Hopewell public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The commission moved the first public hearing to the end of the agenda (3‑0). It approved a conditional use permit for a duplex at 1104 Kruper Ave (Parcel #032‑0100) (3‑0). It also approved a conditional use permit for apartments on the second floor of 238 E. Broadway (Parcel #080‑0485) with staff‑recommended conditions (3‑0). The meeting was then adjourned (3‑0).

• Moved public hearing #1 to the end of the agenda – unanimous 3‑0
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 1104 Kruper Ave (Parcel #032‑0100) – unanimous 3‑0
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 238 E. Broadway (Parcel #080‑0485) with conditions – unanimous 3‑0
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous 3‑0

Economic Development Authority

The board unanimously approved a closed‑session to discuss confidential property matters. It then approved a $3,000 allocation for a site‑plan study at 509 3 ½ Street. The board also approved hiring Brown Edwards for the FY25 audit at a cost of $14,500. All other routine items, including minutes and the Treasurer’s report, were approved unanimously.

• Approved closed session to discuss confidential property matters (unanimous)
• Allocated $3,000 to Economic Development Director for site‑plan at 509 3 ½ Street (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 3, 2025 meeting with modifications (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Brown Edwards for FY25 audit at $14,500 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:23 PM (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding a sewer rate increase and the codification of Recreation and Parks fees. The body will also consider conditional use permits and a battery energy storage system facility. Financial reports indicate October FY26 revenues are trending $2.3M lower than FY25.

• Sewer Rate Increase Ordinance public hearing
• Codification of Recreation and Parks Fees public hearing
• Conditional Use Permit public hearing for 3400 Oaklawn Boulevard and 405 North 3 ½ Street
• Kevin Randesi ARB Appeal public hearing for 206 North Second Street
• Resolution in support of intervening in Virginia-American Water Company's rate increase application

The council amended the agenda to remove item R-1 and entered a closed session. In that session, they appointed Stephanie Dayberry to the Keep Hopewell Beautiful Board and Shar’ah Fuller to the Hopewell Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board. They also directed the City Manager to issue a letter endorsing the school division’s application to the Virginia Board of Education’s School Construction Assistance Program. Finally, the council adopted the consent agenda.

• Amended agenda to remove regular business item R-1 (motion passed 6-0)
• Entered closed meeting under Virginia Code §§2.2-3711 (motion passed 6-0)
• Reopened to open meeting (motion passed 5-0)
• Appointed Stephanie Dayberry to Keep Hopewell Beautiful Board (motion passed 6-0)
• Appointed Shar’ah Fuller to Hopewell Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board (motion passed 6-0)
• Directed City Manager to prepare and issue endorsement letter for school construction assistance program (motion passed 6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (motion passed 6-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The commission approved a zoning ordinance amendment to add civil penalties to Article XX – Penalty and Violation. It also approved conditional use permits for a private school at 247 E. Cawson St. and a single‑family dwelling at 1729 Maryville Ave., each with staff‑recommended conditions. The board endorsed the Battery Energy Storage System Facility review and elected Patience Bennett as Chairman and Carlos Roman as Vice Chairman.

• Approved zoning ordinance amendment adding civil penalties (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Kidz with Goals Unlimited to operate a private school at 247 E. Cawson St. (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for Trek Properties LLC to construct a single‑family dwelling at 1729 Maryville Ave. with conditions (5-0)
• Approved 2232 Review of Battery Energy Storage System Facility at 105 Winston Churchill Dr. (5-0)
• Elected Patience Bennett as Chairman (5-0)
• Re‑elected Carlos Roman as Vice Chairman (5-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority approved its 2026 meeting dates and elected its 2026 officers, naming Tavorise Marks as Chair, John Eliades as Vice Chair, Tom Wagstaff as Treasurer, and Matthew Mellon as Secretary. The board also accepted the 2024 audit and moved to table the selection of a 2025 audit firm until the December meeting. Treasurer’s reports for September and October were approved with a correction to duplicate payments.

• Approved 2026 meeting dates (unanimous)
• Appointed Tavorise Marks as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed John Eliades as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Reappointed Tom Wagstaff as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Appointed Matthew Mellon as Secretary (unanimous)
• Accepted 2024 audit by Robinson, Farmer, and Cox (unanimous)
• Tabled selection of 2025 audit firm until December meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s reports for September and October, including correction (unanimous)

City Council

The Hopewell City Council approved a resolution to designate $90,000 from capital expenditures to the City of Refuge for the Hope Center's homeless shelter. The agreement includes conditions for reimbursement if the shelter fails to meet specific operational requirements.

• Resolution amending FY 2026 Budget to allocate $90,000 to Hope Center
• Commercial lease agreement for 102 Tenth Street, Hopewell
• Lease for 7,560 square feet of warehouse and office space
• Conditions for reimbursement if shelter operations cease

The council voted 5‑0 to allow Councilor Harris to attend meetings remotely. It then voted 6‑0 to approve a one‑year lease of 2,160 sq ft at 102 10th St (the CREW Building) to the City of Refuge at $1,250 per month. The lease will be executed using the corrected lease document supplied by the City Attorney’s Office.

• Approved remote attendance for Councilor Harris (5-0)
• Approved one-year lease of 2,160 sq ft at 102 10th St for $1,250/month (6-0)

City Council

The council will hold a closed session to discuss real estate acquisition or disposition, an unsolicited offer on city‑owned real estate (Francisco Landing), contract negotiations, personnel matters, and the Manker vs. Hopewell lawsuit update. In the open session, they will consider routine consent‑agenda items, a capital funding public hearing, a charter amendment resolution, and other reports. The public hearing on the Sewer Rate Increase Ordinance has been moved to the November 18, 2025 meeting.

• Closed session to discuss real estate acquisition/disposition, unsolicited offer (Francisco Landing), contract negotiations, personnel appointments, and Manker vs. Hopewell lawsuit update
• Ordinance and Resolution for the Capital Funding public hearing
• CDBG Program Documents presentation
• HWR Charter Amendment Resolution
• Sewer Rate Increase Ordinance public hearing moved to Nov 18, 2025

The council approved moving agenda item C‑2 to become the new item R‑7. It authorized a closed‑session meeting and then reconvened in open session. Council members unanimously appointed Courtney Curtis to the CPMT board. The remaining consent‑agenda items were adopted.

• Approved agenda amendment: item C‑2 reclassified as new item R‑7 (6‑0)
• Approved motion to enter closed meeting under Va. Code §2.2‑3711 (6‑0)
• Approved motion to reconvene in open meeting (6‑0)
• Approved appointment of Courtney Curtis to the CPMT board (6‑0)
• Approved adoption of remaining consent‑agenda items as amended (6‑0)

City Council

The City Council will consider zoning amendments for sign regulations and urban agriculture, as well as a conditional use permit for a museum. The body will also review several capital project funding requests for infrastructure and park improvements.

