Public Meetings - Portsmouth, Virginia

On June 10, 2025, the City of Portsmouth convened multiple meetings, including a Broadband Authority meeting, a City Council work session, and a regular City Council meeting. Discussions covered fiber network expansion, public safety initiatives, crime statistics, use permit applications, and various community concerns. Key outcomes included a denied use permit for a shipping container storage yard, a deferred use permit for an event space, and unanimous adoption of several ordinances. Consent Calendar - Broadband Authority minutes were approved by voice vote. - City Council minutes from May 27, 2025 (called and regular meetings) were adopted electronically, 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Bahina (Friends of the Portsmouth Maritime Museums) announced the inaugural Junior Paddle Battle on September 6, 2025, offering free kayak lessons for Portsmouth youth ages 8-14, in partnership with Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, Virginia Beach Surf Sessions, PRHA, and the YMCA. He invited council to attend. - Aaron Cody advocated for ranked-choice voting, listing benefits including majority support, reduced spoiler candidates, more choice, increased voter participation, reduced negative campaigning, and focus on issues. - Ethan DeRosa expressed concerns about a potential ICE agreement, but council clarified no such agreement exists under city jurisdiction. He urged the council to protect immigrant communities. - Joseph Kelly called for increased police presence, enforcement of curfew, and parental responsibility. He also promoted the Island Pulse Music Festival on April 26 to raise funds for youth recreation centers. - Sergio O'Neal supported a parental accountability ordinance, citing recent incidents of youth violence and vandalism, including at St. Paul's Church. He urged holding parents legally responsible for their children's crimes. - Sherman Tyler praised recent street improvements (Lincoln Avenue, the Link, pothole repairs) but questioned why existing laws against face masks are not enforced. He also criticized the council for spending an hour on an applicant who operated without a license while quickly dismissing another applicant. - Sheila Joseph raised concerns about the new water billing system, requesting an update on unresolved charges. She also asked for enforcement of city codes on right-of-way maintenance and urged use of the Clickfix app for reporting issues. - Marvin Ridley (264 Dock Street) complained about poor work by a cable/utility contractor (Verizon and another unnamed company) that damaged lawns, broke a water main, and left debris. He asked the city to hold contractors accountable. He also noted flooding at Williams Court and the Dollar Tree lot. Discussion Items - Broadband Authority Update (Mr. Hayes and Mr. Brian Donahue): - The Regional Connectivity Ring (RCR) and Next Generation Network (NGN) fiber rings were discussed. The primary objective is public safety (interoperability for Next Generation 911, CAD-to-CAD), with secondary goals for smart city sensors (flood, weather, air quality). - Phase 1: Connect 10 community anchor institutions by end of 2025. Phase 2: Libraries, recreation centers, and affordable housing units (PRHA) by end of 2026. Phase 3: All remaining anchor institutions. The city plans to apply for a SEID grant (full application due July 18, 2025) with potential awards of $350,000 (design only) or $500,000 (design and construction). - The local fiber ring (55 miles) is complete except for a 70-foot segment under Norfolk Southern railroad near Suffolk, which remains pending approval. The West Norfolk Bridge fiber deal generated $1.3 million in revenue from the regional ring. - Cost avoidance: Currently paying $40,000/month for 1 Gbps circuits; after fiber connection, costs drop to $7,000–$8,000/month for 10 Gbps circuits. - Mr. Donahue (Economic Development) outlined plans to market the fiber infrastructure to attract businesses, especially maritime, logistics, defense, and manufacturing. He emphasized partnership with IT and the regional Southside Network Authority. - Councilman Hugo requested detailed cost avoidance figures per phase for budget planning. - Councilman Walker asked about GPS capabilities in Next Gen 911; staff confirmed it can pinpoint location and floor, and can provide live video streaming to dispatchers and officers. - Councilwoman Thomas asked about integrating sensors; staff noted that sensor deployment is part of the IT department's three-year plan, dependent on fiber infrastructure. - Councilman Hugo asked about the impact of not receiving the grant; staff confirmed a contingency budget request is in the next cycle. - City Council Work Session – Youth Permit Extensions (Dr. Russell): - Staff presented a request for a one-year extension (to July 2026) for Use Permit 2307 (Ron Holloway, townhouse development on Deep Creek Boulevard). The item was not for a vote; it was informational. Council agreed to place it on the next business agenda after proper notice. - City Council Work Session – Crime Statistics and Public Safety Initiatives (Chief Jenkins): - Property crimes: 22.2% decrease year-to-date (over 300 fewer incidents). Main drivers: burglaries to sheds and domestic-related larcenies. - Violent crimes: 11.5% increase. Drivers: brandishing of firearms and aggravated assaults (shooting into occupied dwellings up 73%). - Overall crime: 18% reduction in incidents, 19.25% reduction in victims. Homicides down 70% (7 victims in 2025 vs. 23 in 2024). - Recent incidents: Graduation party shooting on Viking Street (4 injured, all expected to recover; at least 4 shooters, multiple calibers). Accidental shooting of a juvenile the next day; another shooting investigation ongoing. - Technology successes: Flock gunshot detection and license plate readers helped solve a June 4 shooting within two hours, leading to arrests. - New initiatives: - Social Media's Most Wanted: weekly posting of retail theft suspects for identification. - Strategic Anti-Violence Enforcement (SAVE) Unit: proactively investigates brandishing and low-level gun crimes to prevent escalation. Since late April, a 50% decrease in brandishing reports, with 40 charges filed. - Officer Community Problem-Solving Project: each officer assigned a monthly project (e.g., illegal parking, nuisance properties) with a report at month's end. - Crime Dashboard: launched 1.5 months ago, updated daily, shows shootings by neighborhood, day of week (Sunday highest), stolen firearms (72 year-to-date), and comparisons. Available on police website. - Accreditation: The department achieved advanced CALEA accreditation, making Portsmouth one of the few advanced-accredited departments in the region. The chief highlighted increased pride and accountability. - Council asked about staffing (8 new officers graduated that day, 15 expected in next academy), unsolved homicides and cold cases (communication challenges, need for more personnel), gang activity (prevalent but not all incidents gang-related; homegrown, fluid), and enforcement of curfew (11 p.m.