Public Meetings - Chesapeake, Virginia

The Chesapeake Planning Commission met on March 11, 2026, for a pre-meeting and public hearing. The pre-meeting covered agenda overview, committee reports, a presentation on the Transferable Development Rights (TDR) program, and bylaws discussion. The public hearing considered five consent agenda items and two regular agenda items. The meeting was adjourned at 6:54 PM. Consent Calendar - Item 1 (Scenic Heights PUD modification): Approved unanimously as part of consent agenda. The modification alters development timelines and replaces walking trails with a multi-use path. - Item 4 (South Military Container Stacking): Approved unanimously. - Item 5 (Eastcom - general contractor warehouse with outside storage): Approved unanimously. - Item 6 (Civil enforcement zoning change): Approved unanimously. The change shifts criminal zoning enforcement to civil enforcement, with comparable fines and more efficient summons processes. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent agenda speakers: Linda Tyndall spoke in opposition to Item 1, citing drainage concerns and multiple continuances. Sam Baraki spoke in support of Item 5. Jason and Kelly Wright were available for questions. - Regular agenda Item 2 (Take Five Billboard): Steve Romine (applicant attorney) and Jim Bellastino (Adams Outdoor general manager) spoke in support, arguing the replacement billboard is allowed under a new ordinance and offering to limit LED to one side with a midnight shutdown. No opposition speakers. - Regular agenda Item 3 (Stillwater): Sam Baraki, James Leftwitch, Taylor Gerson, and Joey Ami UO spoke in support, highlighting the community design, food truck park, and pedestrian connectivity. Jonathan Boring spoke in opposition, citing school overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and traffic issues on Battlefield Boulevard. Discussion Items - Agenda overview: Items 2 (Take Five Billboard) and 3 (Stillwater) were placed on the regular agenda due to denial recommendation and commissioner request, respectively. Items 1, 4, 5, and 6 were placed on consent. - Committee reports & upcoming items: Staff reported one rezoning, one planned unit development, and three conditional use permits in the pipeline. No new initiated text amendments. - Bylaws discussion: Proposed changes address tie votes (referral to City Council or retained for reconsideration) and standardize speaker time to three minutes. These amendments will be voted on at the April pre-meeting and take effect in the April 7 public hearing. - Transferable Development Rights (TDR) presentation: Dr. Tom Daniels (consultant) and Jimmy McNamara (staff) presented a voluntary TDR program. Sending areas (rural overlay, minimum 50 acres) would receive TDRs (3 per subdivision right plus 1 per 3 acres). Receiving areas include Greenbrier transformation zones. TDRs allow higher density when purchased and used with a development agreement. Commissioners discussed aggregation of smaller parcels, public databases, perpetual easements, and time limits. The presentation concluded with next steps: adopt an initiating resolution, create an overlay district, and amend the comprehensive plan. - Stillwater design discussion: Commissioners praised the project's unique food truck park, pedestrian-friendly layout, and housing diversity. Detailed discussion on school capacity (Southeastern Elementary) and traffic impacts. The applicant clarified that proffers prohibit certificates of occupancy until school additions are complete. A requested modification to remove vinyl siding from proffers was noted but left for City Council consideration. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (Items 1, 4, 5, 6) by unanimous vote (9-0). - Item 2 (Take Five Billboard) denied by a vote of 6-3, based on staff findings of incompatibility, visual clutter, and inconsistency with the Greenbrier Area Plan gateway designation. - Item 3 (Stillwater) approved with proffers as presented by a vote of 9-0. The project includes 26.4 acres with mixed housing, a food truck park, and a central park. Proffers address school capacity, design standards, and infrastructure. - March 25, 2026 meeting canceled by unanimous consent due to lack of business. - TDR program will proceed with an initiating resolution and public hearing process.

Chesapeake City Council Work Session and Regular Meeting - March 10, 2026\n\nThe Chesapeake City Council held a Work Session at 4:45 PM and a Regular Meeting at 6:30 PM on March 10, 2026, in the City Hall Council Chamber. The Work Session featured a presentation on Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) and an update on the Deep Creek Area Plan. The Regular Meeting included a public hearing for the Cedar Lakes Traffic Signalization Project, approval of consent and regular agenda items, citizens' comments, and council discussions on various city matters. Council Member E.R. “Jeff” Jefferies was excused from both sessions. All votes were 8-0 unless noted.\n\n Work Session (4:45 PM – 5:55 PM)\n- Transfer of Development Rights (TDR): Planning Director James McNamara and consultant Dr. Tom Daniels presented a proposed TDR program to preserve rural land by allowing landowners in the Rural Overlay District (sending area) to sell development rights to developers in designated receiving areas (primarily Greenbrier). Key features: minimum 50-acre parcels, perpetual conservation easements, voluntary participation, and proposed transfer ratios (1 TDR = 1 single-family unit, 2 attached units, or 5 multifamily units). Council members raised questions about tax assessments, priority areas, compatibility with existing plans, and the impact of pending state legislation (e.g., the “Faith in Housing” bill). City Manager Christopher Price noted that the program is exploratory and subject to further refinement.\n- Deep Creek Area Plan: The presentation was continued to the March 17, 2026 Work Session due to time constraints.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Approved unanimously (8-0):\n - Acceptance of resignations from Steve Froncillo (Bicycle/Trails Advisory Committee) and Faith Watson (Public Art Committee).\n - Donation of a decommissioned 2015 Freightliner medic unit from the Chesapeake Fire Department to the Knox Creek Fire Department.\n\n Public Hearings\n- Cedar Lakes Traffic Signalization Project: A resolution authorizing property acquisition (fee simple, leasehold, easements) by agreement or condemnation for the Cedar Lakes Drive and Cedar Road traffic signal project. Two citizens spoke: Vic Nichols (read from resolution documentation) and Jimmy Jackson (spoke in support, citing 35-year residency and safety concerns). Council approved the resolution 8-0.\n\n Citizens’ Comments on Agenda Items Only\n- None.\n\n Regular Agenda Items\n- Operation Ceasefire Grant (Item 2): Accepted and appropriated $115,932 from the Office of the Attorney General for the police department. Vice Mayor Ritter commented that this is the final grant from the program and commended its contributions to reducing gun violence. Approved 8-0.\n- Cedar Lakes Traffic Signal Funding (Item 3):\n - 3A: Transferred $212,000 from the Oaklette Bridge Project and $50,000 from the Greenbrier Yard Storage Building Project to the Cedar Lakes signal project. Approved 8-0.\n - 3B: Appropriated $238,000 from the Street Maintenance Fund Balance to the project, requested as an emergency action to expedite contract execution. City Manager Price outlined the timeline and procurement lead times for traffic signals. Councilwoman Newins praised staff responsiveness to citizen concerns. Approved 8-0.\n- Snow Related Expenses (Item 4): Appropriated $1,250,000 of interest income from the General Fund to the Public Works FY26 operating budget for snow expenses. Approved 8-0.\n\n Citizens’ Comments (Non-Agenda)\nFour citizens spoke:\n- Vic Nichols: Criticized speed camera revenue collection, redistricting impacts on Hampton Roads, traffic congestion on Greenbrier Parkway (specifically Eden Way intersection), and urged council to address these issues. He also argued that armed citizens are more effective in stopping mass shootings.\n- Jack Shanker (representing Mr. Fence): Requested grandfathering for existing corner lot fences that were legally built under previous rules but cannot be replaced in the same location under current regulations.\n- Rosalyn Wooling (resident of Keith Court): Reported illegal dumping on two vacant lots (312 Keith Court and 301 Keef Court) and loud music from neighbors on Border Road. She requested city assistance.\n- Elizabeth Goodwin (Executive Director, Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation): Provided updates on the successful 250th commemoration, the museum’s inclusion in the Virginia 250 passport, and upcoming events including a Benjamin Franklin lecture, a sailing ship visit, and July 4th celebration. She also announced a grant from the Commonwealth History Fund for a new exhibit “Voices of the Great Dismal.”\n\nMayor West directed staff to: evaluate solutions for the Greenbrier Parkway/Eden Way intersection, review the corner lot fence grandfathering request, address the dumping and noise issues on Keith Court, and acknowledged Ms. Goodwin’s presentation.\n\n Unfinished Business\n- Water Line Connection Policy: Councilwoman Newins directed staff to implement the proposed policy (no mandatory connections for residents along West Road area). She also noted concerns about future connection fees and suggested future review.\n- Traffic Synchronization: Councilwoman Ward requested staff evaluate synchronizing traffic signals on Greenbrier Parkway and Battlefield Boulevard to alleviate congestion.\n- Citizen Response: Councilman Whitaker thanked Development and Permits Director Jay Tate for responding to a weekend citizen concern about land disturbance/flooding.\n- Collaboration Suggestion: Vice Mayor Ritter suggested the Great Bridge Battlefield Museum and the Visitor Center at the Dismal Swamp collaborate to share the video “Voices of the Dismal” at both locations.\n\n New Business\n- Congratulatory Remarks: Councilwoman Newins congratulated Councilwoman King (2025 Woman of the Year by Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce – Chesapeake) and Councilman Bunn for organizing the Miss and Mr. Abilities pageant. Councilman Bunn and Councilwoman Ward expressed appreciation for the pageant.\n- Site Plan Review Fees: Councilwoman Newins directed staff to review and potentially create a reduced fee category for projects with bona fide agricultural purposes, to be discussed at a future Work Session.\n- Department of Agriculture Grant: Vice Mayor Ritter discussed a grant opportunity (50/50 match, state up to $50,000, total $100,000) for supporting “Grow Your Own” and “U-Pick” establishments and community gardens. Staff was asked to evaluate budget capacity for the match.\n- Birthday Thanks: Councilwoman Ward’s thank you letter was read for 80th birthday well-wishes.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- All regular agenda items and the consent calendar were approved unanimously (8-0) with Council Member Jefferies excused.\n- Staff was directed to study Greenbrier/Eden Way traffic solutions, corner lot fence grandfathering, and vacant lot dumping/music complaints.\n- The TDR program and Deep Creek Area Plan discussions will continue; the initiating resolution for TDR is pending further review.\n- Water line policy implemented; site plan fee review underway.\n- Grant match feasibility to be evaluated.\n\n Closed Meeting (7:19 PM – 8:21 PM)\nCouncil entered a closed meeting to discuss investment of public funds, legal advice, proprietary economic development information, and real property acquisition. The meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM after certification of the closed meeting.

