the issues

Will Richardson’s vision is clear: safer neighborhoods, stronger schools, and a thriving local economy—built on transparency, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to the people of District 8.

Public Safety & Modernizing Our Jail

Will Richardson believes that restoring public safety is the top priority for Shelby County. He understands that people won’t feel secure in their neighborhoods until the root causes of crime are addressed and the justice system is modernized. As a County Commissioner candidate, Will is committed to working with fellow commissioners to replace the aging and unsafe jail facility. He stresses that the current jail’s condition is beyond repair and that building a new, safe, and humane facility is essential—not just for those incarcerated, but for everyone’s safety. Will sees this as a once-in-a-generation investment that will impact Shelby County for the next 50 years. He also emphasizes the importance of conflict resolution education for youth, believing that teaching young people how to handle disputes peacefully can break the cycle of violence before it starts.

Championing Education & Workforce Development

Education is at the heart of Will’s platform. He advocates for robust investment in early childhood education, especially Pre-K, to give children a strong foundation. Will is passionate about ensuring that students can read and comprehend well beyond the third grade, recognizing that true literacy is about understanding, not just decoding words. He also calls for the return of vocational and trade programs in schools, so that every young person graduates with a tangible skill—whether they pursue college, the military, or a trade. Will wants to see students leave high school ready for the workforce, equipped with certifications and the entrepreneurial mindset to start businesses and hire within their communities.

Economic Development & Small Business Growth

As a longtime small business owner, Will Richardson knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities local entrepreneurs face. He is committed to revitalizing downtown Memphis and the broader county by attracting new businesses and supporting the growth of small, minority-owned companies. Will advocates for holding large corporations accountable to provide training and job opportunities for local residents, ensuring that economic growth benefits everyone. He believes that when people are busy building businesses and earning a living wage, communities thrive and crime drops. Will also supports creative approaches to funding major projects, such as considering a “penny tax” for infrastructure and public amenities, to ensure Shelby County is a place where people want to live, work, and invest.