City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, at the Union Train Station. Mayor Myers called the closed session meeting to order at 5:00p.m. 1. CLOSED SESSION MEETING – 5:00 P.M. 2. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member David R. Coleman Council Member John A. Hart, Sr. Council Member Darrin L. Hill Council Member Brian A. Moore Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Vice Mayor Samuel Parham Mayor W. Howard Myers Absent: None Present from City Administration: Interim Chief Operating Officer Dironna Belton Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC 3. CLOSED SESSION: Clerk of City Council Nykesha D. Jackson, 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 under Subsection 1 to discuss appointments of City Council appointees; under Subsection 3 to discuss the acquisitions of real property for a public purpose or the disposition of publicly held real property where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of the City; and under Subsection 7 to consult with legal counsel and be briefed by legal staff pertaining to actual or probably litigation, where such briefing and consultation in an open meeting would adversely affect the litigating posture of the City. Vice Mayor Parham moved that the City Council go into closed session for the purposes noted by the Clerk of City Council. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers City Council entered closed session at 5:04 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Council Member Hart 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 Coleman. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers; No: Moore 16-R-11 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: March 15, 2016 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ 1. REGULARLY-SCHEDULED MEETING – 7:05 P.M. 2. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member David R. Coleman Council Member John Hart, Sr. Council Member Darrin L. Hill Council Member Brian A. Moore Council Member Samuel Parham Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Mayor W. Howard Myers Absent: Present from City Administration: Interim Chief Operating Officer Dironna M. Belton Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC 3. MOMENT OF SILENCE: a. Clerk of Council, Nykesha D. Jackson, led council and the audience in a moment of silence. 4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: a. Clerk of Council, Nykesha D. Jackson, led council and the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. 5. PRESENTATION/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: (Each presentation will be limited to 10 minutes.) a. Proclamation for Girl Scout Week. BACKGROUND: More than 3.8 million Girl Scout Members nationwide will be celebrating 103 years of this American tradition, with nearly 50 million women who grew up participating in Girl Scouting and exemplify the impact of this amazing movement. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Mayor Myers read the attached proclamation. Pam Hairston, Girl Scout Leader, accepted the proclamation along with the Girls Scouts that are present. Ms. Leslie Cross, Girl Scout Leader, spoke on behalf of the Girl Scouts and thanked City Council for the proclamation. b. EMS Services in the City of Petersburg BACKGROUND: Southside Virginia Emergency Crew has been answering EMS calls for the City of Petersburg since 1945. Until July 2014, SVEC was responsible for all EMS calls in the City of Petersburg from our location at Graham Road. Petersburg Fire Department took over Stations 3 & 4 at that time and has been running EMS to present day with assistance from SVEC. SVEC currently has equipment and staff to run all 3 stations under current funding from the City of Petersburg. RECOMMENDATION: No action required.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ J. Tolleison Morriss, President of Southside Virginia Emergency Crew Board of Trustees, gave an overview of the proposal presentation from the Southside Virginia Emergency Crew. c. Fire Department EMS Proposal Presentation BACKGROUND: In July 2014, the Fire Department deployed an advanced life support medic unit from Farmer Street fire station to address Southside VA Emergency Crew’s delayed response times to the western corridor of the City. This was also done to augment SVEC’s down staffing of a medic unit due to budget reductions. The staffing and deployment of Fire Medic 3 (Farmer Street) along with the Fire Medic 4 (Sycamore Street) recognized an increase in the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) of patient’s transported, which leads to increases in patient survivability. The Fire Department is proposing a deployment of fire medic units from all four City fire stations which will provide even greater positive patient outcomes. This proposal is recommended as a collaborative effort with SVEC with the caveat that the Fire Department becomes the lead EMS agency for the City of Petersburg. RECOMMENDATION: Review and discuss Fire Ems proposal. Fire Chief T.C. Hairston introduced Deputy Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant. Deputy Chief Sturdivant gave a brief PowerPoint presentation on the Fire Department EMS Proposal. Chief Hairston stated some brief points on the PowerPoint presentation. There was discussion among staff and City Council Members. d. Six month Financial Update for Fiscal Year 2016 BACKGROUND: This presentation will give a snapshot of the financial position of the various funds of the city to include General Fund, Special Funds, Utility Fund and other enterprise funds. RECOMMENDATION: Informational purposes only. Irvin Carter, Finance Director, gave brief overview of the six month financial update for fiscal year 2016 with a PowerPoint presentation. There was discussion among staff and City Council Members. 6. CONSENT AGENDA: a. Minutes of January 11, 2016; January 19, 2016; February 2, 2016; February 18, 2016;February 22, 2016; February 24, 2016; March 3, 2016. b. Schedule a public hearing to approve the application to Vacate Right-of-Way of Property Adjacent to East Washington Street. c. Schedule public hearing on the proposed disposition of 326 East Washington Street 011-33- 0010; 380 East Washington Street 012-20-0001; 400 East Washington Street 012-29-0002. d. Schedule a public hearing to amend City Code Section 50-131 to remove term from “cash escrow.” e. Schedule a public hearing for consideration of proposed uses of CDBG funds for 2016-2017. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda that schedules four public hearings  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ for April 5, 2016, regular City Council meeting. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham, and Myers 7. 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 for the proposed disposition of publicly-owned property located at 808 Halifax Street. BACKGROUND: The City is considering the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 808 Halifax Street. The developer plans to turn it into rental properties, either single family or multifamily depending upon was it authorized by City Code. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend that City Council permit the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 808 Halifax Street. Dironna Belton, Chief Operating Officer, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Hill made a motion to table action on the public hearing until they find out more information and also who the person is. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers b. A public hearing for the proposed disposition of publicly-owned property located at 811 Halifax Street. BACKGROUND: The City is considering the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 808 Halifax Street. The developer plans to turn it into rental properties, wither single family or multifamily depending upon was it authorized by City Code. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend that City Council permit the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 808 Halifax Street. Dironna Belton, Chief Operating Officer, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, asked what does the City itself has invested in this property and what is the cost today. He stated that this would be involving acquisition, demolition and whatever else is involved. He asked what independent appraisals have been done on this part. He asked what the market value is and when was this done and also by whom. He stated that basically the City is handling real estate transactions and have been doing so for the last 40 years and that this has been a joke. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council and staff.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Hill made a motion to table action on the public hearing until further investigation is done by the Chief Operating Officer. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moore. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 8. 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 there is a saying that he read on the wall in the Petersburg Public Library. He stated that it stated that the first Petersburg Librarian was in 1924, who was Teresa D. Hodges. He stated that a successful democracy must put forth years of enlightenment and stimulation to independent thought based on information in the hands of its citizenship. He stated that he wants someone to do the old business. He stated that there were some things on the docket before all of this got started. Thomas Chambliss, 321 Cross Street, stated that he is speaking on 401 High Street in regards to the farm that the City has been fighting over with the donkey and sheep. He stated that he wants to invite everyone to sit on his front porch at 321 Cross Street tomorrow and smell the filth coming from the farm. He stated that it has been held under the table for too long and that it is time for a couple of them to come and see what the complaints are about. Cory Harris, 2316 Anderson Street, stated that he has been in the City for a long time and that he has never seen a City so divided. He stated that this is ridiculous. He stated that everyone has individual agendas for selfish reasons. He stated to City Council that when they are in their seats there is no color. He stated that they are to serve everyone. He stated that there is no republican or democrat. He stated that it is only Petersburg. He stated that somehow City Council Members cannot get that. He stated that he is concerned about a 47% childhood poverty rate in the City. He stated that he is concerned about people that have been out of work for years. He stated that it is ridiculous. He stated that the funny part about the entire ordeal is that they matter not City Council. He stated that the citizens are more important than City Council’s agenda. He stated that they should focus on what is important. Ken Pritchett, 1113 Overbrook Road, asked can City Council suspend the Rules of Council and give at least two minutes to each person to speak. He stated that it is great to see all the citizens at the council meeting. He stated that he hopes that they keep coming in the future. He stated that he wants to speak on the Farmer’s Market but that he does not have the time to do so. He stated that the City has virtually destroyed the Farmer’s Market. He stated that they brought people downtown every weekend. He stated that he would like to see them as City Council Members to take this as their goal to reestablish the Farmer’s Market as it was. He stated that all the vendors were bolted when the announcement was that they were going to lose this property. He stated that he would like to know who the person was that was intended to buy the property that caused them to stop the Farmer’s Market before the season was over. He stated that he would like to see the Farmer’s Market back where it was before it was where it is now. He stated that if they need to expand then they can expand it to the yellow brick road across the street. He stated that he hopes that City Council gets the message and act quickly and put some of these vendors back. Barb Rudolph, 1675 Mount Vernon Street, stated that she would like to bring up what is in the City’s Code of Ethics. She stated that in “Section 1” it speaks of responsibilities of public service. She read, “City officials and employees are obligated to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia and to comply with federal, state and local laws and policies. Recognizing the special responsibilities of serving the City and its citizens and customers, City officials and employees are required to maintain high standards of integrity and honesty. They are expected to treat all members of the  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ public and fellow City employees with respect, courtesy, concern and responsiveness. The conduct of City officials and employees in both their official and private affairs should be above reproach to assure that their City position is not for personal gain.” She stated that she is asking them to just look in the mirror. Janell Sinclair, 1644 S. Sycamore Street, stated that she is present because Monique Williams asked someone to be the voice