City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The regular meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, November 21, 2017, at 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 to ask Dr. George Lyons of Gilfield Baptist Church to led the meeting in prayer. Dr. Lyons led the meeting into prayer. 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 and briefings by staff members pertaining to actual or probable litigation, where such discussion or briefing in an open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or litigating posture of the City of Petersburg and under pursuant to Section 2.2-3711.A (1) of the Code of Virginia, 1950 as amended, council will be in closed session for discussion of the performance, salaries, and assignment of employees of the City of Petersburg, where such discussions will necessarily involve discussion of the performance of specific individuals. Council Member Myers moved that the City Council go into closed session for the purposes noted by the City Attorney. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hart. 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 6:32 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 *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ 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 Myers. There was 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 17-R-66 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. 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. Mayor Parham stated, “In celebration of National Adoption Awareness Month this November, the City of Petersburg Department of Social Services hosted its first ever Adoption Ceremony last Friday. Currently, there are 4,800 children in the Virginia Foster Care System; about 900 are eligible for adoption. In 2016, Virginia reached a record number with 747 adoptions. The ceremony in Petersburg included a proclamation reading, plated dinner, a key note speech from Virginia Adoption Champion – Deborah Johnston, and finally an emotional lighting of candles for the families. During the ceremony, two families took part, with three children celebrating their adoption. This past year, Petersburg Department of Social Services finalized an amazing eleven adoptions within twelve months. I would like to thank Kim Miles for all the work that she has done.” 5. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: a. Proclamation for Recognition for Mr. Karl M. Dingledine. BACKGROUND: During a recent structure fire Mr. Dingledine made every attempt to extinguish a fire at 100 South Plains Drive in the City of Petersburg. During this time, Mr. Dingledine was directly related to the removal of the resident prior to the arrival of First Responders. RECOMMENDATION: Present a proclamation to Mr. Karl M. Dingledine for his heroic efforts during a house fire on November 8, 2017. Mayor Parham read the proclamation out loud. Fire Chief Rubin stated that they would like to make Mr. Dingledine an honorary member of the fire department. Mr. Dingledine stated that he thanks everyone for the proclamation and recognition. He stated that all *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________ his life he has been at the right place at the right time. He stated that he also saved his father’s life from being at the right place at the right time. b. Proclamation for Recognition of Muscular Dystrophy Month BACKGROUND: The Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services desires to present a proclamation for recognition of the Department members, IAFF Local 2773 and Muscular Dystrophy’s “Fill-the- Boot” and Muscular Dystrophy Month. The department annually participates in raising donations for disease research, medical treatment, youth summer camp and equipment for individual needs. RECOMMENDATION: Present a proclamation for recognition of the Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services, IAFF Local 2773 and Muscular Dystrophy Month. Mayor Parham read the proclamation out loud. Fire Chief Rubin stated that they would like to make Emily an honorary member of the fire department as well. Emily, stated that she wanted to take couple of moments to thank the City of Petersburg Fire Department Rescue and Emergency Services, the professional firefighters of Local 2773 and local citizens throughout the region for their incredible impact through this year’s MDA Fill-the-Boot Campaign. She stated that the professional firefighter’s have supported MDA for 63 years. She stated that though they continue to work hard to identify treatments and a cure for muscular dystrophy, the firefighter friends have brought them light years since the program first began. She stated that because of their support in fundraising two drugs have been approved by the FDA to approve the underlying cause of muscular dystrophy and gives significant muscle strength improvement to people living with it. She stated that the Petersburg Firefighter’s saves lives in the streets every day in the streets, homes and businesses throughout the area. She stated that by participating in the annual “Fill-the-Boot” drive it anticipates helping thousands more to live a life free of barriers. c. Proclamation for World AIDS Day Mayor Parham read the proclamation out loud. Mr. Linwood Christian stated that he would like to thank the Mayor and Members of Council again. He stated that he is Director of the Crater HIV Education and Advocacy Program. He stated that he works with a group out of MCV called the Common Ground Consumer Advisory Council. He stated that they thank City Council for this. He stated that asked Ms. Roxanne Shera and Dr. Alton Hart to come up with him. He stated that without them putting this together it would not have been possible. He stated that they are gratefully thankful. He stated that Petersburg still has a HIV problem. He stated that he would like to thank Dr. Hart and Ms. Shera because they have been a great support to them. He stated that on December 1st they will be having a candle light vigil