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City Council

Regular Meeting

Martinsville, VA · October 25, 2016

AgendaMinutes

Minutes

October 25, 2016 The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on October 25, 2016, in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Danny Turner presiding. Council Members present included Danny Turner, Jennifer Bowles, Gene Teague, Mark Stroud and Sharon Brooks Hodge. Staff present included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, City Attorney Eric Monday, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Finance Director Linda Conover, and Police Chief Sean Dunn. Mayor Turner called the meeting to order and advised Council would go into Closed Session beginning at 7:00 PM. In accordance with Section 2.1-344 (A) of the Code of Virginia (1950, and as amended) and upon a motion by Council Member Stroud, seconded by Council Member Hodge, with the following 5-0 recorded vote: Vice Mayor Bowles, aye; Council Member Hodge, aye; Council Member Teague, aye; Council Member Stroud, aye; and Mayor Turner, aye. Council convened in Closed Session to discuss the following matters: (A) Appointments to boards and commissions as authorized by Subsection1, and (B) Consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members, attorneys or consultants pertaining to actual or probable litigation, or other specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by such counsel, as authorized by Subsection 7. At the conclusion of Closed Session, each returning member of Council certified that (1) only public business matters exempt from open meeting requirements were discussed in said Closed Session; and (2) only those business matters identified in the motion convening the Closed Session were heard, discussed, or considered during the Session. A motion was made by Bowles, seconded by Hodge, with the following 5-0 recorded vote in favor to return to Open Session: Council Member Teague, aye; Council Member Hodge, aye; Mayor Turner, aye; Vice Mayor Bowles, aye; and Council Member Stroud, aye. Council Member Hodge made a motion to reappoint Gavin Russell to the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority for a 4-year term expiring October 31, 2020; Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Stroud made a motion to appoint Tyler Carter to the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority for a 4-year term expiring October 31, 2020; Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Following the invocation by Council Member Stroud and Pledge to the American Flag, Mayor Turner welcomed everyone to the meeting. Consider approval of minutes from the October 11, 2016 Council Meeting – Vice Mayor Bowles requested that it be added that she attended the vice presidential debate to network and advocate on behalf of the City. Council Member Teague made a motion to approve the minutes as amended; Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with a 5-0 Council vote in favor. Consider a review of the City’s September finance report – Finance Director Linda Conover summarized the report for Council. Vice Mayor Bowles made a motion to approve the October 25, 2016 financial report as presented, Council Member Stroud seconded the motion with all Members in favor. Consider approval of consent agenda - Council Member Teague made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Council Member Hodge seconded the motion with all Members in favor. October 25, 2016 Present a proclamation recognizing and honoring deceased World War II veteran Earl C. Dawson – The sons of Sgt. Dawson were present. Mayor Turner read the proclamation. Local veteran W.C. Fowlkes shared some of Dawson’s history during and after his service and thanked the Dawson family and to all other veterans for their service. Thomas Spencer, Commander of the Martinsville-Henry County Veteran’s Honor Guard thanked council for inviting him to honor the family. Spencer stated that the local honor guard serves approximately 150 funerals for veterans each year. Sgt. Dawson’s sons thanked Council for the award and for recognizing their father. Mayor Turner asked what was happening locally for Veterans Day. Spencer said Bassett Historic Center would host a bench dedication in honor of Korean veterans; Veterans ??? will host a program to recognize outstanding veterans also at the former J. D. Bassett High School. Consider approval of a Council resolution supporting an Education Roundtable and a “Show Pride in Education” Day on October 28 sponsored by Morning Star Holy Church – Council Member Hodge read the resolution. Mayor Turner presented Rev. Millner the resolution. Millner thanked Council for the resolution. Millner hopes that more citizens will participate in the Show Pride in Education Day. October 25, 2016 Hear an overview of the October 24, 2016 Westside area Neighborhood Tour and Meeting – City Manager Towarnicki summarized the Westend community neighborhood tour including Maplewood Properties, Fayette Street, Pine Hall Road, Top Street, Katherine Street, Swanson Street and Baldwin Park, Jackson and Peters Streets. The neighborhood meeting was held at 7:30pm at Albert Harris Elementary School and well attended by individuals who expressed concerns about high electric