown up here, I’ve watched countless friends move away because we aren’t connecting the next generation with jobs and opportunities. This is a wonderful place to raise a family, but we have to ensure that my generation has the same opportunity to do that for their children. In Richmond, I will work to create the best environment for business by cutting unnecessary regulations that are harming our local businesses and allow them to compete in today’s economy. Fostering an economic climate that creates opportunity for new small businesses to open is key. As a business owner, I understand firsthand what the barriers are, and will work to remove them.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I am not a politician, I am a small business owner who has been civically engaged in the region my entire life. We need to elect leaders who have an ear to the ground and are willing to listen to the needs of all those they
represent. As a business owner, I understand that Virginia’s tax code needs to be reformed. As a board member for the Paul D. Camp Community College Foundation, I have seen the challenges our schools face and will fight to provide our children with the best education possible. In Richmond, I will work tirelessly to get government out of the way, grow small businesses, and create high-paying jobs in the region.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? I know the essential role that a good education plays in securing a bright future for our kids. It is imperative to make sure that we have a direct school to workforce pipeline. Unnecessary taxes, fees, and regulations increase the cost of doing business and make it harder for small business owners to compete with the big guys. I’ve talked to many families in the community with horror stories of failed adoptions because of the system. The adoption and foster care system in Virginia is broken, we are doing the children in Virginia a disservice by not working to fix it.
How would you address those issues? In Richmond, I will fight to bring the best educational opportunities to our K-12 schools. Not everyone is meant to go to college and that’s okay, but we need to increase vocational and trade programs for students to have another path to a high-paying career. By working to ease restrictions and promote a pro-business economic climate we can start to grow small businesses and encourage entrepreneurism. I was adopted and, as the next Delegate, I will work to streamline the adoption process in Virginia to make adopting children from Virginia easier for loving families.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Nearly 85% of all new job growth comes from entrepreneurs, startups, or new businesses. I will fight to make it easier for these companies to get access to capital, hire employees, and sell their products. Virginia has a great workforce, but we have to do more to ensure our workers have the right skills and education in order to attract the world’s best companies to the Commonwealth. In
Richmond, I will work towards meaningful and effective, regulatory and tax reforms that will reduce the cost of doing business and inspire job growth.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I will be an ACTIVE representative that will be accessible to all. My plan is to open a district office as well as holding office hours in each of the seven localities. That service has never been offered, but the citizens of this area deserve to have their elected representative be involved in their community.
Delegate Kirk Cox CANDIDATE FOR 66TH HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Republican) I am a retired public school teacher and represent the 66th District in the Virginia House of Delegates. After serving as Majority Leader for the last 7 years, I am slated to become the 55th House Speaker in January. I graduated from Colonial Heights High School and hold a B.S. from James Madison University. My wife Julie and I live in Colonial Heights where we raised our four sons. We are members of The Heights Baptist Church where I teach Sunday School and serve as a Deacon. I previously coached youth baseball for 14 seasons.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? As a lifelong Colonial Heights resident I felt the best impact I could have improving the lives of my neighbors was through public service. Teaching in the public school system showed me that vital state resources could be better directed toward the classroom instead of bureaucracy. When my wife was juggling our young children, a job, and trying to further her education I knew we needed more innovation in higher education to better fit the needs of non-traditional students. I’m running for office to enact conservative policies based on the constitutional principles of free markets and free people because policies based on these principles improve the lives and livelihood of our fellow Virginians.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? Serving as Delegate to the 66th House district taught me what it means to put service above self. I’m proud of my accomplishments and leadership during my time in office. As past chairman of House Committee on Agriculture, Conservation, and Natural Resources for 5 years I worked to protect Virginia’s wa-
keeping taxes low, eliminating burdensome regulations, prioritizing in-demand sectors, and using smart incentives. As our students progress through their academic careers, they have to feel assured their work will translate into results. This means developing quality and transfer assurances for dual enrollment students. Obtaining credentials is a viable career path for many students, but our grant programs to help students cover the costs of these certificates need to be better tailored to high-demand fields and where the workforce demand is unmet with employer needs.
terways and public lands. For the last several years I’ve served as a Budget Conferee negotiating for a balanced, conservative budget that doesn’t raise taxes.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking?
Virginia is a prosperous Commonwealth but we aren’t without our own obstacles. Chief concern for the state legislature is enacting policies that return us to sound economic standing and again make Virginia a beacon for businesses that can bring good paying jobs. Boosting our economy is a multi-faceted issue. We need to keep taxes low and ease our regulatory burden. Our students need their skills and degrees to be better aligned with the job market. Technology and innovation must be prioritized by investing in research, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and broadband to help us solve the complex problems within the public and private sectors.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Over 40% of the households in the 66th District have a veteran or military member in their family, and I will continue to champion issues important to them. I have introduced more than 120 pieces of veterans legislation, and I’m proud to report our decade-long efforts are finally coming to a head as Virginia will see two more state veteran care centers break ground within the year. But there’s more work to be done. We can do a better job aligning veterans with civilian jobs after they leave the service. I will work to make the certification process better match their credentials earned in the military and grow the
How would you address those issues? To get our economy going, we must advance policies to put our people to work by
number of companies enrolled in the Virginia Values Veterans program that connects companies with the highly-skilled, well-educated, and easily-trained veteran talent pool.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve?
People’s lives are improved when they have more of their hard earned dollars in their pocket, their children are receiving a quality public education, and they feel safe in their communities. Whether it is shoring up the Virginia Retirement System to eliminate liabilities or providing much needed pay raises to teachers, state employees, and law enforcement, I’ll be your advocate in Richmond. I also know that as your representative it is my job to assist you with state related matters. My office is always open and willing to assist you if you are having problems with a state agency or have questions about Virginia laws.
Delegate Roslyn Tyler CANDIDATE FOR 75TH HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Democrat) Physical Therapist Clinical Coordinator at Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center in Emporia, Virginia for 26 years. Education- B. S. Degree in Biology - VSU, B. S. Physical Therapy - ODU, Master in Education -VSU , Serves on the State Committee of Education, Militia, Police and Public Safety, Commerce and Labor, Joint Health Commission and MLK Commission.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I was elected to the House of Delegates in 2005. Now, completing 12 years of service representing the 75th Districts which includes Parts of Dinwiddie, Surry, Sussex, Lunenburg, Isle of Wright, Southampton County , all of Brunswick and Greensville County and the City of Emporia and Part of the city of Franklin. I am seeking re-election to continue to work to improve the quality and affordability of education, affordable health care, public safety and prevent voters disenfranchisement. What experience and/or education do you
have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking?
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Prior to being elected to the House of Delegates in 2005, I served as Chairperson and member of the Sussex County Board of Supervisors for 11 years. Serving on local government board, allowed me to gain meaningful experience of county and state regulations/operations as well as grassroot knowledge to address constituents concerns. What are the most significant issues
facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? You must be able to negotiate and work together with republicans and democrats to address funding demands and economic development issues to grow the economy of the Commonwealth.
How would you address those issues? I will continue to introduce and support legislation that will benefit families, students and the working class.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Priorities - 1. Broadband Accessibility for rural Virginia in order to enhance economic development and create new jobs
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I will continue to work to improve my constituents quality of life by creating jobs and assist in developing a skilled workforce so families can afford adequate housing and educate their children.
2. Increase funding for education and affordable college tuition, 3. affordable and quality health care for everyone, 4. Sportsman/Hunter Rights
Delegate Lashrecse Aird
Ms. Katie Sponsler
CANDIDATE FOR 63RD HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Democrat) No Response Provided At Press Time
CANDIDATE FOR 66TH HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Democrat) No Response Provided At Press Time
ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
Ms. Rebecca Colaw CANDIDATE FOR 64TH HOUSE OF DELEGATES (Democrat) I’m proud to be a Democrat, a defender of the U.S. Constitution, a believer in freedom and service before self and that Duty, Honor, Country are not just words.
model for the media response to a domestic terrorist attacks utilizing weapons of mass destruction and organized coordinated efforts of response with the FBI, FEMA, state and local authorities.
I have multi-generational family ties to the Commonwealth of Virginia. From the time of the Revolutionary War, a member of my family has served and fought in every American war.
I have worked extensively with local, state and federal government officials, as well as community leaders on terrorism related issues. In addition, I’ve had the privilege of speaking as a team builder and educator, both locally as well as nationally. I proudly retired from the Air Force after 20 years of service.
Educationally, I hold a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communications and Broadcast Management as well as a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice. In 2001, while a military member and attending night school, I earned my Juris Doctor Degree, and began practicing law. I have worked since I was 14 years old.
I locally operate a law practice in Suffolk, Virginia. Throughout my experiences, I have been able help many people in need, however I feel that I have much more to offer to all citizens. With that said, I now begin this journey within my own district.
