City Council
Regular MeetingMartinsville, VA · March 22, 2022
Minutes
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
The regular meeting of the Council of the City of Martinsville, Virginia was held on March
22, 2022 in Council Chambers, Municipal Building, at 7:00 PM with Mayor Kathy Lawson
presiding. Other Council Members present included Danny Turner, and Jennifer Bowles.
Council Member Tammy Pearson and Council Member Chad Martin were not in attendance but
participated by phone. Staff present included City Manager Leon Towarnicki, Assistant City
Manager and City Attorney Eric Monday, Clerk of Council Karen Roberts, Community
Development Manager Mark McCaskill, Building Inspector Kris Bridges, and Police Captain
Chad Rhoads.
City Attorney Monday explained that Council Member Person had a medical procedure and
Council Member Martin was on the road for work; neither would be present for the meeting.
Monday referenced Virginia Code 2.2-3708.2 which would give Pearson and Martin the option
to participate in the Council meeting by phone. Council Member Turner made the motion to
allow them to participate by phone. Vice Mayor Bowles seconded the motion with the following
roll call vote: Mayor Lawson, aye; Vice Mayor Bowles, aye; and Council Member Turner, aye.
Mayor Lawson called the meeting to order. Following the Pledge to the American Flag and
invocation by Mayor Lawson, Lawson welcomed everyone to the meeting.
Read and present a proclamation acknowledging the month of March as Red Cross Month
– Mayor Lawson read the proclamation which was presented to Ralph Lawson, Program
Manager for the local Red Cross chapter. Mr. Lawson thanked Council for recognizing Red
Cross Month. The local charter began in August 1917. Lawson explained how residents can
make monetary donations and blood donations to benefit the Red Cross. Lawson detailed the
smoke alarm installation program and stated that the Red Cross consists of 94% volunteers.
Council Member Turner invited Chris Metz to the podium and presented him with $1600 in
donations from the Rising Sun Bakery and a recent cookie fundraiser headed by Council
Member Pearson and Council Member Turner and including $300 from a private donor. Metz
briefly explained his purpose of being in the Ukraine and how his heart lead him to help the
people there during war time. Metz explained that he is spending $450-$700/day on fuel and
hotels. The only way he can afford to return April 6 to help the Ukraine residents is through
funding from donations. He was able to assist 112 citizens over the border on his previous
visit. Donations received tonight will provide supplies, food and water to those fighting on the
front lines.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present proclamations recognizing the recent winners from Boys and Girls Clubs
of the Blue Ridge who participated in US Cellular’s Black History Month Art Contest – Joanie
Petty, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys and Girls Clubs explained the contest which is an
annual event nationally. Petty provided Council with an impact report. Mayor Lawson read the
proclamation which was presented to Petty on behalf of the contest winners. Vice Mayor
Bowles said she learned from this contest as well.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present a proclamation recognizing the week of April 3 – 9, 2022 as National
Library Week – Vice Mayor Bowles read the proclamation which was presented to Rick Ward,
Director of Blue Ridge Regional Library along with other library members in attendance.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present a proclamation recognizing Martinsville High School football coach
Bobby Martin – Vice Mayor Bowles read the proclamation which was presented to Mr. Martin.
Dr. Zeb Talley, School Superintendent stated that it’s remarkable what Martin was able to
accomplish during the pandemic, touching on his teaching skills and stating that Martin was
a role model for the students. Martin explained that students went two years without playing
football. Once they were allowed to play again, the rules changed almost every week but once
he and his staff stopped complaining, things started coming together. Vice Mayor Bowles said
she is grateful for all that Martin and his coaches do for the students.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present a proclamation recognizing the 75th anniversary of Martinsville Speedway
– Mayor Lawson read the proclamation which was presented to Martinsville Speedway
President Clay Campbell. Campbell thanked Council for the recognition on behalf of his family
and the Nascar family. He contributes 75 years of success to the fans all over the world.
Mayor Lawson said the community is grateful and the race fans not only visit Martinsville but
they return and some have even moved here. Vice Mayor Bowles said she enjoys the races and
encourages residents to attend.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present a proclamation recognizing the third week of March as Emergency
Management Professionals Week in Virginia – Vice Mayor Bowles read the proclamation which
was presented to John Turner, Safety Manager and representative of the Fire and EMS
Departments. Turner thanked Council for the recognition, stating that the past several years
have come with several challenges during the pandemic. The success of the departments
would not be possible without the assistance from other departments and outside agencies.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Read and present a proclamation recognizing the month of April, 2022 as Bee City Month –
Council Member Pearson read the proclamation which was presented by Council Member
Turner to Cindy Edgerton, Martinsville Garden Club President. Pearson shared statistics
related to the decrease in bees over the past few years. Edgerton said that this is
Martinsville’s first Bee City Month since the program was approved less than a year ago. One
of her favorite things is that the community has gotten behind the program.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
Conduct a public input session related to ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act of 2021) funds
the City is receiving and potential use of those funds – City Manager Towarnicki shared a brief
slide presentation explaining the ARPA funds and general information including how those
funds can be used and restrictions. At the February meeting, staff presented a list of potential
projects to Council; six of the projects were approved for use with ARPA funding since other
grant money was not available for those type projects. City Manager Towarnicki would like to
add two additional projects including storm water improvements and affordable housing,
specifically Five Points and the Aaron Mills projects. Towarnicki would like to open discussion
to the community related to the parks, specifically which parks need what improvements.
