City Council

454 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION May 4, 2015 9:00a.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in joint session with the Roanoke City School Board on Monday, May 4, 2015, at 9:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetings, Rule 1, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and Resolution No. 39982-070714 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 7, 2014, with Mayor David A. Bowers presiding. PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Sherman P. Lea (arrived late), Anita J. Price, Court G. Rosen (arrived late), and Mayor David A. Bowers-?. ABSENT: None-0. OFFICERS PRESENT: Christopher P. Morrill, City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; Barbara A. Dameron, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES PRESENT: William B. Hopkins, Jr., Mae G. Huff, Annette M. Lewis, Lori E. Vaught and Richard M. Willis, Jr.-5. SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES ABSENT: Vice-Chair Suzanne P. Moore and Chair Todd A. Putney-2. OTHERS PRESENT: Dr. Rita D. Bishop, Superintendent of Roanoke City Schools; P. Steve Barnett, Deputy Superintendent of Roanoke City Schools; Timothy R. Spencer, Senior City Attorney and Legal Counsel of Roanoke City Schools; and Cindy H. Poulton, Clerk of the Roanoke City School Board. Mayor Bowers stated that during the year, the Roanoke City School Board and City Council meet jointly to discuss matters of mutual interest and concern. He noted that neither the Chairman nor the Vice-Chairman could be present today, and called upon Trustee Huff, senior member of the School Board, to call the School Board meeting to order.  455 At this point, Council Member Rosen entered the meeting 9:01 a.m. Mayor Bowers announced that School Board Trustee Mae Huff and School Board Chair Putney having served three consecutive three-year terms of office as members of the Roanoke City School Board are not eligible for another term, respectively, and in Chairman Putney's absence and to Acting Chair Huff, he expressed appreciation for their services to the Roanoke City Public Schools and citizens of Roanoke City. In response to the Mayor's comments, Acting Chair Huff noted that she was looking forward to continuing her work in the City public schools system in either another volunteer capacity or a working capacity, adding her sincerest appreciation for the opportunity to have served as a School Board Trustee. At this point, Council Member Lea entered the meeting (9:02a.m.). Grounds Inventory and Maintenance Program The City Manager advised that the Virginia Tech Senior Design Teams worked to complete a capstone project with an outside organization using the skills acquired through their program at Virginia Tech; adding all teams had to present findings to their organization, as well as to faculty, peers and families. He noted that this was the third year of involvement by the City of Roanoke with the Virginia Tech School of Industrial and Systems Engineering, and the first year working with Roanoke City Public Schools. He further advised that Team One worked with the School's Maintenance Operations Department on a Grounds Inventory and Maintenance Program to find a way to better document the School Division's ground assets and track the work of the contracted landscaping company. It was noted that the team formed a solution using various Google Drive resources to increase awareness and accountability of grounds assets and landscaping work. (For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) In response to an inquiry by School Board Trustee Vaught about security, it was remarked that there were no specifics given concerning security. In response to an inquiry by Council Member Price regarding training in using the system, it was reported that a training manual had been created, consisting of lengthy documentation, with pictures for use by administrators and building maintenance personnel. 456 Following additional comments by School Board Trustee Hopkins and Mayor Bowers, the presentation was received and filed. (For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Electronic Summons Implementation Study Team two worked with the Roanoke City Police Department on an Electronic Summons System because the previous traffic summons system contained excessive and redundant data entries with many errors; the electronic system will eliminate data entry time, reduce errors and increase overall efficiency of the ticketing system. During a six-month pilot launch program, five police cruisers will be equipped with software, tablets, printers and scanning devices to evaluate the new system. (For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following favorabl.e comments by Members of City Council and the City Manager, the presentation was received and filed. Update on use of school facilities for recreation and sports Dr. Bishop advised that under the leadership of the, Assistant Superintendent for Operations, the Schools Division had improved the relationship with the City with respect to use of facilities and stated that the schools' opens all facilities to the Department of Parks and Recreation free of charge with RCPS absorbing the overtime, but the school's do request advance notice of events for scheduling. She further advised that only private individuals pay for use of facilities on weekends, when there