Public Meetings - Harrisonburg, Virginia

The City Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting lasted until 10:24 PM and covered a proclamation, consent agenda, nine public hearings, supplemental appropriations, and other business. Council Member Alsaadun participated electronically from Washington, D.C., which was approved unanimously. Proclamation Mayor Reed read a proclamation recognizing June 20, 2026 as World Refugee Day, honoring refugees' contributions and affirming Harrisonburg as a welcoming city. Consent Agenda Approved unanimously by a 5-0 vote: - Minutes from May 26, 2026 - Special event application for 2026 July Fireworks display on July 2, 2026 - Special event application for Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance’s Levitt AMP Harrisonburg Music Series (Wednesdays, July 2–September 2, 2026) - Special event application for Harrisonburg Youth TryAthlon on August 8, 2026 - Public hearing on real estate tax rate for FY 2026-2027 set at $1.01 per $100 of assessed value (second reading) Public Comments & Testimony - 6a (1315 Carrera Lane STR): Pat Kuszyk (57 E. Weaver) expressed concerns about parking and traffic on Carrera Lane. Kevin Goertzen, applicant, stated no on-street parking would be needed. Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros spoke on misconceptions about short-term rentals and parking minimums. - 6b (850 Canterbury Court rezoning): Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros spoke in favor, noting the neighborhood's desirability. Robin Lake, applicant, was available for questions. - 6c,6d,6e (1340 South Main Street): Multiple residents spoke against the requests, citing traffic safety, lack of sidewalks, blind turns, and insufficient community engagement. Speakers included Jeff Landes, Lynn Eaton, Kevin Hegg, Nicky Gauthier-Martin, Randy Hoffman, Susan Federline, Eric Spawn, and Joseph Brown. Mike Hendrickson (representative for contract purchaser) explained the reasoning behind the proffer amendments. Heinz Harman, developer, expressed trust in city staff. Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros spoke on the previous proposal and community issues. - 6f (water/sewer rates): No public speakers. - 6g (stormwater utility fee): Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros spoke on the expense of engineered solutions versus natural solutions and the stormwater utility credit. - 6h (erosion control/stormwater fees): No public speakers. - 6i (building code appeals fee): Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros argued against the fee, calling it illogical. - Other public comments: Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros announced upcoming deadlines to file for office, early voting, and a candidate forum on June 17, 2026 at the Simms Center. Discussion Items - 6a: Special Use Permit at 1315 Carrera Lane – Adam Fletcher, Director of Community Development, presented a request for a short-term rental (STR) in the space above an attached garage. The property is the only address on Carrera Lane, zoned R1. The applicant sought to exceed the 90-night limit for homestays. Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions, including limiting to four guests, no requirement for delineated parking, and a pre-operation form. Council approved the permit unanimously (5-0). - 6b: Rezoning at 850 Canterbury Court – Request to rezone from R1 to R8C to allow reduced front setbacks (from 30 ft to 10 ft) for a porch replacement to avoid unstable rocky ground. The applicant proffered the property would remain a single-family detached dwelling. Staff noted the R8 zoning is used as an all-purpose tool for such situations. Council approved unanimously (5-0). - 6c,6d,6e: 1340 South Main Street – Three requests: a proffer amendment (rezoning from R5C to R5C with amended proffers), and two special use permits (one for multifamily buildings with more than 12 units, one for non-residential uses). The site is 1.23 acres at S. Main St. and E. Weaver Ave. The proposal was for 26 units (max 6 two-bedroom), 5,000 sq ft commercial, with conditions on traffic trips and no drive-through. Extensive discussion on traffic concerns from the neighborhood. Public Works Director Tom Hartman explained a road safety assessment could be done. Council voted 4-1 (Dent dissenting) to table the items until the July 28, 2026 meeting to allow community engagement with the developer. - 6f: Water/Sewer/Authority Rate Increase – City Attorney Chris Brown presented an ordinance amendment implementing rate increases approved in the FY 2026-2027 budget: water +27 cents/1,000 gal, sewer +6 cents/1,000 gal, authority +8 cents/1,000 gal. A seasonal tiered rate structure (summer surcharge) was adjusted to charge lower rates for small users (e.g., 5 cents/1,000 gal for usage up to 1,000 gal) and up to 30 cents for over 6,000 gal. Councilmember Alsaadun expressed concern about the increase for city residents but supported a higher rate for county customers; City Manager Banks explained the long-term financial model. The amendment was approved 5-0. - 6g: Stormwater Utility Fee Increase – Keith Thomas presented an amendment increasing the fee by $2 per billing unit (from $8 to $10) to fund drainage improvement projects (Waterman Drive, Charles to Madison, Northeast sections). Estimated project costs were reviewed. A credit program exists for water retention. Council approved 5-0. - 6h: Erosion Control and Stormwater Management Fees – City Engineer Matthew Huston presented an amendment to match state fee increases (first increase since 2014) and adopt CPI adjustments. Fees for small construction (1-5 acres) would rise from $2,700 to $4,100. If the city did not match, it would owe state the higher amount anyway. Council approved 5-0. - 6i: Building Code Appeals Fee – Adam Fletcher presented an amendment formalizing the appeals process with a $300 fee (same as BZA appeals). After discussion, Council approved with amendments: fee reduced to $150, and refunded if appellant prevails. Vote 5-0. - Supplemental Appropriations: - 8a: Removed from agenda by City Manager (related to $35,000 for Police Department from asset forfeiture funds). - 8b: Supplemental for Police Department for Taser, body camera, and in-car camera contracts (financed, $1.9 million accounting adjustment). Approved 5-0. - 8c: Supplemental for General Fund and General Capital Projects Fund including grants, donations, and a $737,000 contribution from JMU for University Boulevard realignment. Approved 5-0. - 9a: Reallocation of Funds – Reallocation of $123,000 from completed Sampson Park Sprayground and other projects to the Kids Castle project. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous 5-0): 6a (special use permit 1315 Carrera Lane), 6b (rezoning 850 Canterbury Court), 6f (water/sewer rate increase), 6g (stormwater fee increase), 6h (erosion/stormwater fees), 6i (building code appeals fee with $150 fee and refund), 8b, 8c (supplementals), 9a (reallocation). - Tabled: Items 6c, 6d, 6e (1340 South Main Street) tabled to July 28, 2026, with directive for developer to engage with the community. Vote 4-1 (Dent dissenting). - Removed from Agenda: Item 8a (Police Department supplemental appropriation) was pulled by City Manager. - Directives: Public Works staff will initiate a roadway safety assessment for the Weaver Avenue/Crawford Street area, independent of the 1340 South Main Street project, to address traffic and pedestrian safety concerns. City Manager noted they would proceed with that analysis. - Councilmember Dent indicated she would be absent on June 23, 2026 (Women in Municipal Government conference). Mayor Reed noted upcoming conferences and events.

This was a test meeting of the Harrisonburg City Council. The agenda listed only Roll Call and Public Comment. No minutes or transcript were available, and the meeting appears to have had no substantive discussion. A time discrepancy exists: the agenda indicates the meeting was scheduled for 4:00 PM local time, but the provided timestamp is 2026-06-09 09:30:00+00:00 (UTC). Roll Call - The meeting began with roll call, but the specific attendance is not recorded. Public Comment - No public comments were documented in the available materials. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or substantive actions were taken during this test meeting.

This meeting was a scheduled test of the City Council meeting procedures. The agenda included standard items such as roll call, moment of silence, pledge of allegiance, special recognition, consent agenda, public hearings, and regular items. However, no substantive discussion or decisions occurred, as the meeting was explicitly designated as a test. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda contained a single test agenda item, but no details were provided or discussed. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were recorded or presented during this test meeting. Discussion Items - No discussion items were taken up. The meeting was held in a test capacity with no formal deliberation. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or directives were made. The meeting served exclusively as a procedural test, and no actions were taken.

The Harrisonburg City Council met on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The agenda included a public hearing on the real estate tax rate, presentations on homelessness, the CDBG action plan, budget adoption, VDOT funding, a downtown planting plan, and an update on the stormwater program. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the May 12, 2026 special and regular meetings. - Approved on second reading a request from Collicello North LLC to amend the approved master development plan for addresses on Collicello Street and Kates Lane. - Adopted on second reading an ordinance for administrative issuance of Encroachment Licenses in downtown. Public Hearing - Real Estate Tax Rate for FY 2026-2027: Larry Propst, Finance Director, presented the proposed rate of $1.01 per $100 of assessed value, unchanged from the prior year. A public hearing is required because reassessments increased by 2.5%. No members of the public spoke. Council voted 5-0 to approve the rate. Discussion Items - Point in Time Count (PIT) Presentation: Kaitlin Heatwole, HMIS Administrator for the Western Virginia Continuum of Care, presented data on homelessness. Key statistics: 422 people experiencing literal homelessness in the region, with 191 in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County; 15% of Harrisonburg's homeless are unsheltered, down from 26% in 2024 due to the Navigation Center. An estimated 4,000 additional people in the region are in "hidden homelessness" (doubled up or in self-paid hotels), with roughly 2,000 in Harrisonburg. 86% of homeless individuals are local. The top factors contributing to homelessness are lack of income/unemployment (58%) and housing affordability. 