Mayor Phillip Jones - Democratic Mayors

Mayor Phillip Jones delivered his State of the City Address, outlining a bold vision for the future of Newport News. In an address highlighting progress and forward-looking initiatives, Mayor Jones announced policies designed to support working families and strengthen Newport News’ position as a leader in Hampton Roads and across Virginia.

Mayor Jones announced that Newport News will raise its minimum wage for city employees to $18 per hour, making it one of the highest municipal minimum wages in Virginia. This increase reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every city worker earns a livable wage. The city will also implement four weeks of paid parental leave, placing Newport News among the first cities in Virginia to offer this level of family support. The policy is designed to promote employee well-being, improve retention, and support working families during critical life moments.

The Mayor announced the city will hold a collective bargaining vote before July 1, positioning Newport News to become the first Hampton Roads city to adopt and implement collective bargaining in the next fiscal year without Richmond mandates.
Mayor Jones also highlighted measurable gains in public safety and major economic development initiatives currently underway. Recent coverage has spotlighted reductions in crime, strategic policing efforts, and continued investments in community safety. In addition, the city is advancing significant development projects, including a $450 million Navy housing initiative, expected to begin this summer, further strengthening Newport News’ economic base and regional competitiveness.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

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