Public Meetings - Hampton, Virginia

On February 18, 2021, Mayor Donnie Tuck hosted a Facebook Live forum with City Manager Mary Bunting, Communications Strategist Robin McCormick, Hampton City Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Smith, and Deputy Superintendent Dr. John Caggiano. The forum provided updates on COVID-19 metrics, vaccination progress, and detailed plans for expanding in-person learning in Hampton City Schools. COVID-19 Metrics and Vaccination Update - Hampton had 8,275 total COVID-19 cases and 88 resident deaths as of the update. - The seven-day moving average of new cases had dropped to approximately 50 cases per day, down from about 140 in late January, but positivity remained high at about 18–19%. - Vaccination numbers: about 16,000 Hampton residents had received a first dose and 2,500 were fully vaccinated. The region vaccinated over 5,000 people at the Hampton Roads Convention Center through a partnership with the health district. - Virginia's weekly vaccine allocation increased to about 129,000 doses, with Hampton receiving roughly 1,575 doses per week. City Manager Bunting noted that military and federal partner vaccinations were not yet reflected in state numbers. - Over 1,900 Hampton City Schools staff members had been vaccinated. School Reopening Plan - Superintendent Smith announced three key dates: February 22, March 8, and March 15, 2021. - February 22: Pre-K, kindergarten, and select students in self-contained special education settings return. - March 8: Grades 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9 return. - March 15: Grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, and 12 return. - Instructional models: Pre-K uses one teacher for both in-person and virtual students; elementary uses separate in-person and virtual teachers; secondary uses a concurrent hybrid model with SWIVL camera technology that allows teachers to move around and engage both in-person and virtual learners simultaneously. - Mitigation strategies: universal mask use, physical distancing (minimum 3 feet, targeting 6 feet where possible), handwashing, cleaning/disinfection, contact tracing, and HEPA air purifiers in every classroom. Public Questions and Comments - Parents asked about switching between in-person and virtual learning. Officials responded that secondary students may have flexibility to move between formats, while elementary changes may require a teacher change and depend on student-to-teacher ratios. - Parents expressed concerns about teacher vaccination timing, temperature checks, and communication of COVID-19 cases. Officials explained that random temperature checks occur, and trained nurses follow contact tracing protocols with direct notification of affected individuals. - Other questions covered SOL testing (will be administered), summer school (planned and not mandatory), after-school programs (continuing in collaboration with the city), athletics and activities (details on school website), and small business relief (waiting on federal congressional action). Key Outcomes - Hampton City Schools will proceed with the phased reopening schedule as announced. - SOL assessments will be administered this year, as no federal waiver was granted. - The city will offer summer learning programs with potential expansion based on learning-loss data. - The new state vaccination registration website and phone bank are available; officials urged residents to verify their registration. - Further guidance on small business relief awaits federal COVID-19 relief package decisions.

This transcript covers three separate segments held on January 21, 2021: the Hampton Planning Commission meeting, a Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony honoring Hampton Heroes, and a COVID-19 update led by Mayor Donnie Tuck. The Planning Commission approved three zoning amendments unanimously. The ceremony recognized community leaders, trailblazers, and public servants. The COVID-19 update provided current case statistics, vaccine rollout plans, and hospital capacity information. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the November 19, 2020 Planning Commission meeting – unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - One public speaker, Peggy Todd, signed up for zoning ordinance amendment item 20-00021 but stated she was present only to listen and had no questions. Discussion Items Planning Commission: Zoning Ordinance Amendments - Zoning Amendments 20-00020 and 20-00021 (Multifamily Land Use Regulations): Staff presented a joint proposal to amend definitions and permitted uses for multifamily dwellings and upper-floor dwelling units. The amendments would add definitions for upper-floor dwelling units, open space amenity, and story; remove the definition of live-work units; and modify where multifamily dwellings are permitted by right or by use permit. Key changes: multifamily would require a use permit in limited commercial (C2) and residential transition (RT1) districts; downtown districts (DT1-3) would allow by-right development if additional development standards are met (minimum density, open space amenities, active recreation for 50+ units, front facade zone requirements, fenestration, and minimum height); Phoebus and Buckroe remain by-right with existing standards. Existing multifamily units are grandfathered. The Coliseum Central Business Improvement District expressed concerns about the use permit requirement but agreed to collaborate on developing enhanced standards. Staff recommended approval. - Zoning Amendment 20-00027 (Interstate Signs): Proposed to increase the maximum size of interstate arterial signs to 672 square feet (industry standard) with a height of 45 feet, but only for educational or medical campuses of 50 acres or more. Eligible locations include Hampton University, the VA Medical Center, Thomas Nelson Community College, and potentially the hospital. The amendment is intended to improve visibility for large campuses that draw visitors from outside the region. Staff noted that the current sign sizes (48-90 sq ft) are ineffective for interstate drivers. The amendment would not affect residential properties. Staff recommended approval. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony and Hampton Heroes - A virtual ceremony celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and honoring Hampton Heroes. Honorees included community leaders (e.g., Phoebe Jones, William Alfred Smith, Lillian F. Johnson, Jacob Huffelfinger, Chester Lee Brown, Rev. Anderson W. Clary Jr.), trailblazers (e.g., 1st Lt. Rupert Leon Sargent, George Wythe, William H. Trustee, William Tucker, Andrew W.E. Bassett), and modern-era trailblazers in public service (e.g., Linda D. Curtis, Sheriff B.J. Roberts). The ceremony included the Pledge of Allegiance, invocation, and remarks from Mayor Tuck and council members. COVID-19 Update - Mayor Tuck reported that as of January 21, 2021, Hampton had 6,368 cases, 216 cumulative hospitalizations, and 57 deaths. The 7-day average of new cases was 140 per day, a significant increase. Kapua Conley (President of Sentara CarePlex) and Dr. Tony Fisher (Vice President of Medical Affairs) discussed hospital strain, improved treatment protocols, and the importance of not delaying care. Mary Moran (Vice President of Clinical Effectiveness) provided vaccine update: Sentara is moving into Phase 1B, starting with patients 75+ and health care workers. City Manager Mary Bunting noted that the Peninsula Health District receives only about 1,000 vaccine doses per week for six localities, delaying Phase 1B rollout. The city is partnering with health systems to increase vaccination capacity, aiming to vaccinate 400-500 per day initially, with potential for over 1,000 per day as supply increases. A letter from the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission to Governor Northam raised concerns about equity in vaccine allocation. Sentara redistributed 20,000 doses across regions to address health disparities. Officials emphasized that the vaccine is safe and effective, and urged continued masking and social distancing. Key Outcomes - Planning Commission votes: - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00020: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00021: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00027: Approved unanimously (7-0). - No votes were taken during the MLK ceremony or COVID-19 update; these were informational. - The city and health partners are transitioning to Phase 1B vaccination, prioritizing frontline workers, individuals 75+, and teachers. A registration system will be announced. - The Hampton Roads Planning District Commission sent a letter to Governor Northam advocating for more equitable vaccine distribution across health districts.

This broadcast, aired on December 17, 2020, at 8:30 PM EST, consists of a holiday concert by the United States Air Force Band of Flight followed by several segments from the City of Hampton's "Round Robin" program and a fitness segment. No city council meeting or formal government business was conducted; instead, the content highlights community events, local history, health topics, and resident profiles. Holiday Concert by the United States Air Force Band of Flight - The concert, titled "Holiday in Blue," was held at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Chief Master Sergeant J.R. Herb welcomed the audience and introduced the musicians. - The concert included jazz renditions of holiday songs, a tribute to deployed service members (approximately 170,000 members serving out of country), and a community sing-along. The Spirit of Freedom brass group performed a jazz journey through various eras (ragtime, Dixieland, big band, bebop, cool jazz, free jazz, etc.). - Key performances: "It Must'a Been Old Santa Claus," "I Love the Winter Weather / I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Frosty the Snowman," and a medley of "Jingle Bells" in multiple styles. - The concert concluded with a call to keep deployed service members and their families in thoughts. Round Robin: Book Discussion on the History of Phoebus - Host Robin McCormick interviewed author Tim Receiver about his book detailing the history of Phoebus, Virginia. - The book covers Phoebus from the Civil War era through Prohibition, highlighting its unique character: a large number of saloons (83 saloons in 1898 for a town of 1,500–2,000 people, likely the highest per capita in the world), an integrated police force, and the election of two African Americans to the town council in 1901. - Receiver noted that Phoebus was the site of the first freed slave community in the South after the Civil War, and that the town had a more racially integrated atmosphere than much of Virginia at the time. - The book is available at the Hampton History Museum and Robert's Antiques. Round Robin: Young Musicians Kendall and Kirsten Gonzalez - Kendall (age 10, cello) and Kirsten (age 12, violin) discussed their musical journeys, starting lessons at ages two and three, respectively. They practice two to three hours daily, and have performed at NBA games (Houston Rockets) and other venues. - They are homeschooled and take private lessons from Virginia Symphony members. Kirsten expressed interest in a career in music or law; Kendall in orthodontics and horse ownership. Round Robin: Vascular Surgery Innovations with Dr. Todd Gensler - Dr. Gensler, a vascular surgeon at Centera, explained common vascular issues such as atherosclerosis and aneurysms. - He described minimally invasive procedures: endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) can now be done percutaneously (through a needle in the groin), with patients going home the next day. For carotid artery blockages, recovery is typically one day in the hospital. - A new procedure, wavelength, creates an endovascular arteriovenous fistula for dialysis patients without incision. CarePlex Hospital is the only facility on the peninsula offering this. - He emphasized symptoms: leg pain while walking (claudication), pain