Public Meetings - Hampton, Virginia

The Hampton City Council held a ceremonial spotlight session on May 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers to honor the valedictorians and salutatorians from four Hampton City high schools. Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray presided in the absence of Mayor Donnie R. Tuck, who was attending the American Flood Coalition in Washington, DC. All other council members were present. The meeting recognized students from Kecoughtan High School, Bethel High School, Hampton High School, and Phoebus High School. Robin McCormick, the City's Communication Strategist, emceed the event. The session lasted from 6:00 PM to 6:42 PM. Ceremonial Spotlight on Valedictorians and Salutatorians - The meeting opened with a roll call and introductions of Hampton City Schools representatives: School Board Chair Richard Mason, School Board members Dr. Reginald Woodhouse and Joe Kilgore, and Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes. - Robin McCormick, who is retiring after 13 years with the City, emceed the ceremony. She introduced the students and their achievements through a video presentation produced by Wibekabray of Hampton's Channel 27. - The following students were recognized: - Kecoughtan High School: Valedictorian Bera Koklu (accepted to Washington University in St. Louis, planning to major in computational biology and pursue medicine); Salutatorian Anna Brady (planning to double major in mechanical and computer engineering at UVA). Executive Principal Dr. Dwayne Lucas and Academy Principals Dr. Jerry Jessee and Reginald Crawford were acknowledged. - Bethel High School: Valedictorian Daniella Brown (chose VCU, became a certified clinical medical assistant); Salutatorian Trinity Robinson (chose Hampton University for biochemistry, plans to work in gene therapy). Executive Principal Dr. Tanya Howard and Academy Principal Kim Riggs-Poole were acknowledged. - Hampton High School: Valedictorian Jaliyah Gary-Williams (pursuing education, thanks ID program); Co-Salutatorian Amir Stanley (plans to attend an HBCU for business finance and entrepreneurship); Co-Salutatorian Christine Dang (chose UVA as an ECL scholar, plans to study marketing with a design focus). Executive Principal Haneef Majied and Academy Principals Elizabeth Goodwyn, Jerrelle Griffin, Damien Collins, and Ronnie Ratliff were acknowledged. - Phoebus High School: Valedictorian Christian Washington; Salutatorian Katalia Bowie (both thanked their teachers and families; highlighted the Hampton academies program). Executive Principal David Coccoli and Academy Principal Lindsay Jackson were acknowledged. - Vice Mayor Gray congratulated Robin McCormick on her retirement and echoed her call for the students to return to Hampton as future leaders. - The meeting adjourned at 6:42 PM to allow time for transition to the evening business session. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or policy decisions were made. The session was purely ceremonial, recognizing student achievements and honoring staff.

The City of Hampton Planning Commission met on May 16, 2024, at 20:30 UTC (4:30 p.m. local) for a joint public hearing on a comprehensive package regulating short-term rentals (STRs). The agenda comprised five zoning ordinance amendments (Items 24-0173 through 24-0177) and 51 rezoning applications (Items 24-0178 through 24-0228) establishing an STR overlay district with 51 subdistricts, a 1% density cap, a 500-foot separation requirement, and a new zoning administrator permit process. After hearing from 53 registered speakers and deliberating, the commission voted to recommend approval of all items with an effective date of July 1, 2024, forwarding its recommendation to City Council. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes of the April 2024 Planning Commission meeting, with corrections as discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - Support with requested modifications: Several speakers, including STR operators and stakeholder group members Lynn Howard, Greg Garrett, Alia Fanja, Dan Carroll, and Susan Rolfe, voiced general support for the regulatory framework but urged changes: reducing or eliminating the 500-foot separation rule, raising the 1% density cap to 3% in Buckrow, allowing owner-occupied room rentals by right, and permitting clusters of up to three adjacent STRs. They argued these changes would support family tourism, generate tax revenue (estimated $1–2 million), and preserve existing businesses. - Neighborhood concerns: Residents from Pasture Point, Fox Hill, Riverdale, Phoebus, and HOA communities (e.g., Kendall Tarkington, Denise Sigfelt, Jennifer Perry, Stephen Hill, Robert Stum, Jesse Gomes, Diana Pascucci, Gail Williams, Linda Parker) expressed concerns about parking shortages, noise, trash, security, emergency access, property values, and loss of residential character. Several called for excluding certain neighborhoods or stricter limits, and some HOA representatives noted their covenants already prohibit STRs. - Support for the proposal as balanced: Speakers such as Joe Griffith (Phoebus Partnership) and Susan Gaston (Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors) praised the stakeholder process and urged approval, while recommending continued study of the 500-foot rule and providing