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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
January 4, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke held its Organizational Meeting on Monday,
January 4, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Section 10, Meetings of Council, Charter of
the City of Roanoke, at which time the newly-elected Members of the Council officially
took their seats.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic
means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
The Mayor advised that the purpose of the Organizational Meeting is for the newly
elected Members of City Council to officially take their seats; whereupon, he called
attention to a communication from the City Clerk advising of the following report of
qualifications:
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., as Mayor for a term commencing January 1, 2021 and
ending December 31, 2024;
Patricia White-Boyd as Vice-Mayor for a term commencing January 1, 2021
and ending December 31, 2022; and as a Member of Council for a term
commencing January 1, 2021 and ending December 31, 2024;
Stephanie Moon Reynolds for a term commencing January 1, 2021 and
ending December 31, 2024; and
Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., for a term commencing January 1, 2021 and ending
December 31, 2024;
(See communication and Oaths of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the communication and
report of qualifications would be received and filed.
RECOGNIZING THE HONORABLE SHERMAN P. LEA, SR., AS MAYOR OF THE
CITY OF ROANOKE: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution
recognizing the Honorable Sherman P. Lea, Sr., as Mayor of the City of Roanoke:
(For full text, see resolution on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
(#41961-010421) A RESOLUTION recognizing the Honorable Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., as Mayor of the City of Roanoke.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book 81, Page 543.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41961-010421. The
motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RECOGNIZING THE HONORABLE PATRICIA WHITE-BOYD AS A MEMBER OF
ri THE CITY COUNCIL AND VICE-MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE: Council
Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution recognizing the Honorable
Patricia White-Boyd as a member of the City Council and Vice-Mayor of the City of
Roanoke:
(For full text, see resolution on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
(#41962-010421) A RESOLUTION recognizing the Honorable Patricia White-
Boyd to be a member of the City Council and Vice-Mayor of the City of Roanoke.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book 81, Page 544.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41962-
010421. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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RECOGNIZING THE SERVICES OF THE HONORABLE JOSEPH L. COBB AS
VICE-MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the
following resolution recognizing the services of the Honorable Joseph L. Cobb as Vice-
Mayor of the City of Roanoke:
(For full text, see resolution on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
(#41963-010421) A RESOLUTION paying tribute to the Honorable Joseph L.
Cobb and expressing to him the appreciation of the City and its people for his exemplary
public service as the Vice-Mayor of the City of Roanoke.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book 81, Page 544.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41963-010421. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CERTAIN COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS
OF CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., recommending
certain committee assignments for the Mayor and Members of City Council as follows:
Personnel Committee: Composed of the seven Members of Council.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd as Chair and Council Member Joe Cobb as Vice-
Chair.
Greater Roanoke Transit Company: Board of Directors — Composed of
two Members of Council -- Council Member Joe Cobb as Director and
Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones as Director.
Audit Committee: Composed of at least three Members of the Council --
Council Member Joe Cobb as Chair, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd as Vice-Chair,
and Council Member Bestpitch as third member.
Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board: Two Council Representatives
-- Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and Council Member Bill Bestpitch.
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority: Board of
Commissioners Council Liaisons -- Liaison Council Member Stephanie
Moon Reynolds and Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones, as Alternate
Liaison.
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Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission: Three Elected Official
representatives are Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Robert
Jeffrey and Bill Bestpitch.
Total Action for Progress Board of Directors: Council Representative --
Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones.
Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee: Council
Representative -- Council Member Robert Jeffrey.
Legislative Committee: Composed of all Members of Council: Council
Member Bill Bestpitch as Chairman and Council Member Stephanie Moon
Reynolds as Vice-Chair.
Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facilities Authority: Elected Official
Representative -- Council Member Stephanie Moon Reynolds and Alternate
Representative Council Member Robert Jeffrey.
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy Committee: Two Elected Official Representatives
-- Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones and Council Member Joe Cobb.
Roanoke Valley Area Transportation Planning Organization: Two
Elected Official Representatives -- Council Member Robert Jeffrey and
Council Member Stephanie Moon Reynolds.
Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission: Council Representative
-- Mayor Sherman Lea.
Virginia Municipal League Environmental Quality Policy Committee:
Council Member Robert Jeffrey and Christopher Blakeman, Environmental
Manager as the Staff Representative.
Virginia Municipal League Human Development and Education Policy
Committee: Council Member Joe Cobb and Council Member Stephanie
Moon Reynolds as the Elected Official representatives.
Virginia Municipal League General Laws Committee: Council Member
Bill Bestpitch as the Elected Official representative and Timothy Spencer,
City Attorney, as Staff Representative.
Virginia Municipal League Transportation Policy Committee: Council
Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones and Dwayne D'Ardenne, Transportation
Manager, as the Staff Representative.
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Virginia Municipal League Community and Economic Development
Policy Committee: Council Member Stephanie Moon Reynolds.
Virginia Municipal League Finance Policy Committee: Vice-Mayor White-
Boyd as the Elected Official Representative and Amelia Merchant, Director
of Finance, as the Staff Representative.
National Civic League Board of Directors: (NCL will make
recommendation.)
Virginia Municipal League Legislative Committee: Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr. as the Elected Official Representative.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that City Council concur in the Mayor's
recommendation as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted.
ESTABLISHING A MEETING SCHEDULE FOR CITY COUNCIL COMMENCING
JANUARY 1, 2021, AND TERMINATING DECEMBER 31, 2024: Council Member Cobb
offered the following resolution establishing a meeting schedule for City Council for
January 1, 2021, and terminating December 31, 2021:
(#41964-010421) A RESOLUTION establishing a meeting schedule for City
Council for January 1, 2021, and terminating December 31, 2021.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book 81, Page 545.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41964-010421. The
motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PRESENTATION OF THE 2020 INVESTITURE CEREMONIES COMPILATION
VIDEO: Mayor Lea advised that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, separate investiture
ceremonies were conducted to swear in each of the newly elected City Council Members.
RVTV-3 recorded each ceremony and made a compilation video to be shared today.
Following the video, Mayor Lea thanked RVTV-3 for recording and compiling the
ceremonies into a beautiful keepsake and received and filed the presentation.
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There being no further business, the Mayor declared the Organizational meeting
adjourned at 2:32 p.m.; and immediately reconvened the regular session of City Council.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session immediately following
its Organizational Meeting on Monday, January 4, 2021, in the City Council Chamber,
Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of
Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2,
Administration, Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regula
Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution
No. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic
means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
RECOGNITION OF CITY EMPLOYEES WITH 30, 35 AND 40 YEARS OF
SERVICE: Mayor Lea recognized the service of employees with 30 - 40 years of service
with the City of Roanoke.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were desired, the
item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
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VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS,
COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RENEWAL OF LEASE OF SPACE TO ORVIS COMPANY, INC.: A
communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing
to be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his
discretion, for renewal of lease of space to the Orvis Company, Inc., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) '
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENTS-FREEDOM FIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION: A
communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing
to be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his
discretion, to consider the vacation of the two existing 15 foot public utility easements to
Freedom First Credit Union, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PROHIBITION OF FIREARMS ON CITY PROPERTY: A communication from the
City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday,
January 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such
later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to receive citizen
comment with regard to restrictions on firearms in municipal facilities, was before the
body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT (CAFR) OF THE WESTERN
VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020: A report of the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) of the Western Virginia Water Authority
for Fiscal Year 2020, was before the Council.
(See copy of Financial Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the Financial Report be received and
filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES-YOUTH
SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: Reports of qualification of Rosheta Chase as a member
of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates to fill the unexpired term of office of Katelynn
Lewis ending September 30, 2021; and Pamela Smith as a member (Citizen-at-
Large/Medical) of the Youth Services Citizen Board for a term of office ending June 30,
2023, were before the Council:
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
BudgeVFinancial Planning FY 22 General Real Estate Reassessment
Susan Lower, Director, Real Estate Valuation, provided an overview of the FY
2021 — 2022 Real Estate Assessment Projections and highlighted the following topics:
• FY 2022 Real Estate Assessment Projections
• Assessment History by Fiscal Year
• New Construction History by Fiscal Year
• History of Residential Sales and Foreclosures
• Median Residential Sales Price 2010 to 2020
• In Summary
• Projected Real Estate Fiscal Impact
• Appealing an Assessment
• Tax Relief Programs
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• Questions & Comments
• Appendix
• Timeline of Assessment Process
• Tax Relief and Abatement Programs
• History of Sales Ratio
• History of Roanoke's Assessment Changes
(For full text, see copy presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Lower gave an overview of the assessment process noting that in January
reassessment notices were mailed to citizens and hearings began for citizens who appeal
and disagree with the real estate assessment; in February staff inspect the appealed
properties; decisions were made and correspondence mailed thereafter; and in March,
the Board of Equalization, appointed by Circuit Court as a separate entity to serve as
unbiased opinion, made a decision on the values assessed by Real Estate Valuation.
She continued by reviewing each category and stated that in 2020 the assessed
value of real estate increased by 2.69 percent and noted in October of 2008, the United
States experienced a recession, but the City of Roanoke did not drop in values until about
2011.
Mayor Lea asked for an explanation of the requirements for the elderly tax relief
program; whereupon, Ms. Lower advised that interested parties must be 65 years of age
or older, have an annual gross income less than $42,000.00 and total net worth cannot
be over$160,000.00, and noted that the forms for the elderly, disabled and veterans were
available through the Commissioner of the Revenue and Real Estate Valuation offices
located in the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Lower for the update and advised that the presentation
would be received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
FY20 CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMIC SECURITY ACT-
PROVIDER RELIEF FUND: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending acceptance of the Fiscal Year 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and
Economic Security Act - Provider Relief Funds allocated for eligible providers who bill for
Medicare fee-for-service.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution: N.
(#41965-010421) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of Coronavirus
Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) funding in the amount of $199,646.00
by the City of Roanoke from the United States Department of Health and Human Services
as part of the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund, which provides reimbursement of fees to
eligible providers who bill for Medicare fee-for-service in connection with the COVID-19
Coronavirus Pandemic, and authorizing the acceptance, execution, and filing of
appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 547.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41965-010421. The
motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41966-010421) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United States
Treasury for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) —
Provider Relief Fund, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 -2021 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 548.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41966-
010421. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS FUNDS-ROANOKE FIRE-EMS: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of "pass through" funds from the Virginia
Department of Emergency Management to reimburse the Hazardous Materials Response
Team.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) .,.,.
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
' (#41967-010421) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to accept, on
behalf of the City of Roanoke, "pass-through"funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia,
Department of Emergency Management to support Roanoke Fire-EMS in its service as
the region's Level III Hazardous Materials Response Team.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 548.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41967-
010421. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41968-010421) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the United States
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) for hazardous materials emergency responses and
training and development, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2019-2020
Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 549.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
41968-010421. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT FOR PURCHASE AND SALE OF
REAL PROPERTY: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Purchase and Sale
of Real Property located at 23 Centre Avenue, N. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#41969-010421) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 2 to the Contract for Purchase and Sale of Real Property dated January
22, 2020 (the "Contract") between the City of Roanoke, Virginia (the "City"), and Roanoke
Higher Education Authority ("RHEA"); authorizing the City Manager to execute all
documents necessary to perform, effectuate, administer, and enforce the proposed
Amendment No. 2 and Contract; and dispensing with the second reading of this
Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 550.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41969-010421. The
motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• The Community Engagement Office has created a new page on the City's
website, emphasizing the "Vaccinate Roanoke" message.
• The page includes information from local and state health partners about the
COVID-19 vaccine, including its development process, vaccination efforts,
answers to questions about the vaccine, and more.
• Citizens may check out this page at roanokeva.aov/VaccinateRoanoke.
2021 Solid Waste Collection Guide
• In early January, residents will receive the "2021 Solid Waste Collection and
Hazardous Weather Preparation Guide" in their mailbox.
• This guide is a great resource for understanding what is collected for solid
waste, recycling, bulk, and brush.
• It also contains information about the City's snow removal process, flood
preparedness, and the 2021 recycling calendar.
• In addition to printed copies, the guide is posted on the City's website
homepage—roanokeva.aov, under"Important Resources"—and on the Solid
Waste Management Division's website — roanokeva.aov/SolidWaste.
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Roanoke 100 Miler
• There is still time to sign up for this year's Roanoke 100 Miler challenge.
• The challenge runs from Jan. 19, 2021 to April 19, 2021. Participants must
commit to complete 100 miles in 100 days.
• This is one of Roanoke's favorite fitness traditions, and a great way to learn
more about the parks, trails, and greenways in our area.
Go to PLAYRoanoke.com/Roanoke-100-Miler to register for this event.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
ONE-TIME PAYMENT: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance
to repeal and replace Ordinance No. 41946-122120 adopted December 21, 2020,
authorizing and approving a one-time payment in appreciation to certain full-time and
part-time City employees:
(#41970-010421) AN ORDINANCE repealing Ordinance No. 41946-122120,
adopted December 21, 2020; adopting a new Ordinance restating the content with the
change of the date which employees were in the employ of the City of Roanoke; deletion
of the Deputy City Manager and the Assistant City Manager as persons who were "not"
to receive payment; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 551.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41970-010421. The
motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
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MEMORIAL RESOLUTION: Council Member Moon-Reynolds recommended that
Council honor the late Dr. Wendell H. Butler, a former Vice-Mayor and City Council h.
Member and first African American Council Member appointed to serve as Chairman of
Roanoke City School Board, who passed on November 5, 2020, with a Memorial
Resolution from the Mayor and City Council at the January 19, 2021 Council Meeting.
At 3:50 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building.
At 4:35 p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened with Mayor Lea presiding and all
Members of the Council in attendance, with Council Member Bestpitch participating by
electronic means.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Moon Reynolds 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 seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created
by the resignation of Marcus Huffman as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals for a
term of office ending December 31, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Betty Jean Wolfe.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Wolfe was appointed as a member of the
Board of Zoning Appeals to fill the unexpired term of office of Marcus Huffman ending
December 31, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR MS. WOLFE: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
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.`. CITY OF ROANOKE FINANCE BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the two-year term of office of Kenneth Cronin as a Citizen member of the
City of Roanoke Finance Board ended June 30, 2020; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Laura Carini.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Carini was appointed to replace Kenneth
Cronin as a Citizen member of the City of Roanoke Finance Board for a term of office
ending June 30, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MR. CLEMENTS: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to
the expiration of the one-year term of office of Cindy McFall as a member of the Local
Office on Aging Advisory Board ending February 28, 2021; whereupon, he opened the
floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Cindy McFall.
There being no further nominations, Ms. McFall was reappointed as a member of
the Local Office on Aging Advisory Board for a one-year term of office, commencing
March 1, 2021 and ending February 28, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MCFALL: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to
the expiration of the four-year term of office of John R. Clements as a City representative
of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission ending March 9, 2021; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of John R. Clements.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Clements was reappointed as a City
representative of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission for a four-year term of office,
commencing March 10, 2021 and ending March 9, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. CLEMENTS: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
228
There being no further business to come before the Council, the Mayor declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 4:38 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
o..A�_ 'A.
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC
`•
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
January 19, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday, January 19, .-
2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means), and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member William D. Bestpitch.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
229
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were desired, the
item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, December 7, 2020, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AUDIT COMMITTEE MINUTES: Minutes of the Audit Committee held on
Wednesday, September 2, 2020, was before the Council.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the minutes be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY2020 CITY MANAGER TRANSFER REPORT FOR THE SECOND QUARTER:
A communication from the Director of Finance transmitting the FY 2020 City Manager
Transfer Report for the second quarter ended December 31, 2020, was before the
Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
b.
230
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the communication be received and ff
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote ._.
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RESIGNATION-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: A communication from the City
Clerk advising of the resignation of Lora Katz as a member of the Roanoke Arts
Commission, effective January 4, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-EQUITY AND EMPOWERMENT ADVISORY BOARD-
BOARD OF ZONING-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: Reports of
qualification of the following individuals were before the Council:
Elda Stanco Downey and Jerel Rhodes as a member of the Equity and
Empowerment Advisory Board for a three-year term of office, commencing
January 1, 2021 and ending December 31, 2023;
Betty Jean Wolfe as member of the Board of Zoning Appeals to fill the
unexpired term of office of Marcus Huffman ending December 31, 2021;
and
Brian Bennett as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates to fill
the unexpired term of office of Cindy Pasternak ending September 30, 2022.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
A2.3 1
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
APPALACHIAN TRAIL CONSERVANCY COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
Appalachian Trail Conservancy Community Impact Grant to be used by the Department
of Parks and Recreation to connect urban youth to nature and provide meaningful and
long lasting nature based memories.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#41971-011921) A RESOLUTION accepting the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Community Impact Grant from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Mountain Valley
Pipeline LLC, and The Conservation Fund; and authorizing execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 553.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41971-
011921. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Council Member Moon Reynolds requested a briefing or work session with regard
to the Parks and Recreation Program connecting urban youth to nature.
232
Council Member Cobb commented with elation that something
the pipeline controversy. good may come of
There being no additional comments from the Council Members, Resolution No.
41971-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41972-011921) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the Appalachian
Trail Conservancy through the voluntary conversion agreement for connecting urban
youth to nature, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020-2021 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 553.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41972-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEALTH EQUITY GRANT-VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
acceptance of the Health Equity Grant from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management to support local emergency management performance to include the
development of a COVID-19 engagement team.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#41973-011921) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) Emergency Management Performance Grant —
Supplemental (EMPG-S) Health Equity Grant to the City and authorizing execution of any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 554.)
233
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41973-011921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
The City Manager reminded the Council that the funding would be spent to support
a citywide engagement team to inform citizens about the availability of tests and vaccines,
in partnership with the Virginia Department of Health; and noted that the information
would be filtered through community announcements, schools, non-profits, and health
care professionals.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council members, Resolution
No. 41973-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41974-011921) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) for local emergency management performance,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 -2021 Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 555.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41974-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2021 CARILION CLINIC GRANT AWARD: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the 2021 Carilion Clinic Grant to provide
funding for the Financial Empowerment Center, an initiative to help improve the financial
stability of low and moderate-income households around the country.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
234
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#41975-011921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2021
Carilion Clinic Financial Empowerment Center(FEC) Grant to the City of Roanoke (City)
from Carilion Clinic; authorizing the City Manager to execute any documents necessary
to receive such grant, including a Letter of Agreement with Carilion Clinic, granted in order
to assist the City's efforts to improve the financial stability of low and moderate income
households by supporting the City's FEC; and authorizing the City Manager to take such
further actions and execute such other documents as may be necessary to obtain, accept,
implement, administer, and use such grant funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 556.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41975-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41976-011921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Carilion Clinic
to supplement funding for the Financial Empowerment Center for financial counseling of
low and moderate income individuals, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 557.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41976-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
235
PARKING FUND APPROPRIATION OF RETAINED EARNINGS FOR CAPITAL
PROJECTS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
appropriation of Parking Fund Retained Earnings for capital maintenance projects in
connection with the City parking garages.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41977-011921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Parking Fund
Retained Earnings to the PARCS Upgrade and THP Limited, Inc., preventative
maintenance at each of the system's seven garages, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2019 -2020 Parking Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 558.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 41977-011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
VDOT REVENUE SHARING PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending authorization to request that the 13th Street, S. E.,
improvements be established as a Revenue Sharing Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#41978-011921) A RESOLUTION requesting the Commonwealth Transportation
Board (CTB) and Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to establish a Revenue
Sharing Program known as the 13th Street SE Improvements Project; requesting that
surplus $901,238 in Revenue Sharing Program funds from the completed 10th Street
Improvements Project be transferred to the newly established 13th Street SE
Improvements Project; authorizing the City Manager to execute documents necessary to
effectuate said transfer and uses.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 559.)
236
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41978-011921. The
motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Solid Waste Collection Schedule Changes
• City offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18, 2021, for the Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. Day holiday.
• All residential/commercial solid waste collection (including recycling, bulk and
brush) will be delayed one day.
Neighborhood Grants Application
• The Neighborhood Grants application period is still open; the City will accept
applications until January 25.
• The application form can be found at roanokeva.gov/citymanager— select
"Neighborhood Services," "Programs and Activities," and click on
"Neighborhood Development Grant Program."
• Applications may be submitted by:
o Mailing the application form to the Office of Community Engagement, 215
Church Avenue, SW, Room 364.
o Sending the application form via email to neighborhoods(a�roanokeva qov.
• If you have questions, contact Tiffany Bradbury, Community Engagement
Manager, at 853-6428 or Keith Holland, Community Resources Program
Administrator, at 853-6404.
Neighborhood Partnership Awards Deadline Extended
• Neighborhood Partnership Awards nominations will be accepted through
January 31.
• Help us spread the word so we can celebrate those that have gone above
and beyond in our community.
• Nominations may be submitted online at roanokeva.gov/citymanager, select
"Neighborhood Services," "Programs and Activities," and click on "Annual City
Neighborhood Awards Program."
237
a:- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and the City Manager 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 Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41979-011921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 560.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 41979-011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
MEMORIALIZING THE LATE DR. WENDELL H. BUTLER, FORMER VICE-
MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL MEMBER AND LONGTIME LOCAL DENTIST: Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd offered the following resolution memorializing the late Dr. Wendell H. Butler,
former Vice-Mayor, City Council Member and longtime local dentist:
(#41980-011921) A RESOLUTION memorializing the late Dr. Wendell Harding
Butler, dentist, former Vice-Mayor and Member of Roanoke City Council, and civic leader,
who served the citizens of Roanoke with distinction.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 563.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41980-011921. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
238
Dr. Wendell Butler's daughters appeared before the Council by electronic means
to accept the Resolution and express sincere appreciation for the ceremonial document
honoring Dr. Butler.
Following accolades and comments by several Council Members, Resolution No.
41980-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
COVID-19 TESTING EVENT: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd thanked members of the
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., for hosting a COVID-19 testing event in the parking lot of
Goodwill Industries of the Valleys in Northwest Roanoke on Monday, January 18, where
hundreds of people received a COVID-19 test at no cost to them. She implored citizens
to take the COVID-19 virus serious as cases were increasing rapidly in the area and
disproportionatelyaffecting p m
g peo le of color. She also thanked and commended the Clean
Valley Council, Marion Childress, Sunni Purviance, Jordan Bell, Tommy Paige and all
who took part in the effort to pick up litter in neighborhoods on Monday, January 18.
RESIDENT OF THE MONTH-VILLAGES AT LINCOLN: Council Member Moon
Reynolds congratulated Zakiyaa Woody who was honored as the December resident of
the month at Villages at Lincoln during a ceremony on Friday, January 15. Ms. Woody
participated in the Virginia Western Community College Pharmacy Technician 14-week
cohort held at Villages at Lincoln in 2020 and is now a licensed Pharmacy Technician;
she also expressed appreciation to Melissa Marcus, RSVP Virginia Western Community
College Program, Kara Joyce, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Youth Program,
Nathan Webster, Scratch Biscuit Company, for sponsoring he event and tCouncil Member
Cobb for his attendance at the event.
COLORSVA MAGAZINE: Council Member Jeffrey acknowledged Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd featured on the cover of the January 2021 issue of ColorsVA Magazine. He
encouraged all to get a copy and learn more about the newly elected Vice-Mayor.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:13 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess until 7:00 p.m., in
the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
239
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, Room 450,
fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means), and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member William D. Bestpitch.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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 19,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
MCE Owner Occupied, LLP (formerly J&K HTTC, LLP)and MFF Holdings, LLC, to amend
the conditions proffered as part of a previous rezoning at 2541, 2545, 2549, 2607, 2613,
and 2619 Belle Avenue, N. E., previously rezoned with conditions by Ordinance No.
41190-071618, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 and Tuesday, January 5, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval
of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1 is consistent with the
City's Comprehensive Plan and Hollins/Wildwood Area Plan. The subject property, as
conditioned, will be developed and used in a manner appropriate to the surrounding area.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones read into the record the following Conflict of
Interest Statement in connection with the abovementioned matter:
240
"STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
I, Vivian Sanchez —Jones, state that I reside at 2610 Belle Avenue, N.E., in the
City of Roanoke and that agenda item A. 1. of the January 19, 2021 evening City Council
Meeting involves a rezoning of six (6) parcels on Belle Avenue, N. E.; however, as one of
many individuals who reside on Belle Avenue, I believe that I can fairly and impartially
consider this rezoning application.
Therefore, in accordance with Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, 1 will participate 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.
Witness the following signature made this 19th day of January 2021.
S/Vivian Sanchez-Jones
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Member of Council"
(See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance: +
(#41981-011921) AN ORDINANCE to amend conditions presently binding upon
property located at 2541, 2545, 2549, 2607, 2613, and 2619 Belle Avenue, N. E., zoned
IN, Institutional District; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 565.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41981-011921. The
motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41981-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
241
STREET AND ALLEY VACATION: 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 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request Charles Kostelni representing Walker Machine and Foundry
Company, to vacate a portion of 20 foot wide alley that extends southwest from Russell
Avenue, S. W., the matter was before the body.
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the abovementioned matter
to its Monday, February 8, 2021 meeting, the Mayor advised that City Council had no
jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
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 19,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
Randal Johnson to vacate an approximately 500 square foot semi-circular extension on
the west side of an undeveloped 10 foot alley that extends from Connecticut
Avenue, N. E., intersecting another undeveloped 10 foot alley extending from Plantation
Road, N. E., such semi-circular extension adjacent to only Official Tax Map No. 3040719,
the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 and Tuesday, January 5, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval
of the vacation of right-of-way as requested.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#41982-011921) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing an approximately 500 square foot semi-circular extension of a public right-of-way
on the west side of an undeveloped 10 foot alley that extends from Connecticut Avenue,
N. E., to, and intersecting with, another undeveloped 10 foot alley extending from
Plantation Road, N. E., as more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with
the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 566.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41982-
011921. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
242
Randal Johnson, Petitioner, appeared before the Council by electronic means in
support of the alley vacation.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41982-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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 19,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
Paul Phillips representing Freedom First Credit Union to vacate a 15 foot wide right-of-
way that extends 50 feet west and perpendicular from 3rd Street, S. E., and is bounded
by Official Tax Map Nos. 4012014, 4012016, and 4012013, the matter was before the
body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 and Tuesday, January 5, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval
of the vacation of right-of-way as requested.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey read into the record the following Conflict of Interest
Statement in connection with the abovementioned matter:
"STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
I, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., state that I have a personal interest in agenda items A. 4.
and A. 5. of the January 19, 2021 evening City Council Meeting regarding the vacation of
certain rights of way that will benefit Freedom First Credit Union, because Freedom First
Credit Union is a client of mine.
Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, 1 must refrain from
participation in these matters. I ask that the City Clerk accept this statement and ask that
it be made a part of the minutes of this meeting.
2 43
Witness the following signature made this 19th day of January 2021.
S/Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.
Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Member of Council"
(See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#41983-011921) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing a public right-of-way in the City of Roanoke located at 3rd Street, S. E., bounded
by Official Tax Map Nos. 4012014, 4012016, and 4012013, as more particularly described
hereinafter; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 569.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41983-011921. The
motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Bill Hume, Architect; and Jim McKell, General Counsel, representing the petitioner,
appeared before the Council by electronic means in support of the vacation.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41983-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey abstained from the vote.)
PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENTS: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or
as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to
vacate two 15 foot public utility easements, across the following properties all owned by
Freedom First Federal Credit Union, 401 3rd Street, S. E., 0 3rd Street, S. E., and 120
Bullitt Avenue, S. E., the matter was before the body.
244
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, January 8, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of the
vacation of the two existing public utility easements.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey read into the record the following Conflict of Interest
Statement in connection with the abovementioned matter:
"STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
I, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., state that I have a personal interest in agenda items A. 4.
and A. 5. of the January 19, 2021 evening City Council Meeting regarding the vacation of
certain rights of way that will benefit Freedom First Credit Union, because Freedom First
Credit Union is a client of mine.
Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, 1 must refrain from
participation in these matters. I ask that the City Clerk accept this statement and ask that w ,
it be made a part of the minutes of this meeting.
Witness the following signature made this 19th day of January 2021.
S/Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.
Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Member of Council"
(See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#41984-011921) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the vacation of two (2) 15' public
utility easements across the following properties owned by Freedom First Federal Credit
Union ("Freedom First"): (i) Roanoke Official Tax Map No. 4012008, located at 401 3rd
Street, S. E., (ii) Roanoke Official Tax Map No. 4012009, located at 0 3rd Street, S. E., (iii)
Roanoke Official Tax Map No. 4012013, located at 0 3rd Street, S. E., and (iv) Roanoke
Official Tax Map No. 4012016, located at 120 Bullitt Avenue, S. E., at Freedom First's
request; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 571.)
Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41984-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
245
Bill Hume, Architect; and Jim McKell, General Counsel, representing Freedom
First Credit Union, appeared before the Council by electronic means in support of the
request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41984-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey abstained from the vote.)
LEASE RENEWAL FOR THE ORVIS COMPANY, INC.: Pursuant to instructions
by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, January 19,
2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the
City of Roanoke to lease approximately 3,000 square feet of City-owned property located
in the Center in the Square Parking Garage at 11 Campbell Avenue, S. E., to The Orvis
Company, Inc., to be used by Orvis for commercial and retail purposes, the matter was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, January 8, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution for a
renewal term of one year.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#41985-011921) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease agreement with The Orvis Company, Inc., for approximately 3,000 square feet of
space in the Center in the Square Parking Garage, located at 11 Campbell Avenue, S. E.,
Roanoke, Virginia, for the purpose of operating a retail business; and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 572.)
246
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41985-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41985-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2019 - 2020 HUD CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND
EVALUATION REPORT: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having
advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be heard, to receive citizen comments with regard to the
2019 - 2020 HUD Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report, the matter
was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, December 18, 2020.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending approval of the 2019-
2020 HUD Consolidated Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), and to execute
and submit the CAPER to the Richmond Field Office of the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development prior to January 31, 2021, in a form approved by the City
Attorney.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#41986-011921) A RESOLUTION approving the 2019 - 2020 HUD Consolidated
Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) regarding the United States
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) program; and authorizing the City Manager to submit the CAPER to HUD.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 573.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41986-
011921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
247
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 41986-011921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
ee�
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
February 1, 2021
10:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, February 1,
2021 at 10:00 a.m. (delayed due to inclement weather), in the Council Chamber, Room
450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of
Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2,
Administration, Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regula
Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution
No. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by
electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. (arrived late)-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
248
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as
abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor was not present when the vote was recorded.)
REPORTS AND PLANS RELATED TO THE SECURITY OF THE NOEL C.
TAYLOR MUNICIPAL BUILDING: A communication from the City Manager requesting
that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for discussion of reports and plans related to
the security of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, situated at 215 Church
Avenue, S. W., pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(19), Code of Virginia (1950), as
amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as
abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor was not present when the vote was recorded.)
249
DISPOSITION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2424
BRAMBLETON AVENUE, S. W.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that
Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of an approximately one
acre portion of City-owned property located at 2424 Brambleton Avenue, S. W., 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor was not present when the vote was recorded.)
CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: A communication from the City
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal
counsel, pertaining to pending litigation, where such consultation in open meeting would
adversely affect the negotiating or litigation posture of the City, pursuant to Section 2.2-
3711 (A)(7), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor was not present when the vote was recorded.)
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
250
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS:
Budget/Financial Planning FY 22
Robert S. Cowell, City Manager and Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Finance,
briefed the Council on the development of the FY 2021 - 2022 budget process.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager advised that the presentation introduced the CIP and reminded
the Council about the monthly town hall meetings hosted virtually to expand outreach and
share City information.
Ms. Merchant highlighted the following information:
• FY 2021 Overview
• FY 2022 Development
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - •
• Next Steps
She advised that that the FY21 adopted budget was $298.1 million and local taxes
comprised approximately 67.7 percent of all revenue; through December total FY 21
revenues decreased approximately $1.13 million or 1 percent compared to the same
period of FY 20 due to an increase in real estate tax off-set by lower performance of
transient occupancy and prepared food and beverage tax as well as charges for services;
and expenditures and obligations through December decreased approximately $7.3
million or 4.7 percent compared to the same period last year, mainly due to the timing of
debt service payments, transfers to CRTC, civic facilities, capital projects and the grant
fund.
Ms. Merchant explained that the FY 2021 key local tax performance was a
conservative approach and noted that the City may see an increase of$950,281.00 which
would also allow for an increase for Roanoke City Public Schools in the amount of
$633.521.00.
Council Member Jeffrey inquired as to the breakdown of the public safety overtime
which was approximately 50.6 percent over expectation; whereupon, Ms. Merchant
replied that the figure referred mainly to overtime within the Sheriff and Fire Departments.
251
. Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked what was included under the communications tax
umbrella. Ms. Merchant advised that it was a single remission of tax from the State to the
locality as a result of cellphones and things of that source.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired as to the status of the other revenues such as
State and Federal funding as it related to the budget; whereby, Ms. Merchant replied that
in the charges for services area, the City had a shortfall affected by the timing of activities
that would normally have taken place and stated that she would send him more detail
with regard to those figures.
Ms. Merchant highlighted the FY 22 local tax estimate pointing out that for real
estate $92.7 million or 93 percent of the potential revenue, sales tax shows a potential
growth of four percent, transient occupancy growth of 73 percent, prepared food and
beverage tax to decrease by three percent, cigarette tax to decrease by five percent,
motor vehicle license, personal property and business license were held at level funding,
communications tax potentially down about seven percent and in the other category one
of the large impacts based on the experience with COVID-19 and the impact on the
admissions tax contributing to that potential decrease of 4.78 percent, overall contributing
to $1.8 million dollars of potential growth.
She provided the next steps in the FY 2022 budget development process currently
taking place pointing out that reviews were taking place for departmental offers by staff,
external agency requests, equity and empowerment, budget committee, General Fund
recommendation development, budget committee review of fee adjustment requests and
preparation for the March 1 budget briefing.
Ms. Merchant continued with the presentation by reviewing the Capital
Improvement Program stating that the goal was to maintain current capital assets and
infrastructure investment for livability and economic development with targeted livability
investments including the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, transit and Fire/EMS facility
upgrades, with all investments made within parameters of the debt policy.
She also reviewed the FY21 to FY25 capital improvement program projects
highlighting a few such as the refresh of the South Roanoke e-branch, Gainsboro and
Belmont libraries; replacement of solid waste vehicles, rehabilitating and/or replacing
amenities, greenways and identified upgrades of many school buildings; and the total CIP
was approximately $113 million. She touched on the FY 2022 - 2026 Capital
Improvement Program, noting that in FY 2026 the school improvements, Berglund Center
improvements, stormwater improvements, Curb, Gutter and Sidewalk and streetscape
improvements would require continuation of funding.
252
Lastly, Ms. Merchant reviewed the projects that were not currently programmed or
funded in the FY 2022 - 2026 Capital Improvement Program such as renovation of the
Garst Mill Bridge, Library Master Plan, sidewalk maintenance, traffic signal infrastructure,
RMS/JMS technology replacement, fiber ring expansion, Fire Facility Master Plan, drill
tower and the public works service center washhouse and renovations.
Ms. Merchant concluded the presentation by noting that the next briefing would be
on March 1 to include FY 2022 - 2026 priority projects, capital funding strategies and an
update from the City's financial advisor.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired about the main library branch renovations and
Library Master Plan not being included in the CIP; whereupon, Ms. Merchant replied in
the affirmative.
Council Member Bestpitch expressed concern with the materials archived in the
Virginia Room and the need for the climate control storage area and the possibility of the
documents deteriorating prior to receiving the available funding to expand.
Following discussion of curb and gutter projects within the CIP, Mayor Lea thanked
the City Manager and Director of Finance for the informative presentation; and received
and filed the budget briefing.
Fire Marshal's Office Strategic Plan
David Guynn, Deputy Chief of Community Risk Reduction, briefed the Council on
the Fire Marshal's Office and recommendation for transition to full-time staff.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Guynn highlighted the following information:
• What We Do
• Fire Inspections
• Fire Investigations
• New Construction Inspections
• Staffing Model
• Staffing Model: Challenges
• Staffing Model: Risks
• Staffing Recommendation
• Revenue and Fees
• Summary of Proposed Fee Changes
• Notes on Fee Changes (1/2)
• Notes on Fee Changes (2/2)
• Revenue Summary
253
Mr. Guynn explained the duties of the Fire Marshal's Office including fire
prevention inspections, fire prevention systems acceptance tests on behalf of the Building
Commissioner for all new fire protection systems, delivery and support of fire and life
safety education, and investigation of cause and origin of each fire that occurs in the City.
He continued by informing Council that the Fire Marshal's Office enforces City and
Statewide Fire Prevention Codes and part-time staff conducted most of the routine
inspections. Mr. Guynn reported that Fire-EMS conducts an investigation of every fire,
explosion, and major burn with the City; wherein, investigators then work with law
enforcement if cases are criminal in nature and are required to testify in criminal trials and
are conducted by on-duty Operations personnel.
At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting (10:52 a.m.).
Mr. Guynn shared current staffing data and explained challenges related to the
part-time model which include inconsistent staffing, recruitment and retention, training
requirements, and inconsistent level of service to citizens. He was concerned about
turnover and scheduling may cause problems with buildings not inspected on the proper
schedule amongst other serious difficulties that may present a life safety risk.
Mr. Guynn proposed and recommended a staffing proposal plan of ten (10) full-
time employees and suggested the conversion to full-time staff would be approximately
$270,000.00 in new expenditures; noting minor changes to existing fees and presented
additional revenue options for Council's consideration. He shared a detailed breakdown
of the fee changes and petitioned the Council that the transition to full-time staff would
provide the best possible level of service, ultimately reducing community risk.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked if the Fire Marshal's Office had a problem with
recruitment; wherein, Mr. Guynn replied the Office had fifteen (15) personnel in operations
who were firefighters and fire inspectors; and since FY 2000, that particular model used
part-time inspectors; however, did not keep up with the department needs of today.
Council Member Jeffrey inquired with regard to the 3,000 new inspection target;
whereby, Mr. Guynn explained every building was a use group, determined by the
issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy by the Building Commissioner and how risks
groups were categorized. He gave the following example: institutional facilities like
hospitals, day cares, nursing homes, educational facilities, high hazard facility, factories,
and high storage facilities on an annual basis inspect use group.
Council Member Bestpitch asked about the proposed changes in the fee structure
related to the re-inspection fee adjusted to an hourly basis, for small businesses such as
hair salons, would there be a $25.00 or$50.00 fee if it only takes half an hour. Mr. Guynn
replied it would be $50.00 for the first hour and then $12.50 for every quarter hour
thereafter to absorb the overhead.
254
Following inquiries from Vice-Mayor White-Boyd, Council Members Jeffrey, Cobb
and Bestpitch, Mayor Lea thanked Mr. Guynn for the detailed presentation; and received
and filed the briefing.
At 11:52 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by
electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Walter LeFlore, Minister, Unitarian
Universalist Church of Roanoke by (electronic communication means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were desired, the
item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, December 21, 2020, was before the
body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
255
Council Member Cobb moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ROANOKE REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING AUTHORITY: A communication
from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Timothy Witten as a member of the
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, effective January 22, 2021, was before
the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD-CITY OF
ROANOKE FINANCE BOARD: Reports of qualifications of Aaron Washington as a
member of the Human Services Advisory Board for a four-year term of office,
commencing December 1, 2020 and November 30, 2024; and Laura Carini to replace
Kenneth Cronin as the Citizen member of City of Roanoke Finance Board for a term of
office ending June 30, 2022, were before the Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
256
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
GREATER WILLIAMSON ROAD AREA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION: Valerie A.
Brown, Executive Director, appeared before the Council by electronic communication
means to present information with regard to the expansion of the Special Service District
for the Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association (WRABA).
Ms. Brown provided background information advising that in 1993 Roanoke City
Council established the Williamson Road Area District Fund to help to improve economic
vitality and enhanced quality of life of the Greater Williamson Road corridor and
surrounding areas; the fund offered assistance intended to foster recruitment, retention
as well as plan for the development and revitalization of the area; and over the past 27
years, there was significant evidence of commitment to the area of economic
development, city beautification, strategic planning and public safety.
She requested that the Council allow WRABA to expand their footprint in the
greater area and from a financial standpoint, increase revenue, which would allow the
association to continue its work, increase its reach and effectiveness working with the
area businesses and their concerns. She added that the plan was simple to reinvest the
dollars back into the area and to the City and noted that projects were earmarked such
as curbs, sidewalks, greenery, trees, improved lighting, business facades; and developing '
a multi-year plan to partner with the City to accomplish goals to work with and for the
businesses.
Ms. Brown showed a quick video presentation outlining the vision of WRABA and
opened the floor to the Board members present to address the Council; whereupon,
William Dixon, President, Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association and many
other Board members introduced themselves.
Following introductions, Ms. Brown opened the floor for questions; whereupon,
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd inquired as to the parameters of the current district.
Chris Chittum, Director, Planning, Building and Development referenced a map
outlining the current district beginning at the north end at the city limits and extending
south down to Orange Avenue.
In response to an inquiry with regard to potential increased revenue, Ms. Brown
indicated that it could be upwards of$101,000.00 to $120,000.00, for a total closer to the
$225,000.00 mark, opening the door to do a lot of work and give back to the area.
257
Council Member Sanchez-Jones asked how many members of different ethnic
groups were on the Williamson Road corridor and members of the Association;
whereupon, Ms. Brown advised that there was a fair amount of ethnic business owners,
but the Association wanted to reach out to all the organizations operated by minorities
and let them know that the Association can and will help them.
Following additional discussion, Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Brown for the
presentation, the Board members for their efforts and advised that the information would
be received and filed.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
ACCEPTANCE OF THE 2021 VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT (V-STOP)
GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
acceptance of the 2021 Violence Against Women Act (V-STOP) Grant from the Virginia
Department of Criminal Justice for the Police Department's existing Domestic Violence
Specialist position.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#41987-020121) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2021
V-STOP Grant made to the City of Roanoke by 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. 81, page 574.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41987-020121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
258
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41988-020121) 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 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 574.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41988-
020121. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
The City will offer monthly Budget Development Webinars
• Through April, we will conduct a series of Zoom webinars to share information
with citizens about its annual Budget Development.
• Webinars will be based upon the content of the presentations to City Council
at their monthly budget briefings.
• Citizens are invited to view the webinars, and will have the opportunity to ask
questions via the Chat feature.
• The January webinar, focusing on the Real Estate Assessment process, was
conducted last Friday, Jan. 29 and recorded, and will be posted on the City's
website with other budget-related materials.
• The City will send MyRoanoke email notifications prior to each webinar, and
post the information on our website homepage.
Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board will meet this week
• Thursday, February 4, at 6:30 p.m.,
• The meeting will be hosted via Zoom and will be recorded and shared on the
Equity and Empowerment webpage.
• Members of the community wishing to address the Board will have an
opportunity to give comments at the Board's quarterly public hearings; the next
public hearings will be held in March.
• The agenda is available on the City's website at roanokeva.gov/citymanager, '
select the link in the left column on the page.
259
Arts Collaboration will release "We Are Art" Rap Cypher
• Partners for the project include the Roanoke Public Libraries, the Roanoke Arts
Commission, the Grandin Theatre, and the Feeding Southwest Virginia
Community Solutions Center.
• The film will be released on February 5, at 10 a.m. on the Roanoke Public
Libraries Facebook page and YouTube page.
• The project is a celebration of black culture through a staple in the hip hop
culture: rap cyphers, and it honors Black History Month.
• The rap cypher features seven local rappers, and each artist wrote their own
individual parts of the song.
• The goal of this collaboration is to encourage Roanoke community members to
know that the whole city is for all Roanokers.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Cobb expressed appreciation to the Public Works Department
snow removal crews for an excellent job in clearing neighborhood streets on Sunday,
January 31.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd announced that on Thursday, February 4, at 6:30 p.m.,
the City of Roanoke will host its second Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board
Meeting, via Zoom, which will be recorded and shared on the Equity and Empowerment
webpage; citizens wishing to address the Board will have an opportunity to give
comments at the Board's quarterly public hearing; the next public hearing will be held in
March and will be broadcasted live on the City's Facebook Page.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Moon Reynolds 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
`s' Act; and (2) only such public business matters as were identified in any motion by which
260
any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City Council.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy
created by the resignation of R.B. Lawhorn as a member (Deputy City Manager
Designee) of the Defined Contribution Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Paul Workman.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Workman was appointed as a member
(Deputy City Manager Designee) of the Defined Contribution Board to fill the unexpired
term of office of R.B. Lawhorn ending June 30, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR MR. LAWHORN: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
HOTEL ROANOKE CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION: The Mayor called
attention to the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Robert S. Cowell, Jr.,
as a City Employee representative of the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission
ending April 12, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Robert S. Cowell, Jr.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Cowell was reappointed as a City
representative of the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission for a four-year term
of office commencing April 13, 2021 and ending April 12, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. COWELL: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to
the upcoming expiration of three-year terms of office of Joshua T. Dietz, Matthew Kelley
and Jerome Stephens as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ending
March 31, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Diane Simmons, ,.,
Stephen Terry McGuire and Jerome Stephens.
261
There being no further nominations, Ms. Simmons was appointed to replace
Joshua Dietz; Mr. McGuire was appointed to replace Matthew Kelley; and Mr. Stephens
was reappointed as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for three-year
terms of office, each, commencing April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2024, by the
following vote:
FOR MS. SIMMONS, MR. MCGUIRE AND MR. STEPHENS: Council Members
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor
Lea-7.
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy
created by the resignation of Lora Katz as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission
ending June 30, 2022; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Kevin Deck.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Deck was appointed as a member of the
Roanoke Arts Commission to fill the unexpired term of office of Lora Katz ending June 30,
2022, by the following vote:
FOR MR. DECK: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the Mayor declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 3:03 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
262
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
February 16, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday, February 16
2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., y
Sherman P. Lea Sr. City of Roanoke, with Mayor
presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article ll, City
Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetings, Code of the Cit
of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021. No. 41964-010421
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Best itch
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor Sherman Pt Lea,byeltronic means),
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager and Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney.
OTHERS PRESENT: Andrea R. Johnson, Recording Secretary.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Elizabeth Link, Pastor, Second
Presbyterian Church (participated by electronic communication means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
NATIONAL CIVIC LEAGUE AWARD: The City Manager presented Mayor Lea
with a plaque for his service with the National Civic League.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY: The City Attorney
introduced the new Assistant City Attorney, Kelsey Durkin.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD: Darcell Yates, 2021 Mercer Avenue, N. W.
addressed the Council with regard to the Girl Scout Gold Award.
263
*x MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed
the Council with regard to working together in the Roanoke Valley.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, January 4, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
EXPANSION OF WILLIAMSON ROAD AREA SERVICE DISTRICT: A
communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public
hearing to be held on Monday, March 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as
the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall
determine, in his discretion, to consider the expansion of the Williamson Road Area
Service District to include additional land areas.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
264
CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: A communication from the Cit
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal
counsel requiring the advice of counsel, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(7), Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Cit
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD-ROANOKE ARTS
COMMISSION: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the
Council:
Bradley Stephens as a member of the Human Services Advisory
Board for a four-year term of office, commencing December 1,
2020 and ending November 30, 2024;
Kevin Deck as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission to fill
the unexpired term of office of Lora Katz ending June 30, 2022; and
Patricia Wilhelms as a member of Roanoke Arts Commission for a
three-year term office, commencing July 1, 2020 and ending
June 30, 2023.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted b y the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
265
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FUNDS GRANT: 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.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#41989-021621) A RESOLUTION accepting the Rescue Squad Assistance
Fund 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. 81, page 577.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41989-
021621. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
266
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41990-021621) 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 2020 - 2021 General Fund and Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 577.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 41990-021621. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ADOPTION OF ROANOKE VIRGINIA STRATEGIC PLAN 2021 - 2022: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval of the Roanoke,
Virginia Strategic Plan 2021 — 2022.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#41991-021621) A RESOLUTION adopting the Roanoke, Virginia Strategic
Plan 2021 - 2022 (2021 Strategic Plan).
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 578.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41991-021621.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BLUE HILLS VILLAGE CONCEPT PLAN: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending execution of an agreement to modify the Blue Hills
Village Concept Plan.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
267
« Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#41992-021621) AN ORDINANCE approving the terms of an Agreement to
Modify Blue Hills Village Concept Plan between the City of Roanoke, Virginia, and the
National Bank of Blacksburg; authorizing the City Manager to execute such Agreement;
authorizing the City Manager to implement, administer, and enforce such Agreement;
and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 580.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41992-
021621. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
Council Member Cobb inquired about the project details; whereupon, the City
Manager advised that it was to be used as restaurant. The City Attorney added that one
restaurant would be a Popeye's fast food chain.
There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No.
41992-021621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HIGHWAY SAFETY IMPORVEMENT PROGRAM: The City Manager submitted
a written communication recommending to repeal and replace Budget Ordinance No.
41938-122120 adopted December 21, 2020, accepting the 2019 Highway Safety
Improvement Program funds from the Virginia Department of Transportation for the
Orange Avenue and Gainsboro Road/Burrell Street Pedestrian Safety Improvements
Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41993-021621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Transportation for the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP),
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 582.)
.m
268
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41993-
021621. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY ATTORNEY:
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING-IRONMAN 70.3 TRIATHLON EVENT:
The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending approval of a
Memorandum of Understanding in connection with the Ironman 70.3 Triathlon event.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#41994-021621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Memorandum of Understandingong
Corporation ("WTC"), Roanoke Valley Convention andthe City of itdVisitor'soB'World Triathlon
au d/bVisit
Virginia's Blue Ridge ("VVBR"), the Counties of Roanoke and Botetourte and the Town
of Vinton, governing the terms, conditions, and obligations among such parties for the
Carilion Clinic Ironman 70.3 Triathlon to be held throughout the Roanoke Valley on
June 6, 2021, in cooperation with Carilion Clinic, the main sponsor of the event.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 583.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41994-021621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd acknowledged former Council Member Michelle Davis
who worked diligently to bring the Ironman events to the City of Roanoke.
Council Member Cobb thanked Dr. Randy Clements and area localities for their
efforts to secure the Ironman events.
269
There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No.
41994-021621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Solid Waste Collection schedule changes for Presidents Day week
• Because City offices were closed on Monday for the Presidents Day holiday,
all residential/commercial solid waste collection will be delayed one day this
week.
"Roanoke Valley Saves Week" is Coming Up
• Monday, February 22 through Friday, February 26, 2021
• Hosted by BankOn Roanoke Valley, the event is an initiative of United Way of
Roanoke Valley.
• A series of online events will be offered to help savers set financial goals,
.. track their spending, and take control of their financial future.
• To register, go to uwrv.org/borv.
• Questions may be directed to Brandon Meginley in the Economic
Development Department at 853-1120 or brandon.meginley@roanokeva.gov
Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board is seeking committee members
• As a reminder, the work of the Board is guided by provisions of City Plan
2040, which includes specific priorities established through the focus on
Interwoven Equity.
• The Board has formed committees centered on the five Interwoven Equity
priority areas outlined in City Plan 2040, and would like to enlist three to five
community members to serve on each of the committees.
• Anyone interested in serving on one of the committees may send an email to
EEAB(a)-roanokeva.gov or call Angie O'Brien in the City Manager's Office at
540-853-2333 by Noon on February 24.
270
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: A report of the Roanoke City School
Board requesting appropriation of funds for various educational programs; and the City
Manager 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 White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#41995-021621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 584.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41995-
021621. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A report of certain Authorities, Boards, Committees and Commissions in which
City Council serve as liaisons or appointees.
Council Member Moon Reynolds, liaison, Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing
Authority recognized Tina Crowder as the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing
Authority January 2021 Resident of the Month; noted that the Housing Authority held its
first COVID-19 vaccine clinics at Morningside Manor and Melrose Towers; and reported
that the Roanoke Envision Center offers career counseling, resume development,
individual health needs and a host of other services to all citizens and would relocate to
the former Melrose Library once renovations have been completed.
Council Member Bestpitch, as an Elected Official representative to the Roanoke
Valley Alleghany Regional Commission, reported that the Commission was re-
examining the membership roster to reduce the number of members from 38 to 30 with
two Council Members and two Citizen at large members; and all localities were in
agreeance to amend the Charter.
271
Council Member Cobb, Member, Study Committee to Reduce Gun Violence
announced that the Committee was in the process of finalizing a gang model for the
City.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Mayor Lea apologized for sending a message in bad taste with regard to the
Patrick Henry High School Girls' basketball team. He advised that he would meet with
the team and apologize in person.
Council Member Bestpitch commented that he received positive feedback with
regard to the vaccination clinics at the Berglund Center and other places around the
City.
The City Manager added that over 200 persons were registered to receive the
COVID-19 vaccination.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:15 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic means),
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
272
a �
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager and Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney.
OTHERS PRESENT: Andrea R. Johnson, Recording Secretary.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jeff Wilson, Pastor, Huntington
Court United Methodist Church (participated by electronic communication means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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,
di scussed or by
Council. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by y the fol ow n City
vote: g
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
STREET AND ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted
by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public
hearing for Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, on a request of Charles Kostelni representing Walker Machine
and Foundry Co., to vacate a portion of 20 foot wide alley that extends southwest from
Russell Avenue, S. W., the matter was before the body.
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the matter to its March 8,
2021 meeting, the Mayor advised that City Council had no jurisdiction to hear the matter
at this time.
273
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,
February 16, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a
request of Alvin F. Woods to repeal all conditions previously proffered as part of a
previous rezoning by the adoption of Ordinance No. 40189-031615 on property located
at 1113 11th Street, N. E.; and to rezone property located at 0 10th Street, N. E.,
from CN, Commercial-Neighborhood District, to CG, Commercial-General District, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 and Tuesday, February 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1 is
consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, Hollins/Wildwood Area Plan and Zoning
Ordinance as the subject property will be developed and used in a manner appropriate
to the surrounding area.
w,
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#41996-021621) AN ORDINANCE to repeal the condition presently binding
upon property located at 1113 11th Street, N. E.; and to rezone property located at 0
10th Street, N. E., from CN, Commercial-Neighborhood District to CG, Commercial-
General District; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 584.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41996-021621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 41996-021621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
274
g .�
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 7:12 p.m.
ATTEST: APPROVED
Andrea R. Johnson Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
Recording Secretary Mayor
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC
City Clerk
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
March 1, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, March 1,
2021 at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article ll, Citv
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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. (arrived late)-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr.,
City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk (participated by electronic
communications means).
275
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: A communication from the City
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal
counsel and briefings by staff members or consultants for the purpose of discussing
acquisition of publicly owned property where discussion in an open meeting would
adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiation strategy of the public body,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-
Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
and Moon Reynolds-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was not present when the vote was recorded.)
CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: A communication from the City
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal
counsel on a legal matter requiring advice of counsel, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711
(A)(7), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
and Moon Reynolds-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was not present when the vote was recorded.)
276
CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: A communication from the City
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal
counsel on an actual legal matter requiring advice of counsel, pursuant to Section 2.2-
3711 (A)(7), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
and Moon Reynolds-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was not present when the vote was recorded.)
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS:
At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting (9:10 a.m.)
Budget/Financial Planning FY 22
Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager, Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Finance,
and Paul Workman, Budget Manager, briefed the Council on the development of the FY
2021 - 2022 budget process.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Merchant highlighted the following information:
• FY 2021 Overview
Ms. Merchant advised that through January, FY 2021 local taxes were 3.52
percent ahead of target, mainly due to real estate, sales and transient occupancy taxes;
revenues have decreased a
pproximately $4.95 million or 3.96 percent compared to the
KK
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same period in FY 2020; other revenues have decreased approximately $3.08 million or
3.96 percent compared to the same period in FY 2020 due to the timing of Social
Services revenues and lower charges for services revenues; and expenditures
decreased approximately $8.4 million or 4.99 percent due to timing and lower transfers
to other funds and lower expenditures in street paving offset and fleet capital.
She continued by reviewing the FY 2021 monitoring dashboard noting that real
estate, sales and transient occupancy taxes were performing 1.22, 9.21 and 43.30
percent ahead of target, respectively; and business license and prepared food and
beverage taxes were performing behind target 17.63 and 8.07 percent, respectively.
She pointed out that in terms of local taxes; the total for January was ahead by 3.21
percent.
Ms. Merchant added that the FY 2021 net local tax growth of approximately $2.1
million would allow for additional funding allocated to the downtown district taxes at
$132,200.00, Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge at $384,519.00, Roanoke City Public Schools at
$613,521.00 and the City's share of the increase at $920,281.00.
• FY 2022 Development and Next Steps
Ms. Merchant reported that FY 2022 local tax estimate was based on update
from the prior month of February; the real estate estimate was lowered by $100,000.00
resulting from actions taken with regard to the real estate assessment appeals, which
adjusted the expectation of growth to 2.19 percent or $2 million. She noted that the
transient occupancy tax expected an increase 76.7 percent growth and recognized the
drastic drop in expectation in the adopted budget thus moving it back to a previous
level.
In terms of the total revenue picture for Fiscal Year 2022, she mentioned that the
total increase was $3.1 million; intergovernmental category would see a decrease of
$352,756 due to allocation shifts from Social Services and as expenditures move with
higher and lower revenue allocations from the State the result was a decrease in
revenue expectation, so previously if an 85 percent reimbursement was received now a
70 percent may be received.
At this point, the City Manager advised that Council asked that administration
focus on long standing commitment to equity and the City chose to do that through the
budget process using a set of outcomes focused on the seven priorities established by
the Council. He noted that beginning this year; the focus has been reoriented to
budgeting for equitable and empowering outcomes.
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He continued stating that the goal was equity versus equality; it would be a two
year process to initiate the novel way of budgeting; and it would align with current
Council and community priorities across city departments. He pointed that the process
was operationalized by requiring that staff review budget offers through the following
three questions:
• Does the request advance equitable outcomes for residents and/or advance or
improve upon an identified neighborhood or community asset? If so, how? If not,
could it be adjusted to do so? How?
• Does the request burden or benefit communities of color and/or low-income
individuals or neighborhoods? If so, how? Could
mitigate the burden and/or to realize a benefit? How?�t be adjusted to avoid or
• Does the request help reduce any identified disparities? If so, how? If not, could it
be adjusted to do so? How?
Mayor Lea inquired as to the role of the Equity and Empowerment Advisory
Board in the budget process; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the Advisory
Board had no role in the process as of yet because the budget process was an internal
City process.
