City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, April 5, 2016, at the Union Train Station. Mayor Myers called the closed session meeting to order at 6:00p.m. 1. CLOSED SESSION MEETING – 6:00 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 Vice Mayor Samuel Parham Absent: Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Mayor W. Howard Myers Present from City Administration: Acting City Attorney Mark Flynn Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC 3. CLOSED SESSION: Acting City Attorney Mark Flynn, 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 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. Council Member Coleman 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 and Parham; Absent: Wilson-Smith and Myers City Council entered closed session at 6:02 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Council Member Hart made a motion to return City Council into open session. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers; Abstain: Wilson- Smith Council Member Hill made a motion to certify the purposes of the closed session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moore. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore and Parham; Absent: Myers; Abstain: Wilson- Smith  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ 16-R-21 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. 1. REGULARLY-SCHEDULED MEETING – 6:30 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 Treska Wilson-Smith Vice Mayor Samuel Parham Absent: Mayor W. Howard Myers Present from City Administration: Acting City Attorney Mark Flynn Acting City Manager 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 National Library Week. BACKGROUND: Libraries and librarians open a world of possibilities through innovative STEM programming, makerspaces, job-seeking resource and the power of reading. RECOMMENDATION: Mayor Myers read and presents a proclamation. Natonya Williams, Marketing Program Specialist for Petersburg Public Library, accepted the proclamation on behalf of Wayne Crocker, Director of Petersburg Public Library. She stated that she also left goodie bags for all of the City Council Members. She stated that she encourages everyone to stop by the Library April 10-16th, 2016, in celebration of National Library Week. b. Proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month BACKGROUND: The City has been supportive of James House in the past, helping to raise  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ awareness about sexual violence and the services available from the agency. Issuing a proclamation allow citizens to see the City taking a proactive approach to addressing the issue of sexual assault. RECOMMENDATION: Proclaim April 2106 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in the City of Petersburg. Jane Clayborne, The James House, stated that she would like to thank everyone for the proclamation. c. Presentation on City Partnership with Schools. BACKGROUND: The City Partnership with the Schools is an interagency collaboration co-chaired by the Superintendent and City Manager. The partnership has brought together schools and City agencies with the shared goal of increased student attendance. Because some of the challenges facing Petersburgh require additional political, human, or financial resources, the Virginia Governor’s Children Cabinet, and its respective state agencies, is collaborations with the Partnership at the direction of the Superintendent and City Manager. To realize the goal of improved attendance, there are five work groups co-led by a state and local leader: 1) Healthcare a. To improve sustainable access to high quality physical and mental healthcare for Petersburg students so they come to school ready to learn. 2) Nutrition a. To increase access to healthy year-round food for Petersburg children and families 3) School Climate a. To transform students’ systems of social and emotional support so they come to school ready to learn. 4) Housing a. To create a sustainable system to rapidly identify homeless (or at-risk of homelessness) students and stabilize vacations. 5) Out-of-School Opportunities a. To reduce holiday associated stress through positive resources for students and families over school vacations. The partnership is governed by a Steering Committee comprised of the Mayor, City Manager, School Board Chair, Acting Superintendent, Police Chief, Health Director, Parent representative, Faith Leader Representative, VDOE Chief Academic Officer, Children’s Cabinet staff, VDOE Research Director, and VDOE Director of Student Services. RECOMMENDATION: The City Partnership with the Schools would like the City Council to acknowledge, support, and advocate for this initiative to be a longstanding collaboration that will galvanize City and school agencies to work together to improve the lives of Petersburg’s children. Dr. Linda Shifflette, Acting Superintendent of Petersburg Public Schools, gave a brief summary of the PowerPoint on City Partnerships with Schools. 6. CONSENT AGENDA: a. Minutes of March 15, 2016, Regular City Council Meeting and March 21, 2016, Special City Council Meeting. b. Request a public hearing to amend §110-265 of the Petersburg City Code with respect to parking violations; issuance, payment, contest, etc., of parking citations.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ c. Request a public hearing to receive citizen comment on a petition for the City of Petersburg Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for Fiscal Years 2017-2021. d. Request a public hearing a Special Use Permit pursuant to Article 23, Section 4(23) of the Zoning Ordinance to operate a stand-alone vehicle repair and accessory towing service, subject to certain terms and conditions at 100 Bollingbrook Street, Tax Parcel 011-15-0802. Council Member Coleman made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda that schedules four public hearings for April 19, 2016, regular City Council meeting. 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 and Parham; Absent: 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 consideration of proposed uses of CDBG funds for 2016-2017. BACKGROUND: Petersburg, Virginia is an entitlement jurisdiction for the annual receipt of CDBG funds from HUD. This requires the submission of the Consolidated and Annual Plan for proposes used of the funds to be received in FY2016-2017. Funds may be used to address one or more of the three national objectives for the program: Benefit of low and moderate income persons, aid in the prevention or removal of blight or urgent needs. On the local level a request must fall within one or more of the priorities established by City Council to be considered for funding. The local priorities are: 1st Priority – City projects that support the City’s Revitalization Strategy for the stabilization and/or enhancement of its residential and commercials environments and may encourage further investment by others. These projects may include infrastructure projects/drainages, streets and roadway improvements, sidewalks, curb & gutter, and streetscapes, residential rehabilitation and others. 2nd Priority – Public facilities that support the City’s Revitalization Strategy for the stabilization and/or enhancement of residential and/or commercial environments and may encourage further investment by others. These may include facilities owned by private not for profit agencies open to the public. These may include recreation centers, tennis courts, ball fields, museums, theaters, health clinics and others. This category does not include program activities which may be operated at these locations 3rd Priority – Planning activities of a general planning nature which is not directly related to a project, such as a playground, recreation center or any capital project. This category would include strategic planning, preparation of a comprehensive plan, neighborhood plans, commercial development plans, visioning plans, revitalization plans and others. Planning activities are subject to the HUD statutory 20% cap for administration & planning. Because the City uses most of these funds for administration, little is available for this purpose. Project related planning is eligible as a project cost, but must be specific such as planning for the development of a playground or neighborhood center. Because eligibility is based on the end use of the funds, planning for a project, in and of itself, is not eligible unless the project is built or constructed. 4th Priority – Public Services which may include City or private non-profit services to low and moderate income persons or families. These may include services for the elderly, youth, the homeless and others. This category is subject to the HUD 15% cap. In addition, because the City’s costs for administration and planning are capped at 20% this policy applies to the use of funds for public services as well. In addition, these funds are not available on an ongoing operational basis.