Biography: Stephen Ferguson, a dedicated conservative candidate running for Newport News City Council, has a rich background in public service and entrepreneurship.

Stephen grew up in the Bennett’s Creek area of Suffolk, where he began his journey in public service. As a member of the Driver Volunteer Fire Department and Bennett’s Creek Rescue Squad, he developed a deep commitment to helping others.

After attending Christopher Newport University, Stephen embarked on his dream career in the fire service. He started at the Elizabeth City Fire Department, where he served the residents with dedication for over two years. Subsequently, he joined the Chesapeake Fire Department, serving for nearly 20 years. During his tenure, he held roles such as Firefighter, Firefighter/Paramedic, Acting Officer, and Acting EMS Supervisor. His exemplary service earned him several honors, including the Service Achievement Honors, Good Conduct Medal, and Distinguished Service Medal.

Transitioning from the fire service, Stephen and his wife, Teana, focused on their family business in the green industry. They started a small landscape maintenance business, and in 2002, decided to take it to the next level by purchasing a U.S. Lawns franchise. Under their leadership, the business expanded to five office locations and nearly 100 team members. Stephen’s contributions to the franchise were recognized with his induction into the U.S. Lawns Hall of Fame in 2014. The Fergusons’ franchise has grown to be one of the top five in the country, a testament to their hard work and dedication.

In addition to their landscaping business, Stephen and Teana also run a real estate holding company that purchases and leases both commercial and residential properties in Hampton Roads.

Stephen Ferguson’s extensive experience in public service and business, coupled with his strong conservative values, make him a standout candidate for Newport News City Council.

Summary of Public Service

Service has been a continuous theme in my life, demonstrated through various leadership roles:

• President of Fame Boosters: I led a non-profit organization dedicated to fundraising activities, enabling parents to afford travel cheerleading. Our efforts included organizing work at concession stands in venues like Harbor Park, Norfolk Scope, and Richmond Raceway.
• Runningman HOA President: In a self-managed homeowners association of 596 homes, I began as the Landscape Committee Chair and progressed to Vice President and then President. My leadership focused on enhancing our community through resident-driven initiatives.
• The Commons HOA President: Currently, I serve as President of the Board, elected by the residents to continue fostering community spirit and managing our neighborhood effectively.
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes: I contribute as a Board Member, supporting the mission to impact coaches and athletes spiritually and morally.
• Virginia Peninsula Community College: I serve as a Board Member, working to advance educational opportunities and resources for our community.

These roles reflect my unwavering commitment to serving others and improving the quality of life in our community.

Why are you running for this office?

With extensive experience in both public and private sectors, I believe I am well-prepared to serve the citizens of Newport News. As a business owner and active community member, I have developed a deep understanding of our city’s needs. My goal is to move Newport News forward and improve the quality of life for every resident.

What is your view on addressing the affordable housing crisis?

Addressing the affordable housing crisis is a priority, and I believe we can tackle it through a combination of smart policies and community collaboration. First, we need to reduce burdensome regulations and red tape that drive up the cost of housing construction. By streamlining the permitting process and encouraging private investment, we can increase the supply of affordable housing.

Second, we should promote public-private partnerships to leverage resources and expertise from both sectors. These collaborations can lead to innovative solutions and more efficient use of funds, ensuring that we maximize the impact of our efforts.

Finally, we must ensure that our housing policies support economic growth and job creation. When we have a strong economy, more families can afford homes, and we can invest in the infrastructure and services that make our communities thrive.

By focusing on these strategies, we can address the affordable housing crisis while upholding conservative principles of limited government, free-market solutions, and community empowerment.

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

The top challenge facing Newport News is the diminishing quality of life. Currently, our city has the highest property taxes on the peninsula and the highest meal tax in the country, which drives businesses and residents away. This decline is evident in the decreasing business license revenue and population.

To address this, we need to ensure safe schools and neighborhoods, reduce taxes, and foster economic growth. By creating a more favorable environment for businesses and residents, we can significantly improve the quality of life for everyone in Newport News.

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?

As a pilot and someone deeply invested in the future of our airport, I believe we have overlooked several key opportunities to support and grow the Newport News Williamsburg Airport.

1. Marketing to Defense and Aerospace Contractors: We should actively market the airport to defense and aerospace contractors, capitalizing on advancements in unmanned aircraft and aerospace. With numerous companies already established in Hampton Roads and NASA on the peninsula, this sector presents a significant growth opportunity.
2. Attracting Shipping Carriers: The airport’s proximity to the interstate makes it an ideal hub for major shipping carriers like Amazon, FedEx, and DHL. Establishing a shipping hub would not only increase airport utilization but also boost local employment and economic activity.
3. Embracing General Aviation: There is a longstanding waitlist for general aviation (GA) hangars. Other airports in the area are expanding their GA facilities, which attract GA maintenance, repair, and avionics shops. Given the active military and veteran pilot community in our region, we have the potential to develop a thriving GA community here.

Implementing these strategies would bring substantial economic growth through increased employment opportunities, enhanced research capabilities, and improved transportation infrastructure. Rather than suspending commercial services or using general fund revenues to subsidize the airport, we should focus on these proactive measures to make the airport a vital economic engine for Newport News.

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

Maintaining integrity and transparency in public service is paramount. As a candidate, I believe in upholding the highest ethical standards. While campaign contributions are a necessary part of running for office, it is crucial to ensure that these contributions do not influence decision-making or create conflicts of interest.

To address this, I propose implementing clear guidelines and transparency measures for campaign donations. This includes publicly disclosing contributions and establishing stringent recusal policies for any decisions involving contributors who have business before the city. By doing so, we can prevent undue influence and maintain the trust of our constituents.

Ultimately, my commitment is to serve the best interests of the people of Newport News, making decisions based on merit and the common good, not on contributions. This approach aligns with conservative principles of accountability, transparency, and ethical governance.

How will you still value constituents with whom you disagree?

I believe in valuing every constituent, regardless of differing opinions, because each person’s experience and perspective are unique. I am committed to holding community meetings where everyone is welcome to present their ideas and solutions. By fostering open dialogue and respectful discussion, we can work together to build a better future for Newport News. While we may not always agree on every issue, we can commit to remaining civil and focused on our shared goal of continuous improvement for our city.

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

Transparency and open communication are vital to effective public service. I am committed to being as accessible as possible to journalists and the public. While I fully support and respect the legally binding operating policies of the Newport News City Council, including the newly created City Council Press Secretary position, I will personally respond to inquiries directly whenever permissible. My goal is to ensure that accurate information is shared promptly and transparently, fostering trust and accountability within our community.