The Chesapeake City Council held a work session at 5:15 p.m. and a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on February 24, 2026, at City Hall. The work session focused on the 2026 Parks, Recreation and Tourism Master Plan, while the regular meeting addressed toll rate increases, adoption of the master plan, funding adjustments, public comments on various issues, and amendments to council rules. The council also entered a closed meeting to discuss a prospective multipurpose event center. Work Session: Parks, Recreation and Tourism Master Plan - City Manager Christopher Price and Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director Michael Barber, along with consultant Chris D'Agostino of Interface Studio, presented the "Path to Play" master plan, replacing the 1991 plan. The process engaged approximately 1,000 adults and 500 youth, including a statistically valid survey of 623 randomly selected residents. Since 1991, the city's population has grown 66%, and the park system expanded from 9 parks (977 acres) to 90 parks (3,355 acres). The department provides over $71 million in recreational value, $27 million in health benefits, and $709 million in environmental benefits annually. Volunteer labor represents nearly a third of agency staffing costs ($9 million per year). Over half of playgrounds are over 20 years old; five community centers were built before 1980. The plan identifies four goals: maintaining existing assets, modernizing facilities, expanding programming for all ages and abilities, and promoting tourism. Council members, including Vice Mayor Ritter and Council Members Ward and Bunn, praised the department's work. Vice Mayor Ritter requested an update on the MOU with schools and discussed fees-in-lieu for parkland dedication. The presentation concluded with a special appearance by Miss Abilities Olivia Raymond, inviting the council to the 2026 Chesapeake Abilities Pageant on March 8. Consent Calendar - Resignations: Accepted Robert Bricker from the Utility Review Board and Ronald Telsch from the Human Services Advisory Board (effective March 12, 2026). - Ordinance (Emergency): Amended City Code Chapter 74 to remove mandatory jail provisions for a third or subsequent traffic violation (approved 9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing – Toll Rate Resolution: Vic Nichols (self) spoke in opposition, noting the 11 a.m. meeting time made it hard for commuters to attend and requested better notification. Council Member Smith expressed reluctance but supported the increase due to bond repayment and maintenance needs; Mayor West encouraged E-ZPass use. - Agenda Items: Vic Nichols opposed proposed amendments to Council Rules of Order, citing concerns about First Amendment rights and transparency. Brad Moore (self) supported adopting the Parks Master Plan, praising community engagement. - Non-Agenda Comments: Vic Nichols raised multiple issues including redistricting, Dominion Energy rates, and a state parole program. Tommy Hart (self) alleged corruption in the police department and court system. Amber Snook (self) and Alan Keffer (self) expressed concerns about commercial development on Bedford Street, traffic safety, and notification of use permits. Brad Moore advocated for replacing Seaboard Avenue's concrete with asphalt to expedite the project. Judi Leader (self, representing Bedford Street residents) asked the city to confirm that all current projects have valid approvals and to check for lapsed permits. Mayor West directed the City Manager to investigate the Bedford Street concerns and contact residents, and the City Manager agreed to provide a report on Seaboard Avenue. Discussion Items - Toll Rate Resolution (Public Works): A resolution to amend and extend toll rate schedules for the Chesapeake Transportation System. Council Member Smith noted the discount for using an E-ZPass and the ability to share transponders. The resolution passed 5-4 (Bunn, Jefferies, Ritter, Smith, West in favor; King, Newins, Ward, Whitaker opposed). - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Adoption: Resolution repealing the 1991 plan and adopting the 2026 plan. Council Members Ward and Bunn expressed strong support. Unanimously approved 9-0. - Funding Source Amendment (Public Utilities): Changed capital improvement budget expenses from future revenue bonds to cash. Approved 9-0 without discussion. - Raleigh Place Sewer CIP Appropriation: Appropriated $2,528,123 and changed $4,400,000 from cash to future revenue bonds, declared an emergency. City Manager Price confirmed the project is ready. Approved 9-0. - Amendments to Council Rules of Order and Procedure: The amendments require council member agenda requests to be voted on. Council Member Newins confirmed that denied requests are memorialized in minutes. Approved 9-0. - Special Election Discussion: Extensive discussion on the April 21 special election for a constitutional amendment. City Attorney Lindley explained that the state code requires early voting locations to be set 55 days prior, but the bill's timing (signed on a Friday) made it legally impossible to designate additional sites beyond the registrar's office. Council members expressed concern about voter access and transparency. Vice Mayor Ritter requested cost reports for special elections. Council Member Newins requested recognition for Jarrod Britt for alerting homeowners to a fire. Council Member King requested information on high water bills. Council Member Ward asked to explore a train crossing alert system. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Toll rate resolution: Passed 5-4. - Parks Master Plan adoption: Approved 9-0. - Funding source change (CIP): Approved 9-0. - Raleigh Place sewer appropriation (emergency): Approved 9-0. - Consent agenda: Approved 9-0. - Council Rules amendments: Approved 9-0. - Closed meeting certification: Approved 9-0 (initial) and 8-0 (Council Member Newins excused). - Directives: - City Manager to investigate Bedford Street concerns and provide answers to residents. - City Manager to prepare a report and recommendation on Seaboard Avenue pavement policy (concrete vs. asphalt). - City Manager to post the Dominion Energy letter on the city website. - City Manager to provide a detailed list of Operation Ceasefire grants and value. - City Manager to provide information on how the city pursues advertising, lapsed use permits, and property inspections for Bedford Street. - City Manager to report costs of special elections. - City Manager to provide public input on Seaboard Avenue along with the report, including price points and timelines for concrete, asphalt, or tinted asphalt. - City Manager to provide information on extremely high water bills at the next meeting. - City Manager to explore a train crossing alert system. - Staff to arrange recognition for Jarrod Britt at a future meeting. - Closed Meeting: Convened at 7:43 p.m. to discuss a prospective multipurpose event center and investment of public funds (allowed under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(5) and (6)). Reconvened at 8:15 p.m.; certification approved 8-0. - Adjournment: 8:16 p.m.

