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City Council

Regular Meeting

Martinsville, VA · January 22, 2019

AgendaMinutes

Minutes

January 22, 2019 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on January 22, 2019 in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Kathy Lawson presiding. Other Council Members present included Jennifer Bowles, Chad Martin, Jim Woods and Danny Turner. Staff present included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, City Attorney Eric Monday, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Finance Director Linda Conover, Deputy Police Chief Rob Fincher, Fire Chief Ted Anderson and Deputy Fire Chief Kris Schrader. Mayor Lawson 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 Turner, seconded by Council Member Bowles with the following 5-0 recorded vote: Mayor Lawson, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; and Council Member Turner, aye. Council convened in Closed Session to discuss the following matters: (A) Discussion of the award of a public contract involving the expenditure of public funds, including interviews of bidders or offerors, and discussion of the terms or scope of such contract, where discussion in an open session would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, as authorized by Subsection 29, 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. Mayor Lawson explained that no action was taken out of Closed Session on either item. A motion was made by Council Member Bowles; seconded by Vice Mayor Martin, with the following 5-0 recorded vote in favor to return to Open Session: Vice Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; Mayor Lawson, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; and Council Member Turner, aye. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Council Member Bowles, Lawson welcomed everyone to the meeting. Consider approval of minutes from the November 13, 2018 Council Meeting, November 27, 2018 Council Meeting, December 11, 2018 Council Meeting, January 2, 2019 Organizational Meeting, and January 8, 2019 Council Meeting – Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to approve the 2018 minutes as presented. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with Lawson, Bowles, Martin and Woods voting in favor; Council Member Turner abstained since his term did not begin until January 1, 2019. Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve 2019 January 22, 2019 Council Meeting minutes as presented; Council Member Turner seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Read a Proclamation acknowledging February 2019 as Black History Month – Vice Mayor Martin read the proclamation, which was presented, to Artis Law on behalf of FAHI. Consider setting a public hearing for Council’s February 12 meeting regarding a planned Community Development Block Grant application – Wayne Knox of the Community Development Department explained the procedures required to qualify for block grants, including the public hearing requested for the next February Council meeting which would allow residents to give input on what they would like to see from the grant. Any questions the public may have can be directed to his office. There will be a community meeting on Thursday, January 24 at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church to allow the public the benefit to discuss the block grants. Representatives of the consultant firm and management team will be available to answer questions. While this is a block grant to the City, this is a loan to the residents. Applications will be completed to determine what each household would qualify for the block grant. Council Member Turner made a motion to set the public hearing for February 12. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. January 22, 2019 Council Meeting Consider approval on second reading, Ordinance 2019-Z-1 amending Chapters II, XII, XIII, XIV, XV, XVI and XXIII of the Zoning Ordinance regarding commercial indoor entertainment, sports and recreation – Wayne Knox of the Community Development Department highlighted the text amendment and explained that a hookah bar is only a possibility, there are no solid applications for a specific use. Knox explained that the Market Square site would fall into the same category as a hookah bar. The need for the ordinance change is only a bookkeeping step that would expand the opportunity for recreational businesses in the City. Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve the amended ordinance on second reading. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with the following roll call vote: Council Member Turner, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Mayor Lawson, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; and Council Member Bowles, aye. January 22, 2019 Council Meeting Hear information from Fire/EMS regarding ambulance and emergency medical service coverage for the City – Deputy Fire Chief Kris Schrader reminded Council about the previous closure of Stone Ambulance which potentially decreased service coverage within the City and could increase response time for calls. Schrader presented a PowerPoint detailing EMS data with limited ambulances and personnel. Fire Chief Ted Anderson provided information on EMS options with those limits. City Manager Towarnicki explained that Option 3 is a continuation of what the Fire Department has done the past 2-3 months. Towarnicki said it boils down to what level of service the City wants to provide. He is uncomfortable with not taking some kind of action. The least expensive of the options is Option 3 to continue what the department has been doing the past few months. However, the trial period ended in December so the extra ambulance is not currently running. Schrader explained that currently, the City is at 85% coverage but below the national standard. Mayor Lawson said she would like to continue with Option 3. Schrader said as of today, in 2019 the department had missed 13 calls with the current system with only two ambulances. Towarnicki said it would be the safest bet to review the budget and discuss those again at the next meeting; no extra money was utilized for the study. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to fund Option 3; Council Member Woods seconded the motion. Council Member Turner made a motion to amend the motion to take no action tonight but to review budget allowances at the next meeting prior to making the decision. Vice Mayor Martin accepted the amended motion to review again at the next Council meeting. All Council Members voted in favor. January 22, 2019 Council Meeting January 22, 2019 Council Meeting Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Turner made a motion to approve Item 1 of the Consent Agenda as presented. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. City Manager Towarnicki read through a memo in regards to Item 2 of the Consent Agenda relating to the Martinsville City School’s request to transfer $724,438 back to their operations and capital funds. Towarnicki recommended the reappropriation of the $52,802 for capital funds for a new bus but the affect of awarding the remaining $671,636 for contingency funds would negatively affect the 2020 budget process. Travis Clemons of the School Board explained that the schools had a significant loss of students in the fall 2018 along with other factors that affected the amount of funds used. Dr. Talley said it is late in the year but the funds are needed to balance the 2019 and 2020 school budget to ensure the students remain in school with the resources they need. Clemons said the request is made to balance the deficit on the table, not to add funds to the budget. Towarnicki explained that at the end of the year, most departments do not expend all of their funds. When they look at the budget projections, they do not plan for any school money to be returned. The final number comes from the City departments as a whole, not as individual departments. If the school is not approved the funds requested, they will finish the year with a deficit. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion requesting a 5-year average be brought back to the February 12 Council meeting and the $671,636 request be further discussed at that time. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to approve the $52,802 requested to purchase a bus. Council Member Turner seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. January 22, 2019 Council Meeting January 22, 2019 Council Meeting Business from the Floor – No one approached the podium Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Woods thanked residents who have reached out to him with concerns. Council Members will not always vote together but he will always vote his conscience in what he feels would be in the best interest of the City. Woods shared numerous activities offered by the local library and encouraged residents to take advantage of those services. There will be a Daddy-Daughter Dance at Piedmont Arts on February 8. Council Member Bowles asked for an update on Mineral Street and Clay Street. City Manager Towarnicki explained that there was a driveway ramp that was installed when the street was built, however the driveway is the responsibility of the property owner. Council Member Turner expressed sympathy on the passing of Glen Wood of Wood Brother’s Racing. A City proclamation will be made at the Racing shop in Stuart, Virginia on Thursday at 2:00pm. Vice Mayor Martin recognized organizations who participated in the Martin Luther King, Jr. events this past weekend. Mayor Lawson recognized the speaker from Petersburg who preached at First Baptist, stating that he was one of the best preachers she has ever heard. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki explained that the City applied and received a grant through the Department of Social Services totaling $271,203. The intent of the January 22, 2019 Council Meeting grant is to identify individuals who have been unable to work and work with those individuals to help them find appropriate employment. The grant begins today and goes through June 2020 with options to renew it for 4 years. 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 9:15pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Kathy Lawson 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, January 22, 2019 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. Discussion of the award of a public contract involving the expenditure of public funds, including interviews of bidders or offerors, and discussion of the terms or scope of such contract, where discussion in an open session would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the public body, as authorized by Subsection 29 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 Pledge to the American Flag and Invocation by Council Member Bowles 1. Consider approval of minutes from the November 13, 2018 Council Meeting, November 27, 2018 Council Meeting, December 11, 2018 Council Meeting, January 2, 2019 Organizational Meeting, and January 8, 2019 Council Meeting (5 mins) 2. Read a Proclamation acknowledging February, 2019 as Black History Month (5 mins) 3. Consider setting a public hearing for Council’s February 12 meeting regarding a planned Community Development Block Grant application (5 mins) 4. Consider approval on second reading, Ordinance 2019-Z-1 amending Chapters II, XII, XIII, XIV, XV, XVI and XXIII of the Zoning Ordinance regarding commercial indoor entertainment, sports and recreation (10 mins) 5. Hear information from Fire/EMS regarding ambulance & emergency medical service coverage for the City (20 mins) 6. Consider approval of consent agenda. (2 mins) 7. 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. 8. Comments by members of City Council. (5 minutes) 9. Comments by City Manager. (5 minutes) City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 1. Department: Clerk of Council Issue: Consider approval of minutes from the November 13, 2018 Council Meeting, November 27, 2018 Council Meeting, December 11, 2018 Council Meeting, January 2, 2019 Organizational Meeting, and January 8, 2019 Council Meeting. Summary: None Attachments: November 13, 2018 Council Meeting November 27, 2018 Council Meeting December 11, 2018 Council Meeting January 2, 2019 Organizational Meeting January 8, 2019 Council Meeting. Recommendations: Motion to approve minutes as presented. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on November 13, 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, 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: Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; and Council Member Lawson, aye. Vice Mayor Martin arrived after the vote. 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 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 reappoint Veraine Randolph to the Anchor Group Home Commission for a 4-year term ending December 31, 2022. Council Member Woods seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Bowles made a motion to reappoint Kris Shrader to the Western Virginia Emergency Medical Services Council for a 3-year term ending December 31, 2021. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Council Member Bowles made a motion to appoint Windy Davidson to the Southern Area Agency on Aging Board of Directors for a 3-year term ending September 28, 2021. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. No other action was taken during Closed Session. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Council Member Bowles, Teague welcomed everyone to the meeting. Consider approval of minutes from the September 25, 2018 Council Meeting and the September 26, 2018 Work Session - Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve all minutes as presented; Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Read and present a proclamation recognizing Saturday, November 24, 2018 as Small Business Saturday in the City of Martinsville – Council Member Lawson read the proclamation. Lisa Fultz of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce discussed events happening in the area on Small Business Saturday to encourage residents to shop Uptown Martinsville. The Start-Up Martinsville packet is now available online. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Hear public comment on proposed rental property inspection program – City Manager Towarnicki briefly explained the proposed inspection program and the process to get that approved. City Attorney Monday explained that the program is designed so that inspectors can enter homes with potential hazardous situations, not so that inspectors can enforce minor repairs or building codes. The program will be complaint based. Mayor Teague opened the floor for public comments. Dave Gleasman, President of Martinsville Henry County Property Managers Association, which represents 1500- 2000 rental units in the area, expressed concerns. While they do not have concerns with the program as property owners, their objection is as taxpayers. Respectable property owners that depend on rental property for income would not allow their property to deteriorate to the point that it is dangerous, uninhabitable or cannot make money. Gleasman feels that the program would only add to the tax burden for residents since additional staff and hours would be needed to do the inspections. Good tenants are being taken of by their property owners because that is the landlord’s livelihood. The City has the authority to correct any safety or hazardous situation in any dwelling under the current laws. The ordinance will not solve the problems of dilapidated properties in the City. The City already has an enormous tax problem and by implementing this new program, it would only get worse. No one else approached the podium. Teague closed the public hearing and thanked Gleasman for discussing his concerns with Council. The program is not intended to negatively affect the law abiding property owners but to address issues with some other property owners in the area. Council Members agree that they do not want to increase personnel to implement this program and that the program would be implemented to monitor those property owners that regularly push the limits of the law related to rental property. Council Member Lawson made a motion to adopt the ordinance on first reading. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with the following roll call vote: Council Member Bowles, aye; Council Member Lawson, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; and Mayor Teague, aye. Ordinance is adopted 5-0 on first reading. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Hear an update from the City’s Human Resources Office regarding a summary of application/hiring data for the period from January 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 – City Manager Towarnicki explained that the update would be for the previous 18-month period. Travis Hodge of the Human Resources Department shared a PowerPoint detailing recruiting methods, how vacancies are advertised, demographics of applications received and positions filled, employee turnover, employee census and department concerns. Concerns about employee and director pay compared to other localities and the high number of directors close to retirement was discussed. Council Member Bowles shared concerns expressed by the African-American residents regarding minority hiring for the City and confirmed that only 23% of applicants are minorities compared to a 45% minority community population. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider discussion of the City’s 2019 Legislative Agenda – City Attorney Monday briefly summarized Council’s comments and suggestions previously related to the 2019 Legislative Agenda and his additional recommendation in support of Senator Stanley and the Board of Education regarding school funding for construction, maintenance and operations. Other Legislative Agenda items were discussed regarding the transfer of title to the City of certain delinquent or blighted properties, funding for historical African- American cemeteries, and the addition of the urban center of micropolitan statistical areas to the eligibility list of “Entitled Cities”. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider information related to the 2019 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list – Wayne Knox of the Community Development department detailed the need for the CEDS list, emphasizing if a project is not on the list then it will not be November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting funded. The report must be approved and submitted by March 31, 2019. Any additional projects would need to be added prior to the December Council meeting when Council would approve the final list. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Business from the Floor – no one approached the podium. Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Woods said he attended an event at the Rives Theater and enjoyed seeing the community enjoy music and so many different cultural activities. Council Member Lawson congratulated Council Member Bowles on her reelection and Danny Turner for his election. Lawson recently attended the Veteran’s event and is proud to share that this year was well attended. Lawson shared that Saturday is the tree lighting on the City Hall lawn and wished residents a Happy Thanksgiving. Vice Mayor Martin agreed that the veteran’s event was a wonderful event and wished residents a Happy Thanksgiving. Martin congratulated Bowles and Turner on the election. Council Member Bowles shared details on the December 5 New Heights Foundation holiday event and meal. She wished a happy belated birthday to her nephew and a Happy Thanksgiving to the residents. Bowles congratulated Danny Turner and thanked the voters and the poll workers during the recent election. Mayor Teague thanked Vice Mayor Martin for standing in for him at the veteran’s event. Teague congratulated Bowles and Turner and agrees that they will both work hard for the City residents over the next four years. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki shared that the City Municipal building will close at noon on Wednesday for Thanksgiving and will reopen the following Monday. November 13, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The Veteran’s Day event was a huge success. On December 14 and 15 from 9:00am-5:00pm, the World War I/World War II mobile museum will be on display at the Virginia Museum of Natural History. Organizers ask residents to bring any documents and pictures from that period so they may be scanned for preservation by the Veterans Service Organization. The process to complete demolition on local properties is moving forward with the help of the City Attorney’s office and Building Inspector Kris Bridges. City Attorney Monday payed respects to a friend and public servant Christian Wolfe who recently passed away. Wolfe spent his legal career as an assistant prosecutor in the City and County and ended his career as a magistrate after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. 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 9:00pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Leon Towarnicki Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on November 27, 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 Vice Mayor Chad Martin. Kathy Lawson was not in attendance. 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, Assistant Police Chief Rob Fincher, Commissioner of Revenue Ruth Easley, and Electric Director Durwin Joyce. Mayor Teague called the meeting to order. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Mayor Teague, Teague welcomed everyone to the meeting. Recognize City Employees who are eligible for Service Awards for the period October 1- December 31, 2018 – City Manager Towarnicki shared that the employees were recognized earlier in the week and received a certificate. Mayor Teague read the list and thanked those employees for their service. Hear an update from Alice Wolfe, General Manager of Blue Ridge Power Agency – Wolfe said that Blue Ridge Power Agency is a non-profit organization with eight members who help residents with power costs and detailed some of the steps the organization takes to reduce costs. Martinsville City Electric Director Durwin Joyce serves as the Board Chairman for the organization. Wolfe touched on the history, accomplishments, benefits, local projects and future opportunities of BRPA. Towarnicki explained that BRPA is a good resource for the City. Several projects are presented to the City and when those projects could potentially benefit the City then they would be brought to Council for a discussion. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Conduct a public hearing for the purpose of consideration of the adoption of an ordinance establishing a land bank authority in the City of Martinsville – City Attorney Monday explained that this is not a “bank” or a repository of funds, but a repository for property that could assist with property maintenance concerns. A land bank will be similar to the Housing Authority and Council would serve as land bank authority officials. A land bank is a little more attractive recipient for federal and state grant money. When property is in the land bank, it is tax-exempt, with a probability of redevelopment and opportunity for resell to an individual or organization that will care for the development and/or maintenance of the property. Mayor Teague or the incoming Mayor would serve as Chairman of the Land Bank Authority. Teague confirmed that this is another tool to address City properties of concern at no additional cost to the City. This program has been very effective in Danville and Norfolk, Virginia. City Manager Towarnicki explained that properties entered into the land bank would be quickly resold; the City is not in the real estate business. Mayor Teague opened the public hearing. No one approached the podium; the public hearing was closed. Council Member Bowles motion to approve the ordinance as presented, Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with the following 4-0 roll call: Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; Vice Mayor Martin, aye; and Mayor Teague, aye. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider authorizing the Commissioner of the Revenue to execute a contract to upgrade the real estate mass appraisal software to the most current version of the operating software offered by Vision Government Solutions, Inc. – Commissioner of Revenue Ruth Easley summarized the need for the upgrade real estate software which provides more stabilization at a discounted price. The move will be required within three years but if the City waits, the cost will increase by approximately $10,000. A deposit would be needed to sign the contract to hold the spot at a discounted rate with the remaining balance due in October 2019 when the program is installed. Mayor Teague questioned the need for the software if the City begins reversion discussions and prefers to wait on the decision until early 2019 before the price increases. The conversion takes 2 weeks; Martinsville has a spot held for October at a discounted price. Council Member Bowles made a motion to authorize the contract; Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion. Mayor Teague voted against the motion; he believes that its $28,000 that the City may not need to spend if the reversion happens. Council Member Bowles and Vice Mayor Martin voted aye, Mayor Teague Council Member Woods voted nay. Motion dies for lack of majority vote. Consider approval on second reading of Ordinance 2018-5 establishing Rental Property Inspections in the City of Martinsville – City Attorney Monday summarized the need and steps taken towards approval of the Rental Property Inspection ordinance. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to approve the ordinance on second reading, Council Member Bowles seconded the November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting motion with the following 4-0 roll call vote: Vice Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; and Mayor Teague, aye. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider adoption of the City’s 2019 legislative agenda – City Attorney Monday detailed the steps taken to revise the proposed legislative agenda and encouraged residents to contact their legislators if there are any changes they would like to see happen. There was discussion on November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting rewording the section regarding the partnership with NCI. Council agreed to take out the 4- year higher-education organization requirement. Another concern pointed out by Monday was to align the state tax code to align with the federal tax code, which would encourage legislators to conform state to federal code. Council Member Bowles made a motion to adopt the Legislative Agenda. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider information related to the 2019 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list –Wayne Knox of the Community Development Department explained there had been no additions or changes by Council or the City at large to the list. All projects must be listed to be considered. The final approved listing is due in March but should be finalized at the December 11, 2018 Council meeting. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Business from the Floor – No one approached the podium. Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Bowles wished a happy birthday to her father and aunt. The Christmas parade and tree lighting event were both successful. November 27, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Bowles said the Harvest Youth Board successfully delivered 240 meals for Thanksgiving. New Heights Foundation’s Annual Holiday event is December 5 at NCI 6:00pm-8:00pm. Vice Mayor Martin said Harvest Youth Board and several local churches worked well together during the Thanksgiving holiday. He also praised The Salvation Army for the warming shelter and angel tree. Comments by City Manager – The audit presentation will be at the December 11, 2018 Council meeting. Auditors will be meeting with Council members to answer questions earlier that day. City Attorney Monday encouraged residents to attend the Scrooge Macbeth presentation at the Black Box Theater; it is a live comic performance that can be enjoyed by all ages. Council Member Woods does a wonderful song and performance as Lady Macbeth. There being no further business, Council Member Bowles made a motion to adjourn the meeting; the motion was seconded by Council Member Woods with all Council Members voting in favor. The meeting adjourned at 8:40pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on December 11, 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, 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, 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 Bowles, seconded by Council Member Lawson 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) Appointments to boards and commissions, as authorized by Subsection 1, 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. Council Member Lawson made a motion to reappoint Jennifer Bowles to the West Piedmont Planning District Board of Commissioners for a 3-year term ending December 31, 2022. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Bowles abstained from the vote. Council Member Bowles made a motion to reappoint Daniel Spencer to the Transportation Safety Commission for a 4-year term ending December 31, 2022. Council Member Woods seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Lawson made a motion to reappoint Robert Vogler to the Transportation Safety Commission for a 4-year term ending December 31, 2022. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Vice Mayor Martin, Teague welcomed everyone to the meeting. December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Recognition of Mayor Gene Teague – Vice Mayor Martin read the proclamation, which was presented, to Mayor Teague along with the Key to the City. Council Member Lawson presented a card and a small gift from fellow Council Members. Ms. Ackerman from the Virginia Municipal League presented a plaque of appreciation to Mayor Teague and thanked him for his service on City Council and as part of the Virginia Municipal League. Council Member Woods paraphrased Ralph Waldo Emerson, “I wish that life should not be cheap, but sacred. I wish the days to be as centuries, loaded, fragrant” and thanked Teague for his two decades of service. Council Member Bowles reflected on her interaction with Teague when she was a new Council Member and thanked him for his help and for listening to her opinions with an open heart. Council Member Lawson said Teague took her to lunch when she was first elected to Council and taught her to read a City budget, taking the time to teach her meant so much. City Manager Towarnicki explained that it is critical for the City Manager to have a good working relationship with the Mayor and as they have gone through budgets, Teague has been an expert on tweaking those figures. Towarnicki thanked him for his help and for being an advocate for the City employees. City Attorney Monday said Teague has lead quietly and with dignity. In the past 21 years during Teague’s service, the City has faced some major financial challenges and his knowledge has helped with resolutions to get the City through those times. Council Members hope that Teague will continue to make himself available to consult with. Vice Mayor Martin thanked Teague’s family for their support of him during his time on Council. Martin explained that Teague has been there to support him and he wishes that the citizens realized what all Teague had done for the City. Martin presented him with an additional gift. Mayor Teague chose to speak from the podium. Teague said he had been extremely honored to serve on Council. He hopes he has lived up to the resident’s expectations. He thanked his wife and daughter for standing by him and dealing with the criticism and explained that he has been on Council most of his daughter’s life. Teague thanked his father, his brother Dean and his pastor for being a wonderful support system for him. Records compiled by Ashby Pritchett detailed that during his years on Council, Teague has served with 60 Council Members. Teague thanked L.D. Oakes for being his mentor and provided advice only when asked. He has been blessed to work with several wonderful City Managers including Earl Reynolds, Wade Bartlett, Clarence Monday and our current City Manager Leon Towarnicki, who is committed to getting things done without being emotional. Teague thanked City Attorney Monday for providing great legal advice and for being recognized across the state for being a valuable representative of Martinsville City. Teague paid credit to the hardworking City Employees. He shared his respect for the working relationship with Henry County staff as well. The City has seen a lot of change in the past 24 years; several companies have closed while many new businesses have come into the community. Teague mentioned NCI, The Sports Complex, the Museum, EMS operations, the schools, the property maintenance department, the CBG grants through Community Development, the joint transfer station, and December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting so many other changes and upgrades to the City. Teague said he plans to return in 17 years when Council Member Bowles breaks his service record, stating that her youthfulness and energy is much needed on Council. He wishes that he had the opportunity to work with Council Member Wood longer but has watched him work and knows that he will continue to be an excellent Council Member. Council Member Lawson has a heart for service that is unparalleled to anyone. Vice Mayor Martin’s future is bright and his heart for people and the citizens of Martinsville is noticed and he is amazed at some things that Martin is able to do. Teague feels that Martinsville’s future is bright and asked Council to reach out to him any time. Teague quoted Winnie the Pooh “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard”. LD Oakes, former Mayor of Martinsville has known Mayor Teague since he was a teenager, he is proud of Teague’s service and his commitment to the City. Citizens do not realize what it takes to be a Council Member. Hear a report from Robinson Farmer Cox Associates on the City’s FY18 audit – City Manager Towarnicki explained that the auditors have recently finished the City audit. Michael Lupton, representative from RFC Associates presented a brief summary of audit findings. There were a couple of deficiencies noted that will require further discussion. The City complied with all aspects of the audit as requested. Council Members met with the auditor earlier in the day to ask questions and receive further details. Mayor Teague thanked Lupton for working with December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting them to answer their questions and thanked Finance Director Linda Conover and City Manager Towarnicki for their work with the audit. Hear an update from Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA regarding the City/YMCA contract for services related to City parks and recreation programs - Brad Kinkema of the YMCA detailed the results of the first quarter since the YMCA took over services related to City parks and recreation programs. He explained that the transition was seamless with good turnout for the teams. Courtney Hairston can be contacted at the YMCA if residents have any questions on activities. Consider adoption of Ordinance 2018-6 establishing Martinsville Land Bank Authority on second reading – City Attorney Monday explained the purpose of the proposed Land Bank Authority and the success of other local communities. Council Member Bowles made the motion to adopt the ordinance on second reading. Council Member Lawson seconded the motion with the following roll call: Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Lawson, aye; Mayor Teague, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; and Vice Mayor Martin, aye. Consider setting a public hearing regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance as approved and recommended by the Planning Commission –Wayne Knox of the Community Development department said Planning Commission had recommended a public hearing related to indoor entertainment and sports activities, which would not be allowed December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting under the current zoning ordinance. Knox explained there was not a specific company requesting the change but staff is hoping to make it easier for interested business owners in the future. Council Member Lawson made a motion to set the public Hearing for January 8, 2019. Council Member Bowles second the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval of the 2019 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list – Wayne Knox of the Community Development department pointed out that there are twenty- five projects listed; there have not been any additions or deletions to the list since it was last reviewed. Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the CEDS list. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Resolution endorsing statewide referendum on education funding - City Attorney Monday details the need for a resolution endorsing statewide referendum on education funding. Senator Stanley is proposing this referendum on a significant increase in elementary and secondary education funding. Martinsville would be the first community to approve the resolution. Council Member Bowles made a motion to endorse the statewide referendum. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Lawson made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented; Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting Business from the Floor – Danny Turner, 1807 Church Street Extension congratulated Mayor Teague for his service. Turner shared that he would be attending the wreath service at Arlington National Cemetery. Turner asked residents to contact him if there are other Martinsville residents buried there that should be recognized in addition to the 22 that he knows of. Fire Chief Ted Anderson said they would miss Mayor Teague and thanked him for his service. The Fire Department had the privilege to provide specialized training to four fire fighters December 11, 2018, 2018 Council Meeting from England and members of the third largest fire brigade. Anderson said that it was an honor to work with them and to be recognized as an elite department worthy of training. Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Woods said it was his dream to serve in civic duty and he thanks Teague for his service. Woods wished everyone a Merry Christmas. Council Member Lawson said she has had numerous people contact her to praise the Public Works department during the big snow this past weekend and she thanked those employees for their hard work. Lawson thanked Teague again and said he has brought integrity and dedication to his positon on Council. She wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year. Council Member Bowles also thanked the Public Works department and reiterated that the employees are much appreciated. The New Heights Foundation event was a success. She thanked Mayor Teague and asked him to expect her calls in the future. Vice Mayor Martin asked residents to be safe with the snow and the risk of black ice and said that the public works crew did a phenomenal job. Mayor Teague thanked Council for their kind words, gifts, recognition and remarks. He offered his assistance in any way to help support Council. Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki said the Honor Tour, which displays a World War I and World War II exhibits, was scheduled to be in Martinsville this coming weekend but with the recent snow and the expected weather this coming weekend the visit had to be rescheduled for March or April. This is the last Council meeting of 2018. City Hall will be closed December 24 and 25 as well as December 31 and January 1 for the holidays. January 2 at 9:00am is the organization meeting where new Council members are sworn in and a new Mayor and Vice Mayor are appointed. Towarnicki briefly explained the tradition of the outgoing Mayor placing his picture on the wall; however, Teague has chosen to keep the same photo with an updated date plaque. City Attorney Monday explained that Martinsville has ranked in the top 10 philanthropic communities in the nation; there are some incredibly generous people in the community. Mayor Teague announced the Martinsville City Council meeting adjourned at 8:50pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Gene Teague Clerk of Council Mayor January 2, 2019 An organizational meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia, was held on January 2, 2019, in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, beginning at 9:00 A. M., with Ashby Pritchett, Circuit Court Clerk, presiding. Council Members present included: Jennifer Bowles, Jim Woods, Chad Martin, Danny Turner and Kathy Lawson. Clerk of Court Pritchett called the meeting to order and welcomed Pastor Michael Harrison who delivered the invocation. Circuit Court Clerk Ashby Pritchett issued the oath of office to newly elected Council Member Danny Turner and re-elected Council Member Jennifer Bowles. Mr. Pritchett called for nominations for Mayor. Council Member Turner nominated Council Member Bowles, Council Member Martin nominated Council Member Lawson. Council Member Woods made a motion to close nominations; Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. With a 3-2 vote with Council Members Martin, Lawson and Woods voting Council Member Lawson for Mayor and Council Members Bowles and Turner voting Bowles as Mayor, Pritchett declared Council Member Kathy Lawson as the new Mayor of the City of Martinsville and issued the oath of office. Circuit Court Clerk Pritchett then turned the meeting over to Mayor Lawson who asked for nominations for Vice Mayor. Council Member Turner nominated Council Member Bowles, Council Member Woods nominated Council Member Martin. Martin made a motion to close nominations; Bowles seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. With a 3- 2 vote with Council Members Martin, Lawson and Woods voting Council Member Martin for Vice Mayor and Council Members Bowles and Turner voting Bowles as Vice Mayor, Mayor Lawson declared Council Member Martin as the new Vice Mayor of the City of Martinsville. Circuit Court Clerk Pritchett issued the oath of office. Mayor Lawson requested that Vice Mayor Martin maintain his seat to the Mayor’s right. Council Member Woods requested to keep his same seat. Council Member Bowles requested the seat to the left of the Mayor, leaving the seat to the left of the City Attorney for Turner. Council Member Bowles made a motion to continue the City Council meeting schedule of twice a month on second and fourth Tuesday evenings at 7:30pm with closed session held at 7:00pm on meeting days. The motion was seconded by Council Member Turner with all Council Members voting in favor. Brief comments were made by Council Members thanking Martinsville City residents as well as their family and friends for their support. Members congratulated the new and returning Council Members as well as the newly elected Mayor and Vice Mayor. Council Member Woods stated that he looks forward to the upcoming year and serving on Council. Council Member Bowles thanked God for allowing her to serve on Council for a second term and thanked her friends, family and coworkers for their support. Bowles thanked voters, stating that she is humbled and grateful and promises to work her hardest. She hopes that January 2, 2018 Council can work cohesively together in 2019, leaving any pettiness behind and respecting each other’s opinion. Council Member Turner thanked the citizens for allowing him to serve again. The next four years will be the most important for Council. Turner then presented the Mayor and Vice Mayor a list of four topics to be considered for the January 8 Council agenda. Vice Mayor Martin said he was looking forward to serving, stating there are some very strategic times coming. Mayor Lawson thanked Jesus Christ and Council Members for their faith in her to serve as Mayor. She thanked her boss Robbie Burton for allowing her to serve on Council as well as her coworker Courtney for helping cover when she has Council obligations. Lawson said she is blessed to have a wonderful husband who is her biggest supporter. As a Martinsville J.C. member, she was taught that service through your community is very important and that giving back to her community and supporting City staff is important. Lawson feels that the current Council will work cohesively together. City manager Towarnicki congratulated Bowles, Turner, Lawson and Martin. 2019 will be an interesting, exciting and challenging year for the City of Martinsville. There being no further business to come before Council during their organizational meeting, Council Member Turner made a motion to adjourn. Council Member Woods seconded the motion with all Council Members voting in favor. Mayor Lawson adjourned the meeting at 9:18am. _______________________________ __________________________ Karen Roberts Kathy Lawson Clerk of Council Mayor January 8, 2019 Council Meeting The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on January 8, 2019 in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:30 PM with Mayor Kathy Lawson presiding. Other Council Members present included Jennifer Bowles, Chad Martin, Jim Woods and Danny Turner. Staff present included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, City Attorney Eric Monday, Assistant City Manager Wayne Knox, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Finance Director Linda Conover, and Police Chief Eddie Cassady. Mayor Lawson called the meeting to order. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Council Member Woods, Lawson welcomed everyone to the meeting. 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 - Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve the minutes as presented. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with four Council Members voting in favor. Council Member Turner abstained since he was not in attendance for the 2018 meetings. Conduct a public hearing regarding a Zoning Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance as approved and recommended by the Planning Commission – Wayne Knox of the Community Development department explained the amendment and the need for a public hearing before approval. Council Member Bowles asked if the Planning Commission had any concern. Knox said members questioned what a hookah bar was; Knox explained that a hookah bar is similar to a cigar bar but people share flavored water pipes. Council Member Turner shared concerns that some nearby businesses had not been contacted about the potential change in ordinance. Knox explained that a mailed letter notifies the public and business owners that could be affected adversely. The Chamber is also contacted to make them aware and to see if any other business could be affected. Turner mentioned that Mr. Haley, owner of the local game room had no idea of this proposal. Lawson opened the floor for public comments. No one approached the podium so the hearing was closed. Turner asked for clarification of what a hookah bar is and what requirements or inspections would be required. Knox confirmed that the owners may serve drinks or food but would not be permitted to sell alcohol. Council Members commented on surrounding areas like Greensboro, NC that had several hookah bars that appeared to be popular with residents. Bowles said she feels this will be a positive move with no apparent negative outcome. Vice Mayor Martin made a motion to approve the amendment on first reading. Council Member Woods seconded the motion with the following roll call: Council Member Bowles, aye; Mayor Lawson, aye; Council Member Turner, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; and Vice Mayor Martin, aye. January 8, 2019 Council Meeting Hear information related to a fiscal distress monitoring process provided through the Office of the Virginia Auditor or Public Accounts – City Manager Towarnicki referenced a packet of information made available to Council Members regarding a fiscal distress monitoring process. January 8, 2019 Council Meeting Martinsville has been identified as needing further follow-up through this review process. Towarnicki went through some of the questions sharing the City’s answers with an explanation to provide Council and residents a better understanding of what would be submitted. Council Member Turner questioned whether the AMP Ohio debt should show up in the questionnaire; Towarnicki explained that it would not be. Council Member Bowles asked to see where Martinsville ranked against other locations. Mayor Lawson emphasized that the process was to study the City’s actions towards financial responsibility. Hear an update on FY19 Telecommunications operations – Telecommunications Manager Mike Scaffidi shared a PowerPoint which provided information on current employees, revenue versus expenses, general points of interest, customer base, revenue increase, the value of service provided by telecommunications/MINet, and the expected future of the department. Scaffidi confirmed that home based businesses that hold a business license with the City qualify for service also. Due to the weather, the department is behind on providing new service. There are six businesses on hold in addition to a waiting list of interested customers. January 8, 2019 Council Meeting January 8, 2019 Council Meeting Business from the Floor – Johnny Spencer, Jr of 1010 E Street expressed concern for the condition of the road, stating that there are large cracks with grass growing through it. Spencer stated that the road has not been paved since he has been living there over 60 years. Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Bowles received a message from a citizen expressing concern about a house on the corner of Mineral and Clay Street, there is nowhere to park at this location causing a traffic hazard and she asked that the Transportation Committee evaluate that location. A resident reached out to her regarding the 911 center and wrecks in the City and the amount of time it takes a wrecker service to respond to accidents. Police Chief Cassady explained that there is a wrecker rotation with a maximum 30-minute response before another service is contacted. The citizen is asked first if they have a preference of wrecker service. Bowles asked if the City could only use City wreckers. Cassady explained that the “next in line” list is one of the most difficult services to deal with to ensure fairness for all businesses. Council Member Turner welcomed Holly Kozelsky from the Martinsville Bulletin to the meeting. Vice Mayor Martin said he thought it was wonderful to have a film company in Martinsville and how exciting that our local firefighters would be included in a movie. The Martin Luther King planning council is planning their service on January 20. Mayor Lawson shared information about the Enterprise Zone Workshop to be held February 7; it is free to attend at the college. “If I were Mayor” contest essays are due to Virginia Municipal League by January 18 and recommended Council Members offer a monetary award again this year to a local student. Turner asked if Martinsville could make a point of submitting a Christmas ornament to VML again this year. Comments by City Manager – Assistant City Manager Knox said there would be a couple more enterprise zone workshops and he encourages business owners to attend, stating that incentives offered through the program could be very beneficial to those businesses. There is not a date set for the next Citizen’s Academy but he hopes to do it again in the near future. January 8, 2019 Council Meeting 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 8:45pm. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Karen Roberts Kathy Lawson Clerk of Council Mayor City Council Agenda Summary Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 2. Department: City Council Issue: Read a Proclamation acknowledging February, 2019 as Black History Month. Summary: Since 1976, the month of February has been observed as Black History Month. A Proclamation is attached acknowledging this and bringing awareness to the importance of African American history and culture in our community. Attachments: Proclamation Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read the Proclamation. Proclamation RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY, 2019 AS BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN THE CITY OF MARTINSIVLLE WHEREAS, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, distinguished African American author, editor, scholar, and historian who is known as the “Father of Black History” founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now the Association for the Study of African American Life and History) in September, 1915, and Negro History Week in 1926, which became Black History Month in 1976, intended to encourage further research and publishing regarding African American heritage; and WHEREAS, Americans of African descent have made valuable and lasting contributions to our country, our state, and our local community, achieving exceptional success in all aspects of society including business, education, politics, science, arts ; and WHEREAS, in 1976 Black History Month was adopted to honor and affirm the importance of the history of African Americans