Virginia Beach residents went to the polls on Tuesday and largely reaffirmed their city council leadership. Incumbents Barbara Henley (District 2), Stacy Cummings (District 8), Joash Schulman (District 9) and Jennifer Rouse (District 10) each secured a second term. In District 6, Worth Remick led the field as precincts reported on Wednesday morning.
Housing affordability and job growth remain top priorities
Councilwoman‑elect Stacy Cummings said her return to the council will allow her to keep pressing on the issue of housing affordability. “We still have to address the issue of affordability, especially housing affordability, and that’s only going to come by having more housing units being built,” she explained. Cummings also emphasized the need for economic development that creates pathways for younger residents. “We need to get more businesses to come to Virginia Beach that will create opportunities for our young people to stay here,” she added.
Infrastructure focus in District 9
Councilmember Joash Schulman, representing District 9, highlighted his commitment to long‑term infrastructure projects, including improvements along Shore Drive. “We’ve also got lots of resources toward our long‑term projects,” Schulman said. “Shore Drive, I want to see shovels turning on our side of the bridge.”
District 4 welcomes retired police officer Janet Byrnes
Voters in District 4 chose a new voice for the council. Retired Virginia Beach master police officer Janet Byrnes defeated incumbent Amelia Ross‑Hammond, earning roughly 55 % of the vote with all eight precincts reporting. Provisional and mail‑in ballots were still being counted at the time of reporting.
Schulman expressed confidence that the council will support Byrnes as she assumes her new role. “I have every confidence that this council will welcome her in and help her understand how she can best serve her own constituents and give to the city as well,” he said.
Next steps
Byrnes has not yet provided a public comment, but council members have pledged to assist her transition. The newly seated council will convene in the coming weeks to set priorities for the next two‑year term, with a focus on affordable housing, business attraction, and infrastructure upgrades that benefit families and neighborhoods across Virginia Beach.
Virginia Beach voters demonstrated a clear desire for continuity in most districts while also embracing fresh leadership in District 4, signaling a balanced approach to city governance that aligns with community values and the needs of growing families.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
