Author Archives: Todd Solomon

SDCC Monthly Meeting Proposed Schedule – Monday Feb. 28th – Next In-Person Meeting Date

Posted on by

SDCC Meeting Dates for 2022 – Meeting starts at 7:30pm at the Ocean Park Rescue Squad Hall

Monday February 28th

Monday June 27th

Monday October 24th (a week early due to Halloween)

Due to the resurgence of COVID, we have decided to adjust the planned in-person meeting schedule for 2022. Our first in-person meeting is planned for Monday February 28th. The additional meetings for 2002 are set for a 4 month interval and will be scheduled for June 27th and October 24th. The meetings will still be held at the Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad and will start at 7:30pm. The new meeting schedule is in accordance with the approved By-Law amendment approved here. Emergency meetings will still be possible when need arises, so check the website periodically and sign up for the enewsletter.

bylaws-2020-revision-draft-strikethrough-removedDownload

SDCC future meeting schedule dates

Sen. DeSteph Proposed SB#602 to Gut City Short Term (STR) Rental Oversight

Posted on by

The City of Virginia Beach discussed and voted to prohibit all future STRs in the City except for Oceanfront tourist zoning (ORD). Residential neighborhoods expressed opposition to unrestricted by-right usage of residential homes for daily STR rentals. The proposed Senate Bill created by Bill DeSteph recommends that localities have no authority over STRs and that they should be allowed in all areas per local zoning without restrictions. This appears to allow STRs to be created in all residential zoning with no restrictions. The SDCC opposed unrestricted STRs in the Bayfront for fear of impact to neighborhood living. Allowing unrestricted by-right usage of all residential homes for STR would in essences make the neighborhoods large hotels where tourists can rent homes on a daily basis with no oversight or limit. If you would like to comment on this proposed Senate Bill, please use the following link to express your concerns.

The following is the link to the proposed SB602 with the opportunity to comment.

https://www.richmondsunlight.com/bill/2022/sb602/

Here is a story from WAVY 10 regarding the SB602

State senator proposes bill limiting local governments’ power over Airbnb and Vrbo rentals

Here is an article from the Virginian Pilot regarding the SB602

https://www.pilotonline.com/business/consumer/vp-nw-short-term-rental-bill-0126-20220125-qbk3q4snsvazdowbgkqs7efxpe-story.html

Dredging of Keeling Drain Planned for April 2022. Lynnhaven Boat Ramp to be Used as Spoils Transfer Station.

Posted on by

The City of Virginia Beach plans to dredge the Keeling Drain in April 2022. It is estimated that 60% of the material will NOT be beach quality sand. So that means about 1000 dump trucks worth of spoils will have to come through the Lynnhaven Boat Ramp transfer site. That equates to about 1 truck every 5 minutes for 10 working days (8 hour period). It is unknow if there are any planned restrictions for noise and traffic impacts for this industrial operation. It is worth paying attention to see how this operation works in case the City tries to use the LBR site for future neighborhood dredge transfer operation. Around the clock operation at the LBR is not a good idea. Stay tuned and voice your concerns as this project progresses.

VMRC Agenda Link – https://mrc.virginia.gov/Commission_Agendas/ca20220125.shtm

A. CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH, #21-1817 Requests authorization to maintenance dredge (by mechanical means) approximately 32,500 cubic yards of State-owned submerged bottomlands from within the Keeling Drain portion of the Eastern Branch of the Lynnhaven River City Channel. Dredging will attempt to achieve maximum depths of minus eight (-8) feet at mean low water. Sandy dredged material will be offloaded at the City’s Lynnhaven Beach and Boat Ramp facility, located at 3576 Piedmont Circle along Crab Creek, and utilized for future beach nourishment projects. Offloaded dredged material that is not beach quality sand will be contained and transported to an approved upland disposal site.

City Launches Website to Help Residents Understand Redistricting Changes

Posted on by

Shore Drive will now fall under 3 Councilmembers, 1-Norfolk to Lesner Bridge, 2-Lesner Bridge to State Park, 3-State Park to Atlantic Ave.

