The Hampton Planning Commission convened on February 20, 2020, to address routine approvals, public hearings for rezoning and zoning ordinance amendments, and other city business. The meeting included unanimous approvals on most items, with a split vote on one amendment. All actions are recommendations to the Hampton City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. (Motion by Dr. Coleman, seconded; all members voted aye.) - Planning Commission Action 19-0001: Relocation of a natural gas regulator station by Virginia Natural Gas to a city-owned site at 2972 N. Armistead Avenue. Staff (Frank Glover) presented that the move places the station further from the runway center line, is within the Chesapeake Bay Preservation District, and includes native landscaping. The commission voted unanimously to approve the relocation. Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning 19-00006: No public speakers signed up. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 19-12 & 19-13 (joint hearing): Two speakers expressed support: - Raymond Tripp, Executive Director of Coliseum Central, spoke in favor, noting a multi-year process and the goal of reducing sign clutter while improving property aesthetics. - John Mills, of Southeastern Development (owner/developer of Riverdale Shopping Center), spoke in favor, stating that the current sign ordinance burdens large shopping centers and praising the staff's work. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-0001: No public speakers. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-0002: No public speakers. Discussion Items - Rezoning 19-00006: The application by STM Properties Inc. sought to rezone 0.68 acres at 2135 W. Pembroke Avenue and 658 Vaughan Avenue from General Commercial (C3) and One-Family Residential (R9) to One-Family Residential (R9) with conditions, to allow construction of two single-family homes. Staff noted consistency with the low-density residential land use plan and a similar 2015 rezoning nearby. The motion to approve included seven conditions and passed unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Amendments 19-12 & 19-13: These related amendments addressed definitions for business park shopping centers and sign regulations within the Coliseum Central Overlay District. Staff (Donald) presented an incentive-based approach: larger centers (≥20 acres or ≥200,000 square feet, corrected from an initial misstatement of 200 square feet) could qualify for additional freestanding signs (up to four 16-foot, 125-sq-ft signs vs. the current two 12-foot, 90-sq-ft signs), combination signs (22 feet, 225 sq ft), and increased wall signage (up to three facades and 1.5 sq ft per linear foot). These incentives require meeting Coliseum Central design standards. Commissioner questions addressed sign sizes, comparisons to other jurisdictions, and the rationale for the original smaller sizes. Both amendments passed unanimously after separate motions. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-0001: Proposed to create a parking credit for city-owned property used for governmental purposes. Hannah Sabo (Zoning Administrator) explained that the city can coordinate event schedules (e.g., Coliseum, Convention Center, future Aquatic Center) to reduce required parking, thereby reducing impervious surfaces and supporting resiliency goals. Staff recommended approval; the motion passed unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 20-0002: Proposed to add "manufacturing, processing, and treatment one" as a by-right use in the Hampton Road Center North (HRC2) district. Staff argued this would make the park competitive with others and attract job-creating uses. Commissioner Southall expressed concerns about compatibility with existing businesses and competition with Langley Research Park, and also questioned whether a use permit would be more appropriate for control. The motion passed 3-2, with Commissioner Southall and Chairman Garrison dissenting. Key Outcomes - Minutes: Approved unanimously. - PCA 19-0001: Approved unanimously. - Rezoning 19-00006: Approved unanimously with seven conditions. - ZOA 19-00012: Approved unanimously. - ZOA 19-00013: Approved unanimously. - ZOA 20-00001: Approved unanimously. - ZOA 20-00002: Approved 3-2 (Commissioners Coleman, Carter, and Bond in favor; Commissioner Southall and Chairman Garrison opposed). Other Announcements - The student planner forum is scheduled for March 16, 2020, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Hampton Convention Center, focusing on youth participation in city elections. - The Parks and Recreation master plan public input session originally scheduled for tonight (February 20) has been postponed; a rescheduled date (likely March 31) should be confirmed on the city's website. The meeting adjourned with a reminder to drive safely due to snow.
Public Meetings - Hampton, Virginia
