Public Meetings - Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Virginia Beach City Council met on October 27, 2026, for a work session covering multiple topics: briefings from the Virginia Beach SPCA and Animal Services on animal welfare, a discussion of the draft 2026-2027 legislative agenda, an update on tourism performance from the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a preview of upcoming planning and zoning items. Council members also provided community updates and recessed into closed session for personnel matters. Virginia Beach SPCA Briefing - Hans (CEO) and Danielle Nance presented an overview of the SPCA’s services: shelter and adoption, affordable veterinary care (income-based pricing for households under $65,000), humane education (4,600+ students), pet retention programs, and a mobile surgical unit (Newter Scooter). - 2025 audit expenses totaled $6.62 million, with 89 cents of every dollar reinvested into programs. - Council members expressed strong support, with Mayor Dyer and Councilmember Ross highlighting the SPCA’s community role. Councilmember Ross asked about the potential value of an animal cruelty registry; the CEO stated any additional tool would be beneficial. Virginia Beach Animal Services Update - Animal Welfare Administrator Christopher Maldon presented agency priorities: expanding veterinary care (second full-time veterinarian starting Nov 12), strengthening leadership, rebranding to “Virginia Beach Animal Services,” and improving capacity for care. - 2025 annual intake: 4,617 animals; 2026 year-to-date: 3,448. Current capacity challenged with 200+ animals daily and 11 caretakers (needing 17-18). - Proposed animal cruelty registry: Councilmember Ross requested an ordinance to create a registry for felony animal cruelty convictions, budget-neutral and implementable by February 2027. Council expressed unanimous support, with interest in expanding to misdemeanors if authorized and eventually pursuing a regional or statewide registry. Draft Legislative Agenda - Brent McKenzie presented additions to the agenda: charter amendment for supermajority vote on land use below the blue line, tree preservation study, reclassifying certain traffic violations from secondary to primary offenses, and the animal cruelty registry. - Police Chief ranked public safety priorities: (1) community safety zones for large crowds/gun violence, (2) possession of firearms while intoxicated, (3) expanded disclosure protection for subpoenas/search warrants, (4) increased penalties for prostitution near massage parlors, (5) law enforcement representation on the forensic science board. - Council decided to add items 3 and 4 back to the legislative package and will hold a public hearing on November 10 with a vote on November 17. Convention and Visitors Bureau Update - Director Nancy Hellman reported FY26 hotel occupancy, average daily rate, and revenue growth. Virginia Beach outperformed its competitive set. Summer 2026 saw growth in August and September, aided by events like Supergirl and sports tournaments. - Marketing successes: New York Times named Virginia Beach one of “52 Places to Visit in 2026” (1+ billion impressions), Travel & Leisure featured Sandbridge, and the Surge campaign drove 38 million impressions. - Sports tourism highlighted: Excalibur Cup Gymnastics (3,000 athletes), wrestling events. Virginia Beach Sports Center continues to outperform projections. - Upcoming: Tourism Development Plan (first since 2003), new events (Bulls, Bands, and Bikes in April 2027, Patriotic Festival in May 2027), and holiday programming. Planning Items Briefing - Caitlin Alcock previewed 10 items for November 10 and 2 items for November 17 council meetings, including subdivision variances, conditional rezonings, conditional use permits (tattoo parlor, picklball facility conversion to self-storage, short-term rentals), and a street closure. - Council took no votes; items will be formally considered at upcoming meetings. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to draft an ordinance establishing an animal cruelty registry for felony convictions, aiming for implementation by February 2027. - Two public safety items (expanded disclosure protection and increased prostitution penalties) were added to the legislative agenda. - The legislative agenda will have a public hearing on November 10 and a vote on November 17. - Council recessed into closed session to discuss personnel matters (salaries, appointments, resignations).