52% have some income, often fixed. Council discussed the need for prevention programs, permanent supportive housing, and affordable housing units. The presentation was received and filed. - 2026 CDBG Action Plan Approval: Kristin McCombe, CDBG Program Manager, presented the plan. Total allocation is $555,809.29 ($487,477 annual allocation plus $68,332.29 rollover). Funding includes $199,500 for the city's infiltration/inflow program, public services for two organizations, and city projects (school zone safety signage, basketball court resurfacing, ADA sidewalk). No public comments were received during the 30-day comment period. Council voted 5-0 to approve. - FY 2026-2027 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance: City Manager Ande Banks noted that the budget was amended due to the final school budget and confirmed CDBG allocation. Finance Director Larry Propst stated the total budget decreased by approximately $1 million from the previously presented $407 million budget, primarily due to adjustments in school funding. Council voted 5-0 to adopt. - VDOT Project Funding and Signature Authority Resolution: Tom Hartman, Public Works Director, explained the resolution commits matching funds for VDOT grants and authorizes the city manager and deputy city manager to sign agreements. This resolution is renewed every four years. Council voted 5-0 to adopt. - Downtown Master Planting Plan Presentation: Jeremy Harold, Greenspace Manager, presented the plan developed with Virginia Tech. The plan has a "lean" (phase one) and "dream" (phase two) approach, focusing on gateways, intersections, Court Square, and parking lots. Goals include improving pedestrian experience, native plantings, heat mitigation, and tree canopy. Council discussed invasive species (staff assured no invasives will be used), food forests, maintenance, and budget. City Manager Banks noted that budget constraints limit implementation to the lean plan. The plan was received and filed. - Stormwater Improvement Plan (SWIP) Update and Program Update: Keith Thomas, Sustainability and Environmental Manager, presented the updates jointly. The SWIP update identifies priority best management practices (BMPs) to meet Chesapeake Bay 2028 targets and local TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) for Blacks Run and Cooks Creek. The TMDL standard was described as nearly unattainable (estimated 300+ years at current pace); the city plans rolling five-year cycles extending to 2073. Public engagement included surveys in eight languages. The update also covered a proposed MOU with Harrisonburg City Public Schools (HCPS) for BMP maintenance: Public Works will handle non-routine maintenance and potential upgrades, with HCPS reimbursing the city. Council discussed the long-term cost and the stormwater utility fee credit program for residents. Council voted 5-0 to approve the SWIP update; the program update was received and filed. Public Comments (Non-Agenda) - Michael Alexio, a resident, advocated for a 5-cent fee on plastic bags at grocery stores, convenience stores, and pharmacies, citing environmental harm and litter. He referenced Virginia Code §58.1-1745, which enables local governments to adopt such a tax. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Votes (all 5-0): - Approved real estate tax rate of $1.01 per $100 assessed value for FY 2026-2027. - Approved the 2026 CDBG Action Plan. - Adopted the FY 2026-2027 budget and Appropriation Ordinance (decreased by $1M). - Adopted VDOT Project Funding and Signature Authority Resolution. - Approved the Stormwater Improvement Plan update. - Received and Filed: Point in Time Count presentation and Downtown Master Planting Plan; Stormwater Program update. - Closed Session: Council voted 5-0 to enter closed session under Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(7) for consultation with legal counsel regarding actual or probable litigation. The closed session ended at 9:54 PM, and Council certified compliance with the Freedom of Information Act.

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission held its regular meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. All seven commissioners were present. The commission considered seven public hearing items, received a presentation on the Zoning Ordinance Update project, and initiated amendments to the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances. Recommendations on all public hearings were forwarded to City Council for its June 9, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 8, 2026): Passed 7-0 after an amendment to change the word "like" to "unlike" on page five. Public Comments & Testimony - Panayotis Giannakouros (on 4a, 4b, 4c/4d, and general): A city resident who called in multiple times. On 4a, he urged the commission to rethink zoning categories, arguing that zoning has historically separated people by race and that the short-term rental process highlights the need for a comprehensive public input-driven rewrite of the ordinance. On 4b, he urged the applicant to ask for exactly what they needed, stating City Council would approve it, and criticized R-8 as a developer-driven process that created lots too small for what people want, while acknowledging the side effect of making lots usable for homeowners. On 4c/4d, he compared the project to the Bluestone Town Center and Lynx proposals, argued the current Comprehensive Plan is stale and lacked adequate public input, and urged the commission to wait for a new comp plan and the Lynx proposal before approving large projects. In general comment, he called for a thorough review of zoning goals. - Randy Hoffman (on 4c/4d): Asked whether the commission considers requirements for solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations in large projects. - Warren Coleman (on 4c/4d, JMU Foundation representative): Expressed support for the Landmark Properties proposal, stating the foundation and university support the developer and that the project would create an aesthetic community meeting student and community needs. - Suzanne Federline (on 4e/4f/4g, neighbor at 28 Hedgelong Drive): Appreciated the applicant’s adherence to 2017 proffers but raised concerns about worsening traffic on Weaver Avenue and the inability to exit the neighborhood due to existing congestion, especially with the Kids Castle opening. Noted that students from fraternities already park on the street and that the development would add more traffic. - Randy Hoffman (on 4e/4f/4g, neighbor at 25 Edge Lawn Drive): Expressed disappointment that the applicant did not engage the neighborhood directly. Noted