and to focus on the stories and teachings of those who helped build our nation, advance the cause of civil rights and strengthen families and communities; and WHEREAS, the City of Martinsville continues to work toward building an inclusive community that lives up to the American ideal of equality of educational, social, and economic opportunity for all our citizens; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville City Council do hereby proclaim the month of February, 2019 as Black History Month in the City of Martinsville and we urge all citizens to join in celebrating the significance of African American culture in its past, present, and future. __________________________ Kathy Lawson, Mayor City Council Agenda Summary Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 3. Department: Community Development Issue: Consider setting a public hearing for Council’s February 12 meeting regarding a planned Community Development Block Grant application. Summary: This is a request to schedule a public hearing for the purpose of identifying needs in the Pine Hall Road area of the City, and to discuss the history of the CDBG programs within the City. This will be the first of two required public hearings prior to the submittal of an application for CDBG funding. With the completion of the Northside CDBG project, planning has been underway to obtain funding for a revitalization project in the Pine Hall Road area of the City. This is an area that has not had any focused revitalization efforts conducted in recent memory. The planning effort is being assisted by residents of the Pine Hall / West End neighborhood. The purpose of this effort is to address blighting influences and assist property owners in rehabbing their respective residences and to engage the residents of the Pine Hall Road area in the improvement of their neighborhood. Attachments: Map of proposed area of concentration Recommendation: Set a public hearing for Council’s February 12, 2019 meeting. PINE HALL NEIGHBORHOOD Attachment 6-4; p for Study. City of Martinsville, Virginia Legend r mmm J Preliminarty Project Boundary 0 90 180 360 540 720 Feet City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 4. Department: Community Development Issue: Consider approval on second reading, Ordinance 2019-Z-1 amending Chapters II, XII, XIII, XIV, XV, XVI, and XXIII of the Zoning Ordinance regarding commercial indoor entertainment, sports, and recreation. 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 to 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 permitted 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 January 8,, 2019 meeting, a duly advertised public hearing was held and Council approved the proposed text amendment on first reading. Attachments: Ordinance 2019-Z-1 Recommendation: Approve on second reading, Ordinance 2019-Z-1 (roll call vote). 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 22, 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 City Council Agenda Summary Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 5. Department: Fire/EMS Issue: Hear information from Fire/EMS regarding ambulance & emergency medical service coverage for the City. Summary: At Council’s October 9, 2018 meeting, information was presented by Fire/EMS staff regarding the closure of a local ambulance service that provided backup coverage for the City’s EMS operation. There was also discussion regarding possible options to fill the coverage needs to ensure sufficient backup service continues. Beginning in mid-October, Fire & EMS ran a third City ambulance during peak periods on a trial basis, with the trial period ending December 31, 2018. Staff has compiled detailed information from the trial period regarding total number of calls, calls the third ambulance was able to respond to, number of calls turned over, anticipated billings related those calls, along with other information that can be considered as options are evaluated. Fire & EMS will be attending the January 22nd meeting to present a summary of that information and to do discuss recommendations. Attachments: None. Additional information will be presented at the meeting. Recommendations: Staff will be discussing recommendations at the meeting. City Council Agenda Summary Meeting Date: January 22, 2019 Item No: 6. Department: Finance Issue: Consent Agenda Summary: Item #1: The attachment amends the FY19 Budget with appropriations in the following funds: General Fund: $ 2,200 – Donations Federal School Programs Fund: $1,945,386 – Federal funds Item #2: Consider a request from City Schools to transfer back $724,438 to their operations and capital remaining amount of original $922,166 School Fund Balance as follows: Contingency Funds: $ 671,636 – School Operations Fund (18) School Capital funds: $ 52,802 – Capital Reserve Funds (16) Attachments: Consent Agenda 1-22-19 School Transfer Request 1-22-19 Recommendations: Approve item 1. Approve capital fund transfer of $52,802 in Item 2. BUDGET ADDITIONS FOR 1/22/19 ORG OBJECT DESCRIPTION DEBIT CREDIT BUDGET ADDITIONS General Fund: 01100908 480401 Miscellaneous ‐ Donations/Police 2,200 01311085 506070 Police Department ‐ Pound Supplies 2,200 Donations for Dog Pound Expenses Total General Fund: 2,200 2,200 Federal School Programs Fund: 20102926 401098 Title I 1,062,017 86011100 561120 Instructional S&W 615,421 86011100 562100 Social Security 46,280 86011100 562150 Medicare FICA 7,600 86011100 562210 Retirement 87,209 86011100 562750 Retirement Health Credit 6,674 86011100 562300 Insurance 58,980 86011100 562400 Life Insurance 7,286 86011100 562520 Disability 365 86011100 563000 Purchased Services 61,698 86011100 565503 Travel 10,000 86011100 566013 Materials & Supplies 117,783 86012160 561120 Admin S &W 31,507 86012160 562100 Social Security 1,953 86012160 562210 Retirement 4,940 86012160 562750 Retirement Health Credit 835 86012160 562300 Insurance 3,052 86012160 562400 Life Insurance 413 86012160 562520 Disability 21 20102926 436798 Title IIA 125,676 86111100 561120 Instructional S & W 116,537 86111100 562100 Social Security 7,394 86111100 562210 Retirement 1,745 20102926 436589 Title III 14,094 86311100 561120 Instructional S & W 7,728 86311100 562100 Social Security 923 86311100 565503 Travel 4,820 86311100 566013 Materials & Supplies 623 20102926 435898 Title V Rural Ed 37,462 86411310 561120 Instructional S & W 6,500 86411310 562150 Social Security 648 86411310 563000 Purchased Service 29,734 86411310 566013 Materials/Supplies 580 20102926 417398 Title VIB IDEA Pre School 6,731 86611100 561120 Instructional S&W 2,690 86611100 562100 Social Security 195 86611100 562150 Medicare 189 86611100 563000 Purchased Services 2,577 86611100 566013 Materials & Supplies 1,080 20102926 402798 Title VIB Flow Through 560,262 86511100 561120 Instructional S&W 121,437 86511100 561151 Instructional S&W Aides 210,998 86511100 562100 Social Security 20,611 86511100 562150 Medicare 4,820 86511100 562210 Retirement 48,203 86511100 562300 Insurance 55,964 86511100 562400 Life Insurance 3,956 86511100 562520 Disability 383 86511100 562750 retirement Credit 3,524 86511100 563140 Purchased Services 26,491 86511100 565503 Travel 21,874 86511100 566013 Materials & Supplies 42,001 20102926 404898 PERKINS 64,094 86721100 563000 Purchased Services 19,704 86721100 565503 Travel 6,500 86721100 566013 Materials 37,890 20102926 TTL4 Support & Acad Enrichment 75,050 86811100 561120 S & W 2,508 86811100 562100 Social Security 157 86811100 562150 Medicare 43 86811100 563000 Purchase Services 9,074 86811100 565503 Travel 976 86811100 566013 Materials/Supplies 62,292 Total Federal School Programs Fund: 1,945,386 1,945,386

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