certainty for existing STR owners. - Other testimony: A few speakers raised technical questions about permitting, fees, and enforcement. Staff provided clarifications after the hearing: STR permits run with the land, HOA covenants remain privately enforceable, parking must be provided on-site on improved surfaces, and the $200 permit fee plus $50 inspection fees apply per property. Discussion Items - Staff presented the history of STR regulation in Hampton, the formation of stakeholder groups, and the proposed density caps (1% of housing units per zone), separation requirements (500 feet with a two-unit cluster exception), multifamily provisions, and administrative permit conditions (floor plans, local responsible person, record keeping, inspections). - Commissioners acknowledged the large volume of public input and discussed the 1% cap and 500-foot rule. Commissioner DeProfio initially suggested recommending changes for Buckrow density and the 500-foot distance, but later withdrew the specific recommendation; the comments were nonetheless noted for forwarding to City Council. Commissioner Coleman expressed support for including a note to examine Buckrow more closely. Commissioner Harper said she would relay concerns to Council. Key Outcomes - The commission recommended approval of all five zoning ordinance amendments (24-0173 through 24-0177) with an effective date of July 1, 2024. Item 24-0176 carried 6–1 with Chair Harris voting no; all other amendments passed unanimously. - The commission recommended approval of all 51 rezoning applications (24-0178 through 24-0228) with an effective date of July 1, 2024. Item 24-0182 carried 6–1 with Commissioner Coleman voting no; all other rezonings passed unanimously. - The package will proceed to Hampton City Council for final decision. Enforcement of the new STR regulations is proposed to begin October 1, 2024. - Staff clarified that complete STR use permit applications on file by June 30, 2024 will be automatically converted to zoning administrator permits, and applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis after that.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on April 18, 2024, at 8:30 PM UTC (4:30 PM EDT) to conduct public hearings, deliberate on zoning ordinance amendments, and receive briefings on youth initiatives and short-term rental regulations. The commission voted unanimously on all agenda items. The meeting included a closed session for legal consultation regarding short-term rentals. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March Meeting): The minutes from the Planning Commission's March meeting were approved. Commissioner Coleman abstained; all other commissioners voted aye. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearings: No members of the public signed up to speak on any of the public hearing items. The commission opened and closed the public comment periods for each item with no testimony. Discussion Items Zoning Amendments for Coliseum Central Overlay (Items 3 & 4) Staff Presentation: Zoning Administrator Alison Jacura presented two amendments affecting the Coliseum Central Overlay (OCC) district: - Item 24-159 (Chapter 9): This amendment would allow building heights up to 150 feet (currently limited to 45 feet), remove the maximum density limit, remove the minimum dwelling area (but require at least 50% of units to be at least 500 square feet), and remove the maximum lot coverage (currently 20%). - Item 24-160 (Chapter 11): This amendment would eliminate minimum parking requirements in the OCC district, while maintaining requirements for ADA accessible parking, green area, and bicycle parking (at least 10 spaces). Maximum parking limits and associated stormwater/tree canopy provisions would remain. Commissioner Questions: - Commissioner Rogers expressed concern about eliminating the maximum lot coverage and its potential impact on resiliency and impervious surfaces. Staff clarified that green area requirements, walkways, and accessible parking would still constrain coverage, and all multifamily developments would still require a use permit for case-by-case review. - Commissioner Rogers also asked about the effect on commercial buildings and parking availability. Staff noted the intent is to let developers determine needed parking based on market and transportation, while the city considers future parking garages in the area. - Commissioner Coleman questioned the rationale for allowing some units below 500 square feet. Staff cited recent apartment proposals with studio units around 472-475 square feet, and the desire for flexibility while ensuring not all units are that small. - Staff noted that the Coliseum Central Business Improvement District Board supported the amendments. Votes: Both amendments were approved unanimously (7-0). Zoning Amendments for Physical Recreation Facilities (Items 5-9) Staff Presentation: Principal Planner Pemberton presented five amendments to: - Define "physical recreation facility" (covering gyms, martial arts, dance studios). - Permit private schools (e.g., trade/vocational schools, welding) in Light Manufacturing (M2) and Heavy Manufacturing (M3) districts with a use permit. - Permit physical recreation facilities by right in multiple districts (including Coliseum Central, downtown, Phoebus, Fort Monroe, and others). - Add