The Hampton City Council voted at its February 8 regular meeting to approve a preliminary concept plan submitted for a 47.42-acre planned development with a mix of houses and townhomes on the east side of the city north of Hwy. 20.
The council also authorized the mayor to execute contracts for two public works projects, one for stormwater design and another for a sewer trunkline project.

The first read of an ordinance amending portions of the city code related to the city manager’s duties passed by a 4-1 vote. Included in the new language are provisions that allow the city manager to supervise all city employees, make recommendations to the mayor and council regarding certain appointed officials, and have control over hiring and firing of employees without requiring council approval.

One agenda item, pertaining to the city manager’s recommended appointment of a new city clerk, was postponed until a later special called meeting.

The council approved a new alcohol license for Camp Brewing Company and a proposed repurposing of a log cabin.
Public comments during the meeting reportedly included concerns about vehicles being parked in the street, blocking access for school buses.

The city manager’s report mentioned an increase in crime statistics and some information about improvements to City Hall, among other things. It was also noted that 150 building permits have been filed for a large new development called the Cottage at South Hampton, and final plats were issued for nearly that many homes in two existing subdivisions: Liberty Square and the Greens at Thompson Creek.

It was reported at the council meeting that the $1,000 for each first responder in the city allotted through the CARES Act was paid out the previous week.