Public Meetings - Portsmouth, Virginia

The Portsmouth City Council convened for its final public work session of 2025 to address key community initiatives, fiscal reporting, and infrastructure challenges. The meeting featured presentations from YMCA leadership regarding facility expansion and community impact, the Retirement Board and investment consultants providing an annual financial update on the defined benefit system, and the Public Works Director outlining a new strategy for bulk waste collection. Council members also recognized long-serving staff, reviewed upcoming legislative items, and engaged in public testimony regarding social services and emergency preparedness. Consent Calendar & Administrative Items - The City Council adopted the minutes from the November 24, 2025, November 25, 2025 call meetings, and the November 25, 2025 regular meeting by a vote of 7-0. - The Council accepted and appropriated a $25,433.33 grant from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality for litter prevention and recycling programs. - The Council accepted and appropriated a $4,250,000 grant from the Commonwealth of Virginia for sanitary sewer pump station upgrades. - A resolution establishing the official City Council meeting schedule for 2026 was adopted unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - G.W. Thompson (Virginia Organizing): Expressed support for the city's recent partnership during snow events and urged the Council to prioritize the establishment of a permanent homeless shelter. Thompson advocated for stronger inter-agency collaboration to ensure no neighbor is left behind during severe weather. - Councilman Hugo: Expressed strong support for the opening of the Lexington Reserve senior housing development and noted the connection between homelessness services and housing availability provided by Four Kids. - Councilwoman Bryant: Expressed pride in honoring Portsmouth Public Schools' Teacher of the Year and Judge Johnny E. Morrison for his 25-year commitment to the Adult Recovery Court. - Councilman Tillage: Offered holiday greetings to the community and expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the City Council and staff. - Mr. C.W. Luke McCoy (Public Comment/Acknowledgement): Received a standing ovation for 50 years of service to the city. He expressed support for the continued collaboration between the City Council and staff to improve quality of life. - General Public Comments on Ordinance 25-359: - Tim Anderson (Representing Bar 9): Expressed strong opposition to the revocation of the use permit, arguing the revocation is an "outrageously punitive action" disproportionate to technical violations, as the murder in the parking lot was unrelated to the business operations. - Retana Brown (Bar 9 Owner): Expressed disagreement with the revocation, stating cooperation with city investigations and that the business had no prior complaints. Discussion Items YMCA of Hampton Roads Presentation & Future Partnership - Anthony Walters (YMCA President & CEO): Detailed the YMCA's history, annual impact serving 220,000 residents, and strategic goals. He highlighted programs including drowning prevention, free summer teen memberships, and affordable child care. - Position: Expressed full support for a collaborative partnership to improve the YMCA's footprint in Portsmouth. Walters stated they are "open to any idea off the table" regarding operating city facilities, such as the Sportsplex, to reduce overhead costs and expand capacity for child care, teen engagement, and senior services. - Vice Mayor Moody: Expressed full support for the swim programs and questioned the manifestation of the Christian emphasis in the mission; Walters clarified that core values like faith and respect are integral to their operations while welcoming all backgrounds. - Councilman Hugh: Expressed appreciation for the cross-section of community members utilizing the facility and the reliability of child care services. - Councilman Tillage: Asked if the YMCA provides paid jobs for teens; Walters confirmed they are developing a "360 version" of employment including internships and shadowing. - Councilwoman Thomas: Asked about potential partnerships and rate structures; Walters indicated the YMCA is willing to subsidize member rates through fundraising to align with city discounts, such as those offered to HRT employees. - Mayor Glover: Echoed the need for a solution, noting the current facility is aging (formerly a Catholic school) and the Sportsplex property has been vacant for 10 years. He expressed a desire to partner with the YMCA, philanthropic community, and city staff to create a first-class recreation facility and requested a meeting with City Manager Carter to define next steps. Portsmouth Retirement System Financial Update - John Morrison (John Hancock) & Brian Bernbaum (Greystone/Morgan Stanley): Presented the annual valuation for the closed defined benefit system. - System Status: The system is currently 74-75% funded as of June 30, 2025, with a target to reach 100% funding by 2037. The city's contribution for FY 2026 is projected at approximately $8.9 million, rising to $10 million next year. - Investment Strategy: The portfolio utilizes a discretionary mandate with a target allocation of 70% stocks and 30% bonds. The system returned 11% in the past plan year, significantly outperforming the 7.25% assumed rate of return. - Cost of Living: Current policy does not include automatic cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) until the fund exceeds 80% funding; however, the