COMMITTED TO CHESAPEAKE

It is important we are fiscally responsible and keep taxes low. During my term on council, I have consistently advocated for reducing taxes and fees so residents and small businesses keep more of what they earn. I voted against City Council members received a pay increase, tax and toll increases, and increased real estate tax relief for seniors, the disabled, and veterans.

Our efforts have helped maintain the lowest tax burden in all of Hampton Roads, and I will continue to prioritize efficient budgeting and careful spending to protect that standing.

I will keep pushing for sensible reforms and targeted reductions that deliver tangible relief to taxpayers without sacrificing essential services.

Chesapeake’s growth should not come at the expense of the quality of life that makes our city such a special place to call home. I have voted against 1,300 new homes encroaching on our rural community off of Route 17 and enacted policy to keep City owned farm land in the hands of Chesapeake farmers. I will continue fighting for responsible growth and against industrial uses like data centers and battery storage facilities in our backyards and near our schools. I led the charge against data centers expanding to our rural communities and against the one proposed on Centerville Turnpike.

It’s important we remember and honor what makes Chesapeake so special, and it was my great privilege to champion honoring the lives & legacies of Vice Mayor Dr. John de Triquet & Officer Tim Schock with city landmarks.

Lastly, our furry residents deserve protection too and certainly enhance our quality of life. I created the region’s first Animal Cruelty Registry and I’m actively advocating for it’s expansion to include additional criminal convictions.

Chesapeake has been previously recognized as one of the safest cities in America and that is attributed to our dedicated public safety. However, with the increase of violence across the nation, it is more important than ever to fully fund our law enforcement and fire department so they can do the job they were trained to do - keep us safe! I have implemented new technology while on Council to improve emergency call wait times and supported the immediate purchase of necessary equipment like a water tanker to protect Southern Chesapeake. My background working with law enforcement and service as a prosecutor has been responsible for the trusted relationships I have with our first responders. They know I will fight to provide them with the resources and funding they need to keep us safe.

Chesapeake is known for some of the best schools in the Commonwealth. As your Council Member, I will work with our school board to ensure Chesapeake schools and teachers have the proper funding to continue this success and provide our students with a quality, first-class, and affordable education. While on Council I’ve supported expanding law enforcement presence in Chesapeake Public Schools, funding Culpepper Landing Elementary, Southeastern Elementary’s expansion, and Crestwood Intermediate’s renovations.

There is nothing more important to invest in than our children’s future.

As the backbone of our economy, we depend on our businesses to create jobs, grow our economy, and build up our community. Once elected to City Council, I will fight for our businesses, encourage new business, and foster an environment in which they can thrive.

Responsible commercial growth is vital in preventing our citizens from unreasonable tax burdens. I am committed to balancing healthy and responsible business and residential growth that entices more businesses and residents into Chesapeake, while maintaining our City’s safety, excellent schools, and charming character.

Chesapeake should always be the best place to live and raise families and I will lead to ensure it also remains the best place to make money for your family and do business.