Some previous project suggestions have been pulled from the list because staff has found
other funding and grants. Towarnicki reached out to department heads, organizations and
individuals prior to putting the list together. Council Member Turner questioned how some of
the funding decisions can be made prior to the decision to revert to a town. Mayor Lawson
invited citizens to approach the podium with comments related to the ARPA funds.
Keith Owens, 1708 Meadowview Lane and Executive Director for Peer Recovery
Connections spoke about recovery in the community and how the main cause of relapse is
lack of stable housing. The people in the community are passionate about the need for a
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
homeless shelter; Owens requests that some of the ARPA money be used for a 30-bed shelter
program to assist with recovery.
Ariel Johnson, 50 Wildwood Avenue and Director MHC Warming Center stated that the
warming center served more individuals this year than in previous years. Johnson shared
statistics on how many guests were served, housed and fed and stated that the shelter was
open 120 days November through March. This year they saw an increase in geriatrics which
required special needs within the shelter. Johnson would like Council to consider using some
of the ARPA funds to assist the shelter
Joseph Martin, 27 East Church Street and owner of What’s Your Sign supports most
proposed projects but does not agree to the City purchasing dilapidated buildings. Martin
reminds Council that the past two years have been detrimental to small businesses, causing
some of those businesses to close. Martin requests that a minimum $2million be allocated to
help small businesses who are still struggling financially. Council Member Martin asked how
much money was allocated for small businesses with the initial CARES money. Towarnicki
said the City distributed $6-700,000 with $5,000 grants for small businesses using the
CARES funds.
Lisa Watkins, 307 Oakdale Street and Chamber of Commerce President thanked Council
for their support of small businesses. The Chamber and CPEG have the same common goals
as the City and look forward to working together to improve the City. The Chamber will assist
any organization regardless if they are a Chamber Member or not.
Tim Martin, 115 East Church Street and local business owner thanked Council for
thinking of the small businesses. He is a member of Martinsville Uptown and works closely
with the Chamber, Uptown and CPEG. He has rented over 30 businesses since the pandemic
began so the assistance being offered is working. Martin feels like the community needs more
marketing and asked that Council consider applying some of the ARPA money towards
infrastructure.
Aaron Rawls, 214 Oakdale Street, 318 Brown Street and local business owner shared that
in his opinion, the primary goal should be to grow Martinsville with Uptown revitalization,
outlets for neglected buildings and spaces, and adding character to community. There is a
nostalgic feeling in the area but he would like to focus on the future. He recommended hiring
a marketing agency for the City and build a brand for who Martinsville wants to be in the
future; this step could engage professionals and help present our community in a positive
manner. $500,000 could bring forward a serious marketing agency for a minimum 4 years. He
suggests using ARPA funds to demolish and rehabilitate dilapidated properties since those are
first impressions. Google is reflecting mostly negative news and not the City’s potential; he
stated that the marketing firm could correct that to ensure the positive aspects about
Martinsville are the first articles to come up. We desperately need to increase property owner
diversity in Martinsville. There are way too many properties, especially Uptown that are not
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
salvageable. The City should look at ordinance updates and enforcements. He is against the
City purchasing dilapidated buildings and rewarding property owners for failure to maintain
their property.
Efigenia Mota, 549 Dillard Street and small business owner of Effie’s says small businesses
need communication and she wants to be the voice of the Hispanic community. She hopes to
create an organization for the Hispanic population to get help especially through the schools.
She requests ARPA funds to assist with that non-profit organization.
Derrick Ziglar, 10 East Church Street states that he agrees with Mr. Rawls. Ziglar left
Martinsville in 2007; he attended VMI and said he had no intention of returning to
Martinsville. 10 years later, he moved back and saw some energy that had begun to move
back to the City. Ziglar understands the low-income community. He touched on the
opportunity for tech sectors to make jobs available. He’s excited to be back and the energy
that is coming back to Uptown. Council Members are excited for what Ziglar and his
associates are doing with the Jefferson Plaza remodel.
