Harrisonburg public meetings in 2023

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve both a rezoning and a special use permit for Cobblers Valley Development LLC at 585 Pear Street, allowing attached townhomes. The special use permit includes a recommendation to City Council for a 48-month extension. A separate request from J&D Group LLC for rezoning and SUP at 465 Pear Street was discussed but no vote is recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved rezoning of 585 Pear Street from R-1 to R-8C (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for attached townhomes at 585 Pear Street (7-0), recommending 48-month extension
• Discussed but no vote on J&D Group LLC rezoning and SUP for 465 Pear Street

Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission

The Commission appointed Chris Tipton and Jay Dedman to the Bicycle & Pedestrian Subcommittee. Members also reviewed speed enforcement data for East Market Street and discussed upcoming Road Safety Assessments.

• Appointed Chris Tipton to the Bicycle & Pedestrian Subcommittee
• Appointed Jay Dedman to the Bicycle & Pedestrian Subcommittee

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a request to rezone a portion of 1182 Nelson Drive from R-1 Single Family Residential to R-8C Small Lot Residential Conditional, allowing a boundary line adjustment to resolve a driveway encroachment. The applicant proffered that only one dwelling unit be permitted on the rezoned area. The vote was 7-0.

• Approved rezoning of 1182 Nelson Drive from R-1 to R-8C with proffer limiting to one dwelling unit (7-0)
• Approved minutes from November 8, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Harrisonburg City Council will vote on three rezoning requests, a $4.3 million supplemental appropriation for public schools, and amendments to residential permit parking zones. The body will also consider adopting a 2043 vision and reviewing the city's financial report.

• Rezone 215 Pear Street
• Rezone 1149 Clay Street
• Rezone 505 Northglen Lane
• Supplemental appropriation of $4.3 million for Harrisonburg City Public Schools
• Amend residential permit parking zones

City Council approved a $4.3 million supplemental appropriation for Harrisonburg City Public Schools and three separate rezoning requests. The council tabled a proposed ordinance amendment regarding recovery residences to seek more information. A downtown banner project was also approved.

• Approved $4.3 million supplemental appropriation for Harrisonburg City Public Schools (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 215 Pear Street (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 1149 Clay Street from R-1 to R-8C (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 505 Northglen Lane from R-2 to R-8C (5-0)
• Tabled ordinance amendment to add 'Recovery Residence' use and redefine 'Family' (5-0)
• Approved Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance’s Banner Project (5-0)
• Approved amendments to City Code Sections 4-2-88, -89, -92, -106, and -127 (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will convene to approve previous meeting minutes and receive a report from the Director of Elections. The meeting is open to the public and includes a phone line for comments.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Report from Director of Elections
• Public comment via phone line (540-432-7707)
• Public comment via email ([email protected])
• Meeting held at City Hall, 409 South Main Street

City Council

City Council will discuss funding for Harrisonburg City Public Schools and various housing projects. The body is also considering ordinance amendments for short-term rentals and a real estate agreement with Elevance Health, Inc.

• Supplemental appropriation of $4.3 million for Harrisonburg City Public Schools
• Rezoning request for 708 Northfield Court
• Ordinance amendments for Homestays and Short-Term Rentals
• Revenue bonds for an 80-unit multifamily project and 84-unit senior living facility
• Real estate purchase and sale agreement with Elevance Health, Inc.

City Council approved the purchase of 15.023 acres at 450 Mt. Clinton Pike for a new fire station to improve emergency response times, adopted resolutions supporting housing projects including an 80-unit multifamily and an 84-unit senior facility, and tabled short-term rental amendments until spring 2024.

• Approved $1.3M purchase of 450 Mt. Clinton Pike for 5th fire station (5-0)
• Adopted resolution designating Bluestone Town Center as revitalization area (5-0)
• Approved revenue bonds for 80-unit multifamily and 84-unit senior housing (5-0)
• Approved revenue bonds for HRHA projects in Alexandria, VA (5-0)
• Tabled short-term rental ordinance amendments until early spring 2024
• Approved consent agenda including rezoning of 708 Northfield Court (5-0)
• Approved supplemental appropriation of $4.3M for city schools (5-0)
• Approved city code amendments for meals tax exemptions and penalties (5-0)

Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee

The Harrisonburg Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee will review potential Community Development Block Grant applications, a Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program project, and upcoming city-funded studies for the Chicago Ave and Waterman Drive corridors and the Northend Greenway.

• Potential CDBG applications for funding
• Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program project
• Study of Chicago Ave and Waterman Drive corridors
• Feasibility evaluation for Northend Greenway
• Review of applications to join the Subcommittee

The committee reviewed potential CDBG applications for school pedestrian connections and HSIP funding for various intersection improvements. Discussions included upcoming studies for the Chicago Avenue/Waterman Drive area and the Northend Greenway extension.

• Reviewed potential 2024 CDBG projects including school pedestrian connections
• Summarized combined HSIP funding applications for several intersection crossings
• Discussed upcoming funded studies for Chicago Avenue/Waterman Drive and Northend Greenway
• Entered closed session to discuss recommendations for filling subcommittee vacancies

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will discuss and vote on several bond resolutions for housing projects, including Searles Senior Housing, Searles Multifamily Housing, and HELIOS. The agenda also includes a public comment period and updates on strategic initiatives.

• Public Comment and Inducement Bond Resolution 4A and 4B
• Public Comment and Inducement Bond Resolution Searles Senior Housing Project
• Public Comment and Inducement Bond Resolution Searles Multifamily Housing Project
• Bond Resolution HELIOS
• Rezoning of 715 North Main from M-1 to B-1

City Council

The Harrisonburg City Council will vote on a rezoning request for 708 Northfield Court, amend city codes regarding sewer connections, and approve a supplemental appropriation of $80,926.38 for the Police and Parks & Recreation Departments. The council will also consider amending downtown parking regulations and designating the Bluestone Town Center as a revitalization area.

• Rezone 708 Northfield Court
• Supplemental appropriation of $80,926.38 for Police and Parks & Recreation
• Amend sewer connection code
• Amend downtown parking regulations
• Designate Bluestone Town Center as a revitalization area

City Council approved a rezoning request for a residential property and a supplemental appropriation for city departments. The council also appointed members to the Electric Commission and Housing Authority while postponing a revitalization area resolution.

• Approved rezoning of 708 Northfield Court from R-4 to R-8C
• Approved $80,926.38 supplemental appropriation for Police and Parks & Recreation Departments
• Approved amendments to Downtown Parking regulations (Section 13-1-81)
• Approved amendments to public city sewer main connection requirements (Section 7-3-3(e)(1))
• Postponed resolution designating Bluestone Town Center Property a Revitalization Area to Nov 28, 2023
• Appointed Andrew Hershberger to the Harrisonburg Electric Commission
• Reappointed Kevin Coffman to the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority
• Tabled Board of Zoning Appeals and Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission items

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three specific property rezoning requests. The body will also consider amending the Zoning Ordinance regarding the definition of 'Family' and the addition of 'Recovery Residence' uses.

• Rezoning request for 505 Northglen Lane (Patricia Valle-Alverez)
• Rezoning request for 1149 Clay Street (Mohammed Hewa)
• Rezoning request for 1300, 1302, and 1316 South Main Street (Harginia LLC)
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment to define 'Family' and add 'Recovery Residence' use

The Planning Commission held a public hearing for a rezoning request at 505 Northglen Lane (from R-2 to R-8C) to bring a covered porch into compliance, approving it 7-0. It also approved a rezoning request at 1149 Clay Street (from R-1 to R-8C) to allow a minor subdivision, also 7-0. Both recommendations will go to City Council on December 12, 2023. The commission also approved the October 11, 2023 meeting minutes.

• Recommended approval of rezoning 505 Northglen Lane from R-2 to R-8C with proffers limiting use to single dwelling and requiring 30-ft and 20-ft setbacks (7-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning 1149 Clay Street from R-1 to R-8C with proffers limiting dwellings to two, requiring 30-ft setbacks, and dedicating street right-of-way (7-0)
• Approved minutes from October 11, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (voice vote)

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will receive updates on drainage improvement programs, MS4 program, and stream restoration projects on Mountain View Drive, Northend Greenway, and Blacks Run South. No votes or decisions are on the agenda; only discussion and information items.

• Mountain View Drive Stream Restoration Updates
• Northend Greenway Stream Restoration Updates
• Blacks Run South Stream Restoration Updates
• Drainage Improvement Program Updates
• Urban Forestry & Pollinator Program Updates

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will consider approving a $25,000 grant to LAUF North America, LLC and reviewing the last round of ARPA small business grants. The meeting will also include the approval of minutes from a previous session.

• Approval of $25,000 grant to LAUF North America, LLC
• Review of approved ARPA small business grants
• Approval of July 24, 2023 meeting minutes

City / HRHA Liaison Committee

The City of Harrisonburg and Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (HRHA) Liaison Committee will review HRHA's annual goals, progress on the Bluestone Town Center, and the agency's complaint process. The meeting will also cover housing initiatives and programs for transitioning to homeownership.

• HRHA's Annual and Five Year Plan-Progress to Date
• City of Harrisonburg's Housing Initiatives
• Update on Bluestone Town Center
• Review of HRHA Complaint Process
• Programs available for transition to Home Ownership

Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee

The Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee will receive updates on the draft 2022 Harrisonburg GHG Emissions Report and discuss focus area updates and community goals. The committee also has reminders about term limits and upcoming meeting dates. Public comment is accepted before and during the meeting.

• Review of DRAFT 2022 Harrisonburg GHG Emissions Report (September 2023)
• Discussion of Community Goals Addendum
• Update from Sustainability Manager
• Committee term reminder
• Upcoming meeting dates: Jan 31, Apr 3, Jul 31, Oct 30, 2024

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting. Key decisions include a rezoning request for 810 Port Republic Road, supplemental appropriations totaling over $814,000, and amendments to environmental and parking ordinances. The council will also receive the 2021 and 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reports.

