Mia Phillips is a candidate for Portsmouth City Council. Her name will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.
Phillips is running against nine challengers for Portsmouth City Council. They are vying for three open seats.
The first day of in-person early voting at your local registrar’s office for this election is Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Click here to see who is on your ballot.
10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.
Biography: Mia Phillips: A Visionary Leader for Portsmouth City Council Mia Phillips is a dynamic and dedicated candidate for Portsmouth City Council. As a Class A Contractor and the owner of Phillips Construction, Mia has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Hampton Roads,
building homes and undertaking significant commercial projects. Her work not only builds homes but also strengthens the community by providing jobs and supporting local businesses.
Born in Portsmouth, her journey reflects her deep connection to the community and her understanding of the city’s diverse needs. While on the Dean’s List she attended both George Mason University and Old Dominion University and received her Degree. She continued additional studies for her Master’s at Strayer University.
Mia’s commitment to Portsmouth’s growth extends beyond her professional endeavors. As a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals, she actively works to promote economic development, ensuring that Portsmouth remains a thriving and vibrant city. Her experience as a Union Steward for CWA Local 2202 highlights her dedication to workers’ rights and her ability to advocate for fair and equitable treatment. She is also a member of the Democratic Women’s Club of Coastal Virginia, the Hampton Roads Black Caucus, Democrats for Progressive Portsmouth, and the Democratic Black Caucus. Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to progressive values, social justice, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. She is an active member of her church, where she worships regularly.
Mia Phillips embodies the qualities of a true leader—and her unwavering commitment to economic growth and social justice make her an ideal candidate for City Council. Mia is ready to bring her passion, expertise, and love for Portsmouth to the City Council.
Why are you running for this office?
“I’m running for City Council because I believe in bringing strong leadership, transparency, and proactive solutions to Portsmouth’s challenges. I’m tired of voting and not seeing any difference in my city. Enough is enough. Growing up in a working-class family, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of effective governance on community well-being. If other cities can govern effectively, so can Portsmouth. In addition, I want to work tirelessly to address issues like economic development, public safety, and education to make our city a better place for everyone.”
What is the top challenge facing Portsmouth, and how would you address it?
The top challenge facing Portsmouth is economic revitalization and replacing the current commonwealth attorney. We need to create opportunities for growth and prosperity by investing in local businesses, bringing new business to Portsmouth, supporting job creation, and enhancing infrastructure. Once in office I plan to initiate getting rid of the boarded up buildings and boarded up houses. Initiating quarterly fines for blighted structures will elevate this long standing problem. Also new businesses will bring new jobs and new families to Portsmouth. In reference to our current commonwealth attorney, how can we rid crime if criminals are being let go without prosecution. Telling the public I can’t prosecute because I consistently leave out information that will throw a case is not a mistake. It is intentional. If Portsmouth voters keep allowing low integrity they will keep getting the same results.
What is your view on addressing the affordable housing crisis?
Addressing the affordable housing crisis requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to increase the availability of affordable housing through incentives for developers and partnerships with non-profits. I was nominated for the Zoning Board of Appeals because I saw developers being turned down for projects with inconsistent reasoning. Why someone would say no to a builder trying to build a house on a vacant lot with debris and couches on it blew my mind. Additionally, we should focus on improving existing housing. There are 10 year tax incentives Portsmouth currently offers that are not being promoted to the public. The city also has the opportunity to use money given by the Federal government for homeowner improvement programs. Those programs exist. I’ve performed jobs for other cities that provide those services. Twenty thousand dollars can change the aesthetics of a home ten fold. I am a Class A Residential and Commercial Builder with a goal to build as many affordable houses as I can in Portsmouth to make a real impact. Affordable housing can be accessible to all if everyone agrees it should be done.
The city has a longstanding history of dysfunction on City Council. How will you civilly work with your colleagues?
I’m sick and tired of being the laughing stock among citizens and other cities because of the Council Performance on Tuesdays. Combative responsive and dissension needs to stay out of the chambers. To address the history of dysfunction on City Council, I believe in fostering open communication, respect, and collaboration. I only have one vote. Disrespecting my colleagues will not get the other members on my side to get things passed. It has to be an intentional team effort to make Portsmouth better. I will work to build a consensus by listening to diverse perspectives, seeking common ground, and prioritizing the needs of our constituents. By maintaining a focus on shared goals and practicing professionalism, we can overcome past challenges and work effectively together for the betterment of Portsmouth. Love your neighbor like you love yourself. We have to use that in Council just like we use it in our homes.
What is your vision for the former Civic Center and Holiday Inn site in Olde Town Portsmouth?
My vision for the former Civic Center and Holiday Inn site is to transform it into a vibrant mixed-use development that reflects the character of Olde Town Portsmouth. This could include a combination of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces that attract visitors and residents alike. Gone are the days of simply residential establishments. People want to walk downstairs, eat and shop below their residence. By incorporating community input and focusing on sustainable development, we can create a thriving hub that contributes to the revitalization of our historic district.
What is your view on taking money from individuals who will likely have business before the city?
I believe in maintaining transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest. Accepting money from individuals or entities that have business before the city can create the appearance of impropriety and undermine public trust. I am committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring that any campaign contributions are handled with complete transparency to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. My sole goal is what is best for Portsmouth, not what is best for my pockets and putting Portsmouth last. I need to see Portsmouth thrive and take off, and dag gonnit I’m going to put my energy into making it happen.