Charles Whitfield, 22 East Church Street and transportation business owner feels like the
City is “skating” over the blight and there are issues with addiction and homelessness that he
feels should be addressed. He would hate for the city to spend the money and have nothing
visible to show for it. There are challenges with homelessness, small businesses need support,
and the community needs more ways to engage the youth.
Mayor Lawson thanked everyone for the recommendations. There were a lot of good
comments voiced tonight, some of which Council has heard on a regular basis. Council wants
to ensure that for whatever money is spent, those changes can still be seen years from now.
There are a lot of logistics to ensure that those property owners who have failed to maintain
properties are not rewarded. There are some infrastructure issues that need to be addressed.
Council Member Turner said Council needs to sit down and evaluate which projects should
wait in case reversion is not successful. Vice Mayor Bowles encouraged residents to reach out
to her if they are not comfortable coming to the meetings. She is excited about the ideas the
residents and business owners are bringing up. Council Member Pearson thanked residents
for coming forward and speaking up with thoughts and feedback. She is still quit concerned
about the process Council is following for ARPA funds, it’s difficult for her to vote when she
doesn’t have specific numbers and components. She wants to see a more stringent process for
awarding those funds. Pearson wants to follow a similar process used by other cities. She
would like to see surveys and town hall meetings, a working committee to help decisions, and
a public dashboard following the progress of the various projects. Pearson expressed concern
about some of the Uptown funds and how those were decided on behind closed doors and not
an open forum. Council Member Martin wants people to realize this process is about people
and not about politics. City Manager Towarnicki said an email has been set up for anyone
wishing to send suggestions or requests on how the ARPA funds should be used
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
(arpa.martinsville.ci.va.us); that information will be on the website along with a survey. Mayor
Lawson explained that organizations would be able to submit requests for money just like with
any other grant money and to ensure that it will have long-term benefits. These decisions will
not be made overnight, it’s a process to ensure the funds are assigned in the most beneficial
way. Mayor Lawson made a motion to approve the ARPA funding for the stormwater project
and for affordable housing. Council Member Turner seconded the motion. Towarnicki
explained that the Aaron Mills project and Five Points project would benefit from the ARPA
funding as well as the City’s infrastructure. With the housing study done years ago, it was
determined that there was a serious lack of affordable housing in the area. The cost of the
Five Points project has increased substantially this past year. All Council Members voted in
favor. Mayor Lawson encourages residents to reach out to them with any ideas.
Conduct a public hearing regarding certain properties to be made subject to the Rental
Inspection Program – City Attorney Monday detailed the rental inspection program. There are
three properties that need to be added to the list, two of which are not occupied. Kris Bridges,
Building Inspector shared a PowerPoint related to the proposed rental properties. Inspections
responds to the complaints as those are received but is limited in their actions if residents are
not willing to take their concerns to court. Property owners are notified before the City does
any cleanup. Mayor Lawson opened the floor for the public hearing.
Gina Ashbrook, 1263 Olivia Road works for a business that manages one of the properties
recommended for the Rental Inspection list. She would like to know which City employee
trespassed on the property and made claims related to the interior of the home. The owner
will not rent the property and is taking steps to repair it. Ashbrook claimed that the City did
not clean up the property and that she spent a lot of money to hire someone else to complete
the cleanup.
Keith Owen, 1708 Meadowview Lane questioned the Rental Inspections program process.
Mayor Lawson briefly explained the program details.
No one else approached the podium so the public hearing was closed. Vice Mayor Bowles
made a motion to approve the resolution. Council Member Turner seconded the motion with
the following roll call vote: Council Member Turner, aye; Council Member Martin, aye; Vice
Mayor Bowles, aye; Council Member Pearson, aye; and Mayor Lawson, aye. Mayor Lawson
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
asked Bridges to provide an updated demolition list including residential and commercial so
ARPA funds could be discussed. Vice Mayor Bowles would like to know how many properties a
specific owner has and total paid in real estate taxes. Lawson asked that Bridges notate any
burned properties.
Consider approval of the consent agenda – Vice Mayor Bowles made a motion to approve the
consent agenda as presented. Council Member Turner seconded the motion with all Council
Members voting in favor.
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
No business from the floor
Comments by members of City Council – Council Member Pearson thanked everyone for the
kind wishes and prayers after her surgery. Pearson thanked Council and the City Manager for
considering her recommendations and moving forward with those. Council Member Martin
expressed concerns about others saying Council had not been transparent or open with the
public; people have not done their research or realized what Council has done over and above
what the state requires. Council gets paid $400 per month to serve; they do it for the citizens
of Martinsville, not for the money. Council Member Turner said the next Council meeting will be
after the Martinsville race. That race will be at night and will be on FOX. Turner encourages
residents to attend the race. Vice Mayor Bowles shared that her nephew Bryson’s birthday is
today March 22. April 2 is Autism Awareness Day at Jack Dalton Park; those events will shed
light on what autism is and how to get help. Bowles had a wonderful time at March Madness.
