Hampton Planning Commission Meeting – October 4, 2018

The Hampton Planning Commission held its regular meeting on October 4, 2018, at 4:45 PM. The meeting included the annual election of the chair and vice chair, approval of minutes from August 16, 2018, a presentation on the Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) Addendum for Resilience, two public hearings for use permits (adult daycare and private school), a director’s report on the upcoming community plan update, and the youth planner report. All actions were taken by roll call vote, with all members present.

Election of Officers

• Dr. Carter was re-elected as Chair (unanimous, 7-0).
• Ms. Garrison was elected as Vice Chair (unanimous, 7-0).

Approval of Minutes

• The minutes from the August 16, 2018 meeting were approved unanimously (7-0).

Presentation: Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) Addendum for Resilience

• Lucy (staff) presented an overview of the addendum, which addresses sea level rise and recurrent flooding risks for Langley Air Force Base. The study involved multiple partners (e.g., Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization, Dominion Energy) and identified 29 recommendations ranging from policy changes to infrastructure projects. Key vulnerabilities include low elevation of the base, submerged roads, and natural systems conflicts (e.g., bird air strike hazards vs. wetland restoration). The document will go to City Council for endorsement. Colonel Aaron Clough (633rd Mission Support Group Commander) and team expressed support for continued collaboration. Commissioner Coleman commended the report’s readability and technical clarity. Commissioner Brown asked about regional partnerships and the Dutch Dialogue; staff noted ongoing work with the Army Corps, HRPDC, and upcoming Dutch involvement in Resilient Hampton Phase 2. No action was taken by the Commission.

Public Hearings: Use Permit Applications

Use Permit 18-00008 – Adult Daycare at 457 Foxhill Road (New Bethel Cathedral Church of God in Christ)

• Applicant Pastor Melvin L. Austin proposed a commercial daycare serving elderly or disabled adults (ages 18+) within the church building, with capacity for 30–60 clients. Hours of operation: Monday–Saturday, 6 AM–7 PM. Staff recommended approval with 10 conditions, including limiting access to Fairfield Boulevard and compliance with licensing. Pastor Austin testified that the daycare would serve the seven-city area, provide field trips, and maintain “eyes-on” care. Commissioners questioned why no community meeting was held; Pastor Austin stated he had not held one due to personal reasons (recent loss of spouse) but agreed to do so before City Council. Commissioner Brown strongly urged a community meeting. No public speakers signed up. The Commission voted unanimously (7-0) to approve with conditions.

Use Permit 18-00009 – Private School at 19 North Mallory Street (Healthcare Training Solutions)

• Applicant Diane Sisvet (Healthcare Training Solutions) proposed a 1,500 sq. ft. health care training facility for up to 33 students, offering courses in personal care, medication administration, CPR, etc. Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–9 PM. Staff recommended approval with 7 conditions, including capacity limit and indoor use only. Ms. Sisvet testified that she attempted a community meeting but no one attended; she spoke with neighbors individually. She noted the school would serve job seekers and employers, and she is a graduate of the Hampton University Business Incubator. No public speakers signed up. The Commission voted unanimously (7-0) to approve with conditions.

Director’s Report: Community Plan Update

• Terry O’Neill and Mike Hayes presented a two-phase process: first a strategic plan (2018–2019), then a comprehensive community plan update. A kickoff event is scheduled for October 30, 2018 (5:30–7:30 PM at the Hampton Convention Center). The goal is to reach 5,000 residents through surveys, roadshows, and “kitchen table talks.” Commissioners discussed the need to engage the public effectively, address past skepticism, and make the process personal. Staff will provide talking points for commissioners.

Youth Planner Report

• Youth planners William Klotz and Simone presented the September report. The Hampton Youth Commission (26 members) held its annual retreat August 28–30, 2018, where they learned about the commission’s purpose, held elections, and formed committees. They will meet with City Council, the police chief, and the school superintendent as part of their work plan. The youth are also drafting the youth component of the community plan. The Commission thanked the youth planners for their involvement.

Key Outcomes

• Elections: Dr. Carter re-elected Chair; Ms. Garrison elected Vice Chair (both unanimous).
• Minutes: Approved unanimously.
• Use Permit 18-00008: Approved unanimously (7-0) with 10 conditions; applicant asked to hold a community meeting prior to City Council.
• Use Permit 18-00009: Approved unanimously (7-0) with 7 conditions.
• JLUS Addendum: No action taken; briefing only. City Council consideration scheduled for October 10, 2018.
• Community Plan Update: Staff directed to proceed with kickoff on October 30, 2018; commissioners to assist in outreach.
• Youth Planner Report: Received as information.