City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, October 17, 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: City Manager Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides City Attorney Joseph E. Preston Clerk of Council Nykesha D. Jackson, CMC Mayor Parham stated that he would like Reverend Robert Diggs to come forward and led the meeting in prayer. Reverend Robert Diggs said prayer for the City. 2. CLOSED SESSION: City Attorney Joseph Preston stated that City Council will now move to go into closed session for one purpose pursuant to Section 2.2-3711.A (7) of the Code of Virginia, 1950 as amended, council will be in closed session for consultation with legal counsel pertaining to actual litigation which such consultation in an open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or litigating posture of the City of Petersburg. Council Member Hill moved that the City Council go into closed session for the purposes noted by the City Attorney. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham City Council entered closed session at 6:35 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Mr. Preston stated that City Council now moves to come out of closed session and certify that only public business matters lawfully exempted from an open meeting requirement pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and only such business matters as were identified in the motion by which the closed meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered in the closed meeting. Council Member Hill made a motion to return City Council into open session and certify the purposes of the closed session. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion on the *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 17-R-60 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. City Council came out of closed session at 7:07 p.m. Mayor Parham stated, “I know some of you have heard about the outstanding heroics of the police officers. Tonight, I would like to recognize Petersburg Officer Thomas Jefferson and Recruit Officer Trenzas Whitley who responded to a resident suffering from an overdose on Monday. Recognizing that this could be a possible overdose situation, they broke out the window to the vehicle to render aid to the victim. Officer Jefferson and Recruit Whitley, administered Naloxone which brought the victim back around. This is the first life saved since officers in Petersburg have been trained and issued Naloxone. Officers we thank you for your services.” 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. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: a. Proclamation for 2017 National Community Planning Month BACKGROUND: October is the month that we join our planning colleagues from across the country to celebrate who planners are and the lasting value thoughtful planning has on our City. RECOMMENDATION: Recognize October as National Community Planning Month. Mayor Parham read the proclamation out loud and presented to the Planning Director. Ms. Jackson stated that there is an additional item that is added to the agenda for recognition for the Petersburg Area Art League. Mayor Parham asked all the members of the art league to come forward to the podium. Mayor Parham read and presented the certificate out loud. Colonel Victoria Revilla stated that back in the day they were called the “Arts in the Park.” She stated that they are going to share some of this artwork in the community. She stated that she would like to thank the City for the recognition. She stated that that they are currently having fundraisers. She stated that they had a fundraiser at Virginia State University and that they will be having another fundraiser on November 10th and in *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ December with the Fraternal Order of Eagles. She stated that they invite everyone to come out and help them celebrate their 85th Anniversary. 6. COMMUNICATIONS/SPECIAL REPORTS: a. City Manager’s Report. Mrs. Benavides stated to City Council Members that they received a copy of a memo to give them a weekly update and to highlight information. She stated that they did make corrections on the incident report and that the police chief will go over that information after she speak. She stated that they also should have received information on the fire incidents. She stated that they are still doing research on this information. She stated the first report was from January to December 2016. She stated that it shows information as far as housing and grass. She stated that they will work on refining this information. She stated that they did find out the number two issue on the incident report is that they have to expand their scope and that the police chief will speak on this. She stated that a project that is of interest to the residents and City Council is that a demolition permit has been issued for 405 East Washington Street. She stated that this is the hotel that the City has had a problem with for a while. She stated that they are also working on the scope of work for the City Assessor’s Office. She stated that they discussed information on whether this is something that they can outsource. She stated that last week they received a chart with a lot of colors. She stated that on the new chart that they loosened up the colors. She stated that she did want to divide up the colors and that structure on the organizational chart. She stated that on the chart is list two deputy city managers. She stated that today they actually have two deputy city managers in the City of Petersburg. She stated that they have Ms. Darnetta Tyus who joined the City earlier this year. She stated that she is the deputy city manager over community affairs. She stated that they also have the second deputy city manager, March Altman. She asked Mr. Altman to stand. She stated that March has come on provisionally. She stated that they are working with him and that he is going to help the City. She stated that he previously served as the Assistant City Manager of Hopewell and Senior Planner in Dinwiddie County. She stated that he has a Masters of Urban Affairs from Virginia Commonwealth and a Bachelors of Urban Affairs from Virginia State University. She stated that they will see his name on the chart structure. She stated that he is transitioning in with Mr. Jack Berry. She stated that his oversite will be public works, planning, transit and public utilities. She stated that he started on Monday and that they are excited about having him with the City. She stated that also joining the City is Mrs. Ava Greene Bedden. She stated that she is the Administrative Services Officer and Human Resource Director. She stated that Mrs. Bedden has education and governmental experience. She stated that she worked for the District of Colombia as an attorney. She stated that she served as Chief of Staff for public safety in the District of Colombia, which means she had oversight of police, fire and emergency management. She stated that as well she had positions as a clerk and in working with the Attorney General’s Office in the State of Virginia. She stated that they are excited to have her in the City. She stated she had a couple of places for constitutional officers. She stated that what they wanted to do was to show council and the relationship with everyone on the chart. She stated that this will be made available on the website so that everyone can see it. She stated that if they see anything it is organic and that this is the reason why she puts a date on it every time she prints it. She stated that she will ask the police chief to talk about the incident that took place. She stated that also Janell Sinclair will come up and talk about National Red Ribbon Week. She stated that she will let Mrs. Sinclair go first than the police chief. Janell Sinclair stated that she is not present in the capacity as a City employee. She stated that she is present as a member of the Tri-City Chapter of the Continentals. She stated that the Continental Society is a nonprofit tax exempt international public service organization that was founded as an international organization in 1956. She stated that the Tri-City Chapter serves the youth in Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights and surrounding areas. She stated that the president is Cassandra Conover and that