City Council

Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -1– ______________________________________________________________________________ The work session meeting of the Petersburg City Council was held on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the Petersburg Public Library. Mayor Parham called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m. 1. ROLL CALL: Present: Council Member Charles H. Cuthbert, Jr. Council Member Treska Wilson-Smith Council Member W. Howard Myers Council Member Arnold Westbrook Jr. Council Member Darrin Hill Vice Mayor Annette Smith-Lee Mayor Samuel Parham Absent: None Present from City Council Administration: Clerk of City Council Nykesha D. Jackson Interim City Manager Kenneth Miller City Attorney Anthony C. Williams 2. PRAYER: Mayor Parham stated, “Council Member Hill will lead us in our opening prayer.” Council Member Hill led the council meeting in prayer. 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Parham led council and the citizens in the pledge of allegiance. 4. DETERMINATION OF THE PRESENCE OF A QUORUM: A quorum is present of all city council members. 5. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA (TO INCLUDE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING/S): a. Minutes: -April 19, 2022 – Closed Session Meeting -April 19, 2022 – Regular City Council Meeting b. A request to schedule a public hearing for May 17, 2022, for the purpose of considering an ordinance to authorize the City Attorney to proceed with condemnation of a portion of parcel 065-110004, 2793 South Crater Road. c. A request to schedule a public hearing for May 17, 2022, for the purpose of authorizing the City Manager to execute a Deed of Utility Easement, including compensation in the amount of $2,034.72, on behalf of the City of Petersburg for the purpose of acquiring a utility easement on property located at 1546 Baxter Road, Prince George, VA 23875, as part of the Prince George Water System Interconnection project. d. A request to schedule a public hearing and consideration of an ordinance approving *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -2– ______________________________________________________________________________ amendments to the Comprehensive Plan to Comply with the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. e. A request to schedule a public hearing and consideration of an ordinance amending the City’s Zoning Ordinance to permit Micro-Brewery, Micro-Cidery and Micro-Winery in the B-1 Zoning District and include Article 3 Section 1 of the Petersburg Zoning Ordinance “Definitions” use regulations amended and re-adopted to include a building of premises may only be used for the following: (1) Retail sale of merchandise, services, recreational areas, parking areas and other facilities, as set forth and described in this section and ordinarily accepted as shopping center uses; (2) uses permitted in the project area, according to the residential district regulations in force prior to the establishment of the shopping center district on the tract in question as the only alternative in case the district is not used for the purpose for which it was especially intended, namely a shopping center; and (3) A Micro-Brewer, Micro-Distillery, Micro-Meadery, Micro-Winery and/or Micro-Cidery. f. A request to schedule a public hearing and consideration of an ordinance authorizing the vacation of Right of Way along River Street between 3rd Street and 5th Street. g. A request to schedule a public hearing on May 17, 2022, to consider an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a purchase agreement between the City of Petersburg and Coastal Virginia Development towards the sale of City-owned property at 1024 Eighth Street, Parcel ID: 013-230004. h. A request to schedule a public hearing for Petersburg City Public School’s FY22-23 Budget – 1st Reading i. Consideration of an appropriation of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) – Group Violence Intervention Grant - $300,000 – 1st Reading j. A request to schedule a public hearing on the consideration of an ordinance to amend and re- adopt Section 74-1 of the Petersburg City Code regarding curfew for minors. There was discussion among City Council and staff on the public hearing request for item “5g”? Council Member Hill made a motion to approve the consent agenda. Vice Mayor Smith-Lee seconded the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Westbrook, Hill, Smith-Lee, and Parham 6. SPECIAL REPORTS: *There are no items for this portion of the agenda. 7. MONTHLY REPORTS: *There are no items for this portion of the agenda. 8. FINANCE AND BUDGET REPORT: Stacey Jordan, Finance Director, gave an update on the city finances. Key points: *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -3– ______________________________________________________________________________  The city has cash inflows of $15 million dollars and outflows of $10.8 million dollars for the month of March.  The average cash position for the month of March is $46,517,190.  They are working on the budget actuals for March 31st. So far for the general fund the city has received $59 million dollars and $48 million in expenses. Mayr Parham stated, “Next, under the finance and budget report I would like to entertain a motion to suspend the Rules of Council and to add a resolution to refund real personal property and business license taxes. So, I first would entertain a motion to suspend the rules.” Council Member Myers made a motion to suspend the Rules of Council. Council Member Hill seconded the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Westbrook, Hill, Smith-Lee, and Parham Mayor Parham stated, “At this time, I would like to add to tonight’s agenda resolution to refund real, personal property and business license tax.” Council Member Myers made a motion to add a resolution to refund real, personal property and business license tax. Council Member Hill seconded the motion. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Westbrook, Hill, Smith-Lee, and Parham Council Member Cuthbert made a motion to approve the resolution to refund real, personal property and business license tax. Council Member Hill seconded the motion. Mayor Parham opened the floor for public comments. Seeing no hands, Mayor Parham closed the public comments. The motion was approved on roll call. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Westbrook, Hill, Smith-Lee, and Parham 22-R-28 A RESOLUTION TO REFUND REAL, PERSONAL PROPERTY AND BUSINESS LICENSE TAXES. 9. CAPITAL PROJECTS UPDATE: a. Capital Projects Update Randall Williams, Interim Director of Public Works and Utilities, gave an update on the capital projects. Key points:  Southside Depot – Canceled and will be rebidding the Southside Depot Contract after the bid came in. It is $1 million dollars over current funding amount and $1.3 million including additions.  St. Andrews Street Bridge Replacement – Contractor is working to remedy inspection item. There is a two-month lead on bearing pad shims. It is expected to open August 2022.  LED Replacement Project (Dominion) – This is on Pocohontas Island. There are miscellaneous work orders, and it is expected to be completed Summer 2022. There is a minimum of nine weeks for the material for the lights.  Poor Creek Wastewater Improvement & Water System Improvements – The grant application was submitted to US Economic Development Administration. The Congressionally Directed *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -4– ______________________________________________________________________________ Spending applications were submitted to US Senate. The bid documents are next for the design phase.  Citywide Drainage Study – Oral presentation and the project is expected to kickoff before the simmer. It is expected to be completed June 2022. The high impact areas will be prioritized and developed into the project first. Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Revisit Poor Creek with us again. What is the dollar amount of the grant application that has been submitted to the US Economic Development Administration?” Mr. Williams stated, “I want to say that it was around $30 million dollars.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Any insight on where we are?” Mr. Miller stated, “Ms. Williams has that information.” Joanne Williams, Director of Communications, Marketing & Government Relations, stated, “Thank you. I have been working on that project. It is $26 million. We have a meeting about it tomorrow. So, it is coming down to the final stages. We are optimistic. But the check needs to be in the bank.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Yes, it does. All right, well that is great. Do we have our congressional representatives involved or is that not appropriate?” Ms. Williams stated, “They are involved. They have all written letters of support. If you want a quick run down about Poor Creek. We have $2.4 million that we received from Congressman McEachin. We have to match $600,000. We have a $20 million budget amendment request. And then this grant.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “That is great. Let’s talk about the $20 million for a moment. That is through the State budget is that correct?” Ms. Williams stated, “Yes, budget amendment. It was approved by the House and Senate. It has to get through the conferees and then it is signed by the Governor.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “And what is the timetable on that? Is it June 30th? Don’t the State have to have a budget by end?” Ms. Williams stated, “They are supposed to. But we do not know.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “So, that is kind of the back stop date. It may be sooner than that?” Ms. Williams stated, “Yes, sir.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “It ought not be until July before we know.” Ms. Williams stated, “I hope not because it effects a lot of other things other than Poor Creek.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “That is great.” Ms. Williams stated, “And then we have a $10 million dollar amount that was approved in the General Assembly in 2021. It triggers July 1st. We have met all of the criteria for receiving that. Right now, Virginia Economic Development is working with the pharmaceutical complex to make sure that they have qualified or met all of the job requirements.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -5– ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Is there anything else that we can be doing in tandem while we are waiting for the award of these grants.” Ms. Williams stated, “Yes. One of the requirements for the $10 million dollars is that we apply for loans. So, we have applied from the Virginia Health Department for water around $17 million. And for DEQ for around $17 million. Those are in the final stages just in case we do not get the grants.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Alright, great. And do we have shovel ready construction drawings?” Ms. Williams stated, “They are working on the RFP right now for design and environmental.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Alright. I am just trying to anticipate bottlenecks that we are going to run into.” Ms. Williams stated, “The total project right now as of March 15th is $36 million dollars. So, we know, and we have a timeline. Design and environmental will probably take a year and a half. Then we have to go to actually shovels in the ground. Which will take about two years. We are at 2026 for completion.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “I look forward to the ribbon cutting. And let’s hope that water flows on the day of the ribbon cutting.” Ms. Williams stated, “It is water and sewer.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Thank you.” 10. UTILITIES: *There are no items for this portion of the agenda. 