HomeMy WebLinkAboutMins 01/07/08 - 06/16/08
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
January 7, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
January 7, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Council Member Beverly T.
Fitzpatrick, Jr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City
Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, ReQular Meetings, Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No.37817-
070207 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.------------------------------1 .
ABSENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B.
Trinkle, Brian J. Wish neff, Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., and Mayor C. Nelson Harris--------6.
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COUNCIL: Due to the lack of a quorum, Council Member Fitzpatrick
declared the Council meeting in recess to be reconvened at 10:00 a.m., in
Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
At 10:00 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened, in Room 159, first floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Gwendolyn W.
Mason, David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late), Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.,
(arrived late), and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-------------------------------------------------------6.
ABSENT: Council Member Sherman P. Lea----------------------------------------------1.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Sheila N. Hartman, Deputy City Clerk.
COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson
Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by
Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
I (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason moved that Council convene in Closed Meeting as
above described. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Mason, Trinkle and Mayor Harris----4.
NAYS: Non e ---------------------------------- ----------------------- ------------------- -------------0.
(Council Members Dowe and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.) (Council Member Lea was absent.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Council Member Alfred T. Dowe,
Jr., Chairman, Personnel Committee, requesting that Council convene in a
Closed Meeting to discuss the mid-year performance of two Council-Appointed
Officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council convene in Closed Meeting as
abovedescribed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Mason, Trinkle and Mayor Harris----4.
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NAYS: Non e -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------0.
(Council Members Dowe and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.) (Council Member Lea was absent.)
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE VICE-MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THE JOINT MEETINGS OF COUNCIL AND ON
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2008, WITH THE ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD AT
9:00 A.M., AND THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD AT 12:00 P.M., IN THE
EOC CONFERENCE ROOM, ROOM 159, NOEL C. TAYLOR MUNICIPAL BUILDING.
The Mayor suggested that all agenda items be forwarded to the City Manager or I
City Clerk. (The joint meeting of Council and the School Board was cancelled
inasmuch as there were no agenda items needing discussion.)
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BRIEFINGS:
Bicvcle Friendly Community Designation
The City Manager called upon Tom Carr, Director of Planning Building
and Development for introductions; whereupon, Mr. Carr introduced Andy D.
Clarke, Executive Director of the League of American Bicyclists, and Bill Nesper,
Director of the Bicycle Friendly Community Program for comments with regard
to the Bicycle Friendly Community Designation.
Mr. Clarke shared highlights of a presentation entitled "Creating a Bicycle-
Friendly Roanoke":
What is the BFC Program?
Application Criteria
Application Review
Designated Communities
Bronze Communities
First Platinum: Davis, CA
First Regional Award - East Pima Region, AZ
Benefits of the BRFC Program
Benefits of Bicycling
Health = Physical Activity
Health = Environment
Government Finances = Savings
Local Economy = Sales
Use of Roads = $pace
Parking for 14, Corallis, OR
Quality of Life = $ales
Equity = Freedom
At this point Council Member Dowe entered the meeting (10:10 a.m.)
Congestion Relief = Freedom
Boulder: 25% SOV Goal
Energy Independence = Freedom
Bicycling is a Solution
Portland: Case Study
Developing the Bikeway Network
Increasing Bicycle Use
Portland's local streets
San Francisco
Inspiring Change: Louisville
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At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting (10: 1 5 a.m.)
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Carmel, Indiana
What Do BFC's Have?
Campaign Partners
He pointed out that the League of American Bicyclists was a 127-year old
organization that had been instrumental in implementing a program that
designated communities for their bicycle friendliness; and in conclusion, he
announced that there would be a workshop conducted on January 8, with an
action plan to be formulated upon completion of the workshop.
(For full text, see copy of powerpoint presentation on file in the City Clerk's
Office.)
Council Member Dowe inquired about the existence of bicycle
accommodations in public facilities throughout the City of Roanoke;
whereupon, Mr. Clarke stated that there were several buildings and public parks
throughout the City equipped for storing bicycles.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle commented on the City's efforts to make Roanoke a
bike friendly organization and inquired about the process for the City to
become a designated community; whereupon, the City Manager advised that
material had been provided previously to the Council; City staff was involved
with having Messrs Clarke and Nesper present at the meeting to respond to any
questions by the Council; and she too wanted to get input and feedback from
the Council as to whether the City and community should pursue the
designation. Mr. Clarke added that information was available online.
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City Market BuildinQ
R. Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for Community Development,
briefed the Council on various options as well as provided background
information on the Market Building. He reviewed the following points of
discussion:
. Current Operations
. Funded Improvements
. Development Options
. Limited Renovation
. Rework Existing Layout
. Major Renovation
. Re-Position i ng/Redesign I
. Approaches to Development
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Management by City of Roanoke
Third Party Management
Long Term Lease
Sale to a Development Entity
Discussion
.
.
.
.
(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager advised that she was seeking direction from the
Council with regard to lease renewals in the Market Building, which was of
urgent significance as well as management and operation of the leasing
structure. She added that the standard term for leases in the Market Building
were for three-year periods, with one-year renewal options and would prefer to
have feedback from the Council prior to the three month leases that were due
for renewal. Inasmuch as there are some interested parties in the building's
future use, she emphasized that the Council needed to articulate the
parameters under which it would consider other options in order for City staff
to provide an opportunity for solicitation of proposals for managing the City
Market Building.
Comments:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle stated that the Market Building was in dire need of
major renovations, and therefore, should be a priority. He was appreciative of
the mixture of restaurants and the local flavor of businesses and did not see
the need for change. He thought that the addition of some balconies on the
mezzanine level, with an anchored restaurant, along with vendors on the first
floor would be a viable mix. He called attention to the Jefferson Center, stating
that the incentive of tax credits made sense, and he would like for the City to
consider some solicitation of input from organizations/entities that could help
renovate the Market Building and create a long term lease, with minimum
disruption.
Council Member Mason inquired about the comparison of expenses for
the Market Building over recent years; whereupon Mr. Townsend advised that
expenses had grown slightly due to the cost of on-going repairs and
maintenance activities. He added that it had been 26 years since there had
been a generational investment in the Market Building, and that the building
has a lot of activity which causes wear and tear. Ms. Mason stated that there
was no question that the Market Building needed to be refurbished and
refreshed for the benefit of the tenants and customers, and she would be
supportive of one-year leases in order to give the City the necessary flexibility
to make the necessary improvements to the Market Building.
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Council Member Wishneff called attention to previous City-owned
facilities, i.e.: the Jefferson Center and Warehouse Rowand suggested that the
City consider a partnership similar to the one with The Hotel Roanoke and
Conference Center. He was of the opinion that there was a lot of value in
supporting non-profit organizations and helping them to be successful. Mr.
Townsend commented that some of the ideas would depend on Council's
direction, and noted that some of the current tenants were part of the outside
ring of retail tenants or food court tenants. He added that there may be more
flexibility with the tenants on the outside of the building.
Council Member Wishneff was inclined to focus on the smaller tenants,
with the hope of some configuration to increase the number of smaller tenants.
He furthermore was in support of the development of an RFP or other means
that would allow the community to respond and develop a way to use the
streets during off-hours to allow for activities at night and on week-ends. Mr.
Townsend mentioned that the food court tenants would not be very functional
if the spaces were reduced.
Mr. Townsend stated that if the City decided to use the "RFP" design
route, it would take approximately a year to develop something, and currently
the staff was seeking direction from the Council as to how to deal with the
upcoming tenant lease renewals expiring in 2008 and whether there would be
enough time to evaluate the options/proposals that are submitted, and in 2009,
perhaps doing the logistics and invitations for proposals, if the Council agrees.
Council Member Fitzpatrick stated that a couple of things are crucial,
there is a fairly recent downtown plan and the icon of that plan is the Mill
Mountain Star, and the City could not treat the Market Building in isolation,
adding that the Market Building should sustain itself, but it never has because it
was not developed properly in 1981 and it needs to be totally redone with an
understanding of what makes this type of restaurant/retail/entertainment work
as a package. The challenge is that downtown is not the same today as it was
in 1981; there are more visitors .downtown at lunch time. He thought more of
an understanding was needed of the potential for current vendors and possible
vendors -- a real understanding of what the community believes the area should
be and what it takes to make the retail aspect work. He added that the
question of whether it requires closing both streets on each side and having a
critical mass of a building that is enclosed that gives enough square footage is
more important than some capital improvements to make the Building
aesthetically pleasing. In addition, he was of the opinion that the Council was
not in a position to speculate on what the best use of the building could
possibly be, and therefore, help was needed in making said determination.
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Mayor Harris was in support of an RFP procedure to request ideas -
hearing from organizations/entities that would propose development or
management of the building under long-term arrangements, as well as the City
addressing the issues in a timely manner. He was personally opposed to the
outright sale of the building inasmuch as it is a municipal asset, but was
interested in a public/private partnership for long-term development.
Following discussion, the City Manager recapped Council's direction: the
City should continue on the course to complete the renovations and restroom
repairs by November 2008, as previously identified; develop a flexible and fluid
RFP to receive responses from interested parties in the community as to
renovations, operation and management of the Market Building under some
type of long-term lease arrangement; maintain a healthy mix of food court and
retail space; proceed with the one-year lease scenario; and seek input from the
current tenants.
For clarification purposes regarding a developer managing tenants
currently occupying the Market Building, Ms. Burcham stated that her
recommendation would be that as leases expire, the City should continue on a
one-year lease so that the options of the City and any future developer may
remain as flexible as possible, at least until a long-term arrangement plan is
available. She reiterated that there is a need for shorter term leases to enhance
the flexibility of the City and a developer to make improvements.
Roanoke Valley Detention Center
The Director of Finance introduced Allan Hullette, Superintendent,
Juvenile Detention Center, for an overview of the Roanoke Valley Juvenile
Detention Center, whereupon, the following information was shared with the
Council:
Overview of Detention
. Commission owned and operated
. State licensed
. 81 beds
. Male & female
. Court ordered detention only
. Pre-disposition & post-disposition
Population
· FY06 - 27 ADP (Average Daily Population) for Roanoke
. FY07 - 34 ADP for Roanoke
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Unique Services
. Post-disposition services and treatment / Impact 180 Program
. Video court
. Video intake
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Challenges
. Increasing costs associated with admission of youth with serious
and/or chronic medical problems
. Care of youth with diagnosed mental health condition (Statewide
admissions of youth with diagnosed mental health conditions is
approximately 35% while RVJDC admissions of youth with diagnosed
mental health conditions is 65%-75%)
. Competition for competent personnel
. Decreasing level of State funding
Outlook
. Continued admissions of youth with serious medical and mental
health conditions
. Roanoke's admissions are expected to hold at current levels or slightly
decrease subsequent to the City's implementation of detention
utilization controls
. Per diem charges are expected to be maintained at FY06 levels
through FY09 ($158)
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(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments:
. Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired as to why Roanoke has 65% to 75%
admissions of youth with diagnosed mental health conditions; whereupon, Mr.
Hullette advised that there are very few mental health options for youth and
perhaps the youth from the City of Roanoke were being identified more than
other areas having mental health needs.
As a member of the Criminal Justice Services Board, Council Member
Dowe commented that some assistance may be available in the next 60 to 90
days regarding juvenile and adult mental health issues; as well as some
opportunities for grant assistance for the City of Roanoke.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle was very much aware of the mental health challenges
the Juvenile Center faces, and he encouraged development of child psychology
training programs in the Roanoke area. In reference to the Center's budget, the
Vice-Mayor inquired if the cost increase was due to the type of mental health
issues and/or the lack of State funding; whereupon, Mr. Hullette replied in the
affirmative, adding that the reason was also the increase in regulations. He
also noted that the Center was utilizing the Roanoke City School system for
educational purposes.
Council Member Wishneff asked if Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare had
a role with the Center's facilities; whereupon, Mr. Hullette advised that Blue
Ridge provides a case manager for the Detention Center to help transition
youth back into the community, and that a mental health worker was hired
several years ago for the Detention Center. He noted that since that time, State
money has been obtained by some jurisdictions, but because the City of
Roanoke had previously funded the mental health worker position at the
Detention Center locally, the State would not allocate any additional funds for
the position. Based on this reason, he was of the opinion that there were some
glitches that needed to be worked out with the State in order to get additional
funding for the Center.
The City Manager encouraged the Council to go on record stating that it
is not reasonable to require localities to take on the State's required funding,
stating that localities must make up the difference between the amount of
funding expected and that which is actually given -- either the locality makes up
the difference or programs have to be curtailed.
City-wide Brownfield Plan
The City Manager stated that the Brownfield Redevelopment Program has
been shared with the City Planning Commission and would be an upcoming
item on the Council's agenda, and she was recommending that the Brownfield
Plan be adopted as a part of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
Brian Brown, Director of Economic Development, and Ian D. Shaw, Senior
City Planner, Planning, Building and Economic Development, gave the following
overview of the Brownfield Redevelopment Program:
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. Introductory questions
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Why Brownfields
What is a Brownfield?
It is real property the use of which is hampered by either contamination,
either perceived or real. Basically, for years, brownfields sat, and before
2002, no one would touch them, because Federal regulations made
everyone hesitant to dig up something that would cost them $400,000
down the road. In 2002, legislation went into effect that allowed
brownfields to be looked at as real estate deals with slight environmental
flaws, and offered an opportunity to bring these properties back into use.
What is successful redevelopment?
It is taking dormant properties that were industrial corridors, and making
them usable for real estate in terms of industrial use, commercial, mixed
use, and even a new residential area.
. U. S. Council of Mayors Report
172 cities - more than 23,810 brownfields I
Average brownfields 5 - 1 5 acres
Redeveloped brownfields could produce $958 million and $2.2 billion
annually
Over half of the cities offering incentives
62 cities - $233,000,000 actual tax revenue
83,171 jobs created
. Opportunity for Roanoke
City is built out
Economic shifts = underused corridors
Recycling land = growth opportunity
EPA Grants
. Current Grants
Assessment (2)
Job Training
Revolving Loan Fund
(City match)
Total
$ 400,000
$ 173,000
$ 1,000,000
$ 200.000
$ 1,773,000
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· Current Proposals
Assessment
Clean up
$ 200,000
$ 200,000
Partnerships - Leveraging resources is key
. Partnerships
Limited City resources
Manage risk for private sector
Opportunities to capitalize on related public or private projects
City-Wide Brownfield Plan - Contents
. Opportunities
· Typical brownfield process and challenges
· Brownfield corridors
. Policy and actions
Brownfield Corridors
Western Roanoke Riv,er
Central Roanoke River
Eastern Roanoke River
Hollins/Plantation Road Corridor
Statesman/RClT Corridor
Shenandoah Avenue Corridor
West End Corridor
Campbell Avenue/Hollins Road Corridor
Williamson Road Corridor
Pol icy/ Actions
· Zoning and development review
· Area/corridor plans
· Opportunity identification
. Land assembly
· Incentives and funding
· Long-term stewardship
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Planning Buildina & Development (PB&D) / Economic Development (ED) as
Proiect Clearinghouse
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. Ongoing outreach and education
. Database of properties/opportunities
. Seller works with ED to market property
. Developer works with PB&D, ED and Department of Environmental Quality
(DEQ) to address redevelopment issues
Potential Target Areas for brownfield arants
South Jefferson Redevelopment Area
Mountain View / Norwich Corridor
Summary - Brownfields:
. Are a challenge
Environmental issues
Property assembly
Multiple partners
. But also an opportunity
Transform neighborhoods
Create jobs
Attract new business and residents
. Let us know if you see an opportunity!
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(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments:
Council Member Wishneff asked if the assessment grant money had
already been committed; whereupon, Mr. Brown advised that about one-third of
the money had been used from two assessment grants which could be used
City-wide.
Council Member Fitzpatrick expressed his appreciation for the
information and stated that the main source of the potential property for the
City to develop was located within the floodplain, and he encouraged continued
efforts toward cleaning up property located within the City for future use.
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The City Manager stated that a representative from the Department of
Environmental Quality spoke about the Brownfield Program, and the Director
and Program Administrator of the National League of Cities Conference were
very complimentary of City staff that had been involved in the entire brownfield
initiative and will be using the City of Roanoke as an example as they move
across the State trying to encourage other localities to take a look at these type
of properties as areas of opportunity and not view them as eyesores. In
closing, Ms. Burcham complimented Messrs. Brown and Shaw for their initiative,
knowledge and expertise in the Brownfield area.
Global Warming and Roanoke
Kenneth S. Cronin, Director of General Services, presented the
information regarding global warming initiatives. He noted that 29.5% of
Carbon Dioxide was speCifically related to the generation of power, and the
United States was a very large user of coal-based generated power plants; and
10% was rel~ted to residential use and 14% related to transportation. He added
that in 2005, the United States was indicated as the largest per capita user of
fossil fuel in the world; and China would be included in future calculations, but
presently, the United States uses the most fossil fuels. He pointed out that
there are human activities, fossil fuel burning, deforestation and land use
changes which create carbon dioxide, which creates the greenhouse effect, etc.;
and increased efficiency, fuel switching, carbon capture and storage, nuclear
electricity, wind power, solar power, biofuels, and natural carbon sinks (trees)
would help reduce the emissions of carbon.
He commented that the City of Roanoke is the first City to adopt the
special tax break for energy-efficient buildings in the State of Virginia; the Clean
and Green Campaign was designed to accelerate efforts already in place to
make the City of Roanoke attractive and environmentally sound; and the
business community is now involved by making commitments to look at their
carbon footprint. In addition, the City of Roanoke was the first City in Virginia
to join ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) in September 2006, and City
staff is working with SHENAIR, James Madison University, and Virginia Tech's
Green Engineering Program to evaluate the City's options for climate
improvement. He stated that ICLEI was a consistent way of addressing global
warming issues, developing action plans and policies, and long term verifiable
results; and the City is involved in the Green Project, the planting of trees to
increase the tree canopy from 32% to 40% over the next ten years, the
reforestation of three acres of Thrasher Park, and the preservation of mature
trees through regular maintenance, all of which will have an impact on the
future.
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Mr. Cronin stated that the City was one of the first communities in
Southwestern Virginia to: use bio-diesel fuel, which emits 60% less carbon
dioxide which will help reduce the country's dependency on foreign oil; use
Ethanol (10% blend) made from corn from the State of Nebraska; use of propane
lawn mowers; reduce use of incandescent lights with LED lights; and use "power-
save" on computer monitors and larger printers. He added that City employees
receive bus passes to ride Valley Metro and the City has begun to install new
carpet made from recycled materials. Also of importance, he pointed out that
the City had hired energy experts to work on boilers, HVAC systems and
lighting arrays rather than outsource said services; installed low flow and water
free urinals, recycled employee trash, and implemented an environmental
management system in the Public Works Operation Center.
Mr. Cronin further stated that future plans are to work with ICLEI to
develop a baseline emissions inventory with recommendations for the City and
the greater community; implement the Council's initiatives including the tax
relief program for energy efficient buildings; continue the Clean and Green
Campaign; make municipal operations more efficient; and be recognized as a
leading community in Virginia to improve the environment.
(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle asked if the City would be able to utilize the energy
experts to assist the Roanoke City Public School administrators in the
implementation of similar initiatives and the utilization of the Brownfield
grants; whereupon, Mr. Cronin stated that Gareth McAllister, the City's Facilities
Manager, is on loan to the Roanoke City Public Schools, who is using his
expertise to assist the School administration with said issues.
Council Member Mason stated that she was working in concert with Mr.
Cronin to contact the top ten employers in the City of Roanoke with regard to
environmental initiatives and she hopes to report on their progress at a future
meeting.
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Council Member Fitzpatrick commented on the recycling efforts and
asked how the City was doing overall with regard to its recycling initiatives;
whereupon, the City Manager advised that the initiative efforts were continuing,
and the numbers were improving for residential recycling on a regular basis;
and Skip Decker, Solid Waste Manager, has reached out to the business
community to encourage recycling, which information is shared with the
Council through the City's weekly update. I
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Council Member Wishneff asked if the City was working with the Valley
Metro as well; whereupon, Mr. Cronin advised that the bus system can only use
the bio-diesel fuel at about the 10% level because of bus warranty issues.
Council Member Wishneff suggested that there be a long term tax incentive for
energy efficiency to encourage investments by businesses. He noted that the
States of California and New Jersey have mandated that their power companies
have a certain percentage of renewable energy by a certain date, and if the
State of Virginia wanted to be really successful in this area, some mandates
should be adopted.
At 12:45 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess for Closed
Session, and reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea,
Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff, Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.,
an d Mayo r C. N e I so n H arri s----------------------------------------------------------------------------7 .
ABS ENT: Non e -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------0.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
PROCLAMATIONS: The Mayor presented a proclamation to Ron Ramsey,
President, Roanoke Valley Amateur Radio Club, declaring Monday, January 7,
2008, as Roanoke Valley Amateur Radio Club Day.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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CONSENT AGENDA
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The Vice-Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda
were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted
by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately.
APPALACHIAN POWER COMPANY-EASEMENTS: A communication from the
City Manager requested that Council schedule a public hearing for Tuesday,
January 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, with regard to conveyance of an easement across certain city-owned
property to Appalachian Power Company, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------7 .
NAYS: Non e ---------------------------------------------- -------- ___________n__ u_uu____________ O.
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SPECIAL PERMIT: A communication from the City Manager requested that
Council schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m.,
or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, with regard to granting an
encroachment into the right-of-way at 2501 Wycliff Avenue, S.W., for a retaining
wall, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s-----------------------------u------n-------------------------------------___________nn 7.
NAYS: Non e ________________________________________________________n_________________________ -----0.
(Public hearing request was withdrawn inasmuch as applicant was no longer I
interested in pursuing the matter.)
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BUDGET: A communication from the City Manager recommending
adoption of the calendar of Events for Budget Preparation Activities for the
fiscal year of 2008 - 2009, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
Vice-Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s _______________n________________________________________________________________---------- 1 .
NAYS: Non e -------- --------------------------- --------------------------------------------------- -- 0 .
PARKS AND RECREATION: A communication from Sharon L. Stinnette
tendering her resignation as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion second by Vice-Mayor Trinkle
and adopted by the following vote: '
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s-----------------------------------------------------------------n------------------------1.
NAYS: Non e ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------0.
PARKS AND RECREATION: A communication from the Deputy City Clerk
advising of the resignation of Robert C. Jones as a member of the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor
Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s n__nn________________________nn__________nn_______________________________n__nnn 1 .
NAYS: Non e _____________n_______________________________________________________________n________ O.
138
ZONING: A report of qualification of Kermit E. Hale as a member of the
Board of Zoning Appeals, for a term ending December 31, 2010, was before the
Council.
(See Oath or Affirmation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the report of qualification be received
and filed. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s--------------------------------------m--------------------------------------------------l .
NAYS: Non e------------------------------------------------------------------;:---------------------0.
REG U LAR AG EN DA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS: NONE.
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: NONE.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE:
FINANCIAL REPORTS: The Director of Finance submitted the Financial
Report for the month of November 2001.
(For full text, see Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Director of Finance highlighted the revenues through November
2001, and gave a summary of the financial report.
Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the Financial
Report would be received and filed.
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139
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE VICE-MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Fitzpatrick called attention to a recent
structure fire at a warehouse located at 128 Church Avenue, S. E., which
occurred on Thursday, January 3, 2008. He complimented the City of Roanoke
Fire/EMS department on its efforts and the Roanoke County Fire/EMS
department with backup assistance at the scene. He requested that the Mayor
forward correspondence to the County expressing the City's appreciation for
their assistance.
CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Dowe announced that he had attended
funeral services of Vachaun Hash, Pastor, Temple of the Way Out Church, who
passed away following a heart attack, and he urged the citizens of the City of
Roanoke to keep the Hash and Church families in their prayers.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor stated that City
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for response,
recommendation or report to Council.
CITY COUNCIL-CITY MARKET: Colonel Robert Craig, 101 12th Street, S. W.,
appeared before Council and presented Vice-Mayor Trinkle with a symbolic
photograph. He also spoke about the leases of tenants who occupy space in
the City Market Building.
CITY GOVERNMENT: Helen Davis, 35 Patton Avenue, N. E., appeared
before Council to seek clarification as to what criteria is used for items
requiring sponsorships of the City Manager or Members of Council in order to
appear on the written agenda under Petitions and Communications.
CITY GOVERNMENT: Evelyn Bethel, 35 Patton Avenue, N. E, appeared
before Council and spoke about character. She cited various quotations that
referenced character.
140
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: NONE.
At 2:35 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for
continuation of a Closed Meeting previously approved during the 9:00 a.m.,
session of the Council.
I
At 4:45 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
with Mayor Harris presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with
the exception of Council Member Wishneff who left during the Closed Meeting.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded, Council
Member Dowe moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his
or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from
open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
(2) only such public business matters were identified in any motion by which
any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City
Council. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: None__.m_____nnmnm_n_nmmmmnmmmn__.mnmn_____mm_m_mmQ. I
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
COMMITTEES-ROANOKE VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: The Mayor
advised that inasmuch as Bittle W. Porterfield, III, had served three consecutive
terms of office as the City's representative to the Roanoke Valley Resource
Authority, he was not eligible to seek reappointment upon the expiration of his
term of office on December 31, 2001, and called for nominations to fill the
vacancy.
The name of Laurence M. Levy was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Levy was appointed as a City
representative to the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority Board for a four-year
term of office ending December 31, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MR. LEVY: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s ___________uu______n_________________n____________________________________nn____-----6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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141
COMMITTEES-HOUSING: The Mayor advised that there is a vacancy on the
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board of Commissioners
created by the resignation of Gregory W. Feldmann for a term ending
August 31, 2010, and he opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Cheryl C. Miller was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Miller was appointed as a
member of the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board of
Commissioners to fill the unexpired term of office of Gregory W. Feldmann
ending August 31, 2010, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MILLER: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s ___________________n__________________________________________________________________----6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
PLANNING (FIFTH PLANNING DISTRICT): The Mayor advised that the
expiration of the term of office of Carol Tuning as the City's representative to
the Fifth Planning District Disability Services Board will expire on January 31,
2008; whereupon, he called for nominations to fill the vacancy.
The name of Carol Tuning was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Tuning was reappointed as the
City's representative to the Fifth Planning District Disability Services Board for a
three-year term of office ending January 31, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MS. TUNING: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe
an d Mayo r H arri s -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting
adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
CJt~~
c. Nelson Harris
Mayor
'~.~
Stephanie M. Moon, CMC
City Clerk
142
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
I
Jamuary 22, 2008
I
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday,
January 22, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., ~oom 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council,
Section 2-1 5, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetinos, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, an1d pursuant to Resolution No. 37817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Memblr Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason,
David B. Trinkle, Alfred T. DowJ, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., and Mayor
C. N e I so n H arri S_umummmm_____Jm___m_mmmmum_ummm_mmum_muu_m__6.
ABS ENT: Co unci I Me m be r B ~i an J. Wi s h n e ff____________________________________n___n 1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: DarlJne L. Burcham, City Manager; William M. I
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivererij by Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
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1
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
I
I
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT: The Mayor recognized Exchange Students
from Wonju.
PROCLAMATIONS: The Mayor presented a proclamation to Chief Gaskins
I
declaring the month of January as Stalking Awareness Month.
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(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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143
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately. The Mayor called attention to two requests for
Closed Meetings.
MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on Monday,
November 5,2007, were before the body.
(For full text, see minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council dispense with the reading of
the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor
Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayor Harris--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6.
NAYS: No n e nn________u_u_un_uu__u_n_nunun_u_n_u_________uu_unu_u_____nnn-0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson Harris
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on
certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s u_______u_uu_u_____nuuu_________nun______u__uuu____n__u_u_______u_un________ 6.
NAYS: Non e _u_uuu____unuun____n_u_u_nu____unuu______uu_u______nuuu____--n-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
144
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, I
Jr., Chair, Personnel Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed
Meeting to discuss the mid-year performance of three Council-Appointed
I
Officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of
Council Member Dowe to convenb in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The
motion was seconded by Vice,Mav1or Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s 'mnnnmmm' n'nnm"i"mnm'mmmnmnnnn--n'---nmnmm' mnmn6.
NAYS: Non en---n------unun-ruuuun __________u_uuuuuuuuu_ ________nnnn_n_ ---0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
ANNUAL REPORTS: Annual Report of the City Planning Commission for
Calendar Year 2007, was before the Council.
(For full text, see annual report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Council Member Mason moved that the annual report be received and
I
filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members ILea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H a rri smnnmnnn'"'mmm.mj'nnnnnn__mmn"mnnnnndm"nnmnnmnn__6.
NAYS: Non e ----uun-u-u---uuru-uu-- _____un n_u_un __nnnn_____ n nu____ --nnn---O .
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION-TOWING ADVISORY BOARD-ROANOKE
VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: I Reports of qualification of the following
individuals, were before the CounGil:
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145
Adrienne Barnett as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission,
for a term ending June 30, 2010;
Michael P. Wright as a member of the Towing Advisory Board, for a
term ending October 31, 2010;
Laurence M. Levy as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley
Resource Authority, for a term ending December 31, 2011; and
Cheryl C. Miller as a Commissioner of the Roanoke Redevelopment
and Housing Authority, Board of Commissioners, to fill the
unexpired term of Gregory W. Feldmann ending August 31, 2010.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s uuunuun_u_nu__n________________________u___u_u__u__uun_u_u_______-------------6.
NAYS: Non e __________________n____uunuuu_u_u_uuuuu_______________uuu_u_nunun_O .
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
TOTAL ACTION AGAINST POVERTY: Annette Lewis, Vice President of
Programs, expressed appreciation to the Council for designating Total Action
Against Poverty (TAP) as the Community Action Agency to serve some of the
most vulnerable citizens in the community and for their support in ensuring
that TAP has the needed resources to revive dropout retrieval, education, hard
and soft skill training, domestic violence, victim services, a new beginning for
x-offenders, shelter for the homeless, and fatherhood services to non-custodial
dads; and the leveraged funds received by TAP have impacted the lives of
approximately 3,360 citizens in the community.
146
Ms. Lewis stated that TA~ is scheduled to complete Phase I of the
renovations to the 225-unit Terrace Apartments by December 2008, and
families are moving into renovate~ Building NO.7 in Terrace North, leaving only
two units vacant to date.
I
She further stated that the renovation of the Dumas Center for Artistic
and Cultural Development was the first step in revitalizing Henry Street, hoping
the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge and monument unites Henry Street to
downtown Roanoke -- the past unhes with the present and the future, with the
Dumas Center in the midst of it ~II. Additionally, TAP is providing support or
partnership for its free tax c1init, individual development account program,
supervised visitation and safe exc~ange program.
Ms. Lewis elaborated on thl free tax services, noting that last year TAP
provided services to 419 low-incort,e individuals, which resulted in $524,329.00
I
in tax returns, of which $206,741.00 was earned income tax credits, adding
that the Tax Clinic would be open~d again on January 31, 2008. She explained
that since 2001 the TAP IndividLal Development Account Program received
$150,000.00 in matched funds to help approximately 71 participants purchase
assets -- 39 become first-time home buyers, 12 pay for education, and 20 invest
in their own businesses; and others received $32,000.00 in 4-to-1 match
dollars.
In November 2007, after a year of training and planning, TAP opened the
doors of the Supervised Visitatioh and Safe Exchange Center for Victims of
Domestic Violence, Sexual Assadlt, Stalking and Child Abuse, whereby 26
individuals received said services lvhich offer a safe haven for abused women
with children.
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Ms. Lewis highlighted sonre of the major initiatives that TAP has
undertaken in other parts of the region:
. Economic Development Plank extend to Clifton Forge with the purchase
of five homes on Keswick \ Street to be renovated into single-family
dwellings for first time home buyers with children who meet the low to
moderate income guidelines.
. Office space to expand the current services provided in Clifton Forge
community.
. Working with a Clifton Forge company on plans to convert the Clifton
Forge High School into a potJntial art school.
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147
. Researching a historic African-American high school in Clifton Forge to
determine if it can be converted into rental property.
. Working with the Augusta County Regional Dental Clinic to expand
services to Rockbridge and Rockingham Counties for desperately needed
dental services to children and adults.
. Development of a State of the Poor Address that details the conditions of
poor people all across the Roanoke Valley and the Alleghany Region,
which will be updated annually and provide assistance to TAP as they
work with partners and municipalities to resolve issues to improve the
quality of life for all of the citizens in the region.
In closing, Ms. Lewis expressed appreciation to the Council and the City
of Roanoke for its assistance and support.
(For full text, see copy of the document on file in the City Clerk's Office.
Mayor Harris recognized Ms. Lewis for sharing activities coordinated by
Total Action Against Poverty throughout 2007.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAG ER:
BRIEFINGS:
2007 Crime Statistics Police Initiatives
A. L. '~oe" Gaskins, Chief of Police, reviewed the following Crime
Reduction Update:
Year to Year Comoarison
-10.04%
-66.67%
-18.87%
945
3,924
1002
3,607
6.0396
-8.08%
148
Motor Vehicle Theft
I
6.97%
-25.00%
17.78%
-2.79%
I 962
I 4,931
\ 401
I 33
945
3,924
385
33
- 1 . 77%
-20.42%
- 3.99%
0.00%
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149
City of Roanoke
Homicides by Year, 1994-2007
18
16
14
Ul
Gl
'tl 12
'u
"E
o 10
J:
'0 8
...
Gl
~ 6
:I
Z
4
2
o
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
Year
City of Roanoke
Burglaries, 2004-2007
1010
1000
III 990
Q)
';: 980
Cll
C, 970
...
:I
m 960
'5
... 950
Q)
.c 940
E
:I 930
Z
920
910
2004 2005 2006
Year
2007
150
c: 40
o
III 35
l'lI
>
c: 30
- III
CIl CIl
E"': 25
o CIl
:I: ~ 20
-0
~ a: 15
CIl
.c
E 10
j
Z 5
o
...
Cll
CI)
>
City of Roan1oke
Home Invasion Robb~ry, 2004-2007
, I
I
45
2004
2005
2006
2007
Year
City of Roa~oke
I
Robbery, 200r-2007
I
2004
2005
2006
2007
o
100 150 I 200
Number of Robberies
I
300
250
50
I
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c: 40
o
rn 35
III
>
c: 30
-rn
CI)CI)
E 0;: 25
o~
:I:..c 20
-0
~ a: 15
CI)
..c 10
E
;:,
Z 5
1 51
City of Roanoke
Home Invasion Robbery, 2004-2007
45
o
2004
2005
2006
2007
Year
Chief Gaskins advised that burglaries and robberies had increased and
the Police Department has taken several proactive steps to reduce crime in
those particular areas, and in 2007, there was an overall crime reduction of six
percent. In 2006, there was a 14 percent reduction in overall crime, whereby he
felt that the assignment and response time of police officers had helped to
reduce the crime rate. He noted that in 1994 and 2007, there were four
incidents of murder, and with the exception of those four incidents, the City
. had experienced the lowest incidents of murder over the past 40 years.
He pointed out that the Police Department is monitoring the high risk
domestic violence cases, adding that the Domestic Violence Task Force has
helped the citizens become more aware of the problem, which has had a
positive impact. He mentioned that there were two specialists that perform
crime analysis and profile people, which help to better forecast where crime
may occur before it happens. He also commented that drug abuse and drug
traffic has caused an increase in home invasions all over the United States,
emphasizing that this type of burglary is assigned to the organized crime unit.
152
In closing, the Chief indicated that the Police Department was working I
with Radford University to furt~her define innovative ways to patrol and
investigate home invasions, add i rill I g that a reward program had been initiated
and new brochures had helped to educate and inform the citizens. He
distributed copies of pamphlets regarding prevention of motor vehicle theft,
. rape prevention, property crimesl initiative, the Juvenile Curfew Center, filing
false police reports, robbery prevention information, and important information
about keeping you and your family safe.
(See copies of pamphlets on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments:
Council Member Dowe commented that the City of Roanoke had been
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recognized on a state and national level as a model for being proactive in crime
education and prevention. He I inquired about statistics in hate crimes;
whereupon, Chief Gaskins stated that there had not been an increase in hate
crime.
Council Member Lea expressed his appreciation and support for the
Police Department's efforts and wbrk in the area of domestic violence, as well
as crime and home invasions ~ithin the City, adding that he has always
encouraged citizens to come forward to report crimes so that they may be
solved.
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The Mayor expressed apprec'iation to Chief Gaskins for his comments on
the Crime Statistics Police Initiative1s for 2007.
The Mayor advised that the briefings pertaining to global warming and
the overview of the 2008 assessment process would be held in the Council's
Conference Room, immediately f6110wing the 2:00 p.m. session. (See pages
163-166)
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ftiCTION:
POLlCE-GRANT-BUDGET: T~e City Manager submitted a
communication recommending ad:eptance of the Domestic Violence
Grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
(For full text see communication o~ file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offerld the following resolution:
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written
Prog ram
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153
(#37990-012208) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Services,
Training, Officers, Prosecution Violence Against Women (V-STOP) grant to the
City from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, and authorizing
execution of any required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 141.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 37990-
012208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s _____________n_____ -----------n-----------------------------------------------------------------6.
NAYS: Non e -------------- n______________n_______ ---------------- ----------------------------------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#37991-012208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Police Department Domestic Violence
Program Grant (VSTOP), amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-
2008 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 142.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
37991-012208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s -_____________________________n__________________________________________________----------------6.
NAYS: Non e ---------------------------------------n-------------------------------n--------------O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
YOUTH-BUDGET-GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the Juvenile Accountability Block
Grant from the Department of Criminal Justice Services.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
154
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution: I
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(#37992-012208) A RESOL~TION accepting the Juvenile Accountability
Block Grant UABG) from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services,
authorizing execution of any requ1ired documentation on behalf of the City, and
authorizing the City to serve as fislca' agent.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 143.)
Council Member Mason mlved the adoption of Resolution No. 37992-
012208. The motion was secondbd by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Llea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayor H arri s__nd______m__nm__mnn'j_____.__m__mmmm'______um...'mmmnmnmm__6.
NAYS: Non e n__nn___n_________nn____nnn_____________________n_________nnn ----------n---O .
(Council Member Wishneff was abs11ent.)
Vice'Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance: I
(#37993-012208) AN ORDINlNCE to appropriate local match funding and
funding from the Commonwealthl of Virginia Department of Criminal Justice
Services for the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant Program, amending and
reordaining certain sections of \the 2007-2008 General and Grant Funds
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 144.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved t~e adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 37993-
012208. The motion was seconde~ by Council Member Mason and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayor Harri s____mn___m__mm___ou____JI__mm_____mmmuum'mmn__umuunmnmm__6.
NAYS: Noneoumouu--m----m'rnm-----m--m-------mm--m.m------nmn.um,nO.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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155
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES-GRANTS-BUDGET: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Rescue
Squad Assistance Fund Grant from the Virginia Department of Health, Office of
Emergency Medical Services.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#37994-012208) A RESOLUTION accepting the Rescue Squad Assistance
Fund (RSAF) grant made to the City by the Virginia Department of Health, Office
of Emergency Medical Services, and authorizing execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 145.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 37994-012208.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s______________nnn_n_nnnnn___n__nn_n____n_n_n___nn---n------nn-- -nn-n--n-6.
NAYS: Non e _______n_________________________nn____ _______________U_____n______n_nnn_____n O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#37995-012208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Rescue Squad Assistance Fund (RSAF) Grant,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 146.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
37995-012208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
156
Mayor ~Ya~~;s---~,~,~.~,~~~..~,~~~e'~~"f:,-.~:~~'~~--~~~~~~~:m~~~~'~"~~~'~~:~~~~'~:---~~6~ I
NAYS: Non emmmmmum-rm--m-mmumm--m---umm-mmmum-m-muo.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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GRANTS-SEWERS AND SlilORM DRAINS-WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER
AUTHORITY: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending adoption of a resolution supporting the grant application for the
Fairhope Road sewer extension.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offJed the following resolution:
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(#37996-012208) A RESOLUtiON authorizing the City Manager to submit
an application to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community
Development for a. Southern Rivers Watershed Enhancement Program grant for
the Fairhope Road Sewer Extensil\on project, in the amount of $375,000, to
provide money for the Western Virginia Water Authority (WVWA) for such
project, which is located within the City of Roanoke; authorizing the execution I
of the necessary documents a1nd providing additional information; and
authorizing the City Manager to ~rovide for the transfer to the WVWA of any
such grant funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 147.)
Council Member Mason moled the adoption of Resolution No. 37996-
012208. The motion was seconde~ by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
Council Member Dowe exprlssed appreciation on behalf of the Fairland
Lake residents.
There being no further comments by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 37996.012208 was adopted b1 the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayor Harri sm_'n___m___n________"___"(,.,,_"______,,___,...mmm..m..m.."_____'______m.,6.
NAYS: Non e-m-mm-mm------r-m-mnn--mm--mmm-m-----------mmmum--o.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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HEALTH DEPARTMENT-CITY EMPLOYEES-HUMAN SERVICES-BUDGET: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization
to continue funding the Restricted Eligibility Worker position stationed at the
Health Department.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#37997-012208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Medicaid Eligibility Worker position,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 148.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance NO.3 7997-
012208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by
the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s _n_____nu__n______ --u--nu_______nunu_______________________n_u_______n_u___________6.
NAYS: Non e __uunU__nuuun_________u____un______u____________un u-uu__nu____u__n_O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
EQUIPMENT-POLlCE-GRANTS: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of a Wolf Pack Remote Viewing
System from the Department of Homeland Security to support operational units
in the Police Department.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#37998-012208) A RESOLUTION accepting the Commercial Equipment
Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP) grant made to the City from the Department
of Homeland Security, and authorizing execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
I (For fu II text of resol ution, see Resol ution Book No. 72, page 149.j
158
Vice-Mayor Tinkle moved t~e adoption of Resolution No. 37998-012208. I
The motion was seconded by Oouncil Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members ILea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r Harrism-m'-.m--nm'mm--n'l---m--mmmmm---------mmmmmmn-------'---n6.
NAYS: Non emmnn_,m__m__rmn'___mmmmmmn____n__m'mm'mnmnm__O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
DATASAFE: The City Man1ager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of additional amendments to the contract with
DataSafe, LLC, to increase the exi~ting Contract's "not to exceed" amount, per
year, for the two remaining optional renewal periods for records storage
services.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered t~e following resolution:
\
(#37999-012208) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance I
and execution of additional Amen~ments to the City's Contract with DataSafe,
LLC, for additional record storage ~ervices for various City departments.
(For full text of resolution, see ResLution Book No. 72, page 150.)
Vice'Mayor Trinkle moved th1r adoption of Resolution No. 37999'012208.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote: !
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayor Harri smn___m__mmn_mmm'_j..m____mdm'_mmm__mmm__n____mmmm_.m6.
NAYS: None---------m'mm'm'rmm'....---mm--.-mnmmm-mmmnmm--mO.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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CAPITAL PROJECTS-STATE HIGHWAYS-STREETS-SIDEWALKS-BRIDGES: The
City Manager submitted a written :communication recommending execution of
four new project agreements with the Virginia Department of Transportation for
bridge repairs and renovation, pavihg, curb, gutter and sidewalks.
(For full text see communication onl file in the City Clerk's Office.) I
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38000-012208) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to enter
into any and all necessary and appropriate agreements with the Virginia
Department of Transportation to locally administer and implement the Main
Street (Wasena) Bridge Repair and Renovations, the Franklin Road Bridge Repair
and Renovations, the Citywide Curb, Gutter and Sidewalk Program, and the
Citywide Paving Program.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 151.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38000-012208.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s nu____ ____nnnn_n___ u_____u_un_n nun____n_n_uu__ _______nnunuu_________nu_6.
NAYS: Non ennnnn________nunnunn_________nnnnu____nnu_u_un_____n_n_nu__---0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38001-012208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Virginia Department of Transportation to various capital projects and for street
paving, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 General
and Capital Projects Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page152.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38001-
012208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
MaL)f()r HaLrris--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Non e u----uuu-_____nnu________n_un______uuu___n_uu_____uun______nun-----O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
160
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
I
HOUSING (FAIR HOUSING BOARD)-ANNUAL REPORT: Sherman V.
Burroughs, IV, Member, Fair Housing Board, shared information with regard to
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the annual report of the Fair Housing Board for Fiscal Year 2006-2007, advising
that the Fair Housing Board contihues to address the impediments indentified
in the 2001 study by HOME, Inc., lAnalvsis of the Impediments to Fair Housinq .
in Roanoke. Virginia. He noted thjat of the 42 impediments listed in the study,
20 had a recommended remedy of outreach and/or education, which issues fall
within the responsibilities that C6uncil has given the Fair Housing Board and
continue to be the focus of the Bo~rd's activities. He highlighted the following:
The Fair Housing Board, in cooperation with its community
partners, continues to collect data on alleged cases of housing
discrimination in order to I target its outreach and educational
efforts. During 2006-2001' there were 25 incidents of alleged
housing discrimination reported. The complaints registered
spanned almost the entire @amma of protected classes including:
race (11 incidents), disabilitYI (8 incidents), six (2 incidents), religion
(1 incident), familial status (2 incident) and elderliness (1 incident).
Eight of these incidents wete filed with the Virginia Fair Housing
Office and/or HUD. The casbs filed as a result of those complaints
included all the above protected classes with the exception of
elderliness. As has been \true in the past, race and disability
continue to be the proteGted classes generating the greatest
number of complaints and cJses filed.
Over the past year, the Boar1 has maintained a continued dialogue
with the Roanoke Valley Ass6ciation of Realtors (RVAR). The Board,
based on report data receive~ last year, offered to partner with the
RVAR to complete a paired ~esting audit targeted at assessing the
presence of housing disctimination in sales activity. After
consideration, the Board of the RVAR decided not to conduct any
testing. The Fair Housinb Board continues to partner with
numerous local agencies in Gollecting housing data and complaints
to assist with developing str~tegic direction for the coming months
and years.
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(For full text, see copy of annual report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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For the record, E. Duane Howard, former Member of the Fair Housing
Board, filed a statement in response to the abovementioned comments in
connection with the Annual Report of the Fair Housing Board for 2006-2007.
(See copy of remarks on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
SCHOOLS-BUDGET: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written
report requesting appropriation of funds to various programs; and the Director
of Finance submitted a written report recommending that the Council concur in
the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38002-012208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth government as well as from local match, donations, and fees,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 School Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 153.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38002-
012208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s nnu___nu_nn_n_n_n_____n_n nun _n__u_______nnnnu_n_____u_unun nun____n6.
NAYS: Non enn_nnnnnnunu___n_n___nnunuu____uu_u_n______n_nun_u___nn_nO.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
162
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that I
Council sets this time as a pribrity for citizens to be heard; and matters
requiring referral to the City Man~ger will be referred immediately for response,
recommendation or report to coutCil.
COMPLAINTS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Ms. lIeada Ribble, 1511 Gilford
Avenue, N. W., appeared before the Council to express concern regarding
frivolous spending of taxpayers' money to benefit those individuals who are
renovating the Hancock Building.
(See copy of prepared statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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COMPLAINTS-POLICE: Mr. Shaheed Omar, 1219 Loudon Avenue, N. W.,
appeared before the Council and lexpressed concern with regard to continued
police brutality in the City of Roanoke.
(See copy of prepared statement o~ file in the City Clerk's Office.)
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
SEWER-STORM DRAINS-WATER-CELEBRATIONS-SCLC-MONUMENT: The City
Manager noted that six of the Jight agenda items listed under Reports of I
Officer-City Manager section, invo'lved applications for receipt of grant funds;
and that City staff is always searching for different financial sources to provide
funding for projects and program~. She also added that the grant application
for the Fairhope Road sewer exte~sion was submitted by the Western Virginia
Water Authority, with support from the City of Roanoke.
She commended City crews on their efforts on snow removal on
Thursday, January 17, noting that lall main arteries were clear within 24 hours,
which allowed the Roanoke City F?ublic Schools to open on a two-hour delay
schedule; and she shared various Jctivities held over a four day period in honor
of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., hi9hl\ighting the annual walk that is sponsored by
the Roanoke Chapter of the Soutnern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC)
on the third Monday in January. M~. Burcham also announced that the Ribbon-
,
cutting and Monument Unveiling Geremony for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,
Memorial Bridge and Statue will ~e held on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, at
11 :00 a.m., with a march comniencing at First Baptist Church Gainsboro,
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followed by a ceremony at 11 :30 a.m.
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163
In closing, the City Manager announced that the City Clerk was a recipient
of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Drum Major for Justice Award at the Annual
SCLC Banquet held on Friday, January 18, 2008, at the Wyndham Hotel.
At 3:15 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess to be
immediately reconvened in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, for two
briefings and a Closed Meeting.
At this point, Mayor Harris left the meeting (3:15 p.m.)
The Council m~eting reconvened in the Council's Conference Room, with
Vice-Mayor Trinkle presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with
the exception of Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris.
City of Roanoke Global Warming Carbon Footprint
The City Manager introduced Sean McGinnis, Director, Virginia Tech
Green Engineering Program, who shared a presentation of the ICLEI Baseline
Report Summary for the City of Roanoke via powerpoint, which included the
following topics: the ICLEI process and timeline from 2005 to 2012 and
beyond, analysis methods, baseline scope, data sources, data analysis,
electricity grid fuel mix, building sector, vehicle fleet sector, lighting sector,
implemented and potential municipal measures - analysis results, community
baseline emission comparisons, community conservative options analyzed in all
five community sectors (waste, residential, commercial and industrial, and
transportation), C02 emission reductions, and recommendations for the next
steps for emission reduction.
Mr. McGinnis pointed out that the municipal facilities were responsible
for only 1.9 percent of the C02 baseline emissions as reflected in the following
chart:
164
Municipal Emissions Ar~ A Small Contribution
To The Overall Co~,m.unUy Baseline
I
CO2 Baseline Emissions
I - Community
Comparison
)
l 154
,,~ 24,82 L""
I 0,60;',
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~NAU~
<lit ...!" t->l><l-U-
fJ,790 2.3%;
Municipal
"._",..,,,,,.,,,,.Community,,,.... "....,6,39L .,.",,,.,.,,9,736 .
Municipal (%i 1.8%
",,2,60CL .,......".u.". 250.
W1VirginiaTech
Invent fhe Future
I
He mentioned that simPIJ things like HVAC and boiler upgrades,
changing light bulbs, using bio-dielsel blend fuels, and recycling waste would be I
a starting point to help reduce the amount of energy used and would be more
cost effective over a relatively short period of time.
In closing, he indicated thaJ the City needed to set emissions reduction
goals, develop a local governmen~ action plan, implement a local action plan,
and monitor and verify the results. I
(For full text, see copy of presentat!ion on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Comments:
Council Member Mason requested City officials to remind staff to recycle
paper to help increase the City's re:cycling rate that is hovering around 38 to 40
percent, as well as encourage citizens to do the same to further the cause.
The City Manager pointed Lt that she has served on the Governor's
Energy Advisory Council, whereby it was acknowledged that the City of Roanoke
is on the forefront of the green init'iative; and the City has had several pieces of
legislation adopted that provide intentives to encourage green development in
the Roanoke community. She anno:unced that the City will break ground on the
new Williamson Road Fire Station, which will be the first LEED certified building I
in the community, and other projects were in line to be recertified.
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165
In conclusion, Ms. Burcham expressed appreciation to Ken Cronin,
Director of General Services, for his efforts regarding energy reduction, and she
stated that education was the key to all efforts towards energy conservation.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle asked if any of the buildings scheduled to go online
would be taken into account as the City tries to reach its goals; whereupon, Mr.
McGinnis responded in the affirmative, adding that the current model does not
have a lot of growth in it since it is hard to predict the number of new
buildings, and therefore, the predictions were based upon low growth
assumptions, which per population is good for Roanoke, but not so for
development.
There being no further discussion, the Vice-Mayor expressed appreciation
for the presentation on global warming carbon footprint.
Overview of 2008 Assessment Process
Susan Lower, Director of Real Estate Valuation, gave an overview of the
property market values used for assessment of real property. She pointed out
that the State Code requires that all real property be assessed for taxation at
100% of the market value, and the Roanoke City Code requires that all property
be assessed on an annual basis, with an effective date of July 1 of each year.
She highlighted the following data:
· the 2007 real estate rumors, i.e.: real estate sales going down, sale
prices are falling, houses on the market for a long period of time,
houses sell way below list price, foreclosures are increasing, builders
and developers have overstocked the market, etc.;
· sale prices of housing - the residential sales analysis;
· average days on the market and percent of list price to sale price;
· number of foreclosures - foreclosure sales between 2004 - 2007;
· real estate assessment projections for Fiscal Year 2008-2009, i.e.: tax
base will increased by 3.10%, new construction will increase 1.50%,
and total increase overall is 4.60%;
· 2008 areas of concentration - affordable housing, commercial real
estate hot spots, new construction projects, and rehabs; and
· survey of other reassessment increases in surrounding areas.
166
She noted that the data indicates that the increase in real estate I
assessments are indicative of the stability and modest growth in Roanoke's
housing, the neighborhoods are Istrong and growing, revitalization is taking
place, and real estate is a good i?vestment - both residential and commercial.
In addition, she noted the following tax relief programs: elderly tax freeze,
disability tax relief program, rehabilitated tax abatement, land use, solar energy
abatement, and the energy efficierh - reduced tax rate.
(For full text, see copy on file in th1e City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager commen~ed thai the City is doing exactly what was
approved in the Strategic HOUSingl Plan, wherein one of the goals was to move
the City's average home price closer to the regional average. She noted that
the City continues to have afford~ble housing, but unfortunately, the existing
and new housing is reflecting an i~crease in value, which increases the housing
stock in certain neighborhoods. ,she added that if the City is to continue to
provide services that its citizens deserved, there are only two choices: either
put more of a tax burden on the I existing citizens or expand the tax base in
such a way that it brings more people and new people into the community.
There was discussion regar~ing the rehabilitatio~ of older properties to
ensure more energy efficiency add to preserve the environment, which may I
attract renters and homebuyers batk to the City.
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At this point, the Mayor entered the meeting (4:20 p.m.)
There being no further cJmments and/or questions by the Council
Members, the Vice-Mayor declared the meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting.
I _
At 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, January 22, 2008, the Council meeting was
reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Membe~s Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason,
David B. Trinkle, Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-m---mm-mu--5.
ABSENT: Council Members Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., and Brian J.
Wishneff--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2.
OFFICERS PRESENT: DarleJ L. Burcham, City Manager: William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. tHall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk.
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167
The Invocation was delivered by Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
STREETS AND ALLEYS: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the
Council on April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on the request of Steel Dynamics to permanently vacate,
discontinue and close the easternmost end of Westside Boulevard, N. W.,
containing approximately 30,365 s.f., more particularly bounded by properties
owned by Roanoke Electric Steel and bearing Official Tax Nos. 6021102,
6021101,6021106 and 6021105, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, January 4, 2008 and Friday, January 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the applicant's request to vacate the subject portion of Westside
Boulevard, subject to the conditions as set forth below, with a sale price of
$7,591.00.
· The applicant shall dedicate right-of-way on Official Tax Map No.
6021106 and construct a vehicular turnaround area, subject to
City standards and approval.
· The applicant shall submit a subdivision plat to the Agent for
the Planning Commission, receive all required approvals of, and
record the plat with the Clerk of the Circuit Court for the City of
Roanoke. Such plat shall combine all properties which would
otherwise dispose of the land within the right-of-way to be
vacated in a manner consistent with law, and retain appropriate
easements for the installation and maintenance of any and all
existing utilities that may be located within the right-of-way,
including the right of ingress and egress.
168
. Upon meeting all other conditions to the granting of .the I
application, the applicant shall deliver a certified copy of this
ordinance for recordatidn to the Clerk of the Circuit Court of
I
Roanoke, Virginia, indexing the same in the name of the City of
Roanoke, Virginia, as GrAntor, and in the name of the petitioner,
and the names of any !other parties in interest who may so
request, as Grantees. The applicant shall pay such fees and
charges as are required by the Clerk to effect such recordation.
. Upon recording a certifiJd copy of this ordinance with the Clerk
of the Circuit Court of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, the
applicant shall file with the Engineer for the City of Roanoke,
Virginia, the Clerk's receipt, demonstrating that such
recordation has occurred.
. If the above conditions hive not been met within a period of one
year from the date of Adoption of this ordinance, then such
ordinance shall be null dnd void .with no further action by City
Council being necessary.
Section 30-1 4 (5) of the Coae of the City of Roanoke provides the
following standards for stredt and alley vacation requests: I
"Following the hearing blfore the City Planning Commission on
an application to a'te~l or vacate a street or alley, the
Commission shall report in writing to the City Council whether
in its opinion, any, and i~ any, what inconvenience would result
if the application was ap~roved by Council, and the Commission
shall report and make la recommendation to Council as to
whether the application stoUld be approved,"
The City Planning Commission advises it finds that there is no public
inconvenience created in granting the applicant's request; however, the bridge
adjoining the subject portion of Westside Boulevard would only serve the
applicant and not the general public.
(For full text see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Dowe offerea the following ordinance:
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169
(#38003-012208) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing
and closing certain public right-of-way in the City of Roanoke, as more
particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 155.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38003-
012208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38003-012208 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, and Mayor Harris---5.
NAYS: Non e---un-unu__nnuuun__nnu_nu__nnnun____nnu_u____nnu____nnunO.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on the request of Trustees of God's House Baptist Ministry to
rezone properties at 3601, 3707, and portions of 3619 and 3621 Melrose
Avenue, N. W., being Official Tax Nos. 2761606, 2761607, 2761608, 2761609,
2660130, and portions of 2660101 and 2660102, from R-7, Residential Single-
Family District, and MX, Mixed Use District, to IN, Institutional District, subject
to certain conditions proffered by the petitioner, in order to expand an existing
building and parking on the site, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, January 4, 2008 and Friday, January 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
170
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending I
that City Council approve the ~equest, subject to the following proffered
conditions, and advising that it round the application to rezone the subject
properties to IN, Institutional witt, conditions for the purpose of expanding an
existing place of worship and as~ociated parking facility to be consistent with
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the City's Comprehensive Plan and the Peters Creek North Neighborhood Plan:
The property be develope!d in substantial conformity with the
Development Plan prepared by Balzer and Associates, dated
December 28, 2007, and sLbject to those changes which may be
required by the City of \ Roanoke during the comprehensive
development plan review pr0cess.
The proposed curb cut for lny new commercial entrances shall be
designed and constructed t~ maintain a cross slope of two percent
or less across the sidewalk drea.
The new building will be completed utilizing the architectural
treatments currently found on the existing building facades,
consisting of brick veneer or all visible sides from the public right-
of-way to a height of eight f~et above finished floor elevation, split
faced CMU block and pre,finished metal siding. I
(For full text, see .report on file in t1he City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offe~led the following ordinance:
(#38004-012208) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, a1nd the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
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Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to rezone certain property
within the City, subject to certainl conditions proffered by the petitioner; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 1 58.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38004-
012208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. TherJ being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed. I
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There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38004-012208 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, and Mayor Harris---5.
NAYS: Non enuuuunn_n_unnuu_____nnnnunu__nnnnuu__n_uuuun__n__nnuO.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, January 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on the request of the City of Roanoke to amend Vision 2001-
2020, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include the City-wide Brownfield
Redevelopment Plan, which encourages the voluntary reuse of brownfield sites
across the City by identifying barriers to redevelopment of these properties and
identifying a range of policy considerations for the City to explore in addressing
these barriers. Policy issues to be investigated include review of development
processes (e.g., permitting and zoning), opportunity identification, incentives
and funding and long-term stewardship. The goal of the Plan is to reuse
brownfield sites to allow for community and economic growth in the City. The
Plan applies to the entire City but identifies specific brownfield corridors, based
largely on locations of industrially zoned land, and potential opportunities for
reuse of brownfield sites. Opportunities for reuse are drawn from
neighborhood plans and other public input and include conversion of
brownfields along the Roanoke River to a green corridor, revitalizing brownfield
sites in or adjacent to residential neighborhoods to reinforce village centers and
create new housing opportunities, and reinforcing industrial corridors by
reusing property for new operations for more efficient land use, the matter was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, January 4, 2008, and Friday, January 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission recommended adoption of the City - Wide
Brownfield Redevelopment Plan as the Plan advances specific strategic
initiatives of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Vision 2001-2020, for revitalization
of underused commercial and industrial properties and offers opportunity to
assist with advancing other initiatives including village centers, housing
clusters, critical amenities (greenspace) and opportunities for new business.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
1 72
Vice'Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance: I
(#38005-012208) AN ORDIINANCE approving the City-wide Brownfield
Redevelopment Plan dated Dece~ber 20, 2007, and amending Vision 2001-
I
2020, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include such Redevelopment Plan; and
dispensing with the second readinig by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of Ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 159.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved t~e adoption of Ordinance No. 38005-012208.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
The Mayor inquired if there Lere persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. The~e being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38005-012208 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, and Mayor Harris---5.
NAYS: Nonen'--'munmmm'lmnu'm'munm'mnumd-u--mumummmm'o. I
(Council Member Fitzpatrick and wlishneff were absent.)
APPALACHIAN POWER COMPANY-EASEMENTS-ClTY PROPERTY-INDUSTRIES:
I
Pursuant to instructions by the CCouncil, the City Clerk having advertised a
public hearing for Tuesday, Jan~ary 22, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be h~ard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to
grant an above ground easement Jnd underground easement, extending 40' in
width, to Appalachian Power Company, across City-owned property designated
I
as Tax Map Nos. 7200106 and 71 SOl 09, for the purpose of providing electrical
service to property located at and ladjacent to the Roanoke Centre for Industry
and Technology, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, January 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
approval to execute the appropriate documents granting an above ground
easement, with allowance to go underground for support structures, as set
forth in the communication to Appalachian Power Company, subject to approval
as to form by the City Attorney.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38006-012208) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the donation and
conveyance of a 40 foot wide by 1661 foot long above ground easement with
allowance to go underground for support structures, across City-owned
property identified as Official Tax Nos. 7200106 and 71 50109, to Appalachian
Power Company for the purpose of providing electric service to serve the
Roanoke Centre for Industry and Technology and B&B Machine Tool Company,
upon certain terms and conditions; and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 161.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38006-
012208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38006-012208 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, and Mayor Harris---5.
NAYS: . No n eu----nnuunn__uunuu__n_nuu____nnu__nnnu_______nun_________nnuO.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
At 7: 10 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess in the
Council's Conference Room for continuation of Closed meeting which was
preyiously approyed during the 2:00 p.m. session of the Council.
174
At 7:40 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, I
Room 450, with Mayor Harris plresiding and all members of the Council in
attendance, with the exception of Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, Council
Member Dowe moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his
or her knowledge that: (1) only pJblic business matters lawfully exempted from
open meeting requirements unde~ the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
(2) only such public business matters as were identified in any motion by which
any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City
Council. The motion was second~d by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, and Mayor Harrism5.
NAYS: Non e__mmmmmnn__L____mmnmm_mmn__u______mm_mm_"m__m__O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick and Jishneff were absent.)
\
PARKS AND RECREATION: The Mayor advised that the terms of office of
Sherley E. Stuart, Thomas petigre1' and Christine A. Montgomery, as members of
the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board will expire on March 31, 2008;
whereupon, he opened the floor fdr nominations.
I
The names of Sherley E. Stuart, Thomas Pettigrew and Christene A.
Montgomery were placed in nomination.
There being no further nO~inations. Mr. Stuart, Mr. Pettigrew and Ms.
Montgomery were reappointed as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board for terms of three years, e~ch, ending March 31, 2011, by the following
vote: I
FOR MR. STUART, MR. PETTIGREW and MS. MONTGOMERY: Council
Members Lea Mason Trinkle Dowb and Mayor Harrism-m-mu-mu-um-m-nm--5
, , , I ' .
(Council Member Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
SCHOOLS: The City Clerk wks instructed to advertise the two upcoming
vacancies for Trustees of the Roa~oke City School Board due to the expiration
I
of the three-year terms of office o~ David B. Carson and V. Mignon Chubb-Hale
ending June 30, 2008, with a deadline for receipt of applications on Monday,
March 10,2008 at 5:00 p.m. I
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There being no further business, the Mayor declared the Council meeting
adjourned at 7:43 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
(2 ~eQA~
~. In.. d~
Stephanie M. Moon, CM:'(
City Clerk
C. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
February 4, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
February 4, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council,
Section '2-1 5, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Reqular Meetinqs, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No.3 7817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Member Gwendolyn W. Mason David B. Trinkle, Alfred
T. Dowe, Jr. (arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor
C. N e I so n H arri Suu_u_u_uuu____u___uuuuuuuuuu_u_uuuu_______uu_u_uuuuuuuu_u6.
ABSENT: Council Member Brian J. Wishneff-m-mummm---mm-mmmmm 1.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson
Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by
Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council convene in
Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Mason and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
H arri s _____uu uu uuu_____u uuu uu______u_uuuuuuu __n__uuu uuuu_u__uuuuuu_u_____u__ 5 .
NAYS: Non euu____uuuu_u_uu____uuu_uuu______u_u_uuuu___uuuuuuu__uu-uuO.
(Council Member Dowe was not present when vote was recorded.) (Council
Member Wishneff was absent.)
177
COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Manager I
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss disposition of
publicly-owned property, where discussion in an open meeting would adversely
affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council convene in Closed Meeting as
above described. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s __________________________________________________________________nn__"_______________________-- 5.
NAYS: Non e --------------------n-------------------------------------------------------------------O.
(Council Member Dowe was not present when vote was recorded.) (Council
Member Wishneff was absent.)
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING I
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
NONE.
BRIEFINGS:
ROANOKE RIVER FLOOD REDUCTION PROIECT
Philip Schirmer, City Engineer, gave an overview of the history of the
Roanoke River Flood Reduction project, noting that approximately five miles of
recreational trail had been done and that the project should be completed in
2012. He introduced Colonel John Pulliam, Commander of the Wilmington
District, U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, for presentation of the project overview
and to share information with regard to the flood risk.
Colonel Pulliam recognized members of the U. S. Corps of Engineers that
were present and called attention to the following:
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. Project Delivery Team
o City of Roanoke
o Wilmington District
o Savannah District-Contracting & Real Estate
o Norfolk District - Regulatory
o South Atlantic Division
o Construction Contractors
o Other Federal Agencies - USFWS and USGS
o State - Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
o Regional - Western VirginiaWater Authority
o Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission
. Roanoke Flood Reduction Project History
o 1970 - Study Resolution Investigate Flooding.
o 1984 - Final Interim Feasibility Report
o Public Law 99-662, November 17, 1986
o 1989 - General Design Memorandum
o 1990 - Project Cooperation Agreement
o Early 90's Construction
o Mid 90's Project Pause - City Addressed HTRW
o Construction stated again FY 2004
o Awarding Construction Contract Each Year
· Roanoke Flood Reduction Project Area (aerialview
photograph)
· Bench Cut Construction
o Downstream of Main Street Bridge: Bench Cut 242
o Piedmont Park: Bench Cut 353
· Roanoke Flood Reduction Project
o Blue Ridge Industrial Park
o Wasena Park
o Hanna Court
. Next construction contract
o Bridge Street
o Wasena Park (continuation)
o Hanna Court (continuation)
179
. Roanoke Flood Reduction Project Summary
o Project Sponsor: City of Roanoke, Virginia
o Project Cost Estimate: $65,000,000.00
· Federal: $45,300,000.00
· Non-Federal: $19,700,000.00
o Estimated Completion Date - funding dependent
o Major Project Components
I
· Flood warning System (Stream and Rain Gages) - 1991
· Flood proofing Sewage Treatment Plant - 1993
· Flood proofing Hospital (Reimbursement) - 1993
· Channel Improvements (In-progress Bench Cuts & Training
Walls)
· Recreation Trail (In-progress)
. Roanoke - June 2006 Flooding Bench Cuts 410 and 411 - Pre-Flood
and Ten percent Flood, respectively (photographs)
. Hurricane Jeanne, September 2004 - Four percent Flood (photographs)
. New flood risk terms
o Ten percent flood risk = Ten-year flood I
o Three flood risk = 33-year flood
o One percent flood risk - 1 OO-year flood
o Percent = risk that a flood of this magnitude will occur in any given
year
. Estimated Stage Reductions
Location 10% 4% 2% 1%
At Industrial Park 1.4 1.7 1.4 1.6
Upstream of Walnut Street 1.9 2.2 2.2 2.2
S. Jefferson Redevelopment 0.8 1.3 1.2 1.0
Upstream of Franklin Road 0.2 0.5 0.8 1.8
Upstream of lower Wiley Drive 0.2 0.5 0.9 1.8
Upstream of upper Wiley Drive 1.8 1.1 0.5 0.1
Wasena Park 2.8 2.4 2.0 1.7
. Roanoke Flood Reduction Project Flyovers
o Ten percent flood (Ten year flood)
o Three percent flood (33 year flood)
o One percent flood (100 year flood)
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Colonel Pulliam used computer generated models to show an aerial view
of certain parts of the City that would have the potential to flood in the event of
a 1 OO-year flood upon completion of the Flood Reduction project. He indicated
that the worst case scenario was an overview depicting most of the research
park underwater in the event of a one percent flood risk, adding that the Flood
of 1985, which killed ten people and caused approximately $100 million in
damages, was identified as a 0.5 percent risk. He pointed out that most of the
area would be protected from a three percent flood risk, which would be similar
to the event in September 2004, where remnants of Hurricane Jeanne swamped
the former Victory Stadium.
The Colonel stated that nearly all of the research park would remain dry
in t~e event of a ten percent flood risk, which was the level of flooding in June
2006, noting that bench cuts were in place on the City's southern-most stretch
of the river during said time period which is credited for minimizing the
damage.
In conclusion, he commented that the Army Corps of Engineers goal is to
improve the aerial view maps by adding the feature as depicted showing water
depth for each flood risk and area.
Mayor Harris recognized Congressman Bob Goodlatte for additional
comments; whereupon, Congressman Goodlatte expressed appreciation to the
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers for its efforts with regard to the project, as well
as the Council and the City Manager.
At this point, Council Member Dowe entered the meeting (9:25 a.m.)
Discussion:
In response to Vice-Mayor Trinkle's question regarding the retaining wall
to be constructed along Reserve Avenue, and whether a portion of the greenway
was included in the negotiations; Colonel Pulliam advised that two concrete
walls approximately eight feet high on top of levees would be placed on either
side of the road, and with regard to the greenway, it would be expensive to
build a solid trail on that type of terrain and the challenges with the topography
would cause the cost to increase, adding that the retaining wall must be ADA
compliance.
Council Member Mason inquired of the City Manager whether a litter
control plan for the greenway would be put in place, particularly for cigarette
butts and curbing of dogs; whereupon, the City Manager indicated that the City
would be accepting responsibility for maintenance of the greenways and
different areas of the greenway must be maintained differently, adding that
proper signage would be located along the greenway trails calling attention to
181
the disposal of litter and the curbing of dogs.
The City Manager interjected that after the Flood of 1985, building codes I
were revised in order that new construction would require all buildings be built
above the flood level.
Following additional comments by the Council, Mayor Harris expressed
appreciation to all the participants and attendees for the presentation.
Photo Red Enforcement
In connection with the Photo Red Program, Chief Joe Gaskins gave the
following informational briefing on the Photo Red Enforcement:
What is Photo Red?
. Automated Photographic Red Light Enforcement
. PhotoRed monitors intersection and takes picture of violators who
disregard the red light
. Officer certifies violation
. Summons mailed to violator by vendor
. Considered a traffic safety initiative
Virginia Law I
. Covered by 15.2-968.1 Code of Virginia
. City restricted to max. of 9 intersections.
. Fine limited to civil penalty of $50.00
. Violator must be at least 0.5 seconds behind line
. Violator may file affidavit or testify in open court that they were not the
driver to avoid conviction.
. Sworn officer must certify the violation
. Compensation based agreements with vendor are prohibited.
Virginia PhotoRed Results
. Test program ran in Virginia from 1998-2004
. Found program technically feasible
. Mixed/Inconclusive Results
· Red light violations/crashes declined
· Rear end crashes increased
· Injury crashes increased
. Used a shorter time requirement for violation (0.4 seconds was the
longest)
PhotoRed Program
. Vendors have offered "cost neutral" programs
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· Each approach to intersection cost approximately $4,700.00 per month
to lease all equipment and services
· Installation, monitoring, repair, violation processing
· Nine intersections with 18 approaches (recommended) would cost over
$1 million annually
· City would receive any revenue over this amount
"Soft Costs"
· Cost neutral program does not include expenses incurred by Police
Department of Traffic Engineering
· Police must supply one full time sworn officer and a part time CSA to
process violations, no personnel available
· Traffic Engineering will have to commit personnel during installation and
maintenance periods, time requirement is unknown
Recommendation
· Newport News and Spotsylvania County are at the contract phase
· Other jurisdictions are waiting on the outcome of these municipalities
· Our best course of action is to delay any decision until we can further
analyze any traffic safety benefit and determine actual financial impact
under Virginia's statutory requirements
Chief Gaskins advised that in earlier phases of the program, several
localities lost money as a result of the program, noting that the enforcement is
set up to be a safety mechanism, which also reduces man hours for the officers,
but estimated cost is unknown.
Discussion:
Council Member Lea raised questions with regard to various aspects of
the data, i.e., violators, accidents at intersections; whereupon, Chief Gaskins
responded that a study would be done prior to installation of cameras to
determine whether or not the program would be needed or necessary.
Following comments by the Council, the City Manager stated that staff
was presenting the briefing on the Photo Red Program because of the passage
of statewide legislation to allow for testing on a trial basis, and she urged the
Council to reserve its opinion until the findings from localities participating in
the study were released.
At 10:25 a.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess for Closed
Meeting.
183
At 10:45 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened in Room 159, with Mayor I
Harris presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the
exception of Council Member Wishneff.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded, Council
Member Dowe moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his
or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from
open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
(2) only such public business matters were identified in any motion by which
any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City
Council. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r . H a rri s nn nnn n_n_______ ---- ____nn_nnnnnn n nnnnn ____n_n nnn nnn nnnnnnn_n -6.
NAYS: Non e_nn_nnnnnnnn_n_____unn_nnnnnnn_n_n____n_nnnnn_n_n_n_n-nO.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTION PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Mayor advised that there is a vacancy on the I
Court Community Correction Program Regional Community Criminal Justice
Board created by the expiration of the term of office of William E. Cleaveland on
June 30, 2007; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Lea placed in nomination the name of James L. Philips.
There being no further nominations, James L. Phillips was appointed as
the City's representative to the Court Community Correction Program Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board for a term of three years ending June 30,
2010, by the following vote:
FOR MR. PHILLIPS: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick,
Lea, and Mayor Harris_mm_m_mmm___nm_mmmmn_m_mnmm___mmmmmm___6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor advised that there are
two vacancies on the Human Services Advisory Board created by the expiration
of the terms of office of Louis O. Brown and Angela Holland on November 30,
2007; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the name of Victoria Cox.
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Council Member Dowe placed in nomination the name of Lutheria H.
Smith.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Cox and Ms. Smith were
appointed as members of the Human Services Advisory Board for terms of four
years, each, ending November 30,2011, by the following vote:
FOR MS. COX AND MS. SMITH: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Dowe,
Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor Harrism--------mmmmmmmnummmmmm_m_m____6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor advised that there
are two vacancies on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board created by the
resignations of Sharon L. Stinnette and Robert C. Jones for terms expiring on
March 31, 2007; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
Vice-Mayor Trin~le placed in nomination the name of Christopher M.
Walters.
Council Member Lea placed in nomination the name of Adam Boitnott.
There being no further nominations, Messrs. Boitnott and Walters were
appointed to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for terms of four years,
each, ending March 31, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MESSRS. WALTERS AND BOITNOTT: Council Members Mason, Trinkle,
Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor Harris--m-m-~-mm---mnmmm__m-m-m-m____6.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
At 10:45 a.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be
reconvened at 12:00 p.m., in Room 159.
At 12:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in Room 159, first floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, for a joint meeting of Council and the
Architectural Review Board, with Mayor Harris and Vice-Chairman William D.
Bestpitch presiding.
PRESENT: Council Member Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.,
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor C. Nelson Harrismmm-m5.
185
ABSENT: Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle and Council Member Brian j. I
Wi s h n effnn_n_nnnnn_n_nnnnnnnn_nnnnnnnnnnn_n_n_n_n_nn__________n______________ 2.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Derek B. Cundiff,
John Fulton, Robert N. Richert, James A. Schlueter and Vice-Chairman William D.
Be s t p i tc h nn_n_ u__ ____n___ nnnnn nnn_nnn __nn n_n_n nnn nnn_n__________ -------- _________n - 5 .
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: Barbara A. Botkin
and Chairman Alison S. Blantonmm_m____mumnmmnmmnmmmmmnmn_mm_2.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
Representing the Architectural Review Board: Erika Taylor, Agent,
Architectural Review Board, and Candace Martin, Secretary.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD ANNUAL REPORT
Vice-Chairman Bestpitch provided an overview of the Architectural Review
Board's activity, accomplishments and attendance for calendar year 2007,
noting that the staff and the ARB considered 1 54 applications, up from 11 % I
over 2006; and 96% of the applications were approved or withdrawn by the
applicant. In addition, he pointed out that residential building values in the H-1
and H-2 Districts increased 8.75% during the last assessment, while values
throughout the rest of the City increased 7.39%; 43 real estate tax abatement
projects closed and 29 new applications were filed during 2007; and one appeal
went to Circuit Court and another to the Fair Housing Board based on
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
He called attention to the adoption of new Architectural Design
Guidelines last year by the Council; and the initiation of an update of the
Board's policies and procedures in response to concerns expressed during the
public involvement meetings to update the guidelines. He added that staff
worked to leverage Certified Local Government grant funds to support the
Renovate Roanoke preservation fair, complete an update the Architectural
Review Guidelines, and provide training for staff. Ericka Taylor, Agent to the
ARB, commented that the Renovate Roanoke event was coming up and
education sessions were available with regards to getting hands on and
technical experience.
Council Member Dowe inquired if new materials would be introduced at
the Renovate Roanoke event; whereupon, Ms. Taylor replied that a session in I
October did display the new materials that were available.
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Council Member Lea inquired if the ARB attended state conferences or
met with boards from other jurisdictions; whereupon, Ms. Taylor responded
that there was not a formal conference for ARB boards, but the Association for
Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA) holds a statewide conference that
focuses on preservation commissions and general homeowners looking to
renovate.
Council Member Fitzpatrick thanked the Board for maintaining firmness
and flexibility relative to the policies and for its tolerance of controversy and
ridicule.
Mr. Richert pointed out that a residence located at 1112 Second Street
wherein a slate roof with copper had been replaced with asphalt shingles.
Council Member Mason commented that the Board should consider ways
to improve the interview process, if needed, and inquired if there was room for
improvement in communication; whereupon, Mr. Bestpitch commented that
annual mailings were distributed to the property owners, and Downtown
Roanoke, Inc., provides assistance to them through its membership; and Ms.
Taylor is working to improve the website and enhance the education
component of the Historic Preservation Plan.
Council Member Dowe inquired as to the feeling on rental properties
versus home ownership; whereupon, Mr. Richert explained he noticed that there
was a positive impact on non-resident property owners and more investors that
recognize the value of rental properties to possibly attract young professionals
wanting to live in the City.
Mr. Bestpitch commented that an investor was surprised to learn that
rental inspections were not required for all units, adding that residents are
seeing the benefit for having said program in place. Council Member
Fitzpatrick interjected that the rental inspection program was changed to a
more relaxed program, whereby in past years the City was a little more
responsive.
The City Manager reiterated that is difficult to pursue enforcement for out
of state landlords.
Mayor Harris expressed appreciation to the Architectural Review Board for
meeting with the Council to share items of mutual interest and concern.
187
There being no additional comments by the Councilor the Board, the I
Mayor declared the meeting in recess at 12: 50 p. m., to be reconvened at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the City Council
Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor C. Nelson
Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Member Gwendolyn W. Mason, Brian J. Wishneff
(arrived late), Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, and
Mayo r C. N e I so n Harri s ___nmm_nm_m_mm___m___mm________________________________mm_6.
ABSENT: Council Member Vice-Mayor David B. Trinklemm-m-mmmm--n1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting (2:01p.m.).
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
I
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The Mayor presented a proclamation to
Pamela Kestner-Chapplear, President of the Council of Community Services,
de~laring Monday, February 11, 2008 as 2-1-1 Awareness Day.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately.
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188
YMCA-EASEMENTS: A communication from the City Milnager requesting
that Council schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, February 19, 2008, at 7:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider the vacation
of a public utility easement along Orange Avenue, N. W., for expansion of the
Family YMCA, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s __::n_nnnnnnnnnn nnn n_ _______n_nnnnnnn nnnn_nun ---- nnnnnnnnnn6.
NAYS: Non en____________nnnnnnnnnnnnn___________n__nnnnn_nn~---~-------n---nO.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
CITY PROPERTY-SALE OF PROPERTY: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Tuesday,
February 19, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, to consider the sale of a vacant City-owned tract of land to Newbern
properties, LLC, for the expansion of a heating and air condition company, was
before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s nnnn_____n_nnnnnnn_____n nnn nnn n____ _n_n n_n_n~-nn-- __n_nnn_nnnn__6.
NAYS: No n e-n-nnnnnnnnn____nnnn_nnnn____nnnnnnnnn___nnnnnnnn___nO.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
189
BOUNDARY LINE ADJUSTMENTS-CITY PROPERTY: A communication from I
the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for
Tuesday, February 19, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, to consider boundary amendments to Enterprise Zone One A and
Zone Two, was 'before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and
adopted by the following. vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s nnnn nnn nnn_n_nn__ __nn_nnn n_n_nnnn nnn _nn_n_n nnn nn__U nuunn6.
NAYS: No n ennn_n_nnn_n_n_n_nn_____n_n_n_n_nnnnnnnnn_nnnnnnn__n____-0.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
ANNUAL REPORT-ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: A written report from
Barbara Botkin, Chair Architectural Review Board, transmitting the 2007 Annual
Report of the Architectural Review Board, was before the Council.
I
(See report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the report be received and filed. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s nnnnn_______n_nnn_n_nn_____nnnnnnnnnnn__n_nnnnnnnn_nn_unnnn6.
NAYS: Non e n_nn_nnn_n_n_n_u_nn_nn_nnnn_U____n_nnnnn_________nnnn_n_n_O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
COMMITTEES-OATHS OF OFFICE-FIFTH PLANNING DISTRICT DISABILITY
SERVICES BOARD-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY-ROANOKE ARTS
COMMISSION: The following reports of qualification were before the Council:
Carol D. Tuning as a member of the Fifth Planning District Disability
Services Board, for a term ending January 31, 2011 ;
Linda D. Firth and F. Gordon Hancock as Directors ,of the Economic I
Development Authority, for terms ending October 20, 2011; and
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Lucy H. Lee as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission, to fill the
unexpired term of Susannah Koerber ending June 30, 2009.
Council Member Mason moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri Snnnnnnnnnnnnn_n_nn___nnnnnnnnnnnnnn_n_n_nnnnnnnnnnnnn6.
NAYS: Non e ---------- ____nnnnnn__nnn nnn_nn_n_n_n_nnnu u___________ -------------0.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
POLICE DEPARTMENT: U.S. Attorney John Brownlee appeared before the
Council to present a ceremonial check for $2.8 Million, the largest single
forfeited asset grant to a law enforcement agency, in connection with Federal
investigation involving ITT Night Vision.
Mr. Brownlee shared background information regarding illegal transfer of
technology by ITT relative to night vision to countries overseas, including
Singapore and China. He added that with the assistance of local law
enforcement a case was built and therefore, the assets are being shared with
the City's Police Department.
Bill Reed, Special Agent, ICE Investigation, pointed out that export
violations were among the most serious of crimes, inasmuch as they under
mind the base responsibility of the government to protect the nation from
adversaries who are constantly attempting to obtain technology and weapon
systems such as night vision goggles and weapon systems from U. S.
corporations. He expressed his appreciation to Chief Joe Gaskins and the Police
Department for their assistance.
191
Robert Craig, Special Agent, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DClS), I
advised that on behalf of DClS, he wished to acknowledge U. S. Attorney
Brownlee and the U. S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Virginia, for
their tremendous leadership and commitment; as well as colleagues at ICE for
being such great partners. He also congratulated the Police Department on
receiving asset forfeiture funds.
Following comments, U. S. Attorney Brownlee present the ceremonial
check to Chief Gaskins who in turn expressed appreciation on behalf of the City
and the Police Department.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
CITIZEN APPRECIATION DAY-VALLEY VIEW MALL: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending authorization for waiver of
the City's sovereign immunity and execution of a rental agreement with CBL & I
Associates Management, Inc., in connection with the Valley View Citizens'
Appreciation Day on April 19, 2008.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38007-020408) A RESOLUTION authorizing the waiver of the City's
sovereign immunity in connection with the City's use of Valley View Mall for
Citizen Appreciation Day, and authorizing execution of an agreement with
Valley View Mall, LLC, through its agent, CBL & Associates Management, Inc., in
connection with such use of Valley View Mall.
(For full text of Resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 162.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38007-
020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri Snnnununnuunuuuunu_nuuuuuu_u_u_u_uu_nnnuunuuunuunnnn__6.
NAYS: Non e_u________u__u_nuun__unn_nn__nnnnn_n_nunnn_nnnnnnnnnnn_O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
GRANTS-HUMAN SERVICES-BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the Western Virginia Workforce
Development Board Workforce Investment Act funding for program year 2007
from the Virginia Employment Commission.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38008-020408) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the FY08 Workforce Investment Act Grant,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 163.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38008-020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri Sununnunnnn____unu_unnuuu__nunnuunnn_nu_____n_unuuuununun6.
NAYS: No neuunuununuunn_n_n_______nnuunuu_u_uunu_n_n_____unn_u_uu-O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE-GRANTS-POLlCE DEPARTMENT-BUDGET: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a
Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Victim Fund Grant from the Virginia
Department of Criminal Justice Services.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
193
(#38009-020408) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Sexual and
Domestic Violence Victim Fund (VSDVVF) grant to the City from the Virginia I
Department of Criminal Justice Services, and authorizing execution of any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page165.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38009-
020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dowe and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea and
Mayo r H arri Snnnu_u_unuuuuuu_u_u_uuuuu____n__n__n_______nnnnnnuunnunnunn6.
NAYS: No n euuuuuunnnnnnn__________u_nuu___.nnnnnu_nnnuuunu_u_uun_O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38010-020408) A ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Victim
Fund Grant, amending and reordainingcertain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant I
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 166.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38010-020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s nnnununuunn______nunn_nu_u_unn_n_______un_nuunnu__________uunnn6.
NAYS: No n euuuuuu_______n_unuunuu_uun___nn_nnuu_u_n______n_nnnuunu_O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
CITY CODE-REFUSE COLLECTION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending amendment of the City Code to revise Chapter
14.1-1, Solid Waste Manaqement, with regard to various solid waste collection
programs.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38011-020408) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining
Section 14.1-1, Definitions, of Article I, In General; subsection (d)(2) of
Section 14.1-16, Placement for collection qenerally; Section 14.1-18, Time of
placement of automated collection containers and recyclable containers for
collection, by adding a new subsection (b); subsection (d) of Section 14.1-23,
Placement and collection of bulk items. brush and loose leaves; and Section
14.1-24, Violation; civil penalty, by adding a new subsection (b), of Division 1,
Generally, of Article II, Collection by an Authorized Person; Section 14.1-54,
General prohibition; Section 14.1-55, Notice to remove; and Section 14.1-56,
Violations of chaPter, of Article III, Accumulations of Solid Waste, of Chapter
14.1, Solid Waste Manaqement, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as
amended; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 167.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38011-
020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dowe and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s _n_nnn nnnnnnnnnnn_n_n_nnn_n_nn_n_nnn nn_ nun _n_nn__nnnnnnn6.
NAYS: Non en__n________n__________n__n_nnnnnnnnnnnnn_~nnnnn_n__n____n____-0.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER-SPECIAL EVENTS: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending that an amendment to the contract
between the City of Roanoke and Ovations Food Services, LP, in connection with
the design, construction and installation of equipment for the Special Events
Center.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
195
(#38012-020408) A RESOLUTION authorizing the execution of I
Amendment Two to the Contract between the City of Roanoke and Ovations
Food Services, LP, to provide for the renovation and retrofit of the existing
kitchen located in the Roanoke Civic Center Coliseum instead of the
construction of a new kitchen inside the Roanoke Civic Center's Special Events
Center, and providing for a new completion date for such renovation, upon
certain terms and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 172.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38012-
020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dowe and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s nn n_n_nnn nnnnnnnnn _nn n_n_n nnn_n_n_n_n_____ __________u__ u__uu____ --6.
NAYS: Non e_nn_nnn__________________n___nn_n_nnnnnnn_n_nn_nnnnn_n_n-_nn-O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
GRANTS-POLICE DEPARTMENT BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a I
written communication recommending acceptance of a Federal Forfeited
Property Sharing Grant to be used for law enforcement purposes.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38013-020408) A RESOLUTION accepting the Federal Forfeited Property
Sharing Program grant to the City of Roanoke Police Department from the U. S.
Attorney's Office for the Western District of Virginia, and authorizing execution
of any required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 173.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38013-
020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dowe and adopted by
the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s uun__unuu_u_uuuuuuu_nuunuu_u_uununuu_uu_u_uunuunuunuu_-6.
NAYS: No n e_____u_______________n____u_unnuunuu_u_u_u_unuu_uu_u_unnunuu-0.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
Council Member Dowe offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38014-020408) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Federal Asset Sharing Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of
the 2007-2008 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 174.)
Council Member Dowe moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38014-020408. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and
Mayo r H arri s________uuuunuu_u_nu_unnnnnnn________nuuuu_u_u_unnununnu------u6.
NAYS: Non en____uuuuuuunu_u_unnn_nn_n_n____nnuunu_uunuunu_n______--0.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle was absent.)
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE:
FINANCIAL REPORT: The Director of Finance submitted the Financial
Report for the month of December 2007.
(See Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Director of Finance advised that the recent national economic
indicators continue to reflect increased energy costs, a weakening housing
market, and decreased business and consumer spending, as well as overall
strains in financial markets. He further advised that as mentioned in previous
reports, the Federal Reserve has responded to the. evolving conditions by
cutting its target for the federal funds rate a total of one percentage point
during its meetings held in September, October and December; and more
recently, at an unscheduled meeting on January 22, 2008, the Federal Open
Market Committee decided to lower the target for the federal funds rate
another 75 basis points to 3.5 percent and subsequently lowered the rate an
additional half percent at its regularly scheduled meeting on January 30, 2008.
197
Mr. Hall explained that the City of Roanoke's adopted budget for fiscal I
year 2008 totals $252.6 million, representing 5.4 per cent increase over the
adopted budget for fiscal year 2007; budgeted revenue growth results from a
projected increase in real estate and personal property tax revenues, as well as
projected growth in various local taxes, including sales tax, business license
tax, and prepared food and beverage tax; and the aforementioned growth has
been allocated to provide more funding to the Roanoke City Public Schools, for
capital maintenance and equipment replacement, to enhance services to
citizens, to fund salary increases for employees, and will provide for greater
social services program funding and the resource necessary to meet the
current year's debt service'requirements.
Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the Financial
Report for the month of December 2007 would be received and filed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:
NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
I
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: The City Manager announced that according
to Weldon Cooper Center's population estimates, the decline in the population
in the City of Roanoke has ceased, noting that final figures would not be
available until 2010. She based said findings on the City's Strategic Housing
Plan, an increase in income levels, job security, incentives offered to
businesses, etc.
At 2:30 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be reconvened
on Friday, February 15, 2008, at 8:30 a.m., Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, for the Council's Annual Financial Planning Session.
Monday, February 4, 2008, meeting of the Roanoke City Council
reconvened on Friday, February 15, 2008, at 8:30 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, Virginia,
for the Council's Annual Financial Planning Session, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding. I
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PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle,
Sherman P. Lea and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-m-mmmmmmmmm-mmn_mmm-4.
ABSENT: Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. Brian J.
'^'ishneff--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3.
OFFICERS/CITY STAFF PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager;
William M. Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance;
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk; Ann H. Shawver, Deputy Director of Finance;
Sherman L. Stovall, Director, Office of Management and Budget; and Cecelia R.
Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
BUDGET: The Mayor advised that prior to engaging in the City's fiscal
year budget study, the Council holds a Financial Planning Session each year
which allows City staff to review basic information and financial projections;
whereupon, he called on the City Manager and the Director of Finance for
opening remarks.
The City Manager that City staff devoted considerable time and effort to
prepare the presentation on the FY 2008-09 Budget; however, while staff sets
the stage and provides the parameters within which the City operates in terms
of revenues and certain fixed expenses, the meeting is an important time for
staff to hear comments by Council and City-elected officials as to priorities that
should be emphasized in the upcoming budget. She further stated that the
budget calendar was previously identified and adopted at by the Council in
January 2008; and the budget year will be challenging because of a six percent
reduction that was asked of the City departments. She added that the
reduction was the highest she has had to ask for as City Manager due to
reductions made in the national and state budgets; and the fiscal year 2008-
2009 budget will be presented at the Council meeting on Monday, April 21 and
thereafter for adoption at its meeting on Monday, May 12.
199
The Director of Finance pointed out that the City has had three excellent I
years, with great growth and stressed the importance of understanding the
City's financial picture and future planning processes.
Ann Shawver, Deputy, Director of Finance, and Sherman M. Stovall,
Director of Management and Budget, highlighted the following information
pertaining to an overview of revenues generated by the City of Roanoke and
expenditures:
REVENUES
General Fund Revenues
Fiscal Year 2007
Conunonwealth
26%
Real Estate
28%
Personal Property
8%
1%
FoodIBeverage BPOL
4% 5%
II Personal Property
III BPOL
i:J Commonwealth
II Sales
i:J FoodlBeverage
II Charges for Services
I
I!I Real Estate
I!!lUtility
l!I Telecommunications
i:J Other '
Projected Revenue Growth - FY 2009 Revenue Estimates
Category $ Growth % Growth
Real Estate Tax $3,674,000 5.0%
Personal Property Tax 1,505,000 8.3%
Sales Tax (1,310,000) (5.8%)
Consumer Utility Tax 533,000 5.9%
Cigarette Tax 243,000 8.4%
Prepared Food Tax 410,000 3.5%
Transient Lodging Tax 136,000 4.9%
Telecommunications Tax 522,000 7.2%
Other Local Taxes 344,000 1.5%
Intergovernmental (362,000) (0.5%)
Charges for Services ( 198,000) (1.8%)
Other Revenues ( 180,000) (4.3% )
Total $5,317,000 2.1%
Growth in FY 2009 Recommended Revenue estimate as compared to FY 2008 Adopted Estimate.
4
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Real Estate Tax
The City's largest source of revenue
$80.0
$75.0
'" $70.0
=
0
;:; $65.0
~
~ $60.0
'"
"
.. $55.0
=
"
jj $50.0
c;:
$45.0
$40.0
FY02 FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07
FY08 FY09
Fiscal Year
Average growth: 2yr - 8.7%, 5yr- 7.5%,10 yr - 6.0%
Sources:
FY02 - FY07 - Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
FY08 - FY09 - Adopted/Recommended Estimate
Trends in Real Estate Assessments
9.5
8.5
7.5
6.5
Percentage 5.5
Growth
4.5
3.5
2.5
1.5
0.5
FY95
FY97 FY99 FY01 FY03 FY05 FY07 FY09
I@) Reassessment. New Construction I
Ave growth: 2 yr - 5.6%, 5 yr - 7.1 %, 10 yr - 6.3%
Source: Real Estate Valuation
6
201
Real Estate Tax
Value of I cent real estate in FY09 is $635,000
- City's share
- Schools' share*
$404,000
$231,000
* School share is 36.42%
She explained that additional revenues should be approximately $5.3
million, an expected growth of 2.1 percent, noting that last year, it was $9.3
million, a 3.9 percent growth, with real estate being a great strong point for the
City in recent years.
The Director of Finance interjected that the abovereferenced slide
demonstrates the housing boom and decline in the new construction column.
Personal Property Tax
The City's second largest tax
28.00
26.00
'" 24.00
<:
~ 22.00
:ii 20.00
U>
";' 18.00
~ 16.00
D..
D.. 14.00
12.00
10.00
FY02 FY03 FY04 FYOS FY06 FY07 FY08 FY09
Fiscal Year
. Personal.PropertyTax - Local EI PPTRA - State
Average growth: 2yr- 3.9%, 5yr - 2.8%, 10 yr - 3.1 %
Sources:
FY02 - FY07 - Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
FY08 - FY09 - AdoptedIRecommended Estimate
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Local Tax Rates of First Cities
FY2007
Roanoke 1.19/1.07 3.45/2.66 5.0% 7.0%
Richmond 1.23 /1.12 3.70/3.18 6.0% 8.0%
Hampton 1.14 / 1.23 4.25/3.27 6.5% 8.0%
Lynchburg 1.05 /0.93 3.80/3.27 6.5% 5.5%
Newport News 1.20/0.93 4.25/3.27 6.5% 7.5%
Norfolk 1.11/1.06 4.00/3.08 6.5% 8.0%
Portsmouth 1.36/1.05 5.00/3.85 6.5% 8.0%
Roanoke Co. 1.09/0.95 3.50/2.70 4.0% 5.0%
Salem 1.18/0.95 3.20/2.46 4.0% 7.0%
Note: Split rates for Real Estate and Personal Property Taxes denote differences in nominal
and effective tax rates based on assessment/sales ratio and assessment basis, respectively.
24.00
23.00
~ 22.00
o
S 21.00
; 20.00
~ 19.00
f-o
i!I 18.00
~ 17.00
16.00
15.00
9
Sales Tax
The City's third largest tax
FY02
FY03
FY04
FY05
FY06
FY07
FY08
FY09
Fiscal Year
III Sab Taxi
Average growth: 2yr -5.7'><, 5yr -4.7'><, to yr - 3.4'7,
Sources:
FY02 - FY07 - Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
FY08 - FY09 - Adopted/Recommended Estimate
to
Council Member Mason asked how the Homestead Exemption Bill works
and its effect on taxes; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the
legislation was moving forward without specific language pertaining to the
implementation by localities. She indicated that the exemption offers the
203
opportunity for a different tax rate for residential property versus other
property; and it is expected to be supported by residential property owners.
Council Member Fitzpatrick was of the opinion that Council would be
under tremendous pressure to educate the masses as to why the legislation is a
bad idea and therefore should be in opposition of the legislation.
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The City Attorney also commented that the bill seemed unfair to
localities, not knowing the details of what is being authorized to the General
Assembly by way of dropping the statute.
Ms. Shawver advised that sales tax performance at the federal level
indicates that retail sales were up in January; unfortunately it is tied to gasoline
sales. She further advised that the sales tax is the third largest tax for the City
and a decline is expected for fiscal year 2009, adding that the current fiscal
year has experience a three to four percent decline. She also noted that there
has been only one other time where the City has experienced a decline in said
range and that was in 1999.
Ms. Shawver concluded by stating that further reductions of the line items
could be expected, as well as, personal property taxes and business taxes may
change due to the economy.
EXPENDITURES
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The Director of Management and Budget transitioned to the expenditure
side of the budget and noted that Council was previously provided with
information on the current year state budget reductions and issues.
FY 2008 BUDGET ISSUES
. State Budqet Reductions - $.4 Million
· HB 599- Local Law Enforcement-$336,000.00
· Virginia Juvenile Community Crime Control $14,000.00
· Library - $9,000.00
· Electoral Board- $2,550.00
. Budget Items Requirinq Additional funding -$4.2 Million
· Comprehensive Services Act
· Worker Compensation
· Motor Fuels
· Public Safety Overtime
· Civic Facilities
· Additional Elections
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. StrateclV to address exvenditure issues:
· Use of contingency funds
· Use of position turnover savings
· Expenditure reductions and reallocation of funds within
budget
School Operatinq Fundinq
· FY 2008-$3.6 million
· FY 2007-$3.4 million
· FY 2006-$2.5 million
Employee Compensation and Benefits
· FY 2008-$4.2 million Pay Raise-4%
· FY 2007-$5.9 million Pay Raise-4%
· FY 2006-$5.2 million Pay Raise-3%
*Includes increased cost of fringe benefits-retirement, medical insurance, and
dental insurance.
Mr. Stovall stated that program specific reductions for VJCCCA (Outreach
Detention, Youth Haven and other specialized programs) would be made; State
funding for the Library is used for publications, as well as the handling of the
599 reduction and Electoral Board via expenditure reductions within the General
Fund. He further stated that Council received a letter earlier during the week
calling attention to identified budget items requiring additional funding,
contingency funds and savings from positions turnover during the fiscal year,
as well as steps to freeze and reduce expenditures specifically in the categories
of training, travel, and expendable equipment. He explained that the
information demonstrates the City's support of education via the provision of
incremental operating funding based on growth in local tax revenue and
focusing on employee compensation while providing a base pay raise that is
ahead of inflation.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if it was a problem with employees who do
not meet expectations; whereupon, the City Manager responded that each year,
the number of "Exceeds Expectation" increase and employees receiving a "Do
Not Meet Expectation" likely will receive said rating only once.
Maintenance of Services
· FY 2008 - 1.6 million
· FY 2007 - 4.0 million
· FY 2006 - 0.9 million
Allocation of additional fundinq
-Motor Fuels
Support of Valley Metro
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-Utility Costs
-Social Service Program
-Support of Health
Jail Medical Services
Animal Control (SPCA)
Fleet Maintenance Department
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Mr. Stovall advised that the abovementioned information deals with
maintenance of service issues (inflationary costs), such as motor fuels, utilities,
social service programs, and Valley Metro. He noted that fiscal year 2007
included an adjustment of $2.7 million for social service programs, with the
state covering 50% to 100% of the cost depending upon the program.
Enhanced Programs and Services
· FY 2008 - $1.6 million
· FY 2007 - $1.7 million
· FY 2006 - $1.0 million
Allocation of additional fundinq
-Libraries (Staff and Programs)
-Code Enforcement
-Police Officers (10)
-Greenway Maintenance
-Roanoke River Keepers
-Leaf Collection (Condensed
Schedule)
-Domestic Violence -Brand Marketing
-Infrastructure Maintenance -Support of Cultural and
-Arts Festival Human Services Agencies
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Mr. Stovall commented that progress had been made in enhancing
programs and services, and additional funding had been allocated.
Debt Service Funding
· FY 2008 - $1.2 million
· FY 2007 - $1.5 million
· FY 2006 - $2.3 million
Capital Maintenance and Equipment Replacement
· FY 2008 - $.9 million
· FY 2007 - $.6 million
· FY 2006 - $.7 million
Includes funding for equipment replacement, capital building maintenance,
paving, and technology
The Director of Management and Budget advised that the City has stayed
on track in growing Debt Service funding to support planned bond issuance for
major capital projects; fiscal year 2006 increased the meal tax and used half of I
the incremental revenue to fund Debt Service for William Fleming High School;
and fiscal year 2007 used a portion of the increase in the cigarette tax to
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provide Debt Service funding for future bond issuance for curb, sidewalks, and
bridges.
SOURCE- BUDGET ACCOMPLISHMENTS
· Growth in local revenue and dedicated state revenue
· Fee adjustments, when appropriate, to recover program costs
. Limited tax rate adjustments
· FY 2006
· Meals tax increased from 4% to 5% - Half of incremental
revenue used to cover debt service for William Fleming
Project
· FY 2007
· Real estate tax decreased from $1.21 to $1.19
· Cigarette tax increased from $.27 to $.54
He added that it is important to note that the City has been able to make
progress in the aforementioned categories based on growth in local revenue,
fee adjustments that focus on recovering program costs, limited tax rate
adjustments, meals tax increased with half of the incremental revenue used to
cover a portion of Debt Service Funding for William Fleming High School,
reduced the real estate tax rate, and offset the loss in revenue from the reduced
rate by increasing the cigarette tax.
. Budqet reductions
· FY 2008 - $ .7 million
· FY 2007 - $1.3 million
· FY 2006 - $ .5 million
· Unfunded vacant positions/eliminated vacant positions
· Over the past 5 years-Eliminated approximately 60 positions
. Other adjustments
· Adjustments to programs (hours of operation, program sites, etc.)
· Reduced funding for administrative supplies, expendable
equipment, overtime, expendable equipment, training, and other
expenditure categories
He explained that a level of budget reductions have been completed,
i'ncluding unfunded vacant positions as well as eliminating vacant positions;
over the past five years, approximately 60 positions have been eliminated. He
noted that adjustments to program hours and program sites and reducing
funding in a variety of categories have been made. In addition, the budget
reductions have allowed more in the category of expanded services and push
the pay raise higher than it would have been; and the budget reductions have
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been done without materially impacting the level of core services provided by
the City.
Mr. Stovall mentioned that one of the first activities in the budget process
is to develop the priority expenditures for that budget cycle.
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FY 2009 PRIORITY EXPENDITURES
. Roanoke City Schools-Proposed Increase-$2,256,264.00
· Base increase of $1 ,756.264.00 tied to funding formula
· Additional $500,000.00 based on Mayor's proposed initiative to
provide additional $2.5 million over five years
. Provides total operating funding of $63.6 million
. Support for debt services of school projects increases from
$4.9 million to $6.8 million
· Total funding (operating and debt service) of $ 70.4 million
He stated that the support to the School Division is the largest
expenditure at approximately 26 percent, the City funds approximately 45
percent of the School's total budget.
Council Member Sherman Lea inquired if renovations to William Fleming
High School were scheduled for completion in 2010; whereupon, the City
Manager advised that the anticipated date for completion is 2009.
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. Debt service funding - $1,070,000.00
· Planned to incrementally add $570,000.00 through FY 2010
· Additional funding of $500.000.00 required through FY 2013
based on planned issuance of bonds for Police Academy, Library
Comprehensive Study, and Parks and Recreation Master Plan
. Employee Compensation - $3,586,611.00
· Competitive employee compensation - $2,716,746
Initial target of 3% of salary
· No additional funding required for City Retirement
· VRS Retirement - $89,668
Increase in the base contribution rate from 15.68% to 16.27%
· Medical Insurance- $ 780,197
Remaining 6 months of January 2008 increase
10% anticipated increase October 2008 (Assume change in plan
year to facilitate joint purchase with Roanoke City Schools)
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Mr. Stovall advised that with regard to employee compensation, a 3.5
percent increase was proposed for teachers and three percent for other
governmental employees beginning in 2010. He further advised that one
percent of the increase is tied to revenue growth and State revenue if the
revenue is not achieved; and the State will pay an increase of 2.5 percent for
teachers and two percent for other governmental employees.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired as to why the joint' purchase of medical
insurance with the schools would cause an increase instead of a decrease in
expenses; whereupon, the City Manager advised that administrative fees would
decrease, resulting in savings, but what is unknown is if the plans have to be
changed or if having a larger group would incur savings.
· Capital Maintenance and Equipment - $1,156,052.00
Target Current Funding Additional
Funding -FY
2009
Equipment $3,000,000.00 $2,544,397.00 $227,800.00
Replacement
Building $1,000,000.00 $ 746,667.00 $126,667.00
Maintenance
Technology $1,500,000.00- $1,060,801.00 $219,585.00
$2,000,000.00
Street Pavinq $3,546,111.00 $2,964,111.00 $582,000.00
Targets initially established in FY 2003
· Performance Agreements- $1,049,220.00
· Southern Hills, Ivy Market, and Valley View
. Supplemental Funding- $2,055,000.00
Ii Maintenance of Services- $815,000
Planning assumption of 50% of FY 2008 level
· Expanded/ Enhanced Services - $1,240,000
Planning assumption of 75% of FY2008 level
· Miscellaneous/Other - $274,355.00
· Health Department-Civic Mall Rent
· Cultural! Human Service Agency Funding
· Memberships
The City Manager explained that when the targets were made in 2003, it
was a conscious decision by the Council to stop relying on End of Year Fund
Balance to provide the line sharing of funding needed for replacement ongoing
items. She further explained that the City would be 24 months behind in
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purchasing some items and it was decided that in recurring budgets there
needed to be funds for recurring items.
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DEPARTMENT REQUEST
· Maintenance of Services- $3.7 million
· Motor Fuels
· Social Service Programs
· Jail Medical Services
· GRTC (Valley Metro)
· Technology Software System Support
· Employee Programs-Tuition Assistance
· Public Safety Overtime
· Grant Match Funding
· Enhanced/Expanded Services- $2.5 million
· Library Master Plan
· GRTC Valley Metro-Trolley
· Code Enforcement
· Greenway Maintenance/River Keepers
· Deer Culling
· Career Enhancement Programs
· I nfrastructu re
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Council Member Mason inquired if a budget request for the Clean and
Green Team had been included under the category of Code Enforcement for
enhanced recycling code enforcement; whereupon, the City Manager advised
that it was not an individual request at this point; however, individual
departments were submitting requests.
SUMMARY OF PRIORITY EXPENDITURES
Support of Roanoke City Schools $2.3 Million
Employee Compensation and $ 3.6Million
Benefits
Debt Capacity for Capital $ 1.1 Million
Proiects
Capital Fundinq $ 1.2Million
Performance Agreements $ 1.0 Million
Maintenance of Services $ 0.8 Million
Enhanced / Expanded Services $ 1.2 Million
Miscellaneous / Other $ 0.3Million
Total $11.5Million
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STATUS OF BUDGET BALANCING
Preliminary Projection $ 5.3 Million
Revenue Growth
Priority Expenditures $11.5 Million
Balance ($ 6.2 Million)
Strateqies for balancing
· Departments asked for 6% budget reduction options
· Evaluate timing of planned bond issuance for capital projects based on
cash flow needs and other considerations
Mr. Stovall explained that it would be easy to remove the pay raise and
other expenditure items, but it was decided that the strategy of past years be
used.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
· Seek the input of City Council on priority items for FY 2008-09
· Activities/ programs that can be reduced or eliminated
He advised that a handout was placed in each Council Member's folder
with regard to current services provided by the City.
The City Manager advised that the Council Members should review the list
and advise as to whether they feel the City is spending too much or too little of
its resources on a particular item, Le.: physical fitness centers throughout the
City.
She further explained that a project that failed was that of the public
bagging their own leaves and mulch as well as incentives, such as,
reimbursement for lawn mower mulch blades and providing biodegradable
bags.
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired about the trash collection in the
public housing sector; whereupon, Mr. Stovall replied that the City provides
trash collection to housing developments at no cost.
With regard to leaf collection and citizens bagging their own leaves,
Mayor Harris inquired if the service could be set up so that if a citizen wished to
have loose leaf collection they would have to pay for the service, and if they
bagged the leaves themselves, the service would be free. He explained that the
service would not be eliminated, but could be considered a higher level of
service.
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Mayor Harris also inquired if as a follow up, staff could revise the I
program and includes information explaining what the program does and what
the cost savings would be by altering the program.
Council Member Lea commented that not every person would join the
YMCA, but do utilize the City's fitness centers.
Council Member Mason inquired if the departments had a chance to
identify which projects could be eliminated; whereupon, the City Manager
explained that the departments were aware of the projects included in the list.
Council Member Mason commented that she found it surprising that in
Sean McGinnis' presentation on the City's Carbon Footprint, he did not state
reducing fleet or turning off electricity; but instead suggested more recycling of
bottles and cans because the energy to produce those items is great. She
hoped that the recycling effort could be increased and what needs the Solid
Waste Manager had would be provided.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle commented that deer culling could return if there was
a need for it; whereupon, Council Member Fitzpatrick commented that semi-
annually would be appropriate for deer culling if there was a need.
The Director of Finance highlighted the following information with I
regards to fund balance, advising that each year $2S0,OOO.OO is set aside for
commitments that are would not be fulfilled until next year.
FUND BALANCE
. Fund balance -accumulation of revenues in excess of estimate plus
unspent appropriations
. Fund balance components:
- Budget Stabilization Reserve
Reserve for Self Insured Claims
Reserve for Encumbrances
Undesignated
. Roanoke long held practice of appropriating undesignated fund balance
for capital maintenance and equipment, contributions to community
agencies
. Fund balance levels rise and fall from year to year rather than
accumulating
The City Manager advised that the fund has been used to fund capital
requests from outside organizations; such as, the Grandin Theater, the Dumas I
Center, Mill Mountain Zoo, the History Museum; and improvements to the
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restaurant facility at Center in the Square.
Roanoke Fund Balances
18.5
18.0
17.5
17.0
16.5
16.0
15.5
15.0
14.5
14.0
5.0
4.5
~ 4.0
E 3.5
~ 3.0
':; 2.5
.~ 2.0
:: 1.5
:; 1.0
0.5
0.0
I_ Undesignaled I
10 Budget Slabilization I
FY 2005 FY 2006 FY 2007
IT 2005 FY 2006 FY 2007
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USE OF FUND BALANCE
. Capital contributions to outside agencies
-Grandin Theater
-TAP Dumas
-Mill Mountain Theatre
-Mill Mountain Zoo
-History Museum
. Percent for Art
· Supplement capital maintenance and equipment funding in the operating
budget
. Non- recurring capital maintenance and equipment
FUND BALANCE
· Roanoke rated AA by Fitch, Standard & Poor's and Moody's
Complimented for strong financial, policies, growth in tax
base and rapid debt amortization
Noted that Roanoke has below average per capita income, housing
values, and General Fund balance with above average debt
Moody's is most conservative and noted that Roanoke's fund balance
to revenues ratio is significantly lower that the median of AA localities
· Roanoke must increase fund balance over the next 18"24 months and
compare more favorably with medians to maintain current rating
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The Director of Finance advised that Roanoke's rating is very strong and
is something the City is very proud of; the City is commended for the budget I
stabilization reserve and debt policy programs.
FUND BALANCE STRATEGIES
. Short term
Continued growth of Budget Stabilization Reserve and transfer of Debt
Service Fund balance to the General Fund.
. Long term
Revisions to Budget Stabilization Reserve Policy to increase target as a
percentage of General Fund
Discontinue appropriation of undersigned fund balance
o Target of FY 2010 to discontinue use of fund balance
o Continued allocation of capital funding within operating budget
will reduce/eliminate need to appropriate fund balance
Increase allocation for equipment replacement and
maintenance
Budgeting for contributions to outside agencies
The City Manager advised that Moody's rating firm was the most
challenging and to keep the strong rating, it may not be possible to respond to
some requests from the outside agencies. She further advised that the City
does not fund operating requests from the outside agencies only capital
requests.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if comparable cities were rated at 20 percent
by Moody's; whereupon, the Director of Finance advised that they were rated at
24 percent and the City of Roanoke was still lower.
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION RETIREMENT PLAN
. Roanoke's primary pension plan is defined benefit plan requires
minimum of five years to earn vested benefit
. Employees may participate in defined contribution plan (lCMA) to provide
additional retirement benefits
. Defined contribution plans allow greater portability from employer to
employer-appealing to younger employees who are more 'mobile'
. Research being conducted on potential of offering new employees option
of defined contribution plan as opposed to City's traditional pension plan
"Charlottesville initiated several years ago
- JLARC study being conducted at State level
. Potential recommendation forthcoming to City Council in fiscal year 2009
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OPEB
· Accounting and reporting for Other Post Employment Benefits
· Team from Finance, Management & Budget,' Human Resources, City
Manager's Office
· Roanoke's liability results from medical insurance rates for retirees which
are blended with those of active employees
· Initial actuarial study:
-Liability approximately $20.5 million
-Incremental cost to fully fund $1.24 million
o Funding of $428,000 included in FY08 budget
· Update actuarial review in progress
· Based on significant cost of present benefit level, team anticipates
recommending policy changes
· Recommendation to City Council in near future to meet GASB
implementation date of June 30, 2008
-Potential policy changes will most likely be phased in to minimize the
impact on employees/retirees
The City Manager advised that an additional supplement allowance has
been provided to the retirees with at least 20 years of service, based upon 75
percent that the City provides for active employees on their healthcare.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if the recommended policy covers the
allowance or will that be separate; whereupon, the Director of Finance advised
that the amount of the allowance will be considered as the amount to pay for
the premium will be established.
At 11:35 a.m., the Mayor declared the Financial and Planning Session in
recess.
At 12:05 p.m., the Financial and Planning Session was reconvened, with
Mayor Harris presiding, and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the
exception of Council Member Wishneff.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS
Mr. Stovall advised that the next few slides outline the planned spend
based on the update for the fiscal year, highlighting the projects that require
additional funding based on information from the department directors.
PLANNED CIP PROJECT SPENDING
. Buildings
· Fire EMS Facility Improvement Proqram- $5.1 Million
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-Williamson Road station under construction
-Architectural and Engineering to begin on Melrose station
-Additional funding of approximately $1 million may be needed
· Police Academy - $5.7 Million
-Negotiating with preferred PPEA provider
-Includes planned bond funding of $5.5 million in FY 2009
-Any additional funding required will be from Federal Asset
Forfeiture
· Library Master Plan- $20.5 Million
-Project activities underway
-Includes planned bond funding of $7.1 million in FY 2009 and
$7.95 million in FY2012
. Economic Development
· Roanoke Centre for Industry and Technoloqy - $.3 Million
-Residual infrastructure improvements remain pending the sale of
last parcel
- Additional funding of $1 .4 million may be needed
. Flood Reduction
· Roanoke River Flood Reduction - $22 Million
-Project cost may increase $9.7 million, with local share of $4.85
million
-Current CIP includes planned bond issuance of $4.52 in FY 2010
-Potential need for additional funding in FY 2008 based on cash
flow-Reallocation of greenway funding in an alternative
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. Parks
· Greenways and Trails -$1.3 Million
-Various greenway trails underway
-Additional funding of $800,000 planned over the next four years
· Parks and Recreation Master plan- $33.6 million
-Master Plan Adopted
-Includes planned bond funding of $1 5 million in FY 2010 and $1 5
million in 2011
. Schools
· Hiqh School Facility Improvements-$67.6 Million
-Last phase of Patrick Henry
-Completion of William Fleming
. Storm Drains
· Neiqhborhood Storm Drain Proqram-$.4 Million
-Regional study planned
-Identified projects totaling $60 million
. Streets. Sidewalks. and Bridges
· Bridqe Renovation and Replacement -$3.5 Million
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-Includes planned bond funding of $2.75 million in FY201 0
-Received VDOT revenue sharing funding of$500,000.00 .
-Additional funding of $3 million needed over the next five to six
years based on identified needs
· Curb/Gutter/Sidewalk-$3.5 Million
-Included planned bond funding of $2.25 million in FY201 0
-Received VDOT revenue sharing funds $250,000.00
· Streets cape Proiects-$.4 Million
-Remaining funding planned for Salem Avenue, adjacent to Art
Museum
-Funding of $300,000.00 needed for additional improvements (one
block) downtown
-Funding of $850,000.00 needed for continuation of improvements
along Reserve Avenue
· VDOT Proiects-$37.5 Million
-Wonju Street/ Colonial Avenue/Brandon Avenue
- lOth Street
-13th Street
-Signal Improvements
. Other
· Campbell Avenue Garaqe-$5.9M
-Construction underway
· Financial Application Integration
-Tax and Treasury system replacement in progress
-Proposals being solicited for Human Resources/Payroll system
. New Proiect Requests:
· Digital Radio -$7.9 M
· Vendor will discontinue support of current analog system in
December 2012
· Jail Security System-$2.6M
· GRTC Trolley- $.2M
· Planned implementation FY2009
· Schools- $4-$6M
-Capital building maintenance and building redeployment
· Traffic Signal Reconstruction- $2.5M
· Courthouse Expansion- $55M
-Based on current concept study
The Deputy Director of Finance advised that the following slides
regarding debt and debt policies were basic and were taken from the previous
year slides and the numbers had been updated.
217
DEBT AND DEBT POLICIES
I
Legal Debt Margin and
Balance of Outstanding Debt as of June 30, 2007
Assessed Valuation of Real Estate, 2007
Legal Debt Limit, 10% of $5,834,424,939
Debt applicable to limitation:
City General Obligation Bonds
Enterprise Food Debt:
Civic Facilities Food 15,940,000
Parking Food 11,760,142 *
Total Enterprise Food Debt
School Bonds
Total Bonded Debt
Less: Available in Debt Service Food
Enterprise Food Supported Debt
Western Virginia Water Authority Supported Debt
Legal Debt Margin
$ 5,834,424,939
583,442,494
139,125,436 *
27,700,142
154,535,973 *
$ 321,361,551
(1,021,667)
(9,160,142)
(28,924,766) 282,254,976
$ 301,187,518
* Includes Series 2008 Bonds
45
Ms. Shawver advised that the above slide is slightly inflated with regard to
total bonded debt because approximately $19 million has been repaid. I
PLANNED FUTURE BOND ISSUES
FY2009 Bond Issue:
. $5,500,000.00 Police Academy
. $15,850,000.00 William Fleming High School
. $ 7,100,000.00 Library Master Plan Phase I
FY2010 Bond Issue:
. $15,000,000.00 Parks and Recreation Master Plan
. $4,520,000.00 Roanoke River Flood Reduction
. $2,750,000.00 Bridge Renovation
. $2,250,000.00 Curb, Gutter and Sidewalks
FY2011 Bond Issue:
. $15,000,000.00 Parks and Recreation Master Plan
FY2012 Bond Issue:
. $7,950,000.00 Library Master Plan Phase II
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Future General Fund Debt Service Requirements and Projected
Funding Available for Debt Service
30
25
20
15
10
5
o
2009
2010
23.915
2011
25.098
2012
25.707
2013
26.112
2014
24.919
_ Debt Service Requirements Upon 22.462
Issuance
__ Projected Funding Available for 24.525
Debt Service
Excess Capacity
25.598
26.094
26.594
27.094
27.096
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Ms. Shawver advised that the above slide displays how the projected
funding available for debt service grows approximately by $500,000.00 each
year.
REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
219
Future City and School Debt Service
20.000
l!! 15.000
.!!!
"0
o 10.000
'0
III
c:
~
~
7.115 6.995
9.750 9.465 9.187
6.488
8.50'2
II1l City Paid by City iii School Paid by City iii School Paid by School I
48
DEBT POLICIES
. Tax-supported general obligation debt service will not exceed 10%
of General Fund expenditures
. Net bonded debt will not exceed 5% of the assessed value of real
estate.
-Net Bonded Debt is general obligation debt for the City and School
Board, exclusive of Parking Enterprise Fund debt and the amount
available in the Debt Service Fund
. Tax-supported debt will be structured such that not less than 50%
of aggregate outstanding debt will be retired within ten years.
Note: Ratios that follow include all tax-supported debt-Go
bonds, VPSA, Literary Loans, QZAB, and Capital Leases.
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RATIO OF DEBT SERVICE TO GENERAL AND SCHOOL FUND EXPENDITURES
(l 0%)
City Projects School Ove rail
Projects
FY2006 4.8% 3.3% 8.1%
FY2007 4.9% 3.7% 8.6%
FY2008 4.7% 3.8% 8.5%
FY2009 4.6% 4.6% 9.2%
FY2010 4.8% 4.8% 9.6%
FY2011 4.9% 4.5% 9.4%
FY2012 4.9% 4.3% 9.2%
FY2013 4.9% 3.9% 8.8%
Note: Assumes 3% annual growth of expenditures in FY09 and
FY1 0, 4% in FY11 and thereafter
RATIO OF NET BONDED DEBT TO ASSESSED
VALUE OF REAL ESTATE (5%)
City Projects School Overall
Projects
FY2006 2.6% 1.9% 4.5%
FY2007 2.1% 1.9% 4.0%
FY2008 1.8% 1.7% 3.5%
FY2009 1.7% 1.8% 3.5%
FY2010 1.9% 1.5% 3.4%
FY2011 1.9% 1.3% 3.2%
FY2012 1.7% 1.2% 2.9%
FY2013 1.4% 1.0% 2.4%
Note: Assumes growth in assessed value of real estate of 4.6% in
FY09 and 4% thereafter.
