Votes at a glance: Centreville council approves dangerous-buildings lien, Green Street deed, Talky franchise and additional utility-rate study funds

The Centreville Town Council on June 26 approved four formal measures after public hearings and discussion: an ordinance allowing the town to assess costs to repair, vacate or demolish dangerous buildings as a lien collectible like real estate taxes (Ordinance 09-2025); an ordinance accepting a deed of dedication for Green Street extended from the Young Men’s Christian Association of the Chesapeake (Ordinance 11-2025); a resolution authorizing a franchise agreement with Talky Communications; and additional spending to expand a planned utility rate study.

The council held a public hearing on Ordinance 09-2025 (dangerous buildings) before taking action. Town staff said the change is intended to add a statutory mechanism to assess costs as a lien against property without a separate court action. A member of the public asked how the town will enforce payment if owners do not respond; staff said the lien would be collectible like real estate taxes and could lead to tax sale. The council voted on the ordinance by roll call and recorded affirmative votes for the members called during the roll call. The council then approved Ordinance 11-2025 to accept…