City Council
Regular MeetingMartinsville, VA · May 14, 2019
Minutes
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on May 14,
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, Commissioner of Revenue Ruth Easley, and Police Chief Eddie Cassady.
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 Vice Mayor Martin 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) 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. 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. No action was taken out of Closed Session.
Following the Pledge to the American Flag and invocation by Council Member Bowles,
Lawson welcomed everyone to the meeting.
Hear comments from Virginia House of Delegates member Les Adams – Delegate Adams
thanked Council for their service to Martinsville and the residents. Adams is pleased to report
that House Bill 2405 and House Bill 2406 both passed and are set to become law in July
2019. It is his privilege to represent the residents of Martinsville and welcomes the opportunity
to pursue this type of legislation in the future.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Present awards to Martinsville Middle School students who recently participated in Virginia
Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor Contest” – Mayor Lawson asked those students in
attendance to approach the bench, take a seat and introduce themselves. Lawson thanked
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
them for participating in the contest and stated they had 76 participants from the City.
Lawson explained that the prize money was contributed by Council Members from their pocket
and then upgraded by Mike Haley of Uptown Pinball. Lawson announced first place was Nayti
Patel, second place was John Ratliff II and third place was to CJ Talley.
Consider presentation of a Proclamation regarding National Police Week 2019 and Peace
Officers’ Memorial Day – Council Member Bowles read the proclamation, which was presented
to Police Chief Cassady. Cassady thanked council for recognizing the police department.
Read and present a proclamation recognizing May 2019 as National Bike Month, May 13-
19, 2019 as National Bike week and Friday May 17, 2019 as Bike to Work Day – Vice Mayor
Martin read the proclamation which was presented to Ellen Jessie, representative of the
Martinsville Bike Club. Jessie thanked the City for the support they give the Bike Club and
their activities. Jessie shared details about club events, stating a calendar of events can be
found on their website.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider presentation of a proclamation recognizing May 2019 as Building Safety Month –
Kris Bridges, Martinsville Building Inspector explained the importance of what his department
to maintain the safety of the residents and the City structures. Mayor Lawson read the
proclamation, which was presented to Bridges.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider adoption on second reading of Ordinance 2019-5 requiring removal of unsafe
structures – City Attorney Monday explained the ordinance builds off a state code section.
This ordinance enables the City to undertake mediation of the property if the owner fails to do
so. This ordinance is a prerequisite to the next agenda item. Council Member Bowles made a
motion to approve Ordinance 2019-5. Council Member Turner seconded the ordinance with
the following roll call vote: Council Member Bowles, aye; Council Member Turner, aye; Vice
Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; and Mayor Lawson, aye.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider adoption of a Resolution directing cleanup of 200 Aaron Street – City Attorney
Monday explained that the property in question burned 2 years ago and has yet to be cleaned
up or secured. The Building Inspector has been very accommodating to the owners but the
required action has not been taken. The cleanup must be completed by the summer
otherwise; the City will take action on the property and apply a lien to cover the cost. Monday
explained when the other Aaron Street property burned, there was an insurance policy and
there were issues with the insurance company and payout, which caused a delay in clean up.
This property in question now was not insured so there was no coverage to cover the cost of
cleanup. Monday explained there are many moving parts to both properties and the City has
been very accommodating to both parties. Council Member Bowles made a motion to adopt the
resolution. Council Member Turner seconded the motion with the following roll call vote: Vice
Mayor Martin, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Bowles, aye; Council
Member Turner, aye and Mayor Lawson, aye.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider adoption of Budget Ordinance 2019-U-1 on second reading – City Manager
Towarnicki reviewed the steps taken related to the process and approval of the budget
including work sessions and a public hearing with approval of the ordinance on first reading.
Mayor Lawson detailed changes to the school budget with Dr. Talley’s request for a revised
approval. Lawson would like to entertain a motion by council to give the schools $250,000 in
addition to what was agreed on originally, allowing them to do the contracts and maintain
their teaching staff. Council Member Turner said this budget is not sustainable in future
years. Vice Mayor Martin said the schools are one of the most important resources in the
community; it is not an issue that Council does not want to provide the money requested, it is
that there is no money to give and it is not a good practice to take from the fund balance. Vice
Mayor Martin made a motion to approve the amended ordinance to include the additional
$250,000. Council Member Bowles seconded the motion with the following roll call: Mayor
Lawson, aye; Council Member Woods, aye; Council Member Turner, aye; Council Member
Bowles, aye; and Vice Mayor Martin, aye. Towarnicki said the city has always been successful
to keep the fund balance and reserves at the correct amount as required. The City is not
financially in trouble; the issue is that revenue is less than the expenses year after year. There
must be a change in the budget picture when Council begins to discuss reversion again since
the money awarded to the schools is borrowing from the FY21 Budget.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider approval of the FY19 March 31, 2019 finance report – Finance Director Linda
Conover summarized the Quarterly Financial Report. Council Member Bowles made a motion
to approve the finance report. Vice Mayor Martin seconded the motion with all Council
Members voting in favor.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Consider approval of consent agenda – Council Member Bowles made a motion to approve
the consent agenda as presented; Council Member Turner seconded the motion with all Council
Members voting in favor.