on the steps of the health department. He stated that they will be starting at 6:00pm. He stated that all are invited and that he will be sending out reminders and invitations. He stated that they thank each council member for the proclamation. d. Certificate of Recognition for Richard Gross Mayor Parham read the certificate of recognition for Mr. Richard Gross. Mr. Gross stated that he would like to say that he moved to Petersburg in 1996. He stated that he joined the Planning Commission in 2004. He stated that he can only say that it was a wonderful experience to *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ work for the City. He stated that they had a wonderful group and that everyone worked hard. He stated that he would say to the people in Petersburg that if they want to get to know their City then they need to volunteer. He stated that they will find out what it is really all about. He stated that the last thing that he would like to say is that he would like to thank his wife of 57 years for putting up with a lot of late suppers and not knowing when he is going to get off. He stated that he would like to thank everyone and wish the City a prosperous year. 6. COMMUNICATIONS/SPECIAL REPORTS: a. City Manager’s Report. Mrs. Benavides stated to the council members that each of them should have received a copy of her report. She stated that she will be highlighting a couple of items that concerned the residents. She stated that the public works department has begun work on North Park Drive on October 30th and is said to be complete on January 1st. She stated that this is a street that has been closed for quite some time. She stated that the public works director is excited about what is going on. She stated that they will probably bring everyone out to see the work that is going on. She stated that they should have a grand reopening as soon as it is complete. She stated that she thanks Mrs. Innis for pushing this forward. She stated that they have resumed the leaf collection program and this begun on November 20th. She stated that the list and information is available on the website and that there are also flyers in the back of the train station as well. She stated that one item that was brought up was issues on Grove Avenue. She stated that this is based on traffic enforcement. She stated that City Council has received a copy of the enforcement activity that has happened since that time. She stated that this is to give an idea of the number of individuals that was speeding. She stated there have been eight motorists and seven citations given. She stated that November 23rd and November 24th are holidays for the City. She stated that the City will be closed on Thursday and Friday. She stated that tomorrow is a regular work day and that some individuals may take leave and leave early but that the City will be open all day on tomorrow. She stated that she has one last item. She stated that today they concluded a month-long celebration of the Petersburg Pink Event. She stated that this event was the grandchild of one of the council members who had an idea that the City needs to focus on women and health issues. She stated that in the City’s organization they had a number of ladies to come together to talk about women health issues and to have mammograms and to fellowship on how they can live healthier. She stated that as a result they would like to thank that council member. She stated that she would like to thank Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith for all she did on behalf of the ladies of Petersburg. She stated that health issues are a big issue in the City. She stated that she would like to also thank Councilwoman Annette Smith-Lee for being on site as well and participating and supporting them. She stated that this meant a lot to them. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she is impressed with the work that is being done on North Park Drive. She asked Mrs. Benavides if she can take a look at doing something similar on Mingea Street and St. Andrews Street. She stated that the street has been closed for a long period of time. She stated that there is a sign on Crater Road that says “Detour.” She stated that the sign is probably outdated. She stated that this is how long the street been closed. She stated that if she can look at this and see what they can do to finally open the street up again. Mrs. Benavides stated that she will look into this. She stated that this was the first task for Mrs. Innis. She stated that they have to look at that they have public works and they have street monies. She stated that some things fall under the storm water issue and that this was one of the things that fell under it. She stated that she will work with Mrs. Innis and that they will look at it and come up with a plan and give them a report on it. She stated that there are a couple of projects that they looked at regarding streets but that funding became an issue. She stated that they will look at budgeting for it and giving them a timeline on it as well. b. Request for review of the proposed disposition policy for City owned real estate property. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ BACKGROUND: The City of Petersburg owns a few hundred vacant real estate properties. As the owner, the City must incur all expenses associated with maintenance of all owned properties. If these properties were disposed of and developed, the City would no longer incur the cost of maintenance and the City would receive revenue through real estate property taxes, and potentially additional revenue associated with the development and use of the property. RECOMMENDATION: City Council review and schedule consideration on the next City Council date. Reginald Tabor, Projects Manager of Economic Development, stated that this is a policy for council’s review and consideration at the next City Council meeting. c. Financial Report. BACKGROUND: Monthly, City staff will provide City Council with financial reports. The two reports that will be provided monthly include a snapshot of the daily/monthly cashflow and the previous month’s month-end budget to actual. The reports will be provided to City Council at its second meeting of the month. RECOMMENDATION: This report is for informational purposes only; no recommendation is provided. Blake Rane, Chief Financial Officer, stated that they received in their packet information on the report and the listing of the general fund of all the items in revenue in the different categories and revenue expenses. He stated that the blue folders are for City Council to keep. Mr. Rane went through the PowerPoint presentation on the monthly report. There was discussion among City Council and staff. 