REDUCTION OF AGGREGATE DEBT
WITHIN TEN YEARS (50%)
(Reflects Issuance of Planned Future Debt)
City School Overall
FY2006 69% 66% 68%
FY2007 65% 77% 71%
FY2008 76% 64% 70%
.FY2009 78% 65% 70%
FY2010 79% 66% 72%
FY2011 80% 67% 73%
FY2012 83% 69% 75%
FY2013 85% 72% 77%
Debt Capacity After Future Planned
Debt Issuances
(in millions)
Debt capacity is based on debt service payments not exceeding 10% of General Fund expenditures.
Debt capacity is based on 5.5% interest.
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CITY COUNCIL INPUT
. Which projects are the most important?
CAPITAL PROJECT RECAP
Fire EMS Facilities Melrose Station
Roanoke Centre for Industry and
Technolo
Roanoke River Flood Reduction
Nei hborhood Storm Drain Pro ram
Brid e Renovation and Re lacement
Di ital Radio
Streetsca e Pro. ects
Jail Securit S stem
GRTC Trolle
School Capital Building Maintenance
$1.0 Million
$1.4 Million
$4.85 Million
$60.0 Million
$3.0 Million
$7.9 Million
$1.15 Million
$2.6 Million
$0.2 Million
$4.0-$6.0
Million
$2.5 Million
$55.0 Million
Traffic Si nal Reconstruction
Courthouse Ex ansion
Vice-mayor Trinkle was of the opinion that flood reduction was a must
and he would like to continue with the project. He also inquired if the trolley
would be implemented in the summer 2008; whereupon, Mr. Stovall replied that
fiscal year 2009 begins July 1, 2008. The City Manager further commented that
the service would commence the beginning of September 2008.
Council Member Mason also considered flood reduction the highest
priority, and inquired as to whether the funds shared with the School system
from the General Fund could be used to start a rainy day fund by the Schools;
whereupon, Council Member Fitzpatrick responded in the affirmative and the
City Manager replied that the schools could use the funds in said capacity.
Council Member Mason was of the opinion that School Capital Building
Maintenance was a lower priority project.
Council Lea commented that his priority projects would be the Fire-EMS
Facilities at Melrose Station, the Centre for Industry and Technology, and the
Roanoke City Jail Security system.
Council Member Fitzpatrick commented that his number one priorities
are the Flood Reduction Project, bridge renovation and replacement, and Fire-
EMS Facilities at Melrose Station. He commented that the Centre for Industry
and Technology should not be considered until the City has a prospect, and he
expressed concern about digital radio due to the amount that has to be put into
223
the budget over time.
Mayor Harris advised that the Fire-EMS Facilities at Melrose Station would I
be a priority project.
Council Member Fitzpatrick advised that the Virginia Transportation
Museum is in a good shape from previous years, but if they do not receive
some significant help, they cannot remain in good standing. Although, he
could not seek City assistance as a Council Member, he pointed out that 80
percent of the Museum's business stems from the City of Roanoke, and if the
district base could be increased, it would have a direct impact. In addition, he
stated that the City earns half of what the Museum collects and the numbers
need to be increased.
Mayor Harris advised that both the Virginia Museum of Transportation
and Mill Mountain Zoo are organizations that claim City assets, and suggested
that the City Administration advise the Council of any other cultural
organizations that have similar connections to the City of Roanoke; and
suggested that both organizations be removed from the Cultural Services
Committee recommendations and be listed as a direct line items in the City
budget or retain them under the system currently in place, which decision
would rest with the Council.
Mayor Harris advised that the consensus of the Council is to keep the real I
estate tax rates as they are currently.
There being no further discussion with regard to the revenues and/or
expenditures, Mayor Harris suggested that additional items and/or comments
be forwarded to the City Manager for discussion at the budget study session
scheduled for Thursday, May 8, 2008 at 8:30 a.m., in Room 159, first floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 21 5 Church Avenue, S. w.
There being no further business, the recessed meeting was adjourned at
1 :00 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
.~Ch,. YY\othtJ
Stephanie M. Moon ~
City Clerk
c~~
C. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
February 19, 2008
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday,
February 19, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., in Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson
Harris presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council,
Section 2-1 5,Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetinqs, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No. 37817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff (arrived
late), Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea,
Gwendolyn W. Mason, and Mayor C. Nelson Harrism--------mmmu----mmn------n7.
A BS E NT : ---- n - - - -- -- - - - - -- - - n -- - - -- - - -- n - -- - -,- - -- -- - - -- n n n_ - n -_ ~_ __ n n n - - n - -- - - -- - - -- - - n nO.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk, and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
PROCLAMATION: The Mayor presented Mignon-Chubb-Hale, Roanoke City
School Board Trustee, with a Proclamation declaring February 2008, as African
American Heritage and Black History month.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately. Mayor Harris called attention to three requests for
Closed Meetings.
225
MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on Monday,
November 19, 2007, were before the Council.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion was seconded by Vice-
Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s nn______ _n_nn_n_____nn__n_________nn n______nnn_______nn_n_____nnnn~___nn__6.
NAYS: Non e nn_nn_nn____n__nnnnunn_nnn_u___nnn_n_____nnn_______nnn--n---O.
(Council Member Wishneff was not present when the vote was recorded.)
COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson
Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by
Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s nn______unn_n_nnn__n_____nnnn__n__________nn_nn______nnnnnn_________nn_6.
NAYS: Non e nnnnn__nnu______n_n_nn_nnu__n____nnn________n_nn_n_______n--nn-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was not present when the vote was recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Manager requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the award of a public contract
involving the expenditure of public funds, where discussion in open session
would adversely affect the negotiating strategy of the City, pursuant to Section
2.2-3 71l(A)(2 9), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s ______n__n____n__n__ ____u__n_n____un_n_n______nn__n_____n________n__nn__n_n---6.
NAYS: Non e n__n n____nn nnnn__nnnn___n nnn________nn__n______n_nn______nnn_nO.
(Council Member Wishneff was not present when the vote was recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Manager requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to the expansion of an existing business
where no previous announcement has been made of the business' interest in
expanding its facilities in the City, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(s), Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s _________n_nnnn_____n_nn___n___nn_nnn__n__n__nn___nn_____-_n_nnn_n_______6.
NAYS: Non e ____n_nnn_______nn__nn_______nnnn_________n___nnnn_h_____n___nnnn-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was not presentwhen the vote was recorded.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Reports
of qualification of Adam W. Boitnott and Christopher M. Walters as members of
the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, for terms ending March 31, 2011,
were before Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s n____________nnnnnnnnn______n_n__nn____________________n_nn_n_nn--------------6.
NAYS: Non e nnnnnn__________nnn_n_n_nnnn__________nnn_n_n_nn_n_nn__nn--n-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was not present when the vote was recorded.)
227
At this point, Council Member Wishneff arrived at the meeting (2:02 I
p.m.).
REG U LAR AG EN DA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
DOWNTOWN ROANOKE, INCORPORATED-RETAIL MANAGEMENT INCENTIVE
PROGRAM: William H. Carder, Executive Director, Downtown Roanoke, Inc.,
appeared before the Council to present an update on downtown initiatives and
to request consideration of a Retail Management Incentive Program. Mr. Carder
shared the following information via powerpoint:
Downtown Initiatives
. Revitalizing Downtown and Changing the Experience
. Intro
. Downtown Roanoke, Inc. operates a 67-block district. The
recommendations and ideas proposed relate to that area.
. Parking plays a key role in any and all downtown
revitalization efforts.
o DRI continues to work and dialogue with the City
regarding parking issues and needs.
. Facade Grants
. The current Fa<;ade Grant program was designed to help
property owners visually improve the appearance of
buildings in Enterprise Zone One A. Currently the grant is
equal to 33 percent of the cost of fa<;ade renovation,
capped at $25,000.00, and applies only to the front of
each building.
. Downtown Roanoke, Inc., is requesting that the City give
consideration to expanding this grant program to include
all exposed sides of the buildings with a $25,000.00 cap
per side. This will spur investment while improving aging
structures.
. Retail Recruitment Program
. Retail growth in downtown Roanoke is fragile. In order to
help downtown thrive, additional retail is needed.
Downtown Roanoke, Inc., proposes that, working in
conjunction with the City's economic development office,
we establish a priority to acquire an additional 60,000
square feet of unique, non-restaurant retail.
. Anchor retailers will be targeted.
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. A committee has been formed and is working on the
program parameters which will be shared with City
Council soon.
o Roger Elkin, Hall Associates
o Lisa Soltis, City of Roanoke Economic Development
o Bill Carder, Downtown Roanoke, Inc.
o Kathy Kinsey, Downtown Roanoke, Inc.
. The Retail Recruitment Program will include an incentive
package used to for recruiting purposes.
. Two-Way Streets
. The downtown district, retail and residential uses in
particular, can benefit from turning one-way streets to
two-way. One-way streets promote higher-speed traffic an
can create confusion, especially for non-local citizens. By
two-waying streets in the' district, access to businesses
and homes will be improved, and traffic will slow -
allowing better visibility for retail.
. With the renovation of the Market Garage, the Church
Avenue block between Williamson and Jefferson will be
converted to two-way. Downtown Roanoke, Inc., is
proposing that Church be converted to two-way up to
Fifth Street, and that First Street, from Campbell to
Franklin, also be changed. Angle parking and parking
meters will be studied to increase the use of available
parking.
. Destination Marketing
· With assistance from public relations and media outlets
and input from property owners, retail, restaurants,
businesses and residents, Downtown Roanoke, Inc., is
formulating a destination marketing plan. This outline
will map social and traditional media avenues to reach the
20-39 age group as well as target outlaying counties and
communities beyond the greater Roanoke Valley to bring
more consumers to district retail, restaurants, clubs,
galleries and museums.
. A committee has been formed to develop the strategies
and avenues necessary in order to reach neighboring
communities to encourage them to visit Roanoke for a
day, a weekend or longer.
. Committee:
o Todd Foutz, Neathawk Dubuque & Packett
o Dean Browe II , Neathawk Dubuque & Packett
o Roger Neel, Corned Beef & Company/Frankie Rowland's
o Melinda Mayo, City of Roanoke
o Kimberly Templeton, Art Museum of Western
229
Virginia/Taubman Museum of Art
o Betsy Whitney, Habitat for Humanity
o Chad Scott, 202 Market
o Danielle Vesterso, ABC 13
o Fourd Kemper, Woods Rogers PLC
o Donna Tatum, Express Personnel
o Kathy O'Keeffe, The Binaba Shop
o Bill Carder and Kathy Kinsey, Downtown Roanoke, Inc.
· Pedestrian Wayfinding Signage
. When we invite you to Discover What's Up Downtown, we mean
it. With improved streets capes the goal is to add pedestrian
signage so that visitors can easily navigate and explore our
entire district.
Ie vehicle destination signage, below:
Mr. Carder indicated that DRI pledged to raise the funds to take care of
the pedestrian way finding signage.
. Market District Trash Collection
. Downtown Roanoke, Inc. is working with the City's Solid
Waste department to develop an improved trash collection
system for the Market District. This trash service will
ensure that refuse is not visible on our avenues.
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230
. Membership Restructuring
. An outline is under development, which will restructure
Downtown Roanoke, Inc.'s membership program. The new
plan will automatically include property owners who support
the organization through the special service district tax as
members. To enhance the benefits of membership for our
business community a gift certificate program will be
launched and marketed to drive increasing traffic into
downtown. Retaining and growing the number and variety of
businesses in the district is a key goal.
. Downtown Roanoke, Inc. has recently invested in significant
IT and database upgrades to ensure that members and
businesses will receive timely information.
. Bill's Bulletin will premier in the coming weeks. This bi-
weekly notice will be faxed or emailed to interested
parties.
. Downtown Districts
. Three downtown districts have been identified for branding: the
Rail District, the Market District and Uptown. Brand identification
will begin with the Rail and market areas.
In conclusion, Mr. Carder pointed out that Downtown 'Roanoke, Inc., has a
robust "Face book page" - a place where people can become "fans" of downtown
Roanoke that is visible to both Facebook users and those on the outside such
as through Google; and on the DRI fan page, Downtown Roanoke offers easy
access to a wide variety of content such as videos, photos, interviews with local
businesses, blog posts, major ~ event calendars and more. He also called
attention to another video site known as YouTube, explaining that before
January 30, if you looked up "Downtown Roanoke" (or even "Roanoke"), you
would get an overwhelming number of videos with teens filming themselves
skateboarding all over the city. He added that all changed when Downtown
Roanoke started uploading its Facebook videos to YouTube and properly
"tagging" them. Mr. Carder emphasized that Downtown Walk-Around video had
over 200 views in the first two hours it was available; and out of googles,
hundreds of thousands of videos, its downtown tour was the 45th most
watched Travel video on January 30, 2008.
Louis Tudor, Owner, Tudor's Biscuit World, appeared before Council and
expressed opposition to the recommendation for a two-way street along the
section of Church Avenue between Jefferson and First Streets, whereby his
business is located.
231
Discussion:
I
Council Member Dowe suggested more diversification on the proposed
committees.
Council Member Lea commented on the lack of diversity of the people
frequenting the downtown attractions; he suggested bringing more people from
all sectors of the community to spread the excitement; whereupon, Mr. Carder
responded that Roanoke has to have a diverse downtown.
Council Member Wishneff commented that the retail recruitment program
was on target and he was anxious to see how that program would be funded.
He commented that the attractions were extremely diverse, but believed that
communication could be improved.
The City Manager stated that City officials met with Mr. Carder prior to
the Council meeting and she was of the opinion that the retail recruitment
program needed more work prior to any recommendations from the City
administration.
There being no further discussion, the matter was referred to the City I
Manager for report and recommendation to the Council.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: The City Manager submitted a status report
regarding Affirmative Action and Diversity Initiatives for Calendar Year 2007.
(For full text, see communication and supporting documentation on file in the
City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Burcham pointed out that the City has made great progress,
embedding the principles of diversity and inclusion at the City, which had been
done by holding management accountable, strengthening its efforts to attract
and develop talent, and encouraging an innovative diversity and inclusion
initiative so the employees could share an even greater sense of pride and
fulfillment in what they do. She also shared with the Council an overview of the
City's gender and racial diversity.
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In conclusion, the City Manager advised that the City would continue to
engage the community and recruit more women and people of color by refining
its efforts through innovative recruitment and creatively tapping non-traditional
venues; and such efforts currently underway include working with area high
school counselors to connect job vacancies with newly graduated or graduating
seniors, and speaking to young people in middle school, high school and
special programs for youth about the value and merits of a career in public
service. Furthermore, Ms. Burcham stated that the City would also continue to
encourage and support the Diversity Advisory Council, which would work to
provide direction to management as it relates to increasing its capacity for
diversity and inclusion.
Council Member Mason commented on Hispanic hiring retention, noting
that the information would be reflected the following week.
Council Member Lea inquired if diversity was part of the employees'
evaluation performances; whereupon, the City Manager responded in the
affirmative. .
Council Member Dowe encouraged the City to attend the Emerging
Leaders Workshop that is held during the first week of August.
Dan Hale, President, NAACP, appeared before the Council and
commented on the diversity of the employees working for the City of Roanoke.
He also pointed out that 18 authorities, boards, commissions and committees
appointed by the Council did not have any African American members.
However, he complimented the City Manager and staff for their efforts in
making the City of Roanoke a diverse city. He also expressed appreciation to
Council Member Dowe for his involvement in diversifying Council appointed
boards and suggested that the City expand its job recruiting efforts to
historically black colleges.
There being no additional comments by the Council, the report was
received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
BUDGET-GRANTS-HOUSING-DISABLED PERSONS: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Shelter
Plus Care Renewal Grant Award from the U. S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development.
I (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
233
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
I
(#38015-021908) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the Shelter
Plus Care Grant Award from the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development, in the amount of $1 59,408.00, for a one-year period,
commencing July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009, to provide rental assistance
and supportive services to disabled homeless individuals; and authorizing the
execution of the necessary documents.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 175.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38015-021908.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri Sn____mmm____mmnmnm_m___mnmnunmmm__mn_mn__n_mn___7 .
NAYS: Non e n_____n__nn_____n_nn___nnnn__Un_nn___U_nn________n_n________n-n----O .
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38016-021908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the I
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Shelter
Plus Care Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008
Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 176.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38016-
021908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri s n_mn_m_mnm____nmn_nmn____mnm_n_u_m_nmm__mnnn_____m_7 .
NAYS: Non e _n_nn__________n__n_n________n_n___________n_n____________n_nn___----nnn-O .
BUDGET-HOUSING-HUMAN SERVICES: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of the Roanoke Homeless
Assistance Team (HAT) Grant Renewal from the U. S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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234
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38017-021908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Roanoke Homeless Assistance Team Grant Renewal Award from the United
States Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide outreach and
limited case management services to the homeless; and authorizing the
execution of the necessary documents.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 177.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38017-
021908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff
an d Mayo r H arri Sn______n_n________nnh___nn_n_____n_n_n______n_n______nn__n__----nnnn-_7 .
NAYS: Non e ______nnn______nn______nn_n________nnn ____nnn_______n__n________nnn___O .
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38018-021908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Homeless
Assistance Team Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-
2008 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 178.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38018-021908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri Snn_______nn_____________nn______nn______________n_n___________n_nn------------7 .
NAYS: Non e nn_____n___nnn____n______________________n___________nnn_-----------n-nn---O.
BUDGET-HOUSING: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of Amendment No.3 to the 2004-2005 CDBG/HOME
Agreement with the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority; and
transfer of funds.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
235
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38019-021908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the appropriate City
officials to execute an Amendment No.3 to the 2004-2005 Agreement with the
City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority ("RRHA") to conduct
housing activities using Community Development Block Grant ("CDBG") and
HOME Investment Partnerships Program ("HOME") funds, upon certain terms
and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 179.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38019-021908.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri S_mm_n_mu_mmmumm__m_uu__m__mum______nnm______m_m__nn 7 .
NAYS: Non enn____nnn_n_n__nn_n_n___nnn___n_nn__nn______n_nn____nn_---u--n-O.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38020-021908) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding from the United
States Department of Housing and Urban Development within the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME)
programs, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 180.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38020-
021908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri S_____n_______n__nn_n_______nnnn__n__n_n_____n_n____nnn______--n--n-n---7 .
NAYS: Non e_n______u__n__nn_n__n___n__nnnnn____n__nnnn_u____n__nnn__-------nO.
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HOUSING-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending authorization to execute a Performance
and Loan Agreement between the City of Roanoke, the Roanoke Redevelopment
and Housing Authority, and the Hancock Building, LLC., for promotion of
redevelopment within the City.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38021-021908) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City officials to
execute a Performance and Loan Agreement among the City of Roanoke (City),
The City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA), and The
Hancock Building, LLC (THB), providing for certain undertakings by the parties
in connection with the renovation and restoration of a certain Building located
at 35 Campbell Avenue, S.W.; and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this Ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 181.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38021-021908.
The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
Council Member Wishneff inquired as to whether or not the Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority had met and approved the request;
whereupon, the City Manager explained that the matter was on the agenda for
action by the Board of Commissioners at its meeting scheduled for 3:00 p.m.,
and that the Housing Authority did not object to the Council taking action on
the matter prior to its meeting. Ms. Burcham added that the document had
been reviewed and changes had been made according to the review. Council
Member Wishneff reiterated his concerns as stated during the December 3,
2007 with regard to the City funding a loan to the Hancock Building in the
amount of $880,000.00, noting that he would once again be voting against the
recommendation of the City Manager.
Council Member Lea inquired if the Housing Authority could be requested
to allocate a certain number of apartments to low income residents;
whereupon, the City Manager responded that the matter has been addressed in
the agreement.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Resolution No. 38021-021908 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and
Mayo r H arri s n__nn________n____nn_n__n__n______n__n__n____n_______n______n__nn--n-----------6.
NAYS: Council Member Wishneff-mm-n-num--mnn--mm---mm-n-m--m--1 .
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BONDS-BUDGET: The Director of Finance submitted a written report
recommending allocation of the City's 2008 General Obligation Public
Improvement Bond proceeds.
I
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38022-021908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Series
2008 Bonds to various capital projects, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2007-2008 Parking, Capital Projects and School Capital Projects
Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 183.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38022-021908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
and Mayor Harrisu_um_mm___mmn_mmn_nm__nmmn___mm___m_m_m_m__nnnm 7.
NAYS: Non e ______nnun_____nn________n__n______u_n________n_n______n___n______nnn___ O.
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REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
SCHOOLS-BUDGET: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written
report requesting appropriation of funds for the Federal Communications.
E-Rate Program and the Virginia Middle School Teacher Corps Program; and the
Director of Finance submitted a written report recommending that Council
concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38023-021908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth for the Virginia Middle School Teacher Corps Program as well as
corporate fees and transfers of existing funding for the E-Rate Program,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 School Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 185.)
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Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38023-021908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Dowe, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
an d Mayo r H arri s uunn_unnnunuuu_uuu____________u_______________u______u____u__----------7.
NAYS: No n enu_n_nunnnn_n_n_n_u_nununuuunuuuu_n_un_u_u_uu_u_unu_O.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
DECEASED PERSONS-VIRGINIA TECH: Vice-Mayor Trinkle advised that he
had been approached by citizens inquiring as to whether or not the City would
have a memorial for the anniversary of the Virginia Tech incident on April 16,
2008; whereupon, he requested that the City Manager consider a proper
memorial to recognize the incident.
DOWNTOWN ROANOKE: Council Member Fitzpatrick stated that he had
selected a committee to study the City's streetcar project, noting that the
committee, which is comprised of employers, business owners, and DRI
members, would begin meeting soon.
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Mayor Harris commended the City
Manager and City staff for their efforts in coordinating the reception and dinner
on Monday, February 18 at The Hotel Roanoke and the bridge/monument
dedication on Tuesday, February 19, in connection with the Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr., Memorial Bridge.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for response,
recommendation or report to Council.
239
HUMAN SERVICES: Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W.,
appeared before the Council and expressed concern with regard to the
homeless population in the City of Roanoke, lack of low-income housing, lack
of downtown retail stores, etc.
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CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
CELEBRATIONS-UNITED WAY-SIGNS-CIVIC CENTER-DISASTERS-PARKS-
FIRE/EMS DEPARMENTS: The City Manager shared that City staff attended the
United Way Luncheon, which was held last week, reporting that the Leadership
Giving for 2007 increased from 27 to 40 individuals; and contributions from the
City had also increased from 2006. She expressed appreciation to Susan Lower,
Director of Real Estate Valuation and other City employees for their efforts
during the campaign. Ms. Burcham also announced that new entrance-way
signs with the City's Logo were installed and directional signs in the downtown
area. She added that pedestrian signs were also being made to make it easier
for people to navigate through the City.
The City Manager reported that the fire near Carvins Cove Natural
Reserve was contained, and she urged citizens to refrain from entering the Park I
until the City officials reopened it. She also acknowledged the Fire/EMS
department for providing assistance to Roanoke County to help fight the fire.
She also recognized City work crews for their outstanding work during the
recent windstorm.
At 3:45 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a
Closed Meeting to be held in the Council's Conference Room, Room 453, fourth
floor of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
Council Member Wishneff declined to participate in any discussions
pertaining to the approved Closed Meetings requested by the City Manager. He
left the Closed Meeting at 3:50 p.m.
Council Member Dowe left during the Closed Meeting (4: 10 p.m.)
At 4:38 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Mayor Harris presiding, and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the
exception of Council Members Dowe and Wishneff.
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COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, Council
Member Fitzpatrick moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best
of his or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters lawfully
exempted from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of
Information Act; and (2) only such public business matters as were identified in
any motion by which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed
or considered by City Council. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e nnn_n______nn_nnnnn________n_nn________n nnnn_____nnn_n_nn_______O.
(Council Members Dowe and Wishneff were absent.)
TOWING ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy on
the Towing AdviSOry Board created by the expiration of the term of office of
Charles R. Brown on October 31, 2007; whereupon, he called for nominations
to fill the vacancy:
The name of David W. Spradlin was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, David W. Spradlin was appointed as
a member of the Towing Advisory Board for a term of three years ending
October 31, 2010, by the following vote:
FOR MR. SPRADLIN: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason
an d Mayo r H arri,s nn________n_nn_______nnnn____________n________nnn_________n_n_________nn_- 5 .
(Council Members Dowe and Wishneff were absent.)
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention to a
vacancy on the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates Board created by the
resignation of Martha C. Williams for a term ending June 30, 2008; whereupon,
he called for nominations to fill the vacancy:
The name of Michael D. Wray was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Michael D. Wray was appointed as a
member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates to fill the unexpired term of
Martha C. Williams ending June 30, 2008, by the following vote:
FOR MR. WRAY: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason and
Mayo r H arri s nn______nnn____nnn_n____nnnn____un_n_______n_________________n___________------- 5 .
(Council Members Dowe and Wishneff were absent.)
241
At 4:40 p.m., the Council meeting was declared in recess to be I
reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W.
At 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, the Council meeting
reconvened in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, Virginia, with Vice-Mayor
David B. Trinkle presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea and Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor Trinklennmnnnmms.
ABSENT: Council Member Brian J. Wishneff and Mayor C. Nelson
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk, and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was I
led by Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on a request from Second Presbyterian Church, represented by
George A. McLean, Jr., Attorney, to rezone 305 Highland Avenue, S. W., Official
Tax No. 1021 521, from MX, Mixed Use District, to IN, Institutional District,
subject to a certain condition proffered by the petitioner, for uses related to
and ancillary to the use of the property at Official Tax Map No. 1021606 as a
place of worship, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 1, 2008 and Friday, February 8, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavi~ on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the 15t Amended Application to rezone the subject property from
MX District to IN District, advising that the request is consistent with the City's
Comprehensive Plan and the Old Southwest Neighborhood Plan; and the
rezoning will allow an established institution to expand its services with
minimal impact on the surrounding neighborhood.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38024-021908) AN ORDINANCE to amend 9 36.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to rezone certain property
within the City, subject to a certain condition proffered by the petitioner; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 187.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No 38024-
021908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick.
The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the rezoning request. There being none, the Vice-
Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle acknowledged the presence of George A. McLean, Jr.,
Attorney.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38024-021908 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-nmnm-mm---m-s.
NAYS: Non e n____nnn________nnnn__nn_n________nn_________n_n_____nn________nn_--uO.
(Mayor C. Nelson Harris and Council Member Wishneff were absent.)
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, February 19, 2008 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, to amend Vision 2001-2020, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to
delete the current South Roanoke Neighborhood Plan, dated June 1, 1988, and
243
adopted by City Council on July 11, 1988, from Vision 2001-2020, and to
include in Vision 2001-2020, the South Roanoke Neighborhood Plan, dated
January 24, 2008, such neighborhood plan recommending various community
design policies, including requiring future land use to be consistent with
current zoning designations; residential development policies, including new
infill development that is aesthetically and functionally compatible with the
surrounding neighborhood and restricting the use of surface parking lots;
economic development policies, such as maintaining the development pattern
of the village center, maximizing on-street parking in commercial areas, and
minimizing the impact of nearby large-scale industrial or commercial
operations; recommending a transportation policy that includes maintaining the
residential character of streets south of McClanahan; infrastructure policy which
includes providing a connected sidewalk system north of 29th Street to access
pedestrian destinations; quality of life policies such as developing the Reserve
Avenue and Rivers Edge area as a "signature" regional park, providing
connections to greenways and trails; and public services policy including
coordination between the neighborhood and Roanoke City Public Schools on the
enrollment at Crystal Spring Elementary School, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 1, 2008 and Friday, February 8, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
that City Council approve the amendment of Vision 2001-2020 to include the
South Roanoke Neighborhood Plan.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38025-021908) AN ORDINANCE approving the South Roanoke
Neighborhood Plan dated January 24, 2008, and amending Vision 2001-2020,
the City's Comprehensive Plan, to delete from it the current South Roanoke
Neighborhood Plan dated June 1, 1988, and to include the South Roanoke
Neighborhood Plan dated January 24, 2008; and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 188.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No 38025-
021908. The motion was s~conded by Council Member Fitzpatrick.
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The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the proposed amendment.
Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S W., appeared before Council to
express concern that her comments before the Planning Commission were
taken lightly, which she believed were valid. She pointed out that changes
needed to be made to the history chapter pertaining to the neighborhood and
location of Virginia College because it was not accurate; she explained that the
organization was formed from East South Roanoke Neighborhood Association
which Organization was fighting for expansion of Yellow Mountain Road. She'
added that the Organization later became Neighbors in South Roanoke when it
was trying to address rezoning related matters and issues in the northern part
of South Roanoke. She noted that McClanahan Street had increased traffic flow
and was a collector street that should become a complete street. Ms. Duerk
was of the opinion that it would be beneficial for the City to attend the
American Planning Association Complete Streets workshop.
She commented that the Plan includes a trolley and that Crystal Springs is
identified as three plus acres, however if the new parking lot is included, the
acreage will be three or more plus acres. She requested that consideration be
given to adding the Complete Streets Policy to the South Roanoke
Neighborhood Plan.
There being no additional speakers, the Vice-Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
Council Member Dowe commented on Ms. Duerk's concerns, noting that
the concerns were valid, however, they would not be altering the Plan; and the
history would be clarified and updated accordingly.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38025-021908 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Cou,ncil Members Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor Trinklenmnnmmmnm--s.
NAYS: Non enn--------nnn-_______nnn_______nnn________nnn__nn_nn_____n_nn--un-O.
(Mayor C. Nelson Harris and Council Member Wishneff were absent.)
245
EASEMENT-YMCA: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk
having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, February 18, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.,
or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, the City of Roanoke proposes
to vacate two public utility easements containing 0.050 acres and 0.038 acres
respectively, located on property identified as Tax Map No. 2031908, located at
108 Orange Avenue, N. W., owned by The YMCA of Roanoke Valley, Inc., in
connection with the expansion of the YMCA facility on that property, the
matter was before the body.
I
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 8, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
authorization to execute the appropriate document vacating the two public
easements located at 108 Orange Avenue, N. W., and owned by the YMCA of
Roanoke Valley, Inc.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(#38026-021908) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the vacation of two public
utility easements containing 0.050 acres and 0.038 acres respectively, on
property identified as Tax Map No. 2031908, located at 108 Orange Avenue,
N.W., and owned by the YMCA of Roanoke Valley, Inc., upon certain terms and
conditions, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 190.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No 38026-
021908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the matter. There being none, the Vice-Mayor declared
the public hearing closed.
Council Member Lea was in support of the expansion of the YMCA, noting
that he was of the opinion that it would be good for the entire Roanoke Valley.
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There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38026-021908 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor Trinkle---m-nmm-mm---s.
NAYS: Non ennnunnnu_nu_____n__un_uunun______nnunnun_n______nnnnnnu_O.
(Mayor C. Nelson Harris and Council Member Wishneff were absent.)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT-ClTY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, February 18, 2007 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, with regard to a proposal of the City of Roanoke to convey a
portion of City-owned property designated as Official Tax Map No. 6472302,
containing approximately 1.05 acres located at 2100 Countryside Drive, N. W.,
to Newbern Properties, LLC, in connection with the expansion of the Trane
Heating and Air Conditioning facility located on adjacent property, the matter
was before the body. .
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 8, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
authorization to execute such further action as may be necessary to accomplish
the request, including execution of a deed and to complete the sale of the
property to Newbern Properties, LLC, subject to approval as to form by the City
Attorney.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Attorney advised that the Virginia Constitution requires approval
of any ordinance authorizing the sale of property by a 3/4 vote of the Council,
which would be six Members of Council; unfortunately, there are only five
Members of the Council in attendance tonight.
The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wish to speak
on the matter.
247
Valerie Garner, 2264 Mattaponi Drive, N. W., appeared before Council in
opposition of the recommendation to convey City-owned property to Newbern
Properties, LLC, for expansion of a heating and air conditioning company since
it was a part of the Countryside Golf Course; and furthermore, the Vice
President of Operation of Meadowbrook, the management company of the golf
course, had given no objection to the sale. Ms. Garner urged the Council
Member to look at the location of the stakes on the land.
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Susan Hall, 2237 Ranch Road, N. W., appeared before Council with regard
to the conveyance of City-owned property to Newbern Properties, advising that
the item was supposed to be tabled until the Council could come up with a
vision for the property that would support the recreation aspect. She called
attention to a response from the Economic Development Administrator
addressed to the Council, noting that Countryside needed maintenance updates
and it was the responsibility of the City and not Meadowbrook. She pointed out
that the irrigation system needed repair at an estimated cost of $100,000.00,
as well as the cart paths for a similar cost. She urged the Council to consider
not selling the portion of property because it was a playable part of the golf
course.
AI Prillaman, Attorney, representing Newbern Properties, appeared before I
Council and advised that it was a win-win situation for the City of Roanoke,
Trane, Countryside, and Newbern Properties. He stated that studies were done
to ensure that the golf course would still be functional with the loss of the land.
He indicated that Trane needed the space for expansion purposes and the
parcel of land would contain 10 to 14,000 square feet which would allow them
to maintain their corporate headquarters.
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired if the expansion was an extension of
the building; whereupon, Mr. Prillaman responded that he did not know if the
expansion included the building. Council Member Fitzpatrick explained that it
would be easier to expand the building to get the square footage, which may
not change the property line and affect the golf course. He requested that the
City research the matter and provide information to the Council prior to its next
Council meeting.
Council Member Lea requested information regarding the maintenance of
the golf course; whereupon, the City Manager stated that the information could
be provided prior to the next Council meeting.
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Council Member Mason asked if the swimming pool could be addressed
in the maintenance information; whereupon, the City Manager stated that the
pool needed to be demolished and had not been in use prior to purchase of the
property by the City. Council Member Mason inquired as to what the City's
liability was concerning the pool since it was not being used. Council Member
Fitzpatrick pointed out that water was being kept in the pool in order to hold
the walls up.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle advised that he does not support the piece mill
demolition of the golf course until Council could weigh in the options that
could occur and asked if the City Manager recalled when the contract was
continued. He stated that the Council is due a presentation on the golf course
and the green space and what should be done to entertain all viable options for
Countryside. The City Manager advised that the report was scheduled to be
presented in late spring and the agreement was to renew the agreement with
Meadowbrook for a second year, whereby a RFP would be issued in advance.
There being no additional questions and/or comments, action on the
matter was tabled until Monday, March 3, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be heard. The City Manager was requested to
provide the Council and residents of Countryside Estates with information
pertaining to the extension of the existing building owned by Newbern
Properties, LLC, and the ongoing maintenance of the golf course.
ENTERPRISE ZONES: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, February 19, 2008, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, with regard to a
proposal of the City of Roanoke to make an application to the Virginia
Department of Housing and Community Development for the matters set forth
below, the matter was before the body.
1. To amend the boundaries of Enterprise Zone One A and to add a
new noncontiguous Subzone A. Enterprise Zone One A is located
within the area of the City that is east of Peters Creek Road, north
of Brandon Avenue, west of Tinker Creek and south of Rt. 460. A
portion follows both sides of Williamson Road from Hershberger
Road to Orange Avenue, where it changes to only the west side of
Williamson Road to Rutherford Avenue. Such amendment proposes
to add to the current Zone One A approximately 4 acres of property
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that is bounded on the north side by Buford Avenue, on the west by I
Bridge Street, on the east by Rolfe Street, and on the south by
Mountain View Terrace. Such amendment will also add
approximately 21 acres of property known as the Roanoke-Salem
Plaza, located on the southeasterly side of the intersection of
Peters Creek Road and Melrose Avenue. The property to be added
is zoned commercial, industrial, or mixed use, with such property
being contiguous to property located in Zone One A.
2. The amendment proposes to add a new Subzone A to Enterprise
Zone One A. Such new Subzone A will not be contiguous to
Enterprise Zone One A. The new Enterprise Zone One A Subzone A
will consist of properties bearing addresses of 2502 Franklin Road
to and including 2814 Franklin Road, and from 2601 to and
including 2823 Franklin Road. Such Subzone A will consist of
approximately 29.3 acres. The property to be added is zoned
commercial, industrial, or mixed use.
3.
To amend the boundaries of the existing Subzone of Enterprise
Zone Two, add an additional Subzone to Enterprise Zone Two, and
designate the two Subzones as Subzone A and Subzone B. The
amendment will designate the existing Subzone of Enterprise Zone
Two as Subzone A and the new Subzone as Subzone B.
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4. Enterprise Zone Two Subzone A is located within the area of the
City that is along 1-581 and is bounded by Frontage Road, Ferncliff
Road and Ferndale Drive and 1-581. The amendment proposes to
add to such Subzone A approximately 90 acres of property located
in the following general area, which is on both sides of Thirlane
Road and is bounded by the Roanoke Regional Airport property on
the north and east sides. On the west side the addition is bounded
by 1-581, while on the south side it is bounded by, but does not
include, the property that houses the FedEx Building. The property
to be added is zoned commercial, industrial, mixed use, or
residential, with such property being contiguous to property
located in Subzone A.
S. The amendment proposes to add a new Subzone B to Enterprise
Zone Two. Such new Subzone B will not be contiguous to either
Enterprise Zone Two or Enterprise Zone Two Subzone A. The new
Subzone B will be located within the area of the City that is on both
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sides of Blue Ridge Drive, Aerial Way Drive, and property along the
north side of Brandon Avenue from 3403 Brandon Avenue to and
including the vacant lot (Tax Map No. 5200107) at the west corner
of Peters Creek Road and Brandon Avenue, and then north along
poth sides of Peters Creek Road to the Roanoke River. The addition
is bounded by the Roanoke River on the north side and Brandon
Avenue along the south side. The amendment proposes to add to
such Subzone B approximately 147 acres of property located as set
forth above. The property to be added is zoned commercial,
industrial, or mixed use.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Wednesday, February 6, 2008, and on Wednesday, February 13, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
adoption of the appropriate measures to expand the boundaries of Enterprise
Zone One A, add a new Subzone A to Enterprise Zone One A, expand the
current Subzone of Enterprise Zone Two, add a new Subzone to Enterprise Zone
Two, and designate such Subzones as Subzone A and Subzone B, all subject to
approval by the VDHCD, with an effective date retroactive to a date approved by
the VDHCD, for the amended boundaries, all as set forth above; and
furthermore, authorization to apply to the VDHCD for approval of the
abovementioned amendments and to take such further action and/or to
execute such additional documents as may be needed to obtain or confirm such
amendments.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
"A RESOLUTION authorizing the proper City officials to make boundary
amendments to the City's Enterprise Zone One A that will add certain areas to it
and add as a new noncontiguous Subzone A certain other areas; authorizing the
City Manager to apply to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community
Development (VDHCD) for approval of such boundary amendments; and
authorizing the City Manager to take such further action as may be necessary to
obtain and implement such boundary amendments."
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of the resolution. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to
speak in connection with the public hearing.
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Richard Wellford, 10 South Jefferson Street, representing the Seven
Dwarfs, appeared before the Council to request that the boundaries of the
proposed expansion in Enterprise Zone One A be amended to' include four
parcels totaling 1.72 acres located on Roberts Road. He advised that the
developers desired to develop the land as a multi-tenant medical office; and by
adding the parcels to the boundaries, it would represent approximately 10
percent of the budget for building the structure.
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There being no further speakers, the Vice-Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
The City Manager advised that given the size of the parcels, the City had
no objections to the inclusion of the additional parcels to the boundaries; and
inquired of the City Attorney as to what changes would need to be made to the
existing ordinance; whereupon, the City Attorney advised that the general rule
of law is once the public hearing has been advertised, parcels can be
subtracted, but not added to without re-advertising the public hearing request.
Council Member Mason inquired if the two resolutions should be adopted
and amended later; whereupon, the City Attorney advised that could be an I
option.
Council Member Fitzpatrick suggested that the resolutions be adopted,
subject to the City's findings regarding the inclusion of the additional parcels;
whereupon, the City Attorney advised that the parcels would affect only the
resolution pertaining to the boundary amendments to the City's Enterprise Zone
One A.
In view of the statements made by the City Manager and City Attorney in
conjunction with the request of Mr. Wellford to have certain parcels included in
Enterprise Zone One A, Council Member Dowe offered a substitute motion that
the resolution offered by Council Member Mason and seconded by Council
Member Lea be tabled until the next regular meeting of Council on Monday,
March 3 at 2:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard. The
substitute motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted.
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Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38027-021908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the proper City officials to
make boundary amendments to the City's Enterprise Zone Two and its current
Subzone that will add certain areas to it and will add as a new noncontiguous
Subzone B certain other areas; designate the current Subzone as Subzone A and
the new one as Subzone B; authorizing the City Manager to apply to the Virginia
Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCD) for approval of
such boundary amendments; and authorizing the City Manager to take such
further action as may be necessary to obtain and implement such boundary
amendments.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 191.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No 38027-
021908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor Trinklemmmm-m-m-m-s.
NAYS: Non e ______n____n____n________ -----------n------------------n--------n_________n_______O.
(Mayor C. Nelson Harris and Council Member Wishneff were absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
There being no further business, the Vice-Mayor declared the Council
meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~rn.~
Stephanie M. Moon
City Clerk
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
March 3, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
March 3, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Council Member Beverly T.
Fitzpatrick, Jr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City
Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetings, Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No.3 7817-
070207 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.--n-mm-m--m--nmn1 .
ABSENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle, Brian
J. Wishneff, Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor C. Nelson Harrismm-m---m--.-mnmmm5.
(Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., submitted his resignation as a Member of
Council on Saturday, February 23, 2008.)
COUNCIL: Due to the lack of a quorum, Council Member Fitzpatrick
declared the Council meeting in recess to be reconvened at 10:00 a.m., in
Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 10:00 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened, in Room 159, first floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle,
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. (arrived late), Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor C. Nelson
H a r ri S n_ - - u - - n - - - - u - - -- - - - n - - __ u -- - - n n n - - - u -- - - n n -- - - - - _u - n - - n n - - - - - - - -- -~ - - - - -- - - -- n - - n - - n - - - - 5 .
ABSENT: Council Member Brian J. Wishneff-n-------mmm-m-mm---mmnm 1.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Sheila N. Hartman, Deputy City Clerk.
254
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson Harris requesting I
that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on certain
authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea moved that Council approve the request of Mayor
Harris to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Mason and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Lea, and Mayor Harris----m-m---4.
NAYS: No n e-_n__nn___n_n______________n_nnnn__n______nnn_______________________-------0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THE JOINT MEETINGS OF COUNCIL AND THE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ON MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2008, WITH
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AT 12:00 P.M., IN THE EOC CONFERENCE ROOM, I
ROOM 159, NOEL C. TAYLOR MUNICIPAL BUILDING. The Mayor suggested that
all agenda items be forwarded to the City Manager or City Clerk.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
BRIEFINGS:
Bicycle Friendly
Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for Community Development,
stated that the Council will be considering adoption of a Regional Bikeway Plan,
a Regional Greenway Plan, and two efforts that the City has undertaken that
combine both plans into a transportation policy, and an application for the
Bicycle Friendly Community award designation which was discussed at the 9:00
a.m., session of the Council on Monday, January 7, 2008, will also be
considered during the public hearing portion of the March 17 Council meeting.
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Cristina Finch, City Planner II, presented the following Bicycle Friendly
Transportation & Recreation Package:
2007 Update to the Roanoke Valley Conceptual Greenway Plan
2005 Bikeway Plan for the Roanoke Valley Area Metropolitan
Planning Organization
Complete Streets Policy
Bicycle Friendly Community award application
Greenway Plan:
A guiding document for developing a regional greenway network
. Roanoke River Greenway #1 priority
. Over 1 5 miles completed greenways in the City
. Plan proposes 17 more miles in the City of Roanoke
City Greenways will cover the following areas:
. Barnhardt Creek Greenway
. BioMed Loop
. Blue Ridge Parkway Trails
. Carvins Cove Trail Network
. Garden City Greenway
. Glade Creek Greenway
. Lick Run Greenway
. Mill Mountain Greenway
. Mill Mountain Park Trails
. Mudlick Creek Greenway
. Murray Run Greenway
. Reed Mountain Trails
. Roanoke River Greenway
. Tinker Creek Greenway
Proposed Action #1
. March 17 City Council public hearing
. Adoption of the 2007 Update to the Roanoke Valley
Conceptual Greenway Plan as a component of Vision 2001-
2020 as recommended by the City Planning Commission
256
Bikeway Plan
. Alternative modes of travel
. Popular form of recreation
. A guiding document for developing a regional bicycling
network
o Priority and vision routes
o Ideas on how to accommodate bicycles
I
Bikeways Primary Routes
. Metropolitan Planning Organization
. Corridors for Bicycles Accommodations
. Priority List and Vision
. 2005
Proposed Action #2
. March 17 City Council hearing
. Adoption of the Bikeway Plan for the Roanoke Valley Area
Metropolitan Planning Organization as a component of Vision
1001-2020 as recommended by the City Planning
Commission
Accessing the Regional Network
. Plans provide broad framework
. Need local access to these regional routes
. Streets provide local access
I
Proposed Complete Streets Policy
. National movement to "complete the streets"
. Accommodate all street users
o Travel safety for non-motorists
o Transportation mobility for people who cannot drive
(about 1/3 of Americans)
o Walking/biking for health
. 2004 VDOT policy
o Accommodate bikes and pedestrians in the planning,
funding, design, construction, operation and
maintenance
Basis for Developing Roanoke's Policy
. Vision 1001-2020, "Improving Streetscapes" recommends
the creation of a street design manual '
"Roanoke's streetscapes should be welcoming and attractive
multi-modal linkages that carry vehicle traffic, pedestrians,
and bicycles safely and efficiently to and from their
destinations"
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Roanoke's Street Design Guidelines
. Developed by an interdepartmental team
. Shows how the city would like streets to look
. Options for preferred multi modal and retrofit
streetscapes
. Guidance on common elements found along streets
. City Planning Commission adopted the Street Design
Guidelines as an internal tool for developing Complete
Streets
At this point, Council Member Fitzpatrick entered the meeting (10:20
a.m.).
Map of Street Hierarchy and Character Districts and Typical Section
Examples were also highlighted.
Roanoke's Proposed Complete Streets Policy
. Summarizes the most critical street design principles
. Empowers staff to routinely plan, fund, design, construct,
operate, and maintain streets
. Outlines methods for implementation and monitoring
progress
Proposed Action #3
. March 17 City Council Public Hearing
· Adoption of the "Complete Streets Policy" based on the Street
Design Guidelines adopted by the City Planning Commission
Why is adopting this "Package" important?
. Affirm Roanoke's commitment to developing greenways,
bikeways and streets that serve users of all ages and abilities
. Create a common framework
. Establish funding priorities and strengthen grant applications
. Provide the foundation for a future more detailed study
. Improve people's safety and quality of life
. Help Roanoke gain recognition for its current practices and
initiatives
258
Bicycle Friendly Community
. Awards program administered by the League of American
Bicyclists
. January work session presentation
I
. Recognizes municipalities that actively support bicycling
o Provide safe accommodation for bicycling
o Encourage residents to bike for transportation and
recreation
Roanoke's Bicycle Friendly Attributes
. Great start to an attractive greenway system
. Accommodate bikes during street repaving projects
. Largest police bike patrol program per capita in Virginia
. Bicycle education programs
o Police department
o City schools
. Bicycle clubs
. Bicycle shops
. People bicycling
Proposed Action #4
. March 17 City Council Public Hearing
. Approve the resolution to apply for the "Bicycle Friendly
Community" award
o Complete and submit the application
I
Bicycle Friendly Community Award
. 4-year award
o Platinum, gold, silver, bronze
. Award ceremony
. Road sign
. Press release
. Online recognition
In Summary
March 17 City Council meeting:
. Adoption of the Greenways Plan
. Adoption of the Bikeways Plan
. Adoption of the "Complete Streets Policy"
. Resolution to pursue a Bicycle Friendly Community award
I
(See copy of powerpoint presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Comments:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle asked if there would be an opportunity for the
Roanoke River Greenway to connect to Lick Run; whereupon, Mr. Townsend
stated that a contract had been executed for the design of that connection from
the Water Pollution Control Plant to Tinker Creek using Greenway funds, and
information would be forthcoming to the Council sometime in the summer with
regard to the route alternatives and costs.
There was discussion about whether or not a guardrail was needed near
the Bennington Street area and the re-publication of the pocket-sized Greenway
Guide for citizens.
Council Member Lea asked how this package would strengthen the City's
grant application; whereupon, Ms. Finch advised that when the City applies for
a grant, and has proposed that a certain section of the Greenway be built for a
certain project, it helps to have the projects in a plan that has been adopted by
the Council because it shows that the project has been well thought out and
that the City supports that portion of the Greenway.
Mr. Townsend added that grants are awarded through a very competitive
process, and points are given for certain things which will help a locality be
competitive.
Downtown Districts
The City Manager shared with the Council some thoughts regarding the
initial districts that would be created for marketing purposes for businesses
that are located within the districts for use as an opportunity for marketing
their business activities within a-district; adding that Downtown Roanoke, ,Inc. is
seeking the Council's approval for use of these districts as identification for the
downtown area.
Christopher L. Chittum, Planning Administrator, Planning Building and
Development, shared information pertaining to the following District Map, and
commented on the three districts currently identified as Rail District, City
Market District, and Uptown District. He stated that businesses in the Jefferson
Street area want to be identified as a separate district and the area along that
corridor needs special attention, and City staff is considering logical groupings
and future districts as well. He added that City staff would like to move forward
on the Rail District, City Market District, and Uptown District at this time.
260
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Comments:
I
Council Member Fitzpatrick expressed appreciation and inquired as to
the Norfolk Southern Building not being included in the Market District;
whereupon, Mr. Chittum advised that the building relates to other larger
buildings by virtue of its scale.
Council Member Fitzpatrick stated that there were several automotive
entities on Luck and Church Avenues, and suggested consideration of an
Uptown/Automotive District.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired as to whether the Council was been asked to
just approve the concept, and if the City or DRI was going to prepare signage;
whereupon, Ms. Burcham stated that it was not the plan for the City to take
responsibility for creating banners for the areas at this time, it was really a
marketing tool for businesses within those areas and her expectation is that
DRI will prepare the banners once it has been determined if this is a valuable
tool for use by the business owners in the respective districts. She commented
that she was not comfortable with the word "Uptown" as a designation for a
district, but does see the commonality; however some massaging of the I
terminology does need to occur.
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261
.In response to Vice-Mayor Trinkle's main question, she wanted Council's
concurrence that the City and DRI could move forward with the idea that two
areas (Rail District and City Market District) have designations, which will
require several months of work; during said time period, City staff could refine
their thoughts with regard to the other districts, as well as rethink the name for
the uptown area.
The City Manager stated that the City's project was really pedestrian and
vehicle level signage that directs people toward certain facilities or activities,
and signs would be redone using the City's logo. She further stated that
Outlook Roanoke Plan suggested that there would be banners designating the
four corners of the district and placement of any signs along the City's right-of-
way requires the City's oversight and approval. She added that given the
budget situation in the upcoming year, she does not anticipate the City being
involved financially in the placement of banners, but could have some oversight
and approval of the appearance and actual placement in the area.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle suggested the name "Market District" as opposed to
"City Market District"; whereupon, no objection was noted.
It was noted that the three districts identified were the Market District,
Rail District and Uptown District.
Entrepreneurial District
By way of background, Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for
Community Development, stated that several years ago the Economic
Development Authority (EDA) facilitated the issuance of non-taxable bonds for
Carilion's expansion at Roanoke Memorial Hospital and a bond issuance for
Virginia Lutheran Homes (Brandon Oaks project), and whenever any type of
development authority or industrial development authority supports the
issuance of bonds, the authority collects administrative fees on an annual basis.
He added that inasmuch as the Roanoke Economic Development Authority has
had a chance to collect these fees, the Authority has been working with the
City's Economic Development staff to identify ways to promote economic
development in the City.
Brian Brown, Economic Development Administrator, gave the following
overview:
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What is an Entrepreneurial District?
I
. The Entrepreneurial District would be a designated area(s) within the City
which would create a stimulating and supportive climate for
entrepreneurship.
· The district would offer incentives and tools to support small business
development by assisting entrepreneurs in development by assisting
entrepreneurs in starting new businesses or locating existing businesses
into the City.
. Allows the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to playa fundamental
role in creating a stimulating and supportive climate for
entrepreneurship.
. Incentives proposed would be:
Training
Office Supplies
Research Projects
Loans
How would this work?
Economic Development Authority (EDA)
Funding and Oversight
I
Office of Economic Development
Administration
Virginia Tech, Knowledge Works
Virginia Western Community College,
Department of Business Assistance (DBA),
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Resources/Training
Traininq
. Funds would be used for training with key partners including Virginia
Tech and Virginia Western Community College.
. Training to include the Virginia Tech Boot Camp, entrepreneurial classes
at Virginia Western Community College, membership in the President's
Council, and other programs approved by the EDA.
Office Supplies
The Office of Economic Development is exploring options through the
Commonwealth of Virginia to provide access for the purchase of supplies
through Virginia's Total e-Procurement Solution (EVa) contract.
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I Research Proiects
Assist businesses with the cost of research projects through Virginia Tech on
new product development and market testing.
Loans
A qualifying business could leverage funding for a bank note. Funds from the
EDA would be used as a second on the note up to 20% of the loan value. The
loan backing would be capped at $5,000 per business. Two or three banks
would be pre-approved for the program based on competitive rates.
Where would the District be located?
The EDA has not set the boundary for the district at this time.
Who would Qualify?
I
. Small businesses under 10 employees moving into the district after its
establishment
. Businesses must have less than $1.5 million in revenues
Who would not Qualify?
. Restaurants
. Retail establishments
Where are we now?
· The EDA is supportive of creating the program. EDA will be asked to
authorize moving forward with the creation of the program on March 12
. The next steps would be the creation of guidelines for the district and
related programs
. Creation of specific boundaries
. Agreements with other service providers
· Economic Development staff to research supplemental funding sources
(For full text, see copy of powerpoint presentation on file in the City Clerk's
Office.)
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Comments:
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Council Member Mason referred to the administrative fees created from
the bonds, and asked how much money was currently available; whereupon, Mr.
Brown advised that there was approximately $240,000.00 currently. She asked
about the logic of having a geographic district by which to implement the
program; whereupon, Mr. Brown stated that the City would like to locate the
district within the commercial and industrial district boundaries, and encourage
in-home business owners to open businesses in one of the designated districts,
adding there is an opportunity to use the geographic district as a pilot to create
additional districts within the City, with different incentives in the future; i.e., in
the lower income CDBG tracts that could grow retail and restaurant businesses.
Council Member Lea inquired if this concept would include minority
businesses downtown; whereupon, Mr. Brown responded in the affirmative,
adding that the City was working with the Small Business Development Center
and Small Business Administration to work on a minority and women-owned
business seminar that was scheduled for May 2008.
In addition, the City Manager stated that the City sponsors a conference
or meeting yearly that is specifically directed toward small and minority owned I
businesses that affords an opportunity to connect a business with other
businesses which may need their services, and she indicated that this would be
another place for the City to market said program once the EDA has it
established.
Council Member Fitzpatrick stated that it was important for the Council to
remember that 83% of the jobs come from current businesses, and if the City is
unable to bring in new business, the 83% figure will not be attained.
Mayor Harris was hopeful that the EDA would be able to finalize some of
the issues and details prior to its joint meeting with Council on April 7 at 12:00
noon.
Comprehensive Services Act
The City Manager gave some background with regard to the
Comprehensive Services Act and the significant challenge to the City from a
financial standpoint for providing and delivering the services, even though the
City is not in control of the number of children that are put into the City's care
on an annual basis or what their presenting problems are; and that the briefing
was in anticipation of a public hearing that will be held on March 17, with I
regard to the local share of money that is involved with these programs.
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She introduced Jane Conlin, Director of Human Services/Social Services, who
stated that the briefing was to address significant budget issues for the current
fiscal year, and that additional funding of approximately $1.6 million in local
funds and $3.6 million in State funds will be required to complete Fiscal Year
2007-2008. She reviewed the following information:
CSA is an interagency program who's planning and management
teams are comprised of the following member agencies:
2 3-A Court Services Unit
Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare
City of Roanoke Department of Social Services
City of Roanoke Health Department
City of Roanoke Police Department
City of Roanoke Public Schools
A private service provider
A parent representative
All member agencies are responsible for making decisions about
services and funding for CSA-eligible youth.
CSA Funds are comprised of State and local dollars
The local CSA program serves almost 600 families per year:
. Most children served are in foster care and/or special
education systems
. Other children served are involved in the juvenile justice and
mental health systems
CSA is mandated to provide sum-sufficient funding for children in
or at risk of foster care and children in special education.
CSA and Foster Care
75% of CSA-funded children are referred from the foster care
system. (VA Office of Comprehensive Services)
The number of children in foster care in the City has increased
from 343 in Feb. 2006 to 436 in Feb. 2008. (An increase of 27%)
(VA Department of Social Services, data current as of 02/01/08)
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The average length of stay in foster care in the City is 35 months.
(VA Department of Social Services, data current as of 02/01/08)
(VA Department of Social Services, data current as of 02/01/08)
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Age of children in foster care (VA Department of Social Services,
data current as of 02/01/08):
. 54% are under the age of 12
. 40% are between ages 13 and 18
· 6% are between ages 19 and 21
The main reason children enter foster care in the City is for abuse
and neglect.
Reason for Foster Care:
. 2% Child in need of services/supervision
. 5% Relief of custody
. 5% Delinquency
. 88% Abuse and neglect
The cost of CSA has increased steadily over time in nearly all
localities in Virginia. Cost increases are attributed to:
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. Increase in number of families
. Increased rates for services
. Decreased Medicaid funding for some services
Locality Comparison: Allocation v. Expenditures
This table demonstrates the difference between CSA allocations
(State and local combined) and the amount spent on services in
local communities and some comparable First Cities for FY 2007
(VA Office of Comprehensive Services):
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%
Locality Allocation Expenditures Difference Difference
Petersburg $2.632.879.00 $4.035.731.00 $(1.402.779.00> ( 5].28% )
City of
Roanoke $6.714.043.00 $11 .116.061 .00 $(4.402.018.00> ( 65.56% )
Lynchburg $2.249.975.00 $4.243 .674.00 $0.993.699.00> ( 88.61 % )
Norfolk $6.074.452.00 $12.998.966.00 $(6.924.514.00> 013.99%)
Roanoke
County $2.847.862.00 $6.474.905.00 $(3.627.043.00> (127.36%)
Portsmouth $2.295.866.00 $6.035.731.00 $(3.739.865.00> (162.90%)
Cost Increase: Details
The major reasons identified for local cost increases are:
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.
The (unduplicated) CSA population increased 3% from FY
2006 to FY 2007
The number of (mandated) children in foster care has
increased almost 10%
Increased utilization of Therapeutic Foster Care
Beginning in April 2007, the Department of Medical
Assistance Services decreased the amount that Medicaid
reimburses for therapeutic foster care, from $79.00 per day
to $10.53 per day. Local estimated impact for FY08 is
$2,000,000.00.
Brief period of increased out of state and assessment
placements.
.
.
.
.
Outcomes of Utilization Management (FY 2007-2008)
. Decrease in average monthly utilization of residential
services from 70 to 57 children per month. Estimated cost
avoidan"ce: $360,594.00*
. Decrease in average length of stay in residential services
from 17 months to eight months. Estimated cost avoidance:
$20,803.00*
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.
Estimated ten diversions from residential to community-
based care per year. Estimated cost avoidance:
$277,380.00*
*Estimates based on the City's 2007 unit cost for residential
and group home placements of $27,738.00 per year.
Out-of-state residential placements reduced by half:
Estimated cost avoidance: $525,000.00
Use of non-CSA funding streams such as Early Periodic
Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) for qualifying
services. Estimated cost avoidance: $1 50,000.00
Total Estimated Annual costs avoided: $1,333,777.00
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.
.
.
New Approaches to Service Delivery
New approaches to service delivery that have resulted in more cost
effective care include:
Service Type Estimated FY 08 Percentage Percentage
Expenditures of of
Expenditures Population
F am i1y
Specialized
Care
Community-Based
Interventions
and
Foster 1
1.475.868.00
10%
51%
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Special Education
1
485.130.00
.$.
3.009.277.00
.$.
288.289.00
Foster 1
4.289.226.00
1
500.409.00
Residential Treatment 1
4.249.224.00
$14.297.423.00 100% 100%
Individualized Family Assessment and Planning Teams
(i-FAPT)
Building community capacity for wraparound care and use of
informal supports
3.5%
11%
21%
10.5%
Independent Living
2%
1.5%
Therapeutic
Care
Group Homes
30%
17%
3.5%
1%
30%
8%
Total
.
.
2008 Estimates: Expenditures by Service Category
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Of the projected $14,297,423.00 we expect to spend for CSA in FY
2008, we estimate the following breakdown by service category:
Proposed Legislative Chanqes:
Proposed legislation to CSA match rates would provide incentives
for using community-based services by:
. Increasing local match for residential services
. Decreasing local match for community-based care
Strategies for Improvinq Services and Containing Costs:
The City of Roanoke CSA plans and has begun to implement the
following changes to better serve our citizens in a more cost-
effective and effective manner:
.
Increase utilization management of therapeutic foster care
services
Increase access to individualized Family Assessment and
Planning Teams and wraparound services
Establish a single Family Assessment and Planning Team
instead of multiple teams
Provide prevention and reunification services to decrease the
number of youth in foster care
Provide clinical care coordination for youth in or at risk of
residential treatment to reduce out of home placements
Find ways to recruit, train, and retain family foster homes to
reduce the over-utilization of Therapeutic Foster Care
.
.
.
.
.
(For full text, see documentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments:
Council Member Lea inquired about recruitment of foster home families;
whereupon, Ms. Conlin stated that it is much easier to refer to a particular
child, giving his/her specific needs and recruit families that are qualified and
capable to provide care for that particular child, adding that it would involve
incorporating a lot of services around the entire foster family, wherein the City
provides nine-weeks of intensive training three times a year.
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Council Member Fitzpatrick asked if the City had more children because it
was the only urban City in a large rural region; whereupon, Ms. Conlin stated
that it was probable, as well as urban cities have a tendency to attract people
with needs.
The City Manager requested that suggestions and ideas for recruiting
foster parents be forwarded to the Director of Human Services.
