Public Meetings - Portsmouth, Virginia

The Portsmouth City Council met for a public work session on July 13, 2026, to review how the city evaluates and approves development on narrow residential lots. Planning staff presented a three-year review of special exception applications, explained recent state legislation effective July 1, 2026, and took council questions about neighborhood character, affordability, infill housing, and the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) process. No ordinance changes were adopted; the meeting ended with a closed session. Discussion Items - Narrow-lot special exception process: Zoning Administrator Trayvon Boone and Planning Director Dr. Russell presented the history and current process under the Portsmouth Zoning Ordinance. City Council adopted the special exception process on November 14, 2023, creating Section 40.2-535(B)(13). It applies to detached single-family homes on legally created residential lots 30 feet or less in width, except where a setback is adjacent to a public street. - Application data: Staff reviewed BZA records from 2023 through 2025 and verified 75 narrow-lot applications. All 75 were approved. Most involved 25-foot-wide lots, with some 30-foot-wide lots. The typical request was to reduce interior side-yard setbacks from 7 feet to about 3 feet in Urban Residential and Urban Residential Multifamily districts, or from 20 feet to about 3 feet in Neighborhood Mixed-Use districts. Staff noted 46 applications were filed in 2024 alone. - Geographic pattern: The applications were concentrated in older Portsmouth neighborhoods, with Brighton showing the largest cluster, followed by areas such as Prentice Park, Prentice Place, Mount Herman, West Haven, and nearby neighborhoods. Staff said this reflects historic subdivision patterns rather than a new trend of lot creation. - State law context: Staff summarized new Virginia legislation requiring localities with populations over 50,000 to maintain at least one zoning district that permits detached single-family dwellings on small residential lots. Under the law, the minimum lot area may not exceed 3,000 square feet, the minimum lot width may not exceed 30 feet, and dimensional regulations may not preclude or prohibit construction on qualifying nonconforming lots. - BZA decision-making concerns: Vice Mayor Moody questioned how all 75 applications could have been approved and referenced a neighborhood complaint that BZA members said they had no choice but to follow the law. City Attorney Derek Challenger confirmed there is no law requiring approval and that each case must be considered on its individual merits. - Possible future standards: Staff illustrated potential ordinance changes, including moving from case-by-case special exceptions to objective administrative standards, a 50% side-yard setback reduction option, a certified survey verifying adjacent structures are at least 3 feet from the shared property line, and a conceptual development plan approved before site plan, zoning permit, and building permit applications. Staff also described recently proposed BZA conditions requiring new homes to include at least three design elements consistent with the surrounding neighborhood, such as porches, stoops, windows, or brick veneer. - Affordability and infill debate: Several council members emphasized the value of infill housing and affordability. Council Member Tillage supported infill development, described a Green Acres example where two new homes were accepted after matching neighborhood character, and cautioned against a "not in my backyard" approach. City Manager Stephen Carter said the new state law requires Portsmouth to allow small-lot housing somewhere, but it does not require making the existing process easier or reducing setbacks further. - Property value question: Asked whether infill housing affects surrounding assessed values, Deputy City Assessor Graham Shearer said there are no ready facts showing an effect and that proving it would require a study. - BZA training: Council Member Hugo requested stronger orientation or training for BZA members to reinforce that each application must be reviewed on its own merits. The City Manager said that could be considered, possibly alongside planning commission education sessions. - Litigation caution: During discussion, the City Attorney noted the city has been served with litigation related to this issue and advised council to keep the public discussion focused on the citywide process rather than specific individuals. Key Outcomes - No ordinance amendments were proposed or voted on during the work session. - Council directed staff to research options for addressing neighborhood character concerns, including possible overlay districts or zoning-district-based approaches, and to report back. - Council asked staff to explore BZA education and training to clarify the case-by-case review standard. - City staff will continue evaluating whether the current special exception process should be retained, modified, or replaced with administrative standards. Closed Session - Council voted unanimously to enter closed session under Virginia Code Sections 2.2-3711(A)(8) and 2.2-3711(A)(7) for consultation with legal counsel regarding collective bargaining and actual or probable litigation. - The litigation referenced in the motion was Cindy and Todd Lloyd v. City of Portsmouth, Portsmouth Circuit Court Case No. CL 25-3206.

