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Mayoral election in Virginia Beach, Virginia (2024)
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← 2020
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| 2024 Virginia Beach elections |
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| Election dates |
| Filing deadline: June 18, 2024 |
| General election: November 5, 2024 |
| Election stats |
| Offices up: Mayor |
| Total seats up: 1 (click here for other city elections) |
| Election type: Nonpartisan |
| Other municipal elections |
| U.S. municipal elections, 2024 |
The city of Virginia Beach, Virginia, held a general election for mayor on November 5, 2024. The filing deadline for this election was June 18, 2024.
As of 2024, Virginia Beach did not have term limits for the position of mayor. Mayors served a four-year term.
Elections
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Candidates and results
General election
General election for Mayor of Virginia Beach
Incumbent Bob Dyer defeated Sabrina Wooten, John Moss, Chris Taylor, and Richard Kowalewitch in the general election for Mayor of Virginia Beach on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Bob Dyer (Nonpartisan) | 40.9 | 88,975 |
 | Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)  | 31.7 | 68,987 | |
 | John Moss (Nonpartisan) | 16.8 | 36,553 | |
 | Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan) | 7.7 | 16,767 | |
 | Richard Kowalewitch (Nonpartisan) | 2.5 | 5,369 | |
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.3 | 685 | ||
| Total votes: 217,336 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Cheryl Turpin (Nonpartisan)
Additional elections on the ballot
- See also: Virginia elections, 2024
January 9, 2024
June 18, 2024
- United States Senate election in Virginia, 2024
- Virginia's 2nd Congressional District election, 2024
- Virginia's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024
- City elections in Virginia Beach, Virginia (2024)
November 5, 2024
- United States Senate election in Virginia, 2024
- Virginia's 2nd Congressional District election, 2024
- Virginia's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024
- Virginia Property Tax Exemption for Veterans and Surviving Spouses Amendment (2024)
- City elections in Norfolk, Virginia (2024)
- City elections in Chesapeake, Virginia (2024)
- City elections in Virginia Beach, Virginia (2024)
- Mayoral election in Chesapeake, Virginia (2024)
- Mayoral election in Norfolk, Virginia (2024)
- Norfolk Public Schools, Virginia, elections (2024)
- Chesapeake Public Schools, Virginia, elections (2024)
- Virginia Beach City Public Schools, Virginia, elections (2024)
- Chesapeake, Virginia, City Curbside Recycling Fee Measure (November 2024)
Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses
Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
Survey responses from candidates in this race
Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
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John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Create an affordable Virginia Beach for all with a priority on reducing the real estate tax rate and phasing out the personal (car tax) and business property tax.
Growing the prosperity of our community does not have to come at the expense of sacrificing our agricultural community or the quality of life of our existing neighborhoods. City leadership must represent all residents not do the bidding of special interests.,
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Ensuring tax payer dollars are stewarded responsibly. Providing transparency at every level of local government and within every city department.
Leading with Integrity. Ensuring the City Manager is held accountable for all departments performance.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
1. Yearly Assessment of Programs:
• Implement a regular review process to assess the effectiveness and relevance of government programs.
• Identify and eliminate obsolete programs that no longer serve their intended purpose.
• Cut excess spending by reallocating resources to more impactful initiatives.
2. Public Engagement:
• Conduct public surveys, town hall meetings, or online platforms to gather feedback on spending priorities. • Utilize feedback to prioritize funding for programs that align with community needs and preferences. • Increase transparency in budgeting processes to build trust and accountabili
Affordable Housing
1. Affordable Housing:
• Develop a diverse portfolio of affordable housing options targeting city workers, public safety personnel,
teachers, young adults, and seniors.
2. Cost of Living Support:
• Expand programs that assist with increasing costs and inflation, such as property tax relief for seniors
and financial assistance for young adults.
• Advocate for policies that stabilize property taxes and utility costs to mitigate the financial burden on residents.