at rest, and non-healing sores as signs to seek treatment. Round Robin: School Crossing Guard Ann Holliman - Ann Holliman, 75, has been a crossing guard at Phillips Elementary School for years. She was nominated by the school community for her dedication. - She was hit by a car while on duty; she landed on the hood but was not seriously injured. The driver falsely claimed Holliman jumped on the car, but witnesses provided the license plate. - She and her late husband donated $1,000 for a marquee at Phillips School and plan to do the same for Kecoughtan High School. - She works from 6:30–7:30 AM and 1:30–2:30 PM daily, in all weather, and says the children give her purpose. Round Robin: Hampton City Attorney Sharon Ivory - Sharon Ivory, the city attorney, explained her role: advising city council, departments, boards, and commissions; ensuring compliance with the Freedom of Information Act; and managing a staff of attorneys, paralegals, and administrative assistants. - The city receives about 2,200 FOIA requests per year. One paralegal is dedicated to handling them. - Ivory shared her personal story: she grew up as the daughter of a judge, attended law school with a young child, passed the bar while pregnant, and started her career as a paralegal before becoming an attorney. She became Hampton city attorney in 2019. - She lives in Hampton as required by code and appreciates the community. Fusion Fitness Segment - A dance fitness routine led by instructors, set to music, with choreography including steps like single-single-double-double, kicks, and turns. The segment was produced in partnership with Newport News Public Schools and Medicine Productions. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were recorded, as this was a community broadcast. The program served to inform residents about local history, health resources, public safety, city government, and cultural events.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on November 19, 2020, to consider a rezoning application, a zoning ordinance amendment, and receive reports on youth activities, multifamily regulatory changes, and the capital improvement plan. The meeting included public testimony, discussion, and votes on several items. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously elected Ruth Ann Kellum as Vice Chair (7-0). - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning 20-00005: Three residents spoke in opposition: Mary Cartwright (1515 West Green Street) cited traffic congestion, safety hazards, and lack of green space; Aggie Dale (retired city employee) argued the area is already saturated with high-density apartments and has flooding issues; Donald Cartwright (nearby resident) stated he was not notified and expressed concerns about traffic, flooding, and safety. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00025: Larry Townsend, representing the Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors, spoke in support, citing benefits to housing stock and affordability. Discussion Items - Rezoning 20-00005 (1538 & 1540 West Queen Street): Staff presented the request to rezone 4.28 acres from RM and R13 to MD4 with 12 proffered conditions for a 38-unit apartment development with kayak launch. Applicant Robert Lang described the project as upscale, market-rate apartments (14 one-bedroom, 24 two-bedroom) with rents $1,400–$1,800, fitness and business centers, and a private kayak launch on Newmarket Creek. Commissioners questioned flooding risk, traffic impact (staff said no full traffic study needed due to low trip generation), and the kayak launch permitting process. Commissioners expressed concerns about neighborhood notification, flooding, and traffic safety. After public testimony, the commission voted 4-3 to recommend approval to City Council. (Votes: Ayes - Harper, Coleman, Kellum, Bond; Nays - South Hall, Brown, Garrison.) - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00025 (Green Area Requirements): Staff explained the amendment would set minimum green area percentages for street frontage yards (50% for lots under 0.25 acres, increasing to 75% for lots over 1 acre) and require zoning permits for new impervious surfaces. The amendment does not limit parking on lawns. Commissioners discussed potential conflicts with pending parking regulations, small lots, and property line setbacks. The commission voted unanimously (7-0) to recommend approval. - Youth Planner Report: Jericho Nisley reported that the Hampton Youth Commission has held six meetings, working on the Youth Master Plan Update (goals: youth active, returning, prepared, respected), grant marketing, and a mental health forum scheduled for December 16. Commissioners thanked the presenter. - Briefing on Multifamily Regulations Update: Senior Planner Allison Eichley presented proposed phase-one changes to multifamily development regulations, including new standards for downtown, a new residential mixed-use category, and requiring use permits in most districts while allowing by-right in master-planned areas. Stakeholder feedback was mixed. Commissioners discussed the role of use permits, balancing single-family and multifamily, and the need for public input. No vote was taken. - Capital Improvement Plan Briefing: Jenny Thomas from the budget office provided an overview of the CIP process, funding sources, and alignment with council strategic priorities. Commissioners discussed the planning commission's past role in CIP review and methods for public engagement. No action taken. Key Outcomes - Rezoning 20-00005: Recommended approval (4-3) with 12 conditions, forwarded to City Council. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00025: Recommended approval (7-0), forwarded to City Council. - Election of Vice Chair: Ruth Ann Kellum elected. - Minutes approved. - Next Steps: Staff will incorporate feedback and present a revised multifamily regulation proposal at the December 17 Planning Commission meeting; City Council to consider the zoning amendment and rezoning at future dates.