the removal of the South Main Street entrance (now only off Weaver) will push traffic onto narrow Edge Lawn Drive, which cannot accommodate two-way traffic. Requested a taller fence (more than six feet) to block views from apartments into his backyard, raised concerns about the dumpster location, and asked for limits on business hours (24-hour operations not proffered). Stated he would support approval if concerns are addressed. - Tom Templeton (on 4e/4f/4g, neighbor at 131 East Weaver Avenue): Described dangerous traffic conditions at the intersection of Weaver and Crawford, difficulty exiting the neighborhood, and fear that the development would worsen congestion and parking issues caused by existing student rentals. - Dave Pruitt (on 4e/4f/4g, neighbor at 28 Edge Lawn Drive): Urged the commission to preserve neighborhood integrity, noted constant pressure from JMU expansion and commercial creep, and suggested townhomes or duplexes as better alternatives. Thanks the developer for considering some neighborhood concerns but wished they had spoken directly to residents. Discussion Items - 4a – Special Use Permit at 1315 Carrera Lane (Short-Term Rental): The applicant, Denise and Kevin Goertzen, sought an SUP to operate a short-term rental for more than 90 nights per year in an R-1 district. Staff noted a gas stove was installed without a permit and would need to be removed; the applicant agreed to replace it with a hot plate. The property had been operating as a registered homestay. Commissioners asked about neighbor support and registration requirements. The motion to recommend approval with staff conditions passed 7-0. - 4b – Rezoning at 850 Canterbury Court (R-1 to R-8C): Applicant Robin Lake sought to rezone to allow a larger front porch to avoid rock and structural issues. Staff recommended approval but preferred a proffer for a minimum 20-foot front setback. The applicant was reluctant due to unknown design constraints. Commissioners debated whether R-8C was being used as a loophole for setbacks and discussed flexibility. After public comment, the commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval as presented. - 4c & 4d – Rezoning and Special Use Permit at 1351 & 1361 Peach Grove Avenue (Student Housing): The applicant (Skylar & Talli LLC and JMU Real Estate Foundation, represented by Landmark Properties) proposed to rezone and obtain an SUP to develop 739 beds in townhomes and apartments, reducing density from previously approved plans. Staff recommended denial, citing concerns about location (over a mile from campus), limited walkability, predominance of four-bedroom units (79%), traffic impacts on the already congested Port Republic/Peach Grove intersection, and the need for workforce housing over student housing. The applicant argued the project would reduce traffic by 18.5% compared to previous approvals and include pedestrian connections. Commissioners extensively discussed student housing demand vs. community need, the area’s dangerous traffic, and the lack of mixed-use integration. The motion to recommend disapproval passed 7-0 for both items. - 4e, 4f, 4g – Rezoning and Two Special Use Permits at 1340 South Main Street (Mixed-Use): Applicant Mike Hendrickson proposed a proffer amendment to reduce commercial space from 10,000 to 5,000 sq ft, allow apartments on all floors (26 units: max six two-bedroom), and update fencing and landscaping. Staff recommended approval. Neighbors raised traffic concerns on Weaver and Edge Lawn, parking, noise, and privacy. Commissioners noted the development is consistent with the site’s mixed-use designation and that the previous approvals had expired. The motion to recommend approval with conditions passed 7-0. - 5a – Presentation on Zoning Ordinance Update Project: Staff (Russell, Dang, Fletcher) presented a phased approach: Phase 1 focuses on reorganizing, modernizing language, and realigning zoning districts (e.g., consolidating residential districts, creating new commercial and mixed-use categories). More substantive changes will follow in Phase 2 after robust public engagement and the Comprehensive Plan update. City Council endorsed the approach and designated the Planning Commission as the primary review body, despite two council members dissenting regarding disbanding the Ordinance Advisory Committee. Commissioners discussed the need for public input, efficiency, and proactive planning. - 5b – Initiation of Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Amendments: Following the presentation, the Commission voted unanimously (7-0) to initiate amendments for the Zoning Ordinance Update and to update the Subdivision Ordinance to comply with 2025 state law changes and minor revisions. Key Outcomes - 4a (SUP 1315 Carrera Lane): Recommended approval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4b (Rezoning 850 Canterbury Court): Recommended approval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4c (Rezoning 1351 & 1361 Peach Grove Avenue): Recommended disapproval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4d (SUP 1351 & 1361 Peach Grove Avenue): Recommended disapproval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4e (Rezoning 1340 South Main Street): Recommended approval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4f (SUP for multifamily 12 units at 1340 South Main Street): Recommended approval (7-0) to City Council, due back June 9, 2026. - 4g (SUP for commercial uses at 1340 South Main Street): Recommended approval (7-0) with conditions, due back June 9, 2026. - 5b (Initiation of Ordinance Amendments): Motion passed (7-0) to direct staff to prepare draft amendments for public hearings. - Other: The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet June 1, 2026; the next Planning Commission meeting will include a work session on the Zoning Ordinance Update on June 16, 2026.