City Launches Website to Help Residents Understand Redistricting Changes

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Jan. 25, 2022) – ​The City of Virginia Beach Communications Office has launched a new webpage designed to assist residents seeking information about changes to the local election system and redistricting. Available online at www.VBgov.com/vb10, the webpage features:

  • A tool that allows residents to research in which of 10 new voting districts an address is located
  • Answers to 10 frequently asked questions related to the impacts of redistricting
  • An explanation of the redistricting process and why these changes are happening
  • Access to more information about the court case on which the changes are based
  • Contact information for questions that may not be addressed on the page
  • A link for neighborhood association and civic organization leaders to provide contact information for future communications
  • A video from the Jan. 11 City Council meeting in which City staff provide an overview of where the City is in the redistricting process and how these changes will impact voting

Additional material will be made available over the next several weeks to include community organization toolkits and updates to the FAQ section.

Residents with specific questions may email vb10@vbgov.com.

SDCC General Meeting – Monday Sept 27th at 7:30pm

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the agenda

9.27.21-sdcc-agendaDownload

SDCC General Meeting Agenda

Monday September 27, 2021 from 7:30 to 9:00pm

Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Hall – 3769 East Stratford Rd

(parking in back, on side streets and across Shore Drive)

Special Presentation – None

Officer’s Reports

Secretary – Kathleen Damon
Treasurer’s Report –Tim Solanic

Vice President – Empsy Munden

President – Todd Solomon

Old Business-

  • Westminster-Canterbury (WC) High Rise and Memory Center Expansion – City Council approved in November 2020.  Update on lawsuit filed by adjacent homeowners.
  • Windsong Development – 411 units off of Pleasure House Road in Chic’s Beach.  This project was approved by City Council.  Residents filed suit against the City.  Update on lawsuit.
  • Short Term Rental Overlay Districts – City Council voted to remove Cape Story by the Sea as an STR overlay.  Council voted to prohibit all future STRs from the city except for the Resort Tourist Area at the Oceanfront which will still allow approval of new STRs using the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process.

New Business –

Marlin Bay Apartment Complex – 197 units 4 story buildings are being proposed at the intersection of Marlin Bay Drive and Shore Drive. This project was opposed by the Bayfront Advisory Commission and the SDCC.  The project received approval from the Planning Commission and will now be heard by City Council for final approval.  Ocean Park Civic League is leading the opposition.  Updates on this project will be discussed.

City of VB Stormwater and Flood Protection Program Bond Referendum – The City is placing a bond referendum on this November’s ballot asking for approval to issues bonds to raise money to expedite projects that will help prevent and protect neighborhoods from stormwater and flooding problems.  The only planned in-person public information meeting is scheduled for Thursday Sept. 30th at 6:00pm in Municipal Center Bldg. 19.

Next SDCC Meeting – TBD

Bayfront Advisory Commission Meeting – Thursday July 15th at 3:30pm

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the agenda –

20210715pln_bac-mtg-agendaDownload

BAYFRONT ADVISORY COMMISSION

July 15, 2021, 3:30 pm

Ocean Park Rescue Squad, 3769 E. Stratford Rd.

.

CALL TO ORDER OF MEETING

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Review and Approval of Minutes from 6/17/2021

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Welcome Guests and Introductions – Phil Davenport, Chair

STAFF REPORTS & UPDATES

          Mark Shea

COMMITTEE REPORTS & UPDATES

Design – Bob Magoon, Joe Bovee (volunteer)

Communications – Vacant

          Public Safety, Transit, Parking & Pedestrian Access – Vacant

PRESENTATIONS

Housing Resource Center programs presentation – Erin Walker

Remote Participation policy – Kay Wilson

OLD BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS

COMMUNITY REPORTS & UPDATES

ADJOURN

Monday May 24th @ 7:30pm SDCC Meeting – Guest Speaker VB City Engineer to discuss Stormwater Projects on Shore Drive

Posted on by

Click here for printable version of agenda 

5.24.21-sdcc-agenda-1Download

SDCC General Meeting Agenda

Monday May 24, 2021 from 7:30 to 9:00pm

Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Hall – 3769 East Stratford Rd

(parking in back, on side streets and across Shore Drive)

Special Presentation –

 Eastern Shore Drive Stormwater Improvements (CIP 7-151) – Mr. Brad Vanderwarker, City of Virginia Beach City Project Engineer, will update us on the progress of the stormwater upgrades east of the Lesner Bridge. 