–5 a.m. for under 17; officers instructed to cite juveniles and charge parents if knowingly allowing violations). - City Council Regular Meeting – Public Hearings: - Item A (UP-23-24) – Grossman Trucking LLC, use permit for shipping container/chassis storage at 680 Military Road: Extensive discussion. The applicant had been operating without a business license since at least 2021. Neighboring property owner Dave Luter raised concerns about drainage, access, and a proposed entrance apron blocking his gate. The city engineer stated drainage is a civil matter. The motion to deny passed 7-0. - Item B (UP-25-04) – B. Ashby, use permit for event space/banquet hall at 6031 High Street West: Staff recommended approval with conditions. Council deferred to August 26, 2025, to allow time for staff to develop regulations for new industries. Vote was 6-1. - City Manager's Report – Ordinances (all adopted 7-0): - Acceptance of additional HOME-ARP funds ($1,727) from HUD. - Acceptance of $20,000 from Beasley Foundation for pediatric pre-hospital care program. - Acceptance of $444,374 from USDA for Child and Adult Food Care Program. - Acceptance of $933,652 from DEQ for stormwater improvements (Green Lakes 3 Retrofit). - Acceptance of $1,067,316 from DCJS for 11 school resource officers (Sheriff's Office). Key Outcomes - Broadband Authority: Plan for fiber buildout phases approved; grant application to proceed; staff to provide cost avoidance data per phase. - Use Permit 2307 (Holloway extension): Informational; will be placed on a future business agenda. - Use Permit UP-23-24 (Grossman Trucking): Denied 7-0. - Use Permit UP-25-04 (Ashby event space): Deferred to August 26, 2025, by a 6-1 vote. - Ordinances 25-160 through 25-164: All adopted 7-0. - Next meetings: Broadband Authority next meeting July 8, 2025 (as noted). City Council work session and regular meeting schedules continue.

This was a public work session between the Portsmouth City Council and the Crime and Gun Violence Reduction Task Force, held on June 9, 2025. The task force presented its progress since its formation in November 2024, and the council discussed the role of the task force, the need for a consultant, community engagement efforts, data collection, communication challenges, and the development of a mobile app. Discussion Items - Task Force Overview and Committee Structure: Task Force Chairman Jalen Jerry reported that the task force first met in November 2024 and focused on building structure from December to February 2025. Four committees were established: Community Engagement, Resource Allocation, Data and Metrics, and Intervention. The task force seeks clarity on whether its role is advisory or working, and requests alignment with council expectations. - Consultant/Project Manager Need: Councilman Hugo, a council liaison to the task force, explained that efforts to procure a consultant to guide the task force have stalled. An initial request for proposals received only one respondent, and a second round received none. An unsolicited proposal from a Hampton-based group was deemed insufficiently experienced. Councilman Hugo emphasized that the task force needs an expert to help organize its work into a comprehensive action plan. Councilwoman Thomas asked if a project manager could serve a similar coordinating function. Councilman Moody expressed caution about waiting for an outside consultant and urged the task force to continue work using local expertise and partnerships. - Role of the Task Force: City Attorney Levonda Graham Williams clarified that the task force can act as both an advisory body and a working group, depending on the direction of the data and information. Councilman Hugo noted that the task force was created to develop a comprehensive action plan, and that the work of gathering information through committees is part of that advisory process. The task force should build the plan, and then city staff and community partners would implement it. - Community Engagement: Task force members described attending civic league meetings to listen to residents. Eugene Swinson reported that Craddock residents expressed concerns about loitering at Afton Square, while other neighborhoods had different issues. The task force is developing a neighborhood assessment questionnaire and a calendar of civic league meetings to ensure consistent feedback. Councilman Tillage supported using neighborhood assessments to capture data and shape the citywide plan. - Data and Metrics: Sarah Ray noted that she has been unable to access city email, limiting her ability to share information. Keith Rice expressed interest in obtaining court and probation data to understand recidivism and age demographics of offenders. The task force has been compiling a database of existing services and programs. - Communication and Public Information: Eugene Swinson emphasized the importance of providing context to the public after incidents (e.g., the shooting of four teens at Craddock Park was not a graduation party but a gathering after a party was shut down in Norfolk). Councilwoman Bryant stressed the need for a marketing campaign about the task force's work. Task Force Chairman Jerry noted that cities like Baltimore have dedicated personnel to publicly discuss incidents after facts are confirmed. Councilman Hugo mentioned a mobile app under development by city staff Chantel Matthews, which will serve as a hub for resources and citizen reporting, similar to a \"Click Fix for crime.