City Council

Public Hearing 06/25/24 HON. KERRY P. DEVINE, MAYOR HON. CHARLIE L. FRYE, JR., VICE -MAYOR, WARD FOUR CITY OF FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA HON. JANNAN W. HOLMES, AT-LARGE CITY COUNCIL HON. DR. WILL B. MACKINTOSH, AT-LARGE HON. JASON N. GRAHAM, WARD ONE HON. JONATHAN A. GERLACH, WARD TWO HON. DR. TIMOTHY P. DUFFY, WARD THREE Council Chambers, 715 Princess Anne Street Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401 June 25, 2024 The Council of the City of Fredericksburg, Virginia, held public hearings on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, beginning at 7:31 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. City Council Present. Mayor Kerry P. Devine. Vice-Mayor Charlie L. Frye, Jr. Council members Dr. Timothy P. Duffy, Jonathan A. Gerlach, Jason N. Graham, Jannan W. Holmes and Dr. Will B. Mackintosh. Others Present. City Manager Timothy J. Baroody, Assistant City Manager Mark Whitley, Assistant City Manager David Brown, City Attorney Kelly J. Lackey, Planning and Building Services Director Charles Johnston, Transit and Transportation Director Jamie Jackson, Principle Planner Michael Craig, Zoning Administrator Kelly Machen, Senior Development Administrator Marne Sherman, Stormwater Manager Brian Cooke, Community Development Planner Bailey Thompson, Deputy Police Chief Betsy Mason, Captain Crystal Hill, Budget Analyst Donna Leahy, and Deputy Clerk of Council Brenda T. Martin. Notice of Public Hearings (D24-273 thru D24-282). The Clerk read the notice of the public hearings as they appeared in the local newspaper, the purpose being to solicit citizen input. 22187 Public Hearing 06/25/24 Ordinance 24-12, Second Read Approved, Amending Unified Development Ordinance Table 72-40.2, Use Table, to Permit Fire and EMS Stations in the Residential R-2 Zoning District with a Special Use Permit (New Fire Station) (D24-273 thru D24-274). No speakers. Zoning Administrator Machen presented on the amendments needed for the Unified Development Ordinance for the potential construction of Fire Station 3 at the southwestern corner of Fall Hill Avenue and Wicklow Drive. The zoned R-2 area does not permit the use but the amendment proposes to permit a fire station with a special use permit. Councilor Duffy motioned to approve amending the Unified Development Ordinance, use table, to permit fire and EMS stations in the residential R-2 zoning district with a special use permit; motion was seconded by Councilor Gerlach. Vice-Mayor Frye thanked everyone for their work in providing more safety to the City. The motion passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-16, Second Read Approved, Amending the Generalized Development Plan and Proffered Conditions for the Mary Washington Hospital Planned Development-Medical Center Zoning District (D24-275 thru D24-276.1). No speakers. 1 letter. Zoning Administrator Machen presented on a request for approving an amendment to the Mary Washington Hospital Proffers and General Development Plan. The request is focused on a 16.103-acre portion of the hospital campus to permit construction of a 6,000 sq. ft. addition to the Snowden House 22188 Public Hearing 06/25/24 at 2600 Mary Washington Blvd; 2-story, 39,600 sq. ft. medical clinic at 1100 Sam Perry Blvd, replacing the Kids’ Station KinderCare; and a 3-story, 24,500 sq. ft., office/training/conference center between the Snowden House and the proposed medical clinic. This item was discussed at a May 28, 2024 Council work session. A new proffer has been offered that will close the existing median cut directly across from the existing curb cut entrance to the parcel of Snowden Behavior Health Services, create a new break in the median of Sam Perry Blvd at Eagle Village Drive and complete a left- hand turn from Eagle Village Drive southbound onto Sam Perry Blvd. Councilor Mackintosh thanked staff for their work on this item and the new proffer. Deputy Clerk Martin read a letter from Dr. Olugbenga Obassanjo, the Rappahannock Area Health District Health Director who wrote in support of Mary Washington Healthcare and their partnership to improve areas of need identified in the community health assessment. Those funding needs are mental health, homeless support through sponsoring the new Jeremiah Project and improved access to healthcare in the community health improvement plan, a referral platform - Unite Us. Councilor Graham motioned to approve Ordinance 24-16, on second read, amending the Generalized Development Plan and proffered conditions for the Mary Washington Hospital Planned Development-Medical Center Zoning District; motion was seconded by Councilor Gerlach and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). 