She attended the Martin Luther King Leadership breakfast and enjoyed the awards given that
day. Mayor Lawson shared that the flags will be out March 29 for Vietnam War Veterans Day.
After March 29, all 164 flags will be taken to Roselawn Cemetery for the Field of Flags through
April to recognize Child Abuse Prevention month. Hazardous Waste Day is April 23 at the
Bassett warehouse. Lawson shared that neighborhood meetings will begin again April 25 at the
Southside area in a location to be determined. Lawson has been in correspondence with the
Chairman of the School Board to schedule a joint meeting and there will be budget work sessions
scheduled soon. Lawson received a notice from the American Legion that there will be Memorial
Day events at noon at Roselawn Cemetery. Lawson said there is a poll for Uptown with questions
regarding scooters and Uptown parking; she encourages residents to complete those
questionnaires. Lawson received a letter from Cindy Edgerton supporting the scooter program
and the need to update the skateboarding ordinance. City Attorney Monday shared that scooters
are in several localities, some of those locations have run into issues with riders leaving them
anywhere instead of the designated locations. He is looking at what other localities do to handle
this situation and scooter registration. Mayor Lawson stated that parking Uptown should be
monitored to avoid traffic hazards; in Christiansburg there are lines to ensure cars are not in
the lane of traffic. Pearson expressed concern that parking spots are being utilized by business
owners or by workers when they should be left open for customers instead.
Comments by the City Manager/City Attorney – City Manager Towarnicki explained that a
previous survey on Uptown parking was done; 53% of those who participated voted to not
enforce it. Approximately 80% of residents who participated in the scooter survey voted in favor
of the those. In the last month or so, there’s been a lot of interest in the BB&T bank building
time capsule that is supposed to be opened on April 1, 2022 on the 50 th anniversary. The City
does intend to open that time capsule on April 1 with a small event at 11:00am in the back lot
of BB&T building. Towarnicki would like to reach out to any former employees to invite them
to attend. Monday informed Council that the Supreme Court has appointed the 3-judge panel
March 22, 2022 Council Meeting
for the contested reversion with Henry County. Henry County had filed a lawsuit in the County
Circuit Court claiming that the VSA and MOU were not enforceable. The City hopes to address
that lawsuit, along with all matters related to reversion, with the 3-judge panel as well; Monday
expects the rulings pretty quickly.
There being no further business, Bowles made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:25pm.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Karen Roberts, Clerk of Council Kathy Lawson, Mayor
Agenda
AGENDA--CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MARTINSVILLE, VIRGINIA
Council Chambers – Municipal Building
7:00pm Regular Session
Tuesday March 22, 2022
7:00 pm - Regular Session
Pledge to the American Flag and Invocation by Council Member Pearson.
1. Read and present proclamations recognizing the recent winners from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue
Ridge who participated in US Cellular’s Black History Month Art Contest. (10 mins)
2. Read and present a proclamation recognizing the week of April 3 – 9, 2022 as National Library Week. (10
mins)
3. Read and present a proclamation recognizing Martinsville High School football coach Bobby Martin. (10
mins)
4. Read and present a proclamation acknowledging the month of March as Red Cross Month. (10 mins)
5. Read and present a proclamation recognizing the 75th anniversary of Martinsville Speedway. (10 mins)
6. Read and present a proclamation recognizing the third week of March as Emergency Management
Professionals Week in Virginia. (10 mins)
7. Read and present a proclamation recognizing the month of April, 2022 as Bee City Month. (10 mins)
8. Conduct a public input session related to ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act of 2021) funds the City is
receiving and potential use of those funds. (20 mins)
9. Conduct a public hearing regarding certain properties to be made subject to the Rental Inspection
Program. (10 mins)
10. Consider approval of the consent agenda. (5 mins)
11. Business from the Floor -
The public comment portion of the Council meeting provides citizens the opportunity to discuss matters relevant to the operation
of the City, which are not listed on the printed agenda.
Citizens who wish to participate in a meeting’s public comment period may do so by emailing their comments to Karen Roberts,
Clerk of Council, at kroberts@ci.martinsville.va.us, calling in their comments to 276-403-5182, faxing comments to 276-403-
5280,or mailing comments to City of Martinsville, attn.: Karen Roberts, P.O. Drawer 1112, Martinsville, VA 24114. Comments
must be received by 12:00noon Monday March 21. Citizens may also request to speak at the Council meeting in the same
manner. Comments, or a request to speak, must be received by noon the day before a Council meeting for consideration by
Council at the meeting.
Any person submitting comments or requesting to speak must identify themselves by name and address, including zip code,
limit their remarks to 3 minutes or less (as read aloud), address a topic of City business, and refrain from making any personal
references or accusations of a factually false and/or malicious nature. Priority for comments is given to City residents,
taxpayers, and business owners. Speakers may not yield time. Groups of speakers on the same topic must designate a single
representative. Comments violating these rules may not be presented at the Council meeting. Any speaker violating these rules
may be removed from the podium or from the Council chamber.
This policy does not apply to public hearings, at which any citizen of Martinsville may appear and speak on the subject of the
public hearing.
12. Comments by members of City Council. (5 mins)
13. Comments by City Manager and City Attorney. (5 mins)
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 1.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present proclamations recognizing the recent winners
from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge who participated in US Cellular’s Black
History Month Art Contest.
Summary: During the month of February, US Cellular sponsored a Black
History Month Art contest for Boys & Girls clubs across the country, with
winners selected from each participating group. The Martinsville club, Boys &
Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge had over 50 local students who submitted
artwork for the contest. That list was eventually short-listed to 10
submissions, and those were then voted on by US Cellular customers.
Three local winners were selected – Judith Tuttle (1st place); Layce Everhart (2nd
place); and Zy’Jerryah Martin (3rd place) with prizes of $500, $200, and $150
respectively.
Joanie Petty, Chief Executive Office of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge will
be attending Council’s meeting to provide more details and accept the
proclamations.
Attachments: Proclamations
Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read and
present the Proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING MARTINSVILLE BOYS & GIRLS
CLUBS US CELLULAR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
ART CONTEST WINNERS
WHEREAS, US Cellular sponsored a Black History Month Art Contest
during the month of February, 2022 for Boys & Girls Clubs across the
country; and
WHEREAS, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge participated in the contest
with over 50 local students submitting artwork to be considered for the
contest, and
WHEREAS, preliminary judging of the artwork reduced the list of
contenders to 10 and US Cellular then handled the voting among its
customer base; and
WHEREAS, ultimately 3 local winners were selected with first place
receiving $500, second place receiving $200, and third place receiving $150;
and
WHEREAS, the local winners are:
1st Place – Judith Tuttle, 10th grade, Teen Center Site
2nd Place – Layce Everhart, 3rd grade, Albert Harris Elementary Site
3rd Place – Zy’Jerryah Martin, 4th grade, Albert Harris Elementary Site
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville
City Council do hereby congratulate Judith Tuttle, Layce Everhart, and
Zy’Jerryah Martin for their winning entries in the US Cellular Black History
Month Art Contest and for being a source of pride for our local Boys & Girls
Clubs of the Blue Ridge, and our entire community.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 2.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing the week of April 3 –
9, 2022 as National Library Week.
Summary: In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were
spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical
instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the
American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the
National Book Committee in 1954. The committee's goals were ambitious -
they ranged from "encouraging people to read in their increasing leisure time"
to "improving incomes and health" and "developing strong and happy family
life."
In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on
the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use
libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising
Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme
"Wake Up and Read!"
National Library Week was observed again in 1959, and the ALA Council voted
to continue the annual celebration. When the National Book Committee
disbanded in 1974, ALA assumed full sponsorship. National Library Week is
generally observed the second week of April and this year will be observed April
3 - 9 with the theme, "Connect With Your Library.”
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read the
Proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK APRIL 3 – 9, 2022
WHEREAS, the Blue Ridge Regional Library provides our community members with the
transforming knowledge and information they need to live, learn and work in the 21st
century; and
WHEREAS, our five libraries and Bookmobile provide free in-person and electronic access
to books, materials and services which provide education, engagement and enrichment to
community members of all ages; and
WHEREAS, during the pandemic, our flexible and creative library staff added curbside
services, expanded online services and virtual programming, drive-by seasonal events,
social service and health support services, and boosted the library branch Wi-Fi, providing
Internet access in our parking lots; and
WHEREAS, the Blue Ridge Regional Library was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation in
April 2021 by Visit Martinsville for “outstanding creation of engaging content . . . including
offering adaptable services . . . reflect[ing] your dedication to showcasing quality content in
Martinsville-Henry County”; and
WHEREAS, our library system remains a vital partner with many community organizations
for youth and adults. The branches are safe, welcoming, inclusive community centers; and
WHEREAS, the library fosters a love of reading in partnership with day care centers and
the three school systems, especially through the annual Summer Reading Program; and
WHEREAS, library professionals and staff play a critical role in providing daily help to meet
the needs of our community, providing proven exceptional service; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville City Council, on
this 22nd day of March, 2022 do hereby proclaim and acknowledge the week of April 3 – 9,
2022 as “National Library Week,” and Tuesday, April 5, 2022 as “National Library
Workers Day.” We encourage all residents to take advantage of the variety of library
resources available and to thank library workers for their exceptional contribution to our
quality of life..
