Williamsburg City Council Votes Unanimously in 2025
Here's the summary of every vote, hearing and discussion they had this year
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The Williamsburg City Council considered plenty of contentious issues over the course of the year. They made decisions about taxes, debt, budget cuts, city staffing, investments in infrastructure, schools, a new library, housing developments and even parking. These were hot-button issues to be sure. Yet none drove a wedge between the council’s public solidarity as they registered only unanimous votes in 2025.
Williamsburg City Council by the numbers in 2025:
5 at-large members of council (Mayor Douglas Pons, Vice-Mayor Pat Dent, Barbara Ramsey, Stacy Kern-Scheerer, Ayanna Williams)
28 meetings / 8 closed sessions
131 total votes
40+ separate issues for consideration/action
100+ presentations and discussions
40+ public hearings and open forums
130+ public comments
Below is more detail about these meetings, votes and discussion in 2025.
January 9, 2025
New/re-elected members sworn in for 4 year tearms (Pat Dent, Barbara Ramsey, Ayanna Williams). Doug Pons reappointed as mayor, and Stacy Kern-Scheerer continue in their 4 year terms.
January 9, 2025 votes:
Election of Mayor (Doug Pons) — Carried (5-0-0)
Election of Vice Mayor (Pat Dent) — Carried (5-0-0)
Reappointment of Clerk of Council (Dustie McCay) — Carried (5-0-0)
Reappointment of City Attorney (Christina Shelton) — Carried (5-0-0)
Reappointment of City Manager (Andrew Trivette) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-01 (Adoption of Policies and Procedures Manual) — Carried (5-0-0)
Approval of December 2024 Minutes — Carried (4-0-1; Williams abstained)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
January 9, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
February 10, 2025
Council members focused on launching the RAFT resilience program, reviewing rising-cost Smart Scale transportation projects on Lafayette Street and Richmond Road, and receiving the inaugural Town & Gown report on William & Mary’s community impact.
Residents raised concerns about downtown density and student housing pressures, and the meeting concluded with administrative previews and a closed session on personnel and school-related contracts.
February 10, 2025 votes:
Enter Closed Session — Carried (5–0–0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5–0–0)
Adjournment — Carried (5–0–0)
February 10, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
February 13, 2025
At its February 13, 2025 meeting, City Council authorized 11 new apartments at 1006 Richmond Road (former Wells Fargo building), accepted the FY2024 audit and awarded tourism funding to the Muscarelle Museum. The Council also adopted its 2025–26 policies and made a key board appointment, as well as recognized a longtime employee, approved prior minutes, advanced a historic church reconstruction.
During the open forum, residents raised concerns about off-campus student housing, city finances, and government growth, while also expressing support for Child Development Resources and praising recent project presentations. In the public hearing, a property owner described a proposed apartment project as an adaptive reuse of a 54-year-old building, requested keeping the back entrance open for safety, and confirmed a two-person occupancy limit, while another resident opposed the project.
February 13, 2025 votes:
January 9 Minutes — Carried (5–0–0)
License Agreement (First Baptist Church encroachment) — Carried (5–0–0)
PCR #24-026 (1006 Richmond Road apartments) — Carried (5–0–0)
FY2024 Annual Audit (ACFR) — Carried (5–0–0)
Tourism Grant ($95,970 to Muscarelle Museum) — Carried (5–0–0)
2025–26 Policies & Procedures Manual — Carried (5–0–0)
Architectural Review Board Appointment (Regina Konet) — Carried (5–0–0)
Adjournment — Carried (5–0–0)
February 13, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
February 14, 2025
The City Council held a Budget Retreat on February 14, 2025, at the Williamsburg Fire Department to review economic conditions, infrastructure needs, and the city’s financial outlook while shaping the FY2026 preliminary budget. It was noted that the city maintains excellent credit ratings and has the lowest property tax rate of any other city in the state. Discussions emphasized tight margins in a roughly $110 million budget, long-term capital and utility funding challenges, and cautious consideration of major projects amid inflation, interest rate pressures, and housing affordability concerns.
During public comments, a resident praised the city’s financial presentations, supported planned water infrastructure investments, and requested clarification on how an $8.5 million water supply payment to Newport News would be handled in the FY26 budget and five-year capital plan.
