Yesterday, in a 9-1 vote, the Virginia Beach City Council selected Michael Berlucchi to fill the vacant Rose Hall District seat. Berlucchi immediately took the oath of office and joined his fellow council members as they heard residents’ comments about the proposed FY2020 budget.
Berlucchi will serve until the end of the term that ends at the end of the year and has indicated that he intends to run for a full term in the election to be held in November. According to Berlucchi’s letter of intent included with his application, his primary priorities as a member of the Virginia Beach city council are as follows:
- Storm water, recurrent flooding and sea level rise;
- Jobs and a vibrant economy supported by strong schools;
- Public safety.
Berlucchi was born and raised in Virginia Beach and is a a graduate of First Colonial High School. He earned a B.A. in Government and International Politics from George Mason University and is currently the community engagement manager for the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk and serves as a member of several boards and foundations, including as past President of Hampton Roads Pride, the Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission, Teens with a Purpose and Hope House Foundation.
The Rose Hall seat was held by Shannon Kane, who resigned last month after moving out of the district. Berlucchi is one of two appointed members of the Virginia Beach City Council and the second openly gay member to serve on the Council.
