Public Meetings - Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Virginia Beach City Council met on February 4, 2026, to receive updates on the state legislative agenda, annual crime statistics, public safety concerns regarding unsanctioned pop-up events, and a preview of the upcoming February 17 council meeting. Discussions also covered school construction funding, light rail studies, and a minor curfew adjustment. Consent Calendar - Ordinance granting a franchise to Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, LLC for use of city property at the Oceanfront and 15th Street. - Ordinance to dissolve the Health Services Advisory Board. - Resolution approving an attainable workforce housing performance grant to Concord Apartments LP. - Resolution requesting VDOT accept additional streets for urban maintenance payments. - Resolution requesting VDOT accept corrections and deletions to road inventory. - Ordinance authorizing temporary encroachments at Lake Joyce (4417 Lee Avenue) for a gazebo, walkway, and pier. - Ordinance accepting $961,962 from DBHDS for the Jail-Based Restoration Pilot Program, authorizing 4.5 FTE positions. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Legislative Agenda Update (Brett McKenzie): Reported on state bill status. Blue Line charter amendments failed in committee. 10-1 charter amendments passed their chambers. Cancer screenings for public safety funding under consideration. EMS funding continued to 2027 in Senate but advanced in House. Fire programs fund advanced. SAV legislation watered down. Budget amendments filed include $1.7M for urban search and rescue, $250K for Parks After Dark, $10M for Atlantic Park (developer-requested), and others. Regarding HJ26 (light rail study), the bill was killed but elements added to HJ28. Council directed support for HRT funding study but opposition to light rail component. Also discussed collective bargaining (letter from 7 mayors) and school construction sales tax referendum. Blue Line charter failure noted as party-line vote. - Annual Crime Update (Chief Paul Neudigate): Reported 2025 crime reductions: total Part I crime down 11%, violent crime down 7% (lowest in 5 years). Specific decreases: homicides -6%, rapes -15%, robberies -5%, commercial burglaries -37%, residential burglaries -29%, motor vehicle thefts -12%, theft from autos -12%. Shooting victims increased from 39 to 50 but juvenile victims down 50%. Homicide clearance rate 100% (national average 59%). 1,294 firearms seized. Traffic fatalities up to 31 (including 7 pedestrian deaths, most with pedestrian causation). Technology advancements: license plate readers, NIBIN ballistics (48-hour turnaround), drone first-responder program at Oceanfront. - Unsanctioned Pop-Up Events & Minor Curfew (Chief Neudigate & City Manager): Presented intelligence on spring pop-up gatherings leading to violence in prior years. Proposed reducing unaccompanied minor curfew from 11 p.m. to 10 p.m. as a deterrent. Exemptions for work, errands, religious activities, etc. Staff reported stakeholder support from resort associations. Council directed staff to bring forward an ordinance for the February 17 meeting. - February 17 Meeting Preview (Planning staff): Eight planning items, all in northern Virginia Beach. Included street closure at 300 Winston-Salem, modification of conditions for properties on 9th Street and Pacific Avenue, conditional rezoning for retail at 901 First Colonial Road, conditional use permits for indoor recreation at 941 Laskin Road, bulk storage yard at 1361 Virginia Beach Blvd, event venue at 5193 Shore Drive, and alternative compliance for sign at 4616 Virginia Beach Blvd. All recommended by Planning Commission. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar unanimously. - Directed legislative team to support HRT sustainable funding study (HJ28) but oppose inclusion of light rail. - Approved staff direction to lower minor curfew from 11 p.m. to 10 p.m. and bring ordinance to February 17 meeting. - Authorized addition of $45,000 to restore Route 33 bus service for Oceanfront employee transportation. - Appointed Robert Borman to Audit Committee and reappointed William Hearst to Bayfront Advisory Commission. - Closed session certified by vote of 9-0. - Approved minutes of January 20, 2026 (Councilmember Shellman abstained).

The Virginia Beach City Council held a two-day retreat (January 26-27, 2026) at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The meeting focused on budget guidance, an in-depth review of city dedications, a governance self-assessment, and policy discussions on election signs, use of city resources, town hall staffing, honorary namings, board appointments, and meeting scheduling. The council provided preliminary budget direction and directed staff to explore adjustments to several dedications to address infrastructure and other priorities. Discussion Items - Dedications Review (January 27): Director of Budget Kevin Shelly and Deputy Director Katie James presented a detailed overview of city dedications, including the Outdoor Initiative, Parks & Rec Special Revenue Fund, Sandbridge Special Service District (SSD), Economic Development Investment Program (EDIP), Agricultural Reserve Program (ARP), Open Space Fund, Tourism Advertisement Program (TAP), Central Business District TIF, Flood Protection Bond Referendum Fund, and Major Project Fund. Key points included: - The Sandbridge SSD, established in 1994, generates about $6.1 million annually from hotel and real estate surcharges; it is fully funding two sand replenishment projects at $53.2 million. - The ARP has a fund balance of $26.6 million, with a $5 million annual budget for land acquisition (goal of 300 acres/year, but average purchases are 150 acres/year). - The TAP fund has a healthy balance for tourism advertising; the CVB director noted spending $12-15 million annually on advertising and salaries. - Several council members expressed interest in right-sizing dedications to free up funds for other city needs, particularly infrastructure and employee compensation. - Proposed Dedication Adjustments: Councilman Stacey Cummings proposed reducing the ARP dedication from 0.6 cents to 0.3 cents per $100 of real estate tax, redirecting the savings to specific CIP projects (e.g., Indian River Road). He also suggested moving Open Space Fund resources to the Outdoor Initiative for action sports facilities, including a cross-country course in the ITA. Councilman Josh Shulman supported a rate adjustment but emphasized maintaining flexibility for land acquisition. Vice Mayor Barbara Henley cautioned against altering programs without input from citizen advisory committees and noted legal constraints on fund use. - Roles of the Governing Body: The council participated in a self-assessment exercise from ICMA, ranking their natural tendencies and desired emphasis across six roles: strategic vision, representative, community builder, decision maker, trustee steward, and oversight. Results showed a mix of preferences, with notable absence of oversight as a top choice. Discussion centered on balancing district representation with citywide governance. - Election Signs: The council revisited policy on political signs at city property. After discussion, they directed staff to draft an ordinance allowing signs only on the day of election (6 p.m. the day before until polls close) at city polling places, but excluding the voter registrar’s office. Signs would be limited to 4x4 feet. Enforcement would be handled by city staff. The council also agreed to reach out to school administrators to encourage uniform policies across school properties. - City Resources Within 90 Days of Election: Council members agreed to extend the existing 90-day blackout period on using city staff and resources for election-related forums to all elections (not just city council). A carve-out for emergencies (e.g., natural disasters) was included, with the mayor authorized to make exceptions. Staff will prepare an amended policy. - Staffing Town Halls: The council discussed limiting staff support for council member town halls. Consensus was to allow quarterly staff-supported town halls per member, with flexibility