Public Meetings - Hampton, Virginia

The Hampton City Council held a work session on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:10 PM in Council Chambers with all seven council members present. The agenda included an update on the 2027 Legislative Priorities, a deep dive on the Placemaking strategic priority, a briefing and tour of the Development Services Center (DSC), and a closed session to discuss potential land disposition and appointments. Discussion Items 2027 Legislative Priorities Update Ed Reed, Vice President of Two Capitols Consulting, presented the final tweaks to the 2027 legislative package. Adjustments included a request for expanded local authority to regulate retail tobacco establishments, added policy statements on menhaden conservation, flexibility for state license group homes, support for a 1% state tourism sales tax renewal, and an updated collective bargaining stance preserving local fiscal management authority. Council discussed sponsoring legislation for photo enforcement speed limits in neighborhoods identified by accident data and resident supermajority support. City Manager Mary Bunting noted the city was two weeks ahead of schedule in finalizing the agenda, which was placed on the consent calendar for adoption that evening. Strategic Priority Update: Placemaking Neva White, the Placemaking Strategic Priority Leader and Library Director, presented a broad overview of placemaking initiatives across departments. Key statistics reported included: - Neighborhood block party kits: 256 items checked out by registered associations, serving over 2,900 residents with a 5-out-of-5 satisfaction rate. - The Placemaking Lab pilot funded 5 projects in 5 neighborhoods, representing an estimated $336,000 in community investment. - Over 13,000 guests attended Hampton Arts events in the past year. - Libraries hosted over 1,400 programs with an attendance of over 45,000 people. - The city received a perfect score on the Municipal Quality Index. Ms. White also presented a set of proposed quick-win projects for potential year-end savings funding, including open space upgrades at Air Power Park, a nature music garden at Sandy Bottom, a nature trail at Gosnold's Hope Park, a calisthenics area at Buckrow Beach, and inclusive sensory rooms in community centers. - Councilmember Ferebee expressed a desire to see stronger integration with Hampton University, the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind, and historic sites like St. John's Church and the Contraband churches. - Councilmember Harper praised the effort but urged improved storytelling of Hampton's history, including the 1619 legacy and Fort Monroe's role. - Vice Mayor Brown suggested the city adopt "Every place in Hampton is a place to make memories" as a guiding concept and recommended independent external contractors for customer surveys. - Councilmember Bowman commended the inclusive sensory rooms for individuals with autism and the pop-up recreation programs. Briefing on the Development Services Center Joshua George, Executive Project Manager, and Latoya Forbes, DSC Manager, explained the development review process using a relay race analogy. They distinguished between active city review time and total project elapsed time. Presenters highlighted that customer feedback from January to September 2026 (153 responses) rated staff service highly (4.91/5) but identified the online portal as the weakest area (4.36/5). City Manager Bunting confirmed that council-appropriated funds are being used to procure a new portal system and that staff are exploring AI tools to help applicants, especially small businesses, ensure complete submissions. Key Outcomes - Legislative Adoption: The 2027 Legislative Priorities package was finalized and scheduled for formal adoption on the consent agenda at the regular meeting. - Proposed Placemaking Projects: Council received the quick-win project proposals for consideration through the year-end savings appropriation process in December. - DSC Tour: The work session recessed at 2:19 PM for a tour of the Development Services Center, reconvening at 2:55 PM. - Closed Session Motions: - A motion to enter closed session to discuss the disposition of land on Kecoughtan Road and appointments to the Citizens Police Advisory Group and the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities passed unanimously (7-0). - A motion to certify the closed session passed unanimously (7-0). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 4:10 PM.

