On July 14, Lynchburg Better Together candidates met with leaders from the Greater Lynchburg Transit Company for a conversation about the history, structure, finances, and future of public transit in Lynchburg. The conversation made clear that public transit is not a side issue. It affects workers, students, seniors, people with disabilities, local businesses, public events, housing, health care access, and economic opportunity. GLTC has a long history of innovation and adaptation, but today it faces a complex funding model, rising costs, operator shortages, and growing demand for service. Across the conversation, one theme came through clearly: Lynchburg needs a City Council that treats transit as essential city infrastructure and works with GLTC on a clear, long-term vision for service, funding, and access.

On July 16, Lynchburg Better Together candidates gathered with community faith leaders for a listening session focused on the future of our city. The conversation touched on faith and public life, public schools, poverty, immigration, and what it means for City Council to represent every resident of Lynchburg.

Across the conversation, one theme came through clearly: faith leaders want city government that serves the whole community. They want leaders who understand the difference between personal faith and public responsibility, who protect the dignity of every resident, and who are willing to listen deeply before making decisions. Here is what we heard:

On July 12, Lynchburg Better Together candidates gathered with young people aged 14-20 for a listening session focused on what it means to grow up, study, work, and build a future in Lynchburg. They talked about the arts, public schools, downtown, outdoor spaces, faith and inclusion, youth voice, trust in local government, and what makes young people feel connected — or disconnected — from the city around them.

Across the conversation, one theme came through clearly: young people want to be seen, heard, respected, and included in decisions that shape Lynchburg’s future. They love this city, but they also see where it falls short. They want leaders who will listen directly, build trust through action, and create a Lynchburg where every young person has a real place to belong. Here is what we heard:

In May, Lynchburg Better Together candidates gathered with local business owners for a listening session focused on the future of our city. The message was clear: business owners want Lynchburg to thrive, but they do not see economic growth as separate from the everyday lives of residents. They talked about safe streets, strong schools, vibrant public spaces, financial investment in commercial corridors, affordable places to do business, and opportunities for young people. Again and again, they returned to one shared idea: Lynchburg needs a City Council with a clear vision for building a city where businesses, families, students, workers, and visitors can all succeed. Here is what we heard: