Virginia Beach denied all curfew financial loss claims filed by businesses, records show

July 18, 2026 - 02:29

VIRGINIA BEACH - The city has denied all financial loss claims from businesses that sought compensation for damages tied to an all-ages Oceanfront curfew imposed last April, according to public records. Four Atlantic Avenue businesses owned by Monica Kiraly and Ali Abay filed claims, with Kiraly estimating that their two pizza shops each lost around $15,000 in revenue during the restricted hours. The curfew, enacted after large crowds and some violent incidents, required minors to leave the resort area by 8 p.m. on certain weekends. Kiraly argued the measure unfairly punished law-abiding businesses, as her shops rely heavily on evening foot traffic from families and young adults. City officials, however, maintained that the curfew was a necessary public safety response and that they are not liable for economic impacts tied to temporary emergency orders. The denial letters, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, cite Virginia law shielding municipalities from such claims when actions are taken to protect public health or safety. Kiraly said she is considering legal options but acknowledged the difficulty of challenging a city's emergency authority. The case highlights ongoing tensions between local businesses and city leaders over how to balance safety concerns with economic vitality at the popular tourist destination.