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
Business from the Floor – Patrick H. Wright of 1201 Spruce Village would like to know if
there are any programs related to available summer jobs. Mayor Lawson suggested that he
check with the Work Force office.
Comments by Members of City Council – Council Member Bowles shared that the month of
May is Mental Health Awareness month and she hopes that residents realize their mental health
is important. She hopes everyone enjoyed Mother’s Day and congratulations to New Heights
Community Support for their small business award. Council Member Woods congratulated the
“If I Were Mayor” essay contest winners and said he enjoys seeing students who want to be
engaged in the community. Woods invited the public to the Moon Over Buffalo production at
the BlackBox Theater. PHCC Patriot Players will be having auditions soon for Beauty and the
Beast. Council Member Turner said there is a group of 14-year olds invited to an NBA sponsored
event, their coach Tony Jones is fundraising to help with costs. Vice Mayor Martin also
congratulated the students in the essay contest. Martin asked all mothers in attendance to
stand so Council could honor them for Mother’s Day. Martin asked Kris Bridges to come back
to the podium and explain why the building codes are so important. Bridges said there is more
to occupying a building than just the rent. Building codes have been around for centuries and
are in place to protect the people. Building to code is the minimal safety requirement to occupy
a structure. Mayor Lawson attended the Chamber Awards banquet where her employer received
Uptown business of the year. Lawson congratulated tonight’s essay winners and the Martinsville
City graduates including 24 who earned their Associates Degree at PHCC prior to their high
May 14, 2019 Council Meeting
school graduation. Lawson thanked all of the department heads, City Manager, City Attorney
and Finance Director for all of their work on providing a workable budget.
Comments by City Manager – City Manager Towarnicki shared details on the Profile of Honor
event this past weekend where several residents attended, many with documents that were
scanned for historical record. Towarnicki said that School Board Chair Dr. Montgomery would
resign her position the end of May; there will be one more term expiring in June leaving two
vacancies on the school board. Council will need to set a public hearing May 28 and will receive
names and applications for anyone wishing to be considered for these vacancies.
City Attorney Monday referenced a billboard in Martinsville that was causing some debate,
Monday stated that there is nothing the City can do about the billboard since it is on private
property and paid for by a private party. The City cannot censor an individual for expressing
their opinion or determine what they do with their money. It is a freedom enshrined in the first
amendment.
There being no further business, Council Member Bowles made a motion to adjourn the
meeting; the motion was seconded by Council Member Turner with all Council Members voting
in favor. The meeting adjourned at 8:45pm.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
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, May 14, 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. Appointments to Boards and Commissions as authorized by Subsection 1.
B. Consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members, attorneys or consultants
pertaining to actual or probable litigation, or other specific legal matters requiring the
provision of legal advice by such counsel, as authorized by Subsection 7.
7:30—Regular Session
Pledge to the American Flag and Invocation by Council Member Jennifer Bowles
1. Hear comments from Virginia House of Delegates member Les Adams. (10 mins)
2. Present awards to Martinsville Middle School students who recently participated in Virginia
Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor Contest”. (10 mins)
3. Consider presentation of a Proclamation regarding National Police Week 2019 and Peace
Officers’ Memorial Day. (5 mins)
4. Read and present a proclamation recognizing May 2019 as National Bike Month, May 13-19,
2019 as National Bike week and Friday May 17, 2019 as Bike to Work Day. (5 mins)
5. Consider presentation of a proclamation recognizing May 2019 as Building Safety Month. (5
mins)
6. Consider adoption on second reading of Ordinance 2019-5 requiring removal of unsafe
structures (10 mins)
7. Consider adoption of a Resolution directing cleanup of 200 Aaron Street. (5 mins)
8. Consider adoption of Budget Ordinance 2019-U-1 on second reading. (20 mins)
9. Consider approval of the FY19 March 31, 2019 finance report. (10 mins)
10. Consider approval of the Consent Agenda. (2 mins)
11. 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.