Presentations & Recognitions - Bay Lake United Methodist Church: Councilmember Schulman presented a resolution recognizing the church's 70th anniversary and its community service, including sheltering the homeless and supporting local schools through weekend food programs. - Phil Davenport: Councilmember Cummings honored former Public Works Director Phil Davenport for his 44-year city career and continued service on the Bayfront Advisory Commission, specifically recognizing his role in establishing the Stormwater Enterprise Fund. Public Comments & Testimony - John Zirkel (Virginia Beach Hotel Association): Voiced strong support for including the pop-up special event zone authorization in the state legislative agenda. He stated strong opposition to the language seeking state authorization for a 1% local sales tax option, arguing it is regressive and would harm the tourism and restaurant industries. Council members clarified the agenda item is a request for state flexibility to reallocate a potential existing local option, not an immediate tax increase, requiring a voter referendum. - Holly Martier (Citizen): Opposed any tax increases, describing significant personal financial hardship from rising costs. - Planning Item 1 (Variance, Gumbridge/Dalley Road): - Brian Peoples (Attorney for applicants): Stated the application corrected prior administrative errors by combining four lots into two, with no new subdivision proposed. He requested council approve the application without requiring a new easement, as a valid easement already exists. - Marilyn Curry (Neighboring landowner): Raised concerns about the cumulative impact of development on Pungo's rural character and flooding. - Planning Item 7 (Conditional Rezoning, Bonnie Road Apartments): - Lisa Murphy (Attorney for applicant): Requested approval for a conditional rezoning from I-1 to A-24 to build a 209-unit multifamily community with proffered road improvements and a connection to the Thalia Creek Greenway. No members of the public spoke in opposition. Discussion Items - Rudy Park Project Update: Staff reported the project is at 60% design. The timeline targets a 90% design set by December 22, 2026, final design by February 2027, construction start in late fall 2027, and a two-year build. A feasibility study recommended an $8 to $10 million fundraising target. Council discussed plans for a conservancy model for long-term operations and the acquisition of 310 Atlantic Avenue for an additional 30-35 parking spaces. - EMS Billing Program Update: Chief Jason Stroud confirmed the program is on track. The city auditor found no major findings. 86% of patients transported are Virginia Beach residents. The FY27 budget allocation of $4.2 million to rescue squads has funded 43 new uniformed staff, a centralized medical supply program, and advanced training for 39 providers. The department also received a national award for its COLT kit for neurodivergent patients. - VB National Golf Course Lawsuit Update: City Attorney Chris Boynton updated the council on a recent court hearing. The judge denied a motion to disqualify the city's outside counsel but deferred ruling on the plaintiffs' motion to amend, focusing instead on whether the plaintiffs have legal standing to pursue the case. The city has 14 days to file a response brief. Key Outcomes - Awards & Recognitions Approved: Resolutions honoring Bay Lake United Methodist Church (70th anniversary) and Phil Davenport (former Public Works Director) were adopted. - Rudy Park Direction: Staff directed to continue design towards a fall 2027 construction start and proceed with establishing a conservancy for long-term park operations. - EMS Billing Confirmed: Program is performing as expected, providing sustainable funding for personnel, equipment, and clinical programs. - Golf Course Litigation: Legal team directed to comply with court orders on plaintiff standing and file a response brief within 14 days. - Minutes Approved: - October 6 (Informal & Formal): Approved 9-0 (1 abstention). - October 13 (Special Formal): Approved 8-0 (2 abstentions). - Closed Session Certification: Certified 10-0. - Consent Agenda: Approved 10-0. - Planning Approvals: - Variance for lot line vacation (Gumbridge/Dalley Road): Approved 10-0. - Conditional Rezoning for 209-unit apartment community (Bonnie Road): Approved 10-0. - Appointment: Chris Southern appointed to the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation: Approved 10-0.

The Virginia Beach City Council met on October 20, 2026, for a regular meeting. The session included an invocation, recognitions, public comment on the draft 2027 legislative agenda, adoption of the consent agenda, and decisions on two planning items. All votes recorded during the meeting were unanimous. Presentations & Recognitions - Bay Lake United Methodist Church 70th Anniversary: The Council adopted a resolution honoring the church for 70 years of community service, including its homeless shelter, food bag program for Bayside Elementary, Upward Soccer League, and inclusive policies. Reverend David Edinger accepted the resolution. - Recognition of Phil Davenport: The Council recognized former Director of Public Works Phil Davenport for his 44 years of city service and subsequent service on the Bayfront Advisory Commission. A resolution was presented to him and his family. - Boy Scouts of America Visit: The Mayor welcomed Boy Scouts and their scoutmaster, presenting them with city pens. Public Comments & Testimony - John Zirkel (representing the Virginia Beach Hotel Association, Atlantic Avenue Association, and restaurant groups): Expressed strong support for the inclusion of a "pop-up special event zone" item in the 2027 legislative agenda. Urged the Council to remove a separate item seeking state flexibility