The city council held a work session and regular meeting on June 23, 2026. Major actions included adoption of a new downtown parking ordinance (effective after a 90-day acclimation period), adoption of a blight property and derelict building tax classification ordinance, approval of consent agenda items (rehabilitated real estate tax credit amendment and a behavioral health grant), and reappointments to boards and commissions. Council also received presentations and public comments on short-term rental regulations, cemetery maintenance, street lighting, zoning special exceptions, and enforcement issues. Consent Calendar - Rehabilitated Real Estate Tax Credit Amendment (Item 26-152A): Adopted 7-0. Modifies rules and requirements for the rehabilitated real estate assessment credit program. - Behavioral Health Grant (Item 26-152B): Adopted 7-0. Accepts $153,937.37 from the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services for peer recovery support services. Public Comments & Testimony - David House (Simonsdale): Expressed support for the blight property tax ordinance. Asked how many condemned properties exist, how they are tracked, and if enforcement will be citywide. Councilman Hugo responded that the city knows the properties and that the ordinance adds enforcement tools. - Lindsay Jones (West Parkview): Addressed conditions at Oak Grove Portlock Cemetery – sagging wall, overgrown trees, open graves. Proposed a buttress on the exterior side of the wall. Noted interment of a female F-16 pilot and Medal of Honor recipients. Asked for maintenance plan. Vice Mayor Moody and Councilwoman Thomas requested a comprehensive cemetery plan; City Manager Carter said a plan is already underway. - John Hanson (Forest Hills Drive): Thanked council for pausing street lighting improvements. Volunteered to help resolve lighting issues. Also raised concern about water drainage between new houses on small lots in West Haven. - Alexandra Westfall (West Haven Civic League): Opposed the special exception process for reduced side yard setbacks, stating it is changing neighborhood character. Provided petition with 263 digital and 62 canvas signatures. Cited errors in staff reports and requested a moratorium on new applications until the process is reviewed. Council agreed to schedule a work session on the issue; City Manager Carter will bring data on approval rates and recommendations. - David House (second appearance, non-agenda): Raised ongoing code enforcement failure regarding a corner-lot fence blocking visibility at an address in historic district. Presented timeline of 29 months with no action. Asked for accountability. - Sergei O'Neal (Nashville Avenue): Thanked city marketing for providing a city flag for a band competition. Praised citizens for positive behavior during the weekend festival. Encouraged council to consider affordable housing needs when neighborhoods change and to be mindful of displaced public housing residents. Discussion Items - Parking Ordinance (Work Session & Adoption): City staff presented a draft ordinance reflecting previous council input: on-street parking on High Street from 6–8 p.m., no weekends/holidays, $3/hour with first two hours free; all other lots/garages $2/hour with first two hours free. No event parking initially. A 90-day acclimation period (July 1 – September 30) with warnings only, enforcement begins October 1, 2026. Council discussed: Councilman Hugo opposed omission of event parking, citing lost revenue and precedent from other cities; he urged a plan. Language clarified that holidays are free. Vice Mayor Moody asked about signage for towing information and wayfinding; City Manager Carter said numbers for non-emergency police will be posted. Councilwoman Bryant requested a social media video and civic league outreach. Councilman Hugo emphasized this is the beginning of ongoing parking discussions. The ordinance was adopted 7-0 under unfinished business. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance (Work Session): Dr. Russell and Michelle Bowman presented a draft ordinance. Key provisions: owner-occupied (primary residence, 185+ days/year); max 8 guests (2 per bedroom); no parties/events; local contact within 50 miles, 24/7, 1-hour response; parking plan required; one STR per 500 feet or 10% per block; registration number in ads; three violations per year = permit revocation. No grandfathering – all must register by January 1, 2027. Council discussion: Councilman Tillage questioned the primary residence requirement, arguing it limits investors; he preferred density limits instead. Councilman Hugo asked whether city can override state code to allow multiple STRs (state code currently allows only one per primary residence). Councilwoman Thomas raised concerns about occupancy limits for larger homes and about grandfathering for existing multiple-unit