22189 Public Hearing 06/25/24 Ordinance 24-17, First Read Approved, Amending City Code Chapter 72, “Unified Development Ordinance,” to Update Landscaping Standards and Clarify Related Development Procedures and Definitions (D24-277 thru D24-278). No speakers. Senior Development Administrator Marne Sherman presented on amending the Unified Development Ordinance with a fine tuning of the regulations and not an overhaul or effort to increase requirements specific to tree canopy coverage. Informal edits began, based on stakeholder feedback, with the implementation of the existing ordinance since 2013. In early 2024 staff began meeting with the Clean and Green Commission and had previously sought input from Tree Fredericksburg and local arborists. Many members of the community received draft copies of the revisions and no formal comments were received. There are 13 proposed updates. Councilor Mackintosh asked about solar canopies and if landscaping trees effect the ability of these canopies to perform, and what could be done. Senior Development Administrator Marne Sherman responded that these concerns can be brought back to Council together. Councilor Graham thanked staff and stated these changes will assist in reducing long term impermeable areas of the City. Councilor Gerlach motioned to approve Ordinance 24-17, amending City Code Chapter 72, Unified Development Ordinance, to update landscaping standards and clarify related development procedures and definitions; motion was seconded by Councilor Holmes and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). 22190 Public Hearing 06/25/24 Ordinance 24-18, First Read Approved, Amending City Code Chapter 72, “Unified Development Ordinance,” Section 72-27, “Performance Guarantees.” (D24-277 thru D24-278). No speakers. Councilor Mackintosh motioned to approve Ordinance 24-18, amend the City Code Chapter 72, Unified Development Ordinance Section 72-27, performance guarantees; motion was seconded by Councilor Graham and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-19, First Read Approved, Amending City Code, Chapter 72 (Unified Development Ordinance) at § 72-20.6, “Erosion and Sediment Control Program and Virginia Stormwater Management Program Administrator”; § 72-34.5, “Chesapeake Bay Preservation Overlay District”; § 72-54.3, “Stormwater”; and § 72-84, “Definitions”, to Consolidate and Modernize the Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Provisions Consistent with the Code of Virginia (D24-279 thru D24-280). No speakers. Stormwater Manager Cooke presented on the amendments to the City Code to adopt a model ordinance as required by the state by July 1, 2024. Two separate ordinances are necessary to implement the mandated updates, which are minor overall. Councilor Graham moved to approve Ordinance 24-19, on first read amending City Code Chapter 72 (Unified Development Ordinance) at § 72-20.6, Erosion and Sediment Control Program and Virginia Stormwater Management Program Administrator; § 72- 22191 Public Hearing 06/25/24 34.5, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Overlay District; § 72-54.3, Stormwater; and § 72-84, Definitions, to Consolidate and Modernize the Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Provisions Consistent with the Code of Virginia; motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Frye and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Motion to Suspend the Rules. In order to place Ordinance 24-19 on second read, Councilor Graham motioned to suspend the rules; motion was seconded by Vice- Mayor Frye and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-19, Second Read Approved, Amending City Code, Chapter 72 (Unified Development Ordinance) at § 72-20.6, “Erosion and Sediment Control Program and Virginia Stormwater Management Program Administrator”; § 72-34.5, “Chesapeake Bay Preservation Overlay District”; § 72-54.3, “Stormwater”; and § 72-84, “Definitions”, to Consolidate and Modernize the Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Provisions Consistent with the Code of Virginia (D24-279 thru D24-280). Councilor Graham motioned to approve Ordinance 24-19, on second reading amending City Code Chapter 72 (Unified Development Ordinance) at § 72-20.6, Erosion and Sediment Control Program and Virginia Stormwater Management Program Administrator; § 72-34.5, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Overlay District; § 72-54.3, Stormwater; and § 72-84, Definitions, to Consolidate and Modernize the Erosion and Sediment Control and 22192 Public Hearing 06/25/24 Stormwater Provisions Consistent with the Code of Virginia; motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Frye and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Resolution Adopting an Amendment to the 2015 Comprehensive Plan to Adopt a New Small Area Plan for Planning Area 10 (D24-281 thru D24-282). 