bills, policies for absentee landlords and property maintenance, overgrowth behind a home, and other issues. The City is following up on several of issues brought up at the meeting. Council Member Hodges asked the City Manager to look into an alternate route for the bus that may accommodate other residents. Council Member Stroud said there was also concern on the street light illumination not being as wide spread as the previous lights. Towarnicki said he would be in contact with the contractor to see if there was any solution to the lighting concerns. Hear information from Brooks Jones, Mobility Manager for Southern Area Agency on Aging regarding their Miles 4 Vets Program and a recent award from the Commonwealth Council on Aging – Mr. Jones detailed the award received for the Miles 4 Vets program stating that the program was started in 2014. Being a veteran himself, he saw the need for services by other veterans in the area. He thanked several organizations and said it has been a community effort that allows the program to expand. Vice Mayor Bowles thanked him for his service and asked if there was any new information. Jones explained that transportation Mondays and Wednesdays are handled by a third party and is paid for by grants but donations are vital. They are selling shirts to raise funds, they are hosting a “Sponsor a Veteran” program where you can communicate with veterans who benefit from the program October 25, 2016 and look forward to sharing stories with others. Contact SAAA or mile1.net website or the Mobility Management Facebook page. Jones said there are approximately 5,000 local veterans in 2013. Hear an update from Martinsville City School Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley regarding the 2016-2017 school year – Dr. Talley said it has been a privilege to work with the students and staff. School opened smoothly this year and great beginnings are important. He detailed vacancies at the City schools. He said administrative changes have made a positive impact. He is holding monthly principal meetings. Testing is not everything but it is important to building strong students. They have hosted a series of meetings and are looking at available space to expand so students can attend trades classes as well as obtaining 4-year education. They are holding monthly meetings with Henry County to see if there are areas that they can collaborate on. Board members are in the schools several days each week to monitor students and staff and they attend several school events. Board members acknowledge and return every call made by parents. Administrators are notified weekly of what is taking place in the schools. Several businesses have offered to purchase books for the school. There are several retired educators volunteering time to work with students. They are working with the Police Department to reduce truancy situations. The schools have a big need for reading coaches and tutors. In addition, they have a need for an assistant principal at Patrick Henry and the opportunity to reduce class size. His plan is to get every school accredited and hopes to provide every student the opportunity to grow and develop. Travis Clemons detailed the budget plan and deficit. Vice Mayor Bowles and Mayor Turner presented the Stairway to Success award to Dr. Talley. Towarnicki explained the online contest on school initiatives related to early childhood education. There were 22-23 localities that submitted information and received the award. Talley said he would love to implement two additional head start classes at Clearview. He welcomed Council to drop in and check on his dedication at any time. Teague said he would like an understanding of the SOLS and if there is any study on what is being done to increase scores. Talley explained they are having information meetings and data assessments, which will show student-reading levels. Consider discussion of 2017 legislative agenda – City Attorney Monday explained the prefiling date for legislation is December 5, 2016. Vice Mayor Bowles asked Council if there was anything relating to transportation that needs to be changed as a result of Council endorsing the Regional Transportation Authority. Teague said Council simply supported the formation of the Transportation Authority in this region. Turner said the City’s decision regarding the authority could be impacted by the County’s decision to endorse the authority. Bowles requested including a statement opposing reimplementing local aid to the Commonwealth. Towarnicki made a comment regarding lottery proceeds going to localities. Teague noted that VML endorsed a JLARC review of the impact and suggested the city likewise October 25, 2016 endorse the VMLs position on the JLARC study. Hodge referred to #6 under education and several council members requested an update on the medical school before proceeding with that line item. Before proceeding to comments by Council Members, Mayor Turner noted a housekeeping item regarding the next Council meeting. Turner explained that the next Council meeting is scheduled on Election Day. Council Member Teague made a motion to cancel the meeting; Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Comments by members of City Council – Council Member Stroud said his family and friends are overwhelmed over the loss of loved one and he asks the citizens to keep them in their thoughts. Council Member Hodge questioned the delay in mail going through Greensboro instead of Roanoke and how it has affected the timeframe people are paying utility bills. She had a conversation with the Linda Conover, Finance and asked if it would be possible to use the postmark date instead of received date. Unfortunately, there are logistical issues that prevent that. She feels that it is worth considering since it could affect citizens who expect their payments to deliver in days instead of a week. Council Member Teague asked if someone from the post office could come and address the time frame and provide a better understanding of the process; maybe a grace period could be considered if necessary. Vice Mayor Bowles said that the Kiwanis Pancake Day was successful and the Rotary Club Lobster Fest was a success. She sent her condolences to family of Mark Dillard. Bowles also October 25, 2016 thanked Jennifer Doss for creating a City Snapchat filter. Bowles mentioned that Halloween activities will be held Uptown on Monday October 31 and reminded residents to vote on November 8 stating local government matters. Mayor Turner mentioned upcoming race weekend asking residents to please be friendly and patient with visitors. He said questions have been brought up regarding bulk trash pickup. City Manager Towarnicki explained the bulk trash policy regarding pickup for the tenant or for the landlord when a tenant is evicted from the property. If materials are bagged and property placed at the street, the city will pick it up. If the policy is not followed the trash dump will be reported to property maintenance. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki reminded Council members that November 3, 2016 is the VML Regional Supper at 6pm. On November 5, Liberty University College of Medicine will hold a clinic at the First United Methodist Church Activity Center beside Rania’s beginning at 9am -3pm and will coordinate with numerous health organizations in the community. September 27 at council there was a presentation about the Martinsville Storm Ready certificate. Towarnicki recognized Council Member Stroud for being instrumental in the siren system and presented Stroud an award. Stroud said he is thankful that the city shared his concern and the sirens will be helpful in keeping citizens safe. Stroud commented that the emergency generator project at the middle school is not complete and he hopes that incoming Council Members will consider pushing that project. City Attorney Monday explained that Halloween will be recognized on Monday October 31 and reminded residents that it is illegal for anyone over 12 years old to trick-or-treat and illegal for anyone to trick-or-treat past 9pm. Business from the Floor (not televised) – no one approached the podium There being no further business, a motion was made by Vice Mayor Bowles to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Council Member Hodge with all Council Members voting in favor. The meeting adjourned at 9:03pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Danny Turner Clerk of Council Mayor

Agenda

AGENDA--CITY COUNCIL -- CITY OF MARTINSVILLE, VIRGINIA Council Chambers – Municipal Building 7:00 pm Closed Session 7:30 pm Regular Session Tuesday, October 25, 2016 7:00 pm --Closed Session Items to be considered in Closed Session, in accordance with the Code of Virginia, Title 2.2, Chapter 37—Freedom of Information Act, Section 2.2-3711(A)—Closed Meetings, the following: A. Appointments to Boards and Commissions as authorized by Subsection 1. B. Consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members, attorneys or consultants pertaining to actual or probable litigation, or other specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by such counsel, as authorized by Subsection 7. 7:30—Regular Session Invocation & Pledge to the American Flag - Council Member Stroud 1. Consider approval of minutes of the October 11, 2016 Council Meeting. (2 mins) 2. Hear an overview of the October 24, 2016 Westside area Neighborhood Tour and Meeting (10 mins) 3. Hear information from Brooks Jones, Mobility Manager for Southern Area Agency on Aging regarding their Miles 4 Vets Program and a recent award from the Commonwealth Council on Aging (15 mins) 4. Hear an update from New College Institute Associate Director and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Leanna Blevins (30 mins) 5. Hear an update from Martinsville City School Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley regarding the 2016-2017 school year (30 mins) 6. Consider discussion of 2017 legislative agenda (15 mins) 7. Consider a review of the City’s September finance report. (5 mins) 8. Consider approval of consent agenda (2 mins) 9. Comments by members of City Council. (5 minutes) 10. Comments by City Manager. (5 minutes) 11. Business from the Floor (not televised) This section of the Council meeting provides citizens the opportunity to discuss matters, which are not listed on the printed agenda. Thus, any person wishing to bring a matter to Council’s attention under this Section of the agenda should: (1) come to the podium and state name and address; (2) state the