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Virginia Beach residents will be able to provide feedback to the city on its proposed operating budget without leaving the couch.
The City Council will hold its first virtual public hearing on the city manager’s proposed operating budget on Wednesday.
The council decided to hold the 6 p.m. meeting via video chatting software instead of requiring residents to speak in front of the council in person.
The council will hold a second virtual public hearing on Tuesday, April 27, at the same time.
Last month, City Manager Patrick Duhaney presented the proposed $2.2 billion operating budget and a six-year plan for construction projects to the City Council. It included a request to lower the real estate tax rate by 1 cent per $100 of assessed value.
He also asked the council to approve 3% raises for city employees and 5% for teachers. The full budget can be read online at www.VBgov.com/budget. The city also has a website — virginiabeachva.abalancingact.com — that allows residents to suggest changes to balance the budget.
Those who wish to comment, via a live audio feed, must register with the City Clerk’s Office by calling 757-385-4303 prior to 5 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Residents must also register on WebEx.
To send a comment to the entire City Council, email CityCouncil@vbgov.com.
Alissa Skelton, 757-995-9043, alissa.skelton@pilotonline.com