12. Comments by members of City Council. (5 minutes)
13. Comments by City Manager. (5 minutes)
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 1.
Department: City Council
Issue: Hear comments from Virginia House of Delegates member Les Adams.
Summary: Delegate Les Adams, representing the 16th District in the Virginia
General Assembly’s House of Delegates will be attending Council’s May 14th
meeting and will provide comments regarding bills of local interest from the 2019
Session of the General Assembly.
Attachments: None
Recommendations: For information purposes – no action by Council needed.
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 2.
Department: City Council
Issue: Present awards to Martinsville Middle School students who
recently participated in Virginia Municipal League’s “If I Were Mayor Contest.”
Summary: Each fall the Virginia Municipal League (VML) invites all
Virginia 7th grade students to participate in its “If I Were Mayor” essay contest.
The essays describe what the student would do as mayor to make their cities,
towns, and counties great places to live.
Martinsville Middle School’s 7th grade class submitted entries to this contest
with the eventual winning essay from this region coming from Clifton Middle
School in Covington. City Council would like to recognize Martinsville’s
students who participated in the contest by reviewing the essays submitted by
local students and selecting the top 3 for a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize. The
students who submitted the top 3 local entries will be invited to attend
Council’s May 14 meeting to receive an award.
Attachments:
Recommendation: Recognize the 3 Martinsville Middle School students who
submitted the top 3 entries to the essay contest, and present an award to each.
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May14, 2019
Item No: 3.
Department: City Council
Issue: Consider presentation of a Proclamation regarding National Police
Week 2019 and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day.
Summary: Martinsville City Police Department representatives will be
present to accept the Proclamation
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: Mayor to read the Proclamation and present to Police
Department representatives. No formal action by Council is necessary.
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK 2019 & PEACE OFFICERS’ MEMORIAL DAY
WHEREAS, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15 as Peace Officers’
Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as National Police Week; and
WHEREAS, the men and women of the Police and Sheriff’s Departments of the City of Martinsville are
instrumental in creating peace of mind to all the citizenry through their many efforts to enhance public safety;
and
WHEREAS, it is incumbent on all our citizens to recognize, know and understand the duties, responsibilities,
hazards, dedication, and sacrifices of the men and women of the Police Department and the Sheriff’s
Department of the City of Martinsville, and it is also incumbent upon each law enforcement officer to serve
the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting against violence and disorder, and by protecting
the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression; and
WHEREAS, the Police and Sheriff’s Departments of the City of Martinsville are professional organizations
that remain abreast in the latest scientific applications of criminalistics;
WHEREAS, I call upon all citizens of the City of Martinsville to observe May 15th as Peace Officers’
Memorial Day to honor those men and women who, through their dedicated service and courageous deeds,
have lost their lives or been disabled in the performance of their duties. I especially want to recognize
Martinsville Policeman George F. Carter, who lost his life in the performance of his duty on June 14, 1919
while he was attempting to apprehend gamblers. I would also like to recognize Martinsville Police Officer
Jonathan Bowling who lost his life on January 26, 2005 while fighting in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor of Martinsville, call upon all citizens of the City of
Martinsville and upon all patriotic, civic and educational organizations to observe the week of May 12 through
May 18, 2019, as National Police Week with appropriate ceremonies in which all our people may join in
recognizing the women and men, both past and present, who by their faithful and loyal service and devotion
to their charge have rendered a dedicated service to our community and the citizens within it, and in performing
these duties have established an enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all the citizens of
Martinsville.
_________________________________
Kathy Lawson
Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 4.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing May, 2019 as
National Bike Month, May 13 – 19, 2019 as National Bike Week, and Friday, May
17, 2019 as National Bike to Work Day.
Summary: May is National Bike Month, sponsored by the League of
American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast.
Established in 1956, National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many
benefits of bicycling — and encourage more people to give biking a try as a
means of transportation, recreation, and fitness.