February 14, 2025 votes:
Call to Order — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
February 14, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
March 10, 2025
The City Council’s March 10, 2025 work session centered on funding requests from community, arts, and human services organizations, along with a preview of upcoming legislative actions tied to the downtown library project. Council heard proposals for consolidating Child Development Resources into a single Family Resource Center, reviewed outside agency funding recommendations totaling several million dollars for FY2026, and received requests supporting conservation education programs.
During public comments, several residents opposed the development of a children’s park at Peacock Hill, arguing that the Henry Street pasture serves as a historic buffer supporting Colonial Williamsburg’s rare breed program and provides a quiet entrance to the area. Concerns were also raised about the transparency and inclusiveness of the evaluation process for the new library building, while support was expressed for the renovation and expansion of the Child Development Resources facility, highlighting its positive impact on families.
March 10, 2025 votes:
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
March 10, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
March 13, 2025
Council advanced transportation improvements through VDOT Smart Scale funding, authorized negotiations for the library’s design,approved a new Poet Laureate program, amended the FY25 budget for tourism-related grants, and made appointments to the Public Art Council.
At the meeting, public comments centered on the proposed Peacock Hill children’s park, the downtown library, and infrastructure communication. Opponents of the park cited its historic significance and fiscal concerns, while supporters emphasized family-friendly benefits and community well-being. Library comments criticized the evaluation process but highlighted the need for a new facility to address maintenance issues. Additional remarks called for better public notification of projects and improved snow and ice removal on shaded sidewalks.
March 13, 2025 votes:
Approval of Minutes (Feb. 10, 13, and 14) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-02 (VDOT Smart Scale Projects) — Carried (5-0-0)
Library Interim Design Agreement (Hourigan Construction) — Carried (5-0-0)
Williamsburg Poet Laureate Program — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-03 (FY25 Budget Amendment) — Carried (5-0-0)
Public Art Council Appointments — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment (3:40 p.m.) — Carried (5-0-0)
March 13, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
March 14, 2025
On March 14, 2025, Williamsburg City Council met jointly with the Williamsburg–James City County School Board and the James City County Board of Supervisors to review a mid-year academic update and discuss the upcoming FY2026 operating budget. The academic report highlighted strong performance across the division, including full accreditation for all schools, a 95.3% on-time graduation rate, SAT scores exceeding state and national averages, solid SOL results, and a chronic absenteeism rate well below the state average, alongside discussion of new state performance frameworks and student intervention strategies.
Budget discussions focused on rising costs and funding pressures, including reduced state support due to changes in the Local Composite Index, $3.28 million in mandatory cost increases, more than $10 million in compensation adjustments tied to market benchmarking, and a projected $13.9 million funding gap, with officials also noting risks related to federal funding uncertainty and potential impacts to the local economy.
March 14, 2025 meeting sources: minutes
April 7, 2025
At the April 7, 2025, work session, the City Council reviewed the proposed FY26 budget, major capital priorities, and upcoming legislative actions, including a closed session on board appointments and surplus property. The $112.3 million budget aimed to address structural imbalances and fund critical utility infrastructure through project reductions, cost cuts, and frozen positions, while also proposing increases to water, meals, lodging, and admissions taxes, though the Council indicated interest in scaling back the children’s park borrowing and admissions tax.
Public comment reflected strong opposition to the children’s park at Peacock Hill, with residents citing historic preservation and rising debt concerns, while others questioned the shift of COVID relief funds away from affordable housing and suggested alternative revenue strategies.
April 7, 2025 votes:
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
April 7, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
April 10, 2025
Council focused on finalizing the FY26 budget, advancing planning for the downtown library, and expanding cultural programs. The $112.3 million proposal included a 30% water rate increase, a new 10% admissions tax, and $1.9 million in various spending reductions. The proposed budget maintains the real estate tax rate at 62 cents per $100 on assessed value, which continues to be the lowest among Virginia cities. Council also approved a phased interim agreement for the library allowing public engagement before construction. Other actions included authorizing bond refinancing to reduce debt, appointing the city’s first Williamsburg Poet Laureate, and approving continued funding for the Ampersand International Arts Festival.
Public comment was dominated by local restaurant and hospitality owners who voiced strong opposition to proposed tax increases, citing ongoing recovery challenges and potential impacts on staffing and customer traffic.