7. CONSENT AGENDA (to include minutes of previous meeting/s): a. Minutes: Regular Meeting: November 7, 2017 and Special Meeting: November 13, 2017. b. Schedule a public hearing on the proposed amendments to the Central Business District map and incentives. Vice Mayor Hart made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda and schedule a public hearing for December 12, 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 proposed disposition of publicly-owned properties. BACKGROUND: The City of Petersburg maintains an inventory of developable real estate property. As City-owned vacant developable property the City must expend funds to maintain the property. Also, as City-owned vacant developable property, the City does not receive revenue through fees and/or taxes that would be generated from developed property. If declared surplus and approved for disposition, the property can be sold and the City will receive revenue generated from assessed Real Estate taxes as well as revenue generated from any development on the property. A Public Hearing is a required step in the process *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ leading toward disposing of the developable City-owned property. Attached is a list of the parcels for which a declaration as surplus and authorization for disposition is requested. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council approve the proposed disposition of City-owned properties list on the attached schedule. Reginald Tabor, Projects Manager of Economic Development, a briefing over the 56 properties listed for disposition. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Richard Stewart, 129 Rolfe Street, stated that he is very concerned about the properties. He asked is it residential properties or historical properties. He stated that if they are going to think about selling properties shouldn’t they take this into consideration. He stated that he is looking at areas like Pocahontas that have a mix. He asked are they going to dispose of historical properties or commercial properties. He stated that there is a difference. He stated that there are also properties that were gotten through possession of raiding houses. He stated that he thinks that it was spoke of and one of the houses was in Blandford. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that he is perplexed as to why they are having a public hearing on disposing property when it was discussed earlier about a disposition policy. He stated that they have the cart before the horse. He stated that unfortunately the cart has been ignored and mishandled for a long time. He stated that it is a nightmare itself on how the City has these properties. He stated that he is going to speak to one property in particular. He stated that it is 334 South Sycamore Street. He stated that this is right across the street from Poplar Lawn Central Park. He stated that the property has a monument on it. He stated that this monument was with a school that was on the property but that it was gone by 1922. He stated that there is an article about the property in the Progress-Index in the July 4,1965. He stated that there is something important about this piece of property that needs to stay within in the City and put into some protective hands. He stated that they need to know what they have. He stated that one of properties on 815 High Street was bought by the City in a tax sale in 2005. He stated that in 2008 an attorney was ordered to resale the property and that nothing was done. He stated that Judge Baskerville struck the suit from the docket for inactivity in 2012. He stated that there are probably other properties as well that need to be looked at. Seeing no further hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve the proposed disposition of 56 city-owned properties listed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. There was discussion on the motion. Council Member Cuthbert made a substitute motion to approve the sale of the 56 properties except property number #55. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was not approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee; Voting No: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham Original motion made by Council Member Myers returns back on floor. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a substitute motion to table action until the December 12th meeting at such time all council members will go through the list of properties. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was not approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert and Wilson-Smith; Voting No: Smith-Lee, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Original motion made by Council Member Myers returns back on floor. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve the proposed disposition of 56 city-owned properties listed. 