• Public hearing for Historic Hopewell Foundation museum permit at 400 Weston Ln
• Public hearings to amend zoning ordinances for sign regulations and urban agriculture
• Proposed replacement of Mansion Hills and North Colonial Pump Stations ($2M-$4M each)
• Proposed Heretick Ave Stormwater Improvements ($2.3M)
• Proposed Hopewell Community Center upgrades ($2.7M)

The council approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes and adopted the consent agenda. It also voted to hold a closed meeting to discuss real‑estate and personnel matters, then reconvened in open session. Finally, the council appointed three new members to the Hopewell Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board.

• Approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes (6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (7-0)
• Approved closed meeting under Va. Code §2.2‑371 (7-0)
• Reopened meeting as open session (7-0)
• Appointed Drew Dayberry to Economic Development Authority Board (7-0)
• Appointed Thomas Wagstaff and Matthew Melon to Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board (7-0)
• Appointed Vannette Taylor to Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board (7-0)
• Adopted second consent agenda (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The board unanimously approved a closed session to discuss acquiring real property for public use, a prospective business, and related legal matters. The September 8, 2025 meeting minutes were approved as amended. A motion to reimburse Chair Shanna Story $306.36 for a printer purchase also passed unanimously. The vote on the August financials was postponed to the November meeting.

• Approved closed session on real property acquisition, prospective business, and legal counsel (unanimous)
• Approved amended September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved reimbursement of $306.36 for printer purchase (unanimous)
• Tabled vote on August financials to November meeting

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The commission unanimously approved the September 4 meeting minutes (5‑0). It denied A&K Enterprises' request to convert 3400 Oaklawn Blvd. to a residence (4‑0, 1 abstention). It approved Kenri Kade Properties' permit for a two‑story single‑family home on a non‑conforming lot with added off‑street parking condition (5‑0). It also approved Trek Properties' permit for a single‑family home on a non‑conforming lot with six staff‑recommended conditions (5‑0).

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Denied Conditional Use Permit for A&K Enterprises at 3400 Oaklawn Blvd. (4-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Kenri Kade Properties at 405 N. 3-1/2 Ave., with staff conditions and off‑street parking requirement (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Trek Properties, LLC at 501 N. 4th Ave., with six staff conditions (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will convene a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters, including board and commission appointments and a City Manager executive search proposal. The meeting will reconvene afterward to certify compliance with open-meeting laws.

• Closed session for personnel and board appointments
• Discussion of City Manager executive search proposal

The council voted 7-0 to enter a closed meeting to discuss personnel and financial matters. A separate 6-0 vote approved Councilor Stokes attending remotely. The council later voted 6-0 to reconvene the meeting in open session.

• Approved closed meeting motion (7-0)
• Approved remote attendance for Councilor Stokes (6-0)
• Approved reconvening to open meeting (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Hopewell Public Schools Operating Budget and a Blight Nuisance Ordinance. The meeting also includes a work session to review August financials and a closed session to discuss real property and personnel matters.

• Public hearing: Amendment of the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Hopewell Public Schools Operating Budget
• Public hearing: Blight Nuisance Ordinance
• Conditional Use Permit request for a single-family dwelling on S. 19th Ave. (Parcels #013-1595 and #013-1600)
• Operation Ceasefire Grant application
• Approval of Hopecrest Townes street names

The council approved a resolution to amend the FY 2026 budget, moving funds from the warming shelter to the Hope Center, with a 7‑0 vote. It also approved a conditional use permit for a single‑family home on South 19th Avenue (7‑0) and adopted new street names for the Hope Crest Towns subdivision (6‑1). Motions to allow Councilor Stokes remote attendance (6‑0) and to hold a closed session under Va. Code §2.2‑3711 (6‑0) were also passed.

• Approved FY 2026 budget amendment reallocating funds to Hope Center (7-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for single‑family dwelling on South 19th Avenue (7-0)
• Approved street names for Hope Crest Towns subdivision (6-1)
• Approved motion to allow Councilor Stokes to attend meetings remotely (6-0)
• Approved motion to hold a closed session under Va. Code §2.2‑3711 (6-0)

City Council

The council will hold a public hearing on the sale of the property at 633 Eppes St. The meeting also includes a fee change ordinance from the Fire Department, a supplemental appropriation for the school division, and a conditional use permit request for two non‑conforming parcels on S.19th Ave. In the work session, councilors will review proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance for sign regulations and to add urban agriculture as an allowable use.

• PH-4: Sale of the property at 633 Eppes St. (Charles Bennett, Economic Development)
• PH-1: Fire Department fee change ordinance (Chief Ruppert)
• PH-2: School Division supplemental appropriation (Dr. Melody Hackney)
• PH-3: Conditional use permit for parcels #013-1595 and #013-1600 on S.19th Ave.
• Work session: Amendments to Zoning Ordinance Articles IX-A and XVIII (sign regulations, urban agriculture)

The council voted 6-0 to let Councilor Stokes participate remotely. It then approved a closed meeting on real‑estate, contract and personnel matters by a 7-0 vote, and later voted 7-0 to reconvene in open session. Finally, a 7-0 vote appointed Vice Mayor Joyner to the Legislative Committee and Councilor Rapole to the Crater Planning District Commission.

• Approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes (6-0)
• Approved closed meeting to discuss real property, contracts, and personnel matters (7-0)
• Approved reconvening to open meeting (7-0)
• Appointed Vice Mayor Joyner to Legislative Committee (7-0)
• Appointed Councilor Rapole to Crater Planning District Commission (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority of Hopewell will hold a regular meeting on September 8, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building. The meeting agenda is currently procedural and does not list specific items for decision.

• Meeting Notice: Economic Development Authority
• Date: Monday, September 8, 2025
• Time: 4:00 p.m.
• Location: Municipal Building, Sally Port Room
• Contact: Shanna Story, Chairperson

The board approved a closed session to discuss real‑property acquisition and disposition. It then approved the August 4, 2025 minutes, the Treasurer’s Report, and created the B-1 District Real Estate Committee. The Chair appointed four members to the new committee and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved closed session on real‑property matters (unanimous)
• Certified that only exempted matters were discussed (3 affirm, 1 abstain)
• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Established the B-1 District Real Estate Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Evan Kauffman, Drew Dayberry, John Eliades, and Matthew Mellon to the committee
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will convene for a special meeting on August 22, 2025. The primary purpose of the meeting is to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters regarding City Clerk interviews.

• Closed session to discuss City Clerk interviews

The council voted 4‑0 to allow Councilor Stokes and Mayor Partin to join meetings remotely. It then voted 6‑0 to enter a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters under Virginia Code §2.2‑3711(A)(1). The council subsequently voted 6‑0 to reconvene as an open meeting, and a certification motion also passed 6‑0.

• Remote participation for Councilor Stokes and Mayor Partin approved (4-0)
• Closed meeting to discuss personnel matters approved (6-0)
• Reopen meeting as open session approved (6-0)
• Certification of exempt public business approved (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding conditional use permits for single-family homes on non-conforming lots and the addition of museums as allowable uses in the R-4 district. The body will also discuss school division supplemental appropriations and a community forest revitalization program.

• Public hearing: Conditional use permit for single-family dwelling on Spruce St. (Parcel #042-0475)
• Public hearing: Conditional use permit for single-family dwelling on Delaware Ave. (Parcel #067-0065)
• Public hearing: Adding 'Museum' as an allowable use in the R-4 Residential Apartment District
• School Division Supplemental Appropriation request
• Opioid abatement operating agreement approval

The council appointed Robert Gill to the Dock Commission by a 6-0 vote. It also approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes (5-0), adopted a revised agenda order (6-0), authorized a closed meeting to discuss contract and personnel matters (6-0), and amended the agenda to move R-1 to the next meeting (6-0). The consent agenda was adopted unanimously (6-0).

• Approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes (5-0)
• Adopted revised agenda placing city manager’s report before citizen comments (6-0)
• Authorized closed meeting to discuss contract and personnel matters (6-0)
• Reopened open meeting after closed session (6-0)
• Appointed Robert Gill to the Dock Commission (6-0)
• Amended agenda to remove R-1 item and defer it to next meeting (6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (6-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Planning Commission and Wetlands Board will hold a regular meeting on August 7, 2025. The provided agenda contains only procedural meeting notice information.

The commission approved the July 3, 2025 meeting minutes by a 4‑0 vote. It also approved a zoning amendment to update sign regulations for monument‑style freestanding signs, window signs, and other signage in multiple districts, also by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 3, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for sign regulations in B‑1, B‑2, B‑3, B‑4 districts (4-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed

City Council

City Council is holding a work session to discuss the strategic direction of the Hopewell Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. The body is reviewing infrastructure deficiencies and staffing gaps to decide between retaining city operations, contracting maintenance, or pursuing a public-private partnership.

• Proposed $21M+ for high-priority infrastructure improvements
• Recommendation to increase staffing by 15 positions (from 56 to 71)
• Proposed $4.5M for gear replacement and $16.16M for Oxygen Generation Facility construction
• Discussion of three strategic options: hiring a CEO, contracting O&M, or a Public-Private Partnership
• Closed session to discuss City Councilor appointment recommendations

The council voted to allow Councilor Yolanda Stokes to join meetings remotely. It then authorized a closed meeting under Virginia Code §2.2‑3711(A)(1) to discuss council appointment recommendations. Finally, the council voted to reconvene the meeting as an open session.

• Approved remote participation for Councilor Stokes (5-0)
• Authorized closed meeting to discuss appointment recommendations (6-0)
• Reopened meeting by reconvening to open session (6-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Board of Directors will review unfinished business regarding specific properties and city-owned land. A closed session is scheduled to discuss real property acquisition, disposition, and prospective business expansions.

• Discussion of 15 Rev CW Harris St
• Discussion of 509 3 ½ Avenue
• Review of City owned properties for possible EDA use
• Closed session regarding real property acquisition and disposition
• Closed session regarding prospective business or industry expansion

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the July 7 meeting and the Treasurer’s Report. Members agreed to retain the EDA’s post office box. A closed session was approved to discuss acquiring real property and a prospective business, and the session was later closed by unanimous vote.

• Approved July 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Decided to retain EDA post office box (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to discuss property acquisition and prospective business (unanimous)
• Approved motion to end closed session (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council and Finance Committee will discuss preliminary year-end financials for FY25, including budget-to-actual reports for the General and Enterprise funds. The meeting also includes reports on a forensic audit and a rate study.

• FY25 Year-End Preliminary financial report
• Raftelis Rate Study
• FY22 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)
• Forensic Audit Report-Out
• Hopewell Water Renewal Overflow

The Hopewell City Council heard a FY25 financial overview, a sewer rate study recommending a 40% increase, an update on the FY22 audit draft, and a forensic audit of PCard and fuel transactions. Council members discussed the findings and potential policy changes, but no actions were approved, denied, or voted on.

City Council

The City Council will discuss conditional use permits for single-family homes on non-conforming lots and a fee ordinance change for the Fire Department. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a property on Clingman St.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit at 2908 Clingman St.
• Conditional Use Permit requests for single-family dwellings on Spruce St. and Delaware St.
• Proposed Fee Ordinance Change for the Fire Department
• Street Code Waiver for 1729 Maryville
• Discussion regarding the Commonwealth Attorney I position

The council voted to let Councilor Stokes join meetings remotely (5‑0). They adopted a revised agenda placing the city manager’s report before citizen comments (6‑0). A closed‑meeting motion was approved to discuss a public contract and legal matters (6‑0), followed by a motion to reconvene the open meeting (6‑0). Finally, the meeting was extended until agenda item R‑2 was finished (7‑0).

• Allowed Councilor Stokes remote participation (5-0)
• Adopted revised agenda to start with city manager’s report (6-0)
• Entered closed meeting to discuss public contract and legal matters (6-0)
• Reopened open meeting after closed session (6-0)
• Extended meeting until R-2 agenda item completed (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific discussion items or decisions are listed.

The Economic Development Authority approved the June 2 minutes and the Treasurer’s Report without dissent. Members unanimously adopted a revised Electronic Communications Policy allowing regular virtual meetings. The Board also approved a three‑month renewal of the Spectrum Growth contract on the same terms. A closed‑session was authorized to discuss real‑property acquisition and prospective business matters.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report showing $12,697 profit (unanimously)
• Approved revised Electronic Communications Policy for virtual meetings (unanimously)
• Renewed Spectrum Growth contract for an additional three months at existing terms (unanimously)
• Approved FY2026 operation budget support request of $20,000 (unanimously)
• Authorized closed session to discuss real‑property acquisition and prospective business matters (unanimously)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four zoning and permit requests. The board will also discuss initiating amendments to city sign regulations.

• Zoning amendment to allow 'Museum' use in the R-4 District
• Zoning amendment to allow 'Pawn Shop with Conditional Use Permit' in the B-2 District
• Conditional Use Permit for a pawn shop at 705 City Point Road
• Conditional Use Permit for a single-family home on S. 19th Avenue (parcels #013-1595 and #013-1600)
• Proposed amendments to sign regulations in Articles IX-A and XVIII

The commission approved a zoning ordinance amendment to allow museum uses in the R‑4 Residential Apartment district, with a conditional use permit requirement. It also approved a Conditional Use Permit for VetsHousing Solutions LLC to build a single‑family home on non‑conforming parcels. Several agenda items and the previous meeting minutes were unanimously approved, and staff was directed to begin a sign‑regulation amendment.

• Removed public hearings #2 & #3 from agenda (3-0)
• Approved June 5, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Amended agenda to move item #4 to first hearing (3-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for VetsHousing Solutions LLC with conditions (3-0)
• Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendment adding “Museum” to R‑4 district with CUP requirement (3-0)
• Approved initiation of sign‑regulation amendment in Articles IX‑A and XVIII (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss proposed sliding scale membership fees for the Hopewell Community Center and a new fee schedule for the Convenience Center. The body will also hold a public hearing on the CDBG program's Annual Action Plan and 5-Year Consolidated Plan.

• Public hearing for FY2025-2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program plans
• Proposed increase to Hopewell Community Center membership fees starting January 2026
• Presentation on Convenience Center fee schedule
• Ordinance for Deputy Circuit Court Clerk position
• Ordinance for state bonus to Social Services

The council approved appointments to the Bright Point Community College Board and the Hopewell School Board, completing the votes with a unanimous 7‑0 decision. Earlier motions to enter and exit a closed session and to allow remote participation were also passed unanimously. No final decision was made on the proposed sliding‑scale membership model for the community center.