for emergency or exceptional circumstances. Staff will provide a written summary of available resources and draft a policy. - Honorary Street/Facility Naming: Councilman Michael Bellucci raised concerns about inconsistent criteria for honors. Many members supported developing formal criteria, but opinions differed on whether a waiting period (e.g., five years after death or retirement) should be required. Staff will prepare a presentation with options for council consideration. - Board Appointments: Councilman Cash expressed frustration that his district’s planning commissioner was appointed by a predecessor and does not align with his views. City Attorney Mark Stiles clarified that removal for other than malfeasance is not legally permitted. The council agreed to receive a list of boards with district residency requirements and discuss further at a later date. - Agenda and Closed Session Scheduling: Mayor Bobby Dyer reviewed the current process for adding items to the agenda (direct request to mayor or via two sponsors). The council generally supported the existing system. For closed sessions, the council agreed to use special meetings more frequently to handle non-appointment items on second and fourth Tuesdays, preserving appointment time. Councilman Bellucci emphasized the need for more time for deliberation; the mayor noted that extending to Tuesday/Thursday would provide flexibility. Key Outcomes - Budget Direction: Staff received preliminary guidance to develop the city manager’s proposed budget, with a focus on meaningful conversations during budget hearings and shorter presentations. - Dedication Adjustments: Staff will explore scenarios for right-sizing the ARP dedication (e.g., reducing to 0.3 cents) and redirecting Open Space funds to the Outdoor Initiative, and bring proposals back to council. - Election Signs Ordinance: Staff will draft an ordinance limiting signs to election day at city polling places (excluding registrar’s office), with a 4x4 foot size limit, and coordinate with schools for consistency. - City Resource Policy: Staff will amend the 90-day blackout policy to apply to all elections, with an emergency exception. - Town Hall Staffing: Staff will draft a policy allowing quarterly staff-supported town halls per council member, with exceptions for emergencies. - Honorary Naming: Staff will develop a presentation with criteria options for council feedback. - Board Appointments: Staff will provide a list of boards with district residency requirements. - Closed Session Scheduling: Staff will more frequently call special meetings for non-appointment closed session items to allow more time for deliberation. No formal votes were taken on these items; all were directed to staff for further development and future council action.

On January 27, 2026, the Virginia Beach City Council convened a special budget retreat at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The retreat focused on setting policy guidance for the FY2026-27 budget, addressing capital priorities, and discussing governance topics. Facilitators from Fountain Works led the council through vision-setting, budget presentations, and preliminary guidance discussions. Discussion Items Vision and Legacy Exercise - Council members shared individual aspirations for the city, including housing affordability, sustainability, public safety, quality of life, balanced economic growth, and maintaining a low tax burden while investing in core services. Budget Process and Format - Council discussed the current budget presentation format and expressed a desire for more meaningful deliberation time. Consensus emerged to move toward executive summaries, SWOT analyses, and thematic portfolio-based discussions rather than lengthy PowerPoint presentations from each department. Staff will develop a revised proposal incorporating council feedback. Revenue and Tax Diversification - Staff presented revenue outlooks including the myth of the $2.8 billion budget, the myth of 700 vacancies, and comparisons of local tax rates. The hotel flat tax (per room vs. per bedroom) was discussed; council directed staff to continue community engagement and bring back options. - A debate on real estate vs. personal property tax relief occurred. Some council members advocated for personal property tax cuts to reach renters, while others argued real estate tax relief is more equitable for homeowners who bear disproportionate burden. No final decision was made; staff will explore options. State and Federal Funding Uncertainties - Kevin detailed potential impacts of federal cuts on human services, SNAP, Medicaid, Section 8 housing, and the continuum of care. These are likely to affect FY2028 rather than the upcoming budget. The city’s current policy is not to supplant federal reductions with local funds without council discussion. Health Insurance and VRS - Health insurance costs are trending upward with an 8% annual increase assumption; staff is evaluating premium adjustments. The VRS rate reduction (saving $13 million) was noted as temporary and likely to reverse in future cycles. Council expressed interest in a policy to maintain parity in health benefits between city and school employees. Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) - Major Projects Fund: Recap of funding sources (0.3 cent real estate dedication, meals tax, TIF) and current allocations for LEDA, courthouse, Indian River Road, and VB Trail. - Central Beach Financing Plan: Staff presented a conceptual plan with high infrastructure costs requiring decades of phased development and significant private investment. Council agreed to take incremental steps starting with the 19th Street parking deck RFP. - Rec Center Modernization: Staff proposed a staggered modernization of Great Neck, Bayside, and Princess Anne rec centers using the Parks & Rec Special Revenue Fund with moderate fee adjustments. Council supported moving forward. - Aquarium Modernization: Council requested more information from the Aquarium Foundation before committing funds. Some members supported setting aside a placeholder for planning, while others wanted a full referendum. No directive was given today. - African American Cultural Center: Councilmember Ross Hammond requested $6.5 million in city funding as part of a public-private partnership; council acknowledged the request but took no formal action. - Sports Tourism: Councilmember Henley asked for branding of the sportsplex/ITA area as a sports district and to move forward with low-hanging fruit like a cross-country track. Staff noted ongoing studies. Priority Exercise - Council completed a worksheet ranking priorities for potential new revenue. Average scores showed highest priority for taxpayer relief (7.5), followed by capital infrastructure investment (6.7), attracting/retaining workforce (6.5), and closing federal/state gaps (3.5). Additional priorities included the African American Cultural Center, sports tourism, and affordable housing. Key Outcomes - Budget guidance: If a revenue surplus materializes, council is open to considering taxpayer relief, though the mechanism (real estate vs. personal property) remains undecided. Staff will develop options for the March budget proposal. - Rec center modernization: Council approves staff’s plan to proceed with the phased recapitalization of the three oldest rec centers via the Parks & Rec Special Revenue Fund. - Hotel flat tax: Continue community engagement; no policy change at this time. - VRS savings: $13 million ongoing savings noted, but council cautions against spending it as a permanent base due to potential future increases. - Health benefits parity: Staff to prepare a policy option for council consideration regarding equal benefits for city and school employees. - Dedications: Council directed staff to bring a detailed analysis of dedication fund balances and performance for discussion on Day 2 of the retreat. - Budget presentation format: Staff to revise format to include executive summaries and thematic sessions, allowing more council discussion time. - Aquarium: No immediate funding decision; council expects a joint presentation from staff and the Aquarium Foundation before next steps.

