City Council

The “New River ” City 10 Robertson St. March 28, 201 6 Radford, Virginia Regular Meeting Number 14 of Radford City Council, F.Y. 2015-2016 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 Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Daniel Keith Marshall, Mr. Robert Nicholson and Mr. David Michael Turk. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Mrs. Gail Cook DeVilbiss, City Attorney Mrs. Jenni Wilder, Public Information Officer Mr. Basil Edwards, Economic Developer Following the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mayor Brown, and the invocation was led by Reverend McCandlish. MINUTE APPROVALS: On a motion by Mr. Nicholson seconded by Mr. Turk, that the minutes for March 14, 2016 are approved with corrections. Add Dr. Harshberger to Council members present, and make sure the date of the meeting is correct. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 PROCLAMATIONS Mayor Brown asked to have all Proclamations be done by consent. 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. Our staff “Environmental Awareness Committee” has many activities planned for April for citizens to take part. The proclamation calls on our local citizens to recognize the environment during the month of April. PROCLAMATION APRIL 2016 Environmental Awareness Month WHEREAS, various organizations and citizens show concern for the Earth’s environment; and WHEREAS, the problems of the Earth’s environment affect all the citizens of Radford, as well as the entire population of the planet; and WHEREAS, the City of Radford encourages Radford citizens to participate in global appreciation of the Earth through educational programs, special projects, demonstrations, cultural events, lectures, clean-up activities, etc. NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Radford does hereby designate the month of April, 2016 as ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS MONTH and calls all citizens of Radford to support, recognize, and appreciate the importance of participating in this special month. ___________________________ Dr. Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford SUBJECT: Earth Day SUMMARY: April 22, 2016 is nationally recognized as “Earth Day”. The local Proclamation encourages citizens to “recycle, reduce, and reuse” to promote a healthy environment and a sustainable society. Earth Day will be formally recognized during our environmental awareness activities. PROCLAMATION APRIL 22, 2016 Earth Day WHEREAS, April 22, 2016 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, 2016 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 City of Radford SUBJECT: Arbor Day SUMMARY: April 29, 2016 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 our forests. Several Arbor Day events are planned by our Public Library, Beautification Commission, and City Horticulturist to heighten awareness of trees and planting in our environment. PROCLAMATION APRIL 29, 2016 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, 2016 is the 144th 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, NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Radford does hereby proclaim April the 29th, 2016 as the 144th 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 City of Radford SUBJECT: Local Government Education Week SUMMARY: April 3-9, 2016 has been designated by the Virginia General Assembly as “Local Government Education Week” in honor the formation of the Council-Manager form of government on April 2, 1908. The Virginia Local Government Manager’s Association (VLGMA) has asked that all Virginia Localities pass a similar Proclamation to increase awareness of students and youth in local government, as well as the career opportunities available. PROCLAMATION APRIL 3-9, 2016 LOCAL GOVERNMENT EDUCATION WEEK WHEREAS, since the colonial period, the Commonwealth of Virginia has closely upheld the institutions of local government; and WHEREAS, local governments throughout the Commonwealth provide valuable services to the citizens of the communities they serve; and WHEREAS, citizen services such as, law enforcement, public health and safety, recreational and leisure opportunities, and educating local children, are most often delivered at the local level; and WHEREAS, in recognition of the work performed by local governments, the Virginia General Assembly, designated the first week in April as Local Government Education Week in Virginia; and WHEREAS, April 2, 1908 was the creation of the Council-Manager form of government in the City of Staunton thereby making the first week in April appropriate for this designation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, by the City of Radford that April 3-9, 2016 is hereby designated as Local Government Education Week; and BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that the Radford City Council in conjunction with the Radford School Board will partner to promote civic education and engagement in an effort to educate citizens about their local government, strengthen the sense of community, and engage the next generation of local government managers. ___________________________ Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford SUBJECT: National Service Recognition SUMMARY: RSVP of Montgomery County and Radford has requested that City Council join in proclaiming April 5, 2016 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. CITY OF RADFORD PROCLAMATION DAY for NATIONAL SERVICE WHEREAS, service to others is a hallmark of the American character, and central to how we meet our challenges; and WHEREAS, the nation’s cities are increasingly turning to national service and volunteerism as a cost-effective strategy to meet their needs; and