Zoning lawsuit plaintiffs file appeal
Notice of appeal filed Dec. 12; coalition continues fundraising
The plaintiffs challenging Alexandria’s Zoning for Housing initiative have appealed last month’s dismissal to the Virginia Court of Appeals.
The Coalition for a Livable Alexandria announced in a Dec. 24 email to supporters that a notice of appeal was filed Dec. 12. The appeal came two weeks before the Dec. 26 deadline under Virginia law, which requires filing within 30 days of a final order.
Judge H. Thomas Padrick Jr. ruled in the city’s favor on Nov. 12, granting summary judgment in the case. A final order dismissing the lawsuit with prejudice was entered Nov. 26.
The coalition is continuing to raise money to fund the appeal. The group announced Dec. 15 it had raised $45,000 to cover outstanding legal fees from the trial court proceedings, triggering a deal with law firm Dunn, Craig & Francuzenko to forgive the remaining $41,000.
The lawsuit challenges the City Council’s 2023 decision to allow construction of up to four housing units on properties previously restricted to single-family homes.
The coalition and the law firm did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