to allocate a potential 1% sales tax increase toward stormwater and capital projects, arguing it was a regressive tax that would harm the hospitality industry and low-income residents. Council members clarified the item was not a current proposal for a tax increase but a request for future flexibility requiring a referendum. - Holly Martier (Virginia Beach citizen): Strongly opposed any tax increases, stating that residents are struggling and additional taxes would be financially harmful. Consent Calendar The Council approved the consent agenda 10-0, which included routine ordinances and resolutions such as an Agricultural Land Preservation Easement acquisition, a resolution designating November's first full week as Alzheimer's Awareness Week, and the acceptance of multiple state and federal grants for the Fire, Police, Parks, and Housing departments. Minutes from previous meetings were approved (9-0 with Councilmember Luci abstaining on two sets; 8-0 for the October 13th minutes). Several items were pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion, including the Bonnie Road easement vacation. Discussion Items - Planning Item 1 – Masters/Osterhouse Variance: Attorney Brian Peoples presented a request to vacate internal lot lines to combine four parcels into two, correcting a prior administrative error. The variance was needed due to insufficient street frontage. Citizen Marilyn Curry expressed satisfaction that the plan did not impact her property but raised broader environmental and water supply concerns. The Council approved the variance 10-0. - Planning Item 7 – Bonnie Road Apartments Conditional Rezoning: Attorney Lisa Murphy presented a request to conditionally rezone 11.8 acres at 4576 Bonnie Road from I-1 to A-24 to build a 209-unit multifamily community. The project features two four-story buildings oriented around the Thalia Creek Greenway and includes significant environmental protections. No members of the public spoke. The Council approved the rezoning 10-0. Key Outcomes - Draft 2027 Legislative Agenda public comment period concluded. - Consent Agenda adopted (10-0). - Masters/Osterhouse variance approved (10-0). - Bonnie Road Apartments conditional rezoning approved (10-0). - Chris Southern appointed to the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation (10-0).

The Virginia Beach City Council held a regular meeting on October 20, 2026, receiving updates on the Rudy Park project and the EMS billing program, a briefing on the pending golf course lawsuit, and councilmember updates. The meeting also considered zoning items and concluded with a motion to enter closed session. Rudy Park Project Update - The project is at 60% design, with final design expected February 2027 and construction start in late fall 2027, lasting two years. - An additional parcel at 310 Atlantic Avenue was acquired, yielding 30–35 new parking spaces and supporting construction staging. - The city plans to establish a nonprofit conservancy board (12–15 members) to manage daily operations, based on the Bryant Park model from New York City. - Fundraising target of $8–10 million over a two‑year campaign, with pledges extended up to five years. The conservancy is projected to be self‑sustaining through park revenues. - Key design changes include shifting the indoor pavilion northward and adjusting the elevated walkway to accommodate a future sector gate and improve circulation. EMS Billing Program Update - Chief Jason Stroud reported that the compassionate EMS billing program (effective July 1, 2026) is performing as expected. - 86% of transported patients are city residents; residents are not charged copays. - 30% of revenues ($4.2 million each in FY2026 and FY2027) are allocated to volunteer rescue squads for capital and operating expenses. - The program funded 43 new uniformed positions, a centralized pharmacy program, and advanced life support training for 39 providers (23 completed paramedic school). - The department is implementing system‑wide medical supply management, new clinical tools (ultrasound, automated ventilators), and pursuing industry accreditation. - Captain Bailey Hartley received the National Pediatric Excellence Award for developing EMS COLT kits for neurodivergent patients. Lawsuit Regarding Virginia Beach National Golf Course Sale - City Attorney Chris Boynton briefed council on the October 17, 2026 hearing in SSF Conservation Initiative et al. v. City of Virginia Beach. - The court denied plaintiffs’ motion to disqualify the city’s outside counsel (Wilcox & Savage), deferred ruling on other motions, and ordered plaintiffs to produce documents on standing. - The city defendants have 14 days to respond to the latest proposed amended complaint. Council Comments and Positions - The mayor defended city processes against accusations of secrecy, described the housing crisis as national, and called for civility. He noted Virginia Beach’s top‑ranked quality of life and safety. - A council member stated that the city’s 2014 unsolicited proposals policy was fully followed in the golf course sale. - Council Member Barbara urged reviving the Tree City program and protecting champion trees like the 275‑year‑old Freedom Oak. - Council Member Rosemary announced a district summit; another member praised the legislative agenda as outstanding. - Regarding land‑use items, a council member voiced support for the “Beach Vibe” short‑term rental application on Cypress Avenue. Key Outcomes - Under the consent agenda, Item 7 (Bonnie Road) was pulled for a public hearing; Item 4 (Jordan George Mistelides) was withdrawn. - A self‑storage application on Laskin Road is anticipated to be heard on November 10, 2026. - The council unanimously voted to recess into closed session for contract and personnel discussions.