This combined session on October 15, 2020 opened with the Hampton Planning Commission's annual elections and business, followed by the Hampton City Council's regular meeting. The Planning Commission recommended approval of a warehouse/distribution rezoning and two wireless infrastructure zoning amendments. The City Council approved consent items, several zoning and code amendments, an ERIFA solar project participation agreement, and appointments, and heard public comments on COVID restrictions, a boat ramp sale, and election safety. Planning Commission: Elections and Minutes - Carol Garrison was re-elected Chairman and Chris Carter was elected Vice Chairman for the ensuing year, both by unanimous votes. - Minutes from the September 17 meeting were approved; Chairman Garrison abstained because she was not present. Planning Commission: Rezoning Application 20-0007 – 210 West Mercury Boulevard - Gator Hampton Properties LLP requested rezoning of approximately 21.2 acres from C2 (Limited Commercial) to M1 (Limited Manufacturing) with proffered conditions to operate a warehouse and distribution center at the former Kmart site. - Staff planner Mike Hayes presented the concept plan, including improved stormwater, landscaping, screening, and traffic access. The site plan had undergone two rounds of staff review. - Applicant's attorney RJ Nutter of Tropman Pepper described a confidential end user, approximately 200+ jobs starting at $15/hour with benefits, about 910 vehicle trips per day, large truck deliveries between 10 p.m. and 3–4 a.m., and delivery vans leaving after 10 a.m. He also noted the site has been derelict for over 40 years. - Public comment: Shelley Thomas, representing a church at 108 West Mercury Boulevard, voiced concerns about traffic impacts on school buses, a nearby school, and evening church activities; she expressed excitement about the development but urged consideration of residential impacts. - Commissioner Southall expressed strong support, saying the M1 use would complement the area and provide walking-distance jobs. Commissioner Kellum and others also supported the project. - The Commission unanimously recommended approval of rezoning 20-0007 with five proffered conditions. (This is a recommendation to City Council.) Planning Commission: Wireless Infrastructure Zoning Amendments 20-00023 and 20-00024 - Hannah Sabo presented the two related zoning amendments to update wireless infrastructure regulations to comply with state law, introducing small cell design standards, shot clocks, and a new administrative review process. - No members of the public signed up to speak or addressed the Commission. - Both amendments were unanimously recommended to City Council: 20-00023 (use table and additional standards) and 20-00024 (definitions). Planning Commission: Youth Planner Report and Annual Report - Youth Planner Maya Patterson and new junior planner Jericho reported on the Hampton Youth Commission's committees, grant timeline, mental health forum, and meetings. - Planning Director Mike Hayes presented the FY2019–2020 annual report: 5 rezonings, 7 use permits, 18 zoning ordinance amendments, 1 community plan amendment, and 1 planning commission action. He highlighted work on Langley Business Park, live entertainment definitions for restaurants, tree/shrub enforcement, shared parking credits, and kennel updates, along with staffing vacancies and upcoming priorities. City Council: Recognitions and Consent Agenda - The Council recognized the Virginia Crusaders Athletic Program for 15 years of youth development and community service. - Hampton won the Mayor's Cup Blood Drive; 114 units of blood collected in June, potentially saving 342 lives. The next blood drive is October 18. - The consent agenda (items 1–7), including budget appropriations, minutes, and the 2021 meeting schedule, was approved unanimously. City Council: Public Hearings - Item 11 – Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-0287 (adding four uses to the M2 Light Manufacturing district) was presented by Hannah Sabo and unanimously approved. - Items 8, 9, and 10 – vehicle-related amendments (City Code 20-0290 on inoperable vehicles, Zoning 20-0288 on definitions, and Zoning 20-0289 on use standards) were presented jointly by Hannah Sabo and Kim Michael. Changes include a 10-day compliance period (down from 60 days), stricter screening for inoperable vehicles, and new use-permit requirements for certain vehicle uses. Each item was approved unanimously. - No speakers signed up for any of these public hearings. City Council: Public Comments Six citizens spoke: - Bethany Stevenson opposed pandemic restrictions and mask mandates, citing personal hardship, the closure of playgrounds, and her belief that healthy children face minimal COVID risk; she called the measures “government overreach.” - Ronnie Yarrington raised complaints about road maintenance, manholes, a drainage project, and grass clippings blowing into the street; he also mentioned a gas line installation. - Craig Knopp asked the Council to lobby the Governor to revise HB 5058, which he said prevents police from stopping drivers for broken headlights or taillights, citing nighttime safety concerns. - Brenda Marks questioned the proposed sale of Sunset Creek Boat Ramp to Blue Water, presenting a Fire Chief's letter about its operational importance for