City Council

The “New River” City 10 Robertson St. February 26, 2024 Radford, Virginia Meeting Number 12 of Radford City Council, F.Y. 2023-2024 Prior to the regular meeting of the Radford City Council held a work session at 6:15 p.m., on February 26, 2024 to discuss the West Radford Commerce Park with the EDA The regular meeting of the Radford City Council was convened at 7:00 p.m. on February 26, 2024 in the Radford City Council Chambers, located at 10 Robertson Street Radford, VA. The Mayor of the City, Raymond David Horton, was present and presiding. Other members of City Council present were, Vice- Mayor Seth Gillespie, Ms. Jessie Foster, Mr. Bobby Davis, and Ms. Kellie Artrip. Others present were as follows: Mr. David Ridpath, City Manager Ms. Melissa Skelton, Deputy City Clerk Mr. Michael Bedsaul, City Attorney Mr. Gary Harris led the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. Gillespie made a motion to amend the agenda to include an update from Chris Calfee, Radford Rep to NRCC Board, Mrs. Artrip seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 CITIZEN COMMENTS: None COUNCIL RESPONSE: None MINUTES APPROVALS: On a motion by Mrs. Artrip and seconded Mr. Davis that the minutes from December 11, 2024 & January 22, 2024 are approved as presented and the minutes from February 12, 2024 meeting is approved with correction to Mr. Gillespie’s response to Mrs. Jones comments, it needs to include “days” within the sentence regarding training. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 PRESNETATIONS: SUBJECT: Radford Farmer’s Market SUMMARY: The coordinators of the Radford Farmers Market were present to provide City Council with an update to the Farmers Market and to discuss the 2024 Season. Dr. Gabriella Smith presented on behalf of the Farmers Market. She has shared some challenges with not having a permanent location, and would like to revive the conversation regarding that. She said they are working toward getting their 501(3)c Nonprofit designation. An online survey regarding the farmers market has been posted and have received about 130 responses to date. An economic impact report will be completed once all the survey ends. She shared they are now a member of the Virginia Farmers Market and are actively pursuing revenues sources to help assist with their growth. One main issue they have had, was not having a permanent location. They do have some issues with existing site, especially when it rains. Some of their immediate needs include covered tables, ADA accessibility and access to bathrooms. Dr. Smith asked City Council if they could assist them with the following: – Updating the City website, the months, time and location are all incorrect. – Remove old outdated signage located in various areas within City. Mayor Horton thanked all the vendors and visitors this evening, and asked Dr. Smith if she could email us with those specific requests. Mrs. Artrip asked if the information of the Virginia’s Farmers Market Association website correct? Kathy responded that it now has the correct address. Mrs. Artrip asked the information has changed or has it always been wrong? Dr. Smith responded that the location changed a couple years ago. Mrs. Artrip asked is there a permanent location that they would prefer? Dr. Smith responded that they do like the Glencoe field and if this is something they can collaborate with the city, it would be a great location. Mr. Gillespie thanked her for the presentation, it had a lot of good information. He asked if they would share the economic impact report with City Council, once completed. He does see the positive impact they have for the city. Dr. Smith responded once they have a final report, they will be happy to share. Ms. Artrip asked where the survey was located. Dr. Smith responded it can be found on the Radford Farmers Market Facebook page. Mr. Davis said it was a great presentation. Ms. Foster said these are great, easy action items that we can fix immediately. She shared that when you see small changes that are needed, that can make large impacts, to please let us know. She recognizes the location issue, and it’s been an ongoing topic/theme. The Farmers Market having nonprofit status will help. Mayor Horton thanked everyone and remind them that they do have a partner with the city and really want to see this move forward. He asked when they will have a nonprofit status? Dr. Smith responded that she will keep them posted when it is finalized. SUBJECT: New River Community College Update SUMMARY: Chris Calfee, appointed City Rep to the NRCC Board came before City Council to update them on what the NRCC Board have been discussing. He shared that 346 students are from Radford, with 39 whom participate in the ACCE program. He shared that NRCC is the home of the Southwest VA Governors School. He stated that Dr. Pat Huber has announced her retirement and she will truly be missed. She has personally been an influence to him. He shared the process of looking for a new president is underway, and can ensure that the entire board understands the importance at the task at hand. He thanked council for allowing him to be on the advisory board. Mayor Horton asked if all of the 346 Radford students were full time. Mr. Calfee responded that they were. Mr. Gillespie thanked Mr. Calfee for bringing this before council and would like to collaborate more moving forward. Mrs. Foster asked about the ACCE program, and if there been an increase in number of students who are participating? Mr. Calfee said that program has been growing. Mrs. Artrip thanked him for his presentation. Mr. Davis thanked him as well. OLD BUSINESS: None NEW BUSINESS: SUBJECT: Chamber of Commerce MOU SUMMARY: The Radford Chamber of Commerce has provided a proposed contract for services to the City of Radford for F.Y. 2024. Generally, the services would include assistance in economic development, involvement in local government initiatives, fostering of communication, “Festival of Lights” support, promotion of Radford Tourism and business, and increased marketing. Mr. Dan McKinney provided a presentation reflecting the previous year along with what to expect in 2024. His goal for new membership for this year is an increase of 25%. He shared he wanted to refocus on their advertising initiative within the Recreation Department and ballfields, along with continued support to the businesses. Mayor Horton thanked Mr. McKinney for his presentation. Mr. Gillespie asked how the sign program for the Recreation Department was doing? Mr. McKinney responded that they are nowhere he would like to be, last year they had 4 businesses who joined and put their banners up. Mr. Gillespie asked how they can help to get word out? Mr. McKinney shared it is on their website and he can be contacted. He shared the banners can be placed either along the walking track at the recreation center, baseball fields, or pickle ball courts. Mr. McKinney discussed the Memorandum of Understanding with City Council, and highlighted a new initiative, the Women’s Leadership Conference, that will be held at the Highlander Hotel on March 11, 2024. Mayor Horton asked if Dan or Jessie can update them from the Conference at their March 11, 2024 meeting. Ms. Foster responded she could and shared that this board is busy. They are rolling up their sleeves and communicating with the businesses on what they have been doing well and how they can improve. She said if there is a community doing something amazing to please let them know about it. Mr. McKinney said he is asking for a total of $20,000, $4,000 for the Festival of Lights and $16,000 for the Chamber. The $2,000 add on was mentioned last year and why he brought it back last year. Mrs. Foster asked when the last time they received an increase. Mr. McKinney said he has been in this position for 3 years and they have not had an increased since he’s been there. Mayor Horton said his social media has been strong. He thanked the board members for helping to support the Chamber. Mr. McKinney said he is working at promoting the businesses in the community. Mr. Gillespie added that would be a good idea at the larger Rec Hall tournaments we have. Mrs. Foster stated they have discussed this and trying to find the best ways to do. Along with making sure businesses are aware when tournaments are occurring. Mrs. Artrip stated that a good way to increase revenues is by getting more member to the Chamber, she said she had been told by a number of new businesses that they had not been approached by the Chamber and have been here a number of years. She asked what the process was to reaching out to new businesses to let them know you are there for them? Mr. McKinney responded that he first needs to know they are here. Mrs. Artrip asked can we fix that, so the Chamber is made aware. Mr. McKinney stated he didn’t know if someone with the City could advise. Mr. Horton suggested that we could reach out to the Commissioner of Revenues office to see if can notify them when a new business has been licensed. He added that Cathy does a great job and can see if they can facilitate that. Mr. McKinney shared that there is a goal for new members in the MOU. Mr. Davis asked what they can do to help the Chamber? Mr. McKinney responded if you hear someone who does not know about the chamber, to let him know. He will be happy to reach out to them. Mayor Horton thanked him again for his hard work. ACTION: Mr. Gillespie made a motion to approve the MOU to the Chamber, Mrs. Foster seconded that motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 SUBJECT: Ordinance #1798 Transfer of Property to EDA: West Radford Commerce