Public Meetings - Hampton, VirginiaThe Hampton Planning Commission met on Thursday, January 16, 2020, at 8:30 PM (UTC). Chairman Garrison presided with seven members present. Assistant City Manager Bond filled in for City Manager Mary Bunting. The commission addressed deferrals, a contested use permit for vehicle storage, and received a youth planner report. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously; Chairman Garrison abstained because he was out of town. - The annual meeting calendar was adopted unanimously, allowing items to automatically move to the next meeting if a meeting is postponed due to weather. Public Comments & Testimony - Public hearing opened for use permit application 19-00012. Three signed speakers and one unscheduled speaker addressed the commission. - Billy Wood, owner of Woods Orchard (183 East Mercury Blvd), requested denial, describing the proposed vehicle storage as a "junkyard" and urging high-end development on Mercury Boulevard. - Cliff Rowe (220 East Mercury Blvd), representing Countryside Gardens and Mercury Mulch, expressed concern that the auto storage would hurt property resale values. - David Rosser, owner of adjacent Mercury Storage and 197 East Mercury Blvd, complained about flooding caused by the property's drainage, cars parking in front of the fence, and the overall poor condition of the lot. - Bowie Mien, the applicant's father, spoke in support, explaining the storage was needed for vehicles awaiting repair or insurance approval and that access was separated from the daycare. Discussion Items - Deferrals: Rezoning application 19-00005 (STM Properties Inc., 2135 West Pembroke Ave) was deferred to February due to a defective public notice. Zoning ordinance amendments 19-00012 (definitions for Business Park Shopping Center 1 and 2) and 19-00013 (sign regulations for Coliseum Central Overlay District) were also deferred to the February meeting. The commission clarified that the deferral of 19-00012 applied only to the zoning ordinance amendment, not the use permit application with the same number. - Use Permit 19-00012: VOI Nguyen requested a use permit to allow vehicle storage at 199 East Mercury Boulevard. Staff (Mike Hayes) recommended denial, citing the property's low-density residential future land use designation and its location along a residential corridor. The property had been cited for operating vehicle storage without a permit in 2019. Applicant Tri Nguyen stated the lot would hold 30–50 vehicles, primarily abandoned or awaiting repair, and that he would sublease to a nearby body shop. Commissioner concerns included safety for the adjacent daycare, flooding, enforcement of the 60-day storage limit, and consistency with the community plan. - Youth Planner Report: William Klotz reported that the grants committee approved five applicants totaling $12,250 on December 16; the youth voice committee is planning a March candidates forum; and the youth master plan update committee is analyzing survey data. Grant recipients included a government workshop program ($1,600), Bethel High School Student Accounts Association (first responder breakfast and special needs Valentine's dance), Hampton High School Air Force JROTC (military ball and beautification project), Hampton High School junior class of 2021 (college prep and clothing closet), and a Hampton High School K-pop cultural fair. - Announcements: Commissioner Southall extended condolences to Vice Chair Dr. Christopher Cotter for the loss of his nephew. Mention was made of the Buckroe Master Plan public meeting on January 28 and the Newmarket Creek resilience presentation to city council on January 22. Key Outcomes - All three deferral motions passed unanimously (7-0): rezoning 19-00005, zoning ordinance 19-00012, and zoning ordinance 19-00013. - The motion to deny use permit 19-00012 passed unanimously (7-0). The commission forwarded a recommendation of denial to Hampton City Council. - The youth planner report was received; no formal action was taken.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on December 19, 2019, at 8:30 PM UTC to consider several use permits, comprehensive plan and zoning amendments related to the Langley Research and Development Park, and receive a youth planner presentation. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the November 21, 2019 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda items. Discussion Items - Use Permit 19-00011: Application for a self-storage facility with mixed-use component. Staff recommended six conditions. The applicant's representative, RJ Nutter, spoke in support. The permit was approved unanimously with six conditions. - Use Permit 19-00010: Application for a self-storage facility at 5200 West Mercury Boulevard as part of a mixed commercial development. Staff recommended eight conditions. The applicant's representative spoke in support. The permit was approved unanimously with eight conditions. - Langley Research and Development Park Related Items: Multiple items were discussed collectively due to their interrelated nature. They included: - Comprehensive Plan Amendment 19-00001 - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00009 (with corrected use table) - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00010 - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00011 - Rezoning 19-0005 Staff presented the background, noting extensive work with a stakeholder committee. Commission members and staff praised the collaborative process. All items were approved unanimously after separate motions and roll-call votes. - Youth Planner Presentation: Maya from the Youth Commission reported on activities: the grants committee processed six grants and held a public hearing; the youth master plan survey data collection is underway; and Youth Voice is building relationships with YAG and planning a candidates forum. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 19-00011 approved (unanimous). - Use Permit 19-00010 approved (unanimous). - Comprehensive Plan Amendment 19-00001 approved (unanimous). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00009 (with corrected use table) approved (unanimous). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00010 approved (unanimous). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00011 approved (unanimous). - Rezoning 19-0005 approved (unanimous). - All items were forwarded to City Council with a strong recommendation for approval.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on November 21, 2019, to consider a use permit application, receive an update on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and hear a report from the Youth Planning Commission. All actions were recommendations to the Hampton City Council. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes of the previous meeting with a vote of 6–0–1 (Dr. Coleman abstained, noting absence). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up or spoke on any item. Discussion Items - Use Permit Application 19-0009 – Virginia School of Hair Design - Staff presented a request to permit a private cosmetology school at 4107–4111 West Mercury Boulevard (zoned C‑2 limited commercial). Seven recommended conditions were outlined, including indoor operations, state certification, and on-site drop‑off/pickup. - Applicant Barbara Ann Lenoble (Virginia School of Hair Design) described plans to expand the existing 18,000‑square‑foot space to include master barber, aesthetics, and tattooing programs. She confirmed no subleasing of space. A revised floor plan was provided and accepted by the commission. - Commissioner Southall asked about operating hours; staff explained that no hours condition was needed because by‑right commercial uses could operate 24/7. No public speakers appeared. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Update - Jake Sherwood (Budget Division, CIP coordinator) reviewed the FY2020–2024 CIP total of $300.5 million, funding sources (bonds, general fund, state/federal resources), and alignment with council strategic priorities (e.g., Good Government, Placemaking, Economic Growth). Challenges include limited resources, unfunded mandates, and infrastructure maintenance. - Next steps: December briefing to City Council, January work session, February public hearing. Commissioner asked about placemaking; staff explained it includes park improvements, bike/pedestrian projects, and public art. - Youth Planning Commission Report - Youth Planner William Kloss reported on October activities: committee work (grants, youth voice), a guest speaker on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan update, and a CIP presentation identical to the one received by the commission. He noted the grants committee is reviewing applications for youth‑oriented projects. - Nicole Dennis (Parks and Recreation) provided an update on the Money Life financial literacy program, implemented at North Phoebus and West Hampton Community Centers using a curriculum provided by the Youth Commission. The program begins December 2 for 75 middle and high school students. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 19-0009 was approved unanimously (7‑0) with the seven staff‑recommended conditions and the applicant’s revised floor plan as Exhibit B. - The CIP update was received; no formal action was taken. The youth planner report was accepted as information. - The meeting adjourned after no further business.