standards for outdoor recreation areas, including setbacks, delineation, hours limited to 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. when adjacent to residential areas, and screening. Commissioner Questions: Commissioner Rogers asked about hours of operation for outdoor recreation areas and noise impacts. Staff clarified that the noise ordinance still applies, and amplified noise is prohibited. Votes: All five amendments (24-152 through 24-156) were approved unanimously (7-0). Short-Term Rental (STR) Briefing Staff Presentation: Zoning Administrator Alison Jacura provided a comprehensive briefing on proposed STR regulations, which have been under review since August 2023. Key proposals include: - Dividing the city into 51 STR zones, each with a maximum number of STRs equal to 1% of dwelling units (total 617 units citywide, rounded down). - A 500-foot separation between STRs (with allowance for a cluster of two), except for grace-period STRs (those operating legally before the 2022 change) and multifamily properties. - Grace-period STRs (44 remaining) can be approved even if they violate the 500-foot rule, but must apply by December 31, 2024. - Administrative permits (ZAPs) for STRs with 5 or fewer bedrooms and 10 or fewer overnight lodgers, provided parking is on-site and no events are hosted. Fees: $200 application, $50 inspection. Use permits would still be required for larger operations. - Clarifications for multifamily amenity apartments (max 10% of units, 50-unit minimum, on-site management, not open to public) and traditional bed-and-breakfasts (on-site management, open during business hours). - Enforcement: complaint-driven, with notices of violation, 30-day correction periods, and potential fines up to $1,000. Commissioner Questions and Positions: - Chair Harris asked about simultaneous applications and how priority would be determined; staff confirmed first-come, first-served based on complete applications, and that use permits would be agendized in that order. - Commissioner Rogers asked about the transferability of permits; staff confirmed they run with the land but could be voided after two years of non-operation. - Commissioner Rogers asked about zones exceeding the 1% cap due to grace-period STRs; staff stated no zones are currently over cap. - Commissioner Coleman asked about awareness of open slots; staff said the STR website (hampton.gov/STRs) provides a searchable map and zone counts, but no waitlist is maintained; an interest form would allow notifications. - Commissioner Rogers asked about daytime occupancy limits; staff confirmed the double-occupancy rules for use permits. - Commissioner Kellum asked about fee adequacy for administrative costs; Director Brown acknowledged the $200 fee does not offset full costs but cited survey of other jurisdictions that have much higher fees; staffing and technology needs would be communicated to the city manager. - Commissioner Brooks asked about the rationale for the "cluster of two" allowance; staff explained operational efficiency for operators and benefits for groups traveling together. - Chair Harris expressed concern that 25 STRs in Buckrow may be too low compared to other jurisdictions, but acknowledged the city could adjust the cap in the future. - Commissioner Harper publicly thanked the staff for their extensive work on the STR initiative. - Staff announced the target dates: Planning Commission public hearing on May 16, 2024, City Council on June 12, 2024, with an effective date of July 1, 2024, and phased enforcement starting in October 2024. Community Development Director's Report Hampton Youth Commission Briefing: Senior Youth Planner Ayanna Hollis presented highlights: - On March 18, the Youth Commission met with Police Chief Jimmy Widman at the Rupert Sargent Veterans Conference Room; students asked questions about safety, schools, and communities. - Jones and Kilgore Middle School seventh graders presented community projects to City Council: Jones focused on signage (including accessible signs), Kilgore on walkability. - Upcoming events: April 22 and April 29 commission meetings, May 6 boot camp planning, May 11 Hampton Mini Tour. The current senior youth planner graduates in June. - Commissioner Harper and Vice Chair Kellum commented positively on the program's impact. Short-Term Rental Status: The briefing was the main item; next steps include additional briefings to relevant groups and the May 16 Planning Commission hearing. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously: Zoning ordinance amendments 24-159, 24-160, 24-152, 24-153, 24-154, 24-155, and 24-156 (all 7-0). - Received briefing on short-term rental regulations; staff will continue outreach and return with formal amendments for the May 16, 2024 Planning Commission public hearing. - Closed session under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711(A)(8) to consult with legal counsel regarding short-term rentals. Motion carried unanimously (with Commissioner DeProfio noted as "I" in the raw transcript, likely "Aye"). - No public comment was offered on any agenda item. Note: The transcript included unrelated content (e.g., a fitness video, community history segments), which appear to be extraneous and not part of the Planning Commission meeting. Consequently, they were not included in this summary.