The Harrisonburg City Council met on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. All five council members were present. The meeting included a proclamation for National Police Week (May 10–16, 2026), three public hearings on special use permits, and several regular agenda items including the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget and a presentation on the Zoning Ordinance Update. The meeting adjourned at 9:53 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes from April 28, 2026 were approved unanimously via roll-call vote (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Panayotis Giannakouros (city resident) questioned the potential effects of the special use permit at 140 E. Wolfe Street on other uses, and later expressed support for the short-term rental at 165 S. Main Street, arguing that short-term rentals are not an economic liability in Harrisonburg. He also commented on the Collicello North rezoning, reflecting on past environmental discussions and the path not taken regarding community gardens. During public comments on non-agenda items, he raised a procedural concern about being interrupted during previous testimony. - Jeffrey Moon (applicant, owner of Russell Smoons Brewing) clarified that the arcade portion of the proposed venue at 140 E. Wolfe Street would be all-ages and that the canning area would not be accessible to children. He also noted food would be prepackaged to start, with a possible future kitchen. - Margaret Clark (applicant, owner of apartment 203 at 165 S. Main Street) stated that the short-term rental primarily serves JMU parents and alumni, and that an adjacent tenant (Tess Sherman) would serve as the operator. - Jordan Bowman (applicant’s attorney for Collicello North) explained the reasoning behind modifications to the original master plan, including solar-ready instead of required solar panels, and stated they could commit to improvements for the nearby bus stop’s ADA compliance if needed. Discussion Items 6a. Special Use Permit – 140 East Wolfe Street (Mick or Mack LC) - Adam Fletcher, Director of Community Development, presented the request to allow manufacturing (canning) in a B-1 zone. Staff and Planning Commission (5-0) recommended approval with a condition limiting canning/bottling/packaging to the rear of the building. - Council discussion: Vice Mayor Fleming expressed support for local business expansion. Council Member Dent noted the Friendly City Co-op has no plans to expand into that space. Council Member Robinson supported the family-friendly nature. The applicant stated no plans for a full kitchen initially. 6b. Special Use Permit – 165 South Main Street (Big Brother and Holdings CO LLC) - Request to bring an existing short-term rental into compliance. Staff and Planning Commission (5-0) recommended approval with conditions: only apartment 203, limited to 4 guests, pre-operation form, and revocation if nuisance. - Council discussion: Council Member Alsaadun asked about operator (adjacent tenant). Council Member Robinson noted the rental helps the owner after her husband’s death. Mr. Giannakouros argued that the city’s experience shows short-term rentals are not a major problem. 6c. Amend Master Development Plan – Collicello North LLC - Request to amend the 2013 approved R-7 master plan: remove solar requirement (homes solar-ready instead), update building designs, eliminate project phasing, remove specific bus stop requirement, and simplify landscaping. Staff and Planning Commission (5-0) recommended approval. - Council discussion: Council Member Dent was disappointed about removing mandatory solar but satisfied with solar-ready. Vice Mayor Fleming asked about Edom Road access and ADA compliance of nearby bus stop. Mr. Bowman clarified units are market-rate, not subsidized affordable housing. 7a. Ordinance for Administrative Issuance of Encroachment Licenses in Downtown - Adam Fletcher presented a new chapter to allow staff to administratively approve certain encroachments (e.g., outdoor dining, planters) in the B-1 district, removing the need for Council approval for minor uses. Larger encroachments still require Council action. - Council Member Alsaadun asked about license expiration (no expiration) and monitoring (staff rely on public complaints). - Motion carried 5-0. 7b. Zoning Ordinance Update Project – Staff Recommended Approach - Wesley Russ (Deputy City Attorney) and Thanh Dang (Deputy Director of Community Development) presented the project history, proposed changes (e.g., new residential districts, consolidated use tables), and recommended disbanding the Ordinance Advisory Committee and using Planning Commission as the primary review body for a more efficient process. - Council debate: Council Member Dent and Robinson opposed disbanding the advisory committee, citing loss of public input and equity concerns. Vice Mayor Fleming suggested a structured public engagement plan as an alternative. Council Member Alsaadun asked about student housing districts and building heights; staff noted height limits are not proposed to change. - A motion was made by Vice Mayor Fleming, seconded by Council Member Alsaadun, to endorse staff’s recommended approach, disband the advisory committee, and request staff bring a community engagement plan to a future meeting. Passed 3-2 (Reed, Fleming, Alsaadun in favor; Dent, Robinson opposed). 