Police Academy
By way of background, the City Manager stated that last year's budget
deliberations included as part of the City's Capital Improvement Program
creation of an official police academy for use by the Police Department,
emphasizing that the current academy is located in The Jefferson Center with
less than adequate accommodations, and previous action of the Council
approved a land swap with the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission for a
piece of property located adjacent to the Roanoke City Public School's bus
garage; and such project was bid under the PPEA requirement which allowed an
a design/build opportunity. She noted that the City is negotiating a contract
with the firm selected through the PPEA competitive process and the actual
document will be brought to the Council in a couple of months for execution.
Phillip Schirmer, City Engineer, referred to several drawings that showed
the schematic footprint of the location of the 20,000 sq. ft. building, its
features, training facilities, classroom, computer equipment, administrative and
instructional staff accommodations. He commented that the facility would be
considered a "green" building and the cost of the project was approximately
$6.5 million, adding that there would be six months of design work, 12 - 13
months of construction time which is anticipated to begin in the fall.
The City Manager indicated that the project is not expected to cost the
City any additional funds, therefore, any increase in cost would be absorbed by
Federal funds recently received and identified by the City as part of the
appropriation.
Comments:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if the gym facilities would be available for use
by the Parks and Recreation programs; whereupon, Chief A. L. Gaskins advised
that it may be just a matter of scheduling around other programs.
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The City Manager was of the opinion that an opportunity existed to
expose young people to police officers that may have a positive influence. I
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Council Member Lea. referred to the conference rooms and asked if it
would be permissible for other law enforcement or criminal justice personnel to
use the facilities; whereupon, Chief Gaskins stated that there would not be any
conference rooms, but there would be some flexible space that could be used.
Citizens Survey
R. B. Lawhorn, Budget/Business Analyst, reviewed the following survey
information that was based on a random sampling of about 524 citizens:
City of Roanoke 2007 Citizen Survey
Conducted by: The Virginia Tech Center for Survey Research
Methodoloqy
Random Sampling Design
Survey Instrument Focus: New Items and Methodology
Dates of Administration: July - October, 2007
Survey Pre-test
Survey Administration Via Telephone
Completed Telephone Interviews
Sampling Error:, 24.27 percent
Survey Length: 16.7 Minute Average
Citizen Ratinqs of Quality of Life by Demographic Characteristics
Income:
. Residents with higher incomes rated the quality of life in the
City more favorably than those with lower incomes
. However, 75% of residents with lower incomes rated the City
favorably this year with regard to quality of life compared to
59% in 2005
Age:
. Respondents 40 years old or older rated the quality of life in
Roanoke more favorably than did those residents who are
under 40 years of age
.
However, 74% of residents under age 40 rated the City
favorably this year with regard to quality of life compared to
67% in 2005
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Race:
I
. Respondents who report their race as "white" rated the
quality of life in Roanoke more favorably than did those
residents who report their race as "black" or "African
American"
· However, 63% of residents who reported their race as "black"
rated the City favorably this year with regard to quality of life
compared to 55% in 2005
Perceptions of Safety in Roanoke: 2003,2005 & 2007
(Percentage Reporting "Very" or "Somewhat Safe")
Neighborhood
Park/Rec Facilities
Downtown
Civic Center Parking Lot
City Parking Garages
2003
90.1%
61.5%
81.9%
75.2%
48.9%
2005
90.7%
73.7%
81.8%
82.6%
57.0%
2007
91.2%
69.0%
81.5%
78.4%
55.0%
Level of Citizen Satisfaction with overall quality of City Services:
2000 - 2007:
2000
87.0%
2002
91.0%
2003
84.9%
2001
88.5%
Response to Previous Survey:
2005
85.8%
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2007
81.1%
. After the results were received for the 2005 Citizen Survey,
action plans were developed to address the ratings for a
number of services.
. As a result, two of the services, Loose Leaf Collection and
Storm Drainage Systems, saw their favorable ratings rise 7.5%
and 6.9% respectively
Actions that will Favorably Impact City Services Ratings in Future Surveys:
Maintenance of City-owned buildings - a multi-year effort is
underway to increase funding for capital building
maintenance
Citv parking facilities - expanding parking system with
Campbell Avenue garage & facade and other improvements
at the Market Garage
.
.
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Economic development assistance to business - creation of
the Entrepreneurial Specialist to assist new business owners
Actions that will Favorably Impact City Services Ratings in Future Surveys:
. Appearance of Community Recreation Centers - Parks &
Recreation Department master plan addresses facilities; we
are divesting community centers not being used such as Villa
Heights and Buena Vista
. Response to citizen complaints & requests - ongoing
customer service training for all employees
Actions that will Favorably Impact City Services Ratings in Future Surveys:
. Availability of parking at the Civic Center - continuing to
explore ways of more effectively using our shuttle bus
system to/from our parking garages
. Building permits application and review process - Planning,
Building, and Development Dept revising their strategic
business plan with one goal being to identify processes to be
streamlined
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Actions that will Favorably Impact City Services Ratings in Future Surveys:
. Efforts to promote environmental awareness to citizens -
rollout of "Clean & Green" campaign, reduced tax rate for
highly energy-efficient new or renovated construction, and
tax exemption for personal property or real estate using
certified solar energy equipment
Actions that will Favorably Impact Strategic Issue Ratings in Future
Surveys:
. Roanoke's neighborhoods are good places to live - Housing
strategic plan serves as guide for housing activities, targeting
of public improvements in selected neighborhoods, focusing
on market rate and upscale housing, enhancing downtown
housing options, and developing the downtown
neighborhood
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Actions that will Favorably Impact Strategic Issue Ratings in Future I
Surveys:
. Educational resources and opportunities available - Library
master plan outlines-improvements to facilities, programs,
and staffing. Over the last 2 years, we have allocated
additional resources to this area.
. Roanoke does a good job of focusing on the unique needs of
youths the Youth Comprehensive Plan has been
implemented and outlines measurable outcomes the city
must meet as a component of Roanoke's 2001-2020 Vision
Plan
. City government's efforts to improve the local economy -
participation in Roanoke Valley Economic Development
Partnership campaign to focus on new strategies, to market
the region, to recruit knowledge based workers and high
income individuals, to diversify the mix of retail
establishments, and to facilitate the formation and expansion
of new businesses
(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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At this point, the City Manager reviewed three charts regarding Citizen
Agreement on Roanoke Strategic Issue/Question Survey Items 2000 - 2007, and
City Government Customer Service Ratings: 2000 - 2007.
Comments:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle stated that some of the information identified
disappointing trends and requested continuing updates of how citizens
respond to the perception of the lack of governmental access or opportunities.
At 12: 10 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting.
Due to a conflict in schedule, Council Member Fitzpatrick advised that he
would not be present at the May 1 Council meeting wherein the Council will
hold public interviews with candidates in connection with the appointment of an
interim Council Member to fill the unexpired term of Council Member Dowe and
would not participate in any discussions regarding the matter. He left during
the Closed Meeting, prior to discussions regarding the appointment of an
interim Council Member.
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At 12:30 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in Room 159, with Mayor
Harris presiding, and all members of the Council in attendance, with the
exception of Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded, Council
Member Mason moved that each member of City Council certify to the best of
his or her knowledge that (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted
from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information
Act; and (2) only such public business matters were identified in any motion by
which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard discussed or considered by
City Council. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Lea, and Mayor Harrismm-mm-4.
NAYS: Non e n__________n_n_____n___________________________________nn___n__nn______---nn--O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
HOTEL ROANOKE CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION: The Mayor advised
that his four-year term of office as a City representative to the Hotel Roanoke
Conference Center Commission will expire on April 12, 2008, and called for
nominations to fill the vacancy:
Council Member Mason placed in nomination the name of C. Nelson
Harris.
There being no further nominations, Mayor Harris was reappointed as a
City representative to the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission for a
term of four years ending April 12, 2012, by the following vote:
FOR MAYOR HARRIS: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Lea and Mayor
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------il.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were absent.)
At 12:35 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be
reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel
C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W.
276
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle,
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris--m--------5.
ABSENT: Council Member Brian J. Wishneff ----m-m--m---mn-------___________1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately.
MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meetings of Council held on Monday,
December 3, 2007, and Monday, December 17, 2007, were before the body.
(For full text, see minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council dispense with the reading of
the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e ------ --------------------------------- _______________________________________n ---------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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COUNCIL: A communication from Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., tendering his
resignation as a member of Roanoke City Council, effective February 23, 2008.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e _u_________________._______n______ -------------------- ------ ----------------------------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
MINUTES: Minutes of the meeting of the Audit Committee held on
Monday, October 1, 2007, were before Council.
(See minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the minutes be received and filed.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HaLrris-------------------------------------------~----------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----- -------------------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
CITY MANAGER-CITY MARKET-LEASES: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday,
March 17, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, to consider a proposed lease agreement between the City of Roanoke
and Easter P. Moses, owner, Gone CoCo, LLC., for rental space in the City
MaLrket Building, was before the body.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
278
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager to convene in a public hearing as abovedescribed. The motion
was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
H arri s --- u____n__ -- ------ ___nnu___________________ n____ n ______n______n_______ n__________________________ 5 .
NAYS: Non e________nn____n_________________nnu__n__un__nn____n_____n______-------------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
CITY MANAGER-HUMAN SERVICES-BUDGET: A communication from the
City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday,
March 17, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, to consider budget adjustments for certain social services/human
service programs, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager to convene in a public hearing as abovedescribed. The motion
was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
H arri s --------- ----------------------------- ___________n__U______ ------------------------------- ---------------- 5 .
NAYS: No n e__n______nn__nn__n__n________n_____nu__n__nn__nn_________n__u____-------0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
ELECTIONS: Transmittal from the General Registrar's Office of an Abstract
of Votes cast in the Democratic/Republican Presidential Primary Election held in
the City of Roanoke on February 12, 2008, was before the Council.
(For full text, see abstract of votes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the Abstract of Votes be received and
filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e _u___________n___u___________u________n________________________________u_________- -0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
HUMAN SERVICES: A communication from Cheri W. Hartman tendering
her resignation as a member of the Human Services Advisory Board, was before
the Council..
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member
Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e ____u_______________________________________________________________________________----0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD-ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD-ROANOKE VALLEY
ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: Reports of qualification of the following
individuals, was before the Council:
James L. Phillips as a City representative to the Court Community
Corrections Program Regional Community Criminal Justice Board,
for a term ending June 30, 2010;
Lauren D. Saunders as a member of the Roanoke Public Library
Board, for a term ending June 30, 2010; and
Jay E. Foster as a member of the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional
Commission to fill the unexpired term of William D. Bestpitch, for a
term ending June 30, 2009.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
280
Council Member Mason moved that the reports of qualification be I
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Mr. Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e ____u__ __________uu____ -- ____u_ ------ nu____u____uu_______ __________uu__ __u ---0.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
CITY COUNCIL: Mayor C. Nelson Harris submitted a communication
recommending the approval of the following process and dates as a means to
fill the unexpired term of Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., resigned, which runs through
June 30, 2010.
. Advertisement of such intention, with dates for applications
to be submitted, and for, a public hearing, in a newspaper of
general circulation in the City as well as on Internet and
RVTV.
. Deadline for receipt of applications will be March 14 at 5 :00
p.m., in the City Clerk's Office.
. On Monday, March 17 at 2:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as
the matter may be heard, Council will review and consider all
applications filed for the appointment and Council will, by
public vote, select from the field of candidates, those
candidates to be accorded an interview, and all other
candidates will be eliminated from the selection process.
. On Thursday, March 20 at 4:30 p.m., Council will hold a
continuation of its March 17th meeting for the purpose of
conducting a public interview of candidates for the
appointment of a Roanoke City Council member; and on the
same day at 7:00 p.m., the Council will hold a public hearing
to receive the views of citizens.
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. On Monday, March. 31 at 9:00 a.m., Council will hold a
continuation of its March 20th meeting to vote to fill the
unexpired term of Council Member Dowe ending June 30,
2010.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the Council concur in the
recommendation of the Mayor as outlined in the communication. The motion
was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
WEED ABATEMENT PROGRAM-GRANTS-BUDGET: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending appropriation of additional
funds for weed and trash abatement.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance.
(#38028-030308) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate additional funding from
Weed Cutting and Demolition, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2007-2008 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 193.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38028-
030308. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
Council Member Mason expressed appreciation to the City Manager for
her assistance and support of the Clean and Green Campaign.
There being no additional comments, Budget Ordinance No. 38028-
030308 was adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HClrris-----------------------------------------~------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: No n enn____nn___n_nn__nnnn___nnn__nnn__nnn____n_nnn__n_nn_nn-n--O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
CELEBRATIONS: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending approval of a resolution supporting the City of Roanoke's
designation as a Preserve America Community, a White House Administration
initiative to encourage and support community efforts that preserve and enjoy
its priceless cultural and natural heritage.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution.
(#38029-030308) A RESOLUTION supporting and authorizing the City's
application for designation as a Preserve America community.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 193.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38029-
030308. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the
Council in support of an initiative that would build up the entire community
with the use of financial resources.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 38029-030308 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
HClrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non ennnnn_____n_nnn______n___n______nnnn_______n___n_______nnnn----nn-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
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DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: .
FINANCIAL REPORTS: The Director of Finance submitted the Financial
Report for the month of January 2008.
(For full text, see Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Director of Finance highlighted revenues through January 2008,
advising that revenues through January increased 3.4% compared to the prior
fiscal year; and a significant delinquent tax billing occurred in December of the
prior fiscal year. He indicated that revenues grew 5.4% through the first seven
months of the fiscal year, adding that most revenues are growing as
anticipated, taking into account that the due dates for two of the City's major
taxes, business license and personal property, are in the upcoming months of
the fiscal year.
Mr. Hall advised that recent national indicators' depict deteriorating
economic conditions as the housing shock and credit crunch continue to
spread; the Federal Reserve has responded to the evolving conditions by cutting
its target for the federal funds rate a total of two and a quarter percentage
points since September from 5.25% to 3.0%; and the job market weakened in
January as payroll employment fell by 17,000 jobs for the month. He added
that all ten Virginia metropolitan areas experienced increased unemployment in
December, and relative to inflation, the Consumer Price Index increased 0.3% in
December, and Core inflation, excluding food and energy, rose by 0.2% in
December or 2.4% on a fiscal year-to-date basis.
He further advised that at the State level, according to the Secretary of
Finance's monthly financial report, revenues grew 3.5% in January 2008
compared to January 2007; revenues grew 3.3% on a fiscal year-to-date basis,
equal to the annual estimate of 3.3%. He pointed out that the Commonwealth's
forecast anticipates further weakness in the corporate and income tax
payments, a continued slowdown in the sales tax receipts, and decreases in
recordation tax receipts as the housing market continues to weaken.
In conclusion, the Director of Finance stated that the City of Roanoke's
adopted budget for fiscal year 2008 totals $252.6 million, representing a 5.4%
increase over the adopted budget for fiscal year 2007; and budgeted revenue
growth results from a projected increase in real estate and personal property
tax revenues, as well as projected growth in various local taxes including sales
tax, business license tax, and prepared food and beverage tax; and the City had
no major tax due dates in January or February.
284
Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the Financial
Report would be received and filed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES: Council having deferred action on the matter of
conveyance of City-owned property located at Countryside Golf Course to
Newbern Properties, LLC, for expansion of a heating and air conditioning
company, the matter was again before the body.
Inasmuch as action on the matter would require six affirmative votes by
the Council, the matter was again deferred until the next regular session of the
Council scheduled to be held on March 17, 2008.
ENTERPRISE ZONE: Council having deferred action on the matter from its
regular meeting held on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, with regard to approval
of Enterprise Zone One A and its subzone amendments application, the matter
was again before the body.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the matter be removed from the table for
reconsideration. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: Non e u____nnnn__n _un___nnn_._nnn n____un__n__uu__ _unn__ ___n_nU ___un O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
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(#38030-030308) A RESOLUTION authorizing the proper City officials to
make boundary amendments to the City's Enterprise Zone One A that will add
certain areas to it and add as a new noncontiguous Subzone A certain other
areas; authorizing the City Manager to apply to the Virginia Department of
Housing and Community Development (VDHCD) for approval of such boundary
amendments; and authorizing the City Manager to take such further action as
may be necessary to obtain and implement such boundary amendments.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 195.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38030-
030308. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, and Mayor
H arri s n___n__n____ __n_______n______n__nn___________n__ ______n ________n___nn____________ __n____n_n_ 5 .
NAYS: Non e _________n___n __unn_n___n nn_unnn__n ____n_n___________n_______nn___nn O.
(Council Member Wishneff was absent.)
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for response,
recommendation or report to Council.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT-GRANTS: Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger
Road, N. W., appeared before the Council with regard to the availability of
various grants that may be submitted by the City to stimulate growth in the
community.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
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ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The City Manager commented that I
citizens were fortunate to live in a community that did not have to experience
the peaks and valleys of the country's economy. She mentioned that she and
Council Member Mason attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand
opening of a grocery store in the Northwest community which will support the
Peters Creek Road Corridor, and that she was pleased that successful business
people want to create new businesses in the City. She added that the store will
not only provide citizens with another option for purchasing food, but is also a
good sign of the potential for rejuvenating the City's economy.
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the Council meeting
adjourned at 2:25 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
/
L2.l~a4~
c. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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,~()tn. 11J()l)yJ
Stephanie M. Moon, CMC
City Clerk
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
MARCH 17, 2008
2:00 P.M.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
March 17, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council,
Section 2-1 5, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, ReQular Meetings, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No. 37817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason,
David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late); Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
(arrived late), and Mayor C. Nelson Harrism-----u-----mmmmm---------m-mmm---G.
ABS ENT: Non e _____________________________________________________________________________________0 .
(Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., submitted his resignation as a Member of
the Roanoke City Council on Saturday, February 23, 2008.)
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Sheila N. Hartman, D,eputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT: NONE.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda
and considered separately. The Mayor called attention to two requests for
Closed Meetings.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on Monday,
January 7, 2008, were before the body.
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(For full text, see Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council dispense with the reading of
the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor
Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, and Mayor Harrism--m--m 4.
NAYS: Non e ________________u________ -------- ----------- _n___________ ------- -- -- ---------- -- -------0.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson Harris
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on
certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the body.
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(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-m-mm_- 4.
NAYS: Non e ______________________________nn_n________n________ -------- ----------n--------------O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Manager requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss disposition of publicly-owned
property, where discussion in open meeting would adversely affect the
bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to
Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the
body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, and Mayor Harrismmm-m-4.
NAYS: No n e______nnn_________n_nnnn___n_____________________________n__________n_n__n__O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the
resignation of the Honorable Julian H. Raney, Jr., as a City representative to the
Court Community Corrections Program, Regional Community Criminal Justice
Board, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor
Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, and Mayor Harrismmm-----4..
NAYS: Non e __n________ ___u_ ----------------------------------------------------n-n------n------O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: Report of qualification of
Michael D. Wray as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, to fill
the unexpired term of Martha C. Williams term ending June 30, 2008, was
before the Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council member Mason moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, and Mayor Harris--------m---4.
NAYS: Non e__n______n__n__u____nu__nn_n___n___nnn____________________n___n__n_______O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)
REGULAR AGENDA
The following applications were reviewed and considered for appointment
to fill the unexpired term of Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., resigned,
through June 30, 2010. The following candidates submitted applications for
consideration:
Kirk A. Ballin
William D. Bestpitch
Evelyn D. Bethel
M. Helen Butler
Amy C. Cosner
M. Rupert Cutler
Scott G. Dreyer
Dale A. Edmonston
F. Gordon Hancock
Don L. Hogan
Stuart Israel
Robert H. Logan, III
J. Granger Macfarlane
Michael T. Morrissett
Alvin L. Nash
David B. Parr
John H. Parrott
Earl B. Reynolds, Jr.
Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones
Charles W. Turpin
Christopher M. Walters
Martha A. Williams
There being no objection by the Council, all abovementioned applications
were received and considered as qualified applicants.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Phil Sparks, Deputy Director, and Beth
Doughty, Executive Director, Roanoke Valley Economic Development
Partnership, presented the 2007 Report of Economic Development Activity.
Mr. Sparks reviewed the work relationship between the Partnership and
the City of Roanoke, and shared the following information relating to business
development for 2007:
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. Partnership staff met with Brian Brown, Economic Development
Director, and Chris Copenhaver, Economic Development Specialist,
during the first quarter of 2007 for an update on sites, buildings and
other issues that could be beneficial in promoting the City of Roanoke
to business prospects.
. A labor analysis was undertaken to assist in determining the
availability of labor skills within the Roanoke labor market.
Organizations interviewed included Dabney S. Lancaster Community
College, Virginia Tech, Carilion Biomedical Institute, Virginia Economic
Development Partnership's team leaders, Virginia Employment
Commission, and Virginia Western Community College. Information
was used to help the Partnership focus on target industries.
. Briefing sheets of prospect activity for 2007 reflect information on 218
inquiries. (75% was generated by Regional Partnership)
. 81 prospects or qualified leads (contacted, but have not visited the
valley)
. Opened 20 prospect files
. 109 prospect events (interaction of at least five times before a
decision was made to either relocate to the area, remain as an existing
business, or relocate outside of the Valley)
. Conducted seven trade shows
. Conducted six marketing missions
. Six proposals are pending that represent 200-230 employees, $30.4 -
$37.5 million in new capital investments
. 10 companies are considering the region who can invest up to $122
million in new facilities within the area
At this point, Council Member Fitzpatrick entered the meeting (2:05 p.m.)
Mr. Sparks also indicated that in 2007, the Blue Hills Drive building had
22 visitors, Frontage Road building had 16 visitors, Riverside Center had 30
visitors, RClT had 53 visitors, and the Smurfit and Stone Building had 43 hits to
the Fast Facilities website which is hosted by Arep. Development Magazine. In
addition to keeping the City's buildings and sites up to date on Fast Facilities,
the Partnership maintained, on a weekly basis, the listing of buildings on its
website and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership website.
He expressed appreciation to City staff on their efforts in working with
the Partnership.
292
He pointed out that the Partnership had a successful campaign last year, I
raising approximately $6.9 million, adding that the eight governments
participating pledged $3.25 million and the business community committed to
$3.52 million.
(See copy of written statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting (2: 10 p.m.)
Ms. Doughty shared information with regard to the Partnership's
expanded work program stating that 2007 was a difficult year for economic
development. She explained that the Partnership is considering a significant
addition to its program of work in order for the lion's share of work to go
towards business recruitment, with an expansion in retail business, along with
industrial and commercial business. She remarked that the Partnership will
have 50% more resources to use to enhance its image, increase visibility of the
region, and to promote the region's many attributes, community amenities and
assets.
She expressed her appreciation for the City's support and looked forward
to making continual progress in the future.
Comments:
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Council Member Mason asked about the Partnership's strategy with
regard to growth in population; whereupon, Ms. Doughty emphasized that the
fundamental platform is education through image building, awareness raising
activities, and traditional tools like digital media, public relations, advertising,
etc., adding that the Partnership would have to use its resources wisely and
efficiently, to develop a digital strategy for the region.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle commented that visibility, marketing and branding
was very important and hoped that all pertinent players could be brought to the
table so that the message could be developed and used uniformly.
Mayor Harris expressed appreciation to Mr. Sparks and Ms. Doughty for
briefing the Council on the 2007 activities of the Roanoke Economic
Development Regional Partnership.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
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ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
BUDGET-POLICE DEPARTMENT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appropriation of funds for the State Asse~
Sharing and Federal Forfeited Property Sharing.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38031-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the State
Asset Sharing Program and Federal Asset Sharing Program, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 197.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38031-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
MCl,,()r HClrris--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: Non e ______n___n__n_n____________n___nn__n_____________________________nn__n_nn_-0.
BUDGET-EMERGENCY SERVICE-FIRE DEPARTMENT-GRANTS: The City
Manager submitted a written communication accepting Assistance for
Firefighters Grant Program funds from the Department of Homeland Security,
Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the U. S. Fire Administration.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38032-031708) A RESOLUTION accepting the Assistance to Firefighters
grant offer made to the City by the Department of Homeland Security, the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Fire
Administration and authorizing execution of any required documentation on
behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 198.)
294
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38032- I
031 708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ____nn__n____n________ _________nn n__ -- n__________ _nnn__n________n__ n__n____nnn_ -6.
NAYS: Non e ____________n____n__ ____n__ -- -- _______nnn_n_______ --------- n___nn_______ -- ---- -0.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38033-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
federal government for the Assistance to Firefighters Program, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant and Risk Management
Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, Page 199.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38033-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by I
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arr i s ____________nnnnn____n_______________n___n______n__n_n_______n__________nn n--------6 .
NAYS: Non e________n_n___n________n______________n___n___________________________________nn-O.
BUDGET-GRANTS-YOUTH: The City Manager submitted a written
communication accepting the Governor's Youth Community Service and Civic
Engagement Program funds for the City of Roanoke Service Learning Academy
grant program.
(For full text see, communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice -Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38034-031708) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a grant
from the Governor's Youth Community Service and Civic Engagement program
to be used to establish and implement a Service Learning Academy in
connection with the Youth Haven program; and authorizing the execution of the
necessary documents to accept such grant, upon certain terms and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 200.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38034-031708.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ---------------- _____n__________________ --------------------------- -n-----:.---------------------6.
NAYS: Non e ________________n_______n____________u________u_________________________________ -----0.
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38035-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services for the
Governor's Youth Community Service and Civis: Engagement Program, amending
and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 General and Grant Funds
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No 72, page 201.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38035-031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ----------------------------------------------- _________n______________________________________u6.
NAYS: Non e __u____ __________________n_______ ------------------------------------------------------0.
BUDGET-COMMONWEALTH ATTORNEY'S
Manager submitted a written communication
additional new, full-time Administrative
Commonwealth Attorney's Office.
OFFICE-GRANTS: The City
recommending approval of an
Secretary position for the
(For full text see, communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38036-031708) A RESOLUTION authorizing the addition of one new,
full-time, permanent position for the Roanoke Commonwealth Attorney's Office.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 202.)
296
Council member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38036-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H a rri s ________nn__n________________n___nn__ __________________n__ n_______________ n n -- nn______ 6.
NAYS: Non e ____n________________________nn___________________n___________n ____n__n___________ O.
Vice Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38037-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia, and transfer funding from Pay Raise Contingency,
for the new Commonwealth Attorney position, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2007-2008 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing
with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book no. 72, page 203.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38037-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ------ ______________nn____ n_______ __________u____u__nn n n_nn__ ------------------nn----6.
NAYS: Non e _____________________________n____n__________________u____ n _nnn______ ------------- O.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
SCHOOLS-BUDGET: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written
report requesting appropriation of funds to various programs and accounts;
and the Director of Finance submitted a written report recommending that
Council concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
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(#38038-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth and Federal governments as well as from local match,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 School Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 204.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38038-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ____________________n____nnunn_____n_______nu___________ n_____________ _______n____nn_6 .
NAYS: Non e ____n____nn__nn_____n____n_______n___________________ _______n____________ -n----O .
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for response,
recommendation or report to Council.
CELEBRATIONS: Lawrence Landolt, Director, EventZone, appeared before
the Council and shared information regarding the annual activities relative to
festivals and events scheduled for downtown Roanoke for 2008.
(See handout on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
COMPLAINTS: Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared
before the Council and spoke with regard to jobs, the economy, affordable
housing, job training, increased wages, living conditions and police protection.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
298
VIRGINIA TECH-PARKS-DECEASED PERSONS: In response to Vice-Mayor I
Trinkle's request for City staff to study ways to commemorate the April 16
Virginia Tech shootings, the City Manager remarked that it has been
recommended that the Mill Mountain Star be turned off on April 16. There
being no objection by the Council, the City Manager was instructed to proceed
as recommended. She also stated that staff was in the process of gathering
information from Virginia Tech regarding any other activities that the University
might wish for the City to be involved in to recognize the incident.
She also announced that the City had received notification from the
Insurance Services Office (ISO) of its qualification for a Class 7 rating under the
Community Rating System (CRS), which recognizes the City's many activities
related to flood plain management and community outreach with flood risk
information and provides an additional five percent premium reduction, for a
total reduction of 1 5 percent for federally subsidized flood insurance policies in
the City. In closing, she referenced an article in the Roanoke Times, March 14
"Homes" supplement, regarding information about green building principles
used in housing in the City, which was included as part of an article titled
"Roanoke Goes Green". She added that she planned to share some of the City
of Roanoke's sustainability activities with the ICMA Sustainability Advisory
Committee.
Ms. Burcham called attention to Roanoke's E-911 Center being
recognized for achieving accreditation through the Commission on.
Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) for Public Safety
Communications on Saturday, March 1 5 in Atlanta, Georgia, noting that
Roanoke is one of a very selected few municipalities in the country whose E-911
Center, Fire-EMS and Police Departments, and Sheriff's Department have all
been recognized with national accreditation.
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At 2:50 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for two
briefings and a Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 3:25 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
with Mayor Harris presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with
the exception of Council Member Fitzpatrick, who left during the Closed
Meeting. (Inasmuch as he will not be able to participate in the entire selection
process for the appointment of an Interim Council Member to fill the unexpired
term of former Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., through June 30, 2010,
Council Member Fitzpatrick declined to engage in any discussions regarding the
appointment.)
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COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded, Council
Member Mason moved that each member of City Council certify to the best of
his or her knowledge that (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted
from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information
Act; and (2) only such public business matters were identified in any motion by
which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard discussed or considered by
City Council. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle,. Wishneff, and Mayor
HaLrris-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5
NAYS: Non e n__________________n___n________________n__n_______________-___n_____________n_____ O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor advised that there is a
vacancy on the Human Services Advisory Board created by the resignation of
Cheri W. Hartman for a term ending November 30, 2009; whereupon, he called
for nominations to fill the vacancy.
The name of Angela Holland was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Holland was appointed as a
member of the Human Services Advisory Board to fill the unexpired term of
Cheri W. Hartman ending November 30, 2009, by the following vote:
FOR MS. HOLLAND: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, and
Mayo r H arri s __________n____________________________n____________n__n______n____nn____nn _______n_____ 5 .
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Mayor advised that there is a vacancy on the
Court Community Corrections Program, Regional Community Criminal Justice
Board created by the resignation of the Honorable Julian H. Raney, Jr., ending
June 30, 2008; whereupon, he called for nominations to fill the vacancy.
The name of the Honorable Jacqueline F. Ward Talevi was placed in
nomination.
300
There being no further nominations, Judge Ward Talevi was appointed as I
a City representative to the Court Community Corrections Program, Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board to fill the unexpired term of the Honorable
Julian H. Raney, Jr., ending June 30, 2008, by the following vote.
FOR JUDGE WARD TALEVI: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle,
Wi s h neff, an d Mayo r H arri S-mm-_m_mmnmm____mmmm___m__mmm__n_nmmm 5.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
SCHOOLS: The Mayor announced that there will be two upcoming
vacancies on the Roanoke City School Board due to the expiration of the three-
year terms of office of David B. Carson and V. Mignon Chubb-Hale ending
June 30, 2008; and prior to the March 10 deadline, applications had been
received in the City Clerk's Office by the following individuals: David B. Carson,
Chris H. Craft, Dolores Y. Johns, Kathy D. Largen, Lori E. Vaught, and Michael D.
Wray, and placed in nomination:
Council Member Lea: Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns, and Ms. Vaughtnm---mmm3.
Council Member Mason: Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns, and Ms. Vaughtm--m-m3.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle: Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns, and Ms. Vaughtm--mm-mmn3.
Council Member Wishneff: Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns, and Ms. Vaught------m3.
Mayor Harris: Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns, and Ms. Vaught--n-m-mm-n-mmm3.
By public vote, Council accorded public interviews to Mr. Carson, Dr.
Johns, and Ms. Vaught to be conducted on Thursday, May 1, commencing at
5:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber. The Mayor announced that a public hearing
to receive views of citizens on the consideration of Mr. Carson, Dr. Johns and
Ms. Vaught would be held on Monday, May 5 at 2:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter
as the matter may be heard, and appointment of the two successful candidates
as Trustees to the Roanoke City School Board would be announced at the
2:00 p.m., May 19 Council meeting.
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COUNCIL: Inasmuch as Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., officially
submitted his resignation as a member of the Roanoke City Council, effective
Saturday, February 23, 2008, Mayor Harris pointed out that at the regular
meeting of the Council held on Monday, March 5, the Council announced its
intention to accept applications for the Interim Council Member position to fill
the vacancy. He stated that 23 applications had been submitted to the City
Clerk prior to the March 14 deadline; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations of not more than four candidates to be granted the public
interview for the Interim Council position:
Council Member Lea: Earl B. Reynolds, Jr., Alvin L. Nash, Vivian Y.
Sanchez-Jones and M. Granger Macfarlane.
Council Member Mason: M. Rupert Cutler, Robert H. Logan, III, Vivian Y.
Sanchez-Jones and Earl B. Reynolds, Jr.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle: M. Rupert Cutler, Robert H. Logan, III, Alvin L. Nash
and Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones.
Council Member Wishneff: Kirk A. Bullin, M. Granger Macfarlane, Earl B.
Reynolds, Jr., and Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones.
Mayor Harris: Earl B. Reynolds, Jr., M. Rupert Cutler, Alvin L. Nash and
Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones.
The Mayor advised that Dr. Cutler, Ms. Sanchez-Jones, Mr. Nash, and Mr.
Reynolds would be granted the public interview which was scheduled to be held
on Thursday, March 23 commencing at 4:30 p.m., in the Council Chamber,
followed by a public hearing scheduled to be held at 7:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber to receive citizen comments regarding the four applicants. He also
stated that selection of an Interim Council Member would be announced at the
recessed Council meeting on Monday, March 31 at 9:00 a.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 3:40 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess to be
reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the City Council
Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor
C. Nelson Harris presiding.
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PRESENT: Council Member Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, I
David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick Jr., and Mayor C. Nelson
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
A BS E NT: Non e --------- n____________n__n___n________n__ n________n_________ -- ------------nnO.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April E>, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, March 17,2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may
be heard, on the request of Colonial Green L. c., to amend the Planned Unit
Development Plan and the Pattern Book proffered as a condition of the
conditional rezoning, as they pertain to Lot 1, Colonial Green Subdivision
Phase 1, containing approximately 2,4E>E> acres, identified by Official Tax No.
1 570101, to remove the storm water drainage area, to reduce the front setback
along Colonial Avenue, to provide additional pedestrian and parking areas, and
to change the speCified land use from "Commercial/Residential" to "Commercial
or Commercial/Residential", the matter was before the body.
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Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 29, 2008, and Friday, March 7, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending that
City Council approve the request, advising that the application to amend the
Colonial Green Development Plan on the subject properties was found to be
consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan and the Franklin Road/Colonial
Avenue Area Plan; and in order for said site to be developed to its maximum
potential, adequate parking must be provided and a flexible mixture of uses
permitted.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38039-031708) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to amend the Planned Unit
Development Plan and the Pattern Book proffered as a condition of the
conditional rezoning, to remove the stormwater drainage area, to reduce the
front setback along Colonial Avenue, to provide additional pedestrian and
parking areas, and to change the specified land use from
"Commercial/Residential" to "Commercial or Commercial/ Residential" as they
pertain to Lot 1, Colonial Green Subdivision Phase 1, containing approximately
2.466 acres, identified by Official Tax NO.1 570101, located on Colonial Green
Circle, S.W.; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 205.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38039-031708.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the amendment.
Mr. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the
Council and inquired about additional homes and landscape in the area;
whereupon, Joyce L. Graham, Project Manager, Colonial Green Development
Plan, responded that there would be no changes in the project. The City
Manager added that the public hearing was being held in order to receive
citizen comments regarding the amendment.
There being no additional comments, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38039-031708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s _____n_________________________________n____________n_____n_________n_______-----n----------6.
NAYS: Non e n__________n____n_____________________nn_________n__n___n____n__________--- n---O.
304
PLANNING-GREENWAYS: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City I
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 17, 2008, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard on a proposal of
the City of Roanoke for an amendment of Vision 2001-2020, the City's
Comprehensive Plan, to include the 2007 Update to the Roanoke Valley
Conceptual Greenway Plan, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Friday, February 29, 2008, and Friday, March 7, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the 2007 Update to the Roanoke Valley Conceptual Greenway Plan
as a component of Vision 2001-2020.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38040-031708) AN ORDINANCE approving the Roanoke Valley
Conceptual Greenway Plan and amending Vision 2001-2020, the City's I
Comprehensive Plan, to delete from it the current Roanoke Valley Conceptual
Greenway Plan adopted by City Council on April 21, 1997, and to include the
Roanoke Valley Conceptual Greenway Plan dated February 21, 2008; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 207.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38040-
031708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38040-031708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s _n___________________n____n_____nu__n_n_____n_______n_nn_________u__nnn____________ 6.
NAYS: Non e __n____nu___n_n____n_n___n_________________n_________________n________---------0.
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The Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the Bikeway Plan for the Roanoke Valley Area Metropolitan Planning
Organization as a component of Vision 2001-2020.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38041-031708) AN ORDINANCE approving the Bikeway Plan for the
Roanoke Valley Area Metropolitan Planning Organization dated August, 2005,
and amending Vision 2001-2020, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include
such Plan; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 209.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38041-031708.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
James D. Ritchie, 1329 Johnsbury Court, N. E., appeared before the
Council in support of the adoption of the Regional Bicycle Plan.
(See copy of statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
James Lee, 515 Darwin Road, S. W., appeared before the Council on
behalf of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission, to express appreciation to
the Council on its leadership role in the construction of greenways and noted
his support of the adoption of the Roanoke Valley Conceptual Greenway Plan.
Barbara N. Durek, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before the
Council and commented on various articles that have appeared in magazines
such as The Wa//street Journa~ Fortune Magazine, Bicycling Magazine, and
Money Magazine regarding the widespread interest in bicycling for recreation,
commuting to and from work, and socializing. She encouraged the City to
continue to develop and promote bicycle accessibility in the City.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38041-031708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Ma)for HaLrris--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6.
NAYS: Non e_n____n___nn____________n_n____n_n_______n______n_______nn______n--n-------O.
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The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending I
adoption of the Complete Streets Policy.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#338042-031708) A RESOLUTION approving a Complete Streets Policy
for the City of Roanoke.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 210.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38042-
031708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ___n_nn________ ______________u_______n__ ____nn_____________nnn__________n____________n 6.
NAYS: Non e ____n_n_n________n____n_________________nnnn_______________nn________ n-------O .
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
approval of a resolution supporting Roanoke's designation as a Bicycle Friendly
Community.
I
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#338043-031708) A RESOLUTION supporting and authorizing the City's
application for a Bicycle Friendly Community award and authorizing the City
Manager to execute all necessary and appropriate documents in connection
with such application.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 211.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38043-031708.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
MCl)for HClrris--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------6.
NAYS: Non e ________________n____________n_______n___n_______nnn_n___ ___nn______n__ -----nO.
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BUDGET-SOCIAL SERVICE-HUMAN SERVICES: Pursuant to instructions by
the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
March 17, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a proposal for additional funding for the Department of Social
Services and Comprehensive Services Act, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Monday, March 10, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
appropriation of funds for Social Services programs and the Comprehensive
Services Act program.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38044-031708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth billings to the Schools, salary lapse, contingency and Virginia
Cooperative Extension to the Department of Social Services and Comprehensive
Services Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008
General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 212.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38044-031708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Budget Ordinance No. 38044-031708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ___n_____ nn-__n______n__________nn_____n____n_____n_____nn___n__n_n___________----- 6.
NAYS: Non e n__ n--------n---------___n_________________n___________________nnu__nn__nnn-O .
308
CITY MARKET-LEASES: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 17, 2008, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider a
proposed lease agreement between the City of Roanoke and Gone CoCo, LLC,
for the leasing of space in the City Market Building, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Thursday, February 07, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of a lease agreement with Gone CoCo, LLC, for approximately 742
square feet in the City Market Building located at 32 Market Square for a period
of one year, effective April 1, 2008, and expiring March 31, 2009.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38045-031708) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the lease of 742 square
feet of space located within City-owned property known as the City Market
Building, for a term of one year beginning April 1, 2008, and extending through
March 31, 2009; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 213.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38045-031708.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38045-031708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, and
Mayo r H arri s ____n______n_uu_n__u__nn_________nn__nn______ ______n_______n________________ ____u__ 6.
NAYS: Non e ____nn__n____u____________ n_____nnn________un__n____n_______nnn -----------0.
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HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
COMPLAINTS: Mr. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W.,
appeared before the Council and spoke about seizing the moment to use
knowledge to create an opportunity.
At 7:35 p.m., Mayor Harris declared the Council meeting in recess until
Thursday, March 20, 2008, at 4:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, for the
purpose of conducting public interviews for the appointment of an Interim
Council Member to fill the unexpired term of Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., through
June 30, 2010; and to receive citizen comments with regard to the applicants
being considered for the appointment ~t 7:00 p.m.
At 4:30 p.m., the recessed Council meeting was reconvened on Thursday,
March 20, 2008, in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle,
Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late), and Mayor C. Nelson Harris---m-----m-m-------m--4.
ABSENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea and Beverly T. Fitzpatrick,
Jr.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2.
OFFICERS PRESENT: R. Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for
Community Development; and Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The Mayor stated that the purpose of the meeting was to interview the
four candidates for the Interim Council Member position and that each
candidate would be interviewed separately. He noted that the interview would
consist of an opening statement and the same four questions being asked of
each candidate.
Below is a summary of the public interview:
DR. M. RUPERT CUTLER
Dr. Cutler gave a prepared statement outlining his qualifications for
appointment to the vacant seat on the Council. He stated that he has an
undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in Wildlife Management
and a Ph.D. degree from Michigan State University in Resource Development
with coursework in Natural Resources Economics, Environmental Law, Park and
Recreation Resources, and Urban Planning. After completing the Ph.D.
program, he became an Assistant Professor at Michigan State and taught
environmental policy courses, and advised the Governor and others as a State
Extension Service Specialist for five years. In addition, he taught a similar
course at the University of Virginia in 1999.
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He strongly supports the current City School Board and School I
Superintendent, who are willing to work cooperatively with the rest of City
government to combine administrative units for the most efficient use of the
taxpayers' dollars. His work experience includes serving as Assistant Secretary
of the U.S. Department of Agriculture for four years, supervising six federal
agencies with a total of 80,000 employees and an aggregate annual budget of
four billion dollars; Chief Executive Officer of four nonprofit organizations, two
of them national groups based in Washington with multi-million-dollar budgets;
as well as being a member of many nonprofit organization boards of directors.
He recapitulated his record as a member of Council between 2002 and
2006, noting that he served as Council liaison to the Arts Commission, a
participant in the Regional Library Study, and the main Council advocate of
adding a public art plan to the City's Comprehensive Plan and creating a new
staff position of public art coordinator; is a strong advocate of regionalism and
served as one of the original members of the Western Virginia Water Authority
Board of Directors; served as Chair of the Council's Audit Committee and
represented Roanoke on the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission
and on various committees of the Virginia Municipal League and the National
League of Cities.
In conclusion, he stated that he would work for a more open Council
decision-making process and for improvement of the quality of life of all the
citizens of Roanoke.
I
(For full text, see copy of statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Describe a situation in which you were working on a board. the Council. or a
group decision making setting where an issue became very heated and difficult.
and what role did you play in the resolution of such an issue?
The most obvious example is the controversy over whether or not
to demolish Victory Stadium. Issue was studied in great detail as a
person with a background in natural resources management and
hydrology, and who knew the history of flooding in that area, and
the difficulty of restoring a structure of that age and level of
deterioration, but tried to approach the issue in a rational, scientific
way rather than some sort of emotional way that related to people's
long standing love for the structure and the notion that it was a war
memorial, etc.
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What are your thoughts. your definition of progress for the City of Roanoke.
and maybe compare that to some of the decisions that the Council has made
since you have been gone. and some of the decisions facing the Council in the
near term?
Currently resides in the downtown and walks Campbell Avenue and
Jefferson Street, shops on the Market, and finds living downtown to
be an outstanding opportunity; and not having to use his car daily
is great considering the high cost of gas. The City is making great
progress along Campbell Avenue, Salem Avenue and Market Street,
things are booming on a property by property basis - - the State
and City Building, Fulton Motor Lofts, the Candy Factory, antique
shops, and above all the new Art Museum, are making downtown
better every day. Called attention to the vacant and deteriorating
buildings in the downtown between Jefferson Street and Elm
Avenue, i.e.: Patrick Henry Hotel, Knights of Pythias, former
Heironimus Department Store, and other vacant shops on Jefferson
Street. Suggested that the City create a public/private partnership
that could put the corridor on a quality par with the Art Museum as
soon as possible so that the citizens would not be embarrassed
when patrons visit the Art Museum or patronize the Market
Building.
Consider televising the first Monday morning informal briefing
sessions, even if they are taped and rebroadcast at a later date.
Needs to be a better decision making process by the Council that
could involve the public. Called attention to the City's progress on
public infrastructures, such as the new fire station, police station,
parking deck, but emphasized that the City needed to spend public
money on structures that the public can use in the future - - more
libraries, an amphitheater, etc. Although Roanoke is making
progress, the most important development in Roanoke is the
Carilion Clinic. Looks forward to the time when the City has a
frequent shuttle bus service on Jefferson Street from Roanoke
Carilion Memorial Hospital to the City Market.
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As you know. there is a limited amount of money that the City has now and
over the next few years. what would you see as the top priorities for City
spending in the next couple of years: would it change from what maybe you
had when you were on the Council?
I
Believes the City is in fine shape financially. Pleased and proud that
the City was building two new high school stadiums, but suggested
giving attention to a few more seats in the stadium at William
Fleming High School in order to attract regional and statewide
athletic events. Would like to see the expansion and improvement
to the library system continued. Thinks the Main Library downtown
continues to be something of embarrassment. Investment needs to
be made one way or another, whether it's by the City or a private
developer, in the Market Building, and hopes that Center in the
Square can succeed in its capital fund raising, and hopefully the
Market Building. Need to perpetuate the icons, need to find a way
to turn the Market Building inside out and get the seating on the
outside so visitors know what's going on inside the building, while
still protecting the vendors that work there. Need to promptly
improve the stage and whatever backstage infrastructure and
seating might be provided in Elmwood Park without hurting
Elmwood Park. Thinks the small venue there needs some tender
love and care, and does not want to see Elmwood Park harmed as
Roanoke's little downtown central park. Can build a flood
resistant, major amphitheater on Reserve Avenue as part of a major
recreation and tourism attraction that could be built between
Jefferson Street and Franklin Road, along Reserve Avenue and the
Roanoke River, with the hope that the City could protect the river,
fish and the wildlife, but would at the same time provide very
attractive recreational facilities and be available by shuttle bus and
public transportation.
I
What would you say is the City's greatest strength and what would you do to
continue to build or capitalize on it. and then by the same token. what is our
greatest weakness or greatest challenge. and what would you do to address it?
The greatest strength is the potential involvement of the citizens in
hopefully a united awareness of and support for the kind of
progressive investments by the public and private sectors to make
Roanoke reach its potential from the standpoint of its structures,
educational opportunities, shopping and recreational facilities, the
greenway system, park system, and the exciting downtown. The
biggest challenge is that the average income for families is low, the
average educational level per family is low, that means our property
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tax base is relatively low, and the City has to obtain revenue from
other sources. Most important environmental problem in the City
of Roanoke is deteriorated housing and unsafe neighborhoods.
There are all kinds of nifty neighborhoods, basically historic
neighborhoods that are run down and unsafe. The brownfields
programs removing the lead from homes are addressing it to some
degree, and the CDBG program, is identifying particular
neighborhoods, one at a time. Decentralization of the public
housing into homes rather than ghettoize public housing is a good
idea. Fixing up the deteriorated neighborhoods is a real challenge.
In conclusion, Dr. Cutler stated that he would really like to be back with
the Council because he knew that the next two years would be pretty exciting,
there were some very important things to be decided, and there would be real
opportunities to take advantage of, and he would point out that as a retiree, he
could work practically full time as a Council Member, as he did when he was a
Council Member, and would look forward to meeting often with neighborhood
associations, with business groups, with other constituencies around the City to
try to keep informed about what people's concerns were and be responsive to
that; and didn't run for re-election in 2006 because of his wife's illness, but she
is in much better health now and did not have to worry so much about being
away from home, which is another factor that has encouraged him to get back
into the game, and felt he could get back to Council and do the job without
missing a beat.
MS. VIVIAN Y. SANCHEZ-JONES
Ms. Sanchez-Jones shared with the Council her desire to be appointed to
the vacant seat on the Council, stating that education of the City's young
people should be a priority, and she would work closely with the School Board
to ensure that programs were in place to assist students in need, as well as
getting more parents involved; and she felt it was imperative to provide equal
investment in all City schools, so that the City of Roanoke could compete with
the surrounding communities relative to the quality of education.
She stated that the City of Roanoke's natural beauty is a key asset and
one of its strongest selling points to those who wish to live and work in the
City, and the City should enhance its green areas, and encourage careful,
thoughtful development.
In closing, she stated that Roanoke's population is changing and felt that
the Council needed to change to better reflect that population, and
appointment of a female of Latin heritage from northeast Roanoke City would
go a long way in removing some of the distrust and stereotyping that exists
regarding the Council.
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(See statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
What would be some of the priorities that yOU see going forward over the next I
two years. and where would you invest the City's money first?
First spend the money in the schools. Secondly, look at the
technical vocational schools and reach those students that are
aging out of the school system that still have not graduated, and
offer them technical classes in order to prepare them for the work
force.
What your definition of progress for Roanoke is and how you may view that in
terms of the Council over the last couple years. as well as the future and near
term decisions that may be facing the City that could be progressive in your
mind.
Starting with education, have City schools and students be
competitive in the market; the transportation issues, enlarging and
attracting businesses from out of town, and becoming more
proactive; enlarging the Regional Airport to meet those needs,
getting retailers to relocate to Roanoke. For example, people with
middle to high incomes shop in Greensboro or Charlottesville
whereby the City has the facilities to establish specialty retail
shops.
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The time that you were working on a board. or in a group setting and conflict
arose. how was conflict resolved. and what role did you specifically play in
trying to get a team that might be going through some rough sledding to a
compromise solution.
Every board or every organization has its challenges, and if you
view the board that you serve on as a team, and a team that listens
to each others ideas and be open, and be clear regarding your
ideas as well as how you explain yourself concerning your beliefs.
Fortunately, has not served on boards that have had conflicts, but
feel if a conflict arose, she would feel comfortable discussing the
issue with each member.
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What would you say is the City's greatest strength and what would you do to
continue to build or capitalize on it. and then by the same token. what is our
greatest weakness or greatest challenge. and what would you do to address it?
One of the greatest strengths of the City is its people. The local
government is a great strength because it trys to move the City
forward. One of the weaknesses in the City is citizens that feel that
their voices are not heard.
In conclusion, Ms. Sanchez-Jones stated that she would do the best job
possible for the citizens of Roanoke and would be honored to serve along
side of each Council Member to make the Star City shine even brighter, and
thanked the Council for the opportunity to interview before them.
MR. ALVIN L. NASH
Mr. Nash thanked the Council for the opportunity to interview for the two-
year Council position. Prior to submitting his application, he decided three
things. First, could he work with the City Council and be supportive of the
decisions because there are many tough decisions that the Council.has to make
that affect the lives of thousands of people, everything from education to
environment. Secondly, could he work with the City Manager. He thinks the
City has a good City Manager who he has not always agreed with, but he
respects her and trusts her, which he thinks is important. Thirdly, because of
the circumstances in which the Council finds themselves is very difficult, and he
felt it was all the more reason for him to try to step up in my support under
these difficult circumstances.
His understanding of local government is relatively simple, it should be
efficient in spending tax dollars, should keep the community informed and be
accessible. It should provide public services such as education, sewer, water,
safety and provide emergency protection plans, support the economic and
cultural activities of the City and protect the environment, and it should
represent its constituents by working with other localities, State and Federal
governments.
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There are four experiences or moments in time that have prepared him
for this responsibility. For the past ten years, he has been the President and
CEO of Blue Ridge Housing Development Corporation. The Corporation has
helped over 225 first time home buyers, assisted in the redevelopment of some
14 communities, provided consumer education to over 2,000 residents,
maintained its status as a Class A contractor, has built over 100 new homes in
the City. From that standpoint, he has acquired business management problem
solving because everything has a problem, and multi-tasking is something that
he has always had to do. Serving as a Trustee and Member of the Roanoke City
School Board for three and one-half years taught him that one should not
develop a thick skin, but rather a high tolerance for the opinions of others, no
matter how hurtful, incorrect or correct they might be. Trusting government is
sometimes a fleeting moment, but he still believes that most of the people in
Roanoke trust you and expect the best. He has developed from that experience
a keen understanding of the public budget process, financial management,
public administration and organizational development. He served as an Anger
Management Counselor for Family Services from 1985 to 2002, wherein he
learned to listen with patience and resolve problems.
Finally, he worked with Total Action Against Poverty for 22 years. He
served as Deputy Director, Housing Director, Director of Youth Services, and
Co-Founder of the Southwest Virginia Community Food Bank, along with Ted
Edlich, Executive Director of Total Action Against Poverty. He learned how
government operates, which is not always a learning curve, but he has also
understood research, information and program development. As a permanent
resident of Roanoke, he is committed to the progress of this City. Serving on
the Council will allow him an opportunity to contribute just a little bit to the
quality of life in the Valley. There is a lot of work to be done inside of various
communities and neighborhoods, which are good challenges. He has a positive
attitude about life, he has never been overwhelmed by the size of any problem,
he has a very simple core work value - - do what you have to do when it is time
to do it, whether you like it or not.
He has a great job and he is very busy, but when he wants something
done, he doesn't ask someone who is available, he asks someone who is busy,
because that is where you really get things done. He has always worked well as
a team player. He excels in compromise and cooperation, while retaining his
integrity and responsibility. He never forgets that! He calls it leadership, or at
least a form of leadership. It is never too early to try, it is never too late to talk,
and sometimes disputes on Council's agenda and in board rooms of
corporations stay too long on the debating table and not enough time on the
negotiating table. He thinks the worst service elected officials can provide the
public is the failure to communicate among themselves.
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He does not see this appointment as that of a caretaker, but rather a
facilitator. He does not think his role is to try and undo what has been done,
however, he will have the responsibility to work with the six members of
Council and the City Manager in moving the City forward and in doing the
business of Roanoke. He has given back to his community in many ways,
noting that the best way to give back to the community is to serve. He feels
confident that his experience and energy could serve the community and assist
the Council over the next two years.
What is your definition of progress for Roanoke and how you may view that in
terms of the Council over the last couple years. as well as the future and near
term decisions that may be facing the City that could be progressive in your
mind.
Thinks progress by definition of issues and things that the Council
has been involved in, of course, education and the School system is
a huge progress, there has been tremendous progress made with
the development of the two high schools. He believes the
challenges were the Stadium, amphitheater, Mill Mountain, and
some other things, but thinks the tax structure is reasonable; there
is never enough money for the budget, which is a fact of life. It
seems as though the City has a balanced budget every year. All of
the issues as far as progress is concerned are sometimes measured
in how well the City is doing compared to other localities, and
given the fact that the City's emergency teams have full
certification, and the fact that the City has a balanced budget, he
thinks there has been a lot of progress made, but there is a lot to
do. There are some specifiC projects on the table that may be
controversial, but he does not call that progress, it is what it is. He
thinks progress has to do with doing the business of the City and
moving on, and so far, it appears as though the Council has been
able to do that. Thinks that on a scale from 1 to 10, maybe 8 to
8.5 would be progress.
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Describe a situation where you were on a board or a council where conflict
arose. and what specifically you did to resolve it to get to a meaningful
resolution.
I
Has been involved in many conflicts. There was a serious conflict
with Habitat for Humanity, they wanted to build 32 homes in one
community, Blue Ridge Housing was of the opinion that it was too
much. He negotiated the issue and resolved it with the community
and Habitat successfully. He was involved in. a major conflict with
Burrell Hospital as they wanted to combine services with Carilion,
and there was a lot of community protests. He was hired by
Carilion as a facilitator to negotiate a deal, whereby a signed
agreement was executed between Blue Ridge Behavioral Health
Care and Carilion. There was a tremendous problem with Pinkard
Court when a Lowes store was built in Roanoke County, wherein
the conflict was resolved successfully. And, of course, being on the
School Board, there were many conflicts that had to do with the
budget that had to do with the high schools. This whole issue of
graduation rates, and how you get there, and the whole
professional learning curve, the School Board had a lot of dispute.
The Board did not always agree, obviously, and he thinks that he
did a good job in facilitating some of those concerns and problems,
and so everything that he has done has been really difficult by
nature.
I
Working with TAP for many years, having very little money to do
the things that needed to be done took a little ingenuity and
planning. He does not like to learn to do without, he likes to figure
out how to get it and pass that knowledge along and move forward.
There have been many conflicts where he has had to stop doing
assessment and weigh it, and he thinks he has been pretty
successful.
In terms of either capital or operating money. where would you see the
priorities that we need to spend our money on over the next two years?
Need to step up to the plate a little bit more on education. The
funding formula should be a little better than it has been. The
capital expense issues with regard to the City and School buildings,
should be combined at some point. City owned buildings should
be taken care of by the City. Neighborhoods are a major issue in
terms of infrastructure, housing and the development of new home
ownership.
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What would you say is the City's greatest strength and what would you do to
build upon that. and what do you consider to be our City's greatest weakness
or challenge. and what would you do to address it?
The greatest strength of this City is that it is balanced, maybe by
accident, but it is balanced - - the weather is balanced, the
economy is balanced, affordability of living is pretty good. There is
a strong cultural environment that is very good; race relations are
decent, the social aspect is important. The School system will be or
is beginning to be a part of what makes people want to come to
this valley and be successful. The economy, education, social
climate, and the climate itself, makes the City strong.
The weakness may be finding the City's greatest weakness; thinks
money is a weakness because there are a lot of things that
probably need to be done. Would like to see the Council contribute
more from the General Fund to some of the nonprofit agencies.
In conclusion, Mr. Nash stated that experience is the one thing that you
cannot get for nothing. Experience will usually cost you time, money, a little
pain...you learn some things, and he feels good about his experiences. He has
learned a lot, he has made some mistakes, not bad mistakes, but fumbling
around mistakes, and he does not know enough about City government or
anything else to be a pessimist. Somebody once said that the pessimist
complains about the wind, the optimist expects it to change, and the realist
adjusts his sails. There are a lot of issues that he does not know how he would
deal with them until he is faced with them. He will bring energy, integrity,
commitment and honesty. If appointed to the Council, he would like to feel a
strong relationship with everybody and get started on the right foot.
MR. EARL B. REYNOLDS. IR.
Mr. Reynolds drew a little analogy stating that he has always referred to
the City of Roanoke as a "ship of state", called the "USS Star City", and it has
carried its passengers to various ports of call since the late 1800's. There have
been many officers on the vessel, and have navigated both calm and turbulent
waters. The USS Star City brought its passengers through two World Wars, the
Great Depression, and many global conflicts. His tour of duty began in 1978,
he was in the navigation room when taxes were lowered, when the downtown
and market districts were revitalized, and an economic program was
established, schools were remodeled, public streets and bridges were repaired
and rebuilt, the community beautification program was established, ordinances
were passed to reduce visual clutter, neighborhood programs were launched to
ensure the involvement of the ship's passengers in the governance process.
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He was also in the navigation room when the flood of '85 devastated the I
community, but the word that went throughout the ship was that the City would
not abandon it, it would rebuild. He was also there when the grand old lady,
The Hotel Roanoke, was closed, but he is pleased to say that he was also there
when she was reopened to serve a greater community need. He has been on
furlough for about 12.5 years, sailing on another ship, but he was delighted to
come back and get back aboard the USS Star City. That is why he is here today.
He believes that sailing on that ship for some 14.5 years, being a Roanoke
native, growing up in the Gainsboro community, having always a firm and
unquestionable interest in community affairs, gives him the opportunity to
stand before the Council today.
Describe a situation in which you were working in a group or team
environment. and conflict arose. and what role you played in resolving it to get
to a positive end result?
Was extremely pleased to have been aboard the ship when the
Architectural Review Board was established for the City. Old
Southwest was its flagship, and at one time, it was the largest
historic district in the Commonwealth. The City had a number of
obvious advocates for the preservation district, and it also had a
number of advocates that wanted to make sure that regulations
were put into place, established, and that formal process was
carried out in order to ensure the continued revitalization of the
neighborhood. The idea came forth from the Council that the City
should look into establishing an Architectural Review Board and
City staff went to work on that. They spent many hours, many
vigorous discussions were held, but staff was finally able to work
out a process that most people agreed with, and the first Chairman
of the Board was an architectural historian from Hollins College,
Mr. Tony Whitwell, and he masterfully chaired the Board for many
years and established a protocol, which most people still agree
with.
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What is your definition of progress for Roanoke and how do you view that in
terms of the Council over the last couple years. as well as some short term
future issues that may meet your definition of progress for the City.
It is a very difficult time for governments all over, trying to again
navigate those waters of economic uncertainty. Of course, many
community demands - - we used to say a lot of great ideas and no
money - - so, with that as a prelude, as an introduction, the City of
Roanoke has managed its resources and tried to develop a
direction over the last number of years which has really positioned
it as best it could in this whole global thing that it is dealing with.
What is positioning? Well, there are no 100 percent solutions, there
are no silver bullets, but if at the end of the day, you are still
standing tall and providing leadership position in this state, then
you have done tremendously well, and that is where Roanoke sits.
In both terms of capital and operating expenditures. what would be some of the
priorities that you see the City should be spending money on in the near term?
All communities have to think in terms of what will catalyze the
community. Does not believe that the government can solve 100
percent of the community's problems; there just isn't enough
resources to do that. A critical issue in every community, and has
to be, is an educated work force. So education has to be the top
priority. When folks come into your community, it has to be safe
and clean, there are other kinds of quality of life issues that have to
be addressed if you don't do anything else. Of course, you want to
be able to do more, but if you can't do anything else, you have to
do those things. So, in terms of capital expenditures, as well as
general fund expenditures, that kind of lays the ground work for
your priorities. Then you try to figure out ways to do those other
things that other communities are doing in order to be competitive
in the world that we are in right now.