• Rezoning request from DCI Partners LLC for 810 Port Republic Road
• Supplemental appropriation of $733,896 for an unspecified purpose
• Supplemental appropriation of $80,926.38 for Police and Parks & Recreation Departments
• Presentation of 2021 and 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reports
• Amendments to Environmental Action Plan Community Goals and parking regulations

The City Council approved a rezoning request for 810 Port Republic Road and a supplemental appropriation of $733,896. The council also received the 2021 and 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reports.

• Approved rezoning at 810 Port Republic Road (second reading)
• Approved $733,896 supplemental appropriation (second reading)
• Received and filed 2021 and 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reports

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to receive financial reports and discuss strategic initiatives. Key agenda items include bond resolutions for affordable housing projects and financing proposals for Commerce Village II. No final votes are scheduled; the session is primarily informational and deliberative.

• Bond resolution for John Early Senior Housing
• Bond resolution for Wesley Lynchburg Housing
• Public comment and inducement bond resolution for Housing Alexandria
• Commerce Village II financing proposals
• Updates on Bluestone Town Center and Lineweaver Annex renovation

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will convene to approve minutes, receive a report from the Director of Elections, and vote on a motion to enter closed session for discussing election security practices and possible personnel matters. The board will also approve new Officers of Election.

• Motion for closed session under Code of Virginia for election security and personnel
• Approval of new Officers of Election
• Report from Director of Elections
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Public comment available via phone and email

Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission will review temporary speed enforcement cameras on East Market Street, seek feedback on potential bike boxes and left-turn boxes, and discuss relocating a speed radar sign on Park Road. The body will also consider changing future meeting locations to the new Public Works Office.

• Temporary speed cameras installed on East Market Street between Carlton Street and Linda Lane
• Commission to provide feedback on potential bike boxes and two-stage left turn boxes
• Discussion on relocating a speed radar sign on Park Road near Shank Drive
• Proposal to change future TSAC meeting location to the new Public Works Office
• Public comment deadline: noon the day prior to the meeting via email

The commission discussed safety improvements for the 1800 block of Reservoir Street and proposed moving a speed radar sign on Park Road. Members also reviewed concepts for bike boxes and two-stage left turn boxes at city intersections. No formal votes were recorded for the proposed changes.

• Proposed modified paint hatching for the 1800 block of Reservoir Street to clarify entrance space
• Proposed moving the Park Road northbound speed radar sign approximately 1000 feet north
• Proposed changing future meeting locations to the new Public Works building upon completion
• Discussed implementation of bike boxes and two-stage bicycle queue boxes at signalized intersections

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a special use permit for a boarding house at 660 Walnut Lane and a rezoning request for 708 Northfield Court. The body will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and receive reports from various city committees.

• Public hearing for special use permit at 660 Walnut Lane
• Public hearing for rezoning at 708 Northfield Court
• Approval of September 13, 2023 Planning Commission minutes
• Reports from Rockingham County Planning Commission Liaison
• Reports from Board of Zoning Appeals and City Council

The commission voted 5-2 to deny a special use permit for a boarding and rooming house at 660 Walnut Lane. They also unanimously approved the September 13, 2023 meeting minutes. A rezoning request for 708 Northfield Court was discussed but no vote was recorded in the minutes.

• Denied special use permit for boarding/rooming house at 660 Walnut Lane (5-2)
• Approved September 13, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

City Council

City Council will hold public hearings on a rezoning and special use permit for DCI Partners LLC at 810 Port Republic Road, allowing multiple-family dwellings and mixed-use buildings. Council will also consider a $25.9 million supplemental appropriation for school capital projects and prior-year encumbrances, adoption of the C-PACE program for commercial energy improvements, and amendments to water and sewer utility billing and rate codes. Other items include a preliminary subdivision at 937 Vine Street and a proposed cooperation with Prizren, Kosovo.

• Rezoning and special use permit for 810 Port Republic Road (DCI Partners LLC) for multi-family/mixed-use
• Supplemental appropriation of $25.9 million for school capital projects and prior-year encumbrances
• Ordinance adopting local C-PACE program for commercial property energy improvements
• Amendments to water and sewer utility billing and rate sections of city code
• Preliminary subdivision request for 937 Vine Street (Farhad Koyee and Mikael Bahar)

The City Council approved a rezoning and special use permit for a residential and retail development at 810 Port Republic Road. Additional approvals were granted for industrial storage at 4030 South Main Street, the closing of a portion of Massanutten Street, and a subdivision at 937 Vine Street.

• Approved C-PACE Program ordinance on second reading (5-0)
• Approved $25.9M supplemental appropriation for School Capital Projects Fund (5-0)
• Approved rezoning for 810 Port Republic Road (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for 810 Port Republic Road (5-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Highest Roofing LLC at 4030 South Main Street (5-0)
• Approved request from Shenandoah Valley Organic LLC to close portion of Massanutten Street (5-0)
• Approved preliminary subdivision for 937 Vine Street (5-0)

City - School Liaison Committee

The City-School Liaison Committee will review a presentation on the Student Generation Factor, which analyzes population growth for Harrisonburg City Public Schools. The meeting is open to the public and will be streamed online.

• Presentation on Student Generation Factor Analysis
• Review of student population growth data

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will hold its regular October meeting to approve administrative records and finalize election logistics. This agenda consists primarily of routine procedural items rather than new policy proposals or public hearings. The board will review ADA compliance checklists, confirm the Election Day schedule, and set dates for voter training and Logic and Accuracy testing. These steps ensure polling locations meet accessibility standards and that voting equipment functions correctly before elections.

• Approval of meeting minutes and agenda
• Review of ADA checklists and remediation plan
• Confirmation of new officers and Election Day schedule
• Scheduling for voter training and Logic and Accuracy testing

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a $25.9 million supplemental appropriation for the School Capital Projects Fund and prior-year grants and encumbrances. The consent agenda includes three rezoning requests: 1205 Hillcrest Drive, properties on Elon Rhodes Lane, Commerce Drive, and East Washington Street, and parcels on West Mosby Road. Other items include approving revenue bonds for a 186-unit multifamily project called Helios in Henrico County and amending utility billing code sections.

• Public hearing on $25.9 million supplemental appropriation for school capital projects and prior-year encumbrances/grants
• Rezoning request for 1205 Hillcrest Drive (Mark Daniel and Andrea Jane Williams)
• Rezoning request for 11, 21, 31 Elon Rhodes Lane, 241 Commerce Drive, 298 East Washington Street (HRHA)
• Rezoning request for 210, 280, 290 West Mosby Road (Brubaker Trustees and Bluestone Land Company)
• Resolution supporting AACR grant application for Lucy F. Simms Center rehabilitation

The council approved a $25.9 million supplemental appropriation for prior-year encumbrances, unexpended grants, and a boiler replacement at Spotswood Elementary. It adopted resolutions to apply for VDOT Transportation Alternative Program grants for the Northend Greenway, a Safe Routes to School coordinator, and sidewalks at two elementary schools. The council modified the holiday schedule to add Indigenous Peoples Day, Election Day, and a half-day before Thanksgiving, effective immediately for 2023 and going forward. Other actions included appointing a new zoning administrator, supporting an AACR grant for the Lucy F. Simms Center, approving HRHA revenue bonds for a Henrico County housing project, and tabling water/sewer code amendments pending a redlined version.

• Approved consent agenda including rezonings, minutes, special event applications, and $800K ECC supplemental appropriation (5-0)
• Approved $25.9M supplemental appropriation (5-0)
• Adopted three VDOT Transportation Alternative Program grant resolutions for greenway, SRTS coordinator, and school sidewalks (5-0 each)
• Adopted resolution supporting AACR grant application for Lucy F. Simms Center rehabilitation (5-0)
• Approved modification to holiday schedule adding Indigenous Peoples Day, Election Day, half-day before Thanksgiving, including 2023 (5-0)
• Appointed Evan Winkler as Zoning Administrator (5-0)
• Approved HRHA revenue bonds for Helios multifamily housing in Henrico County (5-0)
• Tabled water/sewer code amendments for review of redlined version

Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee

The subcommittee will hear an update on a VDOT TAP grant application to fund a full-time Safe Routes to School Coordinator. Staff will present concepts for new crosswalks on Reservoir Street and Garbers Church Road, and discuss upcoming roadway reconfiguration studies on Neff Avenue, University Boulevard, and Burgess Road. The group will also receive information on ADA transition plan efforts, bike boxes, and Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program applications.

• VDOT TAP grant application for a full-time Safe Routes to School Coordinator
• Reservoir Street crosswalk concept with pedestrian refuge island between Dutch Mill Court and railroad tracks
• Garbers Church Road crosswalk concept with refuge island and Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon in front of Bluestone Elementary School
• Roadway reconfiguration evaluations on Neff Avenue, University Boulevard, and Burgess Road
• City efforts to create an ADA Transition Plan for the Public Right-of-Way

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee approved the city’s application for a two-year grant to fund a Safe Routes to School coordinator position. Staff reported that a new ADA Transition Plan will update sidewalks, curb ramps, and intersections to meet accessibility standards, which affects daily navigation for residents with mobility needs. Committee members discussed upcoming roadway reconfiguration studies and bike lane maintenance strategies but did not vote on those items.

• Approved Safe Routes to School coordinator grant application
• Dropped E. Market Street signal replacement from revenue-sharing grant in favor of VDOT maintenance funds
• Scheduled Neff Avenue, University Boulevard, and Burgess Road for VDOT-funded reconfiguration studies
• Outlined scope for a new ADA Transition Plan to update public right-of-way facilities

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting. The board will consider restated bylaws, a bond resolution for the HELIOS project in Henrico County, and updates on the Moving to Work program and annual plan. They will also enter closed session to discuss acquiring real property for a public purpose. Strategic initiatives include updates on Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex, and Commerce Village II, as well as efforts to address homelessness and affordable housing.