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 3.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing Martinsville High
School football coach Bobby Martin.
Summary: At the March 22 meeting, a proclamation will be read and
presented to Martinsville High School football coach Bobby Martin on his
recognition as WSLS TV’s “1st and 10 Coach of the Year.”
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: Mayor to read and present the proclamation. No formal
action by Council is necessary.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING MARTINSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
FOOTBALL COACH BOBBY MARTIN
WHEREAS, As a result of the Covid 19 pandemic, many high schools were
required to alter and, in some cases, even cancel entire sports seasons; and
WHEREAS, After the fall 2020 football season was cancelled, out of continuing
Covid concerns Martinsville High School opted not to play in the shortened
spring 2021 season; and
WHEREAS, During this time, Martinsville High School football coach Bobby
Martin was able to keep both players and coaching staff motivated and working
toward eventually returning to competition; and
WHEREAS, After a two-year break, the Martinsville Bulldogs football team
resumed play with the 2021 fall season; and
WHEREAS, Martinsville finished with a 5 – 7 record with one cancellation,
made the playoffs as the 5th seed in Region 2C, and won a playoff game
against James River High School before falling to Glenvar High School in the
region semifinals; and
WHEREAS, As a result of this accomplishment, Martinsville High School
football coach Bobby Martin has been recognized by WSLS TV Channel 10 out
of Roanoke, Virginia as its “1st and 10 Coach of the Year”;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville
City Council do hereby also recognize and congratulate Coach Martin for his,
his coaches, and the team’s accomplishment this past season; for his
recognition as the WSLS “1St and 10 Coach of the Year”, and for being a source
of pride for Martinsville City Schools and our entire community.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 4.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation acknowledging the month of
March as Red Cross Month.
Summary: The proclamation recognizes the month of March as Red Cross
Month. A representative of American Red Cross will be present to accept the
proclamation.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read and
present the proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING THE MONTH OF MARCH AS
AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH
WHEREAS, The tradition of March being recognized as American Red Cross Month began
in 1943 with a proclamation from President Franklin D. Roosevelt; and
WHEREAS, American Red Cross Month is a special time to recognize and thank
our heroes who volunteer and give of their time to help their neighbors, donate
blood, take life-saving courses, or provide financial donations to support an
organization whose mission is to help those in need; and
WHEREAS, in our community, Red Cross works tirelessly through its employees
and volunteers to help when disaster strikes, when someone needs lifesaving
skills or the comfort of a helping hand; and
WHEREAS, across the country, the American Red Cross responds to thousands
of disasters a year; provides services to military members, veterans and
civilians; collects and distributes about 40 percent of the nation's blood supply;
and trains millions of people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving
skills every year; and
WHEREAS, our community depends on the American Red Cross, which relies on
donations of time, money and blood to fulfill its humanitarian mission, and
despite t h e s e challenging economic times, the American Red Cross continues to
offer help and comfort to those in need,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville City Council,
on this 22nd day of March, 2022 do hereby proclaim and recognize the month of March as
American Red Cross Month and acknowledge our sincere appreciation for the work Red
Cross does in our community. We encourage all citizens to support this organization and
its noble humanitarian mission.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 5.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing the 75th anniversary
of Martinsville Speedway.
Summary: Martinsville Speedway was founded in 1947 by the late H. Clay
Earles and has continuously hosted NASCAR events since its inception in
1949. Over the years a tremendous amount of racing history has been made at
the track, and the impact the track has had on the community and
surrounding areas is incalculable. Many people outside of the immediate area
know and have heard of Martinsville only through the race events that have
been held there.
2022 marks the 75th anniversary of the track and Martinsville Speedway
President Clay Campbell will be attending Council’s meeting to receive the
proclamation.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read and
present the Proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF
MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY
WHEREAS, Martinsville Speedway was founded in 1947 by the late H. Clay Earles
and is the only track which has hosted NASCAR Cup Series races since the division’s
inception in 1949; and
WHEREAS, the 0.526 mile track is the shortest on the NASCAR Cup Series circuit
but offers some of the most exciting racing in the sport while providing fans with
spectacular views from any seat; and
WHEREAS, over the years, the Speedway had continuously made upgrades with
lighting and new and improved amenities in an effort to keep the track at the forefront
of NASCAR racing venues; and
WHEREAS, since its beginning, Martinsville Speedway has proven to be a
tremendous economic engine for the community with millions of dollars in economic
impact annually resulting from overnight stays, meals and beverage sales, travel
expenses, merchandise sales, along with thousands of individuals who derive
employment from race weekend activities; and
WHEREAS, Martinsville Speedway has contributed in putting the Martinsville-Henry
County area “on the map” with millions of racing fans around the world watching
televised NASCAR races at the track several times a year ; and
WHEREAS, in addition to all this, Martinsville Speedway and its staff have proven to
be outstanding corporate partners for the M-HC community, allowing use of the track
to host local community events and staff participating and providing leadership on a
number of important boards and commissions;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville City
Council do hereby recognize Martinsville Speedway on its 75th anniversary, and we
gratefully acknowledge the important role and tremendous contributions the
Speedway has made to our community over the years. We look forward to many more
years of successful operation.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 6.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing the third week of
March as Emergency Management Professionals Week in Virginia.