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What do you consider to be the City's greatest strength and what would you do I
to build upon that. and what do you consider to be our City's greatest
weakness or challenge. and how would you work to address it?
The greatest strength of the City is its geographical positioning in
this part of the State. The City of Roanoke is uniquely positioned,
obviously additional roads and thoroughfares that would help bring
folks in and out are always a challenge. Roanoke has a resolve
unlike any that has ever been seen, and again, the Flood of '85
proves it.
All communities have been weakened by just the general economic
condition of the country, but the City can't use that as a crutch, not
to find ways to move progressively forward. The City has to be
smarter about what it does, and it has to try different ways, adopt
different strategies. Other communities are again wrestling with
the same thing, so therefore, the City has to stay in that race and
work harder at it.
In closing, Mr. Reynolds stated that he was somewhat of a historian, he
was deeply moved when he took his furlough. When he left the community, the
Planning Commission gave him something that he had always cherished, and I
that was the original manuscript from the 1926 City Plan, and that it is almost
as if they are speaking to us today.
He shared the following quote from the plan by a consultant from
Massachusetts: "The problem that confronts the people of Roanoke in the
solution of which you have asked my cooperation is no less than the
remodeling of the existing city and the molding of the larger area around it
[regional cooperation] so that both may better serve the present and future
generations. The task is not an easy one, it involves an intimate knowledge of
the evolution of the present City of Roanoke and as wise as possible a
forecasting of its future, a firm hold upon fundamental principles of city
making, an acquaintance with the experience and actual achievements of other
cities and a capacity to discriminate, that is select from a number of possible
courses of action which one is the best. Moreover, it demands imagination,
courage and public spirit." He further stated that he was a very imaginative
person who has an insatiable love for the City of Roanoke.
Mayor Harris reiterated that the Council was interviewing four individuals
for consideration of appointment as the Interim Council Member, and that the
Council would be making the final decision on Monday, March 31 at 9:00 a.m.,
in the Council Chamber.
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At 6:05 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess, to be reconvened
at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, to receive citizen comments
regarding the applicants for consideration as the Interim Council Member to fill
the unexpired term of Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., through June 30, 2010.
At 7:00 p.m., the recessed meeting reconvened in the City Council
Chamber, with Mayor Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Member Gwendolyn W. Mason, David B. Trinkle, Brian J.
Wishneff (arrived late), and Mayor C. Nelson Harrism-----m--m--m-m-m-mmm--4.
ABSENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea and Beverly T. Fitzpatrick,
Jr.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2.
OFFICERS PRESENT: James Grigsby, Assistant City Manager for
Operations; William M. Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of
Finance; and Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
The Mayor advised that the purpose of the meeting was to receive citizen
comments with regard to the four applicants that had been afforded the public
interview for the Interim Council Member appointment.
The following individuals appeared before the Council:
Barbara Smith, former Director of Refugee and Immigration Services in
Roanoke, spoke in support of the appointment of Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones. She
stated that she has been a resident of the City for 20 years and has personally
worked with Ms. Sanchez-Jones for the past five years, and felt that she would
bring a lot of very good things to the Council and community. She listed several
attributes that she felt Ms. Sanchez-Jones possessed. In addition, she felt that
Ms. Sanchez-Jones' diversity and expertise in conflict resolution would be a
significant benefit to the City Council, and she requested that the Council give
her serious consideration for the appointment.
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Thomas Jones, 2610 Belle Avenue, Roanoke, spoke in support of Vivian Y. I
Sanchez-Jones. He stated that he has known Ms. Sanchez-Jones for 28 years,
26 years of which they have been married. As her husband, he felt he could
present certain aspects about her that may not be known. He too listed several
attributes that he felt she possessed. He stated that they have lived in Roanoke
for five years, loved the community and its people, and his wife has been
deeply involved with the EventZone, the Mayor's Multicultural Council, the first
Latino festival, the Blue Ridge Council for the Boy Scouts, etc. Furthermore, she
is very dedicated to the community that she lives in, her background, culture
and ability to speak two languages and would be able to assert herself into
various communities with ease. He felt that the atmosphere of change being
witnessed around the nation is also occurring in the City and thought that her
acceptance in the community and diverse background would greatly benefit the
Council.
Evelyn Bethel, 35 Patton Avenue, Roanoke, spoke in support of all four
candidates. She requested that the individual remember that their basic
responsibility and obligation is not to elected or appointed individuals, rather to
serve each citizen fairly and respectfully regardless of their economic status,
sector of City residence, race or other societal divisive characteristics.
Denise Huffman, 5459 Lakedale Road, Roanoke County, spoke in support
of Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones, not as a citizen of the City, but rather as a friend
and someone who has worked to advance Roanoke. She stated that they helped
to bring in the Mexican and Honduran Councils to register people, and have run
clinics, health fairs, and different things to serve the Hispanic community. She
stated that Ms. Sanchez-Jones goes beyond the norm in helping people, is a
very dedicated person, always finding the time to do even more, would bring so
many dimensions to the Council, would serve the City of Roanoke as she serves
the community and urged the Council to give her due consideration for the
appointment.
Craig Balzer, 6329 Spring Run Drive, Roanoke County, spoke in support
of Alvin L. Nash. He stated that he has known Mr. Nash since he first joined the
Board of Directors for the Blue Ridge Housing and Development Corporation
approximately 16 years ago, which was during the transition of some of the
residents of the Pinkard Court Neighborhood. He stated that his exposure as a
City businessman with Mr. Nash points out his ability to facilitate and mediate
very difficult situations, and as a School Board Member, Mr. Nash did not dodge
the ball or hesitate to get in the middle of things. During his tenure as the
Chairman of the Board of Directors, and while assisting other neighborhood
organizations and non profits that were in the same line of work dealing with
affordable housing issues, and had the opportunity to observe Mr. Nash's
effectiveness, professionalism and accomplishments, all of which made his job
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much easier. He stated that during several very difficult situations, Mr. Nash
never felt the need to bailout, and thought his long-term exposure to those
types of issues, along with his School Board service and passion for serving,
help to make him a good candidate, and urged the Council to give him an
opportunity to do some additional things for the City.
Gillian Corral, 1202 17th Street, Roanoke, S. W., spoke in support of
Alvin L. Nash. She stated that she has worked for Mr. Nash approximately
seven years, and felt he was a wonderful boss, a man of integrity, a visionary
leader, a listener, an inspiration to his staff. She added that he accepts nothing
less than excellence from his staff, but is forgiving when they come to him with
problems and mistakes and helps to work them out. She stated that one thing
that really stands out about him is that he taught her how to treat a full
spectrum of clients, and felt that he would make a wonderful member of the
Council, and she would be very happy to have someone like him represent her
and her ideas.
Charles Nash, 204 9th Street, S. W., spoke in support of Alvin L. Nash, his
brother, on a personal level. He stated that his brother is a fine young man, a
no nonsense kind of guy, who has stood behind all his siblings throughout the
years after the death of their father, and felt that the City would do well to give
him an opportunity to serve on the Council.
Diana Christppulos, 907 Greenbrier Court, Salem, Virginia, spoke in
support of M. Rupert Cutler. She stated that she knows Dr. Cutler through his
service on the Board of Directors of the Roanoke Valley Cities Coalition, which is
working on global warming and clean energy issues. She knows him to be
unselfish with his time and information, and a great asset to the Coalition, and
did not think that the City of Roanoke could afford to hire someone with the
skills, knowledge and expertise that Dr. Cutler could bring to the City. She
reviewed a list of accomplishments of Dr. Cutler, and noted that he had
previously been elected by the citizens to serve on the Council, citizens have
confidence in him - - he understands the City and the issues. In closing, she
stated that Dr. Cutler has made a personal commitment to the City in the
continued revival of the downtown area, which may be the secret to the future
of the City of Roanoke, and urged the Council to select Dr. Cutler.
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The Reverend Kathy O'Keefe, 1801 Mercer Avenue, N. W., spoke in
support of Earl B. Reynolds, Jr. She stated that she has known Mr. Reynolds for
approximately twenty years, both in the community and through serving on
various boards, and that he had always impressed her with his deep concern for
neighborhood life as well as overall community building. His knowledge is
extensive in the issues that the Council addresses on a regular basis, and she
feels that his insight and personality have made him an excellent listener and
an extremely good mediator, and has a heart for the common good of the
entire community. She found him to be dedicated and tireless in his effort to
build bridges - - both between business entities and between business and
community entities. She highly recommended him as a valuable asset to the
Council and urged the Council to seriously consider him.
The Reverend William L. Lee, 3149 Appleton Avenue, N. W., stated that he
appreciated all the candidates, but spoke in support of Earl B. Reynolds, Jr. He
stated that Mr. Reynolds is one of the few people that the Council has to
consider that has seen this City in some rather interesting view points: at
pavement level walking behind the garbage trucks in the City as a sanitation
worker; as a City Planner and then as Chief City Planner. Mr. Reynolds was the
architect when the Neighborhood Partnership was formed, and was
instrumental in keeping his church from leaving the neighborhood because he
felt they could make a difference in the problems of the neighborhood blight.
He has also served as the City Manager of Martinsville, which afforded
him another kind of view. In closing, he stated that he felt Mr. Reynolds could
sit on the Council and do a great work, and would work side by side as a
comrade doing the best for the City, and urged the Council to consider
appointment of Mr. Reynolds.
Brenda Hale, 3651 Martinell Avenue, spoke in support of Earl B. Reynolds,
Jr. She stated that the Council knew his qualifications and reputation, all the
things that he has done throughout his adult life in Southwest Virginia, and
asked that the Council give him an opportunity to be that pebble that they
throw in the City, and let all his characteristics ripple out in the multifaceted
things that are done in the City, because they will not only ripple out in the City,
they will ripple throughout the Southwest, the State of Virginia, and maybe the
whole nation.
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There being no other persons wishing to address the Council, the Mayor
expressed appreciation to the four candidates who were chosen to continue
through the appointment process. He announced that the public interview and
public hearing that was televised by RVTV would be replayed on Saturday,
March 22 at 8:00 p.m., and Monday, March 24 at 4:00 p.m., with closed
captioning for the hearing impaired. He encouraged those citizens who were
unable to attend the public hearing to send letters or e-mails to the Council
offering their thoughts or opinions regarding the candidates.
At 7:30 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be reconvened
on Monday, March 31 at 9:00 a.m., in the City Council Chamber, Room 450,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, at which time the Council will hold an
election to appoint an Interim Council Member to fill the unexpired term of
Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., through June 30, 2010.
At 9:00 a.m., the recessed meeting reconvened in the City Council
Chamber, with Mayor Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason,
David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-mmmm--m-m--5.
ABSENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.m-nm-m-mm___mnm 1.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
COUNCIL: The Mayor advised that the only item of business before the
Council was the selection of an Interim Council Member to fill the unexpired
term of former Council Member Alfred T. Dowe, Jr., through June 30, 2010. He
pointed out that the following candidates were selected for public interview,
which was held on Thursday, March 20: M. Rupert Cutler, Vivian Y.
Sanchez-Jones, Alvin L. Nash, and Earl B. Reynolds, Jr.
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The Mayor stated that the City Attorney has advised that the City Charter I
provides that the appointment of an Interim Council Member needed to be
made by a majority vote of the Members of the Council that are eligible to vote.
He noted for the record that six Council Members were eligible to vote;
therefore, four votes would be a majority vote. He explained that if no one
candidate receives four affirmative votes in the first roll call, additional ballots
would be taken until such time as one candidate having four affirmative votes;
and at that point, the Council would formally adopt a resolution appointing said
individual as the Interim Council Member.
The names of M. Rupert Cutler, Vivian Y. Sanchez-Jones, Alvin L. Nash,
and Earl B. Reynolds, Jr., were placed into nomination and the roll call vote was
recorded accordingly.
Council Member Lea placed in nomination the name of Alvin L. Nash.
Council Member Mason placed in nomination the name of Alvin L. Nash.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the name of Alvin L. Nash.
Council Member Wishneff placed in nomination the name of Alvin L.
Nash.
Mayor Harris placed in the nomination name of Alvin L. Nash.
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There being no further nominations, Mr. Nash was appointed as the
Interim Council Member to fill the unexpired term of Alfred T. Dowe, Jr.,
through June 30,2010.
Vice Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38046-033108) A RESOLUTION appointing Alvin L. Nash as a member
of the City Council for a term commencing upon his qualification and expiring
June 30, 2010.
(For full text of Resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 21 5.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38046-033108.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
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AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Tinkle, Wishneff, and Mayor
HaLrris------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5.
NAYS: NON E _n____________n________n_n_______n_____n__________n_________n__---------------nO.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
Mayor Harris congratulated Mr. Nash upon his appointment as Interim
Council Member; and he expressed appreciation to Dr. Cutler, Mr. Reynolds and
Ms. Sanchez-Jones for their consideration of the appointment.
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting
adjourned at 9: 10 a.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~rn.~
I Stephanie M. Moon, CMC
City Clerk
c,
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
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April 7, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on
Monday, April 7, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris, presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration,
Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular
Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant
to Resolution No.37817-070207 adopted by the Council on Monday,
July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash,
David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wish neff, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. (arrived late),
Sherman P. Lea and Mayor C. Nelson Harrismmmmunm--------------m-------7.
A BS ENT: Non e _n_________________________u___nn______________nn_______n___________O.
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OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; Timothy
Spencer, Assistant City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance;
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy
City Clerk.
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson Harris
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed
by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950),
as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of
Mayor Harris to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea and
Mayo r H arri s ------ __n__nn_______nnn_n__n_____n____n__________n_____n________________n__ 6.
NAYS: Non e --_______________________n____________________________n___nn_n___n___----0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was
recorded.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Council Member Gwen W.
Mason, Vice-Chairman, City Council Personnel Committee, requesting
that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a personnel matter
and the al'Jnual performance of the Council-Appointed officers, pursuant
to section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of
Council Member Mason to convene in a Closed Meeting as
abovedescribed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea and
Mayo r H arri s ------ ______n____________________________________________________n______-------------- 6.
NAYS: Non e __________________n____________n___n_________n_____________________--------0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was
recorded.)
CITY MANAGER-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss
the acquisition of real property for a public purpose, where discussion in
open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position of
negotiating strategy of the City, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3),
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request I
of the City Manager to convene in a Closed Meeting as abovedescribed.
The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea and
Mayo r H arri s ____________________n_n____________________________________n_________________n______ 6.
NAYS: Non e ______n________________________________________n_n____n___________n__-----0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was
recorded.)
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THE JOINT MEETING OF COUNCIL AND
THE ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD ON MONDAY, MAY 5, 2008, AT
9:00 A.M., IN THE EOC CONFERENCE ROOM, ROOM 1 59, NOEL C. TAYLOR
MUNICIPAL BUILDING. The Mayor suggested that agenda items be
forwarded to the City Manager or City Clerk.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE
2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE.
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TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
BRIEFINGS:
Center in the Sauare
Mr. George B. Cartledge, Jr., Board Chair, remarked that as a
community volunteer, he was appearing before the Council on behalf of
Center in the Square's Board and its affiliated organizations; and
expressed appreciation and thankfulness for the long-standing support of
the City of Roanoke. He added that it was the 25th Anniversary of Center
in the Square and the Center was "an outstanding public/private
partnership." He stated that the following individuals would be
addressing the Council: Dr. Jim Sears, President and General Manager,
would summarize the Center's impact and outline future plans; David
Bandy of Spectrum Design would present conceptual images and
computer generated renderings of proposed improvements to Center in
the Square; Nancy McCrickard, Executive Director of the Science Museum,
would summarize the reinvention of the Science Museum that will take
place as a component of the project; Sereina Paynter, Board President for
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the Harrison Museum, would reflect on the Harrison Museum's move into
Center in the Square, which is also a component of the project; and John
Harlow, the fundraising consultant for the Center in the Square project,
would offer his thoughts about the importance of the City's financial
support on the future fundraising efforts.
Impact:
Dr. Jim Sears, President and General Manager, Center
in the Square, advised that by undertaking the renovation,
the impact will be measurable. He highlighted the following
points:
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· We will create state-of-the-art facilities so our museums
can offer high quality exhibits, preserve collections,
and expand into offerings that are currently
impossible.
· We will enhance the cherished atmosphere of the
historic Farmer's Market through fa~ade improvements
which will reflect Center's original 1917 architecture.
· The Harrison Museum of African American Culture will
have a new home in the midst of Roanoke's fastest
growing area-the downtown.
· It will be a seamless walk from the historic Market
Square into the Center with the new space providing a
sense of arrival for learning, entertainment, fun, and
family activity.
He further advised that the renovation comes at exactly
the correct time, the museums are demanding it, the theater
must have it, and there is not a better time for Harrison
Museum to grow and expand. He noted that every
mechanical, electrical, and plumbing system in the building
is on the verge of failing after 25 years of use by over 9
million people.
Dr. Sears stated that the Center has a dream that every
child in Roanoke and Western Virginia have a complete
education so that they can compete on a state, national, and
global level, the dream could not be fulfilled without
exceptional facilities for a variety of museums and
performing arts.
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David Bandy, Spectrum Design, advised that the
building would be refurbished and made more historical in
order to receive tax credits. He added that 16 windows,
along the front of the building, would be reinstalled and the
lobby expanded. He indicated that the Roanoke Weiner Stand
and the Little Dipper restaurants would be relocated and
both establishments were pleased with the arrangement; the
Harrison Museum of African American Culture would be
added to the second floor and patrons would be able to walk
below the building and dine; a ticket booth and ATM machine
would be added outside of the Mill Mountain Theater, and
the receptionist desk would be relocated to the front of the
building to allow for better interaction with the public. He
pointed out that interactive screens and floor mats would be
added to the lobby to engage young people; and a roof top
garden, dining area, and butterfly insect pavilion would be
added to the top of the 5th floor.
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Plans:
Reinvention:
I
Nancy McCrickard, Executive Director, Southwestern
Virginia Science Museum, advised that in November 2006,
the Science Museum launched its plan to radically change
and enhance. how the Museum serves the community. She
explained that the Museum plans to reinvent the exhibit
galleries, connect spaces, classes, and programs; and
citizens will be encouraged to ask questions and engage fully
in learning.
She further advised that science changes more than
any other subject and citizens need to be prepared for jobs
that do not yet exist and consumer products that have not
been invented; the Museum teaches the basic building blocks
of science so that visitors are better equipped to understand
rapidly changing technologies and have the job skills to
attract new businesses.
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Ms. McCrickard summed up learning with an ancient
proverb, "I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I
understand"; and she commented that the Center in the
Square is a vital force downtown, but the Museum wanted to
be an even greater economic driver in the downtown area.
She invited the Council to join her in reinventing the Science
Museum of Western Virginia, so that visitors could do more
and understand the science that would change their lives.
Expansion:
Sereina Paynter, Board President, Harrison Museum of
African American Culture, advised that the Harrison Museum
is currently planning and preparing for its move to the Center
in the Square and becoming one of the Center's beneficiary
organizations. She added that the move would enable the
Museum to expand its audience, its permanent collection,
bring in more exhibits, and continue to strongly promote,
showcase and celebrate the art and history of African
Americans.
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She pointed out that the Harrison Museum was started
from scratch in 1985 as a project initiated by the Northwest
Neighborhood Improvement Council, Inc., the City of
Roanoke, and Total Action Against Poverty, Inc.; and the
Museum's role in Roanoke and the surrounding area is very
important as it is the only organization that extensively
concentrates on the history of the African American
experience in the Roanoke Valley.
Ms. Paynter advised that the recognition of the
Harrison Musuem's ancestry and history is vital to children
who simply have no experience of what the world was like
prior to 1960 when the local schools were integrated,
wherein the Museum tells the story of the past; and the
Museum is now in its 23rd year and looks forward to
becoming a part of the Center in the Square. She thanked the
City of Roanoke for its continuing support.
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Fundraising:
I
John Harlow, Managing Principal of the American
Consulting Trust for Philanthropy, advised that the Center in
the Square was created to be the seat of artistry and culture
with the desire of inspiring a new beginning and awakening
of a new vibrancy in downtown Roanoke.
He added that the funds being requested from the City
of Roanoke was roughly $.15 on the dollar of the total
project costs. The remaining 85 percent of the funds would
be raised in philanthropic support through federal and state
tax credits, with a return of over 500 percent on the
taxpayers dollars. He noted that by funding the project, the
City would not only add to the success and financial
feasibility, it would firmly establish said pivotal action the
community is looking for and would also make the big
picture a reality. He indicated that the total cost of the
proposed project totaled $27 million and the City was being
asked to fund approximately $4 million over multi-years.
Inasmuch as Council Member Wishneff has a personal interest in
the proposed project, he read the following into the record; and
thereafter, removed himself from participating in any discussion
regarding the matter.
I
Comments:
"STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
I, Brian Wish neff, state that I have a personal interest in
agenda item 1 regarding the Center in the Square because of
a business interest. Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code
Section 2.2-3112, I must refrain from participation in this
matter. I ask that the City Clerk accept this statement and
ask that it be made a part of the minutes of this meeting."
(See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Following comments by the Council, the Mayor advised that the
request for funding would be referred to budget study for consideration.
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I
YMCA EXPANSION:
Cal Johnson, Executive Director, YMCA Roanoke Valley, shared a
presentation of a transformation of the YMCA. He also introduced Bill
Kirk, Chair, Capital Campaign, and The Reverend William L. Lee for
additional remarks.
Mr. Kirk advised that the partnership of the City of Roanoke and the
YMCA is great and the YMCA hopes the City will invest in its continued
success, and this is not a request to keep the YMCA operational. He
indicated that the YMCA is efficiently ran and is one of the largest
employers in the City of Roanoke, serving one out of every nine citizens
of Roanoke.
I
Reverend Lee advised that he had the pleasure of acting as a tour
guide while entertaining Jim Caldwell, Assistant Head Coach of the
Indianapolis Colts. While touring the City, Mr. Caldwell called attention to
the Orange Avenue Family Center YMCA, noting that it appeared to be
uninviting. Reverend Lee further advised that the early morning traffic
leading into Orange Avenue west is very heavy and he wondered about
the perception of travelers as they entered the Historic Gainsboro district,
which is a beautiful place. In closing, he hoped that the renovations
would improve the facility, making it inviting as well as attractive at the
intersection of Orange Avenue and Gainsboro Road.
Mr. Johnson highlighted the following information regarding the
YMCA, via powerpoint:
City of Roanoke YMCA Members
· 7,987 Members
· 1,428 Members receiving financial aid
· $366,322.00 in financial aid provided
· 3,492 non-member program participants
Breakdown of Members by Area
I
· Southwest
. Northwest
. Northeast
· Downtown
. Southeast
3,653
1,798
1,243
863
430
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. Northwest
. Southwest
. Northeast
. Downtown
. Southeast
Total
$124,152.00
$ 79,092.00
$ 67,224.00
$ 55,584.00
$ 40,270.00
$366,322.00
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Breakdown of Financial Aid Provided
Financial Aid to City Residents for YMCA Programs
. Family Center YMCA $203,037.00
o Programs include youth sports, Youth Achievers after
school program, summer day camp
. Kirk Family YMCA $60,013.00
o Programs include swim lessons, swim team,
gymnastics, dance, teen activities
. YMCAMagicPlace $160,351.00
o Before and after school age childcare provided at 1 5
Roanoke City elementary schools serving 417 children
every school day
Total
$423,401.00
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Total Financial Aid Provided
. Prog ram s
. Membership
Total
$423,401.00
$366.322.00
$ 789.72 3 .00
Mr. Johnson advised that other than hospitals, the YMCA serves the
most diverse people daily. He indicated that the total cost for the
projects are approximately $2.5 million, adding that the Family Center
expansion will include a green roof, an additional 10,000 square feet of
space, with an anticipated completion date in July. He further advised
that a teen program would be added to provide a social gathering place
for 8 - 11 year olds to hang out with supervision; and the YMCA hopes to
have the Kirk Avenue Center under construction by the end of the
summer.
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In closing, Mr. Johnson pointed out that over 1,000 people enter
the YMCA on a daily basis and citizens of Roanoke are offered half off the
membership fee if they should join the YMCA. He requested assisted
from the City to help to continue the progress of the Grow the YMCA
Campaign that started a few years ago by contributing $200,000.00, per
year, over the next three years.
Comments:
Council Member Lea commended Mr. Johnson for his leadership
and stated that he, as a member, enjoys the atmosphere the Kirk Family
YMCA provides.
Council Member Fitzpatrick commented that the YMCA is one of
the great success stories of the Roanoke Valley and he was in support of
the partnership continuing.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired about the total cost of the two projects;
whereupon, Mr. Johnson advised that the total cost was $2.5 million.
I
Following comments from the Council, Mayor Harris advised the
abovementioned proposal would be referred to budget study for
consideration.
TROLLEY UPDATE:
With the upcoming implementation of the trolley in early August,
the City Manager felt that an update was necessary in order to present
the proposed color scheme and name for the vehicle. She distributed
copies of the "The Star Line" trolley and proposed route.
(See drawings on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. David Morgan, General Manager, Valley Metro, advised that
"The Star Line" would be offered to the public at no charge, running on
10-minute intervals and the route would extend from the Market area to
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
I
The City Manager further advised that the trolley will not have
traditional seating, however there will be a rear door; and Mr. Morgan
interjected that the seating would be wooden slats around the perimeter
of the trolley, which could promote conversation amongst the
passengers. He added that a monitor would be installed inside the trolley
to run commercials of downtown and area activities continuously.
340
Comments:
I
Council Member Mason inquired as to whether or not the trolley
would be handicapped accessible; whereupon, Mr. Morgan replied in the
affirmative.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired as to the maximum occupancy;
whereupon, Mr. Morgan responded that it would allow for 25 to 28
people seated and standing.
Council Member Fitzpatrick asked that consideration be given to
displaying the Roanoke Railway and Electric logo on the side of the
trolley.
Council Member Lea inquired if there were plans to extend the
route; whereupon, the City Manager responded that the original goal is to
keep Reserve Avenue connected to the downtown area as well as to 10
minutes or less. She pointed out that requests have been received asking
that the route be extended, however, the City would prefer to test the
current route first before implementing changes.
The City Manager mentioned that although there will be no charge I
to ride the trolley, she is of the opinion that other parties who will benefit
from the service should assist with the operational costs of the trolley
system, adding that Downtown Roanoke, Inc., had agreed to help bear
some of the anticipated costs.
Council Member Wishneff inquired about the number of vehicles to
be purchased; whereupon, Mr. Morgan responded approximately four
vehicles, three operational and one spare.
Council Member Wishneff inquired if the trolleys could be rented
out on the weekend; whereupon, Mr. Morgan replied that Greater
Roanoke Transit Company was changing their charter and regulations for
special services and that was something that could be explored in the
future.
Council Member Nash inquired about the funding for the project;
whereupon, Mr. Morgan replied that the procurement was 80 percent
federal funds, two percent state funds, and the remainder was City funds.
Council Member Nash inquired about the time frame of purchase;
whereupon, Mr. Morgan noted that the vehicle should be acquired by late I
August or early September.
341
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Council Member Wishneff inquired if the trolleys would have bicycle
racks; whereupon, Mr. Morgan said that the plans did not include bike
racks due to the distance of the route.
Council Member Mason inquired about the colors, noting that they
were not City logo colors; whereupon, the City Manager explained that
GRTC's colors were similar to the City's colors, however, staff was of the
opinion that the vehicle needed to have a distinctive look to be
successful.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired as to expansion of the trolley services;
whereupon, the City Manager advised that there is a cost associated with
expansion and more funds would be needed to operate.
In closing, Mr. Morgan called attention to the photo of the newly
designed bus shelter located in front of the Human Services Building on
Williamson Road, which was distributed to the Council.
PROPOSED ADVERTISING POLICY:
I
The City Manager advised that while studying publications of other
communities, the possibility of advertising in City publications was
suggested by staff. She added that advertisements could also be placed
on fences at Parks and Recreation events, as well as the arms on the
parking garages. She noted that the presentation was to receive
feedback from the Council regarding implementation of an advertising
policy.
She pointed out that due to budget cuts over the past several years,
staff has decreased the frequency of some City publications, however,
positive feedback has been received regarding the value of the
publications.
Discussion:
Council Member Nash inquired about the financial impact on the
City; whereupon, the City Manager replied that said information is not
available, only what other localities were allowing in their publications.
I
Council Member Mason suggested the use of the City's web page;
whereupon, the City Manager responded that the web page is not defined
as a publication tool and she would prefer to start with a written
advertisement policy and if future discussion regarding other ideas of
advertising was desired, a presentation could be provided at a later date.
342
Council Member Mason inquired about the cost and number of
publications being offered by the City; whereupon, the City Manager I
replied that the City offers the City Magazine, an annual report, internal
publications, the City calendar, and with regard to cost, she would
forward the information to the Council.
Mayor Harris concurred with several members of Council in support
of an advertisement policy. He pointed. out that approximately $4.6
million was requested from Center in the Square and YMCA, noting that
advertising could increase revenue by becoming a revenue source.
Following discussion, Mayor Harris advised that it was the
consensus of the Council to allow the City Manager to move forward with
the advertisement policy and follow up with additional information at a
later date.
WASENA PARK ACCESSIBILITY:
The City Manager advised that the presentation regarding Wasena
Park Accessibility was a follow up to questions asked about the shelter
accessibility in connection with the Roanoke River Flood Reduction
Project.
In response to the questions asked at the public hearing, Jay Witt, I
Civil Engineer II, advised that access to the southern shelter has not been
altered by the project and the distance from the northern shelter to the
parking lot is approximately 200 yards.
He referenced the following two options to increase access to the
northern shelter:
Scenario C
. Two-way drive, approximately 18 feet wide connecting to a parking
area 50 yards from the existing shelter.
. Allowing patrons to drive in and park their vehicles, drop off
supplies, and walk to existing shelter.
. Estimated cost would be approximately $140,000.00.
. Informal parking along the sides of the road is to be expected In
the summer months.
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Scenario B
· Approximately nine-foot drive lane, smaller than scenario C.
· Cul-de-sac located at the end to drop off picnic supplies, 50 yards
from the existing shelter.
· Estimated cost approximately $40,000.00.
Discussion:
Council Member Mason inquired about handicap accessibility to the
shelter; whereupon, Mr. Witt explained that there were handicap parking
spaces and the drive to the shelter was paved for accessibility.
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired about the construction of a
wooden shelter versus a stone building; whereupon, Mr. Whitt suggested
that the City allow patrons to use the park before making a decision to
construct an additional shelter.
Mayor Harris recommended that the City monitor the situation for
about two years.
I
Council Member Nash also suggested that the traffic at the shelter
be actively monitored.
The City Manager advised that staff would document usage and
report findings to Council within six to eight months.
RESIDENTIAL PARKING POLICY:
The City Manager advised that due to the significant increase in
residents in the downtown area, she was of the opinion that it is
important to review the policy and identify the impact on availability of
City garages and possibly revise the policy; and feedback from Council is
needed so that any proposed changes may be brought back to the
Council for adoption at its April 21st meeting.
I
Debbie Moses, Hotel Roanoke Conference Center, Director of
Operating Expenses, advised that the proposed program will allow only
one unreserved parking permit, at no charge, for an occupant within the
service area, subject to availability; and qualified residents could
purchase an additional parking permit at 50 percent of the posted rate.
She further advised that the program would continue offering unreserved
permits with the exception of the dwellings physically connected to the
parking structure, such as the Jefferson and Campbell dwelling, whereby
344
those residents will be offered a reserved space and can purchase an
additional parking space at 50 percent of the posted rate. She indicated I
that the residents currently receive two spaces, and new residents
entering the program will be asked to pay a $25.00 processing fee; and a
$10.00 charge for a key card will remain, as well as shortening the
program term to two years beginning April 1, 2008 through March 31,
2010.
The City Manager interjected that other spaces are rented to
patrons on a 1 2-hour basis as opposed to the residents who are allowed
24-hour parking.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if the Downtown Roanoke, Inc.
Residence Committee had been informed about the proposed changes;
whereupon, the City Manager explained that the Executive Director was
invited to the informal session.
REVENUE UPDATE FY 2008-2009:
The City Manager advised that on April 12, staff will present the
City's budget for fiscal year 2009, emphasizing that this budget has been
the most complicated she has had to work with, which will. include
various changes that will affect citizens and government. She further
advised that changes in the State budget may cause the City's budget to
be reconfigured before April 12th adoption.
I
The Director of Finance highlighted the following information:
Financial Performance Overview
FY 2008 Revenue
. Overall revenue (through February) increased 6.3 percent
compared to FY 2007
. General property taxes increase 6 percent
. Other local taxes increase 5 percent in the aggregate
o Business License Tax was due March 1, revenue below the
current year estimate, but approximately 1.4 percent
higher than FY 2008
o Sales tax down3.8 percent
o Transient Occupancy tax up 5.2 percent
o Prepared food tax up 4.1 percent
o Cigarette tax up 39.1 percent
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· Permits, Fees, and Licenses increased 46.1 percent
o Due to increase in building inspection permit fees
· Intergovernmental (Grants in Aid Commonwealth) up 11.5
percent
o Due to increase in Social Service expenditures, primarily
foster care, which are reimbursable.
o State budget reductions will have an impact of
$362,000.00
o Additional state reductions anticipated in FY 2009
Mr. Hall pointed out that the current budget is approximately $253
million, wherein 3/4 is from local taxes and 1/4 is from State revenues.
The Director of Management and Budget advised that a number of
strategies have been put in place to ensure that the City stays within its
budget. He highlighted the following information:
I
Expense Containment Strategies
· Reserving position turnover savings and contingency funds to
address identified expenditure issues
· Frozen expenditures in the following categories (Departments
that report to the City Manager):
o Training and development
o Business meals
o Expendable equipment
· Frozen the filling of positions (Departments that report to the
City Manager) unless designated authorization given
o Public Safety positions excluded
· Deferring on selected capital maintenance expenses
· Primarily in Fleet Replacement and Technology Capital Projects
· Reallocating funding within department budgets to address
expenditure issues
· Some of the aforementioned strategies carry forward to FY 2009
to facilitate budget balancing
Council Member Nash inquired about the makeup of the cigarette
tax; whereupon, the Director of Finance explained that there are local,
federal, and state taxes on cigarettes. He also inquired if the collection of
the tax was dedicated to the expenditure; whereupon, the City Manager
explained that in Virginia, taxes could not be dedicated, but, funding
could be used for different purposes.
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346
At 11 :50 a.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be I
reconvened at 12:00 p.m., for a joint meeting of the Council and the
Economic Development Authority in Room 159.
At 12:25 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in Room 159, for a
joint meeting of Council and the Economic Development Authority, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris. and Vice-Chairman Charles E. Hunter, III,
presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash,
Sherman P. Lea, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., David B. Trinkle, Brian J.
Wishneff, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris------mm----mm-m--m-.--m----m---m--7.
ABS ENT: Non e------------------- n___________________nnn______________________________ O.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEMBERS PRESENT:
F. Gordon Hancock, Stuart H. Revercomb, A. Damon Williams, and Vice-
Ch ai rm an, Ch arl e s E. Hunte r, 111--m-------------m----m---------m---------------m--4.
Den n i t:~~~~~ k~~~~-~~~~-~--~~-~~~--~:--~~~~~:--~~m~-~~~-~--~~~~-~--~-~~--=-~~~~~~~ I
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager, William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy
City Clerk.
Representing the Economic Development Authority: Harwell Darby,
Secretary; and Brian Brown, Director of Economic Development.
ANNUAL REPORTS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT-INDUSTRIES: On
behalf of the Members of Council, the Mayor welcomed Directors and
staff of the Economic Development Authority.
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On behalf of the Chairman, Vice-Chairman Hunter presented an
Annual Report for fiscal year 2006/2007 and an Interim Report as of
April 1, 2008. He highlighted activities of the Economic Development
Authority for fiscal year 2006/2007; and he commented that the EDA
looked forward to continuing its close partnership in economic
development with the City of Roanoke and stands ready to work as a full
economic development partner with other members of the City's team.
He also shared information with regard to the FY 2007 Facade Grant
Summary Report as of April 1, 2008, and the Entrepreneurial District.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired about the expansion of the Facade
Program; whereupon, the Director of Economic Development advised that
the program will require additional funds.
I
Council Member Nash inquired about the source of facade funding
and if other funding sources were available; whereupon, Mr. Brown
advised that the funding was approved by the Council. Mr. Revercomb
added that there was a cost associated with bonds that come through the
EDA. Mr. D"arby indicated that the annual income of the EDA was
approximately $150,000.00, resulting from the cost associated with the
revenue bonds.
Council Member Wishneff inquired if the EDA charged for carrying
out performance agreements; whereupon, Mr. Darby advised that no
charge is assessed by the EDA, however, those who benefit from the
agreements must pay attorney fees.
Council Member Wishneff suggested that the EDA give
consideration to charging for services rendered in connection with the
performance agreements in order to receive additional revenue; that a
partnership be created with DRI with regard to the former Heironimus
building on the corner of Jefferson Street and Church Avenue.
Mr. Brown announced that the Entrepreneurial Express would be
held on May 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at Virginia Western
Community College to unveil the Entrepreneurial Program.
There being no additional questions or comments by the Council,
Mayor Harris complimented the EDA on its many accomplishments.
I
At 1 :20 p.m., the Vice-Chairman declared the Economic
Development Authority meeting adjourned.
348
At 1 :20 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess to
be immediately reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
I
At 2:00 p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened in the Council
Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Harris
presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash,
David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.,
Sherman P. Lea, and Mayor C. Nelson Harrism--nu---m------------n----------m7.
ABS E NT: Non e n_________n__________________u_____________u_______________________--u-o .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; Timothy
Spencer, Assistant City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Beverly T.
Fitzpatrick, Jr.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting
(2:01p.m.).
I
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
UNITED STATES ARMY RESERVE: Council Member Fitzpatrick
offered the following resolution:
(#38047-040708) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to the United
States Army Reserve on its 1 OOth anniversary.
(For full text of Resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 215.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38047-040708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrisnm--m------m---m--------------m----m---------7.
NAYS: Non e _n_________________n__n_____________n__________u______n_________n-------0.
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A ceremonial copy of Resolution No. 38047-040708 was presented
to Michael F. Kavanaugh, Army Reserve Ambassador for Virginia.
PROCLAMATIONS: The Mayor presented a ceremonial copy of a
proclamation declaring the week of April 13 -19, 2008, as National Public
Safety Telecommunicator's Week to Roy Mentkow, Director, Department
of Technology.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent
Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and
would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the
Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on
Tuesday, January 22, 2008, were before the body.
(For full text, see minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council dispense with the reading of
the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harris-mu--m-mm-m-mm---m--m-----m----m--_7.
NAYS: No n en---___________nn____________nn_____________nn______n__n_______--n-nO.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: A communication from Jesse A. Hall
tendering his resignation as the Director of Finance of the City of
Roanoke, effective July 1, 2008, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harris--nm---nmmm--mmm---mm___n__nn______7.
NAYS: Non e ______________n_n__________________________________________________-----n---O.
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CITY PROPERTY-EASEMENTS: A communication from the City I
Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday,
April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, to consider the vacation of a City drainage easement along
property located at 3726 Thirlane Road, N. W., was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harris-m--m--m---mm-mnnn-mmn---nmm-----7.
NAYS: Non e_n_______________u________nn___________n________u________ -------------u-o.
SALE/PURCHASE OF PROPERTY: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday,
April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, to consider the sale of City-owned land located in Roanoke County,
was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harris--m--num--m-m------mmn---nmnm--------7.
NAYS: Non e nn___________________________u________n____u_____________________n_______O.
PARKS (CARVINS COVE): A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday, April 21,
2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to
consider the granting of a conservation easement over City-owned
property located in the Carvin's Cove Natural Reserve, was before the
body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Lea and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitz patri ck, Lea an d Mayo r H arri s mmmm___nm____nn__m__nm___nmm___nn 7 .
NAYS: Non e--n--n--nnn________n______n_nn_____n_n__nn_________n___---n-----O.
CITY COUNCIL-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM-
LIBRARIES-PARKS AND RECREATION: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals, were before the Council:
Alvin L. Nash as a Member of the Council of the City
of Roanoke, for a term commencing April 1, 2008 and
ending June 30, 2010;
I
Jacqueline F. Ward Talevi as a City representative to
the Court Community Corrections Program, Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board, to fill the
unexpired term of Julian H. Raney, Jr., ending June 30,
2008.
Herbert D. McBride as a member of the Roanoke
Public Library Board, for a term ending June 30, 2010.
Thomas Pettigrew as a member of the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board, for a term ending
March 31,2011.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrismmmm-n----m-m_mnn__nm___mmnnnu 7.
NAYS: Non e ----n--unnnn________n____________n___un______n______n___n__---n--O.
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REGULAR AGENDA
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PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
HEAL TH-SCHOOLS-YOUTH: Ken Mundy, Interim Director, Roanoke
Adolescent Health Partnership, highlighted the following information:
Teen Risks
. Depression/stress
. Low self-esteem
. Substance abuse
. STD's
. Pregnancy
. High-risk behaviors
. School drop-outs
. Pove rty
. Obesity/eating disorders
. Violence/homicide/suicide
2007 YRBS Results Roanoke City I
. 57.1 % of 10th and 12th graders have had sex
. 12.5% have had sex before age 13
. 24.6% had 5 or more drinks in the last 30 days
. 17.9% seriously considered suicide in the last 12 months
. 13.7% actually attempted suicide in the last 12 months
. 27% of teens visiting the RAHP Teen Centers do not have
health insurance
. 33.4% of 8th have had sex
. 23.4% have had sex before age 1 3
. 30.5% had their first drink before age 13
. 29% rode in a car driven by someone drinking alcohol
. 19.9% seriously considered suicide in the last 12 months
. 9.5% actually attempted suicide in the last 12 months
The RAHP Mission
. RAHP is dedicated to improving the lives of teenagers by
providing free easily-accessible comprehensive health care
services.
. RAHP united parents, teens, health care providers, and
community members for the purpose of addressing the I
emotional and physical needs of teens, on an individual. and
group basis.
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RAHP
· Not-for-profit organization
· History of providing comprehensive health care with no out
of pocket expense to adolescents for 16 years.
· Certified staff includes medical doctors, nurse practitioners,
registered nurses, and clinic assistant.
RAHP Teen Health Clinic Locations
· Patrick Henry High School, on campus site
· William Fleming/William Ruffner Schools, on campus site
· Hurt Park Clinic, community site
RAHP Eligibility
· Any adolescent, age 10-19, is eligible to use RAHP's Teen
Health Clinics with written parental consent on file.
· There is no out of pocket expense for any adolescent, parent,
or family. As part of the Roanoke City Health Department
policy, all services provided are billed to insurance.
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RAHP Partners
· Roanoke City Health Department
· Private funding
· Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority
· Roanoke City Public Schools
. Donations
RAHP Staff
· 1 Executive Director
· 1 Administrative Secretary III
· 3 Medical doctors
· 3 Nurse practitioners (2 p,art-time)
· 1 Public health nurse (part-time)
· 2 Health educators (1 part-time)
· 3 Clinic assistants (1 unfunded vacancy)
· 2 Secretaries (1 part-time)
Budget
· Total FY 2008 $618,584.00
· FY 2008 Cash $358,484.00
· FY 2008 In-kind $260,100.00
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Funding Sources
. Billing Revenue - $110,000.00
. State Teen Pregnancy Prevention Grant - $78,000.00
. Carilion - Barnhart Fund - $ 50,000.00
. City of Roanoke/Roanoke City public Schools - $25,000.00
. Human Services Committee - $24,000.00
. Thurman Foundation - $1 5,000.00
. Foundation for the Roanoke Valley - $26,000.00
. Corporate Funding - $18,000.00
. United Way - $4,000.00
. Special events and individual contributions - $8,000.00
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Services offered by RAHP
. Illness and injury treatment
. Prescriptions
. Sports physicals
. Immunizations
. Family planning
RAHP Priorities
. Prevention
. Acute care
. Health maintenance
. Health education
. Chronic care
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RAHP Current Statistics/Unduplicated Teen Health Clinic Patients
. FY 2004 - 2,138
. FY 2005 - 2,488
. FY 2006 - 2,770
. FY 2007 - 3,001
Total Number of Teen Health Clinic Visits
. FY 2004 - 4,686
. FY 2005 - 5,339
. FY 2006 - 5,445
. FY 2007 - 5,798
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FY 2007 V" b T
dC
ISltS IV vpe an enter
Patrick Hurt Park Fleming/Ruffner Off-s ite Total
Henrv
Child Health 849 1 ,409 917 - 3,175
Family 169 740 208 - 1,117
Planninq
Immunization 61 184 96 - 341
STD 60 69 109 - 238
Mental Health 46 11 65 - 122
Health 200 1 5 349 - 564
Education
Phvsicals - - - 241 241
RAHP Honors & Awards
· 2006 Small Business Award Nominee
· 2004 Community Partner with Greatest In-kind Support,
Roanoke City Public Schools
· 2000 National Premier Cares Award - 3rd best non-profit in
the nation
· 2000 Merit Award - National Association of Housing and
Redevelopment Officials
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RAHP Future Goals
· Hurt Park full time clinic
· Increase access to care for adolescents
· Increase percentage of parents returning consent forms at
school clinics
· Increase visibility and promotion of adolescent health care
· Diversify and increase funding source
· Increase service to counties throughout the Roanoke Valley
· Increase advocacy for adolescents
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Discussion:
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if there was a new site for a health
clinic at Patrick Henry High School and whether there would be a site at
the new William Fleming High School; whereupon, Mr. Mundy noted that a
health clinic was located at Patrick Henry, with a school nurse, as well as
a site at the new William Fleming High School.
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Council Member Mason inquired as to what RAHP was doing to I
promote the clinics; whereupon, Mr. Mundy replied that RAHP has a
website and a cable commercial which is aired by 'RVTV, and added that
most of the promotion is through direct contacts of students. Ms. Mason
suggested creation of a link from the Roanoke City Public Schools website
to the RAHP website.
Mr. Mundy indicated that one of the goals of RAHP is to increase
awareness in order to possibly lower the statistics of children between
the ages of 10 -19, which has a pregnancy rate of 60 percent.
Council Member Nash inquired as to the policy for providing
services to adolescents without parental consent, but may need services;
whereupon, Mr. Mundy indicated that without a consent form on file,
services cannot be rendered and the child is referred to the health
department or a doctor.
Following discussion, the Mayor expressed appreciation to Mr.
Mundy for his presentation regarding the Roanoke Adolescent
Partnership (RHAP).
AIRPORT-BUDGET: The Executive Director of the Roanoke Regional I
Airport transmitted the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission Fiscal Year
2008-2009 Budget and Proposed Capital Expenditures for approval,
advising that the Budget was adopted by the Commission at its meeting
on March 20, 2008, and a listing of capital expenditures were expected
to exceed $100,000.00 in cost and were intended to benefit five or more
future accounting periods. She also noted that no deficit is anticipated in
either the Operating Budget or for the capital expenditures; and
therefore, no additional appropriations were being requested or
anticipated from the City or the County of Roanoke.
(See communication and attachments I and II on file in the City Clerk's
Office.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired about passenger accessibility
from the commuter service area; whereupon, the Executive Director
remarked that three years ago, all four jet bridges at the Airport were
updated and a new generation of jet bridges were being considered.
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Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following resolution:
(#38048-40708) A RESOLUTION approving the Roanoke Regional
Airport Commission's 2008-2009 proposed operating and capital budget
upon certain terms and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 216.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38048-040708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrisnm--------n-m--m---mn-m-___mmmm_mn 7.
NAYS: No n e-n-----nnnn____nn_n____________nn___n______n_nn__u__nn_nnn-0.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAG ER:
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BRIEFINGS:
CITY COUNCIL-CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The City Manager
submitted a communication advising of the City's intent to request an
exception from the Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) conflict-of-interest provisions due to the appointment of Alvin L.
Nash as a Member of Council.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mayor Harris read the following statement into the record:
I
"The appointment of Mr. Nash to Council will necessitate the
application by the City, to the United States Department of Housing
and Urban Development for an exception of HUD's conflict of
interest provisions. Mr. Nash of course is President and Chief
Executive Officer of Blue Ridge Housing Development Corporation
which receives substantial Community Development Block Grant
and HOME Investment Partnerships Program sub-grants from the
City each year which are funded by HUD. HUD's regulations
generally would prohibit the City from awarding a sub-grant to an
organization such as Blue Ridge Housing if anyone who benefits
from the proceeds of such sub-grant, such as, by a contract of
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employment or any other financial interest or benefit is an elected
or appointed official of the City. HUD's regulations do provide for a I
process; however, whereby HUD may grant an exception to this
provision after consideration of a number of factors. The City will
apply to HUD for an exception giving notice of this publicly is a
requirement of HUD regulations."
He also noted that Mr. Nash was aware of the requirement before
his appointment.
There being no objection by the Council, the item was received and
filed and considered part of the official record.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT-COLONIAL GREEN: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending execution of
Amendment No.2 to the agreement for development of Colonial Green.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(#38049-040708) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for the Development of
Colonial Green dated December 27, 2007, such amendment No.2 to be
entered into by the City and Colonial Green, L. c.; and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of Ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 217.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38049-040708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrismm--m----mmmmm--------m-----mmmm7.
NAYS: No n e_n_nnnn________n____nn______n___n____________________n_______-------0.
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MARKET GARAGE: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending execution of Change Order No. 1 with
Alan L. Amos, Inc., for the removal of pre-cast panels from the Market
Garage.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38050-040708) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager's
issuance and execution of a Change Order to the City's contract with
Alan L. Amos, Inc., for a reduction, in the amount of work and contract
amount, for the removal of precast panels at Market Garage; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this Ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 218.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38050-040708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrismm-m--mm--mm------mm--mm_m__m___7.
NAYS: Non e ---_____________________u___________________ ----------------------------------0.
BRIDGES-CONSERVATION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of funds from the United
States Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources Conservation
Service for replacement of the Wiley Drive Upstream Low Water Bridge;
and approval of the Conservation Program Contract.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
I
(#38051-040708) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a
U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP)
Funds grant for the replacement of the Wiley Drive Upstream Low Water
Bridge; approving certain WHIP contract documents; and authorizing the
City Manager to execute any necessary documents or agreements to
receive, implement, and administer such grant.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 219.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38051-040708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harris__m__________m___ummmm_mu___u_muuuu7.
NAYS: Non e -------------------------- ____u___u_u_u uuuu___u__u___________________o .
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
I
(#38052-040708) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
United States Department of Agriculture and the Natural Resources
Conservation Service to the Wiley Drive Upstream Low Water Bridge
Replacement project, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2007-2008 Capital Projects Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 220.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38052-040708. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrism_mom_ummmmmm__m_mm_mm__m__7.
Nt\'(S: N()l1e-------------------------------------------------------------------------------().
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DIRECTOR OF FINANCE:
FINANCIAL REPORT: The Director of Finance transmitted the
Financial Report for the month of February 2008, advising that the City of
Roanoke's adopted budget for fiscal year 2008 totals $252.6 million,
representing a 5.4 percent increase over the adopted budget for fiscal
year 2007; budgeted revenue growth results from a projected increase in
Real Estate and Personal Property tax revenues, as well as projected
growth in various local taxes including sales tax, business license tax,
and prepared food and beverage tax; and the aforementioned growth has
been allocated to provide more funding to the Roanoke City Public
Schools, for capital maintenance and equipment replacement, to enhance
services to citizens, and to fund salary increases for employees.
I
Furthermore, Mr. Hall advised that the fiscal year 2008 budget
provides for greater social services program funding and the resources
necessary to meet the current year's debt service requirements; the City
had no major tax due dates in January or February; business license tax
was due March 1; as of to date, it has increased 1.4 percent over the prior
fiscal year; and he provided commentary on notable variances in revenues
and expenditures for the first eight months of fiscal year 2008.
(For full text, see copy of Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's
Office.)
There being no objection by the Council, the Financial Report was
received and filed.
TAXES: The Director of Finance submitted a written report
recommending adoption of Tax Year 2008 Personal Property Tax Relief
Percentage.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38053-040708) A RESOLUTION setting the allocation percentage
for personal property tax relief in the City of Roanoke for the 2008 tax
year.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 221.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38053-
040708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
362
Mr. Robert Gravely, 3060 Hershberger Road, appeared before I
Council and indicated that based on the percentage rate, the City of
Roanoke was facing a lot of debt.
There being no questions and/or comments by Council Members,
Resolution No. 38053-040708 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrism-nm-nm-m-mnm---n-------m--mn-m----7.
NAYS: No n e__________________________nnnnn_nn_n___nn_nnn__________________---0.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES: Council having tabled the matter of
conveyance of City-owned property located at Countryside Golf Course to
Newbern Properties, LLC, for expansion of a heating and air conditioning
company, at its regular meeting held on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, and
laid over to be heard at its regular meeting on Monday, March 17, 2008,
the matter was again before the body.
Council Member Mason offered a motion to have the matter
removed from the table for reconsideration. The motion was seconded
by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and unanimously adopted.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38054-040708) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute the necessary documents providing for the conveyance of a
portion of Official Tax Map No. 6472302, located at Countryside Golf
Course, to Newbern Properties, LLC., and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 222.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38054-
040708. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
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Ms. Valerie Garner, 2264 Mattaponi Drive, N. W., appeared before
Council in opposition of the recommendation to convey City-owned
property to Newbern Properties, LLC, for expansion of a heating and air
conditioning company and requested that the matter be tabled again to
allow ample time to receive plans from Trane as to what the proposed
building site would look like. She urged the Council not to convey the
property to Newbern Properties, but instead, use the funds towards
maintaining the golf course.
Council Member Wishneff suggested that the Council review the
plans; whereupon, the City Manager advised that City staff had already
reviewed the drawings and based on said review, the hole used on the
golf course would not be affected.
The Economic Development Administrator added that the stakes at
the golf course were approximately 25 feet away from the hole; and
therefore, would not affect play.
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Alton Prillaman, Attorney representing Newbern Properties, advised
that the building in question would not affect the play on the golf course,
that it would only be an extension of the existing building.
Council Member Nash advised that he was briefed on the
expansion and he too noticed that it was an extension of the building
currently in place; that he visited the site to measure the distance from
the green and he too was of the opinion that the extension of the
building would not affect play on the course.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38054-040708 was adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Mason, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff,
Fitzpatrick, Lea and Mayor Harrism-mmm-mn-mmn-mnmnm_______m__m_7.
NAYS: Non e--------------------------------n--n------n_________n_________________nn-0.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
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364
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
I
ROANOKE VALLEY ALLEGHANY-REGIONAL STORMWATER
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE: Vice-Mayor Trinkle, City's representative to
the Roanoke Valley Alleghany-Regional Stormwater Management
Committee, advised that the Committee is interested in attending a
Council work session in either Mayor June 2008 to discuss updates
pertaining to new federal guidelines.
CELEBRATIONS: Council Member Lea commended the City on its
efforts in connection with an event that was held on Friday, April 4, 2008,
which was sponsored by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference
(SCLC) in recognition of the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr., and he noted that the City was presented an award from
SCLC. He also called attention to several dignitaries and clergy who were
in attendance who spoke on race relations.
CITY EMPLOYEES: Council Member Fitzpatrick recognized City
employees who participated in the City's Annual Talent Show Contest
held on Friday, April 4, 2008, and expressed appreciation to the City
employees for sharing their talents with others. He also commended City
staff for supporting the employees.
CLEAN VALLEY DAY: Council Member Mason expressed
appreciation to those citizens who supported and participated in the
Clean Valley Day on Saturday, April 5, 2008.
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CELEBRATIONS: Mayor Harris also expressed appreciation to the
SCLC on its presentation to the City in recognition of the 40th Anniversary
of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., which was presented on Friday,
April 4, 2008, at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Monument.
HEARING OF, CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised
that Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and
matters requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred
immediately for response, recommendation or report to Council.
SCHOOLS-YOUTH: Mr. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road,
N. W., appeared before the Council and spoke about the presentation that
was given earlier during the meeting by Mr. Ken Mundy, regarding the
Roanoke Adolescent Partnership (RAHP).
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POLICE: Mr. Shaheed Omar, 1219 Loudon Avenue, N. W., appeared
before the Council and expressed concern with regard to police brutality
and the Police Department's Disciplinary Review Board.
Council Member Lea remarked that he met with the City Manager
and the Chief of Police with regard to concerns expressed by Mr. Omar
and requested that the City Manager provide the Council with a brief
overview of the Disciplinary Review Board process.
Mayor Harris requested that the City Manager forward information
with regard to the Disciplinary Review Committee to the Council and Mr.
Shaheed Omar, as well as provide the Council with a general overview of
the Review Committee and the process at a future work session.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
I
CLEAN VALLEY COMMITTEE: The City Manager also shared
comments with regard to the Clean Valley Day event that was held on
Saturday, April 5, 2008.
CELEBRATIONS-LlBRARIES-GRANTS: Ms. Burcham announced that
the Annual Citizens Appreciation Day would be held on Saturday,
April 19, 2008 at Valley View Mall from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., and the
theme for this year's celebration is "Clean and Green". She presented
each Member of Council with a recyclable tote bag from the Libraries
Division that would be distributed at the Citizen Appreciation Day to the
first 100 citizens.
In addition, she announced that the City applied for and received
two Brownfield grants, in the amount of $200,000.00, each; and she
announced that the library kiosk in Valley View Mall received a second
place award. .
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Furthermore, the City Manager announced that Cameron Johnson, a
Roanoke resident, was selected as a finalist in "Oprah's Big Give" to be
aired on Sunday, April 20, 2008, noting that the show will provide
footage of Mr. Johnson traveling through the City and approximately 11
million people will have the opportunity to see the City of Roanoke on
television. She indicated that free viewing of the show was being offered
by the Civic Center on a big screen at 8:00 p.m. Lastly, Ms. Burcham
pointed out that donations were being accepted for the Jobs for Virginia
Graduates Program.
366
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the Council I
meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~m.h1o~
Stephanie M. Moon, CMe
City Clerk
c .
. . a--vVYQ
c. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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367
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR SESSION
APRIL 21, 2008
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
April 21, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, Citv Council,
Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, ReQular Meetings, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No.3 7817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Member Alvin L. Nash, David B. Trinkle, Brian J.
Wishneff (arrived late), Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, and
Mayo r C. N e I so n H arri s --~-----------------------------------------------------------------------------6.
ABSENT: Council Members Beverly T. Fitzpatrick Jr.m-------------m----------1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Cecelia R. Tyree,
Assistant Deputy City Clerk; and Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
CONSENT AGENDA - NONE.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
At this point, Council Member Wishneff arrived at the meeting
(2:05 p.m.).
368
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson Harris
recommending adoption of a travel and expenditure policy for use by the I
Council.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
> Council Member Mason moved that the Council approve the travel and
expenditure policy as recommended by the Mayor. The motion was seconded
by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted.
BUDGET-CABLE TELEVISION: Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle, City Council's
representative to the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee,
submitted a written report recommending approval of the proposed RVTV
Budget for the Fiscal Year 2008-2009.
(For full text, see document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38055-042108) A RESOLUTION approving the recommendation of the
Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee to approve the annual
operating budget for Fiscal Year 2008-2009 for the operation of the regional
government and educational access station, Roanoke Valley Television (RVTV I
Channel 3), and for the City to provide partial funding.
(For full text of Resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, No. 223.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38055-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Elaine Bays, RVTV Cable Access Director, appeared before the Council
and presented brief remarks with regard to activities by RVTV Channel 3.
Council Member Lea expressed appreciation to Ms. Bays on the
presentation.
There being no additional questions/comments by the Council
Members, Resolution No. 38055-042108 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Nonen----n--nn----un----------n-----u--------------------n----____nn____n______O.
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(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
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BUDGET-ROANOKE VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: Daniel D. Miles,
P. E., Chief Executive Officer, submitted a written communication
recommending approval of the proposed 2008-2009 Roanoke Valley Resource
Authority Annual Budget.
(For full text, see document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkl'e offered the following resolution:
(#38056-042108) A RESOLUTION approving the annual budget of the
Roanoke Valley Resource Authority for Fiscal Year 2008-2009, upon certain
terms and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 225.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38056-
0421 08. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Non e--nn------n----______n_______nnn____________n______nn________-nnnn--n___O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
BUDGET-CLERK OF COURTS: The Honorable Brenda S. Hamilton, Clerk of
Circuit Court, submitted a written communication recommending acceptance
of funds from the State Compensation Board; and the City Manager submitted
a written communication concurring in the recommendation.
(For full text, see communications on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38057-042108) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board Technology Trust Fund for
Supreme Court of Virginia fees for upgrades, maintenance, and other charges
lin the Office of Circuit Court Clerk, amending and reordaining certain sections
iof the 2007-2008 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
ireading by title of this ordinance.
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!(FOr full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 225.)
370
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38057-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Non e__nn______nnn______n____n___________nn______________ ----n-------------n-----O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
EQUIPMENT: The City Manager submitted a written communication
advising that an emergency procurement has been approved for HVAC
services through Southern Air to perform the necessary repair, cleaning and
testing of the HVAC ductwork system in the Commonwealth Building.
She advised that the communication was being submitted for
informational purposes and no official action by the Council was necessary.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
BRIEFINGS:
BUDGET: The City Manager called upon Sherman M. Stovall, Director,
Office of Management and Budget, and Ann H. Shawver, Deputy Director of
Finance, to present the City of Roanoke's Fiscal Year 2008-2009
Recommended Budget.
The following information was shared with regard to the FY 2008-2009
Budget:
17
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Focus Areas
· Education
· Public Safety
· Economic Development
· Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization
· Recreation and Culture
· Public Health and Welfare
· Efficient and Effective Service Delivery
I
FY 2008-09 Budget
· Recommended budget is balanced
· Budget Totals $259,894,000
· Increase of $7,379,000
· Includes recommendation to adjust several
rates and fees
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371
2
3
372
"I>'
General Fund Revenue Summary
I
Revenue Increase $7,379,000
+2.9%
Local Revenue $4,925,000
+2.6%
State Revenue* $2,454,000
+3.7%
State revenue growth reflected in Human Services/Social Services
category. Other State aid categories reflect a reduction in funding.
