My First 30 Days: Listening, Learning, and Engaging for Norfolk
It’s hard to believe that 30 days have passed since I was sworn in as your Councilman for Superward 7. From day one, I committed to Bridging, Building, and Empowering Our Neighborhoods, and these first few weeks have been a testament to that mission.
I’ve spent this time deeply engaged—listening to our neighbors, learning from experts, and advocating for the needs of our community. Through new Councilmember Training with the Virginia Municipal League, I’ve gained valuable insight into best practices for effective governance. I also had the honor of attending Norfolk Day at the General Assembly, where I stood alongside city leaders to advocate for policies that directly impact our residents.
But my greatest learning has come from being present—attending Civic League Meetings, Task Force Meetings, and Church Services to hear directly from the people who make our city strong. Whether it’s public safety, housing, economic development, or education, these conversations are shaping my approach to solutions that truly work for Norfolk.
Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy
This month, I also had the privilege of celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in multiple ways:
The Annual MLK City of Norfolk Community Program and March at the Historic Attucks Theater, where our city came together to reflect on Dr. King’s vision of justice and equality.
The Annual MLK Dinner hosted by the Urban League of Hampton Roads, where I connected with leaders dedicated to carrying his legacy forward.
Serving as the Keynote Speaker for the MLK Student Body March at Old Dominion University, hosted by the Nu Theta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Old Dominion University NAACP. Speaking to young leaders about their power to create change was an incredible honor.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. In the months ahead, I will continue to be visible, accessible, and committed to real progress for Norfolk. The work of bridging gaps, building stronger communities, and empowering our future is a collective effort, and I am grateful to be on this journey with you.
Thank you for your trust and support. Let’s keep moving forward—together.
Councilman Carlos Clanton
Norfolk City Council, Superward 7
Norfolk is a city rich in history, diversity, and resilience. From our vibrant neighborhoods to our thriving small businesses and dedicated community leaders, the strength of Superward 7 lies in the people who call it home. As we look to the future, we must ensure that every voice is heard, every perspective is valued, and every neighborhood has a seat at the table. We’re launching the G.U.M.B.O. Coalition, a community-driven initiative to unite diverse voices, foster collaboration, and create real solutions for Norfolk’s challenges.
Inspired by the leadership philosophy of his mentor Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League and former Mayor of the City of New Orleans, LA, the G.U.M.B.O. Coalition is about more than just discussion—it’s about action. Government and community collaboration, Understanding our challenges, Mentoring and empowering leaders, Bridging divides across communities, and creating Opportunities for all. Like a great gumbo, our strength comes from blending different ingredients—perspectives, experiences, and expertise—to create something powerful and lasting.
Join the Movement – Apply Today!
We are looking for dedicated, passionate residents of Superward 7 who want to play an active role in shaping the future of our city. Whether you’re a neighborhood leader, small business owner, youth advocate, faith-based representative, or community changemaker, we invite you to apply and be part of this dynamic coalition.
🔹 Who Should Apply?
Civic League and Neighborhood Leaders
Faith-Based and Community Organization Representatives
Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Education and Youth Advocates
Public Safety and Justice Reform Leaders
Housing and Social Service Experts
Environmental and Infrastructure Advocates
Arts, Culture, and Creative Community Leaders
🔹 What to Expect?
Regular meetings to discuss key issues and propose solutions
Opportunities to collaborate with Councilman Clanton and other leaders
A platform to elevate the voices of your community
Direct involvement in shaping policies and initiatives for Superward 7
We want to know if you are ready to help bridge divides, empower your neighbors, and drive real change in Norfolk!
📌 Apply today! Click the link below to submit your application and participate in this transformative movement.
Together, we can blend our strengths, build stronger communities, and create new opportunities for all. Join the G.U.M.B.O. Coalition and be a part of the future of Norfolk!
Community Engagement Street Team
Norfolk's Department of Human Services (NDHS) realizes that many residents struggle to access benefits programs, assistance, and support services due to a lack of transportation. To address that need, NDHS has partnered with Norfolk Housing and Redevelopment Authority (NRHA) to bring much-needed access to the Community Engagement Street Team (CEST).
The CEST has stops every Thursday in February from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the following locations:
Feb. 13: Oakleaf Forest, 1701 Greenleaf Dr.
Feb. 20: Diggs Town, 1619 Vernon Dr.
Feb. 27: Young Terrace, 804 Whitaker Ln.
Find more information
Norfolk TV APP
If you have not downloaded the NorfolkTV app ... what are you waiting for? Watch City Council meetings LIVE and other pertinent Norfolk-centric content with new stories uploaded regularly. Search for "NorfolkTV" from your Apple or Android app store on AppleTV or any ROKU TV.
Apply to Join Norfolk’s Boards & Commissions “Help Shape the Norfolk You Love”
Did you know that you can help shape the future of Norfolk? Residents of the City can apply to join one of many Boards and Commissions that have an impact on future decisions made by City Council.
Apply for your seat at the table to 52 active Boards and Commissions advising Norfolk City Council. All you need to do is visit the website (or use the "MyNorfolk" app, easily downloaded from the Apple app or Android (Google Play) stores onto your phone), select your board or commission, and fill out the application.
JOIN A BOARD OR COMMISSION AND HELP ENVISION THE NORFOLK OF TOMORROW: www.norfolk.gov/boardsandcommissions
SAVE THE DATE: SPRING BREAK CAMPS
Norfolk Parks and Recreation's Spring Break Camp registration opens on February 10! The camp is for ages 5-12 and will occur from April 14 to April 18 at Bayview, Crossroads, and Fairlawn Recreation Centers.
Registration will be ONLINE ONLY. Spots fill up quickly, so please mark your calendars for Monday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m.!
MAKE (HOUSE) PLANS in 2025! Dream. Bid. Build!
Looking to build a bright future? Now is the time to view land parcels up for auction by visiting Vacant Lot Auctions. These lots are perfect for creating a single-family home and investing in the City of Norfolk.
The deadline to submit applications & deposits is Wednesday, Feb. 12. Bidding opens Friday, Feb. 14 and ends Thursday, Feb. 20.
RENT READY NORFOLK: UPCOMING COURSE
Are You Ready for Off-Campus Housing?
Are you interested in renting a house, condo, or apartment off-campus?
Renter's Rights and Responsibilities
You've signed a lease, and you're officially a renter... now what? Learn your responsibilities and your rights as a tenant.
Thursday, Feb. 20
6 to 7 p.m.
Virtually via WEBEX. Registration Deadline: Feb. 16
All Rent Ready sessions are FREE.
MAINTAINING OUR METROPOLIS, PART 2
Back in November, Norfolk Neighborhood Services brought representatives from City departments together for the first "Maintaining our Metropolis" code enforcement workshop.
The well-attended event had participants asking for more. Hence, Neighborhood Services is proud to deliver a second session featuring even more City departments and representatives, such as Norfolk Fire Marshal, Storm Water Division, Park Rangers, Animal Protection, and more!
"A Code Enforcement Workshop Part 2"
Saturday, Feb. 22
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
835 Glenrock Rd.
Registration & Information: www.norfolk.gov/codesworkshop
Vacant Lot Auction
Explore properties that are in the preview period now by visiting www.norfolk.gov/propertyauction .
Submit applications & deposits by Wednesday, Feb. 12.
Bidding opens Friday, Feb. 14 and ends Thursday, Feb. 20.
Community Engagement Street Team
Now Accepting Applications! The City of Norfolk’s Emerging Leaders Program provides Norfolk youth between the ages of 16-21 with meaningful paid summer employment. Youth can explore public service careers in local government and gain valuable hands-on work experience through placement in various job assignments in City departments. Registration deadline: February 16, 2025 Apply at: www.norfolk.gov/careers
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