Colonial Heights public meetings in 2025

City Council

The City Council will consider Ordinance 25-FIN-16 (second reading) to amend the 2025‑2026 budget, allocating $946,182 of Virginia Department of Transportation funds for SGR Boulevard paving and the Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI, plus $3,802 in donations to public safety. It will also hear Ordinance 25-FIN-17 (first reading) appropriating $40,878 from various grant sources, Resolution 25-64 authorizing the City Manager to sign a health department agreement with the Virginia Department of Health, and Ordinance 25-23 (second reading) raising hourly rates for certain part‑time positions by $0.27 effective Jan 1 2026. An audit statement notes the FY2024 audit is pending with an estimated completion date of Feb 10 2026.

• Ordinance 25-FIN-16 (second reading) – $946,182 VDOT funds for SGR Boulevard paving ($264,182) and Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI ($682,000); $3,802 donations to public safety.
• Ordinance 25-FIN-17 (first reading) – $40,878 appropriations from donations, grant funds, and federal asset forfeiture for public safety, human services, and miscellaneous uses.
• Resolution 25-64 – authorizes the City Manager to enter the agreement with the Virginia Department of Health for funding and services of the Colonial Heights Health Department and grants future signatory authority.
• Ordinance 25-23 (second reading) – revises the General Pay Plan, increasing hourly rates for certain part‑time positions by $0.27 effective Jan 1 2026.
• Audit statement – FY2024 audit pending; delay due to prior year audit; expected completion Feb 10 2026.

The City Council unanimously approved several budget appropriations, including $946,182 for capital projects such as SGR Boulevard paving and the Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI. It also adopted a resolution giving the City Manager authority to sign health department agreements with the Virginia Department of Health. Additional ordinances adjusted public‑safety funding, grant allocations, and part‑time employee pay rates.

• Approved Ordinance No. 25-FIN-16 appropriating $946,182 for SGR Boulevard paving ($264,182) and Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI ($682,000) (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25-FIN-16 allocating $3,802 in donations to Public Safety and Miscellaneous (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25-FIN-17 appropriating $40,878 for various grants and donations, including $33,500 for a police vehicle (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution No. 25-64 authorizing the City Manager to sign Virginia Department of Health agreements for the Health Department (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25-23 raising hourly rates for certain part‑time positions by $0.27 (7‑0)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (7‑0)
• Approved the consent agenda (7‑0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:04 PM (7‑0)

City Council

The Colonial Heights City Council held a special meeting that began with a closed session to discuss appointments to several boards and commissions. The council then returned to an open session, certified compliance with closed‑meeting rules, and considered motions and resolutions of those appointments. An audit statement was presented noting that the fiscal year 2024 audit is pending, delayed by the FY 2023 audit, with an estimated completion date of February 10, 2026.

• Closed meeting to discuss appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals, Central Virginia Waste Management Authority, Economic Development Authority, Fire Prevention Code Appeals, Personnel Board, and Friends of the Lower Appomattox River
• Motions and resolutions of appointments to the aforementioned boards and commissions
• Audit statement: FY 2024 audit pending; delay caused by FY 2023 audit; estimated completion February 10, 2026

The City Council approved seven resolutions appointing individuals to the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority, the Economic Development Authority, the Personnel Board, the Friends of the Lower Appomattox River, and the Board of Fire Prevention Code Appeals. All appointment votes were unanimous (7-0). The council also certified that the closed‑meeting discussions complied with the Code of Virginia and posted an audit statement noting the FY2024 audit is pending with completion expected by February 10, 2026.

• Approved Ross Bauschatz & Glenn A Dean to Board of Zoning Appeals (7-0)
• Approved Douglas E. Smith (member) & Andrew Barnes (alternate) to Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (7-0)
• Approved Randy Ahigrim to Economic Development Authority (7-0)
• Approved Mitchell Hartson to Personnel Board (7-0)
• Approved Leonardo Cabellero to Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (7-0)
• Approved John V. Mazza, III to Board of Fire Prevention Code Appeals (7-0)
• Certified closed‑meeting compliance with Code of Virginia (7-0)
• Posted FY2024 audit delay statement; completion estimated Feb 10, 2026

City Council

The Colonial Heights City Council meeting scheduled for December 9, 2025 at 5:45 PM and 7:00 PM in City Hall was postponed because of inclement weather. The meeting has been rescheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The agenda will be reposted on Thursday, December 11, 2025.

Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on variance VAR #25‑04 for 439 Jennick Drive. The applicant, American Behavioral Health Group on behalf of TUMS Family Services, seeks permission to install a 7‑foot‑tall fence with gate in the front yard, exceeding the 42‑inch limit in the zoning code. The board will decide whether to grant the variance.

• Variance request VAR #25‑04 for a 7‑foot fence with gate at 439 Jennick Drive
• Current ordinance permits only 42‑inch front fences; request exceeds this limit
• Property is 3.32 acres, zoned GB (General Business), parcel #68215600001
• Applicant: American Behavioral Health Group; tenant: TUMS Family Services
• Earlier special‑use permit request on the same property was voted 4‑3 by City Council

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority met in a closed session to consider the disposition of an approximately 19.83‑acre parcel of publicly held industrial‑zoned land and the award of a public contract involving public funds. The meeting also included routine reports, new business items such as the Colonial Ridge Multi‑Family Housing Revenue Bonds, and staff updates on local development projects. Suggested dates for the 2026 Authority meetings were also presented.

• Disposition of an approximate 19.83‑acre industrial‑zoned parcel (closed meeting)
• Award of a public contract involving public funds (closed meeting)
• Colonial Ridge Multi‑Family Housing Revenue Bonds (new business)
• Staff updates: Old Town Creek Housing Development, Kroger, Destination Church, Seven Brew, East Coast Appliance, Tourism/Special Events
• Suggested 2026 meeting dates: Jan 22, Mar 19, May 21, Jul 23, Sep 24, Dec 3

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will receive a staff update regarding upcoming amendments to the Chesapeake Bay Overlay District. These changes focus on resiliency and the preservation of mature vegetation and trees.

• Staff update on § 286-326COD Chesapeake Bay Overlay District amendments

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a motion allowing Councilwoman Tricia Palmer to join the meeting remotely. The agenda and the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting were each approved unanimously. The commissioners then adjourned the meeting by unanimous vote.

• Approved remote attendance for Councilwoman Tricia Palmer (6-0)
• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved November 5 minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on updating the General Pay Plan and salary ranges. A work session will address budget amendments for public safety and capital projects, as well as a status update on the pending 2024 audit.

• Ordinance 25-20: Revised General Pay Plan removing Code Enforcement Supervisor and adding Code Enforcement Inspector
• Ordinance 25-23: $0.27 hourly rate increase for certain part-time positions
• Ordinance 25-FIN-16: $3,802 appropriation for Public Safety and Miscellaneous
• Capital Projects Budget: $946,182 for SGR Boulevard Paving ($264,182) and Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI ($682,000)
• Closed meeting regarding the disposition of a 19.83 acre industrial parcel and litigation on Hamilton Ave

The City Council unanimously approved a revised General Pay Plan (Ordinances 25‑20 and 25‑23) and a budget amendment (Ordinance 25‑FIN‑16) that allocates $946,182 from VDOT funding to SGR Boulevard paving and the Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI. The council also adopted an audit statement noting the FY 2024 audit is pending with completion expected by February 10 2026, and approved updates to the City seal with one dissenting vote.

• Approved Ordinance 25‑20 (Second Reading) revising pay classes, removing Code Enforcement Supervisor and adding new positions (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑23 (First Reading) raising hourly rates for certain part‑time positions by $0.27 (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑16 (First Reading) appropriating $946,182 for SGR Boulevard paving ($264,182) and Appomattox River Greenway Trail Phase VI ($682,000) (6‑0)
• Adopted audit statement indicating FY 2024 audit pending, delay reasons, and estimated completion date of February 10 2026
• Approved city seal redesign: smooth outline, “Established 1948” center text, and logo to be painted on water tower (one dissent)
• Motion to adjourn the special meeting carried unanimously

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on changing the land use and zoning classifications for properties owned by Roslyn Farm Corporation to allow multi-family and high-density residential development. The body will also consider a budget amendment for public safety and human services.

• Ordinance 25-18: Proposed land use map change for approximately 9.22 and 17.48 acre parcels to Residential Multi-Family
• Ordinance 25-19: Proposed zoning change from Low Density Residential to High Density Residential for an 82.7 acre parcel
• Ordinance 25-FIN-15: Proposed General Fund Budget appropriation of $27,789 for Public Safety and Human Services
• Budget transfer of $36,069 from Nondepartmental to General & Financial
• Audit Statement: Notification that the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 audit is pending with an estimated completion date of November 26, 2025

The City Council voted 1‑6 to reject Ordinance No. 25‑18 (land‑use map change) and Ordinance No. 25‑19 (zoning map change) for the Roslyn Farm parcel. The consent agenda, including Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑17 that amends the General Fund Budget by $27,789, passed unanimously 7‑0. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Ordinance No. 25‑18 (land‑use map reclassification) – rejected, vote 1‑6
• Ordinance No. 25‑19 (zoning map reclassification) – rejected, vote 1‑6
• Consent agenda (including Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑17 budget amendment) – approved, vote 7‑0

City Council

The City Council held a closed session to consider appointments to several regional authorities and the city's acquisition of an approximately 4.44‑acre parcel zoned Boulevard Business for public purpose. After the closed session, the Council voted to return to an open meeting. The agenda also includes a statement that the city’s audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 is pending, with an estimated completion date of November 26, 2025.

• Appointments to Appomattox River Water Authority, Board of Fire Prevention Code Appeals, Central Virginia Waste Management Authority, City Assessor, South Central Wastewater Authority, and Transportation Safety Commission
• Consideration of acquisition of an approximate 4.44‑acre parcel zoned Boulevard Business for public purpose
• Vote to resume open meeting after closed session
• Audit statement: FY 2024 audit pending, estimated completion November 26, 2025

The City Council first approved a closed session to discuss exempt matters, then reopened the meeting in open session. Members certified that only the authorized topics were considered. The council unanimously approved six appointment resolutions, naming Andrew Barnes to four regional bodies and Charles C. Townes II to the Fire Prevention Board of Appeals. An audit delay statement was posted, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved closed meeting under Code of Virginia (7-0)
• Approved reconvening in open session (7-0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (7-0)
• Appointed Andrew Barnes to Transportation Safety Commission (4‑year term) (7-0)
• Appointed Andrew Barnes as alternate member of Appomattox River Water Authority (7-0)
• Appointed Andrew Barnes as alternate member of South Central Wastewater Authority board (7-0)
• Appointed Charles C. Townes II to Fire Prevention Board of Appeals (3‑year term) (7-0)
• Appointed Andrew Barnes as alternate member of Central Virginia Waste Management Authority board (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed zoning amendment. The body is discussing whether to allow the keeping of three female chickens and associated structures in the RL Low Density Residential district.