Summary: In 2021, Virginia Senate Joint Resolution 286 established the
third week of March as Emergency Management Professionals Week in Virginia
to recognize the important work done by emergency management professionals
across the state in regard to emergency preparedness and response to
emergency situations.
Our local emergency management personnel put substantial time into training,
preparation, and monitoring emergency situations in order to provide the best
service possible. City staff will be in attendance at the meeting to accept the
proclamation.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: No action by Council needed - the Mayor will read and
present the Proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING THE THIRD WEEK OF MARCH AS EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS WEEK IN VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, in 2021 Virginia Senate Joint Resolution 286 established the third week of March as Emergency
Management Professionals Week in Virginia; and
WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia has established a state program of emergency management and
requires localities to have emergency management programs to address the array of threats and hazards to which
the people of the Commonwealth are vulnerable; andWHEREAS, emergency management protects communities
by coordinating and integrating all activities necessary to build, sustain, and improve the capability to mitigate
against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from threatened or actual natural disasters and acts of terrorism and
other man-made disasters; and
WHEREAS, emergency management professionals play an under-recognized yet indispensable role in providing
the leadership, management, and operational skills necessary to enable their communities, organizations, and
agencies to develop emergency plans and procedures, ensure personnel are adequately trained and exercise plans,
provide emergency warnings, notifications, and alerts, and acquire resources to protect lives and property and
enhance resiliency to emergency events; and
WHEREAS, emergency management professionals direct or support emergency operations, maintain dedicated
emergency operations centers in 24/7 readiness, and actively serve operationally throughout the cycle of
emergency events; and
WHEREAS, emergency management professionals communicate and coordinate with a broad network of partners
at the federal, state, regional, and local levels of government, in the private sector, and at nongovernmental
organizations and with the general public; and
WHEREAS, a well-prepared and resilient community is the ultimate goal of emergency management; and
WHEREAS, the City of Martinsville is proud to honor the service and commitment of its emergency management
professionals and recognize their contributions to the lives, health, and safety of all who live, visit, and do business
in the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, and members of Martinsville City Council do hereby recognize
the third week of March as Emergency Management Professionals Week in Virginia and we extend our gratitude
and appreciation to all those who comprise the City of Martinsville’s Emergency Management team for their
outstanding work and dedication in making Martinsville a better place for all.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
City Council
Agenda Summary
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 7.
Department: City Council
Issue: Read and present a proclamation recognizing the month of April,
2022 as Bee City Month.
Summary: At City Council’s meeting on March 23, 2021, the Martinsville
Garden Club and Garden Study Club presented information and requested that
Council consider adoption of a resolution designating Martinsville as a BEE
City USA affiliate. As part of that initiative, the City agreed to consider altering
mowing schedules at certain locations, refraining from use of pesticides, or to
provide spaces for native plantings intended to create and enhance pollinator
habitat. The City was eventually approved and designated as a BEE City USA
affiliate. The attached proclamation recognizes the month of April, 2022 as
BEE City Month in the City of Martinsville.
A representative from the Garden Club will be in attendance to accept the
proclamation and provide brief comments.
Attachments: Proclamation
Recommendations: The Mayor will read and present the proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING THE MONTH OF APRIL, 2022 AS MARTINSVILLE’S
OBSERVANCE OF BEE CITY MONTH
WHEREAS, pollinators such as thousands of species of bees are essential partners in
producing much of our food supply; and
WHEREAS, pollinators provide significant environmental benefits that are necessary
for maintaining healthy, diverse ecosystems in towns and cities; and
WHEREAS, pollinators play a vital role for the trees and plants of our community,
enhancing our quality of life, and creating recreational and economic development
opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Martinsville manages parks, public landscaping, and other
public lands that may include greenways and wildlife habitats; and
WHEREAS, the City of Martinsville encourages all property owners, developers and
residents to promote wise conservation stewardship, including the protection of
pollinators and maintenance of their habitats;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Lawson, Mayor, on this 22nd day of March, 2022,
hereby proclaims the month of April 2022, as Martinsville’s observance of
Martinsville’s Bee City Month
And, as the City of Martinsville is an affiliate of Bee City USA®, all citizens are urged
to recognize this observance.