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, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Cuthbert and Wilson-Smith 17-ORD-55 AN ORDINANCE DISPOSING OF 56 CITY-OWNED PROPERTIES. b. A public hearing to receive citizen comments on the amendment to ordinance 17-ORD-30 to allow the finance department to make disbursements on behalf of the City of Petersburg. BACKGROUND: A public hearing was scheduled for November 21, 2017. This public hearing is canceled. RECOMMENDATION: No action required. c. A public hearing on the proposed disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 10 North Jefferson Street, and 125 East Washington Street. BACKGROUND: The City aims to get the vacant land that we own back on the tax rolls, and in the hand of a private developer. The Economic Development, Tourism, Land Use and Housing Standing Committee of City Council met with a developer who is interested in developing this property for a commercial use. The committee voted favorably to forward the request to dispose of this city-owned real estate to City Council for a public hearing. The purpose of the disposition is to sell the properties for commercial development. The Economic Development, Tourism, Land Use and Housing Standing Committee of City Council includes members of City Council, Economic Development Authority (EDA), City of Petersburg Executive Staff, Directors and Managers. RECOMMENDATION: Recommendation that City Council approve the disposition of publicly- owned property addressed as 10 North Jefferson Street and 125 East Washington Street. Michelle Peters, Director of Planning and Community Development, stated that a developer came to the City to purchase this property for a particular reason. She stated that the request is to dispose of the properties at 10 North Jefferson Street and 125 East Washington Street. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that the City does not have a policy in place. He asked whether the property has been appraised in the last six months by an outside commercial real estate appraiser. He stated that they need to look at this. 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 approve the disposition of publicly-owned property addressed as 10 North Jefferson Street and 125 East Washington Street. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham 17-ORD-56 AN ORDINANCE DISPOSING OF PROPERTIES ADDRESSED AS 10 NORTH JEFFERSON STREET AND 125 EAST WASHINGTON STREET. 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. Brandon Martin, 1546 Berkeley Avenue, stated that he would like for the record to be corrected that the correct address for the property is 915 West High Street. He stated that the land book says that it is City property. He stated that it is a long story about the property and that it was a file that he had in the purchasing office. He stated that he would like to thank everyone that was involved in having the United States flag flying on the flag pole at the annex building at City Hall. He stated that he would like to thank the fire department in seeing that the 1919 American LaFrance Pumper is now housed at Station 2 and the 1936 Seagrave Pumper is at Station 5. He stated that he understands that hopefully the Seagrave Pumper will be available for the Christmas Parade. He stated that the Bobb Group left the City a road map to fiscal responsibility and health. He stated that if council walked away from the opportunity to move forward by bypassing the Council Advance this year than they are once again becoming a great disappointment. He stated that he would still like to return to find out what happened to the miscellaneous files of the little green shoebox. He stated that the box that he last saw eight or nine years ago is not the box that was sitting in the City Manager’s Office this April. He stated that the entire issue is stalled and that people think he is going to go away. He stated that history is not going to go away. He stated that there was an article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch by Becky Dale that deals with what they are going to do with all the leaves. He stated that the last paragraph states to stop racking and blowing leaves away and that they are not trash. He stated that it says that they are a valuable source of nutrients and organic matter for the soil. He stated that the business of picking up leaves is a complete waste of time, money and the landfill. He stated that they need to put an end to this. Gary Talley, 2323 Fort Rice Street, stated that he would like to thank everyone for providing communication access tonight. He stated that they should get used to it because he is coming often now. He stated that he is going to encourage other people that are deaf to come and do the same. He stated that people with disabilities need to be part of this process. He stated that it has been an eye opener tonight and that it is not exactly what he expected but that he will be back. Richard Stewart, 129 Rolfe Street, stated that he is concerned about the historical land. He stated that he is present tonight to thank Mayor Parham and Council Member Cuthbert. He stated that he is thanking them for coming on November 11th, Veteran’s Day, to the delegation of Charles Stewart historical marker. He stated that it was outstanding. He stated that a lot of people do not realize what happened that day. He stated that Charles Stewart was descended of his that goes back seven generations. He stated that Mr. Stewart was his fifth generation Godfather and that he was sold to Mr. Johnson. He stated that he owns the land and property. He stated that on that historical day he came together with descendants of the slave master. He stated that it was a spectacular day. He stated that the marker is on Pocahontas Island. Ken Pritchett, 1113 Overbrook Road, stated that the purpose that he is present tonight is to reach out to the City Tax Collector Designee, the Finance Director, City Manager and City Council to let them know that he *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ is open and wants to cooperate with the City to get the financial situation in order as an institution and as a business. He stated that he is glad that the finance director gave the report on the City finances. He stated that this was something that he had been asking for when he was on City Council. He stated that this is why he ran for City Treasurer so that they can spend the money where it is supposed to be