7c. Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance - City Manager Ande Banks briefly noted the budget was presented on April 14. No additional discussion. Motion to adopt budget and appropriation ordinance carried 5-0. 7d. Nominations for Virginia Municipal League (VML) Policy Committees 2026 - Vice Mayor Fleming changed to Finance Committee; Mayor Reed moved to Human Development and Education; others stayed on current committees. Motion approved by voice vote (5-0). Key Outcomes - Special Use Permit 140 E. Wolfe St. – Approved (5-0) with condition limiting canning/bottling/packaging to rear of building. - Special Use Permit 165 S. Main St. – Approved (5-0) with conditions: limited to apartment 203, max 4 guests, pre-operation form, and possibility of revocation. - Collicello North Master Plan Amendment – Approved (5-0) as presented. - Ordinance for Administrative Encroachment Licenses – Adopted (5-0). - Zoning Ordinance Update Approach – Endorsed (3-2) to proceed with staff's recommended approach, disband the Ordinance Advisory Committee, and require a public engagement plan to be presented at a future meeting. - FY 2026-2027 Budget and Appropriation Ordinance – Adopted (5-0). - VML Policy Committee Nominations – Approved by voice vote (5-0). Other Matters - Council Member Alsaadun noted Rocktown High School hosted the 2026 VSBA Valley Region Networking Forum on April 30, and the Harrisonburg Welcoming Council held a webinar on May 2. - Council Member Dent reported on a trip observing environmental projects in small towns and announced an open house on the Liberty Street project on May 19, 2026. - Council Member Robinson mentioned applications for the African American Festival (Sept. 12) and attended the NAACP meeting on May 5. - Vice Mayor Fleming attended the Virginia Coalition of High Growth Communities Conference and the Southern Cities Economic Initiative in Atlanta. - Mayor Reed thanked staff for support after hip replacement surgery and will attend an event with Attorney General Jay Jones on May 15. - Public comment from Panayotis Giannakouros corrected previous testimony and raised a point of procedural concern regarding being interrupted during earlier remarks.

The Harrisonburg City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. All five council members were present: Mayor Deanna R. Reed, Vice-Mayor Dany Fleming, Council Members Laura Dent, Nasser Alsaadun, and Monica Robinson. Also present were City Manager Ande Banks, City Attorney Chris Brown, Chief Matthew Tobia, Police Chief Joseph Tucker, and Deputy City Clerk Brian Vandenberg. The sole substantive agenda item was a closed session concerning litigation and legal consultation. Closed Session - Council Member Monica Robinson moved, seconded by Vice-Mayor Dany Fleming, to enter closed session as authorized by the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711(A), under Subsection 7 for consultation with legal counsel and staff regarding actual or probable litigation where such consultation in open session would adversely affect the negotiating or litigating posture of City Council. - The motion carried unanimously on a recorded roll-call vote: 5 yes (Mayor Reed, Vice-Mayor Fleming, Council Member Dent, Council Member Alsaadun, and Council Member Robinson), 0 no. Key Outcomes - After the closed session ended, the regular session reconvened and City Attorney Chris Brown read a certification statement confirming that only public business matters lawfully exempted and identified in the motion were discussed in closed session. Council approved the certification by unanimous recorded vote. - There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. on May 12, 2026.

The Harrisonburg City Council met at 7:00 p.m. on April 28, 2026, in Council Chambers. Mayor Deanna R. Reed participated remotely after Council unanimously authorized electronic participation because she was recovering from a medical procedure. Present were Mayor Reed, Vice-Mayor Dany Fleming, and Council Members Laura Dent, Nasser Alsaadun, and Monica Robinson. The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, a public hearing on the FY 2026-2027 budget, a lengthy public hearing and discussion on The Link Apartments rezoning, Virginia Municipal League nominations, and adoption of an opioid settlement resolution. The meeting adjourned at 12:18 a.m. on April 29, 2026. Consent Calendar - Council approved the consent agenda by a 5-0 roll-call vote. It included: - Harrisonburg City Public Schools End of Year Celebration on June 4, 2026 at Turner Pavilion. - Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance’s Best.Weekend.Ever on June 13, 2026. - Valley 4th Run on July 4, 2026. - Rezoning/proffer amendment for 361 Franklin Street requested by Katherine S Moran and Marcie E Harris, approved on second reading. - Rezoning for 851 Madison Street requested by the Center for Health and Human Development, approved on second reading. - Minutes of the April 14, 2026 City Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - FY 2026-2027 budget: Panayotis “Poti” Giannakouros criticized aspects of the proposed budget, including the school division’s voluntary return of $500,000, increased Community Development staffing, anticipated