Park SUMMARY: The City of Radford purchased approximately 80 acres of property adjacent to Bolling Street, formally known as the Radford Foundry site/VCI Property. The property is planned for development and reuse as an industrial site to stimulate economic development, job creation and private investment. The property, known as the “West Radford Commerce Park” would be transferred to the EDA for the development portion of the project. Proposed Ordinance #1798 has been provided for consideration indicating the expectations and conditions. ACTION: Mr. Davis made a motion to schedule a public hearing for March 11, 2024, Mrs. Artrip seconded that motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 SUBJECT: Electric Department - Equipment Order SUMMARY: The Electric Department is scheduled to replace a Digger Derrick. It is an essential piece of equipment in the Department’s operations, installations and repairs. A bid meeting all specifications has been received from Altec Industries, a state contract approved provider through Sourcewell. The amount of the cab, chassis and hydraulic derrick is $324,939. The equipment will take 12-18 months to receive. The amount was planned in the F.Y. 2023 Budget, but exceeds $50,000 requiring City Council authorization. The equipment will replace an aging 2012 International Digger Derrick (Unit #2723). Its surplus will be at a later date. Mayor Horton asked Mr. Ridpath if this was a need or a want? Mr. Ridpath responded this is a need, this piece of equipment is hard to rent and would have to hire a contractor if didn’t have this. Mayor Horton asked if they did not move forward with this purchase, how would that affect operations? Mr. Ridpath responded this piece of equipment is hard to rent, and if ran into a problem they would have to hire a contractor which could slow a repair down. This piece of equipment is used for pole replacements and if had an emergency and the power went out, there would be delays. Mr. Gillespie shared that the cost is giving him heartburn, but understanding equipment is expensive, he just wants to make sure we have explored all of our options. Mr. Ridpath stated that we have, and also need to be aware of price escalation if wait to purchase. The order is expected to be delivered the summer of 2025. So this would be coming out of the 2025/2026 budget. Mr. Gillespie asked when does Altec need a response to this purchase order? Mr. Ridpath responded it was his understanding they would need to move forward now or the price will go up. Mr. Davis asked if the current digger will work until we get the new one? Mr. Ridpath shared the electric department does a great job at maintaining all their equipment and it should hold up. ACTION: Mrs. Foster made a motion to advance the purchase order with Altec Industries, Mrs. Artrip seconded that motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: Mr. Ridpath asked Scott Gardner, Glencoe Museum to come share some exciting news with the Council. Mr. Gardner shared that the Virginia Museum of History & Culture has made the official announcement of the 2024 Commonwealth History Fund awardees, which includes Glencoe in the amount of $30,000. This will allow for a stairlift to be installed between the 2nd and 3rd floors, the development of an exhibit on Reconstruction and preservation efforts for the structure and collection. Glencoe has also received $4,400 from VDOF. Mrs. Foster wanted to share they have top notch people on the board to help with grant opportunities. Mr. Ridpath thanked Mr. Gardner and the Heritage Foundation. He asked Kim Repass to share some upcoming events. Ms. Repass shared that the annual Easter egg hunt is March 30, 2024 from 11-2. She recognized C-Life church and the Chamber who helps them with this event. They have 12,000 prefilled eggs that the children to hunt. She also shared that the Summer Concert Series calendar will coming be out this week. Mr. Ridpath shared he was saddened to hear about employees effected by MOOG’s announcement and will be working with them as they transition. He mentioned that whole sale power is largest portion of their budget. A $1.6 mil bill came in for this month. He stated that as the cost of power continues to increase, the gap between our cost and operations is shrinking and need to watch those moving forward. He reminded Council about the closed session to follow the meeting. Mayor Horton asked about the wholesale power, he said the last time they adjusted the rates were in 2019, correct? Mr. Ridpath responded we have not made adjusts to our rates since 2018. Mayor Horton said that important for them to keep in mind, we have historically relied on making money off the electric to help support replacing equipment and other activities, and that gap is shrinking. COUNCIL COMMENTS: Mr. Gillespie thanked