Kelvin Turner is a candidate for Portsmouth City Council. His name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Turner is running against ten challengers for Portsmouth City Council. They are vying for three open seats.
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: Dr. Turner is committed to the continuous discernment, development, deployment of
Character, Courage, Commitment, and Care for all. He commits to Competency training, Capacity building, and Cloning of best practices.
Dr. Kelvin E. Turner stands as a pillar of strength and compassion within the vibrant Parkview community of Portsmouth, Virginia. As the esteemed Senior Pastor of Zion Baptist Church, he has not only nurtured the spiritual fabric of his congregation but has extended his unwavering dedication to the betterment of Portsmouth at large.
Alongside his beloved wife, Karen J. Minor-Turner, whose commitment to education shines brightly as a beacon in the Portsmouth Public School System, Dr. Turner embodies the essence of service and community engagement. Their residence in the heart of Parkview serves as a testament to their deep-rooted connection to the very community they seek to serve.
For over 15 years, the Turners have lent their expertise and compassion to various leadership endeavors, both within the hallowed halls of Zion Baptist Church and throughout the expansive Portsmouth landscape. Their collaborative efforts have left an indelible mark on the social, educational, and spiritual fabric of the city, enriching the lives of countless individuals.
As they joyously celebrate four decades of marital bliss this year, Dr. and Mrs. Turner exemplify the strength of unity and partnership. Their family, a testament to their love and dedication, stands as a shining example of the values they hold dear. With their son, Kelvin E. Turner II, and daughters, Attorney Kandace J. Turner-Ford (Glenn, Jr) and Dr. Karisma Elyse TurnerWinfrey (Delano), alongside their cherished grandchildren, Glenn Ford III, Turner Iman Winfrey, and Devyn Jael Winfrey, the Turners’ commitment to building a brighter future for Portsmouth resonates deeply.
Why are you running for this office?
As a resident and community leader in Portsmouth, I deeply care about the city and its future. I felt compelled to offer my time and leadership talents to better serve the residents and the city of Portsmouth. I believe in the transformational power of community service and leadership. I know that I can fill the void of strong, strategic, sustainable and collaborative leadership that Portsmouth so badly needs. As a member of Portsmouth City Council, I will help to reimage Portsmouth and improve the quality of life of all its residents by addressing the key issues of public safety, education, and economic development.
What is the top challenge facing Portsmouth, and how would you address it?
One of the top challenges facing Portsmouth is economic development. I will collaboratively address these issues with fellow council members, community stakeholders and respective agencies by implementing strategic economic development initiatives that supports local businesses, attracts new investments, and creates new job opportunities. The end result will be a more robust economy, less taxation of the citizens and a reimaging of Portsmouth as a great place to live.
What is your view addressing the affordable housing crisis?
Affordable housing is a national crisis that requires a multi-faceted approach. As a member of council, I will work collaboratively to increase affordable housing by promoting mixed-use developments, requiring new projects to include affordable options, and offering incentives for developers to prioritize affordable housings. Additionally, I will advocate and implement policies that protect homeowners and renters from being displaced.
The city has a longstanding history of disfunction on City Council. How will you civilly work with your colleagues?
As a member of council, I look forward to reversing our longstanding history of dysfunction by building consensus, and working collaboratively through a culture of respect, transparency, and cooperation. Through active listening, and engaging in open and honest dialogue, I, along with other council members, will work in cooperation for the betterment of a unified community.
What is your vision for the former Civic Center and Holiday Inn site in Olde Town Portsmouth?
My vision for the former Civic Center and Holiday Inn site in Olde Town Portsmouth is a vision that would be adopted by members of council, community stakeholders and residents of Portsmouth. Such a vision would include, but not limited to, an exciting mixed-use development that includes residential, commercial, recreational and entertainment use. From vision to reality, his redevelopment will attract visitors, support local businesses, and enhance the quality of life for all of the residents of Portsmouth.
What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?
Maintaining integrity and ethical transparency is paramount in campaign financing and public service. Even though contributions from individuals with businesses that will eventually come before the city is legal, I am fully committed to ensuring that such contributions do not influence my decision-making. I will always respond ethically, morally, and legally as I prioritize the best interests of Portsmouth residents in all city matters.