operators. Vice Mayor Moody suggested using fire marshal to set occupancy rather than an arbitrary per-bedroom limit. Councilman Dotson asked about including accessory dwelling units (e.g., mother-in-law suites) and multiple units on same property. Councilwoman Bryant asked about first-come-first-served process and enforcement tracking across departments. Councilman Hugo noted that other Hampton Roads cities do not require primary residence. City Attorney will research authority. City Manager Carter noted the draft will be revised based on feedback and returned to council. - Special Exception Process (Non-Agenda Speaker Follow-up): After Alexandra Westfall’s comments, council discussed the process for reduced side yard setbacks. City Manager Carter will prepare a work session with data on approval rates and recommendations for possible changes. Councilman Hugo requested a recommendation on how to unwind the current special exception process. Council agreed. - Cemetery Maintenance: Council requested a comprehensive plan for all city-owned cemeteries; City Manager confirmed a plan is already in progress. Key Outcomes - Parking Ordinance Adopted (7-0): New fees and free periods as described; 90-day acclimation period; event parking to be revisited. - Blight Property/Derelict Building Tax Classification Ordinance Adopted (7-0): Establishes blight properties taxed at 5% higher rate, derelict buildings at 10% higher rate. - Consent Agenda Adopted (7-0): Rehabilitated real estate tax credit amendment and behavioral health grant. - Boards and Commissions Appointments Approved (7-0): Reappointments and new appointments as listed. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Discussion continues; council will hold a work session to refine draft; two more community engagement sessions scheduled (June 25 and June 27). - Special Exception/Zoning Work Session: Scheduled to review the side yard setback process, data on approvals, and possible changes; zoning and planning staff will participate. - Cemetery Maintenance: City Manager confirmed a comprehensive plan is underway; council requested updates. - Street Lighting: Councilman Hanson volunteered to assist city engineers; issue on pause. - Code Enforcement: Council heard complaints about a fence violating corner visibility; city manager will address the specific case and prioritize visibility hazards.

The meeting began with a broadband committee update and later transitioned to a regular city council session. Key discussions included a fiber network update, proposed parking ordinance changes, a new blighted and derelict property tax, and public comments on various community issues. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the February 10th and May 12th meetings were approved by roll call vote (all present except Ms. Glover and Ms. Thomas). Public Comments & Testimony - Donna Biggs (Woodbine Farms) spoke on the townhouse use permit, questioning developer outreach to the precinct and urging homeless commission involvement. - Non-agenda speakers: - James Thompson (1327 Richmond Avenue) proposed building boxable tiny homes on 3.5 acres for homeless, offering design plans but requesting city support. - John Hanson (4025 Forest Tales Drive) criticized Dominion's 5000K LED streetlights, calling them harmful to residents and wildlife, and recommended 3000K amber lights. - Coleman Young (Denwitty Street) urged the city to expedite an RFP for a pavilion operator to attract musical acts and boost downtown revenue. - Alexandra Westfall (4102 Scott Street) expressed frustration that resident feedback on West Haven development was dismissed by the BZA, asked what metric would move the needle. - Shirley Petterford Cherry (London Oaks) requested a city meeting with management to address ongoing gun violence and crime in London Oaks, noting the community feels invisible. - Donna Biggs (again) raised concerns about communication gaps, enforcement of codes, and workplace conditions for constitutional officers. - Sheila Joseph (Maplewood area) asked for timely installation of already-approved neighborhood signs and better communication on city code enforcement. - Tony Goodwin (Parkview) urged the council to conduct an economic impact study before raising parking rates, citing lessons from the tunnel toll fight; suggested parking management improvements. Discussion Items - Fiber Broadband Update: Acting CIO Scarlet Capril reported three outcomes: Danella submitted railroad right-of-entry update to GWRR; junction boxes marked on Churchland Bridge; ODU point of contact secured for tri-city fiber crossing. Approximately 88-89% of the network is complete; final connections at Churchland Bridge, ODU, and Tri-Cities will complete the redundant ring. RFPs for fiber operations and maintenance are being finalized. A glossary of terms and a revised rollout timeline will be presented in