Public Meetings - Hampton, Virginia

The Hampton City Council held a legislative session on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Jimmy Gray presided, joined by all seven council members. The meeting covered consent agenda items, three public hearings on use permits, a combined public hearing on five budget amendments totaling over $20 million, public comment from four residents, and the appointment of Mayor Gray to the Virginia First Cities board. The city manager was out of town; Deputy City Manager Brian DeProfio represented staff. Consent Calendar All six items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously by a 7-0 vote: - Resolution requesting VDOT to add/delete certain streets from the classified system. - Amendment to the Citizens Police Advisory Group resolution. - Correction of appointment terms for CPAG, Peninsula Agency on Aging, and Neighborhood Commission. - Authorization to donate Taser equipment to Gloucester County Sheriff's Office. - Authorization to donate a ballistic vest and carrier to Creston, Ohio Police Department. - Approval of minutes from the October 23, 2024 work session. Public Hearings 1. Use Permit – Dominion Energy Communication Tower (902 G Street) Chief Planner Donald Whipple presented a proposal to replace an existing 170-foot tower with a new self-supporting tower. The tower will be used by Dominion Energy with potential for co-location. Staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval with nine conditions. Councilwoman Mugler confirmed the existing tower would be removed after the new one is operational. No public speakers. The council voted 7-0 to approve the use permit with nine conditions. 2. Use Permit – Raising Cane’s Restaurant (1044 W. Mercury Blvd) The applicant sought extended hours of operation for an existing fast-food restaurant (Sunday–Thursday 9am–2am, Friday–Saturday 9am–3am) as a Restaurant 3 use. Staff recommended approval with eight conditions, including hours of operation 5am–3am daily (consistent with other fast-food restaurants). No public speakers. Council voted 7-0 to approve with eight conditions. 3. Use Permit – Karma Restaurant and Lounge Expansion (85-87 Lincoln Street) This application involved expanding an existing restaurant into an adjacent suite and requesting extended hours (5am–2am daily) with live entertainment. Staff recommended Sunday–Thursday 5am–12am, Friday–Saturday 5am–2am. The Planning Commission recommended approval with 13 conditions and an amendment for 5am–2am daily with an updated security plan. An alternative option included specific holidays for extended hours. Applicant Courtney Ray expressed concerns about third-party promoter restrictions, security camera 24-hour access, and hours of operation. Council discussed the lack of a community meeting and the incomplete security plan. Councilwoman Mugler moved to defer the item to February 26, 2025, requiring a completed and approved security plan and a community meeting. The motion passed 4-3 (Bowman, Brown, Ferebee, Mugler in favor; Campbell, Harper, Gray opposed). Combined Public Hearing – Budget Amendments (Items 10-14) Deputy City Manager DeProfio explained that the budget amendments exceeded the 1% threshold, necessitating a public hearing. The five items: - Item 10: $20,006,400 EPA Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grant for Aberdeen Gardens Community Resilience Implementation Strategy (no local match). - Item 11: $2,000,000 from capital fund balance to cover increased costs of ongoing capital projects. - Item 12: $42,427 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for police equipment. - Item 13: $150,000 Urban Area Security Initiative Grant for terrorism/active shooter and bleeding control training in Hampton Roads. - Item 14: $11,843 State Homeland Security Program Grant for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) regional collaboration on the Peninsula. No public speakers. Each item was approved separately by 7-0 votes. Public Comments & Testimony Four residents spoke during the public comment period: - Travis Adams (resident): Congratulated new and returning council members. Advocated for property tax reform, specifically a split-rate tax on land to encourage development. Cited the Willow Oaks Shopping Center as an example where property value dropped from $15 million (2019) to $10 million (2024), and tax burden fell from $220,000 to $80,000 while the center remains largely empty. Urged council to consider this approach, referencing Pittsburgh and Detroit. - Aaron Weaver (resident): Praised Vice Mayor Brown for his leadership and responsiveness to neighborhood concerns, citing specific instances where Brown stood alone for the community. Thanked all council members and emphasized partnership between citizens and council. - Joan Weaver (resident): Called for immediate action on the Hampton History Museum inclusion of the Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind history. Demanded discontinuation of further "community conversation" and urged council to act. Questioned the status of $1.5 million previously set aside for the project. Also asked not to forget the Old Wythe neighborhood. Praised various council members and Vice Mayor Brown. - Andrew Stith (resident): Congratulated Vice Mayor Brown. Raised concerns about lack of accommodations for people with disabilities: poor crosswalks, lack of signalized crossings, and need for better lighting and reflective gear. Also criticized the quality of renovated homes (specifically VA loan properties) and called for stricter city, state, and federal ordinances requiring new electrical, plumbing, and fixtures in refurbished homes. Staff response: Deputy City Manager DeProfio confirmed that the $1.5 million for the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind project remains set aside, awaiting the conclusion of the community planning process. Other Business Appointment: Council voted 7-0 to appoint Mayor Jimmy Gray to the Board of Directors of Virginia First Cities, filling the seat of former Mayor Donnie Tuck. Vice Mayor Brown Remarks: Thanked citizens, acknowledged his upbringing and the support of the community. Pledged to work collaboratively, stating "we may not agree, but we should never be disagreeable." Emphasized the council's commitment to making an impact. Councilman Bowman Remarks: Thanked citizens and looked forward to listening and being their voice. Quoted Henry Ford: "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 7-0. - Dominion Energy communication tower use permit approved 7-0 (with 9 conditions). - Raising Cane’s use permit approved 7-0 (with 8 conditions). - Karma Restaurant expansion deferred to February 26, 2025, by a 4-3 vote, contingent on a completed security plan approved by HPD and a community meeting. - Five budget amendments approved individually by 7-0 votes, including $20 million EPA grant for Aberdeen Gardens. - Mayor Gray appointed to Virginia First Cities board 7-0. - Public comments received; staff provided clarification on the $1.5 million fund. - Meeting adjourned at 8:03 PM.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on December 19, 2024, at 8:30 PM ET to consider three use permit applications. The commission approved a communication tower relocation, approved a restaurant expansion with extended hours subject to a security plan, and unanimously approved extended hours for a fast-food restaurant. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the November 21, 2024, meeting as amended. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on any agenda item. Discussion Items - Use Permit 24-0456 – Dominion Energy Communication Tower Relocation (902 G Street): Staff presented a proposal to replace an existing self-supporting tower with a new tower within the same industrial site (M-2 zoning). The tower is designed for future co-location. The applicant did not hold a community meeting. Staff recommended approval with nine conditions. The commission voted unanimously to approve. - Use Permit 24-0489 – Karma Restaurant and Lounge Expansion (85-87 Lincoln Street): The applicant sought to expand an existing restaurant‑three use into an adjacent suite and to extend operating hours to 2 AM daily (Sunday–Saturday). Staff recommended 12 AM Sunday–Thursday and 2 AM Friday–Saturday, citing consistency with other downtown restaurants. A police officer reported 15 calls for service at the location in 2024, eight involving assault or firearm allegations. The applicant, Courtney Ray, stated he runs a restaurant/lounge with a focus on food and security, and requested 2 AM hours for special occasions. The initial motion to approve with staff’s 13 conditions failed 3–3. A second motion to approve with 13 conditions as amended, allowing 2 AM hours Sunday–Saturday subject to Hampton Police Department approval of a security plan, passed 6–1. - Use Permit 24-0490 – Raising Canes Restaurant (1044 West Mercury Boulevard): Staff presented a request for extended hours (9 AM–2 AM Sunday–Thursday, 9 AM–3 AM Friday–Saturday) for an existing fast‑food restaurant with no alcohol sales. The site is in the Coliseum Central overlay district. No community meeting was held, but the business improvement district had no comment. The commission unanimously approved with eight conditions. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 24-0456: Approved (7–0) with nine conditions. - Use Permit 24-0489: Approved (6–1) with 13 conditions as amended, including 2 AM hours Sunday–Saturday and a requirement for a security plan approved by the Hampton Police Department. Commissioner Harper voted with the majority; Vice Chair Rogers dissented. - Use Permit 24-0490: Approved (7–0) with eight conditions. - The commission also received the youth planner report and discussed upcoming events.

The City Council held a work session on December 11, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers. The agenda included presentations on the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, an Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) engagement plan, Shell Road and Greenbriar Avenue traffic safety, and results of a mini-golf location public survey. The meeting also included a closed session and appointments. Council made a decision on the mini-golf location and discussed next steps for the ADU ordinance. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were listed or acted upon. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were presented during this work session. Discussion Items Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (CAFR) for FY2024 - Laura Hardin and Shelby Brown from Sherry Beckard Advisory LLC presented the external audit results, reporting an unmodified (clean) audit opinion for the city's financial statements and federal programs. No material weaknesses in internal control or instances of non-compliance were identified. - Finance Director Carl Jotry presented general fund results: actual revenues of $435.2 million exceeded budget by $13.6 million (3.2%), driven primarily by interest income ($5.7M above budget), general property taxes ($3.3M above), and other local taxes ($4.3M above). Expenditures were $432.3 million, $6.3 million under budget, resulting in a $2.9 million surplus. Unassigned fund balance increased to $109.8 million, well above the 10% policy minimum. - Councilmember Mugler asked about the fund balance policy review; staff committed to bring that analysis back at a later date. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Engagement Plan - Monica Mayhard, Community Engagement Manager, presented a plan to engage the community on ADU regulations, aiming to adopt an ordinance by end of 2025. The plan includes a steering group representing diverse stakeholders (neighborhoods, seniors, military, etc.) and a series of public input phases through spring 2025. - Council discussed the risk of state preemption by the General Assembly, which may consider an ADU bill in January 2025. City Attorney Courtney Sydnor noted that it is not practical to adopt an ordinance before the General Assembly session due to public hearing requirements, but starting the process could support a grandfathering argument. - Councilmembers expressed varying views. Councilman Brown suggested expediting an ordinance to preserve local control, while Mayor Tuck and others favored proceeding with the planned engagement without rushing. - Vice Mayor Gray requested that the Neighborhood Commission review the ordinance as a whole body, not just through representatives. Staff agreed to incorporate that feedback. Shell Road and Greenbriar Avenue Traffic Safety - Jason Mitchell, Director of Public Works and Community Development, presented results from a second community meeting held December 3, 2024, after the first meeting had insufficient notice. Enhanced police enforcement has resulted in zero crashes at the intersection, 214 summonses, and one arrest. - The survey of attendees showed: 92% supported continued police enforcement, 84% supported a traffic signal, 24% supported rumble strips, 16% supported a traffic circle, and 12% supported permanent road closure. - Staff recommended continuing enhanced enforcement, installing flashing warning signs and reflective stop signs, improving street lighting, and evaluating the impact of a new traffic signal at Aberdeen Road (expected early 2025) before committing to further interventions. - Councilwoman Harper urged a proactive approach, citing the history of crashes, and supported both enforcement and a traffic signal. No formal vote was taken; staff will proceed with the recommendations. Mini-Golf Location Survey Results - Dave McCauley, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Services, presented results of an online survey (946 responses, November 12-20) regarding two potential mini-golf sites at Buckroe Beach: Site A (near the historic lighthouse) and Site B (near Point Comfort/D-shaped parking lot). - Key findings: 88% of respondents would enjoy mini-golf; 55% preferred Site B, 45% Site A. Other preferences included low cost, food/beverage availability, and extended hours beyond park hours. - Council discussed parking concerns, with Mayor Tuck noting that Site B would eliminate valuable parking spaces. Councilman Hobbs moved to select Site A, and the motion was seconded by Councilman Bowman. The motion passed unanimously (all 7 members present voted aye). Regional Issues and New Business - No regional issues or new business were discussed. Closed Session - Council entered closed session at approximately 2:55 PM pursuant to Virginia Code Sections 2.2-3711.A(1), (3), and (6) to discuss appointments and the disposition of publicly held property and potential investments in Coliseum Central, Downtown, and Phoebus areas. The motion was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Mini-Golf Location: Council voted to proceed with Site A (near the lighthouse) at Buckroe Beach. - ADU Ordinance: Council declined to rush an ordinance before the General Assembly session, instead supporting the planned community engagement process with a target adoption by end of 2025. Staff will ensure the Neighborhood Commission reviews the ordinance. - Shell Road/Greenbriar Safety: Staff will continue enhanced enforcement, install additional signage and lighting, and monitor the traffic impact of the new Aberdeen Road signal before considering further measures such as a traffic signal. - Appointments: Council considered appointments to several boards and commissions during closed session; certification and adjournment followed.

