It may seem odd for a resident of Virginia Beach to be speaking up in favor of a candidate for public office in Franklin, but I am proud to support the re-election of Jim Councill as your mayor.
Jim has always recognized that Franklin is not an island unto itself, that it is part of a larger region that benefits from the skills and talents of all of its residents. Thanks to Jim’s leadership, Franklin’s voice is heard and considered in the larger halls of power in Hampton Roads. He is active in the regional economic development alliance, the regional workforce development agency, the Virginia Municipal League, and the Mayors and Chairs group. He has also spearheaded alliances with other localities in Western Tidewater to promote education, health and other vital services.
As one who has worked in and around regional issues for most of the 37 years I have lived in this part of the state, I can tell you that Jim Councill is one of the most respected local political leaders in Hampton Roads. His word is his bond, and while we all know that he puts Franklin first, we treasure Jim’s knowledge and experience on matters that affect all of us in southeastern Virginia.

Joel Rubin
President
Rubin Communications Group
Virginia Beach