Youth Development
Neighborhood Preservation
1. Infrastructure and Safety:
• Allocate resources to address flooding, improve infrastructure, and enhance public safety measures.
• Implement crime prevention strategies and community policing initiatives to protect neighborhoods.
2. Community Planning:
• Develop sustainable growth policies to manage overdevelopment and gentrification. • Preserve neighborhood character through zoning regulations and community input in development projects.• Implement and adhere to comprehensive plans for communities and districts.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Small business and responsible Economic Development.
Prioritizing our youth and actively promoting mental health initiatives that address the most pressing issues within our youth community.
Education- Support for pre-school and after-school programming while also working with parents to identify additional resources to better aid their children.
Continue mentorship expansion within our elementary and middle schools.
Public Safety- Work to support Police, Fire and EMT across the City while advocating for increased funding to hire, train, and retain top talent for these departments.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
My great grandmother was born in 1909 in Princess Anne County. With only a 7th grade teacher education, she went on to raise a family, serve in the community, and lead her family. As a result of her hard work and sacrifice, my mother and her sisters were able to attend segregated schools in the early 1960’s. An opportunity that led to my Aunt Sandy Berry Copeland being the first African American female scholarship athlete at Virginia Tech in 1979.
I was taught by both to be genuine and work hard.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Integrity is an important principle. What we say and how we say it matters. I meet people everyday, and when we take time to have a conversation we are able to move past politics and focus on what we have in common. Civility is missing in local government and citizens desperately need leaders that understand respect is required and not desired.
Collaboration and effective communication are also important characteristics of strong leadership. Finding common ground is only the first step. I realize now, more than ever, that keeping my word and following through is what the people of Virginia Beach really desire in a public servant.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical standards is essential. An elected official must be transparent in their actions and decisions, fostering trust with constituents. Accountability: Taking responsibility for their decisions and actions is crucial. An official should be willing to engage with the community, listen to feedback, and adapt to the needs of their constituents. Empathy: Understanding and relating to the experiences of diverse community members is vital. An effective official should prioritize the well-being of all constituents, ensuring that policies reflect their needs and concerns. Vision: A clear and inspiring vision for the future can guide an elected official’s decisions. They should be forward-thinking, setting goals that promote growth, equity, and sustainability in their community. Collaboration: Working effectively with others, including constituents, community leaders, and fellow officials, is important. An effective official should foster partnerships to address complex issues and build consensus. Commitment to Justice: Advocating for fairness and equality is paramount. An official should prioritize policies that dismantle systemic barriers and promote social justice for all community members. Communication Skills: Strong communication is essential for conveying ideas, engaging with the community, and building support for initiatives. An effective official should be accessible and open to dialogue.
Adaptability: The ability to respond to changing circumstances and challenges is important. An elected official should be flexible and willing to learn, ensuring they can address emerging issues effectively.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
We need a Mayor that is professional and represents are City with class and dignity.
Another primary responsibility is to set a clear agenda for the city council and staff. The Mayor must be impartial to special interests to ensure that the most pressing issues are addressed each week.
The Mayor must communicate clearly. The Vice Mayor and Mayor work together to guide the Council each week in deliberations. The Mayor must provide clarity not confusion.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Representation: Serving as a voice for constituents, an elected official must listen to their needs, concerns, and aspirations, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes. Legislation and Policy Development: Crafting, proposing, and advocating for policies that address the community’s challenges and promote social, economic, and environmental well-being is a fundamental duty. Transparency and Accountability: Maintaining open communication with the public about decisions, actions, and expenditures fosters trust. An elected official should be accountable to their constituents and willing to address their questions and concerns. Community Engagement: Actively engaging with the community through forums, meetings, and outreach efforts is essential to build relationships, gather feedback, and create an informed electorate. Collaboration: Working with other officials, agencies, and organizations to coordinate efforts and leverage resources can enhance the effectiveness of initiatives and ensure comprehensive solutions to complex issues. Advocacy for Equity and Justice: Promoting policies that dismantle systemic barriers and advance social justice is crucial. An elected official should strive to create an inclusive environment that supports all community members. Fiscal Responsibility: Managing public resources wisely and ensuring fiscal transparency is essential for building trust and making informed decisions that benefit the community.
