In Petersburg, the race for the Ward 2 council seat presents a pivotal moment for the city, with incumbent Darrin Hill, the vice mayor, facing off against challenger Belinda Baugh. Both candidates shared their motivations for seeking the position, framed by their respective visions for the city’s future. Belinda Baugh emphasized her desire to contribute to Petersburg through leadership rooted in experience and pragmatism. She articulated a focus on environmental sustainability, improved mental health services, affordable housing for diverse community members, and the support of local businesses. In contrast, Darrin Hill highlighted his extensive experience, noting his contributions during economic challenges, including securing a significant economic stimulus project that promises over 1,700 jobs. Additionally, Hill pointed to his efforts to enhance city facilities, reduce blight, and improve city employee salaries as key accomplishments.
Regarding the challenges facing their ward and the broader city, both candidates identified major issues that need immediate attention. Baugh cited affordable housing shortages, rising crime rates, and the necessity for infrastructure improvements as critical concerns for Ward 2. Hill underscored educational challenges, particularly school accreditation, and showcased his involvement in funding and constructing new facilities, such as a multi-sport indoor center, while also emphasizing the importance of upgrading the aging infrastructure on Crater Road. Hill detailed previous efforts, such as repaving streets and installing LED lighting to improve safety and efficiency, noting that these initiatives reflect a commitment to being responsive and transparent to community needs.
With an upcoming referendum regarding the proposed casino development, both candidates discussed the implications of this project for the council’s role in facilitating the casino’s growth. Baugh sees the council’s responsibility as ensuring that the casino’s promises are upheld, which reflects a need for accountability. Hill expressed strong support for the casino, recognizing its potential to create jobs and spur economic revitalization in Petersburg. He voiced the importance of leveraging the casino’s revenues for city improvements, including bolstering the police and fire departments, expanding educational facilities, and addressing infrastructure needs, highlighting a strategic approach to manage the anticipated influx of revenue and jobs.
When assessing priority issues for the next council’s agenda, the candidates ranked topics by significance. Baugh emphasized the casino’s projected impact on the city’s finances as the primary concern, followed by addressing aging infrastructure. She also pointed to the need to foster citizens’ morale, advocating for a narrative that celebrates Petersburg’s history and contributions. Government transparency and prudent fiscal management practices ranked next, reflecting a commitment to accountability in governance. Finally, Baugh mentioned the future of the pharmaceutical industry, which has the potential to drive economic growth and job opportunities. Hill echoed some similar priorities but emphasized his long-standing commitment to economic growth and transparency to build a hospitable environment for new businesses and infrastructure improvements.
As both candidates observed, there seems to be a growing distrust between the citizens of Petersburg and their city council, necessitating a concerted effort to rebuild trust. Baugh committed to transparent communication, active listening, and a collaborative approach to governance, recognizing the importance of acknowledging mistakes and building relationships with stakeholders. Hill, a native of Petersburg, expressed his commitment to transparency and accountability both personally and professionally. He portrayed himself as open to scrutiny and grounded in community engagement, which he believes is essential for restoring citizens’ faith in local leadership.
In summary, the Ward 2 council race in Petersburg highlights contrasting visions for the city’s future, with each candidate poised to tackle urgent community challenges with their unique approach. Belinda Baugh emphasizes environmental sustainability and community engagement, while incumbent Darrin Hill focuses on economic growth and practical governance. With critical issues such as affordable housing, infrastructure, and educational validation at the forefront, the candidates must navigate these challenges while addressing residents’ concerns about trust in leadership. The outcome of this election may shape Petersburg’s governance and community development for years to come, underscoring the importance of informed and engaged citizenship in the democratic process.