City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, March 21, 2017, at the Union Train Station. Mayor Parham called the meeting to order at 6:30p.m. 1. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member Charles H. Cuthbert, Jr Council Member Annette Smith-Lee Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Council Member W. Howard Myers Council Member Darrin Hill Vice Mayor John A. Hart, Sr. Mayor Samuel Parham Absent: None Present from City Administration: Interim City Manager Tom Tyrrell Interim Finance Director Nelsie Birch City Attorney Joseph E. Preston Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC Mayor Parham stated that he would like to start of the evening with the “Positive Petersburg Story.” He stated “On Saturday, February 27th a fire broke out at 3101 Rusty Court in Petersburg. The smoke was observed coming out of a window at the rear of a house by neighbors Bernard Harper, Audrey Brown and Willie Brown. The Brown’s called 911 to report the fire and then went and knocked on the front door to determine if anyone was at home. The interior of the home was visibly filled with smoke. Mr. Harper went to the rear as the smoke was turning the fire coming out of the rear window. With the help of Mr. Brown they untangled the water hose at the neighbor’s house and Mr. Harper soaked around the window to stop the spread of the fire. He was able to extinguish he external flames before the fire spread. The police, EMTs and fire quickly arrived. The neighbors shared with fire and police that they believe that someone was in the house because a car was in the driveway and no one answered the door. A member of fire jarred the front door open and acknowledged a man down on the floor at the front door. The police officer (Off. Riazi-Sharif) immediately reacted, running to the door and assisted the firefighter in carrying the our neighbor out of the home and immediately beginning CPR. The EMT (Amie Edwards) began treatment as our neighbor was in discomfort and labored to breath. Members of Fire Station, led by Fire Chief continued their work clearing the home, to ensure no one else was in danger, while suppressing the fire and smoke. The Southside Rescue team of Aimee Edward, Howard Barefoot, Ben Jeffers and Joe Garu continued to care for our neighbor and once stabilized transported him to the hospital. We are happy to report that he was released from MCV on March 16th. He said that he has a long road to recovery but is out of the hospital. This was truly a community effort to save the life of this Petersburg Resident (Our Neighbor). Request the city recognize the neighbors for acting and the quick response of Petersburg Fire, EMT & Police and neighbors.” 2. CLOSED SESSION: No closed session items. 3. MOMENT OF SILENCE: a. Clerk of Council, Nykesha D. Jackson, led council and the audience in a moment of silence. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ 4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: a. Clerk of Council, Nykesha D. Jackson, led council and the audience in the pledge of allegiance. 5. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: a. A Proclamation designating March as Purchasing Month BACKGROUND: March is Procurement Month. It’s a time to celebrate with pride the role of the public procurement profession. This month provides the opportunity to help educate elected officials, administrators, taxpayers and vendors about the procurement process and the admirable work we perform every day. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend the Honorable Mayor and Members of Council to present the attached proclamation recognizing the month of March as Purchasing Month. Mayor Parham read and presented the proclamation to the Purchasing Department. 6. COMMUNICATIONS/SPECIAL REPORTS: a. Presentation Pathways to City Council. BACKGROUND: We have been working in the community for 21 years in the areas of economic development and work force development. Additionally, we have been providing health care services for the past 8 years. RECOMMENDATION: To present an update on the continued work. Mrs. Juanita Epps and Shawn Nicholson of Pathways gave a report and update on Pathways. Mrs. Epps stated that Pathways has been in the City since 1995. She stated in 2015 they celebrated 20 years of service to the City under the leadership at that time of the founders of the organization. She stated that in September of 2015, she began the journey as the new CEO of Pathways. She stated that in January she was joined by Mr. Nicholson as the COO. She stated that they have a vision and that they want to continue the work in the City. She stated that they would like to let City Council know what they are doing and the value of that service. Mr. Nicholson stated that there is a pleather of things that they are focusing on but that the main things is being able to give back to the community. He stated that they are interested in leadership development, developing employee skills with the young demographics from age 17-24. He stated that from 2001 to 2016 they have graduated 331 students. He stated they have served over 1,800 students as of today. He stated that these students have earned over 2,700 credentials through their program. He stated that each credential consisted of First-Aid, CPR, OSHA Training, Lead Abatement, and Logistics Training as it relates to manufacturing and warehouses. He stated students were able to built panel walls for a disabled veteran on West Lane. He stated that this is in production at this moment. He stated that also one of the men that is working with Pathways will be walking into his first home during the first part of May. He stated that the students that are in Petersburg now will be going outside and doing the finishing up work and the landscaping as well. He stated that they are looking at about 85% of students that have come through their door where they were able to find an active place for them. Mrs. Epps stated that the other area that they are extremely proud about is the Pathways Free *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ Specialty Clinic. She stated that they are the only free clinic in the state. She stated that when they say free they mean free. She stated that they can utilize their services at a free cost. She stated that nurses and doctors volunteer to provide their free services to Pathways. She stated that they are extremely happy about one of the new clinics of services that they are providing which is dental. She stated that they are providing free dental care to citizens that are over the age of 55. She stated that they are partnering with Lucy Corr Dental Services in Chesterfield County. She stated that individuals get picked up by Lucy Corr and taken to their services. She stated that the first clinic was February 7th and the next clinic is scheduled for April 4th. She stated that they must call to schedule an appointment for services. She stated that they are funded by government grants and donations. She stated that she thanks them for allowing them the opportunity to let them know what is going on at Pathways and the services that they provide to the citizens in the City. Council Member Hill stated that he would like to thank them for their services on behalf of City Council and the valuable information that was provided. b. Presentation of the FY2017-2018 Operating Budget. BACKGROUND: City Manager has recommended an operating spending plan for Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2017, and ending June 30, 2018. RECOMMENDATION: To present City Council with information on a draft for the FY2018 Operating Budget. Ms. Birch stated she would like everyone to know that they will be presenting the City Manager’s budget on next Monday at 6:30pm. She stated that in an earlier agenda it stated that it was going to be presented tonight but that they moved it back to next Monday. She stated that she does not have a lot of information to give other than the financial reports. She stated that this will be the normal schedule. She stated that every month at the second meeting they will see the prior month’s year-end budget actual. She stated that since she had just given them one that was halfway through February this one only has two more weeks with it. She stated that they will get this information in their packet and it will not be provided at the meeting. She stated that next month they will get on a regular scheduled routine. She stated that she has an update to the cash flow as of March 13th. She stated that they continue to see challenges in the City’s collection efforts. She stated that they are delaying the City’s ability to pay bills timely. She stated that they are monitoring cash flow carefully. She stated that if she is not mistaken the water bills have gone out late for the month of March. She stated she must be extra careful in managing the cash flow for the month of March. She stated that she thinks In-Tek is present to provide a report on their information and the work that they have done. c. City Treasurer’s Report. BACKGROUND: City Treasurer has received negative media reports concerning the delayed processing of checks on a daily basis. City Treasurer wants to review the manual process currently used in his office. Also, he wants to share information concerning the implementation of the SunTrust Lockbox Processing program. RECOMMENDATION: City Treasurer is working to process checks on a daily basis. Update on status with Lockbox Processing with SunTrust Bank. Kevin Brown, City Treasurer, stated that he is doing his monthly delinquent collection results report. He stated that that Propel Financial is one of the providers that assist customers in reconciling the accounts. He stated that they provide loans to customers therefore avoiding additional penalties and interest on their delinquent accounts. He stated that Propel has collected $175,094 as of February 28th for FY17. He stated that TACS has collected $1,598,193. He stated that together they have collected $1,773,287 for FY17. He stated *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ that the budget was $1.5 million. He stated that they have added additional temporary personnel to help in the delay of processing checks. He stated that they also had a visit from the Crater Regional Workforce Investment Group. He stated that from this visit they gained one additional person to help and that they are in the process of adding one more additional person. He stated that the current person has been working in the treasurer office for about two weeks. There was discussion among City Council Members and Mr. Brown. Mr. Brown stated that he will have copies of the Treasurer’s Accountability Report by the first meeting in April available for City Council. John Clyburn, President of In-Tek, Inc, stated that back in October they signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the City to conduct some revenue maximizations efforts on behalf of the City. He stated that they promised that they would work by way of task orders. He stated that they received their first task order from City Council late last year. He stated that their first effort was to work on an education cost claim which they completed on the 20th of February. He stated that it was submitted a few days later as been accepted by the state Medicaid office. He stated that they have defended it twice and that they are in the process of having their CPA office come and evaluate their work. He stated that at that time they will submit their work to City Council as well as to state Medicaid. He stated that today they ask that City Council approve the next three task orders. He stated that one is for the health department, social services and fire and ems services. He stated that they have submitted to City Council copies of those task orders which are descriptive. He stated that they need them signed off so that they may begin their work. He stated that he has two of his colleagues Michael Davis and Irwin Bloom if there are any questions. There was discussion among City Council and Mr. Clyburn. Council Member Myers made a motion pursuant to receipt and acceptance by Council, of the official submission of the City of Petersburg Public School District Medicaid Cost Claim on February 21, 2017, Council now authorizes the approval of Task order #1 for Petersburg Department of Social Services, State Department of Health, Petersburg Fire and EMS Department and Education claim through the Virginia State Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) with the assistance and support of the Revenue Enhancement Contractor, In-Tek. The City Attorney for the City of Petersburg will ensure the integrity of the process by written concurrence. Upon completion of processing by DMAS, Petersburg Department of Social Services, State Department of Health, Petersburg Fire and EMS Department and Education, the Council directs further and appropriate action be taken by the City Treasurer, City of Petersburg, and with respect to In-Tek, Inc., payment and allocation of remaining funds and hereby direct the Interim City Manager, Tom Tyrrell, to sign the appropriate task for the City of Petersburg. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Abstain: Cuthbert 7. CONSENT AGENDA (to include minutes of previous meeting/s): a. Minutes: Regular Council Meeting Minutes of March 7, 2017 b. Request a public hearing on an ordinance implementing a 13.4% rate increase for water and wastewater. c. Request a public hearing on an ordinance which allows supplemental billing of personal property taxes. Council Member Myers made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda as stated with scheduling public *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ hearings for April 4, 2017. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 8. OFFICIAL PUBLIC HEARINGS: a. A public hearing on the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 20 W. Tabb Street. BACKGROUND: The City is proposing to dispose of publicly-owned property addressed as 20 W. Tabb Street. The City has received a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase the proposed property and to renovate it for the use of multifamily residential units built to condominium standards. The units will start off as rental and will convert to condominiums in the future, as dictated by the market. The City received several requests to purchase this property; however, this development proposal and offer met the conditions outlined in the disposition process and will provide revenue in the amount of $800,000 to the City. The selling of this publicly- owned property allows the City to collect revenue that wouldn’t otherwise come to the City; transfer publicly owned real estate to a private developer, who will pay the City real estate taxes. The most important factor is that a beautiful historic building that has sat vacant too long will be restored. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend that City Council approves the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 20 W. Tabb Street, pursuant to the attached Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase, and to authorize the City Manager to execute any agreements and or contracts for the sale of said property. Michelle Peters, Interim Director of Economic Development and Planning, gave a brief presentation on the public hearing regarding the disposition of 20 West Tabb Street. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that this information came up before Mrs. Peters started working for the City of Petersburg. He stated that he has some issues with this and that he rode past the property last night. He stated that with condominiums where will the occupants park. He stated that on Union Street near the addressed property is very narrow. He stated that they are right near the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. He asked whether they talked to the other businesses that are in the area. He stated that where there is available parking there is pretty much other businesses that use the parking spaces. He stated that they cannot park in the court building. He stated that on the weekends the traffic is bad from other businesses and residents. He stated that the thinks that it is best to go back and rethink this request. Michael Edwards, 409 Grove Avenue, asked was the developer present at the meeting this evening. He stated that they want to purchase the property but that they are not present. He asked where will the 50 parking spaces that will be leased be located at. He stated that it is already hectic to find a parking space currently in the downtown area. He stated that he is looking online and that the hotel was built between 1914 and 1915. He stated that he noticed that in the packet the developer stated that he will keep the historical portion of the building. He asked whether there was anything legal that they can do to make sure that this happens and that nothing is altered. He stated that he is in support of selling the property. Karen Graham, 402 High Street, stated that she agrees that this is an important building and beautiful. She stated that it has been vacant far long and should be renovated. She stated that she does have some concerns with the acting city manager negotiating sale. She asked whether this will be a cash sale at closing or will the City be financing a component of the sale. She stated that in terms of the leased parking spaces she asked can there be clarification of their proposal in the increased fee for the spaces. She asked can they be told how many units are being proposed for the project. She stated that there should be a time completion in the contract and maybe a reversion clause. She stated that the idea to revert to condominiums would be a little high in the sky. She stated that she is concerned as well on where the leased parking spaces will be. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ Gloria Brown, 1557 South Sycamore Street, stated that it is awesome that there is a developer that is coming to the table. She stated that her concern is what do they want Petersburg to look like. She asked what do they want for Petersburg. She stated that she knows that the City is in a financial bind but they do not want to just sell the City at the highest bidder and there is no Plan B or completion of the plan. She stated that with the hotel issue she has seen developers have the property and then they ran into the mortgage crisis and that this pretty stopped the development. She stated that she was told that a developer was coming in and cleaning out the building and that City Hall was supposed to be moved. She stated that they have to ask themselves what they want Petersburg to look like. She stated that they have at least four comprehensive completed plans that the City has spent millions of dollars on. She stated that they need to sit down and stop and see what they want for the City. She stated that the parking is an issue. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that he is pleased to see that the pigeon palace will be getting new owners. He stated that hopefully that they will pass this and that he realizes that people are afraid of people doing something to things that were City property and not doing what they said they were going to do. He stated that from the packet it looks like these people have good track work. He stated to City Council to please do their homework and that he hopes that every has already done it. He stated that he thinks that it is a good idea to get it off the role of the City property. He stated that he never got to see it before the hotel closed and that he has been in it numerous times afterwards. He stated good luck to the developer with the project and that he thinks that it is a good plan. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Vice Mayor Hart made a motion to accept the recommendation to approve the disposition of publicly- owned property located at 20 West Tabb Street, pursuant to the attached LOI to purchase and to authorize the City Manager to execute any agreements and or contracts for the sale of said property. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Abstain: Cuthbert Council Member Cuthbert stated that he is abstaining because his brother his interested in acquiring the property located at 20 West Tabb Street. 17-ORD-13 AN ORDINANCE TO ACCEPT THE RECOMMENDATION TO APPROVE THE DISPOSITION OF PUBLICLY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 20 WEST TABB STREET, PURSUANT TO THE ATTACHED LOI TO PURCHASE AND TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AGREEMENTS AND OR CONTRACTS FOR THE SALE OF SAID PROPERTY. 9. PUBLIC INFORMATION PERIOD: A public information period, limited in time to 30 minutes, shall be part of an Order of Business at each regular council meeting. Each speaker shall be a resident or business owner of the City and shall be limited to three minutes. No speaker will be permitted to speak on any item scheduled for consideration on the regular docket of the meeting at which the speaker is to speak. The order of speakers, limited by the 30-minute time period, shall be determined as follows: a) First, in chronological order of the notice, persons who have notified the Clerk no later than 12:00noon of the day of the meeting, b) Second, in chronological order of their sign up, persons who have signed a sigh-up sheet placed by the Clerk in the rear of the meeting room prior to the meeting. Ms. Jackson stated that she has 11 speakers. She stated that if all City Council Members concur she *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ would like to give them three minutes each. Kyle Dixon, 232 High Street, stated that he is the current owner of the Petersburg Cavaliers basketball team. He stated that he wanted to introduce the team to the City. He stated that he has attending with him Robert Pinkston. He stated that he is 3rd leading scorer of the league and 1st leading scorer of the team. He stated that he has brought a jersey so that they will see what the uniforms look like when they are away. He stated that they represent the Cavaliers. He stated that they have a home game this Saturday at 5:00pm at Petersburg High School. He stated that they went with the crimson and gold colors because it is the theme of the City. He stated that they have five home games left. He stated that they spoke to Dr. Newsome and Brandon Jones and they have created a situation where each elementary school will have the A & B Honor Roll students and high performance students will get in the game free. He stated that they will have their own section in the gym to sit. He stated that they will have a meet and greet to meet the players and take pictures. He stated that they have dancers and a DJ and that he hopes everyone comes out and have a good time. He stated that the last time they played Mr. Pinkston had eight for ten from downtown and scored 29 points for the first home game win. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that the City webpage as of this morning, feature 360 under the health center has been out of service for about two weeks. He asked to please remedy the situation. He stated that the City’s partnership with the Petersburg Preservation Taskforce that is permitted does not have any mention on the City’s website. He asked what is the status for repair for demolition of 820 Harding Street, known as the People’s Market that burned down nearly to the ground. He stated that the structure is more than an eyesore. He stated that last evening on the public information session regarding public utility a citizen suggested that the City needs volunteers. He stated that he agrees wholeheartedly. He stated that they need more than this to pull the City out of the hole. He stated that they more to be involved and to get the neighbors involved. He stated that there are gardens needs attending in the City and they have not been taken care of since the release of some employees. He stated that he would like to thank the Bobb Group for their expertise in writing the City’s functions and finances. He stated that the job is not done but that they are on the right way to get this dramatically straightened out and get the historic City back to the once jewel. Karen Graham, 402 High Street, stated that it appears that the report of concern link that is on the homepage of the City’s website has been removed altogether or moved to a location where she cannot find it. She stated that it is a very useful link and well responded to by City officials if you reported a concern such as a pothole or a light being out or delinquent property. She stated that it would be great if it can be back up and operational. She stated that she can say that the American Flag at City Hall is torn and should be replaced. She stated that it is a disgrace to be flying an American Flag in that condition. She stated that there is still a lot of problems that are going on with the water bill issue and that she is still surprised when Mr. Tyrrell did his PowerPoint at the last council meeting to see that there were thousands of properties or bills that still had a zero reading. She stated that they have been into this for a year or longer and there should not be any bills showing a zero reading. She asked that with regards to paying for old meters that still have not been replaced why is the City covering the cost for this. She asked why was this not part of the Johnson Controls contract. She stated that she was under the impression that the contract with Johnson Controls was to replace all the meters across the City. She stated that she would like the status of 111 South Market Street. She stated that in the March 7th City Manager’s Report it only states that the owner of the house agreed to a plan with the former administration to repair the home over the next five years. She asked that there is no plan in place so what are they doing about code enforcement. She stated that the roof is about to collapse on the building. She