VIRGINIA BEACH — The Independent News asked the three candidates for the special election in District 1 to answer a series of questions, and their answers appear below. Answers are not edited aside from obvious grammar issues and formatting. Responses appear in ballot order.
DAVID “HUTCH” HUTCHESON
- Residence: Woodstock
- Age: 57
- Occupation: Operations manager for Greenbrier Florist and retired Virginia Beach Fire Chief
- Education: Masters of Homeland Security from the Naval Postgraduate School
- Endorsements: Virginia Beach Professional Fire & EMS Local 2924 of the International Association of Firefighters, Virginia Beach Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and the International Teamsters Union
- Website: hutchforcouncil.com
- Phone: (757) 651-7641
- Email: davidhutcheson24@gmail.com
What are your specific qualifications for this office? My diverse expertise in emergency services and business management equips me to serve District One at an extremely high level. I aim to represent the community’s best interests, leveraging my experience as a councilmember. Being an advocate for effective governance and community well-being, I seek to foster collaborative solutions for a vibrant and inclusive District One.
With over three decades in the Virginia Beach Fire Department, I began as a volunteer firefighter at Kempsville in 1987, rising to Fire Chief of Virginia Beach. I was part of the command structure for critical responses to incidents like the Mayfair Mews F-18 jet crash and the horrific May 31st municipal center shooting in 2019. Under emergency management, my involvement included all major storms and special events such as the Patriotic Festival and Something in the Water, as well as vaccination efforts for over 150,000 citizens at Virginia Beach Convention Center.
Managing a $65 million Fire Department budget honed my fiscal responsibility to be mindful of the taxpayer’s dollars. I also pioneered the country’s first and only joint military/civilian fire station at Fort Story which reflects my commitment to innovation and community.
Deeply rooted in Kempsville, beginning as a Woodstock Woodchuck and graduating from Kempsville High School deepens my understanding of District One’s needs. Alongside my public service in the fire department, I have grown from cleaning flowers and emptying buckets to overseeing day to day operations at Greenbrier Florist, our family business ingrained in the community since 1977.
What is the most important issue facing District 1 and how will you address it in office? I have personally spoken to over 300 District One constituents in the last 90 days. The issues they are talking to me about are roads, schools / education, mental health, flooding, and affordable housing. As you can see there are a myriad of issues presented to me. The issue that was brought to my attention most frequently was roadways in the district. Specifically, road services, curb and guttering, and flooding. Over the next five years, I will collaborate closely with city staff to prioritize and address our district’s roadway issues. I’ll focus on identifying and rectifying the most urgent repairs, steadily working towards bringing our roadways up to the required standard.
What are your three main policy priorities as a member of the City Council?
- Public Safety: I am dedicated to maintaining and advancing public safety excellence across all sectors, including Fire, EMS, Emergency Management, E911, Police, and Sheriffs. Virginia Beach’s public safety departments hold national recognition for their exceptional standards. Advocating for their requirements remains a priority to ensure they remain at the pinnacle of their respective disciplines. Safety stands as the bedrock of our community, and its preservation is paramount.
- Education: I am committed to securing the finest education for our children, preparing them for a changing world. It’s essential to provide an education that empowers them to thrive and contribute positively to our community’s growth and progress.
- Affordable Housing: It’s vital that our city remains accessible and affordable for everyone, fostering a diverse and thriving place for all to call home. We cannot be a community for everyone if everyone cannot afford to live here.
How can the city address traffic within residential neighborhoods, including speeding and cut-through traffic? The City has improved its responsiveness to heightened traffic issues in neighborhoods due to increased traffic volume in the last five years. I advocate for a tiered approach tailored to each neighborhood’s traffic levels. Beginning with portable speed limit signs to raise awareness, followed by increased patrol presence. Subsequently, conducting a study for speed tables and implementing them where feasible. More drastic measures such as traffic rerouting are viable but involve considerable costs.
Should city services such as water and sewer be extended south of Indian River Road to promote development of rural communities? When addressing issues in other districts, I will prioritize constituents’ and councilmembers’ perspectives in their district accordingly. Given Councilmember Barbara Henley’s — as well as her constituents’ — concerns in her district, I advocate cautious service extensions pending further data review. I anticipate reciprocal respect from fellow council members for District One’s preferences, ensuring decisions prioritize community interests and well-being.
Do you support the agricultural reserve program, or ARP? Should its dedicated funding be maintained at a consistent level? I view the 2019 compromise as a favorable middle ground from the program’s 1995 inception. This compromise reallocates millions towards flood management in the Southern watershed, addressing persistent flooding threats. Moreover, this approach ensures the continued preservation of agricultural vitality within the county.
How will you help the city address sea level rise and recurrent flooding? The citizens’ approval of the $567 million flood mitigation bond referendum underscores our commitment to tackling sea level rise and recurrent flooding in Virginia Beach. As a council member, I’ll prioritize removing any obstacles for city staff and contractors, enabling them to execute their work effectively. Conducting comprehensive audits will ensure fiscal accountability, guaranteeing taxpayers’ money is spent judiciously. Given our fire department’s active involvement in evacuations during flood-related emergencies in the county and Sandbridge, I understand the genuine concerns linked to sea level rise and recurring flooding.
This firsthand experience informs my dedication to addressing these pressing issues.
If elected in January, do you plan to seek reelection later in 2024 for the district seat? Definitely!
TERESA T. GLADNEY
- Residence: Whitehurst Grove
- Age: 59
- Occupation: Retired federal employee
- Education: Master of Government, Certification, Law and Public Policy, Regent University; Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Norfolk State University
- Endorsements: Norfolk State University Department Head for Biology Dr. Malika Israel, Tune-Up Plus Indian River Road General Manager David Cerulli and Bishop Joe Chase, Jr., Member of the COGIC Board of Bishops
- Website: voteteresagladney.com
- Phone: (757) 515-7047
- Email: tereglavb@gmail.com
What are your specific qualifications for this office? More than 31 years ago, Teresa, a former Navy spouse of 17 years, had the family’s home built in the Whitehurst Grove neighborhood while the former spouse was on a six-month deployment. Since then, Teresa has continued working tirelessly to resolve the community’s most pressing issues, which helped shape Whitehurst Grove’s distinct character. Teresa, a retired federal employee, has volunteered as Virginia Beach Probation and Parole Office, tutored and mentored youth who live in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, Read Across America participant, volunteered as a teacher assistant at Kempsville Middle School and guidance counselor assistant at Tallwood High School, volunteered at the Urban League in Hampton Roads, receiving a letter of commendation from Ms. E White, former CEO, served on Norfolk State University Board of Visitors and maintained association as a Virginia Sheriff Institute Associate Member.
As one who cares deeply about humanity, Teresa, the founder and CEO of Hampton Roads Disability Claim’s Resource Center, Inc. identified a need then took the initiative to create an organization to fulfill the unmet need. In 2019 the US Patent and Trademark Office published an invention entitled: ‘My Dry Bib’ (Publication No. US-2019-0297955-81). Teresa and her daughter created the cotton water-resistant baby bib. In 1989, Teresa became the first in Hampton Roads to own and operate a hair braiding salon named: The New Hair Affair-Braids Unlimited.
Teresa believes this is an opportunity to send a message to every little girl who has political aspirations. Do not under any circumstances allow disrespect and intimidation tactics stop you from running for public office. Stand strong on your conviction and commitment and be courageous.
What is the most important issue facing District 1 and how will you address it in office? A whole new global economic paradigm has emerged. Therefore, bold new tactics that offer solutions that improve infrastructure, enhance educational opportunities, mitigate flooding, create a workable transportation system, support public safety, broaden health services, decrease homelessness, and boost economic development will be essential to maintaining a constant state of forward progress. To advance the path toward a strong sustainable economy, Teresa will introduce a series of initiatives including policies that support public safety, expand the economy, mitigate flooding, create affordable housing, streamline the Traffic Calming Program, improve educational performance, and address reckless spending.