• Motion to enter closed session under Va. Code §2.2‑371 passed 7‑0
• Motion to allow Councilors Stokes and Harris to participate remotely passed 7‑0
• Motion to allow Councilors Harris and Stokes to participate remotely passed 5‑0
• Motion to reconvene open meeting passed 7‑0
• Appointment of Katherine Caricofe to Bright Point Community College Board and Christopher Reber, John Griffin, Heather Bennett to the School Board passed 6‑1
• Separate appointment of Christopher Reber to the School Board passed 6‑1
• Final appointment of Katherine Caricofe, Christopher Reber, John Griffin, and Heather Bennett passed 7‑0

City Council

The City Council and Economic Development Authority (EDA) are meeting for a joint work session. The session focuses on the EDA's roles and powers, recent transactions, and the ranking of key economic priorities.

• Review of the renewal of The Boathouse lease
• Review of the purchase of 3 ½ Avenue property
• Review of the purchase of Rev CW Harris property
• Discussion of the Economic Development Strategic Plan
• Joint ranking of key priorities and initiatives

City Council

The City Council will discuss increasing the FY25 Children's Services Act budget to ensure vendor payments. The body will also consider creating a new Deputy Clerk IV position and hold public hearings on zoning and school board appointments.

• Proposed $1,500,000 budget increase for Children's Services Act Fund-015
• Proposed creation of a Deputy Clerk IV position for the Circuit Court Clerk's Office
• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit at 2908 Clingman St.
• Public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding Auto Related Uses
• Public hearing for School Board Appointments

The Hopewell City Council approved a series of procedural motions, including remote participation for a councilor, a revised agenda order, and a closed‑meeting session. It also certified exempt public business, reconvened the open meeting, and adopted the consent agenda. The council voted 7‑0 to appoint Jennifer Lowery to the Architecture Review Board. A motion to overrule the parliamentarian failed 4‑3.

• Approve remote participation for Councilor Holloway (6-0)
• Adopt revised agenda placing City Manager report before citizen comments (7-0)
• Approve closed meeting to discuss contract and personnel matters (7-0)
• Reopen the meeting after closed session (7-0)
• Certify exempt public business discussed in closed session (7-0)
• Appoint Jennifer Lowery to Architecture Review Board (7-0)
• Motion to overrule parliamentarian fails (4-3)
• Adopt consent agenda (7-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two requests to build single-family homes on non-conforming lots. The board will also consider a zoning amendment to allow urban agriculture in specific commercial and business districts.

• Conditional Use Permit for single-family dwelling on Spruce St. (Parcel #042-0475)
• Conditional Use Permit for single-family dwelling on Delaware Ave. (Parcel #067-0065)
• Zoning Text Amendment to add 'Urban Agriculture' as an allowable use in certain commercial/business districts

The commission unanimously approved the May 1, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved conditional use permits for Baptiste Development LLC on Spruce Street and for George Fetko on Delaware Avenue, each with specific site conditions. The board also approved a zoning ordinance amendment to add “Urban Agriculture” as an allowable use and directed staff to study adding “Museum” to the R-4 Residential Apartment District.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Baptiste Development LLC, Spruce Street (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for George Fetko, Delaware Avenue (4-0)
• Approved Zoning Ordinance Amendment to add ‘Urban Agriculture’ use (4-0)
• Directed staff to research adding ‘Museum’ to R-4 Residential Apartment District (4-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority unanimously approved the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting and the Treasurer’s financial report. A motion to hold a closed session was also approved unanimously, followed by a unanimous vote to exit the closed session. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved May 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved motion to hold closed session (unanimous)
• Approved motion to exit closed session (unanimous)

City Council

The Hopewell City Council will hold public hearings on adopting the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and setting the tax rate. The meeting also includes routine approvals, grant applications, and board vacancies. A closed session will discuss real estate contracts and personnel matters.

• Second reading of FY26 Budget Adoption
• Tax Rate Ordinance Title 34 adoption
• Budget Amendment Resolution for Supplemental Appropriations #4 & #5
• IRF Grant Application Resolution
• Resolution amending FY25 Capital Budget

The Hopewell City Council approved several motions, including allowing a councilor to join remotely, naming a clerk pro tem, and entering a closed session to discuss contracts and personnel. The council then appointed Susan Gill to the District 19 Community Service Board and Britney Irving to the Hopewell Prince George's Healthy Families Board.

• Allowed Councilor Stokes to participate remotely (6-0)
• Named Mr. Bessette clerk pro tem (6-0)
• Amended agenda to move up City Manager reports (6-0)
• Entered closed meeting to discuss contract, real estate, and personnel matters (6-0)
• Reopened open meeting (7-0)
• Certified only exempt matters were discussed in closed meeting (7-0)
• Appointed Susan Gill to District 19 Community Service Board and Britney Irving to Hopewell Prince George's Healthy Families Board (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The meeting also includes public hearings for several zoning and land-use requests and a work session regarding city grants and permits.

• Public hearing for Proposed Budget FY26
• Rezoning request for Cypress St. (B3 to B4)
• Conditional Use Permit request for accessory dwelling unit at 219 S. 16th
• Real Estate Exchange at 15 Reverend CW Harris St
• Grant award of $108,403.00 for a Full Time Arborist

Council approved a closed‑session to discuss a public contract, legal matters, and personnel issues (6‑0). The council certified that only exempt public business was covered in that session (6‑0) and extended the meeting until the CCR‑6 agenda item was finished (6‑0). In a separate vote, councilors overruled the city attorney’s interpretation that an absent councilor’s vote counts as a “no,” passing the motion 5‑1.

• Approved closed‑session on contract, legal and personnel matters (6‑0)
• Certified only exempt public business was discussed in closed session (6‑0)
• Extended meeting until CCR‑6 was finished (6‑0)
• Overruled city attorney’s ruling on absent votes; motion passed (5‑1)

Economic Development Authority

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 7 meeting and the Treasurer’s report. A motion to hold a closed session for discussing real‑property acquisition, disposition, and prospective business was approved unanimously. The board then unanimously voted to end the closed session.

• Approved April 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to discuss property acquisition and business (unanimous)
• Approved motion to end closed session (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to decide whether to terminate the employment contracts of the City Manager and City Clerk. The body will also consider the appointment of interim replacements for both roles.

• Motion to reconsider the February 12, 2025 decision regarding the City Manager's employment
• Decision on whether to terminate the City Manager's employment contract
• Decision on whether to terminate the City Clerk's employment contract
• Appointment of an Interim City Manager
• Appointment of an Interim City Clerk

The council first rejected a motion to waive special‑meeting rules (4‑3). It then approved a motion to reconsider the City Manager's employment (5‑2). Finally, the council voted 4‑3 to terminate City Manager Dr. Concetta Manker without cause.

• Motion to waive special‑meeting rules failed (4‑3)
• Motion to reconsider City Manager employment passed (5‑2)
• Motion to terminate City Manager Dr. Concetta Manker passed (4‑3)
• Motion to end discussion passed (4‑3)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The commission will hold a work session to review proposed updates to Articles IV and V of the Zoning Ordinance with the Berkely Group. In the regular meeting, they will consider a subdivision application for 700 S. 6th Avenue (Parcel #061-0161). No public hearings are scheduled. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and citizen comments on non-agenda items.