The Hampton City Council held a legislative session on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The meeting opened with an invocation by Councilwoman Martha Mugler and the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Jimmy Gray recognized the Hampton VA 250 committee and staff for their work in commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence, presenting commemorative coins. The consent agenda was adopted unanimously, public comment was heard from one speaker, and two appointments were addressed. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM. Recognitions - Mayor Gray recognized members of the Hampton VA 250 committee (including Samantha R. Snead, Dr. Martha S. Tennille, Gaylene C. Kanoyton, and others) and city staff from multiple departments for their contributions to the 250th anniversary celebrations. Present members received a commemorative coin. Consent Calendar - 26-0311: Resolution authorizing the appropriation of $8,000 from the Capital Project Fund – State and Local Government Series Demand Deposit Securities (SLGS) interest revenue to Bond Custodial Fees to fund annual custodial fees. (Adopted) - 26-0329: Resolution authorizing the acceptance of a gift of real property located at 4205 Victoria Boulevard (LRSN 2001735, assessed at $933,500) and the execution of a reimbursement agreement between the City, the Charles H. Taylor Memorial Library Trust, and Carney Patterson Meade PLC for trust dissolution and property transfer costs. (Adopted) - 26-0333: Approval of the City of Hampton 2027 General Assembly Legislative Priorities. (Adopted) - 26-0335: Resolution initiating amendments to the Hampton City Zoning Ordinance to revise standards applicable to short-term rental (STRs). (Adopted) All items were approved by unanimous vote as part of the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - J aan Weaver addressed the council, stating that council members are public servants entrusted by the community and should respond directly to citizens rather than deferring to the city manager. She criticized the council's decision regarding the Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind property, calling it a “travesty” that the city will bear forever. She also urged the city to better incorporate Hampton University into Hampton’s identity, comparable to Blacksburg/Virginia Tech. City Manager Mary Bunting apologized if Ms. Weaver felt her previous comment was mischaracterized, clarifying she intended to refer to council decisions. Mayor Gray ended the exchange, noting the opportunity for the city manager to respond had concluded. Key Outcomes - Appointment to Citizens Police Advisory Group (CPAG): A motion to defer the appointment to the November12, 2026 meeting was made by Councilmember Michelle Feeebee, seconded by Councilmember Hope Harper, and carried 7-0. - Appointments to Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities (MCFPWD): A motion to appoint Dominique Pierce Harrison (ter ending June30, 2028) and Sherry Hildebrant (ter ending February28, 2028) was made by Councilmember Feeebee, seconded by Councilmember Harper, and carried 7–0. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 PM.

The Hampton City Council held a ceremonial session on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Jimmy Gray presided, and all seven council members were present. The meeting focused on recognizing volunteer boards and commissions under the theme Spotlight on Citizen Engagement. No formal legislative actions or votes were taken, and the meeting adjourned at 6:11 PM. Ceremonial Items: Spotlight on Citizen Engagement - Brian Marchese, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, presented the recognitions. He described boards and commissions as a direct line from residents to city hall and tied the evening to the city's strategic plan priority of excellence in government through resident participation. - Youth Advisory Group: Recognized Gabriella Oliveras, Noah McMillan, and Evan Rone. Marchese noted the group includes young people ages 13 to 19 from across Hampton and creates spaces for honest conversations about diversity and inclusion, as well as planning and running their own events. - Citizens' Unity Commission: Recognized Chair Phylis Porter and Vice Chair Mei Stukes. Marchese said the commission began in 1995 after City Council asked residents to study diversity in Hampton, and that the commission marked its 30th anniversary the prior week. He highlighted its programs, including the Hampton Diversity College and the Unity Awards, which have honored people and organizations since 2000. He also noted that the commission's Diversity College was being held that evening, so some members could not attend. - Senior Citizens Advisory Committee: Recognized Chair Linda Kindred. Marchese said the committee's goal is to make Hampton the community of choice for seniors, guided by the motto SAVE seniors, meaning Support, Acknowledge, Value, Empower seniors. The committee meets on the first Monday of each month at the renovated Hampton Senior Center on Kikitan Road and works with partners including Human Services, the Peninsula Agency on Aging, the Peninsula Foster Grandparents Program, the Community Service Board, and the Hampton Health Department. - Marchese encouraged residents interested in serving on a board or commission to apply at Hampton.gov/boards. Key Outcomes - No formal council votes or decisions were made; the session was purely ceremonial. - Mayor Gray thanked all honorees and affirmed that Council continues to support their work. - Meeting adjourned at 6:11 PM. Note: The minutes spell the senior committee chair's name as Linda Kindred, while the transcript spells it Linda Kendridge. Similarly, the minutes spell the Unity Commission chair's name as Phylis Porter, while the transcript spells it Phyllis Porter.

