Newsletter — November 2023

*I will occasionally mix up my monthly newsletter format. In September, for instance, I wrote a longer-form report on two initiatives. For the month of November, I’ve enlisted the help of ChatGPT from the team at OpenAI. This won’t be a regular shift, but the communicative power of this chatbot never fails to amaze me! I’ve added additional context on four noteworthy items described below.

— — — — —

Dear Williamsburg Residents,

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we approach the end of a brisk November in our beloved town. As your City Councilman, I’m thrilled to share some exciting developments that have shaped our community over the past month.

1. New State-of-the-Art Fire Department Unveiling — It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I announce the official opening of our brand-new state-of-the-art Fire Department at 440 N. Boundary Street. This facility is a testament to our commitment to public safety and the well-being of our residents. The modern amenities and cutting-edge technology within the department will ensure our first responders are well-equipped to handle any emergency. I extend my deepest gratitude to all involved in making this project a reality.
2. Celebrating 10 Years of Gracious Hospitality with 3E Restoration — This month, we had the pleasure of commemorating the 10-year anniversary of 3E Restoration — an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness and social displacement through gracious hospitality. The event was a heartwarming celebration of the positive impact 3E has had on our community. You can read more about 3E and support their work here.
3. School Board Appointment Process Update — As we approach December, our focus turns to the crucial School Board Appointment process. The selection of individuals to guide our education system is a responsibility we take seriously. Your input and engagement in this process are invaluable. At the link above and at minute 3:09, you can hear from our candidates for school board and their supporters.
4. Truth and Reconciliation Report Recommendations — Our community has taken an important step towards healing and understanding with the completion of the Truth and Reconciliation Report. The recommendations within this report are a guide for our future actions. In November, we moved forward with our first implementation of these recommendations, fostering a more inclusive and equitable Williamsburg. At the link above and at minute 1:49:35, you can watch Council receive an abridged version of this report again before selecting our first two pursuits of, one, a part-time DEI consultant on staff and, two, creating scholarships for Williamsburg children descendant from our City’s earliest families.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to making Williamsburg a remarkable place to live. As always, I am open to your thoughts, suggestions, and concerns. Let us move forward together, ensuring a brighter future for our City.

Yours in Service,

Caleb Rogers

City Councilman

Williamsburg, Virginia

*This newsletter is mine alone and does not represent the full input of Council