4
Local Revenues
FY 2,008-09 FY 2008-09
$ Change % Change
Total Local Revenues $4,925,000 2.6%
Real Estate $3,631,000 4.9%
Personal Property $941,000 5.2%
Consumer Utility $528,000 5.9%
Cigarette $244,000 8.4%
Recordation $125,000 11.1%
Transient Occupancy $136,000 4.9%
Prepared Food $41 0,000 3.5%
Telecommunications $722,000 9.9%
Sales Tax ($1,310,000) (5.8%)
Business License ($430,000) (3.2%)
Other Local Taxes $300,000 4.3%
Other Local Revenues ($372,000) (2.4%)
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, State Revenues
FY 2008-09 FY 2008-09
$ Change % Change
Total Intergovernmental Revenues $2,454,000 3.7%
Human/Social Services $3,529,000 13.2%
Non-Categorical ($104,000) ( I. I %)
(Personal Property Tax Relief,
Recordation, ABClWine, Rolling Stock,
Rental Car)
Shared Expenses ($453,000) (4.8%)
(Constitutional Officers)
Categorical ($518,000) (2.5%)
Oail Per Diems, HB 599, Street
Maintenance, library, VJCCCA)
6
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Rate/Fee Adjustments
Rate/Fee Current Proposed
Business License
Contractors $.14 $.16
Real Estate - Appraiser/Broker $.47 $.58
(Per $100 of gross receipts)
Motor Vehicle License - Motorcycle $8 $15
Moped Registration $5 $15
Courthouse Security Fee $5 $10
Fire Engine Standby Fee $0 $100
per hour
EMS Standby Fee $35 $50
per hoUJ
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373
374
'r
Rate/Fee Adjustments
I
Rate/Fee Current Proposed
EMS Fee
Basic Life Support $300 $350
Advanced Life Support 1 $360 $450
Advanced Life Support 2 $550 .$600
Cigarette Tax Penalty $0 $.0135
(Per cigarette)
Land Disturbing Permit $0 $100+
$50 per acre
Fire Lane Violation $33 $50
Fire Hydrant Violation $33 $50
8
General Fund Expenditure Summary
· Revenue Increase of $7,379,000
· Schools - $1,960,829
I
· Employee Compensation/Benefits - $2,159,937
· Debt Service/Cash Funded Capital - $1,262,022
· Maintain Existing Services - $6,771,289
. With offsetting revenue, net incremental cost of $2,855,818
· Enhanced Services - $296,413
· Budget Reductions - ($5,071,490)
9
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Local Share - School Funding
· Increase of $1.960,829 or 3.2%
· Based on current formula of 36.42% of adjusted local
taxes - $1,460,829 and additional $500.000 based on
Mayor's proposed initiative to provide additional
$2.5 million over five years
· Total operating transfer of $63.347,461
· City supported debt service of $6,765.620
· Total support (operating/debt service) - 27% of
General Fund budget
Employee Compensation and Benefits
I
· Employee Compensation - $2,159.937
· Pay increase of 2.0% of current salary - $1,716,554
- Salary survey indicates salaries are approximately
4.71 % behind First Cities jurisdictions
· Maintenance Worker Hiring Adjustment - $66,743
. 61 Maintenance Worker and Maintenance Technician I
positions
· Reserve for anticipated increase in medical
insurance - $376,640
11
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375
10
376
Debt Service and Cash Funded Capital
Equipment Replacement and Maintenance
I
· Additional Debt Service Funding - $570,000
· Multi-year plan to build debt service funding for
bonds to support CIP projects - $570,000
· Capital/Equipment Replacement - $692,022
· Capital Building Maintenance - $126,667
· Equipment Replacement - $227,800
· Technology - $219,555
· Paving - $118,000
12
Use of One Time Funding
· Excess Debt Service Funding of $1 ,793,234
· Deer Culling $54,344
· Match for HOME Investment Partnership Program -
$92,375
· Roanoke River Flood Reduction - $1,000,000
· GRTC - Star Line Trolley Match - $200,000
. Grant Match - $150,000
· Temporary staffing (Expediter Activities) in Juvenile
Court Services - $38,865
· Temporary staffing (Work Order System) in Parks
and Recreation - $18,898
· Contingency - $238,752
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Public Safety
· Additional resources to support:
· Police and Fire-EMS overtime
· Animal Control - SPCA Contract
· Fire-EMS Melrose Station
· Addition of an ambulance at Fire-EMS Station
8 (Crystal Springs) and the repositioning of a
peak-demand ambulance at Fire-EMS Station 9
(Melrose and 24th Street)
14
Housing/Neighborhood Revitalization
I
· Code Enforcement
· Two,additional Codes Compliance Inspector
positions
· Enhanced enforcement of building and zoning codes,
Rental Inspection Program, and nuisance codes
· Targeted use of Community Development
Block Grant and HOME Funds
· Full transition to Hurt Park
15
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377
378
Economic Development
I
· Star-Line Trolley
· Connect development at Riverside Centre to
downtown
· Market Building
· Interior and exterior improvements
· Proposals for capital improvements, management
and operation.
· Continued support of Regional Economic
Development Partnership business model for
economic development
16
Public Health and Welfare
· Social Service IHuman Service Programs
· Foster Care
· Adoption
· Comprehensive Services Act
· Health Department
· Continued support of Health Department move to
the Civic Mall
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Recreation and Culture
· Parks and Recreation
· Enhanced Greenway Maintenance
· Additional athletic field availability via lease of
Veterans Administration field
· Civic Facilities
· Additional resources to support operation of Civic
Facilities Fund
· Culture
· Continue commitment to budget an amount
equivalent to one cent of the real estate tax rate for
arts and culture
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Efficient/Effective Service Delivery
· Energy and Utility Savings
· Energy efficient lighting
· LED Traffic Lights "
· Hybrid vehicles
· Clean and Green Campaign
· Implementation of International Council for Local
Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) five step model to
reduce greenhouse gases/pollution
· Marketing Support
19
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379
18
380
Other
· Inflationary Increases
· Motor Fuel
· Jail Medical Services
· Performance Agreements
· Ivy Market, Home Depot, District at Valley View -
Cost offset by increased revenue
Position Adjustments
· Elimination of 33 positions. $1,236,066
· 27 General Fund - $1,124,063
- Building Inspections, Facilities Management, E-911
Wireless, Fire-EMS, Police, Neighborhood Services,
Neighborhood Support, Parks/Recreation, Planning,
Transportation, Youth Haven
· 2 Fleet Management Fund - $55,974
· I Technology Fund - $56,029
· 3 Civic Facilities Fund - $98,063 (No Impact on
Subsidy)
· Unfunding (Leaving Vacant) II positions - $3 18,980
· 10 General Fund - $277,200
- Libraries, Parks/Recreation, Transportation, Sheriff/Jail,
Police
· I Technology Fund - $41,780
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Other Budget Adjustments
· Remaining Budget Reductions - $3,516.444
· Reductions taken across all departments and budget
units
· Summary of Other Budget Adjustments
· Reduction in Service Awards Program
· Change in scope of Roanoke Arts Festival
· Elimination of Summer Intern Program
· Elimination of refuse collection at Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority units -
Housing Authority will assume responsibility
· Closing of Addison and Jackson Fitness Centers
based on low demand - Fitness center replaced with
program specific activities.
· Reduction in program scope for Virginia Juvenile
Community Crime Control Act
22
Other Budget Adjustments
· Summary of Other Budget Adjustments
. Reduction in General Relief Program funds
. Restructuring of Police Customer Service window
during night shift
. Adjustment of Library Hours based on demand
(See document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
381
23
Following the budget presentation, Mayor Harris announced that the
Council would hold a public hearing on the proposed 2008-2009 fiscal year
budget on Thursday, May 1 at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, followed by
a budget study session on Thursday, May 8 at 8:30 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, and if necessary, on Friday, May 9 at 8:30 a.m.; and
the Recommended Fiscal Year 2008-2009 budget would be adopted at a
reconvened meeting of the Council on Monday, May 12 at 2:00 p.m., in the
City Council Chamber.
382
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
I
CITY PROPERTY-FEES COMPENDIUM: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending establishment of parking fees and naming of a
new City parking garage.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38058-042108) AN RESOLUTION naming a new City parking garage the
Campbell Garage; establishing parking fees for such new garage; providing that
the provisions of Resolution No. 37901-091 707 establishing parking
procedures and other matters for City parking facilities shall also be applicable
to Campbell Garage; and directing amendment of the Fee Compendium.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 226.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle. moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38058-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor I
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Non e _n______________n_______________________u_n_n_nnnn_____nu____------------u-o.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38059-042108) AN ORDINANCE to establish revenue estimates and
appropriate or transfer expenses to fund the operations of the Campbell
Garage for the remainder of fiscal year 2008, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2007-2008 Parking Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 228.)
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383
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38059-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: No n ennn-n--_____n___n_n______n_n_n__n_________n___n___nn_n------------n-nO.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
DOWNTOWN ROANOKE-PARKING GARAGES: The City Manager submitted
a written communication recommending approval and re-establishment of the
Downtown Residential Parking Program for City-owned or controlled parking
garages for a two-year period, effective from April 1, 2008.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea offered the following resolution:
"A RESOLUTION reestablishing and adopting a Residential Parking
Program retroactive to April 1, 2008, providing for up to one free parking
permit and one reduced price parking permit for certain downtown residents
under certain conditions in City owned or operated parking garages, as
recommended by the City Manager; and authorizing the City Manager to take
such actions as may be needed to implement, administer, and enforce such
Program."
Council Member Lea moved the adoption of the resolution. The motion
was seconded by Council Member Mason.
Mayor Harris advised that he met with the City Manager prior to the
Council meeting to discuss the Downtown Parking Program, adding that
several Council Members raised questions and provided suggestions. He
further advised that it was the consensus of the Council to refer the matter
back to the City Manager to receive comments from downtown residents, with
a report back to the Council.
The Mayor inquired if there were citizens present who wished to speak
on the matter; whereupon, the following citizens appeared before the Council:
384
Keith Hummer, 118 Campbell Avenue, advised that downtown residents
were of the opinion that something had been offered and then taken away. I
He urged the Council to reconsider the program and grandfather in the
residents that were currently residing downtown.
Douglas C. Waters, 204 South Jefferson Street, urged the Council to
extend the Downtown Residential Parking Program in its current form and
abstain from voting to reduce the benefits of this incentive vital to the
continued economic development of downtown.
(For full text, see statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Carol Rickerson and Lawrence Levinson, 324 Salem Avenue,
respectively, urged the Council to reconsider the program.
Council Member Mason offered a substitute motion to table the measure
and request the City Manager to meet with the downtown residents and
Downtown Roanoke, Inc., to discuss the program further and report back to
the Council. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Council Member Wishneff advised that he was not in favor of tabling the
matter, but was willing to defer action on the matter for approximately one
year.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle advised that because he owned property in the
downtown area that could constitute a conflict of interest, he would abstain
from voting.
I
There being no additional comments, the substitute motion was
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Lea, Mason and Mayor Harris---nm--mu-4.
NAYS: Council Member Wishneff__u__nm_m_mmmnmn_nmnnn_____nmn 1.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.) (Vice-Mayor Trinkle abstained from
voting.)
CITY CODE: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending amendment to the City Code to reflect recent revisions to the
Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, and to add a new section to permit
requirements in buildings within a historic district.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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385
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38060-042108) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 7-
5, Adopted; where copies filed, and adding a new Section 7-8, Permit
requirement in historic district, Article II, Building Code, of Chapter 7, Building
Regulations, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; providing
for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 229.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38060-
042108. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: Non e u-u--------___________h__uuu__u_uuu__u___________u____uhu_--------u-u-o.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
COMMUNICATIONS-EQUIPMENT: The City Manager submitted a written'
communication recommending execution of a Public Safety Radio
Interoperability Memorandum of Understanding.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38061-042108) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute a Memorandum of Understanding Among the Statewide Agencies
Radio System ("STARS"), the Commonwealth Link to Interoperable
Communications Interoperable Networks ("COMLlNC"), and the City of
Roanoke, in connection with the Roanoke Metropolitan Statistical Area ("MSA")
Radio Interoperability Project, estClblishing Roanoke as the grant administrator
of the Roanoke MSA Interoperability Project, upon certain terms and
conditions, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 231.)
386
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38061-
042108. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the I
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: Non e n____n_n___________________n________________________n__n_n____-------------n---O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
GRANTS: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of the 2007-2008 CDBG Subgrant Agreement with
Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38062-042108) A RESOLUTION authorizing the appropriate City
officials to enter into the 2007-2008 Community Development Block Grant
("CDBG") Subgrant Agreement with the Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest
Food Bank, Inc. ("Second Harvest"), upon certain terms and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 232.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38062-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: Non e-n-----nn-----------------------------------------------------------------n--------O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
BUDGET-SCHOOLS: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written
report requesting appropriation of funds to various school program accounts;
and the Director of Finance submitted a written report recommending that
Council concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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387
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38063-042108) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
\ Commonwealth and Federal governments as well as from local match and
corporate rebates for various School programs, as well as to appropriate
funding from the 2007-2008 Capital Maintenance and Equipment Replacement
Program for the Other Post Employment Benefit (OPEB) liability, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 General and School Funds
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of Ordinance, see Book No. 72, page 233.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38063-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HaLrris----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NA YS: Non e ____________u_____u_u____u__u_u_uu_uu________________u__u__-u-------------o.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTION: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for
response, recommendation or report to Council.
Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the
Council spoke about the City administration's handling of City issues.
Chris Craft, 1501 East Gate Avenue, S. E., appeared before the Council
and spoke about various school and city issues.
388
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: The City Manager noted that Citizen I
Appreciation Day was held on Saturday, April 19 at Valley View Mall. She also
announced that Cameron Johnson was a runner-up on the final of "Oprah's Big
Give" on Sunday, April 20, 2008.
At 3:10p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be
reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the City Council
Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 21 5 Church Avenue,
S. W., with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Member Alvin L. Nash, David B. Trinkle, Brian J.
Wishneff (arrived late), Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, and
Mayo r C. N e I so n H arri s________________________u_________uuuu__uu___uuu_________________u---6.
ABSENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.u__m__u_muuuuum__1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
I
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
PROCLAMATION: The Mayor proclaimed May 2008 as Bike Month; and
presented a ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Greg Edwards, President,
and Ms. Chris Visscher, Co-Chair of the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club.
(See proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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389
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council of
the City of Roanoke on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised
a public hearing for Monday, April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of Parkway Wesleyan
Church to establish a Comprehensive Sign Overlay District, pursuant to the
provisions of Section 36.2~336, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as
amended, for properties located between Belle Avenue, N. E., and Orange
Avenue, N. E., more specifically identified as Official Tax Nos. 7110105 and
7110121, such district initially allowing the installation of one development
identification sign located near the property frontage on Mexico Way, N. E.,
and one freestanding sign with an electronic readerboard located on property
identified as Official Tax NO. 7110105, near its frontage on Orange Avenue,
N. E., both such signs being subject to certain height area, facing and site
restrictions, and cumulative square footage limitations, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, April4, 2008 and Friday, April 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report
recommending approval of the request, advising that the application to adopt
a Comprehensive Sign Overlay District on the subject properties is consistent
with the City's Zoning Ordinance, the Comprehensive Plan, and the
Hollins/Wildwood Area Plan; and by allowing the flexible use of the property's
total freestanding sign allotment, a more appropriate signage system can be
installed.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38064-042108) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2~ 100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to establish a Comprehensive
Sign Overlay District within the City of Roanoke adjacent to Orange Avenue,
N.E.; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 234.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38064-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
390
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak I
in connection with the matter.
Maryellen F. Goodlatte, Attorney, appeared before the Council in
support of the petitioner.
Chris Craft, 1501 East Gate Avenue, N. E., and Boyd Headley, 147 Estate
Circle, N. E., appeared before the Council in support of the amendment.
There being no additional speakers wishing to be heard on the matter,
the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Mayor Harris recognized Dr. John W. Ott, Pastor, Parkway Wesleyan
Church and members of the congregation for their attendance in support of
the amendment.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38064-042108 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HCirris--------------------------~-------------------------------------------------------------------------------E>.
NAYS: Non e m_mnmn___m____________m_nn_m___________mm______________mn_______ 0 . I
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
EASEMENT-WESTERN VIRGINIA LAND TRUST-CARVINS COVE: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing
for Monday, April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter CiS the matter
may be heard, on the request of the City of Roanoke to grant a conservation
easement to the Virginia Outdoors Foundation and the Western Virginia Land
Trust to cover approximately 6,185 acres at the Carvin's Cove Natural Reserve.
The easement consists of all the portion of the Reserve owned by the City that
is above the 1,500, foot elevation contour line as depicted on the Daleville,
Catawba, Roanoke and Salem USGS Topographic Quadrangle Maps, the matter
was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, April 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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391
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of a Deed of Gift of Easement from the City of Roanoke to the
Virginia Outdoors Foundation and the Western Virginia Land Trust.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38065-042108) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City officials
to execute a Deed of Gift of Easement from the City of Roanoke to the Virginia
Outdoors Foundation and the Western Virginia Land Trust, granting to the
Foundation and the Trust a conservation easement covering approximately
6,185 acres at the Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, consisting of all the portion
of the Reserve owned by the City that is above the 1,500 foot elevation
contour line as depicted on the Daleville, Catawba, Roanoke and Salem USGS
Topographic Quadrangle Maps; and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 236.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38065-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak
in connection with the matter.
Roger Holnbeck, Executive Director, Virginia Land Trust, President,
Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, appeared before Council in support of the
Deed of Gift of Easement; and acknowledged members of the Roanoke
Appalachian Trail Club and the Western Virginia Land Trust.
Janet Shied, Vice-President, Virginia Land Trust, appeared before the
Council in support of the conservation easement to the Virginia Outdoors
Foundation and the Western Virginia Land Trust; and expressed appreciation
to the staff of Virginia Outdoors Foundation and the Board of Trustees and
staff of Western Virginia Land Trust for having worked tirelessly over the past
year to bring this effort to fruition, as well as the City for having the foresight
and courage to preserve this spectacular property. She also recognized Dr. M.
Rupert Cutler for his persistence, persuasiveness and hard work over the past
ten years.
(See statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
392
Bob Lee, Warrenton, Virginia, appeared before Council to express his
appreciation to the Council for its approval of the easement.
Hank Hartz, Board Chair, Virginia Outdoors Association, appeared
before Council in support of the approval of the easement and recognized Dr.
M. Rupert Cutler for his involvement over the past ten years.
I
There being no additional speakers wishing to be heard on the matter,
the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Mason also recognized the City, Virginia Outdoors
Foundation and Western Virginia Land Trust on its efforts in connection with
the conservation easement at the Carvins Cove Natural Reserve.
Mayor Harris also expressed appreciation to the Virginia Outdoors
Association, Virginia Land Trust, and the City Attorney for his hard work and
effort in drafting the agreements for the easement. He pointed out that
American Electric Power has donated nearly 5,000 acres under easement and
the City is placing 6,200 acres under easement; whereby approximately 11,
000 acres would be protected, and it is his desire to see all 12,000 acres
under easement. He added that Carvins Cove Natural Reserve was the second
largest municipal-owned Park land in the United States.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council I
Members, Ordinance No. 38065-042108 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
Harris----~--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------~--------------E>.
NAYS: Non ennnnn____nnnn__nnn_n___n_nnnn__nn__n____nn_nnn__nnnn_----0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
CITY PROPERTY-EASEMENT-SEWERS AND STORM DRAINS: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing
for Monday, April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on the request of the Farmer's Warehouse, Inc., owner of
Official Tax Map No. 6520106, located at 3726 Thirlane Road to the City of
Roanoke to vacate a City drainage easement running along its property, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, April 11, 2008.
I
(See published affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of the appropriate document to vacate the public easement on
property identified as Official Tax Map No. 6520106 for construction of a
PODS Storage Center.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38066-042108) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the vacation of a drainage
easement on property identified as Tax Map No. 6520106, located on Thirlane
Road, and owned by Farmer's Warehouse, Inc., upon certain terms and
conditions, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 237.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38066-
042108. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak
in connection with the matter.
Bob Crawford, representing Crawford Development Company, appeared
before Council in opposition of the location of the proposed metal building
that would be used for retro fitting 8x8 pod units. He expressed concern with
regard to the facility being adjacent to his property known as the "Oaks",
citing that the proposed use will cause a decline of the "Oaks". Inasmuch as
Mr. Crawford was considering future expansion of his property, he urged the
Council not to authorize the vacation of the drainage easement on the
abovementioned property.
There being no additional speakers wishing to be heard on the matter,
the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Wishneff inquired about the future of the project, if the
Council denied the request; whereupon, the Assistant City Manager for
Community Development, advised that the project would be denied, the
developer could not build according to the plan as submitted to the City; and
there would only be accessibility from Peters Creek Road/Interstate 581 and
Interstate 581 /Hershberger Road. Council Member Wishneff also asked about
the possibility of reconsideration if the request was denied; whereupon, Mr.
Townsend advised that the City does not have the right to specify what can be
built in a specific zoning district, except for historic districts.
394
Council Member Nash inquired if the easement would prohibit
expansion or future development of the Oaks; whereupon, Mr. Crawford I
advised that the easement would not inhibit future development, but it would
be a deterrent.
There being no further questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38066-042108 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Lea, Mason and Mayor Harris---5.
NAYS: Council Member Wishneff-um------m-m--m---m-mmuu---m-mmu1 .
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
CITY-OWNED PROPERTY-SALE OF PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by
Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
April 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request of the City of Roanoke to convey certain City-owned
property to Sandra R. Reedy, designated as Roanoke County Parcel No.
089.00-03-35.00-0000, containing approximately 17.29 acres, located on Jae
Valley Road in Roanoke County, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke I
Times on Friday, April 11, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of a deed of sale, and completion of the sale of the property to
Sandra R. Reedy.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38067-042108) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute the necessary documents providing for the conveyance of City owned
property designated as Roanoke County Parcel No. 089.00-03-35.00-0000,
located on Jae Valley Road in Roanoke County; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 238.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38067- I
042108. The 'motion was seconded by Mason.
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The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak
in connection with the matter.
Sandra Reedy, 5251 Karr Rouse Road, appeared before the Council in
support of the deed of sale.
Mike Hall, 3993 Jae Valley Road, appeared before Council and spoke in
support of the deed of sale between the City of Roanoke and Ms. Reedy.
There being no additional speakers wishing to be heard on the matter,
the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38067-042108 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Lea, Mason and Mayor
HClrris~---------------------------------~-----------------------------------------------------------------------E).
NAYS: Non e -------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------0.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised that
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for
response, recommendation or report to Council.
PARKS-COMPLAINTS: Pam Forrest-Hurt, 1923 Hanover Avenue, N. W.,
appeared before Council and expressed concern with regard to the lack of
maintenance and safety conditions in connection. with the tennis courts in
Eureka Park. She added that the lights do not function at night and the Parks
and Recreation had been Contact on several occasions. She urged the Council
to have the matter investigated and to have some type of action taken to
improve the courts.
Charlene Graves, 2755 Kirkland Drive, N. W., appeared before the
Council and expressed concern with regard to the condition of the tennis
courts in Eureka Park, and provided a visual presentation.
Jerome Hamm, 4228 Quail Drive, N. W., appeared before Council in
connection with the disrepair of the tennis courts in Eureka Park. He indicated
that the inner-city youth should have an opportunity to learn the sport in their
neighborhood.
396
Council Member Lea commented that the tennis courts were in disrepair
and requested that a commitment be made to improve the courts in Eureka I
Park. He also commended the residents for their positive recognition of the
attribute of tennis in the community.
Council Member Mason requested that the City Manager investigate the
concern expressed by the residents and report findings to the Council.
Council Member Wishneff encouraged the speakers to attend the public
hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2008-2009 budget scheduled for
7:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 1, and attend share their concerns about the lack
of maintenance and disrepair of the tennis courts in Eureka Park.
Council Member Nash advised that he too was appalled at the condition
of the tennis courts in Eureka Park and hoped that the tennis courts would be
considered for an upgrade. He also acknowledged Cornelius Poindexter, a
great player and teacher of tennis, who was in attendance.
There being no additional comments by the Council, and without
objection by the Council, Mayor Harris referred the matter to the City Manager
for follow up.
At 5 :00 p.m., the recessed Council meeting held on Monday, April 21, I
2008, was reconvened on Thursday, May 1, 2008, in the City Council
Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor C. Nelson
Harris, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Alvin L. Nash, David B. Trinkle, Brian J.
Wishneff, Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Mayor C. Nelson Harris--6.
ABSENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr._____mmm_____mmnm 1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The invocation was delivered by Mayor Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
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SCHOOLS: The Mayor advised that on June 30, 2008, the three-year
terms of office of David B. Carson and V. Mignon Chubb-Hale as Trustees of
the Roanoke City School Board will expire; and the purpose of the reconvened
meeting is to interview three candidates to fill the two upcoming vacancies on
the Roanoke City School Board for terms of office of three years, each,
commencing July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2011.
He further advised that past actions of the Council to comply with the
School Board selection process include:
Advertisements were placed in The Roanoke Times and in The
Roanoke Tribune soliciting applications for the two upcoming
vacancies. Six applications were received in the City Clerk's Office
prior to the 5:00 p.m. deadline on Friday, March 10, 2008.
(See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Applications were reviewed and considered at the regular meeting
of Council on March 17, 2008, and a public interview was
accorded to David B. Carson, Dolores Y. Johns and Lori E. Vaught
to commence at 5:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 1 in the Council
Chamber.
Public hearing to receive views of citizens on the three
abovementioned applicants will be held on Monday, May 5 at 2:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard; and
appointment of the successful candidates will be announced at
the regular meeting of the Council on Monday, May 19 at 2:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter be heard, in the Council
Chamber.
The Mayor advised that each candidate will be interviewed separately,
out of the presence and hearing of the other candidates, the interview would
consist of approximately 20 minutes and will be taped by RVTV Channel 3 to
be replayed on Friday, April 27 at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, April 29 at 4:00 p.m.
THE FIRST PERSON TO BE INTERVIEWED WAS DAVID B. CARSON
The following is a summary of comments by Mr. Carson regarding
concerns expressed by Members of Council regarding certain areas of the
school system:
398
Hoping that competition at the middle school level will include
Roanoke County, City of Salem and other jurisdictions. Suggested
moving athletics from the AAA division because of the amount of
travel involved. Emphasized that the graduation rate was
unacceptable and aggressive efforts would be taken to address the
issue.
I
As of August 2007 the school system was responsible for ten tons
of recyclables and as of March 2008, the tonnage had increased to
28 tons and the school division was attempting to reach far beyond
28 tons.
New Superintendent of Schools' efforts within the division have
been great and morale has improved. Pay periods have been
changed from monthly to bi-weekly and anticipates a five percent
raise across the board to all school employees. Foreign languages
will be introduced in all elementary schools and Superintendent
working closely with Virginia Western Community College to
increase career and technical programs in the schools.
Patrick Henry Phase II completion was on time and within budget as
well as the stadium and rubberized track. William Fleming is on
time and currently below budget. A buddy system whereby School
Board Members and Council Members are paired to meet quarterly
and discuss issues of mutual interest was created and is successful.
I
Length of the instructional day increased to six hours, with two
different start times versus three. Shared services program for
diesel fuel and healthcare saves the schools approximately
$400,000.00 per year. A student with a valid 10 can ride Valley
Metro for free; and last year, over 28,000 students rode the buses.
Merge the grounds and maintenance services of City and schools.
Opening of the former Forest Park School as a facility to help
provide an opportunity for older students to graduate was a
decision of the School Board to try to improve education. Forest
Park kindergartens through second graders will attend Highland
Park Elementary and a full-time reading coach, math coach, nurse,
and guidance counselor will be added to the school's staff. All
teachers will be hired by the principals of each elementary school.
Hurt Park Elementary will receive a full-time nurse, reading coach,
math coach, academic coach, guidance counselor, and Minds in
Motion program. Roanoke Academy will receive an academic coach,
teachers are subject to approval by the principal, and the school
will also receive a new Xerox copy machine.
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In closing, Mr. Carson reiterated that the drop-out rate within the school
system was unacceptable, adding that there is a perception that it is
acceptable in the community to drop out of school, rather than an expression
that it is very important to receive a basic education.
THE SECOND PERSON TO BE INTERVIEWED WAS DR. DOLORES Y. IOHNS
Dr. Johns commented that she was a retired school administrator with
22 years of service; has four adult children who attended Roanoke City schools
and three grandchildren currently enrolled in the City schools; taught at
Addison High School; and supervised the Title 1 Program.
She believed in the 'school system's motto of preparing for tomorrows
future, today, and indicated some concerns that needed to be addressed, such
as improving graduation rates, securing accreditation for schools, providing
more instructional rigor for all students, recruiting and retaining highly
qualified-diverse staff, and building stronger, more collaborative relationships
with all stakeholders; and would bring several qualities to the Board to
address said concerns, i.e.: budget writing, identifying skills, collaborating
with principals, administrators and the community, etc.
In conclusion, she stated that a strong public school system will help
meet the need for continuous economic development for the City and the
collective experiences can determine the best way to meet the goals; and she
would like to be a part of the team that endeavors to reach the goals of the
Roanoke City School System.
What three things would YOU like to accomplish if appointed to the School
Board?
Completion of initiatives; continuation of the relationship between the
School Board and the City Council; and establishment of a rigorous
curriculum for alternative groups and children with special needs.
What impact does the school system have on attracting people and business to
Roanoke? .
The schools play an important role because many families are interested
in school systems that are excellent in developing students; and having
a strong school system is the key to development.
400
What are your thouqhts on retaininq hiqhlv qualified teachers in the school I
svstem?
Recruit and provide training for incoming teachers; teachers have a
challenge in the classroom and some students in this area have different
needs coming from low socioeconomic status; and teachers need to
understand and be trained to discern the behavior of students being
taug ht.
How would vou allocate school resources?
Invest in programs that would help students develop and grow. Review
and consider programs in action prior to purchasing additional ones.
What factors do vou believe will decrease the drop-out rate?
The environment and support of the students is important. If students
are not motivated, they will not come. The effort should be made to use
innovative approaches to corral students and harvest their interest.
Many children do not have encouragement and the environment is not
conducive to success.
How would vou address issues of student conduct?
I
Policies must be clear to students that their behavior should be
exemplary at all times. Teachers and staff need to be supported and
not allow bad behavior by the students. Curriculum changes might help
to alleviate some of the behavior problems.
THE THIRD PERSON TO BE INTERVIEWED WAS LORI E. VAUGHT
Ms. Vaught advised that she has a great understanding of Roanoke and
Roanoke City Public Schools. She added that she is a Roanoke native and
attended Preston Park, James Breckinridge, and William Fleming Schools. She
has volunteered within the school system. She further advised that she was
instrumental in drafting a system-wide Emergency Preparedness Plan, which
was adopted by the School Board. She was pleased to report that the "ABC's of
Roanoke" book prepared by the PLATO centers was in draft format. She added
that the participation gives her insight to be able to make the tough decisions
facing the schools and to ensure that every student receives a quality
education in a safe environment.
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She indicated that she would like to strengthen the partnership between
the schools, school administration, parents, City Council and the community.
She emphasized that the focus should be on each student in order to
recognize their individual styles and needs to help foster the child to set and
achieve future goals.
In conclusion, she reiterated her experience, passion, and drive to foster
the partnerships and to see that the schools and students are successful.
What impact does the school svstem have on attractinQ people and business to
Roanoke?
Strong school system to attract businesses to the Valley.
What are vour thoughts on retaining highlv Qualified teachers in the school
svstem?
Teachers should understand what other things the Valley has to offer;
make sure the pay scale is competitive; and support the teachers with
classroom management and continuing education.
I How would you allocate school resources?
Place more funds to pay teachers.
What factors do YOU believe will decrease the drop-out rate?
The Phoenix Academy was a good solution to help retain students that
may have been lost, as well as Virginia Western's technical program.
Students must be engaged and the whole child must be looked at, not
assumptions.
What three thinQs would vou like to accomplish if appointed to the School
Board?
Discipline and safety issues resolved, and greater partnerships between
businesses and schools.
How would vou address issues of student conduct?
I
The classroom instructors need to look at the whole child.
Understanding the whole child makes it easier to handle the child in
class. A wonderful program was already in place to deal with the whole
child at Hurt Park Elementary offering an individualized approach.
402
At 5:55 p.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess until 7:00 p.m., I
at which time the Council will conduct public hearings to receive citizen
comments on the proposed 2009 Fiscal Year Budgets for the City of Roanoke
and HUD Funding, real property tax levies, and City Code amendment to
provide a fee for administration of all land disturbing permits.
The recessed meeting of the Roanoke City Council was reconvened at
7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., with Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle
presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Alvin L. Nash, Brian J. Wishneff,
Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason and Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle----nnn6.
ABSENT: Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., and Mayor
C. N e I so n H arri s _____________nn______________n_________u______nn___________________u_____n________ 1 .
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager, William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney, Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance, and Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk.
The invocation was delivered by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
I
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
The Vice-Mayor advised that the purpose of the recessed meeting was to
conduct public hearings on the proposed Recommended Fiscal Year 2008-
2009 City budget, Recommended 2008-2009 HUD Funds Budget; proposed
real property tax levies; and a City Code amendment to provide a fee for
administration of all land disturbing permits.
BUDGET: The City Clerk having advertised a public hearing. for
Thursday, May 1, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may
be heard, for the purpose of holding a public hearing on the recommended
2008-2009 City Budget, in the amount of $259,894,000.00, the matter was
before the Council.
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The total General Fund Budget for fiscal year 2008-2009 is
$259,894,000.00 - Enterprise Funds: Civic Facilities Fund - $4,910,100.00,
Parking Fund - $2,934,960.00, Market Building Fund - $321,500.00; Internal
Service Funds: Fleet Management Fund - $7,779,080.00, Risk Management
Fund - $15,065,188.00, Technology Fund - $7,479,328.00; and School Fund:
$148,262,800.00.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Tuesday, April 22, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to
speak on the matter.
Donald Caldwell, Commonwealth Attorney, appeared before the Council
and expressed concern with regard to a budget reduction of $60,000.00 for
his office. He urged the Council to reconsider the budget cut because he
would have to eliminate a position which is directly service-oriented that is
unique and skilled. He suggested that funds be shifted from other positions
such as public information officers within certain departments.
Octavia Johnson, City Sheriff, appeared before the Council with regard to
reduction in the budget for the Sheriff's Office. She expressed concern about
the safety and security of the Roanoke City Sheriff's Office, Jail and Court
Services. She indicated that the loss to the City would be far greater than the
cost of maintaining the positions.
(See written statement on file in the City Clerk's Office)
Pam Forrest-Hurt, 1923 Hanover Avenue, N. W., appeared before the
Council and urged the Council to consider funding for replacement of the
Eureka Park tennis courts, which would benefit the community and introduce
the game to the neighborhood, as well as allow Eureka Park to become a
tournament facility again.
The following individuals appeared before the Council in connection
with budget reductions in the Fire-EMS Department which would eliminate
staff positions within the Fire stations:
404
Ernest Brown, 125 Preston Avenue, N. E.
Jeff Beckner, 329 Humbert Road, Troutville, Virginia
Craig Sellers, 3616 Manassas Drive
Kent Mclllhany, 3006 Sleeky Ridge Road
Scott Heatherington, 5151 Wipledale Avenue
Doug Rorrer, 1742 Memorial Avenue, S. W.
Rhett Fleitz, 2940 Windrush Lane, N. E.
Todd Stone, 1747 Three Otters Road, Bedford, Virginia
Rodney Jordan, 20 Rockhaven Lane, Boones Mill, Virginia
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Cheryl Ramsey, 2715 10th Street, N. W., appeared before the Council in
opposition of the proposed closure of the Addison Fitness Center.
(See written statement of file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Valerie Garner, 2264 Mattaponi Drive, N. W., appeared before Council in
opposition of the proposed budget cuts for Fire/EMS Department and
commented about the amount of homes being built in the City and the need
for citizens to feel safe.
There being no further speakers, the Vice-Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
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BUDGET-GRANTS: The City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Thursday, May 1, 2007, at 7:05 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may
be heard, for the purpose of holding a public hearing on the recommended
2008-2009 HUD Funding Budget, in the amount of $3,678,472.00, the matter
was before the Council.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke
Times on Tuesday, April 22, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
A summary of the recommended fiscal year 2008-2009 HUD Funding
Budget is as follows:
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REVENUES ESTIMATES:
CDBG 2008-2009 Entitlement Grant
CDBG 2008-2009 Program Income
CDBG Prior Year Carry-over and Excess
Program Income
HOME 2008-2009 Entitlement Grant
HOME 2008-2009 Program Income
2008-2009 Local Funds for HOME Match
HOME Prior Year Carry-over and
Excess Program Income
ESG 2008-2009 Entitlement Grant
TOTAL HUD REVENUE
$1,844,422.00
436,173.00
150,324.00
684,386.00
25,000.00
92,000.00
364,357.00
81.810.00
$3,678,472.00
RECOMMENDED EXPENDITURES:
Housing Development
Neighborhood, Community and Economic
Development
Human Services (including Homeless
Assistance)
TOTAL RECOMMENDED EXPENDITURES
$2,409,404.00
849,849.00
419.219.00 <
$3,678,472.00
(Inasmuch as Blue Ridge Housing Corporation receives HUD funding, Council
Member Nash did not participate in the public hearing.)
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to be
heard in connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared
the public hearing closed.
At 8:00 p.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the meeting in recess to be
reconvened for a public hearin.g on the City's real property tax levies and tax
rate for fiscal year 2008-2009.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. (Council Member
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris were absent.)
BUDGET-TAXES: The City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Thursday, May 1, 2008, at 7: 10 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may
be heard, to receive citizen comments with regard to "effective tax rate
increase", for fiscal year 2008-2009, the matter was before the Council.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
406
Summary of the proposed real property tax increase is as follows:
I
Assessment Increase: The total assessed value of real property,
excluding additional assessments due to new construction or
improvements to property, exceeds last year's total assessed value
of real property by 3.04 percent.
Lowered Rate Necessary to Offset Increased Assessment: The tax
rate which would levy the same amount of real estate tax as last
year, when multiplied by the new total assessed value of real estate
with the exclusions mentioned above, would be $1.1 5 per $100.00
of assessed value. This rate will be known as the "lowered tax
rate". ~
Effective Rate Increase: The City of Roanoke proposes to adopt a
tax rate of $1.19 per $100.00 of assessed value. The difference
between the lowered tax rate and the proposed tax rate would be
$.04 per $100.00 or 3.48 percent. This difference will be known as
the "effective tax rate increase". Individual property taxes may,
however, increase at a percentage greater than or less than the
above percentage.
Proposed Total Budqet Increase: Based on the proposed real
property tax rate and changes in other revenues, the total budget
of the City of Roanoke will exceed last year's by 3.4 percent.
I
The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to
speak in connection with the public hearing. There being none, the Vice-
Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
At 8:02 p.m., the meeting was declared in recess to be reconvened for a
public hearing to consider an amendment to the City Code to provide for a fee
for administration of all land disturbing permits.
CITY CODE-PERMITS: The City Clerk having advertised a public hearing
for Thursday, May 1, 2008, at 7: 15 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the m.atter
may be heard, to consider an amendment to the Code of the City of Roanoke
(1979), as amended, providing for a fee of $100.00, plus $50.00, per acre, for
the administration of all land disturbing permits, the matter was before the
Council.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to
speak in connection with the public hearing. There being none, the Vice-
Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no further business, the Vice-Mayor declared the Council
meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
rn.~
Stephanie M. Moon, CMC
City Clerk
c~
C. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNClL~REGULAR SESSION
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May 5, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on
Monday, May 5, 2008, at 9:08 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration,
Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, ReQular
MeetinQs, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant
to Resolution No.37817-070207 adopted by the Council on Monday,
July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle (arrived late), Brian J.
Wishneff (arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. (arrived late), Sherman P.
Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-7.
ABSENT: None-O.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
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The Mayor advised that the purpose of the meeting was to conduct
a joint meeting of Council and the Roanoke City School Board.
SCHOOL TRUSTEES PRESENT: Jason E. Bingham, Mae G. Huff,
Suzanne P. Moore, Courtney A. Penn, Todd A. Putney, and Chairman
David B. Carson-5.
ABSENT: School Trustee V. Mignon Chubb-Hale-1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Steph~nie M.
Moon, City Clerk; and Sheila N. Hartman, Deputy City Clerk. '
Representing the Roanoke City Public Schools: Dr. Rita D. Bishop,
Superintendent; Cindy H. Poulton, Clerk to the Board; and Timothy R.
Spencer, Assistant City Attorney and Legal Counsel.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting
(9: 11 a.m.)
At this point, Vice-Mayor Trinkle entered the meeting. (9: 12 a.m.)
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COUNCIL-SCHOOLS: Mayor Harris welcomed School Board
Members, the Superintendent of Schools and members of the School
administration; and congratulated Dr. Bishop on her return to the City as
School Superintendent. He advised that this would be the last meeting
with the current City Council and the current School Board and expressed
appreciation to Ms. Chubb-Hale, in her absence, for her service on the
School Board.
Chairman Carson expressed appreciation for the opportunity to
meet with Council, and he too recognized the services of Ms. Chubb-Hale,
noting that she was unable to attend the meeting due to a work conflict.
He commented that the School Board was aware of issues caused by
decreased revenue and increased budget demands on the City and
expressed appreciation for the Council's support through increased
funding for education.
Fiscal Year 2008-2009 School Budget
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Curt Baker, Deputy Superintendent for Operations, presented an
overview of the Fiscal Year 2008-09 School Budget which was submitted
to the Council in March 2008, and commented on key milestones as part
of the budget development cycle. He advised that the line item budget
would be finalized and presented to the School Board for endorsement at
its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 13. He explained the process for
developing the line item budget with a focus on position control, a new
chart of accounts, identification of new funds, and prioritized core
initiatives. He indicated that the position control system allows the
Division to evaluate and determine whether positions are appropriately
staffed in all areas within the school system; the new chart of accounts
provide financial transparency and establishes each fund as its own
corporate entity which will allow the Division to the break out of specific
funds for athletics and student activity with greater clarity. Mr. Baker
highlighted the following new core initiatives:
. Staff improvement = $5 million, which includes a five-
percent salary increase for employees;
. Address graduation rate by establishing the
overage/under-credited student academy = $1.5 million
(incremental cost);
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. Teaching and Learning Initiatives = $1.38 million, which
includes norm reference testing, reading and math
coaches, remediation allocation at four middle schools,
middle school honors program, enhanced preschool, and
elementary Spanish;
. Transportation = $815,000, which includes bus
replacement and driver training; Capital Maintenance and
Equipment Replacement funds in the amount of $71 5,000
will be used to fund this initiative;
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. Safety = $100,000 for upgraded analog radios;
. Technology = $500,000, which includes an upgrade to
eSchoolPlus and year one lease replacement for more than
1,000 work stations; and
. Facilities = $2.75 million; Capital Maintenance and
Equipment Replacement funds totaling $2.5 million will be
used to fund roof replacement projects.
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Mr. Baker stated that the Roanoke City Public Schools will comply
with new legislation which requires State and local governments to
account for and report costs associated with Other Post-retirement
Employee Benefits (OPEB) and the estimated cost is $1.3 million.
Overview of School Board Priorities
Chairman Carson reviewed the following key initiatives that were
identified by the Board at its August retreat and noted some of the efforts
that were underway:
. Increase graduation rate (past 17 years were in the 50-60
percentile) and address student achievement;
. Safe schools - Installation of rapid parent notification
system throughout the Division, installation of building
access systems and defibrillators in schools;
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. Attract, train and retain the best teachers to our urban
division - the Superintendent has taken recruiting to a
higher level establishing closer relationships with colleges
and universities; stabilized the early retirement program
(EROP); and the Division has moved to two pay periods per
month for all staff; and
. Be good stewards of resources - both in terms of money
received and spent.
Chairman Carson expressed sincere appreciation to City Council
and the City Administration for their support and assistance given to the
School Board, Superintendent and the Roanoke City Public Schools.
Uodate on Funding Committee
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Vice-Chairman Bingham thanked the Council for their commitment
to the Division and stated that there are current measurable outcomes as
a result of the joint efforts, particularly cooperative efforts between the
City Manager and Superintendent of Schools; and called upon Mr. Baker
for comments on the partnering efforts currently underway.
Mr. Baker stated that efforts were being made to coordinate or
combine services where feasible as well as provide time for discovery
when the answers are not as clear. He also noted the following
successes:
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. Student ridership on Valley Metro is running 30,000 per
month, and new starting times at the schools
commencing in September will permit the school bells to
better align with the Valley Metro schedule;
. Recycling program has an increased commitment on the
part of schools, and recognized School Board Member
Suzanne Moore for her role in better educating the
schools;
. Upgrades to the School's radio system has been facilitated
by the City;
. Provision of vehicle repair services for School vehicles by
City; use of the refueling center has been highly
successful;
412
. Sharing of equipment usage where appropriate;
purchasing of surplus vehicles, and other cooperative
purchases; and
. City's commitment of resources for upgrades to the
emergency shelter facilities at the high schools.
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He further stated that efforts would continue to build upon the
abovementioned successes, including continued discussions with the
City's Department of Parks and Recreation for grounds maintenance as
well as a close review of the facilities maintenance organization for
possible transfer of responsibility to the City.
Mr. Baker expressed appreciation to the Director of Finance and
Information Technology as the Division moved forward with
implementing a new pay period and new financial system for the schools,
effective July 1; and to the City Manager for allowing a City staff member
to oversee the Schools Facilities Maintenance organization.
Uodate on Facilitv Committee:
School Board Trustee Penn extended his appreciation to the City
Manager and Council Member Gwen Mason for their assistance with said
process and stated that the Division continues with its deliberate process
of evaluating school facilities for future enhancement, which is currently
in its second phase, which is guided by directives and major parameters
established by the School Board in order to make challenging decisions to
ensure safe and equitable facilities, that existing space is maximized for
efficient use that is equitable across the schools, and to provide
necessary programs to ensure student success. He called on Mr. Baker to
report on steps taken in connection with the process.
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Mr. Baker added that facilities consultants from Eperitus evaluated
the schools' capacity as part of the first phase and the second phase
focuses on development of scenarios and community engagement that
will assist the School Board in making difficult decisions with regard to
policy based upon solid information.
Mr. Penn also remarked that a facilities master plan will be
developed from the process and information gathered from the facilities
study will be used to guide the development of the Capital Improvement
Plan in order for the Division to adequately plan for its facilities in the
future.
At this point, Council Member Lea left the meeting.
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Overview of Academic Initiatives
The Superintendent of Schools acknowledged that the budget was
simply the instructional program expressed in dollars and stated that the
school system is lacking millions of dollars in grant funds, but was
optimistic about the approval of a $500,000.00 grant application that will
provide funds to conduct a safety audit; and emphasized that by
partnering with Total Action Against Poverty, the Schools were able to
write a $6.7 million grant. She also commented about an upcoming
meeting with the State Superintendent regarding graduation rates across
the Commonwealth.
Dr. Bishop presented an overview of the School's priorities, which
included efforts that focus on school safety; the overage academy to be
located at the former Forest Park Elementary School; a new middle school
honors program; expanded high school and career/technical accelerated
offerings; expanded fine arts, preschool and ELL/world language
programs; implementation of K-12 literacy project; principals' summer
leadership academy; assessor institute; teacher leadership initiatives; and
enhanced instructional programming.
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In closing, the Superintendent indicated that all efforts would focus
on the Schools' number one priority - - increase the performance of all
students.
(For full text, see copy of document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Comments by the Council Members and School Board Trustees:
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Council Member Wishneff remarked that everyone was in
agreement with the need for an alternative program, but questions the
location selected and asked the City Attorney whether the Council had a
role in the process; whereupon, Mr. Hackworth opined that the School
Board has authority over the use of the facilities designated by the City
for educational use. Council Member Wishneff suggested that the issue of
closing Forest Park Elementary School be included in the proposed
legislative package. He also inquired as to the age students were
permitted to opt out of school; whereupon, the Superintendent
responded that students are not opting out, but simply leaving school,
and the Division must improve in order to meet the more stringent
graduation rate requirements anticipated as part of No Child Left Behind.
Council Member Wishneff stated that he appreciated the Chairman's
comments during his interview for reappointment that a student's
driver's license be tied to school success and suggested that said idea be
pursued with the state legislators.
414
Vice Mayor Trinkle expressed appreciation to the Board regarding
the manner in which it made the recent difficult decisions and for having
the necessary information to make the decisions, and he also
commended the Division for using the rapid parent notification system.
He inquired as to whether there was funding for the arts program in the
proposed school budget; whereupon, Mr. Baker responded that a portion
of the budget is allocated for fine arts. The Vice-Mayor asked if those
students who move out of the area were counted against the graduation
rate; whereupon, the Superintendent explained that if a student leaves
the area and the accumulative record is not requested within 45 days, the
student is counted as a dropout, adding that the Division must do a
better job of tracking this type of data.
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Council Member Mason recognized the efforts of Mayor Harris and
Chairman Carson to ensure a more cooperative working relationship
between the City and Schools, pointing out the benefits of having the
joint committees, and asked the Superintendent to explain the human
resources function relative to principal assessment and the Division in
general; whereupon, the Superintendent stated that all tools used for
employee evaluations would be revised and all evaluators trained
regarding the process. Dr. Bishop also noted that the Division plans to
have an expert come in late June to provide training to principals on how
to work with teachers.
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Mr. Putney added that the goal is to make the principal role the
best job in the Division in order to accomplish the Board's goal to
improve the entire Division.
Council Member Nash congratulated his former Board colleagues
on what had been accomplished during the past school year, noting many
of the issues had been points of discussion for sometime; and recognized
the leadership of Chairman Carson.
Several members of the School Board expressed appreciation to the
Council and City Manager for their support.
In closing, the Chairman stated that the School Board had
addressed several critical issues during the school year and would be
implementing new starting times for the opening and closing of schools I
in 2008-2009 and would be opening the over-age academy with the
expectation to immediately improve the graduation rate, noting that the
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Board does not have the luxury of time to delay actions to address the
graduation rate. He added that the Board's decision to conscientiously
disrupt children was extremely difficult for everyone, however, the Board
will move forward with the expectation that the decision is in the best
interest of all of the children. He added that he looked forward to the
upcoming joint meeting with the Council in August.
Mayor Harris stated that in order to make dramatic changes which
impact the School system, bold and courageous decisions must be made,
and he supports the Board's difficult decisions which were made in the
best interest of the school division.
On behalf of the Council, the Mayor expressed appreciation to the
School Board and staff for meeting with the Council to discuss issues
relating to the fiscal year 2008-2009 budget.
There being no further business, at 10:34 a.m., the Chair declared
the meeting of the School Board adjourned.
At 10:34 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess.
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At this point, Council Member Fitzpatrick entered the meeting.
(10:35 a.m.)
The meeting of Roanoke City Council reconvened at 10:40 a.m., in
Room 159, with Mayor Harris presiding and all Members of the Council in
attendance, with the exception of Council Member Lea.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE
2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE.
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
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BRIEFINGS:
I
Art Museum Update
Georganne Bingham, Executive Director, expressed appreciation for
the City's cooperation and support of the Art Museum of Western
Virginia, and advised that the Atrium in the new building will be named in
honor of the City of Roanoke. She further advised that the building was
approximately 90 percent complete and offered to give the Council
another tour of the building. She commented on the special exhibition
galleries being created to properly display the art, culture and heritage,
music and fine crafts of the southwest region, as well as various activities
planned for the future. She indicated that information on the Art
Museum has been released by the Associated Press all over the country
and Canada, and calls are being received from tour directors wanting to
organize tours to Roanoke and the region, as well as museum directors
interested in developing their facilities for the 2151 Century.
Ms. Bingham requested that the Art Museum be permitted to have
painted a mural on a City-owned retaining wall adjacent to Salem Avenue
and Williamson Road for artists to paint different works every six to nine
months. She distributed information relating to the Taubman Museum of
Art.
I
(See copy of documents on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Director of Public Works interjected that the City had agreed to
coat the face of the wall with a sealer and provide lighting in the area
where the "public mural" is to be located. Ms. Bingham stated that future
parking and sidewalk access is planned along Norfolk Avenue, and
museum staff and security personnel will be provide assist to persons
using the facilities.
Inasmuch as a portion of the retaining wall in question is
considered an encroachment, the City Manager advised that the City
Attorney would be preparing the appropriate document for official action
by the Council to allow use of the wall for said purpose.
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Comments
Council Member Fitzpatrick asked if said portion of the wall could
be used in the future for drawings and paintings by children, and whether
or not the surface to reflect the sky and clouds was complete, because it
did not appear to be reflective. Ms. Bingham stated that the Museum
could give consideration to doing something under the viaduct, and
noted that security cameras would be monitoring the area 24 hours a
day. With regard to the reflective surface, she was of the opinion that it
would be easier to see the reflection of the sky and clouds from an
elevated position, rather than the street.
Council Member Nash stated that he supported the use of the
retaining wall and would appreciate a tour of the facilities. He inquired
about the color of the coating for the retaining wall; whereupon Mr.
Bengtson advised that the coating it would be a "muddy grey", same color
as the concrete on the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle expressed his concerns about the vandalism
component of the wall; whereupon Ms. Bingham commented that
deterring vandalism will be a challenge, but she indicated that there
would be seven to eight security cameras would be located outside of the
building to cover said area, along with security personnel 24-7.
Council Member Wishneff called attention to a modern museum in
Chicago with exhibits on the front lawn that rotate, and asked if the Art
Museum had given thought to such an idea; whereupon, Ms. Bingham
stated that consideration is being given to utilizing some green space
across from Market Street which will allow for some rotation of art and
sculpture.
Following comments by the Council, Mayor Harris expressed
appreciation to Ms. Bingham for providing a progress report on the new
Art Museum.
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418
Rorer Avenue Substation Expansion Proiect (APCO)
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Robert K. Bingston, Director of Public Works, advised that
Appalachian Power Company would soon begin installation of their
Seventh Street Substation near the intersection of Rorer Avenue and
Seventh Street, S. W., and excavation for the underground electric duct
bank would occur over the next six months. He added that a variety of
lane closures and temporary disruption of parking would also occur as
the year progresses; and construction of the new parking deck will need
to be staged accordingly.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff left the meeting (11:10 a.m.).
Comments
Council Member Fitzpatrick asked if all power lines could go
underground in the Salem and Campbell Avenue area, and if future
expansion could be facilitated in this project; whereupon, it was stated
that certain existing overhead feeders would have to remain in their
present locations for now, however, once the project is completed,
certain network feeders on Seventh Street may be reused to serve
commercial-type buildings on the eastern side, adding that the process
could be very complicated.
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Council Member Nash asked for an explanation of the term "duct
bank"; whereupon, it was explained that the term meant a trench in the
ground, whereby conduits would be laid in certain configurations,
encased in concrete in order to be protected from excavation, all of which
would provide a boost of a more readily available supply of electricity for
the growth and demand in the downtown area.
There being no additional comments by the Council, the Mayor
expressed appreciation to the representatives of Appalachian Power
Company for the presentation.
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Lick Run Greenway - Phase III
Donnie Underwood, Parks and Greenway Planner, gave an overview
on Phase III of the Lick Run Greenway Project, stating that a feasibility
study was conducted to determine the best future destination for a linear
park to William Fleming High School. Mr. Underwood commented that
Alta Planning, a nationally renowned trail and greenway planning group,
and Charlie Dennying, Project Manager, were working in conjunction with
the City's planning team to provide the Council with a recommendation in
the fall of 2008.
The City Manager stated that several hotels located in the vicinity
of the high school have expressed an interest in having the greenway
continue over in the area in order to provide an amenity to the registered
guests and had also wanted copies of maps so that guests could be
directed to the downtown area, perhaps rent a bicycle and make use of
the greenway trails.
Comments
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Council Member Nash requested that copies of the greenways and
layouts be forwarded to the Council.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle asked if the proposed greenway would connect
to the Carvins Cove greenway; whereupon, Mr. Underwood advised that
the Tinker Creek greenway would provide more of a direct route to the
Cove.
There being no additional comments by the Council, the Mayor
expressed appreciation to Mr. Underwood for the presentation and
recognized Elizabeth Belcher, Roanoke's Greenway Coordinator.
COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor
C. Nelson Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to
discuss vacancies on certain authorities, boards, commissions and
committees appointed by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l),
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. The Mayor
asked that the request for Closed Meeting be withdrawn and that the
matter be discussed during the 2:00 p.m., session; whereupon, Council
concurred in the request.
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At 11 :25 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess
until 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
420
At 2:00 p.m., on May 5, 2008, the Council meeting reconvened in I
the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff
(arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W.
Mason, Alvin L. Nash, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-7.
ABSENT:-O.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk; and Sheila N. Hartman, Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Mayor C. Nelson Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT: Council Member Mason offered the I
following resolution commending the Honorable John Brownlee, U.S.
Attorney for the Western District of Virginia for his service and dedication
to the safety and welfare of the citizens of the City of Roanoke.
(#38068-050508) A RESOLUTION commending the Honorable John
Brownlee.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 239.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38068-050508. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Council Member Lea expressed appreciation to Mr. Brownlee for his
work in the southwestern region, recognizing the importance of the work
that he has done and is of the opinion that he has been a tremendous
asset to the Roanoke community.
There being no additional comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 38068-050508 was adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and
Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff was not present when the vote was recorded.)
PROCLAMATIONS-POLICE DEPARTMENT: The Mayor presented a
proclamation to Chief Joe Gaskins, Roanoke City Police Department,
declaring May 11-17, 2008, as National Police Week, and May 15, 2008 as
Peace Officers' Memorial Day.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-POLICE: Leonard G. Cook, Director
of the Criminal Justice Services Board, appeared before the Council in
connection with a presentation to Chief of Police Joe Gaskins.
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PROCLAMATIONS-RECREATION: Barbara N. Duerk, Advocacy Chair,
Blue Ridge Bicycle Club of Virginia, Inc., appeared before the Council to
present a Certificate of Recognition signed by the Honorable Tim Kaine,
Governor of Virginia, declaring May 2008 as Bike Month to the Mayor.
(See proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
PROCLAMATIONS-CITY CLERK: The Mayor presented a
proclamation to the City Clerk declaring May 4 - 10, 2008, as Municipal
Clerks Week.
(See proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting
(2:25 p.m.).
CONSENT AGENDA
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The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent
Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and
would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the
Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on I
Monday, February 4, 2008, recessed until Friday, February 15, 2008, and
regular meeting of the Council held on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, were
before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council dispense with the.
reading of the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
Nash, and Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
STREETS-ENCROACHMENTS: A communication from the City
Manager requested that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday,
_ May 19, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, with regard to an encroachment for a public right-of-way at Market
Street and Norfolk Avenue, S.E., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request
of the City Manager. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
Nash, and Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
COMMITTEES-PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD: A communication
from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Sherley Stuart as a
member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, was before the
Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignation be accepted
and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded I
by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
Nash, and Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
YOUTH-HOTEL ROANOKE AND CONFERENCE CENTER-FINANCE: A
communication from Director of Finance tendering his resignation as the
Council representatives to the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center
Commission and the Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Commission,
effective June 30, 2008, was before the Council.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the resignations be accepted,
and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded
by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
Nash, and Harris-7.
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NAYS: None-O.
HOUSING (FAIR HOUSING BOARD): Report of qualification of Adam
Markwood as a member of the Fair Housing Board, to fill the unexpired
term of Tuan Reynolds, ending March 31, 2009, was before the Council.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that the report of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the folloWing vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason,
Nash, and Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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REGULAR AGENDA
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PUBLIC HEARINGS:
SCHOOL: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk
having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 5, 2008, at 2:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, with regard to
appointment of two Trustees to the Roanoke City School Board for three-
year terms of office, commencing July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2011,
the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The
Roanoke Times on Friday, April 25, 2008; and in The Roanoke Tribune on
Thursday, April 24, 2008.
(See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Applications were submitted by David B. Carson, Dolores Y. Johns
and Lori E. Vaught.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who would like to
speak in connection with the matter; whereupon, the following persons I
addressed the Council:
Dudley Woody, 3814 Heatherton Road, appeared before the Council
in support of Lori E. Vaught as a School Board Trustee, stating that
he has known Ms. Vaught for a number of years; and worked for
him as a Paralegal for 17 years at the law firm of Woods Rogers.
He added that she is intelligent, has an appropriate knowledge
base, is a take charge kind of person, trustworthy and dedicated.
In closing, Mr. Woody indicated that she is a devoted mother,
served on the Gifted Committee for the Roanoke City Public
Schools, has the time to devote to the School Board, and urged
Council to give the application serious consideration.
Chris Craft, 1501 East Gate Avenue, N. E., appeared before the
Council in support of David B. Carson for reappointment as a
School Board Trustee, noting that he has been involved with the
Roanoke City School PTAs for the past three years, and Mr. Carson
has done an exceptional job as the School Board Chairman. He
mentioned that teacher and employee moral has never been better
and urged the Council to reappoint Mr. Carson so that he may
continue the forward progress of the Roanoke City Schools.
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Duke Curtis, 1309 Guilford Avenue, N. W., appeared before the
Council in support of Dr. Dolores Y. Johns for appointment as
School Board Trustee, stating that Dr. Johns is the epitome of
education advocacy, in every aspect of her life she has been
committed to educational activities. He noted that she began her
career in her early 20's teaching at the elementary and high
schools, community college and Virginia Tech, and he was of the
opinion that she would be an asset to the Roanoke City Public
Schools if appointed. Mr. Curtis emphasized that this was his
second appeal before the Council on behalf of Dr. Johns'
appointment to the School Board because he felt that she would be
an excellent choice, citing that she fully understands the needs of
the students, teachers, principals and all that it takes to provide a
quality education system.
He pointed out that her children were educated in the City school
system and have continued their education at Virginia universities.
He recommended Dr. Johns for the School Board appointment
because she has the tools, skills, wisdom and knowledge to be a
great School Board member.
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Alice Johnson, 1616 Mercer Avenue, N. W., appeared before the
Council in support of Dr. Dolores Y. Johns, stating that she has
known Dr. Johns for many years and worked with her through the
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and has found her
to be a person who listens, has integrity, dignity and honor, is
reliable and friendly, and makes a difference in the lives of people
that she comes in contact with. Ms. Johnson was of the opinion
that Dr. Johnson would be an asset to the School Board, and would
exercise good judgment when making decisions for the betterment
of the Roanoke City School.
I
Rita Gliniecki, Chair, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare Board of
Directors, appeared before the Council in support of Dr. Dolores Y.
Johns, stating that Dr. Johns was formerly the Title I Director for
Roanoke City Public Schools for many years, and the value of her
career experience is self evident, but she wanted to emphasize her
value as a consensus builder. Ms. Gliniecki stated that Dr. Johns is
a peace maker, a voice of the community and one who offers the
wisdom that comes from embracing a full life; Dr. Johns has served
three terms on the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare Board of
Directors, and she has served with Dr. Johns on many committees.
426
Ms. Cliniecki indicated that Dr. John has the ability to read people I
quickly and accurately, listens and thinks before she speaks, and is
inherently thoughtful and caring; and she highly recommends Dr.
Johns for appointment to the Roanoke City School Board.
Kay Hale, Director of West End Center for Youth, appeared before
the Council in support of Lori E. Vaught, stating that she has known
and worked with Ms. Vaught for six years on the Roanoke City
Public School Safety Advisory Committee; and during that time,
there was a lot of work to be done with regard to safety issues
touted within the school system. Ms. Hale mentioned that she has
found Ms. Vaught to be reliable and committed to whatever task
she takes on, and if appointed, she will be representing the
Williamson Road area which has traditionally been unrepresented
on the School Board. She further stated that Ms. Vaught
understands the system functions, but has also developed a
relationship with a lot of the administrative staff and has helped to
develop a crisis plan for the Roanoke City School system in the
event of a tragedy.
She added that Ms. Vaught's children attended Roanoke City
Schools, she is low key and easy to work with, listens to others and
is always thoughtful about what she says. In closing, Ms. Hale
remarked that Ms. Vaught has many ideas for improving the
schools, particularly by working in cooperation with other agencies
and entities in the community; and she urges the Council to select
Ms. Vaught to serve on the Roanoke City School Board.
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There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the
public hearing closed, and stated that the appointments would be
made at the May 19, 2008 Council meeting.
He also recognized Lori E. Vaught and Dr. Dolores Y. Johns
who were present at the meeting and expressed appreciation for
their willingness to serve.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS: NONE.
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
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ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: NONE.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE:
FINANCIAL REPORTS: The Director of Finance submitted the
Financial Report for the month of March 2008.
(For full text, see Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Director of Finance highlighted the revenues through March
2008, and gave a summary of the financial report.
Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the
Financial Report would be received and filed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
I
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Mason expressed appreciation to
Downtown Roanoke, Inc. (DRI), for sponsoring the downtown cleanup
event that was held on Sunday, May 4. She requested that the City
Manager forward the names of vendors inquiring about outdoor ashtrays
to DRI.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS
AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE-COMMITTEES: The Mayor advised of
the following City of Roanoke nominations to Virginia Municipal League
Policy Committees:
I
~ Gwendolyn W. Mason - Community & Economic Development
~ Gwendolyn W. Mason - Environmental Quality
~ William Hackworth, City Attorney - General Laws
~ Alvin Nash - Human Development and Education
428
At this point, Council Member Lea left the meeting. (2:50 p.m.)
I
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor stated
that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and
matters requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred
immediately for response, recommendation or report to Council.
SCHOOLS: Evelyn Bethel, 35 Patton Avenue, N. E., appeared before
the Council to express concern with regard to the closing of Forest Park
Elementary School; and she urged the Council to meet with the School
Board to discuss the matter.
SCHOOLS: LeVita Washington, 2831 Melrose Avenue, N. W.,
appeared before the Council in opposition of the closing of Forest Park
Elementary School; and urged the Council to instruct the School Board to
rescind its decision.
SCHOOLS: Helen Davis, 35 Patton Avenue, N. E., appeared before
the Council to express concern with regard to the closing of Forest Park
Elementary School; and urged to the Council to discuss another possible
location with the School Board.
SCHOOLS: Martin Jeffrey, 40S Campbell Avenue, S. W., and Robert I
Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the Council in
opposition of the closing of Forest Park Elementary School.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
The City Manager announced that the month of May is
Neighborhood Month and commended staff for a successful May Day
event in the Hurt Park neighborhood on Saturday, May 3. In addition, she
noted the downtown cleanup event also held on May 4. She also
commented about the recent Night of Champions event which was held at
the Roanoke Civic Center, Special Events Center on Friday, April 25 to
honor middle and high school students for efforts to be outstanding
citizens in the community. She mentioned that students who are good
students often go unrecognized and this was a great opportunity to
recognize their accomplishments.
In connection with the City's Clean and Green campaign, Ms.
Burcham remarked that the Director of General Services has been on the
road participating in four regional forums with other localities to learn
how to implement green practices. She indicated that she recently
addressed a group of City Managers in Kentucky and Tennessee to share
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I
what the City of Roanoke is doing with regard to sustainability, adding
that the City Roanoke is doing great things in comparison to other cities
its size throughout the nation.
There being no further business, at 3: 12 p.m., the Mayor declared
the meeting in recess until Thursday, May 8, 2008, at 8:30 a.m., in Room
159, at which time the Council will convene in Fiscal Year 2008-2009
Budget Study; and thereafter, stand in recess until Monday, May 12 at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, to adopt the City of Roanoke
recommended Fiscal Year 2008-2009 Budget.
The regular meeting of Roanoke City Council, which was called to
order on Monday, May 5, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., reconvened on Thursday,
May 8, 2008, at 8:30 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C.
Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff
(arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr. (arrived late), Sherman P. Lea
(arrived late), Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash and Mayor C. Nelson
Harris-7.
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ABSENT: None-O.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager, William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
OTHERS PRESENT: R. Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for
Community Development, James Grigsby, Assistant City Manager for
Operations; Sherman A. Stovall, Director, Management and Budget; Ann
Shawver, Deputy Director of Finance; and David Hoback, Fire-EMS Chief.
BUDGET: The Mayor advised that the purpose of the meeting was to
engage in fiscal year 2008-2009 budget study deliberations and finalize
budget decisions, so that ordinances can be prepared and adopted at a
reconvened Council meeting on Monday, May 12, 2008.
At this point, Council Member Lea entered the meeting (8:35 a.m.).
I
The City Manager called attention to the following items targeted
for review:
430
. Constitutional Officer Adjustments
. Fire-EMS Recommendations
. Addison/Jackson Fitness Centers
. Retiree Pay Raise
. Other Post Employment Benefits
I
At this point, Council Member Fitzpatrick entered the meeting
(8:40.a.m.).
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICER ADIUSTMENTS
Ms. Burcham stated that she had provided the Council with a
detailed communication under the date of May 6, 2008, in response to
comments of the Commonwealth Attorney and Sheriff. She explained
that staff had balanced the budget, but still did not have any salary
adjustments for City employees, and was of the opinion that some type of
adjustment was critical. She added that some minor adjustments had to
be made in the constitutional officers' budgets in order to help with the
funding of the two percent salary adjustment.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting (8:45 a.m.).
The City Manager called attention to comments made by the
Commonwealth Attorney at the May 1 public hearing with regard to the
proposed Fiscal Year 2008-2009 Budget, specifically the elimination of
law clerks and Public Information Officers (PIOs), in lieu of budget cuts.
She stated that the elimination of PIOs would only further reduce the
City's interaction with the public.
I
Council Member Mason remarked that the Chief of Police needed to
be more visible in the community instead of his public information
officers. She also inquired about the $220,000.00 expenditure for City
publications, noting that she believes the expenditure to be a waste of
taxpayers' money.
Council Member Fitzpatrick believed that using City funds to
replace State funds was unfair to the taxpayers and other avenues should
be explored since the State was at fault. Mr. Stovall interjected that the
Sheriff has some flexibility in her budget since she retains all of the
revenue that is generated from the operation of the inmate telephone
system, adding that City funding is typically used to cover expenditures
in excess of the budget, and also to replace vehicles and equipment.
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The City Manager pointed out that the total reduction in the
Sheriff's budget was just below three percent, which included both State
and local reductions.
Mayor Harris stated that he agreed that public information officers,
especially on the City side, were doing a great job, but he would like for
the City to do more on that front. He also stated he wondered if on the
safety side, the Sheriff, Fire and Police, if that could be a shared resource
from a safety perspective, and whether or not that would account for any
substantial savings. He referred to the Commonwealth Attorney's
statement that misdemeanor cases would not be prosecuted if his budget
was reduced; and inquired of the City Attorney if that was a true
statement; whereupon, the City Attorney replied that although it is not
necessary to have legal prosecution, however, it was a good thing to
have.
I
With regard to the expenditures for publications, Council Member
Fitzpatrick commented that approximately $250,000.00 was budgeted
for publications, which is about one tenth of one percent of the budget,
noting that his concern was informing the public, and unfortunately there
is not the Internet presence with citizens of Roanoke as that of more
sophisticated communities. He did not have any problems with the
Council evaluating or cutting some of the 11 publications, and he would
also be in agreement with a reduction of $50,000.00, but he stressed the
importance of the City being able to communicate effectively with the
public. He indicated that the matter was a management issue and he
would support the City Manager reviewing the matter and reporting back
to the Council with a recommendation.
Inasmuch as there would be an increase in cost, Mayor Harris noted
his support for televising the work sessions which would also be a way of
communicating with the public.
With regard to City departments under the administration, the City
Manager indicated that the issue of public safety, in her opinion, was
paramount, and neither she nor the Fire Chief would recommend
anything that would infringe upon the safety of City employees or the
citizens.
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Council Member Lea stated that some citizens compare officers in I
the Sheriff's Department to police officers in the community, however,
public safety issues for deputy sheriffs relate to guarding inmates, not
putting their lives on the line daily to protect the community. Ms.
Burcham agreed with Council Member Lea's comment about the Sheriff's
operation being different from the Police Department, even though the
Sheriff's Department employees are compensated as public safety
employees.
Following in-depth discussion of the matter, the City Manager
stated that she would provide the Council with data regarding the roles of
the four public information officers, and she will reinforce the message
expressed by the Council for the Police Chief to be more visible in the
community instead of the department public information officer.
FIRE-EMS RECOMMENDATIONS:
With regard to public safety personnel, the City Manager stressed
that she would never make a recommendation to the Council that would
negatively impact the safety of Roanoke's citizens; and after education,
the second highest percentage of the budget was dedicated to public
safety activities. Given the significant amount of the budget, she believed
that Chief Hoback's analysis of the Fire Department's resources which
could be reallocated was practical, and she emphasized that the number
of working fires continues to reduce on an annual basis, which is due to
classes on fire prevention, and not necessarily the fire fighting personnel.
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In connection with remarks by the City Manager with regard to the
use of the City's ambulances being committed to medical calls, Council
Member Fitzpatrick commented on the history of the Fire-EMS budgets,
the saving of employees' jobs by going to the EMS function. In response
to questions and comments given at the May 1 public hearing, he agreed
with the decision of the Administration regarding the construction of new
fire stations in the Clearbrook area and northwest section of the City. He
asked that Fire Chief Hoback update the Council on the status of the fire
stations. Chief Hoback replied that fire personnel from the Airport Fire
Station will be relocating to the Williamson Road Station, which will
decrease the response times at the upper end of Williamson Road;
construction of Fire Station No. 5 will be located at the corner of 20th
Street, N. W., between Melrose and Orange Avenues (replaces Fire
Stations at the corner of 12th Street, N. W. and Loudon Avenue, and 24th
Street, N. W. and Melrose Avenue) and construction is scheduled to
commence in the fall and open by January 2010.
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Additional discussion was held with regard to public safety in the
neighborhoods with closing of fire stations in the inner city
neighborhoods and the construction of two new fire stations, as well as
the decrease in fire personnel. Council Member Fitzpatrick related some
history about the problems with the original Quint trucks, and how the
new equipment is better. Chief Hoback replied that the decision was
based on the Tri-data study as well as the Syntex study which indicated
that they needed to look at their apparatus.
(The Roanoke Fire Fighters Association created a document to
detail its stance against the proposed budget cuts in the Roanoke Fire-
EMS Department, which includes individual speeches made at the May 1
Budget Public Hearing, as requested by the Council. See document on file
in the City Clerk's Office.)
ADDISON JACKSON FITNESS CENTERS
I
Ms. Burcham gave background information regarding the rationale
behind the closing of the Addison and Jackson Fitness Centers,
reiterating that the Council had been provided information supporting
the decision of the Administration to move from four fitness centers to
two, based upon their usage. She pointed out that there is a group of
patrons that religiously attend the Addison Fitness Center who are active
in the fitness programs, i.e., permanent weight reduction or weight
maintenance program that does not necessarily require the use of
equipment; and the City's plan, even with the proposed closing of the
Addison facility, is to continue offering those fitness programs which are
in high demand.
I
She remarked that the City never visualized the centers operating
from a revenue neutral standpoint because it was always understood that
there would need to be some subsidy for the programs by the City. She
noted that the possible reduction in use at the Addison and Jackson
Fitness Centers might be due to the proliferation of fitness opportunities
that currently exist that were not available when the centers first opened,
adding that Jackson Fitness Center, the most recent opened fitness
center, has the lowest usage. She explained that the two proposed
closed fitness centers would return to the Roanoke City Schools for their
use during daytime hours, and the two remaining centers would have the
most up-to-date equipment in their inventory. In conclusion, she
emphasized that the City had to be prudent about where resources were
being expended, and she hoped that the Council would support the
reduction in the fitness centers.
434
Council Member Nash asked about the cost or savings of closing I
the two centers and what the optional and optimal use for the space
would be; whereupon, the City Manager stated that the estimated cost
would be approximately $42,000.00, and the space would continue to be
used, during daytime hours, by the schools, largely by their sports
program participants, and the City's major expense would continue to be
the staffing of the closed centers with qualified individuals who can
implement certain programs. She pointed out that there are classes held
in the gyms and other sites when enough people are registered, some
classes are free, while others have a nominal charge, and said classes
would continue to be conducted, but would need to be held in alternative
spaces in order for the City to be held harmless for patrons using the
equipment without proper supervision.
With regard to the use of the facility during school time, Council
Member Nash asked if there was an option whereby the schools could be
allowed to manage the facility; whereupon, Ms. Burcham advised that the
City actually has a lease with the Schools for the use of the space, and if
the Schools desired to manage the facility, the City would, in turn,
terminate the lease.
Based on the numbers presented, Council Member Fitzpatrick I
questioned whether the City should continue to operate the remaining
two fitness centers located at Woodrow Wilson and Breckinridge, and
suggested that the Administration study the matter further because of
the amounts of money expended at the two fitness centers. Based on the
figures noted by the Administration, Council Member Nash suggested
that the programs be eliminated at all four locations since the service to
the community was not cost effective at any of the locations.
In response to the concerns expressed by certain citizens at the
May 1 Budget Public Hearing about the closing of the Addison Fitness
Center, the City Manager referred to a memo to the Council whereby
several of the concerns were addressed.
Mayor Harris mentioned the possibility of regional recreational
opportunities in the future, and noted his support to reduce the number
of fitness centers to two.
In considering regional recreational facilities, Council Member Nash
hoped the Council would be cognizant of the fact that something needed
to be done in the Northwest quadrant of the City.
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435
I
Ms. Burcham reminded the Council that a consultant is working
with the City on a feasibility and conceptual design of a first multi-
purpose recreation center, which has been part of the comprehensive
plan for a number of years, and once received, she will share the findings
with the Council at that time.
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The City Manager also commented on the Eureka Park tennis courts
issue which was addressed in the memo, advising that the seven page
report contained an estimate of $92,000.00 for repairs to all four courts,
along with additional information regarding past maintenance to the
tennis cou rts. She pointed out that the operating budget had not had a
significant amount of money, annually, for court resurfacing or any other
items, adding that about $30,000.00 had been allocated annually for
cou rt resurfacing. She called attention to the Parks and Recreation
Master Plan, wherein the consultant noted that the City was over funded
when it came to tennis courts, and over time needed to identify
strategically where those courts should be located. She added that a
tennis court complex has been suggested. She stated that if it was the
Council's desire to resurface the courts, she would recommend that
funds not be expended from the operating budget, but use the funds that
had been set aside for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
improvement, which would allow the City to resurface all four tennis
courts at the same time.
Mayor Harris asked if there were any objections to the City
Manager's suggestion to resource the project out of the $3.3 million that
was set aside for the Parks and Recreation Master Plan rather than the
operating budget; whereupon, Vice-Mayor Trinkle stated that he was in
support of the recommendation, however, he wanted a recommendation
as to which tennis courts could be eliminated and how the City could
increase the budget for maintenance of facilities and greenways.
Council Member Lea inquired about a timeline and specifications of
the contract; whereupon, Ms. Burcham stated that with the Council's
approval of the use of the funds, the City could start developing the
specifications, which would be done by a contractor as opposed to using
in-house resources, and because it would take about 30 days to process
an RFP, the project could be completed by the end of summer.
It was the consensus of the Council for the City Manager to proceed
forward with the project.
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436
RETIREE PAY RAISE AND OTHER POST EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (OPEB)
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Retiree Benefits - Cost of Living
Adjustment
· Factors considered in providing an adjustment:
· Change in the consumer price index
· Pay raise recommended for active employees
· Increased cost to the pension plan
· Level of raises provided by similar plans within the
state
· Eligible members of the pension plan received a 2%
cost-of-living-adjustment on July 1,2007.
4
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Association of Municipal Retirement Systems of Virginia
Cost of Living Adjustments
Locality Proposed FY 09
Arlington County 2.8%
Charlottesville 2.0%
Danville 3.0%
Fairfax County Education 3.0%
Falls Church 1.7%
Newport News 1.9%
Norfolk 1.0%
Richmond Council recommendation 2.5%
Mayor recommendation 0.0%
VRS 2.8%
Social Security 2.3%
5
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Recommended Cost of Living Adjustment
· Provide a 1.75% increase to eligible members of the
Pension Plan, effective July 1, 2008
· Provides for an increase in the average annual
retirement allowance of approximately $235 on an
annual basis. Cost to Plan is $401,000 annually.
· Increased annual contributions of $253,000 required to
fund Pension Plan. This equates to a 0.3% increase in
the contribution rate.
· Pro-rata share of annual contributions for City of Roanoke -
$207,000
6
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438
Other Post
Employment Benefits
(OPE B)
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[_ ,\11
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Roanoke's OPES
I
. Benefits to retirees other than pensions
. Roanoke retirees with 15 years service gain access to
City's group medical plan
o State Code requirement
. Our plan blends rates of both active and retired
employees
o Providing a more affordable rate to retirees; slightly increasing
cost to active employees
. Retiree rates thereby receive implicit subsidy
. Provision of this benefit -> GASB 45 liability
o $19.6M based on current benefits
o Annual GASB contribution $1.9M
. Current cash funding is $1.0M
. Full funding requires $.9M additional funding
B
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439
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[-~ ~
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Remaining Steps
. City Council Action
oAdoption of a Plan
oAdoption of Resolution to Establish Trust
o Creation of Finance Board
9
[-t i:~.
I Facts About Retiree Medical
. Roanoke retirees with 15 years service
permitted in medical plan to age 65
. 1,700 total retirees
. 480 under age 65 and eligible to participate in
Roanoke medical plan based on 15 yrs service
D About 250 of these ages 40 to 59
D About 230 of these ages 60 to 65
. 225 retirees enrolled in medical plan
D 170 single, 10 employee/child, 45 family policy types
. 1,600 active employees enrolled in medical plan
10
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440
[- ~~
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OPES Team Recommendations
. Grandfather retirees through 2009
. Cost of benefits increased for retirees
2010 and after
o Retiree Blended + $1 OO/mo.
o Retiree + dependent Blended + $1 SO/mo.
o Family Blended + $200/mo.
. Rates in subsequent years further incremented based
on health care rate inflation
. Retirees with 20 years service receive a Pension Plan
supplement to age 65. Supplement indexed against
funding toward active medical - currently $280
11
[-.~
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Family
45
$ 97
11%
$ 660
39%
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Medical Plan Rates
$ Variance % $ Variance %
Type of Retirees Active & Variance Active & Variance
Med ical Enrolled Blended Active & Blended Active &
Coverage (06/30/2007) Blended Blended
Employee 170 $ 41 10% $ 283 39%
Employeel
Dependent
10
$ 59
10%
$ 406
39%
12
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441
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[_~rbl UIlif....
OPES Team Recommendations
. Resulting liability $15.8M and annual required
contribution of $1.4M
o Required funding of $324,000
. Other policy changes recommended to
reduce liability
o One time option for enrollment at retirement
o No increase in coverage level once enrolled
13
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Related Entity Impact
- Several related entities' retirees participate in Roanoke
medical plan
o Schools, Detention Commission, Airport Commission, Resource
Authority, Water Authority
o Participation in medical plan by virtue of membership in Roanoke
Pension Plan
- Recommendation that Roanoke not fund liability/cost
related to benefits provided by other employers
o Retirees of related entities will need to enroll in other medical
plans upon retirement
o Alternative for those with no retiree medical plans
. Employer will fully fund retiree-rated rate
14
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442
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Related Entity Participation in
Roanoke Medical Plan
Employee Retiree
Entity Members Members
Roanoke City Public Schools RCPS Plan 2
Roanoke Detention Commission 65 2
Roanoke
Plan
Roanoke Regional Airport Commission RRAC Plan 2
Roanoke Valley Resource Authority County Plan 0
Western Virginia Water Authority . County Plan 1
15
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t
Establishment of a Trust
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. State Code section 15.2-1544 permits
local governments to establish a trust for
investment of assets to be held for OPES
benefits
. Irrevocable trust
. VMLNaCo Trust available to all Virginia
localities
16
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Establishment of a Trust
. OPES team recommends Council adopt
joinder to participate in VMUVaCo trust
o Enhanced asset performance
o Reduced risk
DSharing of costs
o Ease of administration
17
[_ !;!;J
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Finance Board
. State Code section 15-1547 - local governments
appoint Finance Boards to oversee funding ,
placed in trust
. Board composed of minimum of three members:
o Chief Financial Officer (ex officio)
o Treasurer (ex officio)
o Citizen of Commonwealth (two year term)
. Proven integrity, business ability and demonstrated
experience in cash management and investments
o Recommend appointment of Sherman Stovall, Director of
Management and Budget, as citizen representative
18
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Remaining Steps
. Meeting with related parties
. Communication to employees, retirees
. City Council approval - June 2nd
DAdopt OPEB Plan
DAdopt Joinder Agreement
D Establish Finance Board
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The Director of Finance stated that in formu lating the
recommendation to the Council, staff reviewed other pension plans
around the State and the Social Security Administration to ascertain what
they were giving, as well as looked at the Consumer Price Index (CPI); and I
one of the most primary factors considered was the additional cost to the
City's pension system. He pointed out that a two-percent increase was
provided for retirees in the 2007-2008 fiscal year budget, which was
effective for 2008.
Mr. Hall gave a background history regarding raises given to City
retirees starting in 1971, noting that the City had only skipped three
years since 1971 to the present whereby a raise was not given to the
retirees. Mr. Hall advised that they were recommending a 1.75 percent
raise for all City retirees who had been retired at least a year, effective
July 1, which would provide approximately $235.00 gross annually to the
retirees, and would cost the Pension Plan $401,000.00 paid out in
benefits. He further stated that it would actually cost approximately
$253,000.00 in additional contributions to the Plan, adding that the
actual cost to the General Fund and the operating funds is about a three
percent increase in the contribution rate, and the cu rrent contribution
rate was just over 1 5 percent of the payroll. He also stated that the City's
pro rata share of said $253,000.00 would be about $207,000.00.
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The Director of Finance provided the Council with a little bit of
background regarding Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), advising
that there is a requirement by the Governmental Council Standards Board
that localities recognize the cost of benefits provided to retirees other
than pensions, which the City does; the implementation dates are
structured depending on the size of the budget; and the City's budget is
large enough that 2008 is the year for implementation.
Ann Shawver, Deputy Director of Finance, shared data by
PowerPoint.
(Copy of power point presentation is on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Council Member Lea referred to page 10, and asked if the Roanoke
retirees who retire after 1 5 years of service were aware that they were
permitted in the Medical Plan up to age 65; and asked what would
happen after age 65; whereupon, Ms. Shawver replied in the affirmative.
She pointed out that Roanoke's situation is very much the norm of other
local governments whereby individuals are allowed to participate in the
City's medical plan to age 65 and at age 65 and later; adding that
generally, those retirees also participate in Medicare and many purchase
a Medicare supplement type plan. She further indicated that some
communities who have been providing benefits after age 65 were
stopping said practice, and it is pretty much the norm to just provide
access to health care to age 65.
I
She pointed out the history of having a few of individuals from
other entities participating in the City's medical plan for retirees, which
are referred to as "related party entities"; and basically these individuals
are employed with the Roanoke City Public Schools, the Detention
Commission, the Airport Commission, Resource Authority and the Water
Authority. She stated that because this was an employer liability
requirement and not a pension plan requirement, the recommendation
would be that the City of Roanoke not take on the liability or cost of any
of the abovementioned employers, but would prefer that those employers
allow their retirees to enroll in their medical plan. She advised that there
are two employers who do not have medical plans for retirees, and if said
employees needed to enroll in the City's medical plan, the
recommendation would be to take the stance that the City would ask
those employers to deal with the cost of those benefits m they could
either provide funding in a blended fashion as recommended or pass the
entire cost to their retirees.
446
She stated that the bigger issue was probably what was going to
happen to the active employees in the future. She commented that the
65 employees of the Detention Commission are currently in Roanoke
City's plan because they do not have their own insurance plan; and the
Resource Authority and the Water Authority are tied into Roanoke
County's plan. She stated that the issues were discussed with both
entities over a year ago, and found them to be in agreement with the
philosophy that they, as employers, needed to make their own policy
decisions about how to deal with requirement because it was not up to
the City of Roanoke and the citizens to make a choice about how to fund
their retiree benefits.
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle requested clarification about the information on
the School system; whereupon, Ms. Shawver responded that there were
only two individuals currently participating in the City's Medical Plan,
wherein the Schools have about 1,800 individuals from the active
perspective, and about 1 50 retirees; and from the OPEB perspective, the
Schools were dealing with the same issues. She stated that the City and
the Schools discussed the possibility of having a common medical plan,
but from a liability policy perspective, the School Board would also need
to adopt a plan, set policy, funding, etc., which was shared in a School
Board report at its second meeting in April 2008 regarding setting aside
$1 million in funding to address the issue. In addition, she explained
that the City and Schools were working together on a joint RFP for health
care and she anticipated that interviews with health care providers would
occur sometime later in June.
I
Ms. Burcham commented that while they only had two people in the
City's Medical Plan, there may be an opportunity for more in the future,
and inquired of Mr. Hall if they were removing School employees who are
eligible to retire to the City's system; whereupon, Mr. Hall advised that
their recommendation was to not allow any more School retirees in the
City's Plan, excluding the two individuals who are grandfathered in.
There being no further questions about the plan,
recommendations, or related employers, Ms. Shawver explained in detail
the recommendation about participation in a Trust, and reviewed
information regarding the benefits of participating in the VML/VACo
Trust - - the pooling of resources, the savings in terms of administrative
requirements, and the risk advantages, etc., all of which were reasons for
recommending that the City go the route of the VML/VACo Trust.
I
447
I
The Deputy Director of Finance emphasized that the creation of a
Finance Board was a requirement which purpose is essentially to oversee
the funding that is placed in the Trust, pointing out that the State Code
requires that there be a minimum of three members on the Finance Board
- - two are essentially appointed based on the position held with the local
governing body (for the City of Roanoke, it would be the Director of
Finance arid City Treasurer) and the third member must be a citizen of
the Commonwealth, whereby the State Code requires the governing body
(City Council) to appoint an individual to serve a two-year term. She
remarked that said individual is required to have proven integrity,
business ability, etc., and the City felt that the appropriate candidate was
the Director of Management and Budget. The Deputy of Finance stated
that a measure would be brought to the Council for action at a Council
meeting in June to establish the City of Roanoke's Finance Board.
I
In connection with the creation of the Finance Board, Council
Member Nash stated that since there is a minimum of three required for
the Finance Board, he thought the Council may want to think about
adding a fourth person, preferably an outside citizen with expertise in
finance, in order to add objectivity and separation from the business of
the City.
There being no additional questions and/or comments regarding
the briefing, the Mayor expressed appreciation to the Finance Department
for its in-depth presentation.
The Mayor inquired if there were closing comments. from the
Members of Councilor City officials; whereupon, the City Manager
advised that no comments were received regarding the CDBG funds; and
the City Attorney advised that the Council will consider an amendment to
the City Code to increase the City's license tax for real estate appraisers,
brokers, and salesmen to $36.00 plus $.58 per one hundred dollars of
gross receipts, and for contractors and persons constructing for their
own account for sale of $.16 per one hundred dollars of gross receipts
beginning January 1, 2009, noting that the matter will not have an impact
on the proposed budget.
There being no further business, at 11 :00 a.m., the Mayor declared
the Council meeting in recess until Monday, May 12, 2008, at 2:00 p.m.,
in the Council Chamber, for the purpose of considering measures to
adopt the City of Roanoke's 2008-2009 fiscal year budget.
I
448
The Council of the City of Roanoke reconvened on Monday, May 12, I
2008, at 2:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke,
with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick,
Jr., Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-5.
ABSENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea and Brian J. Wishneff -2.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk.
The invocation was delivered by Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Mayor Harris.
BUDGET: The Mayor advised that the purpose of the meeting was to
adopt measures enacting the City of Roanoke's 2008-2009 fiscal year
budget.
I
The Director of Finance submitted a Certificate of Funding advising
that in accordance with paragraphs (h) and (i) of Section 25.1 of the
Charter of the City of Roanoke, do hereby certify that funds required for
the 2008-2009 General Fund, Civic Facilities Fund, Parking Fund, Market
Building Fund, Department of Technology Fund, Fleet Management Fund,
Risk Management Fund, School Fund, School Food Services Fund, and
Grant Fund budgets will be available for appropriation.
Without objection by Council, the Mayor advised that the Certificate
of Funding would be received and filed.
I
449
I
BUDGET-FEE COMPENDIUM-TAXES: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending amendment of the City's Fee
Schedule (Compendium), in connection with certain fees for cigarette tax
penalty, motor vehicle license for motorcycles, moped registration,
courthouse security, fire engine and emergency medical services standby,
emergency medical services, fire lane and fire hydrant violation, and land
disturbing permit, effective July 1, 2008.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38069-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending Article VIII,' Ciqarette
Tax, of Chapter 32, Taxation, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979)
as amended, by establishing a new Section 32-199.1 Penalties for late
payment, fraud. evasion, etc., to allow the imposition of monetary
penalties and interest due to late payment or evasion of the cigarette tax
as authorized by Section 58.1-3832 of the Code of Virginia (1950) as
amended; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
I
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 240.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38069-
051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38070-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining
Section 20-28(d), Tax Imposed, of Article II, Vehicle Licenses. of Chapter
20, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Code of the City of Roanoke; providing for
an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
I
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 241.)
450
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38070-051208. The motion was seconded by Vic~-Mayor Trinkle and I
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38071-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining
Section 20-138, Fees. of Division 2, Reqistration, of Article VII, Mopeds.
Bicycles And Electric Power-Assisted Bicycles of Chapter 20, Motor
Vehicles and Traffic. Code of the City of Roanoke; providing for an
effective date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 242.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38071-051208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38072-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending ~ 1-21, Courtroom
security assessment, Code of the City of Roanoke, to increase the
assessment by the City of a fee to provide funding of courthouse security
personnel, pursuant to ~53.1-120, Code of Virginia (1950), as amended;
providing for an effective date; and. dispensing with the second reading
rby title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 244.)
I
451
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38072-
051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38073-051208) A RESOLUTION providing for the amendment of
certain Fire and EMS fees, and the establishment of a new Fire Engine
Standby Fee; providing for an effective date; and directing amendment of
the Fee Compendium.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 245.)
I
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38073-051208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38074-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending Section 20-89,
Penalties for unlawful parkinq, Division 3, Duties of Police Officers:
Penalties for Unlawful Parking, Article IV, Stoppinq. Standinq and Parkinq,
of Chapter 20, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Code of the City of Roanoke
(1979), as amended, in order to increase the fines for parking in a fire
lane or blocking a fire hydrant; providing for an effective date; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
I
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 246.)
452
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38074- I
051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adoptee! by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38075-051208) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining the
Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by adding a new
subsection (f) to Section 11.1-5, Land disturbing permit requirements, to
Chapter 11,1, Erosion and Sediment Control; providing for an effective
date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 248.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No. I
38075-051208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris- 5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
BUDGET-CIVIC CENTER-CITY MARKET-EQUIPMENT-TECHNOLOGY-
INSURANCE-SCHOOLS-GRANTS: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending adoption of Annual General, Civic
Facilities, Parking, Market Building, Department of Technology, Fleet
Management, Risk Management, School, School Food Services, and Grant
Fund appropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2008 and ending
June 30, 2009.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
I
453
I
(#38076-051208) AN ORDINANCE adopting the annual General,
Civic Facilities, Parking, Market Building, Department of Technology, Fleet
Management, Risk Management, School, School Food Services and Grant
Funds Appropriations of the City of Roanoke for the fiscal year beginning
July 1, 2008, and ending June 30, 2009; and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 249.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38076-051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
I
CITY EMPLOYEES: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending adoption and establishment of a Pay Plan
fo'r officers and employees of the City, effective July 1, 2008, and
providing for certain salary adjustments and merit increases; authorizing
annual salary increments for certain officers and employees; continuation
of various programs; payment of a monthly stipend to certain board and
commission members; and salaries of the City's Constitutional Officers.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(#38077-051208) AN ORDINANCE to adopt and establish a Pay
Plan for officers and employees of the City effective July 1, 2008;
providing for certain salary adjustments and merit increases; authorizing
annual salary increments for certain officers and employees for use of
private motor vehicles; authorizing annual salary increments for sworn
police officers assigned duties in a non-uniform capacity; authorizing
annual salary increments for certain members of the Fire-Emergency
Medical Services Department who are certified as Emergency Medical
Technicians; authorizing annual salary increments for certain members of
the Fire-Emergency Medical Services Department who are members of the
Regional Hazardous Materials Response Team; authorizing annual salary
increments for employees performing fire inspector duties; providing for
454
continuation of a police career enhancement program; providing for I
continuation of a Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician merit pay
program; providing for a Community Policing Specialist program;
providing for payment of a monthly stipend to certain board and
commission members; providing for an increase in base annual salary for
any employee of the Sheriff who meets the qualifications for and has
been appointed Master Deputy Sheriff; providing for the salary of the
City's General Registrar; providing for the salaries of the City's
Constitutional Officers; providing for the salaries of the Mayor, Vice-
Mayor, and Members of Council; providing for an effective date; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 257.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38077-051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fitzpatrick
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
I
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
PENSION PLAN: The City Manager and Director of Finance
submitted a joint written communication recommending approval of
certain supplemental benefits under the City of Roanoke Pension Plan,'
effective July 1, 2008.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38078-051208) AN ORDINANCE providing for certain
supplemental benefits under the City of Roanoke Pension Plan to certain
members of such Plan and certain of their surviving spouses; providing
for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 262.)
I
455
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38078-
051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
BUDGET-CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending endorsement of an
update to the Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Year 2009-2013.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Nash offered the following resolution:
I
(#38079-051208) A RESOLUTION endorsing the update to the
Capital Improvement Program submitted by the City Manager by letter of
May 12, 2008.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 264.)
Council Member Nash moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38079-051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38080-051208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding for the
FY 2009-2013 Update to the Capital Improvement Program, amending
and reordaining certain sections of the 2008-2009 Capital Projects and
Grant Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
I (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 265.)
456
,
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance I
No. 38080-051208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
YMCA-GREENWAYS-BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appropriation of funds for construction of
a new central branch YMCA complex and Roanoke River greenway
projects and greenways development, in the amount of $200,000.00,
respectively.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38081-051208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the I
Economic and Community Development Reserve for the Greenways
Development Projects and the YMCA Aquatic Center, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2008-2009 Capital Projects Fund
Appropriations and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 266.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38081-051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
I
457
I
BUDGET-INDUSTRIES: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appropriation of $325,000.00 in
connection with local incentives for Enterprise Zone projects.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38082-051208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Economic and Community Development Reserve for the Enterprise Zone
Projects, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2008-2009
Capital Projects Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of budget ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 267.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38082-051208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
GRANTS: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending approval of the 2008-2009 Annual Update to the 2005-
2010 Consolidated Plan and authorization to submit the complete Annual
Update to the United States Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) for final review and approval.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
I
458
(#38083-051208) A RESOLUTION approving the 2008-2009 Annual I
Update ("Annual Update") to the 2005 - 2010 Consolidated. Plan and
authorizing the City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, to submit
the approved Annual Update to the United States Department of Housing
and Urban Development ("HUD") for final review and approval, and
authorizing the execution of all necessary documents pertaining to such
Annual Update.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 268.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38083-051208. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Fitzpatrick, Mason, Nash, and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Lea and Wishneff were absent.)
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the I
reconvened Council meeting adjourned at 2:25 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~Yn.~
CJ)Qdf~
Stephanie M. Moon
City Clerk
C. Nelson Harris
Mayor
I
459
I
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
May 19, 2008
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on
Monday, May 19, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., in Room 450, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration,
Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Reqular
Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant
to Resolution No. 37817-070207 adopted by the Council on Monday,
July 2, 2007.
PRESENT: Council Members Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late),
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L.
Nash, David B. Trinkle, and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-7.
I
ABSENT: NONE -0.
I
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Sheila N.
Hartman, Deputy City Clerk.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
PROCLAMATION: The Mayor presented Jane Conlin, Director of
Human Services/Social Services, with a Proclamation declaring May 2008,
as Foster Care Month.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff arrived at the meeting
(2:08 p.m.).
I
460
PROCLAMATIONS-FIRE DEPARTMENT: The Mayor presented Fire I
Chief H. David Hoback with a Proclamation declaring the week of M~y 18-
24, 2008, as Emergency Medical Services Week.
PROCLAMATIONS-PUBLIC WORKS: The Mayor presented Robert K.
Bengston, Director of Public Works, with a Proclamation declaring the
week of May 18-24, 2008, as National Public Works Week.
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: On behalf of the Architectural
Review Board and in recognition of National Historic Preservation Month,
the Mayor presented Preservation Excellence Awards to the following
property owners:
Melinda Kantor, 1114 4th Street, S. W.
Steve and Eric Wiseman, 656 Day Avenue, S. W.
Chrisopher and Tonya Blair, 227 Albemarle Avenue, S. W.
David Meador, 1112 2nd Street, S. W.
Angela Stover, 380 Woods Avenue, S. W.
Rob Glenn, 102 Campbell Avenue, S. W.
VACO Risk Management, 308 Market Street, S. E.
Clinton and Anna McLaughlin, 833 Day Avenue, S. W.
Ron Chuman, 1526 Franklin Road, S. W.
Jim and Annel Haynes, 511 Day Avenue, S. W.
I
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent
Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and
would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the
Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. He called
attention to two requests for Closed Meetings.
MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meeting of Council held on
Monday, March 3, 2008, were before the Council.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
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461
I
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
CITY COUNCIL-COMMITTEES: A communication from Mayor C.
Nelson Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to
discuss vacancies on certain authorities, boards, commissions and
committees appointed by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l),
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
I
CITY COUNCIL-COMMITTEES: A communication from Council
Member Mason, Chair, City Council Personnel Committee, requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a personnel matter, being
the appointment of a Council-appointed officer, pursuant to Section 2.2-
371l(A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of
Council Member Mason to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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462
COMMITTEE-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: A communication from I
the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Wyona Lynch McWhite as
Chairman and member of the Roanoke Arts Commission, was before the
Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council accept the resignation. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
COMMITTEES-PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of
Christene A. Montgomery as a member of the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council accept the resignation. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
ROANOKE CITY ELECTORAL BOARD: A communication from the
Roanoke City Electoral Board transmitting an Abstract of Votes cast in the
General Election held in the City of Roanoke on May 6, 2008, was before
the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the communication be received and
filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted
by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
PERSONNEL: Report of qualification of Gregory W. Staples as a
member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission, for a
term ending June 30, 2010, was before the Council:
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the report of qualification be
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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CITY COUNCIL-CITY CLERK-CITY MANAGER-DIRECTOR OF FINANCE-
MUNICIPAL AUDITOR-CITY ATTORNEY: An oral request from Council
Member Gwendolyn W. Mason, Chair, City Council Personnel Committee,
that the Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the annual
evaluations of the Council-appointed officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-
377(A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that the Council concur in the request of
Council Member Mason as abovedescribed. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
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464
LEGISLATIVE: Mayor C. Nelson Harris submitted a written
communication recommending that City Council elections become non-
partisan be referred to the Legislative Committee for possible inclusion in
the City's 2008 Legislative Program.
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Council Member Lea inquired as to whether other cities in Virginia
hold partisan or non-partisan city elections; whereupon, it was stated that
the City of Roanoke is in the minority in terms of holding partisan
elections.
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved that the Council concur in the
recommendation. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and unanimously adopted.
BUDGET-POLICE: The Commonwealth's Attorney submitted a
written communication recommending appropriation of funds in
connection with the Forfeited Criminal Assets and Forfeited Criminal
Asset Interest; and the City Manager submitted a written communication
concurring in the request.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
I
(For full text, see communications on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
(#38084-051908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Forfeited Criminal Assets Grant,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 269.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38084-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
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CITY MANAG ER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
GRANTS-FLEET: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appropriation of additional funds for
purchase of motor fuel for the remainder of the fiscal year.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38085-051908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate additional
funding from internal billings to City and School departments for motor
fuel purchases amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-
2008 Fleet Management Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
I
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 270.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38085-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
BUDGET-ARTS COMMISSION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the transfer of $359,620.00 in connection
with recommendations of the Roanoke Arts Commission Agency Funding
Advisory Committee for funding to specific Art Commission agencies.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
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466
(#38086-051908) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding to specific I
Art Commission agencies, amending and reordaining certain sections of
the 2008-2009 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 271.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38086-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
Inasmuch as the Virginia Museum of Transportation receives
funding from the City, Council Member Fitzpatrick advised that he would
be abstaining from voting.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council, Budget Ordinance No. 38086-051908 was adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Lea, Mason, Nash, Trinkle, and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
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(Council Member Fitzpatrick abstained from voting due to a conflict of
interest.)
BUDGET-HUMAN SERVICES: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the transfer of $598,030.00 in connection
with recommendations of the Human Services Advisory Board for funding
to qualified agencies for fiscal year 2008-2009.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
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(#38087-051908) A RESOLUTION concurring in the
recommendations of the Human Services Advisory Board ("Board") for
allocation of City funds to various nonprofit agencies and performance
audits for Fiscal Year 2008-2009; authorizing the City Manager or her
designee to execute any required contracts with the recipient agencies
for provision of services, and to execute a contract with the Council of
Community Services to perform the necessary performance audits to
evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of all funded programs.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 272.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38087-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
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Pamela Irvine, 1025 Electric Road, S. W., appeared before the
Council to request annual funding for the Food Bank, stating that she
believes the recommendations from the Advisory Committee were unfair
in comparison to the services rendered to the City of Roanoke and the
non-profit organizations were being penalized due to the City's
complicated budgeting process. She added that if the budget from the
City of Roanoke was not increased, the Food Bank would have to raise the
money for Roanoke City agencies from other areas.
Jim Baldwin, representing Brain Injury Services of Southwest
Virginia, appeared before the Council, stating that the agency made a
request for City funds, but was denied; however, during the appeal for
funding, it was remarked that the agency was denied because it was
receiving CDBG funding. He pointed out that the majority of the services
rendered were to City of Roanoke residents, and he felt that to be denied
funding after five years of continuous funding was almost a slap in the
face. He indicated that the loss of City funding could jeopardize
additional funding from other sources due to the removal of the City's
name on the list; and he was appealing to the Council for City funding so
that it would appear that the City was supportive of the services rendered
by the organization.
Council Member Nash commented that the Food Bank and Brain
Injury Services should have received serious consideration by the Human
Services Advisory Committee, and asked that the matter be referred to
the City Manager for review for funding.
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468
The City Manager offered clarification regarding CDBG funds the I
Food Bank received last year, adding that she is not generally involved in
review of agency appropriations, and that the current process is designed
to streamline the appropriations. She pointed out that both the arts and
the human services funds grow annually, and that all funds are presently
allocated; and if the Council desires more funds, it must either find new
sources or reduce another agency's amount.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle stated that it would be helpful to the Council to
have access to history of the allocations to the various agencies;
whereupon, the City Manager noted that the information was attached to
her communication.
Council Member Fitzpatrick recommended that the matter be
referred to the City Manager for study and recommendation to the
Council, adding that the process has been a successful way to work with
the Human Services and Cultured Arts organizations; and he was of the
opinion that the Council should not start allocating funds separately.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council Members, Resolution No. 38087-051908 was adopted by the
following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38088-051908) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding to specific
Human Services Committee agencies, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2008-2009 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing
with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 274.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38088-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
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469
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AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
JEFFERSON CENTER-LICENSES: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending authorization for waiver of the
City's sovereign immunity and execution of a rental license agreement
with the Jefferson Center Foundation, Ltd., in connection with Renovate
Roanoke, an Old Home Renovation Fair, from October 10 - 11 , 2008.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38089-051908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City to indemnify
and hold harmless the Jefferson Center Foundation, as a condition of a
rental agreement for the Renovate Roanoke Conference; and authorizing
the execution of any necessary documents.
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(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 276.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38089-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
GRANTS-GREENWAYS-HIGHWAYS: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending execution of an agreement with
the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Transportation in
connection with the receipt of Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds
for the Roanoke River Greenway.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
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470
(#38090-051908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to I
enter into an Agreement with the Commonwealth of Virginia Department
of Transportation necessary to accept funding for further construction
and development efforts for the Roanoke River Greenway trail project.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 277.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38090-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38091-051908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding, from the
Virginia Department of Transportation and transfer funding from the
Comprehensive Greenways project to the Roanoke River Greenway
project, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007- 2008 I
Capital Projects Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 278.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38091-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
GRANTS-VIRGINIA WESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of
the Grant Recipient Agreement between the Virginia Community College
System and the City of Roanoke on behalf of the Western Virginia
Workforce Development Board.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38092-051908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to
execute the grant recipient agreement between the Virginia Community
College System and the City of Roanoke on behalf of the Western Virginia
Workforce Development Board.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 279.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38092-
051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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LICENSES: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of a Temporary Nonexclusive Revocable License
Agreement with KDL of Virginia, Inc., to provide telecommunications
services within the City.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Nash offered the following ordinance:
(#38093-051908) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute on behalf of the City a Temporary Nonexclusive Revocable
License Agreement with KDL of Virginia, Inc., that allows the
construction, maintenance, and operation of telecommunications
facilities in the City's public ways; authorizing the City Manager to
implement, administer, and enforce such License Agreement; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 280.)
Council Member Nash moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38093-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, I
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
CITY CODE-TAXES: The Director of Finance submitted a written
report recommending amendment to the City Code to implement changes
in connection with the Cigarette Tax.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38094-051908) AN ORDINANCE amending See. 32-188,
Definitions, See. 32-197, Dealer's and seller's records generally, See. 32-
199, Seizure of unstamped cigarettes, See. 32-202, Violations of article
generallv, and See., 32-203, Same--Prohibited acts enumerated. of
Article VIII, Cigarette Tax, of Chapter 32, Taxation, of the Code of the
City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by adding certain definitions,
penalties and requirements, as authorized by Section 58.1-3832 of the
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 281.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38094-
051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
SCHOOLS-BUDGET: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a
written report requesting appropriation of funds to school programs and
transfer of funds in connection with the James Madison Middle School
roof project; and the Director of Finance submitted a written report
recommending that Council concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38095-051908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from
donations and the Federal government as well as to transfer funding from
the School Fund to the School Capital Projects Fund for the Title I School
Improvement Program and the Madison Middle School roof project,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 School and
School Capital Projects Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 284.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38095-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
SCHOOL BOARD: The Mayor advised that there were two upcoming
vacancies on the Roanoke City School Board created by the expiration of
the terms of office of David B. Carson and V. Mignon Chubb-Hale ending
June 30, 2008. He noted that public interviews were conducted with
David B. Carson, Dolores Johns, and Lori Vaught, and opened the floor for
nominations.
FOR MR. CARSON: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris-6.
FOR DR. JOHNS: Council Members Lea, Nash Wishneff and Mayor
Harris-4.
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FOR MS. VAUGHT: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Mason, Trinkle
and Wishneff -4.
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There being a tie vote between Dr. Johns and Ms. Vaught, the I
Mayor called for another role call vote.
FOR DR. JOHNS: Council Members Lea, Nash and Mayor Harris -3.
FOR MS. VAUGHT: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Mason, Trinkle,
and Wishneff-4.
Inasmuch as Mr. Carson and Ms. Vaught having received the
highest number of votes cast to fill the two upcoming vacancies as
Trustees on the Roanoke City School Board for terms of three years, each,
commencing July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2011 the Mayor instructed
the City Attorney to prepare the proper measure(s) for adoption at the
7:00 p.m. session of City Council.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The Mayor advised
that Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard and
matters requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred
immediately for response, recommendation or report to Council.
Mr. Martin Jeffrey, 405 Campbell Avenue, S. W., appeared before
the Council and spoke with regard to concerns that were expressed in the I
past regarding issues with the City schools, Housing Authority, etc. He
also advised that a Class Action Complaint had been filed with the United
States Department of Education alleging violations, again, of Title VI, of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, in connection with the closing of Forest Park
Elementary School; and urged the Council to request the School Board
and Superintendent of Schools to reconsider the closing of the School.
Ms. LeVita Washington, 2831 Melrose Avenue, N. W., President,
Forest Park Elementary School PTA, appeared before the Council and
spoke with regard to the closing of Forest Park Elementary School and
reiterated the comments given by Mr. Jeffrey previously. She urged the
City Council to review the decision of the School Board and to look for
better leadership rather than disbursement of the students.
Mr. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road N. W., appeared before
the Council and spoke with regard to the City and the law, the budget
crisis, education and community upkeep, and the City's accountability to
its citizens.
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CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
The City Manager announced that she and Council Member
Fitzpatrick had attended the Foster Care Banquet on Friday, May 16, and
commented about the high number of children waiting for placements in
the foster care system. She expressed her hope that families in a
position to care for any of said children would consider doing so.
Ms. Burcham also mentioned that the 25th Annual Local Colors event was
held on Saturday, May 17; and the Haitian Flag Day event was held on
Sunday, May 18. In addition, she updated the Council on the condition of
Police Officer Bryan Lawrence, who had been transferred to a national
rehabilitation facility, and urged the City family to keep Officer Lawrence
in their thoughts and prayers.
At 3: 1 5 p.m., the Council meeting was declared in recess for a
Closed Meeting the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
(Council Member Wishneff left during the Closed Meeting)
I
At 3: 5 5 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council
Chamber, with Vice-Mayor Trinkle presiding and all Members of Council
in attendance, with the exception of Mayor Harris and Council Member
Wishneff.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded,
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved that each Member of City Council
certify to the best of his or her knowledge that: (1) only public business
matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the
Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and (2) only such public business
matters were identified in any motion by which any Closed Meeting was
convened were heard, discussed or considered by City Council. The
motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Mayor Harris was not present when the vote was recorded.) (Council
Member Wishneff was absent.)
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476
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: The Vice-Mayor advised that there is
a vacancy on the Roanoke Arts Commission created by the resignation of
Wyona L. McWhite for a term ending June 30, 2008; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
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The name of David J. Brown was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Brown was appointed as a
member of the Roanoke Arts Commission to complete the remaining
portion of the unexpired term of Ms. McWhite's ending June 30, 2008;
and thereafter a term of three years ending June 30, 2011, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. BROWN: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash
and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-5.
(Mayor Harris was not present when the vote was recorded.) (Council
Member Wishneff was absent.)
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: The Vice-Mayor
advised that there is a vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board created by the resignation of Sherley Stuart for a term ending
March 31, 2011; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
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The name of Gordie L. Zeigler was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Zeigler was appointed as a
member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to fill the unexpired
term of Sherley Stuart ending March 31 , 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MR. ZEIGLER: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash
and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-5.
(Mayor Harris was not present when the vote was recorded.) (Council
Member Wishneff was absent.)
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COUNCIL-CELEBRATIONS: The Vice-Mayor announced that the Blue
Ridge Parkway will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2010, with a formal
anniversary celebration; and the Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc. Board of
Directors, a not-for-profit corporation formed specifically to plan and
implement the anniversary's celebratory events, are currently making
plans and has contacted the City for representation on the Board;
whereupon, he advised that Mayor Harris has agreed to serve on the
Board of Directors as the City's representative. Vice-Mayor Trinkle added
that Roanoke will host a kick-off event in the fall of 2008, with Asheville,
North Carolina, hosting a similar event in 2009.
At 4:00 p.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in
recess to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room
450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 7:00 p.m., on Monday, May 19, 2008, the Council meeting
reconvened in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, Virginia,
with Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
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PRESENT: Council Members Brian j. Wishneff, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick,
Jr., Sherman P. Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash, David B. Trinkle
and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-7.
ABSENT: None-O.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; and Sheila N.
Hartman, Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Mayor Harris.
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478
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
I
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing
for Monday, May 19, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, on the request of Glade Creek Station L. P., to
rezone property located at 3250 Orange Avenue, N. E., Official Tax Map
No. 7090523, from RMF, Residential Multifamily District, to CG,
Commercial-General District, subject to the following conditions: that the
property would be used for only the following uses: (1) financial
institution; laboratory, dental, medical optical; medical clinic; office
general or professional; caterer, commercial; community market; drive
through facility; drive through kiosk; mixed-use building with
nonresidential uses limited to those listed herein; studio/multimedia
production facility; eating establishment; eating and drinking
establishment; or entertainment establishment; (2) that an existing
billboard would be removed upon development of the site for a permitted
use; (3) that the following site improvements will be installed during the
development of the site: a five-foot wide sidewalk; one curb cut along
Orange Avenue; area from side lot line to side lot line between the front
lot line and the principal building along Orange Avenue shall be
landscaped, with a minimum of one large deciduous tree for every 30 feet
and one evergreen shrub for every three feet of public road frontage;
installation of a full width right turn lane (200' storage 200' taper) for
eastbound traffic entering the site; and installation of a left turn lane
(200' full width storage and 200' of taper) for westbound traffic entering
the site; and (4) that the following design practices would be
implemented during the design and construction of site improvements:
off street parking shall be located beyond the front building line and in
the case of multiple principal buildings, the proffer shall apply to the
building line established closest to the front property line; principal
building entrance shall face Orange Avenue; light levels emanating from
the site shall not exceed 0.5 foot candles at the property line; and
exposed concrete block, concrete block and vinyl siding exterior building
treatments shall be prohibited, the matter was before the body.
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Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The
Roanoke Times on Friday, May 2, 2008, and Friday, May 9, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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479
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The City Planning Commission submitted a written report
recommending approval of the amended application No. 1 submitted on
March 14, 2008, subject to certain proffered conditions.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38096-051908) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map,
City of Roanoke, Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to
r.ezone certain property within the City, subject to certain conditions
proffered by the petitioner; and dispensing with the second reading of
this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 286.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38096-
051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
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The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the rezoning request. There being none, the
Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38096-051908 was adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
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ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing
for Monday, May 19, 2008 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, on the request of Medical Facilities of America U,
Limited Partnership, represented by Andrew C. Kelderhouse, to repeal the
proffers accepted by the adoption of Ordinance No. 28644-51887 on
May 18, 1987, pertaining to property located at 1527 Grandin Road, S.W.,
Official Tax (Map No. 1440317, the Raleigh Court Health and
Rehabilitation Center, and replace them with proffers that the property
will be developed in substantial conformity with a Development Plan
dated March 21, 2008, prepared by Rife and Wood, Architects, which
480
shows an addition of a 3,000 square foot physical therapy unit, an I
additional 11 parking spaces, and a new subsurface storm water
management structure, and that there will be no lighting added to the
area designated as "New Employee Parking Spaces" on the above
referenced Development Plan, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The
Roanoke Times on Friday, May 2, 2008, and Friday, May 9, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report
recommending approval of the amended application No.2 dated April 22,
2008, advising that the application to amend the proffers associated with
Raleigh Court Health Care Center is found to be consistent with the City's
Zoning Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan and the Greater Raleigh Court
Neighborhood Plan; and replacing the existing proffered conditions with
the proffered development plan will allow the site to be fully developed
and provide needed space for services required by the facility's
occupants.
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
(#38097-051908) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map,
City of Roanoke, Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, by
repealing Ordinance No. 28644-051887, to the extent that it placed
certain conditions on Official Tax No. 1440317, the Raleigh Court Health
and Rehabilitation Center, located at 1527 Grandin Road, S. W., and
placing new proffers on the subject property; and dispensing with the
second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 287.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38097-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Fitzpatrick.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the matter.
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Andrew C. Kelderhouse, President, Fralin & Waldron, Inc.,
representing Medical Facilities of America L1, Limited Partnership,
appeared before the Council and offered a revised proffer condition in
connection with the rezoning application; whereupon, Mayor Harris
stated that such matters were typically addressed prior to the public
hearings and deferred to the City Attorney for a response. The City
Attorney advised that proffered conditions are to be submitted, in
writing, prior to the public hearing, noting that the City Code provides
that an amended proffer can be accepted once a public hearing has
begun if the amended proffer does not materially affect the overall
proposal; however, since he has not seen the proposed proffer, he was
not in a position to make any judgment as to whether or not it materially
affects the overall proposal.
The Mayor advised that the measure would have to be tabled if the
proposed proffered condition was accepted by the Council. Following
discussion of the matter, Mr. Kelderhouse withdrew his request.
There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
I
Inasmuch as he has a conflict of interest due to his working
relationship with the Raleigh Court Health and Rehabilitation Center, Vice-
Mayor Trinkle advised that he would abstain from voting on the matter.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council Members, Ordinance No. 38097-051908 was adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash
and Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle abstained from voting, due to a conflict of interest.)
I
BONDS-POLICE: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 19, 2008 at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, with respect
to the proposed adoption by the Council of a resolution authorizing the
City to contract a debt and issue general obligation public improvement
bonds of the City (and in anticipation of the issuance of any such bonds
to issue general obligation public improvement bond anticipation notes
of the City) in the principal amount of $5,500,000.00 for the purpose of
482
providing funds to pay the costs of the acquisition, construction, I
reconstruction, improvement, extension, enlargement and equipping of
public buildings of and for the City, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The
Roanoke Times on Monday, May 5, 2008, and Monday, May 12, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution:
(#38098-051908) A RESOLUTION authorizing the issuance of Five
Million, Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,500,000) principal amount of
General Obligations of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, in the form of
General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds of such City, for the
purpose of providing funds to pay the costs of the acquisition,
construction, reconstruction, improvement, extension, enlargement and
equipping of public buildings of and for such City; fixing the form,
denomination and certain other details of such bonds; providing for the
sale of such bonds; authorizing the preparation of a preliminary official
statement and an official statement relating to such bonds and the
distribution thereof and the execution of a Certificate relating to such I
official statement; authorizing the execution and delivery of a continuing
disclosure certificate relating to such bonds; authorizing and providing
for the issuance and sale of a like principal amount of General Obligation
Public Improvement Bond Anticipation Notes in anticipation of the
issuance and sale of such bonds; delegating to the City Manager and the
Director of Finance certain powers with respect to the sale and
determination of the details of such bonds and notes; and otherwise
providing with respect to the issuance, sale and delivery of such bonds
and notes.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 289.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38098-051908. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the matter. There being none, Mayor Harris
declared the public hearing closed.
Inasmuch as he has a business relationship with Shockley, LLC,
Council Member Wishneff advised that he would abstain from voting on
the matter.
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483
I
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council Members, Ordinance No. 38098-051908 was adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, Trinkle and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff abstained from voting due to a conflict of
interest.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending approval of the terms of a comprehensive agreement with
Shockey, LLC, for design and construction of a police academy facility,
subject to receipt of any significant comments (to be determined by the
City Manager) during the 30-day comment period, which would require
further consideration of such comments by Council.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered by the following budget ordinance:
(#38099-051908) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding to be
provided by Series 2009 Bonds and transfer funds from the Police Asset
Forfeiture Grant to the Police Academy Building project, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Capital Projects Grant
Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance No. 72, page 304.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
38099-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, Trinkle and
Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
I
(Council Member Wishneff abstained from voting due to a conflict of
interest.)
484
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(#38100-051908) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City
officials to execute a Comprehensive Agreement, pursuant to the Public
Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act of 2002 (PPEA), between
the City of Roanoke (City) and Shockey, LLC (Shockey) that provides for
Shockey to do the complete design and construction of a new City Police
Academy Facility to be located on Barnes Avenue, N. W., in the City;
approving the terms of such Agreement; authorizing the City Manager to
implement, administer, and enforce such Agreement; and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance No. 72, page 305.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38100-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, Trinkle and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
I
(Council Member Wishneff abstained from voting due to a conflict of
interest.)
EASEMENT-ARTS MUSEUM: Pursuant to instructions by the Council,
the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 19,
2008 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to
consider a proposal by the City of Roanoke for an encroachment into the
public right-of-way to the Art Museum of Western Virginia in order that
the Art Museum may place light poles that will surround the new art
museum building into the public rights-of-way located on Norfolk Avenue,
S. E., and Market Street, S. E., in the City of Roanoke, the matter was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published In The
Roanoke Times on Friday, May 9, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
485
I
The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending authorization to execute the appropriate document(s)
granting the encroachment, subject to form as approved by the City
Attorney.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38101-051908) AN ORDINANCE allowing the encroachment of
light poles into the public right of way of Market Street and Norfolk
Avenue that extend from The Art Museum of Western Virginia's new
building at variable distances ranging from 8.24' to 3.63', upon certain
terms and conditions, and dispensing with the second reading of this
ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 307.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38101-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash.