WHEREAS, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps participants address the most pressing challenges facing our communities, from educating students for the jobs of the 21st century and supporting veterans and military families to providing health services 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, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps participants serve in more than 50,000 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, both through their direct service and by 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 impact and increase the return on taxpayer dollars; and WHEREAS, national service participants 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 county officials and mayors nationwide to engage citizens, improve lives, and strengthen communities; and is joining with the National League of Cities, National Association of Counties, Cities of Service, and mayors and county officials across the country for the Mayor and County Recognition Day for National Service on April 5, 2016. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Radford does hereby proclaim April 5, 2016, as National Service Recognition Day, and encourage residents to recognize the positive impact of national service in our county; to thank those who serve; and to find ways to give back to their communities. ___________________________ Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford SUBJECT: Child Abuse Prevention Month SUMMARY: The Town of Christiansburg has requested that the City, as well as the other New River Valley communities join them again this year in recognizing the month of April, 2016 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, organizations and resources. PROCLAMATION APRIL 2016 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 2016 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. ___________________________ Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion to approve the proclamation as presented, Mr. Turk seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CITIZENS COMMENTS: Rev. McLandish spoke that the minutes reflected a February meeting date and the date needed to be amended to March 14, 2016. NEW BUSINESS SUBJECT: Consider F.Y. 2016 Pavement Maintenance Program SUMMARY: The City has received bids for its 2016 “Pavement Overlay Program”. Two responses were received from Boxley Paving and Adams Construction Co. to provide asphalt, milling services, equipment and labor for the program. The low bid is from Boxley Paving Co. in the amount of $624,609.74. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to award the contract to Boxley Paving Co. in the amount of $624,609.74, Mr. Marshall seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Consider establishing reduced special collection fees during month of April 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 special solid waste collections. The rates for large loads will be reduced to $35.00, small loads to $17.50 and furniture and appliances will be half price for the month of April. ACTION: Mr. Marshal made a motion to approve the recommended reductions as outlined in memo, Mr. Turk seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Appropriation Ordinance # 1673.26: $13,008 Victim Witness Grant SUMMARY: The Commonwealth Attorney’s office has been awarded a grant from the Virginia Department of Justice. The funds will be used to support the comprehensive services of the Victims Witness Coordinator that assists individuals who have been victims/witnesses of felony or misdemeanor crimes. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to approve Appropriation Ordinance #1673.26 on its first reading, Mr. Marshall seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to approve Appropriation Ordinance #1673.26 on its second and final reading, Mr. Marshall seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 DISCUSSION: Basil Edwards, Economic Director gave a power point presentation on the available commercial and industrial properties within the City. He presented options and plans to promote more business development of vacant properties, related job growth and private investment. He discussed the challenges and opportunities that come with developing many of the vacant properties. Council expressed their desire to actively recruit businesses to locate in Radford. CITY MANAGERS COMMENTS: Mr. Ridpath shared that the budget will be presented on Wednesday, April 6, 2016 at 5:30. He is pleased to announce that we have been designated as Tree City USA again and appreciates Carly Reynolds and the Beautification Committee for working on getting that again. Also, Jenni Wilder and other staff have been diligently working at revamping our Adopt a Spot program. CITY ATTORNEYS COMMENTS: Mrs. DeVilbiss requested that Council schedule a public hearing to receive comments regarding the illicit discharge ordinance. She also shared the Virginia State Corporation Commission regulates companies who file as corporations or a limited liability company and that there is not a disclosure requirement of who the owner is. CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS: Mr. Nicholson ask the City Attorney if they needed to vote on holding the public hearing for the illicit discharge ordinance. Mrs. DeVilbiss responded that they could do so. Mr. Nicholson made a motion to hold a public hearing for the illicit discharge at their April 11, 2016 meeting, Mr. Marshall seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 Mr. Marshall made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:46 p.m., seconded by Mr. Turk. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 ATTEST: _________________________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk of Council