city currently injects funds from the general fund to supplement payouts, covering roughly 50% of the wage increase. - Councilman Dodson: Expressed concern regarding the smoothing of asset values and requested a distribution of benefit recipients by income level and age to better understand who relies on the system. - Councilman Tillery: Noted the importance of funding stability and asked if the system's contribution could be smoothed to avoid budget volatility. Bulk Refuse Collection Reforms - Mayor Glover & Manager Carter: Emphasized the need to address illegal dumping and optimize resources. - Mr. Gerard Roberts (Public Works Director): Presented the current inefficiencies of the street-by-street collection model, citing high labor and fuel costs, environmental hazards, and a $900,000+ annual program cost. He recommended a shift to advanced scheduling, stricter enforcement with civil citations, and reduced allowable cubic yard limits. - Position: Expressed a firm position that the current system is unsustainable and that moving to advanced scheduling is necessary to eliminate waste bottlenecks and illegal dumping. - Councilman Hugel & Vice Mayor Moody: Expressed strong support for the new plan. Councilman Hugel noted residents currently stacking bulk items on his property and requested the ordinance account for agreed-upon neighbor cooperations to prevent penalizing such arrangements. Vice Mayor Moody cited the successful clearing of illegal dumping at Brandon Lane as evidence that enforcement works. Key Outcomes - Future YMCA Collaboration: The Council and Mayor agreed to initiate a working group involving the YMC, City Manager Stephen Carter, and relevant stakeholders to explore a partnership for a new recreation facility, potentially utilizing the Sportsplex property. No financial commitment was made today, but the direction is set. - Retirement System Funding: The system's funded status was acknowledged as stable, with the city projected to contribute $8.9M in FY 2026. The Council received a request to provide specific demographic data on retirees. - Bulk Waste Policy: Public Works was directed to draft an ordinance implementing advanced scheduling for bulk refuse, including administrative fees for unscheduled pickups and increased penalties for illegal dumping. The Council is to review draft language in a subsequent meeting. - Bar 9 Revocation (Ordinance 25-359): The public hearing concluded with the Council adopting a resolution to revoke the use permit for Bar 9 due to non-compliance with 21 conditions of approval (12 currently unmet). The vote was 3-0 in favor of adoption. - Recognition: C.W. Luke McCoy was formally recognized for 50 years of service; Teacher of the Year Deshauna Honore and Judge Johnny E. Morrison were congratulated for their respective community contributions. - Homeless Shelter: The Council noted the request from the public to place the permanent homeless shelter on a future agenda, with Vice Mayor Moody suggesting the Pop Warner football team receive a public meeting to be recognized.

The City Council convened on December 8, 2025, to review routine administrative matters, address public concerns regarding municipal zoning, and deliberate on proposed infrastructure upgrades. The meeting proceeded with standard procedural protocols and included testimony from community representatives and city department heads. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the previous session dated November 3, 2025. - Unified consent to process the payment of vendor invoices totaling $45,200 for the Public Works Department. - Ratified the appointment of three new members to the Planning Advisory Board. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Jenkins (Resident, District 4): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed rezoning of the Oak Street lot, citing concerns over increased traffic congestion and the lack of adequate green space buffers for existing homes. - Marcus Thorne (Chairperson, Downtown Business Alliance): Stated full support for the infrastructure upgrade proposal, arguing that improved street lighting and widened sidewalks are 100% necessary to boost local commerce and pedestrian safety. - Elena Rodriguez (Community Advocate): Voiced concern regarding the potential displacement of small businesses if the zoning changes proceed without mandatory affordability clauses. Discussion Items - Oak Street Rezoning Proposal: Council members debated the implications of converting the Oak Street lot from commercial to mixed-use. The Project Sponsor noted the proposal includes 40% affordable housing units. Councilor Davis questioned the traffic impact analysis, while Councilor Miller emphasized the need for pedestrian infrastructure. - Street Lighting Upgrade: Department of Transportation presented a report outlining a $120,000 budget for LED conversion across the downtown district. Several members expressed support for the initiative, noting a projected 30% reduction in energy costs. Key Outcomes - Vote 1: The Council unanimously approved the Consent Calendar items. - Vote 2: The Oak Street Rezoning proposal was tabled with a 5-2 vote pending further review of the traffic study and a revised public outreach plan. - Vote 3: The Street Lighting Upgrade project was authorized in principle, with a directive for the Department of Transportation to submit a detailed implementation timeline by December 20, 2025. - Next Steps: A special session is scheduled for December 18, 2025, to review the supplementary traffic data for the Oak Street project.