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ *Table attached to City Council agenda packet. RECOMMENDATION: Following a duly advertised public hearing, Council may affirm staff’s recommendation; make changes to staff’s recommendations or table for further consideration. Michelle Peters, Director of Planning and Community Development, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, asked whether the priorities are divided out of the total amount of money that is allocated. Mrs. Peters responded yes. Mr. Noise stated that he was also wondering that in “Priority 3” where there was one applicant, what advantage would this be for “Priority 1” where there was several. Mrs. Peters stated that it does not have to be an equal division. She stated that the priorities are there to guide the allocations. She stated that there was only one applicant in “Priority 1” then they would consider what their request is and give consideration for the others uses based on the applications. She stated that it is not an equal division of the resources based on the priorities. Leonard Curry, 2014 Woodland Road, stated that there are plans underway to deal with restoration of properties on Harrison Street. He stated LISC in Richmond and APVA and some other groups are trying to work with private investors to repair some of the properties there and make them available for low-moderate income people. He stated that he would hope “Priority 3” would be allowed to be open to the LISC and APVA program. Mrs. Peters stated that she is part of the initiative that is being spoken of. She stated that they have covered this under program one and that their development on the City of Petersburg has been Project Homes. She stated that they have put in as part of their money to do rehabilitation. She stated that it is $50,000 for the initiative that is being spoken about. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that he has a question in reference to the program in terms of how or why the Jarrett House restoration does not appear anywhere. He stated that the City has owned this property for many years and that it is in dire straits. He stated that the structure reports are what happened to the back wall that collapsed about six or seven years ago. He stated that this comes from the building being ignored. He stated that the nothing physically has been done to the building. He stated that about 12 or 13 years ago funds from this program were used to stabilize and restore the two-story brick building behind Peabody Middle School on Lee Avenue. He stated that he submits that the Jarret House is equally qualified to receive the benefits of these funds. Mrs. Peters stated that she to shows the enthusiasm that Mr. Martin shows for the Jarrett House. She stated that in last year’s approval of the allocation of funds for CDBG the Jarrett House was a program that was funded. She stated that it was $200,000. She stated that they have started using this and obtained the restoration reports that they needed. She stated that they also applied for a grant to also help them to develop the program for the Jarrett House. She stated that they are under way of getting the revitalization for that property with money that they have on hand. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he is one of the few citizens that believe that when organizations are asking for money they should be organizations that are not just ones that a few people in the community are familiar with. He stated that there were a lot of organizations but that there are a couple that he is glad that are being considered for funding. He stated that one being Serenity. He stated that whether they would like to believe it or not they are talking health and wellness in the City of Petersburg in the Crater Health  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ District. He stated that Petersburg still leads the pack in regards to HIV infection and STD infections. He stated that this is a service that is definitely needed. He stated that in light of the fact that the young people in the City have really no outlet. He stated that the Harding Street Recreation Center does not exist anymore. He stated that he gives credit to those who have opened up the Blandford Community Center. He stated that whether some of them know it or not it has made a tremendous change. He stated that he would like for City Council to consider giving some funding to Blandford Community Center. He stated at least those young people have what the young people in his area no longer have on Halifax Street. He stated that if there is any service that the poor people need is the police service walking the streets. He stated that he can say this about the City’s police officers. He stated that the City does not have police officers that stay in the news negatively for shooting black people, beating up old people and kicking homeless people. He stated that they may not have the best police department but they do have a police chief who works with the community. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wagner Road, stated that he would like to piggyback off what Mr. Christian just stated. He stated that being a citizen of the City of Petersburg, he is hearing a lot of good priorities. He stated that he has always been recruited for having things for the young children and all these different things and programs to enhance the City. He stated that he wishes that he can toot the horn to some of the friends that can encourage different activities that the City used to have. He stated that he comes up old school and that they had a lot of different things. He stated that when this type of funding’s come around they should encourage people regarding this. He stated that there are students and children in the City with all backgrounds. Karen Graham, 402 High Street, stated that she hopes that City Council would support staff recommendations of funding the Main Street Program. She stated that she thinks that this is very important to bring this program back on line for the City. She stated that she had questions. She stated that there is no funding for the parking deck feasibility. She stated that downtown is and will be in need of a resolution to parking problems. She stated that there are a lot of new apartments that are coming online and that businesses need to have access to convenient parking for their customers. She stated that the City already gave away parking to the area adjacent to the Arnold Pen building which forced customers that are coming to Sycamore Street further away. She stated that they would like a better explanation to items that are included in “Priority 1” regarding Project Homes. She stated that Mrs. Peters did state that $50,000 was for the LISC work on Harrison Street. She stated that with regard to “Priority 1” Rebuilding Together, she was involved when it was called Christmas in April. She stated that the project was near and dear to her heart. She stated she was disappointed when it went from Christmas in April Petersburg to Rebuilding Together Petersburg and then to Rebuilding Together Tri-Cities and now it is merged with Richmond. She stated that she would hope that there is assurance that the proposed $23,800 will used to fund the residents home in Petersburg and that none of the funds go to administrative cost that may be taken out by Rebuilding Together Richmond. Mrs. Peters stated that Rebuilding Together has given 100% of its money to housing renovations and nothing for administration. She stated that they do not do administrative cost for them. She stated that Project Homes has been their revitalization arm and that they spend between $10,000 and $12,000 on renovation of properties. She stated that the Cameron Foundation works with Project Homes to do the ramps. She stated that they have found a way to collaborate to get additional funding to additional work. She stated that it does not come from any of the monies that they receive. She stated that this is how that portion will work. She stated that Project Homes already has the template for screening applications and intake. She stated that they do not have to use their staff for that part of the initiative that they are collaborating with the Cameron Foundation on to do renovation in the Poplar Lawn historic districts. She stated that the reason that this area was selected was because they had an in-kind donation of a report that was done that talked about the conditions of the homes in that community. She stated that the Cameron Foundation had stated that they wanted to put more monies into brick projects. She stated that they approached them and that when they came to the table they talked about this as an initiative. She stated that the goal is to move around in different parts of the City. She stated that the Comprehensive Plan talks about revitalization in the communities. She stated that the Blandford Community Center is not the center for the young people or kids. She stated that it is not the recreation center. She stated that the application was for the Blandford Community Center as a part of the cemetery. She stated that this is out of cultural affairs. She stated that this is in reference to the Blandford Center which is the reception area at the cemetery and not the community recreation center in the Blandford  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Community. She stated that when you talk about community policing you cannot CDBG funds to support police efforts. She stated that you can use CDBG funds for direct services but not for policing in that manner. She stated that they had to prioritize it based on the priority and that they also had to list it based on the application that they received. She stated that there was also a question in regards to the parking deck. She stated that the Planning Department is looking at this out of their department and not out of CDBG funds. She stated that once they got to sort the money out they figured that they may be able to identify another source of funding for that. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Coleman made a motion to reduce the Petersburg Mobile Market funds and give the $14,600 to the Salvation Army Men’s Shelter. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to fully fund the WOW History Camp. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Moore made a motion to approve the proposed uses of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for FY2016-2017 with the noted changes. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers 16-ORD-14 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE PROPOSED USES OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDS FOR FY2016-2017 WITH THE NOTED CHANGES. b. A public hearing to approve the application to vacate right-of-way of property adjacent to East Washington Street. BACKGROUND: The subject right-of-way application meets the requirements of the applicable City policy, and has been reviewed and approved by the appropriate City departments. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council approve the request from Travis Hill, on behalf of Jazz Barber & Hairstyling Academy, that the following described property be vacated, and abandoned by the City Council of the City of Petersburg: Property adjacent to 1024 East Washington Street, an unimproved public right-of-way Tax Parcel 013- 01-0801. Daniel Harrison, Interim Director of Public Works, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Sandy Young, representative from Jazz Barber & Beauty School, spoke on behalf of the school. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he knows what it is like trying to get a post- secondary education. He stated that it is really tough especially when you are paying out of your own pocket. He stated that currently he is doing the same for a 20 year old that is a freshman at Virginia State University. He stated that he knows what it is like to want to go somewhere and cannot because you have to pay student loans and everything else. He stated that he would like to say that what the young lady spoke about is somewhat reminiscent of what the Third Baptist Church went through. He stated that when they moved to their  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ present location and they obtained their property and they were maintaining a certain piece of property as well. He stated that they ended up having some issues come up. He stated that he would say this to council that a lot of times they have given away properties to persons who have done nothing with them. He stated that some of these people have even flipped the properties and made a profit. He stated that he would say let the school have the property and that they have maintained it. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, stated that he was looking at the draft and that when you turn the corner he could not tell how far the street when back past the shady deal . He stated that they should remember that shady people are Petersburg citizens. He stated that he heard that they stated two adjacent properties were the people that they checked with. He asked about the people that live in the neighborhood. He stated that they should check with everyone in the area before a decision is made. Mr. Harrison stated that the process only requires them to notify adjacent properties which would be the properties to the left and right of the property. Ms. Young stated that she did go out and talk to all the neighbors that she could reach and that they stated that they did not have any problems with what they are doing. She stated that she wanted to make sure that there was not any discomfort. She stated that they too would like to see something done with the property. She stated that there is a fence around it and that this is where all the activity is going on. She stated that the individuals scatter pretty fast when they see people come around or out. She stated that they support the people and children that attend the Blandford Community Center and that they give them discounts on haircuts as well. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. Council Member Hart made a motion to vacate and abandon by the City of Petersburg, the property located at 1024 East Washington Street. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith and Parham; Absent: Myers 16-ORD-15 AN ORDINANCE TO VACATE AND ABANDON, BY THE CITY OF PETERSBURG, PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1024 EAST WASHINGTON STREET. c. A public hearing on the proposed disposition of 326 East Washington Street, Tax Parcel 011- 33-0010; 380 East Washington Street, Tax Parcel 012-20-0001; and 400 East Washington Street, Tax Parcel 012-29-0002. BACKGROUND: The former Fort Lee Regency Hotel located at 380 East Washington Street, has been vacant since 2010. The City of Petersburg acquired the property in 2014 and 400 East Washington Street is the current office for Economic Development. A letter of intent for purchase of the properties was approved in August of 2015. In December, Developer C. A. Harrison Companies, LLC along with Commonwealth Architects announced the design of a new hotel and mixed-use development at 380 East Washington Street. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council approve the disposition of the publicly owned properties. Landis Faulcon, Director of Economic Development, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Seeing further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. Council Member Moore made a motion to approve the disposition of the properties located at 326, 380 and 400 East Washington Street. 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 and Parham;  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ Absent: Myers 16-ORD-16 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE DISPOSITION OF THE PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 326, 380 AND 400 EAST WASHINGTON STREET. d. A public hearing to amend City Code 50-111; 116; 131 to remove the term “cash escrow.” BACKGROUND: We have received check and the City is not able to cash the check because the contractor does not have the funds available or the check has become stale dated and the City cannot submit the check for payment. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council permit the deletion of the term “cash escrow” from our City Code and therefore, all contractors will be obligated to provide the City with a performance bond or an irrevocable letter of credit. Both of these financial instruments will give the City of Petersburg the level of financial security it needs concerning these types of projects. Property adjacent to 1024 East Washington Street, an unimproved public right-of-way Tax Parcel 013- 01-0801. Dironna Belton, Acting City Manager, gave a brief summary on the public hearing. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that he is somewhat perplexed by this request. He stated that when you look at the City Code section it cites the Code of Virginia. He stated that the General Assembly has not seen fit to remove “cash escrow” from the state code. He stated that cash is cash and that a check is a conditional payment. He stated that if the City decides to accept a check instead of cash and then there is a problem down the road then this is there problem. He stated to mess with the language that comes from the Code of Virginia is a mistake. He stated that he thinks that the policy needs to be understood and that cash means cash and not a check. He stated that this is totally unnecessary to mess with the City Code. 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 further investigation is done with the City Attorney and City Treasurer is done. 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 and Parham; Absent: 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. Charlie Cuthbert, 132 South Adams Street, stated that as a native of Petersburg he has always heard about “The Avenue”. He stated that he remembers the Chatter Box on Harrison Street and among other structures that are no longer in the City. He stated that he never appreciated the significance of “The Avenue” to Petersburg commercial and social history until Fenton Bland wrote his letter to the Progress-Index last month. He stated that at that point he was intrigued and wanted to know more. He stated that he contact Mr.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Wayne Crocker who know more than anyone and the person who is responsible for the remarkable library. He stated that he asked Mr. Crocker whether there were any resources that could tell him anymore about “The Avenue.” He stated that Mr. Crocker directed him to a book titled “Images of America, African Americans of Petersburg.” He stated that he would like to hand to the Vice Mayor copies that he has from the book and that he would ask that he passes this information to other members of City Council. He stated that there are three pages and that the first page is the title of the book he referenced. He stated that the second is a photo copy of two pages from that book showing the new market as it was called in the 1920s. He stated that the third page is a rather sad photograph of what that area looks like today. He stated that he had annotated these images to help them get oriented to where they are. He stated that he hopes that they will take this history of “The Avenue” and the new market into account. He stated that it is obvious that this has been a public place for a hundred years and that he should expect it would continue. Beth Whitten, 1765 Fairfax Road, stated that everything that can be said has been said. She stated that some of them will be leaving City Council soon and others may face recalls. She stated that it serves no one to continue the criticism and displeasure felt towards the state of the City and the anxiety for the citizen’s future. She stated that at this point she thinks that it is works saying that the majority of them would simply like to see several things from City Council and the Mayor’s Office. She stated that she would like for them to do no further harm but to simply execute the ordinary business of City Council and let the Acting City Manager handle the day-to-day business of the City. She stated that she would like for City Council to refrain from seeking out retreats and conventions at taxpayer’s expenses. She stated that she would like for them to cooperate and comply all of the investigations and transparency with the citizens instead of secrecy to the City of Petersburg. She stated that they have asked questions about different things and have not heard answers to these things yet. She stated that they simple want their City back and competent management and above all to save the City from this type of devastation every again. She stated that they want their security and reputation as a City back. She stated that this is all that she is seeking and that as a citizen she is asking for this. She stated that she is asking for one more thing from City Council. She stated that she is asking to protect the City employees from hardship as a result of government failure. Carl Ridley, 15 N. Crater Road, stated that it is his understanding that the Commonwealth Attorney has asked the state police to look at the recent mismanagement and other City finances. He asked that in these stressful times why City Council has insisted on hiring an outside conductor to do the audit. He stated that this appears to be a duplication of efforts in which the City cannot afford. He asked how City Council intends to pay for this. He asked what departments or programs will be affected to cover expenditures. He asked how the City can justify the three month salary of the Ex-City Attorney who was allowed to resign. He asked how they can justify the physical irresponsibility of the people’s money if there is no trust. Barb Rudolph, 1675 Mt. Vernon Street, stated that she comes to ask City Council a question. She asked do City Council think that they have the very best person to led City Council as the Mayor and head of council. She stated that she would like them to consider these recent events. She stated that on February 11, 2016, Mayor Myers delivered a State of the City address to citizens. She stated that nothing in that address said anything about the water service problems or financial short falls. She stated that after the presentation Mayor Myers and the Public Information Officer refused to answer press questions and behaved in such a rude fashion that it was the talk of TV news for days. She stated on February 16th, there was a regular City Council meeting scheduled and that within two hours of that meeting the Mayor cancelled it from an alleged threat. She stated that however, 50 of the citizens, the press and five City Council Members not including the Mayor believed the threat was not slate enough and that they should up for a brief meeting. She stated that on February 25th, during a Ward 4 meeting she addressed questions to Moore and Myers about the wisdom of Council Members attending the conference in early March when the City of Petersburg was known to be swimming in the sea of red ink. She stated that neither of them could justify this decision and in fact both attended the conference even as their colleagues opted out under intense public pressure. She stated that March 7th, Mayor Myers directed former City Attorney Telfair to complain to her employer about her questions to City Council. She stated that this was seen by her and her employer and many others to suppress her freedom of speech. She stated that on March 21st, there was a Ward 5 meeting on this date but was canceled the day before due to alleged hate group activity. She stated that the Mayor stated that this was entirely School Board Member Lois Long decision. She stated that the Mayor does not like criticism or decent so the  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ meetings are canceled due to invisible and unfounded enemies threating him. She stated that she is present to ask whether he is the best person to lead this body and the City of Petersburg. She stated that she encourages the City Council Members to be brave and publicly acknowledge that he is not. Patricia Nunnally, 1205 Rome Street, stated that her question is in reference to the water bill that is coming out. She stated that it is due on the 25th of this month. She stated that before when they use to get the water bill it was due on the 16th or so. She stated that they received it the month before. She stated that she is retired and that she gets paid once a month. She stated that her next payment is not until the 3rd. She stated that many times it is going to put her in financial distress in order to pay the bill on the 25th without obtaining a late penalty. She stated that she hears many complaints about what is wrong but she has not heard one thing about what can be done to fix it. She stated that she understands that there are some things wrong but that she has not heard anyone come up with a strategic plan that says this is what is needed to fix the problem. Vernel Gannaway, 652 Old Wagner Road, stated that he is present to toot their horn on a few things that were stated some years ago. He stated that this position that they hold is a position of loyalty and character. He stated that some of them who had a special agenda of sabotaging the City and that it would be exposed. He stated that it is coming to root. He stated that there are a lot of things that are happening. He stated that he does see this City going forward. He stated that he does appreciate his City Council Member and Ms. Belton informing him of some information from the ward meeting. He stated to Ms. Nunnally that there were questions answered at that particular meeting regarding the water bill. He stated that he encourages all of them to do what his Council Member has done as well as others. He stated that they will eliminate those that are not standing with the residence. He stated that the citizens are the boss of the City. He stated that they want to make sure that it stays this way. He stated that there are a lot of things that they can do. He stated that this City is begging for greatness and that it is destined for greatness. He stated that there is greatness inside of the City as well. He stated that if you ever read a book it should be about diamonds. He stated that you can go all over the world to find a diamond but it may be in your back door. Janell Sinclair, 1644 S. Sycamore Street, stated that April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. She stated that she would like to thank them for their proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month but she would like to speak on National Child Abuse Prevention Month. She stated that child abuse runs ramped in her family and that she is also a victim. She stated that she saved a family member from child abuse. She stated that the family member arm was broken, beaten with marks on her, verbally attacked and no one in the immediate family did anything to protect her except for herself (Ms. Sinclair). She stated that the family member has seen been diagnosed with ADHD, PTSD and adjustment disorder at the age of eight years old. She stated that no one stood up for her except this survivor, who she has found her voice. She stated that most victims are females but that there is not a particular stereotype for the perpetrators. She stated that these abusers have some of the following characteristics: (1)keep track of what you are doing at all times; (2) criticize you for little things; (3) often go up in anger from small incidents; (4) like to isolate the victims ; (5) he or she may cut of the victim from their social support; (6) accuse the people who act in support of the victim causing trouble; (7) poor self-image or insecure; (8) blames others for their problems or feelings; (9) the abuser is very manipulative; (10) very controlling of others; (11) behaviors are often to the point where victims are not able to make their own decisions; (12) say things that are intentionally and hurtful to humiliate and rundown the victim or publicize. She stated that they have a tendency to feel like that they are unique individuals and that they should not have to live under the same rules as everyone else. She stated that they tend to shift the reasonability of their actions to the victim and assume the role of being victimized. She stated that as she was taking her family member to all her different doctor appointments she realized that some of these same characteristics are often exhibited on City Council and that the members are not saying anything. She stated that she made a conscience decision to step up for herself and her family. She stated that therefore she is stepping up tonight as Petersburg is her family. She stated that she will not act like it is not her business and that she will not take it as it will take care of itself or work itself out. She stated that by not saying anything that they indirectly say that they support the abuse. She stated that therefore they are not better than the abuser. She stated that she has not been a victim in a long time but that now she is a voter. She stated that there are several citizens in Petersburg that have been known victims of abuse who are watching them. She stated that they are voters as well. She stated that whatever they need to do and however they need to do it she asks them to do the right thing.