Crisis Management: In times of crisis, an elected official must provide leadership, coordinate responses, and communicate effectively with the community to ensure safety and support.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
I hope to be remembered for championing initiatives that promote social equity, support education, and enhance community engagement. By fostering a culture of collaboration and understanding, I want to inspire others to take action and invest in the well-being of our neighborhoods.
Additionally, I would like my legacy to reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. I believe in the importance of protecting our planet for future generations and promoting practices that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable community.
Ultimately, I want my legacy to be one of hope and progress, where my efforts contribute to a more just and compassionate society. I aspire to leave behind a stronger, more connected community that empowers individuals to pursue their dreams and create a brighter future for all.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
It was a struggle in my 20’s and 30’s to understand the nature of grief. Our parents are our heroes and losing both at an early age was challenging.
I’m thankful for a supportive community that pushed me to continue working and striving to reach my goals.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
A major role of the Mayor is to be the chief education officer on, and honest broker for, the major public issues that the community must adjudicate to balance the needs of today against the demands to prepare for the future.
As the presiding officer of the city council, the mayor facilitates adherence to due process, makes sure the residents have meaningful opportunities to be heard, provides each member of city council equal opportunity for engagement, and facilitates the discussion to common to a consensus, if possible.
Additionally, the mayor as the presiding office of city council facilitates the adoption of internal governance protocols that enables the execution of regular order of the voting business of the council, the adjudication of each council member's individual concerns and initiatives, emergent issues and addressing the strategic issues resulting from the mayor's engagement with the community at-large.
The mayor has the role of communicating to the public the decision of the City Council whether the mayor was or was not aligned with the majority.
Finally the mayor has the role as a council member who is entitled to cast their own vote and express their opinion on matters that come before city council.
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
As the ceremonial leader, it means the Mayor should be present and visible for key moments and available to meet with key stakeholders.
The Leader must be willing to engage with the citizens of the community when other elected officials refuse to do so.
The Mayor as leader should work to represent the people’s interests on local, national, and the international level.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Visionary Leadership: A mayor should have a clear and inspiring vision for the city's future. This involves setting strategic goals that prioritize the well-being of all residents, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life. Community Engagement: An effective mayor actively engages with constituents, listening to their concerns and incorporating their feedback into decision-making. This open dialogue fosters trust and collaboration, ensuring that all voices are heard. Advocacy for Equity: A true leader works to dismantle systemic barriers and promote inclusivity. The mayor should advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities for all residents, regardless of their background. Crisis Management: A mayor must be a steady presence during times of crisis, providing leadership and clear communication. This includes mobilizing resources and coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. Collaboration: Building partnerships with other government entities, community organizations, and businesses is crucial. A mayor should work collaboratively to address complex challenges and leverage resources for the benefit of the city.
Accountability and Integrity: As a leader, a mayor must uphold the highest standards of ethics and transparency. Being accountable to the public fosters trust and reinforces the commitment to serve the community’s best interests.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
The citizens should never be caught off guard by a vote or issue in the city.
If elected, I will ensure citizens know what the City Manager is doing and we will hold him accountable to produce results aligned with citizen input.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Strategic Leadership: The mayor should provide visionary leadership that aligns the council’s goals with the city manager’s administrative efforts. By establishing clear priorities and a cohesive vision for the city, the mayor can ensure that the city’s long-term goals are effectively pursued. Community Engagement: Prioritizing open dialogue with residents is essential. The mayor should actively seek input from the community on important issues, encouraging participation in local governance. This engagement fosters trust and ensures that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of the constituents. Support for the City Manager: The mayor should serve as a supportive partner to the city manager, facilitating effective administration while also holding them accountable. This collaboration is vital for addressing challenges efficiently and ensuring the smooth functioning of city services. Advocacy for Resources: The mayor must advocate for adequate funding and resources to support city initiatives. This involves working with state and federal representatives, as well as identifying opportunities for grants and partnerships that can enhance city programs and services. Promotion of Equity and Inclusion: Ensuring that city policies promote equity and inclusion should be a priority.