\" Councilwoman Thomas cautioned about app overload, as the city already has several apps. - IT and Email Issues: Several task force members reported difficulty accessing city email, forcing them to use personal devices despite earlier instructions not to. Councilman Hugo requested that the deputy city manager arrange for IT to sweep and resolve all members' email access. The city attorney reminded members to go through the city manager for such issues. - Stakeholder Involvement: Councilman Dotson stressed the importance of including all stakeholders, particularly the Commonwealth's Attorney's office. Task force members indicated they have not yet reached out, but discussed examples from other cities (e.g., Roanoke) where task forces included 25+ members from multiple agencies. The council encouraged the task force to use its commission status to request department heads and stakeholder participation through the city manager. Key Outcomes - The council committed to resolving IT and email access issues for task force members promptly. - The task force plans to continue attending civic league meetings and develop a neighborhood assessment tool to capture resident concerns. - The development of a mobile app for resources and reporting is in its final stages, with stakeholder meetings scheduled. - The council affirmed the importance of the task force's work and directed city staff to support its efforts, including potential consultant or project manager hiring as a top priority. - The mayor emphasized the need for consistent communication and \"one voice\" from the city regarding safety initiatives, and promised to improve coordination. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting served as a discussion and information-sharing session.

The Portsmouth City Council held a work session and regular meeting on May 27, 2025. The work session featured presentations from Friends of Foster Care and the Museum of Black Women Innovators. The regular meeting included public hearings, approval of ordinances, resolutions, and appointments. All votes were 7-0 except where noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Honorary Street Naming (DAP Senior Way): DeVish Jeanette Peace Branch spoke in support of naming a portion of Randolph Street after her father, Rev. D.A. Peace, citing his decades of community service. No opposition was voiced. One additional speaker, a community member, expressed support. - Seaplane Base (Ordinance and Use Permit): Sam Riggs, applicant, presented the proposal and answered questions. Public commenter Tony Goodwin praised the zoning ordinance as a living document that accommodates new ideas. No opposition. - Flood Resilience Study: Tony Goodwin spoke in support of the study, emphasizing the importance of public transportation and military access. - Non-Agenda Speaker: Sheila Joseph raised concerns about traffic blocking at intersections, trash enforcement, and tree trimming near power lines. Discussion Items - Friends of Foster Care Presentation: Dr. Audra Bullock presented statistics on foster care in Portsmouth, noting 48 youth currently in care, an average age of 11.5, and 71% of exits being to emancipation. She described the organization's tutoring, enrichment, and support services, and shared outcomes (95% promotion, 88% pass rate, 100% senior graduation). Council members asked about partnerships with Portsmouth Public Schools, Portsmouth at Work, and other agencies. Dr. Bullock stated the organization does not receive city funding and relies on private donations. Council expressed support and offered to connect her with additional local resources. - Museum of Black Women Innovators (MOBWI) Presentation: Dr. Reddix presented plans for Phase 2 of the Mustard Seed Place, including an interactive museum with a $6.2 million budget over four years. She requested a $600,000 partnership from the city (10% of the total). Council members expressed strong support, highlighting alignment with the city's vision and the museum's potential to attract tourism. Councilwoman Thomas suggested engaging local historians. Councilwoman Bryant noted alignment with state curriculum standards. - Seaplane Base Operations: Sam Riggs explained the seaplane base would operate under Part 135 FAA certification, with noise levels comparable to a lawnmower for 5-10 seconds. He addressed safety measures, coordination with the Navy and Coast Guard, and plans to stand down during major events. Council discussed conditions, including a requirement to comply with Navy requirements. Councilman Hugo emphasized proactive communication with the Navy. - Building Code Enforcement: Councilman Dodson raised concerns about property owners extending building permits without inspections. City Manager Carter noted the building official can grant extensions, and promised to review enforcement. - Flood Resilience Study: Council discussed the study's recommendations for raising roads and improving drainage. City Manager Carter noted the study positions the city for federal funding. Councilman Hugo highlighted the availability of Defense Community Infrastructure Pilot (DCIP) grants. Key Outcomes - Honorary Street Name Designation (Resolution 25-137): Approved 7-0 to designate a portion of Randolph Street as DAP Senior Way. - Entertainment Use Permit (Bar 9): Deferred to the last meeting of July 2025 (vote 4-3) to allow time for council to review the zoning ordinance and conduct site visits. - Ordinance to Add Seaplane Base as Permitted Use (Z 24-02): Approved 7-0. - Use Permit for Seaplane Base at 10 Crawford Parkway (UP 24-03): Approved 7-0. - Ordinances Accepting Funds: - Opioid settlement ($28,960.59) – Approved 7-0. - HUD additional funding ($20,539.27) – Approved 7-0. - DSS family partnership meeting incentive ($2,400) – Approved 7-0. - 911 Services Board funding ($4,000) – Approved 7-0. - Donation from DeLong Company ($5,700) – Approved 7-0. - Resolutions: - Temporary construction easement for Spillway Bridge project – Approved 7-0. - Power easement for Dominion Energy – Approved 7-0. - Endorsement of Critical Infrastructure Flood Resilience Study – Approved 7-0. - Boards and Commissions Appointments: Approved 7-0 for six appointees to various boards. - Closed Session: Held for consultation with legal counsel regarding state and local fiscal recovery funds and appointments to boards and commissions.

The meeting of the Portsmouth Broadband Authority and subsequent City Council work session and regular meeting took place on May 13, 2025. The Broadband Authority received updates on the regional fiber ring, local next-generation network (NGN), and grant-funded last-mile projects. The City Council work session reviewed the sale of a 2.95-acre parcel in Suffolk, formed a committee for the Crawford Bay redevelopment, and finalized the FY2026 budget, including a real property tax rate reduction to $1.24 and the withdrawal of a proposed tax credit. Broadband Authority Meeting Officers Election - Chair: Ron Green was nominated and unanimously elected as Chair. - Vice Chair: Jennifer Hughes was nominated and unanimously elected as Vice Chair. Regional Fiber Ring Update - Cliff Hayes (CIO) and broadband strategist Jeff Bikou reported on the 119-mile regional fiber ring connecting five South Side cities, with 288 strands, scheduled for completion by March 2026. - The ring connects to transatlantic subsea cables in Virginia Beach, providing access to Europe and Africa. - Portsmouth receives six dedicated fiber strands for public safety, CAD systems, digital city applications, and academic partnerships. - The South Side Network Authority leases 96 strands to Global Technical Systems (GTS). Local Next-Generation Network (NGN) - Three strategic sites are currently connected: 206 High Street (police admin), 311 Building (EOC, fire admin), and 700 Port Center. - Current annual internet cost for 56 anchor institutions: $672,000. Projected annual cost after full buildout: $21,000, saving $4.6 million over 10 years. - Plan to connect 10 additional facilities by end of calendar year 2025; a full buildout plan is expected by March 2026, with a preliminary timeline available by the next meeting. - The city earned $1.3 million from the regional organization for conduit access at the West Norfolk Bridge. - Excess fiber strands are available for lease at $900 per linear mile per month; interest has been expressed. BEAD & Digital Equity Grants - Virginia received $1.48 billion for broadband deployment. Three ISPs (Cox, Verizon, Spark GTS) have provisional awards for Portsmouth, targeting 75 unserved locations. - Ten other providers submitted blanket applications but are not expected to receive awards locally. - Portsmouth is developing a Digital Opportunity Plan (due June 30, 2025) to educate residents on digital literacy, telehealth, and online services. Future Topics - Economic development via NGN, speaker from Virginia Broadband Office, grant writing workshops, digital opportunity plan presentations, and member-suggested topics. City Council Work Session Sale of 2.95-Acre Parcel in Suffolk - City manager presented pros/cons of selling the parcel (appraised at $90,000) to Suffolk for a new fire station adjacent to their existing station. - Property is legally non-conforming (2.95 acres vs. 3-acre minimum) and currently vacant. - Council Position: General support for sale as a goodwill gesture and to generate revenue. Council requested a list of all city-owned parcels in other localities. - Decision: Proceed with negotiations with Suffolk based on appraised value. Crawford Bay Area Committee - The EDA requested two council members serve on a committee to work with a consultant on redevelopment planning. - Council Action: Mayor Glover and Councilman Hugo designated as primary members; Councilwoman Bryant and Councilman Tillage as alternates. FY2026 Budget Finalization - Real Property Tax Rate: Following previous consensus, council confirmed a rate of $1.24, eliminating the proposed $0.06 tax credit (Item H withdrawn). - School Budget: Contribution increased by $1.5 million to $82,878,325. Councilwoman Thomas and Councilman Tillage voted no, citing desire for full funding. - Supplemental Retirement Plan: Councilman Moody disclosed his participation in the plan but voted per legal guidance. - Nonprofit Funding Process: Council agreed to improve the Community and Regional Organization (CRO) grant process, including earlier deadlines, required presentations, and impact reporting. Key Outcomes - Broadband Authority: Officers elected; buildout plan timeline set; BEAD and digital equity updates received. - Suffolk Parcel: Authority to negotiate sale. - Crawford Bay Committee: Two council members appointed. - FY2026 Budget: Adopted with tax rate of $1.24; including $1.5M school increase, $150K retiree supplement, and funding for named community programs. - Next Meeting: June 10, 2025 at 4 PM (Broadband Authority) and regular council meetings as scheduled.