they presently have 13 members. She stated that it includes herself, Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith and Council Member Annette Smith-Lee. She stated that next week their organization will observe “Red Ribbon Week.” She stated *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ that this is the reason for her presentation. She stated that Red Ribbon Week began after the kidnapping, torture and murder of undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique Camarena. She stated that after the murder citizens in his hometown in California donned red ribbons in his honor. She stated that next week is “Red Ribbon Week.” She stated that it is education and prevention that takes place for awareness about the dangers of drugs and alcohol. She stated that this is also in recognition of the officers that helped with an overdose. Police Chief Kenneth Miller stated that he takes accountability in giving the wrong information that was requested at two meetings ago. He stated that when they search an intersection with regards to a police and accident investigation sometimes the officer does not list the intersection. He stated that they had to do a broader search to answer her question. He stated that he recalls that Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that there was one accident. He stated that it was actually three. He stated that these are crashes that are reportable. He stated to Council Member Wilson-Smith that she is correct. He stated that he did not give information to his staff. He stated that he takes full responsibility of this. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked was there a particular number that they would look at before realizing that they need to put the lights back. Chief Miller stated that they are doing more selective enforcement in traffic. He stated that before a light is put in an intersection he would like to do selective enforcement by using manpower. He stated that if the officer is showing presence that this may help as well. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that they have dad discussion on the streets near the Siege Museum is located and having them to two-way streets. She stated that it appears that the parking spaces on one side of the street is not as wide as the parking spaces on the other side. She stated that she knows people that park on the less wide side and the side mirror was knocked. She stated that if they can look at the flow of traffic it would be good. She stated that the areas are Sycamore, Bank and Market Street. Darnetta Tyus, Deputy City Manager, stated that she is doing the presentation for the community affairs portion of the City Manager’s Report. She stated that the City Manager had her all staff meeting with the employees of the City of Petersburg. She stated that she gave all employees her 90-day assessment of how she found the City to be. She stated that about 460 employees attended this event. She stated that employers where invited to sign-up for the ambassador’s program. She stated that they were happy that at least 100 employees signed up on the spot to participate in the program. She stated that she wanted to thank Council Member Wilson-Smith for her vision and Council Member Smith-Lee for her support. She stated that they are now organized with the hospital “Petersburg Pink Party.” She stated that this is breast cancer month and that they have scheduled four events where they are going to the women from Petersburg who are employed with the City on a journey to have mammograms together. She stated that they have over 25 that are participating in this event. She stated that they will be riding together to the hospital. She stated that they will be having lunch at the hospital as well. She stated that anyone that would like to participate with them they can sign-up on the sheet in the back of the train station. Council Member Hill asked Mrs. Benavides that other than the ambassador program for the employees what are other things that she discussed with the employees that she can disclose. Mrs. Benavides stated that many of the employees did not know of her plan that was presented to City Council during her transition. She stated that part of her transition plan that she presented to City Council during her interview was having a citywide meeting with staff. She stated that this was to get familiar with what they do and who they are. She stated that many of them have seen her come around and that they know what’s happening. She stated that she wanted to make sure that they understand where it is coming from. She stated that what she shared with them was her observations. She stated that this turned into the cleanup *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ program. She stated that they are focusing on some of the policy issues that are coming out. She stated that her goal is to communicate to staff and to communicate with them to better understand what they need to succeed. She stated that policy, process and procedures is something that is important to her She stated that in order to develop them they have to work jointly on this. She stated that many of them said that they never had an all council meeting. She stated that this was an opportunity for all of staff to come together not only to talk about what is going to happen in the future but also to understand that they are going to be part of the process. She stated this leads to her follow-up session which is a brown bag session. She stated that she also wanted to thank them. She stated that staff took a 10% pay cut and that many said that they were never thanked for that. She stated that she wanted them to know that they recognized the commitment to the City of Petersburg and that it was a sacrifice. She stated that each department had an individual to stand up so that they can start to focus as a team. Council Member Hill asked that there were 460 in attendance but how will she reach the remaining employees. Mrs. Benavides stated that they have about 600 budgeted position but that they have numerous vacancies. She stated that she believes that there are about 600 positions and that there are about 50 vacancies. She stated that this will not be the last. She stated that she will be doing another one and that she would like to include City Council. Council Member Wilson-Smith thanked Mrs. Benavides for the organizational chart. She stated that she does not see Dawn Williams from the registrar’s office on the organizational chart. Mrs. Benavides stated that she not on the chart. She stated that she is not a constitutional officer. She stated that she falls under court. She stated that when she checked it out and went through a number of books and documents she falls under the court section. She stated that this leads to a whole level of the art structure. She stated that Ms. Williams does not report to her or to council. She stated that she reports to an independent board that falls under court. She stated that she would have to list all the court people. She stated that she did not break it down yet but that it was not impossible. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked Mrs. Benavides whether she would do something under courts. Mrs. Benavides stated that she will try to go through and make sure she covers this information. She stated that the throw for her is that she would like for the chart to show people how they fit in. She stated that once she puts her in it she will have to list all of the courts as well. She stated that she will work on getting this done. She stated that they will show how the registrar fits in it. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that there is risk management and payroll. She asked whether the City outsourced risk management. Mrs. Benavides stated that when you look under the administrative services office those are functions. She stated that they are human resources, payroll and risk management. She stated that these are functions that fall under that administrative services office. She stated that there are people in those positions. She stated that they had planned on outsourcing payroll. She stated that at this point in time they found out that it was cost prohibited. She stated that they have someone in that position and that they are still working on this. She stated that this section focuses mainly on her functions. She stated that all this falls under Mrs. Bedden. She stated that this is why she sees this information on the chart. She stated that have a contractor handles risk management. She stated that now payroll is in house and that she thinks that they are bidding out a portion of it out. She stated that benefits should have been the second word instead of payroll. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked whether leisure under Mr. Crockett include the library. She stated *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ that leisure service is a term that many governments adopt to represent parks and leisure services. She stated that these services are the library, cultural affairs and museums. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she also thinks that the website needs to be updated because it has some of the people list on the handout in one position and on the website, they are listed in previous positions. Mrs. Benavides stated that they have started an overhaul for this. She stated that they have started updating some of the photos and information. She stated this will allow people to know who the department heads are. She stated that they will see this information begin to update on website. Council Member Cuthbert asked Mrs. Benavides can she explain what public affairs do. Mrs. Benavides stated that public affairs is the public information officer and your communication. She stated that they have had a PIO and that this person is responsible for doing press releases and working with any press and questions that come. She stated that some of it would be the website update as well as social media. Council Member Cuthbert asked the City brought on Clay and Leslie. Mrs. Benavides stated yes and that they were contractual. She stated that they assisted the City when the Robert Bobb Group was present. She stated that at the conclusion of their contract she brought on a staff person which was in the budget. Council Member Cuthbert asked whether there was a difference in having a staff person and Clay and Leslie. Mrs. Benavides stated that their contract would be about twice the salary of that one person. Council Member Cuthbert asked was Clay and Leslie twice as expensive as Ms. Osaba. Mrs. Benavides responded yes. Council Member Cuthbert asked is the special events also full-time. Mr. Benavides stated that this is a full-time position. She stated that it used to be two positions and that it was initially placed under the leisure affairs. She stated that it is an existing position that works the train station as well as other sights. She stated that Ms. Fanfan has been in a number of positions and that she has narrowed it down to one. She stated that she coordinated the special events task force as well as coordinates the rental of this facility. She stated that this is one person. Council Member Cuthbert stated to take February as an example and that is it pretty dreary as he remembers it. He stated that he has seen a few. He asked are there special events in February. Mrs. Benavides stated that the site is rented out on a regular basis. She stated that she does not believe that they have openings on the site until January. She stated that she manages this entire facility for rentals. She stated that they rent it for about $750 a day. She stated that in February you may have meetings for events in March, April and May that may be family events and cookouts. Council Member Cuthbert asked whether this was a full-time position even in February. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Mrs. Benavides stated yes. She stated that it is very exotic. She stated that for the money you make it is more than Ms. Fanfan salary. She stated that the special events person coordinates all of the events in the City. She stated that rental of the train station is a 24/7 operation. She stated that people want to come in a tour the area. She stated that she took the movie crew for a tour of the site and building. She stated that it more to the job then it seems. She stated that she does not plan parties. She stated that title is not a good description of what that job does. She stated that prior to her it was a two-person organization that they narrowed down to one person. She stated that they kept the assistant and kept the office. She stated that she can get him some information on this. She stated that they moved her to the City Manager’s Office because she believes that as they start to do things like a volunteer program they can get her engaged in this to make sure she is occupied and active. She stated that she is currently on her own budget and not in the City Manager’s budget. She stated that there is a full line for that office. Council Member Cuthbert asked that there is someone in that office to help with volunteer. Mrs. Benavides stated yes and that she has been helping with everything. There was discussion among City Council Members and Mrs. Benavides in regard to the volunteer positions. Mrs. Benavides stated that charts that were done in the past was not broken down with names in the positions. She stated that she chose to break it done so that everyone will know the names of the people in those positions and that they can be recognized. She stated that some of the positions are lower level positions. She stated that she thinks that it is important especially dealing with her is to know who does what, when and where. She stated that this is one of the things that she committed to when she was interviewed. Council Member Smith-Lee does an outstanding job. She stated that she believes that Mr. Brian Little had this position and that she worked under him and that he made triple the salary. She stated that she commends Ms. Fanfan. She stated that she has known her for making sure that weddings are taking place in the train station and touring. She stated that they have realize something. She stated that big industries are not coming back to the City. She stated that the City has a gold mine in tourism. She stated that they have to make it. She stated that they have to fix it so that it is inviting and that it has to start somewhere. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated she also wants to elaborate a little about the special events coordinator. She stated that she thinks that it is important for everyone to know exactly what she is doing. She stated that Ms. Fanfan is a point of contact for every event that goes on in the City. She stated that having a point of contact keeps them from getting on top of one another. She stated that in February she coordinates black history events throughout the whole City. She stated that every event that is coordinated there is efficient security and insurance paperwork that is filled out and completed. She stated that there are multiple meetings that take place to make sure that the events can go on. She stated that even the Blandford Reunion had to go through the point of contact. She stated that like the comments that Council Member Smith-Lee stated it was a two-person job. She stated that now with her being the event coordinator if they wanted to put on any event they would know that they would have to contact Ms. Fanfan. She stated that she understood where Mr. Cuthbert was going but that she thinks that when they know what each position is it does help. She stated that she is the person that is so excited about volunteerism. She stated that this is one thing that she does not have to ask at the council meetings anymore. She stated that she thinks that this is a go and that they can come back if they have. Mayor Parham stated that a lot of talk has been about Ms. Fanfan. He asked Ms. Fanfan to stand up so that everyone can see who is. He stated to Ms. Fanfan that they thank her for what she does. She stated that there has been many nights that while everyone is sleep and there is a movie set going on that she is getting out the bed at like 2:00 am to make sure that everything is locked up. He stated that she sacrifices a lot of her *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ time and that they thank and appreciate all that she does. Ms. Tyus stated that they are now on the last part of the presentation. She stated that the beautiful part about all of this is that they have been involved in this. She stated that she would like to thank City