spent and not dipping into other accounts and using it and not being able to pay it back. He stated that diminishing the work of the City Treasurer and moving things to other areas when they can combine and collaborate would save the physical stress of the City under the finance office. He stated that the state compensation board could see that they can try to collaborate together. He stated that he will reach out to City administration to talk about this. He stated that he would like to congratulate Council Member Wilson-Smith on everything that she does. Ron Flock, 1708 Pender Avenue, stated that during the financial report they keep seeing this liquidity event. He stated that he knows that there is a plan for a liquidity event but that there is not solid or set. He stated that it should not be included. He stated that fictional items should not be included in a report. He stated that when they have a plan then they can put it back in the report. He stated that right now it is not good for anyone. He stated that there was a comment about speaking with the bank and utility billing and how things are turned around. He stated that the checked account and that it took 17 days for his account to clear that payment. He stated that this is not happening. He asked is there someone taking care of the position of the City Assessor. He stated that if you look at the Sheetz on Wagner Road it was land and now it has been built on. He asked has it been assessed since then to what the value is now. He stated that he does not believe that it has been and that this needs to be looked into as well as other properties throughout the City. He stated that interdepartmental cooperation should be standard operating procedures. He stated to Council Member Wilson- Smith that the response that she receives they can explore this is unacceptable. He stated that the correct response should have been that we are already looking into to this. He stated to Vice Mayor Hart that he made a comment about the properties sitting for a while and that they have not gotten together to discuss any of this. He stated that he knows over the last few months Council Member Wilson-Smith has been stating that meetings need to be held. He stated that she has been getting shot down every time. He stated that people on council do not want to do their job. He stated that he understands that it is time consuming. He stated that this is an observation from outside. He stated that this is wrong and that they should conduct business. He stated that he understands that this is a lot of work but that this is what they were elected for. He stated to everyone to have a Happy Thanksgiving. 10. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR OR OTHER MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: Council Member Cuthbert stated that there are three things that he would like to mention briefly. He stated that the first one is on the memorandum from the City Manager pointing out that there will be a meeting on Pocahontas at the chapel on November 29th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm for the purpose of receiving a report from a team of preservation consultants dealing with the Jarratt House. He stated that he thinks that this is the last installment of the report. He stated that he is looking forward to attending and that he finds the meetings to be very informative. He stated that he welcomes everyone to put this on their calendar to attend. He stated that in the train station last week he held a 4th Ward meeting concerning safety in the downtown area. He stated that he was gratified that a number of businesses attended and expressed their concerns. He stated that the is grateful for the City Manager, Police Chief and the Mayor in being on the panel and contributing to the discussion. He stated that he thought that good ideas came from the public and that he will see if they can put up a plan to help enhance everyone’s feeling on safety in downtown. He stated that he attended the Charles Stewart event. He stated that he was very pleased to see the way that it unfolded. He stated that the Mayor was in attendance as well. He stated that the next time anyone goes to Pocahontas at the first corner they get too they will see two historical markers and the fresher looking one is the one that was put up a couple of weeks ago. Council Member Wilson-Smith stated that she would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. She stated she would like to ask the City Manager if she could please compile information that addresses the *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________ health issues such as what the City is doing as a whole. She stated that the City is still at the low end of the pole as being the unhealthiest City. She asked if they can look into getting the meeting televised. Council Member Smith-Lee stated that she had a ward meeting on November 16th at A.P. Hill Elementary School. She stated that some of the citizens came and participated and learned their utility bill. She stated that the information that they received helped them to understand why they had an increase in their utility bills. She stated that she would like to say to everyone to have a Happy Thanksgiving. Council Member Myers stated that he would like to say Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and happy holidays. He stated that he wanted to also announce that there will be a Thanksgiving Dinner at the Hope Center from 12noon to 3:00pm for those that are homeless. Council Member Hill stated that he has a couple of items. He stated that he would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. He stated that he would like to thank the citizens that came out to his ward 2 town hall meeting on November 16th. He stated that he would like to thank the City Manager, Police Chief, Janell Sinclair and the Human Resource Director that came out as well. He stated that he would like to thank Gary Talley who came up recently. He stated that apologizes for not having an