Representatives from the Henry County Bike Club will be attending Council’s
meeting to accept the proclamation and provide brief remarks regarding the
Club and their activities.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendation: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read and
present the proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
National Bike Month May 2019
National Bike Week May, 13 – 19, 2019
National Bike to Work Day, May 17, 2019
WHEREAS, citizens and visitors of all ages engage in bicycling for
transportation, recreation, fitness, and sport throughout our community; and
WHEREAS, bicycling offers a unique perspective from which our
community’s scenic beauty and culture can be discovered; and
WHEREAS, using a bicycle as a mode of transportation helps to reduce
pollution and congestion and improve cyclists’ health; and
WHEREAS, the Martinsville and Henry County area has a growing number
of cycling enthusiasts who are frequently observed biking along the streets
and highways, back roads, and trails ; and
WHEREAS, the Henry County Bike Club, an active local non-profit
organization that has been in existence since 2008, regularly schedules
rides and events throughout our area for all levels of participants;
NOW THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor of the City of Martinsville do
hereby and proclaim May, 2019 as National Bike Month, May 13 – 19, 2019
as National Bike to Work Week, and Friday, May 17, 2019 as Bike to Work
Day and I urge all citizens in Martinsville to consider participating in age
and skill-appropriate biking activities as a source of transportation,
recreation, and fitness.
_________________________________
Kathy Lawson
Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May 14, 2019
Item # 5.
Department: Community Development/Inspections
Issue: Every year, May is Building Safety Month, a public
awareness campaign to help individuals, families and businesses understand
what it takes to create safe and sustainable structures. The campaign
reinforces the need for adoption of modern, model building codes, a strong and
efficient system of code enforcement and a well-trained, professional workforce
to maintain the system.
The campaign is presented by the International Code Council and its 64,000
members worldwide along with a diverse partnership of professionals from the
building construction, design and safety community. Corporations, government
agencies, professional associations, nonprofits and more come together to
support Building Safety Month because they understand the need for safe and
sustainable structures where we live, work and play.
All communities need building codes to protect their citizens from disasters like
fires, weather-related events and structural collapse. Building codes are
society's best way of protecting homes, offices, schools, manufacturing
facilities, stores and entertainment venues. Code officials work day in and day
out to keep the public safe.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendation: Read and present the proclamation.
Proclamation
Building Safety Month Proclamation – May 2019
WHEREAS, the City of Martinsville is committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depends
on the safety and economic value of the homes, buildings and infrastructure that serve our citizens,
both in everyday life and in times of natural disaster; and
WHEREAS, our confidence in the structural integrity of these buildings that make up our community
is achieved through the devotion of vigilant guardians––building safety and fire prevention officials,
architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in
the construction industry––who work year-round to ensure the safe construction of buildings; and
WHEREAS, these guardians are dedicated members of the International Code Council, a U.S. based
organization, that brings together local, state and federal officials that are experts in the built
environment to create and implement the highest-quality codes to protect us in the buildings where we
live, learn, work, play, and
WHEREAS, our nation benefits economically and technologically from using the International Codes®
that are developed by a national, voluntary consensus codes and standards developing organization,
our government is able to avoid the high cost and complexity of developing and maintaining these
codes, which are the most widely adopted building safety and fire prevention codes in the world; and
WHEREAS, these modern building codes include safeguards to protect the public from natural
disasters such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods and earthquake; which,
according to a FEMA-commissioned study by the National Institute of Building Sciences, provide $11
in future mitigation benefits for every dollar invested, and
WHEREAS, Building Safety Month is sponsored by the International Code Council to remind the
public about the critical role of our communities’ largely unknown protectors of public safety––our
local code officials––who assure us of safe, efficient and livable buildings that are essential to
America’s prosperity, and
WHEREAS, “No Code. No Confidence.”- the theme for Building Safety Month 2019, encourages all
Americans to raise awareness of the importance of safe and resilient construction; fire prevention;
disaster mitigation, and new technologies in the construction industry. Building Safety Month 2019
encourages appropriate steps everyone can take to ensure the safety of our built environment, and
recognizes that the implementation of safety codes by local and state agencies has saved lives and
protected homes and businesses; and
WHEREAS, each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, Americans are asked to consider the
commitment to improve building safety and economic investment at home and in the community, and
to acknowledge the essential service provided to all of us by local and state building departments, fire
prevention bureaus and federal agencies in protecting lives and property,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor of the City of Martinsville, do hereby proclaim the month
of May 2019 as Building Safety Month. Accordingly, I encourage our citizens to recognize the
importance of local building code enforcement in making our City better for all.
____________________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 6.
Department: City Attorney
Issue: Consider adoption of Ordinance 2019-5 requiring removal of
unsafe structures.
Summary: This ordinance specifically addresses remediation of unsafe
structures. It allows the City to undertake such remediation if the owner fails
to do so.
Attachments: Ordinance 2019-5, enacting new § 15.5-23 of the Martinsville
City Code.