3 speakers. Community Development Planner Thompson presented the information for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Official Zoning Map Amendments for Area 10 Small Area Package, including rezonings for three different geographic areas: Area 10 Lafayette Boulevard/Route 1 South Small Area Plan (Comprehensive Plan Amendment); Official Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone 114 Acres of Land Located in Planning Area 10 from Residential-4 (R-2) District to Residential-2 (R-2) District; Official Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone 7 Acres of Land Located in Planning Area 10 from Industrial 1 and Industrial 2 to Creative Maker District; and Official Zoning Map Amendment to apply the T-5 Commercial Transect Designation and Unified Development Ordinance Frontage map to 13 Acres of Land in the Commercial Highway District Located in Planning Area 10. See more details in the PowerPoint presentation and staff report. Councilor Mackintosh asked for clarification on the downzoning of the empty lots in the Braehead neighborhood, would you still be able to build upon it? Staff answered yes, you can still build on those lots with limited impacts. Councilor Mackintosh asked about the mobility issues along Lafayette Blvd and will talk with staff in the coming months about some ideas. Councilor Graham asked staff to review the legal elements of a downzoning – neighborhood plan conducted to increase 22193 Public Hearing 06/25/24 sustainability, substantial change in conditions, and previous zoning action was done in error. Scott Dehaven, 221 Braehead Drive, appreciates the staff’s work to downzone the east side of the Braehead Woods neighborhood due to topography and drainage issues. He is concerned that roughly half of the neighborhood does not get the benefit of the downzoning. These current stormwater drainage issues with denser development will further erode existing properties adjacent to the natural stream. This same stream is also being used as a city drainage easement for at least three other nearby subdivisions. Christy Dehaven, 221 Braehead Drive, asked the Planning staff does the Unified Development Ordinance guidelines from 2020 still apply as far as setbacks? Victor and Sandra Meyer, 8 Lockhart Circle regarding concerns of their lot which receives stormwater runoff from the entirety of the Braehead Woods subdivision and much of Morningside subdivision. During large storms, the stream overflows from upstream into the cul-de-sac and down their driveway. They ask these issues be addressed as part of the rezoning process. They have lived at their home for 50 years. Councilor Gerlach asked staff to review the swale and ditch improvement on stormwater conveyance in the Dominion Power drainage area easement. Specifically, what can be done about city easement areas of discharge? Principal Planner Craig explained there has not been focus on those areas because those are in residents’ yards. Councilor Gerlach stated the Kinlock Circle areas of drainage have been a reported area of concern for 30 years ago. Two sources of runoff are coming together, one being city 22194 Public Hearing 06/25/24 drainage issues which has caused deep erosion areas in many residents’ properties. The areas are continuing to make detrimental impacts to these residents. Nothing is in the current stormwater management plan to manage these erosion issues; more work needs to be done by the city. City drainage areas need to be identified as to how they can be improved, not left for residents to fix. Council tabled this action to a later date. Ordinance 24-20 First Read Approved, Rezoning Approximately 114 Acres of Land Located in Planning Area 10 from R-4 Residential to R-2 Residential, as Recommended in the Draft Small Area Plan for Area 10 (D24-281 thru D24-282). No speakers. Councilor Duffy motioned to approve Ordinance 24-20, on first read the rezoning of approximately 114 acres of land located in Planning Area 10 from R-4 residential to R-2 residential, as recommended in the draft Small Area Plan for Area 10; motion was seconded by Councilor Holmes and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-21, First Read Approved, Rezoning Approximately 7 Acres of Land Located in Planning Area 10 from Light Industrial and General Industrial to Creative Maker District, as Recommended in the Draft Small Area Plan for Area 10 (D24-281 thru D24-282). No speakers. Councilor Duffy motioned to approve Ordinance 24-21, on first reading a rezoning of approximately 7 acres of land located in Planning Area 10 from light industrial and general industrial to creative maker district, as recommended in the draft Small Area Plan for Area 10; motion 22195 Public Hearing 06/25/24 was seconded by Councilor Graham and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-22, First Read Approved, Rezoning Approximately 13 Acres of Land Located in Planning Area 10 to Adopt Form-Based Regulations, as Recommended in the Draft Small Area Plan for Area 10 (D24-281 thru D24-282). No speakers. Councilor Duffy motioned to approve Ordinance 24-22, on first read to rezone approximately 13 acres of land located in Planning Area 10 to adopt form-based regulations, as recommended in the draft Small Area Plan for Area 10; motion was seconded by Councilor Gerlach and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Adjourned. There being no further speakers to come before the Council at this time, Mayor Kerry P. Devine declared the hearings officially adjourned at 8:44 p.m. Kerry P. Devine Kerry P. Devine, Mayor Brenda T. Martin Brenda T. Martin, Deputy