are no scheduled workers at the facility. Council Member Price requested a copy of the card containing the contact information of employees in the event of emergencies involving facilities; whereupon, Dr. Bishop replied that a copy would be provided to all members of the Council. Update on Round Hill Construction Project Dr. Bishop stated that the project was going really well and that the classrooms would be completed by the opening of school making an impact on class size, contributing to a more comfortable learning environment for the students. She pointed out that the 2015- 2016 School Year would be the last the schools would lease space from the church for preschool classes because during the summer of 2017 the renovation will be completed and the students will move back to Round Hill for classes.  457 Council Member Price inquired as to when the modular classrooms would be removed; whereupon, Dr. Bishop advised that once the construction of the new classrooms was complete, the modular would be removed and possibly relocated to Monterey Elementary School in an effort to upgrade their existing modular classrooms. She further inquired if the preschools at Round Hill and Monterey Elementary Schools would be combined. Dr. Bishop replied that the school division was researching the options and would evaluate the budgetary numbers involved . Lastly, Council Member Price asked about a buffer for the Round Hill playground next to 1-581; whereupon, Dr. Bishop advised that there was an opportunity to provide a major tree buffer that would be reviewed as construction continued. In response to an inquiry of the long range plan to eliminate all temporary classrooms, Dr. Bishop referenced the Capital Improvement Plan; advised that choices would be to have the preschool at Round Hill to eliminate the modular problem at Monterey; and pointed out that the kids who attend to preschool were reading on grade level by third grade. Status report on outsourcing of substitute teachers The Superintendent advised that outsourcing substitute teachers was not something anyone wanted to do, but under the Affordable Health Care Act, the School must provide benefits to employees working 29 hours or more and the cost of providing benefits was cost prohibitive to the district, so outsourcing was in the best interest of education. She added that last year, using the system in RCPS, the substitute fill rate was 92 percent and during the last month, Source4Teachers had a 90 percent fill rate. Dr. Bishop further advised that when RCPS used EROP, many people helped as substitutes and assisted with testing, but the EROP Program was ended due to financial reasons and commented that testing time was the worst time of the year to locate substitutes, but the company was doing a good job and remained in constant communication with Sandra Burks, Executive Director for Roanoke City Public Schools Human Resources. Council Member Price asked what measures were being taken to address the matter, for example; a person may be called to be sent to Richmond, Virginia, as opposed to being assigned to Roanoke; whereupon, Dr. Bishop responded stating that she heard those stories but had found none were true and encouraged anyone with concerns to contact her directly by email. 458 Council Member Bestpitch inquired if the substitutes worked over 29 hours, if the company still had to provide them with the same benefits; whereupon, the Superintendent advised that the schools cannot place substitutes on their health insurance plan, due to the high cost; however, Source4Teachers has an insurance plan. He further inquired if the plan offered by the company was of a lower quality than RCPS, and could the company retain good quality employees with a lower quality insurance plan. Dr. Bishop replied that before Source4Teachers, the substitutes had no benefits at all. Council Member Lea asked if other school districts were outsourcing ; whereupon, Dr. Bishop advised that information would be provided to the Council. Purchase of additional laptops and the lack of Internet service in homes of students with laptops Dr. Bishop stated that 8th graders received laptops in October 2014, and the School Division was seeing improvements in preliminary writing scores where four out of five middle school students placed higher than before. She noted that a study was currently being conducted on Internet access and noted that the School Division was actively working with City libraries to possibly expand hours and use wireless access in the libraries. Dr. Bishop explained possible computer issues for next year, stating that if possible, the plan was to have the 8th graders take their laptops with them to high school and purchase additional laptops for the new 8th graders. She pointed out that William Fleming High School has now qualified for the purchase of new laptops for 9th graders. Trustee Vaught stated that basically all 8th and 9th graders would have laptops and the School Division would purchase new cases for the 9th graders who received 8th grade laptops. Comments by Council/School Board Trustees Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired if there were to be any changes in the Advance Placement Curriculum in the high schools and if foreign language was to be eliminated; whereupon, the Superintendent replied in the negative.  