to the voice list. She stated that she will be speaking. She stated that she wanted to speak. She stated that she is not opposed to low-income housing or developers coming to the City to revitalize the community. She stated that she is not opposed to providing families with affordable housing. She stated that she is opposed to the leaders being seduced with projects and promises while intentionally ignoring the so re spots that plague the City. She stated that currently Stainback Street Apartments in Ward 6, Commerce Street Apartments in Ward 5 and Dunedin Apartments in Ward 7, which is currently less than 50% occupied, can be brought and refurbished with the same low-income tax credits that the City is doing for other new projects. She stated that they are not going to let the City ignore them as they have been ignoring these properties. She stated that they are not going to let them deteriorate as the apartments have been doing for years. She stated that they are residents that have become revitalized in their allegiance to the City and they ask that they be refurbished to see their short sightedness to their wards that the developers can some whisper sweet nothings in your ears. She stated that City Council Members should stand up for their wards and the City and do what is right. Ben Greenbaum, 134 South Adams, stated that he and his wife have lived in the City for nine years. He stated that he and his wife have both become concerned about the City’s leadership. She stated that it is a wonderfully diverse and historic City and yet in light of the many significant and very damaging problems that now confront Petersburg he would ask them to consider a few things that he suggests. He stated to City Council to please represent all the citizens and to keep all of them open in transparency and informed regarding any upcoming financial issues or problems. He stated to City Council to be open to constructive criticism and analysis offered by concerned citizens. He stated to City Council to also be forthcoming when questions are posed by the press and not refuse to comment when asked an important reasonable question. He stated to be responsible about financial crisis. He stated to be considerate of taxpayers when deciding to attend conferences that have devious impact on the betterment of the City. He stated also with regards of spending money on expensive hotels instead of better housing. Jon Ceffalia, 25620 Simmons Avenue, stated that he would like to ask if it would be possible to start a program to certify himself or other people to volunteer their time and services to help stop people from parking illegally. He stated that he has an issue of people parking in handicap spaces without certification, a sticker or license plate with handicap on it. He stated that he has taken several pictures of people parking in the handicap spaces and that he also would like to know if it is possible or become certified to take pictures of cars in illegal parking spots and certify them to the town or police department for summons. He stated that this would be to control this issue. He stated that he was very embarrassed by a person that pulled up next to him in a handicap spot. He stated that the person was coming out of Dunkin Donuts and that he had parked next to him. He stated that he spoke to the person and told them that this is a handicap parking space. He stated that the guy responded asking what is it to him regarding the space. He stated to the guy that he is handicap and that if he needed the space he would not be able to park. He stated that the guy laughed at him and gave him the finger. He stated that he was mortified about the issue. He stated that he took a picture of the guy’s car. Mayor Myers asked Mr. Ceffalia to bring his comments to a closure. Ida Edwards, 30 Corling Street, stated that she is a concerned citizen and tax payer. She stated that she has been before City Council Members before. She stated that there are so many things that she can speak about but in the essence of time she will speak on one issue. She stated that this issue is regarding the animals that are adjacent to her property. She stated that she was present before when there was a decision made that they should be moved. She stated that it has been two years in the past and that they have not been moved or taken away. She stated that she is in favor of the Pradia’s and that she opposes the animals. She stated that she would not like to have animals held by her home or anyone else’s home in the City of Petersburg. She stated that if they would like to do this there is the country in other areas adjacent to  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Petersburg on the outskirts. She stated that for health reason, personal reasons and economic reasons she opposes this. She stated that she wonders why they cannot hold the people accountable who are breaking the law and not agreeing with the rules. She stated that they say it costly and she agrees that it is costly when they keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again. She asked why not hold their word. She stated that their word is their bond. She stated that if they say that they should move then they should move. She stated that the family should not have to tie up their funds and time to seek legal results when you have a City with City Council and a City Manager to take care of these problems. She stated that she does appreciate the fact that they are working on this but that this is way too long. Leonard Curry, 2014 Woodland Road, stated that nearly one million dollars were giving in salary increases to 16 individuals in a year when the salaries were frozen for teachers. He stated that these increases are about 1/12 of the deficit. He stated that it is a half million bucks. He stated that he hopes that they look at these salaries and pull some back. He stated that some of the pay increases were $40,000. He stated that the City now has nine people making more than $100,000 a year. He stated that five years ago there was only one person, the City Manager. He stated that the Census Bureau says that the average family income in Petersburg is $29,000. He stated that yet the City awarded $40,000 in pay increases to certain individuals. He stated that many people got a 50% increase. He stated that he has a list of salaries that City Council can look at. Perita Pradia, 517 High Street, stated that she is before City Council again with the same concern. She stated that she owns the Destiny Inn Bed & Breakfast. She stated that they have been talking in conversation about how animal manure lays out in