Newport News City Council work session addresses state budget and EBT scam concerns
Council also approves funding for Southeast Community Day parade
The Newport News City Council held a work session on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Conference Room at City Hall, 2400 Washington Avenue. Mayor Phillip Jones presided over the meeting attended by all seven council members. The session focused on a comprehensive General Assembly legislative update, including state budget delays and potential tax authorities. The council approved $20,000 in contingency funding for the Southeast Community Day parade and discussed emerging community concerns including EBT card fraud and federal immigration enforcement activity.
City staff presented an extensive update on Virginia General Assembly activities, highlighting an unprecedented state budget impasse that could result in Virginia’s first shutdown. It was noted that negotiations continue over a potential $922 million revenue increase, but disagreements persist over funding sources and allocations. The council discussed implications for local revenues, including a proposed one percent local sales tax authority and potential reforms to data center tax exemptions valued at $1.6 to $2.2 billion annually.
Mayor Jones raised concerns about a national EBT card scam affecting Newport News residents, requesting staff develop clear guidance for victims seeking assistance. Jones also addressed recent federal immigration enforcement activity at Windward Towers where multiple construction workers were detained, asking the police chief to engage with the community. The mayor also announced that the Governor had made three new appointments to the Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors, including Hampton School Board member Anne Cherry, former Secretary of Technology Karen Jackson, and Delegate Mike Mullen.
The following sections detail the topics addressed during the work session, with each linking directly to the relevant portion of the video recording.
General Assembly legislative update addresses budget impasse and local priorities
A presenter explained that Virginia faces an unprecedented budget crisis as the fiscal year approaches July 1 without an approved state budget. The House of Delegates is scheduled to meet June 18 to consider a budget proposal not yet released publicly, while the Senate convenes June 22. It was noted that even after legislative approval, the governor retains 30 days to review and amend the budget. Key unresolved issues include funding for cannabis retail markets, skill games revenue, and the proposed one percent local sales tax authority for localities. City staff warned that timing provisions in the tax authority legislation could prevent implementation until the following year unless amendments are made. Watch the legislative update from 3:46
Summer legislative workgroups focus on housing and local government issues
City staff outlined 14 new legislative workgroups created from bills during the previous session, most requiring local government participation through the Virginia Municipal League or Virginia Association of Counties. Topics include subdivision and site plan regulations, emergency management needs, autonomous vehicle workforce impacts, fire program funding formulas, electric bicycle and scooter safety, PFAS in sewage sludge, and ASAP funding sustainability. It was emphasized that most workgroups must report recommendations by October or November for potential legislation in the January 2027 session. The council discussed particular interest in the fire program funding formula workgroup and ASAP fiscal governance issues affecting the regional program. Hear the workgroup overview from 9:37
Planning underway for 2027 General Assembly session
A presenter previewed preparations for the upcoming 2027 legislative session, noting that General Assembly members have requested earlier submission of local legislative packages. Pre-filing begins July 20, though early filing typically involves reintroduced bills from previous unsuccessful attempts. The 2027 session will be a 45-day short session, though it was noted this designation is misleading as sessions rarely conclude quickly. Staff anticipated many housing bills from the previous session, including the housing-near-jobs legislation, will return with hoped-for pre-session collaboration between localities and bill sponsors. Staff has already begun working on special event legislation addressing large unpermitted gatherings. It was noted that all General Assembly members face reelection in 2027, which typically ensures on-time adjournment since fundraising is prohibited during session. View the session planning discussion from 14:51
Council approves funding for Southeast Community Day parade
The council voted seven to zero to approve a $20,000 contingency fund allocation sponsored by a council member for the Southeast Community Day parade. All members voted in favor. Two additional contingency fund requests received first readings without votes: a $5,000 allocation sponsored by a council member for Walk with the Ward Foundation youth development programs, and a $15,000 allocation sponsored by a council member for a People Most Inc. takeover event. Watch the contingency fund vote from 22:56
Mayor Jones addresses EBT card scam affecting residents