11. STREETS: a. Pothole Blitz & Litter Pickup Update Randall Williams, Interim Director of Public Works and Utilities, gave an update on the pothole blitz and litter pickup. Key points:  There were about 1,900 potholes done during the blitz which averages 372 a week.  There are some roads that are bad.  Citywide Cleanup is on May 14, 2022. It will consist of community volunteers and city staff. There will also be Fort Lee soldiers helping and the trolleys will be available as well. There are six container sites at Cool Springs Elementary, Pleasants Lane, Peabody, Pittman, Blandford School, and Legends Park.  There will be message boards and information posted on social media.  City has approval from VDOT to clean up some of exit ramps. There was discussion among City Council and staff. b. Discourage Speeding Update *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -6– ______________________________________________________________________________ Randall Williams, Interim Director of Public Works and Utilities, and Deputy Police Chief Emmanuel Chambliss, gave an update on speeding. Mr. Miller stated, “The questions that council was looking for was the answers to question (1) and (2) with respect to the cost of installing those lights. Mr. Williams can you give council the numbers that you have questions one and two please?” Mr. Williams stated, “It is $565,000 for each of the lights. It would take about 14 months for construction from beginning to end.” Mr. Miller stated, “The days of putting a light and wire up are gone. Because of wind, the weather, and the light it requires a long arm post. And all that combined is where you get the $500,000 cost. Mr. Williams stated, “Number three may fix itself. On Sycamore and Fillmore Street, this was designated as a state road. So, a study would have to be done. A study could be done prior to October for South Sycamore and Fillmore Street.” Council Member Wilson-Smith stated, “Who would do the study and for how much?” Mr. Williams stated, “The study would be about $5,000 and it would be Kimley Horne who the city already as a contract with to do these. The other nine did not require a study. And the stop signs can be put up at those intersections by mid-July.” Council Member Wilson-Smith asked, “How much?” Mr. Williams stated, “$56,000 as a total. And we have checked our inventory and we have the signs and there is only one thing that we do not have and that has been ordered already. We have some brackets that we do not currently have but we have ordered them. But everything else we have enough to do these installs.” Council Member Wilson-Smith stated, “So, would the brackets make the $56,000?” Mr. Williams stated, “It is included in there.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Thank you Mr. Mayor. As I recollected, council directed the city manager to install the stop signs 4b-4j and table 4a until tonight’s meeting. Is my memory correct?” Mayor Parham stated, “I think we passed the first page and the second page we tabled.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “This is the first page. Help us Mr. Miller.” Mr. Miller stated, “There was a question on 4a with respect to when it can be done. There was a question on items 1 and 2 on cost. And there was a motion made for the second page with respect to come back and address those questions today sir.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “As you understand it Mr. Miller, at our last council meeting council directed the city manager to proceed with the installation of stop signs for 4a-j or do we need a motion now?” Mr. Miller stated, “We need a motion now. There was a question as to when we could do it and we just need the authorization today sir.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -7– ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated, “We cannot make a motion today.” Mr. Miller stated, “I think that we are past the motion stage. I just think that we are correcting some things that we had last time.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “I understand. I am wondering if the light is green for installing those stop signs for 4b-j or is the light orange or is the light red.” Mr. Miller stated, “With staff the light is green, and we are ready to move forward.” Mayor Parham stated, “I am going to restate the motion from the last meeting from Councilwoman Wilson-Smith. She made a substitute motion to approve the motion and omit one and two and omit one at the bottom of the page and table page two and report back on May 3. And it was approved.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “What did we do about everything else?” Mayor Parham stated, “And this was the report back for page two.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “4b-4j on page one. I thought that was approved at our last meeting.” Mayor Parham stated, “Yes. It was approved. We are good for that.” Mr. Miller stated, “And Mr. Williams answered the question saying that he can have them in by July.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “That is great. Now, I suppose then, what is the status of 4a?” Mr. Miller stated, “Mr. Williams just spoke about that with respect to getting the track study.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Understand. Do you need anymore authorization from us or direction from council Mr. Miller to do that study and then after the study install the signs?” Mr. Miller stated, “That might be a motion at the next meeting.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Okay. I understand that. That makes sense. Well Mr. Mayor if you would put that on the agenda for our May 17th meeting to direct the city manager to install the stop signs in 4a before October. Is that what we are saying? Things get squishy here.” Mr. Williams stated, “By mid-October.” Mayor Parham stated, “And if you all can that specific motion sent to us so we can add that to the agenda for clarity. You can send it to Ms. Jackson.” Council Member Cuthbert asked, “Are you looking to me or the city manager?” Mayor Parham stated, “The city manger and also Mr. Williams. Put the dates for those things.