                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

HEARING AND DECISION BY COURT (§ 15.2-3526)

A. The court shall order an election to be held as provided in § 15.2-3538 if,
after hearing the evidence, it finds that:

   1. The proposed consolidation has a minimum population of 20,000 persons and a
   density of at least 300 persons per square mile, or a minimum population of
   50,000 persons and a population density of at least 140 persons per square
   mile, based on the latest United States census, or on the latest population
   estimates of the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service of the University of
   Virginia, or on a special census conducted under court supervision; however,
   where the proposed consolidation includes an existing city, the population and
   density requirements set forth in this subdivision shall not apply;

   2. The proposed consolidation has the fiscal capacity to function as an
   independent city and is able to provide appropriate services; and

   3. After a consideration of the best interests of the parties, the interest of
   the Commonwealth in the compliance with and the promotion of applicable state
   policies with respect to environmental protection, public planning, education,
   public transportation, housing and other state service policies declared by
   the General Assembly, and the interest of the Commonwealth in promoting strong
   and viable units of government in the area, the proposed consolidation is
   eligible for city status.

B. The court shall be limited in its decision to granting or denying eligibility
for city status and shall have no authority to impose terms or conditions with
respect to a proposed consolidation.

C. If a majority of the court is of the opinion that the criteria set out in
subsection A herein have not been met, then eligibility for city status shall be
denied.

D. The court shall render a written opinion in every case brought under the
provisions of this article.

HISTORY: 1979, c. 85, § 15.1-1130.8; 1997, c. 587.