• Consider approval of restated HRHA bylaws
• Discussion of bond resolution for HELIOS Henrico County
• Closed session to discuss acquisition of real property for a public purpose
• Update on Bluestone Town Center and Lineweaver Annex renovation
• Update on Commerce Village II and MTW implementation schedule

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will meet to hear a presentation from Ross Weaver of Wetlands Watch regarding new business. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

• Presentation from Ross Weaver of Wetlands Watch
• City Hall, 409 South Main Street
• Meeting available live on City website and Channel 3

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

The commission will meet to approve the August 21, 2023, meeting minutes. The agenda includes a report from the Director and project updates.

• Approval of August 21, 2023, meeting minutes
• Director's Report & Project Updates

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission unanimously approved the August meeting minutes. The meeting consisted primarily of updates on ongoing projects including lighting, restrooms, splashpad, kids castle, and skatepark. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved August 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a rezoning request and special use permits for properties on South Main Street and Port Republic Road. The body will also review requests for a subdivision at Vine Street and a street closure on Massanutten Street.

• Special use permit for building material and equipment sales/storage at 4030 South Main Street (Highest Roofing LLC)
• Rezoning request for 810 Port Republic Road (DCI Partners LLC)
• Special use permit for multi-family dwellings or mixed-use buildings at 810 Port Republic Road (DCI Partners LLC)
• Preliminary subdivision of 937 Vine Street (Farhad Koyee and Mikael Bahar)
• Request to close a portion of Massanutten Street (Shenandoah Valley Organic LLC)

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a special use permit for Highest Roofing LLC to operate a building material and equipment sales and storage yard. A rezoning and special use permit request for a mixed-use development at 810 Port Republic Road was presented but not decided in the provided text.

• Recommended approval of special use permit for Highest Roofing LLC at 4030 South Main Street (7-0)
• Approved August 9, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several rezoning requests and special use permits for residential and childcare projects. The body is also considering budget adjustments for emergency services and homeless support, as well as updates to water and sewer ordinances.

• Reallocation of $1.5 million in the General Capital Projects Fund for the Homeless Services Center project
• Supplemental appropriation of $800,000 for the Emergency Communications Center (ECC)
• Rezoning requests for Sunchase Drive, Hillside Avenue, Pear Street, Hillcrest Drive, and West Mosby Road
• Special use permit for child day care at 315 South Dogwood Drive
• Ordinance adopting the local C-PACE Program

City Council approved an ordinance establishing the C-PACE program to help commercial property owners finance renewable energy and energy efficiency investments. The council also approved two rezoning requests and three special event applications via a consent agenda.

• Approved ordinance adopting local C-PACE Program (5-0)
• Approved rezoning for Sunchase Harrisonburg LLC at Sunchase Drive and Chase Court on second reading (5-0)
• Approved rezoning for Christophel Properties LLC and Abigail J. Christophel at 853 and 853-A Hillside Avenue on second reading (5-0)
• Approved special event application for Explore More Discovery Museum’s Big Birthday Bash (5-0)
• Approved special event application for Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5k Run/Walk (5-0)
• Approved special event application for Veterans Parade (5-0)
• Approved August 22, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved August 26 and 27, 2023 retreat minutes (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will meet to approve minutes and new election officers, hear a report from the Director of Elections, and take public comment. The board also plans to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters and election security practices.

• Approval of new Officers of Election
• Report from Director of Elections
• Motion for Closed Session to discuss personnel and election security
• Public Comment period with call-in and email options

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a retreat to review and finalize the council vision. The body will engage in strategic discussion and develop a plan to follow up on strategic priorities.

• Review and finalization of Council Vision
• Development of plan for strategic priorities

At a retreat, City Council reached consensus on amendments to the Vision statement first developed in 2021, updating the target year to 2043. Council also combined individual member priorities into a unified 3-year Priorities list for staff. No formal votes or binding decisions were taken; the session was focused on strategic planning and public engagement strategies.

• Consensus reached on amended Vision statement with 2043 date
• Unified 3-year Priorities list created for staff from individual member lists
• Ideas for public engagement and communications strategy identified for further development by City Manager's Office and Communications Director

City Council

The City Council is conducting a retreat focused on leadership models and strategic issues. The session includes assessing council perspectives and agreeing on a core vision and strategic focus area for the city.

• Assessment of Council perspectives on strategic issues
• Visioning to agree on Core Vision and Strategic Focus Area
• Identification of agenda and assignments for day two

The City Council held a retreat to discuss strategic issues and refine its core vision. No formal decisions, votes, or approvals were recorded; the session was procedural and planning-oriented. Council members were assigned homework to independently edit the vision statement.

City Council

The City Council will consider multiple rezoning requests and special use permits, including a large Sunchase Apartments project on Sunchase Drive and Chase Court. Several parcels along Broad Street, Smithland Road, Franklin Street, and South Liberty Street are proposed for rezoning under the consent agenda. Other items include sewer easement grants, subdivision approval, and amendments to water and sewer code sections.

• Public hearing: Sunchase Harrisonburg LLC rezoning of 20 parcels on Sunchase Drive and Chase Court
• Public hearing: Sunchase Apartments LLC special use permit for more than 12 multi-family dwellings per building on same parcels
• Public hearing: Christophel Properties rezoning and special use permit at 853 and 853-A Hillside Avenue for multi-family dwellings
• Public hearing: Granting a sewer easement to Harrisonburg-Rockingham Regional Sewer Authority (HRRSA)
• Consent agenda: Rezoning of 201-207 Broad Street and 264-266 East Wolfe Street by Blue Stone Designs LLC

The City Council approved five rezoning requests and special use permits, including a large student housing development on Sunchase Drive and a duplex conversion on Hillside Avenue. The Council also approved sewer easements for the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Regional Sewer Authority and a subdivision plan for Baxter Drive.

• Approved Sunchase Drive rezoning (5-0)
• Approved Sunchase Drive special use permit (5-0)
• Approved Hillside Avenue rezoning (5-0)
• Approved Hillside Avenue special use permit (5-0)
• Approved sewer easements for HRRSA (5-0)
• Approved Baxter Drive subdivision plan (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved special event permits for Alpine Loop Gran Fondo, HDR Skeleton Festival, and Harrisonburg Half Marathon

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

The commission will meet to approve the June 26, 2023 meeting minutes and receive a Director's report and project updates. The agenda does not list specific action items or proposals for decision.

• Approval of June 26, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report and project updates

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission unanimously approved the June 2023 meeting minutes. Staff provided updates on multiple projects including lights at Smithland and Thomas Harrison, Smithland restrooms, the Ralph Sampson splashpad, Kids Castle, and a skatepark project heading to City Council. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved June 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will hold public hearings on the 2024 Annual Plan, MTW Supplement, Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan, and admissions plans for several properties. They will also consider a resolution to remove former signatures from HRHA accounts and approve commitments for Housing Choice Voucher reserves. The board will discuss strategic initiatives including Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex renovation, and Commerce Village II.

• Public hearings on 2024 Annual Plan, MTW Supplement, Housing Choice Voucher Admin Plan, and multiple property occupancy plans
• Resolution for removal of former signatures of HRHA accounts
• Approval of commitments and obligations of Housing Choice Voucher reserves
• Strategic initiatives: Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex renovation, Commerce Village II
• Closed session to discuss personnel performance and employment

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will hold a regular meeting to receive the Director of Elections report, review voter registration statistics, and conduct the annual ADA precinct review. Key actions include approving new Officers of Election, reviewing the early voting schedule, and potentially entering a closed session for personnel and election security matters. Public comment will be accepted.

• Approval of new Officers of Election
• Review of early voting schedule
• Annual ADA precinct review
• Motion for closed session on personnel and election security
• Director of Elections report and registration statistics

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will discuss updates on the Drainage Improvement, MS4, HCAP, and VMRC programs. The body will also review progress on stream restoration projects at Mountain View Drive, Northend Greenway, and Blacks Run South.

• Mountain View Drive Stream Restoration updates
• Northend Greenway Stream Restoration updates
• Blacks Run South Stream Restoration updates
• Urban Forestry & Pollinator Program updates

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will consider multiple rezoning and special use permit requests at this meeting. Key items include a request from the Brubaker trustees for rezoning and a special use permit allowing multi-family buildings over four stories on West Mosby Road, and a request from the Housing Authority to rezone and permit multi-family dwellings on several properties. Also on the agenda are a daycare permit at 315 South Dogwood Drive and a rezoning for 215 Pear Street.

• Special use permit for child day care at 315 South Dogwood Drive
• Special use permit for manufacturing at 80 Ashby Avenue
• Rezoning and special use permit by Housing Authority for 11, 21, 31 Elon Rhodes Lane, 241 Commerce Drive, and 298 East Washington Street
• Rezoning and height exception permit for Brubaker at 210, 280, 290 West Mosby Road
• Rezoning of 810 Port Republic Road by DCI Partners LLC

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a special use permit for a child daycare center at 315 South Dogwood Drive. The recommendation will move to City Council on September 12, 2023. The commission also reviewed a request for manufacturing operations at 80 Ashby Avenue.

• Recommended approval of special use permit for child daycare at 315 South Dogwood Drive (6-0)
• Approved July 12, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council

The Harrisonburg City Council will consider approving the city as a host venue for First Fridays, vote on special event permits for Shenandoah Valley Pride and EMU's Royals Go Downtown, and hold public hearings on multiple rezoning and special use permit requests.

