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Who Will Shape the Future of Virginia Beach? Meet the Candidates for District 8!

As the special election for the District 8 seat on the Virginia Beach City Council approaches, voters are eager to understand who the candidates are and what they stand for. With pressing issues like affordable housing, responsible development, and community engagement at the forefront, this election is crucial for the future of our city. Let’s dive into the backgrounds and key priorities of the candidates vying for your vote!

Candidate Profiles

Phillip J. “Phil” Hines

• Residence: Thalia Acres
• Age: 36
• Occupation: Real estate appraiser and owner of Hines Appraisals
• Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Old Dominion University
• Endorsements: City Councilmember Chris Taylor and Leslie Jones, Chairperson of the Virginia Dare Soil and Water Conservation District
• Contact: phil@philhines.com | Phone: (757) 897-3538

Key Issues

Phil emphasizes the need for a citizen-focused council, aiming for responsible growth that prioritizes neighborhoods. His three main policy priorities include:

1. Protecting neighborhoods from over-development.
2. Advocating for the construction of the VB Bike Trail to enhance economic engagement.
3. Lowering property taxes through fiscal responsibility.

Stacy Cummings

• Residence: Bay Island
• Age: 66
• Occupation: Founding Partner, Priority Auto Group
• Education: BS in Accounting, University of Maryland
• Endorsements: Governor Glenn Youngkin, Lt. Governor Winsome Sears
• Contact: stacycummings@votestacycummings.com | Phone: (757) 652-5880

Key Issues

Stacy aims to address the rising cost of living and taxes, focusing his efforts on:

1. Providing tax relief to homeowners.
2. Attracting new businesses to diversify the tax base.
3. Enhancing stormwater management systems to prevent flooding.

Cody Conner

• Residence: Malibu
• Age: 43
• Occupation: Maintenance Supervisor
• Education: High School Diploma
• Endorsements: Virginia Beach Democratic Committee
• Contact: connerforvb@gmail.com | Phone: (757) 219-2757

Key Issues

Cody's platform is centered on affordability and accessibility, with a strong focus on:

1. Increasing affordable housing options.
2. Improving educational resources for local schools.
3. Enhancing public transportation for better connectivity.

Leland Jones

• Residence: King’s Grant
• Age: 25
• Occupation: Business Owner
• Education: High School
• Endorsements: Various local business leaders
• Contact: electlelandjonesvb@gmail.com | Phone: (757) 524-0056