matter that they wish to discuss and what action they would like for Council to take; (3) limit remarks to five minutes; (4) refrain from making any personal references or accusations of a factually false and/or malicious nature. Persons who violate these guidelines will be ruled out of order by the presiding officer and will be asked to leave the podium. Persons who refuse to comply with the direction of the presiding officer may be removed from the chambers. City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 1. Department: Clerk of Council Issue: Consider approval of minutes from October 11, 2016 Council Meeting. Summary: None Attachments: October 11, 2016 Council Meeting minutes Recommendations: Motion to approve minutes as presented. October 11, 2016 The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on October 11, 2016, in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Danny Turner presiding. Council Members present included Danny Turner, Jennifer Bowles, Gene Teague, Mark Stroud and Sharon Brooks Hodge. Staff present included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, City Attorney Eric Monday, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Finance Director Linda Conover, and Police Chief Sean Dunn. Mayor Turner called the meeting to order and advised Council would go into Closed Session beginning at 7:00 PM. In accordance with Section 2.1-344 (A) of the Code of Virginia (1950, and as amended) and upon a motion by Council Member Hodge, seconded by Council Member Stroud, with the following 5-0 recorded vote: Vice Mayor Bowles, aye; Council Member Stroud, aye; Council Member Hodge, aye; Council Member Teague, aye; and Mayor Turner, aye. Council convened in Closed Session to discuss the following matters: (A) Appointments to boards and commissions as authorized by Subsection1, and (B) Consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members, attorneys or consultants pertaining to actual or probable litigation, or other specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by such counsel, as authorized by Subsection 7. Mayor Turner stated that Council would recess from closed session and would reconvene at the end of the Council meeting. Following the invocation by Vice Mayor Bowles and Pledge to the American Flag, Mayor Turner welcomed everyone to the meeting. Hear a proclamation read designating October 2016 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Martinsville – Vice Mayor Bowles read the proclamation. Patricia Via was presented the proclamation along with two City logo caps. Ms. Via, a seven year breast cancer survivor said that the local foundation was organized in memory of her mother. Fundraising efforts this past year paid for fifty mammograms for local women. The Martinsville foundation also won $50,000 in funding at Lewis Gale hospital for anyone wishing to be tested for the BRCA1 gene. Ms. Via introduced other members of the foundation who were present at the meeting. Since 2012, the foundation has raised over $97,000. Vice Mayor Bowles thanked Via for her work and for providing armbands for local high school athletes so they can show support. Council Member Stroud asked how citizens wishing to be screened would proceed. Via said all contact information could be found on the website www.mlccancerfoundation.org. October 11, 2016 Consider approval of minutes from the September 26, 2016 Neighborhood Meeting and the September 27, 2016 Council Meeting – Council Member Hodge made a motion to approve the minutes; the motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Bowles with a 5-0 Council vote in favor. Mayor Turner stated that one of his comments was misquoted and needed to be corrected. The Clerk of Council made note of the correction. Hodge made a motion to approve the minutes as amended; Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members in favor. Presentation of proclamation regarding Extra Mile Day 2016 – Council Member Hodge read the proclamation that will be signed and mailed to the Extra Mile Foundation. October 11, 2016 Consider adoption of a resolution urging the General Assembly to establish a regional transportation district for the New River-Roanoke-Southside region – City Manager Towarnicki summarized Senator Stanley’s attendance at the previous meeting and the information he provided. In an August meeting, it was discussed how I-73 can move forward and ideas were discussed how other locations operate with a transportation authority. He stated that it will be hard to receive any additional state funding. Council Member Hodge said concerns have been raised that local public transportation has been “lacking” and if I-73 fails she asked could the City use those funds raised to expand other public transportation. Towarnicki said to his knowledge that could be an option but he would check into it to be sure. Hodge said she wants to be sure that local transportation be considered before I-73. Council Member Teague said he feels strongly that a Martinsville representative should have a seat on the transportation board. Vice Mayor Bowles said she had reservations previously about whether the funds would go towards I73 and she hopes that the board will monitor that. Mayor Turner said benefits include the bypass on the