The Hampton Planning Commission convened on March 21, 2024, at approximately 1:30 PM (call to order after a brief delay). The meeting included approval of minutes, deferral of three short-term rental applications, and two use permit hearings. All votes were unanimous among the six voting commissioners present. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the February 2024 Planning Commission meeting were approved. Commissioner Brooks abstained due to absence. All other commissioners voted in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Use Permit 24-0049 (George Restaurant): Reverend Debbie Lee Bryant spoke in opposition to extending the hours of operation and expanding the indoor live entertainment area. She argued that the change would adversely affect property values, increase noise and crime, and disrupt the quietude of the nearby residential area. She noted that the restaurant is surrounded by houses, unlike other approved restaurants that are enclosed in malls. Discussion Items - Deferral of Three Short-Term Rental Applications: Staff recommended deferring three previously deferred short-term rental applications (23-0280, 23-0352, 23-0353) to the July 2024 Planning Commission meeting. The city is developing ordinance amendments related to short-term rentals and expects to brief the commission in April 2024 and complete the city council process by June 2024. No public speakers signed up. All three deferrals passed unanimously. - Use Permit 24-0049 – George Restaurant: The applicant sought to extend the general hours of operation (Sunday–Thursday until 12 AM, Friday–Saturday until 2 AM) and expand the indoor live entertainment performance area (approximately 210 square feet) at 20 West Mercury Boulevard. Staff recommended approval with 12 conditions. Commissioner Harper noted that the tax situation had been resolved per the Commissioner of Revenue, and that past police reports indicated no crime issues specific to the business. A question from Commissioner Kellum clarified that the ABC license had been renewed separately. The commission approved the use permit unanimously with 12 conditions. - Use Permit 24-0092 – TC Green Private School: The applicant proposed a private school (martial arts studio) at 3318 and 3320 West Mercury Boulevard, with approximately 6,000 square feet, 150 students enrolled at once, operating 3–8 PM Monday–Thursday and 8:30–11 AM Saturday, with three employees. Staff recommended approval with 8 conditions. The applicant stated the school has operated in Hampton since 1992 and that traffic and parking were evaluated. No public speakers signed up. The commission approved the use permit unanimously with 8 conditions. - Youth Planner Report: Helena Folkerts reported on the Hampton Youth Commission’s recent activities, including attendance at the Unity Awards, recruitment for the 2024–2025 school year, grant updates, and an upcoming meeting with the police chief. Commissioners asked about the recruitment process and noted the commission has 25 members. Key Outcomes - Deferral of Use Permit 23-0280: Unanimous vote to defer to July 2024. - Deferral of Use Permit 23-0352: Unanimous vote to defer to July 2024. - Deferral of Use Permit 23-0353: Unanimous vote to defer to July 2024. - Approval of Use Permit 24-0049 (George Restaurant): Unanimous vote with 12 conditions. - Approval of Use Permit 24-0092 (TC Green Private School): Unanimous vote with 8 conditions. - No other business or public comments – Meeting adjourned.

The Hampton City Council convened on February 15, 2024, at 8:30 PM (EST) to conduct a regular business meeting. The agenda included several public hearings on zoning amendments, a use permit for an event space, franchise agreements for wireless providers, and a revocable license for a youth sailing program. The council also received public comments on short-term rentals, child safety, and other community concerns. All public hearing items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as a single motion, which included: amendments to the FY24 budget to allow two encroachments into sanitary sewer and drainage easements for fence installations; appropriation of $6,092,394 from the Capital Budget Committed Fund Balance for city vehicle maintenance, pedestrian bridge repairs, sheriff office vehicle replacements, and similar projects; and approval of minutes from seven prior city council meetings. Public Hearings & Testimony - Use Permit 23-0350 (Harbor Center Event Space): No public speakers. The applicant, Iselle Washington of Library's Group Inc. (representing Hampton University), expressed support for the permit with 14 recommended conditions. The council approved the permit unanimously. - Zoning Amendments for Daycare Outdoor Play Areas and Outdoor Dining (Items 24-0013 through 24-0016): No public speakers. Staff presented amendments to permit outdoor play areas for commercial daycare centers in the C1, downtown, and Coliseum Central districts, and to allow outdoor dining in the C1 district. Councilmember Gray requested staff review hours of operation for outdoor play areas to extend them during daylight saving time. Councilmember Mugler sought clarification on outdoor dining restrictions. All four amendments were approved unanimously. - Mitigation Bank Definition and Use (Items 24-0006 and 24-0007): Public speaker Nicole McGill (representing the Wind Center, a mental health nonprofit) expressed concerns about the potential for wetland destruction and urged continued review of the ordinances. She also requested that nonprofits be involved in any redevelopment. Staff clarified that mitigation banks create wetlands, not destroy them, and that the ordinances do not enable development. The council approved both ordinances unanimously. - Franchise Agreements for Wireless Providers (Items 24-0075, 24-0076, 24-0077): Public speaker Nicole McGill spoke on each item, asking for eco-netting (community benefit) and quality-of-service standards. She also noted that the agreements allow above-ground infrastructure, but staff clarified that any construction requires separate right-of-way permits. The council approved all three franchise agreements (CELCO/Verizon, Crown Castle Fiber, Cox Wireless Access) unanimously. - Revocable License for Youth Sailing Virginia (Item 24-0051): No public speakers. The council approved a revocable license agreement for Youth Sailing Virginia to use a portion of the Mill Creek Pier for sailboat storage and launch, as part of the city’s recreational facility at Fort Monroe. Unanimous approval. Public Comments - Nicole McGill (on non-agenda items) referenced VA Code 18.2-369 regarding abuse of vulnerable adults, including those with severe mental illness living independently. - Nancy Little (Pasture Point resident) raised concerns about short-term rentals in her historic neighborhood, citing parking, traffic, and emergency access issues. She noted two properties operating without permits and asked how the city would regulate compliance. - Lisa Edwards (disabled veteran) requested more qualified personnel trained in effective communication and accurate profiling, particularly in the VA hospital and courts. - Craig Knopp (Hampton resident) discussed First