In 1984, I enlisted in the United States Air Force and served as a commissioned officer. While serving in 1990, I was deployed in support of Operation Desert Shield/Storm to King Fahd International Airport, located in Saudi Arabia and I am a Persian Gulf War Veteran as well as a Veteran on many conflicts and operations. During my tenure, I developed the inter-agency
I am extremely passionate about the rights of everyone regardless of nationality, color, religion, race, creed or sexual orientation. I am a strong supporter of our nations great charter--The Constitution--and I truly believe in our founding principles that “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” is for ALL Americans. I stand ready to fight for and represent the people of the 64th.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I am an American. I love this country and commonwealth. I believe in the Constitution and the freedom this country offers to the world. I think our founders got it right. People need to be involved in government and politics, because if we aren’t, government controls us and loses sight of the fact that it works for us. Freedom is then lost. I was born to a nurse and an engineer. I learned to nurture people and build from ideas. I have never run for office and am not a politician by standard terms. Like many of district residents, I still work for a living, every day. I run a small law practice in Suffolk, Virginia. I want to serve the district in which I live I am a lawyer, retired military officer and disabled veteran of the Persian Gulf War. I have defended the Constitution of this great land since I was 24 years old. Our freedoms are eroding and many have not even noticed. That is why I’m running for office because it takes the ordinary American to make a difference.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I’ve spent my whole life fighting for what is right. I’ve fought all over the world for this country as an Air Force officer. I’ve served in the Persian Gulf
War, walked the jungles of Colombia and was shot at by Serbians in Sarajevo. And when I was in the military, I went to school at night and earned my degree to become a lawyer. I’ve spent the past 15 years using that degree to fight for the families of Virginia. When a child is abused, I am often the only advocate that kid has — and I don’t let anything stand in the way of their safety and well-being. I’ve fought to protect kids who were raped, kidnapped, and abused in other ways that are unimaginable. What I’ve brought to these experiences is a value of service to my fellow citizens. I’ve fought alongside folks of all parties and beliefs. The one thing we have in common is our love of this country and commonwealth. That’s why I will fight for the people of the district no matter what party they belong to. And I will take my fight to both political parties — because they are more concerned about fighting each other than fighting for the people of the 64th District.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Healthcare: People are our most important assets in Virginia. Republican Delegates and Senators should start working with Democrats to keep what works and fix what doesn’t work in the current law. Expanding Medicaid is not about handing out free health care for people who won’t work.
Instead, expanding Medicaid would provide health care for 400,000 Virginians who make too much money for Medicaid at current levels, but still can’t afford health insurance. You or your neighbor may be among the hundreds of thousands of Virginians who work hard every day but may be ruined by a single injury or illness. Thirty-one states have expanded Medicaid, including deep red states. Those states understand that it doesn’t make sense to throw away money that has already been earmarked for the expansion.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected?
How would you address those issues?
To fight for the people of the 64th and make them matter at the state level to help improve lives on the local level.
Many health care costs now being paid for by the General Fund would be covered by federal funds under Medicaid expansion (e.g., FAMIS program for certain populations, inmate inpatient hospital services, etc), resulting in significant cost savings for Virginia. Insurance premiums for privately insured consumers have already been elevated because health care providers have had to cover their costs for caring for the uninsured. If more residents were covered under Medicaid expansion, the reduction in uncompensated care would reduce premiums. We must look at the whole picture. Health insurance: improves financial health, controls costs, reduces the death rate, creates jobs and provides for a healthier, more productive workforce that will enable us to grow our state economy.
To work issues: Expand Medicaid, increase education funding, increase broadband internet and cellular services for rural areas, serve veterans, support small business.
To break the partisan gridlock and work for all the people of the district thereby returning the government to the people.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? The 64th has been largely ignored as a district for 6 years. As a Delegate I will give the people of the district a voice. As Delegate I would also maintain my connections and communications with the local communities. There are multiple cities and counties that reside within the district. You can’t operate at the state level in a vacuum. You must listen, fight for and assist local communities. As issues and bills come down, I would meet with local communities and officials to determine how those issues or bills affect them and listen to what their concerns and preferences are.
Mr. Joe Wallace CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 1 (Independent) EDUCATION A.S. in Public Administration – Ferrum College B.S. in Urban Studies and Land Planning – VCU
MILITARY EXPERIENCE AND AWARDS Virginia Defense Force, G3/7 Operations 2005-Present Virginia National Guard – Bronze Star Recipient (Service) Virginia National Guard – 23 State Activations
PROFESSIONAL AND CIVIC EXPERIENCE 30+ YEARS AS A Transportation Consulting Engineer Prince George Planning Commissioner 2005-2009 Prince George High School Band Booster President 2007 Clements Jr. high School PTA President 2014
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? To move Prince George County forward. Many use catch phrases such as “make a change” or just “change”; however, by the sheer nature of the election results, change has already happened and for some, that is the extent of their effort. As a transportation engineering consultant, I am hired to solve problems and find solutions to difficult situations. That is what I am asking the voters to do. Hire me to bring economic development opportunities to the county; work and find opportunities to improve and increase the water and sewer network in the county; provide the resources to public safety departments when the need arises; and finally, to work with school officials to find areas of overlapping services where working together will save valuable tax dollars.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? My leadership, management and problem-solving skills uniquely qualify me for the Board of Supervisors. I have served on the Prince George County Planning Commission and chaired the Capital Improvement Plan Committee, where I mandated county government department leaders to provide multiple quotes for requested capital improvements and each quote had to be valid for at least 90 days. As a planning commissioner, I supported several development opportunities
PERSONAL Joe is married to Pam (Browder) Wallace; they have four children (Taylor-28, Amber-27, Grayson-25, Laurel -17 and one granddaughter (Addy-5).
that provided the county with excellent employment opportunities and tax revenue. I was active in the update to the comprehensive plan and plan evaluation of the RTE 460 project. I also served as President of the Prince George High School Marching Band Booster where I worked to have funds allocated by the School Board for new uniforms and provided the guidance and leadership to raise over $30,000 which allowed the marching band to perform at the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, TN. I have also served as President of the N.B. Clements Jr. High School PTA where I instituted a grant program for teachers and student groups to request PTA funds for non-budget funded services or supplies at N. B. Clements. The grant program was widely successful, having distributed over $4,000 in one year. Finally, I have experience bringing business to the county. During late 2016 and as early as July 2017, I have represented LOVE’s Travel Center as their transportation/traffic consultant working with the county and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to gain approval of the project access and mitigating impacts to the surrounding roadway. Additionally, I represented Lake Harley, LLC in obtaining a break in limited access right-of-way on Temple Avenue between Whitehill Boulevard and Puddledock Road from the Commonwealth Transportation Board. This process required nine months of exhaustive study and meetings with VDOT and county officials. In the end, the Commonwealth Transportation Board approved the break in limited access and
now the developer can provide direct access into their site. When you sum it up, each of these accomplishments demonstrated leadership and the ability to accomplish goals. That is what we need to move forward!
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Economic development. Without economic development, you can’t improve the quality of life for your citizens or attract high school, college graduates, tradesmen and professionals to settle in the county. While economic development is the most pressing issue there are other issues that are required in order to support economic development; such as water/sewer and transportation improvements; public safety improvements and school improvements that will teach and train students to fill professional and skilled positions.
How would you address those issues? I will work with county officials to identify resources and grants to upgrade and improve the county water and sewer system and subsequently grow our tax base through commercial development. I will work with state, regional and county economic development officials to attract businesses that work with school officials to develop apprentice programs and promote community involvement. Each of these efforts will provide opportunities for economic development.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Economic Development Infrastructure Improvements (water, sewer and roads) Public Safety (Police, Sheriff and Fire / Rescue) Schools
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I would work tirelessly to provide the county staff with the resource necessary to attract business to Prince George County. I would work to promote a county staff developer team, whose role would be to escort existing and potential business prospects (big and small) through the development process. With the goal of reducing development time and increasing efficiency of plan review and approval. These a few items that would help Prince George attract new business and encourage existing business to expand. When these actions take place, the residents reap the benefits of a broader tax base.
Mr. Shayne Bridgman
Mr. Floyd Brown Jr.
CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 1 (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 1 (Democrat) No Response Provided At Press Time
ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
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Mr. William Gandel CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 2 (Independent) I live in the Newville area of the County. I have had contact with the local government in Prince George since 1972 when I became a foster care social worker for the Petersburg Department of Social Services. I have been, or currently am, involved in a dozen community agencies or non-profit resources helping citizens of Prince George. Living in Newville, I can enjoy my hobbies of amateur radio and antique automobiles without infringing on any of my neighbors. I also enjoy shooting at a range on private property prepared for this purpose. My wife, Ruth, and I are volunteer instructors for Ballroom Dance at the Parks and Recreation Community Center on Old Stage Road. Living where I do gives me a sense of community and rural heritage I want to preserve. I have a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in human service areas. I am the only person ever elected to our Board of Supervisors to have completed the State’s certification course to be a local planning commissioner and to be certified to be a member of a local board of supervisors. See my Website for more details: gandelforpgboard.com.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Imagine you are in a tied football game and suddenly the opposing team fumbles and you have a chance to pick up the football and run into the end zone for the winning touchdown. If elected to the Board of Supervisors I hope to bring greater leadership and strategic thinking into the way Prince George County is governed. Living and working in the County for over 39 years, I have observed that county government tends to run behind the bus rather than in front. We must set our future goals and build the blocks to make it happen now. Currently, we are not proactive. Without vision and leadership our county will continue to fall behind. If elected, I will work to devote my time to make the Board of Supervisors the strategic force we need. I have made great efforts to hear my constituents’ needs and I now want to bring their issues before the Board of Supervisors and County government as I did in my previous term. During my previous term I had Town Hall listening sessions plus set aside times to meet with any citizen who had something to say to me. These will continue – my ears and eyes will always be open to identifying needs that have not been met or met well. By listening and putting what I heard into action, a new fire station at Rt. 10 and Moody Road will be built to protect and serve 1900 families; through-truck traffic was prohibited on Bull Hill Road; and, the designation of North Prince George and South Prince George was accomplished.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I served on the Prince George County Board of Supervisors from 2012-2015 and I learned a lot about how to present issues and build consensus. Previous to that I served as the Director of the Department of Social Services for 33 years (a total of 44 years in county government). I have insight into the actual workings of county government. I
have started, or been a part of developing effective resources for meeting the needs of our residents from hunger to health care and emergency management, and getting roads improved. Beginning our Prince George Food and Clothes Bank, being a part of those that started our Hopewell-Prince George Health Care Center and bringing a new Fire/EMS station to Rt.10 and Moody Rd. are just a few examples. Most important of all, is my ability to listen well, develop a plan of action, and bring results. I did that as an agency head and as a member of the Board of Supervisors.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? The most pressing issue is complacency. Voter fall off and voter fatigue is present here. Actual voter turnout is far from being a mere 50% of those registered to vote. This happens when the voter does not think their vote makes a difference, but it really does, especially in a local election. Most voters also do not know that they get far more of a return on their Local tax dollar than they do on their Federal or State tax dollar. If we had the same turnout for elections as we have had for National Night Out events, our voter participation would probably reach 75%.
