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Council approves conditional-use permit for contractor’s office at 12618 Ork Boulevard
Summary
Newport News City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance granting a conditional-use permit (CUP CHARLIEUNIFORM-2024-0012) to allow a contractor's office on a 1.21-acre parcel at 12618 Ork Boulevard. The applicant, WM Smith Contracting, was represented by attorney Raymond Suttle Jr.
The Newport News City Council on Feb. 11 unanimously adopted an ordinance granting conditional use permit number CharlieUniformDash2024Dash0012 to allow operation of a contractor’s office at 12618 Ork Boulevard.
The permit covers a 1.21-acre parcel in Zone C‑1; the applicant is listed as Rick J. Tavia and Cindy T. Malkin and WM Smith Contracting. Raymond Suttle Jr., an attorney with Kaufman & Canoles speaking for the applicant, said WM Smith Contracting plans to relocate from Hampton and build a “small contractor’s office.” He described the proposal as “a good reuse of the property and a new business coming to Newport News.”
City staff opened a public hearing on the request and reported the item was processed with conditions. After the hearing, the council moved to close the public comment period and then to adopt the ordinance. The roll call vote on adoption was 7‑0 in favor.
Why it matters: The decision permits a new local contractor office in a commercial zone near existing businesses, which council members framed as a reuse of a parcel that was previously a dog kennel and training facility. The approval adds a business to the city’s commercial base and changes permitted use of the property under local zoning rules.
Council action details: The council first closed the public hearing and then adopted the ordinance authorizing the CUP. Both motions were moved and seconded; adoption passed on a recorded roll-call vote of seven in favor, zero opposed.
What happened at the meeting: Attorney Raymond Suttle Jr. answered council questions and described the site as across from Dean & Don’s and explained the former kennel building had been demolished. Councilman Ealy offered a short congratulatory remark welcoming the business to the city. No speakers opposed the permit at the hearing.
Next steps: The ordinance adoption permits the applicant to pursue building and other permits in accordance with the CUP conditions and applicable city development rules.
