The Hampton City Council held a special session on May 7, 2025, primarily to prepare for an upcoming public hearing regarding the city’s budget and related financial matters. The meeting began with the city manager addressing recent developments, notably the governor's line-item veto of the SAFER grant, which necessitated adjustments to the agenda that had already been distributed.

The city manager clarified that no decisions would be made during this session, as the council traditionally advances all items for discussion to the final budget meeting scheduled for the following Wednesday at 6:30 PM. This meeting will be crucial for considering any amendments and addressing any further changes that may arise before the budget is finalized.

It was emphasized that all budgetary decisions made would not take effect until July 1, 2025, marking the start of the new fiscal year. The city manager noted that new programs and positions would be temporarily put on hold until the city could assess the impact of federal economic changes on the budget.

Additionally, the council discussed the proposed reduction of the real estate tax rate by one cent. If approved, this change would take effect for the first billing of the next fiscal year, due on December 5, 2025. The city manager addressed potential confusion among residents regarding tax bills, clarifying that the current June 5 bill reflects the previous year's tax rate and that any changes would not be reflected until the next billing cycle.

Following these updates, the mayor transitioned to the public hearing protocol, outlining the process for residents wishing to speak. Individuals were instructed to sign in prior to the meeting, with each speaker allotted three minutes to address the council.

The session concluded with the council poised to engage with public input in the upcoming hearing, setting the stage for critical discussions on the city’s financial direction.