Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hampton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues with high priority
Development Review Process Improvements
The city has launched a one-stop Development Services Center on City Hall's third floor, where residents and builders can handle permits and approvals in one place. Council toured it to see the citizen experience firsthand.
Short-Term Rental Program Review and Capacity Caps
Council kicked off amendments to the zoning ordinance governing short-term rentals like Airbnb stays. The rules that will shape how these rentals operate in Hampton neighborhoods are now open for revision.
Deaf and Blind school property concerns
Speaker Joan Weaver again criticized the city's handling of the 63-acre Virginia State School for the Deaf and Blind property, which was directed toward industrial use, saying it could have served housing needs.
2027 General Assembly Legislative Priorities
Hampton's wish list for the General Assembly includes stronger building code enforcement across property sales, local control over vape shops, Menhaden conservation advocacy, group home zoning flexibility, renewal of the 1% tourism sales tax, and photo speed enforcement on dangerous streets. Council adopts it ahead of a Nov. 12 delegation breakfast.
Old Buckroe Road Residential Rezoning Proposal
The commission will consider a rezoning request to shift property from an R-13 to an R-9 residential district, paving the way for a new 13-unit single-family housing subdivision. This project will alter local housing density and bring new homes to the area.
Armistead Avenue Rezoning and Industrial-to-Residential Conversion
Applicant Leonard Powell is asking to rezone two parcels on N. Armistead Avenue from heavy manufacturing to single-family residential to allow new homes. One parcel includes proffered conditions while the other does not.
Police-Initiated Towing Rate Adjustments
The city reviewed recommended increases to police tow rates, raising standard tows to $250 and daily storage fees to $55. Council members raised strong concerns about how these increased costs will impact lower-income residents trying to retrieve towed vehicles.
Real Property Assessments and Charter Provisions
City officials presented the annual property assessment results, showing a 3.9% increase in total assessed property value across Hampton. Residents received information on how to review their assessments and file appeals before upcoming deadlines.
Hampton University Regional Economic and Workforce Impact
Hampton University generates nearly $500 million annually for the local economy and is expanding community workforce programs and partnerships with the city.
Fort Monroe 60% Landscape Design Plan
Fort Monroe is undergoing major revitalization, featuring new residential adaptive reuse projects, upcoming African Landing Memorial installations, and a comprehensive Landscape Action Plan designed by Hargraves Jones.
Retail Cannabis Zoning and Operational Regulations
City staff presented proposed zoning districts, use permit requirements, and operating rules to prepare for the legalization of retail cannabis sales in 2027.