The Lexington City Council voted unanimously on Jan. 2 to approve Conditional Use Permit CUP2025‑01 to allow portions of the Bank of the James building at 45 South Main Street to be used as administrative facilities related to a college or university use by VMI alumni agencies.

City planner Colin introduced the request and noted that an administrative facility associated with a college or university is a conditional use in the C‑1 zoning district. He disclosed a potential conflict of interest under the Virginia Code because of his employment with the Virginia Military Institute and said he could participate objectively.

Planning staff recommended approval with two conditions; the Planning Commission had held a public hearing Dec. 12 and recommended approval with the same two conditions. No members of the public signed up to speak for or against the request at the council public hearing.

A council member moved to approve CUP2025‑01 “to allow portion of the Bank of the James Building tax map number 23‑1‑82 to be used for administrative facilities related to the educational facility, college/university use with the 2 staff recommended conditions.” Another council member seconded. The council then voted by roll call: Betts, Schmidt, Ziegler, Strawn, Alexander and Dischkeler all voted aye; the motion carried unanimously.

Why it matters: The decision allows underused downtown office space to be repurposed for an institutional administrative use subject to zoning conditions. City staff noted that the applicant addressed anticipated parking and that the permit was limited in duration, which staff and the applicant agreed would mitigate concerns raised in other, similar proposals.

What’s next: Staff will issue the permit under the listed conditions and monitor compliance during the permit term.