Oct. 8, 2026 Work Session and Regular Meeting of Staunton City Council

The Oct. 8, 2026 work session and regular meeting of Staunton City Council (City of Staunton, Virginia) included a capital-fund transfer and review of a utility rate study. Council approved a transfer of already appropriated capital funds as presented: about $3.8 million remained from the JDR courthouse project, with nearly $3.3 million proposed for the city infrastructure account, including approximately $500,000 for courthouse furniture, audiovisual equipment, and safety improvements. Other proposed transfers included $288,000 to the undesignated fund and $49,000 to cover a call-handling equipment shortfall. The transcript does not provide a complete roll call for this vote. The city reported that an RFP issued in spring 2026 for the utility rate study was awarded to NewGen Strategies and Solutions; no contract value was stated. The consultant presented findings—not rate recommendations for action—with potential future rate increases and infrastructure needs, including a roughly $10 million water-line replacement. Staff said they would return to council with recommendations.

Council also adopted zoning amendments to allow accessory dwelling units, including a proposed $250 permit fee, no owner-occupancy requirement, and a prohibition on short-term rentals in properties with an ADU; the changes were intended to take effect ahead of the July 2027 state deadline. A separate housekeeping amendment updated the city’s list of zoning districts. The Economic Development Authority convened in closed session concerning a prospective business interested in Frontier Center Phase II, with no public procurement decision disclosed. Other discussion included a successful landfill composting pilot and public comments on policing and surveillance technology.