City of Bristol, VA

The City Council meeting of Bristol, Virginia, held on August 25, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. The council approved the fiscal year 2026-27 performance contract with Highlands Community Services, which included revisions related to Medicaid revenue reporting and fund management. A zoning ordinance amendment was approved to require special use permits for data or call centers, adding oversight and public input opportunities for such developments. The council also approved a zoning map amendment to rezone properties from general industrial to moderate density residential to facilitate rehabilitation for housing. Financial reports highlighted general fund revenues and expenditures, noting a significant debt payoff that saved the city millions in interest. Additionally, the council approved a budget transfer of $3,634 and several street closure requests for community events. The meeting concluded with the hiring of Kendra Hayden as the new economic development director.