The Hampton City Council held its legislative session on October 15, 2026, beginning at approximately 8:30 PM. The meeting featured proclamations, a presentation on the Fort Monroe Landscape Design Plan, a public hearing on a dumpster enclosure use agreement, and adoption of an ordinance updating police-requested towing rates. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda, which included vacating a portion of an unimproved right-of-way designated as Barrick Street, amending the FY 2027 budget to appropriate approximately $2.3 million in state carryover funds to the general fund school operating fund, $7,000 from the Bluebird Gap Farm Vending Fee Revenue to the Parks Recreation and Leisure Services operating budget, $7,000 from the Capital Projects Fund restricted fund balance for the Transportation Initiative project, approval of a refund of certain erroneously assessed business taxes, an update to the city manager chain of command succession, and approval of minutes from three prior meetings (legislative session of September 9th and special and ceremonial meetings of September 23rd). Proclamations & Recognitions - Hampton University Recognition: Mayor Gray recognized members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity at Hampton University. Hampton University President Darrell Williams had earlier presented the university's economic impact report, noting rising enrollment and the value of events such as football, homecoming, and the Hampton Jazz and Music Festival. - House Resolution for City Manager Mary B. Bunting: Delegate Virgil Thornton presented House Resolution No. 2124 from the Virginia General Assembly, commemorating City Manager Mary B. Bunting for her service since 1990, including her role as the first female city manager of Hampton (appointed 2009) and recognition as a White House Champion of Change by President Barack Obama in 2012. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October 2026): Mayor Gray proclaimed October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Krista Scott of the Pretty in Pink event was recognized for her advocacy work. - Fire Prevention Week (October 4–10, 2026): The council proclaimed Fire Prevention Week with the theme "Charge It into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower," emphasizing safe use of lithium-ion batteries. The Deputy Fire Marshal accepted the proclamation. Mayor Gray noted that technology now requires focusing on safe charging of devices to prevent fires. - National 4-H Week (October 4–10, 2026): The council proclaimed National 4-H Week with the theme "Beyond Ready." Karen Baker and students accepted the proclamation. Discussion Items - Fort Monroe Landscape Design Plan (Item 26-0320): Scott Martin, CEO of the Fort Monroe Authority, presented the 60% complete conceptual design by Hargreaves Jones, the firm behind the Sydney and London Olympic Park sites. Key features include: a leveed core protected to 9.5 feet of flood elevation to address climate change and sea-level rise, removal of pavement with net parking capacity increase, a pedestrian-privileged design, an ADA-accessible 1.3-mile trail atop the ramparts, activation of the parade ground as a public commons, a recreation and sports district with a sailing facility and sports training center, a promenade along the seawall, Mill Creek wetland restoration with a filled island to extend bird and marine habitat by 25 years, a hospitality district near the marina, potential for smaller cruise ships (150-passenger range) to land, a lodge-scale hotel, housing infill including duplexes respecting the historic grain, and a 7.57-mile loop trail connecting to the 757 trail. The plan accounts for all of Fort Monroe including National Park Service land. The Fort Monroe Authority board will consider the plan in November, with submission to Governor Spanberger anticipated in December. - Police-Requested Towing Rates (Item 26-0323): The council considered and adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 21 of the city code to update rates for police-requested towing. The new ordinance ties local rates to the state-provided rate for private tows with automatic updates, includes a $30 after-hours charge, and establishes several other specialized charges based on regional benchmarks. The Towing Advisory Committee expressed support. Public Hearing - Dumpster Enclosure Use Agreement (Item 26-0303): The council held a public hearing on a resolution authorizing a dumpster enclosure use agreement with Partnership for a New Phoebus Inc. for a brick enclosure at 8 South Hope Street. The enclosure, originally constructed by the city in 2016, provides a shared locked location for solid waste disposal for restaurants and retail businesses in the Phoebus district. No speakers signed up, the hearing was closed, and the resolution was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Christine Dupuis spoke on behalf of local towing owner-operators, emphasizing the dangers drivers face responding to accident scenes and arguing for fair compensation that reflects the responsibility and risk of the work. - Ayesha Garcia raised concerns about the timeline for the Wyatt Fire Station reuse project, stating that a presentation had been removed from the agenda despite prior commitments to issue an RFQ by August 31, 2026. She also noted that Colonial Landing apartments, which the city had said had no plans, was being demolished. - Stephanie Rola (owner of Simple Treats) opposed allowing cottage bakeries to operate retail bake stands from their residences, arguing it violates existing state regulations (which limit cottage bakers to direct-to-consumer sales) and city home occupation rules. She questioned how tax collection (13.5% combined state and city) would be enforced and warned that allowing bake stands could lead to a proliferation of home-based retail, creating an uneven playing field for brick-and-mortar businesses. - Brenda Marks asked the council to implement biennial real property assessments as permitted by state law (Code of Virginia 58.1-3250), rather than annual assessments, to offset rising property tax burdens. - Joan Weaver called for greater recognition of Hampton University (her alma mater, class of 1978) within the city; criticized council for what she characterized as inaction and lack of accountability; urged council not to place data centers or an ice center on the Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind parcel; and demanded that council keep promises regarding housing. City Manager Responses - Property assessments: City Manager Bunting clarified that Hampton's charter (Section 6.06) requires annual assessments as a state-enacted law, and the council would need to petition the General Assembly to change the charter. - Wyatt Fire Station: The timeline was extended to accommodate the community engagement process requested by council. Staff will present survey results and engagement findings to council before proceeding with an RFP. - Colonial Landing: The city does not own the property. The condemned building was demolished through a public nuisance process, and future use is at the property owner's discretion. - Cottage bakeries: Staff plans to conduct stakeholder engagement with both brick-and-mortar businesses and cottage bakery proponents, likely in January 2026 (sic), after currently scheduled engagements for the fire station and short-term rental regulations. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Dumpster Enclosure Use Agreement (26-0303): Approved unanimously (7-0). - Police-Requested Towing Ordinance (26-0323): Approved unanimously (7-0). Rates will now automatically update with state private-tow rates and include a $30 after-hours fee. - Fort Monroe Plan: The Fort Monroe Authority board will consider the 60% design in November; submission to Governor Spanberger expected in December 2026. - Phoebus Branch Library: Reopening scheduled for Monday, October 19, 2026, following carpet replacement, HVAC repairs, brickwork repairs, and interior reconfiguration creating a new children's area, improved adult seating, and a quiet reading area.

