Vision:

For the year 2030, the Portsmouth City Council envisions a community and a government having the qualities set forth in these vision principles. We the members of City Council make a commitment that we will strive to achieve this vision through our various official actions and decisions.

Innovation & Change 

Portsmouth is a historic, robust, prosperous city, where stalwarts remain ever alert to the opportunities in our ever-changing world. We recognize and continue to understand and keep abreast of new technological, organizational, economic, and social developments. Portsmouth seizes such opportunities to benefit and improve the quality of life for our citizens.

A Robust & Prosperous Economy 

Portsmouth continues to build a strong and prosperous economy, utilizing its assets and strategic location with miles of waterfront properties, maritime assets, military installations, retail, health systems, as well as small and emerging business. There will be work opportunities for skilled and professional employment.

Leading Maritime Community 

We will capitalize on growth opportunities created by the vast, modern marine terminals located in Portsmouth, as well as growth opportunities in recreational boating and commercial maritime activities along the waterfront.

Lifelong Learning Community 

Education is a top priority and is essential to building the future foundation of our social, political, and economic well-being. Through collaborative efforts of City Council, the School Board, private sector and the community, Portsmouth has exceptional public and private schools and partnerships with institutions of higher education. Our preferred educational system has made Portsmouth a top choice for an enhanced quality of life.

Sustainable Neighborhoods 

Portsmouth will continue to be a diverse city with a rich heritage, where people are proud of their neighborhoods and communities. They will have a strong sense of place and of belonging to their community. Portsmouth will be a place where all citizens and visitors are valued and welcomed.

Enhanced Quality of Life 

Portsmouth is a place where families, youth, business owners and visitors can live, work, play and invest. We will enrich the quality of life for all our citizens by constantly striving to improve community quality and safety, while providing a wide range of cultural, recreational and health centered activities. We will be an environmentally friendly and sustainable community, and the place where citizens of the region come to enjoy our unique sense of history, cultural attractions, and our recreational activities.

Efficient Service Delivery 

Portsmouth municipal government is where employees are courageous decision makers with financial acuity to ensure cost effectiveness, government efficiency and protection over the city’s financial resources. Citizens will be engaged and service delivery will be provided with a high degree of professionalism and integrity.

Proud Military History 

Portsmouth is home to historic Navy commands at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and the 5th Coast Guard District. Portsmouth is proud to host Navy Medicine East, USCG Atlantic Area. We embrace our rich military history, and recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our armed forces and civilian workforce. The City embraces our partnerships we share as good regional stewards toward efforts to strengthen our ties to the military.

Pride of Past 

Portsmouth’s future is found in the footsteps of the richest traditions of America, from the earliest days of Colonial Virginia through the victories of equality, dignity, and diversity. As guardian of the collective heritage of many people, we are a united city focused on our Vision Principles. The Portsmouth family preserves the proudest traditions of the past as the compass of our future.

Core Values 

Although this represents our Vision for 2030, these are the core values that will be our daily guiding principles as we conduct the people’s business.