Western end of the county and the opportunity to tie into the loop around Greensboro. Council Member Stroud confirmed that another RADAR bus would be added later this year. Council Member Teague made a motion to approve the resolution as presented; Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. October 11, 2016 Hear an update from West Piedmont Workforce Investment Board – Lisa Fultz shared statistics with Council regarding first quarter 2016 Workforce traffic count, locality of residence, reason for visits, request for referrals, individuals in training and credentials attained, and employer services. She pointed out that most visitors are there for unemployment benefit claims or use of the resource room. The resource room is set up with computers, is handicap accessible and staff works well with anyone with a language barrier. Residents are provided with basic resume assistance, job matching account creation, information on workshops, assistance on job application, etc. at no cost. The office is located at 233 West Commonwealth Boulevard, Martinsville. WIOA funding is focused on higher paying, permanent positions. Facebook has been vital in reaching people in areas of open positions. Fultz explained the Youth Employment Services program. She appeals to those organizations and individuals that work closely with area youth to help WIB become less governmental and more focused on relating to the new generation. Fultz detailed ride solutions including ride share and said additional information and applications can be found online. The Martinsville center offers extended hours on Tuesday until 7:00pm, traditional hours are 8:30-5:00. She welcomes input and suggestions from Council on the local plan. October 11, 2016 Consider approval of consent agenda – City Manager Towarnicki explained what the reappropriations include. Finance Director Conover said those items listed should be all reappropriations needed and audit should be complete by November 30, 2016. Council Member Teague made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Council Member Stroud seconded the motion with all members voting in favor. October 11, 2016 Comments by members of City Council – Council Member Stroud said his hip replacement surgery went well and he appreciates all the well wishes and prayers. Council Member Teague said he and others attended VML sessions – splitting sessions between him, Bowles, Hodge and Towarnicki so they could receive maximum information. He said it was a good way to see what other localities are dealing with and an opportunity to network. Vice Mayor Bowles congratulated Teague who is now a member of the VML executive committee. Teague said they discussed lottery proceeds for localities; Council Member Hodge added that the discussion was to delay the decision for a year but to request a JLARC review now. She confirmed that there is interest from other localities. Mayor Turner had asked Towarnicki and the Tourism Office to declare Martinsville an accommodating city in case of emergency during October 11, 2016 the hurricane the week before. Turner said Governor Pence has agreed to sign some of the pink Martinsville hats that will be donated to the Cancer society for auction. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki shared that Martinsville received a Gold Level award from Stairway to Success, which will be presented to the school system. Business from the Floor (not televised) – Ural Harris of 217 Stewart Street says he was asked about traffic on Peters Street where cars are parking on both sides and causing trouble for moving traffic. He asked that Chief Dunn and the Traffic Commission take a look at this location. City Manager Towarnicki said there might need to be signage to prevent parking in specific areas of the street. Council Member Hodge says that Sunday is especially troublesome. Council reconvened to closed session. At the conclusion of Closed Session, each returning member of Council certified that (1) only public business matters exempt from open meeting requirements were discussed in said Closed Session; and (2) only those business matters identified in the motion convening the Closed Session were heard, discussed, or considered during the Session. A motion was made by Bowles, seconded by Teague, with the following 5-0 recorded vote in favor to return to Open Session: Council Member Teague, aye; Council Member Stroud, aye; Mayor Turner, aye; Vice Mayor Bowles, aye; Council Member Hodge, aye. There being no further business, a motion was made by Teague to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Bowles with all Council Members voting in favor. The meeting adjourned at 955pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Danny Turner Clerk of Council Mayor City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 2. Department: City Council Issue: Hear an overview of the October 24, 2016 Westside area Neighborhood Tour and Meeting. Summary: Mayor Turner will give this update. Attachments: None Recommendations: No action required City Council Agenda Summary Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 3. Department: City Manager Issue: Hear information from Brooks Jones, Mobility Manager for Southern Area Agency on Aging regarding their Miles 4 Vets Program