The Hampton City Council met in a work session on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Mayor Jimmy Gray presided; all seven council members were present. The open session included four staff/guest presentations: Hampton University economic impact, towing advisory board recommendations, the development process assessment implementation, and cannabis legislation. No minutes were available; the summary is based on the agenda and transcript. Council later voted unanimously to enter closed session. Discussion Items Hampton University Economic Impact - Hampton University President Darrell Williams presented a study by Chamura, commissioned by a Virginia legislative subcommittee, on the economic impact of the Commonwealth’s four HBCUs. Combined impact was $1.6 billion; Hampton University-specific findings included nearly 2,100 jobs per year, about $115 million in economic impact, and $7.32 million per year in public revenue. - Enrollment is 4,891, a 49.9% increase; faculty grew from about 254 in 2022 to about 306. Williams said most new faculty come from outside the area and contribute to the local economy. - Williams highlighted university investments: a workforce development center on Butler Farm Road, culinary arts/business networking and digital/AI centers, a new School of Religion downtown, the Hampton Well Nest community pharmacy/wellness/mental health center, and an off-campus restaurant, Milk and Honey. - He also reported a new $2.4 million summer grant for workforce pathways for people ages 11–27, in addition to about $2.25 million in TRIO funding over 50 years. - The study ranked HU number one in Virginia for social mobility and top 50 nationally, with Williams noting that results vary by methodology. - Williams said HU helps fill the regional workforce gap: with about a 52% gap in certain jobs, the gap would be 63% without HU’s contribution. - Williams expressed support for deeper city-university collaboration, including consolidated workforce pathways and city-sponsored grants to HU for workforce upskilling, especially in digital/AI. - Councilmembers expressed pride and support. Councilmember Harper praised workforce development; Councilmember Ferebee noted her family ties and urged continued work on heritage tourism and entrepreneurship; Vice Mayor Brown called for treating downtown Hampton as a college town, and Williams agreed. Mayor Gray mentioned the youth climate action plan event with 150 high school students and HU students, and thanked Williams for the voting precinct effort. Towing Advisory Board Follow-Up - Deputy City Manager Brian DeProfiel, Towing Advisory Board Vice Chair Ashley Abbott, and former Councilman Hobbs presented. Background: Hampton’s police-initiated towing rates had not been amended since 2008; the towing advisory board was established in 2000, disbanded in 2011, and re-established in 2024. The board had presented recommendations on September 9, 2026, and council asked staff and the board to refine the rates. - Current Hampton rates: $125 base for most vehicles, $285 for very large vehicles over 26,000 pounds, $10 after-hours surcharge, $28/day storage, $62.50 per half hour for additional recovery, and $25 per half hour wait-time after the first hour. - Regional comparison: all other major Hampton Roads cities except Suffolk updated towing fees in the last two years; Suffolk’s rates are tied to the state default rate of $210. The state rate is reviewed annually and allows a $30 after-hours surcharge. Newport News has a lower base but allows add-ons such as a $45 dolly, $30 GoJack, and $25 administrative fee. - Abbott stated the board was addressing police rotation tows, not private property tows. The board originally proposed a flat $240 fee, but accepted the state-based structure: $210 daytime plus $30 after-hours. Proposed increases included storage to $55/day, a DMV processing fee with documentation, additional recovery at $62.50 per half hour, and wait-time standby at $62.50 per half hour. The board also requested annual rate review. - Staff recommended adding the city manager’s office as an appeal step for towing-related violations. - Vice Mayor Brown confirmed that the board and staff were aligned on the state-rate approach rather than the flat $240 rate. - The item was scheduled for final council action at the 6:30 p.m. meeting that evening. Development Process Assessment Implementation - Community Development Director Kim Michael reported on implementation of the Clarion development process assessment. The assessment identified five challenges: staffing and retention, workflow and technology limitations, inconsistent procedures, outdated planning guidance, and complexity of the zoning ordinance. - Achievements included about 35 workflow and portal improvements to the permitting system, a new departmental mission/vision/values framework, improved SOPs, clearer comment letters, appointment scheduling, staff cross-training, concurrent review, major/minor site plan review, and reduced site plan/subdivision review times. - A new permitting software is being pursued; the comprehensive plan update has an RFP out, and a full zoning ordinance rewrite is expected in roughly two to three years, likely with outside consulting help. The city manager said funding steps have been taken. - Customer surveys are ongoing, with 20–30 responses per month. Councilmember Campbell encouraged continuing the feedback loop; Councilmember Harper asked about surveys; Councilmember Ferebee requested a consolidated annual report for citizens; Vice Mayor Brown asked for percentage-based progress updates and suggested a post-call survey. Cannabis Legislation Briefing - Assistant City Attorney Corey Wolf and Senior City Planner James Randolph briefed Council on the state’s coming retail cannabis marketplace. They emphasized Virginia’s Dillon Rule and said localities cannot prohibit newly legalized cannabis uses, including by de facto bans. - Retail sales can begin as early as July 1, 2027. The state will issue 350 retail licenses. Retail stores cannot sell tobacco or alcohol and cannot allow on-site consumption. A statutory 1,000-foot buffer from hospitals, schools, universities, and child day programs cannot be reduced, though other buffers may be considered. - Cultivation licenses are tiered by canopy; tiers 1–4 are uncapped up to 25,000 square feet, and only five larger tier 5 licenses are available. Microbusinesses, limited to 5,000 square feet of indoor canopy or 10,000 square feet of outdoor canopy, may combine cultivation, processing, and retail at one site. - Staff recommended requiring a use permit for each cannabis use and proposed zoning districts: retail in C1/C2/C3; indoor cultivation in M1/M2/M3; outdoor cultivation in the Langley flight approach zones 1–4; processing/testing and transport/delivery in manufacturing/commercial districts. The existing Cunningham Drive medical dispensary could seek dual-use retail, with the retail portion going through a use permit. - Proposed operating hours mirrored ABC retail store hours: 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Saturday and 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday. The city is required to adopt a local cannabis sales/use tax, likely through the spring budget process; tax returns go to the state and revenue is disbursed quarterly. Staff also recommended local penalties for public consumption mirroring state penalties. - The Cannabis Control Authority will begin accepting preliminary applications starting February 1. The city would have 30 days from notice to file a written objection. Draft regulations are still incomplete and could supersede local rules if conflicts arise. - Council feedback included: Councilmember Ferebee raised equity concerns about manufacturing zones near homes, and staff noted the use permit process would include public notice; Councilmember Muggler questioned Langley flight approach residential pockets and preferred starting with more restrictive hours; Councilmember Campbell suggested a noon opening instead of 10 a.m. and considering buffers similar to vape shops; Councilman Bowman asked about the two-ounce per-transaction limit and license background checks. Staff responded that background checks are required, with exceptions for cannabis offenses, and the city cannot change the transaction limit. Councilmembers noted VML discussion about license allocation possibly using regional usage data; the city attorney said staff would follow up. Key Outcomes - No ordinance votes were taken during the work session. The towing rate ordinance was scheduled for a final vote at the 6:30 p.m. council meeting on the same date. - Cannabis staff recommendations were presented for Council feedback; staff will use the comments to draft local ordinance language. - Council voted unanimously to enter closed session under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711(A)(8) for consultation with legal counsel regarding collective bargaining, and under Section 2.2-3711(A)(7) and (8) for pending litigation and other legal issues/transactions. The open session ended at approximately 3:00 p.m. The agenda listed a resolution certifying the closed session for after the closed session; no certification vote appears in the transcript.