The mayor should champion initiatives that address disparities and create opportunities for all residents, particularly marginalized communities.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
I cherish the local parks and public spaces where residents gather, fostering connections and friendships that make our city feel like home. The enthusiasm of our local businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs showcases the creativity and resilience of our community, making it a lively place to explore and support.
Additionally, the commitment to civic engagement is inspiring. People here genuinely care about their city, working together to address challenges and celebrate successes. Whether through community events, volunteer initiatives, or local advocacy, there’s a shared dedication to making our city better for everyone.
Ultimately, it’s the people—their kindness, passion, and commitment to one another—that truly makes my city special. This sense of belonging and shared purpose is what I love most and what motivates me to contribute to our community’s growth and well-being.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Affordable Housing: The rising cost of living and limited housing supply pose a critical challenge. Ensuring that all residents have access to safe, affordable housing is essential for maintaining community stability and diversity. Economic Inequality: As our city continues to grow, we must address disparities in economic opportunities. Creating pathways for job training, education, and support for small businesses will be vital in fostering a more equitable economy. Infrastructure and Transportation: Aging infrastructure and transportation systems need modernization to meet the demands of a growing population. Investing in sustainable transit options and improving roadways will be crucial for enhancing mobility and connectivity. Public Health and Safety: Ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare and addressing mental health needs are paramount. Additionally, we must prioritize public safety through community-oriented policing and resources for violence prevention. Environmental Sustainability: Climate change poses a serious threat, requiring proactive measures to promote sustainability. This includes improving green spaces, enhancing waste management, and supporting renewable energy initiatives to protect our natural resources. Community Cohesion: As our city becomes increasingly diverse, fostering a sense of unity and inclusion is vital. Promoting dialogue and understanding among different communities will help combat polarization and strengthen our social fabric.
By proactively addressing these challenges through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, we can create a brighter future for our city—one that is inclusive, resilient, and thriving for all residents.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Partnership: The city and state should view each other as partners working toward common goals. This collaboration can enhance resource sharing, foster joint initiatives, and align strategies to address shared challenges, such as infrastructure development and public health.
Advocacy for Local Needs: The state government should recognize and advocate for the unique needs and priorities of our city. Local officials have firsthand knowledge of their community’s challenges and strengths, and their input is essential for effective policy-making.
Empowerment and Autonomy: While state guidelines and support are important, cities should retain the autonomy to make decisions that best serve their residents. The ideal relationship allows for local innovation and flexibility in addressing specific community needs. Resource Support: The state government should provide adequate funding and resources to support local initiatives. This includes investments in education, public safety, transportation, and affordable housing, enabling cities to effectively implement their programs.
Transparent Communication: Open lines of communication are crucial for fostering trust. Regular dialogues between city and state officials can facilitate information sharing, address concerns promptly, and build a collaborative environment.
Focus on Equity: Both the city and state should prioritize equity in their policies and practices, ensuring that all communities, especially marginalized ones, receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Whether housing or education, Virginia Beach stands out as a place ready for more collaboration with Washington.
As the next Mayor, I will commit to working with the Federal Government to create additional opportunities for our city. In order to build a better relationship, the Mayor must actively pursue opportunities to engage with both state and federal leaders.
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Cooperative Partnership: The city and federal government should work together as partners, recognizing that both levels of government play crucial roles in addressing the needs of the community. This collaboration can facilitate the alignment of local initiatives with federal resources and support.
Access to Resources: The federal government should provide adequate funding, grants, and technical assistance to help cities tackle pressing challenges, such as infrastructure improvements, public health initiatives, and affordable housing. These resources empower local governments to implement effective solutions.