Clerk of Council 22196 Regular Session 06/25/24 HON. KERRY P. DEVINE, MAYOR CITY OF FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA HON. CHARLIE L. FRYE, JR., VICE -MAYOR, WARD FOUR HON. JANNAN W. HOLMES, AT-LARGE CITY COUNCIL HON. DR. WILL B. MACKINTOSH, AT-LARGE HON. JASON N. GRAHAM, WARD ONE HON. JONATHAN A. GERLACH, WARD TWO HON. DR. TIMOTHY P. DUFFY, WARD THREE Council Chambers, 715 Princess Anne Street Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401 June 25, 2024 The Council of the City of Fredericksburg, Virginia, held a regular session on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall. City Council Present. Mayor Kerry P. Devine. Vice-Mayor Charlie L. Frye, Jr. Council members Dr. Timothy P. Duffy, Jonathan A. Gerlach, Jason N. Graham, Jannan W. Holmes and Dr. Will B. Mackintosh. Others Present. City Manager Timothy J. Baroody, Assistant City Manager Mark Whitley, City Attorney Kelly J. Lackey, Planning and Building Services Director Charles Johnston, Transit and Transportation Director Jamie Jackson, Principle Planner Michael Craig, Zoning Administrator Kelly Machen, Deputy Police Chief Betsy Mason, Captain Crystal Hill, Budget Analyst Donna Leahy, and Deputy Clerk of Council Brenda T. Martin. Opening Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. Council was led in prayer by Vice-Mayor Charlie L. Frye, Jr. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilor Jason N. Graham. Presentation. (D24-264) Delegate Joshua Cole presented a Virginia General Assembly House of Delegates Proclamation Commending the Fredericksburg Civil Rights 22197 Regular Session 06/25/24 Trail developed in partnership with the City of Fredericksburg and the University of Mary Washington. Victoria Matthews, with Fredericksburg Economic Development and Tourism and Chris Williams from The University of Mary Washington James Farmer Multicultural Center worked to develop, with input from the community, the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail, named “Freedom: A Work in Progress”. Mayor Devine explained the online presence of the Civil Rights Trail and the actual in person trail. She remarked that is amazing and in-depth work and represents the City’s goal of telling its complete rich history. She thanked them for all the work that went into developing Fredericksburg’s Civil Rights Trail. Officers Recognized. Mayor Devine recognized the presence of Police Officers - Lieutenant Jason Dring and Lieutenant Mike Athenry at this evening’s meeting. Consent Agenda Accepted for Transmittal as Recommended (D24- 265 thru D24-272). Councilor Graham moved approval of the City Manager’s consent agenda; motion was seconded by Councilor Mackintosh and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). o Ordinance 24-13, Second Read Approved, Amending Fredericksburg City Code, Chapters 38, Article IV (Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program), §§ 38-401—38-422; and Chapter 78, Article V (Erosion and Sediment Control), §§78-1308—78-1319 to Conform to Consolidation of Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Provisions Consistent with the Code of Virginia and Implementing Regulations (D24-265). 22198 Regular Session 06/25/24 o Resolution 24-42, Approved, Amending the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget to Adjust Appropriations in the Rappahannock Area Office on Youth Fund (D24-266). o Transmittal of Board and Commission Minutes o Architectural Review Board – April 8, 2024 (D24-267). o Architectural Review Board – April 22, 2024 (D24-268). o Board of Social Services – April 4, 2024 (D24-269). o Economic Development Authority – May 13, 2024 (D24-270). o Planning Commission – February 14, 2024 (D24-271). o Public Transit Advisory Board – April 3, 2024 (D24-272). Public Hearing (D24-273 thru D24-282). The regular session was recessed in order to conduct scheduled public hearings and immediately reconvened upon their conclusion. Citizen Comment. The following comments were given and/or submitted to be read during the citizen comment portion of this evening’s meeting. Amira Ahmed, 1301 College Avenue, spoke about and read a resolution of support for the people of Palestine. She pleaded that Council pass this resolution like the one they did for the people of Ukraine. Many lives are being lost due to the ongoing war. Rupert Farley, 805 Caroline Street, spoke about ranked choice voting for the federal, state and local elections. He stated his concerns about the splitting of the votes, and that ranked choice voting will help prevent that and may encourage more candidates to run for office. 22199 Regular Session 06/25/24 Council Agenda Presented. The following items were presented to Council for discussion. 8A. Board and Commission Updates 8B. Comprehensive (Comp) Plan Meetings 8C. Fredericksburg Pride Board and Commission Updates. Fredericksburg Arts Commission – Councilor Holmes thanked previous Chair Kenneth Lecky for his nine years of service, seven of them as chair. Many requests for funding for various art projects are being presented. Three public art sculptures are being switched out during the months of September and October. On First Fridays the trolleys run for free to various art galleries. Housing Advisory Committee – Vice-Mayor Frye reported they are the busiest committee in the city. Mr. Thompson can be reached at (540) 372-1179 for housing repair needs assistance through the Community Block Development Grants. Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission – Councilor Holmes reported that new routes have begun for the Omni Ride Commuter Bus on June 10th. Ridership continues to increase. Rappahannock Juvenile Detention – Assistant City Manager Mark Whitley reported that this regional facility utilization is on the increase and that the City has increased usage from its youth so far this year and we will have to pay an additional amount for this service. 22200 Regular Session 06/25/24 R-Board – Councilor Mackintosh reported that the R-Board is currently advertising for proposals for solar energy panels at the main landfill on Eskimo Hill Road and the City landfill (that has been closed for some years) on Cool Springs Road. With support of the Stafford County Board of Supervisors and City Council this project will help support green energy. Additionally, the R-Board received a national award on their bicycling recycling project in conjunction with Crossroads Church. Bikes are pulled from the drop-offs and repaired and given new life again for those in need. Rappahannock River Basin – Councilor Gerlach reported that it represents all the counties along the river. Most issues they deal with mostly do not affect the City such as forestry and shellfish harvesting. Recreation Commission – Councilor Duffy reported on the Parks Master Planning Improvements meetings and residents are encouraged to participate. Lights have been installed at Dixon Park Roller Hockey Rink by the Fredericksburg Youth Roller Hockey Club. Brandon McVade, a former Recreation Commission member leads that group and we are thankful for all his great work. Rappahannock Group Home Commission – Councilor Duffy reported that the group is looking to rent more space for the Office on Youth for their programming. A lot of work is occurring in Spotsylvania County. Town & Gown – Councilor Duffy spoke that the University presented information on the new theater being planned on the campus. Virginia Railway Express – Councilor Holmes reported that the major work at the Fredericksburg station has been completed and that Fredericksburg Main Street 22201 Regular Session 06/25/24 donated a covered bike rack at the station. Ridership is increasing and they are looking at starting Saturday service soon. Comprehensive (Comp) Plan Meetings – Mayor Devine reported that the first of many meetings will be held on Wednesday, June 26 from 6:30 – 8:30pm at the Original Walker-Grant Center on Ferdinand Street. Fredericksburg Pride – Councilor Mackintosh reminded everyone that the Fredericksburg Pride event will be held Saturday, June 29th starting at 10am at Riverfront Park with a march and a festival afterwards. He encouraged everyone to come out and support the community. Adoption of Minutes (D24-283). Councilor Gerlach moved approval of the January 23, 2024 Work Session minutes and the May June 11, 2024 Public Hearing and Regular Session minutes; motion was seconded by Councilor Frye and passed by the following recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Economic Development Authority – Joel Griffin, Matthew Kelly, Meredith Schatz (D24-284). After the recorded vote was taken, Joel Griffin and Meredith Schatz were appointed to serve on the Economic Development Authority with a vote resulting between applicants Joel Griffin, Matthew Kelly, Meredith Schatz. Griffin (7) Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes, Mackintosh; Kelly (0); Schatz (7) Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes, Mackintosh 22202 Regular Session 06/25/24 Resolution 24-43 Approved, Approving Fredericksburg Regional Transit’s Fiscal Year 2025-2034 Transit Strategic Plan (D24-285). Transit and Transportation Director Jamie Jackson asked for Council’s approval of the Transit Strategic Plan that was presented at the June 11th work session. Councilor Duffy moved to approve Resolution 24-43, approving Fredericksburg Regional Transit’s Fiscal Year 2025-2034 Transit Strategic Plan; motion was seconded by Councilor Holmes and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Resolution 24-44, Approved, City Council Supporting the Rappahannock Area Transportation Authority (D24-286). Transit and Transportation Director Jamie Jackson summarized the action before Council that the Fredericksburg Area Metropolitan Organization (FAMPO) received support from Stafford County and is now asking for the Council’s Resolution that will accompany a letter of support to send to our General Assembly delegation in Richmond for the creation of the Rappahannock Area Transportation Authority. Councilor Graham thanked Council for their support of this action that he brought to the Council’s attention as the representative to FAMPO. Councilor Graham moved to approve Resolution 24-44, City Council Supporting the Rappahannock Area Transportation Authority; motion was seconded by Councilor Holmes and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). 