Petersburg bill authorizes parking authority; senators spar over eminent domain language

Delegate (Sponsor): introduced HB 1448 to authorize the City of Petersburg to establish a locally controlled Petersburg Parking Authority after a public hearing and approval by the city’s governing body. The sponsor stressed the bill is permissive — it authorizes but does not mandate creation — and said the tool would help address congestion and safety caused by inadequate off‑street parking.

City manager March Altman, representing Petersburg, told the subcommittee the city already owns some targeted property and supports the bill because it provides “flexibility as a tool in our tool belt” for future parking projects. He said Petersburg seeks authority that can respond to needs 20 years hence and that the bill would not force immediate action.

Several senators pressed the sponsor on an eminent domain provision included in the bill. One senator said he had “great pause” whenever eminent domain powers appear in statute and would prefer the bill without that language; another said the city should use voluntary transactions when possible and that eminent domain is an extraordinary power. The sponsor said she would entertain a friendly amendment but preferred to retain the flexibility for the city, while the city’s representatives said the provision offered a backstop for unforeseen future needs.

Stephen Hammond and Luke Perry, speaking for the City of Petersburg, emphasized local support; the city indicated a line amendment was available if the sponsor wished to limit eminent domain scope. After discussion the committee voted to report the bill and refer it to finance.