Meredith Kellam

The City Council held a special formal session to conduct a public hearing regarding the fiscal year 2026-27 operating budget and capital improvement program. Discussions focused on the authorization of various general obligation, water, sewer, and storm water utility revenue bonds, as well as adjustments to utility fees. Additionally, the council heard public input concerning a boundary modification for the town center special district, the creation of the Pembroke Square special service district, and testimony from local business owners and residents regarding the city's prepared meals tax.

The City Council convened to discuss the implementation of a temporary, imminent threat curfew for the Virginia Beach Oceanfront area in response to a recent public safety crisis characterized by multiple shootings and large, unpermitted pop-up events. The discussion covered the current challenges faced by law enforcement, including staffing shortages, the proliferation of firearms, and limitations of existing state laws regarding loitering, marijuana use, and traffic control. The Council considered the proposed curfew as a proactive measure to protect residents and visitors and reviewed historical incident data provided by the Police Chief.

The City Council held an informal meeting featuring a presentation from their federal lobbying firm, the Becker Law Firm. The discussion centered on an update regarding federal legislative efforts, the securing of substantial federal grant funding, and the successful acquisition of sites for school bus parking. The council and lobbyists also discussed future priorities, including opportunities for funding in transportation, infrastructure, coastal resiliency, and cultural institutions, while addressing concerns about the impact of inflation on city projects.

The City Council meeting included the recognition and honoring of Captain Harry Mcbrien for his service to the city and Police Department. Additionally, the Council celebrated Sergeant Trisha J. Shelton, the first African-American female sergeant in the Virginia Beach Police Department. The Council also recognized the 48th anniversary of the Lambda Gamma Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, highlighting its contributions to community service in the City of Virginia Beach.

The council received a briefing on the unaudited financial results for fiscal year 2015, covering the general fund, school funding, water and sewer enterprise fund, and waste management fund. Key discussion topics included revenue performance, expenditure variances, the status of the unassigned fund balance, and the city's funding strategy for schools. The council also addressed concerns regarding the future of the five-year forecast, the necessity of longer discussion periods for joint meetings, and received various liaison reports, including an update on a successful library event.