Officer’s Reports

Secretary – Kathleen Damon

Treasurer’s Report –Tim Solanic

Vice President – Empsy Munden

President – Todd Solomon

Old Business-
Proposed Developments –

  • Westminster-Canterbury (WC) High Rise and Memory Center Expansion – City Council approved in November 2020. Residents pursued legal opposition and jury has heard and will pursue based on May 2021 presentation.
  • Marina Shores Apartment Expansion – Approved by BAC, VBPC and VBCC. Additional 50 units will require a traffic study at intersection of North Great Neck and Lynnhaven Drive.
  • Windsong Development – 411 units off of Pleasure House Road in Chic’s Beach. This project was approved by City Council.
  • Beach Building Group, Inc., 2332 Pleasure House Road, Conditional Change of Zoning from R-7.5 Residential to A-16 Apartment District. Opposed by BAC.  Reevaluation on May 20th.
  • Marlin Bay Apartment Complex – 197 units 4 story buildings are being proposed at the intersection of Marlin Bay Drive and Shore Drive. This project was opposed by the Bayfront Advisory Commission on April 15th.

Short Term Rental Overlay Districts Proposed Cape Story by the Sea – Councilman Jim Wood asked for an ordinance change to create a STR overlay district in Cape Story which will allow “By Right” use of residents for STRs as long as they meet the guidelines in the code.  Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association voted on Nov. 9th to oppose any STR overlay district in its neighborhood.  The BAC will vote at their Nov. 19th meeting on a STR position for the Bayfont.  The Planning Commission approved an alternative suggestion to allow an STR overlay in Cape Story.  City Council will follow the suggested approval schedule:

May 25 – City Council workshop to discuss regulations

June 1 – Public Hearing on STR ordinances

June 15 – City Council vote on STR Ordinances

New Business –

Future Operations of SDCC

Next SDCC Meeting – Monday June 28th, 2021

Bayfront Advisory Commission Virtual Meeting – Thur. April 15th @ 3:30pm – Marlin Bay Apartments Presentation

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the agenda – https://weloveshoredrive.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/20210415pln_bac-regular_rev1.pdf

SPECIAL NOTICE – NEW PROCESS FOR MAKING COMMENTS AT BAC MEETINGS. SEE BELOW

If you wish to make comments virtually during the meeting, please follow the two-step process below:

  1. Register online for the Virtual Meeting at https://vbgov.webex.com/vbgov/onstage/g.php?MTID=e0fe0c76f8d309ffd43987de1784289f3
  2. Register with Mark Shea by calling 757-385-2908 or via email at MEShea@vbgov.com  by noon (12:00 p.m.) on April 15, 2021.

BAYFRONT ADVISORY COMMISSION

April 15, 2021, 3:30 p.m.

VIRTUAL WEBEX MEETING

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Review and Approval of Minutes from 3/18/2021

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Welcome Guests and Introductions – Phil Davenport, Chair

STAFF REPORTS & UPDATES

COMMITTEE REPORTS & UPDATES

Design – Bob Magoon, Joe Bovee (volunteer)

Communications – Vacant

          Public Safety, Transit, Parking & Pedestrian Access – Charles Malbon

PRESENTATIONS

  1. Beach Building Group, Inc., 2332 Pleasure House Road – Conditional Change of Zoning (R-7.5 Residential District to Conditional A-18 Apartment District) – 8 units
  • Marlin Bay Apartments – Conditional Change of Zoning (B-2 and PDH-1 Districts to Conditional B-4 Mixed Use District) Conditional Use Permit (Multi-Family Dwellings)

OLD BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS

COMMUNITY REPORTS & UPDATES

ADJOURN

Bayfront Advisory Commission Virtual Meeting – Thurs. March 18 at 3:30pm – Special Presentation on Bay Beach Sand Replenishment

Posted on by

Virtual meeting is on Webex.  Information and links to join are listed after the agenda at bottom of page

 

BAYFRONT ADVISORY COMMISSION

       March 18, 2021

         3:30 p.m.

      VIRTUAL MEETING

Please contact Mark Shea at 385-2908 or meshea@vbgov.com for the virtual meeting link.

