City Council

The “New River ” City 10 Robertson St. April 25, 201 6 Radford, Virginia Regular Meeting Number 17 of Radford City Council, F.Y. 2015-2016 The work session meeting of the Radford City Council was convened at 5:30 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. Daniel Keith Marshall, Mr. Robert Nicholson III, and Mr. David Michael Turk. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Ms. Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Mr. Donald Goodman, Police Chief Mrs. Jenni Wilder, Public Information Officer Mr. Tim Logwood, Director of Electric Utilities City Council discussed the Little River Dam No action was taken related to the above-mentioned item 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. Richard Harshberger, Mr. Daniel Keith Marshall, Mr. Robert Nicholson and Mr. David Michael Turk. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Ms. Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Mrs. Gail Cook DeVilbiss, City Attorney Following the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Mayor Brown, and the invocation was led by Rev. John McCandlish. MINUTE APPROVALS: On a motion by Mr. Nicholson seconded by Mr. Marshall, that the minutes for April 11, 2016 are approved as presented. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 MINUTE APPROVALS: On a motion by Dr. Harshberger seconded by Mr. Turk, that the minutes for April 19, 2016 are approved as presented. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 RESOLUTION SUBJECT: Robert “Big Al” Hall Humanitarian Service-Above-Self Citizenship Award SUMMARY: The Proposed resolution recognizes Jim Graham for his service, dedication and contributions to our community in his leadership and volunteerism associated with the Community Garden. Mayor Brown read the resolution for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford Resolution Honoring Jim Graham Recipient of the Robert Allen Hall Humanitarian Service-Above Self Citizenship Award WHEREAS, the City of Radford wishes to honor Robert Allen “Big Al” Hall by establishing a Humanitarian Service- Above- Self Citizenship Award, and WHEREAS, the establishment of this award will recognize unsung heroes that contribute to make the City of Radford a better place, and WHEREAS, a humanitarian is recognized as one who extends benevolence and kindness, by putting others before one’s self, and WHEREAS, the City of Radford wishes to recognize and honor the hard work and dedication of Jim Graham to the City of Radford’s Community Garden; and WHEREAS, Jim founded the Radford Community Garden in 2012; and WHEREAS, Jim continues to spend countless hours organizing and coordinating efforts to ensure the community garden’s success; and WHEREAS, the Radford Community Garden has 30 garden plots, all of which are occupied by Radford citizens who use the plots to grow fresh produce and plants; and WHEREAS, Jim’s stewardship over the Radford Community Garden can be seen year after year, with citizens returning to grow crops and countless others signing up for their first gardening season within the garden, and WHEREAS, Jim shows his love for the Radford community and environment by dedicating his time and talent to make the Radford Community Garden successful and enjoyable for all who participate. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Radford City Council does hereby honor Jim Graham for his years of dedication and service to the Radford Community Garden, by presenting him with the Robert Allen “Big Al” Hall Humanitarian Service-Above-Self Citizenship Award. _______________________ Dr. Bruce Brown, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Melissa Skelton, City Clerk Adopted: April 25, 2016 ACTION: Mayor Brown made a motion to the resolution as presented, Mr. Nicholson seconded the motion. Dr. Harshberger stated that it is greatly deserved. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 PROCLAMATIONS SUBJECT: Older American Month SUMMARY: The month of May 2016 is “Older Americans Month”. The Agency on Aging has requested the City Council consider this proclamation that recognizes the contributions of older Americans to our community, as well as the community opportunities that support independent living, wellness, volunteerism and social inclusion. Dr. Harshberger read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. City of Radford PROCLAMATION OLDER AMERICANS MONTH 2016 Whereas, the City of Radford includes a thriving community of older Americans who deserve recognition for their contributions and sacrifices to ensure a better life for future generations; and Whereas, the City of Radford is committed to helping all individuals live longer, healthier lives in the communities of their choice for as long as possible; and Whereas, since 1965, the Older Americans Act has provided services that help older adults remain healthy and independent by complementing existing medical and health care systems, helping prevent hospital readmissions, and supporting some of life’s most basic functions, such as bathing or preparing meals; and Whereas, these programs also support family caregivers, address issues of exploitation, neglect and abuse of older adults, and adapt services to the needs of Native American elders; and Whereas, we recognize the value of community engagement and service in helping older adults remain healthy and active while giving back to others; and Whereas, our community can provide opportunities to enrich the lives of individuals of all ages by:  Promoting and engaging in activity, wellness, and social inclusion.  Emphasizing home- and community-based services that support independent living.  