• Approve city as host venue for First Fridays of the Valley
• Consider Shenandoah Valley Pride Celebration special event permit
• Consider EMU's Royals Go Downtown special event permit
• Public hearing: Blue Stone Designs LLC to rezone Broad Street and East Wolfe Street
• Public hearing: Box Nine LLC for special use permit at South Liberty Street

City Council approved a rezoning request from Blue Stone Designs LLC for properties at 201-207 Broad Street and 264-266 East Wolfe Street, changing the zoning from R-2 to B-1C to bring them into compliance. The consent agenda was also approved, including minutes from July 25 and special event applications for Shenandoah Valley Pride and Eastern Mennonite University's Royals Go Downtown. A rezoning request for two parcels on Smithland Road was discussed and a motion made, but no final vote is recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved consent agenda including July 25 minutes, Shenandoah Valley Pride special event, and EMU Royals Go Downtown (5-0)
• Rezoned 201-207 Broad Street and 264-266 East Wolfe Street from R-2 to B-1C (5-0)
• Motion made to rezone 1621 & 1641 Smithland Road from R-1 to R-8C (outcome not recorded in minutes)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings and consider two variance requests at its August 7, 2023 meeting: one for property at 260 Franklin Street and another at 505 Northglen Lane. The board will also approve minutes from the June 2023 meeting.

• Variance request for 260 Franklin Street
• Variance request for 505 Northglen Lane
• Approval of minutes from June 2023 meeting

Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee

The Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee will review a draft addendum to community goals and receive updates on current city environmental initiatives. The meeting will also include a public comment period and the approval of a previous meeting summary.

• Approval of 2023-04 meeting summary
• Review of Draft Community Goals Addendum
• Updates on current city environmental initiatives
• GHG inventory and modeling updates
• Public comment period available via email

City Council

The City Council will consider three rezoning requests on the consent agenda: 130 West Mosby Road, 937 Vine Street, and 130 Franklin Street. Other items include a proclamation for Park and Recreation Month, delinquent tax write-offs, an update on ARPA projects, and a franchise amendment with Comcast for an HD PEG access channel. No items are listed under Public Hearings.

• Proclamation recognizing July 2023 as Park and Recreation Month
• Rezoning request for 130 West Mosby Road (Riadh S. Mamund)
• Rezoning request for 937 Vine Street (Farhad Koyee and Mikael Bahar)
• Rezoning request for 130 Franklin Street (130 Franklin Street LLC)
• Consideration of Comcast franchise amendment for HD PEG access channel

The City Council approved a request to remove uncollectible taxes and advertising for delinquent taxes. They also approved four rezoning requests and discussed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding allocation, including a potential change to the Westover Skate Park project scope.

• Approved removal of $1,392.58 in delinquent real estate taxes and $178,599.20 in delinquent personal property taxes
• Approved advertising delinquent real estate taxes for 2020 and 2021
• Approved rezoning request for 130 West Mosby Road
• Approved rezoning request for 937 Vine Street
• Approved rezoning request for 130 Franklin Street
• Received update on ARPA program and projects
• Staff recommended changing Westover Skate Park project scope to community-designed construction
• Council discussed potential termination of Westover Skate Park contract with American Ramp Company

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will consider a resolution approving a refinancing plan for Sentara Health and its affiliates through Health Care Facilities Revenue and Refunding Bonds (Series 2023). The board will also receive an update on the Harrisonburg Business Recovery Grant Program. Routine items include introducing a new member and approving minutes from the May 9, 2023 meeting. No public comment period is scheduled.

• Consideration of resolution for Sentara Health refinancing bonds (Series 2023)
• Update on Harrisonburg Business Recovery Grant Program
• Introduction of new board member
• Approval of amended minutes from May 9, 2023 meeting
• No public comment period

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will consider rezoning requests for Sunchase Apartments and Christophel Properties, along with special use permits for multi-family dwellings. The body will also review a preliminary subdivision plan for Baxter Drive.

• Rezone Sunchase Apartments parcels at Sunchase Drive and Chase Court
• Special use permit for more than 12 multi-family dwellings per building
• Rezone Christophel Properties parcels at Hillside Avenue
• Special use permit for multiple-family dwellings at Hillside Avenue
• Preliminary subdivision of 55 Baxter Drive to create a new public street

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding a request to rezone approximately 19.5 acres from R-3 to R-5C and approve a Special Use Permit. The proposal involves converting basement spaces into 20 additional four-bedroom dwelling units at existing multi-family properties on Sunchase Drive and Chase Court.

• Discussed rezoning of +/- 19.5 acres from R-3 to R-5C
• Discussed Special Use Permit for multiple-family dwellings of more than 12 units per building

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will meet to review financial reports, hear executive director updates, and discuss strategic initiatives. Key agenda items include homeownership and neighborhood revitalization projects such as Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex Renovation, and Commerce Village II, as well as efforts addressing homelessness and affordable housing. The board will also consider proposed procedural changes and restated bylaws.

• Discussion of homeownership and neighborhood revitalization projects: Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex Renovation, Commerce Village II
• Consideration of HRHA Restated Bylaws 2023
• Addressing homelessness and affordable housing initiatives
• Update on Moving to Work (MTW) implementation schedule
• Review of HRHA owned properties utilization and financial reports

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on six land-use applications. These include a special use permit for institutional uses at 1151 and 1157 South High Street, three rezoning requests for parcels on Broad and Wolfe Streets, Smithland Road, and Franklin Street, and a rezoning plus a special use permit for manufacturing on South Liberty Street. The meeting also covers approval of prior minutes and routine reports.

• Special use permit for institutional uses at 1151 and 1157 South High Street (Ceasar LLC)
• Rezone three parcels at 201-207 Broad Street and 264-266 East Wolfe Street (Blue Stone Designs LLC)
• Rezone two parcels at 1621 and 1641 Smithland Road (Lowell H. Miller Trustee)
• Rezone 361 Franklin Street (Katherine S. Moran and Marcie E. Harris)
• Rezone and special use permit for manufacturing at 231, 251, and 261 South Liberty Street (Box Nine LLC)

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for a shared manufacturing and educational space at 1153 and 1157 South High Street. The permit allows religious, educational, charitable, or benevolent institutional uses in the M-1 district. The motion passed 7-0 and the recommendation will go to City Council on August 8, 2023. A rezoning request for parcels on Broad and Wolfe Streets was introduced but no vote was recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved special use permit for Ceasar LLC at 1153-1157 S. High Street for The Manufactory Collective (7-0)
• Approved minutes from June 14, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (6-0)

City Council

City Council denied a rezoning request for a property at 813 Chicago Avenue. The council also approved several special event applications via a consent agenda. A proposal for the 'The Beacon' public art installation was discussed and supported.

• Denied rezoning request for 813 Chicago Avenue (3-1)
• Approved Harrisonburg Youth TryAthlon special event application
• Approved Explore More Discovery Museum’s Touch a Truck special event application
• Approved Block Party in the Burg special event application
• Approved African American Festival special event application
• Approved June 27, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council will vote on consent agenda items including a rezoning request, a supplemental appropriation for Public Works, and an ordinance to increase water, sewer, and inflow/infiltration surcharge rates. Public hearings include a personal property tax exemption for Blue Ridge Free Clinic and a resolution to condemn Truist Bank property for street improvements. Other items include a Community Connectors Grant Program and budget reallocations.

• Rezone 564 East Gay Street from Bird Dog Properties LLC
• Ordinance amendment increasing water, sewer, and inflow/infiltration surcharge rates
• Resolution to condemn Truist Bank at 3150 South Main Street for street improvements
• Supplemental appropriation of $155,700 for Public Works Department
• Reallocation of $275,000 in budgeted funds

City Council approved a resolution authorizing eminent domain to acquire a portion of Truist Bank’s property at 3150 South Main Street for street improvements related to the new Rocktown High School. The consent agenda was also approved, including rezoning 564 East Gay Street, a $155,700 supplemental appropriation for Public Works, and water/sewer rate increases. A personal property tax exemption of $883 was granted to Blue Ridge Free Clinic.

• Approved consent agenda including rezoning, appropriation, and water/sewer rate amendments (5-0)
• Approved personal property tax exemption for Blue Ridge Free Clinic ($883, 5-0)
• Adopted resolution to take property interest from Truist Bank for street improvements at South Main Street and Kaylor Park Drive (5-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

This meeting includes the approval of May meeting minutes, a director's report and project updates, and unspecified action items. The agenda is primarily procedural with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of May 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report and project updates
• Action items (not detailed)
• Public comment period

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission unanimously approved the April and May 2023 meeting minutes. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting consisted of project updates from the director, discussion of upcoming capital projects, and public comments on the Westover Skatepark renovation. The next meeting is scheduled for August 21.

• Approved April and May 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes and financial reports, discuss and act on several items including a revision to the Bluestone Town Center operating agreement, approval of the Commerce Village 2022 audit, and 2023-2024 insurance premiums. The board will also discuss strategic initiatives on homeownership, neighborhood revitalization, addressing homelessness, and organizational efficiency. Public comment will be accepted.

• Revision of Bluestone Town Center operating agreement
• Approval of Commerce Village 2022 audit
• Discussion on establishing board officers and introduction of new commissioners
• Approval of 2023-2024 insurance premiums
• Update on MTW implementation schedule

Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission will discuss traffic calming data from neighborhoods and address specific safety concerns: vehicle queuing at the Chick-fil-A entrance on East Market Street, heavy vehicle movements on Pear Street, sight distance at W. Bruce Street and S. High Street, and parking issues on Northfield Court. Commissioners will also review the previous Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee agenda and updates on past agenda items.

• Neighborhood Traffic Calming Updates – staff to present data from implemented safety measures
• East Market Street at Chick-fil-A – discussion of queuing vehicles at the driveway entrance
• Pear Street – heavy vehicle movements on the 200 & 300 block, especially at curves
• W. Bruce Street at S. High Street – sight distance concerns
• Northfield Court – parking blocking mailboxes and limiting sight distance

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission (TSAC) discussed multiple traffic safety concerns, including truck maneuvering on Pear Street, Chick-fil-A drive-thru queues on E. Market Street, and sight distance issues at several intersections. Commission members and staff agreed that establishing a size restriction for through trucks on Pear Street is desirable. Automated enforcement for the work zone speed limit on E. Market Street was announced, with warnings for 60 days followed by $100 fines.

