Virginia Beach Voters Endorse 10-1 Council Districts as Lawmakers Ready Charter Change

Overview

• Unofficial results show 53% supported keeping the 10-1 system, a margin of roughly 9,800 votes, with more than 7,000 voters skipping the question.
• Because the referendum is advisory, the Virginia General Assembly must amend the city charter for the 10-1 model to become permanent.
• State Sen. Aaron Rouse, who chairs the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee, said he will carry the charter legislation.
• Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler said she has already submitted a bill to codify 10-1 and anticipates action when lawmakers meet in January.
• A June circuit court ruling tied to earlier challenges remains stayed, leaving remedies unresolved as local leaders met Thursday to outline next steps.