Barbara L. Ramsey is a candidate for Williamsburg City Council. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Ramsey is running against four challengers for Williamsburg City Council. Voters will be able to select up to three candidates on the ballot.
The first day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office for this election is Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Click here to see who is on your ballot.
10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.
Name: Barbara Ramsey
Age: 71
Website: www.barbfortheburg.com
Biography: I grew up in a small town in the Shenandoah Valley where my parents instilled in me a strong work ethic and passion for community service. I came to Williamsburg in 1971 to attend William & Mary. Upon graduation I embarked on a long successful business career, including 27 years with Thomasville Furniture Industries holding various sales and management positions across the US and Europe with a focus on federal government clients. After retiring in 2013, I worked for the Clubs of Colonial Williamsburg for three years before joining City Council in 2016. Problem-solving skills, time management, organizational proficiencies, and the ability to work collaboratively were invaluable to my professional success and have transferred well to serving on Williamsburg’s City Council.
Why are you running for this office?
I have a proven track record on City Council of getting the job done for Williamsburg residents. I’ve enhanced economic development initiatives to support existing businesses and to attract and grow new businesses in Williamsburg, overseen new fire and police stations, and supported safe, modern housing for W&M students, like Midtown Row and High Street. I’m dedicated to keeping our property tax rate the lowest in Virginia, ensuring K-12 students have access to the best education, and using my expertise as a business leader to create local jobs. I’m optimistic about Williamsburg’s future and want to continue positioning it for the future. There are exciting opportunities ahead, like a new library, a live performance venue and a downtown children’s park, that I’m working to bring to our community. I want to make sure they become realities for our citizens.
What is your view on growth management in your community?
In Williamsburg, effective growth management is about listening to our citizens and working collaboratively with our partners to improve schools, transportation and emergency services. I want to create economic opportunities to enhance our collective quality of life and support regional success to keep Williamsburg the best place in Virginia to live, work and raise a family.
It’s essential to me that I hear from residents about any proposed projects before voting to ensure their voices are an integral part of the decision-making process. I’m committed to ensuring that growth aligns with what our community needs and values.
To keep Williamsburg thriving, I’m focused on enhancing our infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and improving amenities like downtown parking and a live performance venue. My aim is to assure our city remains a top choice for families, students, and professionals.
What is your view on continuing the partnership between James City County and the city for a public school system?
The recent study on separating the Williamsburg and James City County school district found that City students are at a learning disadvantage compared to County students. A top priority of mine is to address these achievement gaps and improve education for all students. I plan on working closely with our partners and citizens to review all options available to make the best decisions possible for Williamsburg students
What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?
City Council has strict ethics rules that align with state regulations, and I make sure to follow these rules closely. We need to ensure equal application of the rules for all candidates.
How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?
I respect all opinions and believe that differing views shouldn’t diminish our shared goals. Even if we disagree, we all want a safe, welcoming community with strong services and education. It’s important to “agree to disagree” while working together toward the common good for Williamsburg.