Paul Workman, Budget Manager, continued the presentation explaining how the
new process would work and advised that a disparities and asset report produced by
the departments of Planning, Building and Development and Economic Development
was developed to utilize findings from the new City's Comprehensive Plan to identify
patterns of disparities such as racism, poverty or poor health and identifies area that
may be experiencing disparities such as poor building conditions, lack of tree canopy,
neglected alley maintenance and difficult access to or unsafe parks, lack of civic
engagement and area of high pedestrian risk. Three teams were formed to evaluate
each budget offer in an effort to recognize areas of success already in practice and
eventually make recommendations on improvements. He noted that the work of the
teams would be ongoing including following and delving deeper into areas warranting
further study.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired if there were other jurisdictions in the
Commonwealth attempting to address issues of equity and empowerment; whereupon,
Mr. Workman replied in the affirmative and referenced an article in a Virginia publication
with regard to the issue.
Council Member Bestpitch further stated that it was an opportune time for
jurisdictions to share information as they go through the process because it was so new
and so significant.
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Mr. Workman continued the presentation, reviewing the FY 2022 expenditure
enhancements' for each budget priority, noting that the figures did not include a
compensation increase for employees, but the goal was to eventually be able to include
an increase.
With regard to the balancing status, debt service and balancing next steps, Mr.
Workman advised that the current budget variance was $76,910.00; an increase in the
real estate tax by one cent would generate approximately $455,784.00 in revenue,
increase in the prepared food and beverage tax by 1.1 percent would yield
approximately $1.5 million in revenue and a one percent increase in the transient
occupancy tax would generate approximately $117,188.00. The City Manager
interjected that it the intention was not to recommend tax increases, but there may be a
slight increase in solid waste fees based on increases in tipping and tonnage fees the
City would incur.
Further discussion ensued with regard to the plastic bag tax; whereupon, the City
Attorney offered that the tax was not a revenue generating tax because the goal was to
move away from using plastic bags and encourage the use of reusable bags. He stated
that the measure would be presented to the Council for consideration in April.
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Next Steps
Mr. Workman reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan and debt policies noting
that all investments were made within the parameters of the debt policy with
consideration of required debt service; net tax — supported debt as a percentage of the
total taxable assessed value will not exceed 4 percent; net tax - supported general
obligation debt service shall not exceed 10 percent of General Fund expenditures and
not less than 60 percent of the outstanding tax - supported debt will be retired within 10
years.
He highlighted that in 2023 and 2024 Roanoke City Public Schools requested
additional debt service totaling $15.6 million for school needs at Morningside and
Preston Park elementary schools; Library Master Plan was not allocated funding and
the City Manager indicated that the funds allocated for the Parks and Recreation Master
Plan were not sufficient for the projects for completion.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd inquired as to the next scheduled briefing with the
financial consultants and infrastructure for electric vehicles and when it would be added
to the Capital Improvement Plan for consideration; whereupon, Mr. Workman replied
that he was unsure when a briefing with Davenport would be scheduled and the Director
of Finance interjected adding that the CIP information had been shared with Davenport
for them to provide to the City what the debt service planning needed to be and that the
debt service was increased by $500,000.00 for Fiscal Year 2022 and as other projects
were added the debt service would have to grow to accommodate the Plan, it was a
matter of affordability with regard to the addition of projects.
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Further discussion ensued with regard to the Capital Improvement Plan and the
request from the Schools Division; wherein, Council Member Bestpitch suggested that
the School Division brief the Council on the usage of the $5 million requested every few
years and cautioned against having no funding included for the Library Master Plan for
five years.
The City Manager advised that information on the usage of the school funding
would be requested and reminded the Council that the projects included was debt
funded and the City shied away from issuing debt in advance of being needed.
Lastly, Brent Robertson, Assistant City Manager for Community Development
reviewed the parking fund and Sherman Stovall, Deputy City Manager concluded the
presentation by reviewing the remaining enterprise funds.
Mayor Lea thanked the presenters for the informative presentation and advised
that the briefing would be received and filed.
Stormwater Utility Update
Sherman Stovall, Deputy City Manager briefed the Council on the stormwater `
utility fee and highlighted the following information:
Briefing Focus m
• Stormwater Utility Division/Stormwater Utility Fee
o Creation and implementation
o Business activities
o Prior Council briefing highlights
o Capital project funding
o Current financial condition
o Business case considerations
Stormwater Utility Fee - Implementation
• Background
o Stormwater Utility Fee authorized during FY 2014
o Fee phased in over three years based on billing unit of 500 square feet of
impervious surface
• FY 2015 - $0.30 per 500 sf/per month
• FY 2016 - $0.60 per 500 sf/per month
• FY 2017 - $0.90 per 500 sf/per month
• Fee structure generates revenue of$6.125 million per year
o Stormwater Utility Fund operates as a self- supporting Enterprise Fund
VA
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Stormwater Utility Fee — Program
• With utility fee, bond, and grant funds
• Drainage Improvements Projects
o 215 projects with estimated cost of$140 million
• Maintenance of Stormdrain Infrastructure
0 10,313 inlets
0 296 miles of pipe
0 143 miles ditchline drainage channels
0 988 outfalls
• Water quality
• Improve quality of Roanoke River and its tributaries
• 147 water quality projects at an estimated cost of$85 million
• Watershed Master Plans not complete
Prior Briefings
• City Council briefed on financial condition of Stormwater Utility Fund
o April 1, 2019 Budget Briefing
o July 29, 2019 Strategic Planning Session
o October 28, 2019 Strategic Planning Session
• Council advised that after FY 2021, existing revenue would not be sufficient to fund:
..W o Current level of operating expenses
o Inflationary costs
o Planned debt issuance to support capital projects
o Incremental debt issuance if grant funding declined
o Cash funded capital
o Planned staff additions
• Two Construction Crews and Technical Support positions
Capital Project Funding
• GO Bonds - $2 million each year
o Requires level of debt service to increase each year
• Grant Funds— approximately $2 million
o Revenue sharing
o Stormwater local assistance funds
Utility Fee Adjustment
• At October 28, 2019 Strategic Planning Session, Council tentatively agreed to fee
increase of
o $.10 per month each year over 5 years, effective July 1, 2021
o $.90 per month per 500 SF to $1.40 per month
o Average Residential - $5.40 per month to $8.40 per month
m o July 1, 2021 Implementation date to provide time for stakeholders to prepare
• Planned increase suspended due to COVID-19 Pandemic
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Current Financial Condition
• As previously Droiected, without an adjustment in the Utility Fee:
o Funding not sufficient to maintain operations
o Operating expenses
o Debt service
o Cash funded capital
• Existing level of service will be reduced
o Reduction in planned drainage improvement projects
o Water quality improvement projects
o Maintenance of infrastructure
• Revenue Sharing allocation suspended until FY2025
o FY2021 and FY2022 Revenue Sharing allocation shifted to FY2025 and FY2026
Business Case Considerations
Consider rate adjustment— effective July 1, 2022
• Option A:
o Increase debt funding from $2M to $3M (FY 2022, FY 2023, FY 2024)
o Adequately fund cash funded capital
o Planned staff additions
o Fee increase from $.90 per 500 sf per month to $1.54 per month over five
years
o Average residential- $5.40 per month to $9.24 per month
• Option B:
o Level debt funding of$2M
o Reduction in level capital projects (FY 2022, FY 2023, FY 2024)
o Adequately fund cash funded capital
o Planned staff additions
o Fee increase from $.90 per 500 sf per month to $1.52 per month over five
years
o Average residential- $5.40 per month to $9.12 per month
• Option C:
o Increase debt funding from $2M to $3M over the planning horizon
o Adequately fund cash funded capital
o Planned staff additions
o Fee increase from $.90 per 500 sf per month to $1.56 per month over five
years
o Average residential- $5.40 per month to $9.36 per month
Note: Rate adjustments scenarios do not include Downtown Flood
Reduction/Mitigation — 7 projects with estimated cost $82 million.
• Seek Council direction on rate adjustments
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The Deputy City Manager introduced Mark Jamison, Director, Public Works and
Ian Shaw, Stormwater Division Manager and Joseph Arthur, Capital Project Manager
and advised that the previous way of doing projects on an ad hoc basis was not the best
practice and the stormwater utility fee was phased in over three years with full
implementation in 2017. He pointed out that the Stormwater Utility Division operates as
an enterprise fund activity, self-supporting with no subsidy from the General Fund.
He continued stating that the division focused on drainage improvement projects
with approximately 215 projects identified at a cost of $140 million, 147 water quality
projects at an estimated cost of $85 million and in a short amount of time the division
completed 31 capital improvement projects which spoke volumes to the Plan developed
an ability to execute the plan.
Mr. Stovall stated that in transitioning from Fiscal Year 2021 to Fiscal Year 2022
revenue would not be sufficient to continue to fund stormwater utility operations at its
current level; impact would be a reduced level of drainage and water quality projects
completed. He pointed out that the anticipated FY21 and FY22 revenue sharing
allocation had been shifted to FY25 and FY26 and over the next three years, the City
would not receive any revenue sharing funds for stormwater.
He concluded by reviewing three options to consider with regard to moving
forward and advised that rate increases were critical and staff recommended Option C.
He noted that the business case considerations did not include the downtown flood
reduction/mitigation and seven projects were slated with an estimated cost of $82
million.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd inquired if it was known what projects would be removed
or reduced in connection with Option B; whereupon, Mr. Shaw explained it was fluid
because there were grants to ensure matches.
Mr. Stovall offered to provide a more detailed list to the Council in approximately
two to three weeks.
Following discussion with regard to the options for considerations, Mayor Lea
announced his support for Option C, thanked Mr. Stovall for the presentation and
advised that briefing would be received and filed.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss appointments
on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council,
pursuant to Section 2.2-3711(A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
At 11:24 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones,
William D. Best itch Patricia White-Boyd,
p (participated by electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk (participated by electronic
communication means).
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
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Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
..,. Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on March 1. The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general
public during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on
the City's Facebook account.
BLUE RIDGE LEGAL SERVICES: Lois Caliri, Blue Ridge Legal Services,
addressed the Council with regard to insurance enrollment provisions and resources for
COVID-19.
FIREARM PROHIBITIONS: The City Clerk acknowledged emails from Dr.
Catherine Koebel, Katherine Ranson, Bishop J. L. Jackson, Pamela Young and Dr.
John Priddy; all in support of adoption of an ordinance with regard to firearm
prohibitions in municipal facilities.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
CITY CODE-PROHIBITION OF FIREARMS IN MUNICIPAL FACILITIES: A
communication from the City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing
to be held on Monday, March 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager may determine, to
consider the adoption of a proposed ordinance to amend the City Code with regard to
the prohibition of firearms in certain municipal facilities.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-VIRGINIA'S FIRST REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY
AUTHORITY: Report of qualification of the Honorable Stephanie M. Moon as an
Elected Official representative to the Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facility Authority
to fill the unexpired term of Djuna L. Osborne for a term of office ending June 30, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the report of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, March 15,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date
and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to sell 119 and 117
Norfolk Avenue, S. W., and two adjacent parcels situated at 0 Railside Avenue, S. W.,
known as Warehouse Row, to JRM Real Estate Ventures, LLC.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
Y
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REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: NONE.
CITY ATTORNEY:
AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE-PARTY BIKE VEHICLES: The City
Attorney submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City
Code in connection with party bike vehicles.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#41997-030121) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 34-147.
Party Bike Vehicle Defined. Chapter 34 Vehicles for Hire, Article IV Horse-Drawn
Vehicles and Partv Bike Vehicles, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended;
establishing an effective date.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 587.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41997-
030121. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
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AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE-LICENSE TAX ON ANTIQUE MOTOR
VEHICLES: The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending
amendment of the City Code to repeal Section 20-28(0) which provides for the
assessment of the license tax on antique motor vehicles.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#41998-030121) AN ORDINANCE, repealing Subsection (o) of Section 20-28,
Tax imposed, Article II, Vehicle Licenses, Chapter 20, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Code
Of City of Roanoke (1979) as amended, which provides for the assessment of the
license tax on antique motor vehicles; providing for an effective date; and dispensing
with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 588.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41998-030121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Health District Media Update
• Recently, Mayor Lea and I joined Dr. Cynthia Morrow and N.L. Bishop to hold a
virtual press conference, sharing information about efforts to reach out to
minority groups in our community to ensure equity for those who want the
vaccine.
• During the press conference we shared that two vaccination clinics were held in
our community during February, to reach our African-American and Hispanic
residents ages 65 and up who may not have had access to online registrations;
200 people were vaccinated.
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• 1 want to thank our librarians and volunteers on the Vaccine Equity Working
Group, who helped compile names of those needing vaccination, and High Street
Baptist Church and Roanoke City Public Schools for allowing us to use their
facilities for the clinics.
• 1 also want to recognize our partners at VDH and our Emergency Manager,
Trevor Shannon, for their leadership in this effort.
• Citizens are invited to watch the entire Update, which we recorded and posted
on the City's YouTube page at YouTube.com, type "City of Roanoke" in the
search field.
Vaccine Registration
• Residents should be aware that the Virginia Department of Health has created a
Statewide Vaccine Pre-registration System to help eligible residents sign up to
get a COVID-19 vaccine.
• Residents who qualify for Groups 1A and 1B are currently eligible for
vaccinations, and may pre-register for the vaccine online at vaccinate.virginia.gov
or by contacting the state's Call Center at 1-877- 829-4682. The Call
Center is open seven days a week (8 a.m.-8 p.m.).
• More information is available on the VDH website — vdh.virginia.gov, click on the
"COVID-19 Vaccine" tab.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Council Member Cobb announced March is Developmental Disabilities
Awareness Month and advised that the Executive Director of Blue Ridge Independent
Living Center requested the presentation of a proclamation recognizing persons with
disabilities to be presented at the March 15 City Council meeting; applauded the Human
Resources Department for the Become An Ally, Safe Zone Project workshop held on
Tuesday, February 23, which provided an opportunity for people to talk, learn, and ask
questions about sexuality and gender in a non-judgmental, safe, educational
environment.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd commented that the Equity and Empowerment Advisory
Board would conduct a virtual public hearing on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.
to receive comments from the community regarding the work of the Board. The Board
has been appointed by the City Council to advise on actions that may be taken to
address the Interwoven Equity policies contained within the City's Comprehensive Plan
https://planroanoke.org/interwoven-equity/ and to aid the Council in other policy matters
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related to equity and empowerment. The Board is interested in receiving comments
from the community regarding these matters and su
ons for the renaming of Lee
Plaza located adjacent to the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building. Community embers
interested in participating in the public hearing should contact Angie O'Brien, at
EEAB@Roanokeva.gov or (540) 853-2333 by Noon, March 4 to receive information on
how to participate in the hearing.
Mayor Lea expressed concern with regard to Lime Scooters (dockless scooters)
and improper placement on sidewalks and within right-of-ways; suggested stronger
enforcement and control, as they may be a potential hazard.
The City Manager advised that generally, electric powered scooters and bikes
should adhere to the same rules of the road as conventional bicycles. The City of
Roanoke has elected not to allow operation of scooters on sidewalks, greenways, or in
parks. Operators should communicate with users through the smartphone app about
proper parking, at the edge of sidewalk areas where they would not impede pedestrian
traffic on sidewalks.
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Cobb 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 seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Moon
Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
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There being no further business to come before the Council, the Mayor declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 2:41 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
March 15, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, March 15, 2021
at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
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rt_
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
PROCLAMATION-AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH: The Mayor declared the
month of March 2021 as American Red Cross Month, and presented a ceremonial copy
of the proclamation to Tiffany Bradbury, Board Member, American Red Cross.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
PROCLAMATION-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY AWARENESS
MONTH: The Mayor declared the month of March 2021 as Developmental Disability
Awareness Month. Council Member Cobb presented the proclamation to Karen
Mich alski-Karney, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, by electronic
communication means.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Tuesday, January 19, 2021; and on Monday,
February 1, 2021, were before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss appointments
of three Trustees to serve on the Roanoke City School Board, for three-year terms,
each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, pursuant to Section 2.2-
3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Attorney requesting
that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of City-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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MINUTES OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE: Minutes of the Audit Committee held
on December 21, 2020, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS-PARKS AND
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following individuals
were before the Council:
Valeria Alphin as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals for a
three-year term of office, commencing January 1, 2021 and ending
December 31, 2023;
Stephen Terry McGuire as a member of the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board for a three-year term of office, commencing April 1,
2021 and ending March 31, 2024; and Paul Workman as a member
(Deputy City Manager Designee) of the Defined Contribution Board
to fill the unexpired term of office of R.B. Lawhorn ending June 30,
2021; and a four-year term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and
ending June 30, 2025.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
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PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP ANNUAL UPDATE: John Hull,
Executive Director, Roanoke Regional Partnership, appeared before the Council (by
electronic means), and provided an overview of activities of the organization for 2020,
and highlighted the following items:
• Revenue Generators Cancelled
• Roanoke Region Responds
• Business Attraction
• Prospect Activity Recovering
• 2020 Roanoke Region Large Site Projects
• Product Development
• GO Virginia Grant Roanoke Regional Recovery
• Virtual College Summer Program
• Roanoke Worker Campaign
• Project Outside
• Future Focus
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Hull introduced himself as the new Executive Director of the Roanoke
Regional Partnership with 17 years of professional experience and a graduate of
Roanoke College supplemented with certifications from the Oklahoma University's
Economic Development Institute and Virginia Industrial Development Authorities
Institute.
He summarized the report stating that over the past few years the Partnership
transitioned to revenue generating events to supplement public and private
contributions, six events were cancelled due to the pandemic, and a regional response
webpage was launched as a resource for employers and employees. He pointed out
the Partnership worked with the City Manager to create an advisory council of local
businesses to more effectively gauge the impact of the pandemic and organized regular
calls with local partners to share information.
He noted that in 2020 despite the pandemic two businesses expanded and two
new businesses were opened locally resulting in 440 primary jobs and $46 million in
investments. He mentioned the Virtual College Summer Program which would consist of
150 students and recent graduates, nine weeks of professional development and
networking, and over 50 regional professionals participating to showcase all eight
localities in the Roanoke region.
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He concluded by highlighting the future focus of the Partnership, pointing out that
the goal was to have a proactive program of work that was responsive to trends and
market needs; to grow the economy of the small metro like Roanoke; talent work
innovation and efforts in the outdoors and revise the five year strategic cycle. Mr. Hull
thanked the Council for 38 years of support to the Roanoke regional Partnership.
Following commendations and brief discussion by the Council, the Mayor
thanked Mr. Hull for the informative report and advised that the Annual Update would be
received and filed.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
VIRGINIA BROWNFIELDS ASSISTANCE FUND GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia
Brownfields Assistance Fund Grant from the Virginia Economic Development
Partnership and the Department of Environmental Quality for continued brownfield
remediation at the multi-parcel site of the former Walker Machine and Foundry
Corporation. "
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#41999-031521) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Brownfields
Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund (VBAF) grant made to the
City by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) and Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ); and authorizing execution of any required documentation
on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 588.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41999-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, „
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42000-031521) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the Department of
Environmental Quality and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for
environmental site assessments and related planning and development, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 589.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42000-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SPIKES K9 FUND DONATION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of a donation from Spikes K9 Fund in
support of the Police Department.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42001-031521) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of a donation from
Spikes K9 Fund, to the Roanoke City Police Department of two K9 Storm Patrol Ballistic
Vests, and authorizing execution of any and all necessary documents to accept the
donation.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 590.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42001-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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9T" STREET MULTIMODAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia
Department of Transportation, Transportation Alternatives Set Aside funding and
execution of a Standard Project Administration Agreement for the 9th Street Multimodal
Improvements Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42002-031521) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Department of
Transportation's ("VDOT") award of funds to the City in the total amount of$500,000 for
pedestrian improvements to the 9th Street, S. E. corridor project; authorizing the City
Manager to execute a VDOT Standard Project Administration Agreement; and
authorizing the City Manager to take certain other actions in connection with the above
matters and project.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 591.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42002-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42003-031521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from Virginia
Department of Transportation (VDOT) Transportation Alternatives Program and the
Transportation Alternatives Set Aside and 9th Street Multimodal Improvements,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 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. 81, page 592.)
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.. Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42003-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT OF CITY CODE-PARK ROANOKE: The City Manager submitted
a written communication recommending amendment of the City Code to ensure proper
code enforcement by PARK Roanoke.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42004-031521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 20-67(g)
Parking on streets and highway generally, Division 1. Generally, and Section 20-91
Appeal of parking violations, Division 3. Duties of Police Officers; Penalties for Unlawful
Parking, of Chapter 34 Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Article IV Stopping, Standing and
Parking, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; establishing an effective
date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 593.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42004-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0
BUS SHELTER ENCROACHMENT PERMIT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending approval and authorization of an encroachment
permit for Mountain View Neighborhood Association for a bus shelter located at 1525
Salem Avenue, S. W., at the intersection of Salem Avenue and 16 Street, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42005-031521) AN ORDINANCE allowing a bus shelter encroachment
requested by the Greater Roanoke Transit Company d/b/a Valley Metro ("GRTC"), into
the public right-of-way located at the intersection of Salem Avenue, S.W., and 16th
Street, S.W., in front of Hurt Park Elementary School, bearing Official Tax Map No.
1210320, and which bus shelter will be located within the City Right-of-Way 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. 81, page 594.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42005-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending approval and authorization of an encroachment permit to
construct a retaining wall within the right-of-way located at 810 and 814 Hamilton
Avenue, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42006-031521) AN ORDINANCE allowing a retaining wall encroachment
requested by J. David Leaman and Jacqueline S. Leaman (collectively "Owners"), the
owners of certain real estate located at 810 and 814 Hamilton Avenue, S. W., Roanoke,
Virginia, bearing Roanoke Official Tax Map Nos. 1130705 and 1130706 ("Property")
into the public right-of-way located along Hamilton Avenue, S. W. and adjacent to the
Property, and which retaining wall will be located within the City right-of-way 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. 81, page 596.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42006-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX RELIEF FOR 2021 TAX YEAR: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization to establish
the percentage reduction for personal property tax relief for the 2021 tax year.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42007-031521) A RESOLUTION setting the allocation percentage for personal
property tax relief in the City of Roanoke for the 2021 tax year; and determining that an
emergency exists and this resolution shall be effective upon passage.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 598.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42007-
031521. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
GENERAL OBLIGATION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT REFUNDING BONDS: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization for
issuance and sale of General Obligation Public Improvement Refunding Bonds.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42008-031521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the issuance and sale of not to
exceed Eleven Million Dollars ($11,000,000) aggregate
of
Roanoke, Virginia, General Obligation Public Improvement principal
g Bo ds;amount ofCity fixi g
certain details of the bonds; and otherwise providing with respect to the issuance, sale
and delivery of such bonds and the refunding of the refunded bonds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 599.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42008-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
APPALACHIAN POWER COMPANY-UNDERGROUND EASEMENT: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of a Deed of
Easement to Appalachian Power Company for a ten-foot underground utility easement
located at Patrick Henry High School.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42009-031521) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the conveyance of a 10-foot wide
underground utility easement across City-owned property located at Patrick Henry High
School, and designated as Tax Map No. 1460101, to Appalachian Power Company
("APCO"), a Virginia corporation, 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. 81, page 613.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42009-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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,. SUPPORT AGREEMENT-ROANOKE VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of a Support
Agreement for financing by the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42010-031521) A RESOLUTION approving the City of Roanoke's support of a
financing agreement by the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 614.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42010-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd inquired as to the reasoning for the contingency request
of the Virginia Resource Authority; whereupon, the City Manager provided background
advising that there had been conversation with regard to how refuse would get to the
landfill, currently it was transported by rail with the hopes of being transported by truck
soon, so a new road would have to be constructed to allow for the transport. He noted
that the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority in moving forward must secure financing
from the Virginia Resource Authority which required a moral obligation from the
participating parties and the City of Roanoke, City of Salem, Roanoke County and Town
of Vinton must adopt a measure of support.
Council Member Bestpitch called attention to the end of the Resolution which
referred to an attached executed support agreement; whereupon, the City Attorney
advised that the Resolution was incorrect and the measure could be amended prior to
adoption to remove that sentence.
Council Member Bestpitch moved to amend the resolution by removing the
information stated as "in substantial form to the agreement hereto attached." The
motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and unanimously adopted by
voice vote.
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of the amended Resolution No.
42010-031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
March Budget Development Webinar
• Citizens are invited to view the March budget development webinar, focusing
on the Capital Budget and Outside Agency Funding process, at 3:00 p.m. on
Tuesday, March 16.
• Anyone interested in participating in the webinar must register by 5:00
today (March 15) to be provided the Zoom connection information.
p m
• Please contact Tiffany Bradbury in the Office of Community Engagement at
853-6428 or tifffan .bradbu ryO.roanokeva.gov
• The webinar will also be broadcast live on the City of Roanoke's Facebook
Page at Facebook.com/RoanokeVa.
• The last webinar will be conducted in April.
Melrose-Orange Bus Shelters
• The City is seeking artists to provide permanent works of art to be
incorporated into four new bus shelters in the Melrose-Orange Target Area.
• An engaged group of residents and stakeholders have expressed a desire for
the shelters to incorporate color, educational themes, and a celebration of the
diversity of the neighborhood.
• Proposals are due by 2:00 p.m. on April 12, 2021.
• Information about the project, as well as the Request for Proposals, is
available at roanokeva.gov, under "Government" click on Arts and Culture.
Story Walk Events
• Our Public Libraries and Parks and Recreation Department are bringing
traveling Story Walks to citizens.
• Pages from a children's picture book are inserted in metal frames attached to
posts, which are installed at regular intervals along an outdoor path. As a
family walks down the path, they are directed to the next page in the story.
• On March 8, the Main Library featured the first traveling Story Walk with the
bilingual "Roanoke Baby Book."
• A list of future events for City library branch locations and in Cit
y parks available on our homepage at roanokeva.qov, under "Read About Roanoke."
�s
Campaign to Address Traffic Speed
• This spring, the City's Transportation Division will launch a second Citywide
Pedestrian Safety Campaign, this time focusing on traffic speed.
• Citizens can help make the campaign a success by taking a quick, five-
minute survey to give feedback on speeding concerns and input on the T. ,
campaign design. The deadline to take the survey is March 22.
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• In thanks for their time, participants can enter to win one of 20 Community Inn
$10 gift cards, or one of 10 Chocolate Paper $10 gift cards.
The survey is available online at planroanoke.org/pedestriansafet , and
posted on the City's Facebook page at Facebook.com/RoanokeVa.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: A report of the Roanoke City School
Board requesting appropriation of funds for various educational programs; and the City
Manager 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 White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42011-031521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 616.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42011-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A report of certain Authorities, Boards, Committees and Commissions in which
City Council serve as liaisons or appointees.
Council Member Moon Reynolds informed the Council that Michael's Pharmacy
located in Abingdon, Virginia, provided COVID-19 vaccines to the Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority for approximately 140 residents and employees.
Council Member Bestpitch asked City Council to begin approaching Legislators
earlier with regard to the 2021 Legislative Priorities and asked that recommendations be
sent as soon as possible. He suggested Council Members review the legislation now,
and provide him with any additional items that need to be included to the 2021
Legislative Priorities agenda, in hopes to finalize the program earlier.
v
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd gave an update on the Equity and Empowerment
Advisory Board, who met virtually on March 4, advised that the Board appointed sub-
committees, held discussion with regard to the renaming of the Lee Plaza located
adjacent to the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, and announced the next meeting
would be held on Monday, April 12.
The City Manager thanked members of Council for their participation in the
recent "Vaccinate Roanoke" event that was held especially for the Latino citizens,
advised there will be additional neighborhood clinics in the northwest Roanoke and in
the Williamson Road area.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
AMENDMENT OF CITY CODE-GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION:
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance for amendment of the City Code
to establish the Gun Violence Prevention Commission:
(#42012-031521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Permanent
Committees Article XIV Authorities Boards Commissions and Committees Generally,
Chapter 2, Administration Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), Section 2-297 of
Division 2, Permanent Committees Article XIV Authorities Boards Commissions and
Committees Generally Chapter 2, Administration Code of the City of Roanoke (1979),
as amended; amending and reordaining Division 2, Permanent Committees Article XIV
Authorities Boards Commissions and Committees Generally, Chapter 2,
Administration Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to add Section 2-306;
establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance
by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 617.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42012-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The City Attorney advised that before the Council was an amended version of the
Ordinance and Resolution, for the previous version contained typographical errors; and
thanked Council Members Cobb and Moon Reynolds for their efforts in correcting the
measures.
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Mayor Lea inquired how gun violence prevention would be executed by the
Commission; whereupon, Council Member Cobb advised that the focus had been on
addressing the root causes of gun violence in the community and by gathering
information and data, many of the causes have been identified.
He continued stating that the Commission would take on a multifaceted approach
focused on prevention, intervention and response and ending gun violence would rely
on the community and its behaviors, etc. The Commission would continue the work of
the previous Gun Violence Task Force and Study Committee to reduce gun violence by
executing those ideas and plans.
Following further discussion with regard to gun violence, Ordinance No. 42012-
031521, as amended, was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42013-031521) A RESOLUTION appointing the nine (9) members to the Gun
Violence Prevention Commission for an initial term; waiving the residence requirement
for several individuals; and establishing an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 620.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42013-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Council Member Cobb commented that most of the appointees to the Gun
Violence Prevention Commission were previously been involved in the efforts to study
and prevent gun violence demonstrating dedicated passion to the cause and were
leaders in the study committee working groups. He recognized the appointees as
himself, Taisha Steele, Stacey Sheppard, Shakira Williams, Decca Knight, Elliott Major,
Nicole Ross, Reverend Tim Harvey and Rabbi Kathy Cohen.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42013-031521, as amended, was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
• Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
..- NAYS: None-0.
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TOWING ADVISORY BOARD: Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the
following ordinance authorizing to reduce the number of members on the Towing
Advisory Board from nine to seven.
(#42014-031521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining subsection (a) of
§20-16, Towing Advisory Board Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to
amend the number of members and the makeup of the towing advisory board;
establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 622.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42014-
031521. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Mayor Lea informed the citizens that on Friday, March 5, 2021, he, Council
Member Sanchez-Jones, along with representatives from the City of Roanoke, the
Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts, and Roanoke City Public Schools met with
leaders in the Hispanic community to continue COVID-19 vaccine outreach for Spanish-
speaking residents.
Tiffany Bradbury, Community Engagement Manager, attended the virtual
meeting and offered that the meeting was very informative, spoke highly of Council
Member Sanchez-Jones who facilitated the meeting that included the Chief of Consular
Section for the Embassy of Mexico, Consul General of Honduras, Consulate General of
Colombia, Deputy Consul, Consular Section for the Embassy of Mexico, Consul
General of Guatemala, and Consul General of EI Salvador. The group reportedly
discussed opportunities to ensure Spanish-speaking residents living within the Roanoke
City and Alleghany Health Districts were aware of the vaccination process, as well as
ways the Consuls can help answer questions about the vaccine.
Mayor Lea thanked the Council Members and City Manager who attended the
Compassionate Roanoke virtual meeting on Wednesday, March 10.
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd announced that the City of Roanoke, Virginia
Department of Health and Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts would host
COVID-19 vaccination clinics on Wednesday, March 17. The City Manager added that
vaccination clinics would also be held at Breckinridge Middle School and Salvation
Army for those who need assistance and to visit www.roanokeva.gov/vaccinateroanoke
or www.vaccinatevirginia.gov for more information.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 4:03 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter reconvened at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Joseph L. Cobb.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
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CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting .
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
STREET AND ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted
by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public
hearing for Monday, March 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on a request of Charles Kostelni representing Walker Machine and
Foundry Co., to vacate a portion of a 20 foot wide alley that extends southwest from
Russell Avenue, S. W., the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 and Tuesday, March 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the vacation of right-of-way as requested.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
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_. (#42015-031521) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing an approximately 20 foot wide alley that extends southwest from Russell
Avenue, S. W., along the eastern boundary of Official Tax Map No. 1420815 and along
the western boundary of Official Tax Map Nos. 1420834, 1420833, 1420832, 1420831,
1420830, and 1420829, and extending west along the northern boundary of Official Tax
Map No. 1420828 to terminate at a line perpendicular to the remaining alley extending
from the northwest corner of Official Tax Map No. 1420828 to the southern corner of
Official Tax Map No. 1420815, as more particularly described hereinafter; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 623.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42015-
031521. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42015-031521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY PLAN 2040, CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN-OAKGROVE CENTER
PLAN: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6,
1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 15, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of
Roanoke to amend the City Plan 2040, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include the
Oak Grove Center Plan, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 and Tuesday, March 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
adoption of the Oak Grove Center Plan as an amendment to City Plan 2040, the City of
Roanoke's Comprehensive Plan.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42016-031521) AN ORDINANCE approving the Oak Grove Center Plan, and
amending City Plan 2040, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include such Oak Grove
Center Plan; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 626.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42016-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
Philip Thompson, Roanoke County Planning Department, appeared before the
Council by electronic means in support of the amendment.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42016-031521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY PLAN 2040, CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN-WELCOMING ROANOKE
PLAN: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6,
1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 15, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of
Roanoke to amend the City Plan 2040, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include the
Welcoming Roanoke Plan, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 and Tuesday, March 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
adoption of the Welcoming Roanoke Plan as an amendment to City Plan 2040, the City
of Roanoke's Comprehensive Plan.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
,ten.
(#42017-031521) AN ORDINANCE approving the Welcoming Roanoke Plan,
and amending City Plan 2040, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include such
Welcoming Roanoke Plan; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 627.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42017-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42017-031521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
EXPANSIONS OF WILLIAMSON ROAD SERVICE DISTRICT BOUNDARY:
Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public
hearing for Monday, March 15, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to expand the boundary of the
Williamson Road Area Service District to include 135 properties comprising 209 acres,
with an assessed value of$156.5 million, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Monday, February 22, 2021, March 1, 2021 and March 8, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending approval of the
expansion of the Williamson Road Area Service District.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42018-031521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 32-103.2,
Williamson Road Area Service District defined, Division 7, Williamson Road Area
Service District, Article ll, Real Estate Taxes Generally, of Chapter 32, Taxation, of the
Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to expand the Williamson Road Area
Service District ("Service District"); providing for an effective date: and dispensing with
the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 628.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42018-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
Valerie Brown, Executive Director, Williamson Road Business Association,
appeared before the Council by electronic means in support of the boundary expansion.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42018-031521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SALE OF PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk
having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 15, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to convey
119 and 117 Norfolk Avenue, S. W., and two adjacent parcels situated at 0 Railside
Avenue, S. W., known as Warehouse Row, to JRM Real Estate Ventures, LLC, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Monday, March 8, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of the
proposed Contract for Purchase and Sale.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42019-031521) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Contract for Purchase and Sale of Real Property (the "Contract") between the City of
Roanoke, Virginia ("City"), and JRM Real Estate Ventures, LLC, a Virginia limited
liability company organized and existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Virginia ("Buyer"), to sell to the Buyer certain real property located at 119 and 117
Norfolk Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia and 0 Railside Avenue, S. W., Roanoke,
Virginia, consisting of approximately 0.2204 acres, more or less, together with all
improvements thereon, designated as Official Tax Map Nos. 1010306, 1010307,
1010318, and 1010317 (the "Property"), upon certain terms and conditions; authorizing
the City Manager to execute such further documents and take such further actions as
may be necessary to accomplish the above matters; and dispensing with the second
reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 629.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42019-
031521. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42019-031521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PROHIBITION OF FIREARMS ON CITY PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions
by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, March 15,
2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of
the City of Roanoke to add a new Section 24-2.1, Prohibition of Firearms on City
Property, to Chapter 24, Public Buildings and Property Generally, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended; to prohibit the possession, carrying or transportation of
firearms in certain municipal facilities, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Monday, March 8, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
316
The City Attorney advised that while the ordinance would be effective
immediately, the ban would not be enforceable until new signs were in place; meaning
the gun show scheduled for March 20 - 21 would not be affected.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
"AN ORDINANCE amending the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as
amended, by adding a new Section 24-2.1 Prohibition of Firearms on City Property to
Chapter 24 Public Buildings and Property Generally; establishing an effective date; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title."
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of the Ordinance. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. Whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic
communication means:
Maynard Keller, 825 Brownwood Drive, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Margaret Wood, 4438 Pheasant Ridge Road, Roanoke, Virginia
Kaitlyn Waddell, 3345 Glade Creek Boulevard, N. E., Roanoke, Virginia;
Catherine Koebel, 2625 Longview Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Philip Van Cleave, P. O. Box 513, Newington, Virginia;
Mitchell Tyler, 1201 Shenandoah Avenue, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Jeffrey Merian, 6375 Boulder Trail Drive, Roanoke, Virginia;
Erin Rafferty, 631 Campbell Avenue, S. E., Roanoke, Virginia;
Paul Stromberg, 2625 Longview Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
David Harrison, 5305 Medmont Circle, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Vic Nicholls, 1124 Mill Lake Quarter, Chesapeake, Virginia;
Russell Huggett, 1528 Mason Street, Salem, Virginia;
Ryan Bruch, 5455 Winterset Drive, Roanoke, Virginia;
Ryan LaFountain, 1527 Chapman Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Carey Chitwood, 8140 Olsen Road, Roanoke, Virginia;
Wanda Ostrander, 2368 Howard Road, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Ivonne Fuentes, 2528 Alberta Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Bonnie Nelson, 2151 Broadway Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Timothy Murphy, 4662 Horseman Drive, N. E., Roanoke, Virginia;
Stephen Niamke, 1711 Franwill Avenue, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Andy Parker, P. O. Box 1207, Collinsville, Virginia
Beth Deal, 1426 Greenbrier Avenue, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Kevin Berry, 401 Campbell Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Gene Edmunds, 2322 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Terry McGuire, 339 King George Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Anna Goltz, 2318 Laburnum Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
Dan Crawford, 2311 Kippling Street, ' . W., Roanoke, Virginia;
317
Angela Venuto-Ashton, 2017 Jefferson Street, S. E., Roanoke, Virginia;
,. Barbara Andes, 2803 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia;
There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Moon Reynolds expressed concerns with regard to the
enforcement of the ban in parks and on trails and voiced that if the Council adopted the
ordinance, it would offer the public a false sense of security.
(See written remarks on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch expressed concern that the ban could incite lawsuits
from gun rights groups and questioned gun carrying events such as the Veterans' Day
parade.
The City Attorney commented that the National Rifle Association (NRA) filed a
lawsuit in Fairfax County over a similar ordinance.
Council Member Jeffrey and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd spoke in favor of adoption
of the measure in full with no exceptions.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones voiced concern that the measure included
City-owned property in gun-free zones and moved that Council reconsider the
ordinance in its entirety and engage in more discussion on the matter at a work session
in April. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and defeated by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Moon Reynolds and Sanchez-Jones-3.
NAYS: Council Members White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey and Mayor Lea-4.
Mayor Lea advised that adopting the ban fulfilled a promise made to the citizens
following the Virginia Beach mass shooting and noted that he strived to make all
citizens feel safe in the Municipal Building.
Following additional dialogue with regard to the gun show exemption within the
ordinance, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved to substitute the administration ordinance
included in the agenda to the no gun show ordinance with the removal of the words as
prohibited and the addition of parades. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Sanchez-Jones
-- and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: Council Member Moon Reynolds-1.
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Council Member Cobb offered the following substituted ordinance:
(#42020-031521) AN ORDINANCE amending the Code of the City of Roanoke
(1979), as amended, by adding a new Section 24-2.1 Prohibition of Firearms on Cit
Property to Chapter 24 Public Buildings and Property Generally; establishing an
effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 631.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42020-031521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Sanchez-Jones
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: Council Member Moon Reynolds-1.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
ATTEST: APPROVED
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC c�
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk
Mayor
319
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
April 5, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, April 5,
2021 at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, C
ity
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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic
means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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At 9:09 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Legislative
Committee meeting in the Council Chamber.
At this point, Council Member Moon Reynolds left the meeting (10:00 a.m.).
At 10:45 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened with Mayor Lea presiding and all
Members of Council in attendance with the exception of Council Member Moon
Reynolds.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS:
Public Safety Briefing 2020
Samuel Roman, Chief of Police, briefed the Council on the 2020 Police
Department crime statistics.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Chief Roman highlighted the following information:
• Police/Citizen Initiated CFS Rate By Zone
• Calls By Day of Week — Citywide
• Calls by Year— Citywide
• 2019 vs. 2020 Crime Comparison
• Citywide Part 1 Crime By Category— 2018-2020
• RPD and COVID-19
• Gun Violence Incidents — 2018-2020
• 2020 — Gun Violence Visualized
• RPD Realignment
• RESET Coordinator
• Local, State and Federal Partners
• Traffic Safety
• 2020 Successes and Challenges
0 RPD Community
321
Following Chief Roman's presentation, Council Member Jeffrey applauded the
Police Department's efforts to keep the community safe and asked about the status of
gang activity; whereby, Chief Roman replied neighborhood gangs were claiming
territory, more organized and noted that gang activity was cited as a recurring factor in
shootings in the community.
Vice Mayor White-Boyd commended Chief Roman and the Police Department for
their work in the City and inquired about the Reset Team as related to meeting the
needs of the community. Chief Roman advised the Reset Coordinator's job was to offer
assistance such as mental health resources, city services, and to inquire of needs that
may be necessary following traumatic or tragic events.
Lloyd Merchant, new Reset Coordinator, introduced himself and stated that the
citizens' reaction had been positive and he had received encouraging responses as it
related to outreach in neighborhoods affected by violence. Mayor Lea also asked Chief
Roman what was the plan for curbing violence in the neighborhoods; wherein, Chief
Roman emphasized that officers were taking a multi-track, community-focused
approach to curbing the violence and the Police Department was collaborating with local
and federal agencies, nonprofits, social services, and neighborhood leaders to build a
proactive approach to short-circuit crime and help people find a better path before
behavior escalates to arrests or possible incarceration.
Council Member Bestpitch noted that City Council had been criticized for not
supporting the Police and clarified for the record, that he supported the Police, praised
Chief Roman for his posture in the community, and looked forward to reinstating
neighborhood walks with the Police to show support and concern for neighborhoods
and residents; and lastly praised former Police Sergeant Joshua Johnson, for his recent
move to the City Manager's Office as the new Neighborhood Services Coordinator.
Following brief remarks by Council Member Cobb, Mayor Lea thanked Chief
Roman for the comprehensive presentation; and advised that the presentation would be
received and filed.
At this point, Council Member Moon Reynolds entered the meeting (11:38 a.m.).
Budget/Financial Planning Fiscal Year 2022
Amelia Merchant, Director of Finance, briefed the Council on the development of
the FY 2021 — 2022 budget process.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Merchant highlighted the following:
• FY 2021 General Fund Overview
322
r .�
The Director of Finance advised that with regard to revenues through February,
FY 2021 local taxes were 1.1 percent ahead of target, mainly due to performance of
sales and transient occupancy taxes; FY 2021 revenues decreased approximately
$7.82 million or 5.38 percent compared to the same period of FY 2020; local taxes
decreased $5.2 million or 5.35 percent compared to the same period of FY 2020 due to
lower performance of business license, prepared foods and beverage, transient
occupancy, admissions and personal property taxes; FY 2021 other revenues
decreased approximately $2.60 million or 3.96 percent compared to the same period of
FY 2020 due to the timing of social services revenues and lower charges for services.
She also pointed out that through February, FY 2021 expenditures decreased
approximately $6.3 million or 3.2 percent compared to the same period of FY 2020 due
to the timing and lower transfers to other funds as well as the timing of expenditures in
street paving and fleet capital.
In terms of local taxes, Ms. Merchant noted that the prior history of March
through the end of the fiscal year from the prior year, local taxes could potentially
exceed budget by 1 percent or around $2 million and the projections were monitored on
a weekly basis and updated in the dashboard as each month was closed. She pointed
out that Fiscal Year 2021 net local tax increases included Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge,
$673,000.00 for Roanoke City Public Schools, and $1 million for the City, but did not «„
take into account nonlocal revenues.
• FY 2022 Development
Ms. Merchant explained that for Fiscal Year 2022 local taxes had been updated
reaching an estimate of approximately $2.79 million; a $6.1 million increase over the
Fiscal Year 2021 adopted budget or 3 percent growth year over year. She noted that
the growth was mainly attributed to real estate, transient occupancy, sales tax, personal
property and business license taxes, offset by lower performance expectations in
communications, prepared food and beverage and cigarette taxes.
She explained that overall growth for the General Fund estimated at a 2.2
percent or $6.5 million increase driven by local tax expectation, the total budget
projection stands at $304,570,449 and in terms of the balancing status, with revenue
and expense adjustments that have been made since the March briefing there was an
approximately $2.4 million revenue over expense balance.
323
The Vice-Mayor inquired as to the projects that were not funded and the long list
of CIP projects in relation to surplus revenue the City may gain; whereupon, the City
Manager advised that in examining year-end potential funding of revenue over
expenses, typically the stormwater projects were not funded through that fund and the
CIP list far exceeded the revenue that would be received from any surplus on any kind
of consistent basis and conversations at the federal level related to infrastructure could
be important to those projects, but the City did not have the revenue to fund those
projects.
In response to an inquiry with regard to the 599 funding, the City Manager
advised that the funding was received from the Commonwealth for police activities, a
provision that was put in place temporarily as the debate continued as to whether cities
would be allowed to annex. He further explained that it was a commitment to fund cities
at a certain level, and the State had not met that obligation.
Following additional dialogue with regard to unfunded projects, Paul Workman,
Budget Manager continued with the presentation providing an overview of fee and tax
adjustments.
He advised that the solid waste fees were established in 2018 and designed to
cover half of the operating costs, downtown compactor fee was a user based fee
created before the solid waste fee was implemented and the goal was to shore up the
revenue/expense ratio. In order to get that fee back to covering 50 percent of the costs,
the rates would be raised by $1.10 to $9.10 per month or $109.20 annually for
residential, $18.20 or $218.40 annually for multi-family, and $13.60 per month or
$163.20 annually for commercial services.
Following an explanation of two scenarios to amend the downtown trash
compactor fee, Mr. Workman advised that staff was seeking direction from the Council
with regard to possible fee adjustments for Fiscal Year 2022 in those areas and long-
term policy goals of the downtown compactor program.
Council Member Cobb inquired as to the users of the downtown compactor and if
it applied to residential and commercial; whereupon, Mr. Workman advised that anyone
within the compactor zone was charged for the use of the compactors.
Ian Shaw, Stormwater Manager, continued the presentation reviewing the
Stormwater Utility Fee, highlighting that existing revenue was not sufficient to fund—
current level of operating expenses, inflationary costs, planned debt issuance to support
capital projects, incremental debt issuance if grant funding declined, cash funded
capital, planned staff additions of two construction crews and technical support
positions.
324
He further reviewed Option C based on the consensus of Council at the March 1
meeting, advising that the option would increase debt funding from $2 million to $3
million over the planning horizon, adequately fund cash funded capital, planned staff
additions, fee increase from $.90 per 500 square feet per month to $1.56 per month
over five years, average residential - $5.40 per month to $9.36 per month.
Mr. Shaw advised that staff further refined Option C to add a couple of different
scenarios including time frames to make sure the City met the proper benchmarks. He
added that the revised Option C included a 15 cent increase per billing unit per month in
Fiscal Years 2023, 2024 and 2025 and a 10 cent increase in Fiscal Years 2026 and
2027; a 70 cent increase over that time.
Following brief discussion with regard to stormwater projects, Ms. Merchant
reviewed the amended budget adoption schedule noting that public hearings on the
recommended budget and tax rates would be held on May 24 at 7:00 p.m.; budget
study would be held on June 7 at 9:00 a.m.; and budget adoption on June 21 at
2:00 p.m.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
Lastly, the City Manager explained the American Rescue Plan Act pointing out
that it was a follow up to the CARES (Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic
Development Security) Act and unlike the previous acts; the ARPA included direct -#
funding through local governments specifically for the purpose of replacing lost revenue;
$65 billion would be divided between cities and counties coming directly from the
federal government; the anticipated allocation $44.76 million—first installment in spring
2021, second installment in 2022, must be spent by end of calendar year 2024 and
disallowed uses included directly or indirectly offsetting tax reductions, delaying a tax
implementation or tax increase and depositing into any pension fund.
There being no further questions and/or comments by the Council members,
Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager and Director of Finance for the presentation and
advised that the briefing would be received and filed.
At 12:55 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
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PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch (participated by electronic
means), Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH: Mayor Lea declared April 2021 as Child
Abuse Prevention Month.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey presented the proclamation to Gwen Coleman, Virginia
Department of Social Services and Christina Hatch, Children's Trust by electronic
communication means.
FAIR HOUSING MONTH: Mayor Lea declared April 2021 as Fair Housing Month.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones presented the proclamation to Lara Burleson,
Community Resources Program Specialist by electronic communication means.
RECOGNITION OF THE 2021 NEIGHBORHOOD PARTNERSHIP AWARDS
RECIPIENTS. Mayor Lea and Members of Council along with Alicha Grubb, Chair,
Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, Josh Johnson, Neighborhood Services Coordinator,
and Tiffany Bradbury, Community Engagement Manager, recognized the 2021
Neighborhood Partnership Awards recipients.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
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Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on April 5. The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general public
during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on the
City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Anthony Peterson, 2750 Florida Avenue, N. W., addressed
the Council with regard to errors in a citation in connection with the Executive Order
from Governor Northam mandating a stay at home order early in 2020.
BICYCLE ACCESS: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed
the Council via email with regard to Bicycle Access for Roanoke Valley.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 and Monday,
March 1, 2021, were before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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RELOCATION OF POLLING PLACES: A communication from the City Attorney
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, April 19, 2021,
at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and
time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to permanently relocate the
polling places for voting precincts No. 5 Eastgate and No. 9 Highland, was before the
body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAG TAX: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, April 19, 2021,
at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and
time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to establish a disposable
plastic bag tax of $0.05, with an effective date of January 1, 2022, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION-PARKS
AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the Honorable
Joseph L. Cobb, Stacey Sheppard, Decca Knight and Rabbi Kathy Cohen as members
of the Gun Violence Prevention Commission for one-year terms of office, a two-year
term of office and a three-year term of office; commencing April 1, 2021 and ending
March 31 , 2022, March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2024, respectively; and Diane
Simmons as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year
term of office, commencing April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
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ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
CITY MANAGER:
SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA REGIONAL EMPLOYMENT COALITION GRANT: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
Southwest Virginia Regional Employment Coalition Grant from the Virginia Department
of Social Services to maintain existing services to the temporary assistance to needy
families' population.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42021-040521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of an
Employment Advancement for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
Participants grant from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS); authorizing
the City of Roanoke to serve as the primary fiscal agent for the distribution of such
funds to the provider agencies for services provided to the local departments of social
services (DSS) in Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Franklin County, Botetourt County,
and Craig County; and authorizing execution of any and all necessary documents to
comply with the terms and conditions of the grant.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 634.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42021-040521.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42022-040521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Government through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Social Services for
the Southwest Virginia Regional Employment Coalition Grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 635.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42022-
040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY 2019 FIRE PREVENTION AND SAFETY GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the FY 2019 Fire
Prevention and Safety Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to
purchase upgrades and repairs to the fire prevention safety trailer.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42023-040521) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the 2019 Fire
Prevention & Safety Grant made to the City of Roanoke by the Department of
Homeland Security, and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf
of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 635.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42023-
040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42024-040521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security for the Fire Prevention and Safety Grant, amending
and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 General Fund and Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 636.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42024-040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SWIFT WATER
RESCUE TEAM GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending acceptance of the FY 2020 State Homeland Security Program Grant
funds from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to purchase necessary
equipment and supplies to enhance the Region 6 Swift Water Team capabilities.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42025-040521) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) Swift Water Rescue Team Grant to the City from the
Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and authorizing execution of any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 637.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42025-040521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42026-040521) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) for equipment and supplies for the Regional Swift
Water/Flood Rescue Team, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 638.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42026-
040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HAZMAT
MATERIALS GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending acceptance of the FY 2020 State Homeland Security Program Grant
funds from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management in support of the Region
6 HAZMAT Team.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42027-040521) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Department of
Emergency Management Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Grant to the City from the
Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and authorizing execution of any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 639.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42027-040521.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42028-040521) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) for hazardous materials emergency responses and
training and development, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 -
2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 640.)
Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42028-040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PROJECT OUTSIDE FUND GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the Project Outside Fund grant from the
Roanoke Outside Foundation to repair damaged sections of the Roanoke River
Greenway or make improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42029-040521) A RESOLUTION accepting the Project Outside Fund grant
made to the City by the Roanoke Outside Foundation; and authorizing execution of any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 '
page 641.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42029-040521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42030-040521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Project
Outside Fund Grant for Roanoke River Greenway, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2020 - 2021 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 641.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42030-
040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PHASE III SCOPE OF SERVICES-WASENA BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
execution of the Phase III Scope of Services in connection with the Wasena Bridge
Replacement Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42031-040521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and
execution of an additional amendment to the City's contract with Mattern & Craig, Inc.,
to complete the design of the replacement of Wasena Bridge over the Roanoke River;
and authorizing the City Manager to take such actions and execute such documents as
may be necessary to provide for the implementation, administration, and enforcement of
such contract, as amended.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 642.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42031-
040521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BARNHARDT CREEK PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending execution of an additional change order to the City's
contract with MB Contractors, Inc., for additional construction services in connection
with the Roanoke River Greenway Bridge across Barnhardt Creek Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42032-040521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and
execution of additional change orders to the City's contract with MB Contractors, Inc.,
for additional construction services for the Roanoke River Greenway Bridge across
Barnhardt Creek; and authorizing the City Manager to take such actions and execute
such documents as may be necessary to provide for the implementation, administration,
and enforcement of such contract, as amended.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 643.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42032-040521.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending adoption of a revised
Calendar of Events for Budget Development Activities for Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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t Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42033-040521) AN ORDINANCE approving and endorsing the revised budget
schedule for the Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 budget presented by the City Manager on
April 5, 2021, pursuant to Ordinance No. 41703-032720 and Virginia Code
Section 15.2-1413; authorizing the City Manager to take such actions necessary to
implement the revised budget schedule; determining that an emergency exists;
establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance
by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 644.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42033-040521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Bank On' Wellness Series Continues
• The next round of the Bank On Financial Wellness Series begins this
month.
• Bank On Roanoke Valley rewards hard work and commitment through perks
that are tailored to each participant's self-identified goals.
• The series will meet virtually on the fourth Tuesday of the month from
6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the GoToMeeting online platform.
• The first meeting, on April 27, will feature the topic, "The Future Looks Bright:
Goal Setting, Credit Intro, and Banking Refresher."
Roanoke is Partnering with Local Agencies to Bring Awareness to Child
Abuse Prevention Month
• Staff in our Human/Social Services Department is creating awareness that
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, by partnering with:
o Children's Trust,
o Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare,
o Total Action for Progress (TAP),
o Prevent Child Abuse Virginia, and
o The Virginia Coalition for Child Abuse Prevention.
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• This year's theme, "Building Brighter Childhoods," promotes the idea that
everyone has a role to play in helping to prevent child abuse and
neglect.
• Residents can show their support by:
o Posting a photo on social media with the hashtag #wearblue, or
o "Planting" a garden of pinwheels, which symbolize child abuse prevention
and reflect childhood hope, health and happiness.
o Children's Trust is making pinwheels and yard signs available for free at
their offices at 4519 Brambleton Avenue, S. W., Suite 110, between
10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Supplies are limited.
COVID Update
• Citizens should be aware that as of March 31, all residents in the
Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts who are eligible for the
COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 1 a and 1 b may skip the wait to receive an email
or phone call to schedule a vaccination appointment. If you are over age 65
or between the ages of 18-64 with at least one qualifying underlying medical
condition, you may schedule an appointment directly by calling 540-613-6597
between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 P.M. to make the appointment.
• Residents eligible for Phase 1c should pre-register, as well as everyone
who will be eligible in an advanced phase.
• Last week, Governor Northam announced that all individuals in Virginia
age 16 and older will be eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine starting on
Sunday, April 18, ahead of the May 1 nationwide goal set by President Joe
Biden.
• Everyone who lives or works in Virginia should pre-register so they can
be notified when they are eligible for vaccination and an appointment is
available.
• To pre-register, visit vaccinate.virginia qov or call 877-829-4682.
Annual outdoor events startinq to return
Effective April 1, COVID restrictions for outdoor events are easing and this will
allow some annual events to return to the City. Event will still require masking
and social distance protocols. Examples of events include:
• The Down By Downtown Music Festival will kick off with a Concert in
Elmwood Park - April 17
• Community School's Strawberry Festival will be held in Berglund
Center's parking lot on April 30 and May 1.
• Party in Elmwood will return to Elmwood Park on Thursdays beginning
May 20.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE. „
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
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INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Cobb commented on the uptick of litter and trash around the city
during the pandemic and encouraged citizens to use trash receptacles to discard trash.
He commended the `Southeast Plawkers', neighborhood volunteers and Sustainable
Roanoke for their efforts to keep the City tidy and announced Unitarian Universalist
Church of Roanoke, 2015 Grandin Road, S. W., will host a cleanup event on April 17, at
9:00 a.m.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd advised that the Equity and Empowerment Advisory
Board met virtually on April 1 at 6:30 p.m.; subcommittees were appointed and received
recommendations with regard to the renaming of Lee Plaza; and pointed out that the
Board welcomes additional recommendations from citizens.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was not present for the Closed Meeting.)
BOARD OF TRUSTEES, CITY OF ROANOKE PENSION PLAN: The Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Gregory W.
Feldmann as a member (Citizen-at-Large) of the Board of Trustees, City of Roanoke
Pension Plan ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
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Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Gregory W. Feldmann.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Feldmann was reappointed as a
member (Citizen-at-Large) of the Board of Trustees, City of Roanoke Pension Plan for a
four-year term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2025, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. FELDMANN: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
BUILDING AND FIRE CODE BOARD OF APPEALS: The Mayor called attention
to the upcoming expiration of three-year terms of office of Douglas Coffman (Builder),
Helen Favor (Engineer) and Charles Waters (Citizen-at-Large) as members of the
Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened
the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Douglas Coffman,
Helen Favor and Charles Waters.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Coffman, Ms. Favor and Mr. Waters
were reappointed as members of the Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals for
three-year terms of office, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024,
by the following vote:
FOR MR. COFFMAN, MS. FAVOR AND MR. WATERS: Council Members
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and
Mayor Lea-7.