The Hampton City Council met for a legislative session on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included the approval of a consent agenda, multiple proclamations, a presentation on the Fort Monroe Landscape Design Plan, a public hearing on a dumpster enclosure agreement, public comments on towing, property, and business issues, and the adoption of an ordinance updating police-requested towing rates. Presentations & Proclamations - Delegate Virgil Thornton presented House Resolution 2124 from the Virginia House of Delegates to City Manager Mary Bunting, commemorating her legacy of service as the first female city manager of Hampton. - Proclamations: The Mayor proclaimed October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month (presented to Krista Scott), October 4–10 as Fire Prevention Week (with a focus on safe charging of lithium-ion batteries), and October 4–10 as National 4-H Week (presented to Karen Baker and students). Consent Calendar The following routine items were approved unanimously: - Vacating a portion of Barrack Street to create a single parcel of land (Item 26-0285). - Appropriating $2,343,690 of state carryover funds to the School Operating Fund (Item 26-0310). - Appropriating $7,217.90 from Bluebird Gap Farm vending feed revenue to Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Services (Item 26-0277). - Appropriating $7,274.95 from the Capital Projects Fund for the Transportation Initiative Project (Item 26-0318). - Approving the refund of erroneously assessed business taxes (Item 26-0314). - Updating the City Manager chain of command and succession (Item 26-0309). - Approving the minutes from the legislative session of September 9, 2023, and the special and ceremonial meetings of September 23, 2026 (Item 26-0316). Discussion Items Fort Monroe Landscape Design Plan (Item 8) Scott Martin, CEO of the Fort Monroe Authority, presented the 60% conceptual design by Hargrave Jones. Key proposals include a levee core for protection up to 9.5 feet of flood elevation, an ADA-accessible rampart trail, a 7.57-mile loop trail connecting to the 757 Trail, a sports training and sailing district, a marina hospitality area with a lodge, and infill duplexes. Martin stated the plan aims for approval by the Fort Monroe Authority Board in November and Governor Spamberger in December 2026. Police-Requested Towing Ordinance (Item 10) The council considered an ordinance to amend police-requested towing rates. The ordinance ties rates to the state private tow rate, includes a $30 non-business hour fee, and allows for automatic future adjustments without separate council approval. City Manager Bunting confirmed the Towing Advisory Board was supportive of the ordinance. Public Hearing - Item 9 (Dumpster Enclosure): A public hearing was held on a resolution authorizing the renewal of a dumpster enclosure use agreement with the Partnership for a new Phoebus, Inc., at 8 South Hope Street. No public speakers registered for this item. The resolution was approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Christine DuPuis (on behalf of local towing owner-operators): Argued that towing drivers deserve fair compensation for the dangerous and essential service they provide. - Aisha Garcia: Criticized the delay of the Wyatt Fire Station discussion to October 28 and the lack of transparency regarding the demolition of Colonial Landing apartments. - Stephanie Rola (Owner, Simple Treats): Opposed allowing cottage bakeries to operate retail stands, arguing it circumvents tax requirements (13.5% total) and regulatory frameworks required of brick-and-mortar businesses. - Brenda Mox: Requested the council adopt biennial property assessments starting in 2028, citing the Code of Virginia. City Manager Bunting noted that the Hampton City Charter mandates annual assessments. - Joan Weaver: Called for greater city recognition of Hampton University and urged more equitable focus on neglected areas like the Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind site. City Manager Responses - Wyatt Fire Station: The timeline was extended to accommodate council-ordered citizen engagement. Survey results will be presented before issuing an RFP. - Colonial Landing: The property is privately owned; the demolition occurred due to a court-ordered public nuisance abatement for an unsafe building. - Cottage Bakeries: Stakeholder engagement on the issue is planned for January 2027. - Real Estate Assessments: The city charter requires annual assessments; changing this would require state legislative action. - Phoebus Library: The branch will reopen on Monday, October 19, 2026, after renovations including new carpet, HVAC repairs, and a redesigned interior. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Dumpster Enclosure Agreement (Item 9): Approved unanimously (7-0). - Towing Rates Ordinance (Item 10): Approved unanimously (7-0).

The Hampton City Council convened at 1:00 PM on September 23, 2026, for a work session. Mayor Jimmy Gray was absent on assignment but expected at the evening session; Vice Mayor Steven L. Brown presided. The sole agenda item was a briefing on the Short-Term Rental (STR) Program, followed by a closed session and an appointment. Staff presented data on ordinance implementation, enforcement, and capacity, and council discussed potential adjustments to density caps. Discussion Items - Short-Term Rental Program Briefing (Agenda Item 26-0300): Deputy Zoning Administrator Chris Langaster presented an update. Key points: - The current STR ordinance took effect September 1, 2024, establishing a Short-Term Rental Overlay District with density (1% of housing units per zone) and separation requirements (300 feet after an August 2024 amendment). - Hampton has 51 STR zones; five zones are at capacity: Buckroe 2, and others identified as tourist areas (except Fox Hill, a residential neighborhood). - As of August 2026, 177 STRs have been approved: 165 via Zoning Administrative Permit (ZAP) and 12 via Use Permit. 105 ZAP applications were denied; 27 are pending. - Denial reasons: 54 for density/capacity, 33 for separation requirements. - Enforcement: 101 notices of violation issued, 17 court summons, 2 permits revoked, 65 cases resolved. - Staff suggested council consider raising the cap from 1% to 2% in zones at capacity, or allowing case-by-case waivers of separation requirements via use permit. - Council Discussion: Vice Mayor Brown noted that four of the five at-capacity zones are tourist areas, while Fox Hill is residential. Councilmember (unidentified) stated that council previously considered 2-3% caps for tourism districts but chose to start at 1% with a commitment to revisit. He emphasized that any future change should include public engagement before proceeding. No formal action was taken on the briefing. Closed Session & Certification - Closed Session Motion (Agenda Items 26-0289, 26-0302): Council voted unanimously (5-0; all present members aye) to convene a closed session under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(8) for consultation on potential real property acquisitions, and under § 2.2-3711.A(.1) to discuss appointments (including the Community Policy and Management Team). The closed session began at approximately 1:20 PM. - Certification (Item 26-0270): A resolution certifying the closed session was scheduled for later in the meeting. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken on the STR program; the briefing was informational. - Council expressed interest in potential cap adjustments but committed to public input before any ordinance changes. - The closed session was approved unanimously; the appointment to the Community Policy and Management Team was expected to be discussed in closed session.

The Hampton City Council held a legislative session on September 23, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting addressed a consent agenda, public hearings, proclamations, and policy discussions. Key actions included affirming the revocation of a short-term rental permit due to multiple violations, approving a zoning ordinance amendment that changes appeal procedures for revoked permits, and authorizing a five-year lease with BayPort Credit Union. Public comments covered cottage bakeries, homelessness, a children's hospital, and housing repair waitlists. Consent Calendar - Resolution to amend the Fiscal Year 2027 budget by appropriating $175,000 from the Economic Development Fund Balance to Capital Contingency in the Capital Projects Fund. - Resolution approving the issuance by the Hampton Redevelopment and Housing Authority of up to $12,000,000 Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds (The Retreat at Trilogy) Series 2026. - Resolution approving an encroachment agreement for a fence installation. - Resolution initiating amendments to the Hampton City Zoning Ordinance to address the adult-use retail cannabis marketplace. - Approval of minutes from the August 12, 2026 legislative session. All consent items were approved unanimously by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Terry Vandervenet (resident of 1 Millicent Court) urged council to uphold the revocation of the short-term rental permit for 4 Millicent Court, describing numerous parties, trash, and safety concerns. She requested a permanent revocation. - Caroline Peabody (former active-duty spouse) spoke on the STR appeal, acknowledging the severity of the incident but noting it was a single documented case. She later spoke in support of a pilot program for regulated cottage food bake stands. - Stephanie Roland (owner of Sinful Treats Bakery) expressed concerns about allowing cottage bakeries to operate in neighborhoods, citing competition, food safety, and enforcement challenges. She urged the city to protect brick-and-mortar businesses. - Bianca Kern (owner of Kern and Crumb Bakehouse) advocated for a regulated pathway for temporary cottage food bake stands in residential neighborhoods. She noted a petition with over 400 signatures supporting the idea and proposed clear boundaries on hours, signage, and structures. - Heather Russell (owner of Mama Doug’s Kitchen) presented specific regulatory ideas, including maximum stand size, operational limits, and a registration process to address traffic, appearance, and accountability concerns. - Alan Tanner (Newport News property owner) spoke about opportunity zones and urged the city to consider developing a campus for sailors in downtown Newport News instead of building two 17-story towers on a football field. - Sybil Belgrave (resident) asked why there is no children's hospital on the peninsula and requested council's support for one. - Aaron Weaver (resident) requested updated numbers on the home repair waiting list (last reported 2,212 in September 2025), asked how many residents received completed repairs, and raised questions about enforcement of the homeless camping and storage ordinance, including authorization and documentation of property removals. - Joan Weaver (resident) criticized council for not responding to citizen emails and asked for a documented process for addressing concerns. - Teresa Roundy (resident and business owner) provided documents about the Barnes Cemetery disinterment, marking the 21st anniversary, and called for action. City Manager Mary Bunting responded to several comments: noted staff is exploring cottage bakery regulations carefully to balance interests; confirmed the city applied for opportunity zone renewals; explained the typical service area for a children's hospital; clarified that enforcement of the homeless ordinance began on July 24, 2026, with a six-month council review expected in February 2027; and outlined protocols for property removal and storage. She apologized for any missed emails and encouraged follow-up. Discussion Items - Appeal of Revocation of Short-Term Rental Permit (Item 6): Zoning Administrator Melvin Fulgium presented that the permit for 4 Millicent Court was issued August 5, 2025, with conditions including maximum overnight occupancy of 10 persons (10 PM-7 AM), daytime occupancy of 20 persons (7 AM-10 PM), a prohibition on events, and a requirement for a responsible local person reachable within one hour. On July 5, 2026, police responded to a report of gunshots and observed 30-40 juveniles present, exceeding both occupancy limits. A party was occurring, and two juveniles suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The permit holder, Vincent Agyapong (a deployed active-duty service member), was listed as the sole responsible person but was unreachable. The Zoning Administrator revoked the permit on July 14, 2026. Despite revocation, a rental occurred on September 4, 2026, leading to further notification to cease operations. The appellant (via pre-recorded video) argued the incident was an isolated event caused by guests who deliberately violated safeguards, and he described improvements including adding a secondary alert recipient, a noise monitoring system, and a stricter policy. Neighbor Terry Vandervenet and the appellant's wife, Georgia Azia Pong, also spoke. Council discussed the four separate violations on July 5 (daytime occupancy, nighttime occupancy, prohibited event, and failure to have an available responsible local person). The revocation was affirmed by a 7-0 vote. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 26-0247 (Item 7): This ordinance amends the process for revocations of Zoning Administrator Permits (ZAPs), moving appeals of short-term rental ZAP revocations from City Council to the Board of Zoning Appeals, consistent with other ZAP appeals. It also establishes a one-year waiting period before a permit holder (defined as the natural person or business entity named on the permit, including members, managers, officers, or general partners) can reapply for substantially the same use on substantially the same land, replacing the current six-month waiting period. Council member Vice Mayor Brown inquired about requiring a secondary contact person; the zoning administrator noted the application already allows listing multiple responsible persons but that language could be reviewed to make it mandatory. The ordinance was approved 7-0. - Lease Agreement with BayPort Credit Union (Item 8): The city authorized a five-year lease (September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2031) with BayPort Credit Union for approximately 1,200 square feet on the third floor of City Hall at 22 Lincoln Street. The first-year rent is $2,843, increasing 3% annually. The credit union has operated continuously since 2015. The resolution passed 7-0. - Proclamations: Council recognized September 15 through October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month and honored retiring Police Chief Jimmy S. Wideman Jr., noting a 81% decrease in homicide rate, 66% decrease in non-fatal gun violence, and 70% decrease in total gun violence under his leadership. National Forensic Science Week (September 20-26) was also acknowledged. - City Manager Report: Mary Bunting reported on the joint homelessness initiative with Newport News, showing a video from a visit to Salt Lake City's The Other Side Village, a transitional supportive housing community focused on behavioral change and wraparound services. The city manager noted the enforcement start date for the camping and storage ordinance was July 24, 2026, and a six-month review will be presented to council in February 2027. She also mentioned that a two-year review of short-term rental implementation was presented earlier in the day; council expressed no objection to beginning community outreach on possibly adjusting STR density in tourism zones vs. residential areas. Key Outcomes - Revocation Upheld: The City Council voted 7-0 to affirm the revocation of ZAP 2024-273 for the short-term rental at 4 Millicent Court, based on documented violations of permit conditions. - Zoning Ordinance Adopted: Ordinance 26-0247 was adopted 7-0, changing appeal routes for STR permit revocations to the Board of Zoning Appeals and establishing a one-year waiting period for reapplication after revocation. - Lease Authorized: The lease with BayPort Credit Union was approved 7-0, for five years with annual rent starting at $2,843 and 3% annual escalations. - Appointment: Pride Harper was appointed on an interim basis as an alternate to the Community Policy and Management Team (CPMT), representing the health district, along with Leonard Sledge as the city manager's representative. Approved 7-0. - Next Steps: The city manager will begin community engagement on potential changes to STR density caps in tourism zones. Staff will continue developing options for regulated cottage food bake stands, with input from brick-and-mortar businesses, cottage bakers, and residents. A follow-up on the homeless ordinance implementation and data is expected in February 2027.

Mayor Jimmy Gray called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with all seven council members present. The session focused on Hunger Action Month, highlighting four local organizations working to combat food insecurity in Hampton. Discussion Items - Thrive Peninsula: Executive Director Angela York and Director of Community Giving Caroline Dutle were recognized. In 2025, Thrive served over 3,000 families in Hampton, distributing $541,232 in aid. - Virginia Peninsula Foodbank: CEO Bob Laatvis was recognized. In the most recent fiscal year, the foodbank distributed over 1.9 million meals in Hampton, valued at nearly $4 million. Over 11,000 households made 50,000 visits to foodbank partner sites, a 4,000-visit increase from the prior year. Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap survey estimates over 17,000 Hampton residents (including 6,810 children) may experience food insecurity this year. The foodbank operates backpack programs at eight schools, mobile pantries at 10 community sites, supports over 400 seniors monthly at six locations, and provides Kids Cafe dinners at 10 after-school sites. More than 35% of food distributed is produce. The City of Hampton has provided over $46,000 in grant funding over 15 years. - SAME (So All Might Eat): Represented by Dawn Gerbing and Ilene Leininger. A ministry of Hampton Baptist Church, SAME started in the 1960s as a soup kitchen and expanded in 2015. Weekly free hot lunches, clothing closet, and monthly food pantry serving about 120 households. Year to date, 4,885 lunches served and 36,000 pounds of food distributed. They are adding at least 10 new people per week to services. - Peninsula Agency on Aging (PAA) / Meals on Wheels: Not present due to a regional conference. PAA delivers hot lunches to seniors who cannot cook or shop, and runs dining clubs. Volunteer drivers provide wellness checks. Key Outcomes - The council recognized and celebrated the contributions of each organization. - Mayor Gray noted that Hampton is in a regional competition to collect the most peanut butter and jelly for families in need, encouraging community participation. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m.