Mayor Jones reported receiving three or four calls from residents whose EBT cards were hacked in what appears to be a national scam, with fraudulent charges occurring in different cities. It was noted that the mayor’s office has been referring victims to Thrive Peninsula, but a request was made for the city manager and human services staff to develop formal guidance for affected residents. Jones asked for accessible public information directing victims to appropriate resources rather than a formal report. See the EBT scam discussion from 19:57
Immigration enforcement activity prompts community engagement request
Recent federal immigration enforcement activity at Windward Towers where five or six construction workers were handcuffed and detained was brought forward for discussion. The community response was characterized as perplexed rather than terrified by the enforcement action. Mayor Jones requested that the police chief or appropriate staff engage with the Windward Towers community to discuss the immigration enforcement activity that occurred during the week. Hear the immigration enforcement discussion from 20:35
Governor appoints three to Christopher Newport University board
Jones announced that the Governor appointed three new members to the Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors, all with Newport News area connections. Appointees include Anne Cherry from Hampton who serves on a school board, Karen Jackson who previously served as Secretary of Technology, and Delegate Mike Mullen. The mayor encouraged members to congratulate the appointees and noted the importance of strong representation on the board of the city’s hometown university as the governor revamps boards and commissions statewide. View the CNU appointments announcement from 21:28
Council addresses Cove View ownership transition
A letter regarding Cove View was referenced, with concern expressed about preventing issues that occurred approximately four years ago from recurring with new ownership. Mayor Jones invited members representing the South district to join him in meeting the new Cove View ownership for a facility tour and discussion. The importance of proactive engagement during the ownership transition was emphasized. Watch the Cove View discussion from 21:43
In other news …
Government
Newport News releases updated tax rate schedules for businesses and property The City of Newport News has published its comprehensive tax rate schedules covering personal property, business licenses, and business-related taxes. These rates apply to various property types including vehicles, boats, machinery, and mobile homes, as well as numerous business categories. The schedules detail specific tax obligations based on business type and gross receipts. Rates vary significantly depending on whether a business generates less than $100,000 in annual receipts or substantially more. Property owners and business operators should review the applicable rates for their specific situation to ensure compliance with city tax requirements.
Business
Newport News releases updated tax rate schedules for businesses and property The City of Newport News has published its comprehensive tax rate schedules covering personal property, business licenses, and business-related taxes. These rates apply to various property types including vehicles, boats, machinery, and mobile homes, as well as numerous business categories. The schedules detail specific tax obligations based on business type and gross receipts. Rates vary significantly depending on whether a business generates less than $100,000 in annual receipts or substantially more. Property owners and business operators should review the applicable rates for their specific situation to ensure compliance with city tax requirements.
Public Safety
City Council approves youth curfew amendments and temporary restrictions The City of Newport News reports that City Council has approved amendments to the city’s minor curfew ordinance, updating regulations that prohibit minors from public streets, roads, parks, and other public areas between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, traveling for an emergency, or engaged in lawful employment. The ordinance also grants the Chief of Police authority to regulate assemblies and restrict movement during imminent threats to public safety.
Recreation & Events
City Announces Free Night Nets Youth Program Starting June 26 The City of Newport News reports that the Night Nets program is now accepting registrations for youth ages 16 and older. The free weekly program runs every Friday from May 29 through August 21 at two community locations. Participants can enjoy basketball, complimentary food, e-gaming, and access to community resources at Denbigh Community Center and the Achievable Dream Tennis Center. The program provides young residents with recreational opportunities and support services throughout the summer season. Registration is available online.
Integrity Works Solutions hosts inclusive Juneteenth Field Day Fun Fest Integrity Works Solutions reports an inclusive Juneteenth Field Day Fun Fest will take place Friday, June 19, at Huntington Beach Park. The free community event welcomes adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and adults with autism to participate in recreation and social engagement.
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