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Review and Approval of Minutes from 2/18/2021

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

Welcome Guests and Introductions – Bob Magoon, Vice-Chair

STAFF REPORTS & UPDATES

COMMITTEE REPORTS & UPDATES

Design – Bob Magoon, Faith Christie, Joe Bovee (volunteer)

Communications – Vacant

Public Safety, Transit, Parking & Pedestrian Access – Charles Malbon

PRESENTATIONS

  • Modification of Conditional Use Permit for Overture development – identification signage.  Click here for images Overature Signage BAC Mtg
  • Shore Drive sand replenishment update – Dan Adams, Public Works

 OLD BUSINESS

 NEW BUSINESS

 COMMUNITY REPORTS & UPDATES

ADJOURN

 

Virtual Meeting Information

Join meeting

More ways to join:

Join from the meeting link

https://vbgov.webex.com/vbgov/j.php?MTID=m4ec209057920320f4414ebcbe50949c8

 

Join by meeting number

Meeting number (access code): 160 087 4247

Meeting password: SGA1

 

Join by phone

+1-415-655-0003 US Toll

Global call-in numbers

 

SDCC Riterates Opposition to Short Term Rental (STR) Overlay District for East Shore Drive (Cape Story by the Sea)

Posted on by

In light of the recent shootout at a STR and the upcoming Planning Commission vote on the STR overlay district for East Shore Drive, the SDCC has sent the following email to the Planning Commission and City Council reiterating its opposition to any STR overlay in the Shore Drive Corridor.

Dear Planning Commission Members,

As we approach your Wednesday hearing on the proposed Short Term Rental ordinance change, I wanted to share this recent occurrence in Chic’s Beach in the Shore Drive area.  Please take a moment to comprehend what you are proposing for the Cape Story by the Sea neighborhood and how similar occurrences can impact well established city neighborhoods.  Your recommendations, similar to those of City Council, will effectively change our residential neighborhood into a tourist destination similar to the oceanfront.

The following statement and attached flyer were provided by 3rd precinct officers.

Additionally, I would like to let you know that the on going issues associated with Air BnBs Rentals was a topic of conversation at the most recent Chiefs meeting. Officers have been informed that they are to forward any Air BnB issues up the chain of command. This will help develop a stronger argument backed with statistics when the issue is addressed by the city.

Again, to date, no reply or data has been provided to our requests regarding the total # of homes, total possible STRs, and explanation as to why the Cape Story neighborhood is targeted as a STR overlay compared to any other neighborhood in VB.  We have asked for information the past 2+ weeks to help with the upcoming hearing.  Since no data or any type of civic engagement outreach has been attempted for this entire process, it is still the Shore Drive Community Coalition’s recommendation to oppose any overlay created in the Cape Story neighborhood, no matter how the boundary is manipulated.

Thank you for your review of this information and we hope that you recognize that this whole process is flawed and any recommended overlay along Shore Drive is unjustified and just wrong.

Sincerely,

Todd Solomon

Shore Drive Community Coalition President

Sunday Feb. 28th Shootout at Chic’s Beach Short Term Rental – Police Seek Information

Posted on by

Police Detectives are circulating the following flyer in hopes to find information regarding a recent shootout that took place early Sunday morning February 28th at 4504 Ocean View Ave.  If you have any information, you are asked to contact Detective Pittman, epittman@vbgov.com

Click here to see the Police flyer Shootout Flyer

Summary: On 02/28/21, at approximately 0538 hours, an unknown type of sedan (possible Toyota Celica) occupied by at least two suspects pictured below appeared to stage outside of a party located at 4504 Oceanview Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA. That vehicle moved slowly westbound appearing to have shots come out the passenger side before driving away being shot at by at least two shooters in the front yard of 4504 Oceanview. The sedan stops at Fentress/Oceanview, driver gets out firing one shot at the direction of 4504 Oceanview; the passenger gets out firing multiple shots in the same direction. Another vehicle, Jeep SUV black in color, comes from the direction of the firing of gunfire to turn off into a parking lot at Fentress/Oceanview. The driver gets out of the black Jeep (pictured below, appears female) and switches to passenger side of vehicle. The Jeep then goes back to the direction of 4504 Oceanview Avenue. Please let Detective Pittman know of any information or identification related to this incident and/or pictures below.

 

Planning Commission Hearing on Short Term Rental Overlay District – Wed. March 10th at Noon.

Posted on by

The Planning Commission will be voting at their Wed. March 10th meeting to adopt a proposed ordinance change to Short Term Rentals.  The meeting will be held at Noon Wednesday in the VB Convention Center.  The Commission will recommend that Short Term Rentals(STR) be allowed in a Cape Story by the Sea overlay district that includes a section of the Cape Story neighborhood north of Shore Drive between First Landing State Park and the Food Lion shopping Center.  See the image below for the supported overlay district.

All STRs outside of overlay districts will be prohibited in the future if this ordinance is approved.  So that will make Cape Story’s overlay one of only 3 areas in the City that will continue to allow STRs for the future.  The Bayfront Advisory Commission, Shore Drive Community Coalition and Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association have all voted to oppose STR overlays.  So it appears that the Planning Commission and City Council are ignoring the residents and attempting to set up a process that will be detrimental to neighborhood communities.

Anyone opposed to the proposed STR overlay district in the Shore Drive neighborhood is asked to register to speak against the ordinance at the Wednesday meeting.  You can register to speak in person or virtually at the following link.  In-person set up will be limited and socially distanced, so virtual is probably the best option if you plan to speak.

More information regarding the proposed ordinance change and the Planning Commission and City Staff review can be found here Microsoft Word – 20210310PLN-CUR-02-Short Term Rental Ordinance (vbgov.com)

To sign up to speak virtually or in-person, click here Planning Commission :: VBgov.com – City of Virginia Beach

 

Bayfront Advisory Committee Virtual Meeting – Thursday Feb. 18th at 3:30pm

Posted on by

The BAC will hold it’s monthly meeting virtually on Thursday Feb. 18th at 3:30pm.  Information on how to join the meeting is provided below.

 

Join from the meeting link

https://vbgov.webex.com/vbgov/j.php?MTID=m7b53584da1d043c27d365672bdc3cf22

Join by meeting number

Meeting number (access code): 180 823 4958

Meeting password: SGA1

 

Join by phone

+1-415-655-0003 US Toll

BAYFRONT ADVISORY COMMISSION

        February 18, 2021

          3:30 p.m.

           VIRTUAL MEETING

 

Please contact Mark Shea at 385-2908 or meshea@vbgov.com for the virtual meeting link.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Review and Approval of Minutes from 1/21/2021
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
Welcome Guests and Introductions – Phil Davenport, Chair
STAFF REPORTS & UPDATES
 
COMMITTEE REPORTS & UPDATES
Design – Bob Magoon, Faith Christie, Joe Bovee (volunteer)
Communications – Vacant
          Public Safety, Transit, Parking & Pedestrian Access – Charles Malbon
 
ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR FOR 2021
 
CONSIDERATION OF RULES AND PROCEDURES AMENDMENT
   
OLD BUSINESS
 NEW BUSINESS
 COMMUNITY REPORTS & UPDATES
ADJOURN

Planning Commission Virtual Workshop Tues Feb 23 at 6pm – Short Term Rentals

Posted on by

The Planning Commission will hold it’s 2nd virtual workshop on Tuesday Feb 23rd at 6pm to continue discussion on the topic of Short Term Rentals and City Council’s recommended ordinance change to create overlay districts which include East Shore Drive (Cape Story by the Sea) neighborhoods.

Residents will not be permitted to talk, but can watch all the action virtually by registering at the link below.  You can submit questions prior to the meeting that the Planning Commission may read and discuss.

More information regarding City Staff, the Planning Commission and City Council’s work on this topic can found at the following link Planning Commission Workshop :: VBgov.com – City of Virginia Beach

 

PLANNING COMMISSION WORKSHOP
SHORT TERM RENTAL PROPOSED ORDINANCES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021
6:00 pm

Workshop will be held by Electronic Means (WebEx)

Registration Information:

https://vbgov.webex.com/vbgov/onstage/g.php?MTID=e6dc3567b617c4e2d2e2d8a98c74938a0 

Members of the public may view the Workshop in real time as noted above. The public may submit comments to the Commission by sending an email to STR@vbgov.com no later than 5:00 p.m on February 22, 2021.

Short Term Rental Ordinance Change – Planning Commission Public Hearing – Wed. Feb. 10th at Noon

Posted on by

The Short Term Rental (STR) ordinance proposed by City Council will be heard by the Planning Commission at their Wed. Feb. 10th Noon meeting.  Due to COVID restrictions, the meeting will be virtual only.  Anyone wishing to participate needs to sign up to speak by 5pm on Tuesday Feb. 9th.  You can sign up by clicking the following link https://vbgov.webex.com/vbgov/onstage/g.php?MTID=e0aca5338abc082119d4666dda389d9a1

You can read the full meeting agenda here https://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/planning/boards-commissions-committees/Documents/PC/2021/02%20February/20210210-PLN-CUR-Agenda.pdf

The City Council proposed ordinance recommends a “by right” overlay district for East Shore Drive that covers 60% of the Cape Story by the Sea neighborhood.  “By right” means if approved, all 450 homes in this overlay can apply to run STRs through the City permitting process.  More information about the ordinance can be found here https://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/planning/Pages/Short-Term-Rentals.aspx

The Shore Drive Community Coalition opposes the current ordinance change that would allow all homes to be used as short term rentals.  Unlimited creation of STRs will lead to demise of the neighborhood character that is so special along Shore Drive.

The Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association, the Bayfront Advisory Commission and the SDCC have all voted to oppose “by right” overlays for any Shore Drive neighborhood.  Vice Mayor Jim Wood has stated he will request the removal of East Shore Drive as an overlay when the ordinance comes back to City Council from Planning Commission review.  

SDCC has sent the following letter to the Planning Commission asking for the East Shore Drive overlay to be removed.  The letter is copied below with the email from Vice Mayor Jim Wood as an attachment

January 27, 2021

Subject:. Request to Remove “East Shore Drive” as an overlay district from proposed STR Ordinance Amendment

Dear Planning Commission Members,

On behalf of the Shore Drive Community Coalition, I formally request that you recommend the removal of the East Shore Drive (ESD) “Cape Story by the Sea” Overlay District from the proposed Short Term Rental (STR) Ordinance amendment sent to you by City Council on October 21, 2020.

East Shore Drive, like any neighborhood in the Shore Drive Corridor, is not compatible for the large volume “by right” proliferation of weekly rentals that this recommendation would create.  There are many specific reasons why this overlay district is a bad idea, but I am just going to list a few of the most overarching ones.

  • Vice Mayor Jim Wood, the creator of this proposed overlay, has stated he will ask for this overlay to be removed from the amendment.  Mr. Wood’s email has been attached for information.
  • The West Shore Drive overlay, originally proposed by Councilman Louis Jones, was removed prior to the amendment being finalized and sent to the Planning Commission.  All of the same reasons the West Shore Drive overlay was eliminated are the same reasons the East Shore Drive overlay is unacceptable.
  • The Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association voted unanimously to oppose the ESD overlay.
  • The Bayfront Advisory Commission (BAC) voted unanimously to oppose the ESD overlay and any STR overlay in the Shore Drive Corridor.
  • The Shore Drive Community Coalition (SDCC) voted unanimously to oppose the ESD overlay and any STR overlay in the Shore Drive Corridor.
  • The Shore Drive Corridor Plan states, “The Shore Drive area is first and foremost a residential community, comprised primarily of residential neighborhoods…It is envisioned that this predominance as a residential community should continue to form the backbone of land use for the area.”

Thank you for your consideration of this request and I hope you see the wisdom in making the recommendation to remove the ESD overlay from the STR Ordinance Amendment.

If you have any questions, I can be reached at 667-8533 Cell or todd@sdcc.info

 

Sincerely,

Todd R. Solomon

Shore Drive Community Coalition, President

 

Attachment to SDCC Letter to Planning Commission dated January 27, 2021

From: James L. Wood [mailto:JLWood@vbgov.com]
Sent: Tuesday, January 5, 2021 4:11 PM
To: emunden@aol.com; Todd Solomon <todd@sdcc.info>
Subject: Eastern shore drive overlay

I’m going to request that this area be removed from the overlay proposal.

 

Jim Wood, Vice Mayor

Virginia Beach City Council

757-366-1011 mobile & text

Sent from my mobile account

 

SDCC’s Short Term Rental Overlay District Opposition Letter to City Council

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the SDCC letter – SDCC STR Opposition Letter

Additional opposition to STR Overlay District in Cape Story by the Sea:

Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association – CSBTS_BACLetter_STR_11192020signed

Bayfront Advisory Commission – BAC STR Overlay Opposition Email

SDCC Opposes STR Overlay District in Cape Story by the Sea and Anywhere Along Shore Drive Corridor

December 31, 2020

Dear Mayor Dyer and City Council Members,

The Shore Drive Community Coalition (SDCC), a 20 year old organization made up of local civic groups representing residents in the Bayfront area of Virginia Beach, formally requests that the Short Term Rental (STR) Overlay District, randomly created by Vice Mayor Wood, for the Cape Story by the Sea neighborhood (East Shore Drive) be removed immediately from the proposed STR ordinance change.