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “I guess that gets us to the second page.” Council Member Wilson-Smith asked, “The $56,000 will come from what line item?” Mr. Williams stated, “That will come from street operations.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -8– ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated, “I think that we are looking to the city manager and staff for recommendations as to these items.” Mr. Miller stated, “Item 1, in researching with myself and speaking with the city attorney, Mr. Cuthbert you were right. Code 46.2-878.2 gives us that authority. But in doing research it requires 75% of the frontal residency that live on a particular street that we select to come before council and do a petition or documentation or police because of their intervention. Or their workings on a particular street to get us through number one if that is council pleasure.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Help me with that. I understood the citizens come before council, but a petition will do. Is that right?” Mr. Williams stated, “It actually calls for either a petition of 75% of the people fronting that street to support it or you can have a report from your police chief saying that safety issues require that it be done. So, you can have either or to initiate the process. And that is found in 110-11 in the City Code.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “So, the City Code already recognizes that we cannot do this.” Mr. Williams stated, “Yes, it has a process spelled out how to do this and that is the first step.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “What was that Code Section again?” Mr. Williams stated, “110-11.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “So, that gets us past one. We are talking about item two on page two.” Mr. Miller stated, “Yes. And that requires an engineering study or an engineering investigation to move forward with it. But council can also direct me for a temporary time period of no more than 60 days to changes speeds as well.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Mr. Mayor, this is a work session, and I am ambivalent as to whether two is a good idea or not a good idea. Would it be appropriate to discuss that now?” Council Member Hill stated, “I think that Treska Wilson-Smith said something at the last meeting when we were discussing this. All throughout the country I think that most young people learn 25mph. Not saying that they cannot see the 20 but I think that is going to be difficult there to be honest with you. I can ride my bike 25mph going down a hill. You drop it down five miles, I do not know if that is going to make a big difference. But whatever the pleasure of council is. But I am just speaking realistically.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Mr. Mayor, is there any more discussion?” Council member Wilson-Smith stated, “How much would an engineering study or investigation cost us.” Mr. Williams (Randall) stated, “Probably about $3,000.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Thank you Mr. Williams, thank you Mr. Mayor, thank you Council Member Hill, and thank you Mrs. Treska Wilson-Smith. I am ready to go to number three.” Mr. Williams gave an update on item three on the list. *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 -9– ______________________________________________________________________________ There was discussion among City Council and staff. Mayor Parham stated, “This is on page two. So, we have to add it to the May 17th meeting, whatever motions that we want to carry out to work through each one.” There was discussion among City Council. Chief Chambliss stated that there is currently one traffic officer that is dedicated within the City of Petersburg. Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Mr. Miller, what is the recommendation from administration as to number six.” Mr. Miller stated, “We have already dedicated it in our new budget authorizing Chief Christian to have a dedicated traffic unit.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “So, staff is recommending six in the budget that has been presented to council.” Mr. Miller stated, “That is correct.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “And what about five? Is staff recommending five or not?” Mr. Miller stated, “Right now it is a liked item. I do not have the budget in front of me so, I cannot tell you if we allocated funds for that. But as we move forward, yes. It is modern and new, and it will last longer and less maintenance. So, as we move forward, yes. As I sit here today, I cannot tell you yes, because I have not looked at the budget.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “When the motion is presented to us on May 17th, would the administration include a recommendation as to this item five.” Mr. Miller stated, “Yes.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “That would be great. Thank you, Mr. Mayor.” 12. FACILITIES: *There are no items for this portion of the agenda. 13. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: a. To provide the City Council an update on current Economic Development Projects. Brian Moore, Director of Economic Development, gave a brief PowerPoint presentation on projects. Key points:  The Virginia Enterprise Zone program was established by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 10 – ______________________________________________________________________________  The program has two state-based grants. One is job creation grant and the other is real property investment grant. These ate provided to qualified investors and job creators with the Enterprise Zone.  