What are your three main policy priorities as a member of the City Council?
- Flood Mitigation: Introduction of a multi-facet comprehensive policy that includes various stakeholders so as to create long -term and short-term solutions. The policy would prohibit new residential construction in areas with high flood risk, Moreover, exploring the use of green infrastructure so as to absorb excess water/reduce runoff and risk assessment will be essential. Likewise, a thorough analysis of flood risks in District 1 will be conducted and factors will be considered such as elevation, proximity to water bodies, and historical flooding.
- Restructuring the Traffic Calming Program: A resident-driven traffic calming policy with the implementation of physical barriers and environmental adjustment that reduces speed and cut-through traffic in residential neighborhoods will significantly reduce odds of being hit by a vehicle.
- Economic Growth: Implementation of a comprehensive pro-business and pro-job policy that reaches all segments of the city. Building blocks include policies that empower small businesses, with incentives, to create new jobs as well as policies that recognize our strong Right to Work law, which is a magnet for business investment in Virginia Beach.
How can the city address traffic within residential neighborhoods, including speeding and cut-through traffic? This city should upgrade infrastructure to slow down traffic; particularly vulnerable neighborhoods. District 1 residents who live in Queen City expressed safety concerns with regard to cars not only speeding but cutting through the neighborhood. Cut-through traffic and speeding drivers put the lives of children, the elderly, pedestrians, the disabled and other drivers at risk. It should not take 15 years for the city to complete a four-phase traffic study- prior to city engineers designing, scheduling, and installing a traffic calming device. The Traffic Calming Program ought to be streamlined. In addition, changing some streets to one way streets in opposite direction will not only slow down the cars, but stop the cut through.
Should city services such as water and sewer be extended south of Indian River Road to promote development of rural communities? No.
Do you support the agricultural reserve program, or ARP? Should its dedicated funding be maintained at a consistent level? ARP preserves the rural agricultural character of southern Virginia Beach. Agriculture is an important part of Virginia Beach’s heritage, and future , for the environmentally significance of North Landing River, Back Bay, and flat field that absorb flooding. ARP lessen the burden on city resources. It strikes a balance in housing development and cost associated with constructing and maintaining infrastructure to support new development. ARP mitigates sea level rise in southern part of Virginia Beach and reduces flooding. It also preserves open space, and protect the city’s rural character. Furthermore, the agriculture industry contributes to a diverse economy.
How will you help the city address sea level rise and recurrent flooding? Preserving our community requires taking a quantum leap forward. If the city doesn’t deal with flooding, we will soon be underwater. Researchers report in the coming years sea levels will rise just to drown every city on earth that’s close to a major waterway. The city must develop and implement comprehensive plan to protect critical infrastructure to limit damages to homes, schools, roads, hospitals and the local economy.
Retention polymers, which acts like super sponges, can capture rainwater and swells 100-400 times its weight to holds moisture for a long period of time, removing water from the environment. Polymers holds moisture and nutrients then gradually releases that water in the soil near the plant and grass’ root.
Floodwater needs some place to flow. Underground masonry ‘catch basins’ can collect water and then divert it into the stormwater drainage system. The city might also consider building gigantic mobile surge barriers in low- lying areas like in Pungo by Blue Pete’s and Mr. Meggs’ farm.
Ditches in the Bellamy community pose a real danger when it rains. To drain and control and heavy runoff groundwater, the city can place a layer of gravel at the bottom of the ditch. Install perforated plastic pipe on top of the gravel. Then use topsoil and sod to cover the French drain.
A smart city gets smart solutions from community engagement. Stormwater management, infused with a holistic approach, not only promotes economic development, but protects the community.
If elected in January, do you plan to seek reelection later in 2024 for the district seat? Yes.
