The Midlothian City Council convened on June 24, 2025, to address a significant zoning change request that has stirred considerable community concern. The meeting began with a public comment session where residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes affecting the Old Town neighborhood.

A representative of the local residents, identified as Miss Paper, articulated the collective sentiment against the zoning request. She emphasized that many residents had actively gathered petitions and conducted door-to-door outreach, revealing overwhelming opposition to the business that would be permitted under the new zoning. The community's desire to preserve the historic character of Old Town was a recurring theme in her remarks, as she urged the council to deny the request to protect the area from further development.

Following the public comments, the council confirmed that all individuals who opted to speak were heard. The council noted the submission of 20 non-speaker forms opposing the zoning change and 44 in support, highlighting the divided opinions within the community.

The council then moved to close the public hearing, which passed unanimously with a vote of 7 to 0. After the public hearing was closed, representatives of the applicant were invited to present their case. Kathy Becker and her sister Sherry Douglas, two of the property owners involved in the zoning request, were present to share their perspective and distribute petitions they had gathered.

The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development interests and community preservation efforts in Midlothian, particularly in historic areas like Old Town. As discussions continue, the council will need to weigh the voices of residents against the potential benefits of the proposed zoning changes. Further deliberations and decisions are expected in upcoming meetings as the council navigates this complex issue.