City Council Special Formal Meeting, 4/15/2026

The City Council of Virginia Beach held a special formal meeting on April 15, 2026, primarily focused on public input regarding the fiscal year 2026-27 operating budget, capital improvement program, and the authorization of $72,827,365 in stormwater utility revenue bonds and loan proceeds. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments concerning the city's prepared meals tax, with numerous speakers from the restaurant industry and local community expressing strong opposition to the current high meals tax rate. Speakers highlighted the negative impact of the tax on small businesses, restaurant employees, and families, urging the council to reduce or eliminate the meals tax to support economic growth and provide tax relief. Discussions also touched on budget allocations, including concerns about funding for parks, capital projects, and tax credits. No formal votes or motions were recorded in the transcript, but the meeting underscored community concerns about tax policy and its effects on local businesses and residents.