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on October 17, 2019, at 20:30 UTC. The meeting included a public hearing on a use permit for live entertainment at Guy Fieri's Dive and Taco Joint, a youth planner presentation, and a pre-recorded educational segment on building permits. The commission unanimously recommended approval of the use permit with 12 conditions. Call to Order & Approval of Minutes - Chairman Garrison called the meeting to order. Roll call: Dr. Coleman, Miss Callum, Mr. South Hall, Dr. Carter, Mr. Brown, Miss Bonsing, and Chairman Garrison were present. - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved by a unanimous voice vote. Public Hearing: Use Permit 19-0008 – Live Entertainment at Guy Fieri's Dive and Taco Joint - Staff Presentation: City Planner Frank Glover presented the request by HPP Western LLC for a live entertainment (Level 2) use permit at 1976 C Power Plant Parkway (Guy Fieri's Dive and Taco Joint). The restaurant already held a Level 1 permit but sought Level 2 because the performance area exceeds 75 square feet and they wish to extend hours beyond Level 1 limits. Proposed activities: bands Thursday–Saturday 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., and a DJ on select evenings (e.g., Tuesdays) 9 p.m. to midnight. No dance floor. Music would be piped to an outdoor covered deck via speakers. The property is in the C-2 zoning district, within the Coliseum Central Overlay District and the Power Plant Parkway Initiative area. Staff recommended 12 conditions, including: security personnel at a minimum of one per 75 patrons for the live entertainment area, with at least one security staff posted outside; compliance with the city noise ordinance; no dance floor; consistent seating layout; and adherence to hours of operation. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation: Lisa Murphy, attorney for the applicant, thanked staff and noted that the investment in the space was $1.6 million. She stated that the restaurant currently has over 80 employees and serves 150 guests on a typical weekday and 350 on weekends. She emphasized that the venue is part of a larger entertainment destination with PBR and Guy Fieri's Pizza Parlor, all under the same management and ABC license. She argued that impacts are limited due to the location near Interstate 64 and Bass Pro Lake, with ample parking and similar nearby uses. She consented to the 12 conditions. - Commissioner Questions: Mr. Brown asked about security enhancements. Antoine Del Carpio, Director of Operations, explained that security is based on capacity, with a minimum of one per 75 patrons, and they increase staffing for special events. They also employ off-duty Hampton police officers (at least two) paid by the establishment. Security is provided by a third-party company under contract. Mr. Brown inquired whether security personnel are DCJS (Department of Criminal Justice Services) certified; Del Carpio did not have that information immediately but said he would follow up. Commissioner Bonsing asked about noise from music piped outdoors; Murphy responded that most patrons would be inside, and the outdoor music would be modest, with no competing bands because all three facilities are under the same management. - Public Comment: No members of the public signed up to speak. - Vote: Commissioner Bonsing moved to approve Use Permit 19-0008 with the 12 conditions; the motion was seconded. Roll call: Dr. Coleman – aye, Miss Callum – aye, Mr. South Hall – aye, Dr. Carter – aye, Mr. Brown – aye, Miss Bonsing – aye, Chairman Garrison – aye. The use permit was recommended for approval to City Council unanimously. Community Development Director's Report - Director Hayes introduced the monthly Youth Planner presentation. Junior Youth Planner Maya Patterson presented the October Youth Plan Report. She summarized activities in September: four general meetings and two executive meetings; committees worked on a memo to City Council, grants interest meeting preparations, planning for a candidate forum in March, implementing a financial literacy program with Parks and Recreation, and updating the youth master plan using data from Dream Studios. Next steps for November include two committee meetings, two commission meetings, and a second grants interest meeting on November 25. Round Robin Interview: Building Permits and Development Services - The meeting concluded with a pre-recorded episode of "Round Robin" hosted by Robin McCormick, featuring Hannah Sabo, head of the Development Services Center. The segment covered the permit process for homeowners and contractors, including: when permits are required (e.g., interior work that moves walls or plumbing, new construction, additions, decks, fences); why permits are needed (state and federal building codes, safety, resale value); permit fees as user fees; the risk of early start penalties; checking contractor licenses via DPOR; the importance of calling the city (311) before starting work; and special considerations for properties in flood zones or the Chesapeake Bay Preservation District (100-foot buffer, requirements for impervious surfaces). Sabo emphasized that the city's goal is to partner with homeowners to ensure safe construction. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 19-0008 (live entertainment at Guy Fieri's Dive and Taco Joint) was recommended for approval by the City Council with 12 conditions, on a unanimous vote (7-0). - The monthly Youth Planner report was presented and received. - The meeting included an informational segment on building permits, reinforcing the city's commitment to code compliance and safety.