Ensuring community members of all ages benefit from the contributions and experience of older adults. NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Radford, do hereby proclaim May 2016 to be Older Americans Month and urges every resident to take time this month to celebrate older adults and the people who serve and support them as powerful and vital individuals who greatly contribute to the community. ___________________________ Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford ACTION: Dr. Harshberger made a motion to the proclamation as presented, Mr. Nicholson seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Law Enforcement Officers Week SUMMARY: The State of Virginia has proclaimed the week of May 15th-21th as “Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Week”, to honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to those who put their lives in danger each day protecting and serving our communities. Mr. Marshall read the proclamation for the benefit of the audience. PROCLAMATION LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS’ MEMORIAL WEEK To recognize National Police Week 2016 and to honor the service and sacrifice of those law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty while protecting our communities and safeguarding our democracy. WHEREAS, the safety and well-being of the citizens of Radford are of the utmost importance to the prosperity and livelihood of Radford’s families and community; and WHEREAS, individuals have committed their lives to protecting and serving Radford’s families, businesses, neighborhoods, schools and community; and WHEREAS, these individuals risk their lives in the line of duty to maintain the safety of our community while striving to uphold the rule of law; and WHEREAS, all citizens of Radford value the courage, commitment and leadership demonstrated by our state and local law enforcement officers, who work diligently to ensure our safety; and WHEREAS, we pay tribute to the officers who have fallen in the line of duty and recognize the sacrifices made by the families of those officers, as well as the families of those who continue to protect and serve our communities; and WHEREAS, is it critical that we understand the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement officers within our communities, and commemorate and pay tribute to the dedicated service of officers past and present; NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Radford does hereby recognize May 15-21, 2016 as LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS’ MEMORIAL WEEK in the City of Radford, and to call this observance to the attention of all our citizens. ___________________________ Bruce E. Brown, Mayor City of Radford ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion to the proclamation as presented, Mr. Turk seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 REPORT: Poverty Statistic SUMMARY: Vice- Mayor Marshall shared a brief report from the committee who is looking into the high poverty rate in Radford. He said that Radford is one of the top cities in the state of Virginia per capita as far as poverty rate. We have seen about a 20 % growth rate in last ten years. The first phase of the new initiative is to figure out what we don’t know. He stated we all have a lot of questions about the different services the Social Services provides and what is required by State law for cities to provide and the housing vouchers. He said we want to look at concrete ways to turn the poverty rate around. Our number one goal is to help the families in the City of Radford. We know there are people in the City that need help and we want to be able to get that help to the right places and the right people where they need it, but at the same time need to figure out how not to throw our money away on things that are not helping the situation. The committee has been formed and are beginning to gather data to be put into a GIS model, similar to that of Giles County. He shared that we have a lot of work to do, but when we actually get the data plotted it will be clear where all these services are concentrated. The goal is to turn the poverty numbers around in next few years. OLD BUSINESS SUBJECT: Consider second reading of Ordinance # 1682: FY 2016 – 2017 Budget SUMMARY: This ordinance will approve the F.Y.16-17 Annual Budget for the City of Radford and Radford City School Board. As proposed, the total budget will be $60,732,296. ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion to place Ordinance # 1682 on its second and final reading, seconded by Mr. Turk. VOTE AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Consider second reading of Ordinance #1683: Establishes the 2016 Tax Rate SUMMARY: This ordinance will approve the F.Y.16 Tax Rate with Real Estate Tax Rate of $ 0.76, Personal Property at $2.44, Machinery and Tools at $1.76, and other personal property at $1.76. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to place Ordinance #1683 on its second and final reading, seconded by Dr. Harshberger. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CITIZENS COMMENTS: None NEW BUSINESS SUBJECT: F.Y. 2017 City Rates and Fees SUMMARY: The development of the F. Y. 2016-17 City Budget is based on revenues from taxes, rates and fees. The City Code provides the basis for determination of fees. All base fees/rates are proposed to remain level. ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion, to approve the resolution as presented, seconded by Dr. Harshberger. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Consider Appropriation Ordinance 1673.27: $5,155 – Asset Forfeiture SUMMARY: The Police Department has received State Asset Forfeiture funds that will be used to purchase in-car cameras for police vehicles. ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to place 1673.27 on its first reading, Dr. Harshberger seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 ACTION: Mr. Nicholson made a motion to dispense with the second and final readings and approve Appropriations 1673.27, Dr. Harshberger seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 SUBJECT: Consider scheduling a public hearing for a Special Use Permit Request for East Radford Development Corporation, located at 702 -708 East Main Street, Radford, VA 24141. SUMMARY: East Radford Development Corporation has requested a special use permit for the property located at 702-708 East Main Street, Parcel # 2-(1)-3 and 3A. The developer plans to construct a mixed use development for the site with commercial use on the main floor and residential use on the upper floors. The property is zoned B-2, General Business, and requires a special use permit for the residential component of the mixed use development. ACTION: Dr. Harshberger made a