Similar to the official opposition positions taken by the Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association and the Bayfront Advisory Commission, the SDCC voted unanimously at its November 23rd meeting to “Oppose the creation of a STR Overlay District in the Cape Story by the Sea (East Shore Drive) neighborhood as well as any future STR Overlay Districts in the Shore Drive Corridor.”

The Shore Drive Corridor Plan states, “The Shore Drive area is first and foremost a residential community, comprised primarily of residential neighborhoods…It is envisioned that this predominance as a residential community should continue to form the backbone of land use for the area.”

The Shore Drive Corridor, the most densely populated section of the City, consists of small lots sizes of 5000 and 7500 square feet narrow streets that don’t allow for on-street parking.  These conditions result in area that is not appropriate for the uncontrolled proliferation of “by right” STR business zoning that will be created by the overlay district that is being proposed.

If you have any questions, I can be reached at 667-8533 Cell or todd@sdcc.info

 

Sincerely,

Todd R. Solomon

Shore Drive Community Coalition, President

 

Short Term Rental Virtual Workshop – Thursday Jan. 7, 2021 at 6:00pm

Posted on by

The City’s Planning Department will be holding a virtual workshop regarding the newly proposed ordinance to create Short Term Rental Overlay districts that will allow “by right” operation of STRs for all homes located in an overlay.  Shore Drive East (Cape Story by the Sea Neighborhood) is one of the proposed overlays.  For more information and to register for the workshop, see links below.  SDCC has also asked for an additional workshop to be scheduled since the mailer identifying the December workshop didn’t arrive in time to support that event.

City website for information on Short Term Rentals – https://www.vbgov.com/government/departments/planning/Pages/Short-Term-Rentals.aspx

 

STR VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

THURSDAY JANUARY 7, 2021
6PM-7PM

The next scheduled Short Term Rental Virtual Workshop is January 7th, 2021.

TO REGISTER: CLICK HERE

PRESENTATION FROM CITY STAFF — PUBLIC WILL BE ALLOWED TO PROVIDE QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS

 

SDCC General Meeting and Special Presentation on Neighborhood Crime Improvement – Mon Nov. 23rd at 7:30pm

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the agenda 11.23.20 SDCC Agenda

 

SDCC General Meeting Agenda

Monday November 23, 2020 from 7:30 to 9:00pm

Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Hall – 3769 East Stratford Rd

(parking in back, on side streets and across Shore Drive)

 

 

Special Presentation – 

Neighborhood Crime and Improvement Survey – Officer M.R. Torrance, Virginia Beach Police Department Third Precinct will update us on neighborhood crime issues and discuss a Neighborhood Improvement Survey his precinct is currently running.  He would also like to hear any additional concerns the residents may have and discuss ways to help.

 

Officer’s Reports

Secretary – Kathleen Damon; Treasurer’s Report –Tim Solanic; Vice President – Empsy Munden; President – Todd Solomon

 

Old Business-
Proposed Developments –

  • Westminster-Canterbury (WC) High Rise and Memory Center Expansion – City Council and the City were officially served on Nov. 13th. They have 21 days to reply from that date.  The Go Fund Me campaign has raised $22k of the $30k goal.
  • Marina Shores Apartment Expansion – A 60 unit 5 story (65ft tall) building is being proposed along North Great Neck Rd. where the apartment’s tennis courts are currently located. This project is being presented to the Bayfront Advisory Commission on Nov. 19th.  Updates will be provided.
  • Marlin Bay Apartment Complex – 227 units 4 story buildings are being proposed at the intersection of Marlin Bay Drive and Shore Drive. This project is being presented to the Bayfront Advisory Commission on Nov. 19th. Updates will be provided.
  • Windsong Development – 411 units off of Pleasure House Road in Chic’s Beach. This project is scheduled to go before Planning Commission in December.  This project is being presented to the Bayfront Advisory Commission on Nov. 19th.  Updates will be provided.

Short Term Rental Overlay Districts Proposed Cape Story by the Sea – Councilman Jim Wood asked for an ordinance change to create a STR overlay district in Cape Story which will allow “By Right” use of residents for STRs as long as they meet the guidelines in the code.  Cape Story by the Sea Civic Association voted on Nov. 9th to oppose any STR overlay district in its neighborhood.  The BAC will vote at their Nov. 19th meeting on a STR position for the Bayfont.  SDCC will be discussing and voting on a position statement for STR Overlays in the Bayfront.