everyone who provided presentations. He shared that he recently toured TechLab and it was great experience. He echoed the sentiments of Mr. Ridpath for the families who work at MOOG. He congratulated Tatum Williams for his wrestling championship, along with Maggie Paige for being the first Radford female wrestler to medal. Mrs. Foster shared her moment of silence was in honor of Alfred Harvey who was killed in WWI and was resident to Radford. She asked about a meeting they have been trying to have with the Commanding officer at Arsenal, is there a new installation? She said would love an opportunity to reengage with them to come to a council meeting. Mr. Ridpath responded they will try to reach out to them again. Ms. Foster shared she is on the Community Justice Board and would love to tell us more about it, but still getting a handle on it. She shared the packet she received from the meeting and will keep them posted. She thanked the Mayor for his participation in the Polar Plunge. She shared that she met with Heritage Foundation and has a list of core events for 2024, she would like to see if they can be posted on the City’s site? Mrs. Foster said that the Electric Department has received the most letters for the work they do and wanted to recognize them for their hard work. Mrs. Artrip shared she and Bobby had a meeting with RU President. She said it was very informative, he had a list of things he wanted to discuss and were many of the same as hers and Bobby’s. They talked about some positive things and of the challenges that our community is having. She shared there are many more great discussions to be had. She recently had a Joint Commission meeting, and spent most of that meeting discussing RU’s Economic Development report and the impact they have on the City. She is going to ask either Charlie Jewel or Angela Joyner to come and present after budget season. She said their impact on the city is not all negative. She reiterated what Chris Calfee had said earlier, NRCC, along with RU and VT provide so many opportunities for our region, and are very lucky to have them. She asked everyone to fill out survey for the Famers Market. Mr. Davis thanked Kim Repass for going to Techlab with him, he was excited to be there and walked away thinking they have more going on than most people realize. He has asked them what they like about our community and they responded the local politics and said the city is so easy to work with. He also thanked Mayor Horton for participating in the Polar Plunge. He said everyone who came before them this evening with their presentations did a wonderful job. Mayor Horton recognized the wrestling teams and shared the women’s program has only been in place for a couple years. The Bobcat Theater company had Clue, that is another wonderful program. We have so many students at Radford doing amazing things. He shared that many folks participated in Polar Plunge. The water was not the worst part; the air temperature was much colder. They raised just under $100,000, and that money stays here in Southwest Virginia. He thanked Emily Hite, Jenni Goodman Webb and all the staff who helped out at the event. This is a great community event, with the largest ever. He stated that together there is nothing we can’t do. We are aware of our challenges but everyone is working to try to build the Radford for today and tomorrow. Mrs. Foster made a motion, seconded by Mr. Davis to convene a closed meeting for the purpose of Consultation with legal counsel employed or retained by a public body regarding specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by such counsel. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to permit the closure of a meeting merely because an attorney representing the public body is in attendance or is consulted on a matter. 2.2-3711 (A) (8) VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 Mrs. Foster made a motion to adjourn the closed meeting, Mr. Davis seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Mrs. Foster Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 Mr. Gillespie made a motion to re-convene the regular meeting, Mrs. Artrip seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Mrs. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 CERTIFICATION OF THE CLOSED MEETING: Mayor Horton made a motion that Council did not discuss anything in the closed meeting other than the one item for which it was convened, Mrs. Foster seconded the motion. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Mrs. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 Mrs. Foster made a motion to adjourn the meeting 9:10 p.m. seconded by Mr. Davis. VOTE: AYES: Mr. Davis, Ms. Foster, Mr. Gillespie, Ms. Artrip, Mayor Horton NAYES: NONE-0 ATTEST: _____________________________ Melissa Skelton, Deputy City Clerk