City Council Meeting, 10/20/2026

The Virginia Beach City Council held an informal and formal session on October 20, 2026. During the informal briefing, staff presented updates on the Rudee Park project, detailing that the project was at 60% design, with final design slated for February 2027 and construction projected to start in late fall 2027. Michael Kirschman discussed the fundraising feasibility study recommending an $8 million to $10 million campaign goal managed by the Virginia Gentlemen and proposed a non-profit conservancy governance model. EMS Chief Jason Stroud presented on the Compassionate EMS Billing Program, reporting no major audit findings, $4.2 million allocated to rescue squads, and the addition of seven ambulances. City litigation head Chris Boone provided an update on the federal lawsuit concerning the Virginia Beach National Golf Course sale, followed by extensive council remarks on city progress and housing.

In the formal meeting, council adopted resolutions celebrating the 70th anniversary of Bay Lake United Methodist Church and honoring retired Public Works Director Phil Davenport for 44 years of city service. Public comment on the 2027 draft legislative agenda featured concerns about potential sales tax increases. Council then approved the consent agenda, which included numerous grant appropriations—such as $1.58 million from FEMA for Task Force 2 Urban Search and Rescue and $1 million from the U.S. Tennis Association—as well as street closures, an open space easement purchase for $755,182, and short-term rental permits.

On the regular planning agenda, council approved a variance for four parcels to be reconfigured into two lots off Gumbridge Road and Dolly Road, with condition five stricken. Council also unanimously approved a conditional rezoning from I-1 Light Industrial to A-24 Apartment District for Bonnie Road Apartments LLC to build a 209-unit multifamily community at 4576 Bonnie Road. Finally, Chris Sather was appointed to the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation before adjournment.

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