The Virginia Beach Planning Commission met on October 14, 2026, for an informal session that began with a comprehensive briefing on data center impacts before proceeding through a lengthy consent and regular agenda of land use applications. The meeting featured expert economic testimony, public comments on a proposed bulk storage yard, and debates over conditions on a subdivision and a family daycare home. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 4 & 5 (Corporate Landing / TST Roofing): Two citizens spoke. John Newell opposed the development, expressing concern that the area was losing natural spaces and becoming overdeveloped for private profit. Brian Mance opposed the change in character of the Corporate Landing area and raised concerns about the aesthetic impact of proposed chain-link fencing. Commissioners clarified that the project was a contractor laydown yard for a growing local business, not a commercial mini-storage facility. Discussion Items - Data Center Briefing: Joao Ferrara, Acting Director of the Center for Economic and Policy Studies at UVA's Weldon Cooper Center, gave an extensive presentation on the economic, energy, and water impacts of data centers. He differentiated between small retail/telco data centers and large hyperscale facilities, noting that permanent job creation is low (estimating 4,000 to 7,000 total ongoing jobs in Virginia) compared to temporary construction employment. Ferrara warned that data centers could consume 50% of Virginia's electricity demand by 2030-2040, contributing to grid pressure and rising rates that impact the entire PJM region. He cited Loudoun County receiving over $1.2 billion annually in revenue from data centers but cautioned against a "race to the bottom" on tax incentives. He stressed the importance of local planning around water usage (particularly peak summer consumption), noise, and requiring transparency from developers. - Commissioner Q&A on Data Centers: Commissioners engaged Ferrara on several topics. Commissioner Schoonover asked about the link between data centers and AI job creation; Ferrara stated they are geographically independent. Commissioner Kent raised concerns about water supply from Lake Gaston and impacts on local development capacity. Commissioner Camp emphasized measuring peak water demand and recommended revisiting the city's 2017 data center incentive definitions in light of the evolving industry. - Item 2 (LBC Ventures): The applicant requested a subdivision variance on Hook Lane in the Beechwood neighborhood. The item was pulled from the consent agenda because the applicant contested staff conditions requiring a shared access easement (Condition 1) and specific front facade/garage setbacks per Shore Drive Corridor Design Guidelines (Condition 6). The applicant argued the conditions did not match the existing neighborhood character, where most homes have front-loading garages built before the 2002 guidelines. The commission approved the application with the applicant's requested modifications. - Items 4 & 5 (Corporate Landing Development LLC): The applicant sought a modification of proffers and a CUP to allow a bulk storage yard for a roofing and glazing contracting business. The applicant emphasized the storage would be exclusively for the owner's operational equipment and tools, not third-party storage, and would be screened by existing vegetation and decorative fencing. Staff and the VBDA supported the request. The application was approved with conditions limiting the use. - Item 9 (Marissa Corsale - Family Daycare Home): The applicant proposed a 12-child Montessori-inspired daycare operating out of a single-family home in District 1. Commissioner Kent expressed strong concerns about traffic on the winding S-shaped street, sight lines, and noted significant opposition from approximately 20% of the immediate neighbors. The applicant stated she was flexible on the number of children. A motion to approve with 10 children and a stair railing requirement passed with an 8-2 vote. - Items 13 & 14 (Short-Term Rentals): The commission heard two short-term rental applications located on the half streets in the proposed STR overlay district. The applicants described the quiet nature of their streets and their parking plans. Both applications were recommended for approval. Key Outcomes - Data Center Briefing Received: The commission received the briefing and signaled an intent to use the information in future policy considerations, with several commissioners recommending a review of current incentives and planning approaches. - Consent Agenda Approved: Meeting minutes and Items 6 (Crescent Community Center expansion), 7 (VB Investments townhomes on Baker Road), 10 & 11 (Tattoo parlor and body piercing), and 12 (Residential kennel) were approved unanimously on the consent agenda. - Item 2 (Subdivision Variance) Recommended for Approval as Modified: The LBC Ventures subdivision variance was approved with conditions modified per the applicant's request (removing the shared access and specific facade requirements). - Items 4 & 5 (Bulk Storage Yard) Recommended for Approval: The modification of proffers and CUP for the Corporate Landing bulk storage yard was approved. - Item 9 (Family Daycare Home) Recommended for Approval as Modified: The daycare CUP was approved limiting the facility to a maximum of 10 children and requiring a stair railing (vote: 8-2). - Items 13 & 14 (Short-Term Rentals) Recommended for Approval: Both STR applications were approved, conditioned on good standing with the Commissioner of the Revenue. - Deferrals and Withdrawals: Items 3 (Tight Water Structures) and 8 (Ryan with TC LLC rezoning) were deferred indefinitely. Item 1 (Short-term rental overlay map modification) was withdrawn by the city at the council's request.