The Hampton City Council held its regular legislative session on December 11, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a consent agenda, presentations and proclamations recognizing outgoing councilmembers, multiple public hearings on rezoning and use permit applications, public comments, and appointments. The meeting adjourned at 9:08 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) eight consent agenda items including budget amendments to accept grants (Emergency Management Performance Grant, Litter Prevention and Recycling Grant, Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program), FY2024 year-end budget adjustments, fund balance appropriations totaling $829,624.63 and $1,079,616, a property transfer for Commander Shepard Boulevard, and a petition regarding a vacancy in the Commissioner of the Revenue office. Presentations & Proclamations - Recognized Hampton City Schools students for holiday card artwork: Dayla Philman (Bethel), Aliyah Boyce (Kecoughtan), Angela Chen and James Sidebottom (Hampton), Nakia Boykin (Phoebus). - Presented a letter to Johnny Sain and Gary Macklin honoring Clark's Feed Store for its contributions to the community. - Councilwoman Harper presented a Digital Cities 2024 award (10th place, population 125,000–249,999) from the National League of Cities. - Bill Mullis, owner of Larry King Law Langley Speedway, highlighted the track's achievements, including the upcoming 75th season and its role as a NASCAR-sanctioned track. - Mayor Tuck announced Hampton earned a perfect score of 100 on the 2024 Municipal Equality Index from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. - Congratulated Phoebus High School football team for advancing to the state Class 4 championship (seeking a fourth consecutive title). - Announced a $20 million EPA grant for the Aberdeen Gardens neighborhood to address flooding and foster economic growth through green infrastructure, in partnership with Wetlands Watch. - Approved resolutions (7-0) recognizing Councilman W.H. "Billy" Hobbs, Jr., Councilman Chris Bowman, and Mayor Donnie R. Tuck for their service, all leaving office December 31, 2024. Vice Mayor Gray presided over the presentation for Mayor Tuck. Public Hearings - Item 12 (24-0278): Rezoning by D.R. Horton at Semple Farm Road was withdrawn by the applicant; removed from agenda. - Items 13 & 14 (24-0431 & 24-0432): Brooks-Joseph Memory Care I & II LLC proposed rezoning 1.09 acres at 1807 W. Queen Street from R-11 to MD-4 and a use permit for a nursing home. Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. Applicant Arnita Snead Brooks presented plans for a 20-bed memory care facility (Beehive Homes franchise). No public speakers. Council approved the rezoning (7-0) with nine conditions and the use permit (7-0) with ten conditions. - Items 15 & 16 (24-0462 & 24-0463): Cavalier Homes LLC sought rezoning 0.29 acres at 1814 Kecoughtan Road from C-1 and R-11 to MD-4 and a use permit for multifamily dwellings (three units) in an existing building. Staff recommended approval, citing consistency with the Kecoughtan Road Corridor Master Plan. Community meeting held with four residents. No public speakers. Council approved rezoning (7-0) with nine proffered conditions and use permit (7-0) with seven conditions. - Item 17 (24-0452): Wilson Randolph Rylander requested amending Use Permit No. 1034 to broaden the age range at New Mount Olive Christian Academy (66 Big Bethel Road) from ages 4–12 to 6 weeks–12 years. Staff recommended approval with nine conditions, including a cap of 220 students and hours 6 AM–6 PM. No public speakers. Council approved (7-0). - Item 18 (24-0454): Sherquita Tucker sought a use permit for a Restaurant 3 (Tapas and Shisha) at 1144 Big Bethel Road, including live entertainment and outdoor dining. The property had previous approvals for similar uses. Applicant sent a fact sheet to neighbors instead of a community meeting; some council members expressed preference for in-person meetings. Staff recommended 13 conditions. No public speakers. Council approved (7-0). - Item 19 (24-0468): Everside Properties LLC applied for a short-term rental (STR) at 1536 Morgan Drive in the R-9 district, Long Creek 1 overlay zone. The property lacked on-site parking, triggering a use permit rather than an administrative ZAP permit. Staff recommended approval with 15 conditions, including installation of parking. Planning Commission recommended denial, citing concerns about bypassing the ZAP process. Applicant did not hold a community meeting. Council approved (5-2) with Councilmembers Bowman and Harper voting no. - Ordinances 20-22 (24-0465, 24-0467, 24-0469): Three ordinances to update cross-references in the zoning ordinance, subdivision code, and site plan code to the newly adopted Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Ordinance (Chapter 33). No public speakers. All approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments - Dion Witherspoon expressed concern about rising property taxes, noting a $93,000 increase in assessed value since 2016. He questioned the city's budget surplus and appealed process. - Pauline Vona requested repainting faded lane markings on Big Bethel Road from Todd's Lane to Hampton Roads Parkway, citing safety risks. - Ken Elazier congratulated all candidates in the recent election and urged unity and continued collaboration. City Manager Mary Bunting responded: Public Works Director Jason Mitchell will follow up on pavement markings; thermoplastic markings may take 60 days. Regarding assessments, she explained market forces and that the city council cannot set assessments; she will ask the assessor to review the properties. She also summarized an afternoon discussion on Shell Road and Greenbrier Avenue: no council sentiment for a pilot or full closure, but signs and lighting upgrades will be pursued. General Items - Item 23 (24-0504): Ordinance to conform vacant building registration to expanded state code authority, adding criminal blight and squatting as