The City Council of Chesapeake met on February 17, 2026, for a work session (5:15–6:01 p.m.) followed by a regular meeting (6:30–7:04 p.m.) in the City Hall Council Chamber. The work session focused on proposed toll increases for the Chesapeake Transportation System (CTS). The regular meeting included a presentation recognizing a heroic act, unanimous approval of three public hearing items, discussion of unfinished business, and new business items addressing council salaries, utility costs, and water bills. Work Session: Chesapeake Transportation System Toll Increases - Staff from the Public Works Department presented proposed adjustments to toll rates on the Chesapeake Expressway and Dominion Boulevard, including a 75% increase in the discount program enrollment fee (from $40/year to $70/year) and a peak weekend discount toll rate increase from $1 to $2.50 (25% of the regular $9–$10 regular toll). On Dominion Boulevard, toll-by-plate rates would increase to three times the EasyPass rate (currently $2 differential) to cover rising collection costs (which exceeded gross revenue in fiscal year 2025). The schedules would also be extended by 10 years. - Council members raised questions about the percentage of Chesapeake residents in the discount program, the feasibility of reducing tolls to attract more traffic, multi-vehicle household discounts, the cost of individual toll-by-plate collections, and the burden on citizens. Council Member Whitaker suggested raising peak weekend tolls for non-discount users instead of across-the-board increases. Staff noted that the Transportation Toll Facility Advisory Committee (TFAC) had endorsed the proposals and hosted a public information session in December 2025. - No formal vote was taken; the work session was informational. Presentation - Mayor West presented a Certificate of Recognition to Grassfield High School senior Hugh Pinneo for rescuing a neighbor’s dog from a partially frozen pond. Council Member Jefferies praised Pinneo’s quick thinking. Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers addressed the Council prior to the public hearing items. - During the public hearings, the following speakers were recognized: - Dr. H. Patrick Cason, Sr. (Bethany Baptist Church) – spoke in support of Item A (day care permit). - Peyton Blankenship (applicant) – spoke in support of Item B (home occupation). - Brad Moore (South Norfolk resident) – spoke in support of Item C (historic design guidelines amendment). Discussion Items Public Hearing Items (all approved unanimously 9-0): - PLN-USE-2025-043 (Bethany Baptist Readiness Academy): Conditional use permit for a child day care and instructional services in an existing church at 2587 Campostella Rd. Approved with stipulations including EPA lead/copper testing, no expansion beyond 120 students without new permit, and hours 6 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday. - PLN-USE-2025-044 (Blankenship Home Occupation): Conditional use permit for a physical therapy business as a Level II Home Occupation at 2835 Meadow Wood Dr. West. Approved with stipulations limiting to one customer at a time, appointment only, and permit limited to applicants. - PLN-TXT-2025-007 (Special Overlay Districts Ordinance Amendment): Amendment aligning zoning ordinance with updated South Norfolk Historic Design Guidelines to streamline the certificate of appropriateness process. Approved as presented (version dated December 16, 2025). Unfinished Business: - Council Member Whitaker read a statement reaffirming the city’s 2019 resolution declaring Chesapeake a Second Amendment Constitutional City. No objection was raised; the statement was accepted by consensus. New Business: - Council Member Smith requested that staff prepare an agenda item for a public hearing on increasing City Council and mayoral salaries (authorized by the 2024 General Assembly) for the March 24, 2026 meeting. No objection. - Vice Mayor Ritter requested that the City Manager ask Dominion Energy to explain exponential increases in utility bills, citing costs for solar/wind debt, data centers, and transmission upgrades. Council Member Bunn added Virginia Natural Gas. Council Member Newins raised water bill complaints and customer service issues. Council Member King noted a $3,200 water bill for a single-person household. Council Member Ward urged holistic relief for citizens facing multiple increases (tolls, utilities, gas). The City Manager responded that the Customer Contact Center would begin triaging water utility calls. Closed Meeting: - Council approved a closed meeting on February 24, 2026, at 4:45 p.m. to interview candidates for the Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission and Stormwater Committee (9-0 vote). Key Outcomes - All three public hearing items (day care, home occupation, zoning text amendment) approved unanimously (9-0). - Council reaffirmed the 2019 Second Amendment resolution by consensus. - Staff directed to prepare a public hearing item on council salary increases for the March 24, 2026 meeting. - City Manager to contact Dominion Energy and Virginia Natural Gas regarding rate increases, and to improve water bill customer service. - Closed meeting scheduled for February 24, 2026 at 4:45 p.m. (approved 9-0). - Meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.

The Chesapeake Planning Commission held a pre-meeting and public hearing on February 11, 2026. The pre-meeting adjourned at 6:38 p.m., and the public hearing began shortly after and adjourned at 8:27 p.m. The meeting covered consent agenda approvals, a continuance request, a regular agenda rezoning application, and a discussion of bylaw amendments. Consent Calendar - Agenda items 2 (Elbow Estates proffer modification), 4 (Morton Academy conditional use permit), 5 (Simmons Stables conditional use permit), and 6 (Deep Creek Area Plan) were placed on the consent agenda and approved unanimously (9-0). - Item 3 (Scenic Heights PUD modification) was continued to the March 11, 2026 meeting at the applicant's request. - Item 1 (Vibean Reserve North) was moved to the regular agenda after a commissioner requested full discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Scenic Heights Continuance: Grady Palmer (applicant representative) spoke in support, explaining the continuance was needed due to a change in property ownership and updates to wetland delineation. Linda Tyndall (1045 West Road) spoke in opposition, questioning repeated continuances and the waste of resources. - Consent Agenda Speakers: - Grady Palmer made himself available for questions on item 2. - Tiana Morton made herself available for questions on item 4. - Linda Tyndall spoke in support of item 5 (Simmons Stables), praising the applicant's experience and the need for rural business opportunities. - Logart Ross (Chair, Bicycle Trails Advisory Committee) spoke in support of item 6 (Deep Creek Area Plan) but emphasized the need for better pedestrian and bicycle crossings on Military Highway, citing a recent fatal accident involving a 9-year-old. He noted the plan's potential to increase danger if service roads are removed without adequate crossings. - Michael Rigg (817 Buck Street) and Angelo Camacho (3301 South Military Highway) opposed item 6, raising concerns about property tax increases for low-income residents, lack of infrastructure, and danger at the Bower Avenue and Military Highway intersection. Mr. Camacho