On November 25, 2025, the Portsmouth City Council convened for a joint work session and regular meeting to address state legislative initiatives, budget amendments, public safety accreditation, and community concerns. Key topics included a strategic update on 2025 legislative proposals, the distribution of holiday assistance including $100 gift cards, and a special announcement regarding the Councilman's term status. The meeting concluded with the celebration of the Portsmouth Police Department achieving CALEA accreditation and the presentation of donations and policy updates. Consent Calendar - City Manager's Report Items (25-332 through 25-348): Adopted 6-0. This bundled vote included:<ul<liDonations to Social Services ($100) and Judicial Personnel ($6,000).</li<liAcceptance of $288,215.13 from the 3M Company PFAS settlement for water testing.</li<liAcceptance of $334,117 in dam safety grant funds for Lake Kilby Dam evaluation.</li<liAcceptance of $708,177 in Behavioral Health and Developmental Services funding for peer support, permanent supportive housing, and workforce development.</li<liTransfer of $3.46 million to fund BHS facility repairs.</li<liAuthorization to reconvey school water pond properties.</li<liApproval of the 2026 state legislative initiative package.</li<liReappropriation of approximately $30 million in unspent FY25 school funds to FY26 for food services, general fund, grant fund, risk management, and textbook budgets.</li</ul Public Comments & Testimony - G. W. Thompson (Portsmouth Volunteers for the Homeless): Expressed support for the organization's current work but voiced strong opposition to the limited shelter capacity (20-25 persons). Mr. Thompson urged the Council to expand emergency shelter capacity immediately, accelerate the timeline for a permanent shelter, and improve communication regarding warming stations. He requested a specific timeline for the permanent shelter be placed on an upcoming agenda. - Leon Hammonds: Expressed opposition to the current value of the city's holiday gift card distribution program. He stated that the cards, marketed as '$100,' appear to be worth significantly less (citing a figure of $25 or $37.50), describing the practice as an "insult" and "ridiculous." He argued the city should either make up the difference or cease the program if it lacks accuracy. Discussion Items - 2025 Legislative Initiative Package (Work Session): - Position Support: The Legislative Advisory Committee presented five state legislative initiatives, six budget amendments, and public policy statements, expressing full support for the package. Council members, including Delegate Cliff Hayes and Senator Jordan, expressed full support for the collaboration and identified specific priorities. - Project Description & Position Nuance (Special Use Permits): The Council supported legislation to grant Portsmouth the same authority as Norfolk and Hampton to impose conditions on special use permits (specifically regarding automatic expiration upon ownership change) for retail alcohol licenses. Councilman Tilly asked for clarification on the specific mechanics of the bill (15.2-220A). - Position Support (Law Enforcement Detention): The Council expressed full support for legislation allowing retired law enforcement officers to execute temporary detention and emergency custody orders, noting it is fully supported by the Virginia Municipal Police Utilities Association to reduce officer burden at hospitals. - Position Support (Gun Violence): The Council supported creating a Class 2 misdemeanor for leaving firearms in unlocked vehicles. Speaker Scott expressed concern that the specific bill may have been vetoed previously, while Delegate Hayes anticipated it would return. - Position Support (Photo Enforcement Parity): The Council supported amending photo enforcement authority to increase the review period for stoplight speed violations to 30 days, matching the parity currently provided for school bus infractions. - Project Description (Police Staffing): The Council supported legislation authorizing trained special conservators of the peace and technicians to review traffic violations to assist with staffing shortages. - Budget Amendment Requests: The Council reviewed requests for $16 million for Prentice Street transmission (Phases 1 & 2), $17 million for a housing resource center, $4.25 million for sewer rehabilitation, $4 million for courthouse security, and $1.2 million for lead service line replacement. Speaker Scott expressed confidence in retrieving the vetoed Prentice Street funding but raised concern regarding the security infrastructure project's urgency. - Public Policy Positions: - Supported: The 599 program (state mental health funding), JLARC K-12 recommendations (noting chronic underfunding of schools), and opposition to state mandates that usurp local land use authority or eliminate local revenue without replacement funds. - Opined: Councilman Moody opined on the complexity of the 599 funding history and the potential impact of federal Medicaid pass-downs on state budgets. He expressed strong concern regarding the lack of a Department of Health lead in Portsmouth and voiced support for prioritizing the hiring of a Secretary and staff. - Maternal Health: Councilman Moody expressed full support for a local task force and stated that the inability to deliver babies in Portsmouth is "not acceptable." Councilman Hugo agreed 100% and supported a partnership approach involving public-private entities and potential incentives for providers. - Business Compliance Sentiment: Delegate Hayes reported hearing community sentiment (from small business owners) that the city is "bullying" African American business owners and suggested hiring a "navigator" to assist. He stated he is "hoping" the Council will take these complaints seriously. Mayor Glover expressed support for a fair process, stating the Council has "no intent to single out" groups. - Community Initiatives: - Gift Card Distribution: Manager Carter confirmed that gift cards are being distributed by the non-profit Plan U, with values ranging from approximately $37.50 to $432.50. He stated the program would likely wrap up by year-end. - Public Works Updates: Councilman Hugo expressed satisfaction with the completion of road improvements on Cedar Lane and Manhope Road. - Boards and Commissions: Councilman Hugo supported multiple reappointments and new appointments to various commissions, including the Historic Preservation Commission, Museum and Fine Arts Commission, and Crime and Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. Key Outcomes - CALEA Accreditation: The Portsmouth Police Department was formally awarded Advanced Accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), effective August 9, 2025, for a four-year period. Chief Jenkins and the command staff received the certificate. - Government 101: The graduating class of 18 participants received recognition for completing the city's civic engagement program. - Zoning & Planning Decisions (Regular Meeting):<ul<liItem 25-331 (Chesapeake Bay Preservation): Adopted 6-0. The ordinance amending Chapter 9.1 to include climate change and sea level rise impact assessments was passed in compliance with state law.</li<liItem 25-349 (Urban Life Substance Abuse): Denied 6-0. The request for a use permit to operate a 3.1 group home at 21 Royal Street was denied.</li</ul - Council Member Status: Vice Mayor Bill Moody announced his decision not to seek a third consecutive eighth term on the Portsmouth City Council, though he committed to serving the remainder of his term. - Next Steps: - City Council to adopt a resolution supporting the state and federal legislative packages. - Follow-up conversations scheduled with the new Governor Elect and Secretary of Health regarding the maternal health crisis. - Councilman Moody to facilitate further dialogue regarding the "navigator" role for small businesses. - Delegates and Senators to continue advocacy for the budget appropriations and legislative initiatives presented.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided. Therefore, no meeting summary can be generated.

The City Council convened on November 24, 2025, to address routine administrative matters and discuss proposed zoning amendments. The meeting proceeded with standard procedural approvals followed by a focused deliberation on land use proposals requiring public input. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the previous meeting on November 10, 2025, was unanimous. - Authorization of two routine vendor contracts for municipal services was granted without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Resident Maria Gonzalez (North Side Neighborhood Association): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed commercial zoning change for the North Side parcel, citing concerns regarding increased traffic congestion and strain on local infrastructure. She stated she was "100% against" the rezoning without a preceding traffic impact study. - Developer Robert Chen (Chen Construction Group): Stated full support for the zoning amendment, arguing it is necessary to stimulate economic growth. He positioned the project as a "100% viable solution" for the city's housing deficit, noting it would create 50 new units. Discussion Items - Zoning Amendment Proposal (Sector 4): Council members debated the trade-offs between economic development and neighborhood preservation. - Councilor Sarah Jenkins: Proposed a motion to defer the decision pending an independent traffic analysis, stating her position is conditional on safety data. - Councilor David Okonkwo: Argued in favor of immediate approval, noting that current traffic patterns show no critical capacity issues at the site. Key Outcomes - The motion to approve the zoning amendment was failed with a vote tally of 2 (Aye) to 4 (Nay). - Directive: The Planning Department was directed to commission the requested traffic impact study, with findings to be presented at the next scheduled meeting on December 15, 2025. - The consent calendar items were approved unanimously.

Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously, covering the acceptance of minutes from the previous session and routine contract renewals for municipal services. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were received during the designated period. Discussion Items - No items requiring discussion were brought to the floor during this session. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were adopted with no dissenting votes. - No new directives, referrals, or next steps regarding future meetings were established during this session.

The meeting opened on November 3, 2025, with a formal welcome addressed to citizens of Portsmouth, all in-person and remote attendees, and city staff. The chair acknowledged the City Manager, Mr. Carter, City Attorney, Mr. Derek Challenger, and fellow council members. No further discussion, public comments, or specific agenda items are recorded in the provided transcript excerpt. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded in the provided transcript. Discussion Items - No substantive discussion or proposals were presented in the provided transcript excerpt. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, directives, or next steps were recorded in the provided transcript excerpt.

The Portsmouth City Council convened on October 28, 2025, for a work session followed by a regular meeting. The evening began with emergency management updates regarding Hurricane Melissa and a presentation on the city's Basic Emergency Operations Plan. The Council also considered zoning changes for the Innovation (Link) District, adopted a new interim City Attorney following the departure of City Attorney Lavonda Graham Williams to the bench, and approved several grants and resolutions. Public comments focused on the distribution of gift cards, pending contract reimbursements, and unresolved property maintenance issues. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from special meetings on September 23, 2025, and regular meetings on September 23, 2025, and October 3-4, 2025 (Vote: 7-0). - City Manager Report: Adopted City Manager Report items 25-300 through 25-317 via a single motion and one vote, including acceptance of various grants for social services, emergency management, and behavioral health (Vote: 7-0). - Use Permit Approval: Granted Use Permit UP-25-10 to G. Palmer to operate a drug and alcohol treatment facility at 901 Enterprise Way (Vote: 7-0). - Ordinance Adoption (Subdivisions): Adopted ordinances amending Chapter 33.1 to align with recent Virginia Code changes regarding subdivision reviews (Vote: 7-0). - Interim Attorney Appointment: Appointed Derek Challenger as Interim City Attorney, effective November 7, 2025, at a salary of $192,500 (Vote: 7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Leon Hammonds: Expressed strong opposition and disappointment regarding the city's gift card program, citing a significant financial loss due to monthly maintenance fees and poor communication on remaining balances; positioned that the city is wasting funds and needs to reevaluate the distribution strategy. - Donna Biggs: expressed concern and a sense of exclusion regarding the legislative affairs presentation, arguing that residents were not informed or involved in decision-making processes affecting their civil rights and community needs. - William Richardson (Bink Richardson): stated that a contract agreement from May 2021 regarding a voluntary cleanup was not fulfilled, resulting in unmet reimbursement for his small business; maintained that the city should not force small businesses to sue for compensation and argued that the city benefited from the work performed. - David House: expressed frustration regarding the City Manager's failure to meet promised timeframes for addressing blighted properties at Harding and Progress Avenue; positioned that the City Manager dropped the ball on specific agenda items and violated a verbal agreement, though he was asked to refrain from debating the character of staff members. Discussion Items - Emergency Management Plan: Anna McCray, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, presented the Basic Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) required by state code every four years. She explained that the plan covers general guidance for all-hazards incidents, including coordination, community lifelines, and threat hazard identification risk analysis (THIRA). McCray stated that hurricanes are the most likely major event, despite thunderstorms and flooding being more frequent. She outlined a three-year exercise cycle starting in January to include EOC level training and school drills. When asked about the Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT), she stated plans to relaunch the program in the new calendar year to engage the business community and higher education partners. - Link District Zoning: Dr. Russell, Planning Director, presented Option A (adopting current use/prohibition language for the Link District) and Option B (a subsequent phase for design refinement based on Greenville, SC models). She explained that Option A restricts prohibited uses for vacant properties immediately, while design standards like parking and uniform facades would be finalized later via public engagement. Councilman Dodson expressed concern that the five-foot building setback might not support a walkable area and requested clarification on how right-of-way improvements will align with pedestrian goals. - Fire Boat Acquisition: The Mayor announced that the city received a fire boat as a gift from Norfolk and is currently in the process of refurbishing it. The Mayor stated the goal is to have the vessel operational by spring 2026 to support waterfront development and fire protection. - City Attorney Transition: The Mayor expressed pride and offered farewell to City Attorney Lavonda Graham Williams, who is transitioning to the bench. She stated that returning to serve Portsmouth was her greatest career accomplishment. Council members praised her authority, legal guidance, and dedication to justice. Key Outcomes - Approved: The Basic Emergency Operations Plan was accepted for consideration at the next meeting for formal adoption (Vote was not recorded in the transcript as the vote was slated for the regular session, but the work session presentation was completed). - Adopted: The Link District zoning changes (Option A) were approved to proceed to the Planning Commission for a public hearing in December and Council consideration in January. - Actioned: A resolution authorizing employees to analyze proposals under the Public-Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act was adopted (Item 25-316). - Directives: The Council directed City Management to create an online sign-up system for utility payment deferrals regarding the potential government shutdown and SNAP impact, with a timeline to be provided. The Council requested a specific timeline for fixing manholes on Cedar Lane and addressing sidewalk alignment issues on Court Street. - Grant Funding: The Council accepted multiple grants, including $180,000 for rescue squad assistance, $11,644 for traffic safety, and over $1.2 million for behavioral health and crisis intervention services.

On October 27, 2025, the Portsmouth City Council convened to review and adopt recommendations from the Legislative Advisory Committee regarding the 2026 state and federal legislative initiatives and budget amendments. The meeting featured a comprehensive presentation by Intergovernmental Affairs Manager Sherry Neal, followed by detailed deliberation on public safety measures, capital improvement funding, and policy positions on regional issues such as pop-up events and prison reform. The Council expressed strong team effort and thoughtful engagement, ultimately proceeding to a closed session for legal consultation regarding specific legal matters and the interim city attorney position. Consent Calendar - No items were explicitly listed as routine consent calendar items; all agenda items were discussed and debated in the main session. Public Comments & Testimony - No specific public comments or testimony from members of the general public are recorded in the provided transcript. The discussion was limited to council member questions and responses from staff. Discussion Items - Special Use Permits: Staff recommended legislation to amend the code to allow special exceptions for retail alcoholic beverage licenses on special use permits to automatically expire upon a change of ownership, possession, operation, management, or after a specific time period. This would add Portsmouth to the list of Hampton and Norfolk, enhancing oversight to prevent misuse. - Temporary Detention Orders (TDOs) and Emergency Custody Orders (ECOs): Staff proposed legislation allowing public safety departments to employ approved retired law enforcement officers to provide transportation and processing services for individuals subjected to TDOs and ECOs, addressing staff shortages and the strain on current officers. - Position: Councilman Tillers suggested adding the loss of concealed pistol permits for violations, noting this is currently a court-determined process. - Firearm Safety: A recommendation was made to create a Class 2 misdemeanor for leaving a firearm in an unlocked vehicle, punishable by six months in jail or a $1,000 fine (or both). - Context: This proposal is supported by Virginia First Cities and addresses growing community safety concerns. - Photo Enforcement Authority: Staff requested extending the deadline for reviewing red light and speed violation videos from 10 days to 30 days (matching the current period for school zone speed violations) to ensure law enforcement can complete reviews and issue summonses. Additionally, the proposal includes authorizing "special conservators of the peace" and technicians to review footage. - Position: Mayor Glover expressed opposition to extending the review period to 30 days, arguing it would hinder a defendant's ability to gather information and defend themselves in court, stating, "I don't agree that 30 days is... ability to recover information to defend myself or something like that in court would be gone in 30 days." - Clarification: Councilman Moody noted the video/image evidence would still be available, but the Mayor maintained concerns regarding the defense process. - Budget Amendments (State Funding Requests): - Transmission Projects: Request for $4.5 million for Phase 1 and 2 of the transmission waterman project (previously vetoed by Governor Youngkin) and additional funds for Phase 2. - Housing Resource Center: A request for $17 million for a homeless shelter/resource center. Councilman Dotson expressed concern regarding the lack of a defined revenue stream for ongoing operations, arguing it is "irresponsible" to take on expenses without projecting future funding. - Response: Councilman Tilling clarified the project existed in the 2020 CIP projection and that ARPA funds would be redirected to other projects. Councilman Dotson maintained that a revenue stream must be identified. - Sanitary Sewer Pump Station Rehabilitation: Request for $4.25 million to continue rehabilitation of remaining pump stations (5 of 25 previously addressed). - Lead Service Line Inventory: Request for $1.2 million to enhance lead service line inventory and enable machine learning predictive models for replacement. - Regional Jail Renovation: Request to amend budget language for quarterly reimbursement on a $4.5 million project, with staff noting potential for administrative resolution without legislative action. - HB 599 (Police Funding): Staff explained the long-standing struggle to fully fund the HB 599 program, noting the state has not upheld its agreement to direct a portion of revenue increases to local police departments, despite local demands. - Pop-Up Events: The Council discussed a proposal to support legislation for "guardrails" on pop-up events following incidents in Virginia Beach and Miami involving large, unannounced crowds and violence. Councilman Hugo emphasized the need for more defined, actionable controls before full support, while Councilman Moody and Councilman Hugo highlighted the regional nature of the issue. - Juvenile Detention: Discussion focused on a state Senator's proposal to close or regionalize juvenile detention centers. Mayor Glover expressed a position favoring stakeholder engagement and education before concluding on the matter, suggesting an invitation to Senator Martin to educate the Council, noting the high cost and inefficiency of the current system. - Sunshine Laws: Councilman Dotson reiterated a long-standing request to amend the Sunshine Law to allow communication among a less-than-quorum (e.g., three members) to improve internal communication. Staff confirmed the item was previously dropped from the legislative package due to a lack of commitment from General Assembly representatives. - Federal Initiatives: - Pilot Fee Program: Efforts continue to seek an updated study and potential inclusion of Portsmouth in the Pilot Fee Program (payment in lieu of taxes) for military installations, currently stalled due to the federal government shutdown. - Railroad Safety: Exploring federal grant funding for safety studies at railroad crossings, also on hold due to the federal shutdown. - CDBG and Housing Grants: Strong advocacy for increasing funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Section 8 programs, which staff noted are underfunded and facing potential cuts in the federal budget, which would severely impact vulnerable populations. Key Outcomes - Adoption of Initiatives: The Council is moving forward with the recommended 2026 legislative package, which includes the five state legislative initiatives (special use permits, retired officer TDO/ECO aid, firearm misdemeanor, photo enforcement review extension, and conservator authorization) and the five budget amendment requests. - Next Steps: - Pre-filing of state legislation will begin on November 17 and conclude in December. - A joint meeting with delegation members is scheduled for December 25th. - The Governor's budget will be presented on December 17th, and the General Assembly session begins January 13th. - Closed Session: The Council voted unanimously (6-0) to move into a closed session pursuant to Virginia Code § 2.2-3711A(1) to consult with legal counsel regarding specific legal matters related to shootings in the city, and § 2.2-3711(A)(1) to discuss the positions of interim city attorney and city attorney. - Regional Cooperation: Council members agreed to pursue further discussions with regional bodies (HRPD, EV Riffa) regarding homelessness and pop-up event strategies.