triggers. Approved unanimously (7-0). Appointments - Deferred action on the Hampton Animal Response Team Advisory Committee (HARTAC) to February 12, 2025 (7-0). - Approved appointments to Citizens Police Advisory Group (Bob Boester, Michael Bullock, Stephen Deane, Tony Sandefur), Peninsula Agency on Aging (Thomas Fukawa), Planning Commission (Michael Harris), Neighborhood Commission (Pam Kelly, Lakia Davidson), Eastern Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority (Jimmy Gray replacing Donnie Tuck), and Board of Zoning Appeals (Sean Cummings, Melissa Story, Jonathan Oliveras). All approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and most public hearings passed unanimously. The short-term rental use permit (24-0468) was approved 5-2. - Three outgoing councilmembers were recognized with resolutions: Billy Hobbs, Chris Bowman, and Mayor Donnie Tuck. - The council directed staff to explore requiring community meetings for use permits in the future. - The city manager committed to investigating pavement markings and property assessment concerns. - The council shared holiday wishes and farewell remarks, with Mayor Tuck adjourning the meeting at 9:08 PM.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on November 21, 2024, at 8:30 PM to consider several rezoning and use permit applications, a short-term rental permit, and three housekeeping ordinance amendments. The meeting included public hearings, staff presentations, applicant statements, and public comments. All items except the short-term rental permit were approved unanimously; the short-term rental permit was denied. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 2024): Approved unanimously (7–0, Chair Harris abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 1 (Brooks Joseph Memory Care): Dr. Iris Perkins spoke in support, citing personal experience with her mother’s dementia and confidence in Dr. Brooks’ care. Donna West, a neighbor, raised questions about property boundaries, easements, and stormwater management but stated the family is not opposed to the rezoning. - Item 5 (Short-Term Rental): H.E. Howell III spoke during the general public comment period, expressing safety concerns about short-term renters trespassing on his private property and urged stricter regulations. - No public speakers signed up for the remaining items. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Brooks Joseph Memory Care Rezoning (24-0431) & Use Permit (24-0432): Proposal to rezone 1.09 acres at 1807 West Queen Street from R11 to MD4 and obtain a use permit for a 20-bed memory care nursing home (Beehive Homes franchise). Staff noted the community meeting had fewer than 10 attendees with no concerns raised. Applicant Dr. Arnita Sneed Brooks and Mark Sneed presented the need: 41.8% of assisted living residents have Alzheimer’s/dementia, and in Hampton 14.8% of those 65+ have it. The facility will have 18 employees, 24/7 operation with visiting hours 8 AM–6 PM, and security features (locked doors, fence, alarm systems). Commissioners expressed strong support, noting the community need. Approved unanimously. - Item 2 – Cavalier Homes LLC Rezoning (24-0462) & Use Permit (24-0463): Proposal to rezone 0.29 acres at 1814 Kikatan Road from C1/R11 to MD4 to convert an existing commercial building (originally a 1920s home) into three multifamily units. Staff said the project aligns with the Kikatan Road Corridor Master Plan. Applicant’s attorney Larry Cumming emphasized the residential character and no external additions. No public speakers. Approved unanimously. - Item 3 – New Mount Olive Christian Academy Use Permit Amendment (24-0452): Amendment to expand the permitted age range from 4–12 years to 6 weeks–12 years at the existing private school (66 Big Bethel Road). Staff noted no external changes; capacity remains 220 students. No community meeting was held. Approved unanimously. - Item 4 – Picola’s Tapas and Shisha Use Permit (24-0454): Proposal for a Restaurant 3 use with live entertainment and outdoor dining at 1144 Big Bethel Road (Hampton Woods shopping center). The previous permit became void upon change of ownership. Hours: Sun–Thurs 11 AM–10 PM, Fri–Sat 11 AM–1 AM. Staff reported no security issues from previous operations. Applicant Shakita Tucker explained her experience and concept. Approved unanimously. - Item 5 – Everside Properties LLC Short-Term Rental Use Permit (24-0468): Proposal to permit short-term rental at 1536 Morgan Drive (R9 district, Long Creek 1 overlay). The property has no on-site parking; staff recommended a condition to install a driveway before operation. The applicant (Davis) explained his business focuses on mid-term rentals for traveling healthcare professionals, with short-term only to fill gaps. Commissioners debated the process and precedent; some felt the applicant should first install the driveway and use the administrative (ZAP) route. Motion to approve (with 15 conditions) failed 4–3. A motion to deny passed 5–2, denying the use permit. - Items 6, 7, 8 – Ordinance Amendments (24-0465, 24-0467, 24-0469): Three housekeeping amendments to correct cross-references in the zoning overlay, subdivision, and site plan ordinances after the consolidation of stormwater and erosion control regulations. All approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): - Rezoning 24-0431 (9 conditions) and Use Permit 24-0432 (10 conditions) for Brooks Joseph Memory Care. - Rezoning 24-0462 (9 proffered conditions) and Use Permit 24-0463 (7 conditions) for Cavalier Homes LLC. - Use Permit Amendment 24-0452 (9 conditions) for New Mount Olive Christian Academy. - Use Permit 24-0454 (13 conditions) for Picola’s Tapas and Shisha. - Ordinance Amendments 24-0465, 24-0467, 24-0469. - Denied (5–2): Use Permit 24-0468 for short-term rental at 1536 Morgan Drive (motion to deny carried). The applicant may pursue a Zoning Administrator Permit after installing a driveway. - Next Steps: All approved items will be forwarded to Hampton City Council for final action.