A local can provide local incentives.  City Council adopted a resolution to establish a local Enterprise Zone on June 21, 2022.  They are beginning to ask questions about the applications for amendments. The amendments would be removing of residential properties from the zone, adjusting of the current boundaries, and modifications of incentives.  There are currently 1584 residential properties located withing the enterprise zone that encompasses approximately 367 acres. Removing the residential properties would allow staff to adjust the boundaries to include other commercial and industrial properties located within the city.  On May 10, 2022, there will be an information meeting beginning at 5pm at the Petersburg Public Library with property owners to answer any questions that they may have.  The property adjustment areas would be in the Route 36 Corridor including Puddledock Road, and the West Washington Street Corridor.  City Council approves the proposed amendments for submission to DHCD. DHCD approves the proposed amendments and approve the submittal of the amendment application. City Council holds a public hearing on June 21, 2022, approving staff to submit the amendment application. DHCD approves the proposed amendments to the Enterprise Zone boundaries and incentives. Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Is the Southside Regional Medical Center former site currently in the economic development zone?” Mr. Moore stated, “I do not believe so, but I will double check for you. It is in the opportunity zone.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Okay. Do you think that it is worthwhile to include that in the economic development zone?” Mr. Moore stated, “We can do the calculation and see if we can get down to that area. Or we can also create a third noncontiguous area.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Yes. It is kind of a stand alone and it is recollected to 24 acres and surrounded by residential so I do not think we, it would be an island. Is there any prohibition on making it an island?” Mr. Moore stated, “No, sir. We can bring that information back.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “If you would consider that. Because it seems a plum piece of property that has already got the infrastructure. We certainly want to push that. Now, what about the city’s 173 acres that it owns off of Squirrel Level. Is that currently in the economic development area?” Mr. Moore stated, “No.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Well, consider if you would on whether it should be. I am not sure whether it should or shouldn’t. Because there are so many hurdles obstructing the development of that property already. But if you would consider that and when you come back to council let us know what your thoughts are.” Mr. Moore stated, “Yes. We will do that.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 11 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Mr. Moore did a PowerPoint presentation on the Downtown Master Plan. Key points:  City Council voted on September 27, 2021, to allocate $100,000 for the Downtown Master Plan.  An additional $100,000 was allocated to the Downtown Master Plan from ARPA funding.  They are connecting the downtown commercial and residential expansion with the court- mandated improvements to the Petersburg General District Court.  Land use, development, and zoning for downtown to include Pocohontas Island and the Halifax Triangle.  Improving the entryways to the city to include the Martin Luther King Bridge and Exit 52.  Re-working Washington and Wythe Street as two-way.  Consideration for expanding the process to be inclusive for the entire city.  Development of the new city vision and mission statement.  Developing economic strategy initiatives, goals, and action plan for the entire city.  The current RFP process is on-going.  If council would like to include additional elements to create an expanded plan, economic development will work with the city procurement department to implement council’s decision. Mr. Moore gave a brief presentation on the Industrial Revitalization Planning Grant and targeted Brownfield Assessment Grant. Key point:  The Department of Economic Development applied for the Department of Housing and Community Development Industrial Revitalization Fund Planning Grant for the study of Exit 52 and 416 Second Street.  The application was approved on March 16, 2022.  The city was awarded $70,500 for Exit 52 and $85,000 for 416 Second Street.  The implementation period is from March 28, 2022, to July 29, 2022.  Staff utilized the on-call contractor Timmons Group to conduct the study and scope of work.  The Department of Economic Development applied for the United States Environmental Protection Targeted Brownfield Site Assessment Grant for the study on 1015 Commerce Street and 130 Pocahontas Road.  The application was approved on March 30, 2022. The city was awarded $20,000 for each site totaling $40,000.  The implementation period is from March 30, 2022, to March 20, 2024. EPA will conduct the study of the sites which will include excavation of test pits, installation of groundwater monitoring wells, extraction of samples from the surface and subsurface soils, surface water, groundwater, air, and elsewhere storage of samples and other activities necessary to complete the TBA.  Economic Development Staff will oversee the implementation process of the IRF Planning Grant and the TBA Grant. Staff will continue to see grant funding opportunities that will promote economic development and support business in the City of Petersburg. Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Mr. Moore, 1015 Commerce Street, is that Titmus?” Mr. Moore stated, “Yes.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “What is at 130 Pocahontas?” Mr. Moore stated, “I cannot recall off the top of my head. I would have to pull that proper for you.