North Tidewater News

The City Council is set to convene on Wednesday for its regular work and legislative sessions, where a key agenda item includes voting on a proposed ordinance concerning the impoundment of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes that are operated illegally on city streets.

The council's work session will begin at 1 p.m., followed by the legislative session at 6:30 p.m. Both meetings will take place in chambers located on the eighth floor of City Hall, 22 Lincoln St. Prior to the legislative session, a ceremonial event at 6 p.m. will honor military volunteers and community partners. The proceedings will be broadcast on local TV channels Cox 47 and Verizon 22, as well as streamed live online at hampton.gov/livetv.

This proposed ordinance was initially discussed during the City Council’s work session on October 9. It comes in response to a rise in reports of reckless ATV and dirt bike use in recent years. Hampton, along with Norfolk, requested action from the General Assembly, which resulted in legislation permitting localities to create ordinances for seizing ATVs and dirt bikes used illegally.

If passed, the ordinance would allow for these vehicles' seizure and impoundment, followed by forfeiture proceedings. The forfeited property could then be sold at public auction or retained for use by the Hampton Police Division. Vehicle owners would receive a petition giving them 30 days to respond, potentially leading to a Circuit Court hearing where the city must prove illegal operation of the vehicle.

Additionally, the legislative session will feature a public hearing regarding the city's agreement with Fox Hill Neighborhood Center.

Earlier in the day, presentations during the work session will address the city's legislative priorities for the General Assembly in 2025 and strategic priorities for economic growth.