NORFOLK, VA – Torn between stopping for a beer after work or joining a community meeting about the budget? Want to ask a question about city expenditures but really need a cup of joe?
Problem solved: join us for a chat over a beer or a coffee at our first ever Budget and Brews series, in breweries and coffee houses throughout Norfolk.
“We want to hear from residents about the city’s budget,” said Greg Patrick, Director of Budget and Strategic Planning. “We’re meeting residents where they are for conversation and questions.”
Patrick and other city staff will pay for their own beverages out of their own pockets for these events, which are designed to provide easy-to-use information about city budget priorities, revenues and expenditures. Venues will host staff free of charge at regular tables. Customers will pay for their own beverages.
“We’re delighted to host this event that connects Norfolk residents to information about how their city works as well as to locally made craft beer,” said Chris Neikirk of Smartmouth Brewing.
Each event will offer an opportunity to discuss specific budget topics with Patrick and representatives from departments around the city. Themes include strengthening our infrastructure, connecting with our residents, and cultivating the arts. We will also take questions and discuss general budget information. Please join us.
Oct. 30, 2019 | 6-8 p.m. | O’Connor Brewing Co., 211 W. 24th St. | Strengthen Our Infrastructure
Nov. 7, 2019 | 8-10 a.m.| Coaster Coffee, 8418 Tidewater Drive| Connect and Engage Our Residents
Nov. 8, 2019 | 2-4 p.m. | Café Stella, 1907 Colonial Ave. | Cultivate the Arts
Nov. 14, 2019 | 6-8 p.m. | Bold Mariner Brewing Co., 1901 East Ocean View Ave. | Foster Collaboration and Efficiency
Dec. 5, 2019 | 6-8 p.m. | Smartmouth Brewing Co., 1309 Raleigh Avenue | Promote Inclusive Economic Growth