10/28/2026
Three Updates from last night’s Council Work Session/Meeting:
1. Financial Health
Our financial advisors shared a positive report on our city’s financial health, which is particularly important as we take on the construction of a new City Hall. We are in solid standing to take on the cost of a new building while still having room to support other projects. Portsmouth’s strict debt policies have resulted in the city’s highest credit ratings in decades, and our responsible debt payback allows us to enjoy low interest rates.
We have invested in taking down the former city jail and civic center, clearing the path for economic growth through the redevelopment of our waterfront. Not only will a new project generate significant tax revenue we’re not receiving today, but it will also revitalize our city, drawing people to enjoy businesses and live downtown.
The financial team also shared the potential impact of the proposed 1 percent school construction tax. If approved by voters, it’s estimated the sales tax would generate about $11.5 million annually. By law, that money would be earmarked strictly for school construction and renovation. The tax would be placed on discretionary spending, not groceries, health and hygiene items, or gas. Voters will see the tax question on the ballot.
2. London Oaks
New ownership at London Oaks will elevate that community with significant improvements to housing units, grounds, and security systems. Partners from American Community Developers shared plans to rehabilitate the London Oaks community with improvements including new roofs and siding, updated kitchens and bathrooms, and amenities such as a splash pad and BBQ area.
They also shared plans to improve security, working with Police Chief Stephen Jenkins to plan for secure access to the community, new lights, and cameras that would link to PPD. If approvals move forward on time, construction would begin in the summer of 2027, with about 15 months to complete the project.
The ACD team committed to keeping residents in place during the renovation, providing any assistance needed to maintain their day-to-day routines. Rental costs would not change due to the renovation.
3. Public Safety
Chief Jenkins shared a crime update for the third quarter, July to September. Data shows that fewer incidents of crime and fewer victims have been reported compared to this time last year. With this progress, current challenges include aggravated assaults, robberies, and shoplifting.
The chief reiterated that technology is supporting PPD, especially when recruitment remains a nationwide challenge. Project Impact, an initiative to target violent crime with a coordinated, cross-departmental approach, is moving forward.
Council asked City Manager Steven Carter to report back on ways to potentially fund salary increases to support officer retention, particularly at the supervisory level.
The chief asked residents to support ongoing public safety efforts by calling 911 when a crime is in progress, reporting gunfire, avoiding sharing rumors online, removing valuables from vehicles, and reporting retail theft.
An opportunity to engage:
Today is the last day to share your ideas for Swanson: The Next Chapter. Portsmouth Redevelopment & Housing Authority is gathering public input for the future of the 17-acre site. Share your ideas here: nextchapterswanson.org.
Watch last night's Work Session here:
https://youtu.be/HJP_y0FHXyw?si=FmGo-x_Bbn6EJSEr
Questions or concerns? [email protected]