I
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the matter. There being none, Mayor Harris
declared the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38101-051908 was adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris~7.
NAYS: None-O.
I
CITY CODE-TAXES: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 19, 2008 at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider
an amendment to Sections 19-45 and 19-77 of the Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, to increase the City's license tax for real
estate appraisers, brokers, and salesmen to $36.00 plus $.58 per one
hundred dollars of gross receipts, and for contractors and persons
constructing for their own account for sale of $.16 per one hundred
dollars of gross receipts beginning January 1, 2009, the matter was
before the body.
486
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The I
Roanoke Times on Friday, May 9, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending an amendment to the City's business license tax rates to
reflect the aforementioned changes, effective January 1, 2009.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38102-051908) AN ORDINANCE amending 919-45, License tax
cateoories and rates, Article II, Business. Professional and Occupational
License Taxation, of Chapter 19, License Tax Code, Code of the City of
Roanoke; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 308.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38102- I
051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to
speak in connection with the matter. There being none, Mayor Harris
declared the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38101-051908 was adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
I
487
I
(#38103-051908) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining
Section 19-77, Real estate appraisers. brokers and salesmen, of Article III,
Special License Taxation, of Chapter 19, License Tax Code, Code of the
City of Roanoke; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 309.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38103-
051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
I
SCHOOLS: Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following
resolution appointing School Board Trustees on the Roanoke City School
Board:
(#38104-051908) A RESOLUTION appointing David B. Carson and
Lori E. Vaught as School Board Trustees on the Roanoke City School Board
for terms commencing July 1, 2008, and ending June 30, 2011.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 310.)
Council Member .Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38104-051908. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash,
Trinkle and Mayor Harris-7.
NAYS: None-O.
I
WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY: The Mayor called attention
to an upcoming vacancy on the Board of Directors, Western Virginia Water
Authority, ending June 30, 2008; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
488
Council Member Fitzpatrick placed in nomination the name of
Robert C. Lawson.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Lawson was reappointed
as a City representative to the Board of Directors, Western Virginia Water
Authority, for a term of four years, ending June 30, 2012, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. LAWSON: Council Members Wishneff, Fitzpatrick, Lea,
Mason, Nash, Trinkle and Mayor Harris-7.
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the Council
meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~iJ).
Sheila N. Hartman
Deputy City Clerk
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I
I
489
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
June 2, 2008
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on
Monday, June 2, 2008, at 9:00 a.m., in Room 159, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Vice-
Mayor Trinkle, presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article
II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular
Meetinos, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant
to Resolution No. 37817-070207 adopted by the Council on Monday,
July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Members Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P.
Lea, Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash, and Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle-
5.
I
ABSENT: Council Member Brian J. Wishneff and Mayor C. Nelson
Harris-2.
The Vice-Mayor advised that a quorum was present.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant, Deputy City Clerk.
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Vice-Mayor Trinkle
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain. authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed
by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950),
as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved that Council concur in the
request of the Vice-Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as above
described. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and
adopted by the following vote:
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490
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
I
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Council Member Gwendolyn
W. Mason, Chair, City Council Personnel Committee requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the annual performance
of four Council-Appointed officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-3 711(A)(l),
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request
to convene in Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was
seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
I
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Council Member
Gwendolyn W. Mason requesting that Council convene in a Closed
Meeting to discuss a personnel matter, being the appointment of a
Director of Finance for the City of Roanoke, pursuant to Section 2.2-
3 71l(A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved that Council concur in the
request of Council Member Mason to convene in Closed Meeting as above
described. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and
adopted by the following vote:
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491
I
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THE JOINT MEETING OF COUNCIL AND
THE ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD ON MONDAY, AUGUST 4, 2008, AT
9:00 A.M. Vice-Mayor Trinkle suggested that all agenda items be
forwarded to the City Manager or City Clerk.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE
2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE.
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
I
BRIEFINGS:
Update on Collaborative Efforts Between City and Schools
Dr. Kurt Baker, Deputy Superintendent, Roanoke City Public
Schools, presented an update on collaborative efforts between the City
and Roanoke City Public Schools, advising that the School Board desires
to contract with the City to provide playground maintenance and
inspection services to all of its playgrounds; City staff will maintain
interoperable radio systems on City School buses and in City schools; and
Schools have acquired a web-based financial system through a third party
vendor for accounting purposes until the completion of the City's
financial/Human Resources/payroll system. He further advised that
system allows the broadening perspective to improve financial
management; adding that employees will no longer be paid monthly, but
instead will be paid bi-monthly and account payables will be dispersed on
the same days.
I
492
The Director of Finance gave background information with regard I
to the current payroll system which was installed in the 1980's, advising
that the City is in the process of evaluating a new payroll vendor, which
will affect the Commissioner of the Revenue's Office, Real Estate
Valuation, Billings and Collections, and Department of Finance. He
further advised that the total amount for changing the system is roughly
$6 million, and the City would still be involved with the debt issuance for
the School Division.
Council Member Mason inquired whether the schools could
financially support the $6 million changes; whereupon, the Director of
Finance advised that the schools would be responsible for approximately
$1.5 million of the debt, wherein the schools have already begun to pay.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council, the Vice-Mayor expressed appreciation to Dr. Baker for his
remarks.
Patrick Henry Bus Shelter Proposal
Susan Jennings, Public Art Coordinator, gave a progress report on
the proposed bus shelters to be located in the vicinities of Patrick Henry
and William Fleming High Schools, and she called upon Jennifer Fowler,
teacher, Patrick Henry High School 3-D Design Class, and Carlos Marceal
to share proposed designs created by Roanoke City Public students.
I
(See powerpoint on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle thanked the students and school staff for their
participation in the presentation.
Downtown Residential Parkinq Proqram
The City Manager gave brief remarks with regard to the downtown
residential parking program, which matter had been tabled by the Council
at its regular meeting held on Monday, April 21, 2008, in order to allow
City staff time to form a compromise for residential parking for
downtown residents.
I
493
I
R. Brian Townsend, Assistant City Manager for Operations,
presented a proposal to grandfather in downtown residents already
participating in the program until March 31, 2010, and new residents
would receive one free parking permit, as well as be allowed to purchase
a permit for a second parking space for half-price through June 2010. He
indicated that from July 2010 to June 2011, downtown residents would
receive one free parking permit, however, they could purchase a second
permit at the monthly rate; and after July 2011, downtown residents must
pay for all parking permits at a residential rate, yet to be determined. In
closing, he pointed out that the new program would include the Campbell
and Gainsboro Avenue garages, respectively.
Council Member Fitzpatrick suggested that an ordinance be
prepared for adoption at the June 16 Council meeting to reflect the
changes in the dates of the policy. He also suggested that the City
Manager approach Downtown Roanoke Incorporated, Inc., to discuss the
on-street parking problem in the downtown area.
I
Council Member Lea suggested that staff share information
regarding the changes with the stakeholders and forward a copy of the
policy in its entirety to the Council prior to ~he June 16 meeting.
At 10:50 a.m., Vice-Mayor Trinkle declared the meeting in recess
for an Audit Committee meeting and Closed Meetings, and thereafter,
reconvene at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 2:00 p.m., the reconvened Council meeting was called to order
in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
with Vice-Mayor Trinkle presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Sherman P.
Lea , Gwendolyn W. Mason, Alvin L. Nash, and Vice-Mayor David B.
Trinkle-5.
ABSENT: Council Members Brian J. Wishneff and Mayor C. Nelson
Harris-2.
The Vice-Mayor advised that a quorum was present.
I
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M.
Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R.Tyree, Assistant, Deputy City Clerk.
494
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Beverly T. I
Fitzpatrick, Jr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
was led by Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: Vice-Mayor Trinkle recognized
Grant Jennings for his heroic effort in saving the life of Mrs. Audrey Paige,
a family friend, advising that Jennings, an eight year old and second
grader at Westside Elementary School, was very brave when he assisted in
saving the life of Mrs. Paige, on March 18; and in an emergency situation,
Grant entered the residence through a small opened window to unlock
the front door; upon entering the home, Ms. Paige was found
unconscious lying on the bathroom floor where she had been for
approximately ten hours. He added that without Grant's courageous
effort, emergency medical help would not have been successful; and
having survived a stroke, Mrs. Paige is recovering at home and Grant is
considered by family and friends to be a hero.
On behalf of the Mayor and Members of Council, Vice-Mayor Trinkle I
presented Master Jennings with a City gift.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent
Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and
would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the
Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
CITY MARKET BUILDING-CITY PROPERTY- LEASE: A communication
from the City Manager requested that Council schedule a public hearing
for Monday, June 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, to consider a proposed lease agreement between
the City of Roanoke and Tokyo Express for rental space in the City Market
Building, was before the body.
-(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
495
I
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request
of the City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
ROANOKE RIVER FLOOD REDUCTION/CONTROL: A communication
from the City Manager requested that Council schedule a public hearing
for Monday, June 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, to consider a Deed of Reservation in connection
with Phase II of the Roanoke River Flood Reduction Project, was before
the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Council Member Mason moved that Council concur in the request
of the City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
HOTEL ROANOKE CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION: Report of
qualification of the Honorable C. Nelson Harris as a Commissioner of the
Hotel. Roanoke Conference Center Commission (citizen representative),
for a term ending April 12, 2012, was before the body.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
496
Council Member Mason moved that the report of qualification be I
received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
COMMONWEALTH'S ATTORNEY: Donald S. Caldwell of the
Commonwealth Attorney's Office su\jmitted a written communication
recommending acceptance for a full-time Special Drug Prosecutor; and
the City Manager submitted a written communication concurring in the
recommendation
(For full text, see communications on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
I
Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following resolution.
(#38105-060208) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of
funding for the regional drug prosecutor's office from the Compensation
Board of the Commonwealth of Virginia and authorizing the acceptance,
execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 311.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38105-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
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497
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Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38106-060208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Regional Drug Prosecutor Grant,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2008-2009 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 312.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38106-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
I
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAG ER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
BUDGET-GRANT-POLlCE: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appropriation of funds for the purchase of
alcosensor equipment in connection with the Driving under the Influence
(DUI) Recovery Program.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
I
(#38107-060208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate additional funding
from Driving Under the Influence (DUO Recovery Program Fees for
enforcement equipment, amending and reordaining certain sections of
the 2007-2008 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 314.)
498
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 38107-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea
and adopted by the following vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
NORFOLK AND SOUTHERN CORPORATION-STREETS: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of
a Street Maintenance Agreement between the City of Roanoke and Echo
Sentinel Group, LLC, Roanoke Electric Steel Corporation, and Norfolk
Southern Railway Company for maintenance of a 15-foot wide
unimproved public right-of-way located immediately south of Baker
Street, N. W., marked as 30th Street, N. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
I
(#38108-060208) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the execution of a
street maintenance agreement and related documents among the City of
Roanoke, Echo Sentinel Group, LLC, Roanoke Electric Steel Corporation,
and Norfolk Southern Railway Company for maintenance of a street lying
between Tax Parcel 2510303 on the west and Tax Parcel 2510306 on the
east and sometimes known as 30th Street, N. W.; and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 315.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38108-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
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499
I
GRANT-DISABILITY SERVICE BOARD: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending that Council retroactively execute
a Memorandum of understanding with the State Department of
Rehabilitative Services to accept a grant to continue local administrative
staff support for the Fifth District Commission Disability Services Board,
and a contract with Roslyn Kingery for such Disability Services Board
administration staff support.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution.
(#38109-060208) A RESOLUTION retroactively authorizing the City
Manager, or her designee, to execute a Memorandum of Understanding
with the State Department of Rehabilitative Services to accept a grant in
the amount of $14,800.00 to provide continuing local administrative staff
support for the Fifth Planning District Commission Disability Services
Board ("DSB"), and retroactively authorizing the City Manager, or her
designee, to execute a contract with Roslyn Kingery to provide for such
DSB administrative staff support, upon certain terms and conditions.
I
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 316.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38109-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38110-060208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Fifth District Disability Services Board
Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
I (Forfull text of ord i nance, see Ord i nance Book No. 72. page 31 7.)
500
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance 1
No. 38110-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
TAXES-CITY CODE: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending an amendment of the City Code regarding
special tax rates for energy efficient buildings.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following ordinance:
(#38111-060208) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining
Section 32-103.20, Definitions. and Section 32-103.23, Requirements, of I'
Article II, Real Estate Taxes Generally, Chapter 32, Taxation, of the Code
of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; providing for an effective
date; and dispensing with the second reading by title paragraph of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 318.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38111-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
1
501
1
BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending appropriation of funds in connection with FY 2008 State
budget reduction and other adjustments.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38112-060208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding
reductions from the Commonwealth, amend Capital Maintenance and
Equipment Replacement Program Appropriations, and reduce funding
from the General Fund to the Capital Projects Fund for certain
Commonwealth funded programs, to reflect year end adjustments, and
for current year budget reductions, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2007-2008 General, Capital Projects, Fleet Management,
and Grant Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading
by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 320.)
I
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Budget
Ordinance No. 38112-060208. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of Budget Amendment No. 2 to the Amended
and Supplemented South Jefferson Cooperation Agreement 2 dated
March 19, 2001.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
1
502
(#38113-060208) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City 1
officials to execute a Budget Amendment No. 2 to the Amended and
Supplemented South Jefferson Cooperation Agreement 2 (Budget
Amendment No.2) between the City of Roanoke (City) and the City of
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA); approving an
amended budget for such Budget Amendment No.2; authorizing the City
Manager to take such actions and execute further documents as may be
needed to implement and administer such Budget Amendment No.2; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this Ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 322.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38113-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired about the City's commitment
to demolishing the Roanoke City Mills, Inc., (RMC) property; whereupon,
the City Manager explained that the adoption of the budget ordinance
only allocates the funds for future activities.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council Members, Ordinance No. 38113-060208 was adopted by the
following vote:
1
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following budget
ordinance:
(#38114-060208) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Economic and Community Development Reserve for the South Jefferson
Redevelopment Project, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2007-2008 Capital Projects Fund Appropriations and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 323.)
I
503
1
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38114-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
BUDGET-CITY EMPLOYEES: The City Manager and the Director of
Finance submitted a joint written communication recommending
establishment of a trust for the purpose of accumulating and investing
assets to fund Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB).
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution.
1
(#38115-060208) A RESOLUTION adopting and establishing an
Employees' Post-Retirement Health Plan and an Employees' Post-
Retirement Dental Plan outlining eligibility guidelines and premiums
therefore, and the respective benefits provided by the City to its retirees.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 324.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38115-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick offered the following ordinance:
1
504
(#38116-060208) AN ORDINANCE creating a Finance Board to
serve as Trustee of funds designated for other post-employment benefits
other than pensions; authorizing execution of a Trust Funding Agreement
for participating employees under the Virginia Pooled OPEB Trust Fund;
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
I
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 325.)
Council Member Fitzpatrick moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38116-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mason
was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
Council Member Mason offered the following resolution.
(#38117-060208) A RESOLUTION appointing the members of the
City's Finance Board.
1
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 327.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Resolution No.
38117-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
CITY ATTORNEY:
CITY CODE: The City Attorney submitted a written report
recommending readopting and reenactment of the Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended.
1
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
505
1
Council Member Mason offered the following ordinance:
(#38118-060208) AN ORDINANCE to readopt and reenact the Code
of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 328.)
Council Member Mason moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
38118-060208. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Council Member Fitzpatrick inquired if items that were discussed
earlier with regard to the transportation and bus museums were included
in the enactment and re-adoption of the City Code; whereupon, the City
Attorney advised that the matter must be implemented by an amendment
to the City Code.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the
Council Members, Ordinance No. 38118-060208 was adopted by the
following vote:
1
AYES: Council Members Fitzpatrick, Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-
Mayor Trinkle-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Wishneff and Mayor Harris were absent.)
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE:
FINANCIAL REPORTS: The Director of Finance submitted the
Financial Report for the month of April 2008.
The Director of Finance advised that the real estate taxes are
slightly ahead of budget and the meals tax is up, as well as, sales taxes
are down approximately 3.3 percent and as of April the State taxes were
down three percent for the first time; and he provided a narrative on
notable variances in revenues and expenditures for the first ten months
of fiscal year 2008.
(For full text, see Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
1
506
Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before 1
Council and inquired if the City had given consideration to offering any
type of financial assistance to City employees to offset the high costs of
gasoline and groceries; whereupon, the Director of Finance responded
that he empathizes with the citizens, but the City could not offer any type
of incentives.
Without objection by the Council, the Vice-Mayor advised that the
Financial Report would be received and filed.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE VICE-MAYOR AND MEMBERS
OF COUNCIL:
CITY COUNCIL-NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANIZATIONS: Council Member
Lea advised of his attendance to the Neighborhood USA (NUSA)
Conference in Hampton, Virginia, on May 21 - 24, 2008, noting that
Roanoke was well represented at the Conference. He recognized Estelle
McCadden, President of the Melrose/Rugby Neighborhood Forum, who
currently serves on the NUSA Board of Directors, and Bob Clement,
Neighborhood Services Coordinator, on their commitment and. dedication
to neighborhood services. In addition, he indicated that the workshops
offered at the Conference created a lot of excitement and involvement
regarding neighborhood issues and activities; and he also point out that
Roanoke's Old Southwest, Inc., the neighborhood organization
representing the residents of Roanoke's Old Southwest neighborhood
received second place in the Neighborhood of the Year Award in the
Social Revitalization/ Neighborliness category, which included projects
that were initiated by one neighborhood and focused on social or cultural
aspects such as safety, youth and seniors, activities that help neighbors
feel connected and/or foster a sprit of cooperation such as neighborhood
festivals and celebrations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle encouraged Members of
the Council to attend the State NUSA Conference which is scheduled to be
held in Fairfax, Virginia, in September 2008.
1
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507
I
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: Vice-Mayor Trinkle
stated that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be
heard; and matters requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred
immediately for response, recommendation or report to Council.
Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the
Council and spoke about the economy and the effects it was having on
the citizens.
Helen E. Davis, 45 Patton Avenue, N. E., appeared before the
Council and again expressed concern with regard to the closing of Forest
Park Elementary School. She also expressed concern with regard to the
lack of public safety personnel in the Constitutional Officers and Fire/EMS
departments.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
I
The City Manager added that Roanoke Public Library's Oral History
Project received an Honorable Mention Award at the Neighborhoods USA
Conference; and she also informed the Council that the Director of
General Services attended a National Local Government for Sustainability
(ICLEI) Local Action Summit Conference on May 14-16, 2008, in
Albuquerque, New Mexico, whereby the City received a star for its
completion of a carbon footprint (the amount of carbon dioxide emitted
through the combustion of fossil fuels), and that the Star will be affixed
on a plaque, and other stars earned as part of the community's
environmental efforts will be added in the future.
At 2:40 p.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in
recess for continuation of Closed Meeting previously approved during the
9:00 a.m. Session of the Council.
I
At 4:20 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council
Chamber, with Vice-Mayor Trinkle presiding, and all Members of Council
in attendance, with the exception of Council Members Fitzpatrick (left
following Closed Meeting) and Wishneff and Mayor Harris.
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded,
Council Member Mason moved that each Member of City Council certify
to the best of his or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters
lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the Virginia
Freedom of Information Act; and (2) only such public business matters
were identified in any motion by which any Closed Meeting was convened
were heard, discussed or considered by City Council. The motion was
seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by the following vote:
508
AYES: Council Members Lea, Mason, Nash, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-
4.
/
(
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff and Mayor Harris were
absent.)
PARKS AND RECREATION:. Inasmuch as Gordon Zeigler, a non-City
resident, was appointed by the Council at its May 19, 2008 Council
meeting as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to fill
the unexpired term of office of Sherley Stuart ending March 31, 2011,
Council Member Mason moved that the City residency requirement be
waived in this instance. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Nash and adopted.
There being no further business, Vice-Mayor Trinkle declared the
meeting adjourned at 4:22 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
~wrh.~~
Stephanie M. Moon, CMC
City Clerk
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509
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
June 16, 2008
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
June 16, 2008, at 2:00 p.m., in Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building,
21 5 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor C. Nelson Harris
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council,
Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Reqular Meetings, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No. 37817-070207
adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2,2007.
PRESENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea Alvin L. Nash, David B.
Trinkle, Brian J. Wishneff (arrived late), Beverly T. Fitzpatrick Jr., (arrived late),
and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-6.
ABSENT: Council Member Gwendolyn W. Mason-1 .
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager; William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Jesse A. Hall, Director of Finance; Stephanie M. Moon,
City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Sherman P. Lea.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT-CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Lea
offered the following resolution paying tribute to the Honorable C. Nelson
Harris, Mayor:
(#38119-061608) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to the Honorable C. Nelson
Harris, Mayor of the City of Roanoke, and expressing to him the appreciation of
this City and its people for his exemplary public service:
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 330.)
510
Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38119-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by
the following vote.
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-4.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)(Council Member Mason was absent.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle presented a framed copy of Resolution No. 38119-
061608 to Mayor Harris, along with a framed Key to the City.
Mayor Harris expressed his sincere appreciation for the resolution and
the Key to the City.
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT-CITY COUNCIL: Inasmuch as Council
Member Fitzpatrick had not arrived at the meeting, Mayor Harris asked that
action on Resolution recognizing him be deferred until his arrival. (See pages
528 - 528.)
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT-CITY COUNCIL: Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered
the following resolution paying tribute to the Honorable Brian J. Wishneff,
Council Member:
(#38121-061608) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to the Honorable Brian
Wishneff and expressing to him the appreciation of the City and its people for
his exemplary public service.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 333.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38121-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote.
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, and Mayor Harris-4.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff were not present when the vote was
recorded.)(Council Member Mason was absent.)
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511
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The Mayor advised that the framed copy of Resolution No. 38121-061608
and Key to the City would be forwarded to Council Member Wishneff
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT-DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: Council Member
Lea offered the following resolution paying tribute to Jesse A. Hall, Director of
Finance:
(#38122-061608) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to Jesse Addison Hall,
Director of Finance for the City of Roanoke, and expressing to him the
appreciation of this City and its people for his exemplary public service.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 334.)
Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38122-
061608. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
I
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was
recorded.)(Council Member Mason was absent.)
Mayor Harris presented the framed copy of Resolution No. 38122-061608
and Key to the City to Mr. Hall.
Mr. Hall expressed his sincere appreciation for the acknowledgment by
the Council, adding that he considered it a privilege to work for the City of
Roanoke for approximately 33 years.
At this point, Council Member Wishneff entered the meeting (2:20 p.m.)
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT-DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: Vice-Mayor Trinkle
offering the following resolution appoirlting a Director of Finance for the City of
Roanoke, Virginia
(#38123-061608) A RESOLUTION electing and appointing Ann H. Shawver
as Director of Finance for the City of Roanoke, and ratifying the terms and
conditions of employment as offered to Ms. Shawver.
I (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 337.)
512
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38123-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was
recorded.)(Council Member Mason was absent.)
Ms. Shawver expressed her sincere appreciation to the Council for the
appointment as the Director of Finance, advising that she will support the
Council and City Manager's initiatives.
CONSENT AGENDA
The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were
considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by
one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if
discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda I
and considered separately. The Mayor called attention to two requests for
Closed Meetings.
CITY COUNCIL-COMMITTEES: A communication from Mayor C. Nelson
Harris requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by
Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(l), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.) I
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
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513
CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the City Manager requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the acquisition of real property
for a public purpose, where discussion in open meeting would adversely affect
the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the City, pursuant to Section
2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovedescribed. The motion was
seconded by Vice- Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was absent.) (Council Member Mason was absent.)
ENCROACHMENTS: A communication from the City Manager requesting
that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday, July 21, 2008, at 7:00 p.m.,
or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, for encroachments in public
right-of-way at 1801 Belleville Road and Sherwood Avenue, S. W., was before the
Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Beverly T. Fitzpatrick was absent.) (Council Member Mason
was absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAYS COMMISSION: A communication from
Charles R. Shaver tendering his resignation as a City representative of the
Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission, was before Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
514
Council Member Lea moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor
Trinkle and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION-CITY OF ROANOKE FINANCE BOARD:
Reports of qualification of David J. Brown as a member of the Roanoke Arts
Commission, for a term ending June 30, 2011; and Sherman M. Stovall as the
citizen representative on the City of Roanoke Finance Board, for a term of two
years ending June 1, 2010.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Lea moved that the reports of qualification be received
and filed. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
CIRCUIT COURT-GRANT-BUDGET: The Clerk of Circuit Court submitted a
written communication for acceptance of Compensation Board Technology
Trust funds; and the City Manager submitted a written communication
concurring in the recommendation.
(For full text, see communications on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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515
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38124-061608) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board Technology Trust Fund for
upgrades, maintenance, and other charges in the Office of Circuit Court Clerk,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 339.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38124-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
REPORTS OF OFFICERS:
CITY MANAGER:
BUDGET-HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: The City Manager gave an oral
report recommending approval of the transfer of funding between specific
Human Services Committee agencies to appropriate funds, in the amount of
$2,000.00 for the Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank, and
$1,000.00 for the Brain Injury Services of Southwest Virginia.
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38125-061608) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding between specific
Human Services Committee agencies, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2008-2009 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 340.)
516
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38125-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wishneff and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
BRIEFINGS:
FIRE DEPARTMENT: The Mayor advised that the briefing on the proposed
relocation, of the firefighter memorial would be held immediately following the
2:00 p.m., session of the Council, in the Council's Conference Room, Room
453, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building. (See pages 530 -531.)
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
DOWNTOWN RESIDENTIAL PARKING-PARKING GARAGES: The Mayor
requested that Council defer action on the resolution regarding the downtown
residential parking in order to allow Council Member Fitzpatrick the opportunity
to participate in any of the deliberations. Council Member Lea offered a motion
to defer action on the resolution until the arrival of Council Member Fitzpatrick.
The motion was seconded by Council Nash and adopted, with Vice-Mayor
Trinkle abstaining. (See pages 525.)
POLICY-ADVERTISING: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending adoption of an advertising policy.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38127-061608) A RESOLUTION adopting an advertising policy for the
City of Roanoke.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 342.)
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517
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38127-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
TOURISM: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of an agreement with the Visitors Bureau for the
purpose of marketing the Roanoke Valley as a convention and destination
tourism site.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Nash offered the following resolution:
(#38128-061608) A RESOLUTION authorizing an agreement with the
Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau for the purpose of increasing
tourism in the Roanoke Valley.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 343.)
Council Member Nash moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38128-
061608. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle.
Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before the Council
and announced that Council Member Mason facilitated a session at the Roanoke
Regional Chamber of Commerc~ Economic Development Summit. She stated
that the Roanoke Valley needed to highlight the treasures of local attractions,
and suggested that the City brand Roanoke as the Mecca of the East.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 38128-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
518
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT-INDUSTRIES: The City Manager submitted a I
written communication recommending execution of a performance agreement
between the City of Roanoke, the Economic Development Authority, and Maple
Leaf Bakery, Inc., for promotion of economic development within the City and
the Roanoke Valley.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38129-061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City officials to
execute a Performance Agreement among the City of Roanoke (City), Maple Leaf
Bakery Inc., (MLB), and the Economic Development Authority of the City of
Roanoke, Virginia, (EDA); providing for certain undertakings by the parties in
connection with the purchase and installation of new equipment at MLB's
facility in the City; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
Ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 344.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38129-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was taken.) (Council
Member Mason was absent.)
ART MUSEUM OF WESTERN VIRGINIA-CITY PROPERTY-GRANTS: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of an
agreement granting permission to the Art Museum of Western Virginia to paint
a mural on a City-owned retaining wall adjacent to Salem Avenue and
Williamson Road, S. E.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
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519
(#381 30-061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the execution of an
agreement and related documents with the Art Museum of Western Virginia to
cause to be painted a mural on a City-owned retaining wall located at the
western end of the south abutment of the Williamson Road Viaduct; and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 345.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38130-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
EQUIPMENT-PUBLIC WORKS: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending execution of Amendment No. 1 to a contract
dated April 17, 2007, between the City of Roanoke and Genuine Parts Company
in order to modify the contract term and adjust the contract amount.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38131-061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager's
issuance and execution of an Amendment to the City's Contract with Genuine
Parts Company (Contractor or GPC) for certain modifications to such Contract;
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this Ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 346.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38131-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
520
INDUSTRIES-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending execution of Amendment No. 3 to a
Performance Agreement dated November 18, 2004, between the City of
Roanoke, IMD Investment Group, LLC, and the Economic Development Authority
of the City of Roanoke, in order to provide an additional time period for
development of certain property within the Ivy Market Shopping Center.
I
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38132-1061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City officials
to execute an Amendment No. 3 to a Performance Agreement dated
November 18, 2004, as amended, among the City of Roanoke, (City), the
Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, (EDA), and
IMD Investment Group, LLC, (IMD), which amendment will provide for a time
extension concerning an obligation of IMD under such Performance Agreement;
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this Ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 348.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38132-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was taken.) (Council
Member Mason was absent.)
CITY PROPERTY-HEALTH DEPARTMENT-LEASES: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending execution of a Third
Amendment to a deed of lease dated June 5, 2001, granting permission to the
Virginia Department of Health to lease City-owned space located at S 15 and
530 8th Street, S. W., for additional periods of one month each until June 30,
2009
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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521
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38133-1061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to
execute a third amendment to an existing Lease Agreement between the City of
Roanoke and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Health, dated
June 5, 2001, to further extend the term of the Lease for additional periods of
one month each, not to exceed twelve months; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 350.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38133-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
HUMAN SERVICES: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending appropriation of additional funds to the Department of Social
Services and the Comprehensive Services Act.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38134-1061608) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth and from local revenues to the Department of Social Services
and Comprehensive Services Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of
the 2007-2008 General and Grant Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 351.)
522
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38134-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was recorded.)
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
BUDGET-GRANTS-HOUSING: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the 2008-2009 Community
Development Block Grant, HOME, Investment Partnerships Program and
Emergency Shelter Grant Program funds from the U. S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution:
(#38135-061608) A RESOLUTION accepting the Fiscal Year 2008-2009
funds for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment
Partnerships Program (HOME) and Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESG), and
authorizing the City Manager to execute the requisite Grant Agreements with
the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 353.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38135-061608.
The motion 'was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-4.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Nash abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest.)
(Council Member Fitzpatrick was not present when the vote was taken.) (Council
Member Mason was absent.)
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I
At this point, Council Member Fitzpatrick entered the meeting (2:45 p.m.)
Vice- Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance:
(#38136-061608) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding for the
Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships Program
and Emergency Shelter Grant Program, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2008-2009 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 354.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38136-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
I (Council Member Mason was absent.)
CITY CODE-GRANTS-PURCHASE/SALE OF PROPERTY: The City Manager
submitted a written report recommending amendment of the City Code to
include a section pertaining to loans or grants for the purchase or rehabilitation
of certain residences, effective July 1, 2008.
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38137-061608) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining the Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by adding a new Section 2-314, Loans
or grants for purchase or rehabilitation of certain residences, to a new Article'
XV, Housinq Loans and Grants, to Chapter 2, Administration; providing for an
effective date; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 358.)
I
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38137-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
524
In response to inquiry by Council Member Nash regarding the use of I
General Fund monies for loans to individuals, the City Manager explained that
the amendment was included in the City's Legislative Program after the City
realized it did not have the authority to make loans or grants specifically to
individuals with monies from the General Funds, adding that the General
Assembly passed the legislation. She further advised that Council's approval
was needed in order that the City may provide loans to individuals to rehab
their residences.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38137-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
UTILITIES: The City Manager and the City Attorney submitted a joint
communication recommending adoption of a utility relocation policy.
I
(For full text see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution
(#38138-061608) A RESOLUTION adopting a policy relating to the
relocation of certain utilities within the City's rights-of-way.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 360.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38138-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
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525
DOWNTOWN ROANOKE: Having tabled a resolution at its regular meeting
held on Monday, April 21, 2008, in connection with approval and re-
establishment of the Downtown Residential Parking Program for City-owned or
controlled parking garages for a two-year period, the matter was again before
the Council.
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
approval and reestablishment of the Downtown Residential Parking Program to
provide parking permits for residents within the Central Business District in
City-owned and/or operated parking garages, effective June 16, 2008 until
June 30, 2011, unless sooner modified or terminated by City Council.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Lea offered the following resolution:
(#38126-061608) A RESOLUTION reestablishing and adopting a
Residential Parking Program (Program) effective as of the date of adoption of
this Resolution, such Program to be applicable to certain downtown residents
under certain conditions in City owned or operated parking garages, as
recommended by the City Manager; and authorizing the City Manager to take
such actions as may be needed to implement, administer, and enforce such
Program.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 341.)
Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38126-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-
NAYS: None-O.
(Vice-Mayor Trinkle abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest.) (Council
Member Mason was absent.)
526
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
SCHOOLS-BUDGET: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written
report requesting appropriation of funds from the General Fund Undesignated
Fund Balance to support Roanoke City Schools' ongoing effort to repair school
roofs; and the Director of Finance submitted a written report recommending
that Council concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution.
(#38139-061608) A RESOLUTION to appropriate funding from the General
Fund undesignated fund balance to the Reserve for School Roof Replacement
project, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2007-2008 General
and School Capital Projects Funds Appropriations and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 361 .)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 38139-
061608. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
Council Member Lea inquired about the status of the roof replacement at
Forest Park Elementary School; whereupon, Kim Wade, Staff Accountant,
Roanoke City Public Schools, stated that the question would be forward to the
School Administration for appropriate response to the Council.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council.
Members, Ordinance No. 38139-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor -6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
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527
CITY CLERK-CITY ATTORNEY-CITY MANAGER-MUNICIPAL AUDITOR: Vice-
Mayor Trinkle offered the following Ordinance establishing comp'ensation for
the Council-Appointed Officers for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2008:
(#38140-061608) AN ORDINANCE establishing compensation for the City
Manager, City Attorney, Municipal Auditor and City Clerk for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2008; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 362.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38140-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
STATE HIGHWAYS-LEGISLATION: Council Member Fitzpatrick, Chair,
Legislative Committee, advised that the Governor has called the General
Assembly into special session on June 23, 2008, to address the transportation
funding crisis in Virginia, and he emphasized the importance of the City of
Roanoke providing input as to the effects of the transportation problem;
whereupon, Council Member Lea offered the following resolution supporting
efforts of the Governor and General Assembly to act swiftly and decisively to
approve legislation that will address the transportation funding crisis at the
statewide, regional and local levels:
(#38141-061608) A RESOLUTION addressing Virginia's transportation
funding crisis.
-' ~'"Wor full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 364.)
I
Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38141-
061608. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
528
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff, Fitzpatrick and I
Mayor Harris'-6.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Mason was absent.)
CITY COUNCIL: Inasmuch as Council Member Fitzpatrick was not in
attendance for the presentation recognizing his public service as a Council
Member, Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following resolution paying tribute to
the Honorable Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., Council Member:
(#38120-061608) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to the Honorable
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., and expressing to him the appreciation of the City
and its people for his exemplary public service.
(For full text, see Resolution Book No. 72, page 331.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Resolution No. 38120-061608.
The motion was seconded and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Wishneff and Mayor Harris-S. I
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Member Fitzpatrick abstained from voting.) (Council Member Mason
was absent.)
Mayor Harris presented a framed copy of Resolution No. 38120-061608
to Council Member Fitzpatrick.
Council Member Fitzpatrick expressed his sincere appreciation for being
allowed to serve the City of Roanoke and its citizens.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRES AND lOR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTER: The Mayor stated that City
Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard; and matters
requiring referral to the City Manager will be referred immediately for response, I
recommendation or report to Council.
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529
Mr. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the
Council and spoke about problems within the City, especially crime.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
INDUSTRIES-FIRE/EMS-POLlCE-CELEBRATIONS-NAACP: The City Manager
pointed out that the Performance Agreement, approved earlier by the Council,
with Maple Leaf Bakery, is the company's fourth expansion in the City of
Roanoke, at just under $10 Million and is their largest plant in the United
States.
In addition, Ms. Burcham remarked that Roanoke Fire-EMS recently
received the 2008 Regional Award for the Outstanding EMS Agency for the
Western Virginia EMS Region. She further stated that on Saturday, June 14, a
fundraising event was held for Roanoke Police Officer Bryan Lawrence that
involved 1,300 motorcycles participating in a seven-mile motorcade, and
approximately $40,000.00 was raised to help Officer Lawrence and his family.
The City Manager announced that ICLEI (Local Governments for
Sustainability) has awarded the City of Roanoke a star for completing the first of
five milestones in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign: conducting an
emissions inventory and forecast. She also mentioned that the NAACP recently
recognized the City of Roanoke for its ongoing support for the mission of the
Roanoke Branch NAACP at its Annual Citizens of the Year Banquet, which was
held at The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center on Friday, June 13, 2008.
In conclusion, she announced that Saturday, June 21, the City's public
safety departments and other City departments will attend a Juneteenth
community event to share information about services with citizens. She called
attention to the recent homicide in the City, and stated that the Roanoke Police
Department diligently worked to make an arrest and a suspect was now in
custody. She expressed concern about firearms being readily available in the
community.
CITY COUNCIL-CELEBRATIONS: Mayor Harris announced that there will be
a reception in honor of Council Members Fitzpatrick and Wishneff, the Director
of Finance and himself in recognition of their services to the City of Roanoke
from 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., in Room 159, first floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building.
At 3: 10 p.m., the Council Meeting was declared in recess to be
reconvened in the Council's Conference Room for a briefing on the proposed
Firefighters Monument and Closed Meetings.
530
At this point, Council Member Wishneff left the meeting. (3: 10 p.m.)
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At 3:25 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council's
Conference Room, Mayor Harris presiding, and all Members of the Council in
attendance, with the exception of Council Members Mason and Wishneff.
FIREFIGHTERS MEMORIAL SCULPTURE
The City Manager advised that the old historic Fire Station No. 1 was
closed several years ago and is no longer used for daily fire operations;
however, the Station continues to have a presence and is open for public tours.
She further advised that there has been a lot of interest from the Fire
Department staff to relocate the Firefighter Memorial statue from the Virginia
Museum of Transportation to the historic Fire Station, adding that the proposed
move would require a review by the Architectural Review Board; and that the
cost for relocation has yet to be determined.
James Grigsby, Assistant Manager for Operations, shared pictures that
were provided by Betty M. Branch, the artist who created the work of art, noting
that the curb and pedestrian walkway would remain the same; and the
pedestals would be engraved with the names of past firefighters who lost their I
lives in the line of duty. He also suggested that the Arts Council be allowed to
provide input with regard to the project.
Discussion:
As Executive Director of the Virginia Museum of Transportation, Council
Member Fitzpatrick concurred in the relocation of Firefighter Memorial
Sculpture, adding that he hoped that funding would not be a factor in
completing the project.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if equipment could still be brought in and out
of the station; whereupon, Mr. Grigsby replied in the affirmative.
In response to the current use of the building, Mr. Grigsby gave an
overview of the closing of the fire station, and stated that the Police Department
Mounted Patrol placed stalls in the rear of the building for the horses, which are
used to patrol the downtown area.
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531
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired about the amount of time, per week, the
building is closed; whereupon, Mr. Grigsby stated that there is a light duty
employee to work the desk when the building is open; however, a sign is placed
on the door advising the public where to call to schedule tours. The City
Manager added that if light duty personnel decreased, the City could enlist
retired fire employees as volunteers inasmuch as the retirees are rich in the
history of the department.
Council Member Fitzpatrick indicated that the Station would have to be
opened on a regular basis in order to create a magnet effect of people visiting;
whereupon, the City Manager reiterated that retired firefighters would be the
City's first choice, but the volunteer coordinator could also be of assistance.
Mr. Grigsby stated that cost was a major concern for the City, pointing
out that the first rendering was $120,000.00, which was rejected. He further
stated that the bid was modified in order to stay within the existing traffic and
parking patterns, but he was of the opinion that the cost would decrease.
The City Manager advised that she would report back to the Council after
the request has been heard by the Architectural Review Board as well as the
cost.
Council Member Nash inquired as to why it was necessary for the
Architectural Review Board to approve the project; whereupon, the City Manager
responded that Fire Station No. 1 was a historic monument and that the project
was to be located in a historic area.
There being no further discussion, the Mayor expressed appreciation to
Mr. Grigsby for the informative briefing.
At 3:45 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess to be
reconvened in Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room.
At 4:20 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Mayor Harris presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the
exception of Council Members Mason and Wishneff.
532
COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Session just concluded, Council
Member Lea moved that each member of City Council certify to the best of his
or her knowledge that (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from
open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
(2) only such public business matters were identified in any motion by which
any Closed meeting was convened were heard discussed or considered by City
Council. The motion was seconded c by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris- 5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: The
Mayor advised that there are two vacancies on the Youth Services Citizen Board
created by the expiration of terms of office of Sherman P. Lea, Jr., and Aaron
Ewert on May 31, 2008; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for
nominations.
The names of Sherman P. Lea, Jr., and Aaron Ewert were placed in
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Messrs. Lea and Ewert were
reappointed as members of the Youth Services Board for terms of three years,
each, ending March 31, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MESSRS. LEA AND EWERT: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-GREENWAYS: The Mayor advised that the
three-year term of office of James B. Lee as a City representative on the
Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission will expire on June 30, 2008;
whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of James B. Lee was placed in nomination.
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533
There being no further nominations, Mr. Lee was reappointed as a City
representative on the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission for a term of three
years ending June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MR. LEE: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-CITY EMPLOYEES-PERSONNEL AND
EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor advised that the three-year
terms of office of Martha P. Franklin, Curtis E. Mills and Letitia A. Smith as
members of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission will expire on
June 30, 2008; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Martha P. Franklin was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Franklin was reappointed as a
member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission for a term of
three years, ending June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MS. FRANKLIN: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor -5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: . The
Mayor advised that the three-year terms of office of Susan Egbert, Douglas C.
Jackson, Nelett H. Lor, Frank Eastburn as members of the Roanoke Arts
Commission will expire on June 30, 2008; Ms. Lor has declined to serve another
term; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Susan Egbert was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Egbert was reappointed as a
member of the Roanoke Arts Commission for a term of three years ending
June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MS. EGBERT: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
534
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-L1BRARIES: The Mayor advised that the
three-year terms of office of Susan Koch, Stanley C. Breakell and Pamela S.
White as members of the Roanoke Public Library Board will expire on June 30,
2008; Ms. White has declined to serve another term; whereupon, the Mayor
opened the floor for nominations.
I
The names of Susan M. Koch, Stanley C. Breakell and The Reverend
C. Nelson Harris were placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Koch and Mr. Breakell were
reappointed and Reverend Harris was appointed as members of the Roanoke
Public Library Board for terms of three years, each, ending June 30, 2011, by
the following vote:
FOR MS. KOCH, MR. BREAKELL AND REVEREND HARRIS: Council Members
Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-CpMMITTEES-FIFTH PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION
(ROANOKE VALLEY AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION)-ClTY
COUNCIL: The Mayor advised that three-year terms of office of Council Member I
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., and Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle as elected officials
representing the City on the Roanoke Valley Area Metropolitan Planning
Organization will expire on June 30, 2008; Council Member Fitzpatrick is
ineligible to serve another term due to change in his elected status; whereupon,
the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The names of David B. Trinkle and Alvin L. Nash were placed in
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Vice-Mayor Trinkle was reappointed
and Council Member Alvin was appointed as elected officials on the Roanoke
Valley Area Metropolitan Planning Organization for terms of three years, each,
ending June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR VICE-MAYOR TRINKLE AND COUNCIL MEMBER NASH: Council
Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
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COMMITTEES-ROANOKE VALLEY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU:
The Mayor advised that the one-year terms of office of A. Morris Turner, Jr., and
Barton J. Wilner as City representatives on the Roanoke Valley Convention and
Visitors Bureau, Board of Directors, will expire on June 30, 2008; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
The names of A. Morris Turner, Jr., and Barton J. Wilner were placed in
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Messrs. Turner and Wilner were
reappointed as City representatives on the Roanoke Valley Convention and
Visitors Bureau Board of Directors for one-year terms of office ending June 30,
2009, by the following vote:
FOR MESSRS. TURNER AND WILNER: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTION
PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Mayor
advised that the three-year terms of office of Judges Jacqueline Ward Talevi and
John B. Ferguson as City representatives to the Court Community Correction
Program, Regional Community Criminal Justice Board, will expire on June 30,
2008; Judge Ferguson is ineligible to serve another term inasmuch as he has
served three consecutive terms of office; whereupon, the Mayor opened the
floor for nominations.
The names of Judges Jacqueline Ward Talevi and Joseph Bounds were
placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations; Judge Talevi was reappointed and
Judge Bounds was appointed as City representatives on the Court Community
Correction Program, Regional Community Criminal Justice Board, for terms of
three years, each, ending June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR JUDGES TALEVI AND BOUNDS: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
536
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-CABLE TELEVISION: The Mayor advised I
that the three-year term of office of Carla L. Terry as the City representative to
the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee will expire on June 30,
2008; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Carla L. Terry was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Terry was reappointed as the
City's representative to the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television
Committee for a three-year term ending June 30, 2011 by the following vote:
FOR MS. TERRY: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-CITY COUNCIL-HOTEL ROANOKE
CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION: The Mayor advised that there is a vacancy
on the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission created by the
resignation of Jesse A. Hall for a term ending April 8, 2011, noting Resolution
No. 36209-012103 provides that the City's representatives will consist of a I
current member of City Council, either the City Manager or another City
employee, and a citizen at large. Inasmuch as his term of office as Mayor will
expire on June 30, 2008, he requested that he be allowed to serve in the
capacity of citizen at large representative; whereupon, the Mayor opened the
floor for nominations.
The name of David B. Trinkle was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Vice-Mayor Trinkle was appointed as
the Council Member Representative to the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center
Commission to fill the unexpired term of Jesse A. Hall ending April 8, 2011, by
the following vote:
FOR MR. TRINKLE: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-S.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
It was the consensus of the Council that Mayor Harris serves in the
capacity of Citizen Representative throughout his term of office on the Hotel
Roanoke Conference Center Commission.
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SHERIFF-CITY COUNClL-COMMITTEES-VIRGINIA CARES BOARD OF
DIRECTORS: The Mayor referred to a communication from Ann Fisher, Executive
Director, Virginia CARES, Inc., advising that it is a requirement that at least one-
third of any community action agency (CAA) board shall be an elected official or
designee. He pointed out that Council Member Sherman P. Lea and Sheriff
Octavia Johnson currently serve on the Board; whereupon, the Mayor opened
the floor for nominations.
The names of Council Member Sherman P. Lea and Sheriff Octavia
Johnson were placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Council Member Lea and Sheriff
Johnson were reappointed as Elected Official Representatives on the Virginia
Cares, Inc., Board of Directors.
FOR COUNCIL MEMBER LEA AND SHERIFF JOHNSON: Council Members
Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
COMMITTEES-LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING ADVISORY COUNCIL: The Mayor
advised that there is a vacancy on the Local Office on Aging Advisory Council
Board, formerly known as the League of Older Americans Board of Directors,
created by the expiration of the term of office of Nicole Ashby on February 28,
2008; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Robin Murphy-Kelso was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Murphy-Kelso was appointed as
the City's representative to the Local Office on Aging Advisory Council for a
term ending February 28, 2009, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MURPHY-KELSO: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick
and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-GREENWAYS: The Mayor advised that
there is a vacancy on the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission created by the
resignation of Charles R. Shaver as a City representative for a term ending
June 30, 2010; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations:
538
The name of Elizabeth D. Rhine was placed in nomination.
I
There being no further nominations, Ms. Rhine was appointed as a City
representative to the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission to fill the
unexpired term of Charles R. Shaver ending June 30, 2010, by the following
vote:
FOR M,S. RHINE: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
COMMITTEES-SCHOOLS: The Mayor called attention to a communication
from the City Manager dated September 17, 2007, recommending a joint
services agreement with Roanoke City Public Schools as well as establishing a
Joint Services Committee as the entity to be responsible for evaluating and
recommending to City Council and the School Board opportunities for
jOint/shared services, adding that the Joint Services Committee calls for the
appointment of a Member of City Council; and he opened the floor for
nominations.
The name of David B. Trinkle was placed in nomination.
I
There being no further nominations, Vice-Mayor Trinkle was appointed as
the Council Member representative to the City of Roanoke/Roanoke City Public
Schools Joint Services Committee, by the following vote:
FOR VICE-MAYOR TRINKLE: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
COMMITTEES-PROMISE OF ROANOKE STEERING COMMITTEE: The Mayor
advised that at the regular meeting of the Council held on Monday,
December 3, 2007, the City Manager stated that in recognizing the importance
of young people in the community, the Council approved a youth element to
the City's Comprehensive Plan, and the City's own initiative, Promise of
Roanoke, has been an acknowledgement by the total community of the need for
everyone to be involved, adding that specific recommendations as set forth in
the Youth Plan will be coordinated with the assistance of Virginia Tech and the
Roanoke City School system to ensure that everyone does their part to make life
not only more hopeful for the City's youth, but more productive as well;
whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations for City representatives I
to the Promise of Roanoke Steering Committee.
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The names of Kenneth King and Michael Smith were placed in
nomination.
There being no further nominations, Messrs. Kenneth King and Michael
Smith were appointed as City representatives to the Roanoke Steering by the
following vote:
FOR MESSRS. KING AND SMITH: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL
COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to a briefing from Wayne G.
Strickland, Executive Director, Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission,
with regard to possible City projects to be included in the Fiscal year 2009
Regional Commission Work Program which called for the development of a
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (in conjunction with local
government representatives to serve three-year terms, Roanoke Valley Economic
Development Partnership and the Alleghany Highlands Economic Development
Corporation, business leaders, higher education institutions, and other regional
stakeholders; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The names of Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle (elected official), Darlene L.
Burcham (technical advisor), Jay Foster (private sector), Terri Workman
(private sector) were placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Vice-Mayor Trinkle, Ms. Burcham,
Mr. Foster, Ms. Workman were appointed as City representatives to the Roanoke ,
Valley Alleghany Regional Commission, Comprehensive Economic Development
Strategy Commission for terms of three years, each, retroactive to April 1,
2008, and ending March 31, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR VICE-MAYOR TRINKLE, MS. BURCHAM, MR. FOSTER AND MS.
WORKMAN: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
540
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-PENSIONS: The Mayor advised that the I
terms of office of Curtis L. Davis, Michael W. Hanks, and Donna S. Johnson as
members of the City of Roanoke Pension Plan, Board of Trustees, will expire on
June 30, 2006; Mr. Davis is ineligible to serve another term inasmuch as the
position must be filled by a representative of the Fire Department; and Ms.
Johnson has declined to serve another term; whereupon, the Mayor opened the
floor for nominations.
The name of Theodore W. Adkins, a representative of the Fire
Department, was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Adkins was appointed as a
member of the City of Roanoke Pension Plan, Board of Trustees, for a term of
two years, ending June 30, 2010, by the following vote:
FOR MR. ADKINS: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and
Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES:
The Mayor advised that two-year term of office of Robin Murphy-Kelso as a I
member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates will expire on June 30, 2008;
whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Ronald L. McCorkle, Jr. was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mr. McCorkle was appointed as a
member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates for a term of two years,
ending June 30, 2010, by the following vote:
FOR MR. MCCORKLE: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick
and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
ROANOKE' VALLEY-ALLEGHENY REGIONAL COMMISSION: The Mayor
advised that the three-year term of office of Sherman P. Lea as a City
representative on the Roanoke Valley-Allegheny Regional Commission will
expire on June 30, 2008; whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for
nominations.
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541
The name of David A. Bowers was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Mayor-Elect Bowers was appointed
as a City representative on the Roanoke Valley-Allegheny Regional Commission
for a term of three years, ending June 30, 2011, by the following vote:
FOR MAYOR-ELECT BOWERS: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-COMMITTEES-FIFTH PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION:
The Mayor advised that due to the change in his elected status, Council Member
Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., will be unable to serve as" an elected official
representative on the Roanoke Valley-Allegheny Regional Commission;
whereupon, the Mayor opened the floor for nominations.
The name of Court G. Rosen was placed in nomination.
There being no further nominations, Council, Member-Elect Court G.
Rosen was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Beverly T. Fitzpatrick, Jr., as a
City representative on the Roanoke Valley-Allegheny Regional Commission
ending June 30, 2009, by the following vote:
FOR COUNCIL-ELECT ROSEN: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle,
Fitzpatrick and Mayor Harris-5.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
At 4:30 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess to be
reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building.
At 7:00 p.m., on Monday June 16, 2008, the Council meeting reconvened
in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with
Mayor C. Nelson Harris presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Sherman P. Lea, Alvin L. Nash, David B.
Trinkle, Beverly T. Fitzpatrick Jr., and Mayor C. Nelson Harris-5.
ABSENT: Council Members Gwendolyn W. Mason and Brian J. Wishneff -2.
542
OFFICERS PRESENT: Darlene L. Burcham, City Manager, William M.
Hackworth, City Attorney; Ann H. Shawver, Assistant Director of Finance;
Stephanie M. Moon, City Clerk; and Cecelia R. Tyree, Assistant Deputy City
Clerk.
I
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Harris.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was
led by Mayor Harris.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: The Mayor presented an Honorary
Citizenship Certificate and City gifts to Sinja Renuka Schweiger, an Exchange
Student from Germany. He commented that Ms. Schweiger attended Roanoke
City schools during the 2007-2008 School Year and has been living with the
family of Council Member-Elect AnitaJ. Price's daughter.
Ms. Schweiger and Council Member-Elect Price expressed their
appreciation to the City.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
I
ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on
Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday June 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on the request of the City Planning Commission to rezone the following
properties in order to rezone the properties and place them in zoning districts
which are consistent with their current uses: (1) property at 943 Murray
Avenue, S. E., Official Tax No. 4122606, from IN, Institutional District, to RM-1 ,
Residential Mixed Density District; (2) property at 2621 Barham Road, S. W.,
Official Tax No.1 550906, from R-5, Residential Single-Family District, to ROS,
Recreation and Open Space District; and (3) 2835 Garden City Boulevard, S. E.,
Official Tax No. 4190704, from RMF, Residential Multifamily District, to RM-2,
Residential Mixed Density District, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Friday, May 30, 2008, and Friday, June 6, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The City Planning Commission submitted written reports recommending
approval of the application to rezone 943 Murray Avenue, S. W., Official Tax No.
4122606, advising that the Commission finds the application to rezone the
subject property to be consistent with the Zoning Ordinance, Vision 200/-2020,
and the Morningside/ Kenwood/Riverland Neighborhood Plan; and rezoning the
subject property to RM-1 District is appropriate to the site's existing physical
improvements, land use and the surrounding neighborhood; approval of the
application to rezone 2621 Barham Road, S. W., Official Tax No. 1550906,
advising that the Commission finds the application to rezone the subject
property to be consistent with the Zoning Ordinance, Vision 200/-2020, and
the Grandin Court Neighborhood Plan, and rezoning the subject property to
ROS District is appropriate to the site's existing physical improvements, land
use and the surrounding neighborhood; approval of the application to rezoning
2835 Garden City Boulevard, S. E., Official Tax No. 4190704, advising that the
Commission finds the application to rezone the subject property to be
consistent with the Zoning Ordinance, Vision 200/-2020, and the Garden City
Neighborhood Plan, and rezoning the subject property to RM-2 District is
appropriate to the site's existing physical improvements, land use and the
surrounding neighborhood.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance.
(#38142-061608) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to rezone certain property
within the City, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 366.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38142-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared the public
hearing closed.
544
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, I
Ordinance No. 38142-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following Ordinance:
(#38143-061608) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to rezone certain property
within the City, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 367.)
Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38143-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
I
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following Ordinance:
(#38144-061608) AN ORDINANCE to amend 936.2-100, Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and the Official Zoning Map, City of Roanoke,
Virginia, dated December 5, 2005, as amended, to rezone certain property
within the City, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page 368.)
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Vice Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38144-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
LEASES-CITY MARKET: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday June 16, 2008, at 7:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of the
City of Roanoke for consideration to lease approximately 209 square feet of
space of City-owned property located in the Roanoke City Market Building,
located at 32 Market Square, to Eddie Soo Park to be used as a food court
business, for a one-year term, the matter was before the body.
I
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Friday, June 6, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of a lease agreement with Eddie Soo Park, doing business as Tokyo
Express, for approximately 209 square feet of space in the City Market Building
located at 32 Market Square, for a period of one-year, effective July 1, 2008,
and expiring June 30, 2009, to operate a food service business, and to execute
such other documents as may be necessary, including an amendment to the
sublease.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38145-061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the lease of 209 square
feet of space located within City-owned property known as the City Market
Building, for a term of one year beginning July 1, 2008, and extending through
June 30, 2009; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
I (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page371.)
546
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38145-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Nash.
The Mayor inquired if there were any other persons present who wished
to speak in connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared
the public hearing closed.
Council Member Nash inquired if all leases for the City Market building
were for one year terms; whereupon, the City Manager responded in the
affirmative, advising that the previous Council approved renewal leases for the
City Market building for one year terms until a permanent decision has been
made regarding the City Market building.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council
Members, Ordinance No. 38145-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
CITY PROPERTY-EASEMENT-FLOOD REDUCTION CONTROL: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday June 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on the request of the City of Roanoke for consideration to place a deed
of reservation on City-owned property designated as Official Tax Map Nos.
1230301, 1221301, 1221406, and 1322024 to allow the placement of certain
trail and channel improvement easements, ingress/egress easements and a
temporary construction easement, in connection with the Roanoke River Flood
Reduction Project, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in the Roanoke
Times on Friday, June 6, 2008.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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547
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
authorization to execute and record of a Deed of Reservation and any
documentation required by the U. S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) and to
take further action and execute such other documents as may be necessary for
USACE approval of the flood reduction project, with such documents to be
approved as to form by the City Attorney.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance:
(#38146-061608) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the placement of a deed of
reservation on City-owned property designated as Tax Map Numbers 1230301,
1221301, 1221406, and 1322024 to allow the placement of certain trail and
channel improvement easements, ingress/egress easements and a temporary
construction easement in connection with the Roanoke River Flood Reduction
Project, upon certain terms and conditions, and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 72, page371.)
Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 38146-061608.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea.
The Mayor inquired if there were any other persons present who wished
to speak in connection with the matter. There being none, the Mayor declared
the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 38146-061608 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
548
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
1
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: Council at its regular meeting on Monday,
December 17, 2007, having tabled an appeal of a decision of the Architectural
Review Board filed by the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority with
regard to a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of a structure
located at 806 Marshall Avenue, S. W., Council Fitzpatrick moved that the item
be removed from the table. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea
and adopted.
The City Manager submitted a written communication advising that staff
believes all options for a feasible rehabilitation have been exhausted and
further believes the structure has a serve destabilizing effect on the
surrounding neighborhood; and she recommended that City Council reverse the
decision of the Architectural review Board and issue a Certificate of
Appropriateness to permit the demolition of the structure at 806 Marshall
Avenue, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
William D. Bestpitch, Member, Architectural Review Board, appeared I'
before Council to express his appreciation for the extension of time to locate a
buyer for the subject property, indicating that the City had a proposal for
stabilization and rehabilitation with a reputable contractor last summer. He
suggested that Council request an independent evaluation of the property by a
structural engineer and a detailed analysis of the costs of the various options
presented.
Roger Vest, Vice-President of Real Estate Development, Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority, appeared before Council to request that
the City continue with the Certificate of Appropriateness to demolish the
property, advising that the contractor was no longer interested in acquiring the
property, and indicating that the property was now unsafe.
Robert Richert, member, Architectural Review Board, appeared before
Council to urge the Council to allow additional time because of the housing
slump.
Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if the lot would be marketed separately, if the
house was demolished; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the vacant
lot could be marketed in advance of packaging it with another proposal, and if
the lot was not sold for redevelopment upon the availability of the other' piece 1
of property, the lot would be packaged with the vacant lot to ensure the
replacement of a home on the lot.
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Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if the design of the home would have to
decided by the ARB; whereupon, the City Manager replied in the affirmative.
Council Member Nash advised that he previously walked through the
home and inquired as to how long the home had been vacant; whereupon, Mr.
Vest replied that the home had been vacant since 1988. Council Member Nash
commented that the home was badly deteriorated and indicated that it may be
time to take action.
Council Member Fitzpatrick advised that in all fairness to the Council,
time had been allowed for the ARB to find a buyer considering the length of
time that the home had been vacant.
There being no further discussion, Council Member Fitzpatrick stated that
based upon the evidence presented to this Council at a hearing on
December 17, 2007 and today's Council meeting, he moved that the decision of
the City's Architectural Review Board on October 11, 2007, be reversed and that
a Certificate of Appropriateness be issued for the demolition of a residential
family structure at 806 Marshall Avenue, S. W., as set forth in the petition for
appeal on the grounds that pursuant to Section 36.2-3311 (e) of the Code of the
City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, the purpose and necessity of the
proposed demolition are in accordance with the intent of the H-2, Historic
Neighborhood Overlay District, the loss of the structure would not be adverse
to the district or the public interest by virtue of the structure's uniqueness or its
contribution to the district, and the proposed demolition would not have an
adverse effect on the character and surrounding environment of the district.
The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Lea, Nash, Trinkle, Fitzpatrick and Mayor
Harris-5.
NAYS: None-O.
(Council Members Mason and Wishneff were absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTER:
COMPLAINTS: Mr. Chris Craft, 1501 East Gate Avenue, N. E., appeared
before the Council to request that the meal tax on the fund raiser held on
Saturday, June 14, 2008, be waived, and he urged the Council to continue to
support the PTA and the Roanoke City Schools.
550
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting
adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
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Stephanie M. Moon, ~C
City Clerk
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C. Nelson Harris
Mayor
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