News Summary
As Newport News prepares for the primary election, two Democratic candidates, Sanu Dieng-Cooper and Derek Reason, vie for the city treasurer position. With incumbent Marty Eubank not seeking re-election, both candidates emphasize civic engagement and transparency in their campaigns. Dieng-Cooper, with her finance background, aims to strengthen community ties through town halls and tech solutions, while Reason focuses on personalized tax approaches and leveraging technology for better service. The election date is set for June 17, with major implications for local financial management.
Newport News is gearing up for an important decision in the upcoming Virginia primary election, as the race for the city treasurer position intensifies. With longtime Treasurer Marty Eubank opting not to seek re-election after serving since 1997, the spotlight has shifted to two Democratic candidates: Sanu Dieng-Cooper and Derek Reason. The primary is set for June 17, 2025, and will serve as a precursor to the general elections on November 4, which will also include votes for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and members of the Virginia House of Delegates.
The City Treasurer plays a critical role in managing local finances, acting as a conduit between residents and city management regarding all revenue streams. The responsibilities include overseeing the collection of local funds such as taxes and business fees, with a typical four-year term and a salary of approximately $180,000. As the election approaches, both candidates are focusing on civic engagement and transparency as key themes in their campaigns.
Sanu Dieng-Cooper is advocating for a stronger, more inclusive Newport News. With a degree in Finance and Banking from Hampton University and 14 years of experience in financial management, Dieng-Cooper has held the position of executive director at Transitions Family Violence Services. She emphasizes the importance of experienced leadership in financial matters and aims to fortify community ties. Her campaign includes plans for hosting quarterly town halls and listening sessions to gather community feedback. Additionally, she is developing an app designed to streamline communication between taxpayers and the treasurer’s office while offering regular financial alerts.
Derek Reason, who has lived in Newport News his entire life, presents himself as a candidate focused on community empowerment and increasing civic engagement. With a degree in Psychology and a business concentration from Liberty University, Reason operates a local transportation business. He believes that his entrepreneurial experience positions him well for the treasurer role. His campaign proposes a personalized approach to tax collections, taking into account individual circumstances, which can ease financial pressures on business owners. Reason also aims to leverage technology in the treasurer’s office, suggesting the use of AI for scheduling appointments and correcting billing issues.
As both candidates work to secure their place in the primary election, their campaign financing reflects their commitment to the race. Dieng-Cooper has contributed about $2,200 to her campaign and received $3,000 in donations, while Reason has raised a more substantial $21,000, contributing nearly $7,000 of his own funds. Reason has garnered endorsements from several local officials, while Dieng-Cooper has secured support from Eubank and other community leaders.
Both candidates recognize the essential role of the treasurer’s office in fostering community trust. They acknowledge the need for increased transparency and effective communication regarding financial matters affecting Newport News residents. Ultimately, the outcome of the primary election may shape the future of financial management within the city and its ability to respond to the diverse needs of its citizens.
With the primary election drawing near, residents of Newport News are encouraged to participate in the democratic process and consider the candidates’ distinct visions for the city’s financial future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Williamsburg Library Launches New Literacy Initiative
Newport News Democratic Primary for Treasurer
Williamsburg Launches New Literacy Program at Community Center
Williamsburg Launches New Literacy Program at Community Center
Williamsburg City Council Approves Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
Newport News Primaries: Key Races Set for June 7
Newport News Treasurer Marty Eubank Retires After 40 Years
Additional Resources
- 13NewsNow: Newport News Treasurer Race
- Pilot Online: Sanu Dieng-Cooper and Derek Reason Primary
- WAVY: Candidate Profile – Derek Reason
- Wikipedia: Newport News, Virginia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newport News
