City Council

The “New River ” City 10 Robertson St. March 24, 201 4 Radford, Virginia Meeting Number 15 of Radford City Council, F.Y. 2013-2014 A workshop meeting of the Radford City Council was convened at 6:15 p.m. in Council Chambers, 10 Robertson Street, Radford, VA. The Mayor of the City, Dr. Bruce Brown, was present and presiding. Other members of City Council present were Dr. Richard Harshberger, Mr. Keith Marshall, and Mr. Robert Nicholson III. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Ms. Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Mr. Basil Edwards, Economic Developer Mrs. Patricia Cox, Finance Director Mrs. Sharon Dickens, HR/Benefits Administrator Mrs. Jenni Wilder, Public Information Officer The following was discussed during the workshop meeting:  Comprehensive Plan – Employee Benefits The regular meeting of the Radford City Council was convened at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, 10 Robertson Street, Radford, VA. The Mayor of the City, Dr. Bruce Brown, was present and presiding. Other members of City Council present were Mr. Timothy Cox, Dr. Richard Harshberger, Mr. Keith Marshall, and Mr. Robert Nicholson III. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Ms. Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Mr. Basil Edwards, Economic Developer Mrs. Gail Cook-DeVilbiss, City Attorney Mrs. Patricia Cox, Finance Director Mrs. Sharon Dickens, HR/Benefits Administrator Mrs. Jenni Wilder, Public Information Officer The news media was represented by Radford News Journal. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mayor Brown, an invocation was pronounced by Rev John McCandlish. EMPLOYEE RECOGNITIONS: Mike Davie – Water Plant Amanda Dwojewski – Police Department Tim Logwood – Electric Department Carly Reynolds – Public Works David Trail – Billing & Services Ashley Wilson – Sheriff’s Department REPORT: Scott Gardner, Glencoe Museum, shared an update on the project of Veterans living oral history and provided an update on where they were with the interviews. MINUTE APPROVALS: On a motion by Dr. Harshberger, seconded by Mr. Marshall, that the minutes of March 10, 2014 are approved as presented. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 PROCLAMATIONS: SUBJECT: National Service Recognition Day SUMMARY: RSVP of Montgomery County and Radford has requested that City Council join in proclaiming April 1, 2014 as “National Service Recognition Day”. The proclamation illustrates the importance of citizen service, Shows support for non-profit and national service groups, recognizes the role that national service members play in focusing community volunteers and inspiring more individuals to serve in our communities. Mayor Brown read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION National Service Recognition Day WHEREAS, service to others is a hallmark of the American character, and central to how we meet our challenges; and WHEREAS, the nation’s mayors are increasingly turning to national service and volunteerism as a cost-effective strategy to meet city needs; and, WHEREAS, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps address the most pressing challenges facing our cities and nation, from educating students for the jobs of the 21st century and supporting veterans and military families to preserving the environment and helping communities recover from natural disasters; and WHEREAS, national service expands economic opportunity by creating more sustainable, resilient communities and providing education, career skills, and leadership abilities for those who serve; and WHEREAS, national service participants serve in more than 70,000 locations across the country, bolstering the civic, neighborhood, and faith-based organizations that are so vital to our economic and social well-being; and WHEREAS, national service participants increase the impact of the organizations they serve with, both through their direct service and by recruiting and managing millions of additional volunteers; and, WHEREAS, national service represents a unique public-private partnership that invests in community solutions and leverages non-federal resources to strengthen community impactand increase the return on taxpayer dollars; and, WHEREAS, AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers demonstrate commitment, dedication, and patriotism by making an intensive commitment to service, a commitment that remains with them in their future endeavors; and WHEREAS, the Corporation for National and Community Service shares a priority with mayors nationwide to engage citizens, improve lives, and strengthen communities; and is joining with mayors across the country to support the Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service on April 1, 2014. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Radford, do hereby proclaim April 1, 2014, as National Service Recognition Day, and encourage residents to recognize the positive impact of national service in our city, to thank those who serve; and to find ways to give back to their communities. _______________________ Dr. Bruce E. Brown, Mayor ATTEST: _______________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Adopted: March 24, 2014 ACTION: Mayor Brown made a motion, seconded by Mr. Nicholson, to approve the proclamation and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Child Abuse Prevention Month SUMMARY: The Town of Christiansburg has requested that the City, as well as other New River Valley communities join them in recognizing the month of April as “Child Abuse Prevention Month. The proclamation emphasizes the need to prevent child abuse and neglect, as well as heightens awareness of effective child abuse prevention programs and organizations. Dr. Harshberger read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH WHEREAS, preventing child abuse and neglect is a community goal that depends on involvement among people throughout the community; and WHEREAS, child maltreatment can occur when people find themselves in stressful situations, without community resources, and without the ability to cope; and WHEREAS, the majority of child abuse cases stem from situations and conditions that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community; and WHEREAS, all citizens should become involved in supporting families in raising their children in a safe, nurturing environment; and WHEREAS, effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of partnerships created among families, social service agencies, schools, faith communities, civic organizations, law enforcement agencies, and the business community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Radford, Virginia does hereby proclaim the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, and does call upon all citizens, community agencies, faith groups, medical facilities, and businesses to increase their participation in community efforts to support families, thereby preventing child abuse and neglect, and strengthening the community in which we live. CITY OF RADFORD, VIRGINIA ________________________________ Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTESTED: ________________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk Adopted on the 24th day of March, 2014. ACTION: Dr. Harshberger made a motion, seconded Mr. Cox, to approve the proclamation and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: National Library Week SUMMARY: April 13-19, 2014 is “National Library Week”. The week recognizes the significant contributions that libraries make in meeting the communities economic needs, providing a place for education, opportunity and life-ling learning, as well as offering a host of community services for citizens of all ages. Mr. Nicholson read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION National Library Week 2014 WHEREAS, libraries have historically served as our nation’s great equalizers of knowledge by providing free access to all; WHEREAS, libraries work to meet the changing needs of their users, including building collections, expanding outreach services and increasing programming; WHEREAS, our nation’s libraries provide a forum for diverse ideas and points of view that help us better understand each other and ourselves; WHEREAS, librarians are trained professionals, helping people of all ages and backgrounds find and interpret the information they need to live, learn and work in a challenging economy; WHEREAS, librarians design and offer programs to meet their community’s economic needs, providing residents with resume writing classes, interviewing workshops and job seeking resources; WHEREAS, libraries are part of the American dream, places for education, opportunity and lifelong learning; WHEREAS, libraries, librarians, library workers and supporters across America are celebrating National Library Week. NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Radford, do hereby proclaim April 13-19, 2014 as National Library Week and encourages all residents to visit the library this week to take advantage of the wonderful library resources available @ your Radford Public library. CITY OF RADFORD, VIRIGNIA __________________________ Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Adopted: March 24, 2014 ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion, seconded by Dr. Harshberger, to approve the proclamation and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Radford High School Wrestlers SUMMARY: The proclamation recognizes the accomplishments of two Radford High School wrestlers who won state championships. David DeVilbiss and Adam Turk won the 138lb and 182lb weight divisions. Mr. Marshall read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience.  City of Radford PROCLAMATION Recognizing Radford High School Wrestlers David DeVilbiss and Adam Turk WHEREAS, the Radford High School Boys Wrestling Team coached by Mike Dunbar and Assistant Coach Taylor Chrisman had an outstanding season with two wrestlers winning the Group 1A Individual Title; and WHEREAS, these wrestlers, David DeVilbiss and Adam Turk, had remarkable senior seasons with a list of career achievements; and WHEREAS, David DeVilbiss finished his senior season with a list of accomplishments including a career record or 76-38 and a season record of 32-10; and WHEREAS, DeVilbiss had a first place finish at the War of the Wrestlers, second place finishes at the Red Devil Rumble, Conference Tournament, West Sub-Region Tournament and West Region Tournament, and earned the title of Group 1A Individual State Wrestling Champion in the 138 weight class; and WHEREAS, Adam Turk set the Radford High School career win record with 130 wins and only 54 losses and had a season record of 36-10; and WHEREAS, Turk also finished the year with a list of accomplishments including first place finishes at the Highlander Invitational and the West Sub-Region Tournament, second place finishes at the Knights Invitational and the West Region Tournament, and earned the title of Group 1A Individual State Wrestling Champion in the 182 weight class; and WHEREAS, the no quit mentality and stellar performance of these two athletes over their wrestling career at Radford High School, is an example of exemplary athletics in Radford. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Radford City Council and the citizens of our community do hereby congratulate and recognize the achievements of David DeVilbiss and Adam Turk. _________________________ Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTEST: ______________________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Approved: March 24, 2014 ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion, seconded by Mr. Nicholson, to approve the proclamation and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. Chief Simpkins shared that David DeVilbiss, a volunteer fireman, is one of the most well-mannered young men that he has ever dealt with and is very proud of him. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CONSENT AGENDA SUBJECT: Environmental Awareness Month SUMMARY: April is “National Environmental Awareness Month”. The Proclamation recognizes the importance of the earth’s environment through educational programs, special events, demonstration projects, and clean-up activities. SUBJECT: Earth Day SUMMARY: April 22, 2014 is nationally recognized as “Earth Day”. The local Proclamation encourages citizens to “recycle, reduce and reuse” to promote a healthy environment and sustainable society. City of Radford PROCLAMATION Earth Day WHEREAS, April 22, 2014 is recognized as National Earth Day; and WHEREAS, a sound natural environment is the foundation of a healthy society and a robust economy, and WHEREAS, there are sound economic, environmental, and social reasons for local governments to initiate energy efficiency and renewable energy practices, and WHEREAS, the City of Radford encourages and endorses participation in events supporting Earth Day, NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Radford does hereby proclaim the day of April 22, 2014 as EARTH DAY and does hereby encourage all of our citizens to participate in the ongoing efforts to recycle, reduce and reuse, as well as other activities which promote a healthy environment and sustainable society. ________________________ Dr. Bruce E. Brown, Mayor ATTEST:________________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk Approved this 24th day of March, 2014 SUBJECT: Arbor Day SUMMARY: April 25, 2014 is nationally recognized as “Arbor Day”. The local Proclamation encourages our citizens to protect our trees and woodlands, as well as recognize the benefits of ourforests. Mr. Cox read the proclamations for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION Arbor Day Whereas, in 1872, a special day was set aside for the planting of trees, and Whereas, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees, and Whereas, 2014 is the 142nd anniversary of the holiday and Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, and Whereas, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce life-giving oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife and Whereas, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and beautify our community, and Whereas, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal and Whereas, the City of Radford established the Commission for Beautification and Municipal Forests to enhance and maintain the health and vitality of the community’s urban landscape, Whereas, the City of Radford’s commitment to the preservation and propagation of trees within the community has been demonstrated over many years and recognized by the National Arbor Day Foundation through the designation of Radford as a Tree City USA community for the second year, NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Radford does hereby proclaim April the 25th, 2014 as the 142nd anniversary celebration of Arbor Day in the City of Radford, Virginia and joins with the Radford Commission for Beautification and Municipal Forests to urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands, and Further, urges all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations. ________________________ Dr. Bruce E. Brown, Mayor ATTEST:_______________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk Approved this 24th day of March, 2014 ACTION: Mr. Cox made a motion, seconded by Mr. Nicholson, to approve the consent agenda of proclamations and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Tri Sigma Day SUMMARY: Sigma, Sigma, Sigma, a Radford University Sorority, has requested that the City Council proclaim April 5, 2014 as “Tri Sigma Day”. The chapter is celebrating its 85th anniversary and was the first sorority established on the campus on 1929. Mayor Brown read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION Tri Sigma Day Whereas, the Alpha Theta Chapter of Sigma Sigma Sigma was established in 1929; and Whereas, the Alpha Theta Chapter has been in continuous operation for 85 years; and Whereas, the Alpha Theta chapter began with 25 members and has since initiated more than 1,900; and Whereas, Alpha Theta has contributed countless hours of community service locally and