Mayor Dyer Announces Members of the Mayor’s Task Force for a Safer Virginia Beach

The City of Virginia Beach announces the appointment of members to the Mayor’s Task Force for a Safer Virginia Beach, a diverse group of community, public safety, business, civil rights and faith‑based leaders charged with developing recommendations to ensure Virginia Beach remains both a safe community and a premier destination for residents and visitors.

The Task Force will engage the public through listening sessions with community members, civil rights and faith-based organizations, and business and resort-area stakeholders. Additional opportunities for community input will be available throughout the process to ensure the Task Force’s work is grounded in the voices, experiences and needs of the people it serves.

“It has been incredibly encouraging to see so many individuals reach out proactively to volunteer and offer their support,” said Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer. “Your willingness to step forward reflects the very best of our community. This Task Force is strengthened by that spirit of collaboration, and together we will continue working to ensure Virginia Beach remains a safe, vibrant and welcoming city for all.”

The Task Force is expected to conclude its work by November 2026. The Task Force will provide regular updates to City Council and the community as progress continues. To help residents stay informed, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/SaferVB, where meeting information, updates and future public input engagement opportunities will be posted.

Task Force Leadership

Co-chairs:

• The Honorable Christie New Craig, Virginia State Senator
• The Honorable Michael Feggans, Virginia State Delegate

Task Force Members

• Alvie Culanding, Chief Deputy, Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office
• Chuck Cayton, Chair, Resort Advisory Commission (RAC)
• The Honorable Colin Stolle, Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney
• Dr. Cynthia Romero, MD, Director, M. Foscue Brock Institute, Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old
• D. Nachnani, President, Atlantic Avenue Association
• Daniel Heatwole, President, Central Business District Association (CBDA)
• Debbie Lou Hague, Virginia Beach Restaurant Association
• Gabe Niles, DJ, Producer, Creative
• Gregory Smith, Court Services Unit Director, Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice
• Jamal Gunn, Chair, Human Rights Commission
• John Zirkle, President, Virginia Beach Hotel Association
• Kevin Will, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia
• M. Conrad “Connie” Agresti, President, Citizen's Advisory Committee – Second Precinct
• Melissa Lukeson, Community Organizer, COVA Coalition
• Paul Neudigate, Chief, Virginia Beach Police Department
• Robert “Bobby” Jamison, Director of Support Services, Virginia Beach City Public Schools
• Dr. Veronica Coleman, Pastor, New Jerusalem Ministries

For additional information or follow‑up questions, please contact the City of Virginia Beach Mayor’s Office 757-385-4581 or MayorsOffice@vbgov.com.