Sharon Anderson is a candidate for Portsmouth City Council. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.

Anderson is running against 10 challengers for Portsmouth City Council. They are vying for three open seats.

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: Sharon D. Anderson

Biography: I was born and raised here in Portsmouth, grew up on Glasgow Street, now London Blvd. Started school at John Marshall Elementary School, when it mysteriously caught fire, we had to go to Riddick Weaver Elementary School, then sent to Park View Elementary at that time located on Crawford Parkway. Graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School, class of 1977. There I was a member of the Student Council Association, Homeroom President for four years. Played the Bb clarinet in the marching band and in senior year a varsity cheerleader. Selected to represent school at Old Dominion University for a Leadership Conference. Owned my own clothing boutique here in Portsmouth, Sharon’s Boutique. Currently the Civic League President for the Ebony Heights Civic League, on the Board and Commission for Parks and Recreation. A Hampton Roads Commissioner for the Community Advisory Committee. Graduated from the Portsmouth Police Department Citizen Academy, Studying Criminal Justice Administration from Strayer University, graduating 2025. A retired educator of 22 years. Established under civic league, KOYS, Keeping Our Youth Safe.

Why are you running for this office?

I am running for Portsmouth City Council because of a need in our city for positive leadership for all people, and to change the negative image of our governing body.

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

Two challenges facing Portsmouth are crime and jobs. I will focus on innovating crime-infested areas and bringing businesses to our city that will train and pay substantial wages.

What is your view addressing the affordable housing crisis?

Affordable housing and good-paying jobs are needed.

The city has a longstanding history of disfunction on City Council. How will you civilly work with your colleagues?

I will bring civility to the council by changing the atmosphere to productivity.

What is your vision for the former Civic Center and Holiday Inn site in Olde Town Portsmouth?

My vision for the former Civic Center would be bringing businesses to our city, a skills center creating jobs, and for the Holiday Inn site in Olde Town Five-Star restaurants bringing tourists creating revenue for our city.

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

My view on taking money from individuals who will likely have businesses before the city is unethical.