Recommended Action: Adopt Ordinance 2019-5 on second reading. (roll-call
vote)
CITY OF MARTINSVILLE, VIRGINIA
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-5
REQUIRING REMOVAL OF UNSAFE STRUCTURES
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia, in Regular Session held
on May 14, 2019, that Section 15.5-23 of the City Code, currently reserved, is hereby enacted to read
as follows:
______________________________________________________________________________
15.5-23. Removal, repair, etc. of buildings and other structures.
1. Pursuant to Code of Virginia § 15.2-906, the owners of property in the City, shall at such time
or times as the City Council may prescribe, remove, repair or secure any building, wall or any
other structure that might endanger the public health or safety of other residents of such City;
2. The City through its own agents or employees may remove, repair or secure any building, wall
or any other structure that might endanger the public health or safety of other residents of the
City, if the owner and lienholder of such property, after reasonable notice and a reasonable time
to do so, has failed to remove, repair, or secure the building, wall or other structure. For purposes
of this section, repair may include maintenance work to the exterior of a building to prevent
deterioration of the building or adjacent buildings. For purposes of this section, reasonable notice
includes a written notice (i) mailed by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, sent
to the last known address of the property owner and (ii) published once a week for two
successive weeks in a newspaper having general circulation in the City. No action shall be taken
by the City to remove, repair, or secure any building, wall, or other structure for at least 30 days
following the later of the return of the receipt or newspaper publication, except that the City may
take action to prevent unauthorized access to the building within seven days of such notice if the
structure is deemed to pose a significant threat to public safety and such fact is stated in the
notice;
3. In the event that the City, through its own agents or employees, removes, repairs, or secures
any building, wall, or any other structure after complying with the notice provisions of this
section or as otherwise permitted under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code in the
event of an emergency, the cost or expenses thereof shall be chargeable to and paid by the
owners of such property and may be collected by the City as taxes are collected;
4. Every charge authorized by this section or by Code of Virginia § 15.2-900 with which the
owner of any such property has been assessed and that remains unpaid shall constitute a lien
against such property ranking on a parity with liens for unpaid local real estate taxes and
enforceable in the same manner as provided in Articles 3 (§ 58.1-3940 et seq.) and 4 (§ 58.1-
3965 et seq.) of Chapter 39 of Title 58.1 of the Code of Virginia. The City may waive such liens
in order to facilitate the sale of the property. Such liens may be waived only as to a purchaser
who is unrelated by blood or marriage to the owner and who has no business association with the
owner. All such liens shall remain a personal obligation of the owner of the property at the time
the liens were imposed;
5. Notwithstanding the foregoing, with the written consent of the property owner, the City may,
through its agents or employees, demolish or remove a derelict nonresidential building or
structure provided that such building or structure is neither located within or determined to be a
contributing property within a state or local historic district nor individually designated in the
Virginia Landmarks Register. The property owner's written consent shall identify whether the
property is subject to a first lien evidenced by a recorded deed of trust or mortgage and, if so,
shall document the property owner's best reasonable efforts to obtain the consent of the first
lienholder or the first lienholder's authorized agent. The costs of such demolition or removal
shall constitute a lien against such property. In the event the consent of the first lienholder or the
first lienholder's authorized agent is obtained, such lien shall rank on a parity with liens for
unpaid local taxes and be enforceable in the same manner as provided in subdivision 4. In the
event the consent of the first lienholder or the first lienholder's authorized agent is not obtained,
such lien shall be subordinate to that first lien but shall otherwise be subject to subdivision 4; and
6. There shall be imposed upon the owner of any property made subject to this Section a civil
penalty of $1,000.
*********
Attest:
________________________________
Karen Roberts, Clerk of Council
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 7.
Department: City Attorney
Issue: Consider adoption of a Resolution directing cleanup of 200 Aaron
St.
Summary: This resolution directs the owner of 200 Aaron St., which has
been destroyed by fire and unsafe, to clean up the property. In the event they
do not comply, this resolution is a necessary prerequisite for the City to
conduct the cleanup and recover the cost from the owner. The owner has been
given a number of previous notices to clean up the property.
Attachments: Draft Resolution
Recommended Action: Adopt Resolution on roll-call vote.
RESOLUTION
REQUIRING REMEDIATION OF 200 AARON STREET
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Martinsville, Virginia assembled in regular session
this 14th day of May, 2019, pursuant to Code of Virginia § 15.2-906 and City Code § 15.5-23,
the Council affirmatively finds, as a matter of fact, that the property located at 200 Aaron Street,
Martinsville, Virginia 24115, Tax Map #42(15)00/17C, endangers the public health and safety
of the residents of Martinsville. The Owners, Lowanda Martin and/or F & L, LLC, shall, within
60 days of the adoption of this Resolution, remove all remaining structures located upon the
property, and grade the remaining surface of the property, all as directed by the City Building
Inspector. In the event the Owner fails to comply, the City shall undertake the removal itself
pursuant to applicable state law and local ordinance, and shall seek recovery of the cost thereof
from the Owner.
*********
Attest:
___________________________________________
Karen Roberts, Clerk of Council
Date Adopted: _______________________________
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 8.
Department: City Council
Issue: Consider adoption of Budget Ordinance 2019-U-1 on second
reading.
Summary: The City’s proposed FY20 Budget was presented to Council at
the April 9, 2019 meeting. Work sessions were held on Wednesday, April 10 with
City departments and to discuss capital; Monday, April 15 with City Schools and
remaining City departments/constitutionals; and on Wednesday, April 17 with
major outside agencies, capital, and to cover questions from prior work sessions.
Attached is the summary of the 2019-20 Budget in ordinance form that matches
the Budget as presented plus modifications reflecting discussions from the work
sessions.
Attachments: Ordinance 2019 –U-1, outlining Fund details of the propose
City’s FY19-20 Budget.
Recommendations: Conduct public hearing and approve on second reading (roll
call vote), subject to changes or modifications Council desires to make.
City of Martinsville, Virginia
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-U-1
The Budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2020
BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia, in regular session
assembled May 14, 2019, that the following sums of money be and hereby are appropriated – by
specific Fund – for the City’s fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, from the following Fund sources
of estimated revenue:
SUMMARY STATEMENT OF BUDGET ESTIMATES
2019-2020
PROJECTED BUDGETED CHANGES
FUND
FUND REVENUES EXPENDITURES BALANCE
General $30,709,345 $32,129,019 ($1,419,674)
Meals Tax $2,250,744 $2,250,744 $0
Capital Reserve $2,308,420 $2,308,420 $0
Refuse $2,107,000 $2,853,758 ($746,758)
Telecommunications $2,113,176 $2,113,176 $0
Water $3,623,565 $4,180,751 ($557,186)
Sewer $4,353,212 $4,860,393 ($507,181)
Electric $21,018,640 $21,128,353 ($109,713)
Cafeteria* $1,560,210 $1,580,310 ($20,100)
School Operating** $21,771,834 $21,771,834 $0
CDBG $28,048 $2,354 $25,694
TOTALS: $91,844,194 $95,179,112 ($3,334,918)
*Cafeteria - Provided by School Personnel
**School Operating - As recommended by City Manager
Tax Rates (unchanged):
Real Estate: $1.0621 per $100 assessed value
Personal Property: $2.30 per $100 assessed value
Machinery & Tools: $1.85 per $100 assessed value
Proposed for Sewer:
Increase in monthly bill of $2.50
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by said Council that this Ordinance shall be effective on and
after July 1, 2019.
*****
Attest:
__________________________ _______________________ _____________________
Karen Roberts, Clerk of Council Date Adopted Date Effective
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 9.
Department: Finance
Issue: Quarterly Financial Report
Summary:
FY19 – 3-31-19: Consolidated Revenue & Expenditure Report
Exclusive of School and Special Revenue Funds, total actual revenues were
$48,511,419, which is 7% greater than the amount anticipated through March 31.
Local Sales & Use Taxes collected were greater than anticipated by $14,319 for
total receipts of $1,334,719 to date. Meals Taxes collected were also greater than
expected by $98,048, for total receipts of $1,421,916. Actual expenditures were
$51,789,190, including encumbrances, which is 97% of the amount anticipated
for this time period.
With regard to Utility Funds, total actual revenues were $25,411,020, greater
than anticipated by $1,760,387. Total actual expenses, including encumbrances,
were $24,631,606, less than anticipated by $944,016.
The available cash-on-hand for all City Funds was $14,586,702, an increase of
$910,513 over the same time period last year.
Current Fund Balances and Cash Equivalents Report
At the end of March, the total of fund balances and utility cash equivalents was
$18,167,272. This amount reflects an overall decrease of $2,317,872 when
compared to Year-end FY2018.
Attachments:
Combined Balance Sheet – March 2019; Revenue – Expense Report – 3rd Qtr.
Recommendations: Motion to approve financial report.