April 10, 2025 votes:
Minutes from March 10 and March 13 — Carried (5-0-0)
Interim Agreement with Hourigan Construction (Library Design) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-04 (General Obligation Bond Refunding) — Carried (5-0-0)
Appointment of Lacroy Nixon as Poet Laureate — Carried (5-0-0)
Performance Agreement with AVAdventure Productions (Ampersand Festival) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-05 (FY25 Budget Amendment for FEMA/Litter Grants) — Carried (5-0-0)
Appointment of Middleton Smith to Farmers Market Advisory Board — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
April 10, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
May 5, 2025
Council reviewed a proposed $103 million budget, reduced by $9 million through project eliminations and cost cuts, scaled back proposed meals and lodging tax increases, restructured the admissions tax and examined a water agreement with Newport News Waterworks requiring no upfront payment.
Public comment focused on fiscal restraint, with calls to roll back meals, lodging, and admissions taxes, skepticism about building a new library, support for cutting park funding, and ongoing Indian Springs concerns about student rentals, large parties, and landlord accountability.
May 5, 2025 votes:
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
May 5, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
May 8, 2025
At its May 8, 2025, meeting, City Council adopted the $103 million FY26 budget, reflecting a $9 million reduction from the initial proposal, reviewed mixed revenue trends in the monthly financial report, and approved water rate increases to fund long-term infrastructure upgrades. Council also postponed action on meals, lodging, and admissions tax ordinances until January 2026, while emphasizing that plans for a new library and a Comprehensive Plan update remain flexible.
Public comment centered on the financial impact of proposed taxes and broader spending priorities. Hospitality industry representatives strongly opposed meals, lodging, and admissions tax increases, arguing they place disproportionate strain on businesses still recovering from the pandemic. Residents also debated the need for a new library versus renovating the existing facility, raised concerns about city staffing growth, and suggested neighborhood management tools such as a party permit system and a landlord contact database.
May 8, 2025 votes:
Minutes from April 7 and April 10 — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-07 (FY26 Budget Adoption) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance #25-05 (Establishing New Water Rates) — Carried (5-0-0)
Postponement of Ordinance #25-02 (Transient Lodging/Meals Tax) — Carried (5-0-0)
Postponement of Ordinance #25-03 (Admissions Tax) — Carried (5-0-0)
Board Appointments (Historic Triangle Bicycle Advisory Committee) — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
May 8, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
June 9, 2025
City Council reviewed new state laws affecting local policy, including changes to tax deferrals for elderly and disabled residents, authority to transfer long-vacant properties to land banks, and requirements to address faith-based affordable housing in comprehensive plans. Members also discussed shifting site plan and subdivision approvals to a council-appointed designated agent to meet new state review deadlines.
Public comment was led by Indian Springs residents concerned about the growing concentration of student rentals, which they said is eroding the neighborhood’s historic character. Speakers described large parties, noise, and poorly maintained properties as ongoing problems and called for party permits and stricter landlord accountability. Another resident also questioned the $600,000 cost of the comprehensive plan update and urged a review of spending on the proposed downtown library.
June 9, 2025 votes:
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
June 9, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
June 10, 2025
A closed session pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 of the Code of Virginia to discuss one personnel matter regarding appointments to boards and commissions, certification of the closed session, and adjournment. Meeting source: agenda
June 12, 2025
The June 12, 2025 City Council meeting reviewed solid revenue performance, the rollout of the RAVE emergency alert system, and a series of utility and service contracts, including bulk water purchases, lagoon maintenance, and a one-year extension of curbside trash collection. Council also approved underground utility repair contracts, expanded tax exemptions for surviving military spouses, updated mutual aid with Camp Peary, and adopted technical zoning changes tied to stormwater and Chesapeake Bay rules.
At the meeting, residents voiced strong opposition to a commercial-style student housing development in Indian Springs, citing neighborhood deterioration, disruptive behavior, and safety hazards, and called for stricter landlord accountability and party permits. The proposed 50,000 sq. ft. library drew criticism for its high cost and regional imbalance, with suggestions to renovate the existing facility instead. Additional comments highlighted student vulnerability to predatory rental practices and inadequate city enforcement, prompting calls for higher fees and holding landlords responsible for emergency service costs.
June 12, 2025 votes:
Minutes from May 5 and May 8 — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-06 (Zoning Text Amendment) — Carried (5-0-0)
Contract for Lagoon Residuals Removal — Carried (5-0-0)
Bulk Water Purchase Agreement (Newport News) — Carried (5-0-0)
Solid Waste Collection Contract (Republic Services) — Carried (5-0-0)
Utility Service Contracts (Branscome and JSG) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-10 (Camp Peary Mutual Aid) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-09 (FEMA IPAWS MOU) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-11 (Appropriating Grants/Donations) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-07 (Real Estate Tax Exemptions) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-08 (Board of Equalization Recommendation) — Carried (5-0-0)
Appointments to Boards and Commissions — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
June 12, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
July 10, 2025
Council approved special use permits for the Redoubt Ridge project and Slick City Action Park, revisited the Rent Ready Williamsburg program, and appointed a designated agent for development plan approvals under new state requirements. Additional actions included selecting a digital parking management system and supporting a grant for the next phase of Trail 757 along Jamestown Road.