The Portsmouth City Council held a work session on May 12, 2025, starting at 10:15 AM, to discuss the proposed FY2026 budget reconciliation, school funding gaps, a potential revenue sharing formula with Portsmouth Public Schools, and a permanent reduction to the real estate tax rate. The meeting included presentations from City Manager Stephen Carter and Budget Director Trey Burke, followed by extensive deliberation among council members. No public comments were heard. Discussion Items - FY2026 Budget Reconciliation Presentation: Mr. Burke presented key changes from the originally proposed budget to the one recommended for adoption. Additions included $1.5 million in additional funding for Portsmouth Public Schools (bringing the total increase to 10% over the prior year and raising the city's contribution to $82.8 million), and new funding for community organizations. These were offset by a $700,000 reduction in the citywide paving allocation, elimination of a pay initiative in properties management, and a meter replacement program in public utilities. The budget increased by 4.4% ($1.2 million) over the original proposal. Speed camera fines were projected at $311,749 based on actual receipts. Council members questioned the paving cut details and the source of speed camera revenue. - School Funding Gap and Solutions: The school board requested an additional $1.9 million beyond the $1.5 million added. Councilman Hugo presented two potential solutions: (1) that the school board acknowledge $1.9 million in salary and benefits from unfilled positions (vacancies) in their budget, a practice the city uses; (2) that the city provide a one-time $1.9 million loan from the general fund balance, with the condition that the school board repay it from their end-of-year surplus. He supported these as ways to avoid program cuts. Councilwoman Thomas questioned whether these options had been discussed with the school board during prior liaison meetings. City Manager Carter confirmed they had been suggested during negotiations but not presented formally. Councilman Dotson criticized the school board's fiscal management, noting consistent large surpluses and surprise projects. Councilwoman Bryant emphasized the need for a better partnership and cautioned against attacking the school board. Councilman Tillett expressed concern over federal funding cuts and urged full funding for the schools. Vice Mayor Moody supported the second option (loan from fund balance) but opposed cutting paving or delaying city employee raises. Mayor Glover stressed the council's commitment to education and urged collaborative solutions. - Revenue Sharing Formula Proposal: City Manager Carter introduced a framework for a multi-year revenue sharing agreement with the school system, aiming to provide predictable funding and reduce annual budget disputes. Key components include: negotiating a base funding percentage tied to certain city revenues, a mechanism for one-time extraordinary requests, reconciliation for revenue projections, and a defined process for handling the school system's unused funds at year-end. He noted that Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Hampton have similar plans. Council members discussed the importance of a baseline, the need for performance metrics, and the role of accountability. Councilman Hugo proposed that an unfunded priority list be built into the process to guide end-of-year surplus allocations. Councilman Tillett cautioned against repeating the failed 2017-2018 formula that resulted in a funding cut. Council members generally supported moving forward with development of the formula. - Real Estate Tax Rate Reduction: Vice Mayor Moody proposed permanently lowering the advertised tax rate from $1.30 per $100 assessed value to $1.24, reflecting the six-cent credit that had been applied in recent years. He argued this would provide clarity to citizens and demonstrate confidence in the city's direction. Councilman Hugo raised the issue of political courage to later raise the rate if needed. Councilwoman Thomas noted the perception issue of having the highest published rate in the region. Councilman Dotson suggested a compromise of a three-cent reduction. After debate, Vice Mayor Moody called for consensus on a one-year reduction to $1.24 for the upcoming fiscal year. The council agreed via a show of hands. Key Outcomes - Consensus to Authorize City Manager to Pursue Two Options for the $1.9 Million School Gap: The city manager was given authority to negotiate with the school board either (1) acknowledging $1.9 million in vacancy-related salary/benefit savings in the school budget, or (2) providing a one-time $1.9 million loan from the general fund balance, to be repaid from the school's projected end-of-year surplus. The manager was to communicate the outcome to council by 2:00 PM the next day (May 13) via phone or email, so the adopted budget could be amended if necessary. - Consensus to Lower Real Estate Tax Rate to $1.24 for FY2026: The council agreed to set the tax rate at $1.24 per $100 assessed value, eliminating the six-cent credit and making the rate permanent for the upcoming fiscal year. This decision was made by a show of hands, with the understanding that the budget would reflect this rate at adoption. - Closed Session Motion: The council voted unanimously to enter a closed session under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A) to consult with legal counsel regarding specific legal matters related to shootings in the city. A five-minute break was taken before the closed session. Note: The meeting transcript references the city as "Woodsmouth" in the opening greeting, but all subsequent context confirms it is Portsmouth. The agenda and minutes were not available for this summary.

