RTD takes a look at 5th District City Council candidates
The 5th District is one of the oddest shaped districts in the city with one section on this side of the river. As a result of river dividing the district it often feels like this side gets less attention. One of the 3 candidates Lee Shewmake lives in Woodland Heights and she is running against incumbent Marty Jewell, and challenger Parker C. Agelasto. RTD takes a look at the race with plenty of quotes from all the involved parties.
Both of Jewell’s opponents say the district — a diverse mix of neighborhoods including Carytown, parts of the Fan, Randolph, Byrd Park, Oregon Hill and Woodland Heights, among others — needs better representation.
They took aim at Jewell’s style — he is a regular critic of Mayor Dwight C. Jones’ administration and not shy about voicing his concerns at public meetings — and both say they could do a better job delivering results for residents and responding to their concerns.
Jewell, who is seeking his fourth term on the council, defended his record, adding that he is an “advocate for the voiceless” and has pushed to deliver a reduced crime rate and better streets.
We’ve seen this play before. We all know how this is very likely to turn out, but I hope people show up to vote for whichever candidate they might prefer.
Jewell has not signed the Richmond Open Government Project pledge. Mr. Agelasto and Ms. Shewmake have sign the pledge. (Google it)
Jewell needs to be voted out…he causes too much trouble and does not respond to the people he’s supposed to be working for. Frankly, the whole counsel as it stands needs to be voted out.
Vote Jewell out! he is worthless. we need new voices in Richmond!
Jewell is going to stay in office until we stop having three candidates.
If yard signs are any indication, Parker has this one wrapped up.
Lee has been a hard worker for years for Woodland Heights, but that has not translated into sufficient votes to win a district wide election. Her friends and Fifth District adherents ought to tell her that this is not her time.
She’s a good person, but will not win, and her presence strengthen’s Marty.
“Her friends and Fifth District adherents ought to tell her that this is not her time.”
I think that they have. I see that some of her formerly dedicated backers now have Agelasto’s signs in their front yards.
It will just be heartbreaking if Jewell is reelected. Lee- please look at the big picture and do what is best for the 5th district.
Even in a two person race, Jewell likely wins in a presidential election year with President Obama on the ticket.