• Public Hearing on PC Resolution No. 25-08 and Ordinance No. 25-21 regarding chickens in RL Low Density Residential district

The commission approved its agenda and the minutes from June, July, August and September 2025, each by a 6‑0 vote. It then adopted PC Resolution No. 25‑08 and Ordinance No. 25‑21, amending the zoning code to permit three female chickens and related structures as an accessory use in the RL Low Density Residential district, also by a 6‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned with unanimous approval.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved July 1, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Approved PC Resolution No. 25‑08 and Ordinance No. 25‑21 allowing three female chickens in RL district (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss a special use permit for a fence and a draft chicken ordinance. The body will also address a pending audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and hold closed meetings regarding property acquisitions and appointments.

• Ordinance No 25-16: Special use permit for a 135-foot-long aluminum picket fence at 439 Jennick Drive
• Discussion of a draft chicken ordinance
• Closed meeting to discuss acquisition of a 4.44 acre Boulevard Business parcel and disposition of a 19.83 acre Industrial parcel
• Audit statement for fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, with estimated completion date of November 26, 2025
• Closed meeting to discuss appointments for City Assessor and Greater Reach Community Services Board

The council appointed Rebecca Lynch to the Greater Reach Community Services Board and Erika Cowling as City Assessor, both unanimously. A special use permit for American Behavioral Health was rejected by a 4‑3 vote. The council voted 5‑2 to move forward with a draft chicken ordinance and approved the new city logo and branding by a 6‑1 vote. No action was taken on the transportation authority support letter.

• Appointed Rebecca Lynch to Greater Reach Community Services Board (7-0)
• Appointed Erika Cowling as City Assessor (7-0)
• Rejected special use permit for American Behavioral Health at 439 Jennick Drive (4-3)
• Approved moving forward with draft chicken ordinance (5-2)
• Approved new city logo and branding (6-1)
• No action taken on transportation authority support letter (tabled)
• Adjourned the special meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Colonial Heights City Council will consider a budget amendment allocating $640,733 to public safety, stormwater, and capital projects. Council members will also vote on Ordinance 25-17 to revise the General Pay Plan, adding new recreation positions and removing others. Additional items include a special use permit for fostering kittens at 232 Virginia Avenue and two resolutions authorizing trail funding and an annuity claim for the animal shelter.

• Ordinance 25-17 (Second Reading) – revises the General Pay Plan, removing the Building Inspector position, eliminating Recreation Specialist III, and adding Recreation Supervisor and Recreation Supervisor – Senior Center positions.
• Ordinance 25-FIN-13 (Second Reading) – amends the General Fund Budget, appropriating $640,733, including $150,000 state grant for public safety and $379,964 unassigned fund transfer to stormwater.
• Special Use Permit request at 232 Virginia Avenue for Ms. Beth Knight to temporarily foster up to five kittens.
• Resolution 25-54 – authorizes a request to the Tri‑Cities MPO for up to $181,965 for the Boulevard spur of the Appomattox Regional Trail, with a $36,393 local match.
• Resolution 25-55 – authorizes the City Manager to submit an annuity death claim for a potential bequest to the Colonial Heights Animal Shelter.

The council unanimously approved a special‑use permit for additional companion animals at 232 Virginia Avenue, adopted a revised General Pay Plan (Ordinance 25‑20) and approved budget amendments including $27,789 for public‑safety grants (Ordinance 25‑FIN‑15). It also authorized a request for up to $181,965 for the Appomattox Regional Trail spur (Resolution 25‑54), approved an annuity death‑claim for the animal shelter (Resolution 25‑55), and tabled further discussion of a fence permit at 439 Jennick Drive.

• Approved Special Use Permit for companion animals at 232 Virginia Avenue (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑20 revising General Pay Plan and adding positions (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑15 amending General Fund Budget, appropriating $27,789 (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution 25‑54 authorizing request for up to $181,965 trail funding and 20% local match (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution 25‑55 authorizing City Manager to submit annuity death claim for animal shelter (7‑0)
• Tabled further discussion on Ordinance 25‑16 fence permit at 439 Jennick Drive (7‑0)

City Council

The City Council held a closed session to discuss appointments to the Architectural Review Board and the Transportation Safety Commission, as well as a prospective candidate for City Assessor. After certification of compliance, the council voted to return to an open meeting. The meeting will conclude with motions and resolutions to fill the discussed positions.