interpreter at his town hall meeting. He stated that between Mr. Talley, himself and the clerk they were able to get an interpreter for tonight’s meeting. He stated that some may not know but that his oldest son is autistic. He stated that he understands how a person cannot communicate. He stated that he has been dealing with this for almost 30 years. He stated that he is glad to see Mr. Talley present at the meeting. He stated that he is glad that the clerk was able to get an interpreter present at the meeting. He stated that he got some from Ken Pritchett at the school board office. He stated that he sent a flyer about a drive that they are having called believe Petersburg. He stated that they need school supplies for all the schools. He stated that there will be a box at the schools to drop of the supplies for the students. He stated that if anyone has questions they can call 804-862-7084. He stated that they can go by any school and drop of supplies. He stated that he would like to thank public works with the removal of the leaves. He stated that they have to get the leaves of the curb because they can cause drain problems. He stated that some of them can use them in the mulch beds. He stated that they become a hazard during the snow as well. He stated that as far as the packets there was some discussion about meetings. He stated that if there is a certain item that he does not understand in the packet he will get with the City Manager or call other council members to get enlightened on the situation. He stated that everything does not call for special meeting. He stated that he talked to the clerk and that prayer was already voted in but in order to get it on the agenda they have to make a motion to add it on the agenda. Council Member Hill made a motion to amend the Rules of Council and insert prayer after roll call. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Cuthbert and Wilson-Smith; Abstain: Smith-Lee 17-R-67 A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF COUNCIL AND INSERTING PRAYER AFTER ROLL CALL ON THE AGENDA. Vice Mayor Hart stated that he would like to say Happy Holidays to everyone and enjoy themselves and their family. He stated that if anyone wanted to bring cake or pie by the house he is there. Mayor Parham stated that he would like to thank American Legion Post 2 for their Veteran’s Day program. He stated that it was a great experience and that he was honored to be in attendance. He stated that he wanted to welcome with open arms the new “Motel 6” that opened on Little Church Street. He stated that this hotel was adamant about coming to Petersburg. He stated that he would like to ask the City Manager if it was possible for the owner to get some signage out there so that people will see it when they come off Exit 52. He stated to Richard Stewart that it was an honor to be in attendance to the dedication ceremony of Charles *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Stewart. He stated that he appreciates all that Mr. Stewart does for the City of Petersburg. He stated to Council Member Cuthbert that it was a great meeting that Ward 4 had. He stated that it was a privilege for him to be on the panel. He stated that he wanted everyone to be aware that there is a restoration of rights ceremony to honor Governor Terry McAuliffe. He stated that this is coming up next Wednesday at the library. He stated that anyone that can attend it would be great. He stated that the next day on Thursday there is a church safety meeting that Chief Miller is hosting at Third Baptist Church. He stated that he would like to welcome everyone from the faith-based community and the community to come out and listen to the police chief and share ideas of safety. He stated that it will begin at 6:00pm. He stated that the restoration event at the library will begin at 6:30pm. He stated that there is another great event coming up on December 5th for the ground-breaking ceremony for the renovation and expansion of the Petersburg YMCA. He stated that it is a $5 million investment. He stated that they are about to start on this. He stated that it is a wonderful event and huge access to Petersburg. He stated that it will begin at 4:00pm. He stated that he would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. He stated to enjoy your time with friends and family and that they will see them at the special council meeting next week. He stated that there will be a Special Council Meeting at the train station on November 28th, beginning at 6:30pm. 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 for received from Developer of the Cavalier Senior Apartments for installation of twenty (20) 8000 Lumen, 100W Lights on Green Fluted Fiberglass Poles and electrical service for one year. BACKGROUND: Cavalier Senior Apartments is a senior living development located near the 3000 block of S. Crater Road on newly constructed Cavalier Drive. Cavalier II Apartments is currently under construction. During development site plan review, it was directed that the developer, Humanities Foundation, Inc., provide street-lighting along Cavalier Drive. Dominion Energy was enlisted to develop the plan for installation of the required lighting. Phase 1 of the Cavalier Senior Apartments was completed in December 2016. This phase consisted of twelve (12) street lights on Cavalier Drive. Phase 2 of the Cavalier Senior Apartments is currently being built, and consist of another eight (8) street lights. All of the light pedestals are being assembled on Cavalier Drive, and are ready for the lights to be installed by Dominion Energy. The developer paid the installation costs for the twenty (20) lights in the amount of $28,340.57, and the associated electrical costs of $5,606.70 which would be assessed to the City of Petersburg, for the first year by Dominion. The City will use these funds to pay Dominion Energy for installation and electrical costs. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council approve the attached appropriation for $33,947.27. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Hill made a motion to approve the appropriation for $33,947.27 for received from Developer of the Cavalier Senior Apartments for installation of twenty (20) 8000 Lumen, 100W Lights on Green Fluted Fiberglass Poles and electrical service for one year. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion. 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-57 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2017, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2018, IN THE STREET FUNDS FOR PETERSBURG PUBLIC WORKS FUTURE SERVICES. b. Consideration of an appropriation to the Petersburg Department of Social Services, from the Virginia Department of Social Services. BACKGROUND: No background information. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend City Council approve the attached appropriation for $29,750.01. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. Council Member Myers made a motion to approve the appropriation for $29,750.01. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hart. There was discussion on the motion. 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-58 AN ORDINANCE, AS AMENDED, SAID ORDINANCE MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2017, AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2018, IN THE ADOPTIONS THROUGH COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $29,750.01 FOR PETERSBURG DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES. c. Consideration of a resolution for filling of applications with the federal transit administration. BACKGROUND: To receive federal assistance through the FTA, City of Petersburg/Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) must comply with the guidelines of the United States Code and FTA Operating Policy. The City of Petersburg/Petersburg Area Transit is currently not in compliance with having an authorized designee. Currently, David Canada is on file as City Manager and Robert Blount as Finance Director. This document should be updated to reflect the current City Manager, Aretha Ferrell-Benavides and the Chief Financial Officer Blake Rane. This action will update our present status. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached resolution. Recommend that the Transit General Manager be the designee only in the absence of the City Manager. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. Council Member Hill made a motion to adopt the resolution and that the Transit General Manager be the designee only in the absence of the City Manager. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 17-R-68 A RESOLUTION FOR FILLING OUT THE APPLICATIONS WITH THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION. d. Consideration of a resolution to oppose the elimination of the Federal Historical Tax Rehabilitation Credit. BACKGROUND: Federal Historic Tax Credit program (HTC) as we know it today was put in place by Congress and the Reagan Administration over forty (40) years ago to attract capital investment to historic rehabilitation projects that help stimulate local economies. The Federal HTC is a critical component of public- private partnerships that helps to attract development projects by providing a tax credit to developers after the restoration of a qualifying historic building. The Federal HTC program, combined with the Virginia Historic Tax Credit program is a powerful tool that has led to the development of such vacant and blighted buildings in the City of Petersburg, such as the former Petersburg High School, the former Seward Luggage Factory, and the former Mayton Transfer Warehouse. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council adopt the attached resolution. Ms. Jackson opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Ms. Jackson closed the public comments. Council Member Myers made a motion to adopt the resolution that the President of the United States and the United States Congress retain the federal historic tax credit program in a reformed tax code. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. There was discussion on the motion. 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-69 A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES AND THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS RETAIN THE FEDERAL HISTORIC TAX CREDIT PROGRAM IN A REFORMED TAX CODE. e. Consideration of review and approval of the 2018 Legislative Agenda. BACKGROUND: Each year, prior to the General Assembly, Council prepares a Legislative Agenda listing the City’s legislative priorities. Upon Council’s approval, the Legislative Agenda will be submitted to members of the City’s legislative delegation for their consideration. RECOMMENDATION: Recommend Council review and approve Legislative Agenda items. Reginal Tabor, Economic Development and Intergovernmental Manager, gave a PowerPoint of the Legislative Agenda and listings. There was discussion among City Council and staff. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to accept and support the Community & Economic Development Legislative Priorities. 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 Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion to accept the Environmental Quality Legislative *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Priorities. 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 Council Member Hill made a motion to accept the Finance Legislative Priorities. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. 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 made a motion to accept the Human Development & Education Legislative Priorities. The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. 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 Wilson-Smith made a motion to accept the Transportation Legislative Priorities. 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 Council Member Hill made a motion to accept the Joint Subcommittee on Local Government Fiscal Street Legislative Priorities. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hart. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham Mrs. Benavides stated that the General Laws they will go through one by one for approval. Mr. Tabor stated that the first one is the request of authorization to change the City Charter and allow for a directly elected Mayor. There was discussion among City Council Members and staff. Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion that they make a decision on how many of City Council Members are interested in changing the charter and that if they are she will work with Council Member Myers and if not, she will wait to bring it up again next year. The motion was seconded by Council Member Smith- Lee. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Smith-Lee, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Cuthbert and Hill Mayor Parham made a motion to request to authorize the change of duties of the Constitutional Officer: City Treasurer. The motion was seconded by Council Member Myers. There was discussion on the motion. Council Member Myers made a substitute motion to that all duties are returned to the City of Petersburg. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hill. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Myers, Hill and Parham; Voting No: Wilson-Smith and Hart Council Member Wilson-Smith made a motion that City Council supports #3 (The Virginia Crime Commission is developing policy recommendations regarding decriminalization (not legalization but civil and not criminal penalties) of Marijuana). The motion was seconded by Council Member Hart. 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 Myers made a motion that City Council supports #4 (Allow local governments to place limits on the concentration of group homes licensed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services pursuant to Va. Code). The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith- Lee, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Wilson-Smith *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Myers made a motion that City Council strikes #5 (Allow local governments to place limits on the concentration of residential developments funded through Low Income Housing Tax Credits within their respective jurisdictions) to be taken from the agenda. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hart. 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; Voting No: Cuthbert Council Member Cuthbert made a motion to add to the legislative agenda that local governments adopt a minimum wage to be paid within their jurisdictions. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Hart. There was discussion on the motion. The motion was not approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Hart and Parham; Voting No: Wilson-Smith, Myers and Hill; Abstain: Smith-Lee Council Member Hill made a motion that City Council supports #7 (The Statewide Transition to Net Generation 911 using the state funds that will be dedicated by the 911 Services Board; this should not be an unfunded mandate for which localities become accountable). The motion was seconded by Council Member Wilson-Smith. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Smith-Lee, Wilson- Smith, Myers, Hill, Hart and Parham Mayor Parham stated that he wanted to add to the legislative package and schedule a public hearing on changing the ward system to an at-large system for City Council and Petersburg School Board. He stated that the charter would have to be amended. The motion was seconded by Council Member Cuthbert. There was discussion on the motion. Mayor Parham withdrew his motion and asked the City Manager to provide a recommendation on the proposed change of an at-large city council. Council Member Cuthbert stated that he would ask that the City Manager come back with a couple of recommendations to separate the two ideas. He stated that he thinks that it is a great idea that the City Manager come back with a specific language. He stated that he personally would like the opportunity to mix and match and vote for the at-large in general and not vote for the mayor to be voted at-large. He stated that it may be that one will pass and one will not pass. He stated that it would be the hope that they have an at-large system for council. He stated that he would ask the City Manager to come back to council with two different options for their consideration. 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. 1. During the November 7, 2017, Council Meeting, Maketta Wyatt expressed her frustration with the process of attempting to schedule a charitable dance. This dance was slated to be a fundraiser for Pin Oaks. Response: The City Manager’s Office followed up on Ms. Wyatt’s concern regarding her inability to process her application to conduct a dance. It was found that Ms. Wyatt was attempting to obtain a license with the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue. If residents wish to hold an event in the City in which an entrance fee is required, a license must be obtained through the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue. If a nonprofit is conducting an event to raise funding, the organization must also contact the Office of the Commissioner of Revenue to provide documentation of its nonprofit status. 15. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: *Audio available  Minutes from the Petersburg City Council meeting held on: November 21, 2017 - 16 – ______________________________________________________________________________ *No items for this portion of the agenda. 16. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY CLERK: Ms. Jackson stated that she would like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. 17. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY: Mr. Preston stated that he would like to wish City Council, City Manager and citizens of Petersburg a Happy Holiday. 18. ADJOURNMENT: City Council adjourned at 11:14 p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor *Audio available