The Hampton City Council held a work session on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers, 22 Lincoln Street, Hampton, VA. Mayor Donnie R. Tuck presided. Present were Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray, Councilmembers Chris L. Bowman, Steven L. Brown, Billy Hobbs, and Martha Mugler. Councilmember Hope L. Harper was excused (out of town on City business). The agenda included a briefing on a proposed Vacant Building Registry Ordinance, a discussion on the Outside Agencies Funding Program, and a closed session. No regional issues or new business were reported. Discussion Items 1. Briefing on Proposed Vacant Building Registry Ordinance (24-0484) Assistant City Attorney II Anne Ligon presented the proposed ordinance. She defined a vacant building as a house or structure continuously vacant for 12 months or more. Key issues from vacant properties include aging neighborhoods (homes passed to out-of-state adult children or held up in probate), pests, disrepair, and squatters. The proposed ordinance mirrors state code (Va. Code) and requires registration if a building has been vacant for more than 12 consecutive months AND meets at least one of three conditions: (1) it is a derelict building (endangering public health/safety, vacant over six months, not connected to utilities), (2) it is a site of criminal blight (drug activity, prostitution, or repeated firearm discharge inside the structure), or (3) an unauthorized person is living in it. Registration requires the building address, owner/agent contact info, expected duration of vacancy, compliance measures with building/health codes, and proof of a rodent abatement plan. An initial $100 registration fee and a $100 annual renewal fee are proposed, with a $200 civil penalty for failure to register. Enforcement would involve monitoring by codes enforcement and Hampton Police Division, sending notices of violation, and filing warrants in debt in General District Court for civil penalties. State code does not allow criminal penalties. Council questions: - Councilman Bowman asked if the civil penalty includes criminal charges; Ms. Ligon said no, state code only allows civil penalties. He also asked about squatters; Ms. Ligon said removal requires a private civil action. - Councilman Brown asked if the city already has a registry; Ms. Ligon said no, this would be new. - Vice Mayor Gray asked whether the 12-month vacancy starts anew or can be looked back; Ms. Ligon said the city can look back 12 months with documentation. - Councilwoman Mugler asked how the $100 fee was determined; Ms. Ligon said state code allows up to $100. 2. Outside Agencies Funding Program Discussion (24-0481) City Manager Mary Bunting reminded Council that in 2008, funding was restricted to agencies with a direct governmental nexus (e.g., food banks, homeless services). She noted updated thinking about expanding to groups aligned with the strategic community plan. Budget Director Lori Green summarized three options: - Option 1 (short-term): A general funding source allocated competitively throughout the year. Pros: flexibility in amount and priority area. Cons: funding may not be equally distributed; early allocation may exhaust funds. - Option 2 (short-term): Allocate funding for each strategic priority area. Pros: consistent attention to each area. Cons: limited flexibility; costs vary; increased funding needed to avoid inequity. - Option 3 (long-term): Funding allocations tied to specific outcome-driven goals in the finalized strategic plan. Pros: targets community-endorsed priorities; builds momentum. Cons: requires reporting requirements, additional staff time, and possibly procurement processes for for-profit providers. Council discussion: - Mayor Tuck asked if AI could reduce staff burden for option 3; staff said it is a possibility. - Vice Mayor Gray expressed concern about a long-standing moratorium on adding new agencies and asked whether existing agencies would be grandfathered or all would reapply. He favored opening opportunities for new agencies aligned with strategic priorities. - Councilman Bowman suggested capping expansion funding at $30,000–$50,000 per agency. - Councilman Brown cautioned that expansion becomes competitive, requiring a well-thought-out process to avoid disputes. - Councilwoman Mugler asked to clarify the short-term vs. long-term distinction; staff explained short-term is for FY26 if desired, long-term depends on completion of the strategic plan. - Vice Mayor Gray expressed support for option 3 (outcome sourcing) after clarification that it would not replace annual outside agency allocations but would target specific gaps. Mayor Tuck also leaned toward option 3. No formal decision was made, but the City Manager noted that a decision is needed around this time to incorporate changes into the budget process. Closed Session At 1:37 PM, Council made a motion to enter closed session pursuant to Va. Code sections 2.2-3711(A)(3) (real property acquisition at Peninsula Town Center), (A)(6) (investment of public funds in the LaSalle Corridor), and (A)(1) (appointment to the Virginia Air and Space Center Board). The motion carried 6-0 (all present members voting aye). The closed session was held in the Community Development Conference Room on the fifth floor. Council reconvened in open session at 3:15 PM. Key Outcomes - The Council took no formal votes on the Vacant Building Registry Ordinance or the Outside Agencies Funding Program; both were discussion items for future action. - Councilmembers expressed directional support for expanding outside agency funding, with a general leaning toward option 3 (outcome-based funding tied to the strategic plan). - The Council unanimously approved the motion to enter closed session (6-0) and unanimously certified the closed session (6-0) via Resolution 24-0486. - The meeting adjourned at 3:15 PM.

The Hampton City Council held its legislative session on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. Councilwoman Hope Harper was excused while attending the National League of Cities conference. All votes were 6–0 unless otherwise noted. The council approved consent items, multiple public hearing approvals (including a deferral), adopted the 2024 Natural Infrastructure Resilience Plan, approved the 2025 General Assembly legislative priorities, and authorized a joint economic development incentive agreement with Liebherr-America, Inc. Consent Calendar - Approved a resolution amending the FY 2025 budget to accept and appropriate a FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance Program grant through VDEM for the Central Newmarket Creek Flood Mitigation Study. - Approved an encroachment agreement allowing Elora Danen Kelsey and Caitlin Elizabeth Godwin to install a fence within a city drainage easement. - Approved a resolution requesting VDOT program eight State of Good Repair projects into its Six-Year Improvement Plan and appropriating $3,100,522 in available VDOT funds. - Accepted a gift of a Sensory Activation Vehicle valued at $50,000 from the Coliseum Central Business Improvement District. - Approved minutes from seven prior council meetings (work sessions Sept. 11 and 25, ceremonial Sept. 25 and Oct. 23, and legislative Sept. 25, Oct. 9 and 23, 2024). Public Hearings - Rezoning – Semple Farm Road (D.R. Horton): The applicant requested a deferral of the proposal to rezone four parcels totaling ±7.93 acres from R-11 to MD-1 for 67 townhomes. Four residents spoke in opposition, citing traffic, pedestrian safety, and neighborhood character. Council voted unanimously to defer the item to December 11, 2024. - Rezoning – 1721 N King Street (Armia Real Estate LLC): Approved 6–0 with seven conditions to rezone a ±0.88-acre parcel from R-M and C-1 to C-1 with proffered use limitations and landscaping improvements. - Use Permit – Virginia Peninsula Foodbank: Approved 6–0 with six conditions for a community center on ±4.5 acres at 112 Research Drive. CEO Bob Latvis said the facility would be about 90% warehouse and 10% community center/meeting space offering wraparound services. - Use Permit – Hampton University: Approved 6–0 with 13 conditions to amend Use Permit No. 23-0350 for the 14th floor of the Harbor Center at 2 Eaton St. A representative said capacity will be 400; rooftop railing will be addressed in Phase 2. - Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Adopted the 2024 Natural Infrastructure Resilience Plan by reference into the Hampton Community Plan. Approved 6–0. - Y.H. Thomas Community Center Use Agreements: Approved agreements with The 200+ Men Foundation (5–0, Bowman abstained), Y.H. Thomas Athletic Association (6–0), and Urban League of Hampton Roads (6–0), all for five-year terms. The 200+ Men agreement includes $1,218 per year rent; the Urban League agreement includes $1,455 per year. - Downtown Hampton Development Partnership Lease: Approved 6–0 for a five-year lease of 2,144 sq. ft. on the second floor of the Hampton Maritime Center at $12,800 per year. Public Comments & Testimony - Teresa Roundy expressed ongoing concerns about Barnes Cemetery (Woodland Cemetery), stating she had documented about 85 burials and that the state cemetery board had advised against moving bodies or building on the site. She alleged the city issued permits in 2022 despite earlier warnings. - Brenda Marks congratulated newly elected officials but noted 5,000 voters did not vote for either mayoral candidate. She raised conflict-of-interest concerns regarding a $12,000 donation from Molly Ward to Councilwoman Harper and stated she would monitor the downtown carousel project. Mayor Tuck responded that campaign fundraising does not influence council votes. - Dawn Mann advocated for trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, citing an economic study showing TNR is far less costly than trap-and-euthanize. - Kristin Schultz echoed support for TNR and recounted recent dumped cats, asking the city to support managed colonies. Mayor Tuck and City Manager Mary Bunting responded that the city supports managed cat colonies but must follow a Virginia Attorney General opinion that restricts releasing feral cats unless properly managed. - Joan Weaver expressed solidarity with Semple Farm Road residents and criticized the council’s earlier decision on the Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind property. - Craig Knopp asked whether the city would lobby to extend the 2035 electric vehicle mandate to 2050. Discussion Items - 2025 General Assembly Legislative Priorities: City Manager Mary Bunting presented the package, which had been reviewed in a prior work session and added community services board requests. Council approved it 6–0. - Liebherr-America Performance Agreement: Bunting announced a Commonwealth Development Opportunity Fund agreement among Hampton, Newport News, their EDAs, VEDP, and Liebherr-America. The expansion is expected to add at least 175 jobs and $23 million in real property improvements. Newport News will match $1.47 million; Hampton’s share is approximately $257,000. Approved 6–0. Key Outcomes - Deferred the D.R. Horton Semple Farm Road rezoning to December 11, 2024. - Approved all other rezoning, use permit, and lease items as noted. - Adopted the 2024 Natural Infrastructure Resilience Plan. - Approved 2025 legislative priorities and the Liebherr incentive agreement. - Appointed Dr. William Moore to the Virginia Air and Space Science Center Board for a first full term until November 30, 2028. - The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m. The next council meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2024.

The Hampton City Council held a work session on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Donnie R. Tuck presided, with six members present (Councilwoman Hope Harper arrived late). The agenda covered the 2025 General Assembly legislative priorities, proposed safety improvements for Shell Road and Greenbriar Avenue, and an update on the strategic priority of economic growth. General Assembly Legislative Priorities - 2025 - Ed Reed, Vice President of Two Capitols Consulting, presented the draft legislative agenda for the 2025 General Assembly session. Policy positions included support for resiliency and environment, community development, education, fiscal responsibility, public safety, economic development, FOIA/COIA mandates, and transportation. - Specific legislative and budget requests were outlined: (1) stop sign photo enforcement; (2) technical amendment to photo enforcement authority to create parity (30 days to review footage for all violations); (3) ABC enforcement of larcenies at local stores; (4) restore the Hampton Health District; (5) add municipal park rangers, 911 operators, and animal control officers to enhanced duty pay list; (6) Fort Wool restoration funding. - Councilman Brown raised concerns about expediting enforcement for commercial vehicles parked in neighborhoods and barrier crimes for returning citizens. Mr. Reed noted these were addressed in the community development and public safety sections respectively. Mayor Tuck added that the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission also addresses barrier crimes. - Councilman Hobbs asked about Fort Wool restoration; City Manager Bunting explained the challenge of relocating protected birds and the need for design/engineering work to proceed in parallel. - Vice Mayor Gray inquired about funding mental health services and House Bill 1236 (zoning requests). Staff committed to following up with the Community Services Board before the November meeting and will monitor the housing commission study. Shell Road & Greenbriar Avenue Proposed Safety Alternatives - Jason Mitchell, Director of Public Works and Community Development, presented safety alternatives for the Shell Road and Greenbriar Avenue corridor. Concerns included speeding, accidents, through truck traffic, pedestrian safety, and community connectivity. - Already implemented measures: four-way stop signs at Greenbriar and Shell, three-way stop signs at Pennsylvania and Shell, no thru truck signage, $200 additional fine enforcement, message boards, and police enforcement. Enforcement data through September 2024 showed no further crashes, 184 summons issued, and 60+ officer hours spent. - Proposed alternatives included rumble strips ($10,000, 3 months), a traffic circle ($350,000, 1 year, requiring right-of-way from 5 property owners), traffic signals ($250,000–$500,000, 18–24 months, requiring property from 2 owners), crosswalk/asphalt art ($25,000, 6 months), and temporary road closure ($10,000, 30 days) with potential permanent closure ($50,000, 3 months). - A community meeting on October 16 with about 25 attendees yielded no clear consensus. Police Chief Wideman committed to enhanced enforcement. - Staff recommended: continue police enforcement; implement a temporary road closure at Shell Road and Childs Avenue for 90 days; evaluate for permanent solution; seek additional funding for Safe Streets for All program. - Council discussion: Councilman Bowman opposed closure, noting improved compliance; Councilwoman Mugler and Councilwoman Harper supported the 90-day pilot; Vice Mayor Gray preferred a shorter pilot due to inconvenience; Councilman Brown attended the meeting and appreciated staff efforts; Councilman Hobbs supported a trial; Vice Mayor Gray ultimately supported starting with a pilot but desired flexibility. - Traffic data: approximately 4,000 vehicles per day in April 2024, reduced to 3,000 after stop signs, but speeds increased by 3 mph. Strategic Priorities Update - Economic Growth - Leonard Sledge, Economic Development Director, presented an update on the economic growth strategic priority. The vision is to generate resources for community services and produce quality jobs. - Key data: based on the current real estate tax rate of $1.16 per $100 assessed value, it requires $86.2 million in new assessed value to generate $1 million in new tax revenue. Real estate taxes remain the largest revenue source. - Four strategies: jobs, retail, housing, and tourism. These are informed by the city's six master plans (Buckroe, Coliseum Central, Downtown, Kecoughtan Road Corridor, North King Street Corridor, and Phoebus). - Jobs: increasing high-wage jobs via attraction, retention, and expansion. Hampton's jobs pay at or above regional averages (data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Primary industries: advanced manufacturing, aerospace, homeland defense, medical/healthcare. Anchor institutions include NASA, Joint Base Langley Eustis, VA Medical Center, Sentara Careplex, Riverside, Hampton University, and Huntington Ingalls Industries. Between FY20–FY24, over $270 million in capital investment was announced. Recent successes: Liebherr expansion, Phenix Commerce Center (800,000+ sq ft Class A industrial), Hampton Logistics Center (500,000+ sq ft). - Retail: increasing entertainment and meals sales. Example: transformation of a former shopping center into medical office, trampoline park, and chef store. Recent successes include Latitude Climbing & Fitness, Pembroke RV & Boat Storage, I Scream U Scream. - Housing: increasing overall housing value, especially upper-range housing. Hampton's single-family values are on the lower end regionally, but multifamily rents are in the upper half (average $1,600/month for one-bedroom). Projects include Constellation (125 units, $35M), Trilogy ($100M), Freeman Drive townhomes, College Court redevelopment (64 for-sale homes). - Tourism: visitor spending enhances economic vitality. Data from Virginia Tourism Corporation shows positive trends. Assets include Hampton Roads Convention Center, Coliseum, Aquaplex, Fort Monroe, Boo Williams Sportsplex. - Council discussion: Councilman Brown asked about subcontractor opportunities for local SWaM/veteran-owned businesses. Vice Mayor Gray highlighted the importance of workforce training and regional connectivity. Councilwoman Mugler asked about attracting higher-value housing; staff explained land assembly and private partnerships. City Manager Bunting added that the focus is on moving the tax base needle and that other departments handle workforce/low-income housing. - Vice Mayor Gray noted that the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel project will make Hampton centrally located, increasing demand for housing. Staff agreed and noted ongoing housing studies and master plan alignment. Key Outcomes - Council provided feedback on the draft legislative agenda; staff will finalize for approval at the November meeting. - Council concurred with the recommendation to conduct a 90-day temporary road closure pilot on Shell Road at Childs Avenue, with evaluation through traffic data, neighborhood survey, and follow-up meeting. - The economic growth update was presented for information; no formal vote was required. Staff will provide a digital copy of the presentation to Council. - Council moved into closed session at 2:52 PM to discuss real property disposition in Downtown Hampton and acquisition in the Neil Armstrong Corridor, with a motion and second; all members voted aye. The closed session certification was also approved unanimously before adjournment at 4:06 PM. - New Business: City Manager Bunting noted that superintendents from across the country were visiting Hampton City Schools to learn about the Academies of Hampton.