noted 14 fatalities in the past decade at that location and 1,300 online signatures requesting improvements. - Vibean Reserve North (Regular Agenda): - Tyler Rose (attorney for applicant) and Rodney Flores (engineer) spoke in support, highlighting the project's role in extending Edinburgh Parkway, improving traffic connectivity, and providing housing. They stated the project would add a 10-foot buffer, a three-acre park, and traffic signal timing adjustments to maintain Level of Service D. - Rhonda Kundritics (357 Wisdom Path) opposed, citing broken promises about green space, school overcrowding (redistricted from Hickory to Great Bridge), and the high starting home price of $700,000 (not affordable). - Brooke Spangler (324 Wisdom Path) opposed, concerned about flooding from a large retention pond, increased traffic on Hanbury Road, and school overcrowding (portables at Southeastern Elementary). - Rachel Beth Johnson (326 Wisdom Path) opposed, emphasizing loss of wildlife habitat (including endangered bats), flood protection, and community character, as well as school capacity and bus driver shortages. - Roger Oswald (88 Hunter Liverpool Crest Place, Chesapeake Sustainability Network) opposed, noting 2.9 acres of wetlands would be disturbed and mitigation was not specified. He urged protection of trees and wetlands. - Commissioner Halliard disclosed he owns property near the site but stated no conflict of interest. Discussion Items - Pre-Meeting Bylaws Discussion: The commission debated two potential bylaw changes. - Tie Votes on Concurrently Advertised Items: Current rules allow a second tie vote to default to a recommendation of status quo (denial). The chair proposed that after an initial tie, the chair entertain a procedural motion to forward the application to city council without recommendation, requiring a majority vote of members present. Vice Chair Sgueglia supported adding a deliberate motion rather than automatic forwarding. Commissioner Malone disagreed with forwarding without a recommendation. Commissioner Gilman noted concurrent advertisements are infrequent and often driven by contract deadlines. Consensus was reached to draft language for a procedural motion to be voted on next month. - Speaker Time Limits: The chair noted inconsistencies in current bylaws (3 vs. 5 minutes depending on speaker count and category). The commission agreed to set a uniform 3-minute limit for all speakers, regardless of agenda segment (continuance, consent, regular agenda). For consent, a single 3-minute block covers all consent items. This change will be drafted for a vote at the next meeting. - Committee Reports: Commissioner Sgueglia reported on a visit to Prince William County to observe data centers, noting 55 existing data centers and minimal noise. She stated the county offered to share resources. - New Applications: One new planned unit development application was received. - Initiated Text Amendments: None. - Cancellation: The February 25, 2026 meeting was canceled due to lack of business. Key Outcomes - Scenic Heights Continuance: Approved unanimously (9-0) to continue to March 11, 2026. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (9-0) including items 2, 4, 5, and 6. - Vibean Reserve North (PLN-REZ-2025-009): Denied by a vote of 7-2. Reasons cited included school overcrowding (Southeastern Elementary projected at 120% capacity after expansion, and 146.8% when including planned developments), loss of green space and wetlands, traffic concerns, and inconsistency with the comprehensive plan's green space preservation goals. - Bylaw Amendments: The commission directed staff to draft two bylaw amendments for a vote at the March 11, 2026 meeting: 1. In the event of a tie vote on a concurrently advertised item, the chair shall immediately entertain a procedural motion to forward the application to city council without recommendation. The motion requires a majority vote of present members. If it passes, the item proceeds as scheduled with no recommendation; if it fails, the item is continued per standard procedures. 2. Speaker time limits are standardized to 3 minutes per speaker for all agenda segments. For the consent agenda, a single 3-minute period covers all items. For multiple regular agenda items, speakers may speak 3 minutes per item. - February 25, 2026 Meeting: Canceled by unanimous consent.

The Chesapeake City Council met on February 10, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chamber. All eight members present (Council Member Smith excused) unanimously approved a consent agenda (with one item removed), several resolutions and ordinances, and conducted a closed meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m. Proclamation - Career and Technical Education Month – Mayor West proclaimed February 1–28, 2026, as Career and Technical Education Month. Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton accepted and highlighted recent CTE initiatives including Smith Tech, Major Clarity assessments, and the upcoming Future Pathways event. Citizens’ Comments on Agenda Items - Vic Nicholls (self) expressed support for the Stillwater rezoning proposal (noting food truck areas and brownstones) and questioned the transfer of funds from the Greenbrier Site/Infrastructure project, criticizing Dollar Tree’s lack of community investment. Consent Agenda (Approved 8-0, except Item 2 removed) - Acknowledgement of Rezoning Application – PLN-REZ-2025-017 (Stillwater); tentatively scheduled for Planning Commission March 11 and City Council at a future meeting. - Resignation – Jakayla Byrd from STOP, Inc. - Capital Budget Transfer – $264,185 from “Park Program Improvement II” to “Northwest River Park Improvements.” - Capital Improvement Appropriation – $3,015,000 for Belaire Avenue Extension and $380,000 for Oak Grove Park Phase II. Regular Agenda Items (All Approved 8-0) - Police Fleet Replacement (removed from consent) – Request to transfer $1,050,000 within the General Fund to the Police Department and increase the Central Fleet Fund by $1,050,000 for aging vehicle replacements. City Manager Price explained the need due to pandemic delays and rising costs; Vice Mayor Ritter commended the cost-saving approach. - MARCUS Alert Regional Cost Share – Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with area Community Service Boards for FY26 MARCUS Alert regional cost share, requested by Chesapeake Integrated Behavioral Healthcare. - Opioid Settlement Grant – Acceptance and appropriation of $377,164 from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority for opioid abatement efforts. City Manager Price noted the city receives both direct allocations and competitive grants, totaling over $5 million. Vice Mayor Ritter praised staff grant writing. - Capital Project Transfer – $2,811,800 from “Greenbrier Site/Infrastructure” to “Belaire Avenue Extension” for public works. - Fiber Optic Co-Build Agreement – Ordinance authorizing a co-build agreement with the Southside Network Authority for conduit installation along a parallel route. City Manager Price explained it will save $1.7 million and advance Chesapeake Connects, the city’s fiber ring. Vice Mayor Ritter noted Chesapeake was the first of five cities to complete its portion. Citizens’ Comments (Non-Agenda) - Vic Nicholls criticized speed cameras as revenue-generating, opposed proposed redistricting that may harm Chesapeake, expressed