How would you address those issues? Complacency can be combatted by empowering and educating our citizens. Prince George has instituted a Citizens’ Academy (implemented during my term) in which citizens learn, in detail, how their county government is structured and functions. This ten-week class is detailed and challenging. The county has other opportunities for citizens to learn about various aspects of county function and how they can become engaged in making their county better. The two that come to mind immediately are the Citizens Emergency- Response Team training and the Prince George Community Police Academy. Providing these learning
opportunities will help build citizen leaders and that, in turn, will help combat complacency. As I referenced in the second question, I am amazed by the leadership skills and commitment of our civic leaders. Another way to help combat complacency is to enhance digital communication such as affordable access to broadband, which is an excellent vehicle for sharing information and encouraging involvement. The County’s excellent website, emergency notifications by text, and other initiatives are great starts, but citizen access to information would be significantly enhanced by wider, affordable broadband accessibility.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Keep the tax rate as low as possible while making public safety the priority and academic plus career/ technical education on the front burner. Limit the term of the Chairperson to two years. Since we now have staggered terms it gives us potentially new supervisors every two years. Therefore, a term of two years makes sense for the chairperson. Also, we should not have a Chair and Vice Chair from the same district. If the Chairperson is a representative of Distract 2 then the Vice Chairperson should come from District 1 and vice versa. The supervisor elected this November 7th will be seated during the next census which is 2020. This will be the next opportunity to have separate election districts which the County does not have. Many have approached me about having individual election districts. I think this would make each supervisor accountable to their constituents. I would support individual election districts after the 2020 census.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? My priorities are public safety and education. I would do what my record shows I have done and that is support, enhance, and participate in every
aspect of local government to make our County the safest and best educated in the area. Now as far as what I would do to improve quality of life for the residents I serve, that would depend on where these residents live. I have gone on record supporting individual election districts but for now, my District covers the more populated areas close to Hopewell. That is where I would encourage increased business ventures like restaurants, another grocery store, and what we really need here is an auto parts retailer. Before this has a chance to happen we must appoint members to our Planning Commission that have experience in planning. We need a more diverse pro-active Planning Commission, not just good ole boys and girls committed to keeping Prince George in the 1960’s. We have a few of these forward thinkers on there but we need to admit that those that are simply not interested in planning for a good future of the County must be removed, or simply not appointed. I live in one of the last two agricultural areas in the County. Those who tell me “keep the County like it is…” must realize and accept that local government never stays in the same place. It either moves forward or backward. So, if my neighbors want to continue to enjoy the rural atmosphere here where we live, then they have to get out, vote, and take part in where the County is going and find out what it is losing. We “leak’ revenue because we do not have any retailer for any of the things needed for everyday life except building supplies. We need furniture and clothing stores. Plus, an auto parts retailer would certainly do well. All of these should be around the areas designated for this type of business enterprise close to Hopewell and Petersburg.
Supervisor Bill Robertson Jr. CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 2 (Republican) I am retired. I retired as Commander of Detectives with City of Richmond to become Police Chief in Prince George County. I served 8 years Marine Corps,1 year Viet Nam, earning 11 Decorations. I have served as President of a Credit Union and on Board of a 41 million dollar retirement plan. I have served on several civic organizations. Have serve on Board of Supervisors for past 14 years. I became very involved with the Virginia Association of Counties, National Association of Counties and the High Growth Coliation, all to see that Prince George County has a brighter future. With limited space to cover everything, I would request your readers visit my web page: www.BILL4PGBS.com for a complete biographical.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Many citizens requested that I continue to serve due to my fiscal conservative voting record. I have worked with the Virginia Association of Counties for many years to show that Prince George County is a leader among Counties. I have been given the opportunity to take Prince George to the top leadership position of Virginia Counties for 2018. I want to see Prince George recognized for being the leader it is. I have experience in negotiating economic development deals, creating a modern Workforce Development Board and representing the County before the General Assembly and other organizations. We have lost over 50 years of experience with the death of Mr. Parker and Mr. Skalsky. The Board needs to maintain some experience and I have that knowledge and experience.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I know the County Government inside and out due to having been an employee and being on the Board for the past 14 years. I am very familiar
with the needs of each Department. I served on the City of Richmond Personnel Board and was trained in personnel law. Government works much different than private industry because state law regulates local government actions. With about 46 years in state and local government I have testified before many General Assembly Committees. I believe the 94 counties of the Virginia Association of Counties placing their trust in me to lead the organization in 2018 demonstrates that those who work closely with me believe that I have the qualities to be a leader of Supervisors.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Unless the General Assembly changes, a lack of state funding has and will continue to be a challenge. The County has a need for water and sewer infrastructure upgrades to be able to attract additional business to the County. The County needs to be careful in its spending practices. If it continues to spend more than it takes in as revenue, it creates a problem. We must also consider that the School Division has made request for about 90 million
dollars in school construction in next several years.
How would you address those issues? As a fiscal conservative I believe we should not spend more than incoming revenue for the operating budget. The biggest problem is it takes three votes to approve or kill a resolution. I will continue to make my positions known and vote accordingly. I do know we need economic development to be able to keep the tax rate reasonably low. I will continue to do everything I can to bring new business to the County.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Education, Economic Development, Growth in the County, and developing a reasonable budget while keeping the tax rate as low as possible. All of these are very closely tied together. To attract industry/business to the County we must be able to provide an educated/skilled work force. To be able to provide the required funds to support education we need additional economic development. Economic Development will require additional workers, which in turn requires places for the workers to live. Economic Develop-
ment provides additional revenue that allows the County to maintain a fairly low tax rate. The County must continue to aggressively recruit businesses to locate here.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I see improving the quality of life for our residents can be accomplished in many ways. I think keeping the tax rate reasonably low is one way. By improving our response time on emergency medical service calls may save a life. By ensuring that our fire and police services have appropriate equipment. Continue the process of funding a new public safety radio system to eliminate some radio dead spots in the county. But most importantly, listen to our citizens as to what they think will improve their quality of life.
Ms. Marlene Waymack CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS DISTRICT 2 (Independent) I began my career in the Department of Agriculture helping local farmers in Prince George. I then moved to the Prince George Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office before serving as the Voter Registrar for Prince George. I went back to school earning my Associate and Bachelor of Nursing and a National Certification in Infection Control. I have worked in numerous positions in the healthcare system and am still a Registered Nurse. I continue to work today at John Randolph Medical Center.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Prince George is my home. My children went to public school here, their children went to public school here, and now their little ones are starting school here. I am the only candidate that has that level of stake in what happens here. I want Prince George to continue to be a great place for my family and yours. In recent years, however, Prince George has been raising taxes and fees repeatedly on our citizens under the leadership and support of my two opponents in this race. There has been a lot of wasteful spending, petty politics and vendettas, and a lack of strategic vision. I am certainly no politician, but I am too invested and rooted in Prince George to sit back and do nothing.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I have spent many decades working in this region. I know and appreciate Prince George’s history. I have worked in both government and the private sector. In the healthcare industry I have served in numerous supervisory and management positions where I was responsible for millions of dollars in
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budgets. Most importantly, I have the character and the temperament to serve in this position. We need someone in this position who is invested and rooted, and who is passionate about putting the best interests of Prince George first. I am running to serve the people of Prince George, not my ego.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? There are a number of pressing issues facing Prince George today, from aging schools that need to be replaced, to increased tax burden on our citizens, to the need for broadband access in the rural areas, and most importantly ensuring public safety.
How would you address those issues? I will stand with and fully support our Police, Fire, and EMS. It is absolutely critical that our dispatch centers are fully staffed and that we have the appropriate personnel to respond to every emergency the county faces. The incumbent, Mr. Robertson, voted against that. The Board of Supervisors, under the leadership of my two opponents, has kicked the can down the
road repeatedly on the aging schools issue. This will ultimately cost us a lot more in the long run. Maintaining high quality schools and personnel is a top priority for me. We must address this issue now using cost sharing measures on design and location and stop neglecting our children. Broadband access is a huge issue. The incumbent, Mr. Robertson heads an organization (VACo) that has been lobbying against legislation in Richmond that would bring the latest 5G broadband network to Virginia. I support cutting the red tape to allow private industry to invest in the latest technology for Prince George. In order to keep costs down for the county we need to look at elimination of unnecessary outside consultants, reduction of unnecessary projects and expenditures, and consolidation of government buildings, departments, and offices where necessary to increase efficiency. We need to work as partners with the School Board to accomplish the same thing on their end.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? In addition to the issues I have laid out, one of my most important priorities is to listen to the citizens and treat them with respect. Many times when I
have attended board meetings, they disrespected speakers, ignored citizen requests, and did whatever they already planned to do beforehand. As your supervisor, I will always listen to you.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I love Prince George County. I raised my family here. I will only be one voice and one vote among five on the Board of Supervisors, but I will use that position to always be fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of our citizens.
Mr. Robert Eley CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1 (Independent) 42 years old 1993 graduate of Prince George High School Some college at Richard Bland College 20 plus years of working with the youth of Prince George County at the Prince George Parks and Recreation Department. 10 year volunteer coach for Prince George High School Football Program Volunteer coach for travel baseball, softball and soccer for ten years
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I am running for the District 1 seat on the Prince George School Board due to my great pride in the Prince George County School System and desire to see it continue to excel. I have a vested interest in the school system, as a Prince George County resident for 31 years, employee of the Parks and Recreation Department for more than 20 years, and a 1993 graduate. I feel, as a parent of three children who are currently enrolled or graduated from Prince George County Schools, it is now time serve as a School Board member to help ensure that students continue to get the education they deserve, while making every tax dollar count.