The Virginia Beach Planning Commission met on October 14, 2026, to hold public hearings and make recommendations to the Virginia Beach City Council. Chair John Coston presided. The Commission acted on a withdrawal, indefinite deferrals, a consent agenda, and several regular agenda items including a subdivision, a bulk storage/proffer modification, an in-home daycare, and two short-term rental conditional use permits. Withdrawals and Deferrals - The City of Virginia Beach requested withdrawal of the modification of the map for the short-term rental overlay district; the withdrawal was moved, seconded, and approved. - Commissioner Plumley moved, seconded by Commissioner Biler, to indefinitely defer agenda items 3 and 8 as requested; the recorded vote was 10 to 0. Consent Calendar - Minutes were approved for the September 9, 2026 informal and formal hearings, with Commissioner Anderson abstaining because he was absent, and for the October 8, 2026 site visits, with Commissioners Anderson, Maush, and Plumley abstaining. - The following items were approved by consent on a 10-to-0 vote with the stated abstentions: - Item 6: Crescent Community Center Corporation – modification of conditions to a conditional use permit for religious use at 2480 Salem Road on a 9.16-acre AG2 district parcel; proposed additions will match the existing building’s architecture, materials, colors, and height. - Item 7: VB Investments LLC – rezoning 700 and 724 Baker Road from B2 Community Business to Conditional A18 Apartment district for a 23-unit multifamily condominium community. - Items 10 and 11: Brandon Icotta – conditional use permit for a tattoo parlor and body piercing establishment in a 1,500-square-foot unit at 481 South Linhaven Road; up to eight employees, operating 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. - Item 12: Zoe Malay Ducas – conditional use permit for a residential kennel for up to six dogs at 3012 Edinburgh Drive; solely for her personal pets, with no commercial boarding. - Item 2, LBC Ventures LLC, was pulled from the consent agenda because the applicant did not agree to the proposed conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - John Newell, a first-time public speaker, opposed the Corporate Landing bulk storage proposal, saying it would replace a natural recreation spot with storage and proposing a park instead. After clarification that the use was an accessory laydown yard for TST Roofing & Glazing and not another for-profit storage facility, he said that changed his view somewhat but he still believed the land could be used in a more community-serving way. - Brian Mance, a local resident who lives and works in the area, opposed the bulk storage request. He expressed concern about the Corporate Landing area becoming more industrial, the precedent of changing the rules for one applicant, and the visual impact of chain-link fencing. Discussion Items - Item 2 – LBC Ventures LLC: Attorney Eddie Bourdon requested approval of a three-lot subdivision with modified conditions. He said the property dated to 1902, that the Commonwealth took more than 5,200 square feet in 1962, and that the City took 3,277 square feet in 1981. He argued that 46 of 48 neighborhood homes do not meet the contested garage design condition, and he requested removal of condition 6 and modification of condition 1 to match the submitted plan. Staff confirmed the Shore Drive design guidelines were adopted in 2002 and that a substantial portion of the neighborhood predates them. The Commission approved the application as modified. - Items 4 and 5 – Corporate Landing Parkway Development LLC / TST Roofing & Glazing: Attorney Jerry Harris presented a proffer modification and conditional use permit for an outdoor laydown/bulk storage yard to support TST’s contracting business. He noted the Economic Development Authority unanimously approved the concept, that TST employs 160 people, and that the business received an EDIP grant. Conditions include no third-party storage, no standalone storage business, storage not visible above fence height, and preservation of a 75-foot vegetative buffer and wetlands. An inconsistency between site plan diagrams regarding encroachment into the 75-foot buffer was acknowledged; the applicant agreed to correct it in a future site plan. The Commission approved both items. - Item 9 – Corsale in-home daycare: Marissa Corsale requested a conditional use permit for a Montessori-style daycare for up to 12 children at her mother’s home in the Kempsville area. She submitted three letters of support, but staff and commissioners noted that 5 of 27 homes in the area, nearly 20%, objected. Concerns included a missing railing on the rear porch steps, projected traffic rising from 10 to 48 trips per day, and neighborhood fit. A substitute motion to add the railing and limit enrollment to six children failed 4 to 6. The main motion to approve with the railing requirement and a maximum of 10 children passed 6 to 4. - Item 13 – 511 21st Street LLC: Kevin Fritz, the owner, sought a short-term rental conditional use permit for the property. He lives in Northeast Texas, planned dual personal and short-term use, and had not specifically discussed the rental with the neighboring property owner. The Commission approved the application with a condition that the permit cannot be activated until the short-term rental is in good standing with the Commissioner of Revenue and registered to pay taxes. - Item 14 – Alexandra and Constance Menzing: Constance Menzing requested a short-term rental conditional use permit for 414 22nd and a Half Street. She purchased the property in June 2026, stayed there about six weeks, described the neighborhood as quiet, and said the only other short-term rental on the block had quiet, family-oriented renters. The Commission approved the application 10 to 0 with the same revenue-registration condition used for Item 13. Key Outcomes - The short-term rental overlay district map modification was withdrawn. - Agenda items 3 and 8 were recommended for indefinite deferral by a 10-to-0 vote. - The consent agenda, including minutes and items 6, 7, 10, 11, and 12, was approved by consent and recommended to City Council. - LBC Ventures LLC was recommended for approval as modified. - Corporate Landing Parkway Development LLC items 4 and 5 were recommended for approval. - The Corsale daycare was recommended for approval 6 to 4, with the railing requirement and a 10-child maximum; a substitute six-child limit was rejected. - The short-term rental conditional use permits for 511 21st Street LLC and Menzing were recommended for approval, each conditioned on good standing and tax registration with the Commissioner of Revenue.

The Virginia Beach Planning Commission held its informal session on October 14, 2026, chaired by John Coston. The session featured a briefing on data centers, followed by proceedings on consent items, deferrals, and public hearings. Briefings - Data Center Impacts: Joao Ferreira (Weldon Cooper Center, UVA) briefed the commission on the economic, energy, water, and community impacts of data centers. He noted that Virginia has 439 operational data centers and 353 planned, projecting data centers could consume 50% of the state's grid electricity by 2030. He emphasized that jobs are minimal and temporary, tax revenue can be significant, and transparency is critical for localities. In Q&A, Ferreira distinguished AI job creation from data center siting, addressed water supply concerns (Lake Gaston, aquifers), and discussed the potential obsolescence of current models under energy constraints. Consent Calendar - Withdrawn: Agenda Item 1 (Short-Term Rental Overlay referral). - Deferred: Agenda Items 3 and 8 (Tire Water Structures proffer mod; Rima TC rezoning). - Approved: Agenda Items 2 (Beechwood variance, 3 lots), 4 & 5 (Corporate Landing bulk storage), 6 (detail missing from provided transcript), 7 (Baker Road townhome rezoning), 10 & 11 (Tattoo parlor CUP), 12 (Residential kennel CUP). Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers were signed up for the consent items. Written opposition and support were noted for items where hearings were requested. Commissioners requested hearings for a Family Daycare Home (Item 9) and two Short-Term Rentals (Items 13, 14) to discuss specific neighborhood and code concerns with the applicants. Discussion Items - Item 2 (Subdivision Variance): The applicant objected to staff conditions requiring a shared access easement and architectural standards. Staff defended the conditions based on Shore Drive Corridor design guidelines. The item remained on the consent calendar. - Items 13 & 14 (Short-Term Rentals): A commissioner requested hearings for properties on 21st Street and 22nd and a Half Street, citing concerns about activity on "half streets" and the boundaries of the short-term rental overlay district. - Item 9 (Family Daycare Home): A commissioner requested a hearing to ask clarifying questions based on opposition letters regarding traffic, property values, and safety. Key Outcomes - Votes: The consent agenda (Items 2, 4-7, 10-12) was approved. Items 1 was withdrawn. Items 3 and 8 were indefinitely deferred. Public hearings were scheduled for Items 9, 13, and 14. - Next Meeting: The Chair reminded members that the November meeting falls on the second Thursday due to Veterans Day. - Retreat: An open-to-the-public retreat followed the meeting.