open. She stated that there has also been conversation on how they have animals that reside directly behind their property for seven years. She stated that she and her husband also purchased 541 High Street this past June. She stated that they have worked tirelessly preparing their property for renters to move into the property. She stated that this past weekend she showed the property to a renter and he heard the sound of the donkey and he decided that he did not want this particular property. She stated that this is absolutely a shame. She stated that they have put their time and investment of dollars into their business the Destiny Inn Bed & Breakfast but that they have also taken upon themselves to rebuild and revitalize some of the historic homes in the community. She stated that it is such a shame that council has not did anything for the last couple of years. She stated that the City ordinance states this ordinance that should be enforced. She stated that she stands in front of them again to ask them to enforce their ordinance. Pamela Pena, 1692 Fairfax Road, stated that she would like to ask the matter of the City Attorney illegally charging her for asking questions at a public council meeting been resolved. She stated that she was told that it would be taken care of. She stated that she would like to put this to rest as the City Attorney has been spreading rumors about the situation to others instead of speaking to her directly in writing just as she has with him. She stated that she would also like to ask why is the trash collection part of the utility bill not itemized on the estimated statement. She asked whether it is being paid and up-to-date. She stated that this is a set fee and that this is something that should be allocated already and shown on the statement while the City takes care of the water issue. She asked can someone look into and follow-up on the changing of the website so that a person does not need the account number to pay utility bills. She stated that she is asking this because if you do not get a bill and you are going to pay you do not have your account number to be able to pay. She stated that something like a social security number would be suffice. She asked whether a payment plan has been made to get the school board its funds owed. She asked can an estimate be done to see how much it would cost to have the Cameron Field revamped. She asked is it possible to have local events posted on the City’s website and if so who would a person speak to regarding this matter. She asked whether it was true that there was a lawsuit regarding certain law officers not being paid overtime. She stated that if this is so what would be the outcome for this. She thanked City Council Members for her time and requested that these answers be provided at the next City Council Meeting. She stated that if she needs to be charged for this can they explain prior to responding. Karen Graham, 402 High Street, stated that she is present to ask that City Council put forth to the public how they plan on advertising and proceeding with hiring a new City Manager. She stated that given that the Chief Administrative Officer Committee is only in place for 60 days. She asked City Council have they started advertising for this position and if not when do they plan on advertising. She asked do they plan on  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ hiring a consultant again to begin with the selection process. She asked will there be citizen input in the hiring process. She stated that in the February 2, 2016, minutes under the public information section the bills for the January – February period were supposed to come out in March and that she is yet to receive her bill. She stated that they are supposedly due the 25th of this month and that this is giving people ten days to pay. She stated that they have not had a Ward 5 meeting in a long time. She stated that she keeps seeing all of the other council members scheduling ward meetings. She stated that it would be nice to have one. She stated that she is a proponent of the gentleman that spoke on the salary increases that some employees received. She stated that she is also a proponent of the animals on High Street. She stated that this has been an issue that has been going on far too long. She stated that she lives a block away and that there is no odor and that they owners really keep the property up well. She stated that those that do complain do not live in the area or on High Street. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wagner Road, stated that he is born and raised citizen of the City. He stated that he would like to mention two things. He stated that he thanks the Senator for being present because she would remember back in 1998 it was a proclamation that was given to City and that he had given each Council Member a copy. He stated that the copy was given to the older City Council Members. He stated that it took three years to bring prayer back to the chambers. He stated that he is not going against people religious beliefs but that he believes that a lot of the things that are happened would not happen if they had prayer. He stated that he would like to leave City Council Members with two things. He stated that those two things are righteousness and religious. He stated that there is a difference between the two. He stated that if you are on religious you will have greed, division, selfishness and other things. He stated that it is time for the City to get real. 9. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FOR/FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: *Item 9L has been moved up to 9A. a. Consideration of Budget Amendment Petersburg City Public Schools BACKGROUND: When the budget was prepared, the exact amounts of grant awards were unknown. The School Division has received additional funding in the amount of $5,350,474. RECOMMENDATION: The Petersburg School Board and the Acting Superintendent request that City Council appropriate the additional funds ($5,350,474) received by the School Division for Fiscal Year 2015/2016 by adopting the attached appropriation ordinance. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to appropriate the additional funds ($5,350,474) received by the School Division for Fiscal Year 2015/2016 by adopting the attached appropriation ordinance. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-ORD-9 AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2015, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016, IN THE SCHOOL OPERATING & FOOD SERVICE FUNDS. b. Consideration to amend the special fund budget for the proposed disposition of 16 parcels of publicly-owned property in the Halifax Triangle. BACKGROUND: Petersburg City Council previously approved a letter of intent from the Woda Group to purchase properties in the Halifax Triangle. The Woda Group responded to a request for proposals from the City of Petersburg for redevelopment of the Halifax Triangle. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council permit the disposition of 16 parcels of property addressed as 106,119,121,123,127,140,147,151,153,155 and 116-122 Halifax Street; 110,112,114 and 116 South Avenue and 137 South Market Street known as the Halifax Triangle.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Moore made a motion to amend the special fund budget for the proposed disposition of 16 parcels of publicly-owned property in the Halifax Triangle. The motion was seconded by Mayor Myers. There was discussion among City Council Members. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a substitute motion to table action until the next City Council meeting. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers; Voting No: Moore c. Consideration to authorize the City Treasurer to publish Delinquent Taxpayers List. BACKGROUND: Virginia Code §§58.1-3921 – 58.1-3924 gives the City Treasurer the authority to create delinquent taxpayer lists and gives the local governing body authority to publish such lists, or parts of the list as deemed advisable by the Treasurer, in the local newspaper. RECOMMENDATION: The City Treasurer recommends that the City Council give the City Treasurer authorization to publish the delinquent taxpayers list in the local newspaper as soon as possible. Council Member Coleman made a motion to authorize the City Treasure to publish the delinquent taxpayers list in the local newspaper as soon as possible. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers; Voting No: Hill d. Consideration to approve the purchase of 125 W. Washington Street. BACKGROUND: A hearing to permit the purchase of this property was held on January 19, 2016. City Council gave the City Manager the authorization to negotiate the selling price of 125 W. Washington Street and to report back for the permit to sell. The negotiated price of the property is $100,000. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council to accept the price and permit the purchase of 125 W. Washington Street. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member Hill made a motion to table action until the City’s financial situation is better. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Parham. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers e. Consideration of reappointment to the Virginia Gateway Region Board. BACKGROUND: Virginia’s Gateway Region is a private, nonprofit organization that is funded to facilitate new business opportunities, work with existing businesses, advance resources that will enhance the economic viability of the region, and foster regional cooperation among the public and private entities that are involved in economic development activities. Virginia’s Gateway Region includes the Cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell and Petersburg, and the Counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Prince George, Surry and Sussex. Each member jurisdiction appoints one (1) local elected official and one (1) local business representative to the Board of Directories. Both Mayor Myers and Winston Saunders have indicated their desire to represent the City on the Board. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council appoint Mayor W. Howard Myers and Winston T. Saunders, Director of Engineering and Facilities of Boars Head Provisions, to the Board.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Moore made a motion to reappoint Mayor W. Howard Myers and Winston T. Saunders to the Virginia Gateway Region Board. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Moore, Parham and Myers; Voting No: Hill and Wilson-Smith 16-R-12 A RESOLUTION REAPPOINTING MAYOR W. HOWARD MYERS AND WINSTON T. SANDERS TO THE VIRGINIA GATEWAY REGION BOARD FOR A TERM EXPIRING FEBRUARY 28, 2017. f. Consideration of an appointment to the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority BACKGROUND: The Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA) is a public service authority that implements solid waste management and recycling programs for thirteen local governments. Since its formation in 1990, the CVWMA has endeavored to provide efficient and economical waste management and recycling solutions for its member’s jurisdictions. The CVWMA’s aim is to meet local government’s waste management and recycling needs through improving existing services and programs and expanding into new program areas. A board of directors including representatives from each member locality governs the actions of the authority and daily operations are coordinated by an experienced staff. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council appoint Daniel Harrison, Interim Director of Public Works to the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority Board. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to appoint Daniel Harrison, Interim Director of Public Works Central Virginia Waste Management Authority Board. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moore. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-13 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING DANIEL HARRISON, INTERIM DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO THE CENTRAL VIRGINIA WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY BOARD FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2016. g. Consideration of an appropriation for the 2015 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) for Tri-City Communications Enhancements. BACKGROUND: The FY2015 HSGP contributes to the implementation of the National Preparedness System by financially supporting the ability of states and local jurisdictions to build, sustain and deliver core capabilities identified in the goal. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council to approve the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $11,200. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to approve the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $11,200. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-ORD-10 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2015, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016 IN THE SPECIAL FUNDS FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $11,200 FOR 2015 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY PTOGRAM (SHSP). h. Consideration of an appropriation Victims of Crime Act Assistance Grant Program. BACKGROUND: The amount of $30,215 pursuant to the attached statement of grants has been awarded to the department for use in the current fiscal year 2016. These monies will be used to purchase new equipment for our office, personnel cost and additional supplies which are needed desperately. We are  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ therefore respectfully requesting approval from City Council for its appropriation. Annual reporting and certifications are filed yearly with the Department of Criminal Justice Service. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council to approve the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $30,215. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to approve the attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $30,215. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-ORD-11 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2015, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016 IN THE SPECIAL FUNDS FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,215 FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDING VICTIM WITNESS GRANT PROGRAM. i. Resolution to Execute Standard Independent Commission Agreement with Greyhound Lines/Greyhound Lines Canada. BACKGROUND: Currently Greyhound Lines is a tenant in Petersburg Station located at 100 West Washington Street. Since 2010, there has been an independent contractor running the daily operations; this ended February 2016. Both the City of Petersburg (Petersburg Area Transit) and Greyhound have a mutual benefit in the ticket sales office remaining open. This agreement will allow PAT staff to run the Greyhound ticket station as well as PAT customer service, allowing for vital tenant in our station to remain. There are several pending grant opportunities that benefit from this ticketing station remaining here in Petersburg. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt resolution authorizing City Manager to enter into Commission Agreement. Council Member Coleman made a motion to adopt a resolution authorizing the Acting City Manager to enter into Commission Agreement. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-14 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ACTING CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A MAJOR STANDARD INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGREEMENT WITH GREYHOUND LINES/GREYHOUND LINES CANADA. j. Consideration of appropriation for Capital Grant Funds to Petersburg Area Transit (PAT). BACKGROUND: State and Federal capital funding programs make resources available to PAT for the purchase of capital items related to transit and transit facilities. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council appropriate $197,083 in local, state and federal capital grants funds. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to appropriate $197,083 in local, state and federal capital grants funds. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-ORD-12 AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE MASS TRANSIT FUND, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2015, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016 FOR THE TRANSIT CAPITAL GRANT. k. Consideration for the adoption of the Petersburg Area Transit Title VI Program.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: In order to receive federal assistance through the FTA, Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) must comply with the guidelines of the Title VI of the Civil Rights ACT of 1964 and carry out the U.S. Department of Transportation (‘DOT” or “the Department”) Title VI regulations (49 CFR part 21). PAT’s Title VI document is intended to integrate programs an activities, based on the considerations expressed in the Department’s policy Guidance Concerning Recipients’ Responsibilities to Limited English Proficient (“LEP”) Persons (70 FR 74087, December 14, 2005). RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached resolution approving Petersburg Area Transit’s updated Title VI Program. Council Member Hart made a motion to adopt the attached resolution approving Petersburg Area Transit’s updated Title VI Program. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-15 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE PETERSBURG AREA TRANSIT TITLE VI PROGRAM. l. Consideration of appropriation for Alternative Fuel Grant funds to Petersburg Area Transit (PAT). BACKGROUND: Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) has been awarded $80,000 from the Virginia Department of Mineral, Mines and Energy (DMME) to support the advancement of alternative transportation bi- fuel technology. Under this large-scale initiative, public and private fleet vehicles are converted to propane autogas in order to reduce vehicle emissions, displace gasoline consumption. Propane autogas, also referred to as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is the most widely used alternative fuel in the worked, with more than 17 million autogas vehicles on the roads today. PAT worked with Alliance Autogas/Blossman Gas and DMME on this opportunity, which has supported a variety of alternative fuel projects across the Commonwealth. DMME is supported on Alternative Fuels/Vehicles initiatives by Virginia Clean Cities (VCC)/ James Madison University. The Clean Cities program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy in accordance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992, to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products, by promoting the use of alternative fuels and vehicles use in the transportation sector. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council adopts the actions to move forward to appropriate $80,000 in state and federal funds. Council Member Hart made a motion to adopt the actions to move forward to appropriate $80,000 in state and federal funds. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-ORD-13 AN ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE MASS TRANSIT FUND, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2015, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016, FOR THE TRANSIT ALTERNATIVE FUEL GRANT. m. Consideration of an appointment to the Appomattox River Water Authority. BACKGROUND: The Appomattox River Water Authority consists of the Cities of Colonial Heights and Petersburg and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George. The Authority is responsible for the operation of the Appomattox River Water Treatment Plant. The Authority Board includes one (1) Member and one (1) Alternate Member from each of the political subdivisions. City Council has, as have other member jurisdictions, traditionally appointed the locality’s chief administrative officer as its representative on the Board and the Director of Public Works as the alternate. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council appoint Dironna M. Belton, Interim Chief Operating Officer to the ARWA Board.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Coleman made a motion appointing Dironna M. Belton, Interim Chief Operating Officer to the ARWA Board. The motion was seconded by Mayor Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-16 A RESOLUTION TO APPOINT DIRONNA M. BELTON, INTERIM CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER TO THE APPOMATTOX RIVER WATER AUTHORITY FOR A TERM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2018. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to change the title of Ms. Dironna Belton, COO to Acting or Interim City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion among City Council Members. CLOSED SESSION: Council Member Moore moved that the City Council go into closed session. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Parham. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Moore, Parham and Myers; Voting No: Hill and Wilson- Smith City Council entered closed session at 9:06 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to return City Council into open session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-17 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. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to amend her motion to read that the current position that is held by Dironna Belton, COO be changed to Acting or Interim City Manager and she would also go from Classified to appointed with terms to be worked out by Monday. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-18 A RESOLUTION TO CHANGE CURRENT POSITION HELD BY DIRONNA BELTON, COO TO ACTING OR INTERIM CITY MANAGER AND TO GO FROM CLASSIFIED TO APPOINTED WITH TERMS. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion stating that since Ms. Belton is now the Acting City Manager after Monday that the three member team composed of the Mayor and two other City Council Members become null void on Monday. The motion was seconded by Council Member Coleman. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to develop a policy that stipulates in the matter of attendance of conferences both in-state and out-state, that only three members of City Council attend the conference at any time and always leaving a quorum in the City and not having a need to cancel a meeting. She also stated that those members attending not be both the Mayor and Vice Mayor and no time the attendees are in their last year of service. Motion dies due to lack of second. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that there was a motion on the floor back in either 2013 or 2014 that they will not hold their retreat in Smithfield, VA anymore. She stated that in 2015 they held their Retreat in Smithfield, VA, with expenses over $5,000. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion that City Council do not hold their Retreat in Smithfield, VA or spend over $5,000 or more on such a meeting in the future. Motion dies due to lack of second. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated they may need to meet with the City Attorney on her next item that she is presenting she is not sure. She stated that she would like to bring it to the table. She stated that she would like to see City Council draft a resolution by majority vote requesting that the General Assembly do what is necessary so that the City of Petersburg can change the charter and have the citizens of the City vote for the Mayor and not City Council Members. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that on the matter of proclamations she would like to ask publicly that the Blandford First Committee be recognized at the next City Council meeting. She stated that they had wanted to be present to receive a proclamation or a resolution from this City Council on tonight. She stated that they are not present. She stated that she would like to ask publicly that they receive this at the next City Council meeting. Mayor Myers stated that they will discuss this. He stated that the will not make a decision until he has the information before him. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that this is where she is on the whole issue. She stated that they expected to be present tonight. She stated that she is trying to understand how they decided who they can have a proclamation for and who cannot. She stated to Mayor Myers that he is saying he is not going to discuss it tonight but she does not understand. Mayor Myers asked Council Member Wilson-Smith would she like to discuss this now or when a City Attorney is present. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that these are all the items that she has for tonight. Council Member Hart stated that he has a couple items for this evening. He stated that one item he will wait until we have a City Attorney. He stated that the Citizens Outstanding Award for March goes to Jeffrey Barnes. He stated that Mr. Barnes is a resident of Valor Drive. He stated that Mr. Barnes has done a lot of work in the area and that they appreciate all the work that he has done for Ward 7. He stated that he would like to see City Council establish an audit committee after the audit process is done in the City. He stated that he would them to be citizens from Petersburg. He stated that in this process he would like them to bring in a resume so that they will know their experience. He stated that he does not want committee members that don’t have the experience of a CPA or some type of budgetary background. He stated that he wants them to come in with experience so that they can work on the audit so that they City does not face these financially issues again. Council Member Coleman made a motion to establish a City Council Standing Audit Committee to go over the finance basis on a quarterly period in the City of Petersburg. The motion was seconded by Council  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Member Moore. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson- Smith, Parham and Myers; Abstain: Coleman Council Member Coleman stated that Ward 6 will meet next month in April at A.P. Hill Elementary School on Talley Avenue. He stated that the date and time will be announced at the next City Council meeting. He stated that the speakers will be announced at the same time. Council Member Hill stated that he would like to thank everyone for their attendance and for coming out. He stated that he really appreciates it. He stated that he stated that he would like to also welcome the new Interim City Manager, Dironna Belton. He stated that she is a native of the City and that they appreciate her stepping up during this most difficult time. He stated that he will be sponsoring a Town Hall Meeting on March 24, 2016, at 6:30pm at Good Shepherd Baptist Church. He stated that he will wait until the City gets an attorney for the resolution on the City bringing prayer back into City Council. He stated that he knows that the City does a moment of silence at the same time. He stated that he is not trying to go against anyone religious affiliations that everyone recite the lord’s prayer. He stated that they will get into this when the City gets an attorney. Council Member Moore passed out some paperwork to all City Council Members. He stated to City Council Members that the handout was a draft justification for a RFP for the forensic audit. Council Member Moore read the handout out loud. Council Member Moore made a motion for the approval of the draft document of City Council draft scope to be used for the procurement for a forensic auditing firm. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers 16-R-19 A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE SCOPE FOR PROCUREMENT FOR A FORENSIC AUDITING FIRM. Vice Mayor Parham stated that he would like to thank everyone that came out tonight. He stated that he would like to specifically like to thank his Ward 3 family that he sees in the audience. He stated that he would like to thank them for attending his ward meeting on February 29, 2016, at Dogwood Trace Gold Course. He stated that he would like to thank Dr. Shifflette and Lieutenant Moore for being guest speakers. He stated that he looks forward to everyone attending his next meeting. Vice Mayor Parham made a motion to appoint Mark Flynn as Interim City Attorney with terms to be worked out on Monday. The motion was seconded by Mayor Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith, Parham and Myers Mayor Myers stated that on Monday, March 21st at 5:30pm-8:00pm at Peabody Middle School, School Board Member Lois Long and himself will have a Joint Ward 5 Community Empowerment Meeting that night. He stated that he hopes that everyone comes and join them. 10. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: a. City Manager’s Report 1. Please address the water billing issues and the correspondence to residents. a. Ms. Belton stated that she has been compiling a high priority list in water billing. She stated that has begun to address several things. She stated that they found that there is a three- prong process that must occur. She stated that they are estimation, actual and automation. She stated that the estimated process has been developed to produce a fair justifiable estimate bill. She stated that they hope that this will take 15 to 30 days. She stated that the bills will be mailed the week of March 22, 2016, and will be due April 25, 2016. She stated  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 16 – ______________________________________________________________________________ that the second step is the actual process. She stated that this is the process where they morally assure that there is a base on the customer’s actual reading. She stated that this process will take between 30 to 45 days. She stated this process will begin with boots on the ground beginning March 21st. She stated that she ask that the citizens be patient as they create a base line and perform a quality control of items that they need to removed themselves from the estimate system in the actual. She stated that the next process is the automation process. She stated that this is when they utilize the installation in the system in the intent that they thought. She stated that this process will take about 90 days. She stated that these are the three steps that they have developed thus far for addressing the water bill issues. 2. Please address the snow removal procedure and would you add Young Road and Carey to the priority list. a. She stated that as of now and a week ago the City is doing a reassessment to determine and develop a detailed snow removal operation plan. 3. Please address the City ordinance 18-7 about agricultural animals near a residence. The resident requests city attorney and legal counsel be present to appeal ruling. a. She stated that based on this being a previous ruling, she asks that they are given enough to review this in detail and then get back to them. 4. Please address my water bill at 1847 Brandon Avenue. I have a $20 increase. a. She stated that she asks that the person submitting this request please contact her. She stated that her office is 804-733-2301 and that she would like this person submitting the request to call her so she can address the bill. 5. Please address the sign ordinance especially for Crater Road businesses. a. She stated that as submitted by the Planning Department it has begun addressing overall aesthetic features along the major corridors of the City through plan preview and proactively reaching out to property owners informing them of certain aesthetic components that need to be addressed. She stated that the Planning Department is also in the process of amending the Zoning Ordinance through a subcommittee that is currently reviewing sign ordinances. She stated that the information submitted by the citizen has been reviewed and given consideration. She stated that this information has been submitted as a residential comment and that if any other resident is interested in serving on the committee with comments or complaints they are to contact the Planning Department at 804-733-2308. 6. Please follow-up on the traffic light at Crater and Wagner Road. a. She stated that it was determined that a left turn lane had a broken loop detector. She stated that since then the Department of Public Works has contracted with the traffic contractor to address the issue. 11. CLERK OF CITY COUNCIL'S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 12. CITY ATTORNEY’S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 13. CLOSED SESSION (IF NECESSARY): No closed is necessary.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 15, 2016 - 17 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 14. ADJOURNMENT: City Council adjourned at 9:53p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor