Keeping Virginia Beach Affordable

Policies that protect affordability have been a top priority—keeping taxes low, expanding access to housing, and supporting higher-paying jobs. From 2019 to 2025, Virginia Beach supported 99 business projects—including 60 retention and 39 attraction projects—representing nearly $1.2 billion in capital investment and more than 6,200 new jobs. These efforts are creating greater economic opportunity and helping residents manage the rising cost of living.

 

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Public Safety & Reduced Crime
Virginia Beach remains one of the safest large cities in the nation, with violent and property crime down from 2020 to 2024. These results are the product of sustained investment in law enforcement, strong community partnerships, and expanded mental health resources. The creation of a modern Law Enforcement Training Academy has been prioritized and championed—resulting in the establishment of a dedicated funding source to support its future development and reflect the seriousness of law enforcement training.

 

 

Support for Public Education 

Secured full funding for public schools and completed the expansion of full-day kindergarten citywide, ensuring all students receive a strong academic foundation. Continued commitment to competitive teacher pay and supporting educators remains central to student success.

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Expanding Access to Mental Health Care

Expanded city support for mental health services through increased funding, cross-sector partnerships, and public education efforts—connecting more residents to care while supporting safer, healthier communities.

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Higher Compensation for Public Servants

Secured pay increases for teachers, public safety personnel, and city employees—enhancing recruitment, retention, and the delivery of high-quality public services.

 

 

Advancing Equality & Opportunity

Championed the implementation of the city’s Disparity Study recommendations to promote fairness and expand access to city contracts and services—especially for communities that have historically been underrepresented.

 

 

Neighborhood Infrastructure & Beautification

Invested in critical neighborhood infrastructure—such as sidewalks, street resurfacing, placemaking signs, and traffic calming projects—to enhance safety, accessibility, and community pride across the city.

 

 

Major Investments in Parks & Public Spaces

Delivered significant upgrades at Mount Trashmore and parks throughout Virginia Beach, including new playgrounds, renovated amenities, and community-centered green spaces that support health and recreation.

 

Expanding Investment in Arts and Culture
Secured record-level public investment in the arts—supporting both emerging and established cultural organizations, and expanding access to creative programming in neighborhoods throughout the city.

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Improving Constituent Services
Maintained a strong focus on accessibility, responsiveness, and problem-solving—ensuring residents receive timely support and clear communication when engaging with city government.

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Flood Protection & Resilience
Championed the successful bond referendum and secured the highest levels of flood protection funding in city history, advancing major infrastructure projects to address stormwater, sea level rise, and recurrent flooding.

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Progress on Affordable Housing

Advanced affordable, senior, and supportive housing solutions by promoting new projects and policies that expand access, increase supply, and help residents—including those living with mental health conditions—remain safely and stably housed.

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Support for Military Families & Veterans

Strengthened partnerships that provide job support, housing, healthcare, and transition services for veterans and their families—ensuring Virginia Beach remains a community where service members are valued and supported.