• Appointment to the Architectural Review Board
• Appointment to the Transportation Safety Commission
• Consideration of a prospective City Assessor candidate
• Vote to resume an open meeting
• Motions and resolutions of appointments

The council convened a closed session (6‑0) to discuss commission appointments, then reconvened in open session (7‑0). All members certified the closed‑meeting compliance (7‑0). The council unanimously approved three appointments: Blake Underhill to the Transportation Safety Commission, and Charles C. Townes, II and Carl Kohan to the Board of Architectural Review. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.

• Closed session convened to consider appointments (6‑0)
• Reopened meeting in open session (7‑0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (7‑0)
• Appointed Blake Underhill as student representative to the Transportation Safety Commission (7‑0)
• Appointed Charles C. Townes, II as member of the Board of Architectural Review (7‑0)
• Appointed Carl Kohan as member of the Board of Architectural Review (7‑0)
• Adjourned the special meeting by voice vote (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Colonial Heights Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider two resolutions to change the land‑use and zoning designations for parcels owned by Roslyn Farm Corporation. PC Resolution No. 25‑05 (Ordinance 25‑18) would reclassify about 9.22 acres and an additional 17.48 acres from low‑density residential and open space to Residential Multi‑Family on the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map. PC Resolution No. 25‑06 (Ordinance 25‑19) would rezone approximately 82.7 acres of the same property from the RL Low‑Density Residential district to the RH High‑Density Residential district on the Zoning Map. The agenda also includes procedural items such as the Manner of Addressing the Commission and a Hearing of Citizens Generally.

• PC Resolution No. 25‑05 (Ordinance 25‑18): change land‑use map for ~9.22 acres and ~17.48 acres to Residential Multi‑Family
• PC Resolution No. 25‑06 (Ordinance 25‑19): rezone ~82.7 acres from RL Low‑Density Residential to RH High‑Density Residential
• Proffer Statement by Roslyn Farm Corporation outlining development conditions, HOA creation, and 50‑ft landscape buffer
• Manner of Addressing the Commission: speaker limits of 5 minutes (10 minutes for main proponents, 3 minutes for rebuttal)
• Public hearing items: Hearing of Citizens Generally and scheduled public hearings

The commission first voted to approve the rezoning (PC Resolutions 25-06 and 25-07) but the motion failed 3-4. A second motion to deny the rezoning was then adopted 4-3, resulting in the denial of the proposed land‑use changes. The agenda was approved unanimously earlier in the meeting.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Motion to approve rezoning (PC Res 25-06, 25-07) failed (3-4)
• Motion to deny rezoning (PC Res 25-06, 25-07) adopted (4-3)

Planning Commission

The Colonial Heights Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss a rezoning request for 17 parcels in the Old Towne Creek subdivision, covering about 82.7 acres. The proposal seeks to change the zoning from Residential Low (RL) to Residential High (RH) and amend the land‑use map to Residential Multi‑Family for roughly 9.22 acres. The developer also proposes a HOA, a 50‑foot landscape buffer, and a mix of 72 townhouses and 36 single‑family homes on about 26 acres.

• Rezoning of 17 parcels (Old Towne Creek) from RL to RH district
• Land‑use map amendment to Residential Multi‑Family for ~9.22 acres
• Proposed development of 72 townhouses and 36 single‑family homes on 26 acres
• Requirement for a 50‑foot residential landscape buffer and HOA establishment
• Conceptual plan includes right‑in/right‑out access off Conduit Road

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and appointed Ms. Maxie Brown as the Planning Commission secretary. No vote was taken on the Old Towne Creek rezoning; the session was for discussion only. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Ms. Maxie Brown as Secretary (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate items. There are no specific projects, contracts, or ordinances listed for decision or discussion.

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the July 24, 2025 meeting minutes, each by unanimous vote. No old or new business was taken. Staff provided updates on events and projects. The meeting adjourned at 8:47 AM.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved July 24, 2025 minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:47 AM

City Council

The City Council will hold a second reading of Ordinance 25-15, amending the zoning code to add "recreational substances" and "recreational substances, retail" as permitted uses. It will also conduct first‑reading work sessions on Ordinance 25-FIN-13 and 25-FIN-14, appropriating $640,733 and $16,192 respectively and transferring funds for public safety, stormwater, and park projects. Additional items include a Transportation Safety Commission update, a discussion on chickens, and a statement about the pending 2024 audit.

• Ordinance 25-15 (Second Reading): adds recreational‑substance and retail uses to Chapter 286 zoning.
• Ordinance 25-FIN-13 (First Reading): appropriates $640,733 for public safety grants, stormwater, and a $4,861 VDOT sidewalk project; transfers $30,182 to park improvements.
• Ordinance 25-FIN-14 (First Reading): appropriates $16,192 for public safety and transfers $339,701 to Health and Social Services.
• Transportation Safety Commission update.
• Discussion on chickens and related code reference.

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 25-15, adding recreational‑substance uses to the city zoning code. It also passed two budget amendments, Ordinances 25-FIN-13 and 25-FIN-14, allocating over $640,000 and adjusting fund transfers. A motion to install speed humps on Fairfax Avenue passed 6‑1, and council voted 5‑2 to move forward with drafting a chicken‑keeping ordinance.

