Nov 13, 2024

To the Virginia Beach City Council and Virginia Beach Residents,

As members of the General Assembly representing Virginia Beach, we write this letter to express our disappointment with the recent Virginia Beach City Council decision to halt the recommendation of the 10-1 district voting system into the legislative agenda for 2025 by a vote of 7-4. This system, overwhelmingly supported by 81% of residents, was designed to promote fair representation by ensuring each district elects a single council member, with only the mayor elected at large. Such a structure embodies the principles of “one person, one vote” and enhances the diversity of voices within our council.

The 10-1 system, adopted in response to previous findings of racially polarized voting, is a step forward in protecting the voting strength of underrepresented communities. It has already demonstrated its value in promoting inclusiveness and equity, with the 2022 election ushering in Virginia Beach’s most diverse City Council in its history​.

Although this measure did not pass the required three-fourths majority in the recent council vote, we remain committed to advancing it. We plan to reintroduce the 10-1 system in the General Assembly’s 2025 session to continue advocating for our residents’ clear preferences and to fulfill our shared vision of an equitable electoral system in Virginia Beach.

Sincerely,

       Senator Aaron Rouse                 Delegate Kelly Convirs-Fowler

                  Senate District 22                           House District 96

         Delegate Alex Askew           Delegate Michael Feggans

                 House District 95                        House District 97