Hampton Planning Commission Meeting - August 9, 2022

The Hampton Planning Commission met on August 9, 2022 (note: the transcript indicates July 21, 2022, but the provided date is August 9, 2022) to consider a rezoning application and a comprehensive plan amendment. Key actions included denial of a rezoning for vehicle repair use at With Creek Road and approval of the 2022 Hampton Roads Hazard Mitigation Plan update. The commission also recognized Hampton’s designation as Resilient Community of the Year.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes Approval: The commission approved the minutes of the June 16, 2022 Planning Commission meeting with two abstentions (Dr. Coleman and Chairman Kellum). (Motion carried)

Public Comments & Testimony

• Rezoning Application 21-00014:
  • Applicant Frank Michelle spoke in support, arguing that the Withe Creek Commerce Park has not developed as envisioned (e.g., no high-tech offices), that other auto-related businesses operate in the area, and that his business is a light panel shop that maintains aesthetics. He cited the city’s issuance of licenses to similar businesses and expressed hope for a comprehensive review of the area.
  • William Spence (Director of Drinking Operations, St. George Brewing Company) spoke in opposition, citing concerns that changing from M1 to M2 zoning would allow heavier manufacturing, adversely affect their beehives, live music permits, street lighting safety, overnight tractor-trailer parking, street closures for events, and food truck operations. He opposed rezoning the entire park.

Discussion Items

• Rezoning Application 21-00014: Staff (Donald Whipple) recommended denial, citing the Withe Creek Land Use Study (1980s) that envisioned a high-tech business corridor and deemed vehicle-related uses inappropriate. The applicant failed to show compliance with the district's purpose of "relatively free from offense" uses. Staff emphasized that any land use change should be holistic, not piecemeal. Commissioners expressed concern about spot zoning and setting a precedent. The applicant responded to questions about the city's ongoing comprehensive plan update and potential future zoning changes.
• Comprehensive Plan Amendment 22-0001: Staff (Mike Hayes) presented the 2022 Hampton Roads Hazard Mitigation Plan update, covering 17 municipalities, 1.8 million people. The plan assesses risks (flooding, tropical storms, sea level rise, land subsidence, pandemic, hazardous materials, etc.) and updates mitigation goals, emphasizing equity and inclusion. Staff recommended approval. Commissioners noted the extensive interdepartmental collaboration and the importance of the plan for community safety and financial benefits (e.g., CRS rating).

Key Outcomes

• Rezoning 21-00014: Motion to deny carried. (Vote: 7 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstention? Unanimous as recorded: all present voted aye; exact tallies not fully detailed but motion passed).
• Comprehensive Plan Amendment 22-0001: Motion to approve carried. (Vote: all ayes, motion passed).
• Community Director's Report: Terry O'Neill announced that the city received the "Resilient Community of the Year" award from the Virginia chapter of the American Planning Association, recognizing Hampton’s resilient planning efforts including the hazard mitigation plan, Resilient Hampton initiative, Market Creek Water Plan, environmental impact bond, and work in Phoebus and Buckroe. The award was accepted at the state APA conference.

Note: The transcript includes a lengthy fitness segment after the meeting, which is not part of the official proceedings.