regionally to support those less fortunate; and Whereas, Alpha Theta has supported multiple campus and community fund drives; and, Whereas, Alpha Theta created the first endowed Greek letter scholarship at Radford University; and Whereas, Alpha Theta members have been recognized as student leaders at Radford University; and Whereas, Alpha Theta alumnae have been appointed to leadership positions on the Radford University Board of Visitors and other university, regional and statewide organizations; and Whereas, Alpha Theta leaves a lasting legacy of commitment to leadership development, service and community outreach at Radford University and beyond; and NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Radford, do hereby proclaim April 5, 2014 as Tri Sigma Day, recognizing their 85th anniversary of its founding at Radford University and their commitment to leadership development, service and community outreach within the City of Radford and Radford University. __________________________  Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Adopted: March 24, 2014 ACTION: Mayor Brown made a motion, seconded by Mr. Cox, to approve the proclamation and authorize Mayor Brown to sign and Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk to attest. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CITIZENS COMMENTS: Lemmie Saunders, Radford Police Officer, handed Mayor Brown a stack of letters that Johanna Forrester’s 3rd grade class had written to Mayor Brown. Mark Shaffer, Radford resident, said he was here to give an update on something he shared with Council in September regarding the concerns of full participation of the public at a recent School Board meeting. There was a request for the School Board to move their meeting to a location that would accommodate the large number of people expected participants, the School Board had not moved the location and resulted in about 90 citizens attempting to fit in a room with a fire code capacity of 55 people. Unfortunately many citizens were unable to fully participate. He shared that to be part of the solution he is on this May’s ballot for School Board election, and citizens can learn more about him and what he has to offer at www.mark4schools.org. He commended Council and City administration for providing a model of transparency for our school system. The City’s budget report is detailed and put online. He stated that Council fully supports community engagement by posting the digital and audio recording online; unfortunately, he believes the schools central office has a very different approach to giving the public access to their meetings. To better inform his candidacy for the School Board, he had requested that the Superintendants office allow him to listen to their digital recordings of the meeting for the past year. He was informed that he could at the cost of $830. He said he didn’t know if this was legal, but feels we can do better for our citizens in Radford and wishes the schools would be more transparent. Gary Harris, Commander of VFW, wanted to talk to Council about changing the name of the softball field. He shared that he met Big Al on the softball field back in the days when City league soft ball was real popular. He shared that when he heard Big Al was laid up in bed, he would go by and visit and they had talked about a lot to those who have passed on and Big Al shared that he wanted to honor to those who have passed on and he wanted to honor his uncle. He shared of Big Al’s generosity where he had provided funds for a TV for the lounge at the VFW. He said that he is proud of the City for putting up the signs for Veterans Field and when visitors come to town they look for the signs for Veterans Field and follow to them to the field. He said that tonight he is here speaking on behalf of my fellow comrades. When everyone plays on Veterans’ Field, somewhere along the line they are going to be thinking about those veterans’ in their life and I’m hoping that we will keep the name Veterans Field. Mayor Brown thanked Mr. Harris and stated that the fields have been improved and both the recreation department and schools have empathy for Big Al and some of the things he had done, and they were trying to find a gesture to try and recognize and that lead to the request for us to consider it to be consider. Dana Jackson, Commander American Legion Post 30, said the he echo’s quite a few of Mr. Harris remarks considering Big Al. One aspect that stood out was Big Al’s his relationship with the Veterans community, not only did he provide a lot of things to the VFW hall but he helped out a lot behind the scenes on Memorial Day, he was very dedicated to the Veteran’s community. He suggested that they consider naming the new baseball and soccer complex after him. Wolly Gallo, Chamber president, informed council that the interview process for a new director is winding down and hoping to have her on staff by April 8th. And hope they would consider letting the Chamber use Bisset Park for the Friday after Five concert series. Chip Craig, Radford citizen, shared that he came as an observer tonight and truly did not intend to speak this evening and certainly wouldn’t say or do anything to reflect negatively on the Veterans. He mentioned that he saluted the fact of naming the softball fields “Veteran’s Field” and doesn’t think the name should be changed and believes that the resolution doesn’t mean for that to happen, the intention is to name one of the fields after Big Al and feels it is important to do so. NEW BUSINESS SUBJECT: Receive recommendation from Planning Commission for Special Use Permit SUMMARY: Radford Church of God in Christ is planning significant renovations and improvements of its existing sanctuary and educational facility. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion, to receive the Planning Commission’s recommendation relative to Ordinance 1659, seconded by Dr. Harshberger. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Ordinance 1659– Special Use Permit for Radford Church of God in Christ SUMMARY: This Ordinance will allow Radford Church of God in Christ to expand the current footprint of the original sanctuary to occupy youth center. ACTION: Dr. Harshberger made a motion, seconded by Mr. Marshall, to place Ordinance 1659 on its first reading. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Reduced Rates for Special Collection SUMMARY: The month of April is Environmental Awareness Month. To encourage neighborhood clean-up, as well as promote the environment, the City will offer reduced rates for brush and solid waste pick-up. The rate charges for large loads will be reduced to $35, small loads $17.50 and furniture and appliances will be half price for the month. ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion, seconded by Mr. Nicholson, to approve the special rates for the month of April. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Award proposed 2015 Employee Benefits SUMMARY: The City of Radford recently solicited proposals for employee benefits relating to health, dental, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), vision, as well as FSA and COBRA Administrations. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion, to award employee benefits to Anthem, Delta Dental, EyeMed, Optima and Discovery Benefits, Mr. Cox seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Consider request from RHS Board to name the girls softball field at Veteran’s filed in honor of Robert Allan Hall. SUMMARY: The Radford City School Board made a request that the girls’ softball field at Veteran’s Park be named in honor of Mr. Allen Hall. The field is located on the East side of the facility. The Radford Recreation Commission considered the request at their March 17, 2014 meeting. Mr. Nicholson stated that based on citizens comments that we received this evening I think we all deeply respect memory of Allan Hall and the Veterans and what they do for our country. I think it may serve us well to take our time and take this under advisement, Dr. Harshberger agreed with Mr. Nicholson. Mr. Marshall shared that everyone can go online and read the naming policy. He shared that he loved it that people come out and shared their opinions, in order for us to do our job effectively we need citizens input. He shared that the naming policy states that preliminary consideration of naming proposals by Council can be initiated by any citizen, board or commission. He said it’s their job to as City Council solicited input prior to making decisions for naming a field or building and it’s a fairly permanent decision and it’s really important for us to think about this. Mayor Brown shared that one of the foot prints that will be left with this Council is that they have made it a priority to recognize people in this community and not after they are gone. I’m proud of their work and think the general consensus is to take under advisement. SUBJECT: Consider After Five Concert Series SUMMARY: The Radford Chamber of Commerce will again, host the summer “After Five” Concert Series for 2014 the concerts will include a variety of music, refreshments, and entertainment. The Chamber has requested that the concerts will be held in Bisset Park on the following dates, June 13, July 11 and August 18, 2014. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson to approve the dates with correction for August 8, 2014 made a motion, seconded by Mr. Cox. Mayor Brown raised a concern about how dark it gets down in the park. Mr. Ridpath responded that they are already looking at installing additional lighting down at the park. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CITY MANAGER COMMENT: Mr. Ridpath shared that the month of April will be very busy; the Steam train will be bringing over 700 visitors to our community on April 5th. We are very pleased to be able to host it again this year. It is also budget season; the presentation of the budget will be on April 1st at 5:00 pm. He also mentioned that the Second Avenue project is vamping up and moving forward, there is about 6 months left before the project is projected to be complete. Mrs. Gail Cook-DeVilbiss thanked Council for the recognition her son and nephew received tonight with the Wrestling Proclamation. CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS: Dr. Harshberger shared that at 7pm this evening Radford University began playing Old Dominion University in the quarter final championship. The game can be seen live at BT’s. Mayor Brown stated that Council has been asked to consider signing a resolution, by Delegate Yost, to encourage the State of Virginia to pass the budget. This isn’t the first time it has happened. SUBJECT: Resolution Virginia Budget ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to approve the Resolution, Mr. Marshall