August. - Parking Ordinance Changes: Staff proposed a new parking structure with first two hours free, then $4/hr on High Street, $2/hr elsewhere, enforcement Monday–Saturday 6am–10pm, and $8 Sunday flat rate. After extensive discussion, council directed: first two hours free in all paid areas, $3/hr on High Street after two hours, enforcement Monday–Friday 8am–6pm only, weekends free. Special event parking remains free for now with further study. Wayfinding signs, mobile pay stations, and business validation options will be explored. Staff will bring back a revised ordinance. - Blighted & Derelict Structure Tax: City Assessor Steve Edwards introduced a new property classification adding 5% tax on blighted and 10% on derelict properties, effective July 1 following classification. Appeals process available. Council emphasized urgency and asked staff to bring the ordinance back for a vote in July. - Meeting Schedule: Council consensus to move from monthly to bimonthly meetings (starting in August) to align with project milestones. Calendar invites will be sent, and a workshop for new members was suggested. - New Business: Councilman Hugo encouraged applications for boards and commissions. Upcoming events highlighted: Sail Virginia 2026 (June 19–22), Crawford Bay Development Update meeting (June 11), and recognition of the Government 101 graduating class. - Introduction of New Deputy City Manager: Derek Keltner was introduced as the new deputy city manager for operations, bringing 19 years of experience from VDOT. Key Outcomes - Minutes of February 10th and May 12th approved. - Use permit (UP-26-01) for three townhouse units at 531 Edwards Street adopted 6-0. - Use permit (UP-26-02) for warehouse use at 935 Queen Street adopted 6-0. - Public hearing item UP-26-03 deferred to July 14th meeting. - Consent agenda grants adopted 6-0: $402,769.37 from VDOE for child/adult care food program, and $933,652 from DEQ for stormwater local assistance fund. - Parking direction given: first two hours free, $3/hr on High Street after two hours, enforcement Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, weekends free. Staff to bring back ordinance. - Blighted property ordinance to be brought back for vote in July. - Meeting schedule changed to bimonthly; next meeting in August. - Staff to report on reserved parking spaces at King Square lot and on cost of 24/7 enforcement for residential parking permits.

The Portsmouth City Council held a combined work session and regular meeting on May 26, 2026. The work session focused on downtown parking policy and the Link District streetscape project, while the regular meeting included a public hearing, consent agenda approval, and public comments. Key decisions included direction to proceed with two-hour free parking on High Street with escalating charges, adoption of a preferred streetscape option with further study of mini-roundabouts, and approval of multiple grant and settlement ordinances. Consent Calendar - Approved 14 ordinances and one resolution as part of the consent agenda (7-0 vote). Items included: - Temporary relocation of polling place for Precinct 11 from Joseph E. Parker Recreation Center to Stephen H. Clark Academy for the August 4, 2026 primary election. - Acceptance of a donated horse trailer for the Police Department Mounted Patrol. - Reappropriation of $13,696,509 in federal grant funds for Portsmouth Public Schools. - Acceptance of various grant and settlement funds totaling approximately $14.76 million for dam safety, PFAS settlement, social services, behavioral health, and economic development (Crofton Enterprises and Radiant Forge). - Approval of a resolution supporting a federal Port Infrastructure Development Program grant for 16 Harper Avenue. Public Comments & Testimony - Alexandra Westfall (West Haven Civic League) raised concerns about property records accuracy and the special exception process for non-conforming lots, specifically regarding a developer who began demolition before officially owning the property. She noted unresolved FOIA requests and a missing property record. - Dr. Rhonda Alexander (Chainbreakers) reported that 579 children are enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Portsmouth. Her reading enrichment program served 127 students across four schools, with nearly all improving decoding skills. The organization has provided over 1,200 meals through the Nourished Neighbors program. - Pamela Anstead (Prentice Park) described safety hazards at a vacant church (Lincoln Street and Parker Avenue), including a recent incident where youths set a small fire and police were unable to catch them. A firefighter deemed the building too dangerous to enter. She requested city action. - Christopher Hines (New Generation Band) said the organization has grown to 125 members but faces transportation constraints due to restrictions