The Virginia Beach City Council convened on January 21, 2026, addressing legislative updates from the General Assembly, hearing a presentation from LifeNet Health Foundation, and approving multiple consent agenda items and appointments. The meeting included a proclamation for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. General Assembly Legislative Briefing - Brett McKenzie, Legislative Affairs Director, provided a weekly briefing on the 2026 General Assembly session, which began January 14. He highlighted key dates (filing deadline for bills on January 23, session ends March 14), committee changes (e.g., Delegate Tata lost her seat on House Appropriations), and the status of the city's legislative agenda. - Agenda items introduced: blue line legislation (Delegate Tata, Senator Craig), 10-1 charter system (Delegate Fowler, Senator Rouse), cancer screening funding (Delegate Askou, Senator Rouse), EMS funding expansion (Delegate Fagans), fire program fund increase (Delegate Askou), and Manhattan fishing study (Delegate Carr, Senator Marsden). - Marsh terrace legislation: Original proposal to carve out a project from permitting was not well received; a compromise creates a new appeals commission for difficult permits. McKenzie recommended support. - Pop-up event zone legislation: Added authority to declare a gun-free zone within enforcement zones. McKenzie noted this significant addition. - Policy priorities included affordable housing (bills on right of first refusal, eviction waiting period, infrastructure funding), economic development (offshore wind workforce, apprenticeship programs, creative economy grants), fiscal responsibility (bills to eliminate grocery tax, paid family leave, collective bargaining elimination, school construction sales tax referendum), and land use (bills to eliminate minimum parking requirements, allow accessory dwelling units, mandate housing stock increases, and require multifamily in commercial zones). - Legislation of interest: HB 505 (prohibits dual employment for council members), HB 514 (military transition benefits), HB 55 (noise camera pilot), cannabis legislation (no opt-out referendum, but local zoning retained, possible 1-3.5% sales tax), e-bike restrictions (new classifications proposed), and tax reform bills (HB 978, HB 1179 expanding sales tax to services/digital products with rate reduction and regional taxes). - Councilmember questions: - Councilmember asked about HB 412 (school board budget requiring full funding of superintendent estimate) – McKenzie called it an unfunded mandate. - Asked about light rail study (HB 28) – McKenzie noted prior referendum against light rail and will relay city's position. - Councilmember Michael questioned HB 1279 (allowing churches to build affordable housing without local approval) – McKenzie said the city opposed it as it reduces zoning authority. - Councilmember Michael questioned HB 1179 (tax on services like nail care, vehicle repair, etc.) – McKenzie explained it's a tax reform proposal, likely to pass given new administration, and will provide more details. LifeNet Health Foundation Presentation - Will Driscoll, Executive Director of LifeNet Health Foundation, presented an overview of LifeNet Health, a nonprofit global leader in regenerative medicine and the world's largest provider of allograft implants. Based in Virginia Beach, it serves as an organ procurement organization (OPO) and tissue processor. - Key statistics: 1,500 employees globally (900 in Virginia Beach), 3,400 donor families supported in 2025, over 1 million allografts distributed worldwide, 215 patents held. - Foundation pillars: Support for donor families (bereavement, events, memorials), community outreach and donation awareness (the "Give Life Every Advantage" campaign), and research & development (cell donation, grants for future healthcare providers). - Personal stories highlighted: Parker (heart valve recipient), Patricia Faison (heart transplant recipient), Joey (heart transplant after kidney issues), Megan (breast cancer reconstruction via donated skin). - Council reactions: Councilmembers expressed gratitude, with Councilman Balucci sharing his wife's recent kidney transplant and requesting a tour. Councilman Cash praised the foundation's impact and noted the importance of family conversations about donation. Council Comments and Other Business - Snowstorm preparation: Mayor Dyer asked about preparations for a potential storm. The city manager confirmed ongoing monitoring, pre-treatment of roads, and contingency plans for unique areas like Sandbridge. - 250th Anniversary of American Revolution: Councilwoman Henley proposed a ceremony on February 16, 2026, at the site of a skirmish at Pungo Chapel (February 16, 1781) to honor Princess Anne County Patriots. She urged including the entire Revolutionary War period in celebrations. Mayor Dyer offered a proclamation. - Other council comments: Councilmembers reported on attending the Urban League MLK event (with Martin Luther King III), Virginia Symphony Orchestra tribute, VBCDC retreat, Plaza Rescue Squad banquet, and Virginia Beach Restaurant Week. Mayor noted Virginia Beach being named a top global destination. - Closed session: The council voted to recess into closed session for legal matters (disparity study), real estate negotiations, and personnel (appointments). Certification was approved 10-0. Consent Agenda and Resolutions - Consent agenda (items 1-11): Approved without comment. Items included poll location changes, employee authorization, intergovernmental agreement, loan to Sandbridge Rescue, grant funding for prosecutors, conditional zoning changes, conditional use permits, and adoption of the Park System Needs Assessment. Planning commission changes for items 10 and 11 were excluded from consent per council request. - Ordinances and resolutions: Approved as part of consent. - International Holocaust Remembrance Day Proclamation: Councilmember Bolucci read a resolution designating January 27, 2026, as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Mona Shapiro Flax, President of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, accepted the proclamation and invited the community to a January 27 program. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved without objection. - Appointments to various boards and commissions approved 9-0 (Councilmember Henley abstained). - Holocaust Remembrance Day Proclamation unanimously approved. - General Assembly positions: Council directed staff to oppose bills that reduce local zoning authority (e.g., HB 1279, HB 262, HB 611, HB 804, HB 416) and to support compromise on marsh terrace legislation. Staff will provide further details on tax reform bills and monitor other legislation. - LifeNet Health presentation: Council expressed support and interest in a tour; no formal action taken.