and a recent award from the Commonwealth Council on Aging. Summary: Southern Area Agency on Aging’s Mobility Manager, Brooks Jones will provide an update for Council at the October 25th meeting. Attachments: None Recommendations: This item is for information purposes – no action by Council is needed. City Council Agenda Summary Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 4. Department: City Manager Issue: Hear an update from New College Institute Associate Director and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Leanna Blevins. Summary: At a recent Council meeting, a request was made for an update regarding the status of New College Institute and efforts to develop a path forward toward possible affiliation with a 4-year institute or development as a stand-alone entity. NCI Associate Director and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Leanna Blevins will provide an update for Council. Attachments: None Recommendations: This item is for information purposes – no action by Council is needed. City Council Agenda Summary Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 5. Department: Mayor/City Council Issue: Hear an update from Martinsville City School Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley regarding the 2016-2017 school year. Summary: During Council’s last strategic planning process in late 2015 and early 2016, one item discussed in regard to the relationship between the City school system and Council was the need for improved communications. An item was added to the strategic plan under the education section (4.1) regarding periodic updates for Council and Dr. Talley will present the first of such updates at the October 25th meeting. The next update is tentatively planned for January, 2017 and will consist of a joint Council/School Board planning/work session. Attachments: None Recommendations: This item is for information purposes – no action by Council is needed. City Council Agenda Summary Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 6. Department: City Attorney Issue: Consider discussion of 2017 legislative agenda Summary: The City annually determines its legislative priorities. Attached is 2016’s legislative agenda. Prefiling for specific legislation is December 5, 2016. Most mandates (funded and unfunded) are addressed though modification of the state budget, may not require individual bills, and could be addressed during the General Assembly session. Attachments: 2016 Legislative Agenda. Recommendations: Discussion, possible amendment and final approval by motion and voice vote. The City of Martinsville appreciates the efforts its legislators undertake at both the state and federal level on behalf of its citizens. Listed below are the City’s priorities requested of its legislative delegation in 2016. Virginia General Assembly Transportation 1. In the short term, upgrade those portions of Route 220 overlaying I-73 to interstate standards. Any construction or upgrades to the I-73 corridor should begin on those sections passing through Henry County. 2. Continue to place priority on Route 58 improvements, particularly the section between Stuart and Hillsville, Virginia. Education 1. City Council endorses the agenda proposed by the Martinsville City School System and also endorses the educational priorities adopted by Henry County, on behalf of its school system. 2. Oppose the imposition of unaided education mandates and in the event of revenue cuts by the Commonwealth opposes targeted cuts by the Commonwealth, instead preferring local decision making authority on where to make any such cuts. 3. Recognizing its potential to promote economic development within our community and region, continue support for the development and funding of the New College Institute; urge that any funding reductions to New College Institute, if considered, be minimized to the greatest extent possible; and support the affiliation of The New College Institute as a branch of a four-year public university. 4. Request the Commonwealth to fully fund the expenditures imposed upon local school systems by implementing the Standards of Quality. 5. Encourage the Commonwealth to continue or increase the current levels of financial support provided to Patrick Henry Community College. 6. Encourage the Commonwealth to provide financial support to the College of Henricopolis School of Medicine. 7. Request the Commonwealth to provide incentives for consolidation of school systems. Economic Development 1. Maintain current levels of funding for economic development incentives, including but not limited to the Governor’s Opportunity Fund. 2. Enhance the authority granted to localities to address and eliminate blighted properties, and the formation of interstate compacts to allow expedited recourse against out-of-state property owners. 3. Continue current funding levels of the Virginia Museum of Natural History. 4. Request enhanced state and federal financial assistance for localities which exceed the average state unemployment rate by 150% for a period of five consecutive years. 5. Support continued tourism awareness initiatives in the Martinsville-Henry County region. 6. Expand local authority to designate Enterprise Zones and establish incentives. Governance 1. Request the appointment of a joint gubernatorial/legislative commission to examine the structure of local government in Virginia, the commission’s mandate to include: a. Examination of local government in the other 49 states for potential adaptation to Virginia. b. Enable cities to expand their revenue base c. Elimination of the “zero-sum” revenue base structure, which creates friction between cities and counties. d. Elimination of redundant services and programs between contiguous cities and counties. 2. Require full funding for HB 599 funds, in fulfillment of the Commonwealth’s commitment to cities in return for their acquiescence in the annexation moratorium. 3. Require that the Commonwealth fully fund its obligations to the Virginia Retirement System, and refrain from borrowing from VRS funds. 4. Request the elimination of “local aid to the Commonwealth” in the state budget; local aid artificially inflates state revenues by shifting responsibility for cuts in vital services onto localities. 5. Elimination of all unfunded mandates from the Commonwealth to localities. 6. Oppose any elimination or alteration of local revenue streams, and specifically oppose any amendment to the current manner in which the Business Occupation and Licensing Tax and the Machinery and Tools Tax are levied, unless a replacement revenue stream, not subject to biennial appropriation, is guaranteed by the Commonwealth. 7. Request at a minimum, level funding for operational requirements of the Henry-Martinsville Department of Social Services. 8. Request that the General Assembly leaves intact the fire programs fund and the rescue squad assistance funds and not use these funds as a way to balance the state budget. 9. Request that the Commonwealth fully fund its obligations to constitutional officers. 10. Oppose any attempt to curtail the doctrine of sovereign immunity for localities. 11. Oppose any attempt to permit collective bargaining for state and local government employees. 12. Oppose any amendment of the existing burden of proof or process in local tax appeals cases. 13. Request authority to refund erroneously paid taxes at an interest rate which differes from that imposed on delinquencies, and to refund taxes erroneously paid through the fault of the taxpayer at no interest. United States Congress 1. Oppose any effort to impose additional taxation or regulation of electrical power generation by coal or natural gas. 2. Urge the Federal Highway Commission to adopt the CTB’s designated route for I-73, or alternatively to preserve the current record of decision in the event the CTB’s route is rejected. 3. In the short term, upgrade those portions of Route 220 overlaying I-73 to interstate standards. 4. Request $3.72M in funds for the redevelopment of brownfields extending from the former American Furniture and Sara Lee sites, along Aaron Street, to Rives Road 5. Request $6.25M in funds for the elimination and redevelopment of blighted areas in the city. 6. Request legislation to provide special federal incentives to businesses locating in regions which have experienced job losses in excess of 5% of the total workforce and/or declines in median incomes since the adoption of NAFTA, WTO or GATT. Target such areas for increased federal funding in education or workforce retraining. 7. Extend high speed broadband service throughout southern Virginia. 8. Request enhanced state and federal financial assistance for localities which exceed the average state unemployment rate by 150% for a period of five consecutive years. 9. Oppose the EPA’s proposed expansion of the definition of “waters of the United States” in 40 CFR 230.3. Staff Designations City Council empowers the following staff members to speak on its behalf and in its best interests to the Virginia General Assembly and United States Congress, its members and committees: City Attorney Eric Monday City Manager Leon Towarnicki Other department heads as appointed by the City Manager 2 City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: Oct. 25, 2016 Item No: 7. Department: Finance Issue: Consider a review of the City’s September Financial Report Summary: FY17 – 9/30/2016 - Revenues & Expenditures Exclusive of School and Special Revenue Funds, actual revenues were $12,871,616, 4.3% greater than the amount anticipated for the first quarter of the new fiscal year. Local Sales & Use Taxes collected were greater than anticipated by $24,807, for total receipts of $334,675; Meals Taxes collected were also greater than expected by $18,471, for total receipts of $427,321. Total Utility Fund revenues were $8,277,892, greater than anticipated by $998,756, due in large part to construction loan activity. Total actual expenditures were $19,009,928, including encumbrances, which is only $18,609 less than the amount anticipated for this time period. The available cash-on-hand for all City Funds was $12,399,962, an increase of $645,323 over the same time period last year. Attachments: Revenue – Expense Report 9-30-16 Recommendations: Motion to approve financial report. City of Martinsville Consolidated Revenues and Expenditures FY17 - 9/30/16 Actual Remaining Difference Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual General Fund Revenues $ 28,122,629 $ 3,724,557 $ 3,683,078 $ 24,439,551 98.9% Expenditures 