City Council debates compensating planning commission members amid mixed public opinions

Petersburg City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing the compensation structure for its Planning Commission members. During the regular meeting on June 17, 2025, the council discussed a proposed amendment to the city ordinance that would allow for compensation of Planning Commission members, with rates set at $75 per meeting for those untrained and $100 for those who have completed certified training.

The proposal aims to recognize the time and effort that Planning Commission members dedicate to their roles, which include reviewing zoning ordinances and special use permits. Currently, about half of the commission members have undergone the necessary training, which is provided by Virginia Commonwealth University and involves an intensive curriculum.

However, the proposal has sparked a debate within the council and the community. Some council members expressed concerns about setting a precedent for compensating volunteers across various city boards and commissions. Councilman Jones emphasized that if compensation is approved for the Planning Commission, it should extend to all city boards to ensure fairness. He suggested tabling the decision until a comprehensive review of all boards and their potential compensation could be conducted.

Public feedback was mixed, with some residents supporting the idea of compensation for the Planning Commission, while others argued that volunteering should remain unpaid. Concerns were raised about the administrative complexities of managing different compensation rates and the implications for other volunteer boards.

The council ultimately decided to table the motion for further study, directing city staff to gather information on the costs and implications of extending compensation to all city boards. This decision reflects a cautious approach to ensure equity and thorough consideration of the potential impacts on the city's volunteer structure.

In addition to the compensation discussion, the council also addressed the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for the upcoming program year. The CDBG advisory board presented recommendations for the allocation of approximately $585,812, emphasizing the need to support opportunity zones and address local housing shortages.

As Petersburg moves forward, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the city's governance and community engagement strategies. The council's commitment to thorough deliberation highlights the importance of balancing recognition for volunteer efforts with fiscal responsibility and equity among city boards.