• Ordinance 25-15 (zoning for recreational substances) passed 6-0
• Ordinance 25-FIN-13 (General, Capital Projects, Stormwater budget) passed 6-0
• Ordinance 25-FIN-14 (General Fund budget amendment) passed 7-0
• Motion for immediate speed humps on Fairfax Avenue passed 6-1
• Poll to develop a chicken‑keeping ordinance passed 5-2

City Council

The Colonial Heights City Council will consider a $69,079 budget amendment, approve participation in opioid-related settlements, and hold first readings on a zoning ordinance for recreational substances and a revised General Pay Plan.

• Amend General Fund Budget by $69,079
• Approve opioid-related settlements
• First reading: Zoning ordinance for recreational substances
• First reading: Revised General Pay Plan
• Public hearing: Special use permit for fence at 439 Jennick Drive

The City Council adopted several measures, including a special‑use permit for companion animals, a fence permit, a revised pay plan, and a new ordinance permitting recreational substance retail uses. They also approved contract amendments, participation in opioid settlement claims, and appointed a new City Attorney. All actions were voted on and recorded in the minutes.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 2523 White Oak Court (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-16 for 135‑ft fence at 439 Jennick Drive (5-2)
• Approved Ordinance 25-17 revising the General Pay Plan (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-15 adding recreational substance retail uses (6-1)
• Approved Resolution 25-52 authorizing contract amendment for Greater Reach services (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 25-45 to participate in opioid settlement claims (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 25-51 appointing Andrew A. Meyer as City Attorney (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (7-0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss and consider appointments to the Fire Prevention Code Appeals Board. This item will be addressed during a closed session.

• Appointments to the Fire Prevention Code Appeals Board

The City Council held a closed session to discuss appointments to the Fire Prevention Code Appeals Board, then reconvened in open session. Council members unanimously approved the appointment of Paul Repack to the board for a three‑year term beginning October 1, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Closed meeting convened to consider fire appeals board appointments (7-0)
• Reopened session after closed meeting (7-0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (7-0)
• Appointed Paul Repack to Fire Prevention Code Appeals Board, three‑year term (7-0)
• Adjourned special meeting (voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is deciding on a special use permit for a 7-foot-high fence at 439 Jennick Drive. The request comes from American Behavioral Health Group to secure a property used by TUMS Family Services after vandalism. Staff recommends approval with conditions.

• Public hearing for special use permit at 439 Jennick Drive
• Request for 7-foot-high aluminum picket fence with gate
• Property zoned GB (General Business) with 3.32 acres
• Staff recommends approval with conditions
• Next meeting scheduled for October 7, 2025

The Planning Commission unanimously approved PC Resolution 25‑05, Ordinance No. 25‑16, granting a special‑use permit for a 7‑foot picket fence at 439 Jennick Drive. The meeting agenda was also approved unanimously, and the commission scheduled a public hearing on the Old Towne Creek rezoning for October 7, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (7‑0)
• Approved PC Resolution 25‑05, Ordinance No. 25‑16 granting special‑use permit for 7‑foot fence at 439 Jennick Drive (7‑0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Old Towne Creek rezoning on Oct 7, 2025 (reported)
• Adjourned meeting (7‑0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several budget amendments and grant appropriations. The body is also considering resolutions regarding VDOT projects and a legal settlement for opioid-related claims.

• Resolution 25-47: 50% payment for reconstruction of Ridge Road and Roanoke Avenue
• Resolution 25-46: Participation in opioid-related claims settlement against the Sackler Family
• Ordinance 25-FIN-9: Appropriating $833,489 to General Fund and $18,786 to Water and Sewer fund
• Ordinance 25-FIN-10: Transferring $77,762 from Hrouda Pump Station to Citywide Infrastructure Replacement
• Ordinance 25-FIN-12: Appropriating $69,079 in federal and state grant funds

The City Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 25‑47, authorizing a VDOT revenue‑sharing application requesting up to $2,850,262 for Ridge Road and $6,847,411 for Roanoke Avenue, and committing the city to pay a 50 % local match. The council also unanimously passed Resolution No. 25‑44 to seek up to $1,516,201 and $1,057,679 for sidewalk projects and Resolution No. 25‑46 to join the Sackler opioid settlement. Ordinance No. 25‑12, amending the General Fund Budget for FY 2025‑26 with $69,079 of grant allocations, was likewise approved unanimously.

• Approved Resolution No. 25‑47 for VDOT revenue‑sharing road reconstruction ($9.7 M total) (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑44 for VDOT sidewalk funding ($2.6 M total) (7‑0)
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑46 to join the Sackler opioid settlement (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑12 amending FY 2025‑26 General Fund Budget with $69,079 of grant funds (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑9 (prior‑year encumbrances $833,489 and $18,786) (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑10 (transfer $3,000 to Culture & Recreation and $77,762 to infrastructure) (7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑11 (grant allocations $38,421) (7‑0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda items including special‑meeting minutes (7‑0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct closed sessions regarding legal staffing and board appointments. The body will discuss a prospective City Attorney candidate and a contract for interim City Attorney services.

