Candidate Profile: Robert Coleman (Newport News City Council – Central)

Biography: Rob is a lifelong resident of Newport News and a proud product of Newport News Public Schools. Rob has been serving Newport News citizens for 30 years in various capacities. In 1996, he joined the Newport News Sheriff’s Office, rising through the ranks from Deputy Sheriff to Major. Rob retired as a decorated law enforcement professional in 2021, to become the Chief Operating Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula, where he still serves today.

In 2012, Rob was elected to the Newport News City Council to represent the citizens of the North District. During his term, he was appointed Vice Mayor, proudly serving the city and council until 2016.

Rob has had the honor of serving on several community boards and commissions, including the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula, President of the Newport News Police Foundation, Alternatives, Inc., Civic Leadership Institute, State Executive Council for Children’s Services, Newport News Behavioral Health Docket, and the Southeast Community Coalition.

A product of Newport News Public Schools, Rob is also a graduate of the National Criminal Justice Command College at UVA, the Hampton Roads Regional Criminal Justice Academy, and The Leadership Institute at The College of William & Mary. Rob, his wife Jamie, and their son Jacob reside in the Central District of Newport News.

Why are you running for this office?

After serving our community for 30 years as a law enforcement officer, elected official, and now as a youth development professional, I have developed a reputation for being a servant leader that believes in service, commitment, and collaboration. Over the years, I have learned that when we work together our city has become safer, smarter, and more prosperous.

My experience, record of service, leadership style, and love for Newport News, makes me the most qualified candidate to bring our city together to address the challenges we face with public education, public safety, and economic development.

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

Education is the cornerstone of our future success, and as a candidate for city council, I am committed to putting “Education First.” First and foremost, my plan focuses on ensuring that very child in Newport News has access to a safe, supportive, and equitable learning environment.

We must invest in our most valuable asset: our teachers. Teachers, and support staff, play a crucial role in shaping the future success of our children, and we must support them with competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and reduced class sizes.

My plan also emphasizes the importance of addressing disparities in educational outcomes and ensuring that every child has an equal opportunity to succeed. This includes providing additional support and resources for students from low-income families, English language learners, students with disabilities, and other historically underserved populations.

Investing in education is an investment in the future of Newport News. By improving schools, supporting teachers and staff, promoting equity, and fostering community partnerships, we can create a brighter future for our children and build a stronger, more prosperous community for generations to come.

What is your view on addressing the affordable housing crisis?

During my time as the Commander of Re-Entry Programs at the Newport News Sheriff’s Office, and as a current board member of the Housing Development Corporation of Hampton Roads, I have witnessed, coordinated, and supported initiatives to provide affordable, safe housing for citizens of Newport News and the Greater Peninsula.

Affordable housing is not just about providing shelter; it is a fundamental component of creating a vibrant, inclusive community. By ensuring that housing is affordable and accessible, Newport News can enhance workforce development, prevent crime, reduce poverty, and promote overall well-being and economic prosperity for all our residents. I will work with our Peninsula partners on making affordable housing a regional priority, not only a Newport News priority.

Senior citizens in Newport News have made invaluable contributions to the community, shaping its growth and character over decades. As workers, educators, entrepreneurs, and volunteers, they have driven economic development, enriched local culture, and strengthened social bonds. Their wisdom and experience have guided younger generations, fostering a sense of continuity and shared values. Through civic engagement and public service, they have played a pivotal role in building and sustaining the city’s institutions. Honoring their contributions means recognizing the foundational role they have played in making Newport News the community it is today.

One way to address housing costs, and to show our appreciation to our seniors, would be to amend the current criteria for the Real Estate Tax Exemption for the Elderly. Specifically, I recommend increasing the income limit from $25,000 to $50,000 for the total household income of the applicant, spouse, and all residents of the home. Additionally, I propose raising the asset limit from $10,000 to $25,000, excluding the value of the residence. Although this adjustment may appear significant, it is important to note that seniors constitute only 12% of Newport News’ population, and not all seniors’ own homes. Therefore, the budgetary impact should be minimal, while the financial relief for many seniors could be transformative.

What is your view on what the City should do with the Newport News Williamsburg Airport? Should commercial services be suspended to save money? Should the city use general fund revenues to subsidize the airport?

Newport News Williamsburg Airport is the reason my family moved to Newport News in 1974. My father was employed with Alleghany Airlines at JFK Airport in New York when he requested a transfer to Patrick Henry Airport (PHF). My parents decided that they wanted to raise their young family in a nice, small southern town where their children would be safe and get a good education. Fast forward 50 years and the City of Newport News is the sixth largest city in the Commonwealth and Newport News/Williamsburg Airport, who once played a vital role in the region’s transportation infrastructure, is now facing serious challenges in maintaining commercial service and overall financial sustainability.

My vision for revitalizing the Newport News Williamsburg Airport is by focusing on attracting new air freight and aviation-related industries to the airport. The strategic location of the airport, with its proximity to major transportation networks, makes it a compelling option for businesses in the logistics and aviation sectors.

By leveraging these strengths, the airport could shift its focus from primarily passenger service to becoming a hub for cargo and aviation technology, which could create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region. Involving the Economic Development Authorities to actively market the airport to potential companies will diversify the airport’s revenue streams but also reduce the reliance on taxpayer subsidies.

This strategy will broaden the economic development goals of Newport News and could play a significant role in the city’s continued growth and prosperity.

What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?

Accepting political contributions from individuals who may do business with the city can be ethical if done transparently and within legal guidelines. Contributions are a way for individuals to support candidates who align with their values and goals for the community. Ethical issues may come into play when there is not full disclosure of the contribution and adherence to strict campaign finance laws.

No matter the amount of the donation, it will not influence my decision-making process or create a quid pro quo situation. I will remain impartial, making decisions based on what is best for the public rather than on who contributed to my campaign. By maintaining transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest, we can ethically accept contributions while upholding our duty to serve the community fairly.

How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree with?

Valuing constituents with whom you disagree is crucial to serving effectively on the city council. If elected, I will continue my practice of prioritizing open communication, actively listening to all, even those that differ from me. Understanding the concerns and needs of every constituent, regardless of agreement, ensures that I represent the district and city fairly.

My commitment is to serve all constituents with integrity, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in the decision-making process. Disagreements are a natural part of democracy, and they can strengthen our community when approached with an open mind and a focus on mutual respect.

Will you be accessible to journalist inquiries directly, or rely on the newly created City Council Press Secretary position?

The City Council’s Press Secretary is responsible for delivering structured communications, ensuring consistency, and allowing the council to speak with one voice on certain matters. However, I respect the mission of the press and the important work they do in our community. It is my responsibility to make myself available to the press, and the community, to discuss any matters that may affect our citizens.