22203 Regular Session 06/25/24 Resolution 24-45, Approved, Supporting Smart Scale Round 6 Applications (D24-287 thru D24-288). Principal Planner Mike Craig gave a presentation on the Smart Scale Round 6 Applications process. See presentation. Eight projects were presented to VDOT in the pre-application process with these four being considered for a future time with some additional study work to be done: Fall Hill Avenue Sidewalks (Riverside Manor), Gateway Boulevard Shared Use Path, VCR Bridge Route 1 Trail, and Downtown Connector ramp. These four Council members are being asked to support to move forward in the Smart Scale Process: Lafayette Boulevard Sidewalks, VCR Trail Bridge – Route 4 and Lafayette Boulevard, Central Park Boulevard Additional Turn Lane, and Route 1 Access Management with adding a median. Councilor Gerlach asked the amount of the funding for the VCR Bridge which is $15 million. Councilor Graham asked how much funding is the City expected to receive for these projects. Mr. Craig responded that we are asking for full funding. Councilor Graham commented that the new scoring methods VDOT is going to use for these projects will probably not be working in our favor. Councilor Mackintosh asked about the Route 1 pedestrian crossing projects. Councilor Mackintosh moved to approve Resolution 24-45, Supporting Smart Scale Round 6 Applications; motion was seconded by Councilor Gerlach and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). 22204 Regular Session 06/25/24 Resolution 24-46, Approved, Initiating an Amendment to the 2015 Comprehensive Plan to Update Chapter 2 (D24-289). Principal Planner Mike Craig reminded the Council of the Public Meeting on the Comprehensive Plan Update tomorrow, June 26 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm at the Walker Grant Center, 210 Ferdinand Street. Tonight’s update request is to initiate the start of the review process on Chapter 2 of the Comprehensive Plan which is heavy on demographic and economic data. The last update was done in 2015 and much has changed. Update to statistical items such as population growth – by area and ages, additionally growing numbers of school age children, housing and income, and employment distribution. The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on these items on July 10, 2024. After their consideration and recommendation, the Chapter 2 amendments will return to City Council for public hearing and consideration for adoption. Councilor Holmes moved to approve Resolution 24-46, Initiating an Amendment to the 2015 Comprehensive Plan to Update Chapter 2; motion was seconded by Councilor Mackintosh and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Resolution 24-47, Approved, Adopting the List of Streets to be Improved During the Fiscal Year 2025 Asphalt and Concrete Rehabilitation Program (D24-290 thru D24-290.1). Assistant City Manager David Brown presented the list of streets to be paved and rehabilitated. Additionally, the Stafford Avenue reconstruction project consisting of reconstruction of the roadway from William 22205 Regular Session 06/25/24 Street to Route 1, is included. A new prioritization of the projects was given out to Council prior to the meeting. Council Mackintosh thanked Mr. Brown for working on this prioritization and focusing on improvements for bicycle and pedestrian safety. He would like to continue discussions in the coming months to more formalize the process for continued attention to projects to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety. He stated that he hears from constituents regularly about speeding and large trucks on Stafford Avenue and asked about traffic calming improvements additions. Mr. Brown explained that a traffic study was conducted and 80% of the traffic was at the 25mph level. Out of the 1100 vehicles per day 2% are large trucks. The police department was given the traffic study to use in their enforcement planning process. On-street parking will continue to assist as a traffic calming measure. Vice-Mayor Frye brought attention to an area of concern along Lansdowne Road at the entrance to the restaurant near the corner which has drainage that goes onto the road and ices over in the winter. Councilor Holmes asked for clarification on mill and surfacing. Councilor Mackintosh thanked staff for their focus on the Mayfield Avenue streets that he has noticed needed repair. He asked if this year’s paving budget allows, that South Street have some attention as well. Councilor Duffy moved to approve Resolution 24-47, Adopting the List of Streets to be Improved During the Fiscal Year 2025 Asphalt and Concrete Rehabilitation Program; motion was seconded by Councilor Holmes and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). 