CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Concerns over transparency, consistency, and adherence to established procedures dominated public comment at the last Town Council Regular Meeting–a local civic leader questioned how town policies are being applied during the ongoing debate over Accessory Dwelling Units and short-term rentals.
Claudette Lajoie, president of the Cape Charles Historic District Civic League, told the Town Council that the five-month discussion surrounding ADUs and STRs has exposed what she described as troubling breakdowns in the town’s internal processes.
Lajoie said residents have shown up consistently to every meeting, participating in public hearings and work sessions, while town staff have not always provided timely or complete input. She cited the recent staff report in which the building official was unable to submit written comments before the document was finalized.
She raised particular concern over what she described as the unauthorized insertion of language into draft ordinances by town staff — language she said had not been discussed or approved by either the Planning Commission or Town Council.
Lajoie also pointed to missing meeting minutes and recordings related to the ADU and STR discussions, as well as what she characterized as stall tactics that have prolonged the process and eroded public trust.
Town Manager Rick Keuroglian vowed to do better and responded following the public comments, acknowledging concerns about agenda preparation and internal coordination.
Keuroglian said he has met with all department heads to “reset expectations” regarding council agenda materials and staff responsibilities.
Under the updated procedures, Town Council members will now receive a full week to review agenda items prior to meetings. Staff have also been given firm submission deadlines for all supporting documentation.
“If any required information is missing, the item will be removed from the agenda,” Keuroglian said. “It will not return until all materials are complete.”
He added that while the revised process may lengthen the timeline for some items, it is intended to improve accountability and public confidence.
“This will ensure accuracy, transparency, and a more reliable decision-making process,” Keuroglian said.
The town’s review of zoning changes related to accessory dwelling units and short-term rentals has been underway since late summer, drawing sustained public interest amid broader concerns about housing availability, neighborhood character, and tourism impacts in Cape Charles.
Further discussion of the proposed ordinances is expected to continue at upcoming Planning Commission and Town Council meetings.
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Once again, Another Vow of Tran$parency…
How refre$hing.
*** She raised particular concern over what she described as the unauthorized insertion of language into draft ordinances by town staff — language she said had not been discussed or approved by either the Planning Commission or Town Council. ***
This is a problem. This is corruption.
Unelected employees? Really guys?
Why is this happening? Well for one, Town Council seems to either be turning a blind eye to it and allowing it to occur or they are not qualified nor capable to do their jobs.
So why do they serve? To make $ for their friends – the consultants and the real estate brokers. Filthy.