Independent Justin Kennedy will challenge Democratic primary winner Sanu Dieng-Cooper to serve as the next treasurer for Newport News.
The pair are seeking to replace longtime Newport News treasurer Marty Eubank, who entered the race to challenge Democrat candidate Derek Reason in the primary, before dropping out following Dieng-Cooper’s victory.
___
Sanu Dieng-Cooper. (Courtesy image/Cameron Bell)
Sanu Dieng-Cooper
Age: 40
Employment: Director of public policy, Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance
Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, Hampton University
Party affiliation: Democrat
Website: sanudcooper.com
What would be your top priority if elected office?
My vision for how I would serve as treasurer if elected is anchored in the triple E’s: educating residents, enhancing technology, and engaging with the public. By demystifying the functions of the treasurer’s office and promoting robust financial literacy, I aim to drive breakthroughs that will build a more resilient, innovative, and inclusive Newport News. I would prioritize citizen experience and customer service as well as modernizing the functions of the office, for example, launching a mobile app to allow residents to easily pay taxes, check deadlines, and access key resources.
What efforts would you undertake to increase collection of delinquent taxes?
To address delinquent taxes I would focus on raising awareness and offering assistance. Many people are unaware about the resources available to them and might struggle in our current economy so I would host free financial literacy workshops to help break down what’s behind property taxes, budgeting, and city finances, to empower and ensure residents feel confident managing their money and can remain current on their taxes. I would offer direct assistance by deploying a mobile treasurer’s office to deliver tax assistance, payment plans, and financial resources directly to neighborhoods, so no one is left behind.
___
Justin Kennedy. (Courtesy of The Kennedy Firm)
Justin Kennedy
Age: 54
Employment: The Kennedy Firm, LLC – partner
Education: Juris Doctor degree, Rutgers Law School
Party affiliation: independent
Website: kennedyfortreasurer.com
What would your top priority be if elected office?
As city treasurer, my top priorities are strengthening customer service to ensure efficient, respectful interactions with our office, increasing transparency through proactive communication and media engagement, leveraging technology to simplify tax payments and improve accessibility, and expanding community outreach to help residents avoid penalties and property loss through financial literacy programs.
What efforts would you undertake to increase collection of delinquent taxes?
I will tackle delinquent taxes with both compassion and conviction! Through smart reminders, flexible payment plans, and financial empowerment programs, we can help our neighbors get caught up while keeping our city strong. This isn’t about punishment – it’s about creating pathways for every citizen to fulfill their responsibilities with dignity.
https://www.dailypress.com/2025/09/17/sanu-dieng-cooper-justin-kennedy-election/
