City Council

AGENDA--CITY COUNCIL -- CITY OF MARTINSVILLE, VIRGINIA Council Chambers – Municipal Building 7:30 pm Regular Session Tuesday, January 8, 2019 7:30—Regular Session Pledge to the American Flag and Invocation by Council Member Woods 1. Consider approval of the minutes from the October 9, 2018 Council meeting, the October 22, 2018 Neighborhood meeting and the October 23, 2018 Council meeting (5 mins.) 2. Conduct a public hearing regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance as approved and recommended by the Planning Commission (5 mins) 3. Hear information related to a fiscal distress monitoring process provided through the Office of the Virginia Auditor or Public Accounts. (20 mins) 4. Hear an update on FY19 Telecommunications operations (15 mins) 5. Business from the Floor 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. 6. Comments by members of City Council. (5 minutes) 7. Comments by City Manager. (5 minutes)  City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: January 8, 2019 Item No: 1. Department: Clerk of Council Issue: Consider approval of minutes Summary: None Attachments: October 9, 2018 Council Meeting minutes October 22, 2018 Neighborhood Meeting minutes October 23, 2018 Council Meeting minutes Recommendations: Motion to approve minutes as presented. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on October 9, 2018 in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Gene Teague presiding. Council Members present included Gene Teague, Jim Woods, Jennifer Bowles, and Kathy Lawson. Vice Mayor Martin arrived at 7:45pm. 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, Police Chief Eddie Cassady, and Fire Chief Ted Anderson. Mayor Teague 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) Code of Virginia (1950, and as amended) and upon a motion by Council Member Lawson, seconded by Council Member Bowles with the following 4-0 recorded vote: Council Member Bowles, aye; Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; and Council Member Lawson, aye. Council convened in Closed Session to discuss the following matters: (A) Discussion or consideration of the acquisition of real property for a public purpose, or of the disposition of publicly held real property, where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body as authorized by Subsection 3, and (B) Discussion or consideration of the acquisition of real property for a public purpose, or of the disposition of publicly held real property, where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, as authorized by Subsection 3, and (C) 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 Council Member Lawson; seconded by Council Member Bowles, with the following 4-0 recorded vote in favor to return to Open Session: Council Member Bowles, aye; Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Lawson, aye. Council Member Bowles made a motion to appoint Rives Coleman to the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority for a 4-year term ending October 31, 2022. Council Member Woods seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. No other action was taken out of Closed Session. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Council Member Woods, Mayor Teague welcomed everyone to the meeting. Consider approval of minutes from the September 11, 2018 Council Meeting and the September 24, 2018 Neighborhood Meeting – Council Member Lawson made a motion to October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting approve the minutes as presented; Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Consider presentation of a proclamation honoring the late Fred Thomas Martin, Sr. – Mayor Teague said it was important that Council honor and recognize those residents who gave back and cared deeply about Martinsville, the community and the residents. Teague said Martinsville would not be where it is today without Mr. Martin’s vision to see it grow. Council Member Lawson read the proclamation that was presented to Mr. Martin’s family. Ms. Martin thanked Council for recognizing her husband. His son stated that the family planned to continue Martin’s legacy. Hear a proclamation read designating October 2018 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Martinsville. –Vice Mayor Martin read and presented the proclamation to representatives of the Coalition of Health and Wellness Committee. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Hear a report from representatives of Johnson Controls on measurement and verification of the performance contract regarding the recently completed meter and lighting replacement project – City Manager Towarnicki reminded Council about the meter and lighting replacement projects completed a year ago. Towarnicki explained that the performance of these projects is guaranteed. Katrina Tatum, representative for Johnson Controls detailed past challenges and performance of the projects as well as the cost savings over the past year. Council Member Bowles asked Tatum to keep the City up-to-date on any new technology that would allow the streetlights to have a wider lit area. Towarnicki explained that the savings would cover the debt services and confirmed that the project could be paid for faster because of the higher-than-projected cost savings. The ability to enhance the customer service is an important improvement. Towarnicki explained the new project allows the ability to recognize a problem like a water leak earlier saving residential expense. The electric meters also have an alert that senses a temperature difference that could prevent property damage or even potential fire. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval on second reading, Ordinance 2018 Z-4, Zoning- Architectural Review Board membership – City Manager Towarnicki briefly summarized the request for change on the ARB membership. Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the ordinance on second reading; Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Bowles, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Lawson, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; and Mayor Teague, aye. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Hear information from Fire/EMS regarding ambulance and emergency medical service coverage for the City – Fire Chief Anderson detailed the history of Stone Ambulance Service that closed on September 19, 2018 and how they served as backup to assist Martinsville EMS and Fire departments. City Manager Towarnicki explained that the City has two ambulances that cover calls within the City. Previously, when both City EMS teams are already on calls, Stone Ambulance will cover those additional calls. On average, the City receives about 180 calls each year that would have been handled by Stone Ambulance. By not having Stone Ambulance for backup, the opportunity of a patient not receiving critical immediate response increases. 94.2% of the calls were handled by the City EMS; all others were referred to Stone Ambulance. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider additional information related to the reversion work session held by City Council on September 26, 2018 – City Manager Towarnicki detailed additional information and projections related to reversion and the cost to do studies for updated financials and schools. Mayor Teague expressed concern about investing in the study if not all Council Members are on board with seriously considering reversion. Numerous studies have been completed and money invested, but previous Councils have failed to follow through with the steps to revert. Former City Mayor Barry Green shared his belief that reversion is the right direction for the City. Council Member Bowles corrected a statement made by Green regarding the African- American voters and their concern of a diluted minority vote. Teague explained that the October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting County Board would have to follow federal guidelines to prevent the threat of diluted votes. Teague expressed his support to move forward to reversion. Council Member Bowles expressed resident concerns that the African-American community has not received representation on City Council in years past and feel that they would not receive acceptable representation as a Town. Bowles expressed support for an updated study but possibly at a lower cost. Vice Mayor Martin emphasized that there are three new Council Members that have not been on Council during a reversion discussion. Council Member Woods also expressed his support that a new study is needed for a fair consideration for reversion. Council Member Lawson says that through financial challenges. The City has come out ok but the assumptions should be corrected so that Council can have a more realistic expectation. Council Member Woods made a motion to approve the City Manager to go forth with the study, Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council voting in favor. Consider approval of consent agenda – Finance Director Conover summarized the reappropriation request. Mayor Teague asked for an updated financial report and fund balance for the next Council meeting. Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider a request from Martinsville City Schools to use $23,523 from capital reserve to cover the cost of roof repairs at Clearview Early Learning Center – City Manager Towarnicki explained the request to use the capital reserve to cover school roof repairs. Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the request; Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Business from the Floor – Ural Harris, 217 Stuart Street said residents had concerns related to the opioid lawsuit and the cost to the City. Harris asked Council to make a motion to make a contract with all attorneys representing the City to release the contract to the residents. City Attorney Monday explained that the current contract is not FOIA authorized. If the City were unsuccessful in the lawsuit then the City would be responsible for costs for processing of the suit. Monday explained that he is not receiving any compensation for the lawsuit. Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Woods attended the VML Conference and it was eye opening how well respected Martinsville City Council and staff were to others in attendance. City Attorney Monday did a fantastic job representing the City. Woods welcomed the Gardner family to the meeting. Council Member Lawson reminds residents of Second Thursday in Uptown Martinsville, which provides later shopping hours. This week is Kiwanis Pancake Day in the Broad Street parking lot. On October 16 from October 9, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting 9:00am-1:00pm, Southern States will offer a pesticide disposal day. Lawson enjoyed the VML meeting also especially the session regarding the upcoming census where residents can file online. Council Member Bowles also acknowledged that VML was an amazing experience and recognized City Attorney Monday for his speech. Bowles mentioned the lip-synch challenge released by City departments and said she had fun participating. October 16 is the LobsterFest to benefit the Martinsville Rotary Club. Last day to register to vote is October 15. Vice Mayor Martin said VML was fun and informative and recognized Council Member Woods for his outstanding job singing the Star Spangled banner. Martin says the City is lucky to have City Attorney Monday who is highly admired by other locations. Mayor Teague thanked all Council Members for attending VML and says it is noticeable when some Cities have all members in attendance versus only one or two representatives. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki said VML sessions are good but walking around and talking to vendors to see what is available to benefit Martinsville, as well as what other areas are doing that may have some of the same concerns as Martinsville and comparing notes of what has worked. Having those contacts to communicate with in the future is also beneficial. The City has put together a brochure about the new Property Maintenance Program that the City will be offering for sale to other communities. The City has put together an Adopt a Street program, the Mason’s Lodge is the first to participate. The World War I and World War II Commission has a mobile trailer display and Martinsville has been added to the schedule for Friday December 14 and Saturday December 15 at the museum parking lot. The second piece to the project is to collect photos and memorabilia to scan and capture additional information to archive with the intent to capture as much information as possible before that generation has passed. William Gardner, sophomore at Magna Vista High School is passionate about reversion and believes that the decision affects his generation more than anyone else in the room. He appreciates the efforts towards reversion and towards the opioid problem. There being no further business, Council Member Lawson made a motion to adjourn the meeting; the motion was seconded by Council Member Bowles with all Council Members voting in favor. The meeting adjourned at 9:50pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor October 22, 2018 West Side Neighborhood Meeting Martinsville City Council toured the West Side area on October 22, 2018 beginning at 5:30pm. Those present for the tour were Council Member Wood, Council Member Lawson, Council Member Bowles, Mayor Teague and Vice Mayor Martin. Staff participating included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, Police Chief Eddie Cassady, Officer Coretha Gravely, Inspector Andy Powers, Inspector Mark Price, and Channel 13 reporter Kyle Wilcox. The West Side Neighborhood Meeting was held at Albert Harris School, 710 Smith Road, Martinsville, VA at 7:30 PM, with Mayor Teague presiding. Other Council Members present included Council Member Kathy Lawson, Council Member Jim Wood, Vice Mayor Martin and Council Member Jennifer Bowles. Staff present: City Manager Leon Towarnicki, City Attorney Eric Monday, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, Assistant Police Chief Eddie Cassady, Officer Coretha Gravely, Inspector Andy Powers, Inspector Mark Price, Martinsville Bulletin Ben Williams. Mayor Teague called the meeting to order. City Manager Towarnicki summarized the tour. The tour traveled from City Hall to Spencer Street then High Street to observe the sewer project. The tour then visited the VM Draper project and Fayette Street, traveling to North Street to look at kudzu on utility lines, then Pine Street, Top Street, and Wray Street to discuss properties. Council discussed a potential project on Kings Row. The tour traveled down Fayette to Maplewood Apartments, making note that the liter complaint had been addressed. Council Members discussed Pony Place where there were homes that needed attention and tall grass concerns. The tour then traveled to Cardinal Lane, West End Park, then Roundabout Road to observe a property maintenance home. The tour visited Fayette to Beaver Street, down Memorial to Katherine then onto Smith Rd where there were several abandoned homes, some of which are already on the demolition list. The tour also visited Swanson Street, Spencer to High Street where there was storm debris on a CenturyLink line, Barton Street, then to Moss Street where a few properties were discussed. The tour concluded back at City Hall at 6:20pm. Towarnicki said it is good to get out in the neighborhood and discuss any issues that need to be addressed. Mark Price, Property Maintenance Inspector summarized inspections, notices and recognized those properties that required action. Price shared his contact number for citizens that would like to contact him with concerns. Price explained that all complaints are posted to the City website and follow-up documented if the complaint is valid or invalid and any action taken or needed. Dee Galloway 833 Smith Street reports numerous trees that need attention before they cause power outages during storms. Galloway suggested that the power lines be rerouted. Council Member Bowles asked that this location be added to the tree-trimming list. October 22, 2018 West Side Neighborhood Meeting Natalie Law, 1212 Roundabout Road asked the status of demolition projects in her area. Towarnicki said title searches are being done and the City is working on funding. Monday said the first 10 homes are almost ready for demolition. Monday explained the purpose of the title search is required by law to give any interested parties proper notification. James Draper of 119 Crestwood Court explained for the past 10 years, he has been complaining about his neighbor’s tree, which is blocking the side of his house; the neighbor refuses to cut the tree but the leaves are falling into his yard and clogging his gutters. Monday explained that he can cut the limbs on his property and if he wants the neighbor to pay, he will have to sue her. Draper said there were visitors to 109 Terrace Street last weekend that connected the power to a home and asked if the City could charge people for connecting the electricity unlawfully. Police Chief said that they do aggressively charge people for unlawfully connecting power and said he would follow up with the officer who responded. Lawrence Mitchell of 700 Second Street says Beaver Street should not be closed and it is imperative that the City maintain the entrance for residents. Philip Johnson of Wilson Street expressed concern about an abandoned house that has overgrown grass and trash around the yard and asked that it be looked at by property maintenance. It appears that the pavement is sinking on Wilson Street near a repair site, which needs to be addressed. Lawrence Mitchell asked the status on the Paradise location. Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox says there is a study completed regarding the condition of the building and another study about the potential future of the building. He asked that residents contact the City Planner to offer suggestions on what could be done with that location that would be useful to residents. Knox explained what a food desert is and a potential timeline of renovating the building if the City pursued any project. Residents discussed the condition of the Paradise. Mitchell expressed concern about the condition of the Paradise and said that it is a health concern. Shirley Frazier of 1310 Cardinal Lane asked for clarification that the grant money for the Paradise be used for West End and not for any other location. Lawrence Mitchell asked who suggested a playground on the corner of Fayette and Second Street. Knox explained that the playground has nothing to do with the City. There is a nonprofit organization that comes up with projects to upgrade the Westend area. During a brainstorm session, the topic was brought up but it was just an idea; the playground will not happen unless the City buys the property which is unlikely. Frazier asked about the former housing office building now used by Piedmont Community Services. Mayor Teague explained the procedure followed to allow PCS to use the property and announced the ribbon cutting for October 23, 2018. Willa Mae Harris of 1010 D Street says allowing the Piedmont Community Services into that location was one of the best moves in the October 22, 2018 West Side Neighborhood Meeting community in a while, stating that they keep the property in good condition. She hopes they will never add a recreation center or playground at that area. Wayne Knox explained during the tour, he and Council look at properties that are on the demolition list or properties close to qualifying. He explained that some properties could qualify for a grant to renovate properties for resell. He asked residents to contact his office if they know of property that could qualify for these projects. Resident pointed out a residence that needs attention. Dennis Hairston of 515 Letcher Street is curious about the AMP Ohio agreement and if the City would still be under the contract if the City reverts. Lawrence Mitchell asked when Jim Woods was appointed to Council, Woods said he did not have an “agenda” and asked if he had an “agenda” now. Woods explained that his agenda is to represent all residents in the City and County, working in a relationship with other Council Members to bring a consensus and provide a mouthpiece to residents to build the community and build relationships instead of focusing the negative. Resident asked about generating power in the area. Teague explained the hydro plant and the landfill projects which provides 3-4% of local power. Resident asked about having signs installed on Smith Road to prevent large trucks in the neighborhood. Ruby Stultz, 108 Pony Place expressed concern for traffic on Kohler Road, specifically tractor trailers and requested a better location for signage to detour traffic and avoid speeding Mayor Teague thanked residents for coming out and sharing their concerns. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:45pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on October 23, 2018 in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Gene Teague presiding. Council Members present included Gene Teague, Jim Woods, Jennifer Bowles, Vice Mayor Chad Martin and Kathy Lawson. 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, Deputy Police Chief Rob Fincher and Utilities Director Durwin Joyce. Mayor Teague 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) Code of Virginia (1950, and as amended) and upon a motion by Council Member Lawson, seconded by Council Member Bowles with the following 5-0 recorded vote: Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; and Council Member Lawson, aye. Council convened in Closed Session to discuss the following matters: (A) Discussion or consideration of the acquisition of real property for a public purpose, or of the disposition of publicly held real property, where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body as authorized by Subsection 3, 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 Council Member Lawson; seconded by Council Member Bowles, with the following 5-0 recorded vote in favor to return to Open Session: Vice Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; and Council Member Lawson, aye. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to appoint Mitchel Farley to the Transportation Safety Commission for a 4-year unexpired term ending December 31, 2021. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Bowles made a motion to appoint Lydia Martin to the Pittsylvania County Community Action Agency Board for a 3-year term ending August 31, 2020. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with four Council Members voting in favor. Vice Mayor Martin is related to the applicate and abstained from the vote. Council Member Woods made a motion to appoint Andy Quirk to the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority for a 4-year term ending October 31, 2022. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting No other action was taken out of Closed Session. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Mayor Teague, Teague welcomed everyone to the meeting. Hear an overview of the October 22, 2018 West End neighborhood tour and meeting – City Manager Towarnicki summarized the Neighborhood tour, detailing the route of the tour and concerns that were observed and discussed. Towarnicki summarized some of the concerns voiced by residents at the Neighborhood meeting along with the action that is being taken by the City to correct those concerns. Read and present a proclamation to City Electric Department staff – City Manager Towarnicki reflected on previous storms, which caused excessive downed trees and power outages. Towarnicki shared details about employees who worked long, dangerous hours to restore electricity to the residents, stating that it was a team effort between the Electric Department, Public Works, the Police and the Fire/EMS Departments. Mayor Teague thanked the employees and said he could not count the number of positive comments from appreciative residents for the response of the City departments. Vice Mayor Martin explained that while residents were “running away” from the storm threat, the City employees were working hard away from their family to restore power even when they did not have power at home. Council Member Lawson said residents are lucky to have power back in such a short time considering how many others still do not have power. Council Member Woods says he is amazed at the dedication and the City employees are greatly appreciated. Council Member Bowles hopes the residents realize the sacrifices of the Electric crews. Teague read the proclamation. Council Members presented copies of the proclamation to Electric Department employees. Durwin Joyce thanked Council for the recognition and thanked Electric Cities of North Carolina, Chick-Fil-A, Super 8 Motel, and Amanda in Public Works for helping to field calls, Kathy Vernon who fed the crews a meal and he thanked the customers who were supportive and patient while the crews worked to restore power. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Hear an update from Lisa Fultz of the M-HC Chamber of Commerce regarding activities related to the City/C-PEG Small Business Development contract – Fultz said TGIF season was successful and all events were well attended. OctoberFest was successful and she is thankful for the assistance from the City departments and staff. The Farmers Market is well attended with three more Saturdays this season; some Saturdays there are more than 500 residents who attend. There was $1200 in SNAP benefits, which resulted in $2400 in fresh fruits and vegetables to those recipients. Uptown initiatives are focusing on events to drive residents to uptown merchants including Second Thursdays where 18 City merchants will stay open late. Residents can look for flags that signal those merchants that are open late. November 8 is the next Second Thursday along with the Tree Lighting at 5:30 that same evening. Holidays at the Market will be December 8. Uptown Trick or Treat will be 4:00-6:00pm October 31 with numerous merchants and organizations participating. By spring, 2019 she would like to revisit the inventory of available properties uptown and work closely to market opportunities for those properties. The Incubator remains at 96% with another lease in progress. The second floor will be actively marketed for a use beyond light manufacturing. Regarding Start- Up Martinsville-Henry County 2019, they are in the process of finalizing the application process. This next year will focus on mentoring and not just a grant program. Seventeen businesses continue to be very successful after completing the Start-Up program. Applications October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting for the program will be due January 8, 2019. Longwood Small Business Development has agreed to help with the process and the completion of the business plans. With the more than 20 new businesses, there was $853,000 in capital investment with $365,000 of that in the City. 47 of the 89 jobs are in the City. There are nine prospects for local businesses, most of which are restaurants. There are other projects in addition to Ollie’s, Rural King and Cook-Out that hopefully will be locating to the Martinsville-Henry County area. Presentation of proclamation regarding Extra Mile Day 2018 – Council Member Lawson read the proclamation that will be forwarded to the Extra Mile National Organization. Consider discussion of a draft rental property inspection ordinance – City Attorney Monday presented a draft for Council’s consideration after a dangerous situation was discovered a year ago in a rental property. The draft is modeled after the Blacksburg, Virginia ordinance. This is not an ordinance that allows Inspections to inspect all properties. This is not a vehicle of vendetta between tenants and landlords. It is just a means of protecting the tenant from unsafe living conditions. Staff recommends a session to hear public comments although not required before adoption of the ordinance. Mayor Teague expressed his support of the ordinance and the public comment session. Council Member Lawson and Council Member Bowles support the ordinance and public hearing. Bowles said a property owner October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting expressed concern about potential retaliation that may exaggerate minor issues. Teague asked that a public comment session be scheduled for the November 1st meeting. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider discussion of the City’s 2019 Legislative Agenda – City Attorney Monday explained that the City determines it’s legislative priorities each year. Monday presented a draft to Council and touched on the modifications. Mayor Teague would like to see support funding for the schools and maintenance to existing structures. Council Member Bowles referred to House Bill 284 regarding historic African American cemeteries so the money can be obtained to help local cemeteries. Bowles also referenced House Bill 222 related to economic development, which provides a reduction in state corporate income tax liabilities to new businesses relocating to those areas. Bowles asked if Martinsville could mirror that same type of bill, not to be amended on the Legislative Agenda but to review for Martinsville City to tack on to the incentive package. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider adoption of a resolution approving and confirming a Declaration of Local Emergency – Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the resolution. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Consider approval of the finance report covering the period from July 1 through September 30, 2018 – Finance Director Linda Conover summarized the finance report. The audit is complete. Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve the finance report as presented. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve the consent agenda additions; Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the request from the School for additional funds to purchase a school bus; Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Business from the Floor – Deputy Police Chief Rob Fincher said an officer looked at the street lights on Wilson Street, all are functioning but they are older lights and not as bright. Saturday is National Drug Take-Back at the Fire Department; residents can simply drive through between 10:00am-2:00pm. Fincher confirmed that participation in the last two drug take-back sessions increased tremendously from years past. There is also a drug take-back option for daily disposal. Sophia Esdaile is a member of the Harvest Youth Board. November 21, 2018 from 1:00-4:00pm there will be a Thanksgiving dinner at Martinsville High School. Call in orders will be taken. Volunteers can register on the Harvest Foundation website. Esdaile will be posting information regularly on social media. Comments by Members of City Council – Vice Mayor Martin explained that on November 3, 2018 Martinsville-HC Community Development would be at West End Park for a October 23, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Community Clean-up day. Martin joked if anyone local wins the lottery to please consider an endowment to the City. Lawson shared that October 29 there would be a boxwood blight community meeting. October 31 is the Uptown Halloween from 4:00-6:00pm, which is a safe and fun place to bring children. November 1, Christmas Cheer will begin and they are currently taking applications for the holiday season. Christmas Cheer will be located in the same building as past years. Council Member Bowles attended the grand opening at Piedmont Community Services and is thankful that they found a good use for the building. Bowles reminded residents that Election Day is November 6 and encouraged them to vote. Council Member Woods said the Neighborhood meeting was informative. The City has many opportunities for the youth including cultural and recreational amenities such as Community Theater Works. Woods stated that there are numerous outlets to keep residents in the City. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki agreed that there are plenty of activities going on in the community if you are willing to look. The grand opening at Piedmont Community Services was a good event and they are a great fit for that building and location. Please watch out for children during Halloween. On November 3 there is a free mobile medical clinic hosted by Liberty University College at the First United Methodist fellowship area. Last year there were close to 300 attendees. The clinic will be 8:00am-3:00pm. Towarnicki recognized retiring employees Doug Wood, Doug Huston, and Carmen McDowell. Towarnicki also honored Jack McDowell who recently retired and passed away this past week. City Attorney Monday reminded residents that it is against the law to trick-or-treat over the age of 12 or after 9:00pm. There being no further business, Council Member Bowles made a motion to adjourn the meeting; the motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Martin with all Council Members voting in favor. The meeting adjourned at 9:17pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor  City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: January 8, 2019 Item No: 2. Department: Community Development Issue: Conduct a public hearing regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance as approved and recommended by the Planning Commission. Summary: During the Planning Commission’s November 27th meeting, a duly advertised public hearing was held to consider input regarding a proposed Zoning Text Amendment. The amendment would add definitions for Commercial Indoor Entertainment and Commercial Indoor Sports and Recreation, permit the uses by right or by special use permit in several zoning district, and add parking requirements to accommodate the new uses in the districts. The purpose of the amendment is to expand the Zoning Ordinance to be more business friendly by offering a wider use of commercial uses not already covered under retail or restaurant. The Community Development Office has received inquiries for zoning clearance on several business uses that will be allowed with the proposed definitions. Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the proposed Zoning Text Amendment and send it to City Council for its consideration. At Council’s December 11th meeting, a public hearing was set for the January 8th meeting. Attachments: Draft Ordinance 2019-Z-1 Letter from Planning Commission Recommendation: Conduct a public hearing on the Zoning Text Amendment recommended by Planning Commission and consider approval on first reading of Ordinance 2019-Z-1 (roll call vote) subject to modifications resulting from the public hearing.  ORDINANCE 2019-Z-1 Zoning Text Amendment – Commercial Indoor Sports and Recreation and Commercial Indoor Entertainment BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia, in regular session held on January 8, 2019 that Chapters II, XII, XIII, XIV, XV, XVI, and XXIII of the Zoning Ordinance, be amended as follows: PROPOSED AMENDMENTS – ZONING ORDINANCE (Strikethrough indicates deletion; italicized bold indicates addition) II. Definitions Commercial Indoor Entertainment Predominantly entertainment uses conducted within an enclosed building. Typical uses include cigar bars, hookah lounges, motion picture theaters, and concert or music halls. Commercial Indoor Sports and Recreation Predominantly entertainment uses conducted within an enclosed building. Typical uses include bowling alleys, escape rooms, laser tag, bouncy rooms, and ice and roller skating rinks. XII. R‐T Transitional Residential D. Uses Permitted By Special Use Permit 11. Commercial Indoor Entertainment 12. Commercial Indoor Sports & Recreation XIII. C‐N Neighborhood Commercial C. Uses Permitted By Right 12. Commercial Indoor Entertainment 13. Commercial Indoor Sports & Recreation XIV. C‐UB Uptown Business District C. Uses Permitted By Right 14. Commercial Indoor Entertainment 15. Commercial Indoor Sports & Recreation XV. C‐C Corridor Commercial C. Uses Permitted By Right 14. Commercial Indoor Entertainment 15. Commercial Indoor Sports & Recreation XVI. ED‐MA Economic Development Medical & Academic C. Uses Permitted By Right 14. Commercial Indoor Entertainment 15. Commercial Indoor Sports & Recreation XXIII. Off‐Street Parking and Loading Minimum Off‐Street Parking Requirements (Table 23.1) Office and Personal Services Commercial Indoor Entertainment 1 per 300 sf Commercial Indoor Sports and Recreation 1 per 300 sf ****** Attest: ___________________________ Karen B. Roberts, Clerk of Council _____________________________ _____________________________ Date Adopted Date Effective  November 28, 2018 Mayor Gene Teague City of Martinsville 55 W Church Street Martinsville, VA 24112 Dear Mayor Teague, The Planning Commission, at a called meeting on November 27, 2018, conducted a duly advertised Public Hearing on a proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance to add definitions for Commercial Indoor Entertainment and Commercial Indoor Sports and Recreation and permit those uses by right or special use permit, as well as parking requirements to accommodate the new uses. At the Public Hearing it was noted these amendments are business friendly, offering a wider variety of commercial uses not already covered under retail or restaurant. There was no citizen response regarding these proposed amendments. City staff is recommending the amendments as a proactive approach to the continued development activity in and around the uptown area and community. Following discussion of the matter, the Planning Commission voted unanimously (5-0), to forward the proposed amendments, as attached, to City Council with a favorable recommendation. The Commission respectfully requests that Martinsville City Council consider the issue for the Zoning Text Amendment and set a public hearing. Thank you for your consideration. Regards, Joe Martin Chair, City of Martinsville Planning Commission 55 W Church Street ⦁ Martinsville, VA 24112 ⦁ PO Box 1112 ⦁ Martinsville, VA 24114 ⦁ 276/403‐5156  City Council Agenda Summary Date: January 8, 2019 Item No: 3. Department: Finance Issue: Hear information related to a fiscal distress monitoring process provided through the Office of the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts. Summary: In December, 2018, the attached letter was received from the Office of the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts regarding an early warning process being implemented through APA to identify local fiscal distress within localities in Virginia and to provide monitoring on an annual basis. Based on a review of the City’s audited FY17 financial data, Martinsville has been identified as needing further follow-up through their review process. A detailed questionnaire was provided with the December letter for completion by management and it was suggested that the questionnaire be shared with Council prior to submitting to the APA office. The stated deadline for submission is January 11, 2019 although the City requested (and received) an extension through the end of the month. Attachments: December 7, 2018 letter from Virginia APA. Additional information will be provided at the January 8 meeting. Recommendations: APA simply suggests sharing the questionnaire with Council prior to submitting, so no formal action is necessary.  City Council Agenda Summary Date: January 8, 2019 Item No: 4. Department: Telecommunications Issue: Hear an update on FY19 Telecommunications operations. Summary: Telecommunications Director Mike Scaffidi will present an update at the January 8 Council meeting regarding the FY19 Telecommunications budget and the status of projects. Attachments: None. Additional information will be presented at the meeting. Recommendations: Presented for information purposes. No Council action needed.