concerns about immigration enforcement, and urged the city to reaffirm Second Amendment sanctuary status. He also questioned affordable housing in the Stillwater project. - Tommy Hart alleged police misconduct in the Alan Forehand murder investigation, claiming evidence tampering and that the police lieutenant committed the crime. He stated he would testify to the case’s falsehoods. - Melinda Wilson requested the city end cooperation with ICE, arguing it undermines public safety trust, constitutional rights, and diverts local resources. - Sam Baraki (Civil Engineering and Construction Services) requested concurrent advertising for PLN-REZ-2025-017 (Stillwater) due to contractual hardship. Council approved concurrent advertising 8-0; item will go to Planning Commission March 11 and City Council March 17. New Business - Emergency Declaration Confirmation (Jan 23–28, 2026) – Resolution confirming the emergency due to severe winter weather; adopted 8-0. - Emergency Declaration Confirmation (Jan 29–Feb 3, 2026) – Resolution confirming the emergency due to severe winter weather; adopted 8-0. - Council Member Newins thanked staff for storm response and noted potholes can be reported via (757) 382-CITY. - Vice Mayor Ritter requested naming recognitions: (1) Margaret “Peggy” Forehand Stalnaker for library contributions, and (2) Claire Askew for parks contributions. Council Member Ward supported. Council Member Bunn asked about the Western Branch Trail renaming for the late Vice Mayor Dr. John deTriquet; Director Barber said approval expected within a month. Council Member Newins requested chronological prioritization of naming requests. Closed Meeting - Council convened a closed meeting at 7:31 p.m. to discuss real property acquisition/conveyance in Southern Chesapeake and investment of public funds for an economic development opportunity. Reconvened at 7:52 p.m. and certified the closed meeting (8-0). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (except Item 2) 8-0. - Police fleet funding ($1,050,000 transfer) approved 8-0. - MARCUS Alert MOU approved 8-0. - Opioid settlement grant ($377,164) approved 8-0. - Capital transfer ($2,811,800) to Belaire Avenue Extension approved 8-0. - Fiber optic co-build agreement approved 8-0. - Concurrent advertising for Stillwater rezoning approved 8-0. - Two emergency resolutions approved 8-0. - Naming recognitions directed for Stalnaker and Askew; Western Branch Trail renaming update expected within a month.

The Chesapeake City Council held a regular meeting on January 27, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chamber. The meeting began with a special recognition of City Clerk Sandy Madison for her ten years of service to the city. All nine council members were present. Actions included approving a consent agenda with routine refunds and a budget transfer, appropriating grant funds for school resource deputies, authorizing a resolution on proffers, correcting the version date for the adopted 2045 Comprehensive Plan, making numerous board and commission appointments, hearing public comments, and scheduling a future closed meeting. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals were passed unanimously (9-0), including: - Refunds totaling $46,821.41 to Yourspace Starmount, LLC ($27,434.12) and Waggoner Greenbrier, LLC ($19,387.29). - Acceptance of the resignation of Sabrina Bankes from the South Norfolk Revitalization Commission. - A budget transfer of $306,000 ($70,378 from the Administration Program and $235,622 from the Operations Program) to the Animal Services Program in the Police Department's FY 2026 Operating Budget. Public Comments & Testimony On Agenda Items: - Marcus Bolton (representing self, residence: 1217 Seabour Avenue): Spoke on the vacancies on the South Norfolk Revitalization Commission. He stated he had been making connections in the community and had applied for a seat, urging the council to consider his application and his plans for empowering the community. On Non-Agenda Items (Services, Policies, and Affairs of the City): - Vic Nicholls (self): Expressed dissatisfaction with city planning, specifically criticizing traffic planning in the Greenbrier area and mentioning a 45-second wait for a right turn. He commented on regional growth and housing costs, suggesting micro-apartments and ADUs as solutions. Mr. Nicholls voiced concern that the city was not doing enough to retain senior residents who have paid taxes for decades. He also urged the council to maintain peace in the city in the context of prior discussions on immigration enforcement. - Tommy Hart (self, residence: 1900 St. Brides Road): Testified in detail about his past experience as a detective in internal affairs with the Chesapeake Police Department. He alleged he faced retaliation for investigating a corrupt lieutenant, including being ordered not to create paperwork, being asked to sign a false letter, being told by a chief that he "could not function as a police officer if you can't lie for the good of the department," and ultimately being demoted and transferred. Discussion Items Appropriation for School Resource Deputy Program (26-O-012): - City Manager Price presented a request to appropriate $125,583 to the Sheriff's Office FY 2026 Operating Budget for the School Resource Deputy Program. Vice Mayor Ritter confirmed with the City Manager that the funds were a grant from the State Department of Criminal Justice Services and not from the General Fund. The funds support a contracted service between the schools and the Sheriff's Department. Vice Mayor Ritter recognized the School Security Task Force members present in the audience, thanking them for their work. The item was approved unanimously (9-0). Resolution on Proffer Agreement (26-R-007): - City Attorney Lindley presented a resolution authorizing her to execute an agreement terminating a tri-party agreement to clarify and enforce proffers. The resolution was approved unanimously (9-0) with no discussion. Correction to 2045 Comprehensive Plan Adoption (26-R-008): - City Clerk Madison presented an item to amend the action taken at the January 20, 2026 City Council meeting to correct a clerical error regarding the incorrect version date for the 2045 Comprehensive Plan and its Master Transportation Plan. Vice Mayor Ritter moved to amend the approval with a version date of January 20, 2026, for both documents. The motion was seconded by Council Member Smith and approved unanimously (9-0). Nominations and Appointments Without objection, the council took the following actions on boards and commissions: - Airport Authority: Carl Rickerson and George Yacus were nominated. Interviews will be conducted on February 10, 2026. - Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Board: Nominations were continued. - Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority: Brenton Artis, Lakela Lofton, and Ryan Shrader were nominated. Interviews will be conducted on February 10, 2026. - Economic Development Authority: Todd Mayfield was appointed. - South Norfolk Revitalization Commission: Marcus Bolton, Sarah Brown, and William Nertney were appointed. - Chesapeake Commission on Health and Well Being: Santiera Brown-Yearling (reappointed), Krystle Aponte, Monica Quinton, and Shaughanassee Vines were appointed. - Chesapeake Community Criminal Justice Board: Lakishi Stevenson (reappointed), Wallace Chadwick III, Katherine