Amendment audits, where individuals film in public spaces. He asked whether city workers and police are trained on legal boundaries to avoid lawsuits, and whether the city has a contract with the post office for disturbance monitoring. - Caitlin Hoff Oakes (short-term rental host) advocated for host-friendly regulations that allow professionally managed homes, emphasizing the economic benefits from traveling employees, nurses, NASA interns, and military contractors. - Kelly Hanley (Pasture Point resident) described parking issues adjacent to a short-term rental property and requested a 20-foot parking restriction near corners to improve emergency vehicle access. - Celeste Miller (student) criticized Mayor Tuck for cutting off her speech at a previous meeting (October 2023) regarding her experience at Hampton Elementary School. She called for “Celeste Law” requiring bathroom checks every 30–90 minutes and suggested the mayor should step down. - Nikia Miller (Celeste’s mother) stated that the city council’s apathy forced her to take the issue of child safety (including a Cody Alert) to the Virginia General Assembly, where a K-12 subcommittee voted 22-0 to protect children. She criticized the mayor for claiming the council had no responsibility for school safety, while the school system’s legal response attributed responsibility to the city. - Janine Belgrave (Hampton resident) proposed a public awareness campaign (“I Love the City I Live In”) to promote civic pride and smart city development, and asked who to partner with. - Regina Mays (short-term rental host) expressed support for short-term rentals, noting she has operated an Airbnb successfully for seven years with minimal issues. - Johnny Carroll (Hampton citizen) requested that the soccer field at Old Buckroe Road and Andrews Boulevard be renamed as a memorial to Cody Bigsby, a child who went missing. He made an impassioned plea for the council to consider the renaming. Discussion Items - The city manager noted that a presentation on short-term rental regulations (from a stakeholder committee) would be available online, and that staff would prepare ordinances for future council consideration. He emphasized that there will be opportunities for public comment on those recommendations. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 23-0350 approved (7-0). - Zoning amendments 24-0013, 24-0014, 24-0015, 24-0016 approved (7-0 each). - Zoning amendments 24-0006 and 24-0007 (mitigation bank) approved (7-0 each). - Franchise agreements 24-0075 (Verizon), 24-0076 (Crown Castle), 24-0077 (Cox Wireless) approved (7-0 each). - Revocable license 24-0051 (Youth Sailing Virginia) approved (7-0). - Appointments: Deferred action on items 16–22 (various appointments) to February 28, 2024. Appointed Demetria Sweat to the Hampton VA 250 Committee (term expiring October 31, 2026) by unanimous vote.

The City of Hampton Planning Commission convened on January 18, 2024, to approve prior meeting minutes, elect officers, and act on several land-use applications and zoning ordinance amendments. The election of officers was necessitated by the departure of Chair Stephen Bond and the appointment of Brian DeProfio. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the minutes of the December 14, 2023 Planning Commission meeting, as amended during the work session, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on any agenda item; public hearings were opened and closed without citizen testimony. - Applicant representative William H. Mulligan III (Libraries Group Architectural Firm), on behalf of Hampton University, expressed support for Use Permit 23-0350 and concurred with the proposed conditions. Discussion Items - Use Permit 23-0350 (Hampton University): City Planner Erby Patel presented the application for a private university use at 2 Eaton Street, limited to the 14th floor of the Harbor Center building, to establish a 14,500-square-foot event space/banquet hall operating from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. The venue would serve Hampton University events and be rented for public events such as proms and fundraisers. Improvements include restrooms, a prep kitchen, dressing rooms, a dining/assembly area, and converting an open lounge to a closed lounge. The property is zoned Downtown Waterfront (DT2). Staff recommended approval with 14 conditions, including restrictions on third-party promoters, amplified sound between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., security requirements, and a certificate of occupancy. Commissioner Harper asked about community feedback; staff had received no direct resident comments but noted the proposal was vetted by the nightclub task force and police. Commissioner DeProfio asked about promoter restrictions and rooftop lounge safety; staff clarified. The applicant agreed with all conditions. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 24-6 and 24-7 (Mitigation Banks): Zoning Administrator Alison Jacura presented two amendments adding a definition of "mitigation bank" (Chapter 2) and listing mitigation banks as a permitted use with a use permit in all zoning districts (Chapter 3). Mitigation banks are for-profit enterprises that create wetlands and sell mitigation credits to developers offsetting wetland losses. Potential impacts include construction noise, heavy machinery traffic, and new Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act buffers. Staff recommended approval; no public comment. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 24-13 through 24-16 (Daycare Outdoor Play Areas and Outdoor Dining): City Planner Davis Pemberton presented four amendments to Chapters 3, 6, 8, and 9. They would permit outdoor play areas for daycare 1 commercial and daycare 2 commercial uses in the C1 (Neighborhood Commercial), DT1 (Downtown Business), DT2 (Downtown Waterfront), and OCC (Overlay Coliseum Central) districts, and permit outdoor dining in the C1 district. An added standard limits hours of outdoor play areas for daycare 1 commercial in C1, consistent with daycare 2 family limitations. Staff noted consistency with Virginia Department of Education standards and support from Joint Base Langley-Eustis. Staff recommended approval; no public comment. - Youth Planner Report: Youth Planner Helena Fulkerts reported the Youth Commission's annual public grants hearing (December 18, 2023) received 15 applications; 4 were deferred to ACS Academies, 1 withdrew, and 9 applicants received their requested budgets totaling $16,025. Upcoming meetings include a joint HYC/Neighborhood Commission stakeholder meeting on January 8 and a joint meeting with the youth advisory group at Sandy Bottom on January 22. Key Outcomes - Approved the December 14, 2023 minutes as amended (unanimous). - Elected Michael Harris as Chair and Commissioner Kellum as Vice Chair for the term ending September 2024. - Approved Use Permit 23-0350 with 14 conditions (unanimous). - Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendments 24-6 and 24-7 (unanimous). - Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendments 24-13, 24-14, 24-15, and 24-16 (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned after completing all business.