revenue of about $270,000 from photo-enforced speed limit citations, and a $2 million golf course investment, arguing the budget reflects misplaced values. Candy Phillips, executive director of First Step, thanked Council for the Civic and Community Organization grant and said the funding supports survivors of domestic violence; she reported that in 2025 First Step answered 678 hotline calls, served 219 individuals (192 adult survivors and 27 children), sheltered 36 adult survivors and 24 children, and that 61% of those served identified as Harrisonburg city residents. - The Link Apartments rezoning public hearing: More than 40 residents, business owners, and other stakeholders testified. A majority of speakers opposed the rezoning. Opponents cited the project’s six-story scale, traffic and parking impacts, potential harm to the historic downtown district, inadequate community engagement, the possibility the property could later be sold or become a burden, and concerns that the unit mix would primarily serve students rather than families or workforce housing. Several opponents referenced a petition they said had gathered more than 1,600 signatures; one opponent said the support petition had about 92 signatures. Supporters, including downtown business owners and residents, said the project would add needed housing, support downtown businesses, improve walkability, increase density in a location called for by the Downtown 2040 Plan, and generate significant tax revenue. Some speakers, including Ryan Mornell, Steven Horn, and Panayotis Giannakouros, did not take a simple for/against position and instead recommended more study, better data, or a broader zoning and comprehensive plan review. - Other public comment: Sarah Koontz asked whether the city will create a mockup of the Liberty Street redesign before construction. Discussion Items - FY 2026-2027 budget: City Manager Ande Banks said the proposed budget maintains the current real estate tax rate, maintains existing services, and meets capital needs. He said the budget would return for first reading at the first Council meeting in May and for second reading at the second meeting in May. No action was taken after the public hearing. - The Link Apartments rezoning: Deputy Director of Community Development Thanh Dang presented the request by Trenton Inc. and Bernard LC to rezone 10 parcels totaling about 2.75 acres at 435-495 South Main Street and 282-298 South Liberty Street from R-3 to B-1C. The proposal is for a six-story apartment building with a proffered maximum of 250 units and 555 bedrooms, at least 110 studio/one-bedroom units (44%) and no more than 85 four-bedroom units (34%), 2,000 to 5,000 square feet of commercial space, and a 480-space parking garage with up to 65 spaces reserved for public/municipal use. Proffers included design stepbacks, an on-site management contact, a Paul Street extension, sidewalks, $60,000 for traffic calming, $30,000 for parking enforcement, and $93,738 for affordable housing. Staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval on a 5-1 vote. The updated Traffic Impact Analysis found minimal increases and no development-caused mitigation was warranted except for already-failing movements; a cut-through analysis found no significant expected cut-through traffic. - Council members questioned the applicant’s representative, Todd Rhea, about unit mix, the sixth floor, parking, long-term ownership and management, JMU’s planned expansion of on-campus housing, and the mixed-use activation. Mayor Reed said she would vote against the project if forced to vote that night, wanting more workforce/family housing and a smaller scale; Council Member Robinson agreed that she could not vote yes; Council Member Dent said she favored the project but wanted a consensus; Council Member Alsaadun thanked the community and developer for engagement; Vice-Mayor Fleming said the project may be viable but questioned whether the location and scale were right. Attorney Chris Brown advised that Council could table the item to a date certain or indefinitely. - VML Policy Committees: Vice-Mayor Fleming moved this item to the May 12, 2026 Council meeting, and it was tabled without action. - National Opioid Settlement: City Attorney Chris Brown presented a resolution authorizing participation in the six remnant defendants National Opioid Settlement, the last of the opioid settlements. He stated the defendants agreed to pay $97,625,000 in restitution distributed to states, with the city’s share to be determined through the Virginia Opioid Settlement Authority. Council adopted the resolution. Key Outcomes - Council unanimously authorized Mayor Reed’s remote participation. - Consent agenda approved 5-0. - The FY 2026-2027 budget public hearing was held; no action was taken. - The Link Apartments rezoning request was tabled until the June 23, 2026 City Council meeting by a 5-0 roll-call vote. - VML Policy Committee nominations were tabled to May 12, 2026. - The resolution authorizing participation in the six remnant defendants National Opioid Settlement was adopted by unanimous voice vote. - Council Member Alsaadun announced his appointment to the executive committee of the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC). - The meeting adjourned at 12:18 a.m. on April 29, 2026.

The Harrisonburg City Council met on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers. Vice-Mayor Dany Fleming presided in the absence of Mayor Deanna R. Reed. The meeting included a consent agenda, public hearings, multiple regular agenda items, public comments, board appointments, and a closed session that ended at 11:27 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the March 24, 2026 City Council meeting were approved. - Special Event Application for Massanutten Regional Library's Summer Reading Kick-Off Celebration on May 31, 2026, at Turner Pavilion approved. - Special Event Application for the Shenandoah Valley Pride Celebration on September 20, 2026, approved. - Special Event Application for the Harrisonburg Half Marathon on October 3, 2026, approved. - Supplemental Appropriation for the General Fund and Water Capital Projects Fund approved on second reading. - Supplemental Appropriation for the General Fund, Water Fund, and Stormwater Fund approved on second reading. - Supplemental Appropriation for Harrisonburg City School Board (HCPS) approved on second reading. All consent items were approved by a 4-0 recorded roll call vote. Public Hearings - Rezoning (Proffer Amendment) – 361 Franklin Street (6a): Applicant Katherine S. Moran and Marcie E. Harris requested to allow a roof overhang to extend five feet into a 20-foot setback. Adam Fletcher, Director of Community Development, noted staff and Planning Commission (6-0) recommended approval. Matthew Robertson (Stratford Companies) spoke for the applicant, explaining the second floor is for an exercise room or guest bedroom. Panayotis Giannakouros, a city resident, spoke on zoning principles, urging the council to reconsider exclusionary practices in the zoning rewrite. The council approved the rezoning 4-0. - Rezoning and Special Use Permit – 851 Madison Street (6b & 6c): The Center for Health and Human Development (CHHD) requested rezoning from R-2 to R-8 and a special use permit to eliminate parking requirements for two planned affordable housing units. Mary Ta, representing CHHD, explained the nonprofit's mission to house formerly homeless individuals, many without cars, using public transit. Panayotis Giannakouros cautioned about the lack of binding conditions for supportive services and potential future parking conflicts. The council approved the rezoning (4-0) and the special use permit (4-0) with the condition that the parking reduction applies only to the two planned units. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Annual Report 2025 (7a): Adam Fletcher presented data showing 42% of cases were rezonings, 22% special use permits, with lower activity in 2025 compared to prior years. Council discussed comparisons to other localities and economic factors. The report was received and filed. - Sculpture Design for Roundabout at Spraygrounds, Ralph Sampson Park (7b): Steve Carpenter presented a 30-foot-diameter, 12-foot-high powder-coated aluminum sculpture by Maxwell Emcays, featuring children playing double Dutch. The design, not yet finalized on colors, was approved 4-0. The city will assess structural integrity and potential lighting. - Harrison House Project Update (7c): Tom Hartman, Director of Public Works, presented plans to demolish part of the hall house to create a terrace connecting to Denton Park. The budget is $1 million ($500,000 city, $500,000 from the Community Foundation). Design will proceed in 2026, construction in 2027. Independent archaeological work will be included. No action required; update received and filed. - Artificial Intelligence Policy Overview (7d): Bud Ritchie, Cybersecurity Specialist, described the AI policy, emphasizing security, transparency, and human oversight. GovAI, a secure generative AI tool, is in use with 71 active users in the last 30 days. No immediate public-facing AI is planned. Update received and filed. - City Manager’s Proposed FY 2026-2027 Budget (7e): City Manager Ande Banks presented a balanced $407,354,000 budget with no tax rate increases. Highlights include a 3% employee compensation increase, $1.4 million for stormwater infrastructure, 21 new positions (mostly grant- or fee-funded), and a slight decrease in the city's transfer to HCPS for the first time in ten years. The council gave consensus to proceed with the $1.10 per $100 real estate tax rate. The budget is available online and will have a public hearing on April 28. - Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) Overview (7f): Police Chief Joe Tucker reported 30 cameras (28 fixed, 2 mobile) in use since 2023. They have helped solve 48 cases, including recovered stolen vehicles and homicide suspects, and recovered over $1.5 million in personal property. Data is retained 21 days, and use is restricted to criminal justice matters per state law. No council action was taken; presentation received and filed. - Restoration and Renovation of City Hall Complex (7g): Deputy City Manager Amy Snider presented plans to renovate the historic City Hall North and make targeted renovations to the 2014 City Hall South to address space constraints. The project cost is estimated at $25.8 million, to be funded through bonds structured to avoid a tax increase. Solar power from Turner Pavilion will be routed to the north building. Update received and filed. - Virginia Municipal League (VML) Policy Committees 2026 (7h): Vice Mayor Fleming indicated his desire to move to the Finance Committee; other council members wished to remain. Council decided to follow up with Mayor Reed before voting. The item was tabled. Key Outcomes - Rezoning at 361 Franklin Street approved 4-0. - Rezoning at 851 Madison Street approved 4-0. - Special Use Permit at 851 Madison Street approved 4-0 with the condition that the parking reduction applies only to the two planned units. - Sculpture design for Ralph Sampson Park roundabout approved 4-0. - FY 2026-2027 Budget presented; council gave consensus to proceed with no tax rate increase. - VML Policy Committee nominations tabled. - Public comment included a request from Sam Nichols for a council letter to the U.S. Supreme Court regarding TPS status, and a request from Panayotis Giannakouros for support of No Mow May. - Boards and Commissions: Rob Alexander reappointed to EPSAC (term through April 25, 2029); Camryn Raynes and David Husain appointed to first terms on EPSAC (voice vote, unanimous). Joyce Sampson-Franklin appointed to the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (HRHA) for an unexpired term through February 11, 2028 (voice vote, unanimous). - Closed Session: Council entered closed session at 11:04 PM under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(7) for consultation on actual or probable litigation. The session ended at 11:27 PM, and the council certified that only exempt matters were discussed.