public safety access to Hampton Creek, and alleging a 12-year encroachment that the city did not enforce. - Galen Kanoitz, president of the Hampton Branch NAACP, requested an ordinance prohibiting firearms at polling places and public buildings, citing increased gun permits and the need to protect voters on November 3. - Rebecca Wynne echoed the request, noting that state and federal laws cover schools but not libraries and community centers used as polling places. City Council: General Items and Appointments - Item 12 – Ordinance 20-0294 (wireless infrastructure in streets and sidewalks) was presented by Terry O'Neill and Bonnie Brown. Council members discussed enforcement of the 90-day abandonment provision. It was unanimously approved. - Item 13 – Resolution 20-0295 approved Hampton's participation in an ERIFA regional economic development project to purchase 432 acres in York County and lease about 250 acres to KDC Solar LLC for a solar farm; Hampton's projected contribution is $15,000 in the first year and $5,000 in each of the next four years. It was unanimously approved. - A motion to defer appointments to the Planning Commission, Golf Course Advisory Committee, and Senior Citizens Advisory Committee until November 12, 2020 was unanimously approved. - Reappointments of Brenda Stokes and Wayne Gomes to the Peninsula Stadium Authority, appointment of A.G. Wombles to that authority, and appointment of Grady McLean to the Hampton Clean City Commission were unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Planning Commission unanimously recommended: rezoning 20-0007 with five proffered conditions; zoning ordinance amendments 20-00023 and 20-00024. - City Council unanimously approved: consent agenda (1–7), ordinance 20-0287, ordinance 20-0290, ordinance 20-0288, ordinance 20-0289, ordinance 20-0294, resolution 20-0295, and the appointments; deferred certain appointments to November 12, 2020.

Date: September 17, 2020, 20:30 UTC The Hampton Planning Commission convened to discuss several use permits, zoning ordinance amendments, and receive briefings. Key actions included a tied vote on extending hours for a historical horse racing facility, unanimous approval of an indoor shooting range use permit, and unanimous recommendations on zoning changes for vehicle-related uses and manufacturing districts. The commission also heard updates on youth planning, resiliency projects, and multifamily zoning regulations. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved with one abstention (Dr. Coleman, who was absent). Vote: Dr. Coleman (abstain), Ms. Kellum (aye), Mr. Southall (aye), Mr. Brown (aye), Mr. Bond (aye), Chairman Garrison (aye), Vice Chair Carter (aye). Public Comments & Testimony - Zena Middleton (44 Filmore, Hampton) spoke in opposition to the condition of a used car dealership at 112-116 West Pembroke Avenue. She noted 13 inoperable vehicles on the lot with only 3-4 for sale, tall grass, and lack of screening near a residential home. She requested that zoning amendments include fencing or tree lines for non-conforming businesses to improve aesthetics. No vote was taken on her specific concerns, but the amendments addressed outdoor storage screening. Discussion Items Use Permit 20-3 – Extension of Hours for Rosie's (Historical Horse Racing Facility) - Proposal: Colonial Downs Group LLC sought to amend condition 9 of an existing use permit to extend daily operating hours from 8am-2am to 8am-4am at 1990-1996 Power Plant Parkway. - Staff Report (Donald Whipple): The facility opened in October 2019, but COVID-19 caused a 3-month closure, resulting in only 7 months of operational data. Police reports showed no significant incidents attributed to the site. The Coliseum Central Business Improvement District and police supported the extension. Staff offered two options: defer for 12 months of data or approve now. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners Bond and Brown opposed because they wanted 12 months of data to remain consistent with policy. Commissioners Kellum and Southall supported approval, noting positive reports and community benefit. Commissioner Coleman initially voted against but later joined Brown and Bond in a tie. Chairman Garrison and Vice Chair Carter's votes created a 3-3 tie. - Motion to Defer: A motion to defer until February 2021 failed 3-3 (Coleman, Brown, Bond aye; Kellum, Southall, Garrison, Carter nay). - Motion to Reconsider: A motion to reconsider the first vote failed 2-4 (Kellum, Southall aye; Coleman, Brown, Bond, Carter nay; Garrison not voting?). Use Permit 20-4 – Indoor Shooting Range - Proposal: Research Holdings LLC requested a use permit to operate an indoor shooting range within a mobile trailer anchored to an existing concrete pad at 34 Research Drive. - Staff Report (Donald Whipple): The trailer is the same previously used at NASA Drive. The primary business (Threat Tech) serves DOD and law enforcement clients. Staff recommended approval with seven conditions. - Public Comment: None. - Commission Vote: Unanimous approval (7-0). Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-22 – M2 District Uses - Proposal: Add manufacturing/processing/treatment one, office/laboratory/research, utility infrastructure for government functions (permitted by right), and railroad tracks (permitted with use permit) to the Light Manufacturing (M2) district. - Staff Report (Hannah Sabo): The amendment aligns M2 with other light manufacturing districts and supports economic development. - Public Comment: None. - Commission Vote: Unanimous recommendation for approval (7-0). Zoning Ordinance Amendments 20-11 (Definitions) and 20-18 (Uses) – Vehicle-Related Uses - Proposal: Clarify definitions (e.g., light/heavy vehicle repair, outdoor storage, scrap metal processor) and change how certain uses are permitted (e.g., requiring use permits for heavy vehicle repair, outdoor vehicle storage, salvage). Also amend city code to limit unscreened inoperable vehicles to licensed heavy vehicle repair businesses. - Staff Report (Hannah Sabo): Goals include codifying existing interpretations, aligning with DMV terms, and adding oversight. - Public Comment: Zena Middleton expressed concerns about non-conforming dealerships and requested fencing requirements. - Commission Vote: Unanimous recommendation for approval for both 20-11 and 20-18 (7-0 each). Youth Plan Report - Maya Patterson (Senior Youth Planner) presented: New youth commissioners selected, boot camp held July 28-29, new youth planner Jericho Nicely appointed, and committees formed (Youth Voice, Youth Master Plan, Grants, Community Youth Initiative). Virtual youth forum on depression planned for winter. Resilient Hampton Update - David Imbergia (Resiliency Officer) briefed on projects in the New Market Creek watershed: road raising (Armistead Avenue), green parking lots, rain garden grant program (up to $1,000/property), and partnerships with Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Council exploring options to reverse impervious surface increase and tree canopy loss. Multifamily Zoning Regulations Briefing - Alison (Senior Planner) presented a two-phase approach to improve multifamily development quality. Phase one (proposed for October) would: grandfather existing apartments, permit upper-floor dwelling units by right, create a new "residential mixed-use" definition, require use permits for multifamily outside Buckroe and Phoebus, and add standards (minimum 30 units/acre, frontage, parking behind, open space amenities, elevation for sea level rise). Phase two will address Coliseum Central and downtown districts. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 20-3 (Rosie's hours): Motion to approve failed 3-3 (Kellum, Southall, Garrison aye?; Coleman, Brown, Bond nay; Carter? resulting in a tie). Motion to defer failed 3-3. The application was forwarded to City Council without a recommendation. - Use Permit 20-4 (Indoor shooting range): Approved unanimously (7-0) to recommend to City Council. - Zoning Amendment 20-22 (M2 uses): Recommended for approval unanimously (7-0). - Zoning Amendments 20-11 & 20-18 (Vehicle uses): Recommended for approval unanimously (7-0 each). - Elections: Postponement of chair and vice chair elections to the October meeting was approved unanimously. - Next Steps: City Council will consider use permits and zoning amendments in coming weeks. The multifamily zoning ordinance will be presented for adoption at the October planning commission meeting.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on August 20, 2020, to consider four zoning ordinance amendments related to residential green area, parking on lawns, enforcement procedures, and infill housing, as well as two amendments governing motor homes and recreational vehicle storage. After extensive discussion and public testimony, the commission recommended approval of most measures, though the key green area regulation (20-14) failed on a tie vote, and the enforcement measure (20-17) was approved. The RV measures also received favorable recommendations. The meeting included roll call, approval of prior minutes, a public hearing, and a community development report. Consent Calendar - Approval of July 2020 Minutes: Motion to accept without corrections; passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Virginia Lyet (126 Wilderness Road): Opposed the proposed changes, specifically criticizing the reduction of the appeal period for parking violations from 30 to 10 days, the cost burden on homeowners to install improved driveways, and the requirement for gravel driveways to have borders (which she noted could be a trip hazard). Urged the commission to revisit the entire proposal. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-13 (Definitions): Presented by Zoning Administrator Hannah Sabo. Established new definitions for terms used in the green area and parking regulations. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-14 (Green Area Regulations): Proposed requiring 50–75% green area in front street‑frontage yards on residential lots, with parking allowed only on improved surfaces. Effective July 1, 2021 for parking; green area rules effective immediately upon council adoption. Commissioners debated cost impacts on long‑term residents, exceptions for streets with no street parking, and the 10‑day appeal period vs. 30 days. The motion to approve failed on a tie vote (3‑3? vote recorded as tied; motion failed). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-17 (Enforcement / Notice of Violation): Reduced the appeal period from 30 to 10 days for short‑term, recurring vehicle violations (parking on lawns, motor home/commercial truck parking). Passed 4‑2 with debate over fairness for citizens who are out of town or hospitalized. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-19 (Infill Housing Overlay – Green Area): Removed the existing 50% green area requirement for infill housing districts, as it became duplicative under 20-14. Passed 5‑1 (one commissioner voted no on the overall green area package but approved this technical amendment). - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 20-15 and 20-16 (Motor Homes and Towed Recreational Equipment): Presented by Community Development staff member Mike Hayes (filling in for Terry O’Neill). 20-15 redefined terms (motor home, towed recreational equipment, transient); 20-16 limited the number and location of such vehicles on residential lots (max 2 on lots <5 acres, up to 4 on larger lots; parking allowed on driveways and in street frontage yards under certain conditions). Commissioners raised concerns about allowing large vehicles in front yard setbacks and potential impacts on neighborhood appearance and property values. No public speakers. Both amendments passed (20-15: 5‑1; 20-16: voice vote with majority in favor). Key Outcomes - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-13 (Definitions): Approved unanimously. Recommended to City Council. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-14 (Green Area Regulations): Motion to approve failed on a tie vote (recorded as 3‑3?); no recommendation forwarded to City Council. The commission noted the tie vote in the record. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-17 (Enforcement): Passed 4‑2. Recommended to City Council. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-19 (Infill Housing Overlay): Passed 5‑1. Recommended to City Council. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-15 (Definitions for Motor Homes/RVs): Passed 5‑1. Recommended to City Council. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-16 (Motor Home and RV Storage/Parking): Passed by majority (voice vote, no formal tally). Recommended to City Council. - Community Development Report: Staff reminded residents to complete the 2020 Census; Terry O’Neill was absent due to illness. The meeting adjourned after commissioner remarks.

The Hampton Planning Commission convened on August 11, 2020 to consider a zoning ordinance amendment and receive briefings on lawn parking and RV parking regulations. The meeting included approval of minutes and a recommendation on the zoning amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from June 25, 2020, unanimously. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00012: Zoning Administrator Hannah Sabo presented a proposal to amend Chapter 12 to restrict expansion of legally nonconforming uses and structures. The amendment would limit commercial nonconforming uses to their current land area, allow residential nonconforming uses to expand within the parcel, and require additions to nonconforming structures to meet current setbacks. Staff recommended approval. - Commissioner South Hall asked about expanding a nonconforming garage; staff clarified additions must comply with current setbacks. - Commissioner Bond inquired about outdoor seating for restaurants during COVID-19; staff stated creating new outdoor seating would require compliance with current regulations. - No public comments. The commission voted to approve (all ayes). Forwarded to city council. - Community Director's Report - Parking on Residential Lawns: Mike presented a non-action briefing on proposed regulations to restrict parking on front lawns. Goals include improving resilience and neighborhood character while considering cost burdens. Staff proposed requiring a minimum green area percentage (e.g., 50% for smaller lots) and limiting paved surfaces. Parking on lawns would be prohibited except for exceptions (special events, street sweeping, flooding, car washing). Enforcement would be through zoning violations with a 10-day notice; a 6-12 month delay before enforcement would allow outreach. Commissioners expressed concerns: Commissioner South Hall questioned necessity and potential hardship; Commissioner Callum suggested neighborhood-by-neighborhood approach; Commissioner Brown noted the issue originated from neighborhoods. - Community Director's Report - RV Parking Regulations: Mike presented a non-action briefing to update RV parking rules. The current 28-ft length limit is unenforceable. Staff proposed: repeal current regulations; allow up to two RVs on lots under 5 acres (only one motorhome); motorhomes cannot park in front yards; all RVs must maintain visibility of the house; larger lots (over 5 acres with 100-ft setback) could have up to four RVs (two motorhomes). No size restrictions, no limit on hookup duration. Commissioners discussed visual obstruction concerns; Commissioner South Hall emphasized front-yard setback issues. Staff noted input from focus groups and council. Commissioner Callum asked about storage alternatives; staff acknowledged limited and costly options. Key Outcomes - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-00012 approved unanimously; forwarded to city council. - No formal action on lawn parking or RV parking; staff will bring back polished versions for a vote on August 20, 2020, and then to council on September 9, 2020. - Commissioners thanked outgoing Councilman Brown for his service on the commission.