City of Martinsville
Consolidated Revenues and Expenditures
FY19 ‐ 3/31/19
Actual Remaining Difference
Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual
General Fund
Revenues $ 29,743,242 $ 19,003,429 $ 20,476,024 $ 9,267,218 107.7%
Expenditures 32,127,776 23,957,743 23,438,554 8,689,222 97.8%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (2,384,534) $ (4,954,314) $ (2,962,529)
(Fund Bal contrib)
Actual Remaining Difference
Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual
Capital Funds
Meals Tax
Revenues $ 2,187,978 $ 1,507,857 $ 1,582,951 $ 605,027 105.0%
Expenditures 2,287,978 1,898,838 1,898,838 389,140 100.0%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (100,000) $ (390,981) $ (315,887)
(Fund Bal contrib)
Capital Reserve
Revenues $ 1,348,583 $ 1,011,424 $ 1,011,424 $ 337,159 100.0%
Expenditures 2,001,855 1,820,192 1,820,192 181,663 100.0%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (653,272) $ (808,768) $ (808,768)
TOTAL CAPITAL FUNDS: $ (753,272) $ (1,199,749) $ (1,124,655)
(Fund Bal contrib)
Actual Remaining Difference
Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual
Refuse Fund
Revenues $ 2,242,000 $ 1,360,137 $ 1,582,805 $ 659,195 116.4%
Expenditures 3,005,700 2,268,020 2,267,679 738,021 100.0%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (763,700) $ (907,883) $ (684,874)
MINet/Fiber Optic Fund
Revenues $ 1,931,728 $ 1,254,213 $ 1,470,315 $ 461,413 117.2%
Expenditures 1,962,736 1,481,907 1,538,164 424,572 103.8%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (31,008) $ (227,694) $ (67,849)
Water Fund
Revenues $ 3,670,523 $ 2,698,334 $ 2,705,856 $ 964,667 100.3%
Expenditures 4,321,880 2,844,340 2,833,085 1,488,796 99.6%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (651,357) $ (146,006) $ (127,228)
Sewer Fund
Revenues $ 5,014,651 $ 3,986,947 $ 4,323,732 $ 690,919 108.4%
Expenditures 5,874,349 3,914,385 3,533,085 2,341,264 90.3%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (859,698) $ 72,562 $ 790,647
Electric Fund
Revenues $ 21,018,640 $ 14,381,002 $ 15,358,312 $ 5,660,328 106.8%
Expenditures 22,220,015 15,066,970 14,459,593 7,760,422 96.0%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (1,201,375) $ (685,968) $ 898,718
TOTAL UTILITY FUNDS: $ (3,507,138) $ (1,894,989) $ 809,414
(Fund Bal contrib)
Consolidated Revenues and Expenditures
FY19 ‐ 3/31/19
Actual Remaining Difference
Budget YTD Balance Budg vs. Actual
Cafeteria
Revenues $ 1,501,862 $ $ 994,021 $ 507,841 66.2%
Expenditures 1,680,362 1,117,272 563,090 66.5%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (178,500) $ $ (123,250)
(Fund Bal contrib)
Schools
Revenues $ 23,025,849 $ $ 15,776,542 $ 7,249,307 68.5%
Expenditures 23,223,577 16,021,561 7,202,016 69.0%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (197,728) $ $ (245,019)
Federal Programs
Revenues $ 1,945,386 $ $ 1,263,620 $ 681,766 65.0%
Expenditures 1,945,386 1,424,090 521,296 73.2%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ ‐ $ $ (160,470)
TOTAL SCHOOL FUNDS: $ (376,228) $ ‐ $ (528,740)
(fund bal contrib)
Actual Remaining
Budget YTD Balance
Special Revenue Funds
CDBG Fund
Revenues $ 40,930 $ 33,512 $ 7,418 81.9%
Expenditures 75,465 23,233 52,232 30.8%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (34,535) $ 10,279
TOTAL SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS: $ (34,535) $ 10,279
Actual Remaining Difference
Budget Anticipated YTD Balance Ant vs. Actual
GRAND TOTALS:
(excluding Schools & Special Revenues)
Revenues: $ 67,157,345 45,203,343 $ 48,511,419 $ 18,645,926 107.3%
