Support of Newport News Shipbuilding Project
At their meeting last evening the Newport News City Council approved a resolution that will provide funding for Newport News Shipbuilding that will lead to a $750 million investment and a projected 1,000 additional jobs at their facility in Newport News. The City investment will be an initial $6 million in 2018 and up to $40 million commencing in 2022 that will come from approximately half of the additional taxes the incentive will generate. All existing tax revenues from the shipyard (approximately $20 million annually) is not affected and will be still be received by the City.
Tech Center
The Council also approved a Master Plan for the first research/office space building at the Tech Center. This building will be the first of a planned one million square feet of similar space. Located near Jefferson Lab, this project is expected to generate thousands of knowledge based jobs and drive the future economy of the City.
Multi-Modal Transportation Center
A conditional use permit for the construction and operation of the Newport News Transportation Center and a supporting service/maintenance facility was approved by City Council. The proposed transit terminal will include a new signature train station at 500 Bland Boulevard and the support facility approximately one mile southeast on vacant property off of Young's Mill Road and Mitchell Point Road. The proposed multi-modal transportation center will provide a much needed service not only to the City but to the region. The center will be accessible to pedestrians and cyclists as well as those making use of mass transit or their own vehicles.
Performance Evaluations
City Council conducted annual performance reviews for the three Council appointees – the City Manager, City Attorney and City Clerk. Annual salary increases of 3% were approved for each, bringing the salaries to $225,016.89 for City Manager Jim Bourey, $211,045.86 for City Attorney Collie Owens, and $101,195.82 for City Clerk Mabel Washington Jenkins.
Other Actions
City Council approved all other items on
last night’s agenda, and the entire Council meeting can be
viewed on-demand.