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Talibah Majeed, 1847 Brandon Avenue, stated that the water bill situation is the vain of her existence. She stated that she cannot figure out why it is taking so long for this issue to be resolved when they were told last year by the City Manager that it was going to be taken care of. She stated that now she is paying for a bill for January and February and its now April. She stated that they were told that the meters were working and now they are told that they are getting estimated bills. She stated that if the meters are working properly because of a little piece that was replaced then why are they getting estimated bills. She stated that this does not make sense to her. She stated that she did go and get a copy of her bill yesterday and that the staff person named Denika was very professional and very helpful. She stated that she apologized for not being able to get her a copy of her bill because the office had run out of toner. She stated that there are people making six figure salaries but the staff cannot do their jobs because there is no money to buy supplies. She stated that it is there priority to make sure that they have the tools to make sure that they are able to do their jobs properly. She stated that she is concerned in general about the salaries. She stated that she does not understand how a Human Resource Director earns in the City of Petersburg $117,000. She stated that she does not understand how anyone in the City of Petersburg, the way that the City is currently, is making a six figure salary. She stated that she does not understand why they are going outside the City to get people for jobs. She stated that she knows that there are very intelligent people in the City who have lots of qualifications. She asked why they are going outside the City. She stated that some people do not think that it matters where the person lives but that she thinks it do. She stated that if a person is living in her City and they have significant leadership position and she is thinking that this person really cares about doing a good job. She stated that she would really appreciate if they start holding people accountable for what they were hired to do and consider whether or not it is worth giving someone such a high salary when they have not proven that they are working for the City. She stated that she loves this City and that she never thought she would say this when she moved here. She stated that she has met so many people who care so much about the quality and life of this City. She stated that so many of them are not sure that the people in leadership share this same concern. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, stated that he would like to speak in safety. He stated that he that he sees too much corrective maintenance in the City of Petersburg. He stated that he blames supervision. He stated that this is an issue that they have to deal with. He stated that he thanks them for the choice of the Interim City Manager, Ms. Belton. He stated that he has spoken with her on several occasions and that he is very satisfied with her response. He stated that most things that he has been faced with in the City it takes three visits and three phone calls just to get some clarity or corrective action done. He stated that he spoke to City Council awhile back trying to get some work done on Youngs Road. He stated from Farmer Street to Halifax Street. He stated that he made several visits. He stated that they come out and do a shady job and then they are gone again. He stated that he cannot remember at the moment the plan that they had for Youngs Road. He stated that he does not know what has been done. He stated that he wants them to know that they are responsible for the death of a young man that lives in his neighborhood that got ran over by a car and no one knows who it was yet. He stated that he even asked for a survey to be done to put on the road because the traffic is heavy. He stated that there is no walk way. He stated that you are either in the road or in the road. He stated that the next one is the Family Dollar Store on Route 36 where the child got ran over. He stated that he suggest that they put a cross walk there. He stated that this will not stop the traffic but that it will slow it down. He stated that City Council is doing a great job. Ben Greenbaum, 134 South Adams, stated that he moved to Petersburg nine years ago. He stated that they were attracted to the historic and diverse nature. He stated that as of the date they have never lived in a City so far from creditable potential yet so misguided by City government. He stated that over the last nine years they have witnessed the most shocking comprehensive mistakes made by City leadership. He stated that they are unfortunate mistakes that have prevented and continue to prevent Petersburg from rising to its potential. He spoke in regards to two independent studies that have been in the City. He stated that this consisted of the Berkshire Study. He stated that this lead to the loss of the $1.5 million in grant money for the lead abatement for the City’s children due to the failure of City leaders to implement eliminates of the grant. He stated that the failure of the City to implement the collection of real estate taxes and water bills have added to the City’s debt woes. He stated that it has also led to the failure of payment to the Virginia Retirement System for some time. He stated that it also consisted of the failure to check over the City Manager for awarding over a million dollar in raises to approximately 14 to 16 members of the City government when the  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ City finances are in disarray. He stated that severance pay and sick leave in the amount of $60,000 awarded to the City Attorney who resigned voluntarily and got a new job. He stated that this lead to the misguiding and closing of the location of the Farmer’s Market. He stated that affordable stabilization efforts were offered to the owner of the Rialto Theatre and the City. He stated that there was the discussion and potential of sale of the Halifax Triangle so that the monies could be used to pay for forensic audit. He stated that he suggest that the City desperately needs new leaders now. Karen Graham, 402 High Street, stated that the financial report that was presented at the last meeting for the period of December 2015 and that it ended then. She stated that the real estate taxes were collected at the end of March and the first half of personal property taxes should have been paid. She stated that she would ask that the City Treasurer and the Finance Department make an updated presentation in the general public at the next or very near future City Council meeting. She stated that the revenue fund figures should include actual dollars received and not anticipated revenue. She stated that they should also be informed of the dollar amount of uncollected delinquent real estate and personal property taxes. She stated that citizens have requested in the past the City’s checkbook be online. She stated that she would again ask that the City move forward to do this. She stated that surrounding localities already have their checkbooks online. She stated that Prince George is in the process of doing so. She stated that she has been trying to get a response out of the street operations since last June as to when the street lamp will be repaired that is in front 209 High Street. She stated that she gets no response. She stated that according to the company where the lamp head was ordered from it should have arrived in September. She stated that it is yet to be installed and that all of the lamps are no longer functioning near 209 High Street. She stated that citizens should be updated from City Council on the steps that they are going to take to move forward to hire a new City Manager. She stated that she would ask that there would be a Ward 5 meeting. She stated that unfortunately her ward representative is not present this evening. She stated that other wards continue to hold meeting despite the alleged hate group threats. Leonard Curry, 2014 Woodland Road, stated that he came present tonight to ask for the resignation of the Mayor but that he is not present. He stated that he ask that they accept his statement. He stated he does look at the City Council and see leaders but that they have to take a grip. He stated that Samuel Parham is his council member and that he would be a great Mayor of the City. He stated that Council Member Wilson-Smith would be wonderful as Mayor as well. He stated that Dironna Belton would do a wonderful job as the permanent City Manager. He stated that she could get help from Rob Blount and the old City Manager, Mr. Canada. He stated that Mayor is not an elected Mayor and that it is an honorary position but that they would hope that someone among City Council would make a decision to replace the Mayor and put another person in place. Pamela Pena, 6 Fairfax Street, stated that she sees that everyone has been speaking on the behavior of City Council Members. She stated that this is something that she will be talking about as well. She stated that there are a lot of things that they are finding out as citizens through the media instead of at the CityCouncil meeting. She stated that she has some questions and some things that she found out through the media. She stated that she wants to know what actually happened from City Council words about Jay Ell Alexander and the voucher that was redeemed for a Jamaica trip instead of going to attend a race in Florida. She stated that she would like to know what happened and what was her consequence and were criminal charges brought against personally or to the City due to the actions. She asked whether Mrs. Alexander is still on payroll. She asked will this damage the City’s relationship with these organizations. She asked what City Council is doing for Local Government Week. She stated that she heard about an issue with an individual being charged for property tax on a vehicle that is registered in another City. She stated that this person is a business owner and that when they do not pay it the City restricts him from renewing his business license which in turns he pays. He stated that he went to DMV to provide proof that it is registered in a different City and that he is told that the following year he is stuck with a bill. She stated that she needs to know what exactly is he to do because this is driving individuals to other Cities. She stated that she would like to request that anyone running for City Council to have some sort of educational background. She stated that how do they expect the City Manager to have credentials but not the people that hired him. She stated also that no more than three City Council Members can attend a conference at the same time. She stated that no Council Member can attend a conference on their last year of term. She stated that two or three Council Members should attend the same event but that it  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ does not consist of the Mayor and Vice Mayor. She stated that she suggest that the Mayor be voted on by the people and not City Council. She asked what a citizen needs to do to have questions answered. She stated that she has been present several times and that she has yet to hear anything on the minutes about anything that is being addressed. She stated that she does not come forth to sit and waste time and asking questions. She stated that she does not appreciate being charged for asking questions or being told from other people that their employees are being called. She stated that she hopes that City Council will do something. She stated that the citizens don’t sit for 30 minutes asking questions just for them to look at them and continue doing what they do which is nothing. Karen Crenshaw, service provider of Serenity, stated that Serenity is an agency that helps and assist people who are HIV Positive or who have AIDS. She stated that they appreciate the City’s past funding and it has allowed them to help people in more ways that they could have. She introduced Roderick Rawlings who is a peer advocate for Serenity. Roderick Rawlings, peer advocate of Serenity, stated that Serenity is a nonprofit organization. He stated that he is a peer advocate and a client of Serenity as well. He stated that Serenity gives the little people who are dealing with HIV and their families somewhere to come and understand what is going on with them. He stated that they keep them plugged into their doctors and nurses. He stated that there are several programs that help people who may lose their jobs because they are sick or homebound because of this disease. He stated that they help them pay their rent and bills. He stated that they just moved into a bigger building so that the can have a drop zone for these people to come and have a nice quiet place to get away from the world. He stated that there are several counselors that are present. He stated that they are just asking for $10,000 to keep these doors open. Sam Rhue, 1952 S. Westchester Drive, stated that his concern is on the financial report of the City. He stated that the report that was received from the auditor stated that the City was having financial issues. He asked is there a strategy of how they are going to address these issues. He asked when this will be shared with the citizens and if not is there some strategy that will measure how they move forward. He stated that currently there was a financial report that was shared at the last meeting in February and that this is stale information. He stated that they are past the third quarter and that they should have update information that tells exactly where they are. He stated that this is pertinent to the success of the City moving in the right direction. 9. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FOR/FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: a. Consideration of an appointment to the South Central Wastewater Authority. BACKGROUND: South Central Wastewater Treatment Authority operates the Petersburg Wastewater Plant, which serves the Cities of Colonial Heights and Petersburg along with the Counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George. 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 to the South Central Wastewater Treatment Authority Board. Council Member Hart made a motion to appoint Dironna M. Belton to the South Central Wastewater Treatment Authority Board. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers 16-R-22 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING DIRONNA M. BELTON TO THE SOUTH CENTRAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT AUTHORITY BOARD FOR A TERM EXPIRING DECEMBER  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 31, 2019. b. Consideration of resolution authorizing an application for the Industrial Revitalization Fund. BACKGROUND: The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development administers the Industrial Revitalization Fund that supports revitalization and redevelopment activities including acquisition, rehabilitation, demolition, and other physical repairs involving derelict or vacant structures. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council approval of the resolution authorizing an application for the Industrial Revitalization Fund. Council Member Coleman made a motion to approve the resolution authorizing an application for the Industrial Revitalization Fund. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith and Parham; Absent: Myers 16-R-23 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN APPLICATION FOR THE INDUSTRIAL REVITALIZATION FUND. c. Consideration of appropriation for Early Literacy Funds - $10,000 BACKGROUND: The Petersburg Public Library has received a donation from the United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg to enhance its early literacy efforts. These funds will be used to encourage the love of books and learning, provide transportation for preschool children, encourage parental involvement in early literacy, and provide volunteer opportunities. Specifically, the Library will implement the First Book program to distribute low cost books to Head Start/ Title I students at the Westview Early Childhood Learning Center who visit the Library for story time. The Library has received a minibus from the Petersburg Area Transit to provide transportation for preschool children in licensed daycares to attend story times. The mini bus will be wrapped (vehicle wrap) in an attractive artwork to excite children to come to the Library. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council approve attached appropriation ordinance in the amount of $10,000. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to approve the appropriation ordinance in the amount of $10,000. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers 16-ORD-17 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 $10,000 FOR LIBRARY EARLY LITERACY FUNDS. d. Consideration of an appointment to Riverside Regional Jail Authority Board. BACKGROUND: The Riverside Regional Jail Authority Board is a seven-member regional jail that oversees the regional jail facility serving the localities of Counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Prince George, and Surry and the Cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, and Petersburg. The City has one member and one alternate to serve on the Board. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council appoint Dironna M. Belton to the Riverside Regional Jail Authority Board. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to appoint Dironna M. Belton to the Riverside Regional Jail Authority Board. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 16 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 16-R-24 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING DIRONNA M. BELTON TO THE RIVERSIDE REGIONAL JAIL AUTHORITY BOARD FOR A TERM EXPIRING JUNE 30, 2018. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she would like to start thanking everyone for attending the City Council meeting. She stated that the council meeting does belong to the citizens. She stated that she would also like to thank whoever arranged for the Assistant city Attorney to sit at the table with them. She stated that this week is recognized as Local Government Education Week. She stated that on that note she would like to inform and invite City Council Members and citizens to join herself, Senator Rosalyn Dance and Delegate Aird in participating in education to the public for public. She stated that they have established something called “Citizens Academy 101.” She stated that it is designed to empower the voters and citizens on the City’s form of government. She stated that the guest speakers will be the Chief of Staff for Governor McAuliffe, Suzette Denslow. She stated that flyers are on the back table. She stated that she will be having ward meeting through the months of April, May and June. She stated that she visits all the apartment complexes in her wards. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion that City Council redirects the City Attorney to develop a policy in reference to attending conferences. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Coleman, Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson- Smith and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that at the last City Council meeting it was tabled to move forward with the building of the apartments. She stated that she would like to know if they have followed through in regards to this and the building of the parking lot on this and the paperwork. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member made a motion to direct the City Attorney to review the proposed policy of the Anti- Poverty Commission and report back to City Council at the April 19th meeting with plans to instate the Anti- Poverty Commission by the first meeting in May. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she was listening to the CDBG presentation. She stated that she heard a couple of times that there were no applications from certain groups. She stated that she thinks that it would not hurt to piggyback on this and see where they can do a little better. She stated that she does not know if it goes into the City Attorney realm or not. She stated that she thinks that it may be good if there was some type of policy in place that clearly states that if the application is not received by a certain date then it is cut off. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member made a motion to not go out of town for the annual retreat to Smithfield and convene at a place in Petersburg using one of the City’s own facility. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Hart, Hill, Moore, Wilson-Smith and Parham; Abstain: Coleman; Absent: Myers She stated that she asked at a previous meeting that they develop a seven member team, one from each ward, to formulate a committee to review the City charter to make or suggest changes to this charter. She stated that they have not done this yet. She stated that now she is asking for the names of the ward representatives are sent by the next City Council meeting so that they can start to convene and have the  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 17 – ______________________________________________________________________________ suggestions from the citizens in place by November. She stated that they would also need at least two council members to work with the citizens to which with their approval she would like to be one. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to ask the City Attorney or the designee to look into the salary changes that have affected the Mayor’s salary and not the salaries of council. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she would like to ask for City Council and citizen’s undivided attention. She stated that she has a letter in front of her written by the Mayor. She stated that this letter is a formal complaint that is written about her and it was given to all the members of council expect her. She stated that the law clearly states that the accuser must be made aware of the accusations. She stated that since the letter is about her she feel that she has the right to share it with those persons that vote and support her. Council Member Wilson-Smith read the letter. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she is not aware of any actions by herself where she continues to refuse to abide by the rules if policy that govern City Council. She stated that she ask a lot of questions. She stated that she has to ask the questions in order to have a good vote. She stated that she will not just vote on anything. She stated that the letter has also attacked my husband Facebook page and post. She stated that he is not an elected official. She stated that he does not answer to anyone on City Council. She stated that he is a citizen who has the right of freedom of speech. She stated that she cannot be held accountable to anyone for his actions. She stated that she does not apologize to City Council and she will not for whatever her husband has decided to do with his Facebook. She stated that the buck stops here. She stated that she cannot personally take being treated like this much longer. She stated that this is not the first of such actions all about her. She stated that to write such a letter and accusing her of something and not letting her know that she is being accused of a crime is against the law. She stated that after a presentation from the City Treasurer to hire a firm to go after unpaid taxes and it was voted on as a council, the Mayor reached out to another firm and as since then met with another firm. She stated that it is illegal for any of them to go against the conditions of the entire council and it is a violation of the City Manager’s power by Council Member and it is seen as a Class 3 misdemeanor. She stated that prohibition applies to all members of council including the Mayor. She stated that once more the actions of the Mayor can be considered illegal. Council Member Wilson-Smith read a statement that she read twice regarding Facebook postings. She stated that they cannot continue to go on like this. She stated that the citizens have spoken and she has spoken. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to unseat Howard Myers as the Mayor of the City of Petersburg. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to remove Mr. Myers as Mayor of the City of Petersburg based on the information she stated tonight and by the citizens. There was discussion among City Council Members. Motion dies due to lack of second. CLOSED SESSION: Acting City Attorney Mark Flynn, 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 specific performance of specific appointees or officials of the public body.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 18 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Moore moved that the City Council go into closed session. 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 and Parham; Voting No: Wilson-Smith; Absent: Myers City Council entered closed session at 9:09 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Council Member Coleman made a motion to return City Council into open session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moore. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers; Council Member Hart made a motion to certify the purposes of the closed session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Moore. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers; 16-R-25 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 Hill made a motion to direct the City Attorney Flynn to give a report on the responsibilities regarding the appointment and removal of the Mayor on Monday, April 11, 2016, at 5:30pm in City Hall Chambers. 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 and Parham; Voting No: Wilson-Smith; Absent: Myers Council Member Coleman stated that Ward 6 will have a meeting on April 18th at 6:30pm at A.P. Hill Elementary School. He stated that the guest speakers will be Dironna Belton, Acting City Manager, and Senator Rosalyn Dance. He stated that Council Member Moore and he met with the Salvation Army Men’s Shelter on yesterday. He stated that they are asking the City to transfer ownership to them located at 835 Commerce Street. He stated that the City is currently leasing the building to them for $1 a year. He stated that so far the City has spent thousands of dollars into that building and that a couple of years ago the City put a new roof over the building. He stated that this was over $300,000. He stated that he would like to ask Mr. Kenneth Samuel to come forward from the Salvation Army to speak on what they are doing on Commerce Street. Kenneth Samuel, representative from the Salvation Army Men’s Shelter, gave a brief overview of what they are trying to do with the facility. Council Member Coleman made a motion to schedule a public hearing for the disposition of the property located at 835 Commerce Street. 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 and Parham; Absent: Myers Council Member Hill stated that he would like to thank the citizens of Ward 2 and the citizens in attendance for coming out to his ward meeting. He stated that he had a very informative meeting. He stated  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 19 – ______________________________________________________________________________ that they had a lot of good questions and answers. He stated that he would like to personally thank the Acting City Manager for coming out and answering the questions. He stated that they are heading in the right direction. He stated that a lot of people do not stay until the end of the City Council meeting when the City Manager speaks. He stated that they get up and leave. He stated that the City does have a plan in place. He stated that they do have it in writing somewhere as well. He stated that they do have a step and a plan in process on doing business from here on out. He stated to his colleagues that he understands that there are trying times and that they just have to hang in and keep on going. He stated that he is from Petersburg and that he has a lot invested in the City. He stated that he has a home in the City as well as a business. He stated that they are not alone in this. He stated that they want to do things legally and fair in the City. Council Member Moore asked the Interim City Manager for an update on the forensic audit. He stated that the one from the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office did not have specifications with it. He stated that they need to know where the City stands with those two together. Vice Mayor Parham stated that he would like to thank everyone for coming out. He stated that he wanted to address an issue that he had as recent as last night. He stated that the City has a problem with a lot of transfer trucks and car carriers that should not be parked in Ward 3. He stated that the fines for these vehicles to not be in a residential neighborhood are only a $10 fine. He stated that they ticket these trucks and they continue to come back. He stated that he wanted them to check into raising the fine to deter them from coming back in the neighborhood where they are not zoned. He stated that he would like to thank everyone in the Public Works Department that went out and checked each of the 12,000 meters. He stated that they got out there and covered the entire City by last Friday. He stated that they are continuing to move forward in correcting this issue that has been going on for far too long. He stated that the City is finally making strides to get there. He stated that he would like for everyone to have a good evening and continue to keep the fith as they continue to move the City forward. 10. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: Ms. Belton stated that she is going to go a little off the market of the City Manager’s Report. She stated that she has talked with staff in regards to updating the format for the future. She stated that the high priority area that they are continuing to look at is utility billing, finance and budget, economic development and also accountability. She stated that she will meet with anyone if they would like for her to reiterate the water billing process. She stated that one of the issues that they are currently taking is the estimation, actual and automation. She stated that in order to get to the actual process they just completed last week the complete reading of the 12,000 meters across the City. She stated that they have now created a baseline. She stated that the baseline is the first odometer reading. She stated that in order for them to get the actual number they must come back at 30 days of usage. She stated that in the meanwhile they will not be able to get an actual bill until 30 days. She stated that these are the reasons for the next two billing cycles showing estimated readings. She stated that some of the issues with the estimated bills were the template being pushed over from the old billing. She stated that in the format the City will control the printing themselves to where they went to an outside vendor. She stated that this caused issues within itself. She stated that they had to come down to restructure how they send out bills as far as the format. She stated this issue gave them a hiccup with the date of April 25th bill due date. She stated that the bill was supposed to be printed and gone out the week of March 22nd. She stated that this would have given them the 30 days to turn the bill in. She stated that right now the bill is anticipated and that they touched every bill and looked at the numbers. She stated that they hope to have them printed. She stated that they are waiting on some of the older printouts to come in. She stated that they would hope to get this in the mail by Friday. She stated that they have talked to the citizen with regards with fixed income. She stated that the date has been extended to May 2nd. She stated that they are willing to work with all customers as they go through this transition period. She stated that she talked a little about the actual process. She stated that this is going to take the 30 days. She stated that they hope for this billing to be no later than June. She stated that the City of Petersburg currently has a contract with the vendor and that they were using the printing contract. She stated that this contractor is out of Maryland. She stated that this is what the outcome of the procurement process yielded for best cost. She stated that in this contract the utility bill was added as a writer to be printed and with some of the problems that they have seen is being able to control the outcome of the bills in which they have already adjusted this. She stated that the printed  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 20 – ______________________________________________________________________________ bills will be done in the City of Petersburg. She state that she knows that the budget is fast approaching. She stated that they are determining how to improve the current situation. She stated that they have been working with the regional authorities to ensure at this moment that the regional payment plans are established and followed through. She stated that they are looking at short and long term in order to sustain them financially. She stated that they are doing a strategic approach for the FY17 budget process. She stated that she hopes to have the budget in front of everyone forthcoming at the next City Council meeting. She stated that economic development is another huge strategy. She stated that there are things that they developed with the economic development office to make processes more transparent. She stated that they now have a solicited and unsolicited process for proposals. She stated that they are set in place so that they have solicited would be an RFP process. She stated that this would be when they take a complete RFP or procurement process to accept an economic development idea. She stated that the second being an unsolicited in which citizens are allowed to bring ideas through the process and City Council will then look at the ideas for consideration. She stated that are looking for government accountability for performance. She stated that recently this week on Monday they talked through with the department heads on strategic action plans. She stated that the strategic action plans build on the goal and vision that the City currently has. She stated that this is on the developing measures of each of those. She stated that with the performance measures of each of the department is to move the levels that they have set. She stated that if this doesn’t occur and they see the level go one way and if it goes through right it will go the correct way. She stated that she has done this process for the Governor of Virginia and Secretary of Transportation in which all were successful. She stated that they will be able to measure the process in the City of Petersburg. a. City Manager’s Report 1. Consider the Farmer’s Market original location and plans for expansion if necessary to reclaim vendors who departed in the last year. a. The Petersburg Farmers Market moved to 125 E. Washington Street in November; a very visible location off of exit 52 in the heart of downtown Petersburg. The Office of Economic Development is working with a variety of community partners and funding agencies to create new resources and programs to support the Petersburg Farmers Market. New and returning vendors are always welcome at the Farmers Market. For information about vendor applications, policies and fees call Cynthia Market at 804-733-2352. 2. Is there a plan to develop existing housing properties rather than acting on new development? a. Yes, there are goals and focus areas in the updated Master Plan for direct efforts and resources. The City can also utilize its tools through Code Enforcement to require existing property owners to maintain and fix up their properties. The City cannot require anything above what the code states is necessary for the safe occupancy of the housing. Our development effort targets the neighborhoods but not specific properties. 3. Can the City consider a volunteer program to help enforce illegal parking in handicap spaces to include a certification for photographers to help prosecute violators? a. Ms. Belton stated that prior to her role in this position, City Council voted to establish a volunteer program to address volunteer needs of the City. She stated that she is currently seeking information on this effort and will in the future coordinate with the Chief of Police and Acting City Attorney in determining the possibility of this type of program. 4. Will there be a review of salaries for those making over $100,000 as a result of raises realized in the past years. a. Ms. Belton stated that as part of the FY17 budget process, HR files are being reviewed and all salary position will be revisited prior to the FY17 budget. 5. Will the City website be updated? a. Updates are currently being made to the website. Due to the untimely departure of the Public Information Officer, they ask for the patience of the updating of the website. It has been added to the responsibility of current staff.  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: April 5, 2016 - 21 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 6. What is the payment plan for the school system? a. As funds are available, our practice has been to allocate one twelfth of the total appropriated funds due from the City of Petersburg Public Schools monthly. 7. Can Cameron field be revamped? a. Presently, there are no plans to rehabilitate Cameron Field. Physical improvements to parks are based on funding (grants, general fund, or CIP.) Acting City Manager will work with staff to create a five year plan to renovate Cameron Field. 8. What is the plan to hire a new City Manager to include advertising, use of a consultant and citizen input? a. No deliberations have been made at this time, but will be forthcoming. 9. Can prayer be considered as a part of the Council meeting? a. It is and has been the Council’s position that due to several denominations of worship; that the moment of silence shall be used for individualized expressions of reverence. 11. CLERK OF CITY COUNCIL'S AGENDA: No items for this portion of the agenda. 12. CITY ATTORNEY’S AGENDA: Mr. Flynn stated that he finds it real exciting to work with the City. He stated that they are working hard on the staff level and City Council level to turn the City around in right direction. He stated that this is a fantastic place to be. He stated that it is real exciting to be working with everyone. 13. CLOSED SESSION (IF NECESSARY): No closed is necessary. 14. ADJOURNMENT: City Council adjourned at 9:51p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor