City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, September 16, 2014, at the Union Train Station. Mayor Moore called the closed session meeting to order at 6:30p.m. 1. CLOSED SESSION – 6:30 P.M. 2. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member David R. Coleman Council Member W. Howard Myers Council Member Ken M. Pritchett Council Member Carl M. Ross Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Vice Mayor Horace P. Webb Mayor Brian A. Moore Absent: None Present from City Administration: City Manager William E. Johnson, III City Attorney Brian K. Telfair Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC 3. CLOSED SESSION (a): City Attorney Brian Telfair, stated that it was City Council’s desire to enter into a closed session under Section 2.2-3711.A (1) of the Code of Virginia, and specifically under Subsection 1 to discuss matters regarding Council appointees; and under Subsection 4 for the protection of the privacy of individuals in personal matters not related to public business; and under Subsection 6 to discuss and/or consider the investing of public funds where competition or bargaining is involved, where, if made publicly initially, the financial interest of the City would be adversely affected. Council Member Coleman moved that the City Council go into closed session for the purposes noted by the City Attorney. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ross. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb and Moore City Council entered closed session at 6:30 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Vice Mayor Webb made a motion to return City Council into open session and certify the purposes of the closed session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ross. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb and Moore 14-R-35 A RESOLUTION CERTIFYING, AS REQUIRED BY THE CODE OF VIRGINIA, SECTION 2.2- 3712, THAT TO THE BEST OF EACH MEMBER’S KNOWLEDGE, ONLY PUBLIC BUSINESS MATTERS LAWFULLY EXEMPTED FROM OPEN MEETING REQUIREMENTS OF VIRGINIA LAW WERE DISCUSSED IN THE CLOSED SESSION, AND ONLY SUCH PUBLIC BUSINESS MATTERS AS WERE IDENTIFIED IN THE MOTION CONVENING THE CLOSED SESSION WERE HEARD, DISCUSSED, OR CONSIDERED.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. REGULARLY-SCHEDULED MEETING – 7:30 P.M. 2. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member David R. Coleman Council Member W. Howard Myers Council Member Ken M. Pritchett Council Member Carl M. Ross Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Vice Mayor Horace P. Webb Mayor Brian A. Moore Absent: None Present from City Administration: City Manager William E. Johnson, III City Attorney Brian K. Telfair Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: a. Clerk of Council, Nykesha D. Jackson, led council and the audience in the pledge of allegiance. Mayor Moore stated that there has been a change on the agenda. He stated that there has been some discussion on regarding “6a” among City Council Members and staff. He stated that they would like to postpone this item until October 14, 2014. Council Member Myers made a motion to postpone item “6a” on the agenda until October 14, 2014. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ross. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 4. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: (Each presentation will be limited to 10 minutes.) **Proclamation designating September 17-23, 2014, as Constitution Week. (added item) BACKGROUND: A proclamation has been prepared to recognize Constitution Week in the City of Petersburg. A proclamation is issued annually by the President of the United States. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council present the attached proclamation recognizing September 17-23, 2014, as Constitution Week. Dr. Anne Atkinson came forward and gave a briefing on Constitution Week. Mayor Moore read the proclamation out loud. Dr. Atkinson accepted the proclamation. a. Proclamation designating September 15 – October 15, 2014, as Hispanic Heritage Month.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: A Proclamation has been prepared to bring awareness to the Hispanic community’s many contributions to the City of Petersburg and to proclaim September 15th through October 15th as Hispanic Heritage Month. To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the City of Petersburg will present cultural events, historic information, art exhibits, craft, music, food, cooking lessons, dances, and music. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council present the attached proclamation recognizing September 15 through October 15, 2014, as Hispanic Heritage Month. Mayor Moore read the proclamation out loud. Mr. Johnson accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Hispanic Department. Mr. Johnson stated that this past Friday they kicked off the celebration Hispanic Liaison Month. He stated that this was done by the local businesses and restaurants in Old Towne and Fort Lee. He stated that there was a host of other venues as well. He stated that he thinks that a round-of-applause should be given to everyone that helped with this event. He stated that there will be a host of other events during this month in regards to this celebration. b. Presentation by L.C. Sullivan, Executive Director of the Crater Regional Workforce Enforcement Board. BACKGROUND: Levin C. Sullivan, Executive Director of the Crater Regional Workforce Investment Board, will provide information regarding services provided by the Board. RECOMMENDATION: For Information only. Mr. Sullivan introduced Earlene Jones and Joe Fleming to do the presentation. Ms. Jones and Mr. Fleming gave a briefing with a PowerPoint presentation. There was discussion among City Council and staff. c. Presentation by Steven Hicks, Director of Public Works, on the City-Wide Clean-Up event. BACKGROUND: Citizens have expressed an interest for the city to provide a City Wide Clean-Up. This event will give the community the opportunity to remote yard and household waste, recycle electronics, and have documents shredded. The City Wide Clean-up will take place in each Council Ward on October 4, 2014, from 9:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. In addition, the City will provide educational/outreach information regarding the curbside recycling program and the City’s Stormwater Management Program (MS-4 permit). Staff hopes this initiative will reduce isolated debris and promote a clean city. RECOMMENDATION: For Information only. Shannon Fisher, Administrative Assistant in Public Works, gave a briefing with a PowerPoint presentation. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. 5. CONSENT AGENDA: **Request to schedule a public hearing on the proposed disposition of a portion of publicly-owned property addressed as 100 Ballpark Drive. (added item)  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: Following a public hearing held on December 10, 2013, Council voted to authorize the City Manager to dispose of a 4-acre portion of publicly-owned property addressed as 100 Ballpark Drive. The City of Petersburg is considering the disposition of an additional unimproved 5-acre portion of the subject publicly-owned property, which is located at the Petersburg Sports Complex. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council schedule a public hearing on this matter on October 14, 2014. a. Request to schedule a public hearing on the Public Utilities Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2015-2019. b. Request to schedule a public hearing on a proposal to amend an approved rezoning of properties addressed as 220 Perry, 214 Brown, 501 Farmer, and 304 Brown Streets. Council Member Myers made a motion to schedule a public hearing for disposition of a 4-acre portion of publicly100 Ballpark Drive and for a public hearing on the Public Utilities Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2015-201 on October 14, 2014, and for the public hearing on a proposal to amend an approved rezoning of properties addressed as 220 Perry, 214 Brown, 501 Farmer and 304 Brown Street in the month of November 2014. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 6. OFFICIAL PUBLIC HEARINGS: (In accordance with the Rules of Council, public comment will be heard before discussion by Council. Once discussion has started, no further input from the public will be accepted. Each speaker will be limited to three (3) minutes.) a. A public hearing on the City’s proposed Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Years 2015- 2019. BACKGROUND: On September 2, 2014, this public hearing was postponed until tonight’s meeting. The Code of the state of Virginia allows a local planning commission to, and at the direction of the governing body shall, prepare and revise annually a Capital Improvement Program based on Comprehensive Plan of the locality for a period not to exceed the ensuing five years. The commission shall submit the program annually to the governing body, or to the chief administration officer or other official charged with preparation of the budget for the locality, at such time as it or he shall direct. The Capital Improvement Program shall include the commission’s recommendations, and estimates of cost of the facilities and life cycle costs, including any road improvement and any transportation improvement the locality chooses to include in it Capital Improvement Plan and as provided for in the Comprehensive Plan, and the means of financing them, to be undertaken in the ensuing fiscal year and in a period not to exceed the next four years, as the basis of the capital budget for the locality. In preparation of its capital budget recommendations, the commission shall consult with the chief administrative officer or other executive head of the government of the locality, the heads of departments and interested citizens and organizations and shall hold such public hearing as it deems necessary. RECOMMENDATION: Following a duly advertised public hearing, council may affirm the Planning Commission recommendation, overturn the Planning Commission recommendation, table for further consideration, or return the item under consideration to the Planning Commission requesting further review. The recommendation of the Planning Commission was to approve the request. *Item 6a has been removed from the agenda. b. A public hearing on Petersburg Area Transit’s proposed operational enhancements. BACKGROUND: The Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) is recommending operational enhancements that may have a significant impact on the community. The PAT Public Involvement Plan requires that a Public Information Meeting and a Public Hearing be held when PAT proposes operational changes or enhancements to fare and if PAT undertakes large-scale route changes impacting greater than 30% of total system routes  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ revenue hours, not to include grant funded routes. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached resolution. Dironna Belton, Transit Manager, gave a brief overview on Petersburg Area Transit’s proposed operational enhancements. Mayor Moore opened the floor for public comment. Karen Parrish, 1211 West Washington Street, stated that she rides Washington Street and Southpark Mall bus. She stated that it cost her $6.75 per day and $30 per week to get back and forth to work. She stated that she had to take a second job in order for her to get to her first job. She stated that the proposal that is being made now is something that would be fair to everyone that is riding the bus. She stated that she rides the bus six days a week. Jayne Sampson, 14 S. Chappell Street, stated that she works at Southpark Mall as well. She stated that she uses the bus to get back and forth to work. She stated that because the bus does not run when the mall opens she has to work a second job to pay to get to the first job. She stated that it is costing over $90 a week to get back and forth to work. She stated that they need the bus to run every hour and that a lot of people depend on this bus to get back and forth to work. She stated that they want to work and that they do not want to have to stay home in Petersburg. She stated that there are a lot of new restaurants that have opened in the Colonial Heights. She stated that they need the bus for traveling. She stated that most of the college students only work at night and that this does not work for them either. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, stated that he would like to know how many buses have been added to the fleet since two years ago. He stated that the subject came back a minute ago regarding the size of the bus and this came out about the same time the vehicles for the police department were talked about. He stated that the vehicles of the police department were run at a slow economic or if need to be high gear. He stated that now he looks out on the street and sees these big gigantic buses running. He stated that he would like to know what has happened. He stated that every time they get something straight that they change the game up on them. He stated that he also wanted to review to the bus stop shelters. He stated that he thinks that they need a few more. Mrs. Belton stated that she would like to make a comment to the last comment made. She stated that Petersburg Area Transit is an urban transportation agency. She stated that for the feds, having large capacity vehicles in the fleet is very important. She stated that they do believe at some point the population and the ridership will wear these size buses. She stated that the purchases made during the later part in 2013 were to sustain Petersburg Area Transit as a large urban area. She stated that in order to address the operational needs that the City currently has the City has four smaller buses on order that are for the less productive routes. She stated that they also have applied for a grant for a natural gas vehicle to help with some of the emissions of large vehicles. She stated that they also have current funding for bus shelters. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he stands before them to say that this is a good idea. He stated that he is sorry that it has taken this long but at least it shows that the people are being listened to. He stated that he says this to say that he remembers when the buses started going back to Southpark Mall and going up and down the Boulevard. He stated that one of his grips when Annie Mickens was Mayor was that they sent the bus to Southpark Mall but that the other localities wanted the City to service the soldiers to go to Fort Lee. He stated that there was not a public hearing during this time. He stated that he is glad that this is happening. He stated that this is finally showing that the City is doing something for the citizens. He asked that now when the buses cannot go on the base anymore, how many soldiers will come off base and shop in the City of Petersburg. He stated that it is not right the buses in the City to be utilized for someone else and taking the City’s money to another locality to spend. He stated that he thanks the City for doing this. Michael Edwards, 409 Grove Avenue, stated that he remembers when the City was budget crunching and dictating on how high fares would go. He stated that he remembers that the fare was $0.70 and the  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ transfers were $0.10. He stated that the fare increased to $1.00 and the people raised the clouds out of the City. He stated that like time everything has to go up. He stated that they did what they had to do to sustain a system and that they were told in a public hearing that over time the City would evaluate the situation and deem so would lower the fare. He stated that he commends Mrs. Belton for doing just that. He stated speaking on the big buses, certain times of the month the buses are filled. He stated that it would not be feasible to go down to a smaller bus. He stated that he applauds Mrs. Belton, the City and her staff on this. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wagner Road, stated that he commends Mrs. Belton on this. He stated that he commends City Council on pursuing this. He stated that he was listening to the ladies that came up to speak. He stated that they are working two jobs and riding these buses for transportation to work. He stated that he is really excited about the direction that the City is going in. He stated that he has seen the plan and that the plan has action. He stated that bringing the fees down is really important. He stated that with unity they are going to crown all the buses eventually. Sarah Melissa Witiak, 22 Centre Hill Court, stated that she would like to say thank you again for keeping support for the buses. She stated that she knows that she gave City Council a hard time when they raised the prices. She stated that she wants to say thank you for the hard work and getting the prices down and to increase hours. She stated she also thanks the City for supporting VSU as well with the fares and the use of their student IDs. She stated that she knows that this bus is important for many of the citizens in the City and that it does help with the economy as well as helping getting people around even if they have a car. She stated that she really does commend it and for the city to keep up the good work. Pamela Pena, 1692 Fairfax Street, stated that there was a section for veterans that she really appreciated the program. She stated that she is concerned on how the City plans on promoting this to inform veterans. Mrs. Belton stated that in cooperation with the Petersburg Freedom Support Center, Petersburg Area Transit is partnering to allow veterans a three month free pass. She stated that they will continue to promote this. She stated that they have had some media attention through the public information office and it has gone out to the news. She stated that it is part of the program at the Freedom Support Center. She stated that this is offered as a program for the veterans to use. She stated that after the three months then they would be available to have half fare for the veterans in the program. Seeing no further hands, Mayor Moore closed the public hearing. Council Member Myers made a motion approve the resolution for the adoption of the Petersburg Area Transit Operational Enhancements and fare changes. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman . The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson- Smith, Webb, Moore 14-R-36 A RESOLUTION FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE PETERSBURG AREA TRANSIT OPERATIONAL ENHANCEMENTS AND FARE CHANGES. c. A public hearing on the issuance of Bonds for various City and Schools Capital Projects. BACKGROUND: The City Administration has submitted application to the Virginia Resources Authority (VRA) to pursue funding for the City Hall Project, and Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) for Fiscal Years 2015-2017. The VRA has advised the city that the sale date of the 2014 VRA bonds may occur, subject to market conditions, at any time between November 2, 2014, and December 31, 2014, and that VRA’s objective is to pay the city a purchase price for the Bond. Application has also been made to VPSA for Qualified Zone Academy Bonds (QZAB) for Schools Capital Projects. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend council receive citizen comment on this subject matter.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Irvin Carter, Finance Director/ Deputy City Manager, gave a brief overview of the issuance of Bonds for various City and Schools Capital Projects. Mayor Moore opened the floor for public comment. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he would like to ask if they could explain what the priority projects are. Mrs. Peters stated that the projects for school they are looking at replacing the boiler at Blandford Academy, A.P. Hill Elementary Schools needs a platform, the Jail Farm boiler needs to be replaced, Blandford Center needs a new air handler, the Health Department is looking at a new roof, Hudson Court needs interior renovations, District Court needs interior renovation, Circuit Court 2 needs interior renovation, Farmers Market needs exterior alterations, Low Street Park needs improvements, Market Street Fire Station needs a HVAC System, an upgrade to the 800MHz radio system, Fire Station 5 needs improvements, City Hall needs architectural management services, and the Siege Museum needs structural repairs. She stated that this is for 2015. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wager Road, asked whether they are looking at the internal structures as the quality life of the vision of the children and schools. He stated that he was thinking back of his granddaughter being in a school and seeing green water. He stated that some of these things been there for years. He stated that he didn’t hear all the names of the schools. Mr. Carter stated that the list is a pretty comprehensive list. He stated that they have worked with the schools. He stated that the schools were actually a part of the committee. He stated that City Council tabled the CIP adoption until the next meeting. He stated that this actually incorporates a few projects in the other years. He stated that there are also projects in 2016 and 2017 for schools. He stated that this is based on request from schools. He stated that there are projects from A.P. Hill Elementary School, J.E.B. Stuart Elementary School, Peabody Junior High, Petersburg High School, Walnut Hill Elementary School, and Westview Early Childhood Education Center. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkley Avenue, stated that he would urge them to reconsider this and not approve the bonds at this moment. He stated to please put the City’s financial situation back in order and get the credit rating back up and then come back and consider the bonds. He stated that the projects are necessary but they have been talking about a lot of these projects for a long time. He stated that the City cannot handle this when they don’t have the money. He stated when vendors sit and wait for their money and don’t get paid in a timely basis, people look at the City and ask what is going on. He stated that this is some that has to be taken care of first. Joe Chamberlain, 605 St. Luke Street, stated that he is in some agreement with the gentleman that just sat down. He stated this is not just an issue about the bonding but if the City does get the funding what they are going to do to insure that many of these dollars are spent within the community. He asked are they using the City resources to see how they can assure that some minority groups and businesses are getting their fair share of this business. He stated that he has been a man that has traveled throughout the United States. He stated that he has seen City’s developing. He stated that he talked to Council Member Wilson-Smith the other day and that he was making her aware of some of the groups that the City is not aware of. He stated that these groups can help a lot with the City. He stated that they have been making great progress in the City without any funds from the City or federal government. Natan McKenzie, 803 Hinton Street, stated that he was curious to know what figure was collated with some of the items that were discussed before. Mrs. Peters read the list with the dollar amounts. Mr. Carter stated that what Mrs. Peters read is for FY15. He stated that when City Council finally adopts the CIP they can only adopt one year even though it can be an approved plan for five years. He stated that  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ when they talk about the issuance of bonds the issuance of the bonds goes to the first three years of CIP. He stated that he wants to make sure that the public understands this. He stated that when you add the numbers that Mrs. Peters gave it does not add up to $29 million. He stated that $29 million is the maximum amount. He stated that it can be any number up to that amount. John Hart, 1617 Dinwiddie Court, stated that some of the projects can be possibly worked on with the school system. He stated that these are some things that the students can be trained on and gain experience and the City can save some dollars by getting the students to do some of the work. He stated that this is a win situation if they can reach out and train the students. Pamela Pena, 1692 Fairfax Street, asked whether the boiler system is needed for Blandford Academy. She asked is this something that is needed so that the gifted program can take plan. Mr. Carter stated that the boiler replacement is something that needs to be done. He stated that this is something that will help open the doors to the building. He stated that this actually controls the heating component of that particular building. He stated that it has not been replaced. Sarah Melissa Witiak, 22 Centre Hill Court, stated that she heard funding for a study for City Hall. She asked was this for a New City Hall or has City Council decided that the City will have a New City Hall. She stated that this worries her. She stated that she does not think that the City in a situation that allows them to have a New City Hall. Atiba Muse, 16 South Plains Drive, stated that he is very interested in project at Blandford Academy. He stated that this is very necessary for the school to operate. He stated that he wants to say thank you to City Council for the interest that they have in the school system and he looks forward to a lot more. Seeing no further hands, Mayor Moore closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council Members. Vice Mayor Webb made a motion to remove from consideration so owner can seek resources to renovate property. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Ross, Webb, Moore; Voting No: Pritchett and Wilson-Smith 7. PUBLIC INFORMATION PERIOD: The Public Information Period is established by the Rules of Council to hear input from City residents or owners of businesses in the City. It will last for a maximum of 30 minutes. Speakers will be called in the order that they have signed up to speak. If there are ten or fewer speakers, each shall speak for a maximum of 3 minutes. If there are more than six (6) people desiring to speak, the time allotted to each person may be adjusted or the number of speakers limited to meet the time limitation. A speaker may speak on items except those that are listed on tonight’s Council agenda. Any matter brought before the attention of the City Council during the public information period will not be acted upon by the City Council at this meeting. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, stated that he has called a couple of departments and left his name and number and that he has not received a call back this week. He stated to everyone to please support the Freedom Support Center. He asked Mr. Johnson what he does when a person takes charge and cannot do it and that the one that is in charge do not do it. He stated that he acts like the thief is just coming in through the front door. He stated that there is gold and silver in the City and that they need to protect it. He stated that Petersburg is a great City and that he loves it. He stated that the City is being pimped. He stated that the City needs to get it together. He stated that it is not what the City does but what they do not do. Patricia Nunnally, 1205 Rome Street, stated that she has three issues to talk about. She stated that the City clean-up is a wonderful idea. She stated that they had a Blandford Reunion and that they had dumpsters and everyone cleaned up. She stated that she does not have transportation to throw away things to the dumpster. She stated that at one time there was a program that allowed you to borrow a vehicle from the City  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ dumpster and they would bring it to your home. She stated that this would take care of the things that were needed to throw away. She stated that from her understanding the City does not have this anymore. She stated that the Blandford Reunion officially started on Thursday. She stated that it started on Wednesday because Officer Mack came by Bethany Baptist Church and gave the seniors some information on safety. She stated that this was on how the seniors can protect themselves and how they can pay attention to what is going on around them. She stated that that Blandford Reunion was wonderful and that she wanted to thank everyone that was apart it. She thanked the police chief and police officers on a job well done. Timothy Howerton, 2146 Fort Rice Street, stated that he would like to commend the City of Petersburg on the back to school activities. He stated that the thanked everyone that was involved in the “Night Out Against Crime”. He stated that he would like to thank everyone that helped with the back to school rallies. He stated that it means a whole lot for people to attend and support the various events. He stated that in the City of Petersburg he sees continually promotion of entertainment in the City that is publicly funded. He stated that there are things that have been in the past that funds have been put to that have stopped. He stated that he hears proposals of fixing things but that he does not hear proposals of monies aside so that the City can be brought together. He asked what event can the City have that they can sponsor and host that they can be proud of and that this can be done on a continued basis. He stated that he would love for monies to be put aside for parades and activities in the City. He stated that these events would be able to bring in young people. He stated that this would bring the history and love back into the City. He stated that he went to Williamsburg and that the people there are proud of their City and that he is proud of Petersburg. Patricia Miller, 1732 S. Halcun Drive, stated that she would like to thank City Council for their service to Petersburg. She stated that as they enter the new fiscal year of Petersburg, she would like to ask them as leaders to think about why they are present and why did they chose to have their seat on City Council or the other positions. She stated that she is not making any assumptions. She stated that she is just making a statement. She stated that this is also for the people that are trying to get the positions on City Council. She stated that this City is made up of people. She stated that she would like to see a Comprehensive Plan for the neighborhoods where they are demolishing homes. She stated that she is not going to visit things that have been voted on. She stated that she is asking that as they move forward as leaders and citizens that they try to show respect for everyone. She stated that if they are open and honest with each they can resolve the situations that are faced in the community. Pamela Bingham, 1717 W. Princeton Road, stated that she is present to address wellness issues in Petersburg. She stated that the wellness engagement project at VCU is a project that has been underway in Petersburg since last year to address health and wellness issues. She stated that they are specifically present today to invite everyone to a play on October 16th at Tabernacle Community Life Center for a play. She stated that this will be a community discussion. She stated that they need the Mayor, City Manager, each CityCouncil Member and the entire City to join them. She stated that there will be save the date notices going out this week. She stated that there will be flyers and ads to follow. She stated that they recognize that this is a City of champions. She stated that she has been studying for the last few weeks the popularity of the ice bucket challenges. She stated that this is such a good thing for bringing attention to ALS. She stated that she wanted to give kudos to Mr. Shabazz and Vernon Johns Junior High School for participating in activities in the City. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkley Avenue, stated that he would like to thank Public Works for the city-wide clean-up and that he is glad that this is back in place. He stated that he would also like the City for fixing the potholes and the illegal signs. He stated that he would like thank the assistance for request of items being in the wrong place. He stated that he is concerned about the grass cutting. He stated that he has been looking at some areas of the City that is City property that needs to be cut. He stated that the grass has not been cut in more than a month and that the grass is three feet high. He stated that this is unacceptable if they are going to attract people to the City. He stated that he would like to thank them for painting the roof of the train station. He stated that the train station needs more attention with regards of the windows. He stated that they should also consider reinstating the auditor position. He stated that there was one years ago and that the City needs one badly.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Pamela Pena, 1692 Fairfax Street, stated that she would like to say thank you to everyone that participated in the Hispanic Heritage Kick-off. She stated that she was very pleased to see so many officials present. She stated that there are other activities that are going on for the entire month. She stated that the library has a list of event. She stated that she mentioned before about getting information on the gifted program for the schools. She stated that she would like more information on this. She stated that if there is another location for this program she would like to know and also whether the funds have is provided. She stated that she would like to have a meeting with regards to promoting the City. She stated that she had an idea and that she has tried to reach the City Manager and that his assistant has not gotten back with her yet. She stated that her questions from the last meeting have not been answered from the last meeting as well. She stated that no one has contacted her or she has not seen any information as well. Mr. Telfair stated that they sent a letter to the address of Ms. Pena that was provided to them in response to the questions from the last meeting. He stated that he suggest that if Ms. Pena is still present after the meeting that she gets with him or the Assistant City Attorney, Ms. Powell, to verify that they sent the responses to the correct address. Dottie Cavnor, 1845 Powhatan Avenue, stated that she is speaking about two properties on her road. She stated that one property is right across the street from her home that is boarded up. She stated that if she ever went to sell her house that this would make the value of her property go down. She stated that the other property is 1814 Powhatan Avenue. She stated that this property is falling and nothing is being done. She stated that the man who brought the house across the street from her was supposed to fix the home years ago and has not. She stated that this person cannot afford fixing the home now. She stated that she would like to know what is going to happen. Karen Butts, 1837 Powhatan Avenue, stated that Mrs. Cavnor is her neighbor. She stated that she has addressed this property before and that she has spoken to the City Manager. She stated that she has made another appointment to him again. She stated that she would like to have an answer of what is going to happen to these two properties. She stated that they have a third property that they are having a problem with as well. She stated that she would like to thank the City for paving South Boulevard. She stated that there are still problems on Crater Road. She stated that this is where citizens are coming on and going of Crater Road near the highway. She stated that there is trash and potholes still in that area. She stated that she sees high grass and cars parked on people property. She stated that the two properties she would like an answer to this. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wagner Road, stated that he would like to commend two people. He stated that there are many that helped with the back to school project. He stated that he saw Council Member Myers at a church event and that he was on the front row instead of the back row. He stated that he commend Council Member Wilson-Smith on the participating and helping with the Blandford Reunion and parade. He stated that there are good children in the City and schools. He stated that he commends the grass cutting in his neighborhood. He stated that on Wagner Road the grass was not being cut but that now the grass is being cut. He stated that there are a lot of things that need to be pursued. He stated that the October Fest is one of the greatest things that happened in the City that he has seen. He stated that the prayer is still the most important. He stated that he encourages the City to work together and cooperate to get things done in the City and enhance Petersburg. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he is present tonight to speak on the General Assembly. He stated that he knows that it is still in session. He stated that one of the discussions is going to be on Medicaid expansion. He stated that the reason he says come before the Mayor is because as a person who would benefit from Medicaid expansion he knows that she is the Vice-Chair of the local democratic committee and that he is the chair. He stated that other localities in the state have held their delegates accountable for this. He stated that he would like City Council to hold the Delegate Dance accountable for making sure that she fights for the City for Medicaid Expansion. He stated that he knows how it feels to be out numbered. He stated that he remembers when his mom was out when there was segregation trying to help people to vote. He stated that they did not elect her to chicken out because she was out numbered. He stated that they elected her to fight.