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on September 19, 2019, to elect officers, consider a use permit amendment for a trash sorting facility, approve a zoning ordinance amendment regarding live entertainment parking, and receive a presentation from the Hampton Youth Commission. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Election of Officers - Chair: Carol Garrison was elected chair by a vote of 6 ayes (Garrison abstained). - Vice Chair: Chris Carter was elected vice chair by a unanimous vote (Garrison voted aye). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak on either public hearing item. Discussion Items - Use Permit 19-00007 – Bay Disposal and Recycling: Staff presented a request to amend an existing use permit for a recycling sorting facility to also allow sorting of garbage, food, and organic waste at 310 E Street in the Copeland Industrial Park. The property is zoned M3 (heavy manufacturing). Staff recommended approval with 10 conditions, including DEQ licensing, covered outdoor storage of organic waste, and screening. The applicant stated they operate two similar facilities in Smithfield and Norfolk with no violations in 10 years, and that outside storage would be in covered trailers. Commissioners asked about the difference between garbage and organic waste and the facility’s economic viability. No public speakers. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00008 – Live Entertainment Parking: Staff proposed to eliminate the requirement that restaurants, microbreweries, distilleries, and wineries meet parking standards for the base use before adding live entertainment (type one). The amendment aims to support older developments by allowing live entertainment without additional parking if seating capacity does not increase. Staff recommended approval. - Hampton Youth Commission End-of-Year Report: Senior Youth Planner William Closs, Junior Youth Planner Maya Patterson, and Commission Chair Dativa Ayembe presented accomplishments from the past year, including: a joint meeting with City Council resulting in a $20,000 grant for microgrants; partnerships with police, school superintendent, and Neighborhood Commission; a financial literacy program adopted by Parks and Recreation after-school programs; and an update to the Youth Master Plan component of the Community Plan. The commission’s new committees (Grants, Youth Voice, Youth Master Plan) and upcoming events (candidates forum in March, grant applications due Nov. 8) were outlined. - Resilient Hampton Update: Staff announced a second community meeting likely in mid-to-late October to present conceptual designs and cost estimates for projects in the New Market Creek Basin addressing sea level rise, flooding, green infrastructure, and recreational enhancements. Key Outcomes - Use Permit 19-00007: Approved unanimously (7-0) with 10 conditions. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-00008: Approved unanimously (7-0) to advance to City Council. - Youth Commission Presentation: Received; Commissioner South Hall commended the group’s work and requested a summary of the financial literacy program. - No other votes taken.
The meeting began with the Planning Commission, which approved three zoning ordinance amendments related to self-storage facilities and received the annual community development report. The City Council then convened, approving a consent agenda and a separate item for a violent crime review with Johns Hopkins University, conducting a public hearing to rezone property for a Dollar Tree store, and hearing public comments. Consent Calendar (Planning Commission) - Approval of minutes from July 18, 2019 meeting (vote: 6-0-1 abstention due to absence). - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-5: Amended definitions to distinguish three types of self-storage facilities (Storage Facility 1, 2, 3) and warehouse distribution centers. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-6: Amended the use table to add Storage Facility 1 and 2 as permitted uses in certain districts, with additional standards. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment 19-7: Excluded all three storage facility types from the Coliseum Central Overlay District. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Planning Commission: No public speakers on the zoning amendments. - City Council Public Hearing on Rezoning 19-02-44: Raymond Suttle, attorney for applicant DT Retail Properties LLC, spoke in support of the rezoning to allow a Dollar Tree store at 1602 Briarfield Road. He highlighted the reuse of a former gas station site and environmental cleanup. - City Council Public Comments: - Rachelle Wallace requested status updates on community centers (Fox Hill, Old Hampton) and the Boys & Girls Club, and asked to be included in the Johns Hopkins violent crime review committee. - Chauncey Brown presented a historical narrative about the role of Queen Street in Hampton's rhythm and blues and rock and roll music scene from the 1950s-60s, criticizing city planners for neglecting this history. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Annual Report (presented by Mike Hayes): - Performance period April 2018 – March 2019: 8 rezonings, 12 use permits, 21 zoning ordinance amendments. - 100% concurrency rate (staff recommendations adopted by Planning Commission and City Council). - Development services: 1,700+ commercial plans reviews, 1,500+ residential plans reviews, nearly 3,000 zoning reviews. - Hampton Community Plan update delayed due to staff turnover; expected to resume fall 2019. - Resilient Hampton Phase 2 completed; implementation underway. - Hosted Virginia APA state conference with success. - Staffing: two vacancies, new hires (Antonette, Frank, Alison). - Future priorities: vehicle storage/related uses, legal nonconformities, parking credits, RV parking on residential lots. - City Council – Item 16 (Johns Hopkins Violent Crime Review): - Vice Mayor Gray requested elaboration. City Manager explained the sole source contract with Johns Hopkins University to conduct a violent crime review, using a model applied in Milwaukee. The review will involve criminal justice, human services, and community stakeholders to analyze data and develop recommendations to reduce violence. Aimed at reducing violent crimes including homicides, armed robberies, and non-fatal shootings. Approved unanimously. - City Council – Rezoning 19-02-44 (Dollar Tree): - Staff presentation by Antonette: Rezoning from R11 and C1 to C1 with 14 proffered conditions, including a 15-foot landscape buffer, 6-foot fence, sidewalks, dumpster screening, and prohibition of certain uses. Development meeting held June 26, 2019 with 7 attendees; concerns about traffic and crime addressed via police data. Planning Commission recommended approval. - Council discussion: Questions about environmental cleanup of former gas station; applicant confirmed Phase I done, cleanup planned. - Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Planning Commission: - Approved minutes of July 18, 2019. - Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendments 19-5, 19-6, 19-7 (all unanimous). - Received annual report; no formal action. - City Council: - Approved consent agenda items 1-15, 17-18 (unanimous). - Approved item 16 (Johns Hopkins violent crime review sole source contract) (unanimous). - Approved rezoning 19-02-44 with 14 proffered conditions (unanimous). - Heard public comments; city manager responded to Rachelle Wallace's concerns about community center status. Note: The meeting also included announcements about the upcoming Cramtown Seafood Festival, Cities United national convening, and the 400th anniversary commemoration of the arrival of the first Africans.
This meeting of the Hampton Planning Commission, held on July 18, 2019, focused on a rezoning application for a proposed Dollar Tree store and included a report from the Director on the Hampton Youth Commission's recent boot camp. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning to the Hampton City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. All members voted in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Donald Brockwell (resident at 1604 Briarfield Road, adjacent to the proposed property) expressed no opposition to the Dollar Tree, stating anything would look better than the vacant lot he has viewed for 15 years. He requested a taller fence than six feet, as the building elevation is 20 feet, and asked that the proposed rear entrance on Briarfield Road be moved further away from his driveway to align more with the 7-Eleven exit. The applicant's attorney, Ray Suttle Jr., responded that the entrance was moved back from the intersection due to VDOT regulations. Discussion Items - Rezoning Application 19-00001: DT Retail Properties LLC requested to rezone 1.27 acres at 1602 Briarfield Road and 804/806 Aberdeen Road from Single Family Residential (R11) and Neighborhood Commercial (C1) to Neighborhood Commercial (C1) with 14 proffered conditions. The site, formerly an Exxon gas station that has been vacant for about 15 years, would be redeveloped as a corporate-owned Dollar Tree store. Staff member Antonette Folks presented the plan, noting proffers include a 15-foot landscape buffer, six-foot fence, sidewalks, vacation of internal property lines, and an enclosed dumpster. The applicant's attorney Ray Suttle Jr. and Rick Boucher (DT Retail Properties) spoke on the project, mentioning security cameras to address neighborhood crime concerns and stating no traffic increase is anticipated. Commissioner questions addressed environmental concerns: Mr. Boucher confirmed a Phase II study found soil contamination (from the former gas station and hydraulic lift) that will be remediated. In response to a commissioner question about the residential neighbor's buffer, the applicant confirmed the landscape plan includes large canopy trees and a six-foot fence, with trees spaced as close as possible without harming them. - Director's Report: Senior Youth Planner Will Klotz (recently promoted from junior) presented the Hampton