Council for all their involvement and enthusiasm as they have rolled out the Petersburg Ambassador Program. She stated that the Ambassador Program is in two parts. She stated that one is for individual ambassadors where individuals are making the commitment to participate in all of the activities that require volunteers in the City of Petersburg. She stated that they are paying great attention to the colleges and that they have committed in participating to the program. She stated that there are many people that are around that are eco-friendly. She stated that they want to make good use of this as they clean-up the river. She stated that attached to the handout is information that most of City Council has seen. She stated that the kick-off is going to be November 4th. She stated that it is a citywide cleaning effort that everyone has been so excited about. She stated that they will be breaking the City up in four teams. She stated that one time is going to be headed by Charles Koonce. She stated that the second team is to be headed by the police chief. She stated that the third is going to be headed by Mrs. Innis and that the fourth team will be headed by herself. She stated that the cleanup will end at the train station for a big family cookout. She stated that she would like to welcome everyone to the Petersburg Ambassador Program. b. Financial Report Blake Rane, Finance Director, stated that the auditors will be in the City on Monday. He stated that with a few minor items to do they are prepared to host a week of auditing. He stated that with this the City should be able to prepare the CAFR and have it presented to the State by November 30th. He stated that with great help of the staff they were able to put together all the information that they need for the audit. He stated that he thinks that his a pretty good monumental accomplishment. Mr. Rane went over the PowerPoint slides regarding the budget. There was discussion among City Council Members, Mr. Rane and Mrs. Benavides. 7. CONSENT AGENDA (to include minutes of previous meeting/s): a. Minutes: Regular Meeting: October 3, 2017 b. Request a public hearing to be scheduled on the proposed disposition of publicly-owned properties. c. Request a public hearing to be scheduled on the proposed disposition of the properties located at 125 West Washington Street and 10 North Jefferson Street. d. Request a public hearing to be scheduled to amend ordinance 17-ORD-30 to allow the finance department to make disbursements on behalf of the City. Council Member Myers made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda and schedule the public hearings for November 21, 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 for the approval of an application to vacate the right-of-way adjacent to 2100 Woodmere Drive and Raleigh Avenue. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: This City is currently reviewing a site plan where the owners of Woodmere are proposing to construct new units with upgraded amenities and desire all streets to be private and managed by the developed. As such, the City will be granted utility, and access easements for ingress and egress. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council to approve the vacation of right-of-way adjacent to 2100 Woodmere Drive and Raleigh Avenue within the Woodmere apartment complex. Ms. Jackson stated that this item has been removed from the agenda until further notice due to the completion of the application process. b. A public hearing for the disposition of publicly-owned property at 138 Raleigh Avenue. BACKGROUND: The City has received a site plan which is under review to construct 36 additional multifamily units at the Woodmere Apartments complex. This lot has been determined to be owned by the City of Petersburg, and is necessary for the construction of a clubhouse for the complex. The developer will be an improvement to the existing gravel access to the pump station. This easement will be improved at no cost to the City.to purchase and to authorize the City Manager to execute any agreements and or contracts thereto for the sale of said property. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend that City Council approve the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 138 Raleigh Avenue, pursuant to the attached Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase and to authorize the City Manager to execute any agreements and or contracts thereto for the sale of said property. Michelle Peters, Director of Planning and Code Compliance, gave a brief overview on the disposition of publicly-owned property at 138 Raleigh Avenue. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. There was discussion among City Council Members. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 138 Raleigh Avenue, pursuant to the attached Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase and to authorize the City Manager to execute any agreements and or contracts thereto for the sale of said property. 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 17-ORD-49 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE DISPOSITION OF PUBLICLY-OWNED PROPERTY ADDRESSED AS 138 RALEIGH AVENUE, PURSUANT TO THE ATTACHED LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) TO PURCHASE AND TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AGREEMENTS AND OR CONTRACTS THERETO FOR THE SALE OF SAID PROPERTY. c. A public hearing to approve a resolution to allow City staff to apply for Revenue Sharing Funding, specifically for the University Boulevard Gateway and Trails Project. BACKGROUND: The City has partnered with the Cameron Foundation to develop a park and trail at the University Boulevard Gateway and the Appomattox River. The Cameron Foundation is paying for the Architectural services and sharing the cost of construction at 50% with the City of Petersburg and other *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ partners. Virginia State University (VSU) is also partnering with us as this project is included in their Master Plan, which was recently updated. The University is concern with safe passage of students and faculty from the campus to the downtown of the City. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council approve the attached resolution. Michelle Peters, Director of Planning and Code Compliance, gave a brief overview on the resolution to allow City staff to apply for Revenue Sharing Funding, specifically for the University Boulevard Gateway and Trails Project. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Gloria Person-Brown, 1557 South Sycamore Street, stated that she has a couple of questions. She stated that this has been going on for a while as Mrs. Peters stated. She stated that this was before 2015 when LISC had the project lined up for a mixed-use down that corridor. She stated that she knows that The Cameron Foundation does give funding for technical assistance. She asked that if they want to be efficient with the City’s resources are they going to have The Cameron Foundation to refund a brand-new layout or are they going to go in the archive and use LISC designs. She stated that the people as a community had tons of ideas and effort on that piece of strip. She asked what is the big picture. She asked is it still going to be mixed-use. She asked what is the proposed outcome of Canal Street or University Boulevard going to look like now. Mrs. Peters stated that when you look the review it is a design for a passive park. She stated that they are utilizing the existing trussels being cleaned. She stated in the design you see columns where the trussels are no longer standing. She stated that there will be a connectivity so that you can go from the university to the City of Petersburg. She stated that this is adjacent to Patton Park. She stated that it is east of the Appomattox River Trail. She stated that this is an open space and that it would be an interactive park for visitors that would pass through that corridor. She stated that Mrs. Brown spoke about a plan that LISC had with revitalization. She stated that this will be the catalyst that they hope will continue to allow them to develop that community. She stated to answer the question mixed-use is still the concept for the area. She stated that this is an open space that is complimentary to the Appomattox Trail Project. Linwood