The December 14, 2023 meeting of the City of Hampton began with the Planning Commission session, where commissioners considered deferrals of short-term rental use permits and approved two use permits. The City Council session followed, featuring recognitions, consent agenda actions, an update on short-term rental policy, and a public hearing on a proposed apartment development. Planning Commission: Deferrals (Consent Calendar) - Use permit applications 23-0280, 23-0352, and 23-0353 (short-term rentals) were each deferred unanimously to the March 2024 Planning Commission meeting, pending City Council guidance on density and future regulations. - Use permit application 23-0350 (Hampton University private university at 2 Eaton Street) was deferred unanimously to the January 2024 Planning Commission meeting due to an early advertisement. Planning Commission: Public Hearings & Voting Items - Item 7 – Karma Restaurant and Lounge (23-0312): Approved unanimously with 12 conditions to expand hours of operation (Sunday–Thursday 4 pm–10 pm; Friday–Saturday 4 pm–2 am) and indoor live entertainment (Friday–Saturday 7 pm–2 am) at 87 Lincoln Street. Staff recommended approval. - Item 8 – Cemetery Expansion (23-0351): Approved unanimously with 7 conditions for the Hampton Veterans Memorial Garden expansion (0.85 acres) at Coliseum Drive and Hampton Roads Center Parkway. Staff recommended approval; the applicant did not speak. Planning Commission: Director’s Report - Youth Planner Hollis reported: The annual Hampton Youth Commission grants hearing will be held December 18, 2023, in Council Chambers. Approximately 15 applicants applied; four were deferred to HCS Academy representatives. Funding per applicant will be reduced from $2,500 due to higher volume. Upcoming events include a joint stakeholder meeting January 8, 2024, and an executive commission meeting January 22, 2024. City Council: Recognitions - Commander’s Public Service Award: Presented by Colonel Matthew Waltman to Bruce Stirk for 15 years of service as director of federal facilities, including securing $12 million in land acquisition and supporting the F-22 training squadron relocation. - Work Life Program: Reverend Charles Cheek highlighted the program’s impact, featuring success stories of participants (e.g., Kenisha, Christina, Sam J, Tabitha) who gained employment, housing, and stability. The program partners with police, workforce council, and other agencies. - Mayor’s Holiday Card Contest: Winners from each Hampton high school (Momo Esh of Bethel, Liza of Hampton, Riley Broker of Kecoughtan, McKenzie Williams of Phoebus) were recognized for their artwork used on holiday cards. - City Attorney Sharon Ivory: The council adopted a resolution commending her over five years of service. Council members and City Manager Mary Bunting expressed gratitude; Ms. Ivory thanked the staff and council. City Council: Consent Agenda & Motions - Agenda Amendment: Unanimously added motions for an interim city attorney appointment and the Ivory resolution. - Interim City Attorney: Stephen D. Bond was appointed interim city attorney, effective December 30, 2023 (unanimous). - Budget Adjustments: Councilwoman Mugler recused herself from voting on Department 140 (Commissioner of the Revenue) adjustments due to her spouse’s role; the item was voted separately and approved (Mugler abstained). The remaining fiscal year 2023 year-end budget adjustments were approved unanimously. - Deferral of Minutes: Minutes from the November 8, 2023 downtown Hampton Business District meeting, November 9, 2023 Hampton City Schools Community Priorities Workshop, and November 18, 2023 Aberdeen Gardens meeting were deferred to the January 10, 2024 City Council meeting (unanimous). - Remaining Consent Items: Approved unanimously: first quarter FY2024 budget adjustments, lease agreement with School Board for Rupert Sargent Building, housekeeping ordinance amendments (Tidal Wetlands Act), and minutes of four City Council meetings. City Council: Short-Term Rental Update - Staff reported that the City Council deferred all pending short-term rental use permits to the February 28, 2024 meeting. A stakeholder group formed on December 7, 2023, will meet over subsequent weeks to develop recommendations. City Council: Public Hearing – Rezoning and Use Permit for Coliseum Center LLC - Items 7 & 8 (23-0316 and 23-0317): Chief Planner Donald Whipple presented a proposal by Coliseum Center LLC to rezone approximately 4.88 acres at 1909 Commerce Drive from limited commercial (C2) to multifamily residential (MD4) and to obtain a use permit for multifamily dwellings. The plan includes a five-story apartment building with 382 units (60% studios, rest one- and two-bedroom), a parking garage with bike storage and EV charging, courtyards, a pool, dog park, and wellness center. The property is in the Coliseum Central District; the concept aligns with the Coliseum South Initiative. The transcript ended before council discussion or a vote. Key Outcomes - Planning Commission: Unanimous approvals of two use permits (Karma Restaurant and cemetery expansion) and deferrals of four applications to future meetings (three to March 2024, one to January 2024). - City Council: Appointed an interim city attorney; approved all consent agenda items with one recusal; recognized multiple individuals and organizations; and held a public hearing on a major rezoning (vote not recorded in provided transcript). The short-term rental policy development process is ongoing with a stakeholder group.