seconded the motion. Mr. Nicholson shared that for benefit of audience that he had run into Del. Yost this past Saturday and he shared with him that a number of other localities were going to sign similar Resolutions. All communities are required to develop a budget and it’s a real dilemma when we don’t know what the States contributions will be. If we doesn’t know what the General Assembly plans for the locality its very difficult to ask the City Manager to put together a budget in the time frame that is imposed upon us. He believes it’s very important for the State to approve their budget so localities will know what revenues to count on in order for such things like our schools, library and such programs. We will be looking towards the City Manager on how to pay for these programs. Dr. Harshberger said he wishes the Resolution could be stronger and doesn’t like to see us being placed in middle of political games. Hate to see us drawn into this. Rev McCandlish asked the Mayor to read the Resolution. Mr. Marshall pointed out that they had a meeting this evening at 6:15, on the health care for the employees. He shared that he was told he was supposed to be excited that we only had an increase of only $110,000 in health care costs. That was due to large part of the Affordable Care Act. He understands that we don’t want to get involved in partisan politics but thinks it’s important to send a message to Richmond. He agrees with Dr. Harshberger and that he wishes it would be stronger. Resolution City of Radford Urging the Governor of Virginia and the Virginia General Assembly to timely pass a clean budget ---------- WHEREAS, each year the foremost duty of the Virginia General Assembly is to pass a budget or budget amendments that serve as Virginia’s financial blueprint for each fiscal year; and WHEREAS, Virginia is consistently recognized for its sound fiscal management and budgetary practices as illustrated by its AAA bond rating and the strong bond ratings of many local government divisions throughout the Commonwealth; and  WHEREAS, the City of Radford is currently in the process of developing and adopting its budget for the upcoming fiscal year; and WHEREAS, the Radford City Councilrelies on the timely passage of a budget to allocate funding to local government services and make policy and hiring decisions for the upcoming fiscal year; and WHEREAS, 17,139 residents of the City of Radford depend on the city government to provide critical services such as education and public safety; and WHEREAS, failure to pass a timely budget will result in uncertainty for the City of Radford, which receives 14% of its funding as direct aid from the Commonwealth; and WHEREAS, the City of Radford School Board relies on the timely passage of the state budget in order to set its budget and make staffing decisions, which includes teacher contracts; and WHEREAS, interruption of the provision of educational services to Radford students will have a significant negative impact on students and families, and WHEREAS, the interruption of public safety services would likely result in the loss of property, serious injury, or loss of life for Radford citizens, and WHEREAS, critical mental health services to Radford residents are provided via funds that flow from the state budget through county, and WHEREAS, the Virginia General Assembly adjourned sine die on Saturday, March 8, 2014 without adopting a budget for the two year biennium beginning July 1, 2014, be it RESOLVED by Radford City Council , That the Governor of Virginia and the Virginia General Assembly are urged to pass a budget as soon as practicable to ensure the continued functioning of state and local governments; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the issue of Medicaid Expansion under the Affordable Care Act should be decoupled frombudget negotiations and considered in a separate legislative session to facilitate prompt passage of a state budget; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Radford City Council shall transmit copies of this resolution to the Honorable Terence R. McAuliffe, Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the members of the Virginia General Assembly so that they may be apprised of the sense of the Radford City Council in this matter. Adopted and effective by the City Council of the City of Radford, Virginia, at a regular meeting thereof on the 24th day of March 2014. CITY OF RADFORD, VIRIGNIA __________________________ Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTESTED: ________________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Mayor Brown commented that we have had three other budgets in his 12 years of service on Council that we have gone to June before the State approved their budget and have never done this before. He said make no mistake about the motivation behind this, and as such he is not comfortable with the Resolution and will not vote in favor of it because he thinks it plays into the partisanship which disrupts things moving forward. VOTE: Mr. Cox, Yes Dr. Harshberger Yes  Mr. Marshall Yes Mr. Nicholson Yes Mayor Brown No Mr. Marshall made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:26 p.m., seconded by Mr. Cox. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Cox, Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 ATTEST: _________________________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk of Council