• Discussion of a prospective candidate for City Attorney
• Award of a public contract for interim City Attorney services
• Appointments to the Advisory Board to Council
• Appointments to the Youth Services Commission

The council first voted 7‑0 to hold a closed session to discuss an interim City Attorney appointment and contract. The meeting was then reconvened in open session by a unanimous 7‑0 vote. The council adopted Resolution No. 25‑50, authorizing the City Manager to contract Hefty Wiley & Gore, P.C. for interim City Attorney services, also by a 7‑0 vote. Additionally, the council approved appointments to the Advisory Board and Youth Services Commission, each by unanimous vote.

• Closed session convened to discuss interim City Attorney matters (7-0)
• Open session resumed (7-0)
• Certification of closed‑session compliance approved (7-0)
• Resolution 25‑50 authorizing interim City Attorney contract with Hefty Wiley & Gore, P.C. adopted (7-0)
• Resolution 25‑48 appointing four members to the Advisory Board approved (7-0)
• Resolution 25‑49 appointing two student representatives to the Youth Services Commission approved (7-0)
• Meeting adjourned by voice vote (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission voted 7-0 to adopt PC Resolution No. 25-04 and Ordinance No. 25-15, amending the city zoning code to permit recreational substance retail (vape shops) in industrial zones with specific restrictions. The agenda and the minutes from the May 6 and May 28 meetings were also approved unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved May 28, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved PC Resolution No. 25-04, Ordinance No. 25-15 (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority held a closed meeting to consider acquiring a 4.44‑acre boulevard‑business parcel and disposing of a 19.83‑acre industrial parcel. The motion to enter the closed meeting passed unanimously, and the motion to return to an open session also passed unanimously. The council also approved the agenda, corrected minutes, and scheduled a $134,279.56 incentive payment for August 1.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 30, 2025 minutes with correction to director title (unanimous)
• Scheduled $134,279.56 incentive payment for August 1 (unanimous)
• Approved closed meeting to discuss 4.44‑acre acquisition and 19.83‑acre disposition (unanimous)
• Approved return to open meeting after closed session (unanimous)
• Approved certification of closed‑meeting compliance (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council adopted Resolution No. 25‑43 to recognize Hugh P. "Chip" Fisher, III for 19 years of service, voting 7‑0. The council also held a closed meeting to discuss a 4.44‑acre acquisition, a 19.83‑acre disposition, and an interim City Attorney contract, then reconvened in open session. All members certified compliance with the closed‑meeting requirements and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Resolution No 25‑43 honoring Hugh P. Fisher, III (7‑0)
• Constituted closed meeting to discuss 4.44‑acre acquisition, 19.83‑acre disposition, and interim City Attorney contract (7‑0)
• Reopened meeting in open session (7‑0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (7‑0)
• Adjourned special meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council voted 7‑0 to hold a closed meeting to discuss a prospective city attorney candidate. After the discussion, they voted 7‑0 to reconvene in an open session. They also unanimously approved a certification of compliance with open‑meeting requirements and then adjourned the meeting.

• Closed meeting convened (7-0)
• Open session reconvened (7-0)
• Certification of compliance approved (7-0)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council approved a motion to meet in closed session (6‑0). After the closed session, they approved a motion to reconvene in open session (7‑0). They certified the closed‑meeting compliance (7‑0) and then adjourned the special meeting by unanimous voice vote.

• Closed‑meeting motion approved (6‑0)
• Open‑session motion approved (7‑0)
• Certification of closed‑meeting compliance approved (7‑0)
• Adjournment motion approved by unanimous voice vote

City Council

The council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda. It approved Resolution 25‑41, adopting the City’s Housing and Development Annual Action Plan, Consolidated Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, and the 2025‑2026 budget, enabling $500,000 in CDBG funding over five years. The council also passed several budget‑adjustment ordinances (25‑FIN‑8, 25‑FIN‑9, 25‑FIN‑10, 25‑FIN‑11) and the addendum to the local health‑department agreement (Resolution 25‑42). A 5‑1 vote moved the Recreational Substances Draft Ordinance to Planning Commission review.

• Adopted meeting agenda (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution 25‑41 (Housing & Development Action Plan, Consolidated Plan, Citizen Participation Plan, 2025‑2026 budget) (6‑0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Ordinance 25‑FIN‑8 (budget adjustments) (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑9 (prior‑year encumbrances) (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑10 (budget transfers) (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑11 (grant appropriations) (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution 25‑42 (Health Department consolidation addendum) (6‑0)
• Approved to send Recreational Substances Draft Ordinance to Planning Commission (5‑1)

City Council

The City Council held a special meeting on July 8, 2025. Council members unanimously approved the appointment of Lisa Kochuba to the Youth Services Commission for a three‑year term beginning August 1, 2025. Additional motions to convene a closed session, reopen the meeting, certify compliance, and adjourn were also passed unanimously.

• Closed meeting convened (5-0)
• Open session reconvened (6-0)
• Certification of closed‑meeting compliance approved (6-0)
• Appointed Lisa Kochuba to Youth Services Commission (6-0)
• Special meeting adjourned (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a motion to allow Mr. Noah Kwiek and Councilwoman Tricia Palmer to join the meeting remotely, with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. A motion to approve the agenda was also called for, but the minutes do not record the vote outcome.

