Suffolk Planning Commission Approves Garage Special Exception for Judea Brown

The Newport News Planning Commission meeting held on August 20, 2025, focused on a special exception request for a garage construction on a narrow lot. The meeting began with public comments, where Judea Brown from Suffolk, Virginia, addressed the commission regarding the design of the garage. He explained that the garage had to be angled to fit on the small lot, which is significantly narrower than others in the area. Brown emphasized that the design was necessary to ensure accessibility and that considerable effort went into making the garage feasible.

Following Brown's comments, another resident, Donia Payne from Newport News, expressed interest in the developments on First Street but did not have specific questions or comments. The commission encouraged residents to review the house plans available online for further information.

After closing the public hearing, the commission moved to discuss the special exception request formally. A motion was made to approve the request with conditions recommended by the staff. The motion received unanimous support from all eight commissioners present, resulting in an 8-0 vote in favor of the special exception.

The meeting concluded with the commission's decision, highlighting the collaborative effort to address community concerns while facilitating development in Newport News.