• Agreed to pursue size restriction for through trucks on Pear Street (consensus)
• Discussed adding signage for Chick-fil-A queue enforcement but no formal action taken
• Staff will monitor sight distance at Bruce Street & S. High Street and E. Market & Myrtle Street
• Staff will pursue parking restrictions on Northfield Court
• Automated enforcement in work zone on E. Market Street announced (warnings then $100 fines)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several items, including a determination of whether the proposed Homeless Services Center at 1111 N. Main St. is in substantial accord with the Comprehensive Plan. Other public hearings include requests for special use permits and rezonings for restaurant and townhouse developments on Chicago Avenue, West Mosby Road, Vine Street, and Franklin Street. The commission will also consider a preliminary plat for a subdivision at 199 Mount Clinton Pike and review annual reports.

• Public hearing on whether the Homeless Services Center at 1111 N. Main St. aligns with the Comprehensive Plan (Code of Virginia 15.2-2232)
• Consideration of a special use permit from Lock-Minn Holdings, LLC for restaurants at 837-891 Chicago Avenue
• Consideration of a rezoning request from Lock-Minn Holdings, LLC for a portion of 831 Chicago Avenue
• Consideration of a rezoning and special use permit from Riadh S. Mamund for attached townhouses at 130 West Mosby Road
• Consideration of a preliminary plat to subdivide a +/-7.72-acre property into two lots at 199 Mount Clinton Pike

The Planning Commission voted unanimously (6-0) to recommend to City Council that the proposed Homeless Services Center at 1111 N. Main St. is in substantial accord with the Comprehensive Plan. Staff and commissioners cited the site's mixed-use zoning, proximity to transit and services, and alignment with the plan's objective to address homelessness. The commission acted after a public hearing that included a brief discussion about a live-stream delay. No decision was recorded on a separate special use permit request for food trucks at Chicago Avenue; the minutes end before a vote.

• Found proposed Homeless Services Center (1111 N. Main St.) in substantial accord with Comprehensive Plan (6-0; recommended to City Council)
• Approved minutes from May 10, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (voice vote)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss tax rates, utility fee increases, and zoning requests. The body will consider several supplemental appropriations for city departments and schools, as well as ordinances regarding short-term rentals and speed monitoring devices.

• Public hearing for FY 2023-2024 real estate tax rate of $0.96 per $100 of assessed value
• Supplemental appropriation of $2.5 million for Harrisonburg City Public School division
• Proposed ordinance amendments to increase water, sewer/authority, and Inflow and Infiltration surcharges
• Rezoning request for 564 East Gay Street (Bird Dog Properties LLC) and special use permit for 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue (Sahara III LC)
• Supplemental appropriations of $761,375.85 for various departments and $155,700 for Public Works

City Council approved a water and sewer rate increase of $0.20 per 1,000 gallons for water and $0.03 per 1,000 gallons for sewer, along with a monthly inflow/infiltration surcharge increase from $12 to $50. They also approved rezoning of 564 East Gay Street to R-8 for a new dwelling and a special use permit for a 20-unit multi-family building at 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue. Short-term rental ordinance amendments were tabled to July 11, 2023, and water/sewer service was approved for a Rockingham County property.

• Approved water/sewer rate increase (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 564 East Gay Street from R-2 to R-8 (4-0)
• Approved special use permit for 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue multi-family building (4-0)
• Tabled short-term rental ordinance amendments to July 11, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved water/sewer service extension for Friendship Drive property in Rockingham County (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including tax rate of $0.96 per $100, speed camera authorization, $2.5M school supplemental, and special events (4-0)

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board will review the fall election schedule and approve new officers of election. They may enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters and election security practices. The meeting includes public comment opportunities.

• Review of fall election schedule
• Approval of new officers of election
• Motion for closed session on personnel and election security

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to elect its officers and review a variance request for a property at 1660 Bald Eagle Circle. The board will also review the 2022 Annual Report.

• Variance request for 1660 Bald Eagle Circle
• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Review of 2022 BZA Annual Summary

The Board denied a request for a rear yard setback variance to build a covered porch. The Board also elected its officers and approved the 2022 annual summary report.

• Appointed Matthew Phillippi as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Thomas Jenkins as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Anastasia Auguste as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied variance request for 1660 Bald Eagle Circle to reduce rear yard setback by 9.7 feet
• Approved BZA 2022 Annual Summary (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed real estate tax rate and consider adopting the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget. The body will also review several supplemental appropriations and a new ordinance regarding photo speed monitoring devices.

• Public hearing on real estate tax rate of $0.96 per $100 of assessed value
• Adoption of Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget and Appropriation Ordinance
• Supplemental appropriation of $2.5 million for Harrisonburg City Public School division
• Supplemental appropriation of $761,375.85 for various departments
• Proposed ordinance for photo speed monitoring devices in highway work and school crossing zones

The City Council approved the real estate tax rate for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 at $0.96 per $100 of assessed value (4-0) after a public hearing. The consent agenda was approved, including special event applications for the 2023 Bike Virginia Tour and July 1 fireworks display. An easement was granted to 49 West Water Street Investments for a waterline. The North End Gateway Public Art Installation update was tabled indefinitely.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0) including May 9 minutes, Bike Virginia Tour special event (June 25-29), and July 1 fireworks display
• Set real estate tax rate at $0.96 per $100 for FY2023-2024 (4-0)
• Granted waterline easement to 49 West Water Street Investments for sprinkler system (4-0)
• Tabled North End Gateway Public Art Installation update indefinitely (4-0) due to absent mayor and artist
• Item 7b (HCPS budget presentation) and 7c (budget adoption) were discussed but no final vote recorded in the minutes as they are truncated

Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee will review crash data involving people biking or walking, discuss potential grant applications for new sidewalks or paths through VDOT's Transportation Alternatives Program, and consider a Revenue Sharing grant for improvements at the intersection of E. Market Street and Sterling Street/Reservoir Street. Staff will also provide an overview of an upcoming ADA self-evaluation of pedestrian infrastructure in the public right-of-way.

• Crash data review for incidents involving people biking or walking
• Potential 2023 TAP grant applications for sidewalks or paths
• Potential 2023 Revenue Sharing grant for improvements at E. Market Street & Sterling Street/Reservoir Street intersection
• ADA self-evaluation of public right-of-way to identify accessibility barriers
• Project updates on existing initiatives

The sub-committee reviewed bicycle and pedestrian crash data since 2015 and discussed safety improvements. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded; the meeting consisted of staff presentations and member inquiries.

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will meet to approve minutes, review financial and management reports, and hear public comment. The meeting will be held at City Hall.

• Approval of minutes
• Financial reports
• Executive Director report
• Public comment session
• Public comment submission available online

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

This is a regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. The agenda includes approval of the April meeting minutes, a director's report with project updates, and unspecified action items. Public comments are also invited.

• Approval of April 17, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report and project updates
• Action items (not detailed in agenda)
• General public comments

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission meeting included no action items or formal decisions. The skate park project has been halted, with $13,000 spent and legal review ongoing. Several project updates were provided, including progress on tennis courts, lighting projects, and grant applications, but no votes were taken.

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will receive updates on the Drainage Improvement Program, MS4 Program, HCAP, and VMRC matters. Multiple stream restoration projects—Mountain View Drive, Northend Greenway, and Blacks Run South—will be discussed. The committee will also hear an update on Urban Forestry & Pollinator Programs and schedule future meeting dates.

• Drainage Improvement Program updates
• MS4 Program updates
• Mountain View Drive Stream Restoration updates
• Northend Greenway Stream Restoration updates
• Blacks Run South Stream Restoration updates

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a special use permit for multiple-family dwellings at 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue and a rezoning request at 564 East Gay Street. The Commission will also consider a request to reduce minimum off-street parking spaces for a private day school, and a request for water and sewer service for a property on Friendship Drive in Rockingham County. Administrative items include election of a secretary and appointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

• Public hearing on a special use permit for multiple-family dwellings at 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue
• Public hearing on a rezoning request at 564 East Gay Street
• Consideration of reduced off-street parking for KEYS Academy private day school
• Water and sewer service request for Friendship Drive property in Rockingham County
• Election of secretary and appointment to Board of Zoning Appeals

The Planning Commission appointed Anastasia Auguste as Secretary and Vice Chair Adriel Byrd as the Board of Zoning Appeals representative. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 12, 2023 meeting with corrections. A public hearing was held regarding a special use permit for multi-family dwellings at 1846 Evelyn Byrd Avenue, though no final decision on the permit was recorded in the text.

• Appointed Anastasia Auguste as Secretary (Voice vote)
• Appointed Vice Chair Adriel Byrd as Board of Zoning Appeals representative (Voice vote)
• Approved April 12, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections (3-0, 2 abstentions)

City Council

The Harrisonburg City Council will consider adopting the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget and Appropriation Ordinance, along with several ordinance amendments regarding water and sewer systems. The meeting also includes public hearings on a special use permit for multi-family housing and a rezoning request.

• Adopt FY 2023-2024 budget and Appropriation Ordinance
• Public hearing: Special use permit for multi-family dwellings at 1180 Virginia Avenue
• Public hearing: Rezoning request for 2720 Dorval Road
• Amend ordinances for water and sewer systems (Sections 7-2-5, 7-2-9, 7-2-10, 7-3-64, 7-4-22)
• Approve updated running/walking race routes for downtown Harrisonburg

The council voted 4-0 to adopt the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget, with one member absent. They also approved a special use permit for a 12-unit mixed-use development at 1180 Virginia Avenue, the 2023 CDBG Annual Action Plan totaling $569,946, and a consent agenda that included rezoning at 2720 Dorval Road and proffer amendments at 1250 West Market Street. Updated running/walking race routes were received and filed.

• Adopted FY 2023-2024 budget (4-0)
• Approved special use permit for multiple-family dwellings/mixed use at 1180 Virginia Ave (4-0)
• Approved 2023 CDBG Annual Action Plan (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including rezoning at 2720 Dorval Rd and proffer amendment at 1250 W Market St (4-0)
• Received and filed updated running/walking race routes
• No action taken on proposed water/sewer code amendments (items 7d-7h)

Electoral Board

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board will hold a regular meeting to receive the Director of Elections report, discuss allowing half-day Officers of Election, and approve new Officers of Election. The board will also consider a closed session for personnel matters.

• Discussion to allow half-day Officers of Election
• Approval of new Officers of Election
• Report from Director of Elections
• Motion for closed session for personnel matters (Section 2.2-3711(A)(1) of Virginia Code)

Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee

The Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss focus area updates and sustainability initiatives. The body will review the 2021 Harrisonburg GHG Emissions Report and survey results from the EECBG EPSAC.

• Review of 2021 Harrisonburg GHG Emissions Report (February 2023)
• EECBG EPSAC Survey Results
• Community Goals Addendum updates
• Update on current City of Harrisonburg environmental initiatives

City Council

City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget. The body will also consider several special use permits and a rezoning request, and discuss opioid abatement funding.

• Public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 budget
• Rezoning request for 2720 Dorval Road by Greendale Road LLC
• Special use permit for warehousing and storage at 1250 W Market St
• Special use permit for building material sales and storage at 3520 South Main Street
• Resolution authorizing the Gold Standard Incentive from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority

The City Council held four public hearings and approved all items on the agenda with 5-0 votes. They approved special use permits for 511 East Market Street (four-person occupancy), 909/919 Virginia Avenue (business/professional offices), and 3520 South Main Street (building material sales and storage). They also rezoned 2720 Dorval Road from R-2C to R-8C for higher-density residential. A proclamation recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month was presented. Items 6e and 6f (proffer amendment and special use permit for 1250 West Market Street) were discussed but no vote was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved special use permit for 511 E Market Street (four-person occupancy) 5-0
• Approved special use permit for 909/919 Virginia Avenue (business/professional offices) 5-0
• Approved special use permit for 3520 South Main Street (building material sales/storage) 5-0
• Approved rezoning of 2720 Dorval Road from R-2C to R-8C 5-0
• Presented proclamation for Jewish American Heritage Month

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Authority will review financial reports, management updates, and strategic initiatives. Discussions include neighborhood revitalization projects and updates on addressing homelessness.

• Resolution Authorizing Amendment JR Polly Lineweaver
• HRHA Strategic Plan update
• Closed Session regarding acquisition of real estate
• Bluestone Town Center update
• Lineweaver Annex Renovation update

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

The commission will approve March meeting minutes, hear a program spotlight and a director's report with project updates, and take action items. No specific ordinances, contracts, or public hearings are listed; the agenda is mostly procedural.

• Approval of March 20, 2023 meeting minutes
• Program Spotlight presentation
• Director's Report & Project Updates

The commission approved the March 2023 meeting minutes by a unanimous vote. No other substantive action items were decided during the meeting. Staff provided updates on several park projects and responded to public inquiries regarding skatepark renovations and a new splashpad.

• Approved March 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission will review 2022 citywide crash data, hear updates on repaving, and discuss roadway reconfigurations. Staff will ask the commission to consider recommending a change in state code regarding maintenance funding for reconfigurations. Concerns about two-way left turn lanes at high-traffic intersections will also be presented.

• Review of 2022 citywide crash data compiled through end of 2022
• Discussion of additional repaving items from February meeting
• Consider recommendation for city to request state code change on roadway reconfigurations and maintenance funding
• Presentation on concerns with two-way left turn lanes (TWLTL) at high-traffic intersections
• Updates on previous agenda items and March Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee agenda

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission voted unanimously to support the City's request for a change to state code regarding maintenance payments for road reconfigurations, holding localities harmless. The commission also reviewed 2022 crash data showing a record six fatal crashes, discussed repaving schedules, and examined issues with two-way left-turn lane queuing on Port Republic Road. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved motion to support City's letter requesting state code change for road reconfiguration maintenance payments (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request from Mainali & Gil Properties LLC for a special use permit to allow multiple-family dwellings and/or mixed-use buildings at 1180 Virginia Avenue. The commission will also consider a request from Friendship Properties Partners for water and sanitary sewer service for a property on Friendship Drive in Rockingham County. Other agenda items include approval of minutes and reports.

• Public hearing for special use permit at 1180 Virginia Avenue for multi-family/mixed-use buildings (Mainali & Gil Properties LLC)
• Request for water and sanitary sewer service for property at Friendship Drive, Rockingham County (Friendship Properties Partners)

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a special use permit for Mainali & Gil Properties LLC to build a mixed-use structure. The proposed development includes up to 12 residential units on the upper floors and commercial space on the first floor.

• Recommended approval of special use permit for multi-family/mixed-use buildings at 1180 Virginia Avenue (4-0)
• Approved March 8, 2023, Planning Commission minutes (voice vote)

Electoral Board

This meeting of the Harrisonburg Electoral Board includes approval of minutes, a report from the Director of Elections covering LESS and security policies in closed session, and approval of new Officers of Election. The board will also consider a closed session for personnel and election security matters. Public comment is available in person, by phone, or via email.

• Approval of new Officers of Election
• Review of LESS (closed session)
• Review of Security Policies (closed session)
• Closed session for personnel matters under Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(1)
• Closed session for election security practices under Va. Code §24.2-410.2

City Council

The Harrisonburg City Council will consider approving the Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2023-2024 through 2027-2028 and the proposed fiscal year 2023-24 budget. The meeting also includes public hearings, special event applications, and the swearing-in of new Housing Authority members.

• Approval of FY 2023-2024 through 2027-2028 Capital Improvement Program
• Consideration of FY 2023-24 Budget presentation
• FY24 Civic and Community Org Grant Funding Recommendations
• Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance Downtown Dinner Party special event application
• Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance Best.Weekend.Ever special event application

City Council approved the long-term Capital Improvement Program and three special event applications for downtown activities. The proposed FY 2023-24 budget was presented for review, with a public hearing scheduled for April 25, 2023.

• Approved FY 2023-2024 through 2027-2028 Capital Improvement Program (4-0)
• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved Downtown Dinner Party special event for May 20, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Best.Weekend.Ever special event for June 17, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Magpie’s Juneteenth Celebration special event for June 18, 2023 (Unanimous)

City Council

The council will consider consent agenda items including a rezoning request for 251 Garbers Church Road and approval of March 14 minutes. A public hearing will be held for the 2023 CDBG Annual Action Plan. Regular items include a resolution designating Ridge Haven Drive and a $1 million reallocation for the General Capital Projects Fund.

• Rezoning request from 251 Garbers Church Farm LLC for 251 Garbers Church Road (consent agenda)
• Public hearing on the 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan
• Resolution to designate a platted street as Ridge Haven Drive in Crossings, Section Two
• Reallocation of $1 million for the General Capital Projects Fund
• Approval of March 14, 2023 city council meeting minutes

City Council approved a $1 million reallocation from the Smithland Development East project to upgrade a soccer field at Thomas Harrison Middle School. They also adopted a resolution to officially name a street in The Crossings, Section Two as Ridge Haven Drive, and approved a consent agenda that included a second-reading rezoning for 251 Garbers Church Road. A public hearing on the 2023 CDBG Annual Action Plan was held with no action required.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes and rezoning of 251 Garbers Church Road (4-0)
• Adopted resolution designating street name Ridge Haven Drive in The Crossings, Section Two (4-0)
• Approved $1M reallocation from General Capital Projects Fund for soccer field at Thomas Harrison Middle School (4-0)

Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee

The sub-committee will discuss proposed changes alongside this year's annual roadway repaving, with a public open house on March 30. Staff will report on signal timing adjustments at the Mason Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way intersection. Safety options for the Neff Avenue crosswalk to the Arboretum will be evaluated, and a two-stage left turn bike box at Neff Avenue and Reservoir Street is deemed inappropriate. Updates on funding applications (HSIP, CDBG, RAISE) and the Shenandoah Valley Rail Trail connection will also be provided.

• Proposed changes to annual roadway repaving list (public open house March 30)
• Signal timing adjustments at Mason Street & Martin Luther King Jr. Way intersection
• Safety evaluation of Neff Avenue crosswalk to the Arboretum
• Two-stage left turn bike box at Neff Avenue & Reservoir Street ruled out
• Updates on 2022 HSIP, 2023 CDBG, and RAISE funding applications

The subcommittee reviewed proposed road repaving and lane marking changes for 2023. Staff decided against installing a two-stage bike box at Neff Avenue and Reservoir Street due to safety and implementation concerns. The committee also noted that a CDBG funding request for sidewalks was unsuccessful.

• Approved installation of centerline striping on the Bluestone Trail
• Denied installation of a two-stage bike box at Neff Avenue & Reservoir Street
• CDBG funding request for sidewalks denied

Board of Equalization

This is a procedural meeting of the Board of Equalization. The agenda contains only call to order, new business (meeting begins), and adjournment. No specific decisions or discussions are listed.

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization is meeting to discuss five specific property tax matters. These items may be addressed in closed sessions.

• Appeal by Donald Landis
• Appeal by Matthew Ahrens/Harrisonburg Inn (Map# 013 A 4-A)
• Appeal by John Serrell
• Appeal by SVCC/Mike Andrews (Map# 025 P 3T)
• Appeal by Mark Shenandoah LLC (Map #006-A-1)

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization is meeting to hear appeals of property assessments from four property owners. The appeals cover 27 parcels total, including 21 parcels for Ryan LLC and multiple parcels for individual owners. Most of the business will be conducted in closed session as permitted under state law.

• Ryan LLC appeal on 21 parcels
• Frank Gordon appeal on 3 parcels (Map 084 A 6, 084 B 15, 084 B 16)
• Charles Pascale appeal on 1 parcel (Map 009 D 3)
• Richard Hart/North 38 appeal on 2 parcels (Map 062 B 1, 062 B 3)

Board of Equalization

This meeting of the Board of Equalization includes hearings on real estate assessment appeals for six properties. The board will consider cases for Sherwood Apartments, Harrisonburg Hotel LLC, Donna Armstrong, CFOC Harrisonburg LLC, Cameron Beckner, and Patricia Landes. Each hearing may be followed by a closed session.

• Sherwood Apartments (Angeleena Elmore or John Kline) - 1 parcel/Map# 048 D 24
• Peter Bach/Harrisonburg Hotel LLC - 1 parcel/Map# 078 F 3
• Donna Armstrong - 1 parcel/Map# 011 N 32
• Kevin Dover for CFOC Harrisonburg LLC - 1 parcel/Map# 078 E 8
• Cameron Beckner - 3 parcels/Map# 078 F 1, 034 T 15 16 17 & 112 B

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission will convene for a routine meeting to approve minutes from January 30, 2023, and receive a director's report on project updates. No specific action items or major decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public.

• Approval of January 30, 2023 meeting minutes
• Director's report and project updates
• General public comments period
• Scheduling of next meeting on April 17, 2023

The commission unanimously approved the January 2023 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of staff project updates on Westover Skate Park, Smithland athletic fields, Ralph Sampson Splashpad, and other facilities. No public comments were received.

• Approved January 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Equalization

The Board of Equalization is meeting to review appeals from six different parties. The board will also appoint a Chairman and Secretary during the session.

• Appeal: Jeff Bradfield / RHAM Exchange LLC
• Appeal: Abdul Shakoor
• Appeal: Dana Martin
• Appeal: Yvonne Ryan
• Appeal: Mark Senger 105-C-52

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will discuss the Lineweaver Annex renovation construction bids, an update on strategic initiatives including Bluestone Town Center and Commerce Village II, and the HRHA Landlord Policy. They will also receive financial reports and property utilization reports. Public comment will be heard.

• Lineweaver Annex renovation construction bids update
• Strategic initiatives update: Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex, Commerce Village II
• HRHA Landlord Policy discussion
• Financial monthly report and quarterly investment update
• HRHA Owned Properties Utilization report

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a rezoning request for 251 Garbers Church Road and a special use permit for public uses at East Mosby Road and Beery Road. Regular items include approving the write-off of 145 utility bills, an update on ARPA projects, and a classification and compensation study. The council will also consider an encroachment license agreement for 80 E. Market Street and a utility easement for SVEC at Riven Rock Park.

• Public hearing: rezoning 251 Garbers Church Road (251 Garbers Church Farm LLC)
• Public hearing: special use permit for public uses at East Mosby Road and Beery Road
• Write-off of 145 utility bills from January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021
• Update on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) program and projects
• Encroachment license agreement for 80 E. Market Street

City Council conducted a public hearing regarding a request to rezone 251 Garbers Church Road from R-1 to R-8C to allow for small single-family homes. The provided minutes conclude before a final decision on the rezoning was recorded.

• Approved virtual attendance of Mayor Reed (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from February 14, 2023 City Council Meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes from February 28, 2023 City Council meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on five special use permit requests and one rezoning, and will consider approving the five-year Capital Improvement Program (FY2024-2028). They will also approve minutes and hear reports.

• Approve FY2024-2028 Capital Improvement Program
• Special use permit for 4-person occupancy at 511 East Market Street (BISAPACA, LLC)
• Special use permit for business offices at 909-919 Virginia Avenue (Way Way Back LLC)
• Rezoning of 2720 Dorval Road (Greendale Road LLC)
• Amend proffers and special use permit for warehousing at 1250 West Market Street (DH Land LLC)

The Planning Commission approved the minutes from January 17 and February 8, 2023, with a correction to the February minutes. No other decisions were made; the proposed Capital Improvement Program was discussed but no vote taken.

• Approved Jan 17, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Feb 8, 2023 minutes as corrected (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session and regular session. The main item is a request from the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority to rezone multiple parcels (1010 Garbers Church Road, 1645 and 1815 Erickson Avenue, 1781 South High Street, and South Dogwood Drive) for a mixed-income community. Other significant items include a special use permit for JMU Real Estate Foundation at Peach Grove Avenue and a SAFER grant for fifteen firefighter positions.

• Rezone request from HRHA for Bluestone Town Center (1010 Garbers Church Rd, 1645 & 1815 Erickson Ave, 1781 S High St, S Dogwood Dr)
• Special use permit for JMU Real Estate Foundation for multi-family dwellings at Peach Grove Avenue
• Consideration to pursue SAFER grant to fund 15 firefighter positions
• Resolution to participate in opioid-related settlement claims
• Median License Agreement between City and James Madison University

The City Council voted 5-0 to remove the Bluestone Town Center rezoning request from the table for discussion. After extensive debate on infrastructure, school impact, and affordable housing, no final vote was taken on the rezoning itself during this meeting.

• Removed Bluestone Town Center rezoning request from table for discussion (5-0)

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority will vote on a resolution for Lineweaver Annex renovations, review January 2023 financial reports, and receive updates on strategic initiatives including Bluestone Town Center, Commerce Village II, and homelessness and affordable housing efforts. The board will also discuss a HUD financial assessment submission, a scholarship policy, and a Franklin Heights path and sidewalk extension. No final decisions are listed beyond the resolution.

• Resolution for Lineweaver Annex Renovations
• 2022 HUD Financial Assessment Subsystem Submission
• Scholarship Policy review
• Franklin Heights Path and Sidewalk Extension
• Updates on Bluestone Town Center and Commerce Village II

Tree Advisory Board

The Tree Advisory Board will hear a presentation from Jan Sievers Mahon on the arboretum, discuss spring tree planting plans, grants, and various programs including the Urban Wood Program and Harrisonburg Conservation Program. No voting actions are listed on the agenda.

• Jan Sievers Mahon, Arboretum Presents
• Spring Tree Planting
• Grants
• Urban Wood Program
• Harrisonburg Conservation Program

City Council

City Council will discuss a supplemental appropriation for the General Capital Projects Fund and amendments to tax relief and retail sales tax codes. The body will also hold public hearings on several special use permits and rezoning requests, including a project by the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority.

• Supplemental appropriation of $2.3 million for the General Capital Projects Fund
• Special use permit for short-term rental at 71 Broad Street
• Special use permit for public uses at 1111 N Main St
• Rezoning request for 1010 Garbers Church Road, 1645 and 1815 Erickson Avenue, 1781 South High Street, and South Dogwood Drive
• Resolution of Support for RAISE Grant Applications for Downtown Streetscape and Active Transportation

City Council approved a special use permit for a short-term rental at 71 Broad Street by a 3-2 vote, over concerns about removing a long-term rental unit. Council also unanimously approved a parking deviation for the low-barrier homeless shelter at 1111 N. Main Street and a zoning amendment allowing more density and manufactured homes in R-7 districts. The consent agenda, including a $2.3 million capital appropriation and tax relief amendments, was approved 5-0.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, $2.3M supplemental appropriation, personal/real estate tax relief amendments, and retail sales tax amendment (5-0)
• Approved short-term rental special use permit at 71 Broad Street (3-2)
• Approved special use permit for public use parking deviation at 1111 N. Main Street for homeless shelter (5-0)
• Approved R-7 district zoning amendment to increase density limits and add manufactured homes as permitted use (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board will meet to approve new officers of election and receive a report from the Director of Elections. The board also plans to hold a closed session to discuss personnel matters and election security practices.

• Approval of new officers of election
• Recognition of Sandra Price-Stroble for service to the board
• Closed session regarding personnel and election security practices

Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission

The Transportation Safety & Advisory Commission will hear staff presentations on several items including a proposed truck turning restriction at Liberty and Bruce streets, changes to parent pick-up at Keister Elementary, and potential road reconfigurations for 2023 repaving. They will also receive updates on RAISE, SMART SCALE, and CDBG grant applications, and consider a bicycle improvement at Reservoir and Neff Avenue.

• Proposed truck restriction on southbound right turn at Liberty St & Bruce St
• Change in parent/guardian pick-up location at Keister Elementary
• Presentation on RAISE grant applications for infrastructure projects
• Reconfigurations under consideration for roads being repaved in 2023
• Installation of two-way left turn bike box at Reservoir St & Neff Ave

The commission confirmed its 2023 meeting dates. Public Works staff reported they will pursue a right-turn restriction for large trucks at Bruce Street and Liberty Street. The meeting primarily consisted of staff updates on grant applications and proposed road reconfigurations.

• Confirmed planned meeting times for the 2023 calendar year
• Public Works staff to pursue right turn large truck restriction at Bruce Street and Liberty Street

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a special use permit for public uses and a rezoning request for 251 Garbers Church Road. The meeting will also include the approval of previous minutes and reports from various city committees.

• Public hearing for special use permit request
• Public hearing for 251 Garbers Church Road rezoning
• Approval of January 11, 2023 Planning Commission minutes
• Reports from Rockingham County Planning Commission Liaison
• Reports from Board of Zoning Appeals and City Council

The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of a special use permit for a new Public Works Administration Building at East Mosby Road and Beery Road, allowing deviations from parking and landscaping requirements. The request now goes to City Council on March 14, 2023. A rezoning request for 251 Garbers Church Road was discussed but no vote was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved special use permit for Public Works building with parking and landscaping deviations (7-0)
• Approved January 11, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0, with 2 abstentions)

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will discuss updates to drainage improvement programs, MS4 requirements, and multiple stream restoration projects including Mountain View Drive, Northend Greenway, and Blacks Run South. The meeting also covers the new HCAP update, VMRC project, and urban forestry/pollinator program. No formal votes are scheduled; the agenda consists of informational updates and public comment.

• Drainage Improvement Program Updates
• Mountain View Drive Stream Restoration Update
• Northend Greenway Stream Restoration Update
• Blacks Run South Stream Restoration Update
• Urban Forestry & Pollinator Program Updates

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission will meet to approve November meeting minutes, elect a chair and vice chair, and review bylaws. The agenda includes a director's report and a public comment period.

• Approval of November 2022 meeting minutes
• Election of officers (Chair and Vice Chair)
• Review and approval of bylaws
• Director's report and project updates
• Public comment period

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission elected its Chair and Vice Chair and approved the commission's bylaws. The Director provided updates on several ARPA-funded park projects and field improvements.

• Approved November 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Kevin Gibson as Commission Chair and Leonard Van Wyk as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved the Bylaws (unanimous)

City - School Liaison Committee

This meeting of the City-School Liaison Committee will feature a discussion on the potential impacts of the Bluestone Town Center Project on Harrisonburg City Public Schools. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the item is listed under New Business for discussion only.

• Discussion on potential impacts to HCPS of the Bluestone Town Center Project

Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee

The Environmental Performance Standards Advisory Committee will elect a chair and vice chair, approve meeting summaries from 2022, and receive updates from the Sustainability Manager on current environmental initiatives and the GHG inventory. The meeting is primarily procedural with new business focused on staff updates and upcoming 2023 meeting dates.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of meeting summaries from July and October 2022
• Update from Sustainability Manager on current City environmental initiatives
• Greenhouse Gas Inventory Update
• Public comment accepted via email by noon the day prior

The committee voted to incorporate five aspirational community goals into a report for City Council. Members also discussed the prioritization of $117,870 in EECBG formula grant funds for energy projects.

• Approved five community GHG reduction goals for inclusion in a report (Unanimous)
• Elected Andrew Payton as Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected Deirdre Longacher Smeltzer as Vice-Chair (Unanimous)
• Approved July 27, 2022 Meeting Summary (Unanimous)
• Approved October 26, 2022 Meeting Summary with HEC deadline edit (Unanimous)
• Approved virtual participation for Laura Dent, David Powell, and Deirdre Longacher Smeltzer (Unanimous)

City Council

The council will hold public hearings on amending tax relief for personal and real estate property and on three zoning items: rezonings at 793 North Liberty St and 178 & 188 South Mason St, and a sign-requirement amendment. Regular items include a request to collaborate on a downtown park, approval of housing authority bonds for two multifamily projects, and adoption of a towing fee schedule. The council will also consider a $2.3 million supplemental appropriation and a $2.4 million budget reallocation.

• Rezoning requests for 793 North Liberty St and 178 & 188 South Mason St
• Public hearing to amend personal property and real estate tax relief ordinances
• Request to authorize city staff collaboration with Build Our Park for a downtown park
• Resolutions to approve revenue bonds for 78-unit John Early Apartments and 150-unit Wesley Apartments
• Supplemental appropriation of $2.3 million and reallocation of $2.4 million for capital projects

Council approved amendments to the city code for personal property and real estate tax relief for elderly and disabled residents (5-0). The consent agenda was also approved, including rezonings at 793 North Liberty St and 178 & 188 South Mason St. Council authorized collaboration with Build Our Park for a downtown park and approved a public art project on city property. Two resolutions were adopted for revenue bonds supporting multifamily housing facilities in Bedford and Lynchburg.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes from four prior meetings (5-0)
• Approved rezonings at 793 North Liberty St and 178 & 188 South Mason St on second reading (5-0)
• Approved amendment to City Code Section 4-2-124, 4-2-23, and 4-25 for tax relief for elderly and disabled (5-0)
• Authorized Build Our Park to collaborate with city staff to plan a downtown public park (5-0)
• Approved placement of 'Opening Doors - The Art of Inclusion' doors on public property subject to legal and safety review (5-0)
• Approved resolution for revenue bonds for 78-unit John Early Apartments in Bedford, Virginia (5-0)
• Approved resolution for revenue bonds for 150-unit Wesley Apartments in Lynchburg, Virginia (5-0)

Bicycle and Pedestrian Sub-Committee

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee will elect a chair for 2023 and confirm this year's meeting schedule (4th Monday of odd months). Staff will update members on grant applications including SMART SCALE, Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program, and Community Development Block Grants, as well as upcoming funding opportunities and project updates.

• Election of chair for the 2023 calendar year
• Confirmation of 2023 meeting dates: March 27, May 22, July 24, September 25, November 27
• Updates on SMART SCALE, Virginia Highway Safety Improvement Program (VHSIP), and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) applications
• Overview of upcoming efforts to plan and fund bicycle and pedestrian projects, including funding opportunities
• Staff will answer questions on attached project updates (January 2023 Project Updates)

The sub-committee re-elected incumbent chair Dudley Bonsal unanimously for 2023 and confirmed meeting dates. Members discussed SMART SCALE grant applications, funding sources, and project updates, but no binding decisions were made beyond the election.

• Elected Dudley Bonsal as Chair for 2023 (unanimous)

Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority meets to discuss financial reports and updates on strategic initiatives. Key items include board governance, the Mission Elevate program, and progress on homeownership and neighborhood revitalization projects such as Bluestone Town Center and Lineweaver Annex Renovation. The meeting also covers efforts to address homelessness and affordable housing, including the upcoming Point in Time Count. No votes or final decisions are scheduled; the agenda is primarily informational and procedural.

• Board governance establishment of a Chair and Vice Chair
• Mission Elevate program update
• Homeownership and Neighborhood Revitalization projects: Bluestone Town Center, Lineweaver Annex Renovation, Commerce Village II
• Point in Time Count for homelessness scheduled for January 25, 2023
• Yardi software migration and MTW implementation schedule update

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will consider a request from the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority to amend R-7 district regulations and a request to rezone multiple properties including 1010 Garbers Church Road and 1781 South High Street.

• Amend R-7 district regulations (HRHA request)
• Rezone 1010 Garbers Church Road, 1645 and 1815 Erickson Avenue, 1781 South High Street, and South Dogwood Drive
• Public hearing on Single Family Homes at Bluestone Town Center
• Review Street Improvement Agreement
• Review Updated Master Plan Text

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding a request from the Harrisonburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority to amend R-7 district regulations. The proposed changes include allowing manufactured homes and increasing multi-family unit limits. The provided minutes do not record a final vote or decision on these amendments.

• Approved request for Vice Mayor Dent to participate remotely (All in favor)

Planning Commission

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission will hold public hearings on special use permits for a short-term rental at 71 Broad Street and for public uses at 1111 N Main Street. They will also consider closing a portion of Beery Road right-of-way and revisit a JMU Real Estate Foundation request for multifamily dwellings at Peach Grove Avenue. Additionally, the commission will elect officers and appoint a Board of Zoning Appeals member for 2023.

• Special use permit for short-term rental at 71 Broad Street (Rogers/Kauffman)
• Special use permit for public uses at 1111 N Main Street (City of Harrisonburg)
• Closing a portion of Beery Road public street right-of-way
• JMU Real Estate Foundation special use permit for multifamily/mixed-use at Peach Grove Avenue (unfinished business)
• Election of officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary) and appointment to Board of Zoning Appeals

The Planning Commission elected Brent Finnegan as Chair, Adriel Byrd as Vice Chair, and Nyrma Soffel as Secretary for 2023, and appointed Adriel Byrd as the Board of Zoning Appeals representative. The commission approved the December 14, 2022 minutes. A public hearing was held for a special use permit to allow a short-term rental at 71 Broad Street, but the minutes do not record a decision on that item.

• Elected Brent Finnegan as Chair for 2023 (unanimous)
• Elected Adriel Byrd as Vice Chair for 2023 (unanimous)
• Elected Nyrma Soffel as Secretary for 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed Adriel Byrd as BZA representative for 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 14, 2022 Planning Commission meeting (unanimous)
• No decision recorded on short-term rental special use permit at 71 Broad Street

City Council

City Council will hold public hearings on two rezoning requests, two short-term rental permits, and zoning ordinance amendments to create a new 'Cooperative Sober Living Residence' use and modify public notice sign requirements. They will also consider a $989,762 budget reallocation and Community Development Block Grant funding priorities. The meeting includes a proclamation and a closed session for legal consultation.

• Rezone 793 N Liberty St (Maria Sonia Trejo)
• Rezone 178 & 188 S Mason St (Van Delay LLC & Michael L. Marston)
• Short-term rental permit at 965 Smith Ave (Scott D. Huston and Merridy M. Gnagey)
• Short-term rental permit at 524 Long Ave (WGG LLC)
• Zoning ordinance amendment to create 'Cooperative Sober Living Residence' as new use

City Council approved two rezoning requests and one special use permit for a short-term rental. A second short-term rental request was tabled pending the return of an absent council member.

• Approved virtual attendance for Council Member Robinson (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda, including December 13, 2020 minutes (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 793 North Liberty St from M-1 to R-8 (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 178 & 188 South Mason St from B-2 to B-1C (4-0)
• Approved special use permit for short-term rental at 965 Smith Ave (3-1)
• Tabled special use permit for short-term rental at 524 Long Ave

City Council

This is a reorganization meeting where City Council will elect a mayor and vice-mayor, appoint a city manager, city attorney, and city clerk, and make numerous appointments to boards, commissions, and liaison roles. No public comment period is scheduled.

• Election of mayor
• Election of vice-mayor
• Appointment of city manager
• Appointment of city attorney
• Appointment of city clerk

The council's annual reorganization meeting was largely procedural. Deanna Reed was re-elected Mayor and Laura Dent re-elected Vice-Mayor, both unanimously. City Manager Ande Banks, City Attorney Chris Brown, and City Clerk Pam Ulmer were reappointed. The Finance Committee was dissolved by a 5-0 vote. All other board and commission appointments were tabled to the January 24 meeting to seek a more diverse applicant pool.

• Elected Deanna Reed as Mayor (5-0)
• Elected Laura Dent as Vice-Mayor (5-0)
• Re-appointed Ande Banks as City Manager (5-0)
• Re-appointed Chris Brown as City Attorney (5-0)
• Appointed Pam Ulmer as City Clerk (5-0)
• Dissolved Finance Committee (5-0)
• Tabled appointments to HRHA, BOE, and PRAC to Jan. 24 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed numerous council liaisons to boards and commissions (unanimous)