Author: Vivian J. Paige

A former candidate, I've learned a lot about politics, both good and bad. I'd prefer more of the former and a lot less of the latter and I'm trying to do my part!

DYK: Norfolk’s Ward System

An earlier comment by a poster reminded me that I needed to write a piece on the ward system. Come May, the ward system in place in Norfolk since 1992 will change slightly, expanding from its current seven members to eight with the election of a mayor. The mayor will be elected at-large, meaning he … Continue reading DYK: Norfolk’s Ward System →

Quote of the day

Ultimately in a democracy, your influence depends on putting people in power to represent your interests. --- Angleica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles

Apply for Norfolk’s Real Estate Tax Relief

Applications for the City of Norfolk's Tax Relief program are now being accepted. Note that you must apply every year for this program. The eligibility for this program are: 65 years of age or totally disabled Live in the property to be exempted Income of all relatives living in the property combined cannot exceed $50,000 … Continue reading Apply for Norfolk’s Real Estate Tax Relief →

Candidates’ forum

Upcoming forums: Colonial Place/Riverview Civic Leage - Ward 2 candidates. April 10, 7pm. Tabb's Restauarant on Granby Street. Ghent Civic League - Mayoral and Ward 2 candidates. April 17, 7-9 pm, Maury High School. Contact Sharon Plawsin at 446-2413 for information.

Kerry Dougherty takes on Norfolk, too!

In this hilarious fantasy chat between Virginia Beach mayor Meyera Oberndorf and Norfolk mayor Paul Fraim, the Virginian-Pilot's Kerry Dougherty takes on both cities and their responses to real estate tax relief. My favorite part: "Tell me about it. We've been spending money as fast as it came in and no one ever said one … Continue reading Kerry Dougherty takes on Norfolk, too! →

Candidates’ Forum

Short notice, I know, but Thursday, April 6, there will be a Council candidates' forum at the Ocean View Senior Center at 7pm. This is a joint meeting of the East Ocean View, Cottage Line, and Pinewell civic leagues. I understand that the candidates for Mayor - Paul Fraim and Dan Montague - as well … Continue reading Candidates’ Forum →

Candidate profile: Andy Wallach

As promised in my Open Letter to Norfolk Council Candidates, here is the first candidate to respond - Andy Wallach - in his own words:   Andy Wallach for City Council   I am Andy Wallach and I am running for Norfolk City Council as the Ward 2 representative in the May election. I request … Continue reading Candidate profile: Andy Wallach →

Norfolk Real Estate Taxes: deferral?

In case you missed it, today's Virginian-Pilot has a piece about a proposed deferral program for real estate taxes, which council is looking at in lieu of a signficant rate reduction. However, Winn is pushing a tax deferral program that essentially would allow long-time residents to defer assessment increases of 5 percent or more each … Continue reading Norfolk Real Estate Taxes: deferral? →

Last day to register for 5/2 elections

Today, April 3, is the last day to register for the local elections to be held May 2. If you haven't done so, now is the time.

Yes, they are :(

Earlier, I linked to a post by over at Extra Innings about the General Assembly accomplishing nothing on their first day back in the special session. My question then was did they get paid? The answer is now in: yes. It seems that only seven members of the 100-seat House of Delegates and none of … Continue reading Yes, they are ðŸ˜¦ →