Newport News to host Cities United 'Leading the Way' tour Feb. 10; all costs covered by Cities United

City staff told the council on Jan. 27 that Newport News will host Cities United’s “Leading the Way” tour beginning Feb. 10, 2026, a multi‑day visit designed to highlight municipalities with community‑based public safety and youth engagement initiatives.

Cynthia White (presenter) described a two‑day program: a core leadership meeting with city leads and community partners, a young‑leader workshop that will include 15 young people from the Youth Public Safety Council and mayor’s youth commission (participants will receive stipends), an elected‑official session in the late afternoon, an ecosystem partner meet‑and‑greet and a road‑map boot camp. Anthony Smith, executive director of Cities United, and his team are expected to attend some sessions.

City staff said all expenses for the visit are paid for by Cities United and the event will showcase the city’s community‑based public safety planning. The community dinner and a final debrief are planned as part of the visit; staff invited council members to participate and said the visit will be used to expand local partnerships and implementation planning.

Council members thanked staff and congratulated the teams involved. No budgetary action or commitment of city funds was requested or taken at the meeting.