The Virginia Beach Planning Commission convened on January 14, 2026, for its informal session (morning) and formal public hearing (afternoon). The meeting covered a range of land-use applications, including the proposed removal of a historic district, conditional use permits, and a comprehensive plan workshop. The commission deferred two contested items and approved several others by consent. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Street closure of the western half of Arctic Avenue adjacent to 300 Winston Salem Avenue, requested by David A. and Robin Parker. Staff recommended approval with conditions, and the applicant accepted. Placed on consent and approved unanimously. - Item 3: Modification of conditions to allow existing staircase/deck and future handicap ramp at 514 9th Street. Supported by four letters of support. Placed on consent and approved. - Item 4: Modification of conditions to allow a 6-foot fence at the Star of the Sea Catholic Church parking lot (16th Street and Pacific Avenue). The Planning Design Review Committee (PDRC) recommended three additional conditions (use tied to church, not transferable, continuous hedge). Commissioner Plumley noted the applicant agreed. Placed on consent and approved with added conditions. - Item 5: (Deferred – see below) - Item 6: Conditional rezoning from O2 to conditional B2 at 3696 First Colonial Road to allow a retail balloon shop. No opposition. Placed on consent and approved. - Item 8: Conditional use permit for indoor recreational facility (7 paddle courts, 1 pickleball court, 8,200 sq ft restaurant) at 941 Laskin Road (former movie theater). Staff recommended approval; no opposition. Placed on consent and approved. - Item 9: Conditional use permit for bulk storage yard (tow yard) at 1361 Virginia Beach Boulevard. Four signatures of support, no opposition. Placed on consent and approved. - Item 11: Alternative compliance to replace an existing monument sign at 4616 Virginia Beach Boulevard (Bank of America rebranding). Supported by the Central Business Districts Association design review committee. Placed on consent and approved. - Item 12: Temporary commercial parking lot (30 spaces) at 2402 Pacific Avenue (IFLY Virginia Beach). Approval limited to 3 years. The PDRC added landscape recommendations. Placed on consent and approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Nemo Church Historic District (Item 1): Gene Estes, representing the church leadership, spoke in favor of removing the district, citing prohibitive costs of maintaining historic materials (cedar siding, single-pane windows) required by the Historic Review Board (HRB). The church cannot afford the higher cost and wants to use modern materials for lower lifecycle costs. Estes opposed deferral. Three members of the congregation attended. - Oceana Development Bulk Storage (Item 7): Martin Dorn (Nottingham South) and Heather Cook (Nottingham Estates) opposed the use, citing noise, loss of wooded buffer, and incompatibility with residential neighborhoods. They argued existing laydown yards nearby make this unnecessary. Jorge Flores (Evergreens) and Ashley Lynch (Evergreens) also opposed, expressing concerns over noise, privacy, and property values. They requested additional fencing. - Zakia Walcott Event Space (Item 10): Zakia Walcott spoke in support, describing her business as a reservation-only private event center for intimate gatherings. She emphasized noise control, security, and no alcohol without proper licensing. One opposition speaker (Edward Spearman) did not appear. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Workshop (Informal Session): Staff (Kathy Warren, Hank Morrison, Rachel Miller) presented the final draft of the Imagine Virginia Beach Comprehensive Plan (dated December 5, 2025, posted December 8). The plan updates the 2016 plan due to state requirement (review every 5 years). Community engagement included 9,000 survey responses, 12 public meetings, 1,500 participants, 100+ stakeholder meetings, and 612 written comments. Key themes: balancing growth with neighborhood protection, maintaining the green line, resiliency, housing attainability. The plan introduces context areas (inland, coastal, green line, rural), centers (regional, city, local), place types, and recommends updating the zoning ordinance. A budget request for zoning rewrite is underway. Next steps: recommendation vote at February commission, City Council adoption in March. Commissioners discussed alignment with neighboring cities (Chesapeake, Norfolk) and population projections for centers (concerns from Commissioner Plumley about excessive centers). Staff noted the master transportation plan (light update) will be considered concurrently. - Procedural Timing Concerns: Commissioner Camp raised the issue of receiving 249 pages of material after 5 p.m. the night before the meeting, revisiting a retreat discussion about agenda timing. Staff agreed to provide an update by February/March. Commissioner Byler suggested earlier distribution. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Nemo Church Historic District): Deferred for 60 days (motion by Commissioner Schoonover, second by Commissioner Morjani) to allow time for potential state funding and further discussion. Vote: approved (no opposition noted). The church opposed the deferral but the commission favored more time. - Item 5 (Conditional Rezoning Shakila Burner): Deferred 30 days at the applicant’s request to refine the proposal and address staff-identified dimensional issues. Vote: approved (no opposition). - Item 7 (Oceana Development Bulk Storage): Deferred for 30 days (motion by Vice Chair Byler, second by Commissioner Hippman) after extensive discussion about site design (rear loading near homes, fencing, buffer). Commissioners urged the applicant to reconsider layout, add fencing, and minimize impacts. Approved 10-1 (Commissioner Plumley dissenting? Actually vote 10-1 in favor of deferral). - Item 10 (Zakia Walcott Event Space): Recommended for approval by the commission (motion by Commissioner Anderson, second by Commissioner Schoonover). Vote: 11-0. - Consent Agenda: All eight items (2,3,4,6,8,9,11,12) plus minutes approved by consent, with note of abstentions from Commissioners Plumley and Cromwell on items where they had conflicts (as previously filed). - Comprehensive Plan: Staff will provide additional population data and address concerns at the next workshop. The plan is expected for a recommendation vote in February 2026.