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 12 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Is that part of the Roper Brother’s or is it across the road?” Mr. Moore stated, “I believe so. Again, I do not have that in front of me to read it accurately to you.” I will double check to make sure.” Council Member Cuthbert stated, “Thank you. It is what it is, but I just wanted to be informed.” Mr. Moore gave an update on GovDeals. Key points:  The City of Petersburg City Owned Real Estate Property Disposition process was approved by City Council on March 19, 2019, and revisited on December 8, 2020.  The current process allows staff to solicit proposals on City-owned property and negotiate the purchase price. This process requires the following: purchase proposal assessment form for all inquiries, Code of Virginia requires two public hearings on the disposal of city property, purchase agreement in negotiated, and development agreement is negotiated and executed.  Economic development staff will oversee the real estate account for the City of Petersburg. They will post real estate property on GovDeals Real Estate Site. Post will include site specifications to include zoning and acreage.  Staff can specific criteria such as no duplexes in R3 District.  Staff will notify the bidders that there is a 30–45-day approval process based on City Council meeting dates.  GovDeals marketing team will assist with the advertising of the properties and include them on real estate sites.  Bidders will be required to place a deposit to bid which could range from $500-$1000 depending on the site. Stall will have the ability to accept and deny a bid.  Council will have the final approval and there is no cost to the city. There was discussion among staff and council. Vice Mayor Smith-Lee stated, “What is a good number to reach you? I have had several people to call me to speak to someone in economic development.” Mr. Moore stated, “804-618-2292.” 14. CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA: Mr. Miller stated, “Mr. Mayor, I have nothing else to add unless council has questions.” 15. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CLERK: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 16. BUSINESS OR REPORTS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY: *No items for this portion of the agenda. 17. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Joseph P. Dickens, 1002 Oakmont Drive, stated, “I am here tonight to see if I can get a formal request in to you as members of council. I would like to begin by saying that I am a member of the *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 13 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Dinwiddie/Petersburg Crime Solvers. I am sure that many of you are familiar with that organization. It is a non- profit organization. And I am here tonight, I thought that my chair lady might be here with me. So, I do not want to go too far in debt. There are some things that I cannot say on my own. Since we are talking about crime, I will take more than that not unless you want to reload. And so, during the pandemic our funds for doing what we do. And we operate a P3 app. And that is a nationwide business that help keep this business on track. And I will say that roughly we spend about $2,000 a year for this app. And our funds have been limited because of the pandemic that we couldn’t get on the road to solicit funds. In the past I know that you have recalled our various banquets where we raised the funds to supply our needs for the city. I would like to just in case there are listeners, I would like to say that we are a community based non-profit organization with a fundamental and unique purpose of helping promote the safety economic, equity and welfare of the public by providing guidance to state and local law enforcement in prevention and apprehension and conviction of crimes by rewarding compensation to citizens who help keep our city safe by providing this instant notification of crimes through our P3 Management Software. And so, I was hoping tonight that I would be able to come before you and not just exactly solicit you or beg but to let you know that protection of the city is part of your charter. And so, we would like for you to understand that we are in lack of funds right now. We want you to help replenish that account. I am not privileged to say to you what is currently in our account because most of what we do and pay out is not public information. So, I would hope that you would take this into account and contact me or my chairperson. I have sent each one of you through email a letter two months ago. I just want to know are you getting your email. I appreciate that very much. I will be getting back to you within the next city council meeting with our chair lady so we can further this cost. Thank you. I am also a member of the in crowd.” Gilvia Stith, 2448 County Drive, stated, “Mr. Moore spoke on buildings. I do Lyft transportation. He did mention certain vacant buildings in the City of Petersburg. And at the last meeting I remember Mrs. Smith speaking on buildings that were available at Central State location. But those buildings too, instead of selling them to other investors, why cannot these buildings be put to good use for development. I see these old warehouses turning into lofts and housing. Why cannot these be developed for other housing for our less fortunate and homeless people in the city. Also, with me driving for Lyft, I speak to a lot of the youth. And some of the things that they are concerned about is developing certain activities for the youth and certain projects. I remember when I was in school, we had vocational school. We had welding, computer science, home economics, and so on. So, why cannot things like that be added back to the school so these kids can have something to positive to gravitate towards as opposed