City Council Special Formal Meeting, 3/24/2026

The City Council of Virginia Beach held a special formal meeting on March 24, 2026, to consider a conditional rezoning application submitted by Ham Harrison and Lear Incorporated, JBWK LLC, and White Clover LLC. The proposal involves modifying proffers to rezone a portion of a 200-acre property from P1 preservation and PDH1 to conditional P1 and PDH2 zoning, allowing for the development of approximately 143 single-family homes and the restoration of a nine-hole golf course with associated amenities. The project aims to revitalize the neighborhood, increase accessible open space from 3.79% to 40.1%, and provide senior housing within an age-restricted community. Extensive community engagement was highlighted, with over 110 speakers participating, many supporting the plan for its benefits including housing stock expansion, stormwater management improvements, and restoration of recreational amenities. However, significant opposition was voiced concerning the loss of preservation land, increased density beyond the comprehensive plan guidelines, potential traffic and safety issues, and the impact on property values. Legal and zoning concerns were raised about the appropriateness of rezoning P1 land and adherence to the transition area design guidelines. The city staff recommended denial based on non-compliance with density and open space standards. The meeting concluded with a motion to deny the rezoning application, citing the potential negative impact on the established community and precedent-setting concerns.