Carlos Clanton is a candidate for Norfolk City Council – Superward 7. His name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Clanton is running against five challengers for Norfolk City Council – Superward 7.
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.
Biography: Carlos Clanton, a deeply committed public servant and lifelong Norfolk resident, is running for Norfolk City Council in Super Ward 7. His roots in the Park Place and Lambert’s Point communities, his pride in being a Norfolk Public Schools and Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts graduate, and his Bachelor of Science from Old Dominion University all reflect his unwavering commitment to public service.
Carlos’s leadership and dedication to community service are evident through his extensive involvement in local and national organizations. His roles as Chair and Vice Chair of the Norfolk City School Board, where he has served since 2018 and was re-elected in 2022, have been instrumental in addressing the diverse needs of students, parents, and educators, ensuring the delivery of quality public education.
Carlos’s work as a National Civil Rights leader and his dedication to social justice is further exemplified by his role as Executive Director of Friends of the Portsmouth Juvenile Court, where he advocates for at-risk youth and their families. His commitment to social justice is an inspiration to all.
Carlos’s impact on Norfolk’s economic landscape is significant. As the youngest and first African American Director of the Norfolk Division of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, he led efforts to support small businesses and promote policies that foster economic growth in the region. His contributions have made Norfolk a stronger, more vibrant community.
Active in various community organizations, Carlos serves on the Board of Directors for Visit Norfolk and the South Eastern Cooperative Education Partnership (SECEP) Regional Board. He is also the Chairman of the Board of the Governor’s School for the Arts. His commitment to service extends to his membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and his active participation in New Calvary Baptist Church, where he sings in the choir.
Carlos’s campaign for Norfolk City Council is driven by a strong commitment to enhancing public safety, fostering economic growth, ensuring affordable housing, and improving environmental resilience. His practical, prudent leadership has earned him the ‘Gun Sense Candidate’ distinction from Moms Demand Action in 2018, 2022, and again in 2024.
With a deep connection to Norfolk, extensive experience in public service, and a passion for creating opportunities for all residents, Carlos Clanton is the common-sense candidate ready to represent Super Ward 7 on the Norfolk City Council.
Why are you running for this office?
I am running for Norfolk City Council to continue serving our community and ensure that every voice is heard. My passion for public service stems from my roots in Norfolk, where I was born, raised, and educated. As a lifelong resident, I’ve witnessed our city’s challenges and potential. My experience on the Norfolk City School Board and in various leadership roles has given me the insight and dedication necessary to advocate for our neighborhoods. I’m committed to creating a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive Norfolk where everyone can thrive.
What is the top challenge facing Norfolk, and how would you address it?
The top challenge facing Norfolk is public safety, particularly gun violence. This issue not only threatens the well-being of our residents but also hampers economic growth and community development. To address this, I will work to enhance community policing efforts, strengthen partnerships with local organizations, and invest in youth programs that provide positive alternatives to violence. We need a multifaceted approach that includes law enforcement, community engagement, and social services working together to create safer neighborhoods.
What is your view on addressing the affordable housing crisis?
The affordable housing crisis in Norfolk requires immediate and sustained action. I believe in legalizing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and reducing minimum lot size requirements to increase the availability of diverse and affordable housing options. Additionally, we must support initiatives like the People First Program to ensure residents have access to quality, affordable homes without being displaced. Housing is a fundamental right, and I will advocate for policies that promote equitable development and preserve our neighborhoods’ character while meeting all residents’ needs.
What is your view on transparency and how do you feel the city can improve, if at all?
Transparency is the cornerstone of good governance, and it’s essential that Norfolk residents feel informed and involved in the decisions that affect their lives. While the city has made strides in this area, there is always room for improvement. I believe the city can continue to enhance transparency by increasing the accessibility of public meetings, promoting the online community budget tool, and utilizing technology to engage residents more effectively. Fostering open communication and accountability can build greater trust between the government and the community.
Do you believe the city focuses too much of its efforts downtown at the expense of other areas in the city?
While downtown Norfolk is an important economic engine, we must balance our investments to ensure all neighborhoods benefit from city resources. There has been a perception that other areas, particularly in Superward 7, have yet to receive the attention they deserve. As a Council member, I will advocate for equitable resource distribution to support infrastructure improvements, public safety, and community services across all parts of Norfolk. Every neighborhood should have the opportunity to thrive, and I will work to ensure that no area is left behind.
What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?
Campaign contributions should never influence decisions made in public office. I believe in maintaining the highest ethical standards and ensuring that all actions taken on the Council are in the community’s best interest. If elected, I will continue to adhere to state policy and guidelines as I have for the last six years as an elected member of the Norfolk City School Board to avoid any conflicts of interest. I will also support transparency in campaign finance to ensure that residents can trust their elected officials to act with integrity.
Norfolk has long been accused of having a shadow government, in which decisions are made by influential business leaders who support certain elected officials. Is this a fair criticism?
The perception of a shadow government is a serious issue that can erode public trust, and as someone who grew up in Norfolk’s Park Place and Lambert’s Point communities, I know firsthand the importance of making sure every voice is heard, not just those with influence. My experience as the youngest and first African American Director of the Norfolk Division of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce taught me the value of transparency and accountability in fostering genuine economic growth. Decisions affecting Norfolk should always be made in the public eye, with input from all stakeholders, not just a select few. I am committed to ensuring that all voices are heard and that decisions are made openly, fairly, and in the best interest of all Norfolk residents.
