Virginia Beach police seek new office at the Oceanfront

Virginia Beach — The police officers who patrol the Oceanfront are looking for a new home base.

To pay for a new satellite office for police, the City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved spending $500,000 to cover rent and outfit the space.

Specific details, including the name of the leaser and the exact location and the size of the office, were not disclosed. Vice Mayor Jim Wood said the address won’t be released until the lease is finalized.

“Allowing the police department to have a larger footprint at the Oceanfront is extremely important for maintaining public safety,” Wood said.

The Oceanfront business community has asked the city to increase the presence of law enforcement as shootings have increased in the area. On March 26, eight people were injured during shootings and two people were killed — including Donovon Lynch, who was shot by a police officer.

Councilman Guy Tower, who represents the Oceanfront district, said someone in the community approached the city and offered the rental space. He said the office would be on Atlantic Avenue in the central resort area.

“I think it is a great idea,” Tower said on Tuesday evening. “I am very much in favor of it. I hope it works out.”

The council also set aside $1.87 million to better fund public safety efforts at the Oceanfront, and $7.4 million to reestablish the Resort Management Office, which is tasked with improving the atmosphere and appearance of the Oceanfront.

Alissa Skelton, 757-995-9043, alissa.skelton@pilotonline.com