• Remote attendance for Mr. Noah Kwiek and Councilwoman Tricia Palmer approved (5-0)
• Agenda approval motion presented (outcome not recorded)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority adopted its agenda unanimously. It then approved the use of up to $13,000 of EDA funds to pay for design renderings of potential city projects, with a vote of five in favor, none against, and one abstention. The meeting was adjourned at 9:33 AM.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved up to $13,000 EDA funding for design renderings (5-0-1)

City Council

The City Council voted unanimously to hold a closed meeting to discuss, consider, and interview a prospective city attorney candidate. After the interview, the council voted to reconvene in an open session, certified that only the authorized matters were discussed, and then adjourned the special meeting.

• Closed meeting convened to discuss city attorney candidate (6-0)
• Reopened meeting in open session (6-0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (6-0)
• Adjourned special meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council convened a closed meeting to discuss and interview a prospective city attorney candidate, passing the motion unanimously (7‑0). The council then voted to reconvene in an open session, also unanimously (7‑0). Members certified compliance with the closed‑meeting requirements, again unanimously (7‑0), and adjourned the special meeting by voice vote.

• Closed meeting to interview city attorney candidate approved (7‑0)
• Reopen session in open meeting approved (7‑0)
• Certification of closed‑meeting compliance approved (7‑0)
• Adjournment of special meeting approved (voice vote)

City Council

The City Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 25‑14, granting a one‑time 1.5% or $600 bonus to elected officials and certain employees. It also approved Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑8, allocating $395,897 for the CHHS Sidewalk Project and related budget adjustments. Additionally, the council adopted the opioid settlement strategic plan and completed the required closed‑session certification before returning to open session.

• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑14 (one‑time employee bonus) (6‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑FIN‑8 (budget appropriation $395,897 for CHHS Sidewalk Project) (6‑0)
• Approved opioid settlement strategic plan (6‑0)
• Entered closed session per Code of Virginia provisions (6‑0)
• Returned to open session (6‑0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑session rules (6‑0)
• Moved Items 5A and 5B before Item 3 (6‑0)

City Council

The council unanimously approved the agenda and a consent agenda that included several budget adjustments. It also approved Resolution No. 25‑36 authorizing a $6.3 million general‑obligation bond for road reconstruction, drainage, and stormwater projects. Additionally, the council adopted Ordinance No. 25‑14 to provide a 1.5% or $600 bonus to certain city officials and employees. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Adopted meeting agenda (7‑0)
• Approved Consent Agenda with budget amendments (7‑0)
• Authorized $6.3 M bond issuance for infrastructure projects (Resolution 25‑36, 7‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑14 for 1.5%/$600 bonuses to constitutional officers and staff (7‑0)
• Adjourned meeting by unanimous voice vote

City Council

The City Council held a special meeting, opened and closed per the Code of Virginia, and unanimously adopted five resolutions appointing members to various city boards. All motions, certifications, and the appointments were approved by a 6‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 6:43 P.M.

• Closed meeting authorized under Code of Virginia (6‑0)
• Reopened meeting to open session (6‑0)
• Certified compliance with closed‑meeting requirements (6‑0)
• Appointed Lisa Kochuba to the Social Services Board (6‑0)
• Appointed William Feasenmyer and A. Gray Collins III to the Community Criminal Justice Board (6‑0)
• Appointed Louis Blaha Jr. to the Economic Development Authority board (6‑0)
• Appointed Julia Steele to the Historical Commission (6‑0)
• Adjourned special meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The commission approved remote participation for Chairman Kwiek (6‑0) and adopted the agenda and prior meeting minutes without dissent. After a public hearing, commissioners voted to defer any action on the proposed sign ordinance, agreeing to revise it. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved remote participation for Chairman Kwiek (6‑0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7‑0)
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Deferred action on proposed sign ordinance (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda unanimously (7-0). Commissioners discussed a draft sign ordinance revision but did not vote on or adopt any changes. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously (7-0). No substantive decisions were made regarding the sign ordinance.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Discussed draft sign ordinance revision, no decision taken
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority approved the meeting agenda by a unanimous vote. It also approved the minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting unanimously. No old or new business was reported, and the meeting adjourned at 8:58 AM.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to let Human Resources Director Jennifer Carpenter extend the deadline for City Attorney applications to June 16, 2025. The motion to adjourn the special meeting was adopted unanimously by voice vote. No other substantive actions were taken during the meeting.

• Extended City Attorney application deadline to June 16 2025 (consensus)
• Adjourned special meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council adopted the meeting agenda and approved a series of ordinances and resolutions. Key actions included adopting the FY 2025‑2026 operating budget, a revised pay plan and salary adjustments, a solid‑waste fee increase, revisions to the capital improvement plan, fund‑balance assignments, and a $4,000 bonus for the City Manager. All votes were unanimous (7‑0).