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Sarah Melissa Witiak, 22 Centre Hill Court, stated that she would like the City to publicize the events that they have. She stated that she has heard a lot of them tonight but that she did not necessarily know that they were happening. She stated that some of them she would have liked to volunteer or help in setting them up. 8. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FOR/FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: a. Consideration of a Resolution approving the issuance and sale of General Obligation Bond Series. BACKGROUND: The City Administration has submitted application to the Virginia Resources Authority (VRA) to pursue funding for the City Hall Project, and Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) for Fiscal Years 2015-2017. The VRA has advised that City that the sale date of the 2014 VRA bonds may occur, subject to market conditions, at any time between November 4, 2014, and November 19, 2014, and that VRA’s objective is to pay the city a purchase price for the Bond. RECOMMENDATION: Adoption Mr. Johnson gave a briefing of the resolution approving the issuance and sale of General Obligation Bond Series. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve issuance and sale of General Obligation Bond Series. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Ross, Webb, and Moore; Voting No: Pritchett and Wilson-Smith 14-R-37 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PETERSBURG, VIRGINIA, APPROVING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF ITS GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND, SERIES 2014, AND SETTING FORTH THE FORM, DETAILS AND PROVISIONS FOR THE PAYMENT THEREOF. b. Consideration of a Resolution for the School Board to seek approval from City Council for any categorical budget transfer that exceeds fifty-thousand ($50,000). BACKGROUND: On June 7, 2011, the Petersburg City Council determined to fund its local contribution to the Petersburg School Board for the City’s schools by establishing the following funding categorical expenditures: (a) Instruction; (b) Administration, Attendance & Health; (c) Pupil Transportation; (d) Operation & Maintenance; (e) School Food Service; (f) Debt; (g) Technology and (h) Contingencies. The purpose of this Resolution is to permit seamless categorical budget transfers from one category to another for amounts not exceeding $49,999.99. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached resolution. Mr. Telfair gave briefing on the resolution for the School Board to seek approval from City Council for any categorical budget transfer that exceeds fifty-thousand ($50,000). There was discussion among City Council and staff. Vice Mayor Webb made a motion to adopt the resolution for the School Board to seek approval from City Council for any categorical budget transfer that exceeds fifty-thousand ($50,000). The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 14-R-38 A RESOLUTION FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD TO SEEK APPROVAL FROM CITY COUNCIL FOR ANY CATEGORICAL BUDGET TRANSFER THAT EXCEEDS FIFTY-THOUSAND ($50,000). c. Consideration of authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease between Virginia State University and the City of Petersburg for property addressed as 453 Harding Street. BACKGROUND: Dr. Marcus Comer, of Virginia State University, received a 3-year grant from the United Stated Department of Agriculture to build an indoor urban food production facility. Property addressed as 453 Harding Street was selected as the most favorable site for the facility. A lease agreement between Virginia State University and the City of Petersburg is attached for your review. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council authorize the City Manager to execute the attached lease agreement. Council Member Myers made a motion authorizing the City manager to execute the attached lease agreement. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Webb. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 14-ORD-92 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE CITY OF PETERSBURG FOR PROPERTY ADDRESSED AS 453 HARDING STREET. d. Consideration of an appropriation of Chesapeake Bay Restoration grants funds. BACKGROUND: The Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund Advisory Committee provides grant monies to localities annually for Chesapeake Bay-related education and restoration activities. These grants are funded with monies from the sale of the special Chesapeake Bay license plates. The City of Petersburg applied for funding by submitting a grant proposal on October 1, 2013, to provide educational opportunities – with field application – for the four (4) City elementary schools. Students will receive a brief lecture on the importance of a clean water environment with respect to preserving the quality of the Chesapeake Bay. This lecture will be followed by an outdoor field trip that will involve painting stencils on drop inlets in the area with environmental preservation logos (“Don’t Dump: Drains to the Bay”; “Only Rain Down the Strom Drain”; etc.) On December 6, 2013, the Department of Public Works received notice from the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund advisory committee that a recommendation would be submitted for the City to receive the financial support grant in the amount of $4,000 pending 2014 General Assembly approval. Funding was initially delayed in May 2014 due to the Virginia state budget not being finalized; however, funds were eventually disbursed to the City. No City funds need to be expended for this grant and a cash match is not required. RECOMMENDATION: Request City Council to adopt the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $4,000. Council Member Pritchett made a motion to adopt the appropriation ordinance in the amount of $4,000. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Webb. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 14-ORD-93 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2014, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2015 IN THE SPECIAL FUNDS FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $4,000 FOR CHESAPEAKE BAY RESTORATION FUND. e. Consideration of appropriation of funds received from the Department of Conservation and Recreation.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (VaDCR) established a dam safety program to provide for proper and safe design, construction, operation and maintenance of dams and protect the public’s safety. All dams in Virginia are subject to the Dam Safety Act and Dam Safety Regulations unless exempt. The Willcox Lake Dam is regulated by VaDCR and is classified as a Significant Hazard Potential Dam. If a dam breech were to occur there would be significant property damage and the potential for loss of life due to the highly populated downstream communities. The VaDCR offers a Dam Safety, Flood Prevention and Protection Assistance Fund to help dam owner evaluate and maintain dams as well as develop emergency action plans for Significant and High hazard potential dams. The City of Petersburg has been granted funding from the program. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $20,310. Council Member Ross made a motion to adopt the appropriation ordinance in the amount of $20,310. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 14-ORD-94 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2014, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2015 IN THE SPECIAL FUNDS FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,310 FOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT -WILCOX LAKE DAM. f. Consideration of appropriation of Federal Transit Administration grants funds. BACKGROUND: State and Federal capital funding programs make resources available to PAT for the purchase pf capital items related to transit and transit facilities. The project funds will assist in the completion of the 2nd floor of Petersburg Station; the purchase of a trolley bus; and purchase of two para- transit replacement buses. The Program of Projects is attached for your review. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached appropriation ordinance. Council Member Myers made a motion to adopt the appropriation ordinance in the amount $1,287,677 for Federal Transit Grant VA-90-X415. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ross. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Myers, Pritchett, Ross, Wilson-Smith, Webb, and Moore 14-ORD-95 AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE MASS TRANSIT FUND, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2014, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2015 FOR $1,287,677 FOR FEDERAL TRANSIT GRANT VA-90-X415. Council Member Coleman stated that Ward 6 will have a meeting on September 29, 2014, at A.P. Hill Elementary School at 6:30pm. He stated that the speaker will be the new Deputy Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant. He stated that he is inviting everyone out to attend. Council Member Pritchett stated that he has a ward meeting on October 20th at 6:30p.m. He stated that it will be at Vernon Johns Junior High School this time. He stated that the speaker will be the City Assessor, Ritchie McKeithen, and possibly others. He stated that he was looking through the code the other day. He asked the Clerk of Council for an updated description of the boundaries and the wards. He stated that the one he has is not updated. Ms. Jackson stated that City Council does not have an updated copy but that she can make a copy available for everyone.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: September 16, 2014 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Pritchett asked Mr. Telfair that since they sold the City Landfill do the City needs to delete Article 3 and CD94-81, Charges. He asked whether this has already been done and they do not have the updated pages. Mr. Telfair stated that in order for him to answer this question publicly each City Council Member will have to advise him that they waive any type of privilege issue that he has with them. He stated that this is legal advice and something that is not discussed publicly. He stated that it is probably best that he answers this on tomorrow. He stated that there are certain ethical issues that involve the state bar that he must follow as City Attorney. He stated that included in that is that if there is publicly request by an individual Council Member that he answer a legal question there must be a waiver of attorney/client privilege to answer that specific question. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she would like to thank the City Manager, Public Works, Police Department and everyone that took a part in the Blandford Reunion. She stated that she would like to thank for the signs and the streets. She stated that it was a wonderful event. She thanked everyone that lived in the Blandford Neighborhood who came out to the event and cleaning. Vice Mayor Webb stated that he would like to thank Mr. Hicks and his crew as far as working on Boydton Plank Road to Baylor’s Lane. He stated that there were potholes and big holes on those streets. Mayor Moore stated at the beginning of October VDOT will be having their usual transportation public hearing. He stated that the policy committee will speak tissue of the enter change of I85, I95 and Route 460 as a priority project for the region. He stated that they will make sure to go forward with this. 9. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 10. CLERK OF CITY COUNCIL'S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 11. CITY ATTORNEY’S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 12. CLOSED SESSION (IF NECESSARY): No closed is necessary. 13. ADJOURNMENT: Council Member Coleman moved for adjournment. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ross. There was no discussion. The motion was approved on roll call vote City Council adjourned at 10:02 p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor