Poquoson, Virginia - Government and Law

Government and Law

The Poquoson City Council is composed of seven members who are elected by the voters and serve four year terms. Elections are held in even numbered years on the first Tuesday in November. Any Poquoson resident who is at least 18 years of age, is a United States citizen and a resident of Virginia is eligible to be a candidate for election.

The City is divided into three precincts with each precinct having two council representatives. Voters cast their ballot for one candidate from each precinct. One representative is elected at large and serves as City Mayor. Persons elected to City Council take office on the first day of January following the election.

The City Council is the policy making body of the City. Its responsibilities include: adoption of the City budget; approval of all tax levies; adoption of ordinances; approval of amendments, supplements or repeals to ordinances and the City Code; and appointment of the City Manager, City Clerk, City Attorney and various local boards, commissions and committees.

City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 500 City Hall Avenue and are open to the public. The meetings are televised live on Cable Channel 5, and are rebroadcast on Wednesday, 10 a.m. and Thursday, 7 p.m., following the meeting.

Agenda items for City Council meetings are determined by the City Council, City Manager, City Clerk, and other staff members. Individuals wanting information about the agenda should contact the office of the City Clerk (757-868-3000).

Any individuals may address Council during the "Audience for Visitors" portion of the Council meeting. Comments are not limited at this time. The City's school board is appointed by the City Council.

Over 30 years after Poquoson became an independent city from York County, some constitutional services such as the courts, sheriff and jail continue to be shared with neighboring York County.