Kennedy for City Council

Increase Public School Budgets & Resources

Newport News Central District has an excellent public school system, and Kennedy’s son, Alejandro, is a shining example of its success. Alejandro graduated from Yates Elementary, Gildersleeve Middle School, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program at Warwick High School. He is now pursuing an engineering degree at Virginia Tech, a testament to the strong educational foundation he received in Newport News.

“Many of our students require additional support with their studies, guidance in learning discipline, and access to extracurricular activities. This underscores the need for our schools and teachers to receive extra financial resources to make a genuine impact.” Carol-Kennedy-Dickens, Former Director of the International Baccalaureate Program Warwick High School

Kennedy is committed to proactively supporting Newport News Public Schools by pursuing corporate partnerships, securing grants, and leveraging media efforts. Corporate partnerships will bring in resources, mentorships, and funding for programs. Grants will provide financial support for educational initiatives, infrastructure, and extracurricular activities. Media efforts will raise awareness of school needs and successes, encouraging community engagement and donations. These strategies will ensure our schools have the necessary resources to help every student succeed.

1. Corporate Partnerships

Kennedy is committed to creating collaborative relationships where businesses to provide financial support, resource donations, and mentorship programs to enhance educational opportunities. These partnerships can include funding for programs and infrastructure, donating technology and supplies, offering internships and career counseling, and engaging in community service. Such collaborations help bridge funding gaps, enrich curricula, and prepare students for future careers, while businesses invest in community development and future talent.

Creating Grant Programs: Kennedy will work with businesses to establish grant programs that support innovative educational projects, teacher training, and student scholarships.Facilitating

Resource Donations: Kennedy will facilitate donations of technology, equipment, and supplies from corporations to schools, ensuring students have access to the tools they need for success.

Advocating for Tax Incentives: Kennedy will advocate for local or state tax incentives for businesses that invest in public schools, making it financially attractive for companies to engage in educational partnerships.

Supporting Policy Development: Kennedy will support the development of policies that encourage corporate engagement in education, such as streamlined processes for creating partnerships and public-private collaboration frameworks.

2. Securing Grants:

Kennedy will assist the city’s efforts to secure grants by implementing the following strategies:

Research and Identification: Kennedy will consistently research and identify potential grant opportunities from federal, state, and local governments, as well as private foundations and corporate philanthropies. He will utilize grant databases such as Grants.gov, the Foundation Center, and other similar platforms to find relevant grants that align with the city’s needs.

Building Relationships: Kennedy will develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in foundations, government agencies, and corporations that offer grants. By networking and building these connections, he will stay informed about new and upcoming grant opportunities.

Grant Writing and Application Support: Kennedy will provide expertise and support in writing compelling grant proposals that clearly articulate the city’s projects and needs. He will ensure that all applications are comprehensive, well-organized, and submitted on time.

Advocacy and Lobbying: Kennedy will advocate for increased funding for public education and other critical city services at the state and federal levels. By lobbying for more resources, he will help create a more favorable environment for grant approvals.

3. Marketing & Media to Encourage Giving:

Kennedy will assist the city in effectively communicating its ideas through a comprehensive multimedia campaign. This campaign will leverage various platforms, including social media, video content, online forums, and local news outlets, to ensure widespread reach and engagement. Kennedy will assist the city by:

Develop Strategic Marketing & Media Plans: Kennedy will assist in creating a comprehensive media campaign to raise awareness about the fundraising needs of Newport News Public Schools (NNPS) and emphasize the positive impact of donations.

Media Production: Kennedy will produce compelling multimedia content to highlight the fundraising needs and successes of NNPS. This content will be distributed across various channels to maximize reach and engagement.

Social Media Campaigns: Kennedy will utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to share inspiring stories, updates, and achievements related to NNPS. The campaign will engage the community through regular posts, live streams, and interactive content.

Promote Online Donations: Kennedy will drive online donations by leveraging the momentum from the media campaign, securing essential resources and support for Newport News Public Schools.

Support Our First Responders

The safety and well-being of Newport News rest in the capable hands of its First Responders—Police Officers, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. These dedicated public servants form the backbone of the community, and they deserve unwavering support to perform their duties effectively.