What experience and or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I feel that I am very qualified to be a School Board member. Over the past twenty years I have worked
with Prince George County youth and parents and am very familiar with current issues. If elected to the District 1 seat, I feel that my knowledge and experience will prove extremely helpful. I have with the school system since 1993, a volunteer coach or some capacity. Lastly, I think that by having a child that just graduated from Prince George High School with Honors and two more still in the school system that I am very familiar with the school system, from the elementary through the high school.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? I feel that there are a couple of pressing issues that are currently affecting our school system. The first issue is to upgrade our facilities and technology. The second issue is transportation in which the system is short bus drivers which in turn cuts down on the timely matter the system can get the kids to and from school in a timely manner.
How would you address those issues? I believe that I can work with cooperatively with fellow School Board members, the members of the Board of Supervisors and Prince George citizens to provide the needs of our youth and community to figure out how to address the best possible measures needed to upgrade the facilities and technology. I believe we should look at the surrounding areas to see what they are offering for pay and benefit packages. This will help ensure we have incentive to help gain and retain transportation personnel for the Prince George County School System.
What will be your top priorities if you are elected? The first priority is to work closely with the other Board members and administration to help find the proper solution to the transportation problem in the county. The second is to make sure the facilities are safe and up to date. Lastly, to support
the Prince George County School System continued role as a leader in our state and region.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Parents and employees of the school system are burdened with undue stress due to the ongoing transportation issues. By working with administration and other board members I hope the help find a solution to the ongoing issues with the transportation department.
Ms. Sharon Jadrnak CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1 (Independent) • PG secondary schools substitute (3 years); Coordinator, PG Youth Workforce Academy & J.O.B.S. Program (5 years); volunteer (5 years): FLL and FTC robotics teams, Moore MS PTO, Clements JHS PTA, Gifted Advisory Committee • Over 30 years of work experience in for-profit, non-profit, government, and education sectors. • College: George Tech, Mechanical Engineering & VCU, Business Administration • Prince George County Citizen’s Academy; Sorensen Institute for Political Leaders (UVA); Washington Internship for Students in Engineering (DC) • Moved to Prince George to live in a rural area with good schools (2010). • Grew up in Indiana; lived in Georgia, Pennsylvania, Washington, DC & Virginia (since 1997).
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Education is important for a strong, successful community. Many people choose where to live based on the local schools. Businesses look at educational opportunities and education levels of the workforce before locating in a certain area. Over the past few years, I have occasionally attended school board meetings because a particular topic was on the agenda. In February of this year, I began regularly attending school board meetings and budget work sessions to learn more about how the school board functions. I decided to run because I have concerns about the way the school board has made some decisions lately.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? Having worked and volunteered in the secondary schools for several years, I have seen the great things that are happening AND some of the challenges facing Prince George schools’ employees, students, families, and facilities. Everywhere I have lived I have gravitated toward leadership
roles in many different organizations. I am not afraid to speak up and stand up for what I believe in, and I like to solve problems. I can get passionate about issues sometimes, but I am willing to work with others and listen to different points of view. For more information, please visit my website (www.sharon4pgschoolboard.com).
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? The issues with busses are putting a lot of stress on the schools, students, and families. The first step to student success is getting them to school. We have several thousand students to transport across a large county with some long bus routes all the way east on Route 10 and southwest down to Carson. Not every family can drive their students to school – they depend on the school busses to be running and on time. Overcrowding is not good for the students or bus drivers, who have to drive safely and also maintain order on their bus.
How would you address those issues? The school board has expressed interest in outsourcing transportation to a vendor. Before doing that, they should appoint a Transportation Task
Force to review the entire system and determine if it can be fixed. It could be like the Core Committee was for school facilities with representatives from the schools’ stakeholders and also outside experts. In March 2017 I suggested to a school board member and a transportation department staffer that they should ask for logistics and transportation expertise at Ft. Lee. About 1/3 of the students in Prince George Schools come from Ft. Lee; maybe they can help us address the transportation problems.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Transportation and working with the Board of Supervisors to implement the Core Committee recommendations to replace Walton & Beazley Elementary schools and renovate Prince George High School. There should also be more TRANSPARENCY about how the school board does business and better COMMUNICATION with employees, families, and the local community (our education stakeholders). The school division should gather input before big decisions or changes are made – it’s easy to do online. All school board meeting documents and budget documents should be
electronically posted on the website. The school division could also use the “OpenGov Financial Transparency Portal” that Prince George County uses.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Making sure Prince George County has a good, accredited school system that meets the needs of the diverse students, families, and employees is important to overall quality of life for all residents, not just those with children. I believe education is important for a strong, successful community. School quality influences where people live and businesses locate. If the school division does not have a good reputation, people will not want to live here and property values will go down. In addition, a poor performing school division can have a negative effect on the local economy, which generates taxes and jobs.
Ms. Leila Holmes CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 2 (Independent) Current substitute teacher/clerical/volunteer, previous full-time Highly Qualified Paraprofessional, substitute at the school board office at the front desk, substitute teacher training for new substitute teachers for Prince George School System. Substitute teacher for Hopewell School System. Volunteer coach for PeeWee basketball-2 years, PTO, Census, MRC, Red Cross, PG Food/Clothing Bank, Mentor, SEAC member and participating in the PG Citizens Academy class and Triad. I am CPR-Adult/Infant/Child certified. I earned an Associate Degree from JSRCC-Cum Laude. I also attended VSU and JTCC. I am a Licensed Minister.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I have seen some things in the school system that can be made better for the students, parents, teachers, bus drivers and all other school employees. As an employee I know that some employees are reluctant to bring up issues and concerns. I have spoken up at a few of the school board meetings on issues, concerns and positive things in the school system. I have contacted current school board members by email and letter. There is a lack of transparency and communication within the school system. I want to be the voice for the people and advocate for them.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I am a college graduate and I have worked in the school system for 13 years as a substitute teacher and a High Qualified Paraprofessional in various classrooms for Special Education, Pre-k up to 12th grade. I also had the opportunity to work at Crater Juvenile Detention Center, PG Pals and Project Choice. I was chosen in 2007 as a model substitute teacher to participate in the substitute teacher training for new substitute teachers. I attend a
majority of the school board regular and special meetings to observe how things are handle. I don’t mind speaking up for what is right.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Shortage of bus drivers, finding a way to entice new drivers to seek employment with the Prince George School System, higher pay for bus drivers to keep them working for the county, higher pay for teachers and all other employees to keep them from going to work in other counties, keeping families in Prince George from moving to other counties for a better school system, building two new schools which may not be able to be built at the same time, bullying, students and parents having to go to the TV stations to get issues resolved in the school system.
How would you address those issues?
to all calls and emails. Bringing any issues and concerns to the other board members, so we can come up with solutions and make sure to respond by emails, texts or telephone to let the parents and community know that the board members do care about the school system. Make sure to enforce the No Bullying Policy.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Find ways to hire more bus drivers and increase pay for all employees to keep them working in the county. Incorporate a disciplinary committee consisting of a Principal, teacher, a guidance counselor to deal with student matters and only bring serious student matters before the school board so that school board meetings are not held for three to four hours. To obtain information as early as possible before school board meetings to go over items and be ready to deal with them. In the future come up with a way to build two new schools over the next four years.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Make sure to return all calls, emails and text message in a timely matter, bring all issues and concerns before the other board members so we can collectively come up ways to solve the issues and concerns of the residents in the county. Have more Community Forums so the residents can voice their issues and concerns in the school system. Also, making sure to have a two-way communication to let the residents know that the school board cares about the issues and concerns in the school system and will come up with ways to solve them.
I would dig deep into the budget to try to find money for annual raises for all school employees. Seek other sources outside of the school system for quality bus drivers. Be transparent for all employees, the community and making sure to response
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Mr. Christopher Johnson
CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1 (Independent)
Chris, as a military dependent, was 13 when his family settled in Prince George. He has been a resident for 38 years. He graduated from PGHS in 1985; lettering in track, football, basketball and was a SCA class senator. In 1987, he married Beth Hamilton. They raised five children; all graduates from PGHS; Alex ‘06, Tyler ‘09, Brittany ‘10, Caleb ‘13 and Luke ‘15. After PGHS graduation, Chris attended VMI and played football 2 seasons with his brother Derrick before transferring to VCU. He graduated from VCU 89’ with a BS in Business Admin/Real Estate. Chris and his father started a small business they eventually sold to a Fortune 500 home building company; where he has continued to work as Assistant Vice President and Plant Manager for the past 18 years. Involvement in his community has included coaching youth sports; football,
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Serving on the Prince George Facility Core Committee and the Crater Workforce Development Board inspired me along with encouragement from friends that my leadership and experiences could benefit the students of Prince George County Schools. I want to answer this call by running for School Board.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? • Bachelorette of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University • Plant Manager - Building Component Manufacturer • Capital Area Structural Building Components Board member and President • Acting Chair Crater Workforce Development Board • Southside Virginia Education Center Board
basketball and soccer. He co-founded and coached AAU Basketball – Team Loaded. He has been a PG Booster for 15 years and was the Football Camp Meal Coordinator for 6 years. He is a member of the Southern VA Educational Center Board of Directors and acting Chair of the Crater Workforce Development Board serving this region. He is the immediate Past-President of the Capital Area Association of Structural Building Components Association. He continues to be an avid fan and supporter of PG athletics. Chris is an active Christian member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He serves as the Stake Young Men’s President and Heart of VA Council Boy Scout Commissioner and Unit Committee Chair. Past ecclesiastical callings include: Branch President, Chesterfield Stake Presidency Councilor and Young Men’s President.
