Hampton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hampton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Online permit portal replacement
Customer surveys show staff service is excellent but the online permit portal is the biggest frustration. Council has already funded new software, and the new system should let applicants track their permits start to finish.
Disposal of Public Land on Kecoughtan Road
Council went into closed session to discuss selling or transferring publicly owned land along Kecoughtan Road, keeping negotiation details private to protect the city's bargaining position.
Victoria Boulevard Property Acquisition
The city accepted a donated property at 4205 Victoria Boulevard assessed at $933,500, tied to the dissolution of the Charles H. Taylor Memorial Library Trust.
Placemaking strategic priority and proposed projects
The city reported big wins — 2,900 people at neighborhood block parties, new playgrounds, a perfect Municipal Quality Index score — and proposed low-cost projects like a Sandy Bottom music garden, Buckroe Beach fitness area, and sensory rooms in community centers, pending December funding from year-end savings.
Local Music Scene and Placemaking Recognition
Council got an update on Placemaking — the city's push to make public spaces and neighborhoods more welcoming, walkable, and active.
Towing Fee Adjustment
Hampton just raised its towing fees for the first time in 20 years, so getting your car out of the impound is going to cost you a lot more. The city approved the hike to help local tow companies keep up with inflation.
Voting Rights
Got a past felony conviction? A federal court just gave hundreds of thousands of Virginians their voting rights back, and the Hampton NAACP is hosting a forum tonight to help everyone get registered in time.
Bridge Closure
Get ready for some traffic headaches because the King Street Bridge and the Langley AFB gate are closing for maintenance starting October 26. You'll definitely want to map out some alternate routes before heading out.