The city has 10 local election districts, and districts 1, 3, 5, 7 and 8 have candidates running for City Council this year.
Residents of those districts will vote for their district representative. A total of 13 candidates are running for the five district seats on the City Council.
In District 1, Ryan Gilliam is running against David “Hutch” Hutcheson. In District 3, Michael Berlucchi, Christina M. Felder and Cleon Jones are in the race. In District 5, L.G. Shaw is facing Rosemary Wilson. Cal “Cash” Jackson-Green and Mabinty Saffie Scott are running for District 7, and in the special election for District 8, Cody Conner, Stacy Cummings, Phil Hines and Leland Jones are on the ballot.
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District 1
Ryan Gilliam
Age: 45
Occupation/job title: Instrumentation Technician V, Kira Services
Highest level of education: Bachelor’s degree, B.S., Aviation Mgmt. Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Military service: U.S. Marine Corps
Website: www.voteryangilliam.com
What would be your top priority if elected? The prevention of municipal collective bargaining.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? This is a multi-faceted question however, repurposing areas with anemic or non-functioning use would provide an opportunity to increase the availability of housing inventory within Virginia Beach. In areas where developers are willing to establish infrastructure, there also exists an opportunity to increase the available number of housing units in the city. All of this is predicated on many different factors but one thing that must be acknowledged is that a certain number of the new housing units must be allotted for work force housing. Those that work for Virginia Beach should be given every opportunity to live in Virginia Beach.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? I would support business policies that would make starting a business a much shorter process. It can take quite a bit of time for a business to finally get to the point where it can “open its doors”, so to speak. I want to streamline the process and make it simpler. In addition, I would continue to offer tax incentives to larger businesses looking to possibly relocate to Virginia Beach. As we broaden the business base of the city, we will lessen the burden facing everyday families and individuals who are paying increasingly higher bills to due property assessments. I count myself and my family as one of those who are struggling in this environment, so the interest for me is quite personal.
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David “Hutch” Hutcheson
Age: 57
Occupation/job title: Retired Virginia Beach fire chief
Highest level of education: Master’s degree, Naval post graduate
Previous elected offices held: current Virginia Beach City Council member, since 2024
Website: Hutchforcouncil.com
What would be your top priority if elected? My top priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen and visitor in Virginia Beach. I am dedicated to addressing flooding, traffic issues, affordable housing, mental health, education, and public safety. Working with my fellow council members and local leaders, I will aim to keep Virginia Beach among the best cities in America. Since my election in January, I have engaged with over 500 constituents and civic and business leaders. They have raised concerns about road conditions, traffic calming, school quality, mental health, flooding, tax rates, and affordable housing. If re-elected, my goal is to continue collaborating with city staff and council members to prioritize and address the needs of our city and District 1, creating a safer and more vibrant Virginia Beach for everyone.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? It’s crucial that our city remains accessible and affordable for everyone, creating a thriving community. We can’t be a true community if city workers can’t afford to live here. First, we must explore all possible solutions. Next, we should identify where affordable housing can be developed, focusing on existing mixed-use options. Aging shopping centers offer a chance to introduce mixed-use housing. I’ve been collaborating with developers on three projects in District 1, including converting an early 1970s shopping center into mixed-use condos and apartments. This will provide affordable housing and reduce runoff into the Elizabeth River by decreasing the asphalt footprint. Council should continually review and update policies that impact the cost and feasibility of building and living in Virginia Beach.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach?
At every government level—local, state, or federal—the goal is to balance economic development with reducing citizens’ tax burdens. Human investment drives economic growth, and Virginia Beach must invest in infrastructure, like storm-water projects, to attract and retain talent. Alongside infrastructure, supporting first-time small businesses, entrepreneurship, and prioritized industries will drive growth. We must also focus on workforce housing to ensure that those who invest in our city can thrive here. Virginia Beach has always been a great place to live, work, and play, with beautiful beaches, lush farmlands, and the upcoming VB trail, as well as safe neighborhoods, schools, and healthcare. I am committed to supporting each citizen to maintain our city’s excellence.
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District 3
Michael Berlucchi
Age: 44
Occupation/job title: Community Relations Manager, Chrysler Museum of Art
Highest level of education: Bachelor’s degree, George Mason University
Previous elected offices: Current Virginia Beach City Council member, since 2019
Website: www.BerlucchiforCouncil.com
What would be your top priority if elected? Affordability is my top priority. Your family budget is my top priority and before every vote, I ask, “Does this help or hurt the people who live in District 3.” Many proposals are made that increase the cost of government, meaning higher taxes for you. Candidates for office propose things without being honest about what the cost to you will be. I do my homework and ask questions. I want to know the costs and the impacts. I won’t favor one group over another and have a record of fighting for a level playing field. Good ideas are judged by their merits, and I have had great success implementing good ideas, like approving affordable housing, supporting community organizations, helping those in need during the pandemic, or funding immediate flooding solutions. I work for you.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? I have consistently advocated for more affordable housing and have consistently voted to approve more housing. Many say they support affordable housing, but shy away when it’s time to actually vote for it. My voting record is 100% supportive. I also understand there are things City Council can’t control, like national interest rates, the cost of building supplies, or the amount of available land. We can encourage private sector redevelopment by taking down barriers that make it cost-prohibitive to build housing. It makes no sense for the city to increase the cost of housing and then declare that affordable housing is such a problem. The city can stop making the problem worse. We will continue to lower the real estate tax rate and encourage better land use decisions at the local level.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Virginia Beach is attracting new employers to our city, including 1,000 jobs for the new Amazon facility. We are also working closely with NAS Oceana making sure we keep our military here and the 13,000 jobs at Oceana secure. I’m also excited to continue working with small business owners and entrepreneurs here in Virginia Beach to strengthen and grow their businesses and add jobs. These strategies create more employment options for Virginia Beach residents, economic opportunities for families, and revenue streams for government and allows us to lower taxes and keep the lowest tax rates in Hampton Roads.
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Christina Felder
Age: 27
Occupation/job title: Educator, Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Highest level of education: Doctoral degree, higher education administration, educational leadership, Liberty University
Website: christinafelder.com
What would be your top priority if elected? I have three, which are: (serving the community, public safety, and infrastructure). I have created a small sort of playbook called Project 28. I called it Project 28 because I will be turning 28 when I reach office at the end of this election. Project 28 will be on my website: christinamfelder.com. Within this Project 28, citizens of District 3 will read everything that I plan to implement rapidly as planned within my first 180 days of obtaining my seat, as District 3’s next city councilwoman of Virginia Beach.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Cost of housing has risen to unaffordable levels, causing the desperate need for low-income housing. I’ve seen some research that has been done on this topic. My focus once in the position, would be to review what the current councilman in office has implemented for the last six years. What has been done regarding the housing needs in Virginia Beach as a whole, and what specifically within District 3 as a community. I need to know how District 3’s tax money has been utilized, for the past six years. After gathering my findings, I would start implementing my Project 28 plans, for this topic, which I have created, as part of my first 180 days in office. Revamp District 3 and make Virginia Beach amazing again! I must support the citizens who work hard to pay these rising taxes.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? To accurately answer this question, I must know exactly, how taxes have been distributed for the past six years, while my opponent has been in office within Virginia Beach and specifically overseeing District 3. I will need to start from scratch, meaning, once I learn the figures/budget I am working with, either a surplus or a deficit, will determine my decisions and next steps. my focus is to help the community of District 3 as much as possible to lower current taxes, but first I must plan to initiate a good budgeting method. when it comes to increasing economic development, I have great hopes to get the job done. Once in office, the goal is to support District 3’s infrastructure, public safety, and community needs as my top priority.
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Cleon Jones
Age: 54
Occupation/job title: Master Firefighter, Acting Captain for the City of Virginia Beach
Highest level of education: Some college or professional certification
Website: www.cleonjonesforcouncil.com
What would be your top priority if elected? Working to ensure neighborhood safety through infrastructure improvement, public transportation and public safety.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Implement zoning reforms, such as repurposing existing buildings that sit empty throughout the city.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Create a business friendly environment, invest in infrastructure and train a skilled workforce.
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District 5
L.G. Shaw
Age: 42
Occupation/job title: President, Wave Riding Vehicles
Highest level of education: Graduate of First Colonial High School
Website: lgshawforvb.com
What would be your top priority if elected? If elected to Virginia Beach City Council, my top priority would be creating a community-first mindset to ensure future resiliency.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? It is vital that Virginia Beach is accessible and affordable for all, including affordable and workforce housing. We must pursue all financial support from the state and federal levels available to the city. Seaside Harbor, in the ViBe district near WRV, is an example of a success story that needs to be replicated.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Improve how Virginia Beach City Council does business by increasing transparency and encouraging citizen input. We must invest in infrastructure and storm water projects now to protect our community and its most vital assets: our residents. Optimize existing business-tax credits and economic development grants to continue growing small businesses and promote innovation, especially among young people, to reduce our communities’ “brain drain.” Small programs have proven incredibly effective in areas like Virginia Beach’s ViBe district, paving the way for expanding citywide opportunities.
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Rosemary Wilson
Age: 73
Occupation/job title: Realtor, Howard Hanna Real Estate
Highest level of education: Bachelor’s degree, Bachelor of Science Old Dominion University
Previous elected offices: Current Vice Mayor of Virginia Beach (since 2021) Virginia Beach School Board and City Council member (since 2000)
Website: www.rosemarywilson.org
What would be your top priority if elected? My top priority is to preserve the things that make Virginia Beach great. This summer I led the effort to support future aircraft to be home based at NAS Oceana. This is essential for Oceana to thrive in the future. District 5 is home to both Oceana and Dam Neck. I meet quarterly with the Navy leadership. I also led the effort to preserve Rudee Loop for an open space park without hotels or condos. A park for the people and preserve fishing and surfing. Council is working to help the aquarium meet its financial challenges and thrive for decades to come. I also stood up to Dominion Energy and spoke the truth. I have put pressure on them to mitigate their disruption and hold multiple community meetings to be transparent. I do these things because I love Virginia Beach and the people who live here.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Workforce housing is essential for our military, teachers, public safety, nurses, people who serve us everyday. If they work in Virginia Beach, they should be able to live in Virginia Beach. It’s a very complicated issue as we have a shortage of land and inflationary costs. Mixed-use design is one way and taking advantage of underperforming commercial areas like was done at Kemps River. There are also some government tools such as mini TIF districts that can be created. We do not want to approve this below the blue line, but focus on the strategic growth areas along the 264 corridor.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? We’ve had a lot of success here as being the 8th best place to live in the country according to U.S. News. Companies want their employees to have a great quality of life. This job growth has helped us have the lowest tax rate in the region with the best services. We lowered our rate even more this year and absorbed the 4 cents of the citizen approved flood referendum. We have a AAA bond rating that saves us millions. Your city is financially secure, with a great school system, and with the approved storm water projects is a place where businesses want to be. I worked with the School Board to create more career technical education opportunities as well. This will help businesses with their future workforce, and help our students with job opportunities and not carry a heavy college debt.
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District 7
Cal “Cash” Jackson-Green
Age: 51
Occupation/job title: Sales Consultant, RK Auto
Highest level of education: Certificate in Theology, School of Training, World Reaching Faith
Website: cashforvirginiabeach.com
What would be your top priority if elected? District 7 needs a leader who can bring results. We have no recreation center, no library, no police station and we are 10th out of 10 districts in capital improvement projects like roads and parks. I believe in putting people over politics. I have visited neighborhood after neighborhood, listening to people and hearing their concerns. They’ve heard speeches but have seen very little in terms of results. We need a Council representative who talks a little less and listens a little more, but most importantly, can work with the other ten Councilmembers to bring progress to our district. That means yes to a recreation center and library and yes to a greater police presence, and yes to improving roads and committing to the funding of education. My top priority is bringing results for you.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? One common thread with all cities who face affordable housing shortfalls is they enact policies that actually make housing more expensive. From zoning to the comprehensive plan, to high real estate taxes and an expensive planning process for new housing, governments create some of the problems they seek to solve. Rent prices have soared while new rental construction has dropped, and high interest rates not only make both construction and home ownership more expensive, it also lowers the number of homes on the market, driving up prices. Lower costs for new construction by streamlining reviews and permitting. Encourage mixed use proposals that have a variety of housing options. Promote redevelopment of underutilized commercial properties and incentivize new housing options.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Doing one helps the other. Lowering the tax burden in Virginia Beach is an immediate need. Residents are hurting from higher prices for everyday items like food, fuel, water and electricity. Addressing the affordability issue will open the door to attract new businesses and better jobs to our city. We also must get serious about education and training young people for these jobs. Virginia Beach’s Workplace Readiness Skills program is successful, but underfunded and falls far short of meeting the needs of tomorrow’s workforce. The employers of tomorrow will go where the employees are trained and ready to thrive. I will work with the School Board to ensure enhanced funding for meeting this need and partnering with the business community to bring better paying jobs here to Virginia Beach.
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Mabinty Saffie Scott
Age: 29
Occupation/job title: Legislative Aid for Virginia Beach City Council member Sabrina Wooten
Highest level of education: Master’s degree, Political Science, Virginia State University
Website: www.scottforsuccess.com
What would be your top priority if elected? If elected, my top priority would be to promote economic development in Virginia Beach, with a particular focus on enhancing public safety and improving community resources in District 7. I will work to attract new businesses, create jobs, and support local entrepreneurs to strengthen our local economy and reduce tax burdens on residents. Additionally, I will prioritize the development of a new recreation center and library in District 7, providing essential community spaces for learning, fitness, and engagement. Ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe and well-served with quality amenities is key to building a stronger, more vibrant Virginia Beach.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? To provide more affordable housing in Virginia Beach, zoning reforms like inclusionary zoning and density bonuses should be implemented to incentivize developers to include affordable units. Public-private partnerships and financial incentives, such as tax credits and low-interest loans, can make affordable housing projects more feasible. Expanding housing programs, including vouchers and supportive housing, will help vulnerable populations access affordable options. Streamlining development processes and reducing fees can lower the cost and speed up the construction of affordable housing. Additionally, preserving existing affordable units through rent stabilization and rehabilitation programs is crucial to maintaining affordability in the long term.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? If elected, I would focus on attracting and retaining businesses through incentives, streamlining regulations, and developing tech hubs to create jobs and broaden the tax base. Enhancing tourism and investing in infrastructure, particularly in transportation and blighted areas, would drive economic growth. I would ensure fiscal responsibility by eliminating wasteful spending and considering targeted tax relief for those in need. Workforce development through education, training programs, and partnerships with local businesses would equip residents with skills for high-demand jobs. Finally, promoting sustainable practices and resilient infrastructure would position Virginia Beach as a leader in green development, attracting eco-conscious businesses and residents.
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District 8
Cody Conner
Age: 43
Occupation/job title: Maintenance Supervisor, Liberty Military Housing
Highest level of education: Some college or professional certification
Website: Connerforvb.com
What would be your top priority if elected? I am not a single issue candidate and we don’t live in a single issue city. I have a more holistic view of things. My top priority if elected is making measured progress in the areas almost everybody I talk to agrees our city can improve on. We have too many all or nothing conversations, and we are too often looking for the big solution. Making incremental improvements in infrastructure and public transportation a priority, making sure developers are building what fits the needs of our community, and improving our investment in education and workforce development to help attract businesses are good places to start.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Affordable housing in Virginia Beach is not just about building more housing, it is about making sure we are building the right housing in the right places. We don’t need more million dollar single family homes. We need more homes built for first time homebuyers and middle income families. We need more 1- and 2-bedroom apartment inventory for young professionals and young families. We should explore more mixed use buildings to create housing systems that benefit residents and businesses. Right now the lack of appropriate housing inventory is exacerbating the affordability problem in Virginia Beach. A lot of our young people and young families leave our community because there just isn’t enough available housing that suits their needs.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Virginia Beach is already very business friendly. Prioritizing infrastructure, education, and connecting our city will minimize barriers that do exist. Infrastructure is essential. Education is the foundation of a skilled workforce. A connected city increases economic activity by giving businesses, employees, and consumers better access to each other. We have the lowest taxes in the area, but a lot of people saw costs go up and not pay. Increasing the income thresholds for tax relief is a way to help fixed income residents that have been most affected, but is only a temporary salve. The long term solution to easing tax burdens is taking the steps to combat our shrinking population and increase economic activity. The healthier the economy the better position we are in to decrease tax rates.
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Stacy Cummings
Age: 66
Occupation/job title: Founding Partner Priority Auto Group, retired
Highest level of education: Bachelor’s degree, accounting, University of Maryland
Military service (if any): U.S. Army, Military Police
Website: VoteStacyCummings.com
What would be your top priority if elected? Lower the real estate tax burden on our homeowners.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Work to redevelop commercial properties which have outlived their useful lives to mixed use or residential properties.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? We must work to attract new businesses to Virginia Beach and support the growth of existing companies by making it easier the do business in the city. Currently only 14% of our real estate taxes are paid by businesses. This should be closer to 30%. By increasing the business presence we will broaden the base and reduce the rates to homeowners.
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Phil Hines
Age: 36
Occupation/job title: Real Estate Appraiser, Hines Appraisals
Highest level of education: Bachelor’s degree, Communication, Old Dominion University
Website: www.philhines.com
What would be your top priority if elected? To fund and build the VB Trail. This trail has been a plan for 43 years, the public overwhelming supports it, and it is the key to economic development, affordable housing, lowering the tax rate, and providing citizens and tourists a safe way to access the beach without driving a car. This trail will spur redevelopment along VA Beach Boulevard, create opportunities for affordable housing, attract new businesses, and more importantly — keep the next generation right here in Virginia Beach.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? Virginia Beach needs to fund and build the VB Trail, a transformative 12-mile rails-to-trails project from Newtown Road to the Oceanfront. This investment will spur redevelopment along VA Beach Boulevard, where developers can responsibly repurpose aging commercial strip malls and build more condos, town-homes, and apartments. As a Certified Planning Commissioner, my vision is to focus development in the right areas, which is aging strip malls throughout the city. We need to preserve single family zoning and the Green Line. I do not support building multi-family at any cost and am independent of all special interests.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? Lowering the tax burden starts with responsible spending. We have a long history of failed public-private partnerships, and tens of millions of dollars wasted to support private development. That can stop if we have a council independent of special interests, which I am. I am the most pro-jobs candidate in this race — my vision is to build the VB Trail and spur economic activity along VA Beach Boulevard. The future of our city is along VA Beach Boulevard and the VB Trail, as it will be the urban core while still maintaining our suburban beach town feel. The city needs bold leadership to advance our city forward — otherwise we’re going to keep losing young professionals to places like Raleigh and Northern Virginia. This trail will also boost tourism spending year-round.
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Leland Jones
Age: 25
Occupation/job title: Owner of Ceramic King Coatings of Virginia
Highest level of education: Some college or professional certification; diploma from Singapore American School and Business Administration, University of Alaska Anchorage
What would be your top priority if elected? As a small business owner, a family man with three young children, a friendly neighbor and community supporter; my dialogue with District 8 residents over the years are that they want a leader who will listen to them versus special interests, someone who will rise above politics, a champion of small business and families, and someone will deliver results. I will not go with the status quo of overspending, implement real tax relief, and institute fiscal management and accountability ensuring that every tax dollar benefits the taxpayer. Virginia Beach is more than just the Oceanfront; it is the neighborhoods in District 8 and throughout the city. I will be a leader that listens and partners with the people.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide more affordable housing options in Virginia Beach? City Council has funded several studies addressing this issue with little to no progress. If we are to be honest on this issue and help make Virginia Beach have more affordable housing options, let’s focus on city owned property throughout the city and in the interfacility corridor, update our Comprehensive Plan that needs reform and review to include expanding in the transition area. Work with commercial developers for redevelopment while making sure surrounding neighborhoods concerns are heard; provide workforce housing at the oceanfront versus building white elephant projects. On the accountability side, let’s not appoint people who have conflicts on city boards and commissions and put folks on who want to help make Virginia Beach affordable and a community for everyone.
If elected, what actions would you take to increase economic development and lower tax burdens on residents in Virginia Beach? One issue I hear when I talk to constituents is that the burden for tax revenue relies heavily on homeowners. This year’s fiscal budget did not provide real tax relief as the reduction in our real estate taxes were negated by our increase of utilities. We need to diversify our economic portfolio more than tourism & hospitality and invest in small local businesses. For economic investment grants, let’s actuate audit findings to recoup misused funds. Let’s get more regional, expand our airport, invest in our freight rail corridors, our international port, and partner with local community colleges and small businesses that actually perform trades that deal with certifications. The list goes on but we need more action than words and a leader that will listen. Vote Leland Jones District 8.
