Issues

I believe my background in government, finance and community service gives me a unique perspective and insight in which to continue my leadership role in improving and unifying our city in the following areas:

Encouraging economic diversity by making Newport News an attractive place for employment opportunities.
Assuring our citizens a safe and orderly school system that fosters high academic achievement.
Strengthening public safety and reducing violent crime throughout our city.
Diligent involvement and communication with VDOT regarding the Warwick Blvd. Project and Middeground Boulevard extension project.
Improving the long term financial future of Newport News.

Thank you for your continued support.

"The next several years are crucial to the progress of Newport News. Our leaders must possess vision, drive and commitment to ensure future prosperity." - Bert Bateman

City Investments in Marketing Conference Center in City Center

I am pleased to try to answer some of the questions related to the City Center Investment. There has been some discussion about this investment and there is some confusion. I think I may be able to shed some light on the issues. I would like to discuss some of the business logic and facts regarding the transaction. Some argue that this investment is a mere subsidy simply given without regard and or controls to the Marriott Hotel. Hopefully I may be able to more adequately explain.

I have heard some discussion that question the efficacy of this transaction and suggest that the deal was overly generous. I think it is important to realize that the conference center was built as a result of an agreement between the EDA and Oyster Point Hotel Associates, LLC, the franchisee of the Marriott Hotel chain. I supported this proposal in 2004 because the revenue benefits to the City were favorable and the intangible benefits to the pubic filled an important need. The success of this 70,000 square foot conference center and the benefits that a conference center provides demand that the asset be utilized to its fullest extent and that operating plan demands a focus on creating cash flow in order to help generate tax revenue/income for the City to fund the expenses including the debt service.