The Hampton Planning Commission met on June 25, 2020, to consider several zoning ordinance amendments. All items were recommended unanimously for approval to the Hampton City Council, which will meet on July 8, 2020. Public comments focused on the withdrawal of a rezoning application for the Sunset Creek Boat Ramp, with speakers urging transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process. The meeting also included a director's report previewing future regulatory changes. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the February 20th and June 4th meetings by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Jill Davis (working with the Save Sunset Boat Ramp group, speaking as an individual) requested that the Planning Commission ask the city to provide information packages for future decisions that include: (a) perspectives from all impacted groups (noting the absence of Parks & Recreation input on the boat ramp privatization); (b) economic analysis of current revenue from the ramp and potential impact of privatization; and (c) copies of original source documents used to support recommendations. She also emphasized the importance of making all documentation part of the public record. - Claire Newbert (405 Elizabeth Lake Drive) thanked the Commission for deferring the rezoning of the boat ramp parcels, stressed the ramp's importance to diverse users, safety, and family traditions, and noted that $208,750 in tax dollars was spent on ramp upgrades in 2009. She argued that selling the ramp and building another is not a viable 'win-win' due to ecological disruption. - Jeff McMahon (97 Allegheny Road) submitted a letter from the Olde Wythe Neighborhood Association opposing the sale of the Sunset Creek Boat Launch and associated properties. He also urged the city to follow its own manual requiring posting of rezoning notices at the property, criticizing the reliance on newspaper ads and letters to nearby owners. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 20-3 and 20-6 (Infill Housing Overlay): Staff explained that the amendments would relax front yard setback requirements for lots where the average block setback exceeds 30 feet, providing a minimum setback of 30 feet. This addresses issues where current averages pushed houses onto neighboring lots or into the Chesapeake Bay Preservation District. Amendments also remove the definition of 'infill lot' as redundant. Staff recommended approval. Commissioners discussed the relationship between the new setback and Chesapeake Bay protections, with staff noting that while the change could allow development to pull closer to the street, all Bay requirements still apply. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 20-7 and 20-8 (Fence and Overgrowth Regulations): Staff presented amendments that complement city code changes (which the Commission does not act on) to regulate overgrown shrubs, trees, and other vegetation. The zoning amendments add definitions of 'fence' and 'natural fence,' and make technical clarifications: fences can be in setbacks, vision clearance at corners, no encroachment into easements, and fences count as impervious area. Enforcement would include notices, voluntary compliance, abatement by city contractor with lien, or court summons with fines up to $1,000. Discussion covered how enforcement would work, the grandfathering of existing fences/hedges, and how overgrowth criteria would be applied. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 20-9 and 20-10 (Restaurants and Breweries with ABC Licenses): Staff presented amendments that add a use permit requirement for restaurants and microbreweries/distilleries/wineries holding a retail alcoholic beverage license, in response to House Bill 731 and Senate Bill 676. The amendments allow use permits to expire upon change of ownership, tenant, or business entity. Staff noted that existing use permits would be grandfathered, and the change only applies to new permits after the ordinance takes effect. Discussion clarified grandfathering, conditions for new owners, and the rationale for tying permits to operators rather than just locations. - Director's Report: Staff gave a preview of upcoming regulatory proposals, including: parking on lawns, required green area, RV parking (including motor homes and boats), aligning vehicle use definitions with DMV, tightening non-conforming use expansion, multifamily housing regulations, and limiting impervious surface as part of the Resilient Hampton initiative. Key Outcomes - Unanimous motions to approve all four sets of zoning ordinance amendments (20-3, 20-6, 20-7, 20-8, 20-9, 20-10) to be forwarded to City Council for the July 8, 2020 meeting. - The rezoning application 20-0004 (Sunset Creek Boat Ramp) was withdrawn by the property owner (the City of Hampton), and no action was taken by the Commission. Public comment on the item was heard under the public comment section. - Commissioners directed staff to forward public comments about the boat ramp to the Citizens Advisory Group for their information. Next Steps - The City Council will consider the recommended zoning ordinance amendments at its July 8, 2020 regular meeting. - Staff will continue drafting regulations for the items previewed in the director's report.