Annual budgets cover the basics, but numerous advanced tools and emerging technologies can significantly enhance their capabilities and ensure both their safety and that of the citizens they protect. Innovations in protective gear, advanced communication systems, cutting-edge medical equipment, and state-of-the-art firefighting apparatus can all contribute to more effective emergency responses. However, many critical resources fall outside standard budgets.

1. Improvements in Police Equipment

Body-worn Cameras: Body-worn Cameras promote accountability and transparency, which can help build trust between law enforcement and the community.

Protective Vests: Protective Vests play a vital role in ensuring officer safety during high-risk situations.

Properly Equipped Duty Belts: These Duty Belts allow officers to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies. In scenarios like medical emergencies or accidents.

DNA Analysis and Digital Forensics: New DNA technologies are invaluable tools for solving crimes and holding perpetrators accountable.

2. Advancements in Firefighting Equipment

Thermal imaging cameras: Thermal imaging cameras enable firefighters to swiftly locate individuals trapped in burning buildings, even in conditions of poor visibility due to smoke or darkness.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): In situations involving intense heat or hazardous materials, such gear provides crucial protection against burns, smoke inhalation, and other occupational hazards.

Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA): SCBA units play a vital role in ensuring that firefighters have access to clean, breathable air in environments contaminated with smoke or toxic gases.

Firefighting Vehicles: New vehicles equipped with specialized tools and equipment are essential assets in emergency response scenarios. For instance, hydraulic rescue tools, such as the Jaws of Life, enable firefighters to extricate individuals trapped in vehicle accidents swiftly and safely.

3. EMS Advanced Tools:

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs): AEDs are indispensable tools for early intervention in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. By delivering a life-saving electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm, AEDs dramatically increase the chances of survival for individuals experiencing cardiac emergencies.

Portable Vital Sign Monitors: These monitors enable first responders to quickly assess a patient's condition and prioritize treatment accordingly.

Handheld Ultrasound Devices: Handheld ultrasound devices are invaluable tools for medical first responders in assessing and managing trauma patients. In scenarios such as motor vehicle accidents or severe injuries, these devices enable responders to conduct rapid bedside ultrasound examinations to identify internal injuries, assess fluid buildup, and guide critical interventions such as vascular access or nerve blocks.

Crisis Management and De-escalation Training: Training in crisis management, conflict resolution, and de-escalation techniques is crucial for police officers to effectively respond to volatile situations and minimize the use of force when interacting with individuals in crisis.

“We spend every penny we get from the city, but it always falls short in a couple of catigories. There’s always a need for us to do more community outreach, to be able to find partners in the community so we can find people to provide us with information so we can solve cases and we can help prevent crime in the future.” Captain Jeffery Smith Newport News Police Department

Steps to Balance the City Budget & Reduce Taxes

To identify and eliminate unnecessary expenditures, Kennedy will employ several specific strategies aimed at maximizing the efficiency of city spending while ensuring that essential services are maintained at the highest standards. Here are some concrete examples of the approaches he will take:

Review and Prioritize Spending: Kennedy will conduct a thorough review of the city budget to identify areas of overspending or inefficiency. Prioritize essential services and programs while eliminating non-essential expenses.

Increase Efficiency: Kennedy will Implement measures to improve efficiency in city operations, such as streamlining administrative processes, reducing bureaucratic red tape, and leveraging technology to automate tasks.

Explore Cost-saving Measures: Explore cost-saving measures, such as renegotiating contracts with vendors to secure better rates, consolidating services to eliminate duplication, and reducing unnecessary expenditures.

Grow Revenue Streams: Seek opportunities to grow revenue streams through economic development initiatives, attracting new businesses, and increasing tourism. Encourage investment in the city by offering incentives to businesses and developer

Potential industries or businesses we aim to attract include:

Technology Firms: Specializing in cybersecurity, software development, and data analytics, leveraging the region's skilled workforce and proximity to research institutions like NASA Langley Research Center and Jefferson Lab.

Advanced Manufacturing: Companies focused on aerospace, shipbuilding, and renewable energy technologies, capitalizing on Newport News' strategic location and robust infrastructure.