The Hampton Planning Commission convened on November 16, 2023, at 20:30 UTC (3:30 PM local) to address several land use applications, a capital improvement plan briefing, and routine matters. The meeting opened with an unexpected change in agenda order due to a potential power outage by Dominion Power, prompting the Commission to hear Riverside Hospital items early. Key actions included approvals of rezonings and use permits for medical and residential developments, as well as a briefing on the city's capital improvement plan. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Commission approved the minutes from the August and September 2023 meetings. Commissioner Rogers abstained from the August minutes as she was not a member at that time. Commissioner Brooks abstained from the September minutes due to absence. Public Comments & Testimony - Riverside Hospital: No public speakers; the applicant's representative indicated no desire to speak. - Extended Stay Hotel (Coliseum Central Hospitality): No public speakers signed up; John McConnell, managing partner, answered commissioner questions. - Coliseum Center LLC (Multifamily): No public speakers; Shelley Brady, applicant representative, answered questions. Discussion Items - Rezoning and Use Permit for Riverside Hospital (Items 5 & 6) - Presented by Planner David Pemberton. The proposal rezones 13.8 acres at 2244 Executive Drive from RM and C2 to C2 with conditions, and a use permit for a mental health substance abuse treatment facility. Expansion of approximately 420 square feet for a new entrance and waiting area. Staff recommended approval with five proffered conditions (rezoning) and nine conditions (use permit). - Extended Stay Hotel (Item 4) - Presented by Chief Planner Donald Whipple. The proposal is for a four-story, 103-suite extended stay hotel on 2.67 acres at 2122 Hartford Road. The site is vacant and adjacent to medical facilities and the Coliseum Crossing shopping center. Staff recommended approval with 14 conditions, including an amendment to condition six changing "established" to "available." The applicant, John McConnell, noted an $18 million investment and experience with similar properties near military bases. Commissioners asked about community input, traffic, walkability, and security. - Rezoning and Use Permit for Multifamily (Items 7 & 8) - Presented by Chief Planner Whipple. The proposal rezones 4.88 acres at 1909 Commerce Drive from C2 to MD4 with conditions, and a use permit for 382 multifamily units (60% studios). The site is currently vacant, formerly an off-track betting center. The plan includes a five-story building, a parking garage, and a dog park. Staff recommended approval with 14 proffered conditions (rezoning) and 11 conditions (use permit). Discussion focused on unit mix, market affordability, and a variance for 481 sq ft studios (below MD4's 500 sq ft minimum). Commissioner Rogers expressed surprise at the high studio percentage; Vice Chair Harris and Commissioner Hopper voted against, citing affordability and community fit concerns. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Briefing - Carlene Cameron from the budget office presented the FY24-28 CIP, with $77.9 million allocated. She emphasized funding challenges and outlined next steps, including the April 15, 2024 manager's recommended budget and May 8, 2024 City Council adoption. - Youth Planner Report - Helena Folkerts presented a report on surveys and a Teen Town Hall. Over 500 surveys were collected from high schools; a Teen Town Hall addressed local government knowledge. Upcoming events include a grants hearing on December 18. Commissioners praised the youth planners and noted the desire for more walkable areas. Key Outcomes - Approved: Motion to approve rezoning 23-0313 (Riverside Hospital) with five conditions; passed unanimously (7-0). - Approved: Motion to approve use permit 23-0314 (Riverside Hospital) with nine conditions; passed unanimously (7-0). - Approved: Motion to approve use permit 23-0315 (Extended Stay Hotel) with 14 conditions and the amendment to condition six; passed unanimously. - Approved: Motion to approve rezoning 23-0316 (Multifamily) with 14 proffered conditions; passed 6-1 (Vice Chair Harris and Commissioner Hopper voted nay; recording unclear). - Approved: Motion to approve use permit 23-0317 (Multifamily) with 11 conditions; passed 6-1 (Vice Chair Harris and Commissioner Hopper voted nay; recording unclear). - No Vote: CIP briefing was informational only. - Note: The transcript contains an inconsistency in roll call votes for items 7 & 8; the minutes may provide a more accurate tally.