• Work session: review of Zoning Ordinance Articles IV and V by Berkely Group
• Subdivision request at 700 S. 6th Avenue (Parcel #061-0161)
• No public hearings on the agenda
• Approval of minutes from April 3, 2025

The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting by a 3-0 vote. It also approved the subdivision of 700 S. 6" Avenue, identified as Parcel #061-0161, also by a 3-0 vote. No other business was taken.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved subdivision of 700 S. 6" Avenue, Parcel #061-0161 (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider the purchase of 101 City Point Rd E and review budget presentations for schools and Hopewell Water. The body is also deciding on ordinances regarding ATVs, rules of conduct, and finance director duties.

• Public hearing for the purchase of 101 City Point Rd E
• Adoption of an ATV ordinance
• Adoption of a Treasurer and Director of Finance Duties Ordinance
• Adoption of Rules of Conduct
• School and HWR budget presentations

The Hopewell City Council voted to enter closed sessions twice to discuss a public contract, reconvened open sessions, certified that only exempt matters were discussed, amended the agenda to allow a councilor’s announcement and to combine agenda items, adopted the consent agenda, and extended the meeting. Councilor Holloway announced his resignation during the meeting.

• Closed session to discuss contract approved (5-0)
• Open session reconvened approved (6-0)
• Certification that only exempt matters were discussed approved (6-0)
• Agenda amended to allow councilor announcement approved (6-0)
• Second closed session to discuss contract approved (6-0)
• Agenda amended to combine CCR-1 and R-1 approved (5-0)
• Consent agenda adopted approved (5-0)
• Meeting extended to item R-9 approved (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Hopewell City Council is holding a special meeting on April 15, 2025, starting with a closed session at 5:00 PM to discuss personnel matters, including appointees to the Hopewell Redevelopment and Housing Authority and city employee attrition due to resignation and retirement. The open session at 7:00 PM includes a budget review presentation by City Manager Dr. Concetta Manker.

• Closed session under Va. Code § 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel matters: board and commission appointees (HR Authority) and employee attrition (resignation and retirement)
• Budget Review (SB-1) presented by City Manager Dr. Manker during open session

The council approved a motion allowing Councilor Harris to participate remotely (5-0). It approved entering a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters (6-0). The council then approved reconvening the open meeting and amended the agenda to add a resolution and move the budget review (6-0). Finally, it adopted a resolution to reimburse the city from proceeds of tax‑exempt financing for capital improvement projects (6-0).

• Approved remote participation for Councilor Harris (5-0)
• Approved closed meeting to discuss personnel matters (6-0)
• Approved reconvening the open meeting (6-0)
• Certified only exempt public business was discussed in closed meeting (6-0)
• Approved agenda amendment adding SB-1 and moving budget review to SB-2 (6-0)
• Adopted reimbursement resolution for capital improvement financing (6-0)

City Council

The Hopewell City Council will hold a regular meeting including a closed session for personnel and legal matters, followed by an open session. The open agenda features a FY26 budget presentation, a public hearing on tax rates, and work session discussions on a conditional use permit, a rezoning, and a subdivision. Regular business includes a VDOT mid-year funding reallocation. The meeting also includes a discussion of ATV and dirt bike regulations.

• FY26 Budget Presentation – Stacey Jordan, Finance Director
• Public Hearing on Tax Rates – Stacey Jordan, Finance Director
• ATV and Dirt Bike Discussion – City Attorney Anthony Bessette
• Conditional Use Permit on non-conforming lot at 219 S. 16th St
• Rezoning Parcels #042-0165 & #042-0170 on Cyprus St from B-3 to R-4

The Hopewell City Council voted 5-0 to direct the city manager to execute a nonbinding letter of intent with Emerson Ventures LLC for commercial space at 200 North Main Street, expected to be available in spring 2027. The council also adopted the regular meeting agenda and the consent agenda, and took several procedural actions including a closed‑meeting vote and extending the meeting.

• Closed meeting to discuss personnel and contract matters (5-0)
• Reopened open meeting (4-0)
• Certified public business exemption for closed meeting (5-0)
• Approved nonbinding LOI with Emerson Ventures for 200 North Main St (5-0)
• Extended meeting to last item of business (5-0)
• Adopted regular meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (5-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority unanimously approved retaining 509 3½ Avenue and renting it out. It also approved hiring a professional property‑management company through an RFP. Members were unanimously appointed Shanna Story as Secretary/Treasurer. The meeting also approved the minutes and treasurer’s report.

• Approved February 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (unanimous)
• Retained 509 3½ Avenue property and authorized rental (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a professional property‑management company via RFP (unanimous)
• Nominated Shanna Story as Secretary/Treasurer (unanimous)
• Authorized closed‑session meeting on real‑property acquisition (unanimous)
• Authorized exit from closed session (unanimous)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Planning Commission will hold a work session on allowing urban agriculture as a permitted use. The regular meeting includes a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a single-family dwelling on Hoke Ave and a zoning ordinance amendment to add conditional use permits for automobile and truck service and sales uses. The commission will also consider the annual report, a subdivision at 700 S. 6th Avenue, and officer elections.

• Work session on urban agriculture as an allowable use in Hopewell
• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit for La Nova Properties to construct a single-family dwelling on Parcel #014-1252
• Public hearing: Amend zoning ordinance to add Conditional Use Permit for automobile/truck service and sales uses
• Subdivision of 700 S. 6th Avenue (Parcel #061-0161)
• Planning Commission Annual Report and election of officers

The Planning Commission approved a zoning ordinance amendment that adds a Conditional Use Permit requirement for automobile and truck service, rental, and sales uses. It also denied a Conditional Use Permit for a single‑family home on Parcel #014-1252. Additional actions included agenda changes, approval of minutes, submission of the annual report, election of officers, and adjournment.

• Removed Subdivision of 700 S. 6th Avenue (Parcel #061-0161) from agenda (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
• Denied Conditional Use Permit for LA Nova Properties on Parcel #014-1252 (4-1)
• Adopted zoning ordinance amendment adding Conditional Use Permit requirement for auto-related uses (5-0)
• Submitted Planning Commission Annual Report to City Council as consent agenda item (5-0)
• Elected Paul Reynolds chairman and Carlos Roman vice‑chairman (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a closed session for personnel, contract, and legal matters, followed by a work session featuring the FY26 budget presentation including fire department budget and capital improvement plan. The regular meeting includes action items on health insurance adoption, HUD community center improvements, pump station replacement, Flock camera expansion, pavement project reallocation, and a water renewal agreement with Prince George. The budget work session outlines proposed expenses, including a 12% health insurance increase and 3% COLA, with capital funding decisions pending.

• R-1: Health Insurance Adoption - HR Director presents plan with 12% increase (~$600K)
• R-2: HUD Hopewell Community Center Improvements - Economic Development Director
• R-3: Earmark miscellaneous pump station replacement city-wide - Public Works
• R-4: Earmark Flock expansion technology - Deputy Chief of Police
• R-6: Prince George-Hopewell Water Renewal agreement - Deputy City Manager and HDR Engineering

Councilors approved a closed‑meeting motion to discuss personnel and contract matters (5‑0). They also approved appointments to the community planning management team, District 19, Architectural Review Board, and Planning Commission (5‑0). The consent agenda and regular agenda were each adopted unanimously (6‑0). Finally, the council adopted Option A for the health‑insurance renewal, splitting the $620,000 cost increase between the city and employees (6‑0).

• Approved closed‑meeting motion to discuss personnel and contract matters (5‑0)
• Certified that only exempt matters were discussed in the closed meeting (5‑0)
• Approved appointments of Latonya Doctor, Brenda Pelham, Rosalyn Capers, Chris Lofstrom, Todd Butterworth (5‑0)
• Extended meeting until completion of R6 (6‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (6‑0)
• Adopted regular agenda (6‑0)
• Approved Option A for health‑insurance renewal, city absorbs $508,000, employees $112,000 (6‑0)

City Council

The City Council will receive an update on the wastewater treatment facility's operational status. The meeting also includes budget presentations for several city departments.

• Wastewater Treatment Facility operation status update
• City Attorney budget presentation
• City Council budget presentation
• Planning and Development budget presentation
• Public Works and Water Renewal budget presentations

The council voted 7‑0 to amend the agenda, replacing item 6 with economic development and parks. A 6‑0 vote allowed Councilor Harris to join remotely. The body entered a closed session on legal and personnel matters (7‑0) and later returned to open session (7‑0). No final vote was taken on the request to hire an additional assistant city attorney.

• Amended agenda to replace item 6 with economic development and parks (7‑0)
• Allowed Councilor Harris to participate remotely (6‑0)
• Entered closed session to discuss legal and personnel matters (7‑0)
• Exited closed session and resumed open meeting (7‑0)
• Certified that only exempt matters were discussed in closed session (7‑0)

City Council

The Hopewell City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting on March 11, 2025. The agenda includes a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant 5-Year Consolidated Plan, presentations on federal earmarks for the Hopewell Community Center, water department, and police department, and consideration of a right-of-way vacation request for 319 Maryland Ave, an MOU for NOVA South, a School Board Appropriation Resolution, and an Opioid Abatement Agreement.

• Right-of-way vacation request for 319 Maryland Ave
• MOU for NOVA South
• HUD earmark presentation for Hopewell Community Center
• Public hearing on CDBG 5-Year Consolidated Plan
• Opioid Abatement Agreement and School Board Appropriation Resolution

The Hopewell City Council approved the reappropriation of unspent school funds for capital needs and entered into a cooperative agreement for a mobile overdose response unit with $41,317 in opioid funding. The council also appointed Arnold Daye to the Planning Commission. Several items were discussed but not voted on, including right-of-way vacation, MOU for NOVA South, and earmark funding requests.

• Approved reappropriation of unspent school funds for capital needs (7-0)
• Approved cooperative partnership for mobile overdose response unit with $41,317 opioid funding (7-0)
• Appointed Arnold Daye to Planning Commission (5-1)
• Approved motion to allow Councilor Stokes to participate remotely (4-0)
• Approved closed meeting for personnel, contract, and legal matters (6-0)
• Approved regular meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda (7-0)
• Approved motion to extend meeting until Finance meeting finished (7-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Hopewell Planning Commission will hold a work session on zoning and subdivision ordinance updates, then a regular meeting with public hearings. Key items include a request to rezone two parcels on Cypress Street from B-3 Highway Commercial to R-4 Residential Apartments and a conditional use permit for an accessory dwelling unit. The commission will also finalize the CIP and consider the Hopecrest Townes subdivision.

• Rezone parcels #042-0165 and #042-0170 on Cypress Street from B-3 to R-4 for apartments
• Conditional use permit for accessory structure as accessory dwelling unit by Esteban Perez
• Finalization of Planning Commission CIP
• Subdivision of multiple parcels as Hopecrest Townes subdivision
• Revision to meeting schedule

Economic Development Authority

The Hopewell Economic Development Authority held its regular meeting, approving minutes, the treasurer's report, and a three-month contract extension with Spectrum Growth Solutions through July 2025. The board unanimously approved a motion to direct staff to develop a plan for options on four properties in the healthcare district and to engage counsel on waterfront properties. It was decided the Chair will draft a letter to City Council requesting $50,000 in operating support plus $100,000 for new initiatives for FY26. The board also received FOIA training and noted an increase in legal hourly rates effective October 1, 2025.

• Approved minutes from February 3, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved motion to develop plan for options on four healthcare district properties (unanimous)
• Approved motion to engage counsel on waterfront properties (unanimous)
• Approved 3-month contract extension with Spectrum Growth Solutions through July 2025 (unanimous)
• Decided to request $50,000 operating support plus $100,000 for new initiatives from City Council for FY26
• Deferred election of 2025 Secretary to next meeting
• Noted legal hourly rate increase from $395 to $425 effective October 1, 2025

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Hopewell Planning Commission is holding a worksession to begin updating the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances with help from consultant Berkley Group. They will review community engagement results, discuss the ordinance structure, and outline the next steps. No votes or decisions are scheduled at this session.

• Review of community engagement summary including survey (83 responses), public workshop (10 attendees), and focus groups (13 representatives)
• Top community priorities identified: preserving green space (31 high-priority votes), reducing crime through design (29), and environmentally-friendly design (28)
• Discussion of proposed ordinance structure and upcoming drafting worksession on March 6, 2025
• Survey results show top zoning priorities: improving community appearance (59%), encouraging new commercial businesses (39%), and increasing flexibility for economic development (28%)
• Berkley Group is leading the ordinance update process with a timeline extending into 2026

City Council

At this worksession, City Council will hear a presentation from Berkley Group on updating Hopewell's Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances. The session covers project purpose, community engagement feedback, ordinance structure, and next steps. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled; the discussion will inform future drafting.

• Presentation of community survey results (83 responses) and public workshop input (10 attendees)
• Review of community preference board priorities: preserving green space (31 high-priority votes) and reducing crime through design (29)
• Discussion of focus group feedback from 13 stakeholders including developers and nonprofits
• Next steps: Planning Commission worksession on March 6, 2025 to review draft articles I, II, III, IX
• Project timeline shows public hearings anticipated in 2026

The City Council, Planning Commission, and staff held the first worksession on the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance update, led by Berkley Group. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational, covering community engagement findings and proposed ordinance structure. Discussion included support for allowing new single-family dwellings on nonconforming lots, with caution about automatic approvals.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; worksession was informational only
• General consensus to support codifying new single-family dwellings on nonconforming lots
• Commissioner expressed concern about automatic approval for undersized lots, suggesting lot combinations

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed Tree Protection and Planting Ordinance establishing rules for trees on public property. The council will also receive presentations on BrightPoint Community College and a Public Access Defibrillator program funded by a $21,023 grant from the Virginia Department of Health. Regular business includes a request to install a Medal of Honor monument at Veterans Memorial Circle, a mid-year budget re-allocation, and councilor requests for a salary increase, discussion of ATV/dirt bike use, and adding a 10K race option.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 02-25 establishing Tree Protection and Planting Ordinance (Chapter 33, Article VI)
• Request for installation of Robert Penn Medal of Honor Monument at Veterans Memorial Circle
• Mid-Year Re-Allocation budget adjustment
• Public Access Defibrillator program – $21,023 grant from Virginia Department of Health for eight AEDs
• Councilor requests: salary increase for councilors, ATV/dirt bike discussion, and adding 10K option to City Point 5K

The Hopewell City Council held a regular meeting on February 25, 2025, where it discussed but did not vote on a proposed council salary increase, instead tabling the discussion until the city regains a bond rating. The council also approved a mid-year fund reallocation, established a Tree Board by resolution, and discussed an ATV/dirt bike ordinance for future action.

• Tabled council salary increase discussion until city has bond rating again (6-1)
• Approved $203,000 general fund salary savings to forensic audit, remainder to City Attorney's office (7-0)
• Approved $339,000 from enterprise funds to HWR for rate study and legal fees (7-0)
• Established Tree Board by resolution (6-1)
• Appointed Stephanie Dayberry, Robin Maiorana, Janet Evans, Betsy Ameen, Chris Lofstrom to Tree Board (7-0)
• Motion to waive second public hearing for tree ordinance failed (4-3)
• Removed R3 from agenda until next budget meeting (7-0)
• Approved closed meeting for personnel, legal, and contract matters (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will receive the CFO's report on the FY25 budget-to-actuals through January and the Treasurer's report. The meeting includes a mid-year budget review with proposed allocation of $203K in General Fund salary savings for a forensic audit and attorney fees. Revenues are trending slightly higher citywide while expenses are up, with notable declines in public service corporation and personal property tax collections due to vendor billing delays.

• Mid-year savings allocation: $203K from General Fund salary savings for forensic audit and attorney fees
• Citywide revenues 1.13% ($2.5M) higher than FY24; expenses 0.28% ($2.3M) higher
• General Fund revenues trending 6% ($1.3M) lower than FY24 due to PSC and personal property tax collection delays
• Enterprise fund revenues up 2.7% ($2.3M) over FY24; expenses down 12% ($2.1M) due to fewer emergency repairs
• Utility water/sewer collection rate reached 99% in January (Storm Water 100%, Solid Waste 99%, Waste Water 98%)

The Hopewell City Council reviewed the Finance Committee's January budget report, noting revenues up 1.13% and expenses up 0.28% citywide, with General Fund revenues down 6% due to personal property taxes. The council approved a motion to close city offices on February 19, 2025, due to inclement weather. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included discussions on the River Walk project and a forensic audit.

• Approved Councilor Harris's virtual participation (4-0)
• Approved city closure on 2/19/2025 due to inclement weather (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting consisting of a closed session. The body will discuss personnel matters and consult with legal counsel regarding direct appointments of City Council.

• Closed session to discuss personnel matters
• Consultation with legal counsel regarding direct appointments of City Council

The Hopewell City Council held a special meeting on February 12, 2025, and voted to allow remote participation and to enter closed session for personnel and legal matters. After reconvening, a motion to terminate the employment of Dr. Concetta Manker without cause failed with a 3-3 vote (Stokes, Harris, Holloway opposed; Joyner, Partin, Daye in favor; Ellis absent). The council then adjourned.

• Approved remote participation for three councilors (4-0)
• Approved closed session for personnel and legal matters (7-0)
• Approved extending the meeting (6-1)
• Reconvened open session (7-0)
• Certified closed session compliance (7-0)
• Denied termination of Dr. Concetta Manker without cause (3-3)

City Council

The City Council will hold a closed session, work session, and regular meeting. They will consider a conditional use permit for a single-family home on Cedar Lane, a zoning text amendment adding 'Municipal Facilities' as an allowable use in the C-1 Conservation District, repeal of a recent conflict of interest policy, and repeal of a resolution reassigning city treasurer duties. A key action item is approving a cooperative agreement for a regional Mobile Overdose Response Unit funded with $41,317 in opioid settlement dollars from FY26-FY30.

• PH-1: Conditional Use Permit to construct a single-family dwelling on a non-conforming lot at 079-0005 Cedar Lane.
• PH-2: Zoning text amendment to add 'Municipal Facilities' as an allowable use in C-1 Conservation District.
• R-1: Repeal of the recent Conflict of Interest Policy.
• CCR-1: Repeal of the reassigning of certain duties of the city treasurer to departments under the city manager.
• WS-2: Approval of $41,317 from opioid settlement funds for a regional Mobile Overdose Response Unit partnership with District 19 CSB and surrounding localities.

The council reached consensus to move forward with marking a fire lane on Bank Street, following a presentation by Fire Marshal Ben Gomes about access problems during a March 2024 fire. The council also approved a conditional use permit for a home on a non-conforming lot on Cedar Lane, added 'municipal facilities' as an allowable use in the C-1 Conservation District, repealed a conflict of interest policy, and directed the city attorney to research treasurer duties. All votes were unanimous (6-0 or 5-0) with one abstention on the policy repeal.

• Approved fire lane marking on Bank Street (consensus, no formal vote)
• Approved conditional use permit for single-family dwelling on Cedar Lane (6-0)
• Approved zoning amendment adding 'municipal facilities' to C-1 District (6-0)
• Repealed conflict of interest policy 9.8 (5-0, Ellis abstained)
• Directed city attorney to return with treasurer duties research (5-0)
• Reappointed Jesse Spruill and appointed Wayne Taylor to Board of Zoning Appeals (6-0)
• Added public hearing notice for tree board and ordinance to consent agenda (6-0)
• Revised January 28 and February 3 minutes to include city attorney as employee (6-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Hopewell Planning Commission holds a work session with the Economic Development Director, followed by a regular meeting. No public hearings are scheduled. The main business is a presentation and discussion of the revised 2024 Planning Commission Annual Report, including proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) items. Minutes from January 9, 2025, will also be considered.

• Work session presentation from Economic Development Director Charles Bennett
• Review and approval of January 9, 2025, meeting minutes
• Presentation of revised 2024 Planning Commission Annual Report
• Discussion of proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) items

The Hopewell Planning Commission voted unanimously to direct staff to investigate and develop an urban farming ordinance, following a citizen proposal to allow small-scale, non-commercial gardening on non-conforming lots. The commission also adopted the agenda and approved previous meeting minutes, with two members abstaining on the minutes vote. No public hearings or Wetland Board business were conducted.

• Directed staff to investigate and develop an urban farming ordinance (4-0)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes as presented (2-0, 2 abstentions)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting focused on a closed session. The body will discuss board and commission appointments, specifically for the Board of Zoning Appeals and Bright Point Community College.

• Board of Zoning Appeals appointments
• Bright Point Community College appointments
• Performance of specific appointees and employees of City Council

The City Council held a special meeting and voted 6-1 to appoint Anthony Bessette as the new City Attorney. Councilor Stokes voted no, citing concerns about a non-competitive process with only one applicant. The council also voted 6-0 to enter a closed meeting for personnel and legal discussions, and 7-0 to certify that only exempt matters were discussed.

• Appointed Anthony Bessette as City Attorney (6-1)
• Moved into closed meeting for personnel and legal discussions (6-0)
• Allowed Councilor Harris to participate virtually (6-0)
• Certified closed meeting complied with Virginia Code (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Hopewell Economic Development Authority unanimously approved the Economic Development Strategic Plan dated November 1, 2024, which was presented to City Council on January 28, 2025. The EDA also approved a by-law exception to keep the 2024 slate of officers for 2025, and approved the purchase of a new QuickBooks online version. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a presentation from Ecoplexus on a potential battery storage project, which was informational only.

• Approved minutes from December 2, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report for November and December (unanimous)
• Adopted Economic Development Strategic Plan dated November 1, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of new QuickBooks online version (unanimous)
• Approved exception to by-laws to keep 2024 officers for 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a school board appropriation, the sale of the Epps property, and zoning amendments. The body will also consider adopting an Economic Development Strategic Plan and a resolution of support for WODA Group development.

• Public hearing on School Board Appropriation
• Public hearing for Zoning Ordinance Amendment to add Churches to R-1-A District
• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for a single-family dwelling at Parcel #013-1210 Atlantic St
• Adoption of Economic Development Strategic Plan
• Resolution of Support for WODA Group on new development

The council approved a resolution to designate a revitalization area for the Wells Point mixed-use development, but also voted 4-3 to require the developer to present a revised plan with a mix of affordable and market-rate units. The council approved several other items, including the sale of city-owned property, a conditional use permit for a home on a non-conforming lot, a zoning amendment allowing churches in R-1A, a school budget supplement, and a new meeting schedule.

• Approved sale of Parcel #0640015 to William Theordore Lunsford Jr. for $20,000 (7-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for single-family dwelling at Atlantic St. (7-0)
• Approved zoning amendment to allow churches in R-1A district (6-0, Holloway absent)
• Approved $3,663,354 supplemental appropriation for schools (7-0)
• Approved Economic Development Strategic Plan (7-0)
• Approved penalty and interest extension resolution (7-0)
• Approved resolution to designate revitalization area for Wells Point (4-3)
• Approved new council meeting schedule starting in March (6-0, Holloway absent)

Finance Committee

The Hopewell Finance Committee will hear a finance report from the CFO and a treasurer's report, then discuss Hopewell Public Schools' Capital Budget Request for FY26. The meeting also includes a closed session for personnel and board appointments. No votes or dollar amounts are specified in the agenda.

• Finance Committee Report from CFO Stacy Jordan
• Treasurer's Report from Mya Bolling
• Discussion of Hopewell Public Schools Capital Budget Request for FY26
• Closed session for board/commission appointments and personnel matters

The Hopewell City Council held a special meeting to receive financial reports, hear a presentation on the city's credit rating, and discuss school capital needs. The council approved a client engagement agreement for interim city attorney services and made appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals, Hopewell Redevelopment Housing Authority, and Virginia Gateway Region Board. No formal action was taken on the financial reports or school capital requests, which were presented for discussion.

• Approved client engagement agreement with Sans Anderson for interim city attorney services (7-0)
• Appointed Roberts Gaines to Board of Zoning Appeals (7-0)
• Appointed Brenda Pelham to Hopewell Redevelopment Housing Authority (7-0)
• Appointed Domonic Holloway to Virginia Gateway Region Board (7-0)
• Approved motion to enter closed meeting for personnel matters (7-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene open meeting (4-0)

City Council

The Hopewell City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and vote on zoning changes, a forensic audit contract, tax penalty waivers, and a conflict of interest policy repeal. Key items include a proposed ordinance to add churches as an allowable use in the R-1A residential district and a strategic economic development plan.

• Zoning ordinance amendment to allow churches in R-1A district (Case #2024-1090)
• Approval of forensic audit contract (amount not specified)
• Waiver of penalties, fees, and interest for Personal Property Taxes until March 7, 2025
• Repeal of recently adopted Conflict of Interest Policy
• City Council to review Economic Development Authority Strategic Plan

The Hopewell City Council held a special meeting on January 16, 2025, and voted 5-0 to allow Councilors Holloway and Harris to participate remotely. The council also certified that the only matters described in the notice for the prior closed session were discussed, as requested by Mayor Partin.

• Approved remote participation for Councilors Holloway and Harris (5-0)
• Certified closed session notice compliance (motion by Vice Mayor Joyner, seconded by Mayor Partin)

City Council

The council will hold a closed session at 6:30 PM for legal consultation and candidate interviews, then convene an open session at 7:30 PM. The only business on the open agenda is a vote on whether to repeal the Conflict of Interest Policy that was adopted on December 10, 2024. That policy was approved by a 4-3 vote (Harris, Gore, Pelham, Holloway in favor; Partin, Denton, Joyner opposed).

• Closed session under Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(7) (litigation) and (A)(1) (candidate interviews)
• SB-1: Repeal of recently adopted Conflict of Interest Policy (Policy No. 9.8)

The Hopewell City Council held a special meeting on January 13, 2025, and took two substantive actions. It voted 4-2 to end all legal action, appeals, and demurs against Councilor Ronnie Ellis, with Ellis abstaining. It also voted 4-2 to repeal the recently adopted conflict of interest policy, with Ellis abstaining. Councilor Holloway voiced opposition, citing ongoing litigation and legal concerns. The minutes note the meeting was not properly certified and will be re-heard at a later date.

• Approved motion to end all legal action, appeals, and demurs to Ronnie Ellis (4-2, Ellis abstained)
• Approved repeal of recently adopted conflict of interest policy (4-2, Ellis abstained)
• Approved remote participation for Councilor Holloway (6-0)
• Approved closed meeting for legal consultation and employment discussions (7-0)

Planning Commission/Wetlands Board

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit to build a single-family home on a non-conforming parcel at Cedar Lane. They will also review the draft 2024 annual report and take action on previous meeting minutes.

• Conditional Use Permit request by Riley Ingram Jr. for Carlos Carrasquillo to build a single-family dwelling on non-conforming Parcel #079-0005 on Cedar Lane
• Review of Draft 2024 Planning Commission Annual Report
• Approval of December 5, 2024 meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to reorganize leadership and adopt administrative policies. The body will also establish the meeting schedule for the year.

• Selection of Mayor and Vice Mayor
• Adoption of Inclement Weather Policy
• Adoption of City Council Meeting Schedule
• Closed session to discuss board and commission appointments

The Hopewell City Council held a special meeting on January 8, 2025, and re-elected John B. Partin as Mayor and Rita Joyner as Vice Mayor. The council adopted an inclement weather policy and the 2025 meeting schedule, with a plan to revisit the May 27 meeting date. It also approved a slate of board and commission appointments and dissolved the Historical Preservation Committee, transferring its duties to the Architecture Review Board.

• Re-elected John B. Partin as Mayor (6-1)
• Re-elected Rita Joyner as Vice Mayor (7-0)
• Adopted inclement weather policy (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 meeting schedule, with May 27 date to be revisited (7-0)
• Approved board and commission appointments (6-0)
• Dissolved Historical Preservation Committee, transferred duties to Architecture Review Board (6-0)