This special formal session of the Virginia Beach City Council, called by Mayor Bobby Dyer, featured briefings on regional talent attraction, cannabis legalization preparations, budget efficiency recommendations, transit service plans, and a new military appreciation weekend. Council members also discussed district naming and public safety workforce concerns. Presentations were given by representatives of the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable, the Cannabis Advisory Task Force, the Process Improvement Steering Committee, and city planning staff. No formal votes were taken on the briefing items, but council provided direction on next steps. Start Hampton Roads – Regional Talent Attraction - Presenters: Nancy Gerdon (President/CEO, Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable) and Lauren Roberts (VP Marketing, Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce). - Background: A regional initiative to combat outmigration and attract talent, funded initially by a Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) pilot grant. A landing page (startinhamptonroads.com) ran from July to December 2025 with $30,000 in ad spend. - Results: 1.8 million impressions, 25,000 unique visitors, 1,300+ leads (job seekers), 450,000 Google ad impressions at a cost per click of $0.52. Top performing keywords included "jobs in Virginia Beach" with over 13,000 impressions and 1,000 clicks. Leading metros engaging: Los Angeles, New York City, Washington D.C., Raleigh, Charlotte. - Next Steps: A Go Virginia Region 5 application is pending (January 29 council meeting, full board in March) to build out the job board and asset components. The Chamber Foundation is the lead applicant. No city match is requested; the Hampton Roads Workforce Council provides matching funds. The city is asked to consider future marketing amplification funding. - Council Support: Council members Worth, Shulman, Rouse, and others expressed strong support, calling it a critical regional marketing effort that aligns with economic development playbooks and workforce needs. Cannabis Advisory Task Force (CATF) – Preparations for Adult-Use Program - Presenter: Andy Locke, former chair of CATF. Task force members, including newly elected chair Latonya Warren, attended. - Legislative Context: Adult-use bills (Rouse bills) passed the legislature in 2024 and 2025 but were vetoed by Governor Youngkin. Governor-elect Alex Spanberger has indicated support for a well-regulated marketplace. Negotiated bills are expected to pass in the 2026 session, with implementation possible as early as September or November 2026. - Task Force Recommendations (17 total): - Public Safety: Consider opt-out (though JLC recommended against it), establish a 30-day review/approval process for applications (expect large first wave), set operating hours and consumption ordinances, adopt local taxes (up to 2.5% under Rouse bill, JLC recommends 3.5%), and designate use of proceeds. - Community Outreach: Implement youth prevention and health risk campaigns, provide workplace education and employer resources, and train law enforcement and first responders on impairment detection. - Zoning: Consider overlay districts, minimum distance between retailers (state minimum 1,000 feet; JLC recommended 1 mile but negotiations suggest 1,000 feet), restrict cannabis-related uses in certain zones, require additional permits/registration, and set signage limits. - Council Discussion: Council members Michael Rouse, Stacey, Jennifer Rouse, and others emphasized the importance of education, revenue generation, public safety (especially youth violence linked to illicit market), and careful zoning. Councilman Berlucci suggested the task force should continue refining zoning recommendations. The city manager noted the issue will be a top agenda item in upcoming weekly briefings. Process Improvement Steering Committee (PISC) – Budget Efficiency Recommendations - Presenter: Brad Martin, chair of PISC. Subcommittee chairs Sarah Welch and Bruce Johnson contributed. - Goal: Identify $16 million in cuts/revenue enhancements (equivalent to 2 cents on the real estate tax rate) from the city’s $2.8 billion budget. - Results: The committee identified $20 million in potential savings/revenue options, including: - 25% reduction in economic development expenses ($1.2 million) – note potential revenue loss not evaluated. - Increase aquarium fees to break even ($2 million gap identified; councilman Rouse noted break-even might be $8 million). - Reduce early childhood services ($1 million net cost for 121 families). - Adjust parks maintenance cycles (e.g., mowing schedules). - 5% reduction in human services ($1.1 million) – cautioning that local cuts could trigger loss of federal/state matching funds. - Other items: cultural affairs grants, police mounted patrol, lifeguards, etc. - Context: The committee emphasized that every dollar has a champion and that second- and third-order impacts must be considered. They recommended long-term deep dives into 2-4 city departments annually and soliciting public input on which programs citizens would cut. - Council Response: Council members Rouse and Shulman thanked the committee. Concerns were raised about: - Impact on renters (real estate tax cut primarily benefits homeowners) and youth programs. - The city’s half of the budget only; schools were not included. Councilman Rouse urged including schools in future efficiency discussions. - Human services cuts could lose multiple federal/state dollars. City manager confirmed possible increased local match requirements. - Economic development and cultural affairs cuts could harm long-term economic growth. Councilman Berlucci argued arts investments yield positive returns. - Next Steps: Recommendations will be considered during FY2027 budget deliberations. HRT Transit Service Plan (FY27) and Related Transit Issues - Presenters: Planning Director Kathy Warren and Comprehensive Plan Administrator Hank Morrison. - FY27 HRT Transportation Service Plan (TSP): Proposed cost: $9.5 million (up $950,000 from FY26) due to higher service hours, increased regional route costs, and a new collective bargaining agreement. - Staff Requests Not Approved: Circulator Route 34 in resort area (event days) and seasonal express connecting airport, town center, and resort were denied due to HRT driver shortages on the south side. - Approved Request: New route to Amazon facilities on Damneck, operated between downtown Norfolk, Newtown Road Light Rail Station, Virginia Beach TCC, and ORF4, fully funded by Hampton Roads Regional Transit Fund (no city cost). - Route 33 Issue: Last year, Route 33 (TCC to resort area) was shortened to end at 19th & Parks due to poor ridership. This negatively impacted workers’ ability to reach the north end. Staff met with HRT and hotel association; a quote is pending to reinstate the original terminus at 68th & Atlantic. Council must decide before the February 13 TSP deadline (after which city pays 100% of changes). - Bayside Microtransit: The pilot ended December 2025. Staff asked council to approve a second year of state TRIP grant funding at a local cost of $700,000 (40% local match in year two). Service would restart in May 2026. Council members Rouse, Shulman, and Vice Mayor Wilson expressed concerns about sustainability and equity—this single zone costs $700k now and escalates to $1.7 million by year five. Councilman Shulman noted the need for a citywide microtransit plan. An RFP for citywide microtransit is being drafted. - Council Direction: No formal vote; council will receive cost estimates for Route 33 restoration and decide. On microtransit, several council members indicated reluctance to continue the Bayside pilot at escalating costs, preferring a broader planning approach. Stars, Stripes & Spurs – Military Appreciation Weekend - Presenter: Deputy City Manager Amanda Jarrett. - Event Details: April 24-26, 2026, along Atlantic Avenue and at 17th, 24th, and 31st Street parks. Partnership between USO Mid-Atlantic, Beach Events, and CVB. Kicks off Virginia Beach’s VA 250 celebration. Includes: - Bulls & Barrels Beach Rodeo (sanctioned by Southern Extreme Bull Riding Association) with added seating and a “Running of the Bulls” on Friday evening. - USO military displays along Atlantic Avenue (17th to 21st streets, road closed from Friday morning to Sunday evening). - Over 10,000 attendees expected. - Free and ticketed events (rodeo tickets on sale Feb 13). - Additional national/regional events at Convention Center and Sports Center that weekend. - Marketing: Paid digital ads, international media (Travel South Global Week), CVB newsletters, landing page. - Cost: Additional programming costs absorbed within existing budgets; no new city funding required. - Council Reaction: Unanimous praise. Council members noted alignment with regional marketing efforts and year-round tourism goals. Council Comments - District Naming (Vice Mayor Wilson): Proposed renaming council districts from numbers to geographic names (e.g., Lynn Hill, Kempsville) to improve public recognition. City manager indicated staff previously scoped a budget-neutral option; council will revisit at a future briefing. - Honorary Street Naming (Councilman Rouse): Urged creation of a formal policy for honorary street namings, separate from specific requests. City manager noted this is on the agenda for the upcoming council retreat (day 2, governance session). - Firefighter Retention (Councilman Shulman): Flagged that Norfolk is hiring 140 firefighters (fourth shift, planned July 2027), potentially attracting Virginia Beach personnel. Mayor Dyer affirmed council’s commitment to public safety compensation and noted recent pay increases and equipment investments. - Upcoming Events: Restaurant Week begins soon; increased participation by 25%. Closed Session - A motion was made and seconded to recess into closed session under Virginia Code exemptions for real property discussions (Districts 2 and 6) and personnel matters (appointments to boards/commissions). The closed session was certified upon reconvening.

The Virginia Beach City Council met on January 7, 2026, and the primary focus was a presentation by the Atlantic Avenue Task Force, which provided recommendations for allocating $30–35 million in capital improvement funds to revitalize Atlantic Avenue. Council members also received a briefing on upcoming planning items, heard liaison reports, and addressed several administrative items. Atlantic Avenue Task Force Presentation - Background: The mayor&39;s task force, convened to develop options for the Atlantic Avenue improvement project, met for 20 hours per person across five meetings between July and November 2025. Co-chair Mike Mauch and facilitator Julie Brennan presented the recommendations. - Vision: The task force envisions Atlantic Avenue as a unique, memorable destination that is clean, safe, attractive, easy to navigate, and economically vibrant year-round. - Recommendations: - Citywide improvements: Road striping, milling and overlay, sidewalks and raised crosswalks, wayfinding and placemaking, uniform lighting, enhanced landscaping, bike lanes on the east side, and an Atlantic Avenue Facade Improvement Grant Program. - Prioritization: Central Beach (17th–24th Streets) is the top priority, followed by South Beach (5th–16th Streets) and North Beach (25th–40th Streets). - Parking: No on-street parking in Central Beach; year-round on-street parking retained in South Beach (west side); no on-street parking in North Beach. - Microcommerce zones: In Central Beach, the task force proposes replacing the trolley lane with raised parklet-style areas (microcommerce zones) for outdoor dining, permitted entertainment, and busking. Businesses would have first right of refusal for adjacent spaces. Revenue from leases would go into the TIP fund. - Non-capital improvements: Enforce regulations (building on a prior resolution to curb obscene merchandise), invest in maintenance, address quality-of-life issues for unhoused individuals, and hold exploratory conversations with HRT about trolley service. - Council Discussion: - Councilmember Worth noted the strong consensus (6-1 on parking, 7-0 on everything else) and highlighted the economic impact of Atlantic Avenue (14.1 million visitors, $3 billion in spending, 33,000 jobs). - Several councilmembers expressed concerns about microcommerce zones: Councilmember Cummings urged that only businesses in full compliance with city codes be eligible; Councilmember Wilson raised potential blocking of businesses that don&39;t want a bump-out; Councilmember Ross asked about aesthetics and durability of parklets; Councilmember Henley (public safety hat) warned about overhead lighting and accessibility for emergency vehicles. - Public safety concerns were acknowledged: police and fire departments have reservations about on-street parking and physical elements that could impede ladder trucks. The task force noted they worked with public safety and that designs would accommodate safety needs. - Councilmember Rouse raised the issue of utility markings on sidewalks, which fall under state law; Councilmember Michael emphasized the need to address this before investing millions. - Task Force Conclusion: Vice Mayor Rosemary asked the task force to hold one more meeting focused solely on clarifying the microcommerce zone concept, with no revisiting of other recommendations. The task force agreed. Other Agenda Items - Planning Briefing (January 20, 2026 agenda): Eleven items were previewed, including conditional rezonings, use permits (self-storage facility, home occupation, food truck, bulk storage yard, short-term rentals), and an ordinance to adopt the park system needs assessment. The self-storage facility at First Colonial Road was recommended for denial by staff (incompatible with the medical corridor) but approved 9-1 by the Planning Commission. The council will vote on these items at the next formal session. - Liaison Reports: - Councilmember Wilson reported on the Towing Advisory Board&39;s request to adjust police tow fees (ordinance for January 20 formal