__________________________
Kathy Lawson, Mayor
Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 8.
Department: City Council
Issue: Conduct a public input session related to ARPA (American
Rescue Plan Act of 2021) funds the City is receiving and potential use of those
funds.
Summary: Under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the City of Martinsville
will be receiving a total of $15,463,451. Half of the funds were received in June, 2021
with the remaining half expected in June, 2022. City staff have participated in a number
of webinars and training sessions regarding appropriate use of funds and the required
schedule for use of the funding. At Council’s meeting on February 22, information was
presented regarding the funds along with suggested projects. Council has expressed a
desire to engage citizens in the discussion and the March 22nd meeting has been
advertised as a public input session, giving citizens an opportunity to make comments or
suggestions.
Attachments: None
Recommendations: Following a brief presentation from staff regarding ARPA
funds, conduct the public session to accept comments/suggestions.
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 9.
Department: City Attorney
Issue: Conduct a public hearing regarding certain properties to be made subject
to the Rental Inspection program.
Summary: Section 6-24(a) of the City Code requires a public hearing prior to
adding individual properties to the rental inspection program, as well as specific
findings. Staff has reviewed and recommends the following properties be made
subject to rental inspection, on a finding that, for each individual property listed,
(1) there is a need to protect the public health, welfare and safety of the occupants
of that individual dwelling unit; and (2) the individual dwelling unit is both (A)
blighted and (B) in the process of deteriorating. The list of properties is:
706 Spruce Street, Martinsville, VA 24112
203 Greyson Street, Martinsville, VA 24112
818 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112
Attachments: Resolution adding properties.
(PowerPoint of properties to be presented at meeting)
Recommendations: Conduct public hearing; adopt resolution by roll call vote.
RESOLUTION
ADDING SPECIFIC PROPERTIES TO THE RENTAL INSPECTION PROGRAM
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Martinsville, Virginia, after a duly
conducted public hearing and pursuant to City Code § 6-24, the Council affirmatively
finds, as a matter of fact, that with respect to the dwelling units located at each of the
following addresses, (1) there is a need to protect the public health, welfare and safety
of the occupants of that individual dwelling unit; and (2) the individual dwelling unit
is both (A) blighted and (B) in the process of deteriorating:
706 Spruce Street, Martinsville, VA 24112
203 Greyson Street, Martinsville, VA 24112
818 Starling Avenue, Martinsville, VA 24112
and that therefore the dwelling units at each such address shall be made subject to the
City Rental Inspection Program established under City Code Chapter 6, Article III,
section 6-22 et seq..
*********
Attest:
___________________________________________
Karen Roberts, Clerk of Council
Date Adopted: _______________________________
City Council
Agenda Summary
Meeting Date: March 22, 2022
Item No: 10.
Department: Finance
Issue: Consider approval of the consent agenda
Summary:
The attachment amends the FY22 budget with appropriations in the following
fund:
FY22
General: $ 2,081 – State Confiscated Assets
School Operations Fund: $ 76,000 – State Grants – VTSS & VFHYG
School ESSER/CARES Funds: $ 29,711 – ARP Homeless Children Grant
Attachments: Consent Agenda – 3-22-2022
Recommendations: Approve
BUDGET ADDITIONS FOR 03/22/2022
ORG OBJECT DESCRIPTION DEBIT CREDIT
FY2022
General Fund
01101917 442401 Categorial Other State - Confiscated Assets - PD 1,656
01311085 506078 Police - State Confiscated Assets 1,656
Confiscated Assets from DCJS
01101917 442402 Categorial Other State - Confiscated Assets - CA
01221082 506105 Comm Atty - State Confiscated Assets 426
Confiscated Assets from DCJS 426
Total General Fund: 2,081 2,081
School Operations Fund
18101917 404002 Other State Funds 26,000
71001300 561620 Supplemental S&W 11,600
71001300 562100 Social Security 673
71001300 563000 Purchased Services 7,875
71001300 563142 Professional Development 5,352
71001300 566000 Materials & Supplies 500
VTSS/PBIS State Grant
18103919 489904 Don/Contrib/Gif 50,000
71001210 563000 Supplemental S&W 50,000
Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth Grant
Total School Operations Fund: 76,000 76,000
School ESSER/CARES
19102926 499999 ARP Homeless 29,711
98000221 561620 Supplemental S&W 2,000
98000221 562100 Social Security 153
98000221 563000 Purchased Services 1,000
98000221 565801 Community Outreach 5,000
98000221 566000 Materials & Supplies 5,000
98000221 568100 Capital Outlay Additions 16,558
ARP Homeless Children & Youth Grant
Total School ESSER/CARE Fund: 29,711 29,711
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