KEMPSVILLE — David “Hutch” Hutcheson, Virginia Beach’s former fire chief, will serve on the Virginia Beach City Council representing District 1.
Hutcheson today won a special election to serve for the remainder of the year in the seat, according to unofficial returns. The District 1 seat became vacant when Councilmember Rocky Holcomb resigned from the council late last year to become sheriff.
Hutcheson defeated John Napier, an attorney who owns a mediation consulting business and who had the backing of the city’s GOP, and Teresa Gladney, a retired federal employee and former small business owner, according to unofficial returns reported by the state election department.
Hutcheson earned about 47.3 percent of the vote, and Napier and Gladney gained 38.7 percent 13.7 percent, respectively, according to unofficial returns reported as of about 9:30 p.m.
“I’m extremely excited to finally be able to get to the table where the real work begins,” Hutcheson said during an interview.
He said he looked forward to collaborating with other members of the council to keep the city “on top where it belongs,” and he thanked the voters and his team, who knocked on 5,500 doors.
Hutcheson also had well wishes for the other candidates.
“The three of us who put our names in wanted to serve,” he said. “That’s admirable in itself.”
Provisional ballots remain uncounted tonight, but they are not expected to change the outcome.
During an interview, Napier said he had conceded.
“It’s not the outcome I was running for, but it’s okay,” Napier said. “I’ll live to fight another day. I wish Hutch the best, and I hope he’s a good councilman.”
“I’m a little disappointed, but I am very grateful for this incredible journey,” said Gladney, who thanked supporters during an interview and vowed to keep working in the community.
“Congratulations to Mr. Hutcheson,” she said, “and hopefully he’s going to lead with dedication.”
The District 1 seat will be on the ballot again during the general election in November, and Hutcheson plans to run again to seek a full four-year term.
Hutcheson is a Kempsville native who serves as president of the Woodstock Civic League, and, in addition to his 35 years of public safety service, works in a small family business.
“I’m extremely proud, extremely humble,” he said, speaking of the chance to represent his community. “It means a lot to serve the folks I’ve grown up with and who have meant so much to my family and me over the years.”
© 2024 Pungo Publishing Co., LLC
One thought on “Hutcheson, former Virginia Beach fire chief, bests two others to represent District 1 on City Council”