Candidate Profile: Randy Bowman (Hampton City Council)

Name: Randy C. Bowman

Age: 59 years of age

Email: bettertogetherwithbowman@gmail.com

Biography: Entrepreneurship and community engagement have been the foundation of Randy Bowman’s commitment to having a positive impact in the lives of those around him. A native Hamptonian, Randy graduated from Bethel High School and pursued his post-secondary education at Norfolk State University. It was through those experiences that he developed a passion for innovation and a desire to one day become a business owner. Throughout his professional career, Randy has held several leadership roles within corporations across Tidewater Virginia, where he was able to cultivate and sharpen his skills. This ultimately prepared him for his current position as the owner of Bowman’s Soul N the Wall and newly opened I Scream U Scream, both located in the heart of Hampton, providing hundreds of customers each week with delicious meals and ice cream. His experience as a restauranteur within his hometown has undoubtedly propelled his passion for people, in his efforts to leave a lasting effect on his community.

From organizing annual back-to-school supplies and Easter basket giveaways to donating food to causes and events, Randy has made it a priority to leverage his business to provide resources to those who need it most. Notably, during the recent pandemic, Bowman’s Soul N the Wall had the pleasure of preparing hundreds of meals each week through a partnership spearheaded by celebrity artist, Pharrell Williams and World Central Kitchen, to help feed citizens throughout Hampton Roads.

Over the years, Randy has donated his time and talent to several local organizations and initiatives. In addition to participating as a mentor to youth in the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program, he also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, an organization focused on improving and building homes for families. In his spare time, Randy enjoys cooking, entertaining, restoring classic cars and he is also a member of the Hampton Roads chapter of 100 Black Men, the Do-Gooders of Hampton Roads and the Aberdeen Gardens organizations. However, of all his accomplishments, he is most proud of his two children and two grandchildren, who are the joy of his life.

Randy’s love for the city of Hampton is grounded in his belief that collaboration and connectivity are major catalysts for positive change — hence his campaign slogan, WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER.

Why are you running for this office?

As councilman, I would be committed to continuing and enhancing economic growth. As a successful restaurant owner, I understand the challenges and opportunities that businesses face. I would work to Establish a Business incubator one-stop-shop to guide citizens through the process of opening and growing a business in Hampton. This will provide resources, mentorship and streamline processes to make ownership more accessible.

What is the top challenge facing Hampton, and how would you address it?

As a victim of family gun violence, I support and believe, there needs to be tighter regulations on gun laws. As a restaurant owner, I have posted no guns allowed stickers. I pride myself not having to call police. I have witnessed attempts by patrons to bring in guns and have turned them around to take back to their cars. These are pre-city council actions. Once as a council member, I will have a louder voice and work well with current members which will translate into passing gun laws for the City of Hampton.

What is your view addressing the affordable housing crisis?

Hampton is even leveled compared to most cities on affordable housing. Hampton can benefit by adding more inventory of affordable homes. My observation of this issue is having better paying jobs so a family can afford a home in our community. Hampton has a good percentage of jobs that will allow people to afford a home. Statistics show that people who live outside of Hampton occupy these jobs. This issue can be tackled with training, certificate programs and other resources. Hampton has to offer jobs that commensurate pay, resulting in affordable home purchases.

What is your view on Hampton’s Short-Term Rental Ordinance that limits rentals citywide?

I fully support Hampton’s recent changes to short-term rental regulations. These guidelines strike a balance between allowing business opportunities and protecting neighborhoods from over-saturation. Regulations are crucial to maintain a balance between interests of short-term rental operators and needs of the community. Guidelines can prevent issues like neighborhood overcrowding, noise, and disruption, while ensuring that short-term rentals don’t negatively impact long-term housing availability. In summary, supporting short-term rentals with regulations in Hampton can provide economic benefits and flexibility for property owners while ensuring that the community’s needs and concerns are addressed impact long-term housing availability. In summary, supporting short-term rentals with regulations in Hampton can provide economic benefits and flexibility for property owners while ensuring that the community’s needs and concerns are addressed.