R.K. Kowalewitch (I) Candidate for Virginia Beach Mayor
Richard “RK” Kowalewitch (I), running for Virginia Beach Mayor
1. Why are you running for office?
I am committed to putting more money back in to the taxpayer’s pocket so businesses can grow. We must stop the corruption and conflicts of interest that are pay offs for certain council members and favorite developers. I will always remember who my boss is, the taxpayers.
2. Why should people vote for you?
I am only the person running who understands, talks about, and who has done anything about the corruption and conflict of interest. I plan to fix it by proposing term limits and an Ethics Committee. I will propose a change in the city charter, working with the State Delegation to change the ‘3100 Section’ to be more clear. I will also propose changing the current election to a ‘Ward’ or ‘District’ system. I will strongly propose that the election date is changed back to May 1st. Local elections are vital and should stand on their own. I will put the NEEDS of the people first instead of luxuries that we cannot afford at this time. There are greater needs of the everyday people that are being overlooked.
3. What’s your favorite thing about the area you want to represent?
The people of Virginia Beach are our greatest asset. Too often, career politicians are out of touch of the day to day challenges. As a small business owner for over 30 years, I faced the same challenges. I know and understand what is needed to better the quality of life for the Virginia Beach residents.
4. What is the biggest problem your area is facing, how will you fix it? Firstly, the most recent problem has been the horrendous flooding of the neighborhoods.
The majority of this is due to the lack of attention from the City Public Works Department. The Storm Water Draining management system is not being conducted. And the current state of corruption amongst the elected officials and the elite developers. Our taxpayer’s money is allocated to fund special projects such as Light Rail, an Arena and the Cavalier Hotel. These luxuries only support the developers pocket. I will propose term limits for all, an ethics committee, stringent adherence to the conflict of interest policy and I will also propose Ward/District elections. Corruption and conflict of interest must be eradicated. We are a city for ALL people.
5. Describe Donald Trump in max 3 words?
Politically Incorrect
6. Describe Hillary Clinton in max 3 words?
Paid to Play
7. What do you do for a living? Why do you do it?
I owned RK’s Surf Shop at the oceanfront for over 30 years and have been in construction for many years. I enjoy it every day- it provides me personal satisfaction
8. You’re going to be marooned on a tropical island for a week, you can only bring 1 thing – what is it?
Drinking water
9. What do you think of Colin Kaepernick?
All people have a right to voice his or her opinion, however in this case, I feel that Colin is unpatriotic. As a role model for many, he should not be using his ‘job’ as a platform to view such opinions. This has a negative impact on our children and others. There is an appropriate way to voice his issues without total disregard for our nation’s flag and who we are as a country.
10. Would you vote to fund light rail expansion in your area?
No, I will not. The Light Rail is not a wise way to spend the taxpayer’s money at this time. It will not provide a just service for the citizens of Virginia Beach, as reported by the $6.6 million study we paid for. It is already outdated, will not reduce traffic congestion- and it is very costly for 3.2 miles of track. If the voters decide yes, it will be years before the tracks are built to go to the oceanfront, the airport, the base, etc… It is unfortunate that the current advertising for the Light Rail is very misleading to the citizens. IF it is people’s way to vote Yes, I will abide by the people’s choice.
11. Will you respect the outcome of the election?
Yes.
12. Favorite TV Show?
NCIS