459 He further inquired about coordinating the calendars and Dr. Bishop stated that she approached colleagues in neighboring school divisions and it was difficult to coordinate calendars; she also noted that the school start date would commence before Labor Day and invited City Council to attend the Convocation scheduled for August 10, 2015. In conclusion, Council Members Lea and Price expressed appreciation to School Trustee Huff and stated public service was a difficult venue and her accessibility was greatly appreciated and publicly acknowledged her service. There being no additional matters of mutual interest to come before the Council and School Board, Mayor Bowers thanked the Council and School Board for its participation in the discussion of all the agenda items. There being no further business, Acting Chair Huff declared the School Board meeting adjourned at 10:37 a.m. There being no further business, Mayor Bowers declared the Council Meeting in recess at 10:37 a.m. At 10:52 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber or consideration of the following agenda items, with Mayor Bowers presiding, with all Members of the Council in attendance. ANNOUNCEMENTS: TAXES: The Honorable Evelyn Powers, City Treasurer, shared information regarding personal property tax bills that will be due on June 1, 2015. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: CITY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor David A. Bowers requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2- 3711 (A)(1 ), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 460 Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor to convene in a Closed Meeting as above described. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: AYES : Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: NONE. BRIEFINGS: Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Study: The City Manager advised that the purpose of the briefing was to provide an update on the budget as it enters the final phase. He introduced Michael Shockley, Budget Administrator, who highlighted the following information: Agenda: • Budget balancing discussion • Follow-up items: o Virginia First Cities o Parking Fund Fee Adjustments Mr. Shockley demonstrated a budget balancing calculator with various scenarios and strategies in an effort to balance the 2016 Fiscal Year budget. Mr. Shockley provided background explaining that the City had $3.467 million in expenditures over revenues, with no adjustment in the real estate tax, a proposed increase of $5.00 on the motor vehicle tax, which was split 60/40 with the school system, and a proposed increase in the meal tax from 3 percent to 5.7 percent, with the net amount of $1.3 million coming back to the City. He further explained that a monthly solid waste fee of $7.00 was proposed and all of that would revert to the City, totaling approximately $2.2 Million. So in order to balance the budget, the additional $240,000.00 was placed into a contingency to address any unforeseen service issues that may occur. He continued stating that to address salary lapse it was normally budgeted for turnover savings of about $180,000.00 experienced in a given year with a three percent base increase in pay, a five percent pension contribution and 1 percent to hold harmless in total a nine percent increase in pay for next year.  461 Following extensive dialogue with regard to the budget balancing demonstration, Council Member Lea commented that many citizens were opposed to the monthly solid waste fee for various reasons and expressed concern with the overall implementation of the fee . He added that the addition of $8.00 for the motor vehicle license tax was doable because it would be a one-time payment of $28.00 per year. Following his comments, further discussion ensued with regard to the real estate and motor vehicle license taxes. Council Member Rosen commented that the Virginia First Cities (VFC) membership was not worthwhile at $25,000.00 per year plus traveling expenses and moved that the membership for the City of Roanoke be cancelled. He asked the City Manager to provide background information with regard to the program; whereupon the City Manager presented the following information: Virginia First Cities (VFC) • In existence since 1999 • Originally formed to promote blight legislation • Mission since evolved to include advocating " .. .for increased support and better policies from the state while sharing best practices among members." • Current member cities: Charlottesville, Hampton, Hopewell, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Portsmouth, Richmond, Roanoke, Staunton, and Winchester • Former member cities: Danville, Fredericksburg, and Harrisonburg Memberships Virginia First Cities (VFC) • Cost: $24,050.40 • Established in 1999 • Membership currently includes 13 cities • Publishes information on VFC web site regarding General Assembly Sessions Virginia Municipal League (VML) • Cost: $28,657.00 • Established in 1905 • Membership currently includes all 38 cities in Virginia, 160 towns, and eight counties • Publications: VMLeNews, Virginia Town & City Magazine, reports and responses to questions, and Local Officials' Resource Series 462 In connection with possible elimination of the City's membership with Virginia First Cities, Council Member Rosen moved that the matter be referred to the City Attorney for study and report to the Council. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price. Council Member Rosen further commented that the Virginia Municipal League (VML) had a membership of 38 cities, 160 towns and 8 counties versus the VFC which currently has 13 members and expressed how cohesion among localities was more effective through the VML. He added that the VML spent more time lobbying for legislation and worth the funds allocated. Council Member Price inquired if the VFC had evolved any since its creation in 1999 and what was its real purpose and pointed out that the VML membership covered lobbying, promotion, and many other things. She seconded the motion on the table to cease membership. Council Member Bestpitch commented that out of the other 12 membership localities of the VFC, the City of Roanoke had more shared interest and things in common with only six localities being--Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Portsmouth, and Richmond. Council Member Lea explained that he had been involved with the Virginia First Cities for eleven years and previously the VFC had an agenda and met with member City Manager's to discuss issues and lobbying because the VML did not represent localities like the City of Roanoke and was more focused on big urban areas and many smaller localities got lost in the shuffle. Dialogue ensued with regard to cancelling the City of Roanoke's membership with the VFC; whereupon, the City Attorney advised that if Council wished to withdraw from the VFC, their annual board meeting was scheduled for May 29th, and that he would look into how the City could withdraw effective at the end of the fiscal year as opposed to deferring it. He added that he would check with the VFC about notice provisions and advise the Council. There being no further discussion of the matter, the motion which was offered by Council Member Rosen and seconded by Council Member Price to refer the matter to the City Attorney for study and report all findings regarding the City's withdrawal from Virginia First Cities organization was unanimously adopted. Several Council Members and the Mayor shared their views regarding the proposed increases in the real estate, motor vehicle, and food and beverage taxes, respectively, and a proposed solid waste fee.  463 After extensive ongoing dialogue regarding the tax increases and solid waste fee, the City Manager commented that if the motor vehicle license tax remained at $8.00 and the Virginia First Cities membership fee was removed, approximately $25,000.00 would remained, which was doable. Council Member Price added that she was in support of the City Manager's suggestion. At this point, Mr. Shockley continued with the presentation: Parking Fund Fee Adjustments • Delay monthly parking rate increase at Market Garage until January 1, 2016 • Reduce monthly parking rate increase at Center in the Square to $15.00 The Assistant City Manager for Community Development advised that the unreserved monthly parking fee in the Center in the Square Garage would increase from $70.00 to $85.00 in response to the goal of generating additional revenue of $250,000.00 for capital needs. Budget Calendar Budget Adoption • May 11, 2015 • 2:00p.m. (Council Chamber) Mayor Bowers pointed out that due to the lateness of the hour, with the Council still having to convene in a Closed Meeting, ongoing discussion with regard to remaining budgetary items and adoption of appropriate measures will be conducted under Motions and Miscellaneous Business during the 2:00 p.m. session. At 12:24 p.m., the Council meeting was recessed for a Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building to be reconvened at 2:00p.m., in the Council Chamber. (Council Member Rosen left following the adjournment of the Closed Meeting.) At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor David Bowers presiding. PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Sherman P. Lea (arrived late), Anita J. Price and Mayor David A. Bowers-6. ABSENT: Council Member Court G. Rosen-1. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. 464 The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Jamal L. Jackson, Associate Minister, Abundant Grace Assembly. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Bowers. ANNOUNCEMENTS: TAXES : The Honorable Evelyn Powers, City Treasurer, shared information regarding personal property tax bills that will be due on June 1, 2015 . PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: AIR-QUALITY-PROCLAMATIONS: The Mayor declared the month of May 2015 as Asthma Awareness Month. (See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Mayor Bowers presented ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Laura Wasko, member of the Greater Roanoke Valley Asthma and Air Quality Coalition. DIVERSITY: The Mayor declared the month of May 2015 as Diversity and Inclusion Awareness Month. (See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City clerk's Office.) Mayor Bowers presented ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Michele Vineyard , Director, Human Resources, and members of the Diversity Advisory Committee. ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-HOTEL ROANOKE: Mayor Bowers called attention to the 20th Anniversary of the Re-opening of The Hotel Roanoke, adding that an Art Print had been presented to the City by the Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission in recognition of the 20th Anniversary of the Re-opening of The Hotel Roanoke at a dinner at the Hotel Roanoke on Wednesday, April 22, 2015.  