session). - Councilmember Hammond highlighted Arts and Humanities grants (Creative Neighborhood Grants due Jan 16, project grants due Feb 6). - Councilmember Ross noted the opening of a new child development center on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story and condemned recent anti-Semitic and anti-LGBTQ graffiti, thanking city staff for prompt removal. - Council Comments: - Councilmember Berlucci requested that Smith Lane be added to the traffic calming program despite not meeting technical criteria, citing extreme safety concerns for children on a narrow, high-traffic road (750 vehicles/day, 16 houses). The city manager agreed to proceed while reviewing the criteria. - Councilmember Michael supported adding the 25th Street and 31st Street garages to the Rosemary Residential Parking Rebate program; no objections, so staff will implement. - Councilmember Ross announced the retirement of the deputy city auditor; the replacement position will be split into two lower-cost positions, supported by the Mayor and council. - Closed Session: The council recessed into closed session to discuss legal, real estate, and personnel matters. Key Outcomes - The Atlantic Avenue Task Force will convene one additional meeting to refine the microcommerce zone concept, after which the findings will be communicated to council via memo; a resolution to codify recommendations will follow. - The council approved the consent agenda (nine ordinances/resolutions) by a vote of 11-0, noting one abstention on December 9, 2025, minutes. - The council approved the minutes of formal/informal sessions of December 2 and December 9, 2025. - The council authorized the city manager to expand the residential parking rebate program to the 25th Street and 31st Street garages. - The council directed staff to include Smith Lane in the traffic calming program. - The council supported restructuring the deputy city auditor position into two lower-grade roles.

The Virginia Beach Planning Commission held its regular public hearing on December 10, 2025, at noon. The meeting covered withdrawals, deferrals, a consent agenda with multiple items, election of officers for 2026, and two regular agenda items: a proposal to remove a historic district overlay and a rezoning/conditional use permit for a self-storage facility. All actions are recommendations to City Council. Consent Calendar - Records of Minutes: Approved minutes from September 24, 2025 (retreat), November 12, 2025 (informal and formal hearings), and December 4, 2025 (site visit), with abstentions noted. - Item 1: City of Virginia Beach - Resolution to schedule monthly meetings for January–December 2026. - Item 5: Cohen Residential LLC - Rezone 5.03 acres from AG-1/AG-2 to Conditional R-10 for four single-family lots. 63% open space, consistent with transition area guidelines. - Item 6: Brink Quality Construction LLC - Rezone 1.91 acres from B-1/Conditional B-1 to Conditional A-18 for 18 townhouse-style units (9.6 units/acre). - Item 9: Matthew & Jessica Firm - Conditional use permit for home occupation (small parts repair) in detached garage. - Item 10: Allison Huff - Conditional use permit for open-air market (food truck) on V-2 zoned parcel, to remedy a zoning complaint. - Item 11: Legacy Land LLC - Conditional use permit for bulk storage yard on 1.54 acres in I-1 district, within APES and noise zones. - Item 13: Cooper Family Living Trust - Conditional use permit for short-term rental at 919 Pacific Ave Unit B. - Item 14: 215 4th Street LLC - Conditional use permit for short-term rental at 215 4th Street. All consent items were approved unanimously (10-0), with Commissioner Plumley abstaining on Item 10. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (NIMO Church Historic District): No public speakers. Two letters of opposition were submitted by the Historic Preservation Commission and the Historical Review Board, arguing removal would set a bad precedent and the church retains historic significance. - Items 7 & 8 (Michael D. Siphon Inc.): No speakers signed up in opposition or support. The applicant’s attorney and the developer provided all testimony. Discussion Items - Item 2: City of Virginia Beach – Ordinance to Remove the NIMO Church Historic District Zoning Overlay Mark Reed, Historic Preservation Planner, presented the proposal to remove the overlay from two parcels (NIMO Church and a Royal Farms). He noted the church, built 1791 with an 1893 steeple, is historically significant. The church trustees requested removal after the Historical Review Board denied a large “welcome center” addition that would have obscured the steeple. Commissioners expressed concern about insufficient information, lack of church representatives, and the precedent of removing a district. Commissioner Camp observed that the ordinance cites “dense commercial/residential development” as justification, but the only recent change is the Royal Farms next door. After debate, a motion to defer for 30 days passed (vote not explicitly stated, but approved). - Items 7 & 8: Michael D. Siphon Inc. – Rezoning from O-2 (Office) to Conditional A-18 (Apartment District) & Conditional Use Permit for Mini-Storage Eddie Burdon, attorney for the applicant, and developer Michael Siphon presented plans to demolish a 60-year-old medical office building and build a three-story, 50,000 sq. ft. self-storage facility with 11-foot multimodal trail, brick facade, and parking in front. They argued the medical office market is oversaturated; Senterra Hospital has available space; and the property lies in a 70–75 DNL noise zone that prohibits residential (including senior housing). Staff recommended denial, citing inconsistency with the First Colonial Medical Corridor Comprehensive Plan, which prioritizes medical, office, and neighborhood-serving uses. Commissioners questioned the applicant about cross-access, future conversion to office, and market conditions. The applicant agreed to construct the first floor to be adaptable for office use and to allow vehicular cross-access across the property. Commissioner Plumley moved to approve with those conditions; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously (10-0). Key Outcomes - Withdrawals: Item 12 (Courtney Ebron) withdrawn by request, approved 10-0. - Deferrals: Item 3 (City of Virginia Beach – roll-off container ordinance) indefinitely deferred without objection. Item 4 (John Hunter Dora III & Katrina Dora Revocable Trust) deferred 30 days, approved by motion. - Election of Officers (2026): Commissioner Costin elected Chair, Commissioner Bailer elected Vice Chair, by acclamation. - Consent Agenda: All 12 items approved by consent (10-0, with noted abstentions). - Item 2: Deferred 30 days (motion by Commissioner Cromwell, seconded by Commissioner Schoonover). No vote tally recorded, but passed. - Items 7 & 8: Approved (motion by Commissioner Plumley, seconded by Commissioner Schoonover) with conditions: first floor built to accommodate future office use (via proffer amendment), and cross-access provided on the property. Vote: 10-0.

