The Petersburg City Council convened a special closed session meeting on July 24, 2025, to address several legal and administrative matters. The meeting began promptly at 3:08 PM, with all council members present, confirming a quorum.

The primary purpose of the closed session was to receive legal advice from the city attorney regarding specific legal matters, including discussions related to Chapter 26 of Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia. Additionally, the council addressed issues concerning the investment of public funds and the performance and appointment of specific public employees within the city.

Following the closed session, the council moved to certify that all matters discussed were in accordance with the legal provisions under which the session was convened. A roll call vote confirmed that no members believed there was any departure from the topics discussed.

The council then proceeded to discuss the city’s participation in the Sackler Family Opioid Settlement. A resolution was proposed to approve the city’s involvement in the settlement of opioid-related claims against the Sackler family. The resolution was moved by Vice Mayor Hill and seconded by Councilwoman Smith Lee, receiving unanimous approval from the council members present.

In subsequent discussions, the council directed the city managers to reassign project management for various specified projects to private contractors. This included significant projects such as the courthouse project, police station, and stormwater study, among others. The council emphasized the need for a status report on these reassignments at the upcoming council work session in September.

Lastly, the council voted to terminate the public works utilities director and the city engineer, with the motion also receiving unanimous support.

Overall, the meeting addressed critical legal and administrative actions aimed at improving city operations and managing ongoing projects effectively. The council's decisions reflect a proactive approach to governance and accountability within Petersburg.