on Portsmouth United funding (short-term grants cannot be used for capital purchases like vans). He urged the city to find a solution to transport students safely. - Sergio O’Neal (New Generation Band) echoed transportation challenges, noting that the band left 25–30 members home for the Memorial Day parade. He also urged the city to consider sustained funding for Portsmouth United beyond state grants, and suggested better food vendor selection at the Yemoja Festival. - Donna Biggs (Woodvine Farms) criticized the public notice for a Newport Phase II project at 3741 Elliott Avenue, arguing a housing commission should track vacancies and approve new developments only when needed. She called for better communication from the city. - Ray Smith (Portsmouth Council of Civic Organizations) warned that newly installed LED streetlights (26,000 lumens) are too bright for residential areas like Cavalier Manor and West Haven, causing light trespass. He urged the city to reconsider placement and lumen levels. - Sheila Joseph (Portsmouth Boulevard) requested removal of trees blocking neighborhood signs and described persistent issues with Dominion Energy regarding transformer replacement and meter accuracy. - Dominic Edgerton (Band Royal LLC) proposed a partnership to host a regional marching band festival in Portsmouth, citing the success of the March 2025 Trucker Classic (4,000 attendees, $10,000 profit). He estimated 700–800 student participants for an inaugural event. Discussion Items - Downtown Parking Policy (Work Session): - City Manager Carter presented an overview of parking availability and the proposed transition to T2 paid parking. Areas affected include former metered spaces, surface lots, time-restricted zones, and garages; residential districts (north and south) are excluded. - Councilman Hugo supported two hours of free parking on High Street followed by escalating rates to incentivize short-term customer turnover and push long-term parkers (residents, employees) to off-street lots and garages. - Councilman Tillage proposed the opposite: charge for High Street from the start and keep side streets (King, Queen, Court, Dinwiddie) free for two hours. - Councilwoman Bryant noted business owner concerns and suggested considering three hours free on High Street due to toll costs from Norfolk. She also asked about cash payment options (kiosks) for seniors and unbanked individuals. - Vice Mayor Moody emphasized the need for wayfinding signage and simplified instructions before implementing paid parking, noting that King’s Square lot was nearly empty during a busy weekend. - Councilman Dotson raised the lack of enforcement in Southside residential permit areas. - Mayor Glover stated that parking is not a revenue generator but a quality-of-life issue, and that some free period on High Street is appropriate to show support for businesses. He directed staff to proceed with the two-hour free option. - Link District Streetscape (Work Session): - Councilwoman Bryant and Councilman Tillage, as liaisons, recommended Alternative 1 (parallel parking on both sides with a median) based on meetings with engineers, traffic studies, and feedback from Cape Charles. Alternative 1 provides more parking spaces, better landscaping, and future flexibility. - Councilman Hugo proposed eliminating the median and installing mini-roundabouts at two key intersections (Elm and Godwin) to slow traffic and add character. He cited the VDOT road design handbook and noted that temporary, removable roundabouts are available. - City Manager Carter noted that the median is needed for left-turn lanes, especially on the western end due to projected growth. Engineers said mini-roundabouts are viable but require further study. - Council voted to proceed with Alternative 1 (consensus) with a caveat to continue exploring roundabouts during detailed design. Key Outcomes - Parking Policy: Council directed staff to develop a proposal based on two hours free parking on High Street with escalating rates thereafter, combined with improved wayfinding signage. A formal ordinance will be presented at the first June meeting. - Link District Streetscape: Council adopted Alternative 1 as the preferred design (parallel parking on both sides, median). Staff will continue to evaluate mini-roundabouts as a potential feature at Elm and Godwin intersections during design development. - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0, including all 14 ordinances and one resolution. - Public Hearing: Closed with no speakers; precinct relocation item moved to consent agenda. - Other: Councilwoman Thomas noted that the budget discussion for Portsmouth United should consider capital purchase restrictions. Councilman Dotson offered a private bus contact for New Generation Band’s June 20 event. Vice Mayor Moody suggested New Generation apply for city grants next cycle.

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The Portsmouth City Council held a work session beginning at 9:15 AM and a regular council meeting in the evening on May 12, 2026. The work session included presentations on the Portsmouth Broadband Authority, a proposed citywide public art master plan, amendments to the refuse ordinance, and a framework for community organization funding. The regular session adopted the FY2027 operating budget and capital improvement plan, approved pay and fee increases, and appointed a new city attorney. Several items were deferred for further discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Donna Biggs (Woodvine Farms) spoke on multiple agenda items, expressing opposition to budget increases, water/sewer rate hikes, and waste management fees, and questioned the city's spending priorities. - Mark Godal Digitrowski questioned the large percentage increases in cemetery fees and argued that pension supplements to retired city workers are unnecessary and divert funds from other needs. - Tiffany Stewart (Lieutenant paramedic, Local 539) thanked council for increasing pension payments for legacy retirees but criticized the lack of a comprehensive pay plan and the removal of fire department positions, urging collective bargaining to improve staffing and retention. - David House (Simonsdale) raised concerns about the placement of a new fire station in Craddock, noting it would eliminate a skate park and recreation area, and asked that the city consider other locations such as the former Craddock High School site. - Tony Goodwin (High Street business owner) advocated for improved tourism wayfinding signs and updated brown interstate signs, and submitted an unsolicited proposal for tourism services that has not yet been acknowledged. - David House (second appearance) detailed long-standing code enforcement failures at a tire repair and auto sales property, citing multiple unresolved violations and citing failures in the ClickFix system. - Sheila Joseph (Grant Street) discussed flooding and drainage issues in Hampton Roads communities and updated council on neighborhood projects. Discussion Items Work Session - Portsmouth Broadband Authority (Item 4): City Manager Stephen Carter and others explained the history and purpose of the Broadband Authority. The city has built a fiber ring to connect municipal facilities, provide redundant 911 service, and lease excess capacity to internet service providers to reach underserved areas. The ring is not yet fully complete, with two sections needing fiber pulls on the Churchland Bridge and near ODU (Tri-City area) due to easement issues. Target completion is December 31. The authority also plans to connect to the regional South Side Network Alliance (SSNA) but will cost-share for connections to subsea cables only with a partner. Discussion included how leasing fiber can generate revenue and the importance of connecting to Northern Virginia and Georgia for internet traffic. - Public Art Master Plan (Museum of Fine Arts Commission): Kiera Underwood (Vice Chair) proposed developing a citywide public art master plan to coordinate murals, functional art, and installations. The commission seeks to be the central review and approval body. A one-time planning investment of $95,000 for FY2028 was requested. Long-term funding could come from capital improvement budgets, transient occupancy taxes, or redevelopment taxes. Council expressed strong support; Councilman Dotson recommended visiting the Wynwood Walls in Miami as an example. The commission will work with organizations like Support Portsmouth Public Art. - Refuse Ordinance Amendments (Public Works Director Gerard Roberts): Proposed updates include requiring 95-gallon automated containers, a scheduled bulk pickup appointment system (call-in or web), yard waste in clear bags only (not black bags), contractor exclusion for yard waste, and enforcement fines ranging from $50 to $2,500 for hazardous waste disposal. Bulk pickup must be scheduled; early placement limited to 5 PM the day before. Commercial businesses with multiple 95-gallon cans may be required to switch to dumpsters. Enforcement officers will have conservator of the peace designation. Grace periods will be provided. Council discussed communication challenges (e.g., confusion over blue vs. black cans) and the need for clear public education, including QR codes and water bill inserts. Councilman Hugo requested an infographic for neighbors who use his property for bulk drop-off. The ordinance was adopted later in the regular meeting. - Community & Regional Organization Funding Framework (Trey Burke): A new structured process for FY2028 was presented with two options: Option A (council members serve on the evaluation team) and Option B (council liaisons provide feedback but do not evaluate). Policy guardrails include a three-year consecutive funding cap, annual applications, no guarantee of future funding, mandatory impact reports, and a maximum number of previously funded organizations per cycle. The process runs August through March. Council selected Option B (liaisons only) and appointed Councilwomen Thomas and Bryant as liaisons, with recusal if family members are involved. Regular Meeting - Budget Items: The council adopted the FY2027 operating budget ($598,146,297) and capital improvement plan ($140,813,798) after public hearings. Multiple fee increases were approved: water/sewer rates (5-2, with Councilmembers Thomas and Tillage voting no), stormwater fees (7-0), waste management fees (7-0), and cemetery fees (5-2, with Thomas and Tillage voting no citing high percentage increases). - Deferral of Items: Council voted unanimously to defer two items to the June 23 meeting: Item A (blighted/derelict property tax increase) and Item F (parking fee increases and High Street parking changes). Councilmembers expressed need for further discussion on blighted property definitions and potential unintended consequences. - City Attorney Appointment: Derek Challenger was appointed as City Attorney effective May 13, 2026, at a salary of $200,000, with contract details to be negotiated by the personnel committee. The vote was 5-2, with Councilmembers Tillage and Thomas voting no, stating they preferred to continue the search process. - Other Approvals: The council adopted a resolution for an interim agreement to design a new city hall and parking garage (6-1), accepted state funds for judicial and constitutional officer bonuses (7-0), and approved the FY2027 classification and pay plan (7-0). Key Outcomes - Adopted FY2027 Operating Budget ($598,146,297) – passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Thomas and Tillage dissenting due to state budget uncertainty). - Adopted Capital Improvement Program ($140,813,798) – passed 7-0. - Approved Water/Sewer Rate Increase – passed 5-2; includes an automatic annual 5% escalator. - Approved Stormwater Fee Increase – passed 7-0. - Approved Waste Management Fee Increase – passed 7-0; new bulk scheduling and enforcement rules take effect July 1 with a grace period. - Approved Cemetery Fee Increases – passed 5-2. - Deferred Blighted Property Tax Increase and Parking Fee Changes to June 23, 2026. - Appointed Derek Challenger as City Attorney – 5-2. - Authorized Design of New City Hall and Parking Garage – 6-1. - Directed City Manager to investigate updating wayfinding signs and the unsolicited tourism services proposal, and to follow up on code enforcement at specific properties (1131 Crawford Parkway and the tire repair business). - Council committed to improve public communication on refuse ordinance changes via infographics, water bill inserts, and QR codes.

The Portsmouth City Council held a work session on May 11, 2026, beginning at approximately 10:30 AM. The meeting focused on updates from the Economic Development Authority (EDA) on several major development initiatives, including the Crawford Bay Waterfront Development, the Link District redevelopment, temporary activation of vacant properties, and a new small business loan program. Council members discussed evaluation criteria for developers, property acquisition progress, blight remediation strategies, and next steps for implementation. The session also included preparations for the upcoming budget adoption meeting and a motion to convene a closed session for legal consultation. Crawford Bay Waterfront Development - The EDA presented an update on the Crawford Bay project, a six-acre waterfront site along the Elizabeth River. Over 300 residents participated in two in-person community engagement sessions, expressing desire for green spaces, dining, and a unique experience that honors Portsmouth's maritime identity. - A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was issued on March 4, 2026, with responses due May 7, 2026. The number of respondents was not disclosed. Evaluation criteria include 15 points for project team structure and MWBE participation, 30 points for relevant experience, 30 points for financial capacity, and 25 points for vision alignment. - Council discussion included concerns about the MWBE scoring being lumped within the project team category; Councilwoman Thomas requested separate scoring for future evaluation. Councilman Dodson expressed a preference for developing the western parcel as a quiet residential area rather than active retail, but other members noted community feedback at public sessions had specifically asked for activity at that parcel. - The evaluation schedule anticipates shortlisting developers by May 29, 2026, and presenting a recommendation to council by December 2026. Council members requested regular updates before December for transparency. - Vice Mayor Moody emphasized the importance of financial capacity, citing past failed developments. The mayor highlighted the successful casino project as a blueprint for this process. Link District Updates - The EDA reported on property acquisitions along High Street, including 1028 High Street, 1013 Queen Street (demolition nearly complete), 1117-1121 High Street (roof repairs underway), 1220 High Street (planned coffee shop), 934 High Street (needing more interior work than anticipated), and 817-823 High Street (recent acquisition, demolition planned by end of calendar year). - Councilwoman Bryant noted that the 817-823 block could accommodate a hotel and possibly parking to support walkability. Councilman Hugley suggested obtaining data on extended-stay demand from the naval shipyard and hospital to make the case for a hotel. - Councilman Dodson raised a property access issue at the end of Peninsula Street, where a railroad right-of-way prevents an investor from accessing their property. The EDA and city attorney offered to investigate with Norfolk Southern or CSX. Temporary Activation of Vacant EDA/City Land - The EDA presented ideas for activating vacant properties short-term, such as container parks, garden spaces, and fire pit areas, citing a visit to a container park in Richmond. - Councilwoman Bryant suggested a dog park as a desired amenity for new apartment and townhouse residents. Councilman Dodson recommended a permanent indoor art space like Miami's mural mart to sell artist prints. - A broader discussion on blighted properties ensued. Councilman Tillage noted the city already has a vacant property ordinance (Chapter 17, Article 3) but lacks enforcement. He proposed requiring property owners to register vacancies, with city staff providing regular updates and support. - City Attorney Challenger confirmed a memo was recently sent to council outlining legal options, but emphasized the need for adequately staffed code enforcement departments. City Manager Carter stated the assessor's office is reviewing processes and an ordinance revision is expected at the next council meeting. Small Business Loan Program - The EDA launched a revolving loan fund in partnership with Bridging Virginia, capitalized with $250,000 from EDA budget plus $100,000 for administrative services. The program targets small, minority, and women-owned businesses. - Ten businesses have been referred, with two currently in underwriting. Loans over $25,000 require Capital Access Committee review; loans over $50,000 need EDA board approval. - Council members praised the program, noting it addresses capital access and education for small businesses. Commissioner Saundersmith highlighted the need for better communication with civic leagues to connect citizens with local businesses and apprenticeship opportunities. Key Outcomes - Development Process: The council will receive regular updates on Crawford Bay and Link District progress; a third community meeting is planned for June after shortlisting developers. - Blight Enforcement: City staff will present a revised vacant property ordinance at the next council meeting to improve accountability and enforcement. - Budget Adoption: The council confirmed the general fund budget, including $90 million for schools, will be adopted at the May 12 business meeting. State budget uncertainty may require a later amendment for school spending. - Firefighter Staffing: City Manager Carter clarified that 11 vacant budgeted firefighter positions, once filled, will allow the department to meet standards for four-person truck crews. - 988 Crisis Line Signs: The city is already fabricating signs to promote the national suicide prevention line, with installation underway. - Political Signs: Council reached consensus to enforce Virginia Code prohibiting signs on public right-of-way, meaning no signs will be placed on city property, reversing a previous policy allowing signs on City Hall grounds. - Closed Session: The council voted unanimously to enter closed session under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(A)(8) for legal consultation and 2.2-3711(A)(1) for discussion of appointments. No actions were reported upon return. - Jubilation Statue Installation: The statue is in place, with a ribbon-cutting targeted for May 20, 2026.

Note: The official agenda lists this meeting as occurring on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, with a public work session at 5:00 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. However, the provided date for this summary is May 11, 2026. No transcript or minutes were provided, so the following summary is based solely on the agenda and does not reflect actual discussions or decisions. Discussion Items - Museum & Fine Arts Commission – City Art Plan Project: Scheduled for discussion during the 5:00 p.m. work session. - Refuse Ordinance Updates: Planned discussion on updates to refuse collection ordinances. - Cmmunity Funding Process Reform: Planned discussion on reforming the process for community funding. - City Manager Agenda Review: Review of the City Manager's agenda items. - City Council Liaison Reports: Reports from council liaisons to various boards and commissions. - Pblic Hearing on Proposed Real Property Tax Increase: Public hearing scheduled for the 7:00 p.m. regular meeting. - Adoption of FY 2027 Budget and Related Ordinances: Multiple items including adoption of the $738,960,095 budget, tax rate changes for blighted properties and derelict buildings, water/sewer rate increases, stormwater fee increase, refuse fee changes, parking fee changes, cemetery fee increases, Annual Action Plan, Classification and Pay Plan, Capital Improvement Program, and general fund appropriation. - Acceptance of State Shared Expense Revenue: $213,809 from Virginia Compensation Board for constitutional officer staff bonuses. - Interim Agreement for Design of New City Hall and Parking Garage: Resolution to authorize design agreement. - Bards and Commissions Appointments: Electronic roll call on appointments. - Items Submitted by Council Members, Report on Pending Items, Non-Agenda Speakers: Scheduled items. n Key Outcomes - No outcomes are available due to the absence of a transcript or minutes. The above items were listed on the agenda but actual votes, discussions, or decisions are unknown.

The transcript for this meeting was not included in the input. Therefore, no summary of agenda items, discussions, or outcomes can be generated. All sections below are omitted due to lack of content.