VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Candidates running for Virginia Beach's district 1 city council seat went head-to-head in a forum. Three candidates will go up against each other in a special election next year on Jan. 9th.
The district represents portions of Kempsville, Bellamy Manor and Lake Christopher.
The candidates running include former Virginia Beach Fire Chief David Hutcheson, Virginia Beach attorney John Napier and activist and disability claims center founder Teresa Gladney.
Candidates were asked about collective bargaining and ho wthey would vote on it, if elected.
"The only people who benefit from collective bargaining is union bosses," Gladney said. "I would adamantly oppose collective bargaining."
"I would also vote to turn down collective bargaining," Napier said. "The administration of collective bargaining is going to cost millions of dollars."
Most recently, Portsmouth City Council approved collective bargaining. Norfolk City Council voted it down.
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Collective bargaining is the negotiation process between the city and a union to reach agreements.
In a district of around 46,000 residents, candidates were asked if they support adding more biking trails.
"The existing ones, I do (support)," Gladney said. "I don’t think the city should waste money developing more trails."
"I do support the Virginia Beach trails," Napier said.
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Candidates were asked if they support building a law enforcement training facility, due to officers having to cross state lines to get training.
"Whether I would support funding of a new training facility for police, I would have to look at that," Napier said. "Generally I’m supportive of our law enforcement."
"We need to support our public safety and whatever resources they need are essential," Gladney said.
Residents spoke to News 3's Leondra Head about issues most important them.
"I think how the land is used mainly," Ed Heath, a Virginia Beach resident said. "We’re in severe need of housing, particularly low cost housing."
"Look seriously at the budget and spend money in the right places and are fiscally responsible," Donna F. a Virginia Beach resident said.
Organizers say Hutcheson agreed to participate, but was a no-show. The forum was hosted by the Hampton Roads Black Caucus.