This was the last meeting of the year for the Virginia Beach City Council. The main agenda items included the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2025 audited financial statements, discussions on citizen engagement and the Virginia Beach National Golf Course RFP, approval of the consent agenda, a closed session for contract and personnel matters, and multiple votes on routine items. Consent Calendar - Approved 13 ordinances and resolutions on consent by a vote of 10–0, including: - Designations of property tax exemptions for Rays of Healing, Food Bank of Southeastern Virginia, Maverick Learning Center, Philippine Nurses Association of Virginia, Protection Plus Peril, Quality of Life Inc., and one additional organization (item 7). - An amendment to the FY 2025-26 Capital Improvement Program for flood protection, transferring funds among projects. - Authorization for a five-year lease of city-owned property (DeWitt Cottage at 1113 Atlantic Avenue) to Back Bay Wildlife Guild Inc. - Direction to implement changes to oceanfront parking and authorize one full-time position in the parking enterprise fund. - Amendments to city code sections on metered parking and traffic calming at Timberlake Drive. - Elimination of local repayment obligations for loans provided to volunteer rescue squads before November 2024. - Adoption of the 2025 Disaster Recovery Plan. - Withdrawal of Ashton Builders 1 LLC's appeal to the Historical Review Board decision regarding vinyl fencing at 2508–2524 Peaceful Lane. - Approved seven planning items on consent by a vote of 10–0 (with Mayor Dyer abstaining on item 7): - Variances, conditional use permits, zoning changes, and a zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to nonconformities. Discussion Items - FY25 Audit Presentation: Interim Finance Director Wendy Yu, along with Shelby Brown (Cherry Beckard audit manager) and City Controller Kevin Cabaza, presented the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The audit received an unmodified (clean) opinion with no material weaknesses in internal control and no instances of noncompliance. The city's total net position was $4.7 billion, with $1.8 billion in cash citywide. General fund revenues exceeded budget by $40.4 million (2.7%) and expenditures were $148 million under budget (9.1%), resulting in a $74.1 million increase in fund balance. The unassigned fund balance stood at $178.4 million (11.5% of FY26 revenue), within the city's 8–12% policy range. Enterprise funds (water & sewer, stormwater, etc.) were all reported as financially sound. - Citizen Engagement and Golf Course RFP: Councilmember Barbara Henley reported that constituents feel left out of early planning and expressed concerns about the Virginia Beach National Golf Course RFP process. She urged greater early and meaningful public participation, especially for upcoming comprehensive plan updates. Councilmember Josh responded that early engagement can sometimes leave questions unanswered, and he clarified that the RFP was a response to unsolicited proposals and a transparent way to bring the matter into the public view. He affirmed that the golf course remains a valued community asset and that the First Tee lease will be honored. - Capital Improvement Program Flood Protection Transfer: Councilmembers Henley and Michael discussed the transfer of funds within the flood protection CIP to advance construction in Windsor Woods, Princess Anne Plaza, and the Lakes. Henley expressed concern about delaying other projects in southern watersheds and requested monthly reports to track progress. Michael thanked the community and staff for prioritizing these neighborhoods, noting the urgent need following storms. - Other Council Comments: - Councilmember Jackson Green announced a District 7 job fair on December 20 at Kempsville Rec Center, funded privately, to provide hope to job seekers. - Councilmember Michael reported on his attendance at the 2025 North American Summit Against Anti-Semitism, noting Virginia Beach's strong position and urging continued unity against hate. - Councilmember Michael also announced a town hall on December 17 focused on affordability, co-hosted with Councilmember Cummings and Delegate Tata. - Councilmembers shared positive remarks about the holiday parade, military appreciation events, and the city being named the "most caring city" in the U.S. Key Outcomes - The council certified the closed session (10–0) and approved the minutes of the November 25, 2025 meetings (9–0, with Councilmember Lucci abstaining). - All items on the consent agenda were adopted by a vote of 10–0. - The FY25 audit report was formally received; no additional vote was required. - Staff will review proposals from the golf course RFP and brief council in closed session. Council expects the course to remain a public golf facility and First Tee's lease to be protected. - Councilmember Henley will receive monthly reports on flood protection CIP transfers to ensure no project is permanently delayed. - Vanessa Christie was appointed to the Military Economic Development Advisory Committee (10–0). - The meeting adjourned, with wishes for a merry Christmas and happy new year.