Public comment was again filled by Indian Springs residents worried about the growing impact of student rentals on neighborhood stability. Speakers warned that a proposed student housing “campus” could accelerate noise, parking, and property maintenance problems, raising safety concerns for pedestrians and emergency vehicles. Several residents called for stricter enforcement of existing codes and suggested strengthening and accelerating the Rent Ready program to better protect neighborhood quality.
July 10, 2025 votes:
Minutes from June 9 and June 12 — Carried (5-0-0)
Table PCR 25-009 and PCR 25-010 (Food Lockers) — Carried (5-0-0)
PCR 25-011 (Quarterpath Slope Encroachments) — Carried (5-0-0)
PCR 25-012 (Slick City Action Park) — Carried (5-0-0)
Appointment of Designated Agent (Tevya Griffin) — Carried (5-0-0)
Purchase Agreement with Passport Labs (Parking) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-12 (Trail 757 Grant Support) — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
July 10, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
August 11, 2025
During the work session, council members reviewed public feedback about a new library, with survey respondents expressing strong support for expanded collections, better children’s and teen spaces, and improved technology and makerspace areas. Council also heard a financial briefing showing the city holds top-tier credit ratings and a robust unassigned fund balance equal to more than half of annual general fund revenues.
The Council convened a closed session to discuss personnel evaluations for the City Manager and City Attorney, as well as appointments to boards and commissions. They also discussed property matters related to the disposition of surplus property and the acquisition of property for economic development.
During the August 11, 2025, session, public comments focused on support for a new downtown library and concerns about the city’s digital parking system. Residents praised the library as a vital community resource and family hub, noting that the current building’s outdated infrastructure makes renovation insufficient, while also critiquing limited public involvement in early planning. Separately, concerns were raised about managing guest parking under the new digital system.
August 11, 2025 votes:
Motion to enter Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
August 11, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
August 14, 2025
At the August 14, 2025 City Council meeting, members approved key public safety and infrastructure projects, including outfitting the new police station, purchasing a multimillion-dollar fire truck, granting an easement for electrical lines and EV chargers, and funding Route 132Y pavement replacement. The Council also accepted a TANF grant for social services and joined a settlement to secure opioid treatment funds for Virginia.
The Council held a closed session to discuss the award of a public contract involving school-related funds, specifically where open discussion would have adversely affected the city’s bargaining position.
Public comment focused on the new library project and the city’s digital parking transition. A resident supported replacing the obsolete facility while another criticized the $26 million library estimate, arguing it disproportionately impacts city taxpayers while primarily serving regional users. The digital parking system also drew concerns, with residents noting a lack of public input and raising practical issues about online permits, visitor parking for events, and accommodations for contractors and household staff.
August 14, 2025 votes:
Minutes from July 10 — Carried (5-0-0)
Easement for Dominion Energy (Police Station) — Carried (5-0-0)
Contract for Police Station Furniture (Ball Furniture) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-10 (Increasing Parking Fines) — Carried (5-0-0)
Route 132Y Pavement Project Purchase Order — Carried (5-0-0)
Purchase of Fire Apparatus (Pierce Enforcer) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-14 (Fire Truck Bond Reimbursement) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-13 (TANF Grant Budget Amendment) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-15 (Sackler Opioid Settlement) — Carried (5-0-0)
Motion to enter Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
August 14, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
September 8, 2025
The City Council Work Session on September 8, 2025, focused on regional economic development, sports tourism, and municipal business, including infrastructure, code updates, EMS contracts, and opioid-related claims. Presentations emphasized tourism-driven growth through the Sports Williamsburg initiative and regional collaboration in emerging nuclear, aerospace, and uncrewed systems sectors, with potential partnerships involving William & Mary.
The Council convened a closed session to discuss two legal matters concerning a public contract involving school-related funds as well as appointments to boards and commissions.
During public comment, a resident raised concerns about the city’s new digital parking management system as an infringement on privacy and freedom of association.