The Portsmouth City Council held a work session at 9:45 AM followed by a regular meeting at 7:20 PM on April 22, 2025. The work session focused on presentations from the Hampton Roads Alliance, the FY2026 budget, and key decisions on the business boat tax, civic organization funding, and retiree supplements. The regular meeting included public hearings on the budget, capital improvement plan, and tax rates, as well as council discussions on school funding and other community matters. Public Comments & Testimony - A citizen expressed frustration with the lack of amenities like restaurants, urgent care, and a bookstore in Portsmouth, questioning the value of the casino and urging improvements in housing and infrastructure. She called for a more vibrant city. - A citizen shared concerns about city truck debris falling on roads due to untarped loads, citing state code violations and urging the city to equip trucks with proper covers. - A citizen described issues with her apartment complex's inadequate maintenance and broken appliances, asking for better enforcement of landlord obligations. - A citizen reported delays in demolition of a burned house on Camden Street, noting that the city's six-month deadline resets when work is started and stopped, leading to continued dumping and blight. - A speaker representing the Portsmouth Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority outlined legislative priorities including voting rights, economic justice, public safety, educational equity, and maternal health, asking for updates on affordable housing, safe drinking water, and birthing facilities. - A school board member urged full funding of the school budget, stating many educators are leaving due to low pay and that inadequate staffing impacts student achievement. - Several retirees spoke in favor of a permanent cost-of-living adjustment to the legacy pension system, arguing that the proposed $1,500 stipend is insufficient given inflation and that the city's actuarial projections are overstated. Discussion Items - Hampton Roads Alliance Presentation: Executive Director Doug Smith presented the alliance's work on regional economic development, emphasizing defense, maritime, and the AUKUS submarine program. He noted that Portsmouth is critical as a world-class maritime center and that the region is well positioned for growth. Council members asked about participation by small businesses and the role of the Eastern Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority (EVRIFA), which the alliance manages. - Proposed Business Boat Tax Change: Budget Director Tre Burke presented a proposal to create a new business boat tax category for boats under 5,000 pounds at $1.50 per $100 assessed value (down from the current $5.00 per $100 for all business boats). The change addresses a specific business's request and is intended to better align with regional rates. Council discussed whether the weight threshold (5,000 lbs) captures smaller pleasure craft used by businesses and debated the intent to incentivize or disincentivize certain uses. The city attorney confirmed legal parameters. Council reached consensus to move forward with the ordinance. - Civic Organization Funding: The city manager presented a list of existing and proposed funding for nonprofit organizations that provide services to the city. Council discussed adding two new organizations: Complete the Puzzle (autism and disability services, $100,000 request) and the Police Athletic League (PAL, $65,000). Concerns were raised about conflict of interest since PAL is police-affiliated. Council also requested impact statements and historical context for all funded organizations. Consensus was reached to include both new organizations in the budget. - Retiree Supplement: Council considered two options for legacy pension retirees: a permanent 5% cost-of-living adjustment (adding $12.8 million annually to the actuarial required contribution) or increasing the one-time stipend from $1,250 to $1,500 per retiree (cost $1.4 million). The city manager cautioned that the 5% COLA would significantly increase unfunded liabilities given the plan's 2037 funding target. After debate, council reached consensus (5 votes in favor) to fund the $1,500 stipend as a one-time supplement in the FY2026 budget, committing to revisit the issue annually. - Budget Overview: Tre Burke presented the FY2026 operating budget and capital improvement plan. Total budget is $338 million (3.4% increase), supported by $244.5 million in local revenues. Key initiatives include a unified billing system, a new pay classification plan, $81.4 million for schools (a $6 million, 7.6% increase), and a 5% water/sewer rate increase. Council discussed the machinery and tools tax rate (lowest in the region) and requested additional revenue projections for tax rate analyses. - School Funding: Council members debated whether to provide an additional $3 million to fully fund the school division's request. The city manager noted ongoing negotiations with the superintendent and that the state's budget (due by May 2) could increase SOQ funding. Council agreed to request fiscal scenarios from staff showing the impact of adding $3 million, to be presented before the May 12 work session. Key Outcomes - Business Boat Tax Ordinance: Council gave consensus to draft an ordinance establishing a $1.50 per $100 tax for business-owned boats under 5,000 pounds. (Decision) - Civic Organization Funding: Council reached consensus to include $100,000 for Complete the Puzzle and $65,000 for the Police Athletic League in the FY2026 budget. Staff will provide impact statements for all funded groups. (Decision) - Retiree Supplement: Council voted (5-2) to include $1.4 million for a $1,500 one-time stipend per legacy retiree in the FY2026 budget, rejecting the 5% cost-of-living adjustment. (Decision with tally) - School Budget Scenarios: Council directed staff to prepare options for providing an additional $3 million to Portsmouth Public Schools, including revenue sources and trade-offs, to be discussed at the May 12 work session. (Directive) - Public Hearing on Budget: The regular meeting held three public hearings on the CDBG action plan, the annual operating budget, the CIP, and tax rates; no formal votes were taken. (Procedural) - Debris Covered Trucks: The city manager will follow up on a citizen's complaint about untarped city trucks. (Referral) - Demolition Enforcement: Council asked the city attorney to review the six-month demolition timeline reset policy and provide a report. (Referral)