Date: October 19, 2023 The provided transcript is not a city council meeting, board meeting, or public hearing. Instead, it is a compilation of multiple segments from a television program, likely produced by the City of Hampton or Virginia Farm Bureau, airing on October 19, 2023. The content includes segments on agritourism, gardening, cooking, pedestrian safety, local events, diversity training, music, vascular health, and fitness. No formal meeting minutes, agenda, or official public testimony are present. The following summary organizes the segments as they appeared in the transcript. Segment: Bluebird Gap Farm Fall Festival - Nick Meigel, a representative of Bluebird Gap Farm, discussed the annual fall festival scheduled for October 21–22, 2023. The festival features local artists, animal programs, hayrides, pumpkin chunkin’ (using a trebuchet/catapult), and pop-up animal encounters. The farm, operational since 1969, houses approximately 100 retired farm animals and offers free admission 365 days a year (closed Christmas and Thanksgiving). The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with no cost for entry. Segment: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – Diversity College - Mariah Roterer and Gabe Diaz from the City of Hampton’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion department described the city’s Diversity College program, which began in 2004 and has graduated over 5,000 participants. The program is free and offers three levels of facilitated dialogue on diversity topics: Level 1 covers baseline diversity, generational diversity, and inclusion; Level 2 covers cultural diversity, world religions, and socioeconomics; Level 3 covers race, culture, ethnicity, LGBTQ awareness, and disability awareness. Classes are offered in-person and virtually, with day and evening options. Registration is at hampton.gov/diversitycollege. Segment: Local Musician Don Butcher – Lifetime Achievement Award - Don Butcher, a Hampton musician, discussed his career starting in the Navy, his open mic nights at venues including Grand View Fishing Pier (August 1985), The Ordinary, Goodfellas, and others. He emphasized nurturing local talent and maintaining a “happy triangle” of entertainer, audience, and club owner. He and fellow musician Von Deal both received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Veer magazine. Butcher performed a song (“Shanty” by Jonathan Edwards) during the segment. Segment: Vascular Health – Interview with Dr. Todd Gensler - Dr. Todd Gensler, a vascular surgeon at Centero (CarePlex Hospital), explained common vascular issues: atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) in carotid arteries (stroke risk) and peripheral arteries (claudication, rest pain, tissue loss). He discussed risk factors (high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, family history) and modern treatments including endovascular aneurysm repair (stent grafts) and the new “wavelength” procedure for dialysis fistulas. CarePlex is the only facility on the peninsula offering the endovascular AV fistula procedure. Recovery for aneurysm repair is typically next-day discharge. Segment: Fusion Fitness Dance Workout - Alexis Perkins, fitness instructor, led a dance workout at the Hampton Roads Convention Center featuring music by local artist Dana Johnson. The segment included choreographed routines with steps such as “two-step,” “walk it out,” and “side to side.” Participants Taishana and Candace demonstrated the moves. The workout emphasized low-impact cardio and dance moves set to pop and R&B songs. Segment: Pedestrian Safety – Perils for Pedestrians (National Broadcast) - A segment from the show “Perils for Pedestrians” featured discussions in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and Regina, Saskatchewan. Andrew Basold (active transportation planner) discussed safe routes to school and the bicycle/pedestrian advisory committee. Dave Sanderson (Pedal Fergus Falls) described the group’s work including bike lane advocacy, a mountain bike park, and a bike share program. Wayne Hurley (West Central Initiative) spoke about regional transportation planning for small towns. John Klein (Regina advocate) discussed challenges for pedestrians and cyclists in winter. Segment: Virginia Agriculture – Real Virginia and From the Ground Up - Barry Ridgway reported on agritourism in Virginia, generating over $2 billion annually. Farms featured include Virginia Mountain Vineyards (Botetourt County), Fables and Feathers Winery (Bedford County), Holly Fork Farm (New Kent), and Historic Greenbrier Farms (Chesapeake). Chris Mullins from Virginia Cooperative Extension visited the Faulkier Education Farm with Jim Hankins to discuss winter squash varieties (butternut, acorn, carnival, delicata) and harvesting tips. Recipes and cooking demonstrations were also included (marinated goat cheese by Chef Tammy Brawley, pumpkin pie cake and flourless chocolate cake by the Grill Sergeant from the Army Quartermaster Center). Key Outcomes - No formal decisions, votes, or resolutions were made during this broadcast. The segments served informational and promotional purposes for community programs, health services, local agriculture, and pedestrian safety.