Mark Barham

The meeting involved addressing minutes from previous sessions in February and March 2019, though some members abstained from voting on specific sets of minutes. The primary focus was a complex application (PCR 19-04-05 and 07) submitted by Mr. Dale on behalf of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. This request involved resubdividing two lots at 316 and 320 Scotland Street to construct a single-family dwelling on the newly configured Lot 5. This required review in two parts: archaeological assessment and subsequent comprehensive plan/rezoning changes. The Commission acted as the archaeological review board, considering Phase 1 and Phase 2 archaeological studies, and the proposed resource management plan. Staff recommended approval of the archaeological assessment contingent on a future Phase 3 data recovery study. Subsequently, the Commission reviewed changing the comprehensive plan designation for the new Lot 5 from 'Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area' to 'Medium Density Single-Family Detached Residential' (RS3) to permit the construction. The applicant emphasized that the design of the proposed home would comport with the architectural requirements of the Colonial Williamsburg Historic District and maintain buffer zones. The Site Plan Review Committee's prior conditional recommendation for approval was clarified.

The work session included a preview of the March 11th City Council meeting agenda. Key items for that meeting include the presentation of the implementation plan for the Neighborhood Balance Workgroup outcomes, accepting VDOT funds for State of Good Repair projects, and finalizing the contract for Capital Landing Road work. The majority of this session was dedicated to a detailed presentation and discussion regarding the Williamsburg Region Library FY22 budget request and operational update. The presentation outlined the library's new strategic plan, mission, and vision, emphasizing reinventing services (like curbside and digital cards), expanding outreach, and planning for a new facility. Discussion also covered the library's strong performance despite the pandemic, including the Wi-Fi hotspot program and 3D printing efforts. The budget revealed a very modest funding increase request for the City of Williamsburg, with larger increases allocated to James City County due to higher checkout rates. The library representative detailed the challenges of the current building, built in 1973, noting its dated infrastructure, lack of modern collaboration and technology space, and low natural light, contrasting it with contemporary library designs. The ongoing project to replace the Williamsburg library with a new joint facility was reviewed, noting public support favored the existing downtown site.

The meeting involved a preview of the upcoming City Council meeting agenda, which included recommendations for the Chief's Advisory Committee and action items concerning an interim agreement for the demolition and construction of a fire station, a budget amendment, and the enactment of the city's public art program. Discussions also covered recommendations for health and human service partnering agencies for Fiscal Year 2022. The Social Services Advisory Board presented funding recommendations for 15 existing agencies, proposing level funding for most due to budget constraints, but recommended a $3,000 increase for Peninsula Agency on Aging and Williamsburg House of Mercy due to increased client needs. Funding was also recommended for a new applicant, 3e Restoration, for $2,000. Separately, the Williamsburg Area Arts Commission discussed the impact of the pandemic on grantees, noting the shift to virtual programming and the need for continued funding at the previous year's level to support grantees who experienced reduced revenue.

The presentation provided a comprehensive update on the Midtown Row mixed-use project. Key discussion points included details regarding the grand opening event scheduled for September 24th, featuring live music, food trucks, and speeches. Construction updates confirmed that four mixed-use buildings and the parking garage have received certificates of occupancy and are occupied, despite minor timeline slips and COVID-related supply chain issues affecting landscaping upgrades which will be completed in the fall. Ongoing site work includes finishing the Village Green and performing arts stage, and improving traffic flow and signage in the Earth Fare parking lot. Future work involves facade improvements to Building 7 (housing SOWS by Victor) and the redevelopment of Building 9 (former Ace Hardware location) to accommodate a Riverside healthcare facility providing outpatient care and physical therapy. Residential leasing status reported 100% lease commitment, translating to approximately 560 to 570 residents currently living on site, with renewals commencing in early October. Retail leasing status was set to be discussed subsequently.

The discussion involved the President of William & Mary addressing the business community regarding the university's adaptation and strategic planning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key priorities for decision-making included protecting health across campus and regional communities, maintaining teaching and learning through remote, blended, and in-person options, and ensuring the workforce remained employed despite incurring significant financial shortfalls. The President highlighted successful COVID-19 mitigation efforts, evidenced by low active case counts, and noted that the pandemic accelerated technological transformation timelines. Long-term focus areas for higher education include expanding career pathways for students to combat underemployment risk, fostering flexibility, demonstrating humility, and focusing on mission-critical issues. Partnerships with local businesses to retain talent were also emphasized.