Gary West for Delegate

Issues

• Create Jobs

  Putting people back to work is my top priority. 

  • Direct state and local governments to use Virginia companies first when contracting for goods and services so our tax dollars create jobs here, not in other countries like China or India.
  • Provide tax credits for small businesses that create jobs here in Newport News.
  • Provide grants and tax incentives to companies that create jobs in the bio-tech and renewable energy industries.
  • Invest in more workforce development so our workers are trained for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

• Transportation

  I want to reduce gridlock on our roads and in Richmond. While we spend more time in traffic, the House of Delegates does nothing. It’s time for dedicated, stable solutions and VDOT reform.  In Richmond, I'll:

  • Fight for the Peninsula's fair share of transportation funding.
    

  • Make long term investments in infrastructure, not just short term solutions.

  • Create a dedicated and sustainable revenue source for transportation.

  • Use projects for roads and bridges to put people back to work in our area.

   

• Education

  Education is the key to our future.  We must make the appropriate investments in our children and our future.  As Delegate, I'll work to:

  • Ensure education is a priority and fight against budget cuts that hurt our children's chances to succeed.
    

  • Improve early childhood education so our children are better prepared for secondary and post secondary education.
  • Invest in our 2 year college programs and Christopher Newport University. Use our schools to focus on workforce development with area businesses.

  • Lower classroom sizes and raise educational standards.

  • Increase attention on subjects like math and science to keep pace with children in other countries.

   

• Environmental Preservation

  I am committed to protecting the Bay.  Conserving our natural resources, especially the Bay, and ensuring clean air and clean water is essential to our quality of life.

• Public Safety

  It's time to take on the gangs.  Gang violence is threatening the safety of our neighborhoods.  We need to crack down on gangs, and give kids safe, constructive places to spend their time.