to nothing. Which leads them to gravitate towards the negativity that is going on that keeps our police department busy. I think that we need some activities for these children to keep them busy so that we won’t continue having blood shed in the city like we have. Because I think that if we do not consider doing something, then there will be a horrible summer. And I can just remember Mr. Westbrook, at VSU when I was a kid, Coach Willis and Michael Moore taught us swimming, karate, and certain things like that that we took an interest in. I went to the pool each day and that is where I learned to swim at. So, why can’t we bring back some of these things for the youth, so we don’t have to deal with the illegal weapons and legal weapons sold to parents. We have some very intelligent youth in the city, but they do not have the skills and resource to get to the next level of what they are capable of.” Council Member Wilson-Smith stated, “Thank you for your comments. The idea behind the property at Southside Virginia Training Center is for the homeless and people who are being evicted. So, it is exactly for what you did say. And as far as the youth, because I really bug our director to death, I would like to tell you that there are a lot of opportunities right now being sponsored by our recreation and leisure department. They are registering the youth for baseball; summer youth and they just had a camp when the kids were out on spring break. There are a lot of things that we are doing at this point to keep the youth off the street and engage them. Also, on June 12th, for the first time we will have a city sponsored ‘National Children’s Day’ event. And it is to have a lot of activities for our youth at the sports complex. So, know that you are heard and so are other citizens. Know that something is being done that our recreation and leisure department and the director is here tonight. Mr. Allen if you can stand so she can see you. He is doing a phenomenal job in reimplementing things that we use to do. He is bringing it all back and adding some to it. Thank you.” *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 14 – ______________________________________________________________________________ Mayor Parham stated, “Thank you Ms. Stith. I appreciate it. I also would like to thank Mr. Allen as well. Because we have been working hard this week on something that we have been trying to get off the ground that has been offline for quite some years. It is middle school football. It is something that we are working hard on. We have the Petersburg Schools to the table as well to let them know that these kids need an outlet early. And thank you Mr. Allen for helping to reengage and have money to pay for uniforms. But like Ms. Stith said we have to get the parents involved and out to support these activities. Because it is very important that it takes a village, and we are all part of this village, and we have to do our part.” 18. ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Parham stated, “I would like to entertain a motion to add a closed session to tonight’s meeting to discuss a personnel matter.” Council Member Myers made a motion to add a closed session to tonight’s meeting to discuss a personnel matter. Vice Mayor Smith-Lee seconded the motion. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson- Smith, Westbrook, Smith-Lee, and Parham; Absent: Hill and Myers CLOSED SESSION: a. The purpose of this meeting is to convene in the closed session pursuant to §2.2-3711(A)(1) of the Code of Virginia for the purpose discussion pertaining to performance, assignment, and appointment of specific public employees of the City of Petersburg specifically including but not limited to discussion of the performance and appointment of a specific public officer. Council Member Myers made a motion that the City Council go into closed session for the purposes noted. Council Member Westbrook seconded the motion. There was no discussion on the motion, which was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers, Westbrook, Hill, Smith-Lee, and Parham City Council entered closed session at 6:45 p.m. CERTIFICATION: Mr. Williams stated, “The Mayor would entertain a motion to conclude the closed session called this evening to certify in accordance with §2.2-3712 that the Code of Virginia that to the best of each members knowledge that only public business matter lawfully exempted from the opening meeting requirements were discussed and that only such public business matters were identified in the motion by which the closed meeting was convened, heard, discussed, or considered. If any member believes that there was a departure from the foregoing requirements should so state prior to the vote indicating the substance for departure that in his or her judgment has taken place. This requires a roll call vote Mr. Mayor.” Council Member Westbrook made a motion to return City Council into open session and certify the purposes of the closed session. Vice Mayor Smith-Lee seconded the motion. There was no discussion on the motion. The motion was approved on roll call vote. On roll call vote, voting yes: Cuthbert, Wilson-Smith, Myers Westbrook, Smith-Lee, and Parham; Absent: Hill *Audio available upon request. Minutes from the Petersburg City Council Work Session meeting held on May 3, 2022 - 15 – ______________________________________________________________________________ 22-R-29 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 returned to open session at 7:02 p.m. Mayor Parham stated, “Okay. We are back in open session. At this time, I would like to wish all of the mother’s a Happy Mother’s Day Weekend on this Sunday. Enjoy your time with your mother and look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.” City Council adjourned at 7:03 p.m. _________________________ Clerk of City Council APPROVED: _________________________ Mayor *Audio available upon request.