Williamsburg will have a new commissioner of revenue after interim commissioner Michele Mixner DeWitt’s term winds down.
DeWitt, the city’s assistant city manager, stepped into the role earlier this year to fill the unexpired second term of Lara Overy, who resigned after moving to James City County. Two city residents put their names into the running, but after Debi Burcham dropped out, only Cash Arehart remains on the ballot.
The commissioner of revenue is a constitutional officer who serves as the chief tax assessor and is responsible for administering all local taxes.
Cash Arehart
Age: 44
Family: Spouse Corey; one stepdaughter
Occupation: Manager of historic interpretation at Colonial Williamsburg since 2001
Prior political experience: None
Political affiliation: Democrat
Education: Christopher Newport University
Website: CashForWilliamsburg.com
Why do you want to be commissioner of the revenue?
I want to be commissioner of the revenue because I believe in strengthening our community and want to help improve the quality of life for everyone who lives, learns and works in Williamsburg. Whether you’re a student, a homeowner, a member of the workforce or a small business owner, we all deserve elected officials who listen to your concerns and responds effectively and efficiently. By promoting transparency, service and respect, I will ensure this office demonstrates the best of what local government can be by helping people solve problems instead of adding to them.
What would be your top priority if elected?
I believe that the commissioner’s office can help bring together community stakeholders to identify solutions that will help diversify our local economy and make it more robust so that disruptions in the travel and tourism sectors won’t have a disproportionately negative impact on our city. One of the best ways to accomplish this will be to promote small business growth in a variety of areas.
What relief efforts would you support for taxpayers who are facing financial hardship?
With housing costs climbing in both the rental and first-time homebuyer markets, many families in Williamsburg are struggling to keep up. I believe there are opportunities to support taxpayers facing hardship by encouraging more owner-occupied housing, which helps build generational wealth and fosters stronger neighborhoods. Our civil servants, teachers, and first responders — the people who dedicate themselves to Williamsburg — deserve the chance to afford a home in the community they serve, and to enjoy the financial security that can provide.