Healthcare and Biotechnology: Companies offering cutting-edge medical services, research, and pharmaceutical development, tapping into the growing demand for healthcare solutions and services.

Tourism and Hospitality: Ventures that capitalize on Newport News' rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic waterfront, attracting visitors and generating revenue for local businesses and amenities.

It is imperative that we diligently seek out opportunities to trim excess expenditures and actively explore innovative avenues for generating revenue. By doing so, we can ensure the long-term financial stability of our city, uphold fiscal responsibility, address pressing needs, foster economic growth, and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of our local economy. With a proactive and strategic approach to managing our city's finances, we can build a stronger and more resilient community for generations to come.

Supporting Our Mature Adults

Supporting our mature adults is not just a matter of respect; it's a testament to our values as a society. These individuals have dedicated their lives to building our communities and shaping our future. It's only fair that we provide them with the support and resources they need as they age. Kennedy will advocate for the following policies:

Protecting Social Security and Medicare: Kennedy will oppose any efforts to cut or privatize Social Security and Medicare, advocating instead for measures to strengthen and sustain these programs. This includes supporting legislation that increases funding for Social Security and Medicare, ensures solvency for future generations, and protects benefits for current recipients.

Lowering Prescription Drug Prices: Kennedy will support legislative measures aimed at reducing prescription drug prices, such as allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, promoting the use of generic medications, and increasing transparency in drug pricing. Additionally, Kennedy will advocate for expanding access to prescription drug assistance programs for low-income seniors.

Expanding Access to Affordable Healthcare: Kennedy will champion policies that broaden access to affordable healthcare for seniors and increase funding for community health centers that serve elderly populations.

In-Home Care Programs: Kennedy will support the development and expansion of in-home care programs that provide essential services to seniors in the comfort of their own homes, including personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and companionship.

Improving Quality of Care in Nursing Homes: Kennedy will support legislative measures and community programs aimed at ensuring quality care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This includes enhancing regulatory oversight, increasing staffing levels, improving training standards for caregivers, and promoting resident rights and dignity.

Revitalize Newport News/Williamsburg

International Airport

When Kennedy moved to Newport News from New York City, one of the most attractive selling points was the direct flight from Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport to New York. Unfortunately, this flight, along with many other key destinations, is no longer offered as airlines continue to pull out of the airport.

A revitalized Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport offers immense economic potential for the entire region, including job creation, boosted tourism, improved regional connectivity, enhanced business development, and increased investment opportunities. Our airport stands as a valuable asset for our city, and it's time to rally together to reignite its potential. Let's work towards restoring its vitality and ensuring its success.

To revitalize the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, Kennedy proposes the following comprehensive plan:

Market Analysis and Research: Kenendy will conduct thorough market analysis and research to identify niche markets with the untapped potential of the airport. This includes assessing the travel patterns, preferences, and needs of various segments, such as business travelers, military personnel, tourists, and visiting friends and relatives (VFR) travelers.

Airline Relationship Building: Kennedy will proactively engage with airlines to attract new partnerships and routes. Present compelling business cases highlighting the airport's catchment area, passenger demand, and revenue potential. Kennedy will offer incentives and marketing support to airlines willing to establish or expand service at Newport News. Kennedy will develop strong relationships with airline representatives and attend industry events to showcase the airport's advantages.

Route Development Strategies: Kennedy will work with airline partners to identify and prioritize key routes based on market demand and profitability. Pursue routes that connect Newport News to major business hubs, leisure destinations, and underserved markets. Kennedy will explore opportunities for seasonal service, charter flights, and cargo operations to diversify revenue streams and maximize airport utilization.

Community Engagement and Partnerships: Kennedy will forge strong partnerships with local businesses, tourism boards, economic development agencies, and government entities. He will collaborate on joint marketing initiatives, promotional events, and economic development projects that highlight the airport's role as a regional economic driver. Kenendy will engage with community stakeholders to garner support and involvement in airport revitalization efforts.

Targeted Marketing Campaigns: Kennedy will develop targeted marketing campaigns tailored to the identified niche markets. He will utilize data-driven strategies to reach specific demographics and promote the airport's convenience, amenities, and unique offerings. This may involve digital marketing, social media engagement, and partnerships with travel agencies and corporate travel managers.