September 8, 2025 votes:
Motion to enter Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
September 8, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
September 11, 2025
At the September 11, 2025, City Council meeting, members updated ordinances to align with state land-use rules and transferred plat and development plan approvals to the Planning Director. They revised EMS fees for uninsured residents, addressed digital parking issues, and approved infrastructure and pedestrian improvements. The Council also granted a Dominion Energy easement, introduced a $50 short-term event permit fee, and authorized participation in a $720 million opioid settlement
Residents focused their comments on the city’s new digital parking management system, expressing concerns about privacy and surveillance, with some arguing that digital license plate registration effectively turns neighborhoods into “gated communities.” Speakers also criticized the system’s complexity, suggesting that simpler solutions like physical hang tags or bumper stickers would be more practical and less intrusive for both residents and visitors.
September 11, 2025 votes:
Minutes from August 11 and August 14 — Carried (5-0-0)
Easement for Dominion Energy (Mooretown Road) — Carried (5-0-0)
PCR 25-022 and 25-023 (Zoning/Subdivision Amendments) — Carried (4-0-0)*
Purchase Orders for Traffic Signals (UPC 115418 & 115503) — Carried (5-0-0)
EMS Billing Services Contract — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-13 (Expanded EMS Fees) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-17 (Opioid Settlement Participation) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-14 (Special Event Permit Fee) — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
(*Council Member Kern-Scheerer absent for this part of the vote)
September 11, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
October 6, 2025
The October 6, 2025, City Council work session focused on developing the city’s 2026 Legislative Agenda, which will guide its priorities for the upcoming General Assembly session. The draft agenda was organized around carryover priorities such as protecting local zoning authority, seeking state funding for Trail 757 and the Capitol Trail, monitoring passenger rail improvements, and restoring excess fee funding for the Clerk of the Circuit Court, along with staff-driven issues including proposed City Charter amendments and authority to use contracted parking enforcement due to high visitation.
There were no speakers during either the public comment period or the Open Forum. The Council convened a closed session to discuss a special award, the award of a public contract involving school-related funds, and specific legal matters requiring council advice concerning code enforcement.
October 6, 2025 votes:
Motion to enter Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
October 6, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
October 9, 2025
Council members approved tighter zoning rules for vape shops, requiring special use permits and barring them from the LB-1 district, and advanced City Charter amendments to align with state law, including moving council elections to November in even-numbered years. The Council also authorized pursuit of a state grant to study a housing rehabilitation program in Highland Park aimed at helping residents age in place and reduce displacement. The Council approved the purchase of a new dump truck, updated environmental regulations on erosion and stormwater management, and authorized development of a mobile app and printed materials for the African-American Heritage Trail, with a Juneteenth 2026 opening planned.
No public comments were offered.
October 9, 2025 votes:
Minutes from September 8 and September 11 — Carried (5-0-0)
PCR #25-008 (Vape Shop Zoning Amendment) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance #25-14 (Charter Amendment Request) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution #25-18 (Highland Park Planning Grant) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance #25-15 (Environmental Protection Amendments) — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
October 9, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
October 10, 2025
The joint meeting between Williamsburg City Council, James City County Board of Supervisors, and the WJCC School Board approved a new joint-operationg contract for the school division.
October 10, 2025 meeting sources: agenda packet
November 10, 2025
At the November 10, 2025, work session, the City Council reviewed plans for a new 50,000-square-foot Williamsburg Regional Library to replace the aging Scotland Street building, citing limits of renovation and the loss of key features under a $20 million cap. Members also considered a proposal to lease 162 acres near the Waller Mill Reservoir for a solar and battery facility, weighing projected revenue against environmental and watershed concerns.
Public comments showed strong support for building a new regional library, with several residents describing it as a vital community asset whose cost would only rise if delayed. Library opponents raised concerns about financial transparency and the project’s total cost, warning of increased fiscal risk from other large commitments as well. A speaker also voiced opposition to the proposed solar project near the reservoir, citing the importance of preserving forested buffers to protect the city’s water quality.
November 10, 2025 votes:
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
November 10, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
November 13, 2025
At the November 13, 2025, City Council meeting, members approved redevelopment plans for Colonial Williamsburg’s new arrival center, authorized up to $10 million in utility bonds, adopted the 2026 Legislative Agenda, and received an update that the new police station will open in early 2026. They also approved road resurfacing, equipment purchases, recycling services, sports center financing, and a grant-funded generator replacement.