Youth Commission (HYC) monthly report. He announced the hiring of Maya Patterson as the new junior youth planner and described the HYC's three-day boot camp held June 18–20, which included team-building, training on norms, history, civic engagement, facilitation, dream studios, minute-taking, and public speaking. The annual retreat for the HYC is scheduled for August 20–22 at Alternatives Inc. Key Outcomes - Vote on Rezoning: The commission voted unanimously (all six members present—Dr. Coleman, Miss Callum, Mr. Southall, Miss Garrison, Mr. Brown, Miss Bunting, and Chairman Carter—voted 'aye') to recommend approval of rezoning application 19-00001 with the 14 proffered conditions. This recommendation will be forwarded to the Hampton City Council for final decision. - Director's Report: The commission acknowledged Will Klotz's promotion and the new hire Maya Patterson, but took no formal action.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on June 20, 2019, to consider zoning and use permit applications, hear public comments, and receive updates from city departments. The meeting included public hearings on three applications for a mixed-use development at Magruder Boulevard, a rezoning for a Phoebus property, and a use permit for live entertainment. The commission also heard a presentation from the senior youth planner.
The Hampton Planning Commission met on May 16, 2019, to consider two public hearing items: a rezoning application for a neighborhood center and a use permit for a microbrewery. The meeting also included a director's report on an upcoming planning conference and a youth planner presentation. The commission approved the rezoning after hearing public testimony and deferred the use permit due to a public notice error. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the April 18, 2019, Planning Commission meeting were approved by a vote of 6 ayes, 1 abstention (Vice Chair Garrison, who was absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Rezoning Application 19-0002 (65 Hall Road): Two nearby residents spoke in opposition. Mark Craig (70 Hall Road) expressed concerns about increased traffic, flooding from a proposed gymnasium addition, and noise from potential outdoor basketball courts. He stated the neighborhood had not been adequately involved. Brenda Bowling (72 Hall Road) echoed flooding fears, worried about property values, parking overflow, and lack of mailed notification about the project. She questioned the selection of the site and the governance model. - Catherine Glass (80 Bells Island Drive), representing the Fox Hill Athletic Association and other community groups, spoke in support. She clarified that the facility is a "neighborhood center" (not a regional community center), that no outdoor basketball courts are planned, and that a working group with monthly meetings is actively shaping programming and governance. She invited neighbors to participate. Discussion Items - Rezoning Application 19-0002 (65 Hall Road): Staff planner Alison Eubank presented the request to rezone 4.9 acres from R-33 (one-family residential) to PO-1 (parks and open space) to allow a neighborhood center (former church acquired by the city in 2018). The site includes wetlands and is in a flood zone. Staff recommended approval with no proffered conditions. Commissioner questions focused on wetlands delineation, the difference between the two wetland types (upland forested vs. tidally influenced), and the community governance model. Commissioners encouraged public involvement in ongoing working group meetings. The vote was unanimous in favor (all ayes). - Use Permit Application 19-00003 (207 East Mellon Street): Staff recommended deferral due to an error in the public notice requirement, which prevented legal action. No public speakers signed up. The commission voted unanimously to defer to the June meeting. - Director's Report: Donald Whipple, chief planner, provided an overview of the American Planning Association Virginia Chapter annual conference to be held in Hampton from July 21-24, 2019, at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The theme is resilience. The conference includes keynote speakers, mobile tours, and networking events. Planning commissioners may attend for free. - Youth Planner Report: Simone presented the monthly report from the Hampton Youth Commission, covering activities in April (finalizing work plans, survey efforts, neighborhood commission meeting, simulated economy committee training). She noted that the Youth Commission completed all listed work plan items. Simone's presentation was her last as she is graduating; she did not disclose her college choice. Key Outcomes - Approved: Rezoning Application 19-0002 (65 Hall Road) from R-33 to PO-1 for a neighborhood center (all ayes). - Deferred: Use Permit Application 19-0003 (207 East Mellon Street) to the June Planning Commission meeting (all ayes). - Noted: Upcoming APA Virginia conference (July 21-24, 2019) and recognition of the youth planner's service.