• Adopted meeting agenda – unanimous 7‑0
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑11 revising the General Pay Plan and Public Safety Step Plan – 7‑0
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑2 increasing monthly solid‑waste collection charges – 7‑0
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑25 adopting the City Manager’s FY 2025‑2026 operating budget – 7‑0
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑30 adopting salary adjustments for public safety and other employees – 7‑0
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑31 revising the 2026‑2030 Capital Improvement Plan – 7‑0
• Approved fund‑balance assignments totaling $2.24 M for CIP, $1.16 M for FY 26 operating budget, and $0.44 M for FY 25 corrections – 7‑0
• Approved Ordinance No. 25‑8 awarding the City Manager a $4,000 bonus – 7‑0

City Council

The City Council held a special meeting and voted unanimously to adopt four appointment resolutions. Torrie White was appointed to the Community Policy and Management Team. Joyce Hicks, Laurel Wallace, and Nannie B. Downey were appointed to the Crater District Area Agency on Aging, the Historical Commission, and the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee, respectively. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Appointed Torrie White to the Community Policy and Management Team (vote 7-0)
• Appointed Joyce Hicks to the Crater District Area Agency on Aging (vote 7-0)
• Appointed Laurel Wallace to the Historical Commission (vote 7-0)
• Appointed Nannie B. Downey to the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee (vote 7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the preliminary plan of development for a 109,720‑sq‑ft. Kroger grocery store at 114 Southpark Circle (7‑0). It also approved a 16,250‑sq‑ft. East Coast Appliance store at 119 Temple Lake Drive (7‑0). Additionally, the commission added two sidewalk projects to the FY 2026‑2030 Capital Improvement Plan, also unanimously (7‑0).

• Approved Kroger preliminary plan (109,720 sq ft. grocery store) – vote 7‑0
• Approved East Coast Appliance preliminary plan (16,250 sq ft. store) – vote 7‑0
• Approved addition of Southpark — Boulevard sidewalk project to FY 2026‑2030 CIP – vote 7‑0
• Approved addition of Charles H. Dimmock sidewalk project to FY 2026‑2030 CIP – vote 7‑0

City Council

The council approved several ordinances, including tax levies on personal property and real estate for 2026, and increased solid‑waste collection charges. It adopted the General Fund Budget and related fund budgets for the fiscal year July 1 2025 through June 30 2026, and approved amendments to the budget and a revised public‑safety pay plan. All items passed unanimously except the solid‑waste charge increase, which recorded one dissenting vote.

• Approved Ordinance 25-9 tax levy on certain personal property for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25-10 tax levy of $1.20 on all non‑exempt real estate for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25-2 solid‑waste charge increase (5‑1 vote)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑4 General Fund Budget FY 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑5 budgets for various funds FY 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑6 public school budget FY 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑FIN‑3 budget amendments and appropriations (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25‑11 revised General Pay Plan and Public Safety Step Plan (unanimous)

City Council

The council held a work session to review the proposed FY 2025‑26 budget, including fund allocations, staffing, and rate changes. No approvals, denials, or votes were recorded in the minutes. The discussion was informational and no formal decisions were made.

Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals elected its officers and adopted its by‑laws unanimously. It approved the June 20, 2024 meeting minutes. It approved three variance requests—Lot 26 Yorktown Drive, 114 Southpark Circle rear‑yard setback, and 114 Southpark Circle lighting—each by a 5‑0 vote.

• Chairman elected (Mr. Taft) – Approved 5‑0
• Vice Chairman elected (Mr. Freeland) – Approved 5‑0
• Secretary elected (Mr. Carter) – Approved 5‑0
• By‑laws adopted – Approved 5‑0
• June 20, 2024 minutes approved – Approved 5‑0
• Variance VAR 25‑01 for Lot 26 Yorktown Drive approved – Approved 5‑0
• Variance VAR 25‑02 for 114 Southpark Circle rear‑yard setback approved – Approved 5‑0
• Variance VAR 25‑03 for 114 Southpark Circle lighting approved – Approved 5‑0

City Council

The council adopted the meeting agenda, approved a revised public safety pay plan, and passed several budget amendment ordinances, including a $4,000 bonus for the City Manager. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Adopted agenda (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-6 public safety pay plan (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda with budget appropriations (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-8 City Manager $4,000 bonus (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 25-FIN-3 General Fund and Capital Projects budget amendments (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council approved five appointment resolutions, placing Ray Taft on the Board of Zoning Appeals, William Anspach on the John Tyler ASAP Policy Board, Deborah Levenson‑Melvin and Rachel Velazquez‑Rivera on the Historical Commission, and Richard M. Yates as an alternate on the Personnel Board. All motions passed unanimously with a 7‑0 vote.

• Appointed Ray Taft to Board of Zoning Appeals (7‑0)
• Appointed William Anspach to John Tyler ASAP Policy Board (7‑0)
• Appointed Deborah Levenson‑Melvin to Historical Commission (7‑0)
• Appointed Rachel Velazquez‑Rivera to Historical Commission (7‑0)
• Appointed Richard M. Yates as alternate to Personnel Board (7‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the January 7 and February 4 meetings, each by a 6‑0 vote. Commissioners also agreed to hold a work session on May 28, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss amendments to the city’s sign ordinance. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved January 7 minutes (6-0)
• Approved February 4 minutes (6-0)
• Set sign‑ordinance work session for May 28, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority approved Resolution No. 25-1, granting Kroger a $2,100,000 incentive over seven years, contingent on construction improvements. The motion passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote. The board also adopted the agenda and approved the minutes from the January 23, 2025 meeting without dissent.

• Approved $2.1M Kroger incentive grant (6-0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved January 23 minutes (unanimous)