30,262,850 7,575,813 7,502,162 22,760,688 99.0% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (2,140,221) $ (3,851,256) $ (3,819,083) (Fund Bal contrib) Actual Remaining Difference Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual Capital Funds Meals Tax Revenues $ 2,068,373 $ 408,850 $ 427,321 $ 1,641,052 104.5% Expenditures 2,468,373 942,741 942,741 1,525,632 100.0% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (400,000) $ (533,891) $ (515,420) Capital Reserve Revenues $ 1,154,588 $ 483,325 $ 483,324 $ 671,264 100.0% Expenditures 1,191,087 687,732 687,732 503,355 100.0% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (36,499) $ (204,407) $ (204,407) TOTAL CAPITAL FUNDS: $ (436,499) $ (738,298) $ (719,827) (Fund Bal contrib) Actual Remaining Difference Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual Refuse Fund Revenues $ 2,205,000 $ 421,440 $ 423,296 $ 1,781,704 100.4% Expenditures 2,430,000 531,560 649,704 1,780,296 122.2% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (225,000) $ (110,120) $ (226,407) MINet/Fiber Optic Fund Revenues $ 1,714,075 $ 353,206 $ 457,365 $ 1,256,710 129.5% Expenditures 1,463,664 418,668 489,581 974,083 116.9% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ 250,411 $ (65,462) $ (32,217) Water Fund Revenues $ 4,536,768 $ 897,295 $ 897,684 $ 3,639,084 100.0% Expenditures 4,786,768 1,000,232 894,930 3,891,838 89.5% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (250,000) $ (102,937) $ 2,755 Sewer Fund Revenues $ 4,916,521 $ 1,057,628 $ 1,101,903 $ 3,814,618 104.2% Expenditures 5,166,521 1,419,920 1,383,717 3,782,804 97.5% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (250,000) $ (362,292) $ (281,814) Electric Fund Revenues $ 22,516,161 $ 4,994,567 $ 5,397,644 $ 17,118,517 108.1% Expenditures 22,966,161 6,451,871 6,459,362 16,506,799 100.1% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (450,000) $ (1,457,304) $ (1,061,718) TOTAL UTILITY FUNDS: $ (1,175,000) $ (2,032,653) $ (1,567,185) (Fund Bal contrib) Consolidated Revenues and Expenditures FY17 - 9/30/16 Actual Remaining Difference Budget YTD Balance Budg vs. Actual Cafeteria Revenues $ 1,447,543 $ $ 101,098 $ 1,346,445 7.0% Expenditures 1,517,543 358,232 1,159,311 23.6% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (70,000) $ $ (257,133) Schools Revenues $ 22,960,270 $ $ 4,636,143 $ 18,324,127 20.2% Expenditures 22,960,270 4,757,822 18,202,448 20.7% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ - $ $ (121,679) Federal Programs Revenues $ - $ $ 372,527 $ (372,527) Expenditures - 694,525 (694,525) Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ - $ $ (321,998) TOTAL SCHOOL FUNDS: $ (70,000) $ - $ (700,811) (fund bal contrib) Actual Remaining Budget YTD Balance Special Revenue Funds CDBG Fund Revenues $ 53,897 $ 95,788 $ (41,891) 177.7% Expenditures 53,897 16,780 37,117 31.1% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ - $ 79,009 TOTAL SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS: $ - $ 79,009 Actual Remaining Difference Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual GRAND TOTALS: (excluding Schools & Special Revenues) Revenues: $ 67,234,115 12,340,868 $ 12,871,616 $ 54,362,499 104.3% Expenditures 70,735,424 19,028,537 19,009,928 51,725,496 99.9% Excess (deficiency) of revenues over expenditures $ (3,501,309) (6,687,669) $ (6,138,312) Local Sales/Use Taxes $ 2,020,000 $ 309,868 $ 334,675 $ 1,685,325 108.0% Meals Taxes $ 1,700,000 $ 408,850 $ 427,321 $ 1,272,679 104.5% The Budgeted Revenue amounts do not include any contributions from Fund Balance. City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: October 25, 2016 Item No: 8. Department: Finance Issue: Appropriation Approvals Summary: The attachment amends the FY17 Budget with appropriations in the following funds: General Fund: $ 2,825 – reimbursements, donations, grant Sewer Fund: $ 128,978 – SRI project reimbursement Attachments: Consent Agenda 10-25-16 Recommendations: Approve BUDGET ADDITIONS FOR 10/25/2016 ORG OBJECT DESCRIPTION DEBIT CREDIT FY17 General Fund: 01100909 490104 Advance/Recovered Costs 300 01321102 506130 Fire Dept. - Repair & Maint.-Burn Building 300 Reimbursements for training supplies 01100909 490137 Recovered Costs - Public Safety 840 01331108 501200 Sheriff/Corrections - Overtime 98 01331108 502100 Sheriff/Corrections - Social Security 6 01331108 502110 Sheriff/Corrections - Medicare 1 01311085 501200 Police Department - Overtime 683 01311085 502100 Police Department - Social Security 42 01311085 502110 Police Department - Medicare 10 Off Duty Security reimbursements 01100909 490801 Recovered Costs - Senior Services 1,510 01100908 480420 Donations/Senior Citizens 175 01714212 501300 Senior Citizens - Part-time Wages 933 01714212 502100 Senior Citizens - Social Security 58 01714212 502110 Senior Citizens - Medicare 14 01714212 506049 Senior Citizens - Vehicle Fuels 505 01714212 506016 Senior Services - Program Supplies 175 Donations & Transportation Grant - 1st Qtr Total General Fund: 2,825 2,825 Sewer Fund: 13103936 407700 Indebtedness - VRA Loan Proceeds 128,978 13551326 508224 Wastewater Maintenance - SRI Project - Phys. Plant Exp. 128,978 VRA Reimbursement #4 Total Sewer Fund: 128,978 128,978

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