stated that as they schedule the work session at the transit multimodal center to please consider the number of citizens that may attend and seating for them. She stated that when they have used the space to ask for other meetings is has been unconducive for the residents attending. She asked can City Council tell the citizens what the cost is for the motion to move forward with In-Tek and was the cost incorporated into the budget. Richard Stewart, 129 Rolfe Street, stated that he would he would like to thank Mr. Tyrrell and the *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ people of Petersburg for stopping the construction from coming early in the morning. He stated that he wanted to give a special thanks to the Petersburg Police Department for patrolling Pocahontas at all times of the night. He stated that the citizens in the area stated that they sleep better now. He stated he would like to thank UVA for sending a group of kids to patrol the area and trying to do some type of research on the island. He stated that if you look on the bridge you can see two trash cans. He stated that people are stealing trash cans from down there and carrying junk from cars. He stated that there are two on the ramp now. He stated that several days ago he called the landfill on them and told them to come get the cans. He stated that they can and got them and that the two cans are back up there again. Alvin Vassor, 214 South Sycamore Street, stated that he is present to follow up on a recent proposal or recommendation. He stated that he is sure that time was taken to look at it to come to a decision. He stated that he would like to know what that decision is and what exactly if any decision was made. He asked what did not meet the recommendation. He stated that he thanks them for the opportunity to speak. Willie Noise, 1508 Circle Drive, stated that he is a little speechless tonight. He stated that he wants to thank God for his presence and everyone else as well. He stated that maybe a prayer will be said sometime in the future at one of the meetings. He stated that he still does not feel that there is a vision in the City of Petersburg. He stated that when he was coming up they said that black people had to work harder just to be better than the white. He stated that he is pleading tonight. He stated that to the black people please let’s get busy and build a City. He stated that they have everything that is needed. He stated that God is going to take care of everything. He stated that everyone is not made to go to college so there are some trading people that they must look out for. He stated that if they start then the people will come. He stated that they must sell the City themselves to promote some of the locations. He stated that not just letting people who say that they have ideas. He stated that the City must work out their plan. He stated that the City must go out and promote. He stated that they must keep on pushing. He stated that it is only the eye sight and vision the citizens have. He stated that the children in the City do not have any leadership. He stated that the someone must guide the children and that this responsibility is in the City hands. Linwood Christian, 410 Mistletoe Street, stated that he must say that he is one who loves his community and City. He stated that he must go back to the place where he was raised on Street. He stated that they do not like to see vacant buildings in the City. He stated that this stands true in downtown Petersburg. He stated that they that are in the hood do not like to see vacant buildings either. He stated that he looks at Virginia Avenue which is a project that never got off the ground. He stated that the school is still falling and rotting. He stated that the only thing that the children have is the basketball court. He stated that they have houses that were scheduled when the City had to money to work with the military to tear them down. He stated that people are still going into the homes and doing what they want to do. He stated that no too long ago an article came in the paper. He stated that anyone that is not doing their job needs to go. He stated that there are too many elderly people in their area who needs have went neglected long enough. He stated that they have young people who are about to run amuck. He stated that Mrs. Yerby does not have the payroll to pay young people for the summer program like she used too. He stated that as a single father when his son was in the program it was a great benefit to him. He stated that when he was working he knew his son would not do anything that he had no business doing because he knew he would get a phone call. He stated that the same went for his great nephews. He stated that he would like to thank three members of council. He stated that one being the new Council Member Smith-Lee. He stated that the other two were Council Member Cuthbert and Wilson-Smith. He stated that with Council Member Smith-Lee there were people in his ward that reached out to her for assistance. He stated that they elected Council Member Myers but that they do not see him in the hood. He stated that it makes not make sense that they have a building just standing there when Johnny Byrd was an icon for the City. He stated that they do not want to have an uprising but that this may be needed to have an understanding. He stated that this will not be New Orleans. He stated that City Council does not think that they are going to build the 1st Quarter and leave the rest of them standing straggled outside. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ Barb Rudolph, 1675 Mt. Vernon Street, stated that she would like to thank Willie Noise for mentioning vision because this is something that she wanted to talk about briefly tonight. She stated that several months ago they started talking about various meetings and endeavors that were being led by the Robert Bobb Group. She stated that one of them was to have a vision planning session of City Council scheduled for March 4th, which was a Saturday. She stated that somehow it fell off the calendar and that she does not think that it has been rescheduled. She stated that now they have the FY18 budget closing in on them. She stated that it would have initially been presented tonight but that it will be Monday. She stated that she still is not sure where City Council vision is or where the overall strategic direction fits in with this. She stated that she recognizes that the Robert Bobb Group is very competent with municipal budgeting and looking through everything. She stated that all she seen or heard about with talking with the media and people of the City is that they are using the normal techniques. She stated that she is a budget person so it means something to her. She stated that it will not mean much to most people but in this case her impression of this is that she does not care. She stated that she wants to know where are they going if they are just looking at each department and isolation and what the spent and what they need next year. She stated that this is the same as before. She stated that right now what the City has is not working. She stated that she suggests that they roll up their sleeves and get involved in it and say what they want the City to be and then use that vision. She stated that she commends the Bobb Group for bringing this up. She stated that the concept was great but that the execution fell by the waist side. She stated that this is the starting point for a budget. She stated to City Council to please take this to heart. She stated that this is something important and something that they have known about since last summer. She stated that there are a few things that need to be fixed. She stated that she thinks that this is a huge loss of opportunity. Gloria Brown, 1557 South Sycamore Street, stated that she has a couple of topics that she has some questions about. She stated that she wanted to know what the status and plans are about the Farmer’s Market. She stated that it was wonderful and that it just collapsed. She stated that with the new location she thought that it would bring in and that she never heard of why it would just crumble. She stated that this is sad. She stated that Petersburg is considered a food desert and that the City has had their fresh produce and foods right here that they can go grocery shopping every Saturday morning and get great vegetables. She stated that she is not sure who was over this. She stated that someone needs to get back on this. She stated that they are down to one grocery in Petersburg and that it is sad. She stated that her son mentioned that it was sad when the second grocery that the City had is now turning into a Rose’s. She stated that any town that you go into with a Rose’s is so telling and that the demographics tell of the town. She stated that she wishes better for Petersburg. She stated that she has asked and others have too about a grocery. She stated that the feedback that she received was on all the traffic and numbers. She stated that right here in the City is a ton of traffic. She stated that she has been doing a lot of research since she has been on the Board of Economic Development Authority looking at other markets. She stated that there is a whole food grocery store in a neighborhood in Chicago in a very gentrified neighborhood with a median income of $28,000. She stated that they have managed to get a wholefood store in the neighborhood. She stated that they do not have any excuse to not get to that level. She stated that they should have a vision and that they cannot stay stuck. She stated that we must reach beyond what we see in our eyes. She stated that they must take that reach, make the challenge and move forward with the City. 10. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: a. Consideration of reappointment/appointments to the Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board. BACKGROUND: The Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority (PRHA) Board consists of seven (7) members who are appointed by City Council to serve four-year, staggered terms. PRHA was created to study blighted areas within the City and to recommend programs for the improvement of such areas; to provide quality housing for low-income families at rents within their ability to pay; and to serve as the duly *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ designated agent of the City to contract with federal agencies for financial assistance in order to undertake urban redevelopment and low-rent housing programs approved by City Council. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council make re/appointments to the Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority Board. There was discussion among City Council. Council Member Hill made a motion to appoint Leonard Muse to represent Ward 2 on the Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Hill withdrew his motion. He stated that he would like the Ward 2 seat to remain open. He stated that they can set up a time for interview and that they can make up the necessary appointment at the next meeting. Council Member Hill asked have the authority been meeting. Mayor Parham stated that at the current moment they are out of compliance because they do not have a full board and it puts them at a violation on the board. Council Member Myers made a motion reappoint Mary Howard to the Petersburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Cuthbert and Wilson-Smith 17-R-14 A RESOLUTION REAPPOINTING MARY HOWARD TO THE PETERSBURG REDEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING AUTHORITY FOR A TERM ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2021. b. Consideration to approve the extension of the Petersburg Preservation Task Force Memorandum of Understanding. BACKGROUND: The PPTF entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City on November 22, 2016 for a 90-day period. The organization would like to extend this MOU until April 30, 2017. Currently, PPTF manages both the Blandford Church and Reception Center and Centre Hill Mansion. The organization is also responsible for marketing, inventory of historical collections and artifacts. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council extend the MOU with the Presentation Task Force. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to extend the MOU with the Presentation Task Force. The motion was seconded by Council Member Smith-Lee. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham Council Member Hill stated that he would like an updated report on how well they are doing with the Preservation Task force. Mayor Parham asked Mr. Tyrrell if he ca provide this information. Mr. Tyrrell stated that he will have this information at the next regular meeting. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ c. Consideration to approve the extension of the Robert Bobb Contract. BACKGROUND: On October 24, 2016, the City Council directed Interim City Manager to contract with the Robert Bobb Group, LLC pursuant to Section 2-293 of the Code of Petersburg and Section 2.2-403F “Emergency Procurement” of the Virginia State Code. Section 3 “General Terms and Conditions” and Section J “Changes to the Contract” of contract #17-003 with the RBG and the City, stipulates that upon mutual consent between RBG and the City Council a change to this contract must be approved and entered upon the minutes. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council approves the Contract extensions as provided above and direct the Interim City Manager to direct and allow City’s Operations, Budget and Purchasing Manager to finalize and execute the Contract extension and Change Order documents on behalf of the City. Council Member Hill made a motion to go with Option 1 – Phase 2 (Extension #1 – March 26, 2017 through June 30, 2017). The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion among City Council Members and Mr. Robert Bobb. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she would like it to go on public record that she did not want Mr. Bobb to come to the City of Petersburg. She stated that she did not see where they had money to pay them and that if the City had money they should use them to pay the bills. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a substitute motion to extend the contract to include Phase 1 and Phase 2 which will keep them in the City until September 30, 2017. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion among City Council Members. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Cuthbert Ms. Jackson read out loud the ordinance transferring funds in the general fund to pay for the extension contract with the Robert Bobb Group. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve the ordinance in the amount of $287,639. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Barb Rudolph, 1575 Mt. Vernon Street, stated that she would appreciate if they checked the Rules of Council. She stated that it is her understanding that ordinances and resolutions that are open for public comments. Ms. Jackson stated that it is not a resolution it is a contract. Ms. Rudolph stated that this kind of hair splitting is ridiculous. She stated that if this is what City Council want to do and suppress the public from talking about it go right ahead. She stated that she thinks that it is crazy. She stated that she thought that it would be public comment under the Bobb Group Contract extension because it was a resolution. She stated that according to the rules it is open to public comment after the motion has been made. She stated that she is not present to object to the Bobb Group but that she just wanted to make simple suggestions. She stated that when you talk about all the particular City functions that are being considered for outsourcing that they look at it as a whole. She stated that this maybe the approach that is being contemplated and that this is because there is a lot to do. She stated that if they are really going to know how it impacts the City, City employees and the City money she thinks that they need to look at the whole plan and picture. She stated that this is just logic. She stated that there are two separate parts to this and that she is sure that the Bobb Group presented it this way is because Phase 2 is in the current fiscal year and that Phase 3 and Phase 4 are in fiscal year 2018. She stated that the state money is different for the two years. She stated that the state money that was approved by the General Assembly for half a million dollars is for 2017. She *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ stated that the way that the description is on the budget language is that the only located that it applies to is Petersburg. She stated that she wanted to clarify something that Mr. Bobb stated is that it is passed and that this is a reasonable thing to vet on and that it will stay in the budget but technically the budget is not approved yet. She stated that the Governor has to come back on April 5, 2017, and make the final decision on things. She stated that she does not see any reason why Governor McAuliffe would want to take this out the budget. She stated that technically it is not available yet. She stated that whatever they do they are having to come up with money this year and make a leap of faith. She stated that next year there is another set of language in the state budget which would allow the state to call upon balances. She stated that in that case there are a lot of other localities that are fiscally stressed could also be applying for relief. She stated that this is a different funding mechanism and process then what would happen this year. She stated that the $500,000 that is in the current year budget is an emergency fix. She stated that she appreciates that Mr. Bobb suggested that this also might be used with VML VaCO Health and the forensic audit and other things that are going on because it makes a lot of sense. She stated that since the Bobb Group extension occurs during this fiscal year and is less than $300,000 then they may as well maximize the whole amount if they can. She stated that it really should be coming to this locality. She stated she would appreciate the reviewing of the Rules of Council and not using some distinction of calling it a contract and to say that it was not open for discussion. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 17-ORD-14 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING TRANSFERS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2016, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2017, IN THE GENERAL FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $287,639. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she has some questions. She stated that it was brought to her attention that the water bills went out late and that she was wondering if someone can tell her what the problem was and what the issue was. Mr. Tyrrell stated that he can probably give a better answer tomorrow. He stated that the short answer is that they got behind in meter readings during the snow and it caused a cascading delay. He stated that they put the bills out with a slight lesser time of about a week to respond so that they can get the cycle in. He stated that he will give a better answer in writing. He stated that this is the essence of it. Council Member Wilson-Smith thanked Mr. Tyrrell. She stated that she is sitting trying to think. She asked where is the City on the fire hydrant repairs. Mr. Tyrrell stated that Chief Sturdivant is present. He stated that they are completing their plan and that they have an ongoing program. He stated that there were 36 hydrants that were more severe than others. He stated that he is impacting that all but three of those have been repaired. Interim Fire Chief Sturdivant stated that he forwarded a couple of list to public works. He stated that one list was total of all the hydrants in the City. He stated that the other list was 35 to 40 hydrants that were in the need of immediate repair. He stated that he received a return email earlier today from public works that stated that they had addressed, maintained and repaired 33 of the fire hydrants that were in the need of immediate repair. He stated that they are currently working on a comprehensive semi-annual hydrant program. He stated that this is something that the fire department will lead. He stated that they will be completing the first draft of this program in his office on April 1st. He stated that they will be looking at implementing the program in early May or mid-May. He stated that every six months the hydrants will touched. He stated that they will not necessarily be painted every six months or flushed but that they will be maintained and touched by the f ire *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ department. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked Interim Fire Chief Sturdivant what does maintain mean to him. Interim Fire Chief Sturdivant stated that maintain to him means to him that the steamer caps are greased and lubricated so that they come off as they should. He stated that maintain to him means to ensure that they have adequate pressure and that when they close the hydrants they drain adequately. He stated that they want to be conscience of the delicate nature of the water system in the City from an infrastructure standpoint. He stated that they want to be careful with the opening and flushing of the hydrant. He stated that they can still maintain them through the static testing. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked Chief Sturdivant that there are 35 to 40 hydrants that still need repairs but at this morning there is an email that says 33. Interim Fire Chief Sturdivant stated that 33 of those 35 to 40 have been repaired. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked Interim Chief Sturdivant do he think that by the next council meeting that all the fire hydrants will be repaired in the City. Interim Chief Sturdivant stated that he thinks that they can address the 35 to 40 in the list of immediate need. He stated that he also have to make sure that they are aware that four of the 35 were in need of replacement. He stated that this is an issue that they are working on with public works as it relates to parts and the components that are need to replace the hydrants. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she does not know how they will get the money for the replacements but that she knows that a fire hydrant is a necessary item for the City to have. She stated that this is something that the City has been discussing since 2015 and 2016. She stated that for the answer to not be that they have all been repaired is bad at this point. She stated that she is not blaming any one person or department but that this answer is highly unacceptable. She stated that they are talking about people lives. She stated that there are so many group homes in the City where individual group homes may not know what to do regarding safety and running out these groups homes if something happens. She stated that these people would perish. She stated that they must get on the ball. She stated that this is disturbing. Interim Chief Sturdivant stated to Council Member Wilson-Smith that he concurs with her. He stated that there were decisions made years ago where the fire hydrant program was taking away from the fire department and given to public works. He stated that public works were doing their thing with the fire hydrant up until a recent decision was made that the fire department should own the fire hydrant program process. He stated that this where they are right now starting from scratch. He stated that they are trying to retroactively address the hydrant program. He stated that this is nothing new and that this has been in the City for a number of years. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked Mr. Tyrrell what can they do aside from them having a fire hydrant program. She stated that the program is not going to get them any fire hydrants then the program is ineffective. She asked what can the City do to ensure the safety of the citizens in the case of a fire. Mr. Tyrrell stated that you are never going to find a City where every single fire hydrant works every single day. He stated that it is an ongoing program that has routine inspections and repairs. He stated that there are multiple fire hydrants in the City. He stated that the other thing to keep in mind is that the fire trucks arrive with water. He stated that he understands the concern. He stated that he was quite proud of the response from the utility department given the timeline that the current utility director received notification from the fire chief. He stated that it was only a couple weeks before everything was done and completed. He stated *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ that he understands the frustration. He stated that he would have to ask the question of the fire department. He stated that he does not believe that they consider the overall situation of the fire hydrants creating an unsafe factor in the City. He stated that it is one that they have to be very vigilant with and continue to work. He stated that it does not say that they will have a disaster and that this can happen at any time. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated to Interim Chief Sturdivant that he just stated that they got the email two weeks ago from public works. Interim Chief Sturdivant stated that he sent them a couple of list over the last couple of weeks. He stated that one of the list was every hydrant in the City. He stated that the other list was the 35 to 40 hydrants that are in need of repair. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that her issue is two weeks ago when this issue has been going on for months since 2015. She stated that they just had the fire on Byrne Street when the fire hydrant didn’t work and they brought it back to City Council. She asked what has been going on since that time. She stated that they still have some fire hydrants that are not working. Interim Chief Sturdivant stated that they have staffing calendars with public works. He stated that they initially were doing water main breaks which was critical at the time than hydrant maintenance. He stated that they have challenges with the securing and procurement of parts that are needed to maintain. He stated that there are a lot of moving parts to this issue. He stated that it was reasonable for his office to understand that they water main breaks were important at the time. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that some time ago it was a practice to sell water at a reduced price for businesses in the City. She stated that when businesses came they could water at a reduced price. She stated that this was a practice here and that it is a good time to bring it up. She asked can they check on all of the businesses that they have to be sure that they have full water rates. Mr. Tyrrell stated yes. Mayor Parham stated to Council Member Wilson-Smith that his neighbor next door to his office space had his water cut off because he did not have a meter. He stated that he was getting free water and that they cut him off until a meter was put in place and they agreed to pay water. He stated that this is the first that he has heard of it. He stated that there have been instances. He stated that they have been on it. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that this is an old practice and that it is a practice that they did not pay water or they had a reduced fee. Deputy City Manager Jack Berry stated that there are situations where commercial customers have not been paying their water bill. He stated that they have not even established an account with the City even though a meter has been put in place. He stated that they are working diligently on cutting those down. He stated that there may be situations that need to be directed to the Commonwealth’s Attorney because they are stealing water. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that if you look in their leases they weren’t stealing it they had permission. She stated that it was written in the agreements that they did not have to pay a water bill for a certain amount of time. She stated that she would like to talk a few minutes on visions and the City’s vision. She stated that they were asked and never talked about it. She stated that some time ago at one of their retreats or advance she had asked if City Council would entertain the idea of a racial healing in the City. She stated that they would formally reopen Wilcox Lake which was closed to African Americans for swimming. She stated that she is not asking that they go back and swim. She stated that she is asking that they have *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ something formal to remove the sign and remove what it is what they said to start the racial healing. She stated that in her ward 460 runs into Prince George and that they can get to Hopewell and Fort Lee. She stated that prior to Mrs. Peters being in her position she had been asking for a grocery store on 460 east. She stated that if they can put a grocery store right there it would bring in traffic. She stated that this is a vision that she has for Ward 1. She stated that there are two flyers on the back table in the room. She stated that one flyer talks about her meetings for the month of March. She stated that she has a ward meeting on March 23rd. She stated that she has her Citizens Academy where the Commonwealth Attorney will be speaking at the train station. She stated that the events are free. She stated that she has already started her April notices. She stated that she will have an event where she will be sitting at the Petersburg Pubic Library from 6:00pm-8:00pm to discuss with citizens the council packet for the council meetings. She stated that the Anti-Poverty Commission will meet on April 13th. She stated that they meet every second Thursday. She stated that they are still accepting applications. She stated that her ward meeting is coming up in the month of April. She stated that at her Citizens Academy meeting she will have three subjects. She stated that she has invited on April 2nd ACQUA Virginia and on April 30th Virginia American Water and on April 23rd, General Assembly update with Senator Dance and Delegate Aird. She stated that she is having them present so that the citizens can ask questions and her everything they have to say. She stated that she is visiting ACQUA Apartments and Pine Tree Apartments for the month of April and they are for the residents who reside in the apartments only. Council Member Cuthbert stated that he would to follow up on his colleague’s comments about the fire hydrants. He asked Mr. Tyrrell whether it was feasible to have 100% of the City’s hydrants by the next City Council meeting as far as they are aware. He stated that he realizes that there are one or two of them that will not work. He stated that he is speaking on all the hydrants that are not working. He asked is it feasible to have 100% of the hydrants working. Mr. Tyrrell stated that he does not know the answer to that question. He stated that he would love to say yes but that he does not want to make a promise that he cannot keep. He stated that he does not know the status of the materials for it to take place. He stated that he can get with the team in the morning and get a response to council by email. Council Member Cuthbert stated that he would like to leave it at between now and the next regular council meeting to make 100% of the hydrants fully functional as they are aware. He stated that he would like them to let them know by first meeting in April if they have could achieve this or not. He stated that if not then what the problem has been. He asked Mr. Tyrrell if this is some that they can do. Mr. Tyrrell stated yes. Council Member Cuthbert thanked Mr. Tyrrell. He stated that he would like to talk on emergency services. He stated that on the calendar he sees that they will be talking about police, fire and emergency communications on April 12th. He asked will this include discussion on Southside Virginia Emergency Crew and the interaction with the Fire Department. Mr. Tyrrell stated that it can and hopefully at the next City Council meeting they will be able to submit a MOU for approval for Southside operation with the fire department. He stated that they can go into details about it at that time. Council Member Cuthbert asked Mr. Tyrrell whether he was saying that they will have the MOU available before April 12th. Mr. Tyrrell stated that they have a meeting and that by the end of the week they should be able to close it out. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 16 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated this is fine. He stated that he wanted to go to another item and it is regarding the meeting location. Ms. Jackson stated that they have not gotten to that portion and that it is on the agenda for discussion. Council Member Cuthbert stated that he is looking at the calendar and that there is only one entry for the General District Court. Mayor Parham stated that it is “12A” on the agenda. Council Member Cuthbert stated that this is great and he will talk about it when we get to that portion of the agenda. Council Member Smith-Lee stated Ward 6 will be having a Ward 6 meeting on April 13th at Pecan Acres Community Center. She stated that it will begin at 6:00pm. Council Member Myers stated that he will make an announcement at the next meeting. Council Member Hill stated that the old Martin’s is in his ward. He stated that the economic team looked around at option. He stated that the area is private and that the City does not own it. He stated that if a grocery store does not want to come in the City there is not much that they can do about. He stated that he is thankful that they do have a business that is coming to the City. He stated that instead of this business or building being empty he is thankful that a Rose’s is coming to the City. He stated that there are a lot of businesses are empty. He stated that if he had it his way he would bring a grocery store. He stated that across the nation there are a lot of grocery stores that are closing. He stated that they must be careful on how they speak on things because this can stop other people and businesses from coming in the City. He stated that there was a terrible accident right in front of his business. He stated that a car almost ran inside of The Oak on last Thursday. He stated that a young lady had a medical emergency. He stated that he would like to thank