Advocacy for Local Needs: Federal representatives should advocate for the unique interests and priorities of our city. Local leaders possess valuable insights into their communities, and their input is vital for shaping federal policies that impact their residents.
Flexibility and Autonomy: While federal programs can provide important frameworks, cities should retain the flexibility to adapt these programs to fit their specific needs. This autonomy allows for localized solutions that reflect the diverse characteristics of each community. Open Communication: Transparent and consistent communication is essential for fostering trust and understanding between city and federal officials. Regular dialogues can facilitate information sharing, address concerns, and ensure that federal initiatives align with local priorities.
Focus on Equity and Inclusion: Both the city and federal government should prioritize policies that promote equity and inclusion. By working together to address systemic barriers and support marginalized communities, we can create a more just society.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Now the City Council as a body of which the mayor is a part needs to make sure the city manager permits the police chief to communicate the unfiltered requirements of the police department to which the city council should listen to the city manager's recommendation before making resourcing and policy decisions.
City Council needs to be accountable for accepting the public safety risks that are associated with level of resources provided. City Council needs to hold the City Manager and by extension the Police Chief accountable for achieving the public safety outcomes that were funded.
The mayor needs to be advocate for public safety, needs to honor and respect the men and women who deliver public safety and the inherent risk they volunteer to accept, and serve as a facilitator to nurture the partnership between Beach residents and public safety officers so essential to achieving a safe community.
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Collaborative Partnership: The mayor’s office and law enforcement should work together as partners, ensuring that policing strategies align with the community’s needs and priorities. This collaboration can enhance public safety and foster trust between law enforcement and residents.
Community Engagement: Law enforcement should be actively involved in community outreach and engagement initiatives. The mayor’s office can facilitate platforms for open dialogue, allowing residents to voice their concerns and suggestions while promoting transparency in law enforcement practices.
Accountability and Oversight: The mayor has a responsibility to ensure that law enforcement operates with integrity and accountability. This includes supporting policies that promote transparency, regular performance evaluations, and mechanisms for addressing misconduct.
Focus on Public Safety and Equity: Both the mayor’s office and law enforcement should prioritize equitable policing practices that serve all community members fairly. This involves training on bias reduction, community-oriented policing, and addressing systemic issues that impact marginalized populations.
Resource Support: The mayor should advocate for adequate funding and resources for law enforcement to ensure they have the tools and training necessary to effectively serve the community while prioritizing mental health support and de-escalation techniques.
Crisis Response and Coordination: In times of crisis, the mayor’s office and law enforcement must coordinate effectively to ensure a comprehensive response that prioritizes public safety while also addressing community needs.
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
John Moss (Nonpartisan)
Voters must have a process, though not an easy process to meet the threshold for action, to remove an elected official between elections,. Elected officials are relatively insulated from accountability between elections in Virginia Beach. There is room to improve accountability, while retaining the goodness of our constitutional republic.
Accountability in government means to me that the organizational culture of a given governmental entity imposes accountability at the individual level with personal employment and financial consequence for failure to uphold the public's trust or for failure to competently execute their assigned duties.
I spent the last twenty plus years as a director on the three star headquarters' staff of the U. S. Navy's submarine force, and experienced what an organizational culture where personal accountable is its keystone of existence can accomplish. I am a firm believer there is no institutional accountability to the public where there is not meaningful personal accountability within the institution.
Chris Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Sabrina Wooten (Nonpartisan)
Building Trust: Transparency in financial matters fosters trust between government officials and the community. When constituents can see how their tax dollars are being spent, it reassures them that funds are being used responsibly and ethically. Empowerment of Citizens: Access to clear and comprehensive financial information empowers citizens to engage with their government. Informed constituents can hold their elected officials accountable, participate in discussions, and advocate for their community’s needs. Prevention of Corruption: High levels of transparency act as a deterrent to corruption and mismanagement. When financial processes and decisions are open to scrutiny, it reduces opportunities for unethical behavior and increases the likelihood of fair practices. Informed Decision-Making: Transparency ensures that decision-making processes are based on accurate data and community input. This leads to policies that better reflect the needs and priorities of constituents. Fiscal Responsibility: Government accountability requires officials to justify their spending and policies, promoting careful management of public resources. This accountability encourages more thoughtful and effective use of taxpayer funds.