The council convened a closed session to discuss three specific areas: personnel matters related to board and commission appointments; legal consultation regarding the provision of advice on a pending contract; and a property matter concerning the disposition of a leasehold interest in city property.
Public comments focused on financial and privacy concerns. One resident warned that interest on the $10 million utility bonds could significantly increase the stated total cost over 30 years. Other speakers urged the city to end its use of Flock license plate reader cameras, citing privacy and surveillance issues. No residents spoke during the public hearing on the Colonial Williamsburg arrival center project.
November 13, 2025 votes*:
Minutes from October 6 and October 9 — Carried (4-0-0)
PCR #25-018 and #25-024 (Visitor Arrival Center) — Carried (4-0-0)
Resolution #25-20 (Water/Sewer Revenue Bonds) — Carried (4-0-0)
Resolution #25-22 (2026 Legislative Agenda) — Carried (4-0-0)
Bids for FY25 SGR Road Resurfacing — Carried (4-0-0)
Purchase of ALTEC Bucket Truck — Carried (4-0-0)
Recycling Services Agreement Amendment — Carried (4-0-0)
Quarterpath Recreation Center Generator Replacement — Carried (4-0-0)
Resolution #25-21 (HTRFA Financing/Sports Center) — Carried (4-0-0)
Motion to enter Closed Session — Carried (4-0-0)
Certification of Closed Session — Carried (4-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (4-0-0)
(*Council Member Williams absent)
November 13, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet, video
December 4, 2025
At the December 4, 2025, City Council meeting, members met with state legislators to review the city’s 2026 legislative priorities, including City Charter updates to align the city’s governing document with state law and modern operating practices Council also seeks the authority to use third-party parking enforcement, and expanded regulation of student rental properties. They also request funding for trails, passenger rail, and William & Mary projects.
There was no public comment recorded at the meeting.
December 4, 2025 votes: None
December 4, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet
December 5, 2025
On December 5, 2025, Williamsburg City Council joined the Williamsburg–James City County School Board and the James City County Board of Supervisors for a special joint meeting at Legacy Hall in New Town focused on long-term school planning. Central to the discussion was the superintendent’s proposed FY27–FY36 Capital Improvement Plan, which outlines major facility investments and construction projects anticipated over the next decade. The presentation included findings from an enrollment and facilities study prepared by an educational planning consultant, which analyzed current and projected student enrollment, capacity at existing schools, and how demographic trends could affect future space needs across the division.
December 5, 2025 meeting sources: agenda packet
December 8, 2025
The Council convened a closed session to discuss appointments to boards and commissions.
December 8, 2025 votes: None Reported
December 8, 2025 meeting sources: minutes, agenda packet
December 11, 2025
During its December 11, 2025, business meeting, Williamsburg City Council advanced plans for the new downtown library by authorizing Phase 2 of the interim design agreement, allowing the contractor to complete 35 percent of construction drawings and provide a guaranteed maximum price to help manage rising costs. The Council also approved a land exchange with William & Mary to expand Cedar Grove Cemetery in exchange for other city-owned property. Council accepted the FY25 audit and declined a proposed Waller Mill solar farm. Council did approve a temporary “Musical Swings” public art installation, warning tracks at Quarterpath Park, and purchasing EV charging stations for the new police station.
Public comments reflected both support and concern, with several speakers praising the new downtown library as a vital community resource and economic driver, while fiscal and process issues were raised by another. Additional remarks supported the temporary “Musical Swings” public art installation as a way to create inviting community gathering spaces.
December 11, 2025 votes:
Minutes from November 10 and November 13 — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-18 (W&M Deed Exchange) — Carried (5-0-0)
Phase 2 Library Interim Agreement — Carried (5-0-0)
Acceptance of the FY25 ACFR — Carried (5-0-0)
Emergency Water Line Repair (Botetourt St.) — Carried (5-0-0)
Resolution 25-23 (Appointment of Fire Marshal) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-16 (Appeal of Real Estate Assessments) — Carried (5-0-0)
Ordinance 25-17 (Agricultural Sales Tax Exemption) — Carried (5-0-0)
Contract for Quarterpath Park Warning Tracks — Carried (5-0-0)
Temporary Art Installation (Musical Swings) — Carried (5-0-0)
Contract for Police Station EV Charging Stations — Carried (5-0-0)
Board and Commission Appointments — Carried (5-0-0)
Adjournment — Carried (5-0-0)
December 11, 2025 meeting sources: agenda packet, video
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