465 HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTER: The Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard, and that all matters will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation or report to Council, as he may deem appropriate. TAXIS: Ben Early, 1415 Antrium Street, Salem, Virginia, appeared again before the Council with regard to proposed regulations for taxi-cabs doing business at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. Council Member Ferris requested that the matter be referred to the City Manager and City Attorney for a more global review of the City's taxi-cab regulations and report their findings to the Council, as well as begin dialogue with airport representatives. The City Attorney mentioned that a report was provided to the Council at its April 20 meeting regarding the process by which taxicabs fares may be increased for taxicabs licensed and operating within the City pf Roanoke, adding that he contacted Mark Williams, General Counsel for the Airport, regarding concerns alluded to by Mr. Early. Following additional comments by Mr. Early, Mayor Bowers asked that a recommendation as to the City's position regarding the matter be presented to the Council at July 6, 2015 Council meeting. Jeff Campbell, 70 Tinker Mill Road, Daleville, Virginia, appeared before the Council in support of the comments made by Ben Early about changes effecting local taxi-cab drivers doing business at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, and noted that the situation at the Airport had become confrontational. He urged the Council to investigate the matter and to support area taxi-cab drivers. The City Attorney called attention to recent action taken by the General Assembly with regard to a bill signed by the Governor earlier this year, the Network Transportation Company, which preempts localities from regulating the taxi-cab company; and questions and/or concerns may be addressed through the Department of Motor Vehicles since all taxi-cab company must be licensed through said Department. Following dialogue between the City Attorney and Mr. Campbell, Mayor Bowers reiterated his request for a report to the Council at its July 6 Council meeting. 466 CITY GOVERNMENT: Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before Council to express concern about livability in the City of Roanoke. ECOMOMIC DEVELOPMENT-CITY GOVERNMENT: Khalid Jones, 215 Gilmer Avenue, N. E., appeared before the Council and spoke about some of the needs of young black men and women in the northwest community; and urged the Council and City Administration to support outreach through offering trades to learn work skills. The City Manager noted that a workforce workshop was being offered at Virginia Western Community College in the Whitmore Auditorium on May 27 from 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.; and Roanoke City Public Schools offer a ROTECH program for its high school students. CONSENT AGENDA The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine by the Members of Council and will be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if discussion are desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. Mayor Bowers called attention to a request from the City Manager for a public hearing. CITY-OWNED PROPERTY-TAXES: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council schedule a public hearing for Monday, May 18, 2015, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider- a request of Child Health Investment Partnership for tax exemption of real property located at 1215 3rd Street, S. W., designated as Official Tax Map No. 1023008, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that the Council concur in the request of the City Manager as above described. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.)  467 HUMAN SERVICES: A communication from the Assistant City Manager for Community Development transmitting the Annual Homeless Winter Shelter Survey Report for 2015 prepared by the Blue Ridge Continuum of Care, was before the Council. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-PARKS AND RECREATION-FAIR HOUSING BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council: Joshua T. Dietz as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for a three-year term of office ending March 31, 2018; and Dennis B. Light and Lisa Y. Barksdale as members of the Fair Housing Board for three-year terms of office, each, ending March 31, 2018. (See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) 468 REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: TAXES : Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday May 4, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. , or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, proposal of the City of Roanoke to amend the City Code to increase the applicable vehicle license tax rates on categories of motor vehicles, trailers and semitrailers operating within the City of Roanoke, and in no event shall the proposed increase for each category exceed the lesser of (i) a $13.00 increase over the applicable tax rate for such category, or (ii) the maximum applicable tax rate permitted and authorized by state law for such category, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Friday, April 24, 2015. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Mayor Bowers announced that inasmuch as an incorrect date had been published in the newspaper, an additional public hearing was scheduled to receive citizen comments. The. Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being no speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. He advised that no action was required to be taken and that matters involving the budget had been previously discussed by the Council at a recessed meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2015. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: PARKS AND RECREATION-YOUTH: Carlos Minnix, Owner/Head Coach, Virginia Lady Hawks, appeared before the Council to request gym access in City and School facilities for inner-city youth to play basketball. Following comments by the Council, the matter was referred to the City of Roanoke/Roanoke City Public Schools Joint Services Committee; and Mr. Minnix was requested to submit information, in writing , in order for the City to evaluate its options in moving forward.  469 Martin Jeffrey, 421 Fairfax Avenue, N. W., also appeared before the Council, in connection with the above stated matter and the ongoing Inner-City Athletic Association issue involving the City's Youth Athletic Council. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: NONE. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: BRIDGES: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization to acquire real property rights in connection with the Franklin Road Bridge Replacement Project. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#40216-050415) AN ORDINANCE providing for the acquisition of real property rights needed by the City in connection with the Franklin Road over NSRW - Bridge Replacement Project ("Project"); authorizing City staff to acquire such property rights by negotiation for the City; authorizing the City Manager to execute appropriate acquisition documents; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 438.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40216-050415. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris. Vice-Mayor Trinkle noted a conflict of Interest due to a personal interest and read the following statement into the record: "STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST I, David B. Trinkle, state that I have a personal interest in Agenda Item 7a.1 for the Regular Session of City Council set for Monday, May 4, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., regarding the request for authorization to enter into negotiations with several property owners for the acquisition of property rights by the City for the Franklin Bridge Project, because my employer, Carilion Clinic, is affiliated with two of the property owners, Carilion Clinic Physicians, LLC, and Carilion Clinic Properties, LLC. My only interest with Carilion Clinics is an employment interest and I will not participate in any part of the negotiations between the property owners and the City regarding this matter. Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, I must refrain from participation 470 in this matter. I ask that the City Clerk accept this statement and ask that it be made a part of the minutes of this meeting. Witness the following signature made this 4th day of May, 2015. S/David B. Trinkle David B. Trinkle Vice-Mayor and Council Member" (See Statement on file in the City Clerk's Office.) There being no additional comments, Ordinance No. 40216-050415 was adopted by the following vote: A YES : Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price and Mayor Bowers-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.)(Vice-Mayor Trinkle abstained from voting.) STREET IMPROVEMENTS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization to acquire real property rights in connection with the West End Target Area 13th Street Improvement Project. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#40217-050415) AN ORDINANCE providing for the acquisition of real property rights needed by the City in connection with the West End Target Area 13th Street Improvement Project ("Project"); authorizing City staff to acquire such property rights by negotiation for the City; authorizing the City Manager to execute appropriate acquisition documents; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 439.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40217-050415. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.)  471 ENCROACHMENTS-SPECIAL PERMITS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval and authorization of an encroachment permit for portions of a proposed building foundation system within the right-of-way located at 206 Williamson Road, S. E. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#40218-050415) AN ORDINANCE allowing certain encroachments requested by Tazewell Development, LLC ("Tazewell"), a Virginia limited liability company, the owner of a parcel of real estate located at 206 Williamson Road, S. E., Roanoke, Virginia, known as Official Tax Map No. 4013803 ("Property"), for the placement of piles, concrete pile caps, and concrete grade beams, into and underneath portions of the public right of way located along Williamson Road, S. E. and adjacent to the Property, which portions, in the aggregate, encompass approximately 252 square feet of the public right of way, for portions of the foundation system of a building to be constructed on the Property in connection with the development of the Property, subject to revocation by the City and upon certain terms and conditions; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 440.