The Hampton City Council held a legislative session on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The meeting included a consent agenda, a public hearing, public comment period, and a general ordinance item. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Consent Calendar - Resolution 24-0448: Requesting VDOT program the Pine Chapel Corridor Improvements Project into its Six-Year Improvement Plan. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 24-0450: Authorizing an advance of $11,864,171 from the City's General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance to the FY25 Capital Budget for maintenance of Hampton City Schools properties, public properties, and parks, recreation, and leisure services. Approved unanimously. - 24-0428: Correcting David Kelley-Riddick's appointment term to the Citizens' Unity Commission from September 30, 2028, to September 30, 2027. Approved unanimously. Public Hearings - Resolution 24-0451: Authorizing a Use Agreement between the City and the Fox Hill Neighborhood Center Non-Stock Corporation for the Fox Hill Neighborhood Center (65 Hall Road). The agreement, similar to other neighborhood center agreements, has an initial term of two years with a renewal option for three additional years. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The resolution was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Teresa Roundy (resident and business owner): Raised ongoing concerns about Barnes Cemetery, including potential hazards from arsenic, copper, and mercury. She referenced a third ground-penetrating radar review, a title search, and argued that the cemetery's property ownership does not include burial plots already sold to individuals, citing a 2005 deposition. She noted that cemetery board regulations from 1998 should not apply to a cemetery dating to the 1880s. - Franklin Chambers (resident, property owner on Shell Road): Opposed the proposed blocking of Shell Road, Charles, and Vaughan Avenue. He expressed concern that a cul-de-sac would route traffic through his circular driveway, increasing risks for emergency vehicles and heavy trucks. He suggested alternatives like rumble strips or speed bumps and asked council to reconsider the plan. - Charlene Thompson (Greenbrier Avenue resident): Reported that four-way stop signs at Shell and Greenbrier are not working, with vehicles speeding through at up to 60 mph. She requested a traffic signal instead of speed bumps, noting her house has been hit twice. She also referenced prior discussions about photo-enforcement, which Virginia law currently restricts to school districts. - Craig Knopp: Asked for stricter enforcement and fines for repeat offenders regarding campaign signs, noting that current rules (100-day pre-election allowance plus 30-day notice for removal) allow residents to exploit the system. He inquired whether council could strengthen penalties or if action is needed from the General Assembly. - Aaron Weaver: Opposed the closure of Shell Road, stating that council did not listen to his prior warnings about Pine Chapel closures. He criticized the notification process (only one day's notice) and suggested using online polls to gather neighborhood input. He urged council to act in partnership with citizens. - Joan Weaver (Catalpa Avenue resident, 67-year resident): Strongly opposed the street closures, linking them to the North Point Phoenix Commerce Center development. She accused council, except Councilman Steven Brown, of causing generational detriment and called the development a "Hell's Gate." She asked council not to close the streets. - Jeannie Belgrave: Raised two issues: (1) a lowland area at Ridgeway Bark Park that stays muddy after rain, asking for fill; (2) the downtown carousel lacking an ATM, suggesting installation for visitors without cash. Discussion Items - City Manager Mary Bunting responded to public comments: - On the Shell Road/Greenbrier pilot: Stressed it was a pilot, not a permanent closure. She clarified that emergency vehicles, waste trucks, and school buses would still have access (vehicular barricades leave pedestrian walk spaces). She noted that at the afternoon work session, Public Works Director Jason Mitchell presented multiple options. The proposed pilot (30, 60, or 90 days) aims to test assumptions about cut-through traffic reduction. Council indicated they want neighborhood feedback before proceeding. - On Ridgeway Bark Park: She will check with staff about the muddy area. - On the carousel ATM: She noted that several banks are within walking distance and will ask staff about frequency of need. The city has not received such a request before. - On campaign signs: She will follow up with the City Attorney, but noted that zoning violations typically require a 30-day notice set by state code, meaning any change may require General Assembly action. - Ordinance 24-0449 (All-Terrain Vehicles and Off-Road Motorcycles): City Manager Bunting summarized that between 2022 and 2023, the Hampton Police Division saw a 140% increase in calls for service related to ATVs and dirt bikes operating recklessly. Although calls are down in 2024, over 60 calls for speeding/reckless driving had been received as of early October. Unregistered vehicles hinder investigative efforts, and pursuits increase risk. Traffic tickets have not been a deterrent. The 2024 General Assembly enacted legislation enabling cities to ordinally seize, impound, and dispose of unlawfully operated ATVs/off-road motorcycles. The ordinance creates Article XI in Chapter 21 of the City Code. Police Chief Wideman was available for questions. The ordinance was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items, the Fox Hill Use Agreement resolution, and the ATV/off-road motorcycle ordinance were approved by a 7-0 vote. - Council heard extensive public testimony regarding traffic concerns on Shell Road/Greenbrier Avenue and the proposed pilot closure. No formal vote was taken on the pilot; discussion indicated a need for further neighborhood input and a potential pilot with specific duration. - City Manager Bunting will investigate the Ridgeway Bark Park muddy area and carousel ATM request, and will follow up on campaign sign enforcement options. - Councilmember Hobbs announced a benefit event for the Hampton Education Foundation on November 2 at The Vanguard, featuring Mayor Tuck (guitar), Vice Mayor Gray (bass), and School Board Member Tina Banks Gray (performer). Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:04 PM.