motion to schedule a public hearing for May 9, 2016, seconded by Mr. Nicholson. Mr. Marshall shared that this type of issue has come up before and appreciate the fact that Mr. Turk recused himself because of conflict of interest. His concerns remain the same and that we are greatly overbuilding the student housing market. He has spoken with the some developers in the area come to him with those exact comments. He said when you continuously build student housing when you don’t have enough student to house in, the apartments that are further away from campus have a tendency to move towards section 8 or low income and that is his concern. He said we need a serious student housing study. He said if they were zoned specifically for this type of development then they would be within the law. But they are asking for a special use permit to allow this special exception. Dr. Harshberger said that a number of years ago Radford Universities master plan showed the development of 3 additional dormitories along Jefferson St. He shared that he had the opportunity to advise against that because creating additional dormitories would pull all those people from renting houses. This advice had been followed and there are no new plans to build those dormitories. The housing we are talking about today, is mainly aimed at the young professional and graduate student, which Radford University is working on increasing their masters program. This development is different from the four bedroom apartments that have been developed. Mr. Marshall wanted to point out in the Special Use Permit that it didn’t specifically state what size units they were going to be. And believes they need a firm idea of what exactly was going to be put there. Mayor Brown shared there are a variety of opinions and he went to the Planning Commissions public hearing and the developer isn’t going to spend $100,000 for a plan that they are unable to use. There is data that shows that people are moving towards wanting to live in apartments. There are people who are looking for the merging of commercial with residential housing. Everyone has a different point of view. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger Yes Mr. Marshall No Mr. Nicholson Yes Mr. Turk Abstain Mayor Brown Yes SUBJECT: Consider Amending the Industrial Center Covenant - TechLab SUMMARY: TechLab is requesting a waiver and modification to the extension of time for the Radford Industrial Center Lot 11 for an additional 60 months form the current date of December 12, 2014 to December 12, 2019. It is TechLabs intent to pursue commercial development and usage of the parcel within the course of the requested waiver time. Mr. Marshall stated that he had read through the document and asked for clarification on what criteria they have to meet within the 12 months. Mr. Edwards responded that they needed to have broken ground by that date. Mr. Marshall asked what happens when they do not build on the lot within that timeframe. Mr. Edwards replied that if we decided not to provide and extension, then the City has the ability to buy the land back at the sale price. Mr. Marshall asked if we have seen any concrete plans for this lot. Dr. Harshberger added that they did add an addition to the original plan already. Mr. Edwards stated the Mr. Harvey is here this evening and may want to share more about their future plans, but the reason they purchased this particular piece of land was because of the extra lot. Mr. Harvey shared that they have about 70 employees. They anticipate on hiring new people over the next few weeks and are continuing to grow. He stated that plans are underway for expansion. Mr. Marshall asked Mr. Harvey if it was their intent to develop that land over the next five years. Mr. Harvey responded yes, that is their intent. Mayor Brown asked Mr. Harvey if they still planned on moving their corporate headquarters over to Radford. Mr. Harvey responded that he mainly see’s Radford as their manufacturing facility. ACTION: Mr. Marshall made a motion to amend the extension as discussed, seconded by Mr. Nicholson. Mayor Brown said if we go down this road, we do have to protect us if someone else comes to them wanting to develop that land. Mr. Edwards stated that all we have is the restrictive covenants. Dr. Harshberger shared that TechLab has been a model, corporate citizen here in Radford and have expanded their operations. They have increased their job growth. Mayor Brown agreed with Dr. Harshberger, but if the restrictive covenants aren’t there, that we learn from this moving forward, because if someone comes into the City tomorrow wanting to develop this parcel, that we have tied it up for 6 years, there is currently nothing we can do. But is there something that can be put into the restrictive covenants that will allow us to take back the land. Mrs. DeVilbiss said that we do not own the property so we couldn’t put that type of restriction on it. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 CITY MANAGERS COMMENTS: Mr. Ridpath shared that he paving contractor will be here in couple weeks, they are waiting until Radford University moves out and we have less traffic to deal with. The West Main Street project between Wadsworth and Robertson is moving forward. And the boat ramp project in Riverview is going well, the ramp will be shortened by 10-15 feet. Mayor Brown asked Mr. Ridpath when the Armentrout Circle will be dedication. Mr. Ridpath responded that it will be held this Thursday at 11:00. And the Panther House ribbon cutting will be on May 2nd. CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS: Mr. Marshall shared that Student Government Day was held last week and the kids from high school did a great job. Mayor Brown reminded everyone that elections are next Tuesday. Chief Goodman asked if he could share that there is a softball game this Thursday night to fundraise money for the Bobcat Backpack program. Mr. Marshall made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:59 p.m., seconded by Dr. Harshberger. VOTE: AYES: Dr. Harshberger, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Turk, Mayor Brown NAYES: None-0 ATTEST: _________________________________ Melissa A. Skelton, City Clerk of Council