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40218-050415. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) 472 COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: The City Manager shared the following comments: Roanoke Main Library Featured in Virginia Town & City magazine • City Council should have received a copy of the recent article published in Virginia Town & City Magazine about Roanoke's Main Library. • Lots of great pictures and good visibility for Roanoke through VML. • With a circulation of about 5,000 and a readership of about 16,000, the magazine is distributed to elected and appointed local government officials and their staff across the Commonwealth. • Proud to show off our state-of-the-art library facility in downtown. Neighborhood Month Activities Have Begun • Reminder: During May, neighborhood groups are sponsoring events to come together as one community to celebrate unity and neighborhood pride. • Details about specific events are posted on the city's website www. roanokeva .gov/neighborhoodmonth Upcoming Events Saturday, May 9 • Gallop 4 the Greenway, 5:00 p.m., Wiley Drive near River's Edge Sports Complex, register at www.gallop4thegreenways.com. o Post-race festivities include live music, food and beverages. o This is an annual fundraising event to support our growing network of pedestrian and bicycle trails. Saturday, May 16 • Local Colors Festival, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Elmwood Park and Amphitheater. • Kids to Park Day, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wasena Park. Facebook Award • Last week, Roanoke received the 2015 Golden Post Award for the Best Use of Humor on Social Media at the Government Social Media Conference & Expo (GSMCON) in Reno, Nevada. • The award recognized the City of Roanoke, Virginia - Communications Facebook page for its 2014 April Fools prank. • Golden Post is the first major awards program exclusively designed to recognize the outstanding use of social media by U.S. local and state government agencies.  473 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: FINANCIAL REPORTS : The Director of Finance submitted the Financial Report for the nine months ended March 31, 2015 . Ms. Dameron provided commentary and overview on the City's financial results for the period ended March 2015: FY15 General Fund Overview • Year-to-date general fund revenue recognized was 65.3% of FY15 estimated revenue, however, significant tax revenues, such as personal property revenue have not yet been received. • Througl1 March, actual FY15 revenues have increased 4.5% compared to FY14 . The projected FY15 revenue by year- end is 1.7% or $4 .5 million higher than FY15 adopted budget. • The City's sales, lodging and meals taxes performed well and contributed to strong local tax revenue growtl1. • Reimbursement from the Commonwealth for Street Maintenance and the timing of Social Services reimbursements positively affected revenue. • Expenditures increased 1.3% compared to FY14 primarily due to the timing of departmental expenditures. 474 Sales Tax FY15 Revenue Est1mate $19 .238 M NO,------------------------------ • 160 · Sales tax revenue 12 0 tncreased 6.4% over FY14 and is 55% 4.0 htgher than YTD 0.0 budget. 8 Months Endtd 2121 Ol'llo1YTD A~= CY!Dil<ld!J' I ~ --Yl~<lo>~ J Meals Tax FY15 Revenue Estimate $13 .659 M FY15 revenue is 3.8% higher than FY14, and 0.4% higher than YTD budget. 8 Months Endod 2/28 o YTO Budget  475 Transient Occupancy <0 (Lodging) Tax FY15 Revenue Estimate $3.881 M • 30 Lodging tax revenue c 0 increased 8.7 % over i" 20 FY14, and is 7.4% 1.0 higher than budget. 0.0 9 Months Ended 3/31 O YfOflm'Uet Personnel (Salary/Benefit) Lapse 100.0 ·r -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , 80.0 + - - - -------·--------------··--1 ~ 60 .0 -~ ~ 40 .0 +---- 20.0 -1----- 0.0 +---- Target 9 Month• Ended 3/31 Actual YTD expenditure is 0.6% or $481 k ahead of target. 476 Comprehensive Services Act (CSA) ~ 7.0 6.0 5.0 • l ; 4 .0 3.0 2.0 1.0 FY 2014 Actual FY 2015 Actual Target 9 Months Ended 3/31 YTD expenses are 4.0% or $260k above target of $6 .02M . Residential Juvenile Detention 750 -, - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - 500 250 0+--- Target Actual 9 Months Ended 3/31 Expenses expected to remain at budget.  477 Motor Fuel Expenses Vl 1000 1? 750 ~ 500 :J _g 250 f- 0 Target Actual 9 Months Ended 3/31 YTD expense 2.8% or $25K above a non-seasonally adjusted target of $861 K. 10 City Performance Strong Through March Total revenues through March were 4 .5% higher than the prior year. Total general property and local taxes were up 2.3% compared to last year, indicating a growing local economy. Total expenditures were 1.3% higher than the prior year due to the timing of expenditures. Departmental expenditures continue to be monitored and are expected to remain within budget. The national unemployment rate held at 5.5% in March , while job creation slowed down abruptly. Sluggish wage growth and weak consumer spending remain threats . The Federal Reserve chairwoman warned about the fragile recovery, suggesting a slow move to raise interest rates during the year. 11 (See copy of Financial Report and presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the Financial Report and presentation would be received and filed. 