Promoting Engagement: When government financial activities are transparent, it encourages civic engagement. Citizens are more likely to participate in the democratic process when they feel informed and believe their voices matter.
Candidate profiles
This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.
Incumbent: No
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "I am a person who is believes in the following two expressions: 1. To whom much is given much is expected. 2. "On earth the work of God must truly be are own. " President Kennedy I am a person who considers myself an advocate for the Founders' fundamental principles of: 1. Limited government 2. Liberties granted by our Creator not government for which neither government nor a majority can infringe 3. free enterprise - capitalism 4. equal opportunity 5. rule of law not the rule of a person During my seventeen years on the Virginia Beach City Council, I made decisions based on the merits as revealed by the application of reason after a robust discovery process and public discussion independent of future election consequences. My forty-one years of years as DoD civilian prior to retirement, my seventeen years as a Virginia Beach council member, and 35 years as Scout leader further validates my adherence to my beliefs. Kathy and I have been married 43 years raised a Gold Star Girl Scout and two Eagle Scouts who are successful in their own right. I have been active in Boy Scouts in various leadership positions for 38 years. Love to read and do yard work. The Secretary of the Navy awarded me the Distinguished Civilian Service Award (the highest award to be earn) for my contribution to the readiness of the Navy's submarine forces. I love Virginia Beach and want to make it affordable for everyone and make the every household more prosperous."
This information was current as of the candidate's run for Mayor of Virginia Beach in 2024.
Incumbent: No
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "Councilmember Chris Taylor was elected in November 2022 as the District 8 representative. Born and raised in Virginia Beach, he is a graduate of First Colonial High School and Virginia Wesleyan University. I am the 6th generation in my family to have grown up in the King’s Grant area of Virginia Beach. My great-great grandmother, Mary Jane Etheridge, lived to be 112 years old. My great grandmother, Charolette Ann Berry, and my best friend, lived to be 105 years old. They both lived their entire lives in King’s Grant. My wife, Kimberly Taylor, and I were married in 2015. We have two young sons named Caleb and Christian, and a new born daughter, Charlotte. I am a family man at heart, but my duties as a City Councilman have helped me stay in touch with the community. I’ve learned a great deal about our city and my focus is on growth and supporting families throughout Virginia Beach. I have been appointed to the Bayfront Advisory Commission, Community Criminal Justice Board and Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, and serves as a City Council liaison for the Atlantic Park Community Development Authority, Health Services Advisory Board, Housing Advisory Board, Military Economic Development Advisory Committee, Open Space Advisory Committee, Resort Advisory Commission and School Modernization Special Project."
This information was current as of the candidate's run for Mayor of Virginia Beach in 2024.
Incumbent: No
Political Office: None
Submitted Biography: "Councilmember Sabrina D. Wooten was sworn into office on November 20, 2018, filling the vacancy left by Mayor Dyer as the representative for the Centerville district in Virginia Beach. On November 3, 2020, she made history as the first African American to be re-elected for a second term on the Virginia Beach City Council. Originally from Stuttgart, Germany, Sabrina has lived in the Hampton Roads area for over 21 years. A passionate advocate for combating poverty, supporting local businesses, addressing homelessness, and protecting natural resources, Sabrina brings more than 25 years of experience in business leadership and administration across both the private and nonprofit sectors. Sabrina is the creator and host of the Ignite Business Series Seminar, an annual event designed to empower local small, women, minority, and service-disabled business owners with essential resources and tools for growth. Additionally, she launched Launch Virginia Beach (LaunchVB), a dedicated website that serves as a hub for small business resources and support. As the owner of Strategic Impact Services, LLC, Sabrina provides mediation services and business management solutions to organizations and the community. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Old Dominion University, teaching Contemporary Business Management and Public Administration, and at Regent University, where she teaches American Government."
This information was current as of the candidate's run for Mayor of Virginia Beach in 2024.
Mayoral partisanship
Thirty-four of the 100 largest cities held mayoral elections in 2024. Once mayors elected in 2024, assumed office Democrats held 65 top-100 mayoral offices, Republicans 25, Libertarians held one, independents held two, and nonpartisan mayors held four. Three mayors' partisan affiliations were unknown.
The following top 100 cities saw a change in mayoral partisan affiliation in 2024:[1]
- Anchorage, Alaska: Nonpartisan Suzanne LaFrance defeated incumbent Republican David Bronson in the runoff election on May 14. LaFrance assumed office on July 1.
- Tulsa, Oklahoma: Democrat Monroe Nichols was elected to succeed Republican G. T. Bynum on November 5. Nichols assumed office on December 1.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: Democrat Shelley Berkley was elected to succeed nonpartisan Carolyn Goodman on November 5. Berkley assumed office on December 4.
- Scottsdale, Arizona: Republican Lisa Borowsky defeated incumbent Independent David Ortega on November 5. Borowsky assumed office on January 14, 2025.
- Stockton, California: Democrat Christina Fugazi was elected to succeed Republican Kevin Lincoln II on November 5. Fugazi assumed office on January 1, 2025.
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana: Republican Sid Edwards defeated incumbent Democrat Sharon Weston Broome on December 7. Edwards assumed office on January 1, 2025.
- San Antonio, Texas: On September 14, 2024, The San Antonio Express-News reported that mayor Ron Nirenberg, who had previously called himself an independent, had announced that he was a Democrat.[2]
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About the city
- See also: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is an independent city located in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is considered a county equivalent. As of 2020, its population was 459,470.
City government
- See also: Council-manager government
The city of Virginia Beach uses a council-manager system. In this form of municipal government, an elected city council, which includes the mayor and serves as the city's primary legislative body, appoints an executive called a city manager to oversee day-to-day municipal operations and implement the council's policy and legislative initiatives.[3][4]
Demographics
The following table displays demographic data provided by the United States Census Bureau.
| Demographic Data for Virginia Beach, Virginia | ||
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | Virginia | |
| Population | 459,470 | 8,631,393 |
| Land area (sq mi) | 244 | 39,481 |
| Race and ethnicity** | ||
| White | 65.1% | 66.3% |
| Black/African American | 18.8% | 19% |
| Asian | 7.1% | 6.7% |
| Native American | 0.3% | 0.3% |
| Pacific Islander | 0.1% | 0.1% |
| Other (single race) | 2.1% | 2.8% |
| Multiple | 6.5% | 4.8% |
| Hispanic/Latino | 8.4% | 9.5% |
| Education | ||
| High school graduation rate | 94% | 90.3% |
| College graduation rate | 37.3% | 39.5% |
| Income | ||
| Median household income | $78,136 | $76,398 |
| Persons below poverty level | 7.2% | 10% |
| Source: population provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "Decennial Census" (2020). Other figures provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2015-2020). | ||
| **Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here. | ||
See also
| Virginia Beach, Virginia | Virginia | Municipal government | Other local coverage |
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External links
Footnotes
- ↑ As of January 7, 2025, the party affiliation of one mayor elected in 2024 was unknown. Ballotpedia contacted El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson's campaign in December to inquire about his party affiliation and had not yet received a reply. As incumbent Oscar Leeser was a Democrat, this decreased the net gain for Democrats from two to one.
- ↑ [San Antonio Express-News, "‘I’m a Democrat’: Mayor Ron Nirenberg campaigns for Kamala Harris, embraces party label," September 14, 2024]
- ↑ City of Virginia Beach, "City Council," accessed August 11, 2014
- ↑ City of Virginia Beach, "Form of Government," accessed October 30, 2014
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