 

New Business –

City Council Policy for Public Outreach and Engagement – City Council is proposing a new policy for civic engagement for development applications.  Council voted to indefinitely defer the approval of this policy to allow time for adequate public engagement to be held and gather citizens input.  It was suggested the Bayfront/Shore Drive be a focus area for input.  Oh the irony…

  

Next SDCC Meeting – No meeting in December.  Happy Holidays

SDCC Monday Oct. 26th Membership Meeting Agenda 7:30pm at OPVRS Hall

Posted on by

Click here for a printable version of the agenda – 10.26.20 SDCC Agenda

 

SDCC General Meeting Agenda

Monday October 26, 2020 from 7:30 to 9:00pm

Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad Hall – 3769 East Stratford Rd

(parking in back, on side streets and across Shore Drive)

 

 Special Presentation – None

Officer’s Reports

Secretary – Kathleen Damon; Treasurer’s Report –Tim Solanic; Vice President – Empsy Munden;President – Todd Solomon

Old Business-
Proposed Developments –

  • Westminster-Canterbury (WC) High Rise and Memory Center Expansion – City Council approved the expansion on Sept 22. Ocean Shore Condos filed a lawsuit vs City Council on October 20.  A Go Fund Me campaign has been created to help pay for legal fees.  To date, $15k has been raised of the $30k goal.  SDCC requested City Council to reconsider their approval, but no reply was received from them.
  • Marina Shores Apartment Expansion – A 60 unit 5 story (65ft tall) building is being proposed along North Great Neck Rd. where the apartment’s tennis courts are currently located. This application is scheduled to go before the Planning Commission in November.  The Bayfront Advisory Commission did not support the request to remove the existing condition that limits density to 24 units/acre.
  • Marlin Bay Apartment Complex – 227 units 4 story buildings are being proposed at the intersection of Marlin Bay Drive and Shore Drive. The developer cancelled a presentation at the Oct. Bayfront Advisory Commission meeting.
  • Windsong Development – 411 units off of Pleasure House Road in Chic’s Beach. This project is scheduled to go before Planning Commission in December.

 New Business –

Short Term Rental Overlay Districts Proposed for Ocean Park and Cape Story by the Sea – Councilman Louis Jones and Councilman Jim Wood asked for an ordinance change to create STR overlay districts in Ocean Park and Cape Story which will allow “By Right” use of residents for STRs as long as they meet the guidelines in the code.  At the City Council Oct 20 meeting, Ocean Park residents showed up in opposition and Councilman Jones removed the Ocean Park overlay from the ordinance.  Councilman Wood has left the Cape Story overlay in place as a challenge to the residents to oppose if they want his overlay removed.  If not, then 50% of Cape Story will be “By Right” STR.  The BAC will vote at their Nov. meeting on a position for the Bayfont on STR.  It is recommended that SDCC vote on a position statement for STR Overlays in the Bayfront and it’s proposed that all overlays be prohibited from the Bayfront.

November SDCC Meeting – Officers from the 3rd Precinct has asked to come to a November meeting to discuss a community policing plan for Ocean Park and other neighborhoods that are experiencing vandalism and break-ins.  They plan to do a survey of neighborhoods to gather input on issues.  SDCC is working with them to create and promote an online survey.

Bayfront Advisory Commission (BAC) Meeting Agenda for Thurs. Oct. 15th at 3:30pm. Councilman Jim Wood has been asked to speak on his Short Term Rental Overlay Ordinance

Posted on by

Bayfront Advisory Commission (BAC) Meeting

Thurs. Oct. 15th at 3:30pm at Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad

Councilman Jim Wood has been asked to speak on his

Short Term Rental (STR) Overlay Ordinance

Residents of Cape Story by the Sea and Ocean Park (locations of proposed overlay districts) may want to attend since this may be the only public discussion opportunity other than upcoming Planning Commission and City Council public hearings.
***UPDATE – Both Councilmen Wood and Jones have confirmed their attendance per BAC Chair email***
From: Phil Davenport, BAC Chair
Sent: Thursday, October 15, 2020 8:43 AM
Subject: RE: Tomorrow’s BAC meeting
Both CC members, Jones and Wood, are planning to attend today’s BAC meeting. 
Also, because at least one of them needs to leave by 4:30, I will likely move the SRT issue to the first item.
Thank you.

 

Click here for a printable version of the agenda – BAC Agenda 10.15.20