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Zachary Walker
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Zachary Walker (also known as Zac) ran for election to the Richmond City Council to represent West End 1st Voter District in Virginia. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Walker completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Zachary Walker was born in Newport News, Virginia. He earned a high school diploma from York High School and a bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2008. He also attended the University of Virginia's College at Wise. His career experience includes working as a business administrator and for the National Parks Service. He has been affiliated with the Monument Avenue Park Civic Association.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: City elections in Richmond, Virginia (2024)
General election
General election for Richmond City Council 1st Voter District
Andrew Breton defeated Paul Goldman and Zachary Walker in the general election for Richmond City Council 1st Voter District on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Andrew Breton (Nonpartisan)  | 49.1 | 7,201 |
| Paul Goldman (Nonpartisan) | 27.7 | 4,066 | ||
| Zachary Walker (Nonpartisan) | 22.4 | 3,289 | ||
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.8 | 122 | ||
| Total votes: 14,678 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Walker in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Zachary Walker completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Walker's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I love Richmond. Since moving here over 20 years ago to attend and graduate from VCU, my family and I have developed a deep-rooted connection and vested interest in this vibrant community. As the past president and an active member of the Monument Ave Park Civic Association (MAP), I have dedicated myself to enhancing our neighborhood. My efforts have significantly contributed to its dramatic improvement through various community events and advocacy with city officials for infrastructure upgrades and planned development. In my career over the past 15 years, I have developed strong relationship-building and negotiation skills, which will greatly benefit the city council.
- Fiscal responsibility: As a municipality with a high tax burden, it is our responsibility to ensure that every tax dollar is used effectively for the betterment of our community. Unfortunately, recent years have shown that the city has not always met this standard, with City Hall’s budget mismanagement highlighting significant dysfunction. My goal is to develop and implement procedures that streamline operations and address these inefficiencies, ensuring our resources are used wisely and effectively.
- Safety within our community: My goal would be to work with RPD, neighborhood associations, schools and other community groups to continue building resources that keep our neighborhoods safe.
- School enhancement: Our public schools are a draw for many considering making a home in the First District. With a young son readying to start kindergarten at Mary Munford, I’m committed to supporting the schools in our district and city. Ensuring our youth have a strong foundation is key to our city’s long term success.
I am deeply passionate about public policy areas that directly impact the well-being and future of our community. Specifically, I am committed to: Education: Ensuring that my son and all children in our neighborhood receive the highest quality education that Richmond Public Schools (RPS) can provide. Public Safety: Creating a safe environment where children can freely ride their bikes in new bike lanes and families can enjoy green spaces without worry. Community Development: Promoting the development of green spaces and bike lanes to enhance the quality of life for all residents. These areas are crucial for building a thriving, inclusive, and safe community.
Richmond, the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia, is my home. As the seat of significant decision-making, this office plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact the entire state. Each year, millions of people visit Richmond for tourism, education, healthcare, sporting events, government activities, and to become permanent residents. This office has the unique ability to drive tourism, enhance safety for all, and maintain our infrastructure, making it an essential and influential part of the state government and legal system.
I look up to my father. He has always done the right thing for his family and community, even when it wasn’t the easiest choice. As a father myself, I understand the importance of setting a good example for my son and his friends. His dedication and integrity inspire me to follow in his footsteps and strive to make a positive impact in my community.
The Liberal Redneck Manifesto by Trae Crowder
I believe that having a level head, empathy, and a get-it-done attitude are the key characteristics we need on the RVA City Council.
I believe I have a true talent for building trust quickly. I am an active listener, and I want to help everyone find solutions to their problems
The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office include prioritizing the voices and concerns of residents, ensuring their needs are met. It’s essential to find a balance between what the city needs and what residents need, addressing both effectively. Ultimately, making decisions that are in the best interest of the community, guided by integrity and a commitment to public service, is paramount.
Leaving my community better than I found it.
When I was a child, I remember the Major League Baseball strike that lasted from 1994 to 1995. I was around 9-10 years old at the time.
I worked at S&K Men’s Warehouse from ages 15 to 19, throughout my high school years and into college.
A Storm of Swords” is the third book in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, and the storyline of the Red Wedding was incredible.
Peter and the Wolf
One significant struggle in my life was when my wife had a difficult pregnancy with our son. The complications she faced made it incredibly stressful for both of us. Seeing her struggle and feeling helpless was heart-wrenching, but it also brought us closer together and strengthened our bond
One little-known power of the city council is its ability to pass special use permits without strictly adhering to the permit guidelines. While there is a time and place for special use permits, the city council has been issuing them more frequently, which can be misleading. This is an important responsibility that more people should be aware of, as it can significantly impact community development and zoning decisions.
No, I do not believe previous experience in government or politics is necessary. In fact, it might not always be in the city’s best interest. I think that with drive and passion, anyone can succeed in this office.
I believe that active listening is the most essential skill for success in this position. Being able to truly hear and understand the concerns and needs of residents is crucial for making informed and effective decisions. This skill, combined with a deep understanding of public policy, financial management, and community engagement, would be incredibly beneficial for anyone holding this office.
Richmond, the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia, is my home. As the seat of significant decision-making, this office plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact the entire state. Each year, millions of people visit Richmond for tourism, education, healthcare, sporting events, government activities, and to become permanent residents. This office has the unique ability to drive tourism, enhance safety for all, and maintain our infrastructure, making it an essential and influential part of the state government and legal system.
My favorite joke is actually my son’s favorite joke: ‘Guess what?’ ‘Chicken Butt.
Financial transparency and government accountability are pillars of my campaign. The city of Richmond has fallen short in tracking and reporting how taxpayer money is spent. I am committed to changing that by ensuring clear, accessible, and accurate financial reporting, so residents can see exactly where their money is going and how it is being used to benefit the community.
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.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Richmond City Council 1st Voter District |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 25, 2024
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