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration of
the three-year term of office of Laura Eichenlaub, as the Blue Ridge Behavioral Health
Representative of the Court Community Corrections Program Regional Community
Criminal Justice Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Laura Eichenlaub.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Eichenlaub was reappointed as the Blue
Ridge Behavioral Health Representative of the Court Community Corrections Program
Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for a three-year term of office commencing
July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. EICHENLAUB: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
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DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Andrea Trent, as a member
(Assistant City Manager's Designee) of the Defined Contribution Board ending June 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Andrea Trent.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Trent was reappointed as a member
(Assistant City Manager's Designee) of the Defined Contribution Board for a four-year
term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2025, by the following
vote:
FORMS. TRENT: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
FAIR HOUSING BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration
of three-year terms of office of Anita Wilson and Nicole Calhoun as members of the Fair
Housing Board ending March 31 , 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Charnika Elliott and
Nicole Calhoun.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Elliott was appointed to replace Anita
Wilson; and Ms. Calhoun was reappointed as members of the Fair Housing Board for
three-year terms of office, each, commencing April 1, 2021 and ending March 31, 2024,
by the following vote:
FOR MS. ELLIOTT AND MS. CALHOUN: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
MILL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of three-year terms of office of Niki Voudren and Jason Morgan as
members of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Niki Voudren and
Jason Morgan.
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There being no further nominations, Ms. Voudren and Mr. Morgan were
reappointed as members of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board for three-year terms of
office, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. VOUDREN AND MR. MORGAN: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of Roy
Mentkow (Protected Class/Citizen-at-Large), as a member of the Personnel and
Employment Practices Commission ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the
floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Roy Mentkow.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Mentkow was reappointed as a member
of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission for a three-year term of office
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. MENTKOW: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming
expiration of three-year terms of office of Greg Webster, Jeanne Fishwick, Timothy
Martin and Janet Carty as members of the Roanoke Arts Commission ending June 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Karl Willers, Helen
Dean, Timothy Martin and Janet Carty.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Willers was appointed to replace Greg
Webster; Ms. Dean was appointed to replace Ms. Fishwick; and Mr. Martin and Ms.
Carty were reappointed as members of the Roanoke Arts Commission for three-year
terms of office, each, commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. WILLERS, MS. DEAN, MR. MARTIN AND MS. CARTY: Council
Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and
Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of Amy M. Morgan, as a member of
the Roanoke Public Library Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the
floor for nominations. �`
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Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Amy M. Morgan.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Morgan was reappointed as a member
of the Roanoke Public Library Board for a three-year term of office commencing July 1,
2021 and ending June 30, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MORGAN: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING AUTHORITY, BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation
of Timothy Witten as a Commissioner of the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing
Authority, Board of Commissioners ending August 31, 2022; whereupon, he opened the
floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Peg McGuire.
There being no further nominations, Ms. McGuire was appointed as a
Commissioner of the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Board of
Commissioners to fill the unexpired term of office of Timothy Witten ending August 31,
2022, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MCGUIRE: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to
the upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of James V. Revercomb, III, as
a member of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission ending June 30, 2021;
whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of James V.
Revercomb, III.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Revercomb was reappointed as a
member of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission for a three-year term of office
commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR: REVERCOMB: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: The Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of three-year terms of office of Peter Volosin
and Dr. Elda Stanco Downey as members of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional
°' Commission ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
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Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Peter Volosin and
Dr. Elda Stanco Downey.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Volosin and Dr. Stanco Downey were
reappointed as members of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission for
three-year terms of office, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024,
by the following vote:
FOR MR. VOLOSIN AND DR. STANCO DOWNEY: Council Members Bestpitch,
Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Mayor called
attention to the upcoming expiration of one-year terms of office of Shaleen T. Powell,
Ssunny Shah and Annette Lewis as members of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, Board
of Directors ending June 30, 2021 ; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Shaleen T. Powell,
Ssunny Shah and Annette Lewis.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Powell, Mr. Shah and Ms. Lewis were
reappointed as members of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, Board of Directors for one-
year terms of office, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2022, by the
following vote:
FOR MS. POWELL, MR. SHAH AND MS. LEWIS: Council Members Bestpitch,
Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The
Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of
John P. Bradshaw, Jr., a member of the Western Virginia Water Authority Board of
Directors ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of John P. Bradshaw, Jr.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Bradshaw was reappointed a member of
the Western Virginia Water Authority Board of Directors for a four-year term of office
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR: BRADSHAW: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
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YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of one-year and three-year terms of office of Jayveon Tucker
(Student Member/Patrick Henry), Kennady Wade (Alternate Member/Patrick Henry) and
Christion Bryant (Student Member/William Fleming), Charlsie E. Parker
(Public/Government), James M. O'Hare (Public/Government), and Dina Hackley-Hunt
(Citizen-at-Large) as members of the Youth Services Citizen Board ending June 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Jayveon Tucker,
Kennady Wade, Christion Bryant, Charlsie E. Parker, James M. O'Hare and Dina
Hackley-Hunt.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Tucker, Ms. Wade, Mr. Bryant, Ms.
Parker, Mr. O'Hare and Ms. Hackley-Hunt were reappointed as members of the Youth
Services Citizen Board for one-year and three-year terms of office, respectively,
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2022 and June 30, 2024, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. TUCKER, MS. WADE, MR. BRYANT, MS. PARKER, MR. O'HARE
- AND MS. HACKLEY-HUNT: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the unexpected death of
John R. F. Lewis (Citizen-at-Large) as a member of the Youth Services Citizen Board
ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Anita J. Price.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Price was appointed as a member
(Citizen-at-Large) of the Youth Services Citizen Board to fill the unexpired term of office
of John R. F. Lewis ending June 30, 2021; and appointed for a three-year term of office,
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. PRICE: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the expiration of the term of
office of former Council Member Anita J. Price as a member (Elected Official) of the
Youth Services Citizen Board ending June 30, 2022; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Council Member Vivian
Sanchez-Jones.
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There being no further nominations, Council Member Sanchez-Jones was
appointed as a member (Elected Official) of the Youth Services Citizen Board to fill the
unexpired term of office of former Council Member Anita J. Price ending June 30, 2022,
by the following vote:
FOR MS. SANCHEZ-JONES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones abstained from the vote.)
At 3:41 p.m., the Council meeting was declared in recess to be reconvened at
4:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber to conduct five School Board interviews.
At 4:01 p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Lea presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, to consider the
following applicants for three upcoming vacancies on the Roanoke City School Board
for three-year terms of office, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30,
2024:
Mark K. Cathey - 4:00 p.m.
Diane M. Casola - 4:30 p.m.
Michael L. Cherry, II - 5:00 p.m.
Byron L. Hamlar - 5:30 p.m.
Jennifer Owen-O'Quill - 6:00 p.m.
Following the interviews, the Mayor concluded that City Council would receive
citizen comments regarding the applicants' appointment to the School Board during the
7:00 p.m., public hearing session on Monday, April 19; and subsequently, City Council
would elect three successful applicants at a future meeting.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
April 19, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, April 19, 2021 at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means) and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
.. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jeff Wilson, Pastor, Huntington
Court United Methodist Church (participated by electronic means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared
April 12 - 16, 2021 as Youth Violence Prevention Week.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor presented a ceremonial copy of the Proclamation to Anita James
Price, former Vice-Mayor, Member of Roanoke City Council, retired educator and
lifetime youth advocate on behalf of the Youth Services Citizen Board.
Expression of appreciation was shared by the Mayor and Members of Council to
Ms. Price and the Youth Services Citizen Board.
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......:.:.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on April 19. The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general
public during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on
the City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed
the Council, by electronic communication means, with regard to a transportation HUB
for Southwest Virginia with connection to all places around the world. nq
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD-VACANCY: A communication from the
City Clerk advising of the resignation of Crystal Hall as a member of the Youth Services
Citizen Board, effective immediately, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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PERSONNEL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION-VACANCY: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of vacancies on the Personnel Employment
Practices Commission created by the out of State relocation of Savannah Taylor and
Rick Morrison for terms of office ending June 30, 2021 and June 30, 2022, respectively,
were before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the communication be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY 2020 CITY MANAGER TRANSFER REPORT FOR THE THIRD QUARTER:
A communication from the City Manager transmitting the FY 2021 City Manager
Transfer Report for the third quarter ended March 31, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the communication be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION: Reports
of qualification of Taisha Steele, Elliott Major, Shakira Williams and The Reverend Tim
Harvey as members of the Gun Violence Prevention Commission for a one-year term of
office, two-year terms of office and a three-year term of office; commencing April 1,
2021 and ending March 31, 2022, March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2024, respectively,
were before the Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
MUNICIPAL EQUALITY INDEX SCORE: Caitlyn Sharkey, Tatiana Cherry-
Santos, Alexis Ebbrecht, Dylan Sheck and Mary Rose Stark, students, LGBTQ Issues
Class, Roanoke College, appeared before the Council, by electronic communication
means, with regard to recommendations to the City on increasing the Municipal Equality
Index (MEI) produced annually by the Human Rights Campaign.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The students summarized the recommendations noting that the City of Roanoke
was doing good work with regard to inclusion, but documentation was key to improving
the score. Mr. Sheck advised that in the area of non-discrimination laws, the City must
ensure that all non-discrimination laws were documented and sent to the Human Rights
Campaign and must be consistent with both laws pertaining to other marginalized
groups and up to date with Virginia state law.
Ms. Cherry-Santos explained that with regard to the employer equality
recommendation, the City needed to offer transgender inclusive healthcare benefits and
ensure that all policies; documentation was submitted to the Human Rights Campaign
for consideration; and host mandatory LGBTQ+ inclusiveness and non-discrimination
training for all city employees.
Following further explanation of the recommendations, Vice-Mayor White-Board
commented that the newly created Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board was in the
beginning stages, but making strides toward identifying objectives and ultimately
focused on inclusion of all people.
349
Mayor Lea inquired as to what the surrounding Counties in the Roanoke Valley
were executing with regard to inclusion; whereupon, Council Member Cobb advised that
the Municipal Equality Index was geared toward what cities were doing and currently did
not measure activities of counties.
There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Mayor Lea
thanked the presenters and received and filed the briefing.
ROANOKE REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION: David S. Jeavons, Interim
Executive Director, Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Airport, appeared before the Council,
by electronic communication means, introduced himself and presented the Roanoke
Regional Airport Commission proposed 2021 — 2022 Operating Budget and Proposed
Capital Expenditures.
(For full text, see copy of documents on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42034-041921) A RESOLUTION approving the Roanoke Regional Airport
Commission's 2021 - 2022 proposed operating and capital budget upon certain terms
and conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 646.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42034-041921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
There being no comments by the Council Members, Resolution No. 42034-
041921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ROANOKE VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: Daniel D. Miles, Chief Executive
Officer, Roanoke Valley Resource Authority, appeared before the Council by electronic
communication means, and presented the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority's
proposed 2021 - 2022 Annual Budget.
(For full text, see copy of budget document on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
350
(#42035-041921) A RESOLUTION approving the annual budget of the Roanoke
Valley Resource Authority for Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022, upon certain terms and
conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 646.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42035-041921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
There being no comments by the Council Members, Resolution No. 42035-
041921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
Annual Public Safety Update (Fire)
Roanoke Fire-EMS — Public Safety Briefing
Fire Chief David Hoback gave an overview regarding yearly performance of the
Fire-EMS Department.
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
• Department Activities
• Demand for Service
• Structure Fires: Travel Time Performance
• Significant Fires
• Fire Causes
• Arson History
• Fire Loss History
• Fire Marshal's Office 2020
• EMS Demand for Service Trend
• EMS Call Volume During COVID
• Critical Advance Life Support Response Time Performance
• Advanced Life Support (ALS) Response Time Performance "" `
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• Basic Life Support (BLS) Response Time Performance
• EMS Demand for Service by Time of Day
• EMS Transport
• EMS 2020 — COVID Impacted
• Factors Driving EMS Demand
• Emergency Management
• Emergency Management — COVID
• Recruitment and Diversity
• Activities for 2021
• Questions
Chief Hoback reported that Roanoke in 2020, the department saw a 1.4 percent
decrease in calls for ambulances, which followed seven years of rising demand for EMS
service. He noted that the decline occurred during the three months when the State of
Virginia was under a stay-at-home order issued by the Governor.
With regard to structure fires, Chief Hoback said the city did not see a spire in
severe fires; however, property damage caused by blazes cost an estimated $3.1
million compared to approximately $2.4 million last year. He also reported that in 2019,
M
the number of working fires were at 60 calls, and saw a rise in cooking fires as more
people were at home. There were also more fires in vacant buildings, which were
accidentally started by homeless people who were reluctant to seek help at shelters
during the pandemic.
With regard to emergency calls during COVID, Chief Hoback said the department
saw more than a six percent increase in 911 calls during the last two months of 2020
when COVID-19 cases spiked in the region; and continued to report that the department
received 25 percent to 30 percent more calls for overdoses last year. He said medics
responded to homes, vehicles, motels and restrooms, and said that there was no
specific area in the city that have not been impacted by overdose and that overdose
issues were in all parts of the city.
Chief Hoback concluded the presentation by stating that there should be no
surprise that COVID drove a lot of what occurred last year and the unprecedented
disruptions with shutdowns, civil unrest, and flooding events affected the annual data
collected by the Fire department.
Following comments by the Council with regard to the vaccine mobile clinic trailer
helping vaccinate the low-income and high-risk populations, recruitment and staffing,
Mayor Lea expressed appreciation for the presentation and advised that the remarks
would be received and filed.
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ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
SUMMER FOOD PROGRAM GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the acceptance of the Summer Food Program Grant
from the Virginia Department of Education.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42036-041921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a Summer
Food Program Grant from the Virginia Department of Education, and authorizing
execution and attestation of any required documents on behalf of the City, in connection
with such grant, under certain conditions.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 647.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42036-
041921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42037-041921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Government, through the Virginia Department of Education, for the Summer Food
Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 648.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42037-041921. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE-WAYFINDING KIOSKS: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending the authorization of an
encroachment in the City's right-of-way at various locations for the installation of five
Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge wayfinding kiosks.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42038-041921) AN ORDINANCE allowing an encroachment of wayfinding
kiosks requested by the Roanoke Foundation for Downtown, Inc. (collectively "Owner")
into the public right-of-way at five (5) downtown Roanoke locations including 8 Old
Whitmore Avenue, S. E.; 55 Norfolk Avenue, S. W.; 26 Salem Avenue, S. W.;
200 Market Street, S. E.; and 73 Salem Avenue, S. W., and which the five (5) kiosks will
be located within the City right-of-ways 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. 81, page 649.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42038-041921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd and Bestpitch-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was not present when vote was recorded.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: NONE.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and the City Manager 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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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42039-041921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 651 .)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 42039-041921. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Council Member Cobb gave an update on the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission.
Council Member Bestpitch advised of his service on the search committee for
replacement of Wayne Strickland, Executive Director, Roanoke Valley-Alleghany
Regional Commission who would retire after 42 years; and announced that the next
Legislative Meeting would be held on May 3.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CITY MANAGER: Council Member Cobb offered
the following resolution concurring in the appointment of a Deputy City Manager,
effective July 1, 2021:
(#42040-041921) A RESOLUTION confirming the City Manager's appointment
of Clarence Grier as Deputy City Manager.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 652.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42040-041921. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Mayor Lea announced that the Roanoke City & Alleghany Health Districts invites
the general public age 16 and up to get vaccinated for COVID-19.
Mayor Lea enthusiastically congratulated the William Fleming High School Fleming
football team for winning the Region 5D championship, the Colonels first region
championship win since 2003!
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 5:04 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess until 7:00 p.m.,
in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch
(participated by electronic means) and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
356
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Serenus T. Churn, Jr., Pastor,
High Street Baptist Church (participated by electronic means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
AMENDMENT TO THE CITY'S 2015 - 2019 CONSOLIDATED PLAN: Pursuant
to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, April 19, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard,
on the consideration of proposed amendments to the City's 2015 — 2019 Consolidated
Plan, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, March, 19, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending approval of the
amendment to the 2015 - 2019 Consolidated Plan.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42041-041921) A RESOLUTION approving an amendment to the City of
Roanoke's 2015 - 2019 Consolidated Plan, through its 2019 - 2020 Annual Plan, for
Community Development Block Grant COVID 19 (CDBG-CV3) funds received from the
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the
Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act; authorizing the City
Manager or the City Manager's designee to submit such amendment to HUD for final
review and approval; and further authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents required for such amendment.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 653.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42041-
041921. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic
communication means in support of the amendments to the Consolidated Plan: ,
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Karen Mason, Director, Habitat for Humanity and Carol Beck, homebuyer,
thanked the Council for supporting housing and neighborhood revitalization in the
Melrose-Orange Avenue Target Area and now on the Belmont-Fallon Avenue Target
Area in which Habitat plans to build five homes and renovate three vacant structures for
eight qualified families.
Sarah Vecere, expressed support of the CDBG funding for the Virginia Harm
Reduction Coalition to expand outreach services particularly in southeast Roanoke.
Katherine Lewis, expressed support of the CDBG funding for the Virginia Harm
Reduction Coalition and spoke of how she takes one homeless person to a meal per
week for 52 weeks and truly began to understand addiction and how it impacted the
City.
The City Manager clarified that the comments provided at Item A.1., were in
relation to Item A.2., with regard to the CDBG funding.
There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
closed.
Council Member Jeffrey inquired as to the amount of funding allocated to the
Belmont-Fallon Avenue Target Area; whereupon, Keith Holland, Community Resources
Program Administrator advised that a little more than $1.6 million or 67 percent of
entitlement funding had been allocated for the project.
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42041-041921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY'S 2019 - 2020 HUD ANNUAL ACTION PLAN: Pursuant to instructions by
the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, April 19,
2021 , at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to receive citizen
comments with regard to the City's 2019 - 2020 HUD Annual Action Plan, the matter
was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, March 19, 2021.
m (See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic
communication means in support of the HUD funding allocations:
Jeanine Underwood, Executive Director, Bradley Free Clinic, thanked the Council
for the City's long-standing commitment, which allowed the clinic to provide free
healthcare to the uninsured and under-insured citizens in the Roanoke community; and
noted that the clinic currently treats 400 patients for behavioral health issues; whereas,
they previously treated approximately 50 patients per year.
Anne Marie Green, President, Council of Community Services, thanked the
Council for adopting the amendments to the Consolidated Plan, which would allow for a
homeless management information system to be implemented amongst service
providers, and funding for homeless prevention and housing.
Karen Michalski Karney, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Independent Living
Center, thanked the Council for providing funding to allow for home modifications for
persons with disabilities to keep the person in home versus a nursing home facility; and
also thanked Keith Holland for his efforts with regard to securing the funding.
William Sellari, Beth Macy, Beth O'Connor, Chief Executive Officer, Virginia
Rural Health Association (VRHA), Robin Lord Smith, and Lauren Canary addressed the
Council in support of funding allocated for the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition noting
that the Coalition has strong, compassionate, caring people doing good work with
addicted individuals daily.
There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
closed.
Council Member Cobb inquired if the funding would allow for an additional staff
person for the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition street outreach; whereupon, Mr.
Holland responded in the affirmative.
Council Member Cobb further inquired if Council could receive a future briefing
on the efforts of the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition to gain a more comprehensive
understanding of how addiction is addressed in the City.
The City Manager explained that it would be best to begin with the Coalition, for
they represent a larger group that works with individuals with addiction and could
expand on the collective initiatives and that he would schedule the briefing.
w.
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Lastly, Council Member Cobb commented that there were no economic
development projects included for the Belmont-Fallon Target Area and asked what
projects were typically requested within a target area and the timeline for community
outreach; whereupon, Mr. Holland advised that typically no economic development
projects were received, but $450,000.00 in funds were set aside for small business
grant program; and noted that the community meetings would be held on the second
Tuesday of each month beginning May 11, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.
DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAG TAX: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the
City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, April 19, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or
as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to
consider an amendment for a tax in the amount of $0.05 on each disposable plastic bag
provided to customers by grocery store, convenience store, and drugstore retailers
located within the City of Roanoke, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, April 9, 2021 and Wednesday, April 14, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending the establishment of
a disposable plastic bag tax of $0.05 for each disposable plastic bag provided to a
consumer by retailers in grocery stores, convenience stores and drug stores, with an
effective date of January 1, 2022.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
"AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Chapter 32, Taxation, Code of the
City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by the adoption and addition of new Article XVI,
Disposable Plastic Bag Tax, to provide for a tax on each disposable plastic bag
provided to consumer by certain retailers, in accordance with the provisions of Section
58.1-1745 through Section 58.1-1748 et seq., Code of Virginia (1950), as amended;
providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance
by title."
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of the ordinance. The motion
seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic
communication means in support of the proposed tax:
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Terry McGuire, 339 King George Avenue, S. W.;
Mark Lazar, 1901 Carter Road, S. W.; and
Mike Hill, 1925 Cambridge Avenue, S. W.
There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
closed.
Council Member Cobb inquired as to how the tax would be implemented;
whereupon, the City Manager advised that the tax would be applied to consumers at the
time of purchase for the use of a disposable plastic bag. Council Member Cobb further
suggested that the Council delay the adoption of the ordinance and gather additional
information.
Council Member Jeffrey asked about the strategy to inform the community with
regard to the impact and implementation of the proposed tax.
Council Member Cobb moved that the matter be tabled to date certain, being
Monday, May 17, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber. The motion was
seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-6.
s
NAYS: Council Member Bestpitch-1.
RELOCATION OF TWO POLLING PLACES: Pursuant to instructions by the
Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, April 19, 2021 at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of
Roanoke to consider the relocation of two polling places within the City for voter
precincts No. 5, East Gate and No. 9, Highland, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 and Tuesday, April 13, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Attorney submitted a written report recommending the permanent
relocation of the polling place for Voter Precinct No. 5, East Gate Precinct to Hollins
Road Baptist and the polling place for Voter Precinct No. 9 Highland to Second
Presbyterian Church.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42042-041921) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Sections 10-26,
Same — Polling Place, and 10-34, Same — Polling Place, Article II, Election District;
Voter Precincts and Polling Places, Chapter 10, Elections, of the Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, to permanently relocate the polling place for Voter
Precinct No. 5, East Gate Precinct and the polling place for Voter Precinct No. 9
Highland Precinct; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 656.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42042-041921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individual addressed the Council by electronic
communication means in support of the relocation of the polling places:
Luke Priddy, 302 5th Street, S. W., spoke in support of the matter and suggested
that a drop box be placed outside of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building for receipt of
election ballots.
There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
closed.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones inquired as to how decisions were made to
choose polling places around the City; whereupon, The City Attorney advised that the
General Registrar canvassed the City for suitable and ADA compliant places for voting
within the voting precincts.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42042-041921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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r .
ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES: Pursuant to instructions by the
Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, April 19, 2021 at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to receive the views of
citizens regarding appointment of three Roanoke City School Board Trustees for
three-year terms, each, commencing July 1, 2021. The candidates being Mark K.
Cathey, Diane M. Casola, Michael L. Cherry, II, Byron L. Hamlar and Jennifer
Owen-O'Quill, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisements of the public hearing were published in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, April 9, 2021; and The Roanoke Tribune on Thursday, April 8, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak in
connection with the matter; whereupon, the following persons addressed the Council by
electronic communication means in support or opposition of the above-mentioned
candidates for appointment to the Roanoke City School Board:
Caroline Garcia, 1838 Oxford Avenue, S. W.; Mason Wheeler, 1333 Lakewood
Drive, S. W., Michael Ramsey, 2129 Maiden Lane, S. W.; Jasmine Martin,
309 13th Street, S. W.; Dan Summerlin, 3260 Somerset Street, S. W.; Joseph Jablonski,
1505 Red Oak Lane, S. W.; and Gregory McClain, Jr., 123321 Sand Pine Court,
Jacksonville, Florida, all spoke in support of Diane Casola.
Helen Favor, 2416 Jefferson Street, S. E.; Kerry Morgicwicz, 2501 Mt. Vernon
Road, S. W.; and Elizabeth Martin, 2435 Cornwallis Avenue, S. E., all spoke in support
of Jennifer Owen-O'Quill.
Catherine Koebel, 2625 Longview Avenue, S. W., spoke in support of Diane
Casola and in opposition of Mark Cathey.
There being no additional speakers, Mayor Lea declared the public hearing
closed, and remarked that all comments would be received and filed.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd advised that a Closed Meeting would be held on
Monday, May 3, for discussion of candidates and the successful candidates announced
at the Monday, May 17 Council Meeting.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
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Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on April 19. The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general
public during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on
the City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Andes, 2803 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed
the Council, by electronic means, to express dissatisfaction with regard to a denied
FOIA request for School Board applications for appointment.
MISCELLANEOUS: Freeda Cathcart, 2516 Sweetbrier Avenue, S. W.,
addressed the Council, by electronic means, to urge the Council to select the best
candidate for the school division.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 9:48 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
May 3, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in joint session with the Roanoke City
School Board on Monday, May 3, 2021 at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room
450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W. City of
Roanoke, with Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Bo d,
Y 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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb and Vice-Mayor Patricia
White-Boyd-6.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-1.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES PRESENT (via electronic communication):
Elizabeth C. S. Jamison, Laura D. Rottenborn, Natasha N. Saunders, Joyce W.
Watkins, Richard M. Willis, Jr., and Chairperson Lutheria H. Smith-6.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES ABSENT: Mark K. Cathey-1.
OTHERS PRESENT (via electronic communication): Verletta B. White,
Superintendent; Archie Freeman, Chief Academic Officer; Chris Perkins, Chief
Operations Officer; Kathleen Jackson, Chief Financial Officer and Cindy H. Poulton,
Clerk of the Roanoke City School Board.
SCHOOLS: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd welcomed everyone to the joint meeting,
apologized for Mayor Lea's absence and called upon the School Board Chairperson
Smith for remarks; whereupon, Chairperson Smith thanked Council for the invitation to
meet together and praised the collegial working relationship with City Council.
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The Vice-Mayor recognized Superintendent White who enthusiastically presented
the Roanoke City School's Equity in Action — Destination 2030 Project Proposal. The
Superintendent thanked parents and staff for their hard work to support the students to
thrive. She acknowledged Chief Academic Officer, Archie Freeman; Chief Financial
Officer, Kathleen Jackson; and Chief Operations Officer, Chris Perkins who would join
later in the presentation.
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office).
Ms. White shared information with regard to the plans for the upcoming summer
and fall for the students, the Schools path forward and plans to address equity and ways
to close opportunity gaps for students.
Ms. White thanked City Council for their continued support and financial
commitment, which allowed the school system to be in continuous improvement; for
seeing public education as an investment and not an expense; and thanked the Members
of the Roanoke City School Board for their vision and courage.
She discussed four components of the proposal:
• Equity in Instruction
• Equity in Operations
• Equity in Resources
• Equity in Access to High Quality Programs - Proposal to close opportunity
to close equity gaps for many students
The Superintendent announced there would be in-person graduations on June 10
for William Fleming High School, and June 11 for Patrick Henry High School; both
ceremonies would be held at 10:00 a.m. at William Fleming High School to accommodate
more guests.
Equity in Instruction
Superintendent White advised schools would open in the fall, full-time, five days a
week; and over the summer, RCPS will offer a fifth quarter of instruction through RCPS
plus — to provide mediation and remedial in reading and mathematics and enrichment
courses. The cost of the enrichment courses have been reduced by half and no cost for
students taking remedial courses. She noted that the curriculum for explicit bias used a
culturally responsive framework in the textbook adopted process so that materials will be
reflective of the student body. She also reported the RCPS would implement a LGBTQ-
plus program, working with students and staff so that all will feel valued, welcomed, and
respected.
Equity in Operations
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Superintendent White advised that RCPS would be investing in their infrastructure,
every school in the City will be touched; receive Bi-Polar Ionization Units (BPI), units to
improve air quality, and installing HEPA Air Purifiers on all school buses. She added that
RCPS would use their equity lens for capital projects and with the Council's approval, the
learning space at Breckinridge Middle School would be extended so that children may
attend home school and Preston Park Elementary School would be expanded or
replaced.
Ms. White voiced that it was very important to listen to the community, students,
and staff and thanked Ms. Lawson, Principal, Westside Elementary for advocating for a
new playground and fence and have placed the playground on the RCPS' next CIP.
RCPS have replaced the track and Lucy Addison Middle School ahead of schedule as a
part of the equity in infrastructure plan to replace what was needed when needed.
Equity in Resources
With regard to Equity in Resources, Ms. White stated that the School Division must
invest in the people who teach, care for, provide for, and support the children, meaning
using resources to support and incentivize the school system, staff and students; and
aligning resources and being good fiscal stewards. She pointed out that all employees
with the exception of executive staff were provided mid-year raises.
Superintendent White advised RCPS added Assistant Principal positions' so that
all schools have adequate school-based leadership and planned for additional raises for
staff for the upcoming school year, and investing in salary increases for the lowest paid
employees. She shared the following data:
• RCPS providing signing and retention bonuses for hard to fill positions; such as
bus drivers and instructional assistants and we are maintaining strong healthcare
and benefit packages for all employees.
• During the pandemic, we have kept classified, hourly employees, working and
created an Office of Professional Learning, as an investment in employees.
Professional Learning topics include literacy, effective instruction, culturally
responsiveness teaching and trauma informed practices.
• RCPS have also added personnel to help monitor students who were sick and
follow up with their families to help.
• Provided over 11,000 laptops to students and internet to ensure they were
connected to the learning environment and delivered over two million meals to
students and their families.
• This is what Equity in our Resources looks like.
Equity and Access to High Quality Programs
The Superintendent emphasized that Roanoke City Public Schools seeks to
provide equitable academic opportunities for all students to ensure they meet their full ,
potential in a review of available classes. Currently, located on the campus of Patrick
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Henry High School at Gibboney Hall was one dedicated site for Career and Technical
Education (ROTEC). While students from both Patrick Henry and William Fleming High
Schools attend ROTEC, space was limited, and students from William Fleming must take
time during the school day to be transported by bus to take classes. Roanoke City Public
Schools has a unique opportunity to enhance equity across the district with the creation
of a ROTEC building near William Fleming, utilizing the former William Ruffner Middle
School, will give students increased access to the following classes:
• Automotive Technology
• Arts and Communications
• Carpentry
• Cosmetology/Barbering
• Criminal Justice
• Culinary Arts
• Health & Medical Services/Certified
• Nursing Assistants
• Landscaping
• Precision Machining
• Sports Medicine (Athletic Training)
• TV/Video Production
• Welding
She noted that additional classes focusing on financial literacy and
entrepreneurship would be required to enhance both programs at Ruffner and Gibboney
Hall as part of CTE.
Following the presentation, Ms. White invited the Chief Academic Officer, Archie
Freeman to share information with regard to the ROTEC at the Ruffner site; whereupon,
he pointed out that all courses will have a foundation and have an opportunity to have
hands-on training--a chance for students to obtain a set of career skills that could be
invested back into the community.
Kathleen Jackson, Chief Financial Officer shared information with regard to the
financial landscape. Ms. Jackson discussed how the School would fund the project and
highlighted the following:
• The School was uniquely poised to move forward with the project; even some of
the changes that have happened over the last year and the additional federal
support, which has come through during the current budget year.
• The pandemic created cost savings during the last quarter 2019 - 2020 through
the State mandated closure of schools, anticipated that would be offset by an
. :. equally sized reduction in revenue due to the pandemic, but fortunately, revenues
were not as negatively impacted as feared, enabling the School Division to add
$2.4 million to its unassigned fund balance at year-end.
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• Combined with Coronavirus relief funding received in October, which offset
approximately $2 million in cost incurred delivering meals to students after the
March 2020 closure, helped to create the opportunity for accomplishing the one-
time building purchase.
• The School Board previously approved a budget that authorized the use of $6
million in unassigned fund balance. Recognizing the importance of being cautious
in the use of fund balance, and not overly relying on it to cover recurring cost, a
one-time expenditure was a prudent option for utilizing available funds.
• The School Division relies on fund balance the same way the City does for cash
flow management and as a stabilization fund to borrow against the potential
negativity impact of fiscal volatility.
• The School Board has adopted a fund balance policy that requires a $10 million of
unassigned fund balance be retained in the general fund for that purpose. With
the circumstances previously mentioned, it was projected that even with the
building purchase; Roanoke City Schools would be in a position to only utilize
approximately $2.5 million of unassigned Fund Balance for the fiscal year, which
would leave just under $18 million of unassigned Fund Balance at the start of FY
2021 - 2022.
• The preliminary budget approved by the School Board in March required that the
use of approximately $2.4 million in Fund Balance the next fiscal year. In addition,
anticipate the renovation of the new Campbell Avenue facility would cost
approximately$4 million, and likely not all of that would fall in FY 2021 —2022, that 011"
level of utilization would poise the School Division to end next fiscal year FY 2021
- 2022 with approximately $12 million in unassigned Fund Balance. So still above '
but reasonable fund balance that the School Board required.
• The opportunity has not occurred before, and may not happen again; the stars
were aligned to be able to take the steps and really enhance the equitable service
provided to the children and families of Roanoke City.
• The School Division will incur some ongoing expenses related to the changes that
relates to the proposed staffing related to changes with the proposed CTE
classrooms that we propose building at William Ruffner Middle School. We have
two full budget years to prepare for the incorporation of those additional teaching
positions into the budget, to be ready for the additional instructional support
offerings by the start of the FY 2023 - 2024 school year.
Chris Perkins, Chief Operations Officer, advised that he collaborated with the
broker and successfully negotiated an option to hold the property on Campbell Avenue
pending approval of a purchase agreement with Roanoke City School Board and
Roanoke City Council for$5,850,000.00. He stated that the approval of the proposal will
allow Roanoke City Schools to repurpose William Ruffner Middle School to create viable
career and technical education space, open the Booker T. Washington Center for
Community Empowerment and Education and allow use of vacant leased warehouse
space. He thanked City Council for their consideration of the proposal.
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The Superintendent thanked City Council for their consideration of the request and
invited the public to view the proposal on the City Schools website, and pointed out that
a survey will launch on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.
Following comments and inquiries by Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, and Vice-
Mayor White-Boyd, the Vice-Mayor received and filed the presentation and recognized
Chairperson Smith for final remarks. Ms. Smith thanked Trustees Willis and Rottenborn
for their service to the Board and thanked City Council for their support. .
There being no further business, Chairman Smith declared the School Board
meeting adjourned at 9:49 a.m.
There being no further business, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd declared the Council
meeting in recess at 9:50 a.m., for a meeting of the Legislative Committee.
At 10:45 a.m. the Council Meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, Room 450,
fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., to consider the
following agenda items, with Vice-Mayor White-Boyd presiding and all Members of the
Council in attendance, with the exception of Mayor Lea.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
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PERSONNEL MATTER: A communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd,
Chair, City Council Personnel Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed
Meeting to discuss a personnel matter, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Vice-Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor 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.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: x
BRIEFINGS:
Budget/Financial Planning FY 22
Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager and Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Finance,
briefed the Council on the changes to the FY 2021 budget and development of the FY
2022 budget process.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager advised that the presentation focused on details on balancing
the budget, provided an overview of the status of the FY 2021 and FY 2022 budget
development process with an emphasis on employee compensation.
Ms. Merchant highlighted the following information:
Agenda
• FY 2021 Overview
• FY 2022 Development
• Compensation
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She advised that through March, FY 2021 local taxes were 6.2 percent ahead of
target, mainly due to performance of real estate, transient occupancy and sales taxes; FY
2021 revenues have increased approximately $173,000,00 or 0.08 percent compared to
the same period of FY 2020; other revenues have decreased approximately $1.9 million
or 3.2 percent compared to the same period of FY 2020 due primarily to the timing of
revenue from the Commonwealth of Virginia and charges for services; and expenditures
through March, decreased approximately $3.85 million or 1.82 percent compared to the
same period of FY 2020 due to decrease in expenditures tied to revenues such as RCPS
and Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge and departmental cost reductions steps taken as a result
of COVID-19 and timing of expenditures.
After reviewing the FY 2021 monitoring dashboard, key local tax performance and
net local tax increase categories, Ms. Merchant mentioned that Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge
would receive an additional $418,263.00 and $126,000.00 beyond the budget would be
due for district taxes leaving a 40 percent increase for RCPS of $1.6 million and a 60
percent increase of $2.4 million for the City.
In terms of FY 2022 total revenue growth, Ms. Merchant noted that the expectation
was 3.27 percent or $9.5 million for a $307,520.00 increase year over year and further
noted that with regard to the balancing status, it reflected a positive variance of
approximately $4.05 million.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired if the second payment for real estate taxes due
in FY 2022, would be based on the assessments sent out in January 2022; whereupon,
the Director of Finance indicated that the payment would be the second installment based
on assessments generated in October 2021.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked if the food and beverage taxes were
underperforming because of indoor dining restrictions related to the pandemic;
whereupon, the City Manager replied in the affirmative and pointed out that fewer people
were allowed in restaurants, and no major conferences could be hosted which also
boosted the food and beverage tax.
At 11:05 a.m., Vice-Mayor White-Boyd declared the meeting recess for a break;
and at 11:37 a.m., the meeting reconvened with Vice-Mayor White-Boyd presiding and
all Members of Council in attendance with the exception of Mayor Lea.
The City Manager continued with the presentation by reviewing the compensation
category advising that it would be implemented over a few years to address public safety
and general employee compensation to enhance competitive stance and retention; and
address Compensation Board approved position adjustments partially off-set by
additional revenue.
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He continued stating that traditionally the City had tried to address compensation
uniformly across the organization and the three percent increase would be shared. He
pointed out that was no longer tenable because of market movement and approach in
public safety shifting where the competitive region was moving. He reviewed the
Proposed Public Safety Compensation Plan explaining that it would be a classification
and compensation system for sworn personnel based off of tenure and promotional
practices, equitable and predictable pay structure to attract and retain employees and
assist in the elimination of pay compression.
The City Manager further explained that Compensation Board increases would
come at a cost for positions such as Sheriff/Jail, Treasurer, Commissioner of Revenue,
Commonwealth Attorney with the City being reimbursed some; public safety adjustments
to new step levels referring to a new base salary at each range equals approximately
$2,230,000.00; approximately $3,720,000.00 to advance public safety employees to
targeted salary step level; and approximately $1,600,000.00 to offer general employees
a 2.5 percent to 3.0 percent increase for an overall total at approximately $8,000,000.00.
He pointed out that process was to be phased in proposing a 2.5 percent to 3.0 percent
salary increase and new starting pay for public safety employees in the FY 2021 — 2022
budget working toward advancement.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired with regard to the sample step plan and if an
employee was salaried below the minimum of the tier, if they would be brought up to at
least the minimum of the tier. The City Manager replied in the affirmative and advised that
the plan was in the beginning stages with many factors to consider.
Council Member Cobb asked about sustainability of the plan; whereupon, the City
Manager explained that keeping the plan alive, having an additional $8 million in the
budget to cover the costs, using the information obtained and it would be easier to
implement if revenues continued to grow, highly dependent on any other factors affecting
the market.
Council Member Bestpitch commented that referring to revenue growth was
clearer to understand than net local tax increase. The City Manager advised that the
State required the information be publicly referred to as net local tax increase and further
noted that the budget was not relying upon the American Rescue Act funding as a
balancing strategy.
Following additional dialogue with regard to American Rescue Act funding, Council
Member Bestpitch requested a briefing on the funding. The City Manager stated that
information would be shared at the May 17 recommended budget presentation.
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd thanked the City Manager and Director of Finance for the
informative presentation and received and filed the briefing.
At 12:16 p.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Vice-
Mayor Patricia White-Boyd presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, and Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd-6.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-1.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Alexander MacPhail, Rector,
Christ Episcopal Church, Roanoke (participated by electronic means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
RESILIENCE WEEK: Council Member Moon Reynolds declared May 2 - 8, 2021
as Resilience Week and presented the proclamation to Christine Gist, Prevention and
Wellness Specialist, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of Roanoke,
., out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined that temporary
changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to meet in person
,.k. in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols while members of
374
the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of Citizens Upon Public
Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by contacting the City Clerk's
Office at clerk(a)-roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by 12:00 p.m., on May 3. The
Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general public during the meeting. The
meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on the City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Keith Pullen, 2336 Denniston Avenue, S. W., addressed the
Council with regard to an attack against his First Amendment rights, liberties and religious
speech.
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 were desired, the
item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, March 15, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed
with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5401 BARNS AVENUE, N. W.: A
communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing
to be held on Monday, May 17, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his
discretion, to lease 3.6 acres of City-owned property located at 5401 Barns Avenue, N.
W., to Jared and Donna Green for agricultural uses, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
375
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-BUILDING AND FIRE CODE BOARD OF APPEALS-
ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: Reports of qualification
of Helen Favor as a member (Engineer) of the Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals
for a three-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024; and
Peter Volosin as a Citizen representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional
Commission for a three-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending
June 30, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
PURCHASE AND SALE OF PROPERTY: A communication from the City Attorney
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, May 17, 2021,
at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and
time as the City Manager shall determine in his discretion, to enter into a purchase and
sales agreement with BH Media Group, Inc., successor in interest to Times-Word
Corporation, authorizing the City Manager, along with the School Board of the City of
Roanoke to acquire parcels from BH Media Group, Inc., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
376
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City "
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
ROANOKE VALLEY REGIONAL CABLE TELEVISION PROPOSED FISCAL
YEAR 2021 - 2022 BUDGET: Scott Ramsburg, Cable Access Director, Roanoke Valley
Regional Transmittal Cable Television transmitted, by electronic communication means,
the proposed Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 Budget.
(See copy of communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42043-050321) A RESOLUTION approving the recommendation of the
Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee to approve the annual operating
budget for Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 for the operation of the regional government and
educational access station, Roanoke Valley Television (RVTV, Channel 3), and for the
City to provide partial funding.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 657.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42043-050321. The
motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
Following an overview of yearly activities performed by RVTV, Resolution No.
42043-050321 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
377
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
CITY MANAGER:
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS CHALLENGE AMERICA GRANT:
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America Grant to support community driven
projects at a minimum of two Roanoke River Greenway "gateway" locations for the
southeast neighborhood.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42044-050321) A RESOLUTION accepting a National Endowment for the Arts
("NEA") Challenge America Grant, which Grant requires matching funds from the City;
approving and confirming the application process for such NEA Grant; authorizing the
City Manager to sign any documents required by the NEA to accept such Grant; and
authorizing the City Manager to provide additional information, to take any necessary
actions and to execute any additional documents needed to obtain, accept, receive,
implement, administer, and use such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 658.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42044-050321.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
378
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42045-050321) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Government National Endowment for the Arts Grant, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 659.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42045-
050321 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
2022 HUD ANNUAL PLAN: The City Manager submitted a written communication ,
recommending consideration and approval of the 2021 — 2022 HUD Annual Plan.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42046-050321) A RESOLUTION approving the 2021 - 2022 Annual Update
("Annual Update") to the 2020 - 2024 Five Year 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. 81, page 660.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42046-
050321. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
Council Member Moon Reynolds inquired as to why Apple Ridge Farm did not
receive funding and the overall criteria for receiving funding and the amount to be
allocated; whereupon, the City Manager briefly explained the process and noted that
more detailed information could be provided in an one on one conversation. ""
379
Following further discussion of the matter, Council Member Moon Reynolds
suggested that more information be submitted to the Council by the end of day on Friday,
May 7; whereupon, the City Manager replied in the affirmative and he was happy to
provide the information.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42046-050321 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Campaign for Grade-Level Reading announced last week that it has named
Roanoke, Virginia and its Star City Reads initiative as a 2021 Bright Spot
community.
• The Campaign is highlighting communities that developed exemplary or innovative
responses to the COVID-19 crisis.
• The first week after Virginia's shutdowns began, Roanoke Public Libraries staff
began recording and posting virtual storytimes on its Facebook and Instagram
pages, and on its YouTube channel. More than 150 storytime and craft videos have
been shared with Roanoke children.
• In June, they collaborated with Feeding Southwest Virginia to offer our Feed and
Read program curbside so children could receive free, nutritious meals and early
learning activities at the same time from the same place.
• Since the summer of 2020, the Libraries distributed more than 8,400 themed
learning kits.
Roanoke will celebrate "Kids to Parks Day" in May
• Parks and Recreation will host a scavenger hunt that can be completed in any
City playground on Saturday, May 15, between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Not only will this have kids getting active, learning about their parks, and
expressing their creativity, they'll also have a chance to win some prizes.
• More information can be found at PlayRoanoke.com.
380
May is Neighborhood Month
• Roanoke's neighborhood groups are planning events throughout May to celebrate
this special month.
• Some events are still being developed at this time, but those already scheduled
include yards sales, cookouts, and Fun Days.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Bestpitch 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch,
Cobb and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY
CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to the upcoming
expiration of the three-year term of office of the Honorable Charles N. Dorsey as a 23rd
Judicial Circuit City representative of the Court Community Corrections Program Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she opened the
floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Charles N. Dorsey.
381
There being no further nominations, Mr. Dorsey was reappointed as a 23,d Judicial
Circuit City representative of the Court Community Corrections Program Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board for a three-year term of office commencing July 1,
2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. DORSEY: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
Bestpitch, Cobb and White-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: The Vice-Mayor called attention to
the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Vickie H. Bibee, as a Director of
the Economic Development Authority ending October 20, 2021; whereupon, she opened
the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of 011ie Howie.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Howie was appointed to replace Vickie H.
Bibee as a Director of the Economic Development for a four-year term of office
commencing October 21, 2021 and ending October 20, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. HOWIE: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
Bestpitch, Cobb and White-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called
attention to the expiration of the three-year term of office of Sue Williams, as a member
of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board ended March 31, 2021; whereupon, she
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Elvir Berbic.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Berbic was appointed to replace Sue
Williams, as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a term of office
ending March 31, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. BERBIC: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
Bestpitch, Cobb and White-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to a
vacancy created by the resignation of Crystal Hall as a member of the Youth Services
Citizen Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she opened the floor for nominations.
382
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Douglas Pitzer.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Pitzer was appointed as a member of the
Youth Services Citizen Board to fill the unexpired term of office of Crystal Hall ending
June 30, 2021, by the following vote:
FOR MR. PITZER: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
Bestpitch, Cobb and White-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
There being no further business to come before the Council, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd declared the regular meeting adjourned at 2:50 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
C,� �- IAI�r
- �
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Patricia White-Bo d �
City Clerk Vice-Mayor
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
May 17, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, May 17, 2021 at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones,
Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7. h
ABSENT: None-0.
383
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Rabbi Kathy Cohen, Temple Emmanuel Reform
Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared the
week of May 16 - 23, 2021 as National Public Works Week.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor presented the proclamation to Mark Jamison, Director of Public
Works, and Michael Clark, Director of Parks and Recreation.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk a@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on May 17. The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general
public during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on
the City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Andes, 2803 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed
the Council with regard to the decision to discuss school board appointments in Closed
Meeting on May 3 as announced and expressed concern about transparency of City
Council.
384
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, April 5, 2021; and on Monday,
April 19, 2021, were before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed
with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7. s.
NAYS: None-0.
ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the
appointments of three Trustees to serve on the Roanoke City School Board, for three-
year terms, each, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, pursuant to
Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
�F
Y.
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385
MARKET BUILDING FOUNDATION-DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD-
VACANCY: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of
Sherman M. Stovall, Deputy City Manager as a representative of the Market Building
Foundation, Board of Directors and the Defined Contribution Board, effective June 30,
2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the resignations be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY TREASURER'S OFFICE ANNUAL REPORT: Annual Report of the City
Treasurer's Office for Calendar Year 2020, was before the Council.
(See Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the Annual Report be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE MARKET BUILDING FOUNDATION FOR
CALENDAR YEAR 2020: Annual Report of the Market Building Foundation, Board of
Directors, for Calendar Year 2020, was before the Council.
(See Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the Annual Report be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
386
OATHS OF OFFICE-PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
COMMISSION-FAIR HOUSING BOARD-VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUERIDGE BOAD OF
DIRECTORS-BOARD OF TRUSTEES, CITY OF ROANOKE PENSION PLAN-
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS
REGIONAL PROGRAM CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD-RONAOKE VALLEY-
ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION-PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY
BOARD-WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION:
Reports of qualification of the following individuals:
Roy Mentkow as a member of the (Protected Class/Citizen at Large) of
the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission for a three-year term of
office, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
Charnika Elliott as a member of the Fair Housing Board to replace Anita
Wilson for a three-year term of office ending March 31, 2024;
Annette Lewis as a City representative of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge,
Board of Directors for a one-year term of office commencing, July 1, 2021 and
ending June 30, 2022;
Gregory W. Feldmann as a Citizen-at-Large representative of the Board of
Trustees, City of Roanoke Pension Plan, for a four-year term of office,
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2025;
Andrea Trent as a member (Assistant City Manager Designee) of the
Defined Contribution Board for a four-year term of office commencing July 1,
2021 and ending June 30, 2025;
Laura Eichenlaub as the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare Board
representative of the Court Community Corrections Regional Program Criminal
Justice Board for a three-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and
ending June 30, 2024;
Dr. Elda Stanco Downey as a Citizen representative of the Roanoke
Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission for a three-year term of office,
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
Elvir Berbic as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to
replace Sue Williams for a term of office ending March 31, 2024;
John P. Bradshaw as a Roanoke City Appointee of the Western Virginia
Water Authority for a four-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and
ending June 30, 2025; and
387
Helen Dean as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission for a three-
year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, were
before the Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
LEGAL COUNSEL-PROBABLE LITIGATION: A communication from the City
Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to consult with legal
counsel and hear briefings by staff members or consultants pertaining to probable
litigation, where such consultation or briefing in open meeting would adversely affect the
negotiating or litigating posture of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(7),
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the communication be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF THE VALLEY: Richmond Vincent, President and
CEO, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, appeared before the Council and presented
information highlighting projects, initiatives and current activities.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Jeffrey, Chair of the Goodwill Industries of the Valleys Board of
Directors, introduced Mr. Vincent who emphasized the following topics:
• Goodwill 2027 — "The War on Poverty"
• Vision
• Mission
• Empower Individuals
• Strengthen Families
• Build Strong Communities
• Economic Impact to City of Roanoke
• Economic Impact (2020)
• What's Next???
• Short-Term
• Roanoke City Plan 2040
• Big Ideas
• Eliminate Poverty!
• Questions
Following Mr. Vincent's presentation, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd commended Mr.
Vincent for `hitting the ground running' and thanked him for taking the time review the
City's 2040 Plan and exploring how Goodwill could work in conjunction with the City to
empower individuals and strengthen families. She inquired about Goodwill's Re-entry
Program and Senior Citizens Employment Program; wherein, Mr. Vincent replied
Goodwill's Re-entry Program was similar to TAP's Re-entry Program, serving
approximately 70 to 110 per year of individuals after incarceration. He noted that upon
completion of the program, Goodwill tries to hire these individuals with a goal to expand
the program and to generate more funding within that program.
With regard to the Senior Citizens Employment Program, Mr. Vincent indicated
the age range was 55 plus and allowed Goodwill to place seniors in a non-profit or
government programs, with payment of up to four years in the program.
Council Member Bestpitch commended Mr. Vincent for quickly getting to know
the Roanoke community and appreciated his bringing new energy to Goodwill and the
City; and commended the Goodwill staff for keeping City Council informed about the
happenings at Goodwill.
Mr. Vincent expressed concern with regard to the recent gun violence in the City
and asked what he and the Goodwill organization could do to assist in creating a
solution to the problem.
Council Member Cobb thanked Mr. Vincent for his work at Goodwill and shared
that the Gun Violence Prevention Commission will be launching a youth and gun µ
violence assessment reaching out in the community to reach as many youth as
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possible. He said that focus would remain on the issue of poverty and noted that too
many people in Roanoke were struggling to survive and the best way to reduce poverty
was by increasing opportunity for people to thrive, not just survive.
Council Member Moon Reynolds asked Mr. Vincent about the Youth Summer
Employment Program; whereupon, Mr. Vincent answered stating that the program
would begin in mid-June, serving approximately 30 students, ages 16 through 24, based
in the City of Roanoke throughout the quadrants working with community partners and
school system to get focus specifically on the program with a goal to continue to expand
Goodwill's focus on youth.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones expressed appreciation for Goodwill's
Discovery Program to assist students with disabilities and mentioned a student currently
enrolled in the program that she has worked closely with and pointed out that he
enjoyed the program and was doing well.
Following additional comments by the Council members, Mayor Lea thanked Mr.
Vincent for an informative presentation and advised that the presentation would be
received and filed.
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REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
Recommended Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget
The City Manager and Director of Finance summarized the proposed Fiscal Year
2021 - 2022 Recommended Budget and highlighted the following information:
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager advised that the recommended budget was balanced at
$307,630,000, an increase of $9.565 million or 3.2 percent aligned with the priorities
established by City Council. She reviewed each budget priority category noting that it
accounted for funding for strategic investments in all priority areas, strategic
compensation increases and strategic fee increases.
Ms. Merchant thanked the Department of Finance staff for their tireless work on
the budget and explained that in terms of local taxes, noted that for the City of Roanoke
taxes totaled approximately 68.3 percent of the total budget, which percentage stressed
the importance of how the local taxes perform and how reliant the budget was upon the
performance of the local taxes to perform well.
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She also explained that local tax projections for Fiscal Year 2021 was anticipated
to increase by 4.1 percent or as much as $8.3 million; mainly attributed to the
performance of real estate, transient occupancy, sales tax, personal property and
business license taxes; and after making adjustments to the local taxes allocated to
external partners 40 percent of the growth will be allocated for RCPS.
Ms. Merchant reviewed the FY 2022 total recommended revenues and fee
adjustments, pointing out that the Stormwater Utility Fee increase was effective July 1,
2022.
The City Manager reviewed the guiding principles for budget preparation, noting
that the budget has been prepared with Council's priorities key, consideration of the
anticipated impacts of COVID-19 to local taxes and other service related revenues, fund
the highest base and supplemental priority services and programs, fund non-
discretionary cost increases, prioritize remaining base and supplemental services and
programs, lay groundwork for way to improve in future years requests that advance
equity and empowerment initiatives, and maintain market competitiveness with
compensation.
In terms of the City's seven priorities, Mr. Workman highlighted the most
significant changes in each and advised that the City continues to support Roanoke City
Public Schools based on the formula which provides 40 percent of adjusted local taxes,
and main library operations by restoration of Library Automation Coordinator position.
The City Manager advised that in terms of compensation much has been asked
of the employees throughout the pandemic and noted that the budget included a 3
percent increase for employees and going forward an opportunity to recognize
commitment and remain competitive to continue to attract and retain good employees.
Mr. Workman continued with the presentation by reviewing the non-departmental
and external agency categories and advised that non-departmental was a handful of
items that did not fit within one priority, but must be budgeted for such as civic center
subsidy and admissions tax, contingencies, debt service, GRTC, reserves and residual
fringe benefits.
He explained that the external agency funding was provided to local partners
who activities align with the City's goal and priorities; mentioned that the funding
increased approximately $1.3 million and totaled approximately $10 million; and
included Roanoke Arts Commission and Human Services Advisory Board funding
recommendations. He pointed out that the Culture Endowment funding had been fully
restored to the requested $125,000.00.
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With regard to the FY 2022 - 2026 Capital Improvement Program, Ms. Merchant
continued advising that the investments made were within the parameters of the debt
policy with consideration of required debt service. She further advised that the
recommended Capital Improvement Program totaled $143 million over five years and in
some of the years, excess debt service may be available for one-time capital needs,
undesignated fund balance and the stabilization reserve.
Lastly, Ms. Merchant reviewed the budget calendar calling attention to a public
hearing scheduled for May 24, at 7:00 p.m. to hear citizen views on the proposed real
estate tax rate and General Fund budget; budget study scheduled for June 7 at
9:00 a.m., and budget adoption on June 21 at 7:00 p.m.
The City Manager concluded by reminding the Council that the budget document
would be posted online; separate meetings with Council Members to review and explain
the recommended budget would be scheduled; and if there were items in the budget to
reconsider for Budget Study on June 7.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired as to what the $66,584.00 for redistricting
entailed; whereupon, Mr. Workman advised that there were many requests from the
General Registrar in connection with election rules. Mr. Bestpitch opined that he would
follow up with the General Registrar for more details.
He further inquired about the number of City employees that contracted the
Coronavirus; if any employees were still furloughed; and if the budget documents could
be placed on the City's homepage in addition to the Management and Budget webpage.
The City Manager replied that approximately 191 employees contracted the virus
to date; some employees were still furloughed until the Berglund Center resumed public
events; and the budget documents could be added to the homepage for easier access.
Council Member Moon Reynolds asked the City Manager to expand on the
Marcus Alert System; whereupon, he responded stating that the Governor signed off on
all Virginia localities providing certain services in the field of mental health by the year
2027 resulting in someone having a mental health crisis calling in 911 and going
through a different set of protocols or perhaps even dialing an alternate number to 911
for those cases.
She further inquired about the reopening of the City's public pools and who would
oversee the distribution of the $75,000.00 allocated to the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the Gator Aquatic Center
would operate the Fallon Park pool and the City would operate the Washington Park
pool with the CCA Marlins School providing lifeguards. He also stated that the Gun
Violence Prevention Commission would oversee the funding and Angela O'Brien, Chief
Strategy Officer would handle the mechanics.
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Following additional discussion with regard to supplemental funding, Mayor Lea
thanked Mr. Cowell, Ms. Merchant and Mr. Workman for the informative presentation
and advised that the briefing would be received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
2020 HUD CONTINUUM OF CARE GRANT-HOMELESS ASSISTANCE TEAM
(HAT): The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending the
acceptance of the 2020 Continuum of Care Grant funds from the Department of
Housing and Urban Development to support the City's Homeless Assistance Team.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42047-051721) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the FY 2020
Continuum of Care ("CoC") Grant Award to the City of Roanoke, on behalf of the
Department of Social Services' Homeless Assistance Team ("HAT"), from the U. S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD"), in the amount of $140,422,
upon certain terms and conditions; and authorizing execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 661 .)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42047-
051721. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42048-051721) 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 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 662.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42048-051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2020 HUD CONTINUUM OF CARE GRANT-COORDINATED ASSESSMENT
SYSTEM (CS): The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
the acceptance of the 2020 Continuum of Care Grant funds from the Department of
Housing and Urban Development to support the Coordinated Assessment System.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42049-051721) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the FY 2020
Continuum of Care ("CoC") Grant Award ("Grant") to the City of Roanoke from the U. S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD"), in the amount of $49,070,
upon certain terms and conditions; and authorizing the City Manager to execute any
necessary documents necessary to accept such funding.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 663.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42049-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42050-051721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United
States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Continuum of Care
(CoC) Coordinated Assessment System (CAS) Grant, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 664.)