The Virginia Beach City Council held a special formal session on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. in the City Council Conference Room. The meeting focused on two major presentations: the draft legislative agenda for the 2027 General Assembly and an overview of the city’s agricultural industry. Council members also discussed several ongoing projects and initiatives. Discussion Items Draft Legislative Agenda for 2027 General Assembly Brett McKenzie, Director of Legislative Affairs, presented the draft agenda for the 2027 General Assembly. The session will be a 46-day “short session” where legislators will amend the FY 27–28 budget and consider numerous bills. Key anticipated topics include AI and data center taxes, collective bargaining for public sector employees, automated license plate readers, and the $250 fine for public marijuana consumption. The timeline includes a public hearing on October 27 and adoption on November 10. Policy Priorities were outlined in nine areas: - Affordable Housing: request for increased funding for the Virginia Housing Trust Fund and state rental assistance, plus local flexibility. - Economic Development: increasing access to affordable child care and funding for the sports tourism grant program. - Education: implementing reforms from the 2024 JLARC study and increasing state support. - Energy: supporting the solar interconnectivity grant program and retaining local control over siting of energy and battery storage facilities. - Fiscal Responsibility: opposing additional unfunded mandates and preserving local option for collective bargaining. - Flooding & Stormwater: developing a state funding program for non-federal match for large-scale flood relief and increasing funds for the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund and Community Flood Preparedness Fund. - Land Use: retaining local control over short-term rentals and land-use decisions. - Public Safety: increased funding for police, fire, and EMS, and allowing localities to use technology for public safety. - Transportation: support for multimodal solutions, including roads, trails, transit, microtransit, and e-bike rider safety and education. Budget Amendment Request: Proposed to allow a 1% sales tax referendum (currently authorized only for school construction) to also fund flood resilience projects, helping meet the city’s CSRM obligations. Council members raised questions about fund segregation, voter information, and whether the change would be statewide. Staff noted they would first seek council approval before talking to other cities like Norfolk, Hampton, and Newport News. Code Amendment Proposals (6 items): 1. Deferred retirement option plan for public safety employees (hazardous duty supplement). 2. Expanding the Tourism Development Financing Program (TDFP) to include up to 20% of state income tax from jobs created by new tourism projects. 3. Community safety zones (renamed from “pop-up zones”) to support recommendations from the mayor’s safety task force. 4. Closing a legislative loophole that only prohibited concealed carry while intoxicated; new proposal would make it illegal to carry any weapon while intoxicated. 5. Adding two law enforcement members to the statewide Forensic Science Board (currently only one member), with members from different population tiers. 6. Extending emergency temporary guardianship and conservatorship for adult protective services from 15 days (plus 5-day extension) to 90 days. Council Additions to the Agenda: - Councilmember Henley proposed adding a request to recognize mature tree preservation as a best management practice (BMP) for stormwater credits, based on research from Dr. McLaughlin at Virginia Tech. This would incentivize developers to retain existing tree canopy rather than clear-cutting replanting. - The Vice Mayor (absent) had requested pursuing the “blue line” charter amendment, which would formally identify the area south of Indian River Road without water/sewer. Council agreed to work on draft language for a November public hearing. - Council also asked for a crosswalk between the e-bike work group recommendations and the city's task force recommendations regarding e-bike safety. Agricultural Program Overview David Trimmer, Director of Agriculture, presented an overview of the city’s Department of Agriculture. Key statistics: - Agriculture is Virginia Beach’s third largest industry, with an economic impact of $177.2 million (down slightly from $178.1 million the prior year). - 26,419 acres under cultivation for crops, livestock, and equine. - The Agricultural Reserve Program (ARP) has enrolled 11,358 acres, purchasing 992 development rights (estimated to prevent 11,358 homes and 22,000+ car trips). The goal is 20,000 acres. - 100% of farms are family-owned; there are no corporate farms. - The farmers market (50 years old) hosts events, sponsorships (47 companies), and educational programs reaching 3,000–3,500 children annually. - 914 volunteers, including 230 Master Gardeners, contribute about 1.6 million in service value. - 4-H livestock show and sale raised $243,322 in 2026 (up from $100,000 in 2000). Councilmember Henley argued that agriculture is an industry and should not be considered “vacant land.” She warned that pushing for light industrial development in southern Virginia Beach would displace the third largest industry. She emphasized that the ARP was created to preserve farmland and has been copied by other localities. Councilmember Cash and others agreed, supporting the blue line amendment to protect agricultural land. Other Council Comments & Updates - Pungo Ferry Road Project: Councilmember Henley asked for clarification on federal grant obligations. The city manager confirmed that the September 30 deadline was met and the project will go out for bid within 90 days (December 2026), with bids expected in spring 2027. A budget adjustment may be needed to fully fund the project. - Cross-Country Trail Funding: Councilmember raised concerns about using school reversion funds for a cross-country trail, suggesting the school community’s priorities should be considered. - Youth Outreach & Crisis Intervention: A memo in the council package from the city manager (October 9, 2026) regarding group homes and youth rehabilitation was noted; further dialogue is expected. - Other announcements: Councilmember recognized the Hampton Roads Agriculture and Research Extension Program’s fall garden festival, the NAACP Virginia Beach Branch’s 85th anniversary, and the Virginia Municipal League legislative priority meeting. Key Outcomes - Council provided initial guidance on the draft legislative agenda, directing staff to add the mature tree BMP stormwater credit and the blue line charter amendment for future consideration. - The final legislative agenda will be presented for adoption on November 10, 2026. - The Pungo Ferry Road project is moving forward; a budget adjustment will be brought to council. - Council agreed to revisit cross-country trail funding based on school community input. - The meeting ended with a closed session for property disposition and personnel matters.

The Virginia Beach City Council convened on September 23, 2026, for a meeting that included updates from the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation (VBCDC), a presentation on lead water service line inventory, an overview of the Civic Leaders Academy pilot program, and a preview of upcoming planning items. The meeting also included council announcements and a motion to recess into closed session. Discussion Items - VBCDC Update (Quincy White, President & CEO): Quincy White reported on the organization's 40-year history, managing 500+ affordable housing units (largest owner in the city), serving nearly 10,000 people. Occupancy improved from 90% to 92%. The SSVF program exceeded goals, serving 214 households. A first-time homebuyer program has sold 6 homes (prices $225,000–$250,000). A capital campaign for Solar Springs (60 units, 9 set aside for mental health) aims to raise $24 million; $12 million pledged. A capital needs assessment estimated $35 million over 20 years for portfolio preservation, with an annual operating gap of $2.2 million. Council members discussed scattered-site challenges, community land trust development, and the need for operational support and land pipeline. - Water Service Line Inventory (Bob Montague, Director of Public Utilities): Bob Montague presented the results of the EPA-mandated lead and copper rule revision inventory. All 135,000 service lines were classified as non-lead (zero lead pipes, zero galvanized lines requiring replacement). The inventory used desktop research and 10,000 vacuum excavations. The city has been in compliance for 30+ years. A recent citizen concern about lead poisoning was addressed with testing, service line verification, and coordination with the health department. Staff confirmed no lead in the water system. The utility also discussed ongoing drought conditions and voluntary water conservation requests. - Civic Leaders Academy (Nancy Bloom, Public Engagement): Nancy Bloom reported on the successful pilot of the City Hall 101 Civic Leaders Academy, held January 8–February 26, 2026 (8 sessions, 20 hours total). 10 of 11 initial participants completed the program. The academy educated neighborhood leaders on city operations, structure, and resources. Feedback was positive, with participants valuing transparency and access to senior staff. The program will become permanent with two cohorts in 2027 (January and September), incorporating adjustments based on pilot feedback. - Planning Items Preview (Caitlin Malcock, Planning Department): Caitlin Malcock previewed seven items for the October 6, 2026 council meeting and nine items for October 20, 2026. Key items included: a conditional rezoning for 2512 Seaboard Road (three lots, planning commission recommended approval); a field house at Catholic High School (approval recommended); mini warehouse/storage on Holland Road (recommended approval with modifications); a bulk storage yard on Bells Road (planning commission recommended denial due to incompatibility with area); a mixed-use self-storage/retail on Laskin Road (staff recommends denial, citing comprehensive plan conflicts; council discussed alternative uses); and short-term rental permits. The planning commission also recommended denial for a storage facility on Bells Road. Council Comments & Announcements - Council members announced the upcoming ribbon cutting for Winston Salem Avenue (October 3), a community meeting in District 3 (September 24), the Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend, the air show at Naval Air Station Oceana, and the district forum in District 2 (September 24). - Council recognized the Backstreet event celebrating local music history and noted the positive community response. - The city manager reported that the New Bridge Road issue raised last week will be repaired without closing the road. Key Outcomes - The VBCDC update was received; no formal vote was taken, but council expressed support and requested further information on a possible parcel swap strategy. - The water service line inventory presentation confirmed zero lead pipes; council commended staff for responsiveness and transparency. - The Civic Leaders Academy will expand to two cohorts in 2027, with program refinements including electronic resource materials and adjusted session timing. - Planning items will proceed to formal council hearings on October 6 and October 20, 2026, with several items recommended for approval by the planning commission and one (Bells Road) recommended for denial. - Council recessed into closed session (motion and second) to discuss publicly held property (District 2, possible disposition) and personnel matters (council appointments to boards/commissions).