Sharon Talley. He stated that she is from Prince George and that she was having lunch that day. He stated that she is an EMS worker and that she ran in and jumped into action. He stated that a lot of citizens saw what was going on and one of the police officers that is sitting on the wall jumped into action along with the fire department. He stated that it could have been bad. He stated that he would like to thank everyone that came to the rescue of that young lady. He stated that the lady works around the street in one of the restaurants and she had a medical emergency and almost went through The Oak window. He stated that he would like to thank Mr. Brandon Martin for picking up trash in the neighborhood. He stated to Mr. Martin that he needs to wear a because someone will hit him. He stated that he has seen him several times and that he is diligent with cleaning up the City. He stated that Ward 2 will have meeting at the end of April or the first of May. Vice Mayor Hart stated that a while back City Council voted to reestablish the Commission on Community Relations Affairs and to establish the Citizens Auditing Committee. He stated that he has the two resolutions and that he will not read them all. Vice Mayor Hart made a motion to accept the resolution establishing the Commission on Community Relations Affairs and establishing the Citizens Auditee Committee. The motion dies due to lack of second. Vice Mayor Hart stated that he has no other items. Mayor Parham stated that he would like to thank everyone that came out to the Ward 3 meeting at the high school. He stated that he would like to thank Captain Moore for coming out to speak. He stated that for *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 17 – ______________________________________________________________________________ the summer months they are all about crime prevention. He stated that he would like to thank everyone for coming out for the water infrastructure meeting. He stated that it was a very informative meeting. He stated that he would like to ask Mr. Tyrrell to figure out a way to get some beautification credits and entice people to fix up their property. He stated that he would like to see if they can credit them in some type of way if they fix up the areas. He stated that he would like Mr. Tyrrell to consider the possibility of raising fines for littering in the City. He stated that when the summer times everyone is driving with the window down and it is so easy to drop a cup out the window and pull off. He stated that he would like Mr. Tyrrell to also come up with a strategy where they can report things when people dump and keep moving. He stated that these are things they would normally see when they go to conferences like National League of Cities. He stated that he knows that there is still some recording going down in Old Towne which is great. He stated that he wants to consider the economic impact of how does it help the City of Petersburg has far as with the promotion. He stated that if the can require them to give credits to the City of Petersburg during the filming of movies and shows. 11. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: a. Consideration to approve alternative locations for budget work sessions. BACKGROUND: The construction of the FY18 budget calendar is currently underway. It is proposed that the City Council hold five budget work sessions with the Finance Director. These work sessions are intended to give the Council a more in-depth view into each of the major departmental budgets. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council approve the proposed times, dates and locations of the attached budget work session calendar. Council Member Cuthbert stated that he is a supporter of the idea that they use the General District Court for the regular meetings. He stated that he thinks that it is a wonderful venue. He stated that they will not have to contend with the train. He stated that he believes that security is greater at the General District Court. He stated that they are right next to the police station. He stated that there are metal detectors in the building and that the acoustics are much better in the building. He stated that he often finds that he is strangling to hear what is being said at the meetings in the echo chamber. He stated that he hopes that they will make Petersburg General District Court the regular meeting place. He stated that he believes that court at one time was their regular meeting place. He stated that court functions went so far in the evening it was no longer feasible for council to meet there. He stated that court personnel and procedures have changed. He stated that it is his understanding that the Petersburg General District Court has not gone once past 4:30pm in the evening. He stated that for all those reasons he would encourage them to do what is necessary. He stated that the thinks that this would be a great venue for council and for the work session calendar. Mr. Tyrrell stated that they have looked at the operation of the facility and that there is nothing right now that keeps them from meeting in the facility. He stated that they would have to work to accommodate setup each time that they wanted to meet there. He stated that Judge Lupold agrees to this. He stated that they will have access to the court building no later than 4:30pm. He stated that he is sure that there are pluses and minuses to all locations. He stated that they would have much better acoustics. Council Member Cuthbert asked Mayor Parham what they had to do to make this happen. Mayor Parham stated that they would have to revisit the Rules of Council and make this change and that this would be coming up on the second meeting in April. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 18 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated that this is a long time away. He stated that he thinks that in the meantime they can vote for meeting by meeting basis. He stated that the existing Rules of Council allows council to change it by majority vote. Council Member Cuthbert made a motion to schedule meetings for March 27th, March 29th, April 10th, April 12th and April 26th and the regular meetings in April be held at the Petersburg General District Court. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion among Ms. Jackson and Mr. Tyrrell regarding availability. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 13. NEW BUSINESS: There were no new business items. 14. REPORTS/RESPONSES TO PREVIOUS PUBLIC INFORMATION PERIOD: There were no reports and/or responses for this portion of the agenda. 15. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: a. City Manager’s Report Mr. Tyrrell stated that while they have been present at the meeting there has been some police activity at the Siege Museum. He stated that they will probably hear about it on the evening news. He stated that they will be bringing a team from Bellwood to remove the live ordinance. He stated that it may have been a day when the old gun powder would have been used and then it would have been a problem. He stated that the Adhoc Committee had their first meeting. He stated that it is an esteemed group and that they are energetic. He stated that it was very informative to sit and listen to the people that were present. He stated that he would recommend to City Council to create a charter. He stated that they are confident on the overall information but mostly importantly to have a timeline for them to follow. He stated that he and Mrs. Innis will continue to support the committee until they are comfortable on their own. He stated that they had a community meeting last night on water at the high school. He stated that about 60 people attended. He stated that they posted the presentation and that they updated from the presentation that they made to City Council. He stated that the documents are being prepared for the Freedom Center for them to be released of financial liability. He stated to Council Member Wilson-Smith that he will let her know when they are done. He stated that all parties agree and that they are just doing the paperwork now. 16. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY CLERK: There are no items for the business or reports from the City Clerk. 17. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY: There are no items for the business or reports from the City Attorney. 18. ADJOURNMENT: City Council adjourned at 9:50 p.m. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: March 21, 2017 - 19 – ______________________________________________________________________________ _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor *Audio available