Member • Heart of VA Council Boy Scout Commissioner and Unit Committee Chair • Co-founder and Coach AAU Team Loaded Basketball • Coach Youth Sports • PG Booster • Church Service - Branch President, Chesterfield Stake Presidency Councilor and Young Men’s President. • Father of 5 Prince George High School Graduates
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Prince George faces many pressing issues from transportation, funding to retain and attract the most talented staff (including bus drivers, teachers and administrators), new facilities and increasing vocational technical training. The key is to prioritize based on data and metrics then use the best practice known in the State or Nation to
solve. The safety and security of all in our School System is paramount. Our School System must be a fortress of safety (internal and external), learning and achievement.
How would you address those issues? I would like to include budget items where any savings through efficiencies could be used for capital projects or other key areas such as salaries. Bonds could fund the building of the new schools. We are at a critical point where the building of new schools must be expedited. It is key for all elected officials to work together to this end not just School Board members. Security assessments are needed on every school at least yearly. We need to have drills, training, panic alarms and mobile emergency alerts for teachers. The relationships between students, staff, teachers and administrators are key in identifying issues and problems before they become tragedies.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Expedite the building of new schools and facilities. Hire a Superintendent that will lead our School System into the future. Provide additional vocational and technical opportunities to Students.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? The quality of our School System has an impact on real estate values. By providing a great education, we will protect our community and the values in our real estate. I will work use my drive and enthusiastic spirit to provide opportunities for the students of Prince George County to receive an exceptional education.
Commissioner Bill Feasenmyer Jr. CANDIDATE FOR COLONIAL HEIGHTS CITY COMMISSIONER OF REVENUE (Independent) Bill Feasenmyer Jr, US Army brat, US Army veteran, 1971-1973.
Active in The American Legion on the local (P284), state and national level for 40 years.
CHHS Class of 1970. RBC Class of 1975. VSC now VSU Class of 1977, BS Economics.
Member and past president of the CH Optimist 25 years, member of FOE #882 for 20 years. CHPD Auxiliary since 2014.
Have resided in CH my entire adult life (50yrs) except my time in the Army. Retired Allstate Insurance Co, 29 years. Substitute teacher in CHPS. Deputy Sheriff CHSO 2010-2014. Married to Rita since 2000. Daughter Vicki (Jerry) and grandchildren Reese and Evan. Son Dustin Jones.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I am seeking re-election to my current position as Commissioner of the Revenue for the City of Colonial Heights because I love my job. I love my employees. I love my City. I want to continue serving them.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I did not have any direct experience when I was elected 4 years ago. I have learned a tremendous amount these past 4 years. From statutory regulations and requirements to human personalities and emotions. They are diverse and complicated at times but when approached with integrity and trust the results most often are acceptable to all involved. I believe my office has applied this
thinking to everyday encounters with our citizens and businesses which make our City a great place to live and work.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Finding the resources to make my office and the other city departments that work hand in hand to assess, bill and collect the revenues needed to make this the best City in the Commonwealth to live and work. Financial software packages cost big money and the City is working toward making the necessary investment to make our systems efficient and reliable.
How would you address those issues? Our City Council, our Finance Director and our City Manager are already working toward that goal with input from other departments, including mine, to achieve what is best for the City.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Assess accurately and completely so that every citizen and business can continue to enjoy the services provided by our city. Treat everyone the same by applying state statutes and city ordinances equally and fairly. Work with the City to continue to improve assessing, billing and finance software so that all are integrated and more efficient to the benefit of everyone involved.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Unfortunately, what we do in my office is to interpret and enforce the State statutes and City ordinances that are enacted by others. Those can be somewhat controversial at times, however, my job is to enforce them fairly and impartially as they are enacted into law. Being as compassionate as the law allows is always my goal when it comes to a citizens financial well being. I also am proud that our citizens know that they can come to me about issues that have nothing to do with my elected position, knowing that I will refer their concern to the proper department or get them an honest answer in a timely manner.
Mr. Gray Collins III CANDIDATE FOR COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY - COLONIAL HEIGHTS (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
Sheriff Todd Wilson CANDIDATE FOR COLONIAL HEIGHTS CITY SHERIFF (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
Ms. Harriet Frenier CANDIDATE FOR COLONIAL HEIGHTS CITY TREASURER (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
Commissioner Debra Kloske Reason CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY COMMISSIONER OF REVENUE (Independent) I am currently the Commissioner of Revenue with more than 33 years of experience. I am a member of the Virginia Association of Assessing Officers, International Association of Assessing Officers, Virginia Association of Local Elected Constitutional Officers, Virginia Association of Local Tax Auditors, and Chairman of the Commissioner of Revenue Central District Association. I received the President’s Service Award for outstanding service three years in a row from the Commissioner of Revenue Association of VA. I was instrumental in bringing the Division of Motor Vehicles and Game and Inland Fisheries to this office.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? As a lifelong native of Hopewell, I have a strong desire to serve the citizens of Hopewell. I enjoy working with figures, the General Assembly and pride myself on being fair to all taxpayers.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I began my career with the City of Hopewell Treasures Office in 1983. I accepted a position in the Commissioner’s Office in December 1988. I was promoted to Chief Deputy in 2003 and appointed Commissioner of Revenue in January 2004. In 2006 I earned the certification as Master Commissioner of Revenue through the University Of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service.
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ELECTION GUIDE ‘17
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking?
strong relationship with the Department of Motor Vehicles and Game and Inland Fisheries Commissioner’s. In cooperation with the Tax Department and the Volunteer tax program continue free Federal and State tax services for citizens.
Bring new businesses and keep current businesses in the City. Ensure that the General Assembly does not abolish machinery and tools tax. Continue the Department of Motor Vehicle and Game and Inland Fisheries Select program. Provide tax services fair and equitably to all citizens.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected?
How would you address those issues? Work closely with other City Departments to bring new businesses to the City and work with current businesses to provide good services and help as needed. Lobby when needed at the General Assembly to ensure Senators and Delegates understand the importance of machinery and tools taxes to the welfare of Hopewell. Continue a
To continue to serve the citizens in a professional manner and make sure citizens have knowledge of the tax programs available to them and help veterans that are 100% disabled with the program for disabled veterans.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I will strive to continuously treat the taxpayers and public fairly and uniformly. My office and I
will make it a goal to provide the highest quality of customer service to all citizens, businesses, and organizations within the City of Hopewell as well as other localities. I will maintain and continue to implement programs for the citizens such as DMV Select, VITA Federal Tax Service, and Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief and Disabled Veterans Tax Relief.
Mr. Steve Kephart Jr. CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY SHERIFF (Independent) I am currently serving my 12th year as Chief Deputy of the Hopewell Sheriff’s Office. I have 30 years of exclusive Sheriff’s office experience. I hold certifications from the Department of Criminal Justice Services in Basic Jailors School, Court Security, Civil Process, Transportation of Prisoners, Hostage and Barricade, Juvenile Offenders Training School and Stress Management. I am a member of the National Sheriff’s Association, Virginia Sheriff’s Association, Hopewell Moose Lodge #1472, and Historic Hopewell Foundation. I volunteer with the Keep Hopewell Beautiful committee, have coached youth football, youth soccer and am a former member of the Hopewell Emergency Crew.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? In late 2016, Hopewell’s current Sheriff, Luther Sodat, decided to retire. Over the days that followed, I had many conversations with family, friends, coworkers, citizens, peers and others who were familiar with my background and qualifications. After much encouragement and family support, I decided to seek the office of Hopewell Sheriff. Hopewell is where I was born and raised, where I met and married my wife, Susan of 37 years and where we started our family. Hopewell is where I live and work. Hopewell is also where I started my Sheriff’s office career under Sheriff Joe Orlando. There is no other place that I would rather continue to use my Sheriff’s office experience and training to serve others and make a positive difference than right here in Hopewell. I promise to serve the City of Hopewell as long as the citizens elect me to the office of Sheriff.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? Serving my 12th year as Chief Deputy of the Hopewell Sheriff’s Office, I bring dedicated experience and proven leadership to provide continuity with my 30 years of exclusive Sheriff’s Office experience. I act on behalf of the Sheriff in his absence. My day to day responsibilities consist of
management over three courts and ensuring that proper staffing for each court is in place, ensuring that all transportation of prisoners to and from court has been scheduled and overseeing the civil process section to ensure that evictions are carried out in accordance with VA code and that all civil process are served . In addition, I oversee the Highway Traffic Safety program to include daily scheduling and proper disposition of paperwork and reports. I work within budgetary guidelines to maintain the Sheriff’s Office needs. Lastly, when the normal becomes the abnormal or when the proverbial stuff hits the fan, I am the person that Deputies look to for guidance and leadership. The afore mentioned duties provide me the unique qualifications to become Hopewell’s next Sheriff. I will start day one knowing the Sheriff’s duties and responsibilities and knowing how to perform each one without a learning curve.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? One of the biggest challenges facing the Sheriff’s office and all law enforcement today is the ever present threat of violence being committed against officers and innocent citizens.
How would you address those issues? Safety begins with selecting the best qualified candidates for deputies and supplying them with
the tools they need to be successful. We equip our deputies with proper training, protective gear and current weaponry to aid them in hazardous situations. Our courthouse is equipped with up to date security equipment and monitoring system. I will continue to maintain and keep our security equipment updated and functional at all times. I will have the courthouse and our courtroom structure routinely evaluated to ensure proper safety measures are in place throughout the courthouse to protect all who enter.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? One of my top goals is to commit to work with the Police Department, Judges and Commonwealth Attorney in anyway necessary to curb the ever growing Opioid problem in the city. I am in the process of having the deputies trained to carry and administer Narcan. A second goal is to work to have the Sheriff’s office accredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPSC). Being accredited will assure all of our citizens that the Hopewell Sheriff’s office is committed to always work within an industry set of standards. Accreditation is considered perhaps the best measure of professionalism among law enforcement agencies. A continuing goal is to strive to always keep the people that use our courts facility safe and the Sheriff’s office will always stand ready to assist the
Police department whenever necessary to ensure the safety of Hopewell.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Residents quality of life is improved by the Sheriff’s office being involved in our community and gaining the trust of our citizens. To be part of a community, you must know the community. Myself and my deputies will be an interwoven part of this community by continuing the community services already in place such as TRIAD, Project Life Saver, Child Safety Seat checks, Meals on Wheels, Crime Solvers and Keep Hopewell Beautiful, to name a few. We will continue to serve by being even more involved in various community functions and school safety. I will appoint a community support deputy as a liaison between the sheriff’s office and the citizens and have an open door policy to this community.
Mr. Travis Stanley CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY SHERIFF (Independent) I was born in John Randolph Hospital and lifelong Hopewell resident. I am a 1995 graduate of Hopewell High School and was a member of the football team and JROTC. I received an Associates Degree in Police Science and a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from Chowan (College) University. I graduated from the Basic Police Academy (BPA) in 2004 from Crater Criminal Justice Academy and began my law enforcement career with Petersburg Bureau of Police. I am currently a Corporal with the Hopewell Sheriffs Office and have been with the sheriffs office since 2009. I am a former substitute teacher with the Hopewell Public Schools and a former little league and All Stars baseball coach. I am also a member of the Hopewell Moose Lodge.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? I knew at an early age that I wanted to be a police officer, and ultimately wanted to run for Sheriff of my hometown as my way of serving the community. This city isn’t the same city I grew up in. The drug and crime rates are out of control and if there is anything I can do to help my city, I will. I am running for this office to put the ‘Hope’ back in Hopewell.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I am the only candidate in this race that has worked for both a police department and sheriffs office. I believe that uniquely qualifies me for this office. I have experience in the duties of the sheriffs office including court security, civil processing, prisoner transportations, and highway safety. I am the supervisor in charge of all overtime and special duties preformed by the sheriffs office. I have also assisted the Hopewell Police depart-
ment, State Police, and US Marshals in several fugitive roundups. Combine that with my education, I believe I give the citizens of Hopewell the best option for this office for the next couple of decades.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? The most significant issues facing the next sheriff is for one, raising moral. Moral has been low for some time. Lack of training is another. Deputies are not receiving nearly enough training, in my opinion.
How would you address those issues? I will address the issue of moral by leading by example. Some of the greatest employers that I have ever had, were those who were not afraid to ‘get their hands dirty’. I plan to be a very active and working Sheriff and I will expect the same from all supervisors in my administration. Everyone will ‘carry their own weight’ which will lighten
the load for the office at whole. Right now, we face a situation where most of the work is carried out by only a few deputies which breeds resentment and lack of overall moral. I will also insist that my deputies be trained in all the latest law enforcement techniques. I want the I-295 deputies to receive more advanced drug interdiction and DUI/DUID training. I also want all my civil processing deputies to be police certified. What this will accomplish, is adding more ‘police officers’ in the city who can back up the police as well as react to criminal activities they observe during the course of their shift. All I-295 deputies are currently police certified and assist inside the city when needed.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? My top goals are to ensure the safety of all Judges, clerks, attorneys, intake officers, and citizens inside the courthouse. I will also partner with the police department in creating a ‘hostile working environment’ for the local drug dealers who are devastating our city. Finally, I want to help create
a city where people can live, raise a family, and send their children to school. The Hopewell I remember as a child.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? My plan for improving the quality of life for the citizens is to have the best trained deputies, and to utilize the latest technologies available to ensure the safety and security for all citizens. For example, I plan to look at applying for a grant to purchase a drone to be used for our Project Lifesaver program. It is my hope that this will cut down on the time it takes to locate a missing autistic child or Alzheimer’s patient.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Richard Newman CANDIDATE FOR COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY - HOPEWELL (Independent) In addition to serving for the past 8 years as the chief prosecutor for the city of Hopewell, I have 18 collective years of experience in prosecution and 33 total years in legal practice. I received my law degree from the T.C. Williams School of Law of the University of Richmond.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking?
Hopewell is as safe as possible for my grandchildren and yours.
It has been an honor to serve the City of Hopewell as your Commonwealth’s Attorney for the past eight years. While I am uncontested on the ballot this year, I am still asking for your vote of confidence so I can continue to work hard for you. I have a passion for prosecution and I hope to continue to do my best to seek justice for the victims of crime in Hopewell.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking?
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? In addition to serving 8 years as your Commonwealth’s Attorney, and 33 years in legal practice including 18 in prosecution, prosecuting crime in Hopewell is personal to me. My wife and I are members of the Hopewell community and several of our grandkids are growing up here. Like you, I don’t get to go across the bridge every evening and get away from the crime issues Hopewell has. Although I didn’t grow up here, I’m invested in this community and my top goal is to make sure
Combating juvenile crime has to be a top priority for any Commonwealth’s Attorney, especially in Hopewell.
How would you address those issues? Combating juvenile crime has been a top goal for my office for the past several years. Unfortunately, once people reach a certain age it can be very difficult to get them to turn their lives around but our youth still have young impressionable minds. We have worked diligently through the juvenile justice system to try to work with our youth to get them on the right track. We also started advocating a zero tolerance policy for juveniles and gun crime. It seems more and more these days young people are picking up guns to settle conflicts without any understanding or appreciation of the finality of taking a human life. When we get these youths into the system on crimes where a gun is involved my office seeks detention orders to get
them off the streets immediately to allow the hostilities to settle down. Too often we see retaliation for one crime leading to more and more lives lost or forever damaged. Our youth are our future and we need to continue to work together as a community to influence them in positive ways. I will continue to work on this issue in my next term.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? In addition to combating juvenile crime, my office will continue to be an advocate for victims and their families seeking justice in our judicial system. My office is always open and accessible to the public and we are here to serve you. Our Attorneys practice fairness in looking at each case individually.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve?
recover the child before it is too late. We have done numerous events in Hopewell and even in the surrounding areas to help protect our children. As part of our community outreach and support, my office has used a significant amount of asset forfeiture funds (money seized from drug dealers) to support Hopewell youth football leagues and other youth activities. These great programs in Hopewell offer a positive influence on our youth, encourage them to participate and excel, and offering them mentorship from leaders who want to see them succeed in life.
Our office participates in the Child ID program. The Child ID program is an essential tool in case a child ever goes missing; parents will have all the important pictures and identifying information available to send out to law enforcement to help
Mr. John Holloway Sr.
Mr. Kevin Johnson
CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY SHERIFF (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY SHERIFF (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
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Ms. LaTonya Felton CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY TREASURER (Independent) I have been a tax-paying resident of the City of Hopewell for the past 17 years and an employee of the Treasurer’s office for the last 12 years. I am the parent of three children who have attended /are attending school in Hopewell. As your Chief Deputy Treasurer, I work directly with the Treasurer and supervise all staff as well as day to day operations of the office. I volunteer and/or served on the board for Yeshua’s House, the Hopewell High School Band programs, and The City of Hopewell Black Heritage Committee.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? The citizens and the City of Hopewell. I have never run for public office so this decision was heartfelt and important to me upon the retirement announcement of our current Treasurer, my boss Teresa Batton. I feel that the citizens of Hopewell deserve a Treasurer that has been involved and a part of our local government. The city has invested in me by affording me the opportunity to take extensive training for our new software system and I must make a good return on their investment. Experience and history are essential to the day to day operations of a government office as it impacts our everyday lives.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? In 2005, I began as a part-time cashier in the City of Hopewell Treasurer’s Office and within a year was promoted to a Deputy Treasurer II.
In 2008, through the Weldon Cooper Center at the University of Virginia completed the Treasurer’s Association of Virginia - Career Development program and obtained the Master Governmental Deputy Treasurer certification I was promoted to Deputy Treasurer IV and have served as your Chief Deputy Treasurer since 2010. December 2013, City of Hopewell- Municipal Building Employee of the Month. In 2016, I received my Certification in Governmental Accounting through Radford University and the Treasurer’s Association of Virginia. I have received extensive training for the new software system the City of Hopewell has acquired.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Fair collection and reporting of local revenue. The implementation of additional modules within the new software system acquired by the City. Staffing and space are also a concern.
How would you address those issues? Training and communication as well as additional collection actions if needed As new modules are being implemented, the proper system set-up and training of staff is key to making sure all entries are processed correctly. I would like to create a new position within the office to take on additional duties as we move forward with the new computer system and with the continued services we offer the citizens such as being a DMV Select agent.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Accountability - to ensure that businesses and citizens are contributing their fair share thru tax collections and citizens are advised of revenue collections. Customer Service- to maintain positive help and feedback with assisting the residents with their needs. Education and Information- to ensure continuous
training for all office staff members to remain current on any changes from the General Assembly that affect our day-to-day operations and the citizens.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? To improve the quality of life for the residents of Hopewell I will continue to build onto and upgrade the online services offered. Within the next few weeks, I will have available on the city website access for citizens to see their property tax information. I am ready for this new challenge and with your help on Nov 7th we can make a difference!
Ms. Joan Gosier CANDIDATE FOR HOPEWELL CITY TREASURER (Independent) As an MBA in international finance from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and an honors graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, I’ve gained valuable life experience. I began my career as a bank teller, spent relevant summer internships in consumer and commercial banking and have managed in corporate finance, real estate and pharmaceutical sales. Currently I am the Director of Finance of Friendship Baptist Church, the Treasurer of the Hopewell Economic Development Authority and the first ever Title 1 Parent and Family Engagement Coordinator for Carter G. Woodson Middle School. My husband Thomas, my Campaign Manager and wonderful support mate for raising our 15 year old, 13 year old and 4 year old daughters.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? My exposure to local politics from working in various grassroots campaigns, I observed the positive difference that community leaders make and the blessing in being able to utilize your gifts and talents as a public servant. As an active community member, I see a glaring disconnect between what happens with our local resources and the financial reporting of such decisions. I believe that this city is geographically located between the Appomattox and the James River for a purpose. Our economic stewardship of these resources is critical not only for the state but our nation. So I am running for office to be an advocate for our natural resources including our children. I am running to make Hopewell a destination for homecoming.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I have gained over 31 years of relevant financial leadership, training and supervisory experience that qualifies me to hold the office of City Treasurer. As a team player and effective communicator, I am able to bring together new ideas and processes that improve the overall organization. I recently attended a Virginia Municipal League (VML) training program in Richmond in order
to match up my background with the City of Hopewell’s current and future needs. I stay abreast of what is happening in the economy, and I am confident that I can make a positive impact on our city’s fiscal needs.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Many of the challenges facing the Treasurer’s Office are publicly reported in the latest audit and city council minutes. For the items that are listed and under the authority of my office I would like to engage in a constant conversation with the finance department to eliminate any negative findings by audit. The city has been facing difficulties in producing timely Comprehensive Annual Financial reports (CAFR) for a few years. The adoption of the new features of the MUNIS system is a challenge facing the department. The preparation of the 2016 and 2017 CAFR combined with the statutory deadlines with a small staff is a current challenge.
How would you address those issues? I will address the challenges by embracing new technology, training and teamwork. My experience in supervising accounting staff, my leadership in working through crisis and my ability to
navigate through stressful events will also provide a unique skill set as a public servant. If elected by the people of Hopewell, my initial steps to achieving this goal would include reviewing and diagramming the current processes with each team member and determining the minimum amount of time it would require to ensure the reconciliation of the current bills and bank statements. I will make sure our investment policy is following what is outlined by the Commonwealth of Virginia, and will work within that policy to increase our return on investments (ROI).
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Bring transparency to the office of the City Treasurer by providing accurate and timely financial statements and publishing reports online. I want the people of Hopewell to have the information they need when it is needed. Increase the technology capacity of the office by optimizing the MUNIS software to support transparency and accuracy goals. I have already visited Tyler Technologies University which is the developer of the MUNIS system in order to increase the capacity of our people and our systems.
Opening up a virtual Office of Financial Empowerment to assist the citizens of Hopewell in making economic choices and by helping each family plan better for their future. Please visit my website www.JoanEGosier4Treasurer.com to learn more.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve?
If elected, I will provide residents with an online presence that will increase their connection to the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). Under this law, local financial literacy tools can be provided at no additional cost to tax payers. By connecting our banking and real estate community, I will work to create a city where our children are better equipped to affordably become homeowners and raise their families. I also have a vision for the city to create a new “People 2 Production” event. This would link our top tax payers of the city to our everyday citizens in an effort to better appreciate and value the products and/or service being produced here while encouraging future investment into our young people.
Ms. Cheryl Wilson CANDIDATE FOR COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY - PETERSBURG (Democrat)
I am the Commonwealth Attorney for the City of Petersburg as of April 2017. I graduated cum laude from Virginia Union University in 1985 with a Degree in Political Science/History. I attended and graduated from the University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of Law with a J.D. in Law in 1988. I have worked in the Petersburg Commonwealth Attorney’s Office since 1994; responsible for the prosecution of all criminal offenses that occur in the City of Petersburg. From 1991-1994 I worked for the Petersburg Public Defender’s office. I have worked in Public Service for almost 27years. I also have been involved in civic/ social organizations. Presently I volunteer with the Virginia State Police, conducting moot court for our new recruits, I am a member of Kiwanis Breakfast Club, Sadwac, Petersburg Bar Association, Petersburg Democratic Committee, and I volunteer with other attorneys 4 to 6 Saturdays a year to provide free wills, power of attorney’s and medical directives for our Seniors. I am also involved in the Petersburg Promise Mentor for Petersburg Public Schools.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking?
to ensure that the process is fair regardless of who you are or where you come from.
I am passionate about my job. I want to ensure that everyone who lives, visits and or works in Petersburg is safe. We should all have the ability to live, work, and play free from fear. Our children should not be afraid to go outside and just play. I know I have the experience, knowledge, dedication to do what I can in partnership with others to get the job done.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking?
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking?
I have been a Commonwealth Attorney in this city for over 23 years. I have prosecuted cases from traffic matters to capital murder. I have the experience to handle the tough cases and the wisdom to evaluate the worth of a case. I have developed over the last two decades partnerships with other civic, social and faith based organizations. I want
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Every case that comes in this office is important. From the petit larceny from Wal-Mart to the more violent crime that may occur at your home. I have an experienced and dedicated staff that works hard to see that justice is done. That justice, however, requires the help of citizens to come forward when they have information about crime in our community. Criminals thrive when good people do nothing.
How would you address those issues? I have made it a primary goal of meeting with the citizens of Petersburg directly, by attending neighborhood watch groups, ward meetings, and by remaining engaged directly with citizens. My office has also enhanced its lines of communication with
Chief Miller and his department, and attending roll call meetings weekly to learn even more about what the officer on the street is seeing.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? My top priority has been and will always be to protect our community and keep people safe. Our office will remain committed to engaging with citizens and hearing their concerns. Community help is vital to stopping crime. We all want the same thing: a safe place to live and call home. We need to work together, prosecutors, police, and citizens, to make that happen.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? My job is to prosecute those criminal offenses that are brought before me. We attempt to ensure that those who chose not to follow the law are prosecuted. We also want to see those who can
be rehabilitated have the opportunity for that to occur. We also want to ensure that our juvenile offenders have the opportunity to correct their behavior and have the opportunity to succeed. I intend to continue to meet with the public to find out firsthand what the concerns of the citizens are. I intend to continue to attend the Ward meetings, neighborhood watch and school board meetings, so that I can hear firsthand what the concerns are first hand from the citizens. My office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The public is welcome to come by or call. I and my staff are available to address issues of concern.
Sheriff Vanessa Crawford CANDIDATE FOR PETERSBURG CITY SHERIFF (Democrat) Has been the Sheriff of Petersburg for 12 years, Retired from the Virginia Department of Corrections after over 28 years of service with over 20 years either as Superintendent or Asst. Superintendent of institutions. President of Petersburg High School Boosters Club; Past President of Kiwanis Luncheon Club; President of Petersburg-Dinwiddie Crime Solvers; National Certified Jail Manager through American Jail Association; Only Sheriff in Virginia to obtain Department of Justice Certification as a Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) Auditor; Former Vice Chair of School Board; Past President of Virginia Sheriff’s Institute; Current President of Virginia Sheriff’s Association; Appointed by Terry McAuliffe, Governor of Virginia, to serve on the Department of Criminal Justice Services Board; President of Virginia Correctional Association and many more civic engagements.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? Prior to running for office, I saw that there was much that could be done in our community to make a positive impact. For those incarcerated, I knew that programs to assist with a successful transition back into the community was essential and as a result, offered over 30 programs to returning citizens prior to the jails closing. I also saw an opportunity for law enforcement to impact all other facets in our community in a positive way, as well, beginning with programs for our senior population, i.e. TRIAD, k-12 students, high school students, students with disabilities, persons with Alzheimers, Dementia or Autism, the driving senior population, and the entire community with the Drug Take Back Initiative, Vin Etching, the senior CarFit program and many other programs offered to many segments of the population that impact the Petersburg community in a positive way.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? I have a BS degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and over 40 years of experience in law
enforcement between my experience with the Va. Department of Corrections and the Petersburg Sheriff’s Office. I was first a counselor in the Department of Corrections on the treatment side and after a number of years switched over to the security side, so I have had the opportunity to view law enforcement from both angles and realize the importance of safety, security and treatment to make our communities safe. I have learned that if you only warehouse individuals. providing no treatment while incarcerated, that same person will be coming back on the street with no tools to improve their lives. So, to make our communities safe, I came to realize long ago that providing services to those incarcerated prior to release, will enhance the chance of you having a law abiding citizen, upon release, as your neighbor.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? I think some of the most significant issues facing Sheriff’s Offices, not just in Petersburg, but around the state, are lack of adequate staffing and funding and staff recruitment and retention. All of those issues, in my humble opinion, go hand in hand.
How would you address those issues? Those issues can be best addressed by working with the new Administration in Petersburg and with our legislators, as some of our issues are going to be best addressed at the state level.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Court safety and security, safe transportation for staff and inmates, pay disparities, compression issues and working to educate the community more in safety practices to keep our community safe. Also, I would continue to partner with city departments to provide opportunities for our citizens, as there are several new initiatives that the Sheriff’s Office will be implementing in the next few months.
of Petersburg. But additionally, what I have done since being Sheriff is, as I travel, I visit other sheriff’s offices to see what they bring to their communities to see if it is something that the Petersburg community can benefit from. If so, I bring it back to Petersburg and implement it, as long as it does not impact my budget. If there is a cost to implementing a new program, I would seek funding. So, I would continue to seek opportunities to enhance the quality of life for not only our community, but for surrounding communities, as well, because we are all better if we work together and share ideas and resources.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I would continue to enhance the programs we have to improve the quality of life for the citizens
Mr. Kenneth Pritchett CANDIDATE FOR PETERSBURG CITY TREASURER (Democrat) I grew up in Centre Hill, graduated from Petersburg High School where I was vice president of the student body and captain of the football team. I received district all-star honors and was nominated as a high school All-American. I earned a BS degree in history/political science from Hampden-Sydney College, was co-captain of the football team in my senior year and made several all-conference teams. Upon graduation, I taught science at Manchester High School and was an assistant football coach. I served a term as president during 15 years of membership in Rotary Club; board member of Southside Virginia Emergency Crew, board member of Cares, member of Richard Bland College Foundation, board member of Southside Virginia Association of Realtors, member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in addition to working with and volunteering for other community organizations. I served three terms on City Council. I am currently a Realtor serving the Tri-Cities area.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking?