Gonyea, Cristina Hood, Jodie Love, and Ronald Telsch were appointed. - Chesapeake Interagency Consortium: Kenya Brown (Juvenile Services) was appointed. - Chesapeake Land Bank Authority: Kristi Wooten (Economic Development Authority representative) was appointed. - Chesapeake Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Finance Board: Corrie Kring (City Treasurer) was appointed. - Eastern Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority: Tonya Gill (Economic Development Authority representative) was appointed. - Fine Arts Commission: Appointments were continued. - Local Emergency Planning Committee: Matthew Ellis (Federal Law Enforcement), Edward Hanrahan (Industry representative), Robert Lee (Emergency Management), and James Partain (Transportation representative) were appointed. - Natural Event Mitigation Advisory Committee: Oran 'Doug' Crowson (Emergency Management) was appointed. New Business - Council Member Ella Ward commended the Chesapeake Public Schools Director of Communications Jay Lewter for creating a podcast on the Cornland School and Historic Village in recognition of African American History Month in February. She also thanked the city manager and staff for the recent approval of an agreement for lighting at the Cornland School. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (9-0). - Sheriff's Office Budget Appropriation (26-O-012): Approved unanimously (9-0). - Proffer Agreement Resolution (26-R-007): Approved unanimously (9-0). - Comprehensive Plan Correction (26-R-008): Approved unanimously (9-0). - Certification of Closed Meeting: Approved unanimously (9-0) for the closed meeting held prior to the council meeting. The council also voted unanimously (9-0) to convene a closed meeting on February 10, 2026, at 4:45 PM to interview candidates for the Airport Authority and the Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 PM.

The Chesapeake City Council met on January 20, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chamber, 306 Cedar Road. The meeting included a public hearing on nine planning items, a regular agenda item, and citizen comments. The council approved most items, denied a Royal Farms rezoning, and adopted the 2045 Chesapeake Comprehensive Plan. The meeting was recessed from 6:31 p.m. to 6:36 p.m. due to technical difficulties and adjourned at 8:23 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Unanimous (9–0). - Approval of Minutes: No separate item; minutes were approved as part of the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Item D – Royal Farms (PLN‑REZ‑2025‑014): The applicant requested a continuance to February 17, 2026, but no council member offered a motion. Thirteen citizens spoke in opposition, citing concerns about traffic, safety, noise, pollution, crime, devaluation of property, and proximity to an Amazon fulfillment center. Speakers included Bernadette Jackson‑Ford, Tyrone Ford, Corey Young, Stacey Sherry, Robin Hayes, Lavita McIntyre, Kristen Bowman (attorney for Jolliff Landing homeowners), Jeremy Bowman, Bryan Fagan, and Evgeniya Taylor. Three speakers (Tyler Rosa, Tom Ruszin, Greg Schmitt) spoke in support on behalf of Royal Farms. - Item H – 2045 Comprehensive Plan: Six speakers addressed the plan. Rogard Ross (Chesapeake Sustainability Network) and Bill Young (Chesapeake Alliance) spoke in support, with reservations. Melany Ploof (Plantation Lakes), Laura Pohl, Vanessa Butler, and Elizabeth Ayers spoke in opposition, raising concerns about road widening (Volvo Parkway), water line connections (West Road), and congestion. - Non‑Agenda Item: J.R. Ferguson spoke about an alleged elder abuse case involving a city employee. Discussion Items - Item A – Bainbridge Blvd SNBOD Residential (PLN‑USE‑2025‑014): Continued from December 16, 2025. The Planning Commission recommended denial; the applicant proposed revised stipulations (Nov. 19, 2025) including a 20‑foot setback from streets (instead of 14 ft) and removal of existing entrances. Planning staff recommended approval. Council approved 8–1 (Vice Mayor Ritter voted no). - Item B – Patrick Street Rezoning (PLN‑REZ‑2024‑020): Reclassification of 0.27 acres from B‑1 to R‑8. Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. Approved unanimously (9–0). - Item C – Hanbury Manor Section 4 (PLN‑REZ‑2025‑008): Rezoning of 3 acres to R‑10s for up to 11 single‑family homes, with proffers including a $3,000 per‑unit cash contribution for schools, transport, and emergency services. Approved unanimously (9–0). - Item D – Royal Farms Rezoning (PLN‑REZ‑2025‑014): Proposed rezoning of 4 acres to B‑2 for a gas station and convenience store. The applicant requested a continuance; no motion was made. Council heard public comments and then Vice Mayor Ritter moved to deny, citing viable use under current zoning and traffic concerns. Council members Jefferies, King, and Ward elaborated on tractor‑trailer traffic and negative community impacts. Motion denied unanimously (9–0). - Item E – Royal Farms Use Permit (PLN‑USE‑2025‑033): Not considered due to denial of the rezoning (Item D). - Item F – American Legion Grassfield (PLN‑USE‑2025‑042): Conditional use permit for a private membership club in a shopping center. Approved 8–0 (Council Member Whitaker absent). - Item G – Involuntarily Removed Billboards (PLN‑TXT‑2025‑009): Text amendment to allow City Council to modify setback requirements for billboards removed involuntarily. Approved unanimously (9–0). - Item H – 2045 Chesapeake Comprehensive Plan (PLN‑COMP‑2025‑003): Resolution to adopt the plan. After public comments, City Manager Price explained that the widening of Volvo Parkway is not an active project and that alternatives (east‑west connections) are being pursued. Council Member Newins proposed four additions: (1) conservation landscaping practices, (2) broader environmental education, (3) encouragement of public art amenities, and (4) promotion of agritourism/agribusiness. She also requested the late Vice Mayor Dr. John M. de Triquet be acknowledged. Vice Mayor Ritter noted the plan is aspirational and stressed the need for a list of rural area policies and a status update on West Road water connections. Approved unanimously (9–0). Note: The resolution (26‑R‑006) contained incorrect dates; a corrected version (26‑R‑008) was adopted on January 27, 2026. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Item A: Approved 8–1 (Vice Mayor Ritter dissenting). - Item B: Approved 9–0. - Item C: Approved 9–0. - Item D: Denied 9–0. - Item F: Approved 8–0 (Whitaker absent). - Item G: Approved 9–0. - Item H: Approved 9–0. - Regular Agenda (Right‑of‑Way Agreement with Dominion Energy): Approved 9–0. - Directives: - Staff to explore whether 15,000 square feet is necessary for a freestanding billboard (requested by Vice Mayor Ritter). - Staff to investigate synchronization of traffic lights on Battlefield Boulevard, Greenbrier Parkway, and Portsmouth Boulevard (requested by Council Member Ward). - Staff to explore allowing temporary outdoor storage of non‑inert materials (e.g., trees and debris) via a conditional use permit process (requested by Council Member Whitaker). - Closed Meeting: Scheduled for January 27, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. to interview candidates for multiple boards and commissions. Motion approved 9–0. If the city is closed due to weather, the meeting automatically moves to the next business day.