The Portsmouth City Council held a work session at 9:45 AM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on April 8, 2025. The work session featured presentations on economic development, towing rate adjustments, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual action plan, and requests for use permit extensions for senior and affordable housing projects. The regular meeting included multiple public hearings on the FY2026 budget, capital improvement plan, and rates, followed by council member reports and citizen comments. Public Comments & Testimony - CDBG Action Plan: Nicole Davis (Executive Director, Independent Center) spoke in support of continued CDBG funding, highlighting outcomes including 40 individuals achieving independence, 18 obtaining housing, and 9 deaf/hard-of-hearing receiving assistive technology over five years. - FY2026 Operating Budget: - Jo Anne Clark (Churchland resident) noted a $40 million revenue increase to $143 million and cautioned about approaching debt limits. - Sergeant O'Neill (resident) urged support for education and recreation, warning against cuts to recreation services and emphasizing scholarships for summer programs. - Mary Smith (former city employee) expressed support for city staff and retirees, referencing her 32 years of service. - Joseph Kelly (resident) called for budget focus on community needs like recreation to keep youth safe, citing a recent murder in his neighborhood. - Garland Alexander and Jack Ligenthal (retired firefighters) requested a 5% per year cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for retirees, noting no raise since 2013 and the impact on widows. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Jo Anne Clark questioned transfers from the stormwater fund and noted a $3 million increase for parks/recreation, asking about project timing for city hall renovations and jail demolition. - Rates and Levies: Jo Anne Clark suggested using non-resident fees for summer programs to benefit Portsmouth residents. Mary Smith questioned overtime costs at Lake Kilby pumping station, recommending three 8-hour shifts instead of two 12-hour shifts. - Non-Agenda Speakers: - George Knox reported delays in bulk trash pickup; directed to staff. - Sherman Tyler described two incidents of masked robbery and car break-in, urging an ordinance to ban ski masks in public to aid crime identification. - Kelly Ortiz read a letter from Prentice Park residents demanding action on a raw sewage hole on Parker Avenue that has persisted nine months, posing health risks and exposing city workers to hazards without proper PPE. - Troya Wright echoed the sewage issue and noted similar problems in other old neighborhoods. Discussion Items - Economic Development Presentation (Brian Donahue): - Highlighted Portsmouth's role in the "blue economy" with maritime assets, offshore wind (Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project), distribution/logistics, and advanced manufacturing. - Reported $21 million in casino revenue in year two, a 340,000 sq ft Stonemont distribution center ($16M investment), two new transload facilities ($100M combined), and General Dynamics shipyard expansion (200 jobs, $20M investment). - Outlined strategic initiatives: Waterfront redevelopment (Crawford Bay, phased), Innovation District (Woda Cooper 50-unit project breaking ground, Kings Landing 49 townhomes), and Entertainment District around Rivers Casino (14 acres EDA-owned). - Emphasized workforce development via Portsmouth at Work, with free training in healthcare, maritime, trucking, etc. - Council questions: Councilman Dotson requested specific dates for RFP and demolition; Mayor Glover praised progress; Councilman Thomas asked about grocery store access; Councilman Hugel noted the need for 100,000 maritime workers nationally. - Towing Rate Adjustments (Lieutenant Lux): - Proposed new rates: light vehicles $200, medium $350, heavy $575 (previously flat $105). Storage fees increase from $20 to $50/70 per day. Last updated in 2006. - Rates align with Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Only apply to city-requested towing on the police tow board list. - Council discussion: Councilman Dotson requested details on how companies get on/off the list; Vice Mayor Moody asked about the tow board's role; Councilwoman Thomas inquired why rates weren't updated since tow board was inactive. - CDBG Annual Action Plan FY25-26 (Dr. Rhonda Russell): - Total funding estimated at $1,781,718 (including program income). Proposed allocations include: $75,000 for mobile kids meals, $27,750 for youth leadership, $25,000 for Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board (mental health services), $176,000 for program administration. - Not recommended: Upward Care (business coaching for childcare providers, $184K) due to duplication; Four Kids Housing Crisis Hotline ($100K) due to high unit cost. - HOME funds: $504,159 for tenant-based rental assistance (Four Kids, $185,850) and down payment assistance (HRPDC, $201,238). CHDO set-aside of $68,309 for Habitat for Humanity and HRCAP. - Council questions: Councilman Hugel clarified Upward Care's services and asked about eviction prevention vs. tenant-based assistance; Councilman Tillage noted the VERP program (Virginia Eviction Reduction Pilot) which matches city funds. - Twin Pines Senior Housing Use Permit Extension (PRHA, Andre Blakely): - Requesting extension to build 82 senior units (62+), 1- and 2-bedroom, with project-based vouchers. Rents: $1,496 (1BR), $1,705 (2BR). Timeline: May 1 submission to Virginia Housing, closing by November 2025, construction 18 months. - Council Councilman Tillage raised transparency concerns: original application in 2022 was presented as market-rate, but after approval, PRHA acquired the property and changed to affordable housing. He felt the public was misled and requested a new public hearing. - Others noted the project's appearance hasn't changed, need for senior housing, and time sensitivity for funding. Mayor Glover acknowledged the transparency issue but emphasized the need for affordable senior housing. No vote tonight; item on next meeting agenda. - Ansel Affordable Housing Use Permit Extension (Milo Pfeffer, Community Housing Partners): - Requesting extension for 39 affordable units (30-80% AMI). Delayed due to financial challenges; resubmitting for tax credits. Construction expected April 2026. No further discussion. Key Outcomes - No formal votes taken on work session items. The use permit extensions for Twin Pines and Ansel will be voted on at the next regular council meeting (likely April 22). - Retiree COLA: Vice Mayor Moody called for a consensus to replace the proposed $1,500 stipend with a 5% COLA for FY2026. Council members Bryan and Dotson requested more time to review fiscal impacts after individual budget meetings with the city manager. City manager will provide actuary cost estimates next week. - Board Appointments: Council approved reappointments and new appointments to numerous boards and commissions (Downtown Design Committee, Crime and Gun Violence Task Force, Wetlands Board, etc.) via a single vote, 7-0. - Ordinance: Accepted $95,199 HUD continuum of care planning grant for homelessness planning activities; adopted 7-0. - Public Hearing Closures: All three public hearings (CDBG plan, operating budget, CIP, rates/levies) were closed. No action taken; council will continue budget deliberations.

The Portsmouth City Council held a public work session on April 7, 2025, to discuss collective bargaining for city employees. City Manager Steve Carter presented an overview of collective bargaining, its history in Virginia, and its potential impacts on stakeholders. Council members debated the pros and cons, with some expressing strong support and others raising concerns about costs and fiscal responsibility. No final decision was made; the council moved into closed session to discuss next steps. Discussion Items - Presentation on Collective Bargaining: City Manager Steve Carter provided a neutral overview, defining collective bargaining as a structured process for employees to negotiate wages, benefits, and working conditions. He noted that in 2020, the Virginia Assembly permitted localities to establish collective bargaining ordinances. Portsmouth took its first step in September 2021 with a resolution and in November 2023 voted 4-2 to authorize an ordinance. Other localities like Alexandria, Richmond, and Falls Church have adopted similar measures. - Potential Impacts: Carter highlighted possible financial implications for the city budget, school funding, and nonprofit services. He emphasized that the ordinance would be drafted to protect the city's authority over budgets and appropriations, referencing Virginia Code 40.1-55.2. - Council Goals and Objectives: Council members discussed the need to define collective bargaining goals, including ensuring employee voice, equitable compensation, workplace safety, and budget sustainability. Councilman Tillett stressed that the council itself would determine the framework, not fear it. - Cost Estimates: Councilman Tillett questioned earlier estimates of $15 million. Carter provided a revised estimate of $1 million to $1.2 million annually for initial implementation (hiring, training, processes), separate from any negotiated agreement costs. - Employee Voice and Accountability: City Manager Carter noted that collective bargaining provides a single employee voice and accountability, regardless of who holds office. Councilwoman Thomas added that it ensures safeguards for workers and citizens, citing the Portsmouth fire department's improved staffing and equipment after addressing union concerns. - Concerns Raised: Mayor Glover expressed caution, noting Portsmouth's fiscal constraints and the potential for collective bargaining to increase costs without solving regional employee shortages. He referenced Fairfax County's projected $300 million budget shortfall attributed to collective bargaining agreements. Attorney Derek Challenger reminded the council of a previous work group that met with unions for six months and helped draft an ordinance. - Next Steps: The council agreed to continue discussions in closed session, with a plan to schedule public meetings and potentially vote on the ordinance. Key Outcomes - No Final Decision: The council did not vote on an ordinance or resolution. The session ended with a motion to enter closed session to discuss legal matters related to collective bargaining. - Directive for Research: Councilwoman Bryant requested case studies from cities similar in size to Portsmouth. City Manager Carter and Attorney Challenger committed to providing resources from a UVA law school task force. - Continued Discussion Planned: The council agreed to schedule further public work sessions and engage with stakeholders, including unions and the public.

This meeting featured a presentation on a multidisciplinary study involving coastal, civil, water resources, and transportation engineers, as well as environmental scientists and planners. The goal is to develop 30% design solutions for future funding. Discussion Items - A speaker described the team composition, highlighting the need for diverse expertise (coastal, civil, water resources, transportation engineers, environmental scientists, and planners) to develop solutions for the study. - The stated objective is to produce 30% design solutions that will ultimately be funded. No further details on the specific project, funding sources, or timeline were provided. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes were taken during this portion of the meeting. The presentation appears to be informational only.