Christin, 613 St. Matthew Street, stated that he would like to say to Mrs. Peters that she goes under thanked. He stated that he thinks that she needs to be thanked. He stated that he would like to say that it is about time. He stated that the last time this issue came up the citizens asked questions. He stated that at that time the City Manager got some feelings because he was questioned about the way he was doing things. He stated that in the beginning when they went about renaming the street they should have brought Virginia State University to the meeting. He stated that he wanted to thank Mrs. Peters. He stated that a lot of times they do not give her credit. He stated that he is glad for the new City Manager because they are seeing some rising stars doing exactly that. He stated that when you look at other University Boulevards there are things that are not dilapidated. He stated he says to give them permission. He stated that they have been too long with having people in leadership that did not have a vision. He stated that this area was perishing. He stated that they should give them the permission so that they can get things done. Michael Edwards, 409 Grove Avenue, stated that he has two questions. He stated that he lives in this area and that he has lived in this area his entire life. He stated that he does not remember when the trains went across the trussels but that there is some present tonight that remembers. He stated he likes history. He stated that the only concerns that he has is that they speak on revenue sharing. He stated that the questions are that the city is not going to get a loan and pay interest on it to make this happen. He stated that he hopes not. He stated that his next question is are there any plans for VDOT to do the bridges. He stated that it is a flood prone area. He stated that this is an awesome idea. He stated that he hates to see the City invest money in this and do nothing with the project. He stated that Hanson purchased a home on Fleet Street and that it just *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ sat there. He asked is there a plan to approach Hanson property to buy the house. He stated that if they fix it up and there is an eye sore sitting there it kind of defeats the purpose to brighten the City. Mrs. Peters stated that she did not do this alone. She stated that there is no “I” in team. She stated that this is not a Michelle Peters’ project alone. She stated that it is definitely a collaboration effort and that she will not stand to just take all the credit. She stated that when you thank her you thank the team as well. She thanked Mr. Christian for his comment. She stated that to answer the question that was presented, Mr. Hanson is waiting on the City of Petersburg. She stated that he is waiting on her. She stated that she actually met with him several times to talk about the property that was questioned. She stated that he has plans to do a development and that they were it discussion on the design of the development. She stated that this is relative to the duplex. She stated that 308 University Boulevard is also a project that Mr. Hanson is prepared to close on. She stated that this is not a loan and that the City will share 50/50. She stated that it is grant money that they receive. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. Vice Mayor Hart made a motion to approve the resolution for Petersburg VSU Gateway Revenue Sharing. 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 17-R-61 A RESOLUTION FOR PETERSBURG VSU GATEWAY REVENUE SHARING. d. A public hearing on a resolution to allow City staff to apply for funding from the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), specifically for the Appomattox River Trail at Patton Park Project. BACKGROUND: The City has partnered with the Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR) to develop the trail through the City of Petersburg from Dinwiddie County. FOLAR recently approved a master plan for the Appomattox River Trail which stretches from Lake Chesdin down to City Point in Hopewell, Virginia. The matching funds for this grant will be provided and will not require any City resources for this development. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the resolution to allow City staff to apply for funding from the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), specifically for the Appomattox River Trail at Patton Park Project. Michelle Peters, Director of Planning and Code Compliance, gave a brief overview on the resolution to allow City staff to apply for funding from the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), specifically for the Appomattox River Trail at Patton Park Project. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Leonard Curry, 2014 Woodland Road, stated that Petersburg can really benefit from this project. He stated that this trail runs right through the town. He stated that there are restaurants that are near the trail as well. He stated that he can only see pluses with the City. He stated that in the long run the City will seriously benefit from this. He stated that it would make sense to do this to make things better. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public hearing. Council Member Cuthbert made a motion to approve the resolution to allow City staff to apply for funding from the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), specifically for the Appomattox River Trail at Patton Park Project. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 17-R-62 A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW CITY STAFF TO APPLY FOR FUNDING FROM THE TRANSPORATION ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM (TAP), SPECIFICALLYFOR THE APPOMATTOX RIVER TRAIL AT PATTON PARK PROJECT. 9. 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 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. Leonard Curry, 2014 Woodland Road, stated that he knows that the City has been through a lot of turmoil over the last couple of years. He stated that he recalls that the Robert Bobb Group asked what is the vision of the City. He stated that he has been with the City for 10 years and that he has yet to see any council member come up with a vision for the City. He stated that he has a vision. He stated that he thinks that they should focus on downtown. He stated that the City has a wonderful downtown that can really benefit from them if they have a plan. He stated that parking is a serious problem downtown. He stated that they had a plan until Mr. Johnson killed it. He stated that the City was to pave all the areas downtown. He stated that there was a gentleman a while back that wanted to start a solar energy company. He stated that they approved it and that there is farm land in the City and that they should be encouraging people to open solar energy companies in the City. He stated that they are dealing with a water front. He stated that there is a town in North Carolina with the same demographics as Petersburg. He stated that they were doing bad to and that they had a huge turn around and that they are doing great. He stated that they should visit this area and see what they did to turn around. He stated that another problem is the website. He stated the City’s website is not very god. He stated that he was thinking that the City can get some kids from Virginia State University to help design the website. Richard Stewart, 129 Rolfe Street, stated that he comes to tonight’s meeting to bring everyone up to speed on what is happening on Pocahontas. He stated that he would like to thank Mrs. Michelle Peters for coming to Pocahontas and meeting with the Pamunkey Indians. He stated that Chief Cook and his daughter came down to meet with Mrs. Peters. He stated that they met because he wanted to be a part of the City’s history. He stated that Henrico Schools are coming down to visit the museum. He stated that on Friday a consultant for the Harriet Tubman is coming to the museum so that she can get some understanding on how the Underground Railroad came through Pocahontas. He stated that Petersburg is the headline of Tidewater because Virginia Pilot did a black confederate story on the front page and that they are calling and people are talking about Petersburg. He stated that this is history. He asked that in Richmond they have something called tax amnesty. He stated that it involves people with delinquent taxes. He asked can there be some type of relief for people in the City with 90 days to pay and reduce the interest and penalty on their taxes. He stated that he sees that the City of Richmond is doing this. Ron Flock, 1708 Pender Avenue, stated to the City Manager that he gave her a list of questions and that he has not seen anything from this. He stated that he would like to address the April audit again. He stated that his question is why were only a few selected council members aware of the meeting with the state delegates regarding that audit. He asked aren’t there seven members that are elected to govern the City. He asked is this a bunch of council members who think that they run the show and not subject to follow the rules that govern this body. He asked that they please consider the rest of the information as a FOIA request that he will hand in in writing. He asked if they can consider the rest of the request that is in written. He stated that he *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ would like to know who was in the room with the state delegation to discuss the funding. He asked was $420,000 reviewed for stipulation as they pertain to the $50,000 funding. He asked that they provide the $420,00 funding documentation. He asked does it say in the $50,000 that the audit have to be performed by the Robert Bobb Group. He asked that if this is true he would like a copy of this documentation. He stated that funding doesn’t specifically state that future requirements by the state may be implemented at a later and that the City of Petersburg will be required to return the funds if those future requirements are not satisfied. He stated that if the neither the $420,000 and the $50,000 documents contain verbiage that states that the City of Petersburg will return the money to the state should the Robert Bobb Group not be given a contract, to provide documentation from the meeting with the state that was in that meeting. He stated that they are throwing out a fishing pole to take in people who are not doing their job. He stated that they need to get this information in written. He stated to City Council that they need to do their job. He stated that next he would like to speak on a $1,254 water bill. He stated that the City Attorney was charged less than $4 a month. He stated that the City Attorney has a $1,250 due balance. He stated that it is not 30, 60 or 90 days past due. He stated that this is his current bill. He stated that if this was anyone else it would 30, 60 or 90 days past due. He stated that this is a conflict of interest. He stated that he is thinking that if he does not what to pay his water bill that maybe he needs to run for office and be a part of City Government so that I do not have to pay. Barb Rudolph, 1675 Mt. Vernon Street, stated that Mr. Flock expressed some of the things that she was going on speak. She stated that she is going to speak on a different perspective about water. She stated that most meetings the citizens talk about water bills going up and that they paid and their account is not showing in receipt of payment. She stated that there are a lot of different players in the situation regarding the water system. She stated that Jack Berry spoke on the City needing to increase the collection rate. She stated that this was part of the strategy for the City to get their money back. She stated on the other hand at she saw Treska Wilson-Smith talking about the poor people who cannot afford to pay. She stated that not the ones that are being treated different because of their one inch meter but the poor people in general who cannot afford to pay. She stated that she is having a hard time reconciling the tough love and compassion. She stated that they are both things to recommend them but that they can see that they are both common clauses. She stated that there is no one decider who says when we are going to make someone pay and when they are not. He stated that there is another group that she thinks are naughty children. She stated that she thinks that Mr. Flock touched on it. She stated that this would be like City Council and City Officials that are not paying their water bills according to the online system. She stated that they are in a position to expect citizens to follow the rules when the rule maker and enforcers are not following them. She stated that she has to ask are they really serious about fixing the problems with water billing and water service. She stated that she knows that it is difficult but that there are so many moving parts. She stated that she does not know any one person or small group that understand how all those pieces fit together. She stated that she is looking for it from a positive stand point. She stated that they should not get another RFP or get a group of consultants. She stated that they would be better off with the Adhoc Committee or a group of volunteers. She stated that they can use the expertise from other localities. She stated that they should not go off spending more money to bring people to the City. She stated that she is one of the people who will volunteer to help the City. Linwood Christian, 613 St. Matthew Street, stated that he would like to thank the Vice Mayor and the City Manager for attending the Harding Street meet and great with the people who are running for office. He stated that afterwards they had a nice turnout. He stated that the people asked why did the City Manager leave. He stated that he told them that she is not running for office. He stated that they were glad to her in attendance. He stated to Mrs. Innis that Mrs. Hamilton wanted to thank her for resolving the issue that she brought up about her driveway. He stated that something that Mrs. Hamilton had an issue with in the last four years was resolved in 48 hours. He stated asked how are the personal property taxes being assessed and transferred into some old when they do not have a City Assessor. He stated that there are properties that are owned but owners that leave in Canada. He stated that because of the international boundaries they have tried to reach out to. He stated that he believes that he read somewhere in the paper where it was talking about bonds. He stated that it was stated that the profit from the bombs was going to help the school system. He *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ asked whether the schools have got their money yet and if not, when are they going to get. He stated that they talk about reports from various people often. He asked when are they going to get reports from boards and commissions. Gloria Person-Brown, 1557 S. Sycamore Street, stated that she has possibly three items. She stated that she wanted to introduce someone. She stated that she is the Vice Chair of Economic Development Authority. She stated that he is the Chair of Economic Development Authority. She stated that she is excited because on that aboard they are really putting in some vibrancy. She stated that they are moving the City forward and that she is excited. She stated that one of the projects that they have going on is the Virginia Mainstream Program. She stated that Reggie Tabor and Tamara has been working very diligently to put together community forums. She stated that this is an opportunity for the community and all the shar holders of Petersburg to come and put your input in. She stated that if they visited other Virginia Main Streets you see that this is definitely a resource and tool highlighting the historic beauty of the City. She stated that she is inviting the public to come out to the meetings to participate. She stated that they have meetings once every quarter. She stated that their next meeting is October 26th at the library. Orlando James, Chairman of the Economic Development Authority Board, stated that he invites all to come out. He stated that they are pretty aggressive in doing things for the City of Petersburg. He stated that they try to get in on any projects to help the City move forward. Mrs. Brown stated that she knows that the finance director had mentioned about the balance. She stated that she had asked a question and that she did not receive any feedback. She stated that she asked the question about money sitting in a regular bank earning 0.001 or is the money that they do have be put into n interest bearing interest account. She stated that this is just a question that she asked. 10. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Cuthbert stated that he had a ward meeting tonight and that he enjoyed it. He stated that they had a stellar representation from the City staff. He stated Chief Miller, Sergeant Sloan, Captain Braswell, Mrs. Innis and Mr. Tenant from City staff attended. He stated that they discussed neighborhood issues. He stated that they started with flying roaches. He stated that they dispatched that topic and that they hope they have resolved it or moved towards a resolution. He stated that they also talked about crosswalks, speeding and four-way stops. He stated that the next ward meeting will be December 12th and that he hopes that all Ward 4 and anyone else will attend. He stated that they are elected on a ward basis but that they are representatives of the entire City. He stated that his meeting will be at the train station at 5:00pm in the closed session room. He stated that he hopes to see everyone in attendance. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she wanted to hear about the erts that they need to be placed in the water meters. She stated that Mr. Berry talked about it a couple of months ago. She asked where is the City with putting the erts in. Mr. Berry stated that she pronounced the word right. He stated that the erts are devices that sit on top of meters underground in the vault and are able to be read by a device in an automobile that can be ready when driven down the street. He stated that the device gets that signal from the ert and gives the reading from the ert. He stated that they replace about 10,000 meters and that about all of them have erts. He stated that there are about 1,000 meters that have not been replaced. He stated that these tend to be the larger meters and that they are manually read at this time. He stated that the next step is to make sure that the remaining large commercial meters all have the same device so that they do not have manually read. He stated that the team is currently working on this and that they have only changed out a few meters. He stated that the plan would be in the coming year to handle this issue. He stated that there is money in the budge to begin this. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that there has been a lot of discussion regarding the one inch meter and the 5/8 meter and the difference being the pressure. She asked is it possible to change the flow of the pressure without changing the meter size. Mr. Berry stated that the size of the meter determines how much water can go through it at one time. He stated that the one inch meter allows more water at the same time and allows you to use more devices in your home at the same time. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked do they have the report about the people who have one inch meters and how many had their water cut off. Mr. Berry stated that he does not have that information with him tonight. Mrs. Benavides stated that she thought she provided that information. He stated that part of issue with the report was the dividing up of the information. She stated that they are doing it manual because of the system that the City has. She stated that prior to the next council meeting she will get them this information and also add it to the next meeting. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked City Council when will they meet to establish the legislative packet that they have to give to Delegate Aird by November 1st. Mrs. Benavides stated that Reginald Tabor met with the delegate to get an understanding on what is needed. She stated that she will bring this information back to City Council so that they can go over it. She stated that the information has went out to City staff. She stated that they usually have an employee with a contract to handle this process for them. She stated that they have moved this inhouse and that this is one of Mr. Tabor’s responsibility. She stated that she will have meetings with council members to talk about this information so that they make sure that they address all areas. She stated that Mr. Tabor has met with VML to find out any legislative qualities that they may identify. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked City Council when are they going to have their address the City Council Advance. Mayor Parham stated that an email was sent out and that the dates requested didn’t work for some members. He stated that with Mrs. Benavides just coming to City she has not been able to get information from staff in regards to being prepared for the Advance. He stated that they are looking at next August in regards to having an advance. He stated that this gives the City Manager time to get her feet wet. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that they have several recommendations from the Robert Bobb Group that City Council needs to address. She stated that he is coming back in April. She stated that the City has financial policies which they need to review and understand in order to follow the financial trail that they are. She stated that they need to look at attending VML and NLC conferences. She stated that is time now for them to register. She stated that they need to view the rules and regulations of boards and commissions in order to sign people on boards. She stated that waiting for August is a very long time. She stated that they need to do this. She asked what is the trusted health plan that she asked by email and did not get a response. Council Member Myers stated that it is a group that came in that offers wellness programs to help people from going to the emergency and obtain a bill. He stated that it is like a health plan and that they are asking for City Council as they are going across the state. Council Member Wilson-Smith asked does it cost the City anything. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 16 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Myers stated that it does not. Mayor Mayors stated that they are looking to opening up a facility in the City of Petersburg. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that it is important for her to understand the reason and information. She stated that under the Rules of Council regarding the order of business it does not include prayer. She stated that they had prayer tonight and at the last meeting. She stated that she has nothing against pray but that the Rules of Council does not include this. She stated to Mr. Preston that she would like a legal opinion. She stated that she knows that there were several jurisdictions that had issues with prayers at governmental meetings. She asked Mr. Preston to research this information so that they can have an opionon on whether or not they can have prayer at the meetings. She stated that if they are going to do this then can they bring it to the table to agree to do it or not agree to do it. Council Member Smith-Lee stated that her report is small. She stated that she had a ward meeting on October 12th was well attended. She stated that she thanks her ward members and some of the other ward members for attending. She stated that her next ward meeting will be on November 9, 2017. She stated that the citizens in her ward are excited about the City-wide cleanup. She stated that a lot of them are elderly but that they stated that they will come out and bring their chairs and pass out water. Council Member Myers made a motion amend the Rules of Council to have prayer before City Council meetings. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion on the motion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member Smith-Lee made a substitute motion to table action regarding adding prayer to Rules of Council until they receive information from the City Attorney. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion among City Council Members. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Hill, Parham and Myers Council Member Hill stated that he would like to apologize to Council Member Wilson-Smith for cutting across her. He stated that he would like to thank the new members that just started working with the City. He stated that on Thursday, November 9th at Good Shepherd Baptist Church he will be having his town hall meeting. He stated that he would like the City Manager, police chief, deputy city manager and the human resource director to be present at this meeting. He stated that this way that can meet the public and have a meet and greet. He stated that he would like to entertain a date so that they can do evaluations for their employees. He stated that he understands that the advance is something that will take time but he would like to do assessments of their employees. He stated that he prefers by end of this month or earlier next month. He stated that he would like to thank the way the City conducted themselves at the parade with Virginia State University. He stated that President Abdullah was impressed. Vice Mayor Hart stated that he would like to thank the employees for the hard work that they are doing. He stated that it is not going unrecognized. He stated that to everyone else to have a good week. Mayor Parham stated that he would like to thank everyone for the great work that they are doing across the City. He stated that he wants to highlight the P.T. Taylor Walk Against Hunger. He stated that it was a huge success. He stated that at the age of 90 he sees forever young. He stated that they appreciate him being a legend in the City of Petersburg. He stated that they had a great with VSU Homecoming. He stated that Dr. Abdullah lives right in Petersburg and is Petersburg proud. He stated that he also wanted to thank the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He stated that they help sponsor an event for the Fire Department, First Responders and Southside Virginia Emergency Crew. He stated that they recognized the fireman of the year, Mike Ferguson. He stated that also to Bubby Bish for receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award. He stated *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 17 – ______________________________________________________________________________ that he has been working for Southside Virginia Emergency Crew for a long time. He stated that one of the many things that they have been working on is the standing committees. He stated that he would like to thank Council Member Myers for spearheading his committee of the Economic Development Standing Committee. He stated that he would like to thank all that attended. He stated that he encourages the other members of council to get their standing committee up and running and begin meeting. He stated that there is a huge difference in the governing of the City of Petersburg. He stated that the more expertise is involved than the better everything progresses in the City. There was discussion on the rules and regulations among City Council Members. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she will send out a copy of the rules and regulations to City Council again and then put it on the next city council meeting agenda. 11. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 13. NEW BUSINESS: a. Consideration of an appropriation of grant funding for DEQ SLAF Grant Reimbursement for the “Canal Street Bioretention Project.” BACKGROUND: As a Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS$), the City of Petersburg is responsible for stormwater discharges to receiving waters through an MS$ General Permit administered by DEQ. In an effort to help MS4 localities like Petersburg promote green infrastructure development and thereby reduce stormwater pollution, a DEQ SLAF Grant was established to support stormwater projects that improve water quality. A request for applications was issued by DEQ in October 2013 and City staff responded. In December 2013, DEQ awarded the City of Petersburg with grant funding for multiple stormwater projects (DEQ ultimately determined the award amount for the “Canal Street Bioretention Project” to be $8,750.) The project has been completed, all necessary documentation has been sent to DEQ, and the grant agreement was fully executed on June 26, 2017. No monetary match is required for this grant. RECOMMENDATION: Request Council adopt the attached appropriation ordinance in amount of $8,750. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. Vice Mayor Hart made a motion to adopt the appropriation ordinance in the amount of $8,750. 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 17-ORD-50 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2017, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2018, IN THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FUND IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,750 FOR PETERSBURG FUTURE SERVICES. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 18 – ______________________________________________________________________________ b. Consideration of changing the date of the November 3rd City Council Meeting. BACKGROUND: In accordance with the Rules of the Council, City Council holds its regular meetings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, with the exception of August and December. The meeting scheduled on the first Tuesday in November will conflict with the November 7th elections. Council if it so desires, may schedule a meeting on November 21, 2017. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council cancel the November 7, 2017 meeting and hold one meeting in the month of November. Council Member Cuthbert made a motion to move the first meeting in November from November 7, 2017, to November 8, 2017, at the same time and place. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. There was discussion among City Council Members. Council Member Myers made a substitute motion to have only one meeting for the month of November on November 21, 2017. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion among City Council Members. On roll call vote, voting yes: Myers and Hill; Voting No: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Hart and Parham The substitute motion fails. There was discussion among City Council Members. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to hold the November 7, 2017, and have the meeting at a different facility other than the train station. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion and staff and City Council. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 14. REPORTS/RESPONSES TO PREVIOUS PUBLIC INFORMATION PERIOD: Stephanie Harris, Assistant to the City Manager, read the questions and answers from the previous meeting regarding the public information period. a. Resident located at Fairfax Street in Petersburg described the increase in her water bill over time and would like to know the reason? 1. The Utility Billing Department is currently working with this citizen to analyze and rectify the issue causing the increase. b. Regarding Propel, how many accounts did Propel have that were defaulted and came back? What was the dollar amount? What has the City done to try to regroup this if they can? 1. Propel is a contract of the City Treasurer’s Office. The City Manager’s Office is awaiting a response and will report this information to City Council once it is received. c. What is the status of two fire hydrants on Hickory Hill Road between Breckenridge and Armistead? 1. There are two hydrants on Hickory Hill Road, one of the hydrants is still out of service and will be repaired within the next 30 days. The other hydrant is operating properly. 15. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: *No items for this portion of the agenda. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: October 17, 2017 - 19 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 16. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY CLERK: Ms. Jackson stated that she does not have any bad items. She stated that she would like to announce that she is spearheading the City of Petersburg Trunk of Treats this year. She stated that it will be on October 31st at the Sports Complex from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. She stated that this is to do something for the children in the City for Halloween. She stated that if there are any council members, staff or citizens that would like to participate or help then they may call her office at 804-733-2323. She stated that they can also send her an email or come by the office if they would like to contribute. 17. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 18. ADJOURNMENT: City Council adjourned at 10:04 p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor *Audio available