Note: The transcript from which this summary is derived indicates the meeting occurred on January 14, 2026, but the provided date for this summary is January 16, 2026. This discrepancy is noted as instructed. The Chesapeake Planning Commission convened for a pre-meeting and public hearing. The pre-meeting included an agenda overview, placement of items on the consent agenda, a special presentation on the Deep Creek Area Plan, and administrative updates. The public hearing addressed a continuance request and unanimously approved the consent agenda. No items were on the regular public hearing agenda. Consent Calendar - Item 1: PLN-TXT-2025-007 – Ordinance amendment to align zoning with updated South Norfolk Historic Design Guidelines. Placed on consent without objection; approved unanimously. - Item 2: PLN-USC-2025-043 – Bethany Baptist Readiness Academy: Conditional use permit for a child daycare and instructional services in an existing church. Placed on consent; approved unanimously. - Item 3: PLN-USC-2025-044 – Blankenship home occupation: Conditional use permit for a physical therapy business as a level two home occupation. Staff noted 20 comment forms in support (17 from neighbors) and one call in opposition. Placed on consent; approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Continuance Item (Item 4: PLN-USC-2024-045) – Paradise Smith (applicant) spoke in support of continuance, stating the need for additional time to address law enforcement concerns and collaborate with parties. No other speakers. The continuance was granted unanimously. - Consent Agenda Items – Multiple speakers supported Item 3 (Blankenship home occupation). - Peyton Blankenship (applicant) – Described her background as a doctor of physical therapy, her son’s leukemia diagnosis, and her need for a home-based business to be near her immunocompromised child. Promised one-on-one sessions, no overlap of patients, and no external changes to the home. - Linda Boyles (neighbor) – Supported the business, noting no adverse impact on traffic or noise. - Reed Durko (golf professional) – Vouched for Blankenship’s certifications and the need for her services. - Gus Guardino (neighbor) – Supported the business, emphasizing the driveway capacity and the applicant’s self-reliance. - Reverend Kevin Hemman (neighbor) – Shared personal history with the property and attested to the Blankenships’ character. - Carol Hemman (neighbor) – Expressed full support, citing the family’s property improvements and the lack of negative impact. - Barbara Newman (next-door neighbor) – Stated she would be most affected but is 100% supportive, noting minimal traffic and noise. - Neil Rice (friend) – Voiced support. - Thomas Bess (opponent, neighbor) – Requested a one-month delay for a traffic study, citing overloaded streets (24-ft curb-to-curb) and property value concerns. He noted this would be the first level two home occupation in the 240-lot subdivision. His time expired after five minutes. Discussion Items - Agenda Overview & Placement – Commission reviewed four applications. Item 4 (banquet hall) was continued indefinitely at the applicant’s request. Items 1, 2, and 3 were placed on the consent agenda. - Special Presentation: Deep Creek Area Plan – Presented by Anna Gorniak. The plan covers 37 square miles (excluding Great Dismal Swamp) and includes extensive community engagement (10 outreach events, 2 surveys, 12 stakeholder meetings). Key themes: connectivity, preservation, growth, and design. Four opportunity areas identified: North George Washington Highway Corridor, South Military Highway Corridor, Deep Creek Village (with old school site reuse), and Culpepper Landing (with proposed pedestrian bridge). The plan includes 50 policies and 40 projects. Next steps: final revisions, presentation to Planning Commission in February, and City Council adoption in April. - Chairman’s Comments – Committee assignments updated (removed completed plans, added Western Branch Area Plan committee). Reminder of November 12, 2026 meeting due to Veterans Day. Bylaws review discussed; a proposed amendment to allow tie votes on co-advertised items to proceed to City Council will be drafted. - Director’s Items – None. - Recognition – Chesapeake received the 2028 Commonwealth Connections Award from APA Virginia for expanding the connectivity plan. Key Outcomes - Continuance Granted – Item 4 (PLN-USC-2024-045) was continued indefinitely by a vote of 8-0. - Consent Agenda Approved – Items 1, 2, and 3 were approved unanimously (8-0) with stipulations as read. - January 28, 2026 Meeting Canceled – Unanimous consent due to no business. - Next Steps – Deep Creek Area Plan to be presented to Planning Commission in February 2026 and to City Council in April 2026. Transfer development rights program presentation scheduled for March 11, 2026. Western Branch Area Plan consultant selection expected in the next month.