JOHN NAPIER
- Residence: Woodstock
- Age: 43
- Occupation: Attorney and Mediator
- Education: Tidewater Community College, College of William & Mary, and Pepperdine University School of Law
- Endorsements: Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, state Sen. Bill DeSteph and U.S. Rep. Jennifer Kiggans
- Website: johnnapiervb.com
- Email: info@johnnapiervb.com
- Social Media: facebook.com/JohnNapierVB/
What are your specific qualifications for this office? My career is not in government. I’m from the private sector so I will look out for you first. I won’t be supporting tax increases for higher and higher government spending. I will look to lower taxes so that you keep more of what you earn. I support our community and serve with many other volunteers on non-profit boards and charities.
I grew up in Kempsville as the son of a Naval Aviator and grandson of a WWII veteran. I know the strength of our community is in the culture of service we all share. I will work with our veteran population and their families and make sure we partner with NAS Oceana and keep our relationship strong.
I understand city ordinances, state laws and regulations and how to make meaningful change. In my experience as an attorney, I know the importance of listening, truth, analytical thinking and justice. I also know to avoid the unintended consequences of changes in law and to put citizens first. As Councilman, I will never forget that I work for you, that I serve you, and looking out for your best interests is job #1.
What is the most important issue facing District 1 and how will you address it in office? The most important issue in District 1 is affordability. Inflation keeps rising and family budgets keep getting squeezed. Virginia Beach has the lowest real estate taxes in the region, but rising assessments still increase the taxes we pay. I will push for a cut in real estate and property taxes in my first budget and make living in Virginia Beach more affordable. I will also help businesses expand and hire for more job growth and help keep our neighborhoods safe and secure.
What are your three main policy priorities as a member of the City Council?
- Job Creation: Most new jobs are created by small businesses, and I know small business well. I have helped create new businesses and new jobs and understand how the private sector works. I will be a strong voice for job creation to help families and also create revenue for local government that expands the tax base and relies less on the residential taxpayer.
- Education: I support parents having a voice in education and we will fully fund Virginia Beach schools’ budget. The key to a successful future is an education focused on academic excellence with parents and teachers working together for student success.
- Flooding: Virginia Beach voters approved a $567 million bond referendum to fund 21 flooding mitigation projects. I will watch these projects with a private-sector’s accountability to make sure they are on time and on budget and costs do not balloon out of control, while still working to accomplish the mission of flood mitigation.
How can the city address traffic within residential neighborhoods, including speeding and cut-through traffic? Our area of Virginia Beach has had this problem for years, and it is mostly caused by congested main roads and poorly-timed traffic signals that encourage cut-through traffic that usually goes too fast in our neighborhoods. Virginia Beach has redesigned major thoroughfares and expanded roads and intersections to help alleviate traffic, and it has helped. I’d look to adding more stop signs to curb speeding in neighborhoods and simplify the city’s traffic calming program.
Should city services such as water and sewer be extended south of Indian River Road to promote development of rural communities? Agriculture is a large industry that we value in Virginia Beach and we should preserve it. I do not want to see actions taken, like this type of extension, that would damage the rural and agricultural lifestyle in southern Virginia Beach.
Do you support the agricultural reserve program, or ARP? Should its dedicated funding be maintained at a consistent level? The ARP is one of Virginia Beach’s signature achievements and I support its continuation and funding. It was a promise made to landowners and we have reaped many benefits from its existence.
How will you help the city address sea level rise and recurrent flooding? The most crucial element of addressing recurrent flooding is to make sure the projects funded through the passage of the 2021 bond referendum are completed effectively, on time and on budget. With inflation the way it is, a delayed project becomes extremely expensive quickly. I deal with financial projections and project costs every day in my profession, so I am ready to make sure our flooding projects are done efficiently.
If elected in January, do you plan to seek reelection later in 2024 for the district seat? If elected in January, I would seek reelection in November 2024 for the voters to decide if I should continue to serve them.
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