Mayor Aliyah Gaskins presented a proclamation on Dec. 13 recognizing the legacy of Alexandria City Hall and the council chambers as the city plans a major renovation that will close the existing chambers for construction.

The proclamation recounted the building's long civic history, noting its 1749 site designation for the market and town hall and later architectural additions. Mayor Gaskins said the chamber is "the People's Hall" and invited former elected officials to offer brief reflections. Several former mayors and councilmembers — including Justin Wilson, Jim Moran, Paul Smedberg, Del Pepper and others — spoke about the room's significance as a forum for democratic engagement and public accountability.

Council moved and approved the proclamation by voice vote. Officials said the declaration is a ceremonial memorialization ahead of the planned City Hall renovation, and they encouraged continued civic engagement during the transition to temporary chambers.

Why it matters: City Hall's renovation is a material capital project for Alexandria. The proclamation recognizes the building's historical role and signals an administrative transition in where council conducts public meetings while construction proceeds.

What happens next: Staff will continue planning for the renovation and the council will hold future meetings in alternate chambers during construction.