The City Council of Bristol, Virginia, convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including the approval of a lease for the senior center and a proposed monetary bonus for city employees.

The council unanimously approved a long-term lease for the senior center, which will allow it to continue operations without interruption. Council members noted that the center had been functioning without a formal lease for several years, effectively utilizing the space at no cost. This decision was met with support from council members, who emphasized the importance of providing a stable environment for senior activities, including meal services.

In another significant discussion, the council addressed Ordinance 25-5, which proposes a 1.5% bonus for all city employees. This bonus is intended to address disparities created by recent state raises for certain employees funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The city manager reported that approximately 340 employees would be affected, with the total cost estimated at $220,000. Funding for this bonus is planned to come from a positive variance in the lodging tax for the current fiscal year.

The council engaged in a thorough discussion about the implications of the bonus, clarifying that it is a one-time payment to align local employees with their state-funded counterparts. After deliberation, the ordinance was also approved, with one council member voting against it.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to supporting both the senior community and city employees, ensuring continued services and fair compensation.