22206 Regular Session 06/25/24 Resolution 24-48, Approved, Approving a Policy for the Use of Net Proceeds from the Automated Enforcement of Traffic Safety Speed Violations in Designated School Zones (D24-291). Assistant City Manager Whitley explained that this item is a companion item to the resolution at the last Council meeting where a contract was approved with a vendor to install school zone safety cameras in front of Hugh Mercer Elementary School and James Monroe High School. This item is for approval of a policy to go with the revenue funds. The goal is not to collect revenue but for speeding to go down due to the cameras positive impact. Revenue estimates are in a wide range and include the contractor fees associated with the cost of sending out the summons, etc. Staff recommends a financial policy that any proceeds be used for capital or one-time expenditures, rather than ongoing operating expenses. Considerations will be given to pedestrian safety projects and either school capital or school debit service. Councilor Duffy asked about noise cameras. Mr. Whitley will explore further. Councilor Graham offered a slight amendment to the first sentence of the memo, with the following wording: the attached resolution directs the staff to first consider pedestrian safety work and if no project is currently feasible, then consider school capital needs or education debt service. Discussion followed to amend the resolution as well to the same language. Councilor Mackintosh emphasized that the goal of the project is getting children to school safely and that is the message to the public and the purpose of the speed enforcement cameras. 22207 Regular Session 06/25/24 Councilor Graham moved to approve Resolution 24-48, approving a Policy for the Use of Net Proceeds from the Automated Enforcement of Traffic Safety Speed Violations in Designated School Zones; the motion was seconded by Councilor Mackintosh and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-23, First Read Approved, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Easement to Allow Verizon Virginia LLC to Provide Communications Services to the New Middle School (D24-292). City Manager Whitley asked for a first and second read on an Ordinance that grants Verizon authority to put in telecommunications facilities to serve the new middle school under construction at 2201 Idlewild Boulevard. The forty year easements granted will allow installation of facilities to provide communication services, including telephone, broadband internet, and multi-channel video services. Mayor Devine asked about making sure the box to support these services is located in the best place and to coordinate it with staff. Assistant City Manager Whitley will include that request in the cover letter back to them with this easement approval. Vice-Mayor Frye asked to make sure conduit is being used so that as technology changes any future updates can be made through that same conduit. Assistant City Manager will make sure that is included as well. Councilor Gerlach moved to approve Ordinance 24-23, on first read, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Easement to Allow Verizon Virginia LLC to Provide Communications Services to the New Middle School; motion was seconded by Councilor 22208 Regular Session 06/25/24 Graham and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Suspension of the Rules. In order to place Ordinance 24-23, on for second read Councilor Gerlach moved to suspend the rules and Vice-Mayor Frye seconded the motion and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). Ordinance 24-23, Second Read Approved, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Easement to Allow Verizon Virginia LLC to Provide Communications Services to the New Middle School (D24-292). Councilor Gerlach moved to approve Ordinance 24-23, on second read, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute an Easement to Allow Verizon Virginia LLC to Provide Communications Services to the New Middle School; motion was seconded by Councilor Duffy and passed by the following unanimously recorded votes. Ayes (7). Councilors Devine, Frye, Duffy, Gerlach, Graham, Holmes and Mackintosh. Nays (0). City Manager’s Report and Council Calendar (D24-293 thru D24- 294). City Manager Baroody directed the Council’s attention to the Manager’s Update with the following topics: Fourth in Fredericksburg, Pride Day, Law Enforcement Torch Run, Weekend Free Trolley Service Returns to Downtown This Summer, Lights Added at Dixon Park Rink, Summer Lunch Program, Fredericksburg EDA Publishes Annual Report, NOAA National Weather Service, Fredericksburg Lafayette Bicentennial Events, Sounds 22209 Regular Session 06/25/24 of Summer Series Returning, Traffic Safety Initiative, Parks, Recreation and Events Summer Catalog is Now Available, and Fred Focus. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Council at this time, Mayor Devine declared the meeting officially adjourned at 10:35 p.m. Kerry P. Devine Kerry P. Devine, Mayor Brenda T. Martin Brenda T. Martin, Deputy Clerk of Council APPROVED 01-09-24 22210