As a Petersburg native long involved in community life, I feel a civic duty to help the city get back on track toward financial integrity and honest accounting of tax dollars collected each year. I chose to seek the office of City Treasurer as a way also to help the city become financially stable again. Seeing how we have a very low credit rating with Standard & Poors, I want to be able to help the city gain access to capital by n being able to borrow money at reasonable rates to fund capital improvements. We all want our city to prosper and create opportunities for our families and businesses. We must change to improve our school system and public safety.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? My years on City Council provided me with insight and knowledge of the city government’s workings that qualify me for restoring the Treasurer’s office to successful operations. I also served as a board member, which is an executive position, for several large community organizations. I am currently active in business as a Realtor serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding counties.
My previous sales experience in the retail apparel industry, working with major department stores as well as men’s and women’s specialty stores, provided valuable insight in operating a profitable business enterprise.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking?
occurred regularly in recent years.
accounts in a timely manner.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected?
The City Council has taken the necessary actions to get the city headed toward a new and more efficient model. It will be important for every elected officer to sustain this momentum and manage the challenge of ending “business as usual” policies that have for many years retarded the city’s economic progress.
If elected Treasurer, I will take the following actions: Implement procedures for consistent, timely and accurate revenue collection.
The First and foremost is to restore public trust that the Treasurer’s office is operating honestly in the public interest. Audits by the Robert Bobb Group and PBMares LLP found misallocation of tax revenue. Bobb Group also discovered that millions of dollars lay in the office undeposited in the bank for months when the city was laying off workers and unable to pay its bills.
Pay bills when they are due.
Standardize internal controls.
Extend hours when necessary to accommodate citizens who pay in person.
How would you address those issues?
Utilize data analytics to upgrade decision-making.
Seek citizen input on ways to improve operations.
The new Treasurer will need to examine costs and carry out the duties as defined in the City Charter. These duties include honesty in the custody of all monies belonging to the city and consulting with the City Council in the flow of receipts and outlays of tax and fee revenue. The Treasurer’s books should be open to City Council on a regular basis and immediately upon specific request from City Council.
Eliminate the lockbox system.
Assure checks are deposited promptly
Deposit city cash in a local bank.
Be personally available for those who are having problems with operations of the office.
As required by law, special monies such as the Storm Water fee should be kept in a separate account dedicated to its legal purpose. There should be no co-mingling of funds, which has
Mr. Corey Brown CANDIDATE FOR PETERSBURG CITY SHERIFF (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
Upgrade customer service and staff training. Guarantee transparent management of accounts and investments.
I will restore interdepartmental cooperation and collaboration, and hold myself and staff accountable for working together and implementing best professional practices.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve?
Pay bills promptly to help improve the city’s credit rating, which would contribute toward holding down taxes that citizens pay.
It is critical that the Commissioner of Revenue and Treasurer work together to assure peak performance of both offices at all times to prevent lapses that have occurred in the past, such as failure to send out tax notices and failure to post
Ms. Brittany Flowers CANDIDATE FOR PETERSBURG CITY COMMISSIONER OF REVENUE (Democrat) No Response Provided At Press Time
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Ms. Gloria Person Brown-Huballah CANDIDATE FOR PETERSBURG CITY TREASURER
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? After carefully assessing the future direction of potential leadership, lengthy discussions and matching my skill sets and experiences with the responsibility of the City Treasurer’s Office and the needs of the residents of Petersburg. I continue my commitment to help grow Petersburg with a holistic approach. Strengthening the economic base through awareness and education to encourage the importance of positive fiscal responsibility, leading to a path to fervent economic development to the City of Petersburg. I have decided with the encouragement and support to continue my service to the City Treasurer of Petersburg in a functional business capacity.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking? 30 years Fiscal, Logistical and Business Management, but not limited to; Core Leadership and Advocacy Skills * Government Affairs/Public Policy * Grassroots Advocacy/Key Contact Programs * Negotiating Skills * Crisis Management/Corporate Strategy * Innovative Problem Solver/Trouble-shooter * State Government Advocacy * Tactical & Strategic Planning * Media, Community & Industry Relations * Issues Management/Project Coordination * Corporate Social Responsibility * Education
(Independent)
* Networking, relationship building and sustainability Education, Professional Development and Organizations *NCSL National Conference of State Legislators *ICMA *NILE National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics Student and Board of Directors 2018-2019 *Candidate for Obama Leadership Fellow *ACLU *Richard Bland College of William and Mary- Political Science 2017 *William and Mary/University of Richmond -Political Science and Public Policy 2019 *University of Virginia/ Event and Hospitality Management 2007 *The Algebra Project- Professional Community Organizer Training 2007 *Voter Mobilization Training University of Richmond 2007 *(COSE) Council of Sales Excellence by Acura-2010 Bronze Level *Coalition of 100 Black Women of Metropolitan Atlanta *Atlanta Urban League *National Association of Female Executives
strengthen the economic base individually, corporately and within government.
How would you address those issues? I’ve been following the direction of the status of the new “Treasurer’s office”. In addition to my campaigning, I’ve spent time researching, connecting, and receiving productive feedback from other Treasurer’s with the same model to offer the “best practices” for a successful Treasurer’s office. As of January 1 I want to have everything positioned to launch to satisfy my first quarter goal. I have great relationships locally and nationally to potentially have resources available to Petersburg moving forward. Entities want to be a part of Petersburg, but previously experienced trust issues and not receiving support and clarity on the direction of the City. I’ve been fortunate to gain trust from my personal relationships. This renewed trust will be a door opening to solid long term relationships. I have already made contacts with banks, businesses and other developers in the area to partner with my “90 day Petersburg Partnership Project” to inject a shot in the arm to Petersburg economic development.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected?
*Long Island Key Club
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? I feel with the restructuring of the newly formed Treasurer’s office and its relationship to the City of Petersburg will be a shift to position the City for economic growth in a holistic approach through more customer service focused partnerships with banks, private, state and federal programs to
1. I have an immediate 90 Day Petersburg Partnership Project, this will focus on bring the corporate community on board with the future growth of Petersburg. This will include banks offering financial literacy, working with the schools to educate our youth population before they enter the workforce. With that said, strengthening the Bank and Credit Union presence to start to eliminate the alternative financial, Title and money loans companies. I have also chatted with Virginia State University for partnerships with
mentor programs and professional internships within my department. 2. A first year comprehensive plan to go out and touch the community to continue to educate the community about the importance of revenue to “their” City, and how the lack of consistent revenue will adversely affect the community, but also the individuals that feel it is not necessary to contribute their required share to effectively operate government and to provide services to the residents of Petersburg.
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? Educate, educate, educate! The common and most adverse problem to this community is the factual, resourceful, and communicative information. The residents of Petersburg has to be aware of the policies and processes for the rules of engagement to better understand and actively participate as an informed and productive citizen. Also I am a stickler on customer service! I want the Treasurer’s office to be a welcomed resource to the community. Im excited tying my expertise, skill sets, and goals with the other departments throughout the City of Petersburg.
Treasurer Susan Vargo CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY TREASURER (Independent)
Lifetime resident of Prince George County. Richard Bland College/John Tyler Community College, cash handling, dual controls, auditing, customer relations. Previously worked in banking for nearly 10 years head teller, trained new employees, worked in several departments. Currently work in the treasurer’s office as the Chief Deputy Treasurer and have worked in the office for over 25 years. I have attended career development courses to earn the completion of Master Governmental Deputy Treasurer, and continue to take courses in the career development education and The Treasurer’s Association of Virginia.
What prompted you to run for the office you’re seeking? The current treasurer will retire at the end of the year, and would like if elected, to be given the opportunity to serve the citizens of Prince George County as their Treasurer.
What experience and/or education do you have that qualifies you to do the work of the office you’re seeking?
edge not only for the treasurer’s office daily functions, but for almost all of the county departments in some form or function in processing transactions for all departments, helping if there presents a problem and/or needing to find information.
What are the most significant issues facing the next elected individual in the office you’re seeking? Keeping up with technology both systematically and equipment. Collection of delinquent accounts.
monitored for longevity. Collection methods be reviewed if by an agency or if needing better means within other possibilities of better billing, payment agreements, etc.
What will be your top priorities or goals if you are elected? Review billing to see where improvements can be made. To investigate to find out new and different ways to try and collect delinquent accounts.
How would you address those issues? I have worked in the treasurer’s office for over 25 years. I have taken classes at Richard Bland College, John Tyler, and thru the career development education for certification. I have gained knowl-
What would you do in this position to improve the quality of life for the residents you serve? I would strive to improve upon our treasurer’s website, that it be more informative to the citizens, and that the online payment will be available for citizens to utilize. Not only for the citizens to have excellent customer service, but to ensure that citizens are knowledgeable about different programs and tax exemptions that may help them.
Citizens have excellent customer service. Strive to make sure upgrades can be made within the system, keeping cost to minimum but doing more frequently and that equipment inventory is
Ms. Lori Robertson CANDIDATE FOR PRINCE GEORGE COUNTY TREASURER (Independent) No Response Provided At Press Time
Look for Election Results at
The Progress-Index in the Wednesday, November 8th print edition. 12 ELECTION GUIDE ‘17