Expenditures 73,802,289 53,252,395 51,789,190 22,013,099 97.3%
Excess (deficiency) of revenues over
expenditures $ (6,644,944) (8,049,052) $ (3,277,771)
Local Sales/Use Taxes $ 2,000,000 $ 1,320,400 $ 1,334,719 $ 665,281 101.1%
Meals Taxes $ 1,820,000 $ 1,323,868 $ 1,421,916 $ 398,084 107.4%
The Budgeted Revenue amounts do not include any contributions from Fund Balance
City of Martinsville
Combined Balance Sheet
FY19 - 3/31/19
CURRENT June 30, 2018
TOTAL LIABILITIES FUND BAL & FUND BAL & DIFFERENCE
FUND ASSETS & RESERVES CASH & EQUIV. CASH & EQUIV. FROM FY18
GENERAL FUND $ 10,795,335 $ (7,027,492) $ 3,767,843 $ 6,177,313 $ (2,409,470)
MEALS TAX $ 167,492 $ - $ 167,492 $ 483,381 $ (315,889)
SCHOOL CAFETERIA $ 1,504,900 $ (129) $ 1,504,771 $ 1,628,022 $ (123,250)
REFUSE COLLECTION FUND* $ 5,560,381 $ (258,500) $ 5,301,881 $ 5,521,246 $ (219,365)
TELECOMMUNICATIONS $ 551,008 $ (73,734) $ 477,274 $ 512,010 $ (34,736)
WATER FUND* $ 3,392,739 $ (453,823) $ 2,938,915 $ 2,941,591 $ (2,676)
SEWER FUND* $ 2,643,857 $ (403,130) $ 2,240,727 $ 1,907,096 $ 333,631
ELECTRIC FUND* $ 4,391,304 $ (2,639,975) $ 1,751,329 $ 569,637 $ 1,181,692
CAPITAL RESERVE FUND $ 296,458 $ - $ 296,458 $ 681,863 $ (385,405)
SCHOOL FUND $ (185,823) $ (24,170) $ (209,993) $ - $ (209,993)
SCHOOL FEDERAL PROGRAMS $ (130,229) $ (71) $ (130,301) $ 12,390 $ (142,691)
CDBG FUND $ 184,398 $ (123,523) $ 60,875 $ 50,595 $ 10,279
TOTAL $ 29,171,820 $ (11,004,548) $ 18,167,272 $ 20,485,144 $ (2,317,872)
*cash equiv
RESERVED FUNDS
INSURANCE TRUST FUND $ 296,340 $ - $ 296,340 $ 542,889 $ (246,549)
INMATE TRUST FUND $ 135,985 $ - $ 135,985 $ 105,006 $ 30,979
Fiduciary Agency Funds:
05‐SVRFA $ 96,810 $ (3,327) $ 93,483 $ 46,951 $ 46,532
06‐Dan River ASAP $ 348,633 $ (209,443) $ 139,190 $ 166,082 $ (26,892)
15‐PRCJTA $ 393,615 $ ‐ $ 393,615 $ 293,419 $ 100,196
30‐BRRL $ 306,564 $ ‐ $ 306,564 $ 240,301 $ 66,263
TOTALS: $ 1,145,621 $ (212,770) $ 932,851 $ 746,753 $ 186,098
(10/17/18)
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: May 14, 2019
Item No: 10.
Department: Finance
Issue: Consent Agenda
Summary:
The attachment amends the FY19 Budget with appropriations in the following
funds:
General: $ 14,586 – Donations, Reimbursements, and Grants
Sewer: $139,861 – Donations
Attachments:
Consent Agenda 5-14-19
Recommendations: Approve
BUDGET ADDITIONS FOR 5/14/19
ORG OBJECT DESCRIPTION DEBIT CREDIT
BUDGET ADDITIONS
General Fund:
01100909 490137 Recovered Cost ‐ Public Safety 9,275
01311085 501200 Police Dept. ‐ Overtime 2,504
01311085 502100 Police Dept. ‐ Social Security 155
01311085 502110 Police Dept. ‐ Medicare 36
01217078 501200 Sheriff ‐ Courts ‐ Overtime 6,112
01217078 502100 Sheriff ‐ Courts ‐ Social Security 379
01217078 502110 Sheriff ‐ Courts ‐ Medicare 89
Various reimbursements for security patrols
01100909 490801 Recovered Costs ‐ Senior Services 3,761
01714212 501300 Senior Services ‐ Part‐time Wages 2,411
01714212 502100 Senior Services ‐ Social Security 150
01714212 502110 Senior Services ‐ Medicare 35
01714212 506049 Senior Services - Vehicle Fuels 1,165
Transportation Grant - Dec.,Jan.,Feb.,& March
01100908 480420 Miscellaneous - Donations/Sr. Citizens 1,550
01714212 506016 Senior Services - Program Supplies 1,550
Donation for Sr. Health Fair
Total General Fund: 14,586 14,586
Sewer Fund:
13102927 415705 Federal Grant ‐ EDA 139,861
13551326 508224 W/W Maint ‐ SRI Project ‐ Physical Plant Exp 139,861
EDA Grant ‐ Requests‐Final
Total Sewer Fund: 139,861 139,861
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