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Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42050-051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION-AMEND
CHARTER: The City Manager submitted a written communication authorizing to reduce
the number of members from 38 to 30 on the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional
Commission.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution.-
(#42051-051721)
esolution:(#42051-051721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany
Regional Commission to amend its Charter to Reduce Membership Requirements; and
providing for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 665.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42051-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT TO FY2021 CONCRETE CONTRACT WITH ATLAS
CONSTRUCTION & EXCAVATING, INC: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending execution of an amendment to the contract between the
City of Roanoke and Atlas Construction & Excavating, Inc., for additional repairs.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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.. -; Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42052-051721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and
execution of a contract amendment to the City's contract with Atlas Construction &
Excavating Inc., for additional repairs to various concrete sidewalk, curb, curb and
gutter, and ADA curb ramp locations; and authorizing the City Manager to take such
actions and execute such documents as may be necessary to provide for the
implementation, administration, and enforcement of such contract, as amended.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 667.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42052-
051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COLONIAL GREEN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending execution of the agreement regarding
performance obligations of Colonial Green, L.C., related to the Colonial Green
development project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42053-051721) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement regarding the remaining performance obligations of Colonial Green, L.C.,
related to the development of Colonial Green; and dispensing with the second reading
of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 668.)
Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42053-
051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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COLONIAL GREEN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending to repeal Budget Ordinance No. 42002-031521
and appropriation of funds in connection with the acceptance of VDOT Transportation
Alternatives Set Aside funding.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42054-051721) AN ORDINANCE to repeal Budget Ordinance No. 42002-
031521, adopted by Roanoke City Council on March 15, 2021 and to appropriate
funding from Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Transportation Alternatives
Program and the Transportation Alternatives Set Aside and 9th Street Multimodal
Improvements, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 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. 81, page 669.)
Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42054- ,
051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
The Gun Violence Prevention Commission is making mini-grants available
to non-profit and faith-based organizations:
• The mini-grants are for activities designed for prevention and intervention of
gun violence in our community.
• The Commission is primarily interested in programs that work with youth and
young adults and are collaborative in nature.
• These funds will be distributed in grants ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for
activities to be completed by August 31, 2021.
• Details about the criteria for the mini-grants are posted on the City's website
homepage — roanokeva.gov— under "Read About Roanoke."
• Applications must be received by May 21, 2021, at 11:59 p.m.
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The City will open pools at Washington and Fallon Parks this summer
• You will recall, the pools did not open the summer of 2020 because of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
• As we open the pools this year, safety is our number-one priority. Patrons will
be asked to adhere to all VDH guidelines. Staff will adjust protocols as these
restrictions change.
• Currently, the pools plan to operate at a 75% capacity limit (225 people per
pool).
• As a reminder, last year—upon hearing the pools weren't going to open—
private citizens raised funds to ensure they would open this year. The money
raised was given to the City and is being used for pool staff wages.
• Information about pool hours and rates can be found at PLAYRoanoke.com
CITY ATTORNEY:
SPLIT PRECINCT WAIVER REQUEST: The City Attorney submitted a written
communication recommending approval and authorization for the General Registrar to
apply for a waiver in connection with split voting precincts.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42055-051721) AN RESOLUTION authorizing and supporting the Registrar for
the City of Roanoke to apply for a waiver to administer the following eight split precincts
within the City of Roanoke, Virginia; authorizing the Clerk to provide an attested copy of
this resolution to be filed with the request for waiver.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 670.)
Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42055-
051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and the City Manager 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 Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42056-051721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 672.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42056-
051721. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Council Member Cobb updated the Council on the work of the Gun Violence
Prevention Commission and noted that in addition to the completion of mini-grant
applications, the Commission had completed documents and awaiting funding for the
Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment, which would take place over the
summer. The Gun Violence Prevention Commission was looking for community
partners to help make connections and hear the voices of youth and families on realities
they experience to assess the impact of violence and how to prevent, intervene and
further reduce violence.
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Council Member Cobb thanked the Granting Writing team, along with himself,
Jamie Starkey, Jim O'Hare, Malcolm Quigley, Jamie Bowdel, Lloyd Merchant and Angie
O'Brien who submitted a grant application, and if accepted, would provide $500,000.00
over two years. Within that Grant, the Commission requested funding to hire a Youth
and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator and two outreach personnel, then funding to
help support six areas of Prevention and Intervention initiatives. Council Member Moon
Reynolds requested a briefing to citizens from the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission to inform citizens on the work of the Commission.
Council Member Moon Reynolds informed the Council that the Department of
Housing and Urban Development awarded the City of Roanoke Redevelopment and
Housing Authority with an FY 2020 - 2021 Jobs Plus Grant for Jamestown Place and
Indian Rock Village in the amount of $2,300,000.00. She applauded the City of
Roanoke, Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and area service agencies
for their collaborative efforts in ensuring public housing residents opportunities toward
self-sufficiency.
With regard to the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board, Vice Mayor White-
Boyd advised that Board meetings were online and could be viewed on the City's
website at www.roanokeva.gov. She advised that she would consolidate information
into one report and send to the City Council Members by email.
Council Member Bestpitch thanked Mayor and Members of City Council for
supporting the resolution authorizing the reduction of the number of members on the
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission and reminded Council that unless
every single county, city, and town that has representation on the Commission,
approves a similar resolution, the change cannot go into effect. Mr. Bestpitch also
reminded Council that he was tasked to be on the search committee for the new
director, following the retirement of Wayne Strickland after thirty plus years, on June 30,
the committee found a new director, but the candidate would be announced at a later
date.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
APPOINTMENT OF A DIRECTOR OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY: Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution appointing
011ie Howie as a Director of the Economic Development Authority:
(#42057-051721) A RESOLUTION appointing a Director on the Board of
Directors of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke, Virginia.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 673.)
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Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42057-051721.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Moon Reynolds requested that the City Manager share the
plans for the tennis courts located on Burrell Street since nets and fencing were down;
wherein, the City Manager replied that he would get details regarding the project and
send an update to City Council Members.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the City residency requirement be waived for
Elvir Berbic to serve as a member of the Parks and Recreation Board, which
appointment was made at the May 3, 2021 Council meeting. The motion was seconded
by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
At 4:58 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting; and thereafter will reconvene at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
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».. PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.,
and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager, Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Dwight O. Steele, Sr., Pastor,
Pilgrim Baptist Church (participated by electronic means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Cobb 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 seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following
resolution appointing Diane M. Casola, Michael L. Cherry, II, and Mark K. Cathey, as
School Board Trustees of the Roanoke City School Board for terms commencing July 1 ,
2021 and ending June 30, 2024:
(#42058-051721) A RESOLUTION appointing Diane Casola, Mark Cathey and
Michael Cherry, II, as School Board Trustees of the Roanoke City School Board for
terms commencing July 1, 2021, and ending June 30, 2024.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 674.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42058-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
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Council Member Moon Reynolds commented with regard to the Closed Meeting
held following the 2:00 p.m. session, saying discussions were healthy; however, the
Council agreed to disagree and encouraged candidates who were not successful to
reapply next year.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42058-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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, May 17,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
David Todd for TD2, LLC, to rezone properties located at 4557 Shenandoah
Avenue, N. W., and 4549 Shenandoah Avenue, N. W., from CN, Commercial-
Neighborhood District, to CG, Commercial-General District, with conditions, the matter
was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 and Tuesday, May 4, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1 is
consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, Peters Creek South Neighborhood Plan,
and the Zoning Ordinance as the subject property will be developed and used in a
manner appropriate to the surrounding area.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42059-051721) AN ORDINANCE to rezone certain properties located at 4557
Shenandoah Avenue, N. W., and 4549 Shenandoah Avenue N. W., bearing Official Tax
Map Nos. 6040312 and 6040313, from CN, Commercial-Neighborhood District, to CG,
Commercial-General District, subject to certain conditions proffered by the applicant;
and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 674.)
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Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42059-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42059-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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, May 17,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
the City of Roanoke to consider an amendment to City Plan 2040, the City's
Comprehensive Plan, to adopt the Mill Mountain Trails Plan 2021 Amendment, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 and Tuesday, May 4, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
adoption of the Mill Mountain Trails Plan 2021 Amendment as an amendment to City
Plan 2040, the City of Roanoke's comprehensive plan.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42060-051721) AN ORDINANCE approving the Mill Mountain Trails Plan 2021
Amendment, and amending City Plan 2040, the City's Comprehensive Plan, to include
such Mill Mountain Trails Plan 2021 Amendment; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 676.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42060-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
404
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42060-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY OWNED PROPERTY-BARNS AVENUE: Pursuant to instructions by the
Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public Hearing for Monday, May 17, 2021 at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of
Roanoke to lease approximately 3.6 acres of City-owned property located adjacent to
5401 Barns Avenue, N. W., to Jared and Donna Green for agricultural purposes, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, May 7, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of a lease
agreement with Jared Green and Donna Green for approximately 3.6 acres of City-
owned land, located at 5401 Barns Avenue, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42061-051721) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease agreement with Jared Green and Donna Green ("Green"), for the lease of
approximately 3.6 acres of City-owned property, being a portion of Roanoke City Official
Tax Map No. 6610101, located adjacent to 5401 Barns Avenue, N.W., in the City of
Roanoke, Virginia, for agricultural purposes; and dispensing with the second reading by
title of this ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 677.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42061-
051721. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed. '
405
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42061-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAG TAX: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the
City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 17, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or
as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to
consider a proposed amendment for a tax in the amount of $0.05 on each disposable
plastic bag provided to customers by grocery store, convenience store, and drugstore
retailers located within 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 7, 2021 and Wednesday May 12, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending adoption of an
ordinance establishing a plastic bag tax of $0.05 for each disposable plastic bag
provided to a consumer by retailers in grocery stores, convenience stores, and drug
stores, with an effective date of January 1, 2022.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42062-051721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Chapter 32,
Taxation, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by the adoption and
addition of new Article XVI, Disposable Plastic Bag Tax, to provide for a tax on each
disposable plastic bag provided to consumers by certain retailers, in accordance with
the provisions of Section 58.1-1745 through Section 58.1-1748 et seq., Code of
Virginia (1950) as amended; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 678.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42062-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
406
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic
communication means in support of the disposable plastic bag tax:
Julie Wagner, 2630 Grandin Road, S. W.;
Mike Hill, 1925 Cambridge Avenue, S. W.; and
Dustin Brookman, 357 Salem Avenue, S. W.
There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
closed.
Vice Mayor White-Boyd opined that the community was ready for the taxation of
disposable plastic bags and those retailers she had spoken with agreed to get rid of
plastic bags because plastic pollution was a threat to the environment; and also shared
that a number of food chains currently offer both plastic and paper bags.
Council Member Bestpitch commented that many of the major grocery store
chains were moving in the direction of eliminating plastic bags.
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 42062-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BH MEDIA GROUP, INC.: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk
having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 17, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon
thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to consider
entering into a purchase and sales agreement with BH Media Group, Inc., along with
the Roanoke City School Board to acquire parcels located at 201 Campbell
Avenue, S. W., 207 Salem Avenue, S. W., and an unimproved lot located at 0 Salem
Avenue, S. W., to be used as administrative offices and other educational purposes, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, May 7, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
407
The City Attorney submitted a written report recommending execution of a
purchase and sales agreement to provide for acquisition of the Parcels from BH Media
Group, Inc., for the lease of 201 Campbell Avenue and 207 Salem Avenue to Lee BHM
Corporation for a ninety-day term.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42063-051721) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute the
necessary documents providing for the acceptance by the City of Roanoke, Virginia
("City") of certain real property interests, owned by BH Media Group, Inc., successor in
interest to Times-World Corporation ("BH Media"), on behalf of the School Board of the
City of Roanoke, located in the City of Roanoke, Virginia at 201 Campbell
Avenue, S. W., 207 Salem Avenue, S. W., and 0 Salem Avenue, S. W., together with
the execution of a lease agreement with Lee BHM Corp., dba The Roanoke Times, for
the lease of 201 Campbell Avenue, S. W., and 207 Salem Avenue, S. W., 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. 81, page 681)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42063-051721.
The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individual addressed the Council in support of the
purchase and sales agreement:
Verletta White, School Superintendent, expressed appreciation to City Council
for support of the acquisition of property to be used for administrative offices and other
educational purposes; and the Roanoke City School Board Trustees and Administrative
personnel for their hard work and support. Ms. White also highlighted key points for
consideration and voiced enthusiasm for the future of Roanoke City Public Schools.
closed.There being no additional speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42063-051721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
408
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE. `
At 8:10 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess until Monday,
May 24, 2021, in the Council Chamber, for the purpose of conducting public hearings on
the City of Roanoke Recommended Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 Budget at 7:00 p.m.; and
Proposed Real Property Tax Increase at 7:10 p.m.
The recessed meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Monday,
May 24, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.,
and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. ,
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
Mayor Lea announced that the purpose of the recessed meeting was to conduct
two separate public hearings: (1) Recommended Budget for the City for Fiscal Year
2021 — 2022 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be reached; and (2)
Proposed Real Estate Tax Rate Increase at 7:10 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be reached.
He explained there would be no discussion or action taken by the Council during
or at the conclusion of the public hearings.
RECOMMENDED FISCAL YEAR 2021 - 2022 CITY BUDGET: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, May 24, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard,
to afford persons an opportunity to speak and state their views concerning all aspects of
the Recommended Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022 City Budget, in the amount of
$307,630,000.00, the matter was before the body.
409
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
µ on Friday, May 14, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
proposed budget; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council, by
electronic communication means:
Terry McGuire 339 King George Avenue, S. W., spoke with regard to increased
funding of $60,000.00 for the urban forestry program.
Chris Bryant, 1315 Sewell Lane, S. W., spoke with regard to the planting of more
trees within the City of Roanoke.
Tatiana Durant, 513 20th Street, N. W., requested increased funding for policing
and law enforcement, increased budget transparency and community engagement.
Chris Gewirtz, 513 20th Street, N. W., expressed concern about systemic racism,
police funding and Sheriff Department expenditures.
Luke Priddy, 302 5th Street, N. W., Suite A, spoke with regard to increased
voting hours, drop box installation at Municipal Building, increased funding for planting
of trees and the addition of full-time positions within Department of Parks and
Recreation.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Lea declared the public hearing closed.
PROPOSED REAL ESTATE TAX RATE INCREASE: Pursuant to instructions by
the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, May 24,
2021, at 7:10 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to afford persons
an opportunity to speak and state their views concerning all aspects of the proposed
Real Estate Tax Rate Increase, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Saturday, April 24, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
proposed real estate tax increase; there being none, he declared the public hearing
closed.
410
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the recessed meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
c�--Cl --4- L/)�� Z Q.
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
411
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
June 7, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, June 7, 2021 at
9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds
and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
412
PERSONNEL MATTER: A communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-
Boyd, Chair, City Council Personnel Committee, requesting that Council convene in a
Closed Meeting to discuss a personnel matter, being the annual performances of the
Council-Appointed Officers, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia
(1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Vice-Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS:
FY22 Budget Study
The City Manager and Paul Workman, Budget Manager, briefed the Council on
the following regarding the FY 2021 - 2022 Budget:
• Discussion Items
o Cultural Endowment
o Tree Planting
• Five Year Operating Plan
• Next Steps
(For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
413
The City Manager explained that at the budget public hearing on May 24 a
number of comments were received with regard to tree planting and the Cultural
Endowment funding was broached in the individual meetings with City Council members
held thereafter. He noted that currently the budget allocated $630,238.00 for urban
forestry which included tree canopy and all it entails and an additional $30,000 was
allotted to tree planting in the FY 20 budget and because tipping fees were anticipated
to be higher than actual costs, an additional $30,000 will be allotted in the FY 22 budget
for tree planting.
He further explained in terms of the Cultural Endowment funding, the City had
been a partner of the endowment for many years with a total amount allocated at
$1,075,000.00 and reinstating the $125,000.00 allotment in the base budget. He pointed
out that with an additional one-time funding of $50,000.00 from the capital project
contingency, the endowment would receive $175,000.00 in FY 22.
Council Member Bestpitch inquired of the total investment made with regard to
urban forestry including the amount of trees purchased to plant and associated costs;
whereupon, the City Manager advised that he would get that information to the Council.
Council Member Bestpitch also inquired if any year end funds could be added for
the Cultural Endowment; and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked if there were grants
available for tree planting; whereupon, the City Manager explained that tree planting
funds for local governments was not common.
The Vice-Mayor further inquired if the additional funding for the Cultural
Endowment must come from capital contingency. The City Manager replied in the
affirmative, noting that it was the source for year-end funding to pay cash for capital
projects.
Council Member Moon Reynolds expressed delight in the restoration of the
funding for youth athletics at $110,000.00.
Mr. Workman continued with the presentation by reviewing the Five-Year
Operating Plan for FY 2022 — 2026, explaining that the Plan allowed for strategic
continued recognition of priorities, but emphasized it was only an estimate based upon
the current economy. He pointed out the anticipation of a $6 million surplus for FY 2021
and looking beyond FY 2022, current assumptions included operating growth of
predominantly two percent; real estate tax growth of four percent in FY 2023 — FY 2025
easing to three percent in FY 2026; personal property tax growth of four percent in FY
2023 dropping to three percent in FY 24 — FY 26.
414
He continued stating that the anticipation of unavoidable expenditure growth
typically driven by inflation or market driven factors, every year, presented new
challenges, which included market-based compensation and paying employees, what
they deserved to be the best and do the best job. He noted that future planning was the
best practice in order to respond to identified potential variances and thanked the
Management and Budget staff for their hard work; and specifically acknowledged new
Revenue Analyst Brett Gallian, who joined the team six months ago, and has done
outstanding work.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked if Council would have opportunity to weigh in on
any adjustments to be made to balance the budget along the way versus at the end of
the process; whereupon, the City Manager advised that was the reason for the sharing
the information with the Council and the current budget does not show cause for alarm,
but if the gap were to grow, it would allow for the staff and the Council to formulate a
plan.
Council Member Bestpitch commented that four percent growth in real state tax
was an extremely conservative projection based on the current housing market and the
fact that the Code of Virginia requires assessing real estate values at 100 percent fair ""
market value.
Council Member Cobb inquired if there was a way to build in one-time funding
each year and work more closely with the Cultural Endowment to spread the word of its
importance and commented that it would be beneficial to get citizens engaged in the
commemorative tree planting program, which would overall positively affect the tree
canopy of the City of Roanoke.
The City Manager replied in the affirmative that the City of Roanoke was the lead
donor and the funds were unrestrictive meaning it could be used for operations,
marketing, etc., and within the last year community outreach was increased which
included a radio commercial. He noted that there was actually no agreed commitment
amount from the City and each year the amount varies; approximately three years ago
the $125,000.00 allotment was moved into the base budget from the one-time funding
category to ensure that assumed amount would be allocated; and if the amount was to
increase if would need discussion at the budget planning retreat for next year.
Mayor Lea added that the Council fully supported funding for the Cultural
Endowment for the Arts.
415
Lastly, Council Member Bestpitch inquired as to how the funding from the
American Rescue Act would affect the budget; whereupon, the City Manager advised
that $64.5 million from the American Rescue Act was allocated to the City with a portion
of that to replace lost revenue and anything COVID-19 related can be funded.
Following additional discussion with regard to the American Rescue Act funding,
the City Manager presented the next steps and stated that the budget was scheduled to
be adopted on June 21, at 2:00 p.m., and on June 30, the adopted budget document
would be available to the public.
Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager and Mr. Workman for the presentation and
received and filed the briefing.
At 9:46 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Vice-
Mayor Patricia White-Boyd presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and Vice-Mayor
Patricia White-Boyd-6.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-1.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jon Landis, Lead Minister,
Growing Families Ministry, Roanoke Valley Church (participated by electronic means).
MOMENT OF SILENCE: Council Member Bestpitch called for a Moment of
Silence in memory of Calvin Powers, prominent businessman in Roanoke, founder of
Powers Fence Company, Guard Rail, The Carpet Shops and Atlantic Fasteners, who
passed away on Thursday, June 3, 2021 .
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd.
416
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
INTRODUCTION OF CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE STAFF: The City Attorney
introduced Jennifer Crook, new Attorney Assistant City Attorney, for the Department of
Social Services; and recognized David Collins and Laura Carini as newly appointed
Senior Assistant City Attorneys.
INTRODUCTION OF CITY CLERK'S OFFICE STAFF: The City Clerk introduced
Nicole Wright-Bailey, new Administrative Assistant, III, in the City Clerk's Office.
MEMORIALIZING THE LATE DR. ROBERT F. ROTH: Council Member
Bestpitch offered the following resolution memorializing the late Dr. Robert F. Roth,
former President, Roanoke Valley Sister Cities, Inc.:
(#42064-060721) A RESOLUTION memorializing the late Dr. Robert F. Roth, a
former Methodist missionary, surgeon, co-founder of Roanoke Valley Sister Cities, Inc.,
and long time resident of the Roanoke Valley.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 683.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42064-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
417
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, May 3, 2021; and Monday, May 17,
2021, recessed until May 24, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
RESIGNATION — BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: A communication from the
City Clerk advising of the resignation of Antwyne Calloway as a member of the Board of
Zoning Appeals, effective May 31, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
418
OATHS OF OFFICE-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM
REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD-HOTEL
ROANOKE CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION-PARKS AND
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals:
The Honorable Charles N. Dorsey as the 23 d Judicial Circuit City
representative of the Court Community Corrections Program
Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for a three-year term
of office commencing July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2024;
Robert S. Cowell, Jr., as the City Employee representative of the
Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission for a four-year term
of office commencing April 13, 2021 and ending April 12, 2025; and
Jerome Stephens as a member of the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board for a three-year term of office commencing April 1,
2021 and ending March 31, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
...40
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
419
ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
CITY MANAGER:
HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM FUNDS: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program funds from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management for
acquisition of properties in connection with the City of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation
Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42065-060721) A RESOLUTION accepting the Hazard Mitigation Assistance
Program grants made to the City from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management upon certain terms and conditions, and authorizing the City Manager to
execute any required documentation on behalf of the City in order to accept the grants.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 685.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42065-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42066-060721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant for the City
of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation Project to acquire and demolish the former Cee
Breeze Nursing Home Property, which is prone to flooding, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 686.)
420
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42066-
060721. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
MELROSE AVENUE STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of funds from the
Western Virginia Water Authority for utility work in connection with the Melrose Avenue
Streetscape improvements.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42067-060721) A RESOLUTION accepting the Western Virginia Water .�nr
Authority's payment for work completed by the City Contractor on the Melrose Avenue
Streetscape project in the total amount of $795,643 for water and sanitary sewer
replacements; and authorizing the City Manager to take certain other actions in
connection with the above matters and project.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 687.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42067-
060721. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
421
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42068-060721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Western
Virginia Water Authority to perform the water and sanitary sewer replacements within
the City contract, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Capital
Projects Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 687.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42068-060721. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
2021 FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT CENTER IMPLEMENTATION GRANT
AWARD: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
acceptance of the 2021 Financial Empowerment Center Implementation Grant from the
Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Inc., in connection with the operation of the
City's Financial Empowerment Center.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42069-060721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2021
Financial Empowerment Center Implementation Grant to the City of Roanoke ("City")
from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Inc. ("CFE Fund"); authorizing the City
Manager to execute any documents necessary to receive such grant, in order for the
City to improve the financial stability of low and moderate income households by
embedding financial empowerment strategies into local government infrastructure; and
authorizing the City Manager to take such further actions and execute such other
documents as may be necessary to obtain, accept, implement, administer, and use
such grant funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 688.)
422
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42069-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42070-060721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Financial
Empowerment Fund for financial counseling of low and moderate income individuals,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund and Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 689.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42070-
060721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
CITY CODE-STORMWATER UTILITY: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending amendment of the City Code Stormwater Utility section
with regard to fees for collection.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
423
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42071-060721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 11 .5-
8(4), Billing, penalties, and interest, of Chapter 11.5, Stormwater Utility, and Section
14.1-5, Fees for collection, of Article I, In General, of Chapter 14.1(d), Solid Waste
Management, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to provide for a
graduated penalty in the event of late payments based on how soon such taxes are paid
after the original date due; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the
second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 691.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42071-
060721. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
CITY CODE—TAX ON REAL ESTATE AND TANGIBLE PERSONAL
PROPERTY: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
amendment of the City Code in connection with tax on real estate and tangible personal
property of public service corporations.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42072-060721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 32-
124(0), When due and payable, Article IV, Tax on Real Estate and Tangible Personal
Property of Public Service Corporations, Chapter 32, Taxation, Code of the City of
Roanoke (1979), as amended, to change the due date of the first installment of taxes
due upon the real estate and real estate improvements of public service corporations
from October 5 to December 5; 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. 81, page 693.)
424
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42072-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
BUS SHELTER ENCROACHMENT-MOUNTAIN VIEW NEIGHBORHOOD: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval and
authorization of an encroachment permit for Mountain View Neighborhood Association
for a bus shelter located at 208 18th Street, S. W., at the intersection of Salem Avenue
and 18th Street, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42073-060721) AN ORDINANCE allowing a bus shelter encroachment
requested by the Greater Roanoke Transit Company d/b/a Valley Metro ("GRTC"), into
the public right-of-way located at the intersection of Salem Avenue, S. W., and 18th
Street, S. W., adjacent to property located at 208 18th Street, S. W., bearing Official Tax
Map No. 1211601, and which bus shelter will be located within the City Right-of-Way
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. 81, page 694.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42073-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.) ,
425
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
City Pools Are Open for the Summer
• After a one-year hiatus, the pools at Washington Park and Fallon Park will be
open this summer beginning today, June 4.
• Reopening the pools was made possible thanks to a fundraiser started by
Roanoke attorney John Fishwick. Upon hearing the pools weren't going to open
in 2020, he and other community members raised $53,000 for the cause.
• The money raised was given to the City and is being used for pool staff wages.
• While there are still some safety restrictions in place, the pools will be in
operation and open to the public.
• Information about daily hours of operation and pool rates can be found at
www.PlayRoanoke.com.
This summer Roanoke will roll out a traffic speed awareness campaign
• The campaign is Phase 2 of the Pedestrian Safety Campaign conducted by the
Transportation Division in 2020, through a grant with the Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles.
• Last year's emphasis was on crosswalk safety— "Every Corner is a Crosswalk."
• This year, the focus is on increasing awareness of speeding as a pedestrian
safety issue, especially on priority minor arterials, neighborhood collectors, and
residential streets in the City.
• Plans include special events, neighborhood walks, contests, and other activities
to engage and educate the community.
• More information will be shared in the near future; the campaign will kickoff on
June 22.
CITY ATTORNEY:
ENCROACHMENT-2417 GUILFORD ROAD: The City Attorney submitted a
written communication recommending approval to amend and reordain Ordinance No.
40998-110617 to lower the insurance required of the property owner to maintain an
encroachment from $2,000,000.00 in general liability insurance coverage to
$300,000.00 in personal liability insurance coverage for a structure located at 2417
Guilford Road, S. W., into the right of way.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
426
�Ak
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance-
(#42074-060721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Ordinance No.
40998-110617, adopted by City Council on November 6, 2017, which authorized an
existing encroachment pursuant to Section 15.2-2011, Code of Virginia (1950) as
amended, caused by the property located at 2417 Guilford Road, S. W., Roanoke,
Virginia, designated as Official Tax Map No. 1550219, extending into a portion of the
City's right-of-way of an adjacent alley, by lowering the amount of general liability
insurance coverage required to be obtained by the property owner to maintain the
encroachment, 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. 81, page 696.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42074-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
INTEGRATED TAX REVENUE SYSTEM: The City Attorney submitted a written
communication recommending amendment of Ordinance Nos. 41930, 41931, 41932,
41933, 41934, and 41935-122120 to provide for an effective date upon the date the
integrated tax revenue system is successfully implemented, or January 3, 2022,
whichever date comes earlier, for implementation has been delayed and is now
expected to occur on October 19, 2021.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
427
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42075-060721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Ordinance Nos.
41930-122120, 41931-122120, 41932-122120, 41933-122120, 41934-122120, and
41935-122120, all adopted by City Council on December 21, 2020, by changing the
effective date of such Ordinances from July 1, 2021, until the date the City of Roanoke's
integrated tax revenue system is successfully implemented, or January 3, 2022,
whichever date comes earlier, 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. 81, page 698.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42075-060721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
428
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
MISCELLANOUS: Council Member Cobb expressed thanks to Humble
Hustle, Inc., and Executive Director Xavier Duckett, for hosting `Chalk It Up' events
across the city on Saturday, June 5, that expressed love and put smiles on faces; he
also praised the Carilion Clinic IRONMAN 70.3 Virginia's Blue Ridge event held on
Sunday, June 6, which event brought approximately 2,500 competitors to the area who
completed in a 1.2-mile swim through Carvins Cove, a 56-mile bike ride along the Blue
Ridge Parkway, and a 13.1-mile run on the Roanoke Greenway; and thanked the
organizer of the events, which celebrated furiousness of all athletes.
RECOGNITION-FORMER CITY COUNCIL MEMBER: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
recognized and thanked former Council Member Michelle Davis for her impact and
influence for the City of Roanoke to host the IRONMAN event; and Council Member
Bestpitch thanked the hundreds of volunteers who made the event a success.
ROANOKE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS-Council Member Moon Reynolds inquired
about the removal of Resource Officers from Roanoke City Public Schools; wherein, the
City Manager advised that the School Superintendent had addressed the matter and
Resource Officers would be returning to the Schools this fall.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Cobb 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 seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
429
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to a
vacancy created by the resignation of Sherman Stovall as Ex-officio member of the
Defined Contribution Board; whereupon, she opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Clarence Grier, Deputy
City Manager.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Grier was appointed, by position, as Ex-
officio member of the Defined Contribution Board to replace Sherman Stovall, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. GRIER: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
FAIR HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the term of office of Amar Bhattarai as a member of the Fair Housing
Advisory Board for a term that ended March 31, 2021; whereupon, she opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Alyshia Merchant.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Merchant was appointed to replace
Amar Bhattarai, as a member of the Fair Housing Advisory Board for a term ending
March 31 , 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MERCHANT: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
MARKET BUILDING FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Vice-Mayor
called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Sherman Stovall as a
member of the Market Building Foundation Board of Directors; whereupon, she opened
the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Brent Robertson,
Assistant City Manager for Community Development.
430
There being no further nominations, Mr. Robertson was appointed, by position, to
replace Sherman Stovall as a member of the Market Building Foundation Board of
Directors, by the following vote:
FOR MR. ROBERTSON: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
MILL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of J. Matthew Bullington, as a
member of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Terry McGuire.
There being no further nominations, Mr. McGuire was appointed to replace J.
Matthew Bullington as a member of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board for a three-year
term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following
vote:
FOR MR. MCGUIRE: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Vice-
Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Richard R. Morrison
as a Citizen-at-Large member of the Personnel and Employment Practices
Commission; whereupon, she opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Lori Baker-Lloyd.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Baker-Lloyd was appointed as a Citizen-
at-Large member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission to fill the
unexpired term of office of Richard R. Morrison (Citizen-at-Large) ending June 30, 2022,
by the following vote:
FOR MS. BAKER-LLOYD: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
431
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: The Vice-Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of Macklyn Mosley as a member of
the Roanoke Arts Commission ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Victoria McNiff.
There being no further nominations, Ms. McNiff was appointed as a member of
the Roanoke Arts Commission to replace Macklyn Mosley for a three-year term of office
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. MCNIFF: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: The Vice-Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of Council
Member William D. Bestpitch as the Elected Official representative of the Roanoke
Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she opened
the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Council Member
Joseph L. Cobb.
There being no further nominations, Council Member Joseph L. Cobb was
appointed to replace Council Member William D. Bestpitch as the Elected Official
representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission for a three-year
term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following
vote:
FOR MR. COBB: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-5.
(Mayor Lea was absent. Council Member Cobb abstained from the vote.)
432
ROANOKE VALLEY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER COMMISSION: The
Vice-Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Sherman Stovall
as an Alternate member of the Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Center Commission;
whereupon, she opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Loren Fennell, Budget
Business Analyst.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Fennell, Budget Business Analyst was
appointed as an Alternate member of the Roanoke Valley Juvenile Detention Center
Commission to fill the unexpired term of office of Sherman Stovall ending June 30,
2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. FENNELL: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Vice-Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of the one-year term of office of Meg Carter
as a member of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, Board of Directors ending June 30,
2021; whereupon, she opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Stephen W. Lemon.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Lemon was appointed to replace Meg
Carter as a member of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge Board of Directors for a one-year
term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2022, by the following
vote:
FOR MR. LEMON: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
433
YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: The Vice-Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the term of office of Douglas Pitzer as a member of the Youth
Services Citizen Board ending June 30, 2021; whereupon, she opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Douglas Pitzer.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Pitzer was appointed as a member of
the Youth Services Citizen Board for a three-year term of office commencing July 1,
2021 and ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. PITZER: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
There being no further business to come before the Council, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd declared the regular meeting adjourned at 2:52 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
, : ►� � &'
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Patricia White-Boyd
City Clerk Vice-Mayor
434
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
June 21, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, June 21, 2021 at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. W
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Anthony Holmes, Pastor, Loudon
Avenue Christian Church (participated by electronic means).
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared
Sunday, June 20, 2021 as World Refugee Day. Council Member Sanchez-Jones
presented the proclamation to Jay Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth
Catholic Charities (participated by electronic means).
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
435
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared
m, Monday, June 21, 2021 as Wayne G. Strickland Day to celebrate his upcoming
retirement as Executive Director of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional
Commission. Council Member Bestpitch presented the proclamation to Mr. Strickland.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared the
month of June 2021 as Pride Month. Council Member Cobb read and acknowledged the
proclamation declaring Pride Month.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
Due to the recent increase and severity in COVID-19 cases in the City of
Roanoke, out of an abundance of caution, the Roanoke City Council has determined
that temporary changes are necessary. Roanoke City Council Members will continue to
meet in person in City Council Chamber, observing all recommended safety protocols
while members of the community wishing to address the City Council during Hearing of
Citizens Upon Public Matters are required to participate virtually or via email by
contacting the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by
12:00 p.m., on June 21 . The Council Chamber will not be accessible to the general
public during the meeting. The meeting will continue to be broadcast via RVTV-3 and on
the City's Facebook account.
MISCELLANEOUS: Stephen Niamke, 1711 Franwill Avenue, N. W., invited the
Members of Council to participate in the Shanti Sena Summit, highlighting the principles
of Kingian Nonviolence on June 25 - 27, 2021; and expressed opinion on the prohibition
of open gun carry.
436
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, June 7, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ANNUAL PERFORMANCES OF THE COUNCIL-APPOINTED OFFICERS: A
communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, Chair, City Council Personnel
Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a
personnel matter, being the annual performances 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.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Vice-Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-
Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
r
437
SPECIAL MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council schedule a special meeting and public hearing to be
held on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at 11 :30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his
discretion, to receive public comment with regard to the appropriation of the American
Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and lost public sector revenue in FY 2021, was before
the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-
Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC HEARING-GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS: A communication from
the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on
Monday, July 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard,
or such later date and time as the City Manager may determine, on the issuance of
General Obligation Bonds not to exceed $33.555 million for qualifying capital
improvement projects and bond issuance costs, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-
Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MINUTES OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE: Minutes of the Audit Committee
meeting held on Wednesday, March 3, 2021, was before the Council.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
438
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote.-
AYES:
ote:AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY COMMISSION-
BUILDING AND FIRE CODE BOARD OF APPEALS-ROANOKE VALLEY
JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER COMMISSION: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals:
James Revercomb, III, as a City representative of the Roanoke
Valley Greenway Commission for a three-year term of office
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
Charles Waters as a member (Citizen-at-large) of the Building and
Fire Code Board of Appeals for a three-year term of office,
commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2024; and
Loren Fennell as an Alternate member of the Roanoke Valley
Juvenile Detention Center Commission to fill the unexpired term of
office of Sherman Stovall ending June 30, 2024, were before the
Council.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
439
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
DEPACO FAMILY DONATION OF POLICE CANINES: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending the acceptance of the donation of
two dual-purpose police canines to the Roanoke Police Department from the DePaco
family and their company Summit Nutritionals International, Inc.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42076-062121) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of a donation from
the DePago Family and their company, Summit Nutritionals International, Inc., to the
Roanoke City Police Department for two dual-purpose Police Service Dogs (Canines),
and authorizing execution of any and all necessary documents to accept the donation.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 699.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42076-062121 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BONDS FOR TRANSIT STATION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the appropriation of third party funds and de-
appropriation of advanced appropriated bonds in connection with the new transit station.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42077-062121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from Hist:Re Partners
and to deappropriate bond funds not issued relating to the Transit Station project,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Capital Project Fund, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
440
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 700.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42077-
062121 . The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Mayor Lea asked for an overview of the matter for clarification; whereupon, The
City Manager advised that $500,000.00 from a private partner must be appropriated in
order to relocate the transit operations from the current facility to a temporary facility
and allows the developer to proceed in the redevelopment of the current site; and noted
that since an allocation was received from the Federal Transit Authority, the funds set-
aside in the CIP for the project could be released and used for other CIP purposes.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Members of
Council, Budget Ordinance No. 42077-062121 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FLEET INSURANCE RECOVERY FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending the appropriation of fleet insurance recovery « „
funds, which recoveries help to offset the needed repair or replacement of City vehicles
involved in an accident.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42078-062121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from liable parties
relating to fleet insurance recovery, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2020 - 2021 Capital Project Fund and General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing
with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 701 .)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42078-
062121 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7. *
NAYS: None-0.
441
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: NONE.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
RETIREMENT OF DEPUTY CITY MANAGER: Council Member Bestpitch
offered the following resolution commending the services rendered to the City of
Roanoke by Sherman M. Stovall as Deputy City Manager, on the occasion of his
retirement:
(#42079-062121) A RESOLUTION recognizing and commending the services
rendered to this City by Sherman M. Stovall as its Deputy City Manager, and expressing
the gratitude and appreciation of the City and its people for his service.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 701 .)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42079-062121.
The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Each Council Member expressed and offered well wishes to Mr. Stovall upon his
retirement and the City Manager commented that Mr. Stovall truly represented what a
public servant should be always exhibiting the value of public over self and
acknowledged his unwavering dedication to his family, church and God.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Members of City
Council, Resolution No. 42079-062121 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
442
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
OTHER BUSINESS.-
Mayor
USINESS:Mayor Lea announced that the following items was to be considered by the
Council in connection with the City's Recommended FY 2021 — 2022 Budget and other
related items, effective July 1 , 2021:
BUDGET: The Director of Finance submitted a written communication to certify
funding in accordance with paragraph (a) of Section 25.1 of the Charter of the City of
Roanoke, as amended, and Sections 2-235 (e) and (f) Code of the City of Roanoke
(1979), as amended, do hereby certify that funds required for the 2021 — 2022 General
Fund, Stormwater Utility Fund, Civic Facilities Fund, Parking Fund, Risk Management
Fund, School Fund, School Food Fund, Grant Fund and State Asset Sharing program
budgets will be available for appropriation, subject to the adoption of the revenue
measures proposed by the City Manager in the June 21 , 2021 City Council Agenda.
(See Certification of Funding on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Without objection, the Mayor advised that the Certification of Funding would be
received and filed.
REAL ESTATE TAX RATE: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending reaffirmation of Real Estate Tax Rate.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42080-062121) AN ORDINANCE adopting and reaffirming the real property
tax rate as set forth in Article II of Chapter 32 of the Code of the City of Roanoke and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 704.)
443
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42080-062121. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT OF FY 2022 FEE COMPENDIUM: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending amendment of the FY 2022 Fee Compendium for
Fire-EMS, Solid Waste Management and Stormwater Utility fee adjustments.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42081-062121) A RESOLUTION amending the Fee Compendium to include
fees for solid waste collection as set out below; and establishing an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 705.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42081-062121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42082-062121 ) A RESOLUTION amending the Fee Compendium to amend
fees for Downtown Compactors in the Central Business District, as set out below; and
establishing an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 707.)
444
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42082-
062121. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42083-062121) A RESOLUTION amending certain fees and charges with
regard to fire prevention reinspections, amending the Fee Compendium, and providing
for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 708.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42083-062121.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution.-
(#42084-062121)
esolution:(#42084-062121) A RESOLUTION amending the Roanoke Fire-EMS Fire
Prevention Code Permit Fees to be charged by the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department,-
providing
epartment;providing for an effective date; and directing amendment of the Fee Compendium.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 709.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42084-062121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
At;
(#42085-062121) A RESOLUTION amending the Fee Compendium to include
certain fees and charges with regard to fire protection system inspections conducted by
the Roanoke Fire Marshal's Office under the authority of the Building Commissioner,
and providing for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 710.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42085-062121 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42086-062121 ) A RESOLUTION amending the Fee Compendium to include
certain fees and charges with regard to residential target hazard inspections conducted
by the Roanoke Fire Marshal's Office, and providing for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 711.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42086-
062121 . The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42087-062121) A RESOLUTION amending the Fee Compendium to include
certain fees and charges with regard to commercial target hazard inspections
conducted by the Roanoke Fire Marshal's Office, and providing for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 712.)
446
Council Member Moon Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42087- z
062121. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote.-
AYES:
ote:AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following Ordinance:
(#42088-062121) AN ORDINANCE amending the monthly stormwater utility fee
rate per billing unit as provided for by the Code of the City of Roanoke, Section 11.5-3;
establishing a phase-in period and an effective date for each phase; authorizing the City
Manager to take certain actions in connection with such stormwater utility fee rate;
amending the City's Fee Compendium; and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this Ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 713.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42088-062121 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote.-
AYES:
ote:AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ANNUAL GENERAL, STORMWATER UTILITY, CIVIC FACILITIES, PARKING,
RISK MANAGEMENT, SCHOOL GENERAL, SCHOOL FOOD SERVICES AND
GRANT FUND APPROPRIATIONS: Council Member Bestpitch offered the following
budget ordinance regarding the adoption of Annual General, Stormwater Utility, Civic
Facilities, Parking, Risk Management, School General, School Food Services and Grant
Fund appropriations for the fiscal year beginning July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30,
2022:
(#42089-062121) AN ORDINANCE adopting the annual General, Stormwater
Utility, Civic Facilities, Parking, Risk Management, School General, and School Food
Services Appropriations of the City of Roanoke for the fiscal year beginning July 1 ,
2021, and ending June 30, 2022; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 715.)
w
447
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42089-
062121 . The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM UPDATE FY 2022 - 2026: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending the endorsement of the
Capital Improvement Program Update for FY 2022 - 2026.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42090-062121 ) A RESOLUTION endorsing the update to the Capital
Improvement Program submitted by the City Manager in the City Council Agenda
Report of June 21 , 2021 .
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 721.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42090-062121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42091-062121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding for the FY 2022 -
2026 Update to the Capital Improvement Program, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2022 General, Capital Projects, and Grant Funds Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 722.)
448
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42091 14
-
062121. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PAY PLAN: Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance adopting
a Pay Plan for officers, employees, Council-Appointed Officers and Constitutional
Officers of the City; and authorization for certain salary adjustments and merit increases
and monthly stipends for certain board and commission members, effective July 1,
2021 :
(#42092-062121) AN ORDINANCE to adopt and establish a Pay Plan for
officers, employees, Council appointed officers and Constitutional Officers of the City
effective July 1 , 2021 ; providing for certain salary adjustments; authorizing various
annual pay supplements for certain officers and employees; providing for an effective
date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book 81 , page 723.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42092-062121 .
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
The City Manager explained that the Pay Plan incorporated the most substantial
increase that had been given relative to community safety employees in the Fire-EMS
and Sheriff's Department. He acknowledged and thanked the Director of Finance and
staff on their work on the FY 2021 — 2022 budget.
Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager for his comments and noted that the public
needed to know where the City was with regard to public safety. He mentioned that he
had yielded many questions from citizens with regard to public safety employees and
retention. Vice-Mayor White-Boyd concurred in the comments of the Mayor.
449
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Members of
Council, Ordinance No. 42092-062121 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
At 3:31 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Legislative
Committee meeting in the Council Chamber; and thereafter a Closed Meeting in the
Council's Conference Room, Room 451 , Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.
At 5:56 p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened with Mayor Lea presiding and all
Members of the Council in attendance.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Bestpitch 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 seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Inasmuch as there were no public hearings or items for discussion by the
Council, Mayor Lea announced that the 7:00 p.m. session was cancelled; and there
being no further business to come before the Council, he declared the regular meeting
adjourned at 5:57 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
450
SPECIAL MEETING — ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL
June 30, 2021
11:30 a.m.
A special meeting of the Roanoke City Council was called to order on
Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at 11:30 a.m., for the purpose of holding a public hearing to
receive citizen comment with regard to the appropriation of funds awarded by the United
States through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), that provides government
entities support in their response to the impacts of COVID-19, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The meeting was called pursuant to the following communication from the Mayor:
"Pursuant to Section 10, Section 10, Meetings of Council Generallv, of the
Roanoke City Charter, I am calling a Special Meeting of Roanoke City
Council for Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at 11:30 a.m., and provide you
with notice of such meeting, via e-mail and hand delivery. The Special
Meeting is for the purpose to hold a public hearing to receive citizen
comment with regard to the appropriation of funds awarded by the United
States through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), that provides
government entities support in their response to the impacts of COVID-
19".
(See copy of communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
451
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the
City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at
11:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to receive citizen comments
with regard to the appropriation of $32,288,335.50 awarded by the United States through the
American Rescue Plan Act to provide government entities support in the response to the
impacts of COVID-19, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Wednesday, June 23, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42093-063021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United
States Treasury for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)-Coronavirus Relief
Fund, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 733.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42093-
063021. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Mayor Lea asked the City Manager to clarify for the citizens what the Public
Hearing was about in reference to the ARPA funding; wherein, Mr. Cowell explained
that the City was to be awarded over $64.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA) funds; and over half of those funds $32.3 million have been received with the
second half of the funds to be received in approximately one year. He further advised
that as a part of the American Rescue Plan Act, different from the Cares Act funds,
funds could be used to replace lost public sector revenue and many of the constraints
that the program itself carried was simply in using the Rescue Plan Act Funds.
Mr. Cowell continued explaining that the matter at hand was really an accounting
exercise to claim the lost revenues and not expend any of the dollars for any purpose
yet; he referenced the process with the community to determine where best to invest
the dollars within the community with maximum flexibility going forward to support the
recovery efforts in the community.
He further stated that at the July 6 meeting, more information would be shared
about the process in terms of engaging with the community, making the determinations
and ultimately recommendations; and would come before the Council in September,
with discussion on how to spend the dollars.
452
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individual addressed the Council, by electronic
communication means:
Will Bulloss, Western Virginia Water Authority, expressed interest in working with the
City on how to use American Rescue Plan Act funds.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Lea declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Bestpitch commented that it was important for the public to
understand the process of appropriating funding. The City Manager elaborated stating
that a series of eight focus group meetings with over 100 folks just concluded and at the
July 19 Council meeting, the results of the focus group discussions would be shared.
Mayor Lea inquired whether a business apply for the funds; wherein, Mr. Cowell
replied there were funds in the community provided by the City and State for businesses
and the Small Business Development Center has resources available for assistance,
with rental payments, etc.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Members of
Council, Budget Ordinance No. 42093-063021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the special meeting adjourned at 11:48 a.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
3
453
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
July 6, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at
9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
454
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION AT THE JOINT MEETING OF THE COUNCIL AND
THE ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD ON MONDAY, AUGUST 2, 2021, AT
9:00 A.M., FALLON PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, 502 19TH STREET, S. E. Agenda
items to be submitted to the 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.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS:
Mill Mountain Zoo and Wildlife Conservancy Update
Niki Voudren, Executive Director; Amy Morgan, Operations Director and Jessie
Coffman, Development Director, Mill Mountain Zoo briefed the Council on the activities
and initiatives of the Zoo.
(See copy of handout on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Voudren thanked the City of Roanoke for decades of support and expressed
gratitude for the commitment to one of Roanoke's historic gems. She noted that in the
last month the Zoo added heritage goats and turkeys, wood turtles; and recently
completed the first capital project in 30 years by housing a new black bear born in
captivity unable to live in the wild. She advised that by providing the bear a home much
like its natural habitat, it will allow for teaching visitors throughout the region about the
species and black bear safety.
She continued highlighting accomplishments mentioning that the Zoo was a
refuge and conservancy to 150 animals, a tourist destination for 65 years and nationally
accredited holding the highest levels of animal safety in the nation. A treasured
destination that hosts 50,000 visitors a year throughout the region and, the only Zoo in
Virginia's Blue Ridge that provides programming and education; and in a typical year
Mill Mountain Zoo and Conservancy reaches 8,000 people in educational training and
7,000 more people, mostly children through outreach programs.
Ms. Coffman showed a video which provided a virtual tour of the Zoo and invited
the Council to physically visit the area and experience what the Zoo had to offer. She
advised that the hours of operation were seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m., but the admission gates closed at 4:00 p.m. daily.
455
In response to inquiry with regard to the reading program, Ms. Coffman advised
that thanks to the Kiwanis and the Roanoke library story time occurs at 11:00 a.m. on
Monday with guest readers a craft and a song.
Mayor Lea thanked the presenters for the great information and received and
filed the briefing.
At 9:19 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH: Mayor Lea declared July 2021 as Park
and Recreation Month. Mayor Lea presented the proclamation to Stephanie Long,
Marketing Coordinator, Parks and Recreation Department.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
456
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
,E
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council
MISCELLANEOUS: Jeanette Morris, 2012 Sanford Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council with regard to a request for streets, curbs and drain maintenance;
and also requested enforcement of City Code and addressing grass cutting issues
along Franklin Road and McClanahan Street, S. W.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, June 21, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) m
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed
with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
RESIGNATION—ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: A communication
from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Charles Wilson as a member of the
Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, effective immediately, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
R7
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
VACANCY—PERSONNEL AND EMPOLYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of a vacancy on the Personnel and
Employment Practices Commission for a City Employee member, due to the retirement
of Jackie Clewis, effective June 30, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the communication be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE, BOARD OF
DIRECTORS-ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD-YOUTH SERVICES
CITIZEN BOARD-MILL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of
qualification of the following individuals:
Stephen W. Lemon as a City representative of the Visit Virginia's
Blue Ridge, Board of Directors for a one-year term of office
commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2022;
Diane Casola, Mark Cathey and Michael Cherry, Il, as Trustees of
the Roanoke City School Board for three-year terms of office, each,
commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
458
Douglas Pitzer as a member (Citizen-at-Large) of the Youth
Services Citizen Board, to fill the unexpired term of office of Crystal
Hall ending June 30, 2024; and
Jason Morgan as a member of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board for
a three-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021 and ending
June 30, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reports of qualification be received
and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES (DMV) SELECT PROGRAM:
The City Treasurer submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of
the reimbursement as a Licensed Agency of DMV ("DMV Select"); and the City
Manager submitted a written communication concurring in the recommendation.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
459
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance..
(#42094-070621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles to be a License Agent called a DMV Select Office, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund and Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 734.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42094-070621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEM RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD FUNDING FOR FY 2021 - 2022: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval of Human
Services Advisory Board allocation of funding to various non-profit agencies for Fiscal
Year 2021 - 2022; and execution of a Contract with the Council of Community Services
to conduct performance audits.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
460
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42095-070621) A RESOLUTION approving the recommendations of the
Human Services Advisory Board ("Board") for allocation of City funds to various
qualified agencies to assist such agencies in the performance of their programs for
Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022, and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a
contract with the Council of Community Services to perform the necessary performance
audits to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of all the funded programs by such
agencies.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 735.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42095-
070621. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42096-070621) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding to specific Human
Services Committee agencies, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 -
2022 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 737.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42096-
070621. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION FUNDING FOR FY 2021 - 2022: The City
461
Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval of Roanoke Arts
Commission allocation of funding to specific arts and culture agencies for Fiscal Year
2021 - 2022.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42097-070621) A RESOLUTION concurring with and approving the
recommendations of the Roanoke Arts Commission's ("Arts Commission") allocation of
City funds to various nonprofit agencies for Fiscal Year 2021 - 2022.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 739.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42097-070621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42098-070621) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding to specific Art
Commission agencies, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022
General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 740.)
462
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42098-
070621. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Solid Waste Collection Schedule Changes
• City offices were closed on Monday, July 5, to observe the Independence Day
holiday. As a result, all residential/commercial solid waste collection will be
delayed one day.
Roanoke Neighborhoods to Celebrate National Night Out
• The 38th annual National Night Out will take place on Tuesday, August 3.
• Roanoke will be participating in the celebration, along with other communities
and neighborhoods across the nation!
• Neighborhood groups wishing to plan events for this celebration should visit our
website at roanokeva.gov/nno, where Block Party Kits Reservations are available
under "Planning Your Event."
• For questions, contact Neighborhood Services Coordinator Josh Johnson at
6oshua.iohnson(a)-roanokeva.gov or call 540-853-1643.
Equitable Economic Mobility Initiative
• Last week, the National League of Cities announced that the City of Roanoke
has been selected for the Equitable Economic Mobility Initiative.
• This is a 15-month technical assistance and grant project aimed at boosting
economic mobility for residents while addressing long-standing racial inequalities.
• Roanoke was selected because of the local government's demonstrated
commitment to racial equity and resident economic mobility, along with the strong
existing partnerships and the City's capacity for data collection and analysis.
• We are one of seven other cities from across the Country to receive technical
assistance and support from NLC's expert staff to help advance the City's efforts
in promoting economic mobility for all residents
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
463
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
SUGGESTED TITLES FOR RENAMING LEE PLAZA: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
advised that the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board (EEAB) was deliberating on
the renaming of Lee Plaza, with citizen recommendations including Star City Plaza and
Henrietta Lacks Plaza. She also reported that the Board anticipated making a
recommendation in late July and the subcommittees were working diligently on other
initiatives to report to Council in July/August on the progress.
MISCELLANEOUS: Mayor Lea commended Council Member Cobb for his work
on the Gun Violence Prevention Commission and recommended that Council Members
attend a town hall session such as the recent Downtown Roanoke, Inc., event. Council
Member Cobb welcomed other Council Members to upcoming Gun Violence Prevention
Commission sessions.
MISCELLANEOUS: Council Member Cobb brought attention to the lack of
patrons during lunchtime at downtown restaurants and stated that the COVID-19
pandemic has had an effect on businesses and encouraged citizens to support
downtown businesses.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
464
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Bestpitch 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 seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Bill Mason as a member of the
Architectural Review Board ending October 1, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Bill Mason.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Mason was reappointed as a member of
the Architectural Review Board for a four-year term of office commencing October 2,
2021 and ending October 1, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. MASON: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
465
BLUE RIDGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The
Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration of the three-year term of office of Lew
Bishop as a member of the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare Board of Directors ending
December 31, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Lew Bishop.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Bishop was reappointed as a member of
the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare Board of Directors for a three-year term of office
commencing January 1, 2022 and ending December 31, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. BISHOP: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming
expiration of the three-year term of office of Betty Jean Wolfe as a member of the Board
of Zoning Appeals ending December 31, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Betty Jean Wolfe.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Wolfe was reappointed as a member of
the Board of Zoning Appeals for a three-year term of office commencing January 1,
2022 and ending December 31, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. WOLFE: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
466
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: The Mayor called attention to the . .
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Duke Baldridge as a member of
the Economic Development Authority ending October 20, 2021; whereupon, he opened
the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Duke Baldridge.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Baldridge was reappointed as a member
of the Economic Development Authority for a four-year term of office commencing
October 21, 2021 and ending October 20, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. BALDRIDGE: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Erika J. Bergen, as a member of
the Human Services Advisory Board ending November 30, 2021; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Erika J. Bergen.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Bergen was reappointed as a member
of the Human Services Advisory Board for a four-year term of office commencing
December 1, 2021 and ending November 30, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MS. BERGEN: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
467
PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor
called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Savannah Taylor as a
member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission ended June 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Stuart Trinkle.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Trinkle was appointed to replace
Savannah Taylor as a member of the Personnel and Employment Practices
Commission for a three-year term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending
June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. TRINKLE: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the two-year terms of office of Sunni Purviance and Rosheta
Chase, as members of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates ending September 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the names of Sunni Purviance
and Rosheta Chase.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Purviance and Ms. Chase were
reappointed as members of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates for two-year terms
of office, each, commencing October 1, 2021 and ending September 30, 2023, by the
following vote:
FOR MS. PURVIANCE AND MS. CHASE: Council Members Cobb, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
468
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention to a
vacancy created by the resignation of Charles Wilson as a member of the Roanoke
Neighborhood Advocates for a term of office ending September 30, 2022; whereupon,
he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Jordan Bell.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Bell was appointed to fill the unexpired
term of office of Charles Wilson as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates
ending September 30, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MR. BELL: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the three-year term of office of Jeanne Bollendorf as a member of the
Roanoke Public Library Board ended June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Dorothy Yancey.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Yancey was appointed to replace
Jeanne Bollendorf as a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board for a three-year
term of office ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. YANCEY: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Mayor Lea was absent.)
469
ROANOKE REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING AUTHORITY: The Mayor
called attention to the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Drew H.
Kepley, as a Commissioner of the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority,
Board of Commissioners ending August 31, 2021 ; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Drew H. Kepley.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Kepley was reappointed as a
Commissioner of the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Board of
Commissioners for a four-year term of office commencing September 1, 2021 and
ending August 31, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MR. KEPLEY: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY BROADBAND AUTHORITY: The Mayor called attention to
the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Michael McEvoy as a Citizen-
at-Large member of the Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority ending December 12,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Michael McEvoy.
There being no further nominations, Mr. McEvoy was reappointed as a Citizen-
at-Large member of the Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority for a four-year term of
office commencing December 13, 2021 and ending December 12, 2025, by the
following vote:
FOR MR. MCEVOY: Council Members Cobb, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Jeffrey was absent.)
470
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC ;e�erman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
471
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
July 19, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, July 19, 2021 at
2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Bishop Jamaal Jackson, Pastor, Refreshing
Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
MISCELLANEOUS: David Garland, 3704 Round Hill Avenue, N. W., appeared
before the Council with regard to the continued service of Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., on City
Council while under investigation by the Police Department and Commonwealth
Attorney.
472
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
ANNUAL PERFORMANCES OF THE COUNCIL-APPOINTED OFFICERS: A
communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, Chair, City Council Personnel
Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a
personnel matter, being the annual performances 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.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Vice-
Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
STAR CITY STRONG RECOVERY AND RESILIENCY ADVISORY PANEL: A
communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed
Meeting to discuss vacancies on the Star City Strong Recovery and Resiliency Advisory
Panel, 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.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0. „
473
FY2021 CITY MANAGER TRANSFER REPORT: A communication from the City
Manager transmitting the FY 2021 City Manager Transfer Report for the fourth quarter
ended June 30, 2021 .
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the communication be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD-MILL MOUNTAIN
ADVISORY BOARD-BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS-ROANOKE ARTS
COMMISSION-DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals were before the Council:
Anita J. Price as a member (Citizen-at-Large) of the Youth Services
Citizen Board to fill the unexpired term of office of John R. F. Lewis
ended June 30, 2021 ; and for a three-year term of office
commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
Niki Voudren as the Zoo representative of the Mill Mountain
Advisory Board for a three-year term of office, commencing July 1 ,
2021 and ending June 30, 2024;
Betty Jean Wolfe as a member of Board of Zoning Appeals for a
three-year term of office, commencing January 1, 2022 and ending
December 31 , 2024;
Timothy Martin, Janet Carty and Victoria McNiff as members of the
Roanoke Arts Commission for three-year terms of office, each,
commencing July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024; and
Clarence Grier as an Ex-officio member to replace Sherman
Stovall, by position, on the Defined Contribution Board.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
474
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reports of qualification be received
and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
LEGAL COUNSEL-LITIGATION: A communication from the City Attorney
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to consult with legal counsel and
hear briefings by staff members or consultants pertaining to actual litigation where such
consultation or briefing in open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or
litigating posture of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(7), Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
REGIONAL DRUG PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE GRANT FUNDING: The
Commonwealth Attorney submitted a written communication recommending the
acceptance of grant funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board
for the Regional Drug Prosecutor's Office; and the City Manager submitted a written
communication concurring in the recommendation.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
475
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42099-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding for the
Multi Jurisdictional Special 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. 81, page 741 .)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42099-071921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42100-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Regional Drug Prosecutor Grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 742.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42100-
071921 . The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
476
Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates Strategic Plan
Alicia Grubb, Chair, Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates (RNA) briefed the
Council on the strategic plan for the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates.
(See Strategic Plan on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Grubb provided background information stating that the Roanoke
Neighborhood Advocates was created by City Council in 2003, by resolution, to replace
the Roanoke Neighborhood Partnership and intended it to be a communication vehicle
between the neighborhood groups and City Council. She also reported that she became
Chair in June 2020 and since had been trying to rebuild the Board and construct a new
strategic plan.
She further advised that the new Strategic Plan included the mission which was
"to unify residents, community partners, and the City of Roanoke for the purpose of
fostering engaged neighborhoods;" and the purpose and goals were divided into three
pillars advocacy, empowerment, and information carried out through the duties and
responsibilities outlined in the resolution adopted by City Council.
Ms. Grubb pointed out that RNA would work with the Office of Neighborhood
Services to revamp their website, social media presence and launch a campaign with
tiers included in Western Virginia Water Authority bills as a way to reach the citizens.
She concluded by briefly explaining the three pillars and introduced the members
of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates in attendance.
Council Member Bestpitch thanked the RNA members for completing the
neighborhood awards and constructing a Strategic Plan in an effort to advise Council on
needs of the neighborhoods and ways to accommodate them to improve the City.
efforts.Council Member Cobb commended the RNA on the Strategic Plan and all their
Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Grubb for the presentation and stated that "strong
neighborhoods make a strong community and a strong community makes a strong
City"; and advised that the Strategic Plan would be received and filed.
Proposal to rename Lee Plaza
The City Manager advised that the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board
was asked by the Council to work with the community and form a recommendation to
rename Lee Plaza.
477
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd, Chair, Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board,
advised that the task before them was not easy, but after hosting multiple public
hearings beginning in March, the Henrietta Lacks Plaza was the number one suggestion
followed closely by Star City Plaza and Freedom Plaza. She continued stating that a
survey was also conducted rendering the same outcome Henrietta Lacks and Star City
Plaza as the top suggestions.
Council Member Bestpitch, Member, Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board,
commented that indeed the City of Roanoke needed to honor Henrietta Lacks, who was
born in Roanoke and referred to an article written by Ralph Barrier outlining the
connection of Ms. Lacks to the City. He suggested that a highway marker sign honoring
her be placed at the intersection of Patterson Avenue and Twelfth Street, S. W., simply
stating that she was born and lived there and name the new park development at
River's Edge North as Henrietta Lacks Park at River's Edge which would get a lot of
visibility by citizens.
Mr. Bestpitch continued stating that everything in Roanoke was named Star City
and the name was becoming generic and would have no significance to the plaza. He
suggested that Freedom Plaza be the name to honor the soldiers that had their lives
violently taken away for the freedom of everyone.
Mayor Lea commented that by naming the plaza after Henrietta Lacks it would be
a first step to addressing an injustice to Ms. Lacks by the City of Roanoke in which she
was born and spent the early years of her life.
In response to inquiry by the Mayor, The City Manager advised that from the
survey alone 628 votes were for Henrietta Lacks Plaza and 602 votes were for Star City
Plaza.
Council Member Moon Reynolds concurred in the comments of Council Member
Bestpitch that a marker near the childhood home of Henrietta Lacks was befitting, but
also that the plaza be named Freedom Plaza to be more in alignment with the war
memorial and perhaps place a plaque honoring others such as R.R. Wilkerson and
Margie Jumper who played a significant role in the 1950's to end segregation in the
Roanoke Valley.
Council Member Cobb commented that a marker was in the works to honor
Henrietta Lacks to be placed near her home in southwest Roanoke; also shared that the
Tutelo and Saponi Native American tribes called the area home long before Big Lick or
Roanoke was created; and opined that he was leaning toward naming the plaza after
Henrietta Lacks as well.
478
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd commented that she was leaning towards the vision of
the community to name the plaza after Henrietta Lacks; and suggested that since it was
a large plaza, one end could be named Freedom Plaza and the other end Henrietta
Lacks Plaza.
The City Manager explained that Council was not expected to vote on the matter,
but to offer direction as to the plaza name and when to bring the matter back for a vote.
Mayor Lea expressed that giving the plaza two names could be confusing and
advised that it was best to move forward, make a decision and vote on the matter and
not postpone it to a subsequent City Council meeting.
Council Member Bestpitch concurred with the suggestion of the Vice-Mayor to
rename each end of the plaza and further suggested that a statue or bust of Henrietta
Lacks be placed on the appropriate end of the plaza.
Following additional discussion of the matter, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that
the administration draft a resolution to rename a portion of Lee Plaza as Henrietta Lacks
Plaza and the other portion as Freedom Plaza; which measure to be presented to
Council at its 7:00 p.m. meeting. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb and
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: Council Member Jeffrey and Mayor Lea-2.
Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager for the information and received and filed
the briefing.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES CHILD ABUSE AND
NEGLECT PREVENTION PROGRAM GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the acceptance of the Virginia Department of Social
Services Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Program Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
479
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42101-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Child
Abuse and Neglect Prevention Program grant extension to the City of Roanoke ("City")
by the Virginia Department of Social Services ("VDSS") in the amount of $18,761; and
authorizing the City Manager to execute any documentation required to accept such
grant extension on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 743.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42100-
071921 . The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance-
(#42102-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Social Services for the Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Program
Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 744.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42102-071921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES' INSTITUTE FOR YOUTH, EDUCATION AND
FAMILIES GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending the acceptance of the National League of Cities' Institute for Youth,
Education and Families Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
480
Council Member Sanchez-Jones offered the following resolution:
(#42103-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2021
National League of Cities Equitable Economic Mobility Initiative (EEMI) planning grant;
and authorizing the City Manager to execute and file, on behalf of the City, any
documents required to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 744.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42103-
071921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42104-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the National
League of Cities' Institute for Youth, Education & Families (YEF) for the Equitable
Economic Mobility Initiative Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 745.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42104-
071921. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
481
VIRGINIA HOMELESS SOLUTIONS PROGRAM GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending the acceptance of the Virginia
Homeless Solutions Program Grant from the Department of Housing and Community
Development.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42105-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Virginia
Homeless Solutions Program Grant ("Grant") to the City of Roanoke ("City") by the
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development ("VDHCD") in the amount
of $80,498; authorizing the City of Roanoke to be the fiscal agent for distribution of the
grant proceeds; and authorizing the City Manager to execute any documentation
required to accept the Grant on behalf of the City, including the Memorandum of
Understanding with the Council of Community Services.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 746)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42105-071921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42106-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Community Development for the Virginia
Homeless Solutions Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 -
2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 747.)
482
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42106-071921. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2020 CONTINUUM OF CARE GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending the acceptance of the 2020 Continuum of Care Grant
Award from the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and a Council of
Community Services cash match to support continuum of care.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42107-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the FY2020
Continuum of Care ("CoC") Grant Award ("Grant") to the City of Roanoke from the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD"), in the amount of $51,393,
and authorizing the City Manager to execute any documents required to accept the
Grant on behalf of the City, including the Memorandum of Understanding with certain
provider agency.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 748.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42107-071921.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42108-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United
States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Continuum of Care
(CoC) Planning Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022
Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 749.)
483
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42108-
071921 . The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2021 - 2022 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT, HOME
INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM AND EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS
GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending the
acceptance of the 2021 - 2022 Community Development Block Grant, HOME
Investment Partnerships Program and Emergency Solutions Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones offered the following resolution:
(#42109-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of certain grants from
the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for
entitlement funding for the 2021 - 2022 fiscal year consisting of the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG), the HOME Investment Partnerships Program
(HOME) Grant, and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), such grants to be used in
connection with the 2021 - 2022 HUD Annual Action Plan previously approved by City
Council; upon certain terms and conditions, and authorizing the execution of the
necessary grant documents required to accept such funding.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 750.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42109-
071921 . The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
484
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42110-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Community Development Block
Grant Program (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency
Solutions Grant (ESG), amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022
Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 751.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42110-
071921 . The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2020 COMMUNITY BLOCK DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT CARES ACT
FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
appropriation of the 2019 — 2020 Community Block Development Block Grant CARES
Act funds from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development to
prevent, prepare and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42111-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG), amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 754.)
485
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42111-
071921 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FIRE STATION NO. 2 PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending authorization to acquire real property, in fee simple, in
connection with the proposed Fire Station No. 2 Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42112-071921) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the acquisition of real property
rights needed by the City in connection with the proposed Fire Station No. 2 Project
(`Project"); authorizing City staff to acquire such property rights by negotiation for the
City; authorizing the City Manager to execute appropriate acquisition documents; and
dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81 , page 755.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42112-071921 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
NAMING OF PLAZA NEAR BARNHARDT CREEK BRIDGE: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending approval to name the plaza near
Barnhardt Creek Bridge after Liz Belcher to recognize her significant contributions as
Regional Greenway Coordinator.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
486
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42113-071921) A RESOLUTION naming the plaza near the Barnhardt Creek
Bridge Liz Belcher Plaza.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 757.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42113-071921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: NONE.
CITY ATTORNEY:
VIRGINIA HARM REDUCTION COALITION FIREARM BUYBACK PROGRAM:
The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending authorization for
the City of Roanoke to participate in a firearm buyback program with the Virginia Harm
Reduction Coalition.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42114-071921) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City to participate in a
firearm buyback program with the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition and to have the
police department receive and destroy such surrendered firearms in accordance with
Section 15.2-915.5 of the Code of Virginia (1950) as amended.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 758.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42114-071921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
487
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
Programs; and the City Manager 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 White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42115-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 759.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42115-
071921 . The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd invited citizens to the next Equity and Empowerment
Advisory meeting to be held on Thursday, August 5, at 6:30 p.m., at the Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building, EOC Conference Room, First Floor, Room 159. For additional
information, contact Angela O'Brien at (540) 853-5309.
Council Member Cobb announced the Gun Violence Prevention Commission
was hosting the "Becoming Trauma Informed Workshop" at the Belmont Branch Library
located at 1101 Morningside Street, S. E., and invited citizens to attend, the free
presentation will educate participants about the impact of trauma on individuals and the
community.
488
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. .,
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: Council Member Moon Reynolds
offered the following resolution reappointing Duke Baldridge as a Director of the
Economic Development Authority for a four-year term of office ending October 20, 2025:
(#42116-071921) A RESOLUTION reappointing a Director of the Economic
Development Authority of the City of Roanoke to fill a four (4) year term on the Board of
Directors.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 760.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42116-
071921 . The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Bestpitch shared a letter from Garland G. Parry who praised
Cody Andrews, GIS Technician, Engineering Department, as being a consummate
professional, well spoken, polite, friendly asset to the City of Roanoke.
Council Member Bestpitch announced Friday, July 30, 2021 was International
Friendship Day and expressed the importance of encouraging inclusion and respect
between different cultures and respect for diversity in our neighborhoods.
Mayor Lea thanked citizens and all youth who participated in the Lea Youth
Outdoor Basketball League program, a community effort to support youth in the City of
Roanoke. Every Monday and Thursday night children and teens gathered at Eureka
Park; he also thanked Josh Johnson, Neighborhood Services Coordinator; Keith
Farmer, Straight Street; Feeding Southwest Virginia; Lloyd Merchant, Rapid Response
Coordinator, and the City of Roanoke Police Department for their outstanding support of
the program.
489
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:51 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451 , Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Patricia White-Boyd,
William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Joseph L. Cobb.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
490
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
RECOGNITION OF THE VIRGINIA WARRIORS ELITE AAU BASKETBALL
TEAM: Mayor Lea recognized the Virginia Warriors Elite AAU Basketball team and
Coach Jermaine Hardy, who recently won the Division 3 National Championship.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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, July 19,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
Local Office on Aging, Inc., to repeal all conditions proffered as part of previous
rezonings at 4902 and 4932 Frontage Road, N. W., through the adoption of Ordinance
No. 31337-021693, on February 16, 1993, and Ordinance No. 34733-040300 on April 3,
2000; to rezone 4902 Frontage Road, N. W., from CG, Commercial-General District, to
MX, Mixed Use District; and to adopt a condition related to natural vegetation
surrounding the property at 4902 and 4932 Frontage Road, N. W., the matter was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, June 29, 2021 and Tuesday, July 6, 2021 .
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1 is
consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, Peters Creek North Neighborhood Plan,
and the Zoning Ordinance as the subject property will be used in a manner appropriate
to the surrounding area.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42117-071921) AN ORDINANCE to repeal all conditions proffered as part of
previous rezonings on certain properties located at 4902 and 4932 Frontage
Road, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map Nos. 6490804 and 6490805 (the "Property")
through the adoption of Ordinance No. 31337-021693, on February 16, 1993, and
Ordinance No. 34733-040300, adopted April 3, 2000; to rezone 4902 Frontage
Road N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 6490804, from CG, Commercial-General
District, to MX, Mixed Use District; to adopt a condition related to natural vegetation
surrounding the property at 4902 and 4932 Frontage Road N. W., Official Tax Map Nos.
6490804 and 6490805, respectively; and dispensing with the second reading of this
ordinance by title. R
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 761.)
491
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42117-071921 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
Ron Boyd, President and Chief Executive Officer, Local Office on Aging, Inc.,
appeared before the Council in support of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42117-071921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
GENERAL OBLIGATION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BONDS: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, July, 19, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard,
on a proposal of the City of Roanoke for authorization of General Obligation Public
Improvement Bonds in the principal amount of not to exceed $33,555,000 and
appropriation of funds for capital projects, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 and Tuesday, July 13, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending appropriation of in
advance of issuance, FY 2022 Bond funding in the amount of $33,555,000 to project
accounts to be established by the Director of Finance in the Capital Projects, Civic
Center, and Stormwater Funds.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
492
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution: a ,
(#42118-071921) A RESOLUTION authorizing the issuance and sale of not to
exceed thirty-three million five hundred fifty-five thousand dollars ($33,555,000)
aggregate principal amount of General Obligations of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, in
the form of General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds of the City, for the purpose of
providing funds to pay the costs of the acquisition, construction, reconstruction,
improvement, extension, enlargement and equipping of various public improvement
projects of and for the city (including related design and architectural and engineering
services); fixing the form, denomination and certain other details of such bonds; and
otherwise providing with respect to the issuance, sale and delivery of such bonds; and
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.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 763.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42118-071921.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 42118-071921 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
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Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42119-071921) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding to be provided by the
issuance of General Obligation Bonds to the Stormwater Improvements, Civic Center,
City-wide Curb/Gutter/Sidewalk, Street Improvements, Parks and Recreation Master
Plan, Fleet Capital Replacements, Technology Capital Improvements, Bridge
Renovations, School Improvements, as well as various school maintenance upgrade
projects, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Stormwater
Utility, Civic Center, Capital Projects, and School Capital Projects Funds, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 779.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42119-
071921. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and was adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
NEW BUSINESS:
STAR CITY STRONG RECOVERY AND RESILIENCY ADVISORY PANEL:
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution appointing members to the Star
City Strong Recovery and Resiliency Advisory Panel, to evaluate alternatives and make
recommendations to City Council for use of the Star City Strong Recovery Fund to
support the recovery, and resilience of the community:
(#42120-071921) A RESOLUTION appointing the members of the Star City
Strong Recovery and Resiliency Advisory Panel and establishing an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81 , page 780.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42120-071921.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
STAR CITY STRONG — RECOVERY & RESILIENCY COMMUNITY
CONVERSATIONS: The City Manager requested that each City Council Member
report on a series of virtual community conversations recently held with nearly 100
stakeholders. The purpose of the conversations was to discuss ways that the City could
support further recover of the community from the impacts of COVID-19 and aid in
supporting greater resiliency for local residents, households, neighborhoods and
businesses against similar shocks in the future. The conversations focused on
Infrastructure and Technology, Well-Being, Housing, Economic Recovery, Education
and Workforce, and Community Development.
Each Council Member highlighted a few remarks during their community
conversations.
(See comprehensive remarks and information on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mayor Lea headed the discussion with the Star City Strong Phase 2 Focus
Group — Infrastructure and Technology, and initiated the conversation by asking the
following questions:
What did they consider the greatest weakness in our community as it relates to
economic recovery from COVID-19:
• Project underway in combination with VT/Carilion — how to help improve health
outcomes through the use of technology combined with access to health care.
• City of Roanoke services accommodate those living outside — how does
transportation and broadband limit these folks in gaining access to those services
(expense, logistics, etc.) — telehealth likely to play a greater role in addressing
these issues.
• Need a firm understanding of what the issues are to be able to select the proper
technology/services, etc.
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In the areas of transportation water and wastewater, what did they consider the
greatest challenges to be?
• Areas of City have older small-diameter water lines resulting in low pressure
(poor fire protection) — concentrated in NW/NE/SE need to help make safer and
more user-friendly. Still some areas around Cove Road and Richards Avenue
were not yet connected to public wastewater system.
• Need to invest more on on-road bicycle facilities — need to make roads and
intersections safer.
• Transit viability — was ridership going to decline further due to health concerns
with crowds, etc. — does this mean we need to change how transit is delivered?
Need to make transit ridership experience more pleasant — shelters for example.
In any of these areas what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds,
they believed could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Opportunities to use technology to advance Smart Cities initiatives. Leverage
technology to advance objectives in the Innovation Corridor — especially spin-
off/start-ups — greater opportunity for universal service.
• Frontline technology and bio-tech workforce preparation for existing residents
— talent development/pipeline. Pursue full-spectrum of opportunity in the
Innovation Corridor.
• View the treatment plants as assets for innovation and business testing —
treating the plants as incubators for places to develop and test innovation —
potential to partner with VT.
Council Member Cobb initiated the conversation with Star City Strong Phase 2
Focus Group —Well-Being by asking the following questions:
In the area of well-being for our residents households and neighborhoods, what do they
consider to be the greatest weakness in our community as it relates to recovery from
COVID-19?
• On-going and generational poverty made worse with COVID. Still high number of
uninsured in our community. Opioid crisis pre-existed COVID and now has
become even worse with increases in overdoses and fatalities — in 2019 175
overdoses 30 fatalities, in 2020 450 overdoses 80 fatalities. Increases in STI's
(especially Hepatitis and Syphilis) in the community during Pandemic.
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In the area of well-being what would they consider the greatest challenges to be?
• Mental health service demand increased dramatically during COVID — likely to
continue post-COVID and present in ways not before seen.
• Lack of hope among Black men.
• Older generations raising younger children while they continue to struggle with
their own health challenges.
• Anxiety and trauma among youth in our community.
• Need for better conflict resolution among youth and young adults. Increased
need for resources for immigrant and refugees, including virtual and literacy
education and general assistance.
• Access to healthy and affordable food remains an issue — especially produce.
Access to and expense of child care.
In any of these, what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds do you
believe could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Easily accessible and more mental health professionals — especially oriented
toward youth with increased accessibility across socio-economic lines. Multi-
generational approach to interventions and solutions — program RESTORE.
• Conflict resolution training. Wrap-around services for those seeking help.
Sustainable source of financial support.
• Crisis intervention. Recovery Housing. Solutions need to be scaled to the size of
the problems. Coordination of responses (mental health, substance use, etc.)
Help returning citizens — build on current services and increase opportunities for
successful and sustainable return to community. Coordinated so entry point does
not matter — approach in community is consistent, multi-generational and
interconnected.
Council Member Stephanie Moon-Reynolds headed the discussion with the Star
City Strong Phase 2 Focus Group — Housing, and initiated the conversation by asking
the group the following questions:
4Q7
In the area of housing what do you consider to be the greatest weakness in our
community as it relates to recovery from COVID-19?
• Unsustainable sales market — driven by interest rates and very low inventory.
Lack of new residential construction. Sales prices outstripping values. Housing
affordability. Aging housing stock and the costs of maintenance and upgrading.
Inability to move from renter to homeowner— missing middle of affordability.
• Temporary housing challenges associated with local hotel stays and long-term
stays — problematic in getting people placed in new housing. Deposit
requirements and rents are increasing and supply is in very short supply.
In the area of housing what do you consider the greatest challenges to be?
• Threat of evictions looming. Housing Quality Inspections attached to federal
funding is impacted by spike in cost of materials making access harder.
Substance use disorder and mental health issues are further complicating
housing situations. Only housing access may be in the form of substandard and
unsafe housing. Could be competing more with investors if prices keep rising.
In any of these what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds, do you
believe could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Online central portal for landlords to help renters apply for assistance — system is
currently based upon the renter taking the initiative.
• Focus on keeping people in their existing housing — much more costly to get
them back into housing. Housing vouchers are outnumbering the number of
available units. Strong market is causing owners to sell rental properties, which is
resulting in temporary loss of housing for renters.
Council Member Robert Jeffrey headed the discussion with the Star City Strong
Phase 2 Focus Group — Economic Recovery, and initiated the conversation by asking
the group the following questions:
In the area of our local economy, what do you consider to be the greatest weakness in
our community as it relates to recovery from COVID-19?
• Availability of labor. Challenges for new start-ups to be able to secure labor so
they may avoid opening or establishing new businesses.
• Availability of real estate and infrastructure capacity.
• Lack of black ownership and limited opportunities limit impact on local economy.
Not enough support for start-up and small businesses — especially community
support.
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• Lack of investment around replacement businesses and industries to replace lost
businesses — this has left Roanoke (businesses and employees) a bit more
susceptible to impacts.
In the area of economic recovery, what do you consider the greatest challenges to be?
• Ability to rebuild conference businesses. Competition among communities for
hospitality has increased — more incentives being offered to land conference
business.
• How can we return to full business and productivity when not sure what future is
— how to offset temporary risks — wage increases for part-time employees for
example.
• Need for funding temporarily to support live entertainment. Ability to return local
restaurants to market opportunity — maybe expand pay and benefits for workers.
• Cooperation among all regional jurisdictions.
In any of these what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds do you
believe could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Workforce development and training. Build community effort around supporting
start-up and small businesses. Investment in training in trades.
• Capitalize on the "renaissance of thinking and innovation" that has taken place
during COVID — how to link $ to the many good ideas that are out there.
Reinvigorate Roanoke as an entertainment center and venue — don't wait for
market — drive the market.
• Invest in livability and quality of life amenities to benefit attraction and retention.
Expand broadband services — focusing in NW and SE to create additional
options and better costs.
• Remote worker opportunities — high quality of life and low cost of living creates
great opportunity to live and work.
Vice-Mayor Trish White-Boyd headed the discussion with the Star City Strong
Phase 2 Focus Group — Education & Workforce, and initiated the conversation by
asking the group the following questions:
In the area of Education and Workforce what do you consider to be the greatest
weakness in our community as it relates to recovery from COVID 19?
• Post-graduate youth with limited access to job training and workforce
development. Lack of awareness of opportunities for workforce development.
V
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In the area of Education and Workforce what do you consider the greatest challenges
to be?
• Cost of downtown parking for employees. Transportation and childcare.
Awareness of opportunities.
• Need to do better at marketing and raising awareness of the resources that are
available. Lack of soft skills in many applicants and candidates.
• Need skilled and technical workers but also need general labor.
In any of these, what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds, do you
believe could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Raise awareness of career pathways and training opportunities at early age —
offer wrap-around support to enable folks to take advantage of training
opportunities.
• Seek out public-private partnerships linking schools to training providers aligned
with career pathways.
• Make connections between young adults and companies that are willing and able
to offer training — for example, apprenticeship programs.
• Job fairs for seniors. One-stop shop for job seekers to access information about
job opportunities.
Council Member Vivian Sanchez-Jones was not present, hence the City Manager
gave a brief overview of the discussion with the Star City Strong Phase 2 Focus Group
— Community Development and said the following questions were asked:
In the area of community development (parks recreation, neighborhood development,
etc ) what do you consider to be the greatest weakness in our community as it relates
to recovery from COVID-19?
• Small business impacts from COVID — especially restaurants, leaving them
vulnerable as the community goes through recovery.
• Poor physical design of current neighborhood centers — minimizes private
investment in these areas.
In the areas of parks recreation neighborhood development, what do you consider the
greatest challenges?
• As activities return to normal still taking time to regain confidence that it is safe to
participate — this can lead to smaller crowds and therefore less benefit to
vendors. Increased usage of parks and recreation is taking a toll on
maintenance.
• Need to invest in new outdoors amenities to reinforce regional brand.
• High-use areas (such as Mill Mountain) need particular attention — as part of
reinforcing the regional brand.
• How to invest in long-term solutions not just short-term returns. How can we be
innovative in partnerships to leverage funds?
500
R.
In any of these, what efforts or initiatives funded by American Rescue Act funds do you
believe could be truly transformational for our community and why?
• Focus on helping drive traffic/customers to the neighborhood centers. Place-
making and physical improvements in neighborhood center to support
redevelopment and economic activity.
• Youth recreation sports — especially in NW and SE areas of the City. Would like
to see investments in target areas enhanced.
• Continued expansion of greenways — to link neighborhoods. Parks and
recreation facilities that was culturally appropriate.
• Expanded role of DRI in downtown to help provide positive reinforcement in
downtown.
Council Member Bill Bestpitch headed the discussion with the Star City Strong
Phase 2 Focus Group — Board & Commission Leadership, and initiated the
conversation by asking the group the following questions:
What do you see as the greatest challenge confronting the City in its recovery from the
impacts of COVID-19?
• Access to broadband.
• Availability and affordability of housing.
• Growing risk of homelessness due to eviction.
• Equity and disparities.
• Access to living wage jobs.
• Access to transit options.
• Health inequities.
• Lack of mental health services and general social services.
• Job skills and competencies.
What do_ you think the primary objectives or goals should be in the use of the American
Rescue Plan Act funds?
• Support individuals and families.
• Seek the greatest return on one-time investments for individuals and the entire
City.
• Long-term resiliency.
• Sustainable investments — don't build what we can't maintain. Increase capacity
of existing programs and offerings.
• Address any immediate needs that exist — mental health, substance use,
violence, etc.
• Inclusive and equitable — address disparities and inequities.
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How do you believe we could invest the funds so as to result in transformational change
in the community?
• Leverage ARPA funds with existing CIP projects — for example use ARPA for
HVAC portion of a building project —freeing funds up to do more capital.
• Clearinghouse of resources, so all know what is available. Funds for 211 to
maintain data base — also need more employees — people need to know more
about what 211 offers.
• Neighborhood centers — focus community services here as well. Anything that
can break the cycle of poverty.
City Manager Bob Cowell gave an overview of the Star City Strong effort,
Phase 2, the role of the focus group and how the remainder of Phase 2 would occur and
initiated the conversation by asking the question:
What do you think the primary objectives or goals should be in the use of the American
Rescue Plan Act funds:
• Infrastructure.
• Economic Development Challenges.
• Job Opportunities.
• Build in resiliency against similar future conditions. Help bolster small
businesses. Retain high-growth opportunities/businesses to help diversity
workforce and economic opportunities.
• Support families.
If you were provided $1 million for a single initiative or project to help in the COVID-19
recovery, what would that initiative or project be? $10 million?
• Direct economic relief to small businesses in the community — grants — focused
especially on downtown and hospitality.
• Address homelessness and transient members of the community — especially in
downtown. Mental health services.
• Help evolve law enforcement response to mental health needs. Expand
broadband to rec centers and fire stations.
• Use ARPA to fund capital to avoid issuance of debt. Address our long-standing
needs we have been unable to address in the past (pools, rec centers, etc.)
Transit improvements — electric buses, shelters, expand the time notification
system, etc.
Mayor Lea thanked everyone for the information and advised that the remarks be
received and filed.
502
RENAMING LEE PLAZA: Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution
renaming Lee Plaza:
(#42121-071921) A RESOLUTION changing the name of Lee Plaza to rename
that portion adjacent to 3 I Street S. W., to Henrietta Lacks Plaza and that portion
adjacent to 2nd Street S. W., to Freedom Plaza as shown on the attached aerial map.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 783.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42121-071921. The
motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Sanchez-Jones was absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
The Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be
heard. If deemed appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for
response, recommendation or report to the Council.
MISCELLANEOUS: Chris Craft, 1501 Eastgate Avenue, N. E., appeared before
the Council with regard to the needs and concerns of the Wildwood Neighborhood.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
August 2, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in joint session with the Roanoke City
School Board on Monday, August 2, 2021 , at 9:00 a.m., at Fallon Park Elementary
School, 502 19th Street, S. E., City of Roanoke, Virginia, with Vice-Mayor Patricia
White-Boyd, presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article Il, 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. 41964-010421 adopted
by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021 .
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd-5.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., and Council Member Stephanie Moon
Reynolds-2.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES PRESENT: Diane M. Casola, Mark K. Cathey,
Michael L. Cherry, II, Elizabeth C. S. Jamison, Natasha N. Saunders, Joyce W.
Watkins, and Chairman Lutheria H. Smith-7.
SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES ABSENT: None-0.
Representing the City of Roanoke: Clarence G. Grier, Deputy City Manager; and
W. Brent Robertson, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.
Representing Roanoke City Public Schools: Verletta White, Superintendent of
Roanoke City Public Schools; Archie Freeman, Chief Academic Officer; and Cindy H.
Poulton, Clerk of the Roanoke City School Board.
SCHOOLS: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd welcomed everyone to the joint meeting of
City Council and the Roanoke City School Board and called upon the School Board
Chairman for remarks; whereupon, Chairman Smith welcomed everyone to the meeting
and noted that it was the first joint meeting for the newest School Board Trustees Diane
Casola and Michael Cherry, Il.
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City Council/School Board Communication: _N
Chairman Smith advised that the School Board desired to increase
communication efforts with the Council and would initiate monthly communications
among City Council/School Board buddies as well as after each School Board meeting.
RCPS+/5t" Quarter Update:
Verletta White, Superintendent, expressed excitement about the RCPS+ program
and advised that the overall goal was keeping kids strong, healthy in school while
having fun. She noted that the program served 2,589 students, an increase of 251
students, in ten sites versus seven sites in 2019. She also highlighted the 5-5-5
program which allowed elementary school students to explore five occupations within
five days.
2021 — 2022 School Readiness:
Ms. White explained that the school division would be hosting health and safety
clinics at various schools to offer COVID-19 vaccines and immunizations. She noted
that the plan to maintain three feet distance whenever possible would remain at all
schools; air purifiers were purchased and installed in schools and on school buses; "
handwashing and sanitizing stations would remain; instructional time would be
increased before and after school; Saturday school would be added; and breakfast
would be provided at all schools to help to ensure a healthy and successful school year.
ROTEC Internships/Transportation Planning for 2021 — 2022•
Council Member Cobb advised that the questions were in follow up to the
previous Equity in Action presentation where it was stated that students were to intern
with local businesses, but did not have access to stable transportation; whereupon, Ms.
White advised that the school division was committed to providing transportation to
students who utilized the program.
Efforts to create and sustain safe space for LGBTQ+ students and best practices;
and practices for treatment of transgender students:
Council Member Cobb commented that transgender students were doing great
things just by living their lives and standing in their truth and inquired as to the best
practices for treatment of the students within the schools.
Ms. White replied that the school division was committed to an inclusive school
environment and currently followed a strongly respected equity policy with instruction
reflective of every child.
505
Equity in Action:
Ms. White reiterated that the school division was committed to equity in the
highest standard and noted that a second technical careers facility would be added at
the former William Ruffner Junior High School building by September 9 to offer a
ROTEC location on both sides of town for students to utilize.
Discussion of Long-Range Planning for RCPS Renovation/Replacement Projects:
Council Member Bestpitch suggested that the school division consider naming a
building after Bill Robertson, former Hurt Park Elementary School Principal; and pointed
out that he supported the school funding policy, but questioned if the 40 percent and $5
million offered in the Capital Improvement Program was sufficient enough for the
schools.
Ms. White advised that the school division was truly appreciative of the 40
percent contribution to the schools and long-range planning was great, but no promises
could be made.
Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment and Gun Violence Intervention
Program Partnership:
Council Member Cobb advised that the City was to receive funding for two grants
with regard to youth gangs and gun violence which would allow for the hiring of a Youth
Gang Coordinator and outreach staff and noted the goal was for the assessment to be
comprehensive to touch all children.
Comments by City Council/School Board Trustees:
Trustee Saunders expressed excitement with regard to the addition of a second
ROTEC building in northwest Roanoke to service the William Fleming High School
students.
Chairman Smith commented that she was excited about youth and gang violence
assessment and the results said assessment may yield.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones suggested that the new ROTEC building be
named after Doris Ennis, long-time educator in Roanoke City Public Schools;
whereupon, Trustee Jamison advised that the school division had a policy for naming
buildings and asked the Clerk of the School Board to send the forms out to the Council
Members.
There being no further business, Chairman Smith thanked the Council for their
continued support and declared the School Board meeting adjourned at 10:20 a.m.
506
There being no further business, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd declared the Council
meeting in recess at 10:21 a.m.
At 10:57 a.m., the Council Meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., to consider
the following items for action, with Vice-Mayor White-Boyd presiding and all Members of
the Council in attendance, with the exception of Mayor Lea and Council Member Moon
Reynolds.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1 ), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey and
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Moon Reynolds were absent.)
ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY LOCATED ON MELROSE AVENUE AND COVE
ROAD, N. W.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene
in a Closed Meeting to discuss the acquisition by the City of property located on
Melrose Avenue and Cove Road, N. W., 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Jeffrey moved that Council concur in the request of the City
k, Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey and
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Moon Reynolds were 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.
BRIEFINGS:
Collective Response on Opioid Use Disorder and Update on the Blueprint for
Action
Steering Committee Chairs Janine Underwood, Executive Director, Bradley Free
Clinic, and Lee Clark, Chief Executive Office, Rescue Mission of Roanoke, along with
other members of the Steering Committee, Karen Pillis, Kimberly Horn, Nancy Hans,
Niles Comer, and Christine Baldwin appeared before the Council to provide an update
on the community coalition operated by volunteer leadership.
(See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Underwood advised that The Collective Response to the Opioid and
Addiction Crisis (RVCR) strives to re-chart the course and consequences of substance
use disorder in the community—not only preventing, but also ensuring that there were
always pathways to healthy and sustainable living for those affected by addiction. She
noted that the RVCR was a collaboration of influencers and community leaders
dedicated to finding sustainable solutions to the addiction crisis in the Roanoke Valley
and neighboring communities. The response encompasses over 300 individual
community stakeholders representing law enforcement, Emergency Medical Services,
healthcare, local and state government, education, community support organizations,
faith community, business community, and individuals and families personally touched
by addiction.
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Mr. Clark highlighted working group projects and successes:
• Child and Family Support
• Crisis Response and Connection to Care
• Prevention and Education
• Recovery
• Treatment
Ms. Underwood shared that the RVCR was led by a Steering Committee of 12
volunteers from various sectors in the Roanoke Valley and stated that the committee
was in need of a paid Executive Director to be in charge of administration,
communication, and program management, and said Director would work under the
Steering Committee in an advisory capacity. The Executive Director would also be
responsible for seeking out and applying for sustainable grand funding for programming.
In addition, the committee seeks part-time staff to take pressure off volunteers. She
further stated that in perhaps three years, it could become a stand-alone nonprofit
organization with its own board and mission.
Following the presentation, Council Member Bestpitch thanked the group for their
presentation and was glad to hear their focus was on housing for ongoing support of
recovery. He suggested the city reserve funding to assist the needs of the committee
along with other localities; and stated that more people were dying from overdoses than
from gun violence and asked of the committees' greatest need; wherein, Mr. Clark
answered sustainability and how to bring areas together.
Council Member Cobb thanked the group for the update and commended them
for the years of progress. He expressed concern with regard to the impact of overdoses
on the community.
Council Member Jeffrey commended the group for their passion and dedication,
especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting (11:35 a.m.).
The City Manager added that there had been 35 acts of gun violence in Roanoke
this year, while there have been 177 overdoses resulting in 26 fatalities and the real
strength of the Collective was orientation toward action and the city can continue to be
integrated and support the efforts, discuss the sustainability, and the Opioid litigation
was intended to generate ongoing revenue. He further noted that programs that were
logical candidates for the expenditures and the American Rescue Plan funding in
response to COVID-19 addressed substance use and abuse was part of eligible
expenditure, not sustainable, but something to bridge the gap.
509
At this point, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd relinquished the Chair to the Mayor.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones inquired whether Narcan training was available
to professionals, stakeholders, and others on how to recognize and respond to opioid
overdose emergencies; whereby, Mr. Clark advised there were two peers who provided
training and dispensed Narcan at the training, as well as, Blue Ridge Healthcare, the
Drop-In Center, and the Virginia Department of Health, huge partners to Revive Training
and working together to address the needs as different organizations and businesses
seek to get their staff trained and later supplied with the Narcan.
Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Underwood, Mr. Clark, and representatives for the
informative report and advised that the Update would be received and filed.
At 11 :44 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr.,
and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by District Elder, Sylvan Moyer, Pastor, Unlimited
Power Apostolic Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
510
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Tuesday, July 6, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0. . ,
2020 STRETEGIC PLAN OF THE WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY:
A communication from Gayle Shrewsbury, Secretary, Western Virginia Water Authority,
Board of Directors, transmitting the 2020 Strategic Plan of the Western Virginia Water
Authority, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that the communication be received and filed. The
motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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OATHS OF OFFICE-PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
COMM ISSION-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION. Reports of qualification of Stuart
Trinkle as a member (Protected Class) of the Personnel and employment Practices
Commission for a three-year term of office ending June 30, 2024; and Karl Willers as a
member of the Roanoke Arts Commission for a three-year term of office commencing
July 1 , 2021 and ending June 30, 2024.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
FY2021 `'FOUR-FOR-LIFE" GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the FY2021 "Four-For-Life" Grant for
training, supplies or other appropriate items used for Emergency Medical Services.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42122-080221) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding for the
FY2021 "Four-For-Life" program grant from the Virginia Department of Health, Office of
Emergency Management, which program returns to the jurisdiction a portion of the
registration fees collected from vehicles in that jurisdiction, to be used only for
emergency medical services, and authorizing the execution and filing of appropriate
documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 1.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42122-
080221 . The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42123-080221) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the Virginia ' '
Department of Health for the purpose of purchasing emergency medical service (EMS)
training, equipment and supplies, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 1.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42123-080221 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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FY2022 CONFERENCE AND EDUCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM GRANT:
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
FY2022 Conference and Education Assistance Program grant from the Virginia
Department of Fire Programs to provide support for the 2021 City of Roanoke Fire-EMS
Fire Seminar.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42124-080221 ) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding for the
2021 City of Roanoke Fire-EMS Fire Seminar from the FY2022 Virginia Department of
Fire Programs Conference and Education Program grant and authorizing the execution,
and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 2.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42124-080221 .
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote.
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42125-080221 ) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Fire Programs, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 3.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42125-
080221 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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YOUTH AND GANG VIOLENCE COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
acceptance of the Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment Program Grant
from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services to support the existing work of
the Roanoke Gun Violence Prevention Commission.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution.-
(#42126-080221)
esolution:(#42126-080221) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Youth and
Gang Violence Community Assessment Grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal
Justice Services and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate documents to
obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 4.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42126-080221 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
Council Member Moon Reynolds asked Council Member Cobb to give insight on
the construction of the Comprehensive Youth Gang Violence Community Assessment;
whereupon, he explained that the assessment was an opportunity for the Gun Violence
Commission to connect with children, youth, their families, and community wide
stakeholders, but predominantly with youth to hear about their lived experiences,
feelings, challenges, and hopes to comprehensively create intervention and prevention
strategies. He noted that the effort tied in with the second grant to be acted upon and
the Commission would reach out to all of the Youth Service providers in the community
to be effective in outreach, as well as, fill in some of the gaps until the end of December.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42126-080221 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
a
515
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42127-080221) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Criminal Justice Services Youth and Gang Violence Community
Assessment Program Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 -
2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 5.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42127-080221 . The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
GUN VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Gun Violence
Intervention Program Grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services to
establish and implement targeted interventions to high-risk areas and individuals
identified in the Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42128-080221) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Gun
Violence Intervention Program Grant from the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Criminal Justice Services and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate
documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 6.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42128-080221 .
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
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Council Member Cobb advised that the two-year grant, which concludes at the .
end of June 2023, allows the Gun Violence Commission to hire three personnel; one
Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator and two outreach workers; and the
other third of the Grant related to the intervention programs to sustain them beyond a
year in hopes to identify effectiveness and build on those programs moving forward.
Mayor Lea thanked Council Member Cobb for the work that had been done with
regard to the Gun Violence program and further stated that it would be good to look for
people who may have had experiences in gangs or may have been involved or could
relate in some way.
Council Member Cobb agreed that it was critical for some of the intervention
programs and explained that there were two models, a credible messenger program for
those incarcerated and were coming back to communities wanting to give back in a
positive way and the other was trusted community volunteers, people not normally
thought about, but who interact with youth every day. He noted there were so many
ways people related to youth and the hope was to train up to 100 people to assist in
working with youth and families to teach them to deescalate and resolve conflict in
healthy ways.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42128-080221 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42129-080221) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Criminal Justice Services Gun Violence Intervention Program Grant,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 6.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42129-
080221. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
g,
517
Council Member Moon Reynolds advised that the Budget Ordinance listed the
year 2021 and inquired if that was correct or if it should be 2022; whereupon, Council
Member Cobb expressed that it should be listed as 2022.
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to amend the budget ordinance by
changing 2021 to 2022 in the first paragraph of the measure. The motion seconded by
Council Member Bestpitch and unanimously adopted by voice vote.
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of the amended Budget
Ordinance No. 42129-080221 . The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPEAL AND REPLACE BUDGET ORDINANCE NO. 42110-071921 : The City
Manager submitted a written communication to repeal and replace Budget Ordinance
No. 42110-071921 adopted July 19, 2021 , authorizing acceptance of certain grants from
the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for
entitlement funding for the 2021 — 2022 fiscal year.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42130-080221) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Community Development Block
Grant Program (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Emergency
Solutions Grant (ESG), amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022
Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 7.)
518
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42130-
080221 . The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Roanoke Parks and Recreation is asking for help reimagining recreation
• Residents are invited to take a 10-minute survey to provide their input on
changes they'd like to see in our recreation facilities.
• The Reimagine Roanoke Online Survey asks what residents would like to see
from their recreation centers and pool facilities, how they should be maintained,
and how they would like to see these changes happen.
• The survey is available online in English and Spanish. Paper copies are also in
City library branches and at Eureka Park, Preston Park, and Grandin Court
recreation centers.
• More information is posted on the City's website homepage under "Read About �.,.•
Roanoke."
The Transportation Division's "No Need to Speed" pedestrian safety
campaign is nearing its completion
• The campaign runs from June 21 to August 15.
• Every week, the campaign focuses on a different quadrant in the City to spread
awareness about the dangers of speeding.
• Campaign messaging is done primarily through social media platforms and
interviews with local media outlets.
• "No Need to Speed" has utilizes a number of creative ways to engage residents
on this important safety topic, including the latest initiative—the "Color Your
Corner" contest. Five artists were selected to have their artwork installed on a
signal cabinet in the City to create more awareness.
• The campaign is being funded through a grant from the Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles, with the goal of impacting the behaviors of drivers on City
streets.
• To follow the campaign, check out the Facebook page for the Transportation
Division or the City of Roanoke.
519
CITY ATTORNEY:
VIRGINIA OPIOID ABATEMENT FUND AND SETTLEMENT ALLOCATION:
The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending execution of a
Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Roanoke and the Commonwealth
of Virginia for the Virginia Opioid Abatement Fund and Settlement Allocation.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42131-080221) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") among the City of Roanoke, and The
Commonwealth of Virginia, governing the terms, conditions, and obligations among
such parties for the Virginia Opioid Abatement Fund and Settlement Allocation.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 11 .)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42131-080221.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
Mayor Lea asked the City Attorney to explain what the MOU was referencing;
whereby, the City Attorney stated that it was a bright moment in the cooperative
measure between the Commonwealth of Virginia and its political subdivisions such as
the City of Roanoke. As previously discussed in the opioid briefing, the opioid epidemic
hit the locality hard and as a result, the City of Roanoke was suing to recover from the
manufacturers of opioids who carelessly addicted so many citizens to the drugs.
As a result of the litigation, the City Attorney further explained that 15 percent
was going to the Virginia Opioid Abatement fund; 15 percent would be used to address
some of the impacts of the opioid epidemic; the City of Roanoke would receive a benefit
by initial deployment with the number of addictions, overdoses, and impact on services.
He noted that the formula was complicated; however, the City would proceed with
assistance from Mayor Lea and Attorney General Mike Herring who has worked very
hard to be in a cooperative sense with political subdivisions.
520
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42131-080221 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
Council Member Bestpitch interjected that he had committee reports to share;
wherein, Mayor Lea granted him the opportunity to speak. Mr. Bestpitch reported on
two meetings he attended recently (via Zoom); the Redistricting Commission new with
the Commonwealth of Virginia, in which he shared the improvements the City of
Roanoke has made in the precinct arrangements so that there was equal access to the
ballot by ensuring as many voters can vote as possible. He added that all city official "'
elections, for Mayor, City Council, and Constitutional Officers were at large and all cities
in the same Congressional District. However, part of the City was split between the 11 th
and 17t" House of Delegates, with eight precincts partly in the 11 t" and partly in the 17t".
Council Member Bestpitch asked that the Commission to strongly consider
forming the district lines to the precinct lines, as much as possible, so that when people
go to the polling locations, they would vote for the same slate of candidates.
He further stated that a second meeting was held on July 30 with the Virginia
Municipal League — General Laws Committee, in which the City Attorney was in
attendance; and noted that with the legalization of recreational use of marijuana, the law
enforcement community thought they would have up to three years to prepare and train
people to recognize and deal with impaired driving under the influence of marijuana; it
was clear that the simple odor of marijuana was not enough for an officer to charge
someone with impaired driving unless other violations were observed.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd announced the Equity and Empowerment Advisory
Board would meet in person on August 5 at 6:30 p.m., in the Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, First Floor, EOC Conference Room, Room 159. She expressed her
disappointment that City meetings would no longer be held by Zoom and suggested it
may be a lost opportunity for citizens to participate in other meetings.
521
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
MISCELLANEOUS: Council Member Cobb commented that after attending an
event at Mill Mountain Theatre on Saturday, he experienced a 20-minute delay to depart
the parking garage and requested a reevaluation of signage displaying payment
instructions for patrons.
UPCOMING STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS: Mayor Lea announced the
annual State of the City Address at The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center on
Thursday, August 19, 7:30 a.m. — 9:00 a.m., to review the city's accomplishments over
the past year and provide a look ahead at upcoming city initiatives. Registration
available online at www.roanokecharnber.or .
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Moon Reynolds was not present when vote was recorded.)
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
522
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy
created by the resignation of Antwyne U. Calloway and the upcoming expiration of the
three-year term of office of Amanda McGee as members of the Board of Zoning
Appeals ending December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 , respectively; whereupon,
he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the names of Tracy Jernigan
Brown and Amanda McGee.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Brown was appointed to fill the
unexpired term of office of Antwyne U. Calloway ending December 31, 2022, and
reappointed Ms. McGee for a three-year term of office commencing January 1, 2022
and ending December 31 , 2024 by the following vote:
FOR MS. BROWN AND MS. MCGEE: Council Members Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the three-year term of office of Scott Tate as a member of the Roanoke
Public Library Board that ended June 30, 2021 ; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations. ,,,
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Karla Christian.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Christian was appointed to replace Scott
Tate, as a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board for a term of office ending
June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. CHRISTIAN: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: The Mayor
called attention to the expiration of the three-year term of office of Frederick Gusler as a
Citizen representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission that
ended June 30, 2021 ; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Dawn Erdman.
a.
523
There being no further nominations, Ms. Erdman was appointed to replace
Frederick Gusler, as a Citizen representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional
Commission for a term of office ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. ERDMAN: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-
Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-7.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 2:58 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
524
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
August 16, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, August 16, 2021
at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
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. 41964-010421 adopted by the Council on
Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
L Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Ben Brannan, Associate Pastor
for Youth, Second Presbyterian Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared
Monday, August 16, 2021 as Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors Day and
presented the proclamation to Joe Sutliff, Roanoke Valley Association of Realtors.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Lea declared
Monday, August 16, 2021 as Dan Smith Day. Vice-Mayor White-Boyd presented the
proclamation to Dan Smith.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
525
ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE: Council
Member Moon Reynolds presented Paul Workman, Budget Manager and staff of
Management and Budget Department, the Government Finance Officers Association
(GFOA)Award for the FY 2021 Budget.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
MISCELLANEOUS: David Garland, 3704 Round Hill Avenue, N. W., appeared
before the Council expressing concerns about security of City Council computers' and
requested an internal investigation into the destruction of public records on City devices
issued to City Council members and the results be shared publicly.
CONSENTAGENDA
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, July 19, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
526
ANNUAL PERFORMANCES OF THE COUNCIL-APPOINTED OFFICERS: A
communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, Chair, City Council Personnel
Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a
personnel matter, being the annual performances 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.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Vice-
Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
DISPOSITION OF REAL ESTATE AND CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL
COUNSEL: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene
in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of real estate and consultation with legal
counsel, 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.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
L
527
SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 0 NORFOLK
AVENUE, S. W.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council
schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, September 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or
as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time as the City
Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to consider the sale property located at 0
Norfolk Avenue, S. W., to TLC Properties, Inc., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, .Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY REGIONAL CABLE TELEVISION COMMITTEE: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Jane Missal as a
member of the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee, effective
immediately, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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VIRGINIA'S FIRST REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY AND
WESTERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Robert Ledger as a
City representative of the Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facility Authority and
Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority, due to his retirement, effective
August 1, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD-MILL MOUNTAIN
ADVISORY BOARD-BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS-ROANOKE ARTS
COMMISSION-DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals were before the Council:
Lew Bishop as a City representative of the Blue Ridge Behavioral
Healthcare, Board of Directors for a three-year term of office,
commencing January 1, 2022 and ending December 31, 2024;
Karla Christian as a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board
for a term of office ending June 30, 2024;
Sunni Purviance as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood
Advocates for a two-year term of office, commencing October 1,
2021 and ending September 30, 2023; and
Drew H. Kepley as a Commissioner of the Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority for a four-year term of
office, commencing September 1, 2021 and ending August 31,
2025.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
_ AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
VICTIM/WITNESS PROGRAM GRANT FUNDING: The Commonwealth's
Attorney submitted a written communication recommending the acceptance of the
Victim/Witness Program Grant from the Department of Criminal Justice Services in
accordance with the Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act; and the City
Manager submitted a written communication concurring in the recommendation.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(442132-081621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Victim
Witness Grant from the Department of Criminal Justice Services and authorizing the
execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 12.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42132-
081621. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42133-081621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Victim Witness Program Grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 13.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42133-081621. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report
Dr. Sean McGinnis, Director of Virginia Tech Green Engineering Program,
Roanoke City— Citizens for Clean Green Committee, shared information regarding the
2019 Community and Municipal Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Energy
Summary and highlighted the following information:
• Atmospheric CO2 Concentration Data
• Key Conclusions From The IPCC 6th Climate Assessment Report
• Roanoke's Climate Related Weather Threats
• Roanoke Heat Mapping Results
• 5 Step Process For GHG Reduction
• Roanoke Energy and GHG Inventory Analysis
• Emissions Reduction Strategies
• Community Outreach
City of Roanoke Electricity Usage
• City of Roanoke Natural Gas Usage
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• City of Roanoke Transportation Analysis
• City of Roanoke Community GHG Emissions
• Municipal Initiatives
• ClimateView Modeling Software
• How ClimateOS Enables Cities to Manage The Transition To Lower
Energy/Emissions
• ClimateView Results
• Summary & Recommendations
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Dr. McGinnis summarized the report stating that often, the global or national
trends were harder to translate to the local level and the Roanoke Urban Heat Map
study may be a good way to make the information relevant especially with the
heightened awareness of the disproportionate impacts on the economically/socially
disadvantaged population in the City.
He advised that the City was on track for current targets of 7.2 percent reduction
in 2019 and 10 percent commitment by 2024, but most of the reduction was due to
utility (AEP) electricity changes, not due to changes in Roanoke residential, commercial
or industrial behavior and initiatives; he noted that the targets were not aggressive
enough to avoid major climate, health, and economic disruptions given the new data on
climate changes.
He concluded stating that Virginia was now targeting carbon neutral with 100
percent reduction by 2050 and it was recommended that the City should make a new
aggressive target of 50 percent reduction of emissions by 2030 to improve the
environment, health, and economics in the region. Lastly, he added that ClimateView,
or an equivalent software tool, allows powerful prospective modeling to help the City
with the challenging environmental, economic, and social tradeoffs; and that it wa on-
going analysis effort, supported strongly over the past decade by City Council and staff,
provides the data required to make good decisions to improve the future environmental,
health, and economic sustainability of the City.
Council Member Jeffrey commented that it was important to focus on
greenhouse gas emissions and increase the level of priority as the world had been
impacted severely; and inquired as to how the City of Roanoke compared to other
localities for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions.
Dr. McGinnis advised that most cities do not have plans and he had only seen
two or three published plans.
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In response to an inquiry with regard to intervention, Nell Boyle, Sustainability
Outreach Coordinator, replied that the community greenhouse gas emissions were
generally driven by the electric company and moving them to use cleaner energy was a
wonderful thing, but the municipal activities was a separate report and not as frequent.
She expressed that the Solarize Roanoke program was going pretty well as well as the
use of electric vehicles, but the citizen engagement was very important for healthy, safe
and empowered programs.
Following additional comments by the Council Members, Mayor Lea thanked Dr.
McGinnis for the informative presentation and advised that the briefing would be
received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
FISCAL YEAR 2022 VIRGINIA DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIM FUND GRANT:
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending the acceptance of
the Fiscal Year 2022 Virginia 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.)
E Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
it (#42134-081621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Virginia
Domestic Violence Victim Fund Grant from the Commonwealth of Virginia Department
of Criminal Justice Services and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate
documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 14.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42134-
081621. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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533
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42135-081621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Victim Fund
Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund —
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 15.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42135-081621. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER.
The City Manager offered the following comments:
The Roanoke Arts Commission is seeking exhibition-ready art for the
Welcome to Roanoke" Exhibition
• Submissions from artists of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels are welcome
• This will be a 10-month exhibit, from Sept. 10, 2021 to June 30, 2022
Art will be displayed in the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building
• The exhibition will be curated by members of the RAC Collections Committee
The deadline to submit an entry is midnight on Tuesday, August 31.
Recently it was announced that this year's Go Outside Festival (GO Fest)
will move to Downtown Roanoke for its 10th anniversary.
• Event dates: October 15-17
• This event will be a joint effort of the Roanoke Outside Foundation, City of Roanoke
Parks and Recreation Department, and Downtown Roanoke Inc.
• It will span from Elmwood Park all the way to the City Market Building, with in-between
streets closed for vendors, stunt shows, activities, beer gardens, and live music.
534
The hope is that making this move will bring a much-needed economic boost to our
downtown businesses — which struggled throughout the pandemic — and involve them
with the regional effort to brand Virginia's Blue Ridge as an outdoor mecca.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
Programs; and the City Manager 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 White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42136-081621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re- ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 16.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42136-
081621. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Council Member Moon Reynolds made announcements with regard to Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority partnerships.
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535
Council Member Cobb announced 'Groceries Not Guns' event to be held
Saturday, August 21, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 401 Gainsboro Road N. W., to
exchange firearms for grocery gift cards; Building Bridges Over Barriers and the
Roanoke Sigmas will present United and Rising Together— No Guns, Just Fun event on
Saturday, August 21 at Forest Park Academy from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and lastly
mentioned employment opportunities through the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission; for more information, contact Angie O'Brien at
angela.o'brien(abroanokeva goy or qvpc(@.roanokeya.gov.
gov.
Mayor Lea urged citizens to get the COVID-19 vaccination.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDING: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered
the following resolution supporting the proposed America Rescue Plan Act funding for
Virginia Tourism destinations:
(#42137-081621) A RESOLUTION supporting the Proposed American Rescue
Plan Funding for Virginia Tourism Destinations.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 18.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42137-081621.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The City Manager advised that Governor Northam proposed a $50 million
investment to be allocated to the Virginia Tourism Corporation to assist with the tourism
industry.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42137-081621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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536
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
Mayor Lea advised that it was requested that Council make the following
appointments from the floor; whereupon, the majority of the Council replied in the
affirmative.
VIRGINIA'S FIRST REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY: The
Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Robert Ledger as City
representative of the Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facility Authority for a term of
office ending June 30, 2022; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Marc Nelson.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Nelson was appointed to replace Robert
Ledger as a City representative of the Virginia's First Regional Industrial Facility
Authority for a term of office ending June 30, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MR. NELSON: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
WESTERN VIRGINIA'S REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY: The
Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Robert Ledger as City
representative of the Western Virginia's Regional Industrial Facility Authority for a term
of office ending February 3, 2024; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Marc Nelson.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Nelson was appointed to replace Robert
Ledger as a City representative of the Western Virginia's Regional Industrial Facility
Authority for a term of office ending February 3, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. NELSON: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
537
VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: The Mayor called
attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Shaleen Powell as City
representative of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, Board of Directors for a term of office
ending June 30, 2022; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Elda Stanco Downey.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Stanco Downey was appointed to
replace Shaleen Powell as a City representative of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge, Board
of Directors for a term of office ending June 30, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MS. STANCO DOWNEY: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
At 3:57 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor She P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Preston K. Tyler, Pastor, Hill
Street Baptist Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
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538
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Jeffrey 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
RECOGNITION OF THE BOXING AND BRAWLING SPORTS AND
RECREATION CENTER: Mayor Lea recognized La'Torie Woodberry, Youth and
Program Coach, and youth mentor for ages 7 to 17 and has cultivated an interest in
boxing as well as fitness.
LRECOGNITION OF BUILDING BRIDGES OVER BARRIERS AND THE GAMMA
THETA SIGMA CHAPTER OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY, INCORPORATED:
Mayor Lea recognized Jalen Small, William Gravely, Jr., and Dr. Andre' Tucker and
congratulated them for their efforts to mentor youth and to give back to the community.
RECOGNITION OF THE ELITE BUSINESS STRATEGY TEAM: Mayor Lea
recognized Sharon Estreval-Moore and members of the Elite Business Strategy Team
for their professional leadership, community outreach and education events, mobile
vaccine clinics, and success to get citizens vaccinated in Roanoke.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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, August 16,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
the Roanoke City School Board, operating as Roanoke City Public Schools, to vacate
the entirety of Ferndale Drive, N. W., located between 3601 Ferncliff Avenue, N. W.,
and 2845 Hershberger Road, N. W., and the right of way extending south along Ordway
Drive, N. W., bounded by 3601 Ferncliff Avenue, N. W., 2845 Hershberger Road, N. W.;
and Ordway Drive, N. W., the matter was before the body.
539
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, July 27, 2021 and Tuesday, August 3, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the vacation would not create an
inconvenience to the public and the application is consistent with the City's
Comprehensive Plan and the Peters Creek North Neighborhood Plan; and added that
the proposed vacated Ferndale Drive and right-of-way will be incorporated into the
adjoining properties to provide additional improvements for security and staff parking for
William Ruffner Professional Development and Operations Center.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42138-081621) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing approximately 2.25 acres of property known as Ferndale Drive, N. W., located
between 3601 Ferncliff Avenue, N. W., Official Tax Map No. 6460102, and 2845
Hershberger Road, N. W., Official Tax Map No. 6450104, and the right-of-way
extending south along Ordway Drive, N. W., bounded by 3601 Ferncliff Avenue, N. W.,
Official Tax Map No. 6460102; 2845 Hershberger Road, N. W., Official Tax Map No.
6450104; and Ordway Drive, N. W., as more particularly described hereinafter; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 20.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42138-081621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
Chris Perkins, Chief Operations Officer, Roanoke City Public Schools appeared
before the Council in support of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
540
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42138-081621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
OTHER BUSINESS:
PETITION FOR APPEAL FILED BY ROBERT AND ELIZABETH BOHR: A
Petition for Appeal filed by Robert and Elizabeth Bohr appealing a decision of the
Architectural Review Board denying a request to replace wood windows for the upper
story of the home at 442 King George Avenue, S. W., was before the Council.
(See Petition for Appeal on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Architectural Review Board submitted a written report advising that the
alterations were inconsistent with the H-2 guidelines; therefore, recommending that City
Council affirm its decision to deny the Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing the
historic wood windows with vinyl windows; and the applicant should submit a new
Certificate of Appropriateness application to be reviewed by the Architectural Review
Board for removing the vinyl windows installed and replacing them with appropriate
wood double hung window sashes resembling the appearance of the original historic
wood double hung window sashes.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Chris Partin, Esquire, on behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Bohr advised that the Bohr's
purchased the vinyl windows in the best interest as a homeowner and the decision of
the Architectural Review Board was inequitable. Mr. and Mrs. Bohr defended the
purchase of the windows and advised that they had a budget of $7,500.00 to replace
the 14 top windows, but when the pandemic hit the price of lumber went up and wood
windows or aluminum clad wood windows would have been $35,000.00. The Bohr's
pleaded with the Council to reverse the decision of the Architectural Review Board and
allow the replacement windows.
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541
Bill Hume, Chair, Architectural Review Board, advised that it was indeed a
misunderstanding on the part of the homeowner, but the Board had a responsibility to
the historic district in Roanoke to uphold the guidelines and shared that the windows
were removed without following the process in place where the Board views the
property and the applicant proves that without a doubt the windows could not be
repaired without replacement.
He continued stating that the Board takes that very seriously within the district
and once the characteristics of the home were gone it's gone and noted that the
homeowners replaced 12 historic wooden window sashes with new vinyl sashes that do
not match the double hung window sashes. He further advised that the product
purchased was inconsistent with the H2 guidelines as noted in the ARB report and
recommended that Council affirm the decision to deny the Certificate of
Appropriateness.
Following in-depth discussion with regard to the matter, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
moved that the appeal unfortunately be denied with respect to the other neighbors that
live in that neighborhood and uphold the decision from the Architectural Review Board.
The motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The City Attorney interjected stating that if the Council wanted to delay or grant
the Bohr's additional time for the price of materials to change, the motion could be
altered to do so.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered an amended motion stating that the Appeal
unfortunately be denied and uphold the decision from the Architectural Review Board;
however, City Council hereby gives the applicants until September 1, 2022 to make
application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace the current windows with
appropriate windows. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
and Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: Council Member Cobb-1.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
The Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be
heard. If deemed appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for
response, recommendation or report to the Council.
542
POLICE DEPARTMENT: Elizabeth Casey, 5721 Santa Anita Terrace, N. W.,
appeared before the Council to commend the Police Department for their hard work.
VIOLENT CRIME: Eric and Tracey Klotz, 510 Downing Street, N. W., appeared
before the Council regarding violent crime in the City of Roanoke.
CLIMATE CHANGE: Laura Hartman, 1209 Campbell Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council to provide testimony regarding the GHG inventory, urban heat map,
and an increase funding for Valley Metro.
CLIMATE CHANGE: Terry McGuire, 339 King George Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council in support of the suggestions of Dr. Sean McGinnis on the results of
greenhouse gas inventory and the urban heat study.
CLIMATE CHANGE: Sarah Davis Dean, 714 Dupont Circle, S. W., appeared
before the Council and urged Council to take action to improve climate change.
TREE CANOPY: Chris Bryant, 1315 Sewell Lane, S. W., appeared before the
Council regarding issues related to decreasing tree canopy and suggested planting
more trees in the City.
MISCELLANEOUS: Freeda Cathcart, 2516 Sweetbrier Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council with regard to protecting the Spring Hollow Reservoir and stopping
Mountain Valley Pipeline.
CLIMATE CHANGE: David Linton, 2046 Westover Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council with regard to protecting the Spring Hollow Reservoir and to slow
climate change.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 9:24 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Yeran P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
September 7, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday,
September 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, 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.
41964-010421 adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., (arrived late)-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEM FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent when the vote was recorded.)
544
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.
BRIEFING:
Volatia Language Services Mobile App Access
The City Manager advised that for quite some time staff has been working to
ensure that everyone who calls the City of Roanoke was able to be active and
participate in government and maintain services for E9-1-1 calls or routine activities and
include sign language interpreters depending on the situation. He noted that the project
included production of materials in English and outreach to Spanish speaking residents
as the community seeks more ways to be inclusive; and introduced Katie Hedrick,
Outreach Support Specialist to outline the most recent efforts underway.
Ms. Hedrick explained that the City has been working to increase awareness and
the way all citizens access the city. She pointed out that the City of Roanoke has
contract services in two pieces, the first piece being Volatia an app acceptable by all
Roanoke city employees to improve communication, public safety, libraries, planning
and permitting, etc. She provided a demonstration of the app and noted that the second
piece was a language proficient call-in line complete with an interpreter for
approximately 826 languages available in about 30 seconds; and currently 23
departments had been set up with seven additional departments in the process of being
implemented.
Following comments and accolades by several Council Members, the Vice-
Mayor advised that the briefing would be received and filed.
At 9:16 a.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a
Legislative Committee meeting in the Council Chamber.
At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting and the Vice-Mayor relinquished the
Chair (9:17 a.m.).
At 10:47 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
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At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
NATIONAL DISABILITY VOTER REGISTRATION WEEK: Mayor Lea declared
September 13 —20, 2021 as National Disability Voter Registration Week.
(See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mayor Lea read and presented the proclamation declaring September 13 — 17,
2021 as National Disability Voter Registration Week to Karen Michalski-Karney,
Executive Director, Blue Ridge Independent Living Center.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, August 2, 2021, was before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Jeffrey moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RESIGNATION-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: A communication
from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Rosheta Chase as a member of the
Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, effective immediately, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RESIGNATION-ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: A communication from the
City Clerk advising of the resignation of Bill Hume as a member of the Architectural
Review Board, effective October 1, 2021, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved that the resignation be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member
Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF
THE CITY OF ROANOKE: Annual report of the Economic Development Authority of the
City of Roanoke for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2021, was before the Council.
(See copy of Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Jeffrey moved that the annual report be received and filed. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: Annual
report of the Roanoke Public Library Board for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2021,
was before the Council.
(See copy of Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved that the annual report be received and filed. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL
COMMISSION-ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: Reports of qualification of
Dawn Tanner Erdman as a Citizen representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany
Regional Commission for a term of office ending June 30, 2024; and Dorothy Yancey as
a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board for a three-year term of office ending
June 30, 2024, were before the Council
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
s
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REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
Public Art Update
Doug Jackson, Arts and Culture Coordinator, briefed the Council on the FY 2021
Public Art projects and highlighted the following information:
• Public Art Work Plan
• Background: 2020-21 Accomplishments Funded with Percent for Art Fund
• Reimagining Roanoke Sculpture Exhibition
o Including 5 new works, 4 from regional artists
• Purchases from three regional artists of color
• One Art in Place partnership mural agreement executed and a pipeline built
• Arches diversity story hours
• Cleaned & repaired Sister Cities Sculptures
• Purchased Art
o Robert Pennix. Father Figure
o Graphite, 2020
o From the Black Fatherhood Exhibition at the Harrison Museum
o Bryce Cobbs. Gifts of Protection, Understanding, and Wisdom
o Oil and Digital Prints, 2020
o Yulandra Livingston. Selections from "Workers" on view at the Eleanor D.
Wilson Museum at Hollins through 9/19
o Photographs, 2013 - 2014
o Josh Nolan. 210 Fourth Street, viewed from Campbell Avenue
• 2020-21 Accomplishments
o Partnerships
o We Are Art Rap Cypher and Elementary School Project
o Clean Streets Jingle Competition
o Color your Corner: Signal Boxes
o Inlet Art Project
• Grants: Applied for four grants for public art projects — responses between
November 21 —April 22
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.. 2021-22 Overview
o Funded Projects Carried Forward
o South Roanoke E-Branch ($3,000)
o Art in Place fund ($7,000) projects in development
D Approved by the Roanoke Arts Commission (RAC) August 17, 2021 -
$20K new expenditures.
o Projects for New Funding
o Placemaking Project— SE Greenway Gateways ($10,0oo)
o Matched with $10K from National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)
o Partner Project: Art in Place Fund ($7,000)
o Collection goals: 2-D art by artists of color and diverse backgrounds
($3,000)
o Partner Projects— (No funding obligation from % for Art)
o Color Your Corner (Transportation)
o Melrose Bus Shelters (Community Development and Valley Metro)
o Welcome to Roanoke Exhibition in the Municipal Building
o Ongoing maintenance responsibilities
• Summary
• Total in Percent for Art Account $80,000
• Carried Forward
o Art in Place Program $7,000
o E-Branch $3,000
• FY 2022 Expenses $10,000
o SE Greenway Gateways $10,000
o Art in Place Partnership Program $7,000
o 2-D Acquisitions $3,000
Total $20,000
Remaining — approximately $50,000
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Jackson explained that the Roanoke Arts Commission put a call out to artists
to reimagine Roanoke and received approximately 56 responses ultimately working with
about 9 artists, five within a two hour radius of Roanoke and with five pieces of art
produced specifically for the show.
He continued stating that in the hallway outside of the Council Chamber art
would be on display on a rotating basis; and reminded the Council of the concept of
piloting a public-private partnership to try to put more art, more frequently, categorize it,
faster in public places.
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In closing, Mr. Jackson requested City Council's concurrence in the Roanoke
Arts Commission's recommendation for funding to cover the FY 2021 expenses, in the
amount of$20,000.00.
Following remarks from several Members of City Council, Mayor Lea called for a
voice vote to concur in the Roanoke Arts Commission's recommendation as
abovementioned which was unanimously adopted.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
FY 2022 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF FIRE PROGRAMS FUND GRANT: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of FY
2022 Virginia Department of Fire Programs grant funds.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42139-090721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Virginia
Department of Fire Programs FY22 Funds and authorizing the execution, and filing of
appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 23.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42139-
090721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42140-090721) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Fire Programs, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 23.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42140-
090721. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BLOCK GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of funds from the Surface
Transportation Block Grant to be used for the Greenway Connection along Riverland
Road Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42141-090721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Virginia
Department of Transportation STBG Funds and authorizing the execution, and filing of
appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 24.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42141-090721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42142-090721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Transportation Funds to the Greenway Connection - Riverland project,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Capital Projects Fund
Appropriations.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 25.)
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Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42142-
090721. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2021 EVICTION PREVENTION BOOST PLANNING GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the 2021 Eviction
Prevention Boost Planning Grant to be used by the Financial Empowerment Center in
connection with eviction prevention in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42143-090721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2021 Cities
for Financial Empowerment Eviction Prevention Boost Planning Grant and authorizing
the execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 26.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42143-
090721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42144-090721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Financial
Empowerment Fund Amendment for eviction prevention of low and moderate income
individuals, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund
and Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 27.)
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Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42144-
090721. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ORDINANCE: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City Code to
update and clarify the City's Fire Prevention and Protection Ordinance.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42145-090721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 12-19,
Amendments, Article II, Fire Prevention Code, Chapter 12, Fire Prevention and
Protection, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to conform the numbering
of various sections to the 2018 Statewide Fire Prevention Code; 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. 82, page 28.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42145-090721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
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The City Manager offered the following comments:
Labor Day Week Trash Collection
• City offices were closed on Monday, September 6, in observance of the Labor
Day holiday. As a result, the Solid Waste Collection Schedule for collection of
trash, bulk, brush, and "B" week single-stream recycling will be delayed one day
throughout the week.
Annual Neighborhood Awards
• Nominations are now open for this year's program.
• Recognizes and honors outstanding contributions, excellence and
accomplishments achieved by neighborhood organizations and civic individuals.
• Awards based on:
o Making physical and/or social improvements to our neighborhoods,
o Connecting neighbors and/or neighborhoods with one another, and
o Building the capacity of a neighborhood organization to better serve our
community.
• The deadline to nominate someone is Friday, November 5. Nominations may be
submitted at roanokeva.gov/neighborhoodawards.
Free Training for Neighborhood Organizations
• This fall, the City will offer 'Taking Your Organization to The Next Level," a free
course led by Program Consultant Steve Hixon, designed to help neighborhood
associations learn leadership development and other skills.
• This training, facilitated by the City's HUD Community Resources Division and
the Office of Neighborhood Services, will consist of six virtual classes to be held
over three months.
• The deadline to register is Friday, September 10.
• More information can be found on the City's website homepage, under 'Read
About Roanoke'
Roanoke Will Celebrate Welcoming Week
• The week of September 10 - 19, the City of Roanoke will host its 4th annual
Welcoming Week, along with many local partners.
Underthe theme "Belonging Begins With US," the City will hold several events.
• The opening ceremony will be held on Friday, September 10, at 11:30 a.m., here
in the Council Chamber.
• Other events include a 51K Fun Run/Roanoke Runs for Refugees, a Scavenger
Hunt and vendor fair, an International Soccer Cup, Salsa lessons, and the
Roanoke World Tour of Food.
A full list of local events, times, and locations can be found at
roanokeva.gov/welcomingroanoke
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The City Manager introduced Lauren Waldron, new Citizen Engagement
Manager for the Office of Communications.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE: Council Member Bestpitch offered the
following resolution designating the Honorable Joseph L. Cobb as the Voting Delegate,
and the Honorable Stephanie Moon Reynolds as Alternate Voting Delegate for the
Annual Virginia Municipal League Urban Section Meeting on Sunday, October 3, 2021,
in Leesburg, Virginia:
(#42146-090721) A RESOLUTION designating a Voting Delegate and Alternate
Voting Delegate for the meetings of the Urban Section of the Virginia Municipal League.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 30.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42146-090721.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
RECOGNITION OF THE CITY ATTORNEY: Mayor Lea recognized the City
Attorney's commitment to the study of opioid addiction; acknowledged his appointment
to the Opioid Abatement Board by Governor Northam and noted that many others
across the State were serving in that capacity in the fight against opioids. -
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VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Katherine Gutshall as a member
(Certified Architect) of the Architectural Review Board ending October 1, 2021;
whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Byron Dickson.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Dickson was appointed to replace
Katherine Gutshall as a member (Certified Architect) of the Architectural Review Board
for a four-year term of office commencing October 2, 2021 and ending October 1, 2025,
by the following vote:
FOR MR. DICKSON: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy
created by the resignation of Bill Hume as a member (Certified Architect) of the
Architectural Review Board ending October 1, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Stephen Feather.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Feather was appointed as a member
(Certified Architect) of the Architectural Review Board to fill the unexpired term of office
of Bill Hume ending October 1, 2023, by the following vote:
FOR MR. FEATHER: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor
called attention to the expiration of the three-year term of office of Colleen Burns as a
member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission ended June 30,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Julie Wagner.
557
There being no further nominations, Ms. Wagner was appointed to replace
Colleen Burns as a member of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission
for a term of office ending June 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. WAGNER: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the three-year terms of office of Michael L. Dame and Stephen Willis as
members of the Roanoke Civic Center Commission ending September 30, 2021;
whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the names of Kianna Price
Marshall and Robert Arrington.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Price Marshall was appointed to replace
Michael L. Dame and Mr. Arrington to replace Stephen Willis as members of the
Roanoke Civic Center Commission for three-year terms of office, each, commencing
October 1, 2021 and ending September 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MS. PRICE MARSHALL AND MR. ARRINGTON: Council Members
White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and Mayor
Lea-7.
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention to a
vacancy created by the resignation of Rosheta Chase as a member of the Roanoke
Neighborhood Advocates ending September 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Bestpitch placed in nomination the name of Margaret
Washburn.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Washburn was appointed as a member
of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates to fill the unexpired term of office of Rosheta
Chase ending September 30, 2021; and for an additional two-year term of office ending
September 30, 2023, by the following vote:
FOR MS. WASHBURN: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
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LEGAL COUNSEL - ACTUAL OR PROBABLE LITIGATION: A communication
from the City Attorney requesting that the Council convene in Closed Meeting to consult
with legal counsel pertaining to actual or probable litigation regarding specific legal
matters requiring legal advice and the discussion of strategy of negotiation of a potential
agreement involving the City, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711, (A)(7) and (13), Code of
Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See motion on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
At 3:09 p.m., the Council Meeting was declared in recess for a Closed Meeting in
the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building.
At 3:28 p.m., the Council Meeting reconvened with Mayor Lea presiding and all
Members of the Council in attendance.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Jeffrey 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 seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting in recess at 3:29 p.m., until Thursday, September 9, 2021, at
1:00 p.m., Fitzpatrick Hall, the Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Avenue, S. W., for a Council
Strategic Planning Work Session.
The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on
Thursday, September 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m., Fitzpatrick Hall, the Jefferson Center, 541
Luck Avenue, S. W., with Vice-Mayor White-Boyd presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones (arrived late) and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. (arrived late)-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk,
OTHERS PRESENT: Clarence Grier, Deputy City Manager; W. Brent
Robertson, Assistant City Manager; Amelia C. Merchant; Director of Finance; and
Angela O'Brien, Chief Strategy Officer.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd welcomed everyone to the City Council Strategic
Workshop and stated the purpose for the session was to hold the Annual Council
Strategic Planning Work Session.
The City Manager opened up the session by providing an overview of the day
stating that the Council would participate in a communication workshop led by Cortex
Leadership Consulting to assist the Council in attaining a greater knowledge of self and
others and the ability to interact effectively with people. He introduced Lynda and Allen
Foster of Cortex Leadership Consulting.
At this point, Mayor Lea entered the meeting (1:12 p.m.) and the Vice-Mayor
relinquished the Chair.
Lynda and Allen Foster actively engaged with the Council discussing personality
styles, traits and strategies to efficiently and effectively work with others.
560
At this point, Council Member Sanchez-Jones entered the meeting (1:17 p.m.).
The Fosters' touched on information highlighting behaviors, driving forces and
integration and provided tips for each personality identified.
At 3:08 p.m., the communication workshop concluded; whereupon, W. Brent
Robertson, Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Michael Clark,
Director, Parks and Recreation updated the Council on youth athletics and highlighted
the following information:
Youth Athletics Refresh
• Overview
• Philosophy, Values and Purpose
• Governance and Implementation
• Conduct and Ethics
• Engagement and Communications
• Current Situation
• Continuous Improvement
Mr. Clark advised that the philosophy of youth sports was to provide an enjoyable
experience for each youth participant, while developing character, skills, sportsmanship,
and to promote good will among all teams and individuals and explained that although
sports were competitive by nature, the intentions were to place less emphasis on
winning and more on promoting lifetime physical activity and health for each participant.
He continued by quoting the purpose statement for the new program "With a
renewed focus on interwoven equity, the City of Roanoke will endeavor to educate,
equip, and empower community youth sports leaders, volunteers, and parents so all
children and families can enjoy the lifelong benefits of team sports."
He concluded by explaining the implementation through a competitive proposal
process, the City would seek public solicitation for community organizations that offer
recreational-based youth team sports; and noted that staff would award one provider or
contractor may provide multiple offerings in one zone, as well as offerings in multiple
zones.
Following discussion, the City Manager provided a description of the agenda for
the September 10, 2021 workshop discussion.
There being no additional comments by the Council, Mayor Lea recessed the
meeting at 4:46 p.m.
L
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The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Friday,
September 10, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., Fitzpatrick Hall, the Jefferson Center, 541 Luck
Avenue, S. W., with Mayor Lea presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
OTHERS PRESENT: Clarence Grier, Deputy City Manager; W. Brent
Robertson, Assistant City Manager; Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Finance; and
Angela O'Brien, Chief Strategy Officer.
Mayor Lea remarked that the purpose of the recessed meeting was to discuss
the Strategic Plan and provide feedback to the City Manager.
The City Manager reviewed each of the strategic priorities and noted that each
priority would be grounded in the following values:
• Equity — All regardless of location, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
ability will have access to equal opportunity for successful outcomes;
• Community Engagement and Inclusion — Intentional involvement of citizenry in
the direction and actions of their government;
• Well-Being — physical and social environment that promotes healthy outcomes
for all residents regardless of their location; and
• Creativity — innovation in programming and addressing opportunities and
confronting challenges.
He continued highlighting information providing an overview of the following
organizational strategic initiatives:
• Complete transition from Budgeting for Outcomes to Budgeting for Equitable and
Empowering Outcomes
• Further Operational Organizational Diversity and Inclusion
• Initiate Capital Improvement Programs Redux.
• Initiates Enhancement of Performance Measures And Indicators
• Further Operationalize Succession Planning
• Modernize and Further Refine Workplace Policies
r
i
562
Gun Violence —Whole of Government Response
Community Engagement Refresh
Economic Restructuring
Workforce Internal/Wellbeing
Workforce External/Mental Health
The City Manager stated that the Strategic Planning Process represented an
update to the previously adopted Strategic Plan, formally adopted for a two-year period
in 2019 — prompted by the need to address recovery from COVID-19 and the intentional
advancement of equity and well-being within the community. He noted that the process
used in the development of the plan was an enhancement in crafting the previous
version and was built upon the framework of:
• Listen
• Learn
• Discuss
• Present
• Act
He explained each step in the process pointing out that in listening to the
community regarding the City's seven Priorities, the feedback was used to progress on
priorities and sought outcomes, achieved by virtual conversations involving focus
groups led by Council with attendees around each of the seven priorities; learning from
the community and staff about each of the seven priorities was occurred during the
most recent Council Strategic Plan retreat; thirdly the Council discussed what they
learned regarding each of the seven priorities; presenting the draft strategic plan and
items that warrant further development, for example, it was determined through the first
three steps that a change in strategy related to Youth Sports was warranted and thus a
working group was established that addressed this initiative directly; and the final step in
the process was acting upon any revisions in priorities and strategies. He further
advised that the process was designed to be responsive to the discussion held by
Council in the adoption of the FY21 budget; timely and meaningful — bridging the
political call for action and the necessary bureaucratic work of devising legislation and
formulating budgets.
L
563
The City Manager continued with the presentation by reviewing the Strategic
Areas of Importance and the mission of each area:
• Education — Foster an environment for lifelong learning which
encompasses cradle to career and beyond through shared services and
community involvement.
• Community Safety— Foster a community where citizens feel safe and they
and their property are safe in their homes, businesses and neighborhoods.
• Human Services — Foster a caring community that uses an equitable
regional and collaborative approach to encourage preventative measures,
intervention services, and self-sufficiency white providing a social safety
net for citizens.
• Infrastructure — Maintain and build quality infrastructure that supports
healthy residential neighborhoods, successful commercial areas, and
accessible public facilities and amenities.
• Good Government — Provide exceptional and competitive government
services that are collaborative, transparent, responsive, and innovative.
• Livability — Enhance Roanoke's exceptional vitality as an attractive,
diverse, culturally inclusive, vibrant and active city in which to live, learn,
work and play.
• Economy — Cultivate a thriving business environment and innovative
workforce opportunities to ensure the prosperity of our community,
recognizing our role in both the regional and global economies.
Following discussion with regard to emerging strategic issues and opportunities,
the City Manager concluded the workshop by briefly touching on the efforts of the Star
City Strong Recovery and Resiliency Advisory Panel and preliminary recommendations.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the Mayor declared
the Recessed Meeting adjourned at 4:04 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST: q' "Q"
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk - Mayor
564
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
September 20, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
September 20, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article ll,
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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
i
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Elizabeth Link, Pastor, Second
Presbyterian Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDING: Cam Terry, 1905 Wise
Avenue, S. E., appeared before the Council to seek American Rescue Plan Act funding
for Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) for Local Food. —'
565
Now
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. He called attention to two requests by the City Manager to convene in
Closed Meeting.
DISPOSITION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the
disposition of City-owned property located at 29 Campbell Avenue, S. W., 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 Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the acquisition of real
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 Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NEW NAYS: None-0.
566 _
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE: Annual Report of the Audit
Committee for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2021, was before the Council.
(See copy of Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the Annual Report be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-VIRGINIA'S FIRST REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY
AUTHORITY-ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER COMMISSION-HUMAN SERVICES
ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before
the Council:
Marc Nelson as a City representative of the Virginia's First Regional
Industrial Facility Authority for a term of office ending June 30, 2022;
Robert Arrington as a member of the Roanoke Civic Center Commission
for a three-year term of office, commencing October 1, 2021 and ending
September 30, 2024; and
Erika J. Bergen as a member of the Human Services Advisory Board for a
four-year term of office, commencing December 1, 2021 and
November 30, 2025.
(See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
567
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFING:
American Rescue Plan Act Recommendations
The City Manager briefed the Council on the recommendations from the Star City
Strong and Resiliency Plan Committee with regard to the American Rescue Plan Act
funding and highlighted the following information:
• Introduction
• Star City Strong Recovery Fund
_ • The Process
• Recommendations
• Other Considerations
• Next Steps
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Cowell explained the process and concluded by reviewing other
considerations and the next steps.
Following in-depth discussion by the Council Members, the City Manager
introduced members of the Advisory Panel in attendance.
Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager for the informative presentation and
received and filed the briefing.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
2022 DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES HIGHWAY SAFETY-CITY OF
ROANOKE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY CAMPAIGN GRANT: The City Manager submitted
a written communication recommending the acceptance of the 2022 Department of
Motor Vehicles Highway Safety— City of Roanoke Pedestrian Safety Campaign Grant.
568 _
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42147-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Department of Motor Vehicles Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement —
Pedestrian/Bicycle) Grant and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate
documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 32.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42147-092021.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Andrea Garland, Traffic Engineer I, explained the annual grant was to be used
for a safety campaign, and emphasizing the message of safety in crosswalks,
neighborhood streets and in school zones.
There being no questions and/or comments from the Council Members, _
Resolution No. 42147-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42148-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Virginia
Department of Transportation for Pedestrian Safety Campaign, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 33.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42148-092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
569
s
2022 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TRAFFIC SAFETY -
SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT - ALCOHOL GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia Department of Motor
Vehicles 2022 Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement - Alcohol) Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones offered the following resolution:
(#42149-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Department of Motor Vehicles Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement — Alcohol) Grant
and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 33.)
Council Member Sanchez-Jones moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42149-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42150-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles for an alcohol enforcement traffic safety grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 34.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42150-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
570 _
2022 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TRAFFIC SAFETY -
SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT – OCCUPANT PROTECTION GRANT: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia
Department of Motor Vehicles 2022 Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement - Occupant
Protection) Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42151-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Department of Motor Vehicles Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement – Occupant
Protection) Grant and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate documents to
obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 35.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42149-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42152-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles for an occupant protection traffic safety grant, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 36.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42152-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez- —'
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
571
2022 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TRAFFIC SAFETY -
SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT — SPEED GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
2022 Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement - Speed) Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42153-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Department of Motor Vehicles Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement — Speed) Grant
and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 37.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42153-
092021. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0,
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42154-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles for a speed enforcement traffic safety grant, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the
second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 38.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42154-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
%Im/
572
2022 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES TRAFFIC SAFETY -
SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT – PEDESTRIAN BICYCLE SAFETY GRANT: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia
Department of Motor Vehicles 2022 Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement — Pedestrian
Bicycle Safety) Grant.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following resolution:
(#42155-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the
Department of Motor Vehicles Traffic Safety (Selective Enforcement –
Pedestrian/Bicycle) Grant and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate
documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 39.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42155-092021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote: _.
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42156-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the U.S.
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Motor Vehicles for a pedestrian and bicycle traffic safety grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 40.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42154-
092021. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
573
SHUTTERED VENUES OPERATORS GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of the Shuttered Venues Operators
Grant from the Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance to provide
support to live venue operators in response to the impacts of COVID-19.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42157-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Shuttered
Venue Operators Grant from the United States Small Business Administration Office of
Disaster Assistance and authorizing the execution, and filing of appropriate documents
to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 41.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42157-092021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The City Manager advised that it was unusual for the City to be awarded funding
from the Small Business Administration Office, but it was the result of a program out of
the Federal Aid Programs for COVID-19 response for any live entertainment, public or
private that was closed as a result of COVID-19 and the City qualified for funding of
approximately $1.2 million.
In response to inquiry by Council Member Jeffrey with regard to the increase in
shows at the Berglund Center, the City Manager replied that the shows were slowly
increasing, but limited mainly by entertainers feeling comfortable coming to Roanoke.
There being no questions and/or comments from the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42157-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
R
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42158-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Economic
Aid to Hard-Hit Business, Nonprofits, and Venues Act amended by the American
Rescue Plan Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant
Fund - Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
574
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 42.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42158-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY27 AND FY28 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REVENUE
SHARING PROGRAM APPLICATION: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending authorization to submit an application to the Virginia
Department of Transportation for funding of the FY 2027 and FY 2028 Revenue Sharing
Programs for construction or improvement of the City's infrastructure systems.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42159-092021) A RESOLUTION supporting an application and authorizing the
City Manager to submit such application to the Virginia Department of Transportation
(VDOT) Revenue Sharing Program in the amount of $5,000,000 for FY2027 and
$5,000,000 for FY2028 for certain projects; and authorizing the City Manager to take
certain actions in connection with such projects.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 43.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42159-092021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The City Manager explained that through revenue sharing the City could receive
50 percent of the cost of a project from VDOT funding, but the City would not have
access to the dollars until that time-frame and would not be able to participate in the
same level of revenue sharing as in the past due in part to reduction in revenues.
There being no questions and/or comments from the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42159-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7. _
NAYS: None-0.
575
NNW
FY23 VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION
ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM FUNDING APPLICATION: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending authorization to submit an application to the
Virginia Department of Transportation for FY 2023 Transportation Alternatives Program
funding for pedestrian improvements between Hawthorne Avenue and Woodbury
Street, N. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42160-092021) A RESOLUTION supporting an application and authorizing the
City Manager to submit an application to the Virginia Department of Transportation
(VDOT) for FY23 Transportation Alternatives Program Funds for pedestrian
improvements along the west side of Williamson Road, N.W., between Hawthorne
Avenue, N.W., and Woodbury Street, N.W., Roanoke, Virginia; and authorizing the City
Manager to take certain actions in connection with such Project.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 44.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42159-092021.
"' The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER. NONE.
CITY ATTORNEY:
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING-IRONMAN 70.3 TRIATHLON EVENT:
The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending approval of a
Memorandum of Understanding in connection with the FY 2022 AND FY 2023 Ironman
70.3 Triathlon event.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Now
576
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42161-092021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Memorandum of Understanding ("MOU") among the City of Roanoke, World Triathlon
Corporation ("WTC"), Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitor's Bureau d/b/a Visit
Virginia's Blue Ridge ("VVBR"), the Counties of Roanoke and Botetourt, and the Town
of Vinton, governing the terms, conditions, and obligations among such parties for the
Carilion Clinic Ironman 70.3 Triathlon to be held throughout the Roanoke Valley on June
5, 2022, and June 4, 2023 , in cooperation with Carilion Clinic, the main sponsor of the
event.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 45.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42161-092021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
Programs; and the City Manager 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 Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42162-092021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 46.)
577
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42162-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION: Council Member Cobb,
Chairman, announced Christopher Roberts as the Youth and Gang Violence Prevention
Coordinator who will coordinate activities and programs between City departments,
community groups, stakeholders, and agencies in the awareness, suppression,
intervention and prevention of youth and gang-related activity; adding a briefing
regarding recipients of mini grants designated for prevention and intervention of gun
violence will be presented at the October 18 Council meeting.
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE: Council Member Bestpitch, Chairman, advised
that the last meeting of the Legislative Committee would be held in December 2021 and
requested recommendations be submitted by the end of October.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 4:00 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
578
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Gary Holland, Pastor, Trinity
Missionary Baptist Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting _
just concluded, Council Member Jeffrey 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones and Vice-Mayor White Boyd-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea abstained due to not being in attendance in the Closed Meeting.)
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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,
September 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of BrightView, LLC, to rezone property located at 1345 Plantation Road, N. E.,
from 1-1, Light Industrial District, to INPUD, Institutional Planned Unit Development —�
District, to be used as an outpatient mental health and substance abuse clinic, the
matter was before the body.
579
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 and Tuesday, September 7, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the principal consideration was whether
the proposed rezoning is consistent with City Plan 2040 and the Williamson Road Area
Plan and the proposed change allows for a needed community resource while reducing
its impact on the surrounding areas, the Planned Unit Development Plan will ensure any
expansion of the use will require another public process and also limits uses to only
those in keeping with the surrounding area, overall, the proposed change is in keeping
with the goals of the Plans.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42163-092021) AN ORDINANCE to rezone certain properties located at 1345
Plantation Road, N.E., from 1-1, Light Industrial District to INPUD, Institutional Planned
Unit Development District; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 49.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42163-092021.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Mike DiMaggio, Vice-President, Brightview, LLC, appeared before the Council in
support of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
Following a comment by Council Member Moon Reynolds about similar clinics in
the northwest area, Ordinance No. 42163-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: Council Members Moon Reynolds and Sanchez-Jones-2.
580
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,
September 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of CFT NV Developments, LLC, to rezone a portion of property located at
4807 Valley View Boulevard, N. W., from CLS, Commercial-Large Site District, to
MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit Development District, subject to the Development
Plan that specifies location of the building, infrastructure, site access and building
design, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 and Tuesday, September 7, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the principal consideration was whether
the proposed rezoning is consistent with City Plan 2040 and the Williamson Road Area
Plan and the commercial center at Valley View Mall has been an important part of the
community's development pattern for many years, the main purpose of the rezoning _
would provide a mechanism to subdivide a large commercial property in a manner to
allow further development of the underutilized parcel, to MXPUD would allow the area to
be subdivided into a lot with frontage provided on the Valley View Mall ring road and
provide basic development principals to maintain the basic character of the area as the
new parcel is further developed in the future, overall, the proposed change is in keeping
with the goals of the plans.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42164-092021) AN ORDINANCE to rezone a portion of certain property
located at 4807 Valley View Boulevard, N.W., from CLS, Commercial-Large Site District
to MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit Development District; and dispensing with the
second reading of this ordinance by title.to rezone certain properties located at 1345
Plantation Road, N.E., from 1-1, Light Industrial District to INPUD, Institutional Planned
Unit Development District; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by
title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 51.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42164-092021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
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Ray Flake, Civil Engineering Services, PC, representing the petitioner, appeared
before the Council in support of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42164-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITY'S PROPOSED 2020 - 2021 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE
AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER): Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the
City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, September 20, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, for the City Council to
review and receive public comments on the City's proposed 2020 - 2021 Consolidated
Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published once in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, August 20, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending approval of the
2020-2021 HUD Consolidated Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), and
execution and submittal of the CAPER to the Richmond Field Office of the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development prior to September 30, 2021, in a form
approved by the City Attorney.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42165-092021) A RESOLUTION approving the 2020 - 2021 HUD
Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) regarding the
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) program; and authorizing the City Manager to submit
the CAPER to HUD.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 53.)
582
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42165-
092021. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
Mayor Lea inquired if there were persons present wishing to speak on the matter.
There being none, he closed the public hearing.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 42165-092021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council,
the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, September 20, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider the sale of
property located at 0 Norfolk Avenue, S. W., to TLC Properties, local operator of Lamar
Advertising, the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published once in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, September 10, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mayor Lea advised that the matter was withdrawn by the City Manager.
NEW BUSINESS:
AMENDMENT TO THE FIRST REINSTATED AGREEMENT FOR THE
EXCHANGE OF REAL ESTATE: The City Manager submitted a written communication
for execution of Amendment No. 4 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange
of Real Estate between the City of Roanoke and Rutherfoord Partners, LLC, in
connection with a new transportation Facility.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42166-092021) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 4 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate
between the City of Roanoke, Virginia ("City) and Rutherfoord Partners, LLC,
("Developer") dated September 17, 2019 ("Agreement") to provide for (i) the sale and
transfer of Campbell Court, as described below, from the City to Developer; and (ii) the
acquisition of the Future Rail Station Parcels, as described below, by the City from
Developer; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of resolution, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 54.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42166-092021.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT TO THE FIRST REINSTATED AGREEMENT FOR THE
EXCHANGE OF REAL ESTATE: The City Manager submitted a written communication
for execution of Amendment No. 4 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange
of Real Estate between the City of Roanoke and Greater Roanoke Transit Company, in
connection with a new transportation facility.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42167-092021) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 4 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate
between the City of Roanoke, Virginia and Greater Roanoke Transit Company dated
September 17, 2019 ("Agreement") to provide for (i) the sale and transfer of the GRTC
Relocation Parcels, as described below, to Greater Roanoke Transit Company
("GRTC") from the City of Roanoke, Virginia ("City"), and (ii) the acquisition of Campbell
Court, as described below, by the City from GRTC; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of resolution, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 56.)
584
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42167-092021.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
ortz
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
585
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
October 7, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Thursday,
October 7, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Vice-Mayor
Patricia White-Boyd, presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, C
ity
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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, and Patricia White-Boyd-5.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., and Council Member William D.
Bestpitch-2.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd called for a Moment of Silence in honor of the late
Clara S. Lea, wife of Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., who passed away on October 2,
2021.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE CHANGE: Council Member Jeffrey offered the
following resolution with regard to the Council Meeting date change:
(#42168-100721) A RESOLUTION confirming the changing of the date for the
regular meeting of City Council from 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., on Monday, October 4,
2021, to 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 7, 2021.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 59.)
586
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42168-100721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The City Attorney advised that due to several Members of Council attending the
Virginia Municipal League Conference, which occurred on the original date of the City
Council Meeting, the October 4 meeting had to be moved to Thursday, October 7; and
the measures taken will conform with both City Code and the Freedom of Information
Act.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 42168-100721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Vice-Mayor White-
Boyd 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the Vice-
Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
DISPOSITION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the
disposition of City-owned property located in the Northwest quadrant of the City, 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.
587
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
DISPOSITION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the
disposition of City-owned property located in the Williamson Road area, 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
_, Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon
Reynolds and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were 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.
588
BRIEFING:
Downtown Stormwater Management
Ian Shaw, Stormwater Manager, and Marcus Aguilar, Cil Engineer
the Council on downtown area flooding and highlighted he foll wing nfomat oln: briefed
• Introduction
o Confluence of two streams
o Atop a perennial stream and salt marsh
o Flood of 1985 – 100 year+ storm
o More recent events –
■ 2016 –three summer events
• 2017 - one event
• 2018 –two events (including Hurricane Michael)
■ 2021 –August 19
o Stream/storm drain mapping (2017)
o Hydraulic monitoring (2018)
o Hydraulic modeling (2019)
o Flash Flood warning system (2020)
o Preliminary engineering report and concept plans (2021)
o Floodplain mapping and economic analysis (ongoing)
• Economic Impact of Flooding
0 301 Flood-prone structures
o Assessed value of structures - $648 Million
o Estimated value of contents - $78 Million
0 50 year risk to structures and contents - $116 Million
• Strategies
o Infrastructure to reduce – not eliminate – potential for flooding
o Flood proofing to reduce – not eliminate – potential damage from flooding
• Community Flood Mitigation Infrastructure
o Recommended projects
• Conveyance – drain water out of core of CBD as quickly as
possible
■ Storage – impound water upstream of CBD and release at
controlled
■ Maintenance — provide safe access to tunnel system for long -term
operation
o Estimated Budget
• Six projects at $44 Million
• Additional 15 —20 acre footprint for flood storage at $35 —40 Million
• Proposed Solutions _
o FY23/24 -Salem Ave. at 1St "L Tunnel"
■ Estimated Cost = $1.4M
589
■ Improve flow and surface drainage at critical intersection with 390' of SD
■ Improve maintenance access
■ Re-align tunnels from below Roanoke Times loading lot
■ Minimal Utility Conflicts
■ Traffic Disturbance
o FY27/28 - Shenandoah Ave. Diversion Tunnel
■ Estimated Cost = $4.5M
■ Divert runoff from northwest further downstream (920' of SD)
■ Alleviate pressure at Warehouse Row junction, 1 St @ Salem
■ Tie-in to Norfolk Tunnel using old pedestrian tunnel below Shenandoah
Ave.
■ Coordination with WVWA
■ Traffic Disturbance to Shenandoah
oFY 27/28 - Campbell Ave. Upper WS Improvements
■ Estimated Cost = $9.5M
■ Retain runoff in green infrastructure and small ponds in Campbell Ave.
corridor
■ Strong benefit:cost ratio
■ Could alleviate local flooding issues
■ Some potential land issues
■ Traffic Disturbance
o FY23/24 - Maintenance Access Upgrades
■ Estimated Cost = $3.71 VI
■ Construct 9 vaults on tunnels to allow safe access and maintenance
■ 4/9 vaults would be built as part of other proposed projects
■ Would allow for sediment and debris removal, structural repairs
■ Would not reduce flooding, but critically important for long-run operations
o FY32 - NS Rail Diversion Basin
■ Estimated Cost = $4.3M
■ Retain some runoff from railroad yards, divert to:
■ 5 — CCBC Wet Pond OR
■ 3 — Shenandoah Diversion Tunnel
o FY33 – Luck Ave. Upper WS Improvements
■ Estimated Cost = $20.1 M
■ Store runoff south of downtwon in underground ponds and
permeable pavement
■ Only realistic project in southern drianage area
■ Relatively low benefit:cost
• Property Owner Mitigation
o Higher precision maps allow for building specific risk analysis
■ Flood frequency- depth- damage -risk relationships
■ Structural flood - proofing
■ Elevation of contents
o Experimental flood alert system may provide early warning
• Summary and Next Steps
590
o Historical flooding, cost to "do-nothing" — $116 Million
o Measures to Reduce Impacts
• Community Infrastructure - $80 - 85 Million
■ Property owner mitigation capacity - $TBD
o Funding and Timing Challenges
• Conveyance — proceeding
• Small Storage — incremental approach??
■ Larger Storage - funding/land??
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Shaw advised that downtown was built over a marsh and a few streams that
flow in the airport area, down around the 1-581 corridor and more importantly,
underneath downtown were a series of tunnels over 100 years old; and spoke of the
recent flood events in the area and how the Stormwater Division, had been working on
the details of the drainage system underneath downtown and with Virginia Tech to
install sensors in the tunnels to monitor the levels of rain.
Mr. Aguilar reviewed the proposed projects and noted that the previous maps
used by the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) were old and they
were currently updating the flood maps using the hydraulic model to remap the FEMA
flood plain to provide a higher level of detail as to flood depths and flood areas.
Council Member Cobb inquired as to efforts made for ongoing mitigation for flood
areas outside of the downtown; whereupon, Mr. Shaw advised that there had been
outreach to at risk property owners, some flood proofing and redevelopment with better
building materials, but in terms of large infrastructure there had not been any projects,
luckily because there had not been any highly intense thunderstorms between 2018 and
2021.
Following discussion of the matter and in response to inquiry with regard to
erosion of the roads, Mr. Shaw advised that it would be best to address property or
damage to structure as it occurred and take proper measures to maintain it over time.
Following comments by several Council Members, the Vice-Mayor thanked
Messrs. Shaw and Aguilar for the informative presentation, received and filed the
briefing.
At 9:57 a.m., the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
591
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Vice-
Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, and Patricia White-Boyd-5.
ABSENT: Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., and Council Member William D.
Bestpitch-2.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Alexander MacPhail, Pastor,
Christ Episcopal Church.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd called for a Moment of Silence in honor of the late
Clara S. Lea, wife of Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., who passed away on October 2,
2021.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION: Mark Jamison, Director, Public Works,
recognized and presented a City Star to John Rowland, Maintenance Technician II,
Department of Transportation, for taking brave action to save a child found alone in the
street.
VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE-INNOVATION AWARD: Council Member Cobb
presented the Innovation Award received at the recent Virginia Municipal League
Annual Conference in recognition of the City of Roanoke's Star City Reads Program to
Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
s
592
CONSENT AGENDA
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately.
CONVEYANCE OF EASEMENTS: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule two public hearings to be held on Monday,
October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or
such later date and time as the City Manager may determine, to consider the
conveyance of a 25 foot access easement across property located in Roanoke County;
and conveyance of a 25 foot utility easement to Appalachian Power Company across
City-owned property in Roanoke County to provide service to property owned by Jack
and Ann Wimmer, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
COMMISSION-FAIR HOUSING BOARD-BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS-
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following
individuals were before the Council:
Julie Wagner as a member (Citizen at Large) of the Personnel and
Employment Practices Commission for a three-year term of office
ending June 30, 2024;
Alyshia Merchant as a member of the Fair Housing Board to
replace Amar Bhattarai for a term of office ending March 31, 2024;
593
Tracy Jernigan Brown as a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals
to fill the unexpired term of office of Antwyne U. Calloway ending
December 31, 2022;
Stephen Feather as a member of the Architectural Review Board to
fill the unexpired term of office of Bill Hume, commencing
October 2, 2021 and ending October 1, 2023; and
Bill Mason and Byron Dickson as members of the Architectural
Review Board for four-term of office, each, commencing October 2,
2021 and ending October 1, 2025.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reports of qualification be
received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
wow (Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
594
BRIEFING:
Roanoke Regional Partnership Strategic Plan Thrive
John Hull, Executive Director, Roanoke Regional Partnership, updated the
Council on the activities of the organization for 2021 and highlighted the following
information:
• Successes
• Lead Pipeline
• Pandemic Job Recovery
• Product Development
• 2016 —2021 Strategy Accomplishments
• About the Planning Process: Project Timeline
• Thrive 2027 Vision
o Strategic plan overview
o Goals and recommendations
o Talent Attraction and Workforce Development
o Commercial Real Estate and Infrastructure
o Placemaking and Livability
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Mr. Hull provided an overview of 2021 reporting that the Partnership experienced
two expansions, 265 jobs, $48 million in capital investment, a 70 percent increase in
project activity proving that there continued to be strong interest in locating in the
Roanoke Region of Virginia.
Following discussion with regard to the above-mentioned activities, Mr. Hull
presented the 2027 Thrive Five-Year Strategic Plan for Economic Development to the
Council, noting that the Roanoke Region has a thriving innovative and growing
economy inclusive of diverse business and talent, with quality sites, advanced
infrastructure and an array of natural and cultural lifestyle amenities and activities.
He concluded by reviewing the four critical areas of the Strategic Plan and
reminded the Council of the upcoming GO Outside Festival scheduled for
October 15 - 17, 2021.
Following questions from the Council Members, the Vice-Mayor thanked Mr. Hull
for a great presentation, received and filed the briefing.
595
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FUNDS: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of "Pass-Thru"
funds from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to reimburse the
Hazardous Materials Response Team.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42169-100721) A RESOLUTION accepting the Emergency Management
Hazardous Materials grant made to the City from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management upon certain terms and conditions, and authorizing the execution any
required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 60.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42169-
100721. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42170-100721) AN ORDINANCE appropriating funding from the United States
Department of Transportation through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of
Emergency Management (VDEM) for hazardous materials emergency responses and
training and development, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 -
2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 61.)
low
596
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42170-
100721. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
OUTSTATIONED ELIGIBILITY WORKERS: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending execution of a contract between the City of
Roanoke and Carilion Medical Center for placement of Outstationed Eligibility Workers
at Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42171-100721) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to execute a _
contract between the City of Roanoke on behalf of its Department of Social Services
("City") and Carilion Medical Center ("Carilion"), for the placement by the City of four (4)
Outstationed Eligibility Workers ("OEW"), as well as an onsite OEW supervisor, at
Carilion's Roanoke Memorial Hospital, and authorizing the City Manager to execute any
necessary documents required by such contract.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 62.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42171-100721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
_
597
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42172-100721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia and Carilion Medical Center for outstationed eligibility
workers, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2023 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 63.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42172-100721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
YOUTH ATHLETICS REVIEW BOARD: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending amendment of the City Code in connection with the
••- newly created Youth Athletics Review Board.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42173-100721) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 2-297 of
Division 2, Permanent Committees Article XIV Authorities Boards Commissions and
Committees Generally, Chapter 2, Administration, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979),
as amended to add Section 2-307; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with
the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 64.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42173-100721.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The City Manager advised that the permanent advisory board would be involved
in the review of youth recreation sports delivered throughout the City, in partnership with
other providers in the area to allow direct involvement by the citizens in the operation of
those activities.
598
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42173-100721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
SHUTTERED VENUES OPERATORS GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending repeal and replacement of Budget Ordinance No.
42158-092021, adopted September 20, 2021, accepting the Shuttered Venues
Operators Grant and authorizing the establishment of a revenue estimate and
appropriation of funds.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42174-100721) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Economic
Aid to Hard-Hit Business, Nonprofits, and Venues Act amended by the American
Rescue Plan Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022
Enterprise Fund — Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of
this ordinance.
(For full text of budget ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 67.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42174-100721. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones.
The City Manager advised that the grant would offset losses of the Berglund
Center due to the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that a similar appropriation would be
coming soon and in total, the City would receive $4 million for use in the facility.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Budget
Ordinance No. 42174-100721 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
599
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Treasurer's Office Announces Temporary Closings
• Beginning October 7 through October 26, this office will be closed to the public
on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.
• During these closings, as well as on evenings and weekends, Treasurer's Office
employees will receive training for a new tax and treasury system, and test the
system in preparation for its launch.
• Payments will continue to be processed as received through the mail (Roanoke
City Treasurer's Office, P.O. Box 1451, Roanoke, VA, 24007) and the
Treasurer's Office drop-box (checks or money orders only), as well as online.
Vaccine Center at Valley View
• VDH has been using Berglund Center, Salem Civic Center, and other locations
for vaccination clinics.
• They announced today that they are consolidating these into a single, state-run
community vaccination center, opening October 14, at Valley View Mall in the
former Sears location.
• Appointments will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday through
ftow Saturday.
• The Center will be open six days a week — offering all doses (first, second, third).
• Information available at vaccinatevirginia.gov
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
CLIMATE ADAPTATION: Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following
resolution expressing the need for emergency action regarding climate adaptation:
(#42175-100721) A RESOLUTION declaring the need for emergency action
regarding climate adaptation, enhancing current climate action plans and increasing
greenhouse gas ("GHG") reduction targets.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 68.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42175-
100721. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
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The City Manager explained that the resolution addressed the need to accelerate
actions around greenhouse gas emissions and the proper course of action was to
proceed without haste towards the update of the City's Climate Action Plan.
Following discussion by the Council Members, Resolution No. 42175-100721
was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE VICE-MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
ANNUAL VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE CONFERENCE: Council Members
Cobb, Moon Reynolds and Jeffrey shared highlights of the recently attended Virginia
Municipal League Annual Conference held on October 3 - 5, 2021, in Leesburg,
Virginia, noting great sessions such as Solar Energy, Social Media and the American
Rescue Plan Act.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Moon Reynolds 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 seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones and
White-Boyd-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea and Council Member Bestpitch were absent.)
601
_ There being no further business to come before the Council, Vice-Mayor White-
Boyd declared the regular meeting adjourned at 3:28 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Patricia White-Boyd
6;w
City Clerk Vice-Mayor
602
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
October 18, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
October 18, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., 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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by
electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
Mayor Lea announced he received a request from Council Member Bestpitch to
allow participation via zoom in the 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. meetings of Council. Council —'
voted unanimously to allow participation in the meeting via zoom.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Kathy O'Keeffe, Pastor, Kingdom
Life Ministries.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
Mayor Lea expressed sincere thanks for the many expressions of condolences
received in the passing of his wife, Clara.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
603
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
MISCELLANEOUS: Reagan Costello-White, 2627 Montgomery Avenue, S. W.,
appeared before the Council to highlight the need for trauma-informed and disability
childcare in Roanoke.
0 BRANDON AVENUE: Freeda Cathcart, 2516 Sweetbrier Avenue, S. W.,
appeared before the Council in opposition of the 0 Brandon Avenue Project scheduled
to be heard at the 7:00 p.m. session of City Council.
GUN VIOLENCE: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council with regard to concerns about gun violence in the City and in
opposition of the 0 Brandon Avenue Project scheduled to be heard at the 7:00 p.m.
session of City Council.
CORRUPTION: David Garland, 3704 Round Hill Avenue, S. W., appeared
before the Council and expressed concern with regard to complicity in public corruption
and failure to take ownership of criminal acts against the public.
0 BRANDON AVENUE: William Hopkins, Jr., 1102 Oakwood Drive, S. W.,
appeared before the Council in opposition of the 0 Brandon Avenue Project scheduled
to be heard at the 7:00 p.m. session of City Council.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. He called attention to a request convene in a Closed Meeting.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, August 16, 2021; and Tuesday
September 7, 2021; recessed until Thursday, September 8 - 9, 2021; was before the
body.
(See minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
604
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-O.
2021 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the 2021
Citizen of the Year Award, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(10), Code of Virginia (1950)
as amended, was before the body.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
_
NAYS: None-0.
RESIGNATIONS-ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY COMMISSION: A
communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignations of John Francis, Jr., and
Stephen Ambruzs as members of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission, effective
immediately, was before the Council.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the resignations be accepted and the
communication received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
RESIGNATION-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: A communication
from the City Clerk advising of the resignations of Margaret Ashburn and Brian Bennett
as members of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, effective October 13, 2021, was
before the Council.
_
605
Now Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the resignations be accepted and the
communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY 2022 TRANSFER REPORT: A communication from the City Manager
transmitting the FY 2022 City Manager Transfer Report for the first quarter ended
September 30, 2021, was before the Council.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the communication be received and filed.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION-CITY COUNCIL: A communication from the Mayor
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for discussion or consideration of
possible discipline and/or other action to be taken regarding a member of City Council
Now as permitted by Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was
before the Council.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
606
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
SHUTTERED VENUES OPERATORS GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of additional funding in connection
with the Shuttered Venues Operators Grant from the Small Business Administration
Office of Disaster Assistance to provide support to live venue operators in response to
the impacts of COVID-19.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42176-101821) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of additional
funding in connection with Shuttered Venue Operators Grant from the United States
Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance and authorizing the
execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 71.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42176- _
101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42177-101821) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Economic
Aid to Hard-Hit Business, Nonprofits, and Venues Act amended by the American
Rescue Plan Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant
Fund—Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
607
4, Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42177-101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
(For full text of ordinance, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 71.)
FY 2021 ASPHALT CONCRETE OVERLAYS AND PAVEMENT PROFILING
CONTRACT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
amendment to the FY 2021 Asphalt Concrete Overlays and Pavement Profiling Contract
with Boxley Materials Company for additional concrete overlays and pavement profiling.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42178-101821) A RESOLUTION authorizing the amendment to the FY 2021
Asphalt Concrete Overlays and Pavement Profiling Contract with Boxley Materials
Company for additional concrete overlays and pavement profiling.
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42178-101821. The
motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 72.)
ENCROACHMENT PERMIT-VIRGINIA WESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE:
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization of
an encroachment permit for Virginia Western Community College for installation of a
sign within the roundabout located at Overland Road and Colonial Avenue, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
...
608
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42179-101821) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate authorization of an
encroachment permit for Virginia Western Community College for installation of a sign
within the roundabout located at Overland Road and Colonial Avenue, S. W.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 73.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42179-101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER.
The City Manager shared the following comments:
Star City Safe: Fall events coming
• The City has launched Star City Safe, an initiative focused on expanded services
and access to public facilities to keep our youth and neighborhoods safe, as well
as in a variety of in-person and virtual formats to keep a two-way dialogue going.
• This campaign was initiated internally by the City, working across departments
from a whole-of-government perspective.
• Several fall events have been planned for October and November, in conjunction
with this initiative. The schedule is posted at roanokeva.gov/safe.
RCAHD: Community Vaccination Center
• The Virginia Department Health opened a state-run Community Vaccination
Center on Oct. 14, 2021, at the former Sears location at Valley View Mall
• The Center will offer vaccination appointments from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday
through Saturday. While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins also will be
accepted.
• Roanoke Valley Television recently created an informational video about the
Vaccine Center. To view the video, go online to YouTube, and search for
"Roanoke Valley Television."
609
Plastic Bag Tax
• In response to the implementation of the Plastic Bag Tax on Jan. 1, 2022, the
City is working with community partners/organizations and the Department of
Social Services to distribute reusable bags to SNAP and WIC recipients, as well
as all low income families/individuals.
• Reusable bags also will be available to the general public. Staff in the Office of
Sustainability and the Community Engagement Office are working to find the best
plan for distribution of the bags.
• Retail store managers will receive a letter from the City with details about the
Plastic Bag Tax Ordinance and Guidelines.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS FOR VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS:
The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written report requesting appropriation of
funds for various educational programs; and a report of the City Manager
recommending that Council concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42180-101821) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 75.)
Vice-Mayor White Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42180-
101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
610
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Council Member Moon Reynolds reported that Total Action for Progress (TAP)
was no longer accepting rent relief applications due to COVID-19 and currently the
Virginia Department of Housing was the only available resource; and announced that
Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority would host several upcoming events
including a trunk or treat event on October 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the
Jamestown Place housing facility.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd congratulated St. Gerard's Catholic Church on
celebrating their 75th anniversary and noted that it was the first African American
Catholic Church established in Virginia.
Council Member Cobb mentioned that he brought greetings from the City of
Roanoke in a dialogue with students from sister City Lijiang, China, and the Roanoke
Valley whom shared information about their different origins, educational interests, etc.
Council Member Moon Reynolds recognized Council Member Cobb and offered
kudos in giving a substantial donation to purchase shirts and ties for the Gents of
Garden City, notably the donation will help the young men gain confidence as they
dress for success; and announced that Council Member Cobb would present
"Honoring their Breaths" on Wednesday, October 20, at 7:00 p.m., where he will tell
the histories of the City Farm, Old Lick and Coyner Springs Cemeteries.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones mentioned that Local Colors recently
organized a Hispanic Heritage Festival where Council Member Cobb presented a
proclamation honoring Hispanic Heritage Month; and the City hosted a Hispanic
Health Fair whereby Bradley Free Clinic and many agencies participated, both events
were well attended.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: (Seepage 610 for comments)
611
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:11 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Vice-Mayor Patricia
White-Boyd, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L.
Cobb, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., (arrived late)-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Joseph L. Cobb.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Council Member Moon Reynolds 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor
White Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Mayor Lea was absent when the vote was recorded.)
s
612
OTHER BUSINESS:
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION: Presentation by the Gun
Violence Prevention Commission.
The Gun Violence Prevention Commission presented information with regard to the
Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Mini-Grants recently awarded. Council
Member Cobb highlighted the following information:
• Our purpose
• Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Mini-Grants
• Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment
• Gun Violence Intervention Program Grant
• Coming up
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb provided background information with regard to the
Commission advising that a major part of the purpose was to make recommendations to
City Council for potential actions that the City may take to reduce the epidemic of gun _
violence within the community. He noted that they also make recommendation for
enhancing existing resources and campaigns; and aid the City in making and
developing community partnerships to assist in the reduction of gun violence.
He further advised that $65,000.00 was awarded to 17 local non-profit and faith-
based organizations for activities designed for prevention and intervention of gun
violence in the community; $1,500.00 to $4,500.00 mini grants were awarded with focus
on youth and young adults with activities completed by August 31, 2021.
He briefly recognized the recipients of the mini-grants which included Boys and
Girls Club, Building Bridges over Barriers, The Roanoke Sigmas, Casa Latina of
Roanoke Valley, CommUNITY Arts Reach, CAFE, Family Service of Roanoke Valley,
Gen Now Youth, Groceries Not Guns, Humble Bees Youth Ministry, Humble Hustle,
Paradise Community Development Center, SOOUL Foundation, Straight Street, Total
Action for Progress, West End Center and WE Charm.
Angela Williams, Program Manager, Roanoke Higher Education Center and
Antonio Stovall, teacher, African-American Male Studies, spoke with regard to their
class, experiences and thanked the Gun Violence Prevention Commission and City
Council for their support. They introduced a former gang member who spoke with
regard to the benefits of classes offered by Ms. Williams and Mr. Stovall.
613
Christopher Roberts, Youth and Gang Violence Coordinator, explained that he
was a native of Roanoke who worked as a Juvenile Probation Officer, at the local
detention center, and supervising court ordered community service for kids; and wanted
to come in new looking to learn from the youth and connect them to the right services to
prevent violence.
Mayor Lea entered the meeting at 7:21 p.m. The Vice-Mayor relinquished the
Chair.
Council Member Cobb concluded stating that the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission would host a Community Forum on November 9, 6:00 p.m., at the
Berglund Center Performing Arts Theatre, which would include updates on the
prevention framework from the Mayor, Chief of Police, Chair of the Gun Violence
Prevention, RESET Coordinator and City Manager. He also pointed out that on
November 10, at 1:00 p.m., the Statewide Department of Criminal Justice would host a
Webinar featuring the Gun Violence Prevention Framework.
Following accolades by the Council Members, Mayor Lea thanked the Gun
Violence Prevention Commission for an informative presentation, received and filed the
briefing.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
STREET AND ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted
by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public
hearing for Monday, October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on a request of Bill Chapman to vacate a 12 foot wide alley surrounded
by 208 4th Street, S. W., 210 4th Street, S. W., 355 Campbell Avenue, S. W., and 351
Campbell Avenue, S. W., and extending approximately 68 feet south from an alley that
runs perpendicular to 4th Street, S. W., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the vacation of right-of-way as requested and as amended at the public
hearing held on October 11, 2021, contingent upon certain conditions.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
614
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42181-101821) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing an approximately 12 foot wide alley surrounded by 208 4th Street, S. W., 210 41h
Street, 355 Campbell Avenue, S. W., and 351 Campbell Avenue, S. W., that extends
approximately 68 feet south from an alley that runs perpendicular to 4th Street, S. W., as
more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second reading of this
ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 77.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42181-
101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Bill Chapman, Petitioner, appeared before the Council in support of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42181-101821 was adopted by the following vote: '—
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea -7.
NAYS: None-0.
CLOSURE BY BARRICADE: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the
Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request of St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church to close by barricade a portion
of York Road, S. W., at the intersection of 2352 York Road, S. W., and 0 York
Road, S. W., extending perpendicular across York Road, S. W. to the boundary of 2302
Northview Drive, S. W., and preventing vehicular traffic on the southern portion of York
Road, S. W., that dead ends at 2339 Grandin Road, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
_
615
,ow The City Planning Commission recommended approval of the closure by
barricade as requested, contingent upon certain conditions.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42182-101821) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the alteration and closing by
barricade of certain public right-of-way in the City of Roanoke, at the intersection of
2352 York Road, S. W., 0 York Road, S. W., to the boundary of 2302 Northview Drive,
S. W., as more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 80.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42182-101821.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Greg Watts, representing St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church, appeared in support
of the request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42182-101821 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea -7.
NAYS: None-0.
STREET AND ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted
by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public
hearing for Monday, October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard, on a request of Greater Roanoke Transit Company to vacate a 10 foot
wide alley between and parallel to 11th Street, S. E., and 12th Street, S. E., extending
perpendicular from the southern edge of Campbell Avenue, S. E., approximately 175
feet to the northern edge of Kirk Avenue S. E. Kevin Price, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
616
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the matter to its
November 8, 2021 meeting, the Mayor advised that City Council had no jurisdiction to
hear the matter at this time.
ZONING AMENDMENTS: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the
Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request of the City of Roanoke to amend Chapter 36.2, Zoning, Code of the
City of Roanoke, (1979), as amended, for clarification and consistency with State law,
was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the matter to its
November 8, 2021 meeting, the Mayor advised that City Council had no jurisdiction to
hear the matter at this time.
CITY-OWNED PROPERTY EASEMENT: Pursuant to instructions by the
Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, October 18,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of
the City of Roanoke to grant a nonexclusive variable width access easement containing
approximately 29,662 square feet, more or less, across City-owned property located in
the County of Roanoke, Virginia, to Jack and Ann Wimmer to provide ingress and
egress to property owned by Jack and Ann Wimmer, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, October 8, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager recommended execution of a Deed of Easement for the
conveyance of an access easement to Jack and Ann Wimmer.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
617
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42183-101821) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the conveyance of a
nonexclusive variable width access easement containing approximately 29,662 square
feet, more or less, across City of Roanoke owned property located in the County of
Roanoke, Virginia, bearing Roanoke County Parcel Identification No. 009.00-01-21.00-
0000,., as more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 82.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42183-
101821. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42183-101821 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Mayor Lea -7.
NAYS: None-0.
UNDERGROUND UTILITY EASEMENT: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523
adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a
public hearing for Monday, October 18, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the
matter may be heard, on a request of Proposal of the City of Roanoke to grant an
underground utility easement with an approximate width of 15 feet, across City-owned
property located in Roanoke County, Virginia, to Appalachian Power Company, to
provide electric service to an adjacent parcel of property owned by Jack and Ann
Wimmer, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, October 8, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager recommended execution of a Deed of Easement for the
conveyance of the electric utility easement to Appalachian Power Company.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
618
i
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42184-101821) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the conveyance of a fifteen foot
wide underground utility easement, under and across City of Roanoke owned property
located in the County of Roanoke, Virginia, bearing County of Roanoke Parcel
Identification No. 018.00-01-09.01-0000 and County of Roanoke Parcel Identification
No. 009.00-01- 21.00-0000 ("Property") to Appalachian Power Company, upon certain
terms and conditions;, as more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with
the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 83.)
Vice Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42184-101821.
The motion seconded by Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42184-101821 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea -7.
NAYS: None-0.
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, October 18,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
Brandon Village, LLC, to rezone property located at 0 Brandon Avenue, S. W., from
R-7, Residential Single-Family District, to MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit
Development District, subject to the Development Plan that specifies location of
buildings and infrastructure, site access, and building design, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 and Tuesday, October 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission recommended approval of the rezoning, finding
that the Amended Application No. 1 is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan,
neighborhood plans, and the Zoning Oridnance.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
619
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
�. "AN ORDINANCE rezoning certain property located at 0 (zero) Brandon
Avenue, S. W., bearing Tax No. 1250801, from R-7, Residential Single-Family District,
to MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit Development District, subject to the Development
Plan that specifies location of buildings and infrastructure, site access, and building
design; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title."
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of the Ordinance. The
motion seconded by Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council:
James Settle, 929 Winona Avenue, S. W.; in opposition;
John Garland, 923 Oakwood Drive S. W.; in opposition;
Catherine Greenberg, 1029 Oakwood Drive, S. W.; in opposition;
Dian Lee Tapscott, 1019 Sherwood Avenue, S. W.; in opposition;
Thomas Myers, 1019 Sherwood Avenue, S. W.; in opposition;
Alexander Boone, 3922 Electric Road #1 A, S. W.; in support;
Adele Carliss, 1830 Arlington Road, S.W.; in opposition;
Walt Derey, 93 Oakwood Drive, S. W.; in opposition;
Freeda Cathcart, 2516 Sweetbrier Avenue, S.W.; in opposition;
fano Joyce Waugh, 210 South Jefferson Street, S. W.; in support;
Jackie Stanley, 1826 Mt. Vernon Road, S. W.; in opposition; and
Helen Meredith, 2111 Westover Avenue, S. W.; in opposition.
There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed.
Following in-depth discussion regarding the rezoning of property located at 0
Brandon Avenue, S. W., from R-7, Residential Single-Family District, to MXPUD, Mixed
Use Planned Unit Development District, the Ordinance was defeated by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-3.
NAYS: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Bestpitch, and Cobb-4.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
620
Michael Reed, 145 Norfolk Avenue, S. W., representing Row by the Red,
appeared before the Council with regard to a homeless encampment less than 50 feet
from his home that has experienced multiple altercations, garbage, growing police
involvement, public urination, human excrement; and suggested that City funds be
utilized for a substantial and permanent City operated structure and in the interim
consider a ban on public camping.
Douglas Pitzer, 2200 Montauk Road, N. W., Apt. 10, appeared before the
Council to ask for City support with regard to a program titled Strokes of Genius, an
after school program which provides tutoring and other educational assistance in the
Gainsboro community.
NEW BUSINESS:
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution requesting that
Council Member Robert Jeffrey consider taking a leave of absence from City Council:
(#42185-101821) A RESOLUTION requesting that Council Member Robert
Jeffrey consider taking a leave of absence from City Council until final disposition of the
criminal charges pending against him are disposed of by the court.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 84.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42185-101821.
The motion seconded by Vice Mayor White-Boyd.
Following comments by Council Member Jeffrey, Resolution No. 42185-101821
was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, and
Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Jeffrey abstained from the vote.)
621
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
"MW the regular meeting adjourned at 10:17 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
622
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
November 1, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
November 1, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Sherman P. Lea, Sr. presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, Citv
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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
622
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
November 1, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
November 1, 2021, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Sherman P. Lea, Sr. 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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
623
REQUEST FOR CLOSED MEETING: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss and consider the
acquisition of real property for public purposes, 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager _
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss and consider the
acquisition of real property for public purposes, 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
624
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.
BRIEFING:
Proposed Zoning Code Amendments
The City Manager introduced Jillian Papa Moore, Acting Director, Planning and
Building Development, Phillip Moore, Zoning Administrator and Wayne Leftwich, Senior
City Planner, whom briefed the council on proposed changes to the Zoning Code and
highlighted the following information:
Implementation City Plan 2040 - Proposed Zoning Code Amendments
3 Key Issues
✓ Remove a regulatory barrier from the process to permit Accessory Apartments
(ADUs) in residential districts.
✓ Permit alternative energy solutions (solar energy systems and electric vehicle
charging stations) as accessory uses.
✓ Eliminate minimum parking requirement in all zoning districts.
• Proposed Action - Allow accessory apartments as a permitted use within all
residential districts. Supplemental regulations control design and location.
• Code Change - Remove Special Exception (public hearing) requirement to allow
the use by right in residential districts.
Interwoven Equity
Priority Three: Neighborhood Choice
• Policy 1: Identify and remove barriers to housing choice
o Reconsider housing policies rooted in racial segregation efforts such as
exclusionary zoning districts that exclude all but single-family houses.
o Work to reduce tenure bias, that is, the favoring of owner-occupants over renter
occupants, by reviewing City policy and plans to eliminate such bias.
• Policy 4: Develop varied and affordable housing options in each neighborhood
o Ensure affordable housing is available in all neighborhoods in the city.
o Promote complete neighborhoods, so all neighborhoods have a broad range of
housing types, including multifamily housing.
625
Livable Built Environment
Priority Four: Housing
• Policy 1: Enable affordable and accessible housing options in all neighborhoods.
• Policy 3: Enable a range of housing types in each part of the community to
achieve inclusive, livable neighborhoods that prosper over time.
o Consider ways to introduce different housing types into neighborhoods that lack
housing diversity while being mindful of and responsive to concerns about
neighborhood character, design, and maintenance.
o Explore opportunities for alternative living arrangements, such as group living
and co-housing, near neighborhood centers.
o Permit accessory dwelling units in all residential zones.
• Proposed Action - Remove regulatory barriers to enable alternative energy
solutions.
• Code Change - Create accessory uses to enable solar energy facilities and
electric vehicle charging stations. Provide supplemental regulations regarding
size, scale, signage, and buffering.
• Proposed Action - Remove the minimum parking requirement. _
• Code Change - Remove the minimum parking requirement.
Maximum parking requirements remain in place to be addressed in a future
amendment.
Harmony with Nature
Priority 1: Sustainable Land Development
• Policy 5: Reduce impervious surface through development requirements
o Remove minimum parking requirements.
o Encourage space saving parking measures, such as shared parking and parking
decks, through incentives and zoning requirements.
o Increase permeability requirements as part of parking standards (permeable
pavers, infiltration strips, rain gardens).
o Replace dated standards, such as impervious surface ratio, with measures that
reduce impervious surface while encouraging desired compact development
patterns.
Timeline
o November 1st, City Council Briefing
o November 8th, Planning Commission Public Hearing
o November 15th, City Council Public Hearing
626
Outreach
o RVTV Public Service Announcement
o Staff held virtual Q&A on October 28th
o Civic Send Notifications
o Public Notices
o Public Meetings
o Social Media
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Following brief comments by several Council Members, Mayor Lea thanked Ms.
Papa Moore and Messrs. Moore and Leftwich for the informative presentation, received
and filed the briefing.
At 9:48 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor
Municipal Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00 p.m., in the Council
Chamber.
At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
low PRESENT: Council Members Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Patricia White-Boyd,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., and Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr.-6.
ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Bishop Jamaal Jackson, Pastor, ReFreshing
Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
627
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
Presentation from Elite Business Strategies, Inc., with regard to the Gang
Violence Assessment
Council Member Cobb introduced Sharon Moore, Necole Holton, and Greg
McClain, Elite Business Strategies, Assessment Team whom briefed the Council with
regard to the Gang Violence Assessment and highlighted the following information:
Roanoke Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment
About Us
• Minority/Woman-Owned Business Enterprise
• Established in 2011
• Certified as an SBA Certified 8(a) and M/WBE
• Services include:
o Emergency Planning
o Disaster Recovery
o Hazard Mitigation
• Team members and leadership have been actively involved in over 80
Presidential Declared Disasters
Initiative Team Members
• Joe Cobb, City Council Member and Gun Violence Prevention Commission Chair
• Angie O'Brien, Grant Project Director and Chief Strategy Officer, City of Roanoke
• Chris Roberts, Youth and Gang Violence Prevention Coordinator
• Gun Violence Prevention Commission Members:
➢ Taisha Steele
➢ Shakira Williams
➢ Rabbi Kathy Cohen
➢ Reverend Tim Harvey
➢ Nicole Ross
➢ Decca Knight
➢ Elliott Major
➢ Stacey Sheppard
• Community Assessment Timeline
• October 29, 2021: Stakeholder Meeting
Data Collection and Research
o November 1 — 6, 2021: Scheduled Meetings/Interviews with Community
Leaders --
o November 7 — 13, 2021: Scheduled Meetings/Interviews with Youth
Services Providers and other Stakeholders
628
o November 8 - 10, 2021: Survey Dissemination
o November 22 — December 1, 2021: Survey Responses Compilation and
Analysis
o December 15, 2021: Assessment Report Draft
o December 30, 2021: Final Assessment Report
Methods of Dissemination
SoGo Survey Platform
o Surveys generated available in multiple languages
o Compatible with tablets, phones other devices
o Surveys specific to target audience
Schedule Meetings/Interviews/Outreach
o Conducted directly with school personnel, City Departments, and Youth
Services Providers
o Questionnaires that capture data, community perspectives (especially
youth), and recommendations
o Scheduled existing community and school events and meetings
o Community outreach with faith leaders, small business owners, etc.
Assessment Survey
Youth Service Providers and Input
o Input for survey questions
o Survey dissemination
o Access to customers/clients for assessment participation
o Recommendations
o Outreach opportunities
Next Steps
o Schedule meeting/interview time with Assessment Team by emailing
Jasmine Tolliver at Jasmine.Tolliver@ebsleaders.com
o Identify outreach opportunities that will support assessment efforts
o Identify possible social media strategies to support assessment efforts
o HAVE FUN!!!
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Following discussion and questions from the Council Members with regard to the
Assessment, the Mayor thanked the Team for a great presentation, received and filed
the briefing.
629
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council
CITY CRIME: David Courey, 3419 Ashmeade Drive, S. W., appeared before the
Council to voice concern about crime in the city and removal of Robert E. Lee statue.
MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Ave, S. W., appeared before
the Council to encourage the city, state, and country to connect, to take alternative
transportation, and use non-paper bags.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. ,._.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, November 1, 2021, was before the
body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-
Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
630
TAX EXEMPTION-LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING: A communication from the City
Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday,
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or
such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to
consider a request of Local Aging Office on Aging, Inc., (LOA), for tax exemption of real
property located at 4902 Frontage Road, N. W., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
TAX EXEMPTION-BLUE RIDGE LAND CONSERVANCY: A communication from
the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on
Monday, November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion,
to consider a request of Blue Ridge Land Conservancy, for tax exemption of real
property located at 1305 Maple Avenue, S. E., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
mow
631
2022 HUD ANNUAL ACTION PLAN: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, November 15,
2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date
and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to receive public
comment on the use of 2022 entitlement funding for multiple grants and un-programmed
2020 CARES Act funding to address eligible needs related to the development of the
City's 2022 HUD Annual Action Plan, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
PLASTIC BAG TAX: A communication from the City Attorney requesting that
Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday, November 15, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date and time
as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to amend the City Code with
regard to the disposable plastic bag tax, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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RESIGNATION-FAIR HOUSING BOARD: A communication from the City Clerk
advising of the resignation of Stephen Grammer as a member of the Fair Housing
Board, effective immediately, was before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council accept the resignation and
receive and file the communication. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
CHARTER AMENDMENT-CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT: A communication from
the City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on
Monday, November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, or such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion,
to amend the Roanoke City Charter of 1952 with regard to the Clerk of Circuit Court,
was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that to concur in the request of the City
Attorney as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
now
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REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Edward
Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant from the United States Department of Justice
to support programs within the Roanoke Police and Sheriff Departments.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42186-110121) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a grant from
the FY 2021 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program made to the
City of Roanoke by the United States Department of Justice; and authorizing execution
of any required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 86.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42186-
111021. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42187-110121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
government, Department of Justice, for the Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
(JAG) Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
0
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 87.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42187-110121. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
TRAIL ACCESS FUNDS FROM THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF
CONSERVATION: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending acceptance of trail access funds for the Roanoke River Blueway Access
at 13th Street, SE Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42188-110121) A RESOLUTION accepting the Virginia Department of
Conservation and Recreation Trail Access grant funds made to the City upon certain
Ulm terms and conditions; accepting the donation of funds from the Roanoke River Blueway
Committee in accordance with §2-263, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as
amended; and authorizing the execution any required documentation on behalf of the
City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 88.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42188-110121.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42189-110121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth of Virginia for the Virginia Recreational Trails Grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Capital Projects and Grant Funds
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 89.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42189-
110121. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
HAZARD MITIGATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FUNDS: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of Hazard Mitigation
Assistance Program Funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency in
connection with the City of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation Project.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42190-110121) A RESOLUTION accepting the Hazard Mitigation Assistance
Program grant made to the City from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management upon certain terms and conditions, and authorizing the City Manager to
execute any required documentation on behalf of the City in order to accept the grants.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 90.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42190-
110121. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42191-110121) A RESOLUTION accepting the Hazard Mitigation Assistance
Program grant made to the City from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management upon certain terms and conditions, and authorizing the City Manager to
execute any required documentation on behalf of the City in order to accept the grants.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 90.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42191-110121.
wow The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42192-110121) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant for the City
of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation Project to acquire and demolish the former Cee
Breeze Nursing Home Property, which is prone to flooding, amending and reordaining
certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with
the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 91.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42192-110121. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
REPETITIVE LOSS AREA ANALYSIS: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending adoption of a Repetitive Loss Area Analysis as a
requirement for the Community Rating System Program in connection with the City's
flood insurance premiums.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42193-110121) A RESOLUTION adopting the Repetitive Loss Area Analysis
Plan for communities with over 50 repetitive loss properties that have not been
mitigated; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to take such action as may
be needed to implement and administer such Plan.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 91.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42193-11021. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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VM00 CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF ROANOKE AND ANDREWS
TECHNOLOGY HSM, INC.: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending execution of Amendment No. 2 to the contract between the City of
Roanoke and Andrews Technology HSM, Inc., to replace outdated and manual time
clocks at the Public Works Service Center.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42194-110121) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and
execution of Amendment No. 2 to the City's Contract with Andrews Technology HMS,
Inc., to increase the license count and bring time tracking for all employees into one
system; and authorizing the City Manager to take certain other actions in connection
with such Amendment No. 2.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 94.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42194-
110121. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
Council Member Moon Reynolds advised that the Resolution listed an incorrect
amount of $365,225.00, which should be $359,025.00, based upon the submitted report
from the City Manager.
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved to amend the resolution by changing the
amount of $365,225.00, to $359,025.00. 2021 to 2022 in the first paragraph of the
measure. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
COMMUNITY FLOOD PREPAREDNESS GRANT: The City Manager submitted
a written communication recommending authorization to submit application to the
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation for a Community Flood
Preparedness Grant to create a resilience plan for the City.
NNW (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42195-110121) A RESOLUTION authorizing the application to the Virginia
Department of Conservation and Recreation for the Community Flood Preparedness
Fund Grant by the City of Roanoke Stormwater Division, and authorizing execution of
any required documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 95.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42195-
110121. The motion seconded by Vice Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb,
Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
CITY ATTORNEY:
OPIOID-RELATED CLAIMS: The City Attorney submitted a written
communication recommending approval of the proposed settlement of opioid-related
claims against multiple distributors and their related corporate entities.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42196-110121) A RESOLUTION approving the City's participation in the
proposed settlement of opioid-related claims against Mckesson, Cardinal Health,
AmerisourceBergen, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and their related corporate entities, and
authorizing the City Attorney and/or the City's outside counsel to execute any and all
documents necessary to effectuate the City's participation in these settlements.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 96.)
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woo Council Member Moon-Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42196-
110121. The motion seconded by Vice Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
RCAHD is Seeking Proposals to Support Equity, Access to COVID-19
Vaccines
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided COVID-19
Vaccination Supplement 4 to the Roanoke City and Alleghany Health District
through the Virginia Department of Health, totaling $2,296,964.
• These funds will be used to ensure greater equity and access to COVID-19
vaccines for those disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
• Forty percent of the funds will be distributed to community partners across both
health districts:
➢ Alleghany Health District: $697,570
➢ Roanoke City Health District: $221,215
• In response, RCAHD is seeking proposals from a diverse array of organizations
to support the goal of ensuring greater equity and access to COVID-19 vaccines.
• A Request for Proposals is posted on the VDH website and on the City's website
homepage, along with supporting information needed to understand the purpose
of RCAHD's funding opportunity and how to align your organization's project
ideas with the health district's goals and requirements.
• Any and all who have the capacity and the interest to support the Health District
in pursuing its goal may submit proposals.
i
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Valley Metro is Offerinq Fare Free Service on Election Dav
• On November 2, 2021, Election Day, Valley Metro will be fare-free on all fixed
route service and STAR paratransit service.
• This special promotion will enable citizens to utilize transit services to access
polling locations within the transit service area. Fare Free Day is also a good
opportunity for those who do not normally use Valley Metro Services to try transit.
Smart Way and Smart Way Express fares will be at the standard rate.
• If you have questions about Fare Free Day, please contact Kevin Price, General
Manager for the Greater Roanoke Transit Company (Valley Metro), at 540-613-
5523 or send an email to kprice@valleymetro.com.
Bagged Leaf Collection Begins Soon
• The City's Bagged Leaf Collection Program will be conducted this year in
November and December, starting the week of November 15 - 18.
• Remember, leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper leaf bags and set at
the curb for pickup. There is no limit to the number of paper leaf bags residents
may place at the curb for pickup.
• Residents will receive a postcard in the mail with specific dates for bagged leaf
collection weeks.
• The information also will be posted on the City's website homepage at
roanokeva.gov, and on the Solid Waste Management webpage at
roanokeva.gov/leaves.
Election Day
• City offices will not be closed for Election Day on Tuesday, November 2.
• Valley Metro will offer Fare Free Service on Election Day on all fixed route
service and STAR paratransit service.
Star City Safe
• The Parks & Recreation Team rescheduled the Eureka Park Fall Festival due to
inclement weather, which was originally scheduled for last Friday, October 29 to
this Friday, November 5 from 2 to 9 p.m.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Jeffrey advised as the City Council representative to the
Roanoke City Public Schools Strategic Planning Taskforce, that Superintendent White
was an excellent job leader of the Taskforce and the group had done a superb job in
defining what the portrait of a City school graduate looks like; he also advised the
Taskforce would like more input from parents.
Mayor Lea announced the top football teams from Bowie State and Fayetteville
State Universities of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA°), the nation's
oldest historically black athletic conference, will face off on Saturday, November 13 at
1:00 p.m., at the 2021 CIAA Football Championship Game at Salem Stadium. Tickets
available at the Salem Civic Center Box Office (Monday - Friday: 8 am - 5 pm) and
WAMW at Ticketmaster.com. He encouraged the community to attend the exciting event.
Council Member Cobb announced the Gun Violence Prevention Commission would
meet on Tuesday, November 9 at 5:30 p.m., at the Berglund Center, along with a
community forum at 6:00 p.m., to hear from citizens, groups, and agencies to receive
recommendations for dissemination of$2 million in ARPA funding.
Council Member Moon Reynolds expressed concern with regard to the homeless
encampment located off the Hershberger Road viaduct behind Lowe's Home
Improvement store. She also advised the City Administration about a homeless person
bypassed at a City bus stop by Valley Metro. The City Manager advised he would have
the situation investigated.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
ROANOKE CULTURAL ENDOWMENT: The Mayor called attention to the
upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Sherman P. Lea, Jr., member
(Citizen-at-Large) of the Roanoke Cultural Endowment, Board of Directors, ending
December 31, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Sherman P. Lea, Jr.
643
There being no further nominations, Mr. Lea was reappointed as a member
(Citizen-at-Large) of the Roanoke Cultural Endowment, Board of Directors, for a three-
year term of office ending December 31, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. LEA: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to
a vacancy created by the resignations of Stephen Ambruzs and John Francis, Jr., as
members of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission ending June 30, 2022 and
June 30, 2023, respectively; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of William Hackworth and
Stephanie Lareau.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Hackworth and Ms. Lareau were
appointed as members of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission to fill the
unexpired terms of office of Stephen Ambruzs and John Francis, Jr., ending June 30, _
2022 and June 30, 2023, respectively, by the following vote:
FOR MR. HACKWORTH AND MS. LAREAU: Council Members Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
TOWING ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the expiration of
the three-year terms of office of Travis Barber and Jada Smith as members (Law
Enforcement) of the Towing Advisory Board ended October 31, 2021; whereupon, he
opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Captain Andrew Pulley
and Jada Smith.
There being no further nominations, Captain Pulley was appointed to replace
Travis Barber and Ms. Smith was reappointed as members (Law Enforcement) of the
Towing Advisory Board for three-year terms of office, each, ending October 31, 2024,
by the following vote:
FOR CAPTAIN PULLEY AND MS. SMITH: Council Members Moon Reynolds, ,...
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
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YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the term of office of Brianna Wilson as a member (Student/WFHS) of the
Youth Services Citizen Board ended June 30, 2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for
nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Remi Davies.
There being no further nominations, Ms. Davies was appointed to replace
Brianna Wilson as a member (Student/WFHS) of the Youth Services Citizen Board for a
term of office ending June 30, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MS. DAVIES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones,
White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd, Cobb, Jeffrey, and Mayor Lea-6.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 3:50 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
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ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
November 15, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
November 15, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., 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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
PARKS AND RECREATION: Michael Clark, Director, Parks and Recreation and
staff recognized three awards received at the recent Virginia Recreation and Park
Society Annual Conference.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
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MISCELLANEOUS: N.J. Kilby, P.O. Box 222, Roanoke, Virginia, appeared
before the Council to express concern with regard to the health and safety of persons
camping and setting up semi-permanent dwellings near homes; and asked the Council
for a solution.
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. He called attention to a request convene in a Closed Meeting.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Thursday, October 7, 2021; was before the
body.
(See minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the reading of the minutes be
dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member
Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the 2021
Citizen of the Year Award, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(10), Code of Virginia (1950)
as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Mayor as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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DISPOSITION OF REAL PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss and consider the
acquisition of real property for public purposes, 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.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Robert
Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT-ROANOKE CITY CHARTER OF 1952: A communication from the
City Attorney requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Monday,
December 6, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or
such later date and time as the City Manager shall determine, in his discretion, to
amend the Roanoke City Charter of 1952 with regard to the change in the election date.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Attorney as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
_
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OATHS OF OFFICE-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PRGORAM
REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD-BUILDING AND FIRE CODE
BOARD OF APPEALS-ROANOKE REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING AUTHORITY-
ROANOKE REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION-BOARD OF TRUSTEES, CITY OF
ROANOKE PENSION PLAN-WESTERN VIRGINIA'S REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL
FACILITY AUTHORITY-CITY PLANNING COMMISSION-HOTEL ROANOKE
CONFERENCE CENTER COMMISSION-ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY
COMMISSION-ROANOKE VALLEY BROADBAND AUTHORITY-MILL MOUNTAIN
ADVISORY BOARD-VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS-
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE: Reports of
qualification of the following individuals were before the Council:
The Honorable Scott R. Geddes as the General District Court
representative of the Court Community Corrections Program
Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for a three-year term
of office commencing July 1, 2020 and ending June 30, 2023;
Douglas Coffman (Builder) and Jeffrey Shawver (Property
Management) as members of the Building and Fire Code Board of
Appeals for three-year terms of office commencing July 1, 2021
and ending June 30, 2024 and commencing July 1, 2020 and
ending June 30, 2023, respectively;
Andrew Anguiano as a Commissioner of the Roanoke
Redevelopment and Housing Authority for a four-year term of
office, commencing September 1, 2020 and ending August 31,
2024;
Robert Fralin as a City representative of the Roanoke Regional
Airport Commission for term of office commencing July 1, 2020 and
ending March 9, 2024;
David S. Jeavons as a member of the Board of Trustees, City of
Roanoke Pension Plan, for a term of office ending June 30, 2022;
Marc Nelson as a City representative of the Western Virginia's
Regional Industrial Facility Authority for a term of office ending
February 3, 2024;
Scott Terry-Cabbler and Sarah Glenn as members of the City
Planning Commission for four-year terms of office, each,
commencing January 1, 2021 and ending December 31, 2024;
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Court G. Rosen as a Citizen at Large representative of the Hotel
Roanoke Conference Center Commission for a four-year term of
office, commencing April 13, 2020 and ending April 12, 2024;
William Hackworth to fill the unexpired term of office of Stephen
Ambruzs as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley Greenway
Commission ending June 30, 2022;
Michael McEvoy as a Citizen at Large representative of the
Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority for a four-year term of office,
commencing December 13, 2021 and ending December 12, 2025;
Amanda Marko and Ahondryea Brooks as members of the Mill
Mountain Advisory Board for terms of office, each, ending June 30,
2023;
Elda Stanco Downey as a City representative of the Visit Virginia's
Blue Ridge, Board of Directors for a term of office ending June 30,
2022; and
011ie Howie as Director of the Economic Development Authority of
the City of Roanoke for a four-year term of office, commencing
October 21, 2021 and ending October 20, 2025.
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council receive and file the request.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
650
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFING:
Proposed Ordinance to enhance sidewalk safety and access in the
Downtown District
The City Manager and City Attorney presented a proposed Ordinance with
regard to camping on public sidewalks and right-of-way within the Downtown Service
District.
(See copy of proposed ordinance on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Messrs. Cowell and Spencer explained that over the past several months, a
number of City residents have complained about homeless people living on downtown
sidewalks, mainly along Church Avenue in proximity of the U. S. Post Office, the City's
Economic Development Department, and the City's Employee Health Clinic; as well as
how citizens witnessed outdoor urination, defecation, piles of personal belongings, and
trash and how it was unsafe to have residence outside.
_ Mr. Cowell advised that camping was banned in city parks, the market square,
and along greenways, but there was no language in the City Code that prohibited
sidewalk camping in downtown and the proposed amendment would prohibit camping
on public sidewalks and rights-of way within downtown.
Mr. Spencer added that any persons sleeping on a downtown sidewalk after the
ban goes into effect and refused to leave after receiving a ticket would be subject to
arrest and/or a fine. He speculated the proposed Ordinance could withstand a legal
challenge because it was crafted similar to other localities in the west and was the first
of its kind in Virginia.
Matthew Crookshank, Human Services Administrator, who works closely with the
Homeless Assistance Team, stated that the department would restrict free tents to only
homeless individuals cooperating with efforts to get permanent housing; however, in the
past, homeless individuals would receive a tent upon request.
The City Manager asked Council to consider adopting the proposed ordinance at
the December 6, 2021 City Council Meeting and enforcement would begin in January
2022.
651
Following brief questions and discussion from Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb,
and Sanchez-Jones, Mayor Lea thanked Messrs. Cowell and Spencer for the
information and looked forward to receiving the matter again at the December 6 meeting
for adoption.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
KIDS IN PARKS SIGN: The City Manager submitted a written communication
recommending acceptance of a donation of the Kids in Parks TRACK Trail kiosk sign
from the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42197-111521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a donation of
the Kids in Parks Track Trail kiosk sign from the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 98.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42197-111521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42198-111521) A BUDGET ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Blue
Ridge Foundation to provide TRACK Trail Kiosk sign donation, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 99.)
652
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42198-111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BASKETBALL COURT AT WASHINGTON PARK: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending adoption of a resolution naming the basketball
court at Booker T. Washington Park in honor of the late Ricky Renell Wright.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42199-111521) A RESOLUTION authorizing the adoption of a resolution
naming the basketball court at Booker T. Washington Park in honor of the late Ricky
Renell Wright.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 100.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42199-
111521. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White Boyd.
Darnell Wood nominator of Mr. Renell Wright, Doris Wright and Gail Wright
mother and sister of Mr. Wright appeared before the Council in support of the resolution.
There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Resolution No. 42199-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending approval of a Memorandum of Understanding and
appropriation of funds in connection with the American Rescue Plan Act SLFRF
Municipal Utility Relief Program to be used by the Western Virginia Water Authority to
provide relief to eligible municipal utility customers.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
i
653
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42200-111521) A RESOLUTION to approve of a Memorandum of
Understanding and appropriation of funds in connection with the American Rescue Plan
Act SLFRF Municipal Utility Relief Program to be used by the Western Virginia Water
Authority to provide relief to eligible municipal utility customers..
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 101.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42200-
111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42201-111521) A BUDGET ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
United States Treasury for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) — Coronavirus Relief
Fund to provide eligible municipal utility customers financial assistance due to ongoing
matters related to the COVID-19 pandemic, amending and reordaining certain sections
of the 2020 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading
by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of budget ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 101.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42201-
111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
654
CITY ATTORNEY:
BRIEFING:
Proposed City Code amendments to Chapter 21, Miscellaneous Offenses
The City Attorney briefed the Council on the proposed changes to the City Code
with regard to Chapter 21, Miscellaneous Offenses.
Mr. Spencer explained that many sections within Chapter 21 had not been
amended since the City Code was adopted in 1956 and the purpose for the review was
to better align the City Code with the Code of Virginia while mirroring the City's
principals of equity and inclusion; whereupon, several of the Code sections amended
and/or deleted do not reflect accepted societal norms of today.
He further explained that a majority of the City Code Sections were deleted
because such violations were prosecuted exclusively under the Code of Virginia and the
included violations for prostitution and/or support thereof, public intoxication, obscenity,
unlawful exposure, and the regulation of massage parlors; and in working with the
Police Department, it was determined that the types of violations listed above were best
prosecuted under the provisions of the Code of Virginia.
Lastly, the City Attorney stated that many of the proposed amendments involved
City Code provisions that were out of date or do not conform to the social norms of
today; such as, the fraudulent use of a pay phone, use of abusive language or making
threats over the phone, spitting on the floor of a public building and pollution of streams;
however, an updated version of the violation would be added to the City Code within
Stormwater regulations.
In as much as there were no questions and/or comments from the Council
Members, Mayor Lea thanked Mr. Spencer for the information, received and filed the
briefing.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and a report of the City Manager recommending that Council concur in the
request. Donna Caldwell, Director of Accounting, Spokesperson.
(For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
655
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42202-111521) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 102.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42202-
111521. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance to repeal
and replace Budget Ordinance No. 42192-110121 adopted on November 1, 2021, to
correct a scrivener's error, in connection with the acceptance of Hazard Mitigation
Assistance Program Funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for the
City of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation Project:
(#42203-111521) AN ORDINANCE to repeal and replace Budget Ordinance
42192-110121 to correct a scriveners error and to appropriate funding from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant for the City
of Roanoke Floodplain Mitigation Project to acquire and demolish the Ramada Property
5 residential properties in the floodway along Peters Creek, which is prone to flooding,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 General Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 104.)
656
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42203-111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:29 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
_ Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd,
William D. Bestpitch, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member William D. Bestpitch.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Boy Scout Troop 17 sponsored by St. John's Episcopal Church.
657
Council Member Jeffrey commented that his brother-in-law was killed amid the
weekend gun violence and the violence must cease in the City of Roanoke.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon-Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
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, _.
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Good Samaritan Hospice to repeal all conditions previously proffered as
part of a previous rezoning adopted by Ordinance No. 33457-070797 on property
located at 0 Cove Road, N. W.; and to rezone the property from Residential Multifamily
District to Institutional Planned Unit Development District, subject to a development
plan, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 and Tuesday, November 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1, as
amended at the hearing and subsequently submitted as Amended Application No. 2, is
consistent with the general principles within the City's Comprehensive Plan, Peters
Creek North Neighborhood Plan, and Zoning Ordinance.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
658
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42204-111521) AN ORDINANCE to repeal all conditions proffered as part of
previous rezonings on certain property located at 0 Cove Road, N. W., bearing Official
Tax Map No. 6410111 (the "Property") through the adoption of Ordinance No. 33457-
070797, adopted on July 7, 1997; rezoning certain property located at 0 Cove
Road, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 6410111, from RMF, Residential Multifamily
District, to INPUD, Institutional Planned Unit Development District, subject to the
Development Plan that specifies uses, location of buildings and infrastructure, site
access, and building design; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance
by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 105.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42204-111521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42204-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council
on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Franklin Road, LLC, to vacate an alley running north from Franklin
Road, S. W., towards Luck Avenue, S. W., adjacent to property located at 117 Franklin
Road, S. W., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 and Tuesday, November 2, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the abovementioned
matter to Monday, December 13, 2021, the Mayor advised that the City Council had no
jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
659
i
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council
on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Greater Roanoke Transit Company to vacate a 10 foot wide alley between
and parallel to 11th Street, S. E., and 12th Street, S. E., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 and Tuesday, November 2, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the abovementioned
matter to Monday, December 13, 2021, the Mayor advised that the City Council had no
jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
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,
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of the City of Roanoke to amend Chapter 36.2, Zoning, Code of the City of
Roanoke, (1979), as amended, for clarification and consistency with State law, was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 and Tuesday, November 2, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Code.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42205-111521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 36.2-311,
Section 36.2-312, Section 36.2-315, Section 36.2-322, Section 36.2-327, Section 36.2-
333, Section 36.2-403,Section 36.2-652, Section 36.2-653; of Chapter 36.2, Zoning, of
the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, for the purposes of amending and
reordaining the following code sections to update, clarify and make the City's zoning
ordinance easier to use for its citizens and consistent with state law; and dispensing
with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 107.) --
660
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42205-
111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42205-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
TAX EXEMPTION-LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING, INC.: Pursuant to instructions
by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Proposal of the City of Roanoke to consider a request of Local Office on
Aging, Inc., (LOA), for tax exemption of real property located at 4902 Frontage
Road, N. W., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, November 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending exemption of Local
Office on Aging, Inc., from real property taxation, pursuant to Article X, Section 6 (a) 6 of
the Constitution of Virginia, effective January 1, 2022.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42206-111521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 36.2-311,
Section 36.2-312, Section 36.2-315, Section 36.2-322, Section 36.2-327, Section
36.2-333, Section 36.2-403,Section 36.2-652, Section 36.2-653; of Chapter 36.2,
Zoning, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, for the purposes of
amending and reordaining the following code sections to update, clarify and make the
City's zoning ordinance easier to use for its citizens and consistent with state law; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 149.)
661
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42206-
111521. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42206-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
TAX EXEMPTION-BLUE RIDGE LAND CONSERVANCY: Pursuant to
instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Monday, November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request of Proposal of the City of Roanoke to consider a request of Blue
Ridge Land Conservancy for tax exemption of real property located at 1305 Maple
Avenue, S. E., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, November 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending exemption of Blue
Ridge Land Conservancy, from real property taxation, pursuant to Article X, Section 6
(a) 6 of the Constitution of Virginia, effective January 1, 2022.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42207-111521) AN ORDINANCE exempting from real estate property taxation
certain real property, located in the City of Roanoke owned by Blue Ridge Land
Conservancy, ("Applicant") a Virginia non-stock, non-profit corporation, devoted
exclusively to charitable or benevolent purposes on a non-profit basis; providing for an
effective date, and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 152.)
662
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42207-111521.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42207-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council,
the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 15, 2021, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of
Roanoke to consider the sale of property located at 0 Norfolk Avenue, S. W., to TLC
Properties, Inc., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, November 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of a
contract; repeal Ordinance No. 22476, adopted September 29, 1975 in order to facilitate
the sale of said property, subject to the approval as to form by the City Attorney.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42208-111521) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute the
necessary documents providing for the conveyance of a parcel of City-owned property
consisting of 0.0786 acres, more or less, bearing Official Tax Map No. 1110713, to TLC
Properties, Inc., upon certain terms and conditions; REPEALING Ordinance No. 22476
adopted September 29, 1975 in order to facilitate the sale of said property; and
dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 155.)
663
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42208-111521.
The motion seconded by Cobb.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42208-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2022 CARES ACT FUNDING: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City
Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.,
or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of Roanoke
to receive public comment on the use of 2022 entitlement funding for multiple grants
and un-programmed 2020 CARES Act funding to address eligible needs related to the
development of the City's 2022 HUD Annual Action Plan, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Sunday, October 31, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no questions and/comments by the Council Members, Mayor Lea
advised that no further action was required.
PLASTIC BAG TAX: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk
having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 15, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as
soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of Roanoke to
amend the City Code with regard to the disposable plastic bag tax, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, November 5, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
664
The City Attorney submitted a written report recommending adoption of an
ordinance amending and reordaining Ordinance No. 42062-051721 to incorporate the
definitions for grocery stores, convenience stores and drug store retailers used in the
guidelines promulgated by the Virginia Department of Taxation for the disposable plastic
bags tax.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42209-111521) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Ordinance No.
42062-051721, adopted by City Council on May 17, 2021, to define and redefine certain
terms to maintain consistency with guidelines promulgated by the Virginia Department
of Taxation, upon certain terms and conditions, providing for an effective date, and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 161.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42209-111521.
The motion seconded by Vice Mayor White-Boyd.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42209-111521 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OTHER BUSINESS:
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: A Petition for Appeal filed by Albert Mack,
appealing a decision of the Architectural Review Board denying a request to install
K-Style gutters at 531 Day Avenue, S. W., the matter was before the Council.
(See Petition for Appeal on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Now
665
Albert Mack, owner, advised that he was new to the City and wanted to fix up the
older home while keeping the integrity of the house. He explained that he put a lot of
work into the home and does not plan to leave as he has retired from the military and
civil service. He asked that the decision of the Architectural Review Board be reversed
to allow the gutters.
Mike Belcher, Contractor, Legacy Homebuilders, explained that there was some
confusion when they met previously with the Architectural Review Board on what style
gutters were acceptable. He pointed out that the K-Style gutter was traditional white in
color, would be painted to match the fascia system of the home, would not stand out
and would not destroy structural integrity or historical significance of the home.
Bill Mason, Acting Chairman, Architectural Review Board, advised that the
decision of the Board was split and two members voted that the K-Style gutter would be
acceptable and three members voted that the homeowner use the half round gutter.
Following discussion of the matter by the Council, Council Member Cobb moved
to reverse the decision of the City of Roanoke Architectural Review Board and grant the
request for a certificate of appropriateness to allow the installation of K-Style gutters on
the house at 531 Day Avenue, S. W. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, and Mayor Lea -7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
Steven Provost, 805 Clarke Road, Martinsville, Virginia, appeared before the
Council to share "Roanoke Century" gift a complimentary copy of his book, "Milestones
in History of Roanoke."
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
At 8:18 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess until Monday,
November 29, 2021, at 12:00 p.m., at the Melrose Library, 2502 Melrose
Avenue, N. W., Suite D, for a City Council Budget Planning Retreat.
666
The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Monday,
November 29, 2021, at 12:00 p.m., at the Melrose Library, 2502 Melrose
Avenue, N. W., Suite D, with Mayor Lea presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Vivian Sanchez-Jones (arrived late), Patricia
White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy, R.
Spencer, City Attorney; Cecelia T. Webb, Deputy City Clerk; and Drew Harmon,
Municipal Auditor.
OTHERS PRESENT: Clarence Grier, Deputy City Manager, W. Brent
Robertson, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Amelia Merchant,
Director of Finance, Paul Workman, Budget Business Analyst; Christopher Chittum,
Assistant City Manager and Angela O'Brien, Chief Strategy Officer.
Mayor Lea welcomed everyone and stated the purpose of the meeting was to
have open dialogue regarding agenda items and provide feedback to the City Manager.
BUDGET PLANNING WORKSHOP: The City Manager provided an overview of
the agenda and engaged the Council in discussion with regard to the form of
government, purpose of municipal budgeting, highlighting the balanced budget
requirements, basics of revenue generation, payment for services, capital items and
role of Council.
At this point, Council Member Sanchez-Jones entered the meeting (12:26 p.m.).
Amelia Merchant, Director of Finance, and Paul Workman, Budget Manager,
gave an overview of the FY21 budget closeout, where the budget appeared to be
landing and how to anticipate/propose spending surplus revenues. Ms. Merchant also
provided a brief overview of the current FY22 Budget.
667
The City Manager, Deputy City Manager, and Director of Finance facilitated the
following budget presentations and encouraged open discussion from the Council
Members:
a. Strategic Planning Retreat Takeaways
b. Budget Priorities
c. Budget Considerations
d. Budget Development
(See copy of presentations on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Angela O'Brien, Chief Strategy Officer, provided a brief overview of the status of
the Star City Strong Recovery Fud implementation.
Following discussion by members of City Council on a number of matters with
regard to budget development, the City Manager wrapped up the day and advised of
the next steps.
There being no further business, Mayor Lea declared the Recessed Session
adjourned at 4:43 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
0"46�,J. 1&-,� C.,
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC herman . Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
668
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
December 6, 2021
9:00 a.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
December 6, 2021 at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke,
Sherman P. Lea, Sr. 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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
ITEMS FOR ACTION:
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P.
Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor
as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
669
ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING
DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M.
AGENDA: NONE.
NONE.TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
At 9:10 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council Meeting in recess to be reconvened
at 9:30 a.m., as the Legislative Committee and Area State Legislators to discuss the
2022 Legislative Program; thereafter in recess for a Closed Meeting; and thereafter
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, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Patricia White Boyd, William D. Bestpitch,
Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Vivian Sanchez-
Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
Mayor Lea.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION DISTINGUISHED
BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD: Mayor Lea presented the Government Finance
Officers Association Certificate for the City's and Pension Plan Annual Comprehensive
Financial Report (ACFR) for the Fiscal Year ended 2021 to Amelia Merchant, Director of
Finance and members of the Department of Finance.
670
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS:
City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. If deemed
appropriate, matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation
or report to the Council.
MISCELLANEOUS: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Ave, S. W., appeared before
the Council and spoke with regard to Roanoke being the hub to build connections and
relationships in the community.
CITY CRIME: Shaheed Omar, 927 Wasena Avenue, S. W., Apt. 2, appeared
before the Council and spoke with regard to the harsh penalties associated with the
prosecution of gang members in the City of Roanoke and suggested that Council
research crime in the City.
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,e� (isted on the removed from thent ConsentdaAgenda a'ndussion consideeed
dre
esired, the item would
separately.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, October 18, 2021, was before the
body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reading of the minutes dispensed with
and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ROW
671
OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY GREENWAY COMMISSION-
ROANOKE REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN
BOARD-ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the
following individuals, were before the Council:
Stephanie Lareau to fill the unexpired term of office of John Francis, Jr.,
as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission
ending June 30, 2023;
John R. Clements as a City representative of the Roanoke Regional
Airport Commission for a four-year of office commencing March 10, 2021
and ending March 9, 2025;
Remi Davies as a member (StudentM/illiam Fleming High School) of the
Youth Services Citizen Board for a term of office ending June 30, 2022;
and
Amy Morgan as a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board for a
three-year term of office commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30,
2024.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved that the reports of qualification be received and --
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
AMENDMENT TO ROANOKE CHARTER OF 1952: Pursuant to instructions by
the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, December 6,
2021, at 2:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider a
proposal of the City of Roanoke to request the General Assembly of Virginia to amend
the Roanoke Charter of 1952 to acknowledge the City Council General election date
has changed from May to November of even-numbered years, the matter was before
the body.
672
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published once in The Roanoke
Times on Friday, November 26, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch, Chair, Roanoke City Legislative Committee submitted
a written report recommending adoption of a resolution and that a bill be introduced in
the 2022 Session of the General Assembly to amend the Charter as proposed.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42210-120621) A RESOLUTION petitioning the General Assembly to amend
the Roanoke Charter of 1952 to reflect a change in election dates and meetings of
council generally.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 158.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution 42210-120621. The
motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
NEW Mayor Lea inquired if there were persons present wishing to speak on the matter;
whereupon, the following individuals appeared before the Council:
Barbara Andes, 2803 Rosalind Ave, S. W., appeared before the Council in
support of November Municipal elections.
Luke Priddy, 302 5th Street, S. W., appeared before the Council with regard to
the voting change and support of this change.
Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Ave, S. W., appeared before the Council to ask
for assistance in discussing issues in forums during elections and was unaware if the
voice of the people were heard.
There being no additional speakers, Mayor Lea closed the public hearing.
There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Resolution
No. 42210-120621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
673
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS: NONE.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
FY2021 BULLETPROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of the FY2021 Bulletproof Vest
Partnership Grant Award from the United States Department of Justice.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42211-120621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the FY2021
Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Award made to the City of Roanoke by the United
States Department of Justice; and authorizing execution of any required documentation
on behalf of the City. _
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 160.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42211-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42212-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the appropriate
funding from the Federal government, Department of Justice, for the Bulletproof Vest
Partnership Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021-2022 Grant
Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 161.)
i
674
Council Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42212-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY2021 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PROGRAM: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the FY2021 State
Homeland Security Program Grant from the Virginia Department of Emergency
Management for the Police Department to purchase equipment to enhance the safety of
officers and citizens.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42213-120621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the State
Homeland Security FY2021 Program Grant established by the Virginia Department of
Emergency Management made to the City of Roanoke by the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security; and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf
of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 162.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42213-
120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42214-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Department
of Homeland Security through the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Emergency
Management for the State Homeland Security Program Grant, amending and
reordaining certain sections of the 2021-2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and
dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 163.)
675
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42214-
120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN: The
City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
National Endowment for the Arts American Rescue Plan Award to contract with artists
to develop and publicly show work that advances community wellness, justice and
inclusion.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42215-120621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the American
Rescue Plan Act Grant established by the National Endowment for the Arts to the City
of Roanoke; and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf of the
City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 164.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42215-120621. The
motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42216-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Government National Endowment for the Arts Grant, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2021-2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 165.)
676
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42216-
120621. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS GRANTS ARTS PROJECTS
AWARD: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
acceptance of the National Endowment for the Arts Grants Arts Projects Award to hire
artists to engage with City staff, stakeholders and residents in developing and
implementing projects that connect the community with goals and strategies.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following resolution:
(#42217-120621) A RESOLUTION accepting the National Endowment for the
Arts Grants Arts Projects Award to hire artists to engage with City staff, stakeholders
and residents in developing and implementing projects that connect the community with
.... goals and strategies.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 166.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42217-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42218-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal
Government National Endowment for the Arts Grant, amending and reordaining certain
sections of the 2021-2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second
reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 167.)
677
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42218-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
2022 VIRGINIA STATEWIDE BUSINESS DISTRICT RESURGENCE GRANT:
The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the
2022 Virginia Statewide Business District Resurgence Grant in connection with a needs
assessment for merchants in the Gainsboro Commercial District.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42219-120621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2022
Virginia Statewide Business District Resurgence Grant established by the National
League of Cities to the City of Roanoke; and authorizing execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 168.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42219-120621. The
motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42220-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the National
League of Cities' Institute for Youth, Education & Families (YEF) for the Equitable
Economic Mobility Initiative Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2021-2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 169.)
678
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42220-
""' 120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SHUTTERED VENUES OPERATORS GRANT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending acceptance of additional funds in connection with
the Shuttered Venues Operators Grant from the Small Business Administration Office of
Disaster Assistance to provide support to live venue operators in response to the
impacts of COVID-19.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42221-120621) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Shuttered
Venue Operators Grant ("Grant") established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small
Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act and amended by the American Rescue Plan
Act made to the City of Roanoke by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of
Disaster Assistance; and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf
of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 170.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42221-
120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A..
679
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42222-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Economic
Aid to Hard-Hit Business, Nonprofits, and Venues Act amended by the American
Rescue Plan Act, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021-2022 Grant
Fund —Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this
ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 171.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42222-120621. The
motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BANK ON ROANOKE VALLEY PROGRAM: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending appropriation of the FY2021 — 2022 United Way
funding for the Bank On Roanoke Valley Program.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42223-120621) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the acceptance from the United
Way of Roanoke Valley to transition program management from Bank on Roanoke
Valley to the City to improve the financial stability of low to moderate income residents,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021-2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 172.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42223-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
680
AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE TO UPDATE AND CLARIFY THE
TA" STORMWATER UTILITY SECTION: The City Manager submitted a written
co' ate and clarify the
,mmunication recommending amendment of the City Code to upd
Stbrmwater Utility section.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42224-120621) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding amending and
reordaining Section 14.1-3, Litterin , Chapter 14.1, Solid Waste Management, Code of
the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended; establishing an effective date; and dispensing
with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82 page 173.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42224-120621.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
_ NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42225-120621) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Chapter 11.3,
Stormwater Discharge Requirements, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended;
establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance
by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 175.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42225-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
681
AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE TO ENHANCE SIDEWALK SAFETY AND
ACCESS IN THE DOWNTOWN SERVICES DISTRICT: The City Manager submitted a
written communication amending the City Code to enhance sidewalk safety and access
in the Downtown Services District.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42226-120621) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 24-12.
Camping on public sidewalks and rights of way within the Downtown Service District,
Chapter 24 Public Buildings and Property Generally, Article I In General, Code of the
City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; establishing an effective date; and dispensing
with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 182.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42226-
120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch.
The following individuals appeared before the Council to speak on the matter:
Gilbert Collins, 903 Hunt Avenue, N. W., — in opposition;
Dawn Sandoval — 602 Marshall Avenue, S. W. — in opposition;
Lee Wilhelm — 1921 Salem Avenue, S. W.— in support;
Joshua Haley— 375 Elm Avenue, N. W. — in opposition;
Dr. Samantha Rosenthal — 340 Day Avenue, S. W. — in opposition;
James Matt Bullington — 3230 Orchard Hill Road, S. W.— in support;
John Wiley— 137 Norfolk Avenue, S. W. — in support;
Anne Marie Green, Blue Ridge Interagency Council on Homelessness, 502
Campbell Avenue, S. W.
Lauren Canary— 1029 Woodrow Avenue, S. E. — addressed concerns with
regard to fines for unhoused persons downtown; in opposition;
Danny Clawson - 1029 Woodrow Avenue, S. E. — addressed concerns with
regard to fines for unhoused persons downtown; in opposition;
Eric Sichau — Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce, 210 S. Jefferson
Street, S. W. — in support;
Kiesha Preston, 2431 Hanover Avenue, N. W. — Roanoke, — in opposition;
Tina Workman, Downtown Roanoke, Inc., 213 Market Street, S. W. — in support;
Stephanie Keesee —411 Walnut Avenue, S. W., Apt. 3 — expressed concerns
with regard to charges as a class 4 misdemeanor;
Robert Jaeger— 1814 Arlington Road, S. W. — in support; _
Swade Best— 3414 Wakefield Avenue, S. W. — addressed concerns with the
Roanoke Rescue Mission; requiring all to attend religious services;
682
Alisha Smith — 703 Suburban Avenue, S. W. — in opposition;
David Garland — 3704 Round Hill Avenue, N. W. — in support;
John Rose Brewer— 2802 Colonial Avenue, S. W., Apt. 16 — expressed concerns
with regard to charges as a class 4 misdemeanor;
Amy Trowell — 2220 Ross Lane, S. W. — in opposition;
Sam McCormick— 1132 Montrose Avenue, S. E. —tools for vendors; and
Ezekiel Besser- member of the homeless community—defended his plight.
Mayor Lea asked Lee Clark, Chief Executive Officer, Rescue Mission Ministries,
to respond to concerns from citizens with regard to religious service attendance. Mr.
Clark noted that there had been long-term concerns with regard to rules and regulations
at the Mission. He also explained that it was not necessary for the homeless to be
sober to get shelter at the Mission; and with regard to concerns of sexual orientation or
gender identity, Mr. Clark explained that staff has undergone training to better relate to
the entire community.
Council Member Bestpitch agreed with Mr. Clark that there were problems in the
City that could not be resolved in the near future and said that the City of Roanoke has
invested sufficient amount of funding for homelessness and that it was not acceptable to
allow displacement of people.
Council Member Cobb commented that he had mixed feelings about the fine
associated with the measure and noted that everyone was facing their vulnerabilities.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd asked Mr. Clark to clarify concerns about religious
offerings; wherein, he advised that attendance at religious service was not required to
stay at the Rescue Mission, specific requirements have not been in effect since the
pandemic, and whatever religion practiced, the Mission attempts to connect with that
specific faith.
Council Member Jeffrey indicated homelessness was a complex issue in
downtown and the choices of the homeless should not impede or cause conflicts. He
said he would support the measure, but was concerned about the proposed penalty.
Council Member Moon Reynolds asked the City Manager about the number of
Homeless Assistance Team full-time outreach workers and their hours of operation;
wherein, he replied there were three full-time employees, in addition to Matt
Crookshank, Human Services Administrator and the hours of operation were from
11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and varied during the week.
Following additional comments by the City Manager, Mayor Lea stated the City of
Roanoke has and will continue to deal with homelessness in a compassionate and
caring manner, along with structure to maintain a vibrant downtown.
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There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 42226-120621 was adopted by the following vote:
Lea-4.AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Jeffrey, Sanchez-Jones, and
NAYS: Council Members Cobb and Moon Reynolds-2.
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager shared the following comments:
ARPA Funding
• Online grant applications are now open for the American Rescue Plan Act
funding.
• Individuals, families, nonprofits, mental health service providers, substance
abuse treatment, small businesses, and arts and cultural organizations may
apply through the City of Roanoke.
• Information is posted on our website at roanokeva.gov/starcitystrong
Youth and Gang Violence Community Assessment --
• The Gun Violence Prevention Commission is undertaking a Youth and Gang
Violence Community Assessment to provide community-driven
perspectives—particularly youth perspectives—on the issues surrounding
gang violence.
• The assessment will be completed through direct interviews with community
members, as well as a survey that will be disseminated through a variety of
methods.
• Details on how to participate in the survey are posted on our website
homepage at roanokeva.gov, under "About Roanoke."
• The deadline to participate is tomorrow, December 7.
HUD Funding
• Non-profit organizations seeking Community Development Block Grants,
HOME Investment Partnership Grants, Emergency Solutions Grants or
CDBG-CV CARES Act funding for eligible activities for FY 2022 - 2023 may
access an application on the City's website.
• Applications are due online to the City's HUD Community Resources Division
by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.
• Details for how to apply are posted on our website homepage at
roanokeva.gov, under"About Roanoke."
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Spring 2022 Leadership College
Registration is open for the City's Spring 2022 Leadership College.
This is a nine-week community leadership program designed to increase the
level of effective communication between City government and residents.
• Classes will meet on Thursday evenings, March 17 through May 19, 2022,
from 6 to 9 p.m. in the EOC (Room 159) of the Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building.
• Light refreshments will be served at 5:30 p.m.
• Registration is free, but participants must live or work in the City of Roanoke
and commit to attend seven out of nine sessions.
• More information can be found at roanokeva.gov/leadershipcol leg , or you
can follow the Office of Neighborhood Services Facebook page.
• Contact Josh Johnson, Neighborhood Services Coordinator, (540) 853-1643,
Joshua johnson(a�roanokeva.gov if you have questions.
CITY ATTORNEY:
PURCHASE OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1414 MEMORIAL AVENUE, S.W.:
The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending execution of a
purchase and sales agreement with 1414 Memorial, LLC, for the purchase of property
located at 1414 Memorial Avenue, S. W.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42227-120621) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager or his
designee to execute a purchase and sale agreement with 1414 Memorial, LLC, for the
purchase of an approximately 106,752 square foot parcel of commercial real property
located at 1414 Memorial Avenue, S.W., Roanoke, Virginia, bearing Official Tax Map
No. 1230401 by the City of Roanoke, Virginia, 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. 82, page 184.)
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Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42227-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE TO UPDATE AND CLARIFY THE
MISCELLANEOUS OFFENSES SECTION: The City Attorney submitted a written
communication recommending amending and reordaining Chapter 21 of the City Code
to conform to the Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, and to update certain sections
to societal norms of current day.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42228-120621) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Chapter 21,
Offenses - Miscellaneous, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; --
providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance
by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 185.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42228-
120621. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT OF THE CITY CODE IN CONNECTION WITH CLEAN SPECIAL
FUELS: The City Attorney submitted a written communication recommending
amending and reordaining Subsection (d), Section 32-104, Levied; rate, Article III, Tax
on Tangible Personal Property Generally, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as
amended.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
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Council Member Jeffrey offered the following ordinance:
(#42229-120621) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining subsection (d),
Section 32-104, Levied: rate, Article III, Tax on Tangible Personal Property Generally,
Chapter 32, Taxation, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended, which provides
for a special personal property tax rate for certain motor vehicles which use clean
special fuels; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of
this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 219.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42229-120621.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
ADOPTION OF THE PROPOSED 2022 LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM: Council
Member Bestpitch, Chairman of the Legislative Committee, submitted the Proposed
2022 City of Roanoke Legislative Program for adoption.
(For full text, see Proposed 2022 Legislative Program on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42230-120621) A RESOLUTION adopting and endorsing a Legislative
Program for the City to be presented to the City's delegation to the 2022 Session of the
General Assembly; and authorizing the City's legislative liaison to advocate the
positions of the City with respect to matters presented during the 2022 Session of the
General Assembly.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 221.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42230-120621.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
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Council Member Bestpitch moved that Item 6 in the Legislative Program be
changed from "with respect to the funds for capital investment and innovation corridor
from $10 million to $15 million; add a period after the word "Corridor"; and delete all
words after the period". He further mentioned that in Item 8 add the phrase "Senator
Edwards and Delegate Rasoul expressed intention to introduce the legislation." The
motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Following additional comments from Council Member Bestpitch and Mayor Lea,
Resolution No. 42230-120621 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch encouraged the importance of all Council Members
getting involved and being aware of the happenings of the General Assembly in
Richmond, adding the Legislators needed to hear from the entire Council in one on one
conversations.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. _
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION COMMISSION: Council Member Cobb
announced that on Thursday, December 9, at 6:00 p.m., the Gun Violence Prevention
Commission and Total Action for Progress (TAP) would host the Annual Bridging the
Community Gap event, which would commence at the Martin Luther King Memorial
Statue downtown; and further expressed that Greg McClain, member of the Elite
Business Strategies Team who was working on the Gang Violence Assessment passed
away on Sunday, December 5 after a brief illness.
MISCELLANEOUS: Council Member Jeffrey acknowledged the support for his
family in the passing of his brother-in-law Clayton Williams, recently murdered on
Williamson Road. He advised that an arrest had been made in connection with the
murder.
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PLASTIC BAG TAX: Council Member Bestpitch thanked the City Manager and
WAM staff for the informative brochure explaining the plastic bag tax to be go into effect on
January 1, 2022.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING: Mayor Lea thanked the Council for attending
the Dickens of a Christmas tree lighting.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FAIR HOUSING BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by
the resignation of Stephen Grammer as a member of the Fair Housing Board ending
March 31, 2022; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Garrett Brumfield.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Brumfield was appointed to fill the
unexpired term of office of Stephen Grammer as member of the Fair Housing Board
ending March 31, 2022, by the following vote:
FOR MR. BRUMFIELD: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
PERSONNEL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor called
attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Jackie Clewis as a member
(Classified Service/City Employee) of the Personnel Employment and Practices
Commission for a term of office ending June 30, 2023; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Donna St.Clair.
6.89
There being no further nominations, Ms. St.Clair was appointed to fill the
unexpired term of office of Jackie Clewis as a member (Classified Service/City
Employee) of the Personnel Employment and Practices Commission ending June 30,
2023, by the following vote:
FOR MS. ST.CLAIR: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey,
Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the
expiration of the three-year term of office of Linwood "Woody" Deans as a member of
the Roanoke Civic Center Commission ended September 30, 2021. Inasmuch as Mr.
Deans having served three consecutive terms of office, he is ineligible to serve another
term of office; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in the nomination the name of Chris Craft.
There being no further nominations, Mr. Craft was appointed to replace Linwood
"Woody" Deans as a member of the Roanoke Civic Center Commission for a term of
office ending September 30, 2024, by the following vote:
FOR MR. CRAFT: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon —
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention to a
vacancy created by the resignation of Margaret Ashburn as a member of the Roanoke
Neighborhood Advocates ending September 30, 2023; whereupon, he opened the floor
for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Duriel Wood.
There being no further nominations, Duriel Wood was appointed to fill the
unexpired term of office of Margaret Ashburn as a member of the Roanoke
Neighborhood Advocates ending September 30, 2023, by the following vote:
FOR MR. WOOD: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon
Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
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_ YOUTH ATHLETICS REVIEW BOARD: Pursuant to Ordinance No. 42173-
100721 amending and reordaining Chapter 2, Administration, Division II, Permanent
Committees, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, setting forth the
composition, purpose, responsibility, appointment and terms of members, members not
compensated, organization, selection of officers, meetings, and reports to Council; the
Mayor called attention to five vacancies on the newly created Youth Athletics Review
Board, two appointments by the City Manager and three appointments by the Council;
whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Brandon McCall and
Jaime Mather appointees by the City manager; and Heather Hamed-Moore, Deidre
Trigg and Darnell Wood appointees by the Council.
There being no further nominations, Mr. McCall was appointed for a one-year
term of office ending December 31, 2022; Mr. Mather and Ms. Hamed-Moore were
appointed for two-year terms of office, each, ending December 31, 2024; and Ms. Trigg
and Mr. Wood (waived residency) were appointed for three-year terms of office, each,
ending December 31, 2025 as members of the Youth Athletics Review Board, by the
following vote:
FOR MESSRS. MCCALL, MATHER, WOOD AND MS. HAMED-MOORE AND
MS. TRIGG: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
vow Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
Council Member Cobb moved that the residency requirement for Ms. Trigg and
Mr. Wood be waived in this instance, which was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members White-Boyd, Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, and Mayor Lea-7.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
691
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
December 20, 2021
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
December 20, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor,
Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., 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. 41964-010421
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 4, 2021.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds (participated by electronic means), Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6.
Mayor Lea announced he received a request from Council Member Moon
Reynolds to allow participation via zoom at the 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. meetings of
Council. Council voted unanimously to allow participation in the meeting via zoom.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Joseph L. Cobb.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
692
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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. He called attention to a request convene in a Closed Meeting.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, November 1, 2021, was before the
body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed
with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 — 2023: A
communication from the City Manager, recommending adoption of the Calendar of
Events for Budget Development Activities for Fiscal Year 2022 — 2023, was before the
Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
693
BLUE RIDGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE: A communication from Debbie _
Bonniwell, Chief Executive Officer, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, requesting that
Council ratify the appointment of Colonel Bobby Russell as an at-large member of the
Board of Directors for a three-year term of office ending December 31, 2024, was
before the Council.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of Ms.
Bonniwell as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
OATHS OF OFFICE-BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS: Report of qualification of
Amanda McGee as the member of the Board of Zoning Appeals for a three-year term of
office commencing January 1, 2022 and ending December 31, 2024; was before the
Council.
(See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) --
Council Member Bestpitch moved that the report of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
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PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
FATHERHOOD ENCOURAGEMENT PROJECT: Matthew Hogan, Acting
President, appeared before the Council and shared information about the Fatherhood
Encouragement Project, the Roanoke Chapter and the impact fathers have on children
through affirmation, leadership, and community service. He emphasized the more
fathers were involved, the more they can help and that the mentorship program
provides opportunities for fathers to be men and step up to the plate in their
responsibilities.
He explained that the Fatherhood Mentoring Project, a national nonprofit
organization that brings dads from all walks of life together in order to build healthy
friendships and create more effective leaders and communicators. He advised the
motto of the organization was "Stronger Fathers, Stronger Children, Stronger
Communities."
Council Member Moon inquired with regard to funding; whereby, Mr. Hogan
replied funding consisted of mostly donations.
Mayor Lea thanked Mr. Hogan for the informative presentation and advised that it
would be received and filed.
ROANOKE GREENWAY COMMISSION UPDATE: Frank Maguire, Greenway
Coordinator, Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission appeared before the Council and
gave an overview of activities of the Commission.
He highlighted topics such as the trail survey results, greenway usage, greenway
signage and pointed out the new extensions of the greenways.
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Following Mr. Maguire's presentation, Council Member Bestpitch offered support
and encouragement to Mr. Maguire; and expressed continued hopes of progression on
the greenways.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFING: NONE.
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ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
APPOINTMENT OF BATALLION CHIEF: The City Manager submitted a written
communication recommending appointment of Battalion Chief Trevor W. Shannon as
the Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Roanoke.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42231-122021) A RESOLUTION granting consent to the appointment of an
Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Roanoke, Virginia.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 223.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42231-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMENDMENT OF THE FY2021 ASPHALT CONCRETE OVERLAYS
CONTRACT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
amendment of the FY2021 Asphalt Concrete Overlays Contract between the City of
Roanoke and Boxley Materials Company.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42232-122021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and
execution of a contract amendment to the City's contract with Boxley Materials
Company, for additional asphalt concrete overlays and pavement profiling of various
streets within City limits; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to take such
actions and execute such documents as may be necessary to provide for the
implementation, administration, and enforcement of such contract, as amended.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 223.)
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696
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42232-
122021. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER.
The City Manager shared the following comments:
2021 Neighborhood Partnership Awards
• This year's award winners will be announced at the beginning of City
Council's 7 p.m. meeting tonight.
• The City is proud to have this opportunity to recognize neighborhood
organizations and individuals who have partnered with City departments,
Schools, nonprofits, businesses, and institutions to make a difference in
our community through their service.
2022 Solid Waste Collection & Hazardous Weather Preparation Guide
• Residents will receive a copy of the Guide in the mail this month.
• It contains information about year-round solid waste collection, including a
calendar that shows when trash, recycling, and bulk and brush will be
picked up.
• The Guide also informs citizens about snow removal, flood preparedness,
and offers emergency contact information.
• A digital copy of the Guide is posted on the City's website in English and
Spanish.
Free Basketball Tournament, DJ Battle
• Roanoke Parks and Recreation will offer two free events on Jan. 29:
o A 3 vs. 3 Basketball Tournament at the Berglund Center, followed
by a Battle of the DJs after party at the Eureka Recreation Center.
• These events are free to the community to participate in and attend. They
are part of the Star City Safe Initiative to offer expanded services and
access to public facilities, to keep our youth and neighborhoods safe
through programming and engagement.
• Registration information is available online at PLAYRoanoke.com.
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MUNICIPAL AUDITOR:
INTEGRATED TAX REVENUE SYSTEM: The Municipal Auditor submitted a
written communication recommending Amendment of Ordinance No. 42075-060721 to
change the effective date of Ordinance Nos. 41931-122120, 41932-122120, 41934-
122120 and 41935-122120, from July 1, 2021, until the date the integrated tax revenue
system is successfully implemented, or July 1, 2022 whichever date comes earlier.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance.
(#42233-122021) AN ORDINANCE amending and re-ordaining Ordinance Nos.
41931-122120, 41932-122120, 41934-122120, and 41935-122120, all adopted by City
Council on December 21, 2020, by changing the effective date of such Ordinances from
July 1, 2021, until the date the City of Roanoke's integrated tax revenue system is
successfully implemented, or July 1, 2022, whichever date comes earlier, 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. 82, page 224.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42233-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote: .�
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds,
Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution:
(#42234-122021) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Treasurer to waive
interest charges for Transient Occupancy Tax and Admission Tax; to amend the
process for calculating and applying penalties for Admission Tax, Prepared Food and
Beverage Tax, and Transient Occupancy Tax; and to authorize the City Treasurer to
take such actions as may be necessary to provide for the implementation,
administration, and enforcement of this Resolution; and providing for an effective date.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 226.)
—
698
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42234-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and the City Manager submitted a report of the City Manager recommending
that Council concur in the request. Donna Caldwell, Director of Accounting,
Spokesperson.
(For full text, see reports on file in City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42235-122021) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
Now and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 — 2022 School Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 227.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42235-
122021. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
699
Y
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA OFFICER: Council Member Moon Reynolds
offered the following resolution, commending the services rendered to the City of
Roanoke by Melinda Mayo as Communication and Media Officer, on the occasion of her
retirement:
(#42236-122021) A RESOLUTION recognizing and commending the services
rendered to the City of Roanoke by Melinda Mayo as its Communications and FOIA
Officer in the Office of the City Manager, Office of Community Engagement, and
expressing the gratitude and appreciation of the City and its citizens for her service.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 228.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42236-
122021. The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MINIMUM WAGE-PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEES: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
offered the following ordinance to raise minimum wage for all public safety City
employees and a one-time stipend to all full-time public safety City employees
employed by the City:
(#42237-122021) AN ORDINANCE raising the minimum wage for all public
safety City employees and sworn personnel within the Sheriff's Office to fifteen dollars
per hour, authorizing and approving a one-time payment in the amount of $1,500 to all
full-time public safety City employees employed by the City as of January 1, 2022 who
remain employed with the City on June 1, 2022 in the City's June 22, 2022 pay date;
and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 229.)
700
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42237-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MINIMUM WAGE-NON PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEES: Council Member
Jeffrey offered the following ordinance to raise minimum wage for all non-public safety
City employees and one-time wage enhancement payment to certain employees
employed by the City:
(#42238-122021) AN ORDINANCE raising the minimum wage for all non-public
safety City employees to fifteen dollars per hour, authorizing and approving a one-time
wage enhancement payment to certain employees earning less than fifteen dollars per
hour; approving a separate one-time payment to all non-public safety full-time City
employees in the amount of $1,000 each, a one-time payment of $500 to all non-public
safety part-time City employees who are employed by the City on December 27, 2021;
and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 231.)
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42238-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
POLICE OFFICER SIGN-ON BONUS: Council Member Cobb offered the
following ordinance to pay 25 police officer recruits a sign-on bonus:
(#42239-122021) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to institute a
program to pay twenty-five (25) police officer recruits, a sign-on bonus of up to $5,000
to become police officers with the City's Police Department; and dispensing with the
second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 231.)
701
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42239-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
ONE-TIME PAYMENT PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEES: Council Member
Bestpitch offered the following ordinance to approve a one-time payment of$2,000 to all
full-time public safety employees employed by the City during a certain period:
(#42240-122021) AN ORDINANCE authorizing and approving a one-time
payment in the amount of $2,000 to all full-time public safety employees employed by
the City as of July 1, 2021 who remain employed with the City or Sheriff's Department
on January 1, 2022; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 233.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42240-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
VIRGINIA HARM REDUCTION COALITION: Council Member Cobb offered the
following ordinance authorizing the City of Roanoke to participate in a firearm buyback
program with the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition:
(#42241-122021) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City to participate in firearm
buyback programs with the Virginia Harm Reduction Coalition and to have the police
department receive and destroy such surrendered firearms in accordance with Section
15.2-915.5 of the Code of Virginia (1950) as amended.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 234.)
702
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42241-122021. The
motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL: NONE.
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 4:06 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess and thereafter to
be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Lea, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L.
Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds (participated by electronic means), Vivian
Sanchez-Jones, Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
ABSENT: None-0.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer,
City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Bishop Jamaal Jackson, Pastor, ReFreshing
Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
Mayor Lea recognized former Council Members M. Rupert Cutler, Brenda
McDaniel and Anita Price in attendance.
703
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
2021 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the
following resolution recognizing Dr. Cheryl Hartman as the City of Roanoke's 2021
Citizen of the Year:
(#42242-122021) A RESOLUTION naming and honoring Dr. Cheryl Hartman as
the City of Roanoke's 2021 Citizen of the Year.
(For full text of resolution, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 235.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42242-
122021. The motion seconded by Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Following accolades by the Council Members, Mayor Lea recognized Dr.
Hartman as the 2021 Citizen of the Year and presented her with a ceremonial copy of
the Resolution, a Key to the City and personal plaque.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARTNERSHIP AWARDS: Mayor Lea and Members of
Council along with Alicha Grubb, Chair, Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates presented
the 2021 Neighborhood Partnership Awards to the following honorees;
Katie Hedrick: Community Engagement; Neighborhood City Partnership Award
Chillin' Shaved Ice: Andrew Beltram and Melanie Crovo; Neighborhood
Community Partnership Award
One Valley Council: The Carver Community Garden; Neighborhood
Improvement Award
Kids in the Community/John P. Fishwick Middle School; Neighborhood Youth
Volunteer Award
Airlee Court: Neighborhood Newsletter; Neighborhood Communications Award
"We Are Art" Rap Cypher; Neighborhood Arts Award
Spence Robertson (Southeast Action Forum); Neighborhood Outstanding
Volunteer Leadership Award
The Foundry; Neighborhood All-Star Award
704
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council
on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
December 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Franklin Road, LLC, to vacate an alley running north from Franklin
Road, S. W., towards Luck Avenue, S. W., adjacent to property located at 117 Franklin
Road, S. W., the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 and Tuesday, December 7, 2021.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the abovementioned
matter to Monday, January 10, 2022 City Planning Commission Meeting, the Mayor
advised that City Council had no jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council
on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
December 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Greater Roanoke Transit Company to vacate a 10 foot wide alley between
and parallel to 11th Street, S. E., and 12th Street, S. E., the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 and Tuesday, December 7, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the abovementioned
matter to Monday, January 10, 2022 City Planning Commission Meeting, the Mayor
advised that the City Council had no jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
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,
December 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Baker Roofing Company to repeal all conditions previously proffered as
part of a rezoning adopted through the enactment of Ordinance No. 37220-101705 on
property located at 3361 Melrose Avenue, N. W., and to proffer the development of the
property subject to a development plan, the matter was before the body.
mow
705
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 and Tuesday, December 7, 2021.
(See publishers' affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the principal consideration was whether
the proposed rezoning is consistent with City Plan 2040 and the Melrose Avenue, N. W.
Area and its impact on the surrounding areas, the Planned Unit Development Plan will
ensure any expansion of the use will require another public process and also limits uses
to only those in keeping with the surrounding area, overall, the proposed change is in
keeping with the goals of the Plans.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance:
(#42243-122021) AN ORDINANCE to repeal Ordinance No. 37220-101705,
adopted October 17, 2005, to the extent that it placed certain conditions on property
located at 3361 Melrose Avenue, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 2660519, and
placing a new proffer on the subject property; and dispensing with the second reading of
this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 237.)
Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42243-122021.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Ben Crew, Agent, Balzer and Associates, Inc., appeared before the Council in
support of the applicant.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
There being no comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 42243-
122021 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
706
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on
"' Monday, April 6, 1981,. the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday,
December 20, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on
a request of Hartman Adams to vacate an alley running north from Windsor
Avenue, S. W., between and adjacent to 2231 Windsor Avenue S. W., and 2227
Windsor Avenue, S. W., terminating at the intersection of the alley running parallel to
Windsor Avenue, S. W. and north of the aforementioned properties, the matter was
before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 and Tuesday, December 7, 2021.
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the alley closure, contingent upon the following conditions:
1. Upon meeting all conditions to the granting of the application, the applicant
shall deliver a certified copy of this ordinance for recordation to the Clerk of the Circuit
Court of 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.
2. Upon recording a certified 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.
3. The applicant shall submit a subdivision plat to the Subdivision Agent, 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. An easement is required along the entirety of the alley for both the Western
Virginia Water Authority and the City's Stormwater utility.
707
4. If the above conditions have not been met within a period of twelve (12)
months from the date of the adoption of this ordinance, then such ordinance will be null
and void with no further action by City Council being necessary, unless extended by the
Agent for the Planning Commission for an additional six (6) months prior to the end of
the twelve (12) month period.
(For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42244-122021) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing an alley surrounded by 2231 Windsor Avenue, S.W., and 2227 Windsor
Avenue S.W., that extends approximately 126.5 feet south from an alley that runs
perpendicular to Windsor Avenue, S.W., as more particularly described hereinafter; and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 239.)
Hartman Adams, Petitioner, appeared before the Council in support of the
request.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42244-122021.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-
Jones, White-Boyd, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
708
Mayor Lea wished everyone a happy holiday season and a very prosperous New
Year and announced that there would not be a 9:00 a.m. session of the Council on
Monday, January 3, 2022.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 8:31 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
ci
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
709
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION '—
January 3, 2022
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday,
January 3, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, 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 the following resolution as set forth below, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.,
presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie
Moon Reynolds, Patricia White-Boyd, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
ABSENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch and Vivian Sanchez-Jones-2.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jon Landis, Lead Minister,
Growing Families Ministry, Roanoke Valley Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A MEETING SCHEDULE OF CITY COUNCIL:
The Mayor advised that the first meeting of Council in January is considered to be the
Organizational Meeting at which time the Council will adopt a resolution establishing the
days, times, and places of regular meetings to be held by Council during the ensuing
months.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42245-010322) A RESOLUTION establishing a meeting schedule for City
Council commencing January 1, 2022, and terminating December 31, 2022.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 242.)
710
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42245-010322.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. He called attention to a request for the Council to 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)(1), Code of Virginia
(1950).
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, November 15, 2021; and a recessed
held on Monday, November 29, 2021, were before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council dispense with the reading of the
minutes and approve as recorded. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
711
VACANCIES ON AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., 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)(1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as
above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
LEASE OF CITY OWNED PROPERTY: A communication from the City Manager _
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, January 18,
2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date
and time as the City Manager may determine, in his discretion, to consider the lease of
the Gill Memorial Property to the Valleys Innovation Council, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the City
Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
MINUTES OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE: Minutes of the Audit Committee held
on Wednesday, September 1, 2021, was before the Council.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) _
712
Council Member Cobb moved that the minutes be received and filed. The motion
seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-VISIT VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE-ROANOKE
NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES-ROANOKE CIVIC CENTER COMMISSION: Reports
of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council:
Ssunny Shah as a City representative of the Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge,
Board of Directors for a one-year term of office, commencing July 1, 2021
and ending June 30, 2022;
Duriel Wood as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates to fill
the unexpired term of office of Margaret Ashburn ending September 30,
2023; and
Chris Craft as a member of the Roanoke Civic Center Commission to
replace Linwood "Woody" Deans for a term of office ending September 30,
2024.
Council Member Cobb moved that the reports of qualification be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE. 713
CAPTION CALL: Presentation by Caption Call to introduce the program and
share information in connection therewith. Bettina Mason, Anthem Healthkeepers
Medicare Southwest Virginia representative; and Lisa Mottesheard, Manager, Caption
Call, Spokespersons. (Sponsored by Mayor Lea and Vice-Mayor White-Boyd)
Mayor Lea advised that due to inclement weather, the presentation would be
rescheduled to a future Council meeting.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
• Roanoke Prevention Alliance
Youth Risk Behavior Study
The City Manager advised that due to inclement weather, the presentation would
be rescheduled to a future Council meeting.
General Reassessment Briefing — FY 2022 — 2023
Susan Lower, Director, Real Estate Valuation, provided an overview of the
FY 2022 — 2023 Real Estate Assessment Projections and highlighted the following
topics:
• FY 2023 Real Estate Assessment Projections
• Assessment History by Fiscal Year
• New Construction History by Fiscal Year
• History of Residential Sales and Foreclosures
• Median Residential Sales Price 2011 to 2021
• In Summary
• Projected Real Estate Fiscal Impact
• Appealing an Assessment
• Tax Relief Programs
• Questions & Comments
• Appendix
• Timeline of Assessment Process
• Tax Relief and Abatement Programs
• History of Sales Ratio —'
• History of Roanoke's Assessment Changes
714
(For full text, see copy presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Ms. Lower advised the assessed value of real estate grew 7.65 percent, and
advised that the total value of taxable real estate jumped last year to a degree not seen
in 15 years.
Ms. Lower reported the median residential sales price in the City reached
$175,000 in 2021, up from $165,300 in 2020, and $150,000 in 2019. She forecasted
approximately $5 million more funds for city services during the fiscal year. She added
city staff examined projections neighborhood by neighborhood adding 7.28 percent to
the total property value, and new construction added 0.37 percent, for a total increase of
7.65 percent.
The City Manager pointed out when revenues increase, it benefited the services
the City provided and City Schools, as well.
Ms. Lower further stated that if the property owner does not agree with the
appeal decision, they may appeal to the Board of Equalization; and then file suit in
Circuit Court. She also advised veterans, the elderly, and citizens with disabilities could
apply to receive tax relief.
Ms. Lower concluded that the Office of Real Estate Valuation mailed notices of
changes to 90 percent of the city's residents; and advised citizens could appeal their
assessment to the Office of Real Estate Valuation by February 1, 2022. She said the
new assessment would take effect July 1 and Real Estate installment of tax bills were
due in October.
Following inquiries from Vice-Mayor White-Boyd, Council Member Moon
Reynolds and Council Member Cobb, Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Lower for the update and
advised that the presentation would be received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDING: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending appropriation of the American Rescue Plan Act
funding and Star City Strong: Recovery and Resiliency Advisory Panel
recommendations.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
715
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42246-010322) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United
States Treasury for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) — Coronavirus Relief Fund
to record and track projects recommended by the Star City Strong: Recovery and
Resiliency Advisory Panel. It is hereby necessary to itemize the City of Roanoke's
project list and to appropriate and allocate specific funding amounts to each project
thereof, providing assistance due to ongoing matters related to the COVID-19
pandemic, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 — 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 244.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42246-010322. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
DONATION OF FUNDS FROM STAR CITY SOCCER FOUNDATION: The City
Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a donation
of funds from the Star City Soccer Foundation for a Futsal Court in Preston Park.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42247-010322) A RESOLUTION accepting and expressing appreciation for
the donation of $10,000 from Star City Soccer Foundation to support the development
of a futsal court in Preston Park.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 245.)
716
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42247-010322.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Following responses to inquiries from Council Member Moon Reynolds,
Resolution No. 42247010322 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42248-010322) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Star City
Soccer Foundation to provide for the development of a futsal court in Preston Park,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 — 2022 Capital Projects Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 246.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42248-010322. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
ACCEPTANCE OF FY 2022 CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMY
SECURITY ACT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending
Provider Relief funding to cover increased costs associated with Emergency Medical
Services.
717
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#44249-010322) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the FY22
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Provider Relief Funds ("PRF")
Phase 4 allocation in the amount of $195,069 by the City of Roanoke from the Health
Resources and Services Administration ("HRSA"), awarded as a revenue supplement
for Emergency Medical Services ("EMS") calls, provided by the
ty of Roanoke, in
connection with the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic, and authorizing the acceptance,
execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 247.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42249-010322. The
motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.) _
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42250-010322) A BUDGET ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
United States Treasury for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
(CARES Act) — Provider Relief Fund, amending and reordaining certain sections of the
2021 - 2022 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title
of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 248.)
718
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42250-010322. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by
the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager thanked City staff that worked tirelessly to prepare for the
snow event and clear the sidewalks at the municipal facilities.
He highlighted the significance of the impact of COVID-19, noting that one in four
persons tested positive for COVID-19 and if the numbers continue to rise within the
workforce, it would affect the level of service provided by the City to the citizens.
CITY ATTORNEY:
READOPTION AND REENACTMENT OF THE CITY CODE: The City Attorney
submitted a written communication recommending readoption and reenactment of the
Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42251-010322) AN ORDINANCE to readopt and reenact the Code of the City
of Roanoke (1979), as amended; and dispensing with the second reading of this
ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 249.)
719
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42251-
010322. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS:
COMPENSATION FOR THE NEWLY ELECTED CITY SHERIFF AND
COMMISSIONER OF THE REVENUE: Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following —.
ordinance to establish compensation for the newly elected City Sheriff and
Commissioner of the Revenue for the calendar year beginning January 1, 2022:
(#42252-010322) AN ORDINANCE establishing the base salaries for the newly
elected Commissioner of the Revenue and Sheriff for the City of Roanoke; authorizing
the City Manager to execute contracts with both Constitutional Officers; and dispensing
with the second reading of this Ordinance by title.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance
No. 42252-010322. The motion was seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
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INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Mayor Lea recognized Council Member Moon Reynolds who was appointed to fill
an at-large member position on the Executive Board of the Virginia Municipal League;
and Council Member Cobb who was awarded the Heritage Education and Advocacy
Award by the Roanoke Valley Preservation Society for his doctoral program dissertation
on cemeteries that were disrupted by construction projects during the 1960s and 70s.
At 3:22 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 4:13 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Lea, presiding.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and
Mayor Lea, Sr.-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL:
FAIR HOUSING BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration
of the three-year terms of office of Jessie Coffman, Amazetta Anderson, Garrett
Brumfield and Peter Volosin as members of the Fair Housing Board ending March 31,
2021; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the names of Jessie Coffman,
Amazetta Anderson, Garrett Brumfield and Peter Volosin.
721
There being no further nominations, Ms. Coffman, Ms. Anderson and Messrs. `
Brumfield and Volosin were reappointed as members of the Fair Housing Board for
three-year terms of office, each, ending March 31, 2025, by the following vote:
FOR MS. COFFMAN, MS. ANDERSON AND MESSRS. BRUMFIELD AND
VOLOSIN: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-Boyd, and Mayor
Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
ROANOKE REGIONAL AIRPORT COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to
the upcoming expiration of the four-year term of office of Dr. Nathaniel L. Bishop as a
City representative of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission ending March 9, 2022;
whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Dr. Nathaniel L. Bishop.
There being no further nominations, Dr. Bishop was reap
ointed representative of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission for afour yearsterm City
._
office ending March 9, 2026, by the following vote:
FOR DR. BISHOP: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-
Boyd, and Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
ROANOKE VALLEY REGIONAL CABLE TELEVISION COMMITTEE: The
Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the resignation of Jane Missel as a City
representative of the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee ending
June 30, 2023; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Cobb placed in nomination the name of Shawn Nowlin.
722
There being no further nominations, Mr. Nowlin was appointed to fill the
•-- unexpired term of office of Jane Missel as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley
Regional Cable Television Committee ending June 30, 2023, by the following vote:
FOR MR. NOWLIN: Council Members Cobb, Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, White-
Boyd, and Mayor Lea-5.
NAYS: None-0.
(Council Members Bestpitch and Sanchez-Jones were absent.)
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 4:16 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
okCecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor
------
NNW
723
ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION
January 18, 2022
2:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Tuesday,
January 18, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C.
Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Mayor
Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article Il, 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. 42245-010322
adopted by the Council on Monday, January 3, 2022.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by
electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Joseph L. Cobb.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
STATE OF EMERGENCY: Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following
resolution acknowledging the limited statewide State of Emergency declared by
Governor of Virginia in Executive Order No. 84, which authorizes the Council as well as
its boards and commissions to meet virtually:
(#42253-011822) A RESOLUTION acknowledging the limited statewide state of
emergency declared by the Governor of Virginia in Executive Order No. 84 which
authorizes the Council as well as its boards and commissions to meet virtually.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 252.)
724
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No.
42253-011822. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: 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 were
desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered
separately. Mayor Lea called attention to a request convene in a Closed Meeting to
discuss a personnel matter being the annual performances of the Council-Appointed
Officers, pursuant to section 2.2-3711 (A) (1), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended; and
advised that Item C-5 would be removed and considered separately, at the request of
Council Member Moon Reynolds.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the
regular meetings of City Council held on Monday, December 6, 2021 and Monday,
December 20, 2021, were before the body.
(See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council dispense with the reading
of the minutes and approve as recorded. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor
White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
725
ANNUAL PERFORMANCES OF THE COUNCIL-APPOINTED OFFICERS: A
communication from Vice-Mayor Patricia White-Boyd, Chair, City Council Personnel
Committee, requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss a
personnel matter, being the annual performances 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.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
Vice-Mayor as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and
adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SCHEDULE PUBLIC HEARING: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 22,
2022, at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date _
and time as the City Manager may determine, in his discretion, to enter into a Parking
Agreement for unreserved parking permits for the Center in the Square Garage located
at 11 Campbell Avenue, S. E., was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council concur in the request of the
City Manager as above mentioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd
and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
SCHEDULE PUBLIC HEARING: A communication from the City Manager
requesting that Council schedule a public hearing to be held on Tuesday, February 22,
2022, 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, or such later date
and time as the City Manager may determine, in his discretion, to advertise a 30 day
public comment period and consider amendments in connection with the 2020 — 2024
HUD Consolidated Plan and Citizen Participation Plan, was before the body.
726
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
OATHS OF OFFICE-YOUTH ATHLETICS REVIEW BOARD-FAIR HOUSING
BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council:
Brandon McCall and Deidre Trigg as members of the Youth Athletics
Review Board for a one-year term of office commencing January 1, 2022
and ending December 31, 2022 and a three-year term of office,
commencing January 1, 2022 and ending December 31, 2025,
respectively; and
Garrett Brumfield as a member of the Fair Housing Board to fill the
unexpired term of office of Stephen Grammer ending March 31, 2022.
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that Council receive and file the request.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
FY 2021 CITY MANAGER TRANSFER REPORT: A communication from the
_ Director of Finance transmitting the FY 2021 City Manager Transfer Report for period
thirteen ended November 30, 2021; and FY 2022 for the first and second quarters
ended September 30, 2021 and December 31, 2021, was before the body.
(See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
In response to Council Member Moon Reynolds inquiry regarding the lateness of
the FY 2022 First Quarter Report, the City Manager acknowledged the Report was sent
inadvertently sent twice on October 18, 2021.
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved that the communication be received and
filed. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
727
REGULAR AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE.
CAPTION CALL PHONE SYSTEM: Bettina Mason, Territory representative,
Anthem Healthkeepers; and Lisa Mottsheard, Manager, Caption Call appeared before
the Council to introduce the Caption Call program and share information in connection
therewith.
(See handouts on file in the City Clerk's office.)
Ms. Mason advised that she was a resource for Medicare information
representing Southwest Virginia and introduced Ms. Mottsheard as a community partner
of Anthem. Ms. Mottsheard explained that many citizens suffer from several forms of
hearing loss and Caption Call was a federally funded company that provided captioning
telephones for anyone in the United States with no restrictions nor insurance
requirements. She pointed out that it was a provision of the Americans with Disabilities
Act through taxes charged on phone bills that all citizens paid.
In conclusion, Ms. Mottsheard further advised that charges for the phone,
installation, etc., would never be passed on to the end user and Caption Call provided it
all at no charge.
Council Member Sanchez-Jones inquired if the phone offered any other
languages besides English; whereupon, Ms. Mottsheard replied that the phone
interpreted English and Spanish and contained a video release service for the deaf
community.
Mayor Lea asked about retrieving voicemail messages from the phone. Ms.
Mottsheard advised that the phone could record messages; hook up to existing
answering machines or link into an answering service through phone providers.
Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Mottsheard and Ms. Mason for the informative
presentation and advised that the information would be received and filed.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
i
728
CITY MANAGER:
BRIEFINGS:
Emergency Operations Plan Update 2021
Battalion Chief Trevor Shannon, Emergency Management Coordinator, briefed
Council on the Emergency Operations Plan regarding the following:
• Emergency Management Overview
• Declarations
• The Emergency Operations Plan
• Revisions
• Council Request— Plan adoption
(See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Chief Shannon shared information regarding the managerial function charged
with creating the framework within which communities reduce vulnerability to hazards
and cope with disasters and its emergency management program, resources and
responsibilities.
He advised that after each disaster incident, a review would be conducted to
ensure performance matched with the Emergency Operations Plan direction. Examples
of the 2020 declarations were:
• COVID-19 Pandemic
• Tropical Storm Arthur (May 2020)
• Civil Unrest (May 2020)
Chief Shannon noted that the Council adopted the current plan on November 4,
1996, with the most recent revision on March 7, 2016 and advised that the Code of
Virginia requires Emergency Operations Plan revisions and City Council approval every
four years; however, the revision process was suspended during the pandemic after
consultation with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
Chief Shannon continued with Emergency Operations Plan considerations and
noted the Plan provides the emergency services operations be structured around
existing constitutional governments. In the event of an emergency, City Council would
confer upon the City Manager, or a predetermined representative, in the absence of the
Manager, under the authority to act in accordance with Section 44-146.21, Declaration
of a local emergency.
729
He concluded by sharing the details of what has changed in the Emergency
Operations Plan and requested adoption of the Plan at a future City Council meeting.
Following brief comments by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and Council Members
Moon Reynolds and Cobb, Mayor Lea thanked Battalion Chief Shannon for the update
and advised that the presentation would be received and filed.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION:
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT (V-STOP) GRANT: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the 2022 Violence
Against Women Act (V-STOP) Grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice
for the Police Department's existing Domestic Violence Specialist position.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following resolution:
(#42254-011822) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the 2022
V-STOP Grant made to the City of Roanoke by 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. 82, page 253.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Resolution No.
42254-011822. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Jeffrey offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42255-011822) 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 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 254.)
730
Council Member Jeffrey moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 42255-
011822. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT CV2 FUNDING: The City Manager
submitted a written communication approving the allocation remaining Emergency
Solutions Grant CV2 funding for activities to address the preparation, response and
recovery from effects of COVID-19 for persons homeless or at-risk of homelessness.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following resolution:
(#42256-011822) A RESOLUTION approving the allocation of $309,182
remaining in Emergency Solutions Grant-CV2 ("ESG-CV2") funding from the United
States' Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD"), and authorizing the
City Manager, or his designee, to enter into written contracts with the subrecipients of
such funding.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 255.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42256-011822.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42257-011822) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG),
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 256.)
731
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No.
42257-011822. The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO THE FIRST REINSTATED
AGREEMENT FOR THE EXCHANGE OF REAL ESTATE BETWEEN THE CITY OF
ROANOKE AND RUTHERFOORD PARTNERS, LLC: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending execution of Amendment No. 5 to the First
Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate between the City of Roanoke,
and Rutherfoord Partners, LLC, in connection with a new transportation facility.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42258-011822) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 5 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate _.
between the City of Roanoke, Virginia ("City) and Rutherfoord Partners, LLC
("Developer") dated September 17, 2019 ("Agreement") to provide for (i) the sale and
transfer of Campbell Court, as described below, from the City to Developer; and (ii) the
acquisition of the Future Rail Station Parcels, as described below, by the City from
Developer; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 257.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42258-011822.
The motion seconded by Council Member Sanchez-Jones and adopted by the following
vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
732
EXECUTION OF AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO THE FIRST REINSTATED
AGREEMENT FOR THE EXCHANGE OF REAL ESTATE BETWEEN THE CITY OF
ROANOKE AND GREATER ROANOKE TRANSIT COMPANY: The City Manager
submitted a written communication recommending execution of Amendment No. 5 to
the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate between the City of
Roanoke and Greater Roanoke Transit Company, in connection with a new
transportation facility.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42259-011822) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 5 to the First Reinstated Agreement for the Exchange of Real Estate
between the City of Roanoke, Virginia and Greater Roanoke Transit Company dated
September 17, 2019 ("Agreement") to provide for (i) the sale and transfer of the GRTC
Relocation Parcels, as described below, to Greater Roanoke Transit Company
("GRTC") from the City of Roanoke, Virginia ("City'), and (ii) the acquisition of Campbell
Court, as described below, by the City from GRTC; and dispensing with the second
reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 259.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance No.
42259-011822. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDING: The City Manager submitted a
written communication recommending adoption of a resolution ratifying the acceptance
of American Rescue Plan Act funding from the Office of the Attorney General to support
community-based gun violence prevention initiatives.
(For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
733
Council Member Cobb offered the following resolution:
(#42260-011822) A RESOLUTION ratifying and approving the acceptance of
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding through the Commonwealth of Virginia,
Office of the Attorney General to address community-based gun violence prevention
programming in the City; and ratifying and authorizing the execution of any required
documentation on behalf of the City.
(For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 82, page 261.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42260-011822.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White Boyd and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42261-011822) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding through the Virginia _
General Assembly and Office of the Attorney General for the American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA) — Coronavirus Relief Fund to support the implementation of data-informed
strategies that will result in reduced gun violence in local communities disproportionately
affected by gun violence, due to ongoing matters related to the COVID-19 pandemic,
amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 Grant Fund
Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 262.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 42261-011822.
The motion seconded by Cobb and adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
734
COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER:
The City Manager offered the following comments:
Budgeting for Outcomes — Performance Measures
• Indicators that are a report card at the end of the budget cycle to see how
things were accomplished, alongside an audit to see how things were
going financially.
• Presented in January and located on the management and budget web
page titled Measures and Budget Indicators for public viewing.
Innovation Corridor
• Opinion editorial article in the Cardinal News, online newspaper, written by
many including Marc Nelson, Director of Economic Development, with
regard to exiting efforts in the innovation corridor.
• Thanked Marc for his work on the article.
Snow Event
• City workers began on last Thursday evening preparing the streets for the
potential snow event and continue to clean the streets daily to make them
accessible for citizens.
• Over 1,100 lane miles of streets the City workers are responsible for
clearing, with only 100 snow workers on 12-hour shifts on a 24-hour
rotation.
• 100,000 tons of salt was spread to help melt the snow.
• City goal to have 90 percent of the major streets cleared within 24 hours of
the conclusion of a snow event.
• Workforce decreased because of Covid-19. Thanked all workers and
supervisors for their support.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES:
VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board
submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational
programs; and the City Manager submitted a written report recommending that Council
concur in the request.
(For full text, see reports on file in City Clerk's office.)
735
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance:
(#42262-011822) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the
Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending
and re-ordaining certain sections of the 2021 - 2022 School Grant Fund Appropriations,
and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 263.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance
No. 42262-011822. The motion seconded by Council Member Cobb and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
A REPORT OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND
COMMISSIONS IN WHICH CITY COUNCIL SERVE AS LIAISONS OR APPOINTEES:
Council Member Cobb briefed Council on the Greater Roanoke Transit
Company, Board of Directors meeting previously held at 12:30 p.m. He advised that the
construction of the new downtown transit center remains on schedule, with no expected
delays; and noted that the Board authorized the purchase of three new electric transit
buses and reviewed the Transit Marketing Plan.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.
INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND
RESOLUTIONS: NONE.
MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE.
INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF
COUNCIL:
Council Member Moon Reynolds commended the Vice-Mayor on her effort in
assisting advocates to raise $140,000.00 to erect a statue of Henrietta Lacks. The
Vice-Mayor advised that funds could be remitted, in care of Harrison Museum of African
American Culture, P.O. Box 21054, Roanoke, Virginia 24018, noting Henrietta Lacks in
the memo section
736
VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND
COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE.
At 3:50 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess for a Closed
Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, Noel C. Taylor Municipal
Building; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber.
At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber,
Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Lea, presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Robert L. Jeffrey, Jr., Stephanie Moon Reynolds,
Vivian Sanchez-Jones, Patricia White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch (participated by
electronic means), Joseph L. Cobb, and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7.
The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum.
OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Timothy R.
Spencer, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk.
The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Michael L. Cherry, II, Youth
Director, Garden of Prayer#7 Vision of Faith Ministries.
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by
_ Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting
just concluded, Vice-Mayor White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds and adopted by the
following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch (participated by electronic means), Cobb, and Mayor Lea, Sr.-7.
NAYS: None-0.
737
PUBLIC HEARINGS: _
ALLEY VACATION: 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 18, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a
request of of Franklin Road, LLC, to vacate an alley running north from Franklin
Road, S. W., towards Luck Avenue, S. W., adjacent to property located at 117 Franklin
Road, S. W., the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the above mentioned
matter to Monday, February 14, 2022, the Mayor advised that the City Council had no
jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
ALLEY VACATION: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council
on Tuesday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for
Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be
heard, on a request of Greater Roanoke Transit Company to vacate a 10 foot wide alley
between and parallel to 11th Street, S. E., and 12th Street, S. E., was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
Inasmuch as the City Planning Commission continued the above mentioned
matter to Monday, February 14, 2022, the Mayor advised that the City Council had no
jurisdiction to hear the matter at this time.
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 18,
2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
829 Salem Avenue, LLC, to rezone property located at 829 Salem Avenue, S. W., from
Light Industrial District to Urban Flex District to be used as a mixed-use building, the
matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
738
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Original Application is consistent with
the City's Comprehensive Plan, Downtown Plan 2017, and the Zoning Ordinance as the
subject property will be used in a manner appropriate to the surrounding area.
(For full text, see report in the City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42263-011822) AN ORDINANCE to rezone certain property located at 829
Salem Avenue, S. W., from 1-1, Light Industrial District, to UF, Urban Flex District, and
dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 266.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42263-011822.
The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Cobb inquired with regard to the parameters of the Urban Flex
,,w District; whereupon, Wayne Leftwich, Senior City Planner explained that it allowed for
mixed uses.
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 42263-011822 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
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 18,
2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of
the Roanoke City School Board to amend the Institutional Planned Unit Development
Plan as part of a previous rezoning at 3601 Ferncliff Avenue, N. W., adopted by
Ordinance No. 38623-092109; amendments include changes in uses of particular
buildings and additional support buildings and parking, the matter was before the body.
WMW
739
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval noting that the proposed amendment of the planned unit development plan is
consistent with the general layout, design and uses shown on the current plan and is
consistent with the policies of City Plan 2040 and the Peters Creek North Neighborhood
Plan; and the proposed change allows for flexibility of use in buildings on the INPUD
campus and adds support buildings and site development in a manner that is
appropriate to the surrounding area.
(For full text, see report in the City Clerk's office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42264-011822) AN ORDINANCE to amend the Institutional Planned Unit
Development (INPUD) development plan, previously adopted under Ordinance No.
38613-092109, on September 21, 2009, as it pertains to property located at 3601
Ferncliff Avenue, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 6460102; and dispensing with the
second reading of this Ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 268.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42264-011822.
The motion seconded by Council Member Moon Reynolds.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
Council Member Moon Reynolds pointed out that in the City Planning
Commission work session community outreach was recommended and inquired if said
outreach was performed and how; whereupon, Christopher Perkins, Chief Operations
Officer, Roanoke City Public Schools advised that the School Division conducted a City-
wide survey, along with the strategic plan and received responses from the community.
He further stated that having ROTEC in that area to increase career and technical
education, specifically for William Fleming High School was essential for future strategic
planning.
740
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
"" Ordinance No. 42264-011822 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
STREET CLOSURE: 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 18, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a
request of the Roanoke City School Board to vacate Truman Avenue, a street adjacent
to 3837 Williamson Road, N. W., and 0 Williamson Road, N. W.; approximately 381
linear feet, running northeast from the intersection of Williamson Road, N. W., ending in
a cul-de-sac adjacent to 3901 Williamson Road, N. W., the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 and Tuesday, January 4, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending
approval of the vacation of right-of-way as requested, contingent upon the following
conditions:
1. Upon meeting all conditions to the granting of the application, the applicant
shall deliver a certified copy of this ordinance for recordation to the Clerk of the Circuit
Court of 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.
2. Upon recording a certified 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.
741
3. 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. The applicant shall include a 20-foot easement
to the Western Virginia Water Authority along the full length of existing sewer line along
Truman Avenue, an easement for the stormwater inlets and drain located near the
intersection of Truman Avenue and Williamson Road N. W., and an easement for the
street signal at the intersection of Truman Avenue and Williamson Road, N. W.
4. If the above conditions have not been met within a period of twelve (12)
months from the date of the adoption of this ordinance, then such ordinance will be null
and void with no further action by City Council being necessary, unless extended by the
Agent for the Planning Commission for an additional six (6) months prior to the end of
the twelve (12) month period.
(For full text, see report in the City Clerk's office.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds offered the following ordinance:
(#42265-011822) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and
closing a public right-of-way in the City of Roanoke located on Truman Avenue, as more
particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second reading of this
ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 269.)
Council Member Moon Reynolds moved the adoption of Ordinance
No. 42265-011822. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor White-Boyd.
Christopher Perkins, Chief Operations Officer, Roanoke City Public Schools
appeared before the Council in support of the street closure.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
742
There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance
No. 42265-011822 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
LEASE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council,
the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at
7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of
Roanoke to consider the lease of the Gill Memorial Property to the Valleys Innovation
Council to continue the operation of the Regional Acceleration and Mentoring Program,
the matter was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Friday, January 7, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of a
Management Services Agreement and Lease Agreement between the City and Valleys
Innovation Council approved as to form by the City Attorney.
(For full text, see report in the City Clerk's office.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd offered the following ordinance:
(#42266-011822) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager or his
designee to execute a lease agreement and services agreement with The Roanoke-
Blacksburg Innovation Network d/b/a Valleys Innovation Council ("VIC"), for the lease of
an approximately 0.1671 acre parcel of City-owned property located at 709 South
Jefferson Street, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia, designated as Roanoke City Official Tax
Map No. 1020510; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 271.)
Vice-Mayor White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42266-011822.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
743
Council Member Cobb asked for an update with regard to the innovation corridor; �.
whereupon, Marc Nelson, Director, Economic Development advised that many exciting
things were taking place within the corridor, especially the IBM building project. He
noted that State funds were being sought to refurbish the building located on South
Jefferson Street; and added that the RAMP program graduated over 20 businesses and
created over 100 jobs. Erin Burcham, President, Valleys Innovation Council commented
that part of the IBM building would be used to provide more support to the RAMP
program.
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 42266-011822 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
LEASE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council,
the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at 7:00
p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of
Roanoke to consider a lease agreement with Rutherfoord Properties, LLC, for City- --•
owned property located at 1 Jefferson Street, S. W., and 7 Jefferson Street, S. W., to
provide office space to a sub-lessee, was before the body.
Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times
on Monday, January 10, 2022.
(See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)
The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of a Lease
Agreement between the City and Rutherfoord Properties, LLC, approved to form by the
City Attorney.
(For full text, see report in the City Clerk's office.)
744
Council Member Cobb offered the following ordinance:
(#42267-011822) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager or his
designee to execute a lease agreement with Rutherfoord Partners, LLC ("Lessee"), for
the lease of an approximately 0.1670 acre parcel of City-owned property located at 1
Jefferson Street, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia, designated as Official Tax Map No. 1010507
and an approximately 0.1158 acre parcel of City-owned property located at 7 South
Jefferson Street, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia, designated as Roanoke City Official Tax
Map No. 1020510 ("Property") for a term of up to three years, commencing on
January 31, 2022 ("Lease"). The provisions of the proposed Lease include the payment
of rent by the Lessee to the City, and other consideration; and dispensing with the
second reading of this ordinance by title.
(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 82, page 273.)
Council Member Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 42267-011822.
The motion seconded by Council Member Jeffrey.
The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the
matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.
In response to an inquiry by Council Member Moon Reynolds regarding the
future use of the building to accommodate AMTRAK passengers, the City Manager
explained that the current action did not prohibit the City from redeveloping part of the
property for a future AMTRAK station.
There being no additional comments and/or questions by the Council Members,
Ordinance No. 42267-011822 was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Jeffrey, Moon Reynolds, Sanchez-Jones, White-Boyd,
Bestpitch, Cobb, and Mayor Lea-7.
NAYS: None-0.
HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.
745
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared
the regular meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
APPROVED
ATTEST:
e ,
C�G --
Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC Sherman P. Lea, Sr.
City Clerk Mayor