478 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. INTRODUTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE AND RESOLUTIONS: CITY CLERK-AUDITING: Council Member Lea offered the following resolution recommending increases in the annual salaries of the City Clerk and Municipal Auditor: (#40219-050415) A RESOLUTION amending the salaries of the City Clerk, Stephanie Moon Reynolds and the Municipal Auditor, Troy Andrew Harmon. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 444.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40219-050415. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL: TAXES: As part of the ongoing discussions regarding Code amendments to increase tax rates on certain taxes, Council Member Ferris moved that the prepared food and beverages tax rate increase by 0.5 percent, the motor vehicle license tax increase to $8.00, and the real estate tax rate levied increase by $0.03 by referred to the City Manager and City Attorney. The motion was seconded by Council Members Price and Bestpitch. Council Member Lea inquired if the taxes of senior citizens were frozen; whereupon, the City Manager explained that because of the low income elderly program, some tax assessments for seniors were frozen, but if the tax rate was increased seniors would be required to pay. Mayor Bowers advised that he was not in support of the increases or revenue enhancements; and therefore, would be voting no.  479 There being no further discussion regarding the proposed increases, the motion offered by Council Member Ferris and seconded by Council Members Price and Bestpitch was adopted by the following vote: A YES : Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea , Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-5 . NAYS: Mayor Bowers-1. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) ARTS ENDOWNMENT: Vice-Mayor Trinkle commented about the $125,000.00 for the arts endowment was to be issued as one-time debt; whereupon, the City Manager advised the $125,000.00 was kept in the reserves for appropriation and would be acted on at the May 18, 2015 Council Meeting. He asked if the Council wished to budget $125,000.00 for next year in anticipation of the request, there being no objection, Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved that $125 ,000.00 be allocated as a one-time funding . The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris. The City Attorney inquired if the private funding match would be required of the $125,000.00 for the Arts Endowment; whereupon, the Vice-Mayor preferred that the funds not be connected to a private funding match. Mayor Bowers interjected his concurrence in the comments of the Vice-Mayor. There being no additional discussion with regard to the Arts Endowment being included in the one-time funding allocation, the motion offered by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and seconded by Council Member Ferris was adopted by the following vote: AYES : Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Trinkle and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) VIRGINIA FIRST CITITES: Council Member Price asked for clarification with regard to the Virginia First Cities Membership; whereupon, the City Attorney advised that given that City Council decided to examine the timing and process for withdrawal of its membership from Virginia First Cities; and thereafter, he will report his findings to the Council. Mayor Bowers noted that the dues should be removed from the budget by measure. 480 VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: OATHS OF OFFICE-FAIR HOUSING BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the expiration of the three-year term of office of Gail Kinzer Lewis as a member of the Fair Housing Board ending March 31 , 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the name of Charlotte Davis. There being no further nominations, Ms. Davis was appointed to replace Gail Kinzer Lewis as a member of the Fair Housing Board for a term of office ending March 31, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MS. DAVIS: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD: The Mayor called attention to a vacancy created by the expiration of the four-year term of office of Warner N. Dalhouse ending October 1, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the name of D. David Parr, Jr. There being no further nominations, Mr. Parr was appointed to replace Warner N. Dalhouse as a member of the Architectural Review Board for a term of office ending October 1, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MR. PARR: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE POLICY COMMITTEES: The Mayor announced the following appointments/reappointments to the 2015 - 2016 Virginia Municipal League Policy Committees for one-year terms of office: Finance- Finance Director Barbara Dameron/Council Member Court G. Rosen Human Development and Education - Council Member Anita J. Price/City Clerk Stephanie Moon Reynolds  481 Economic Development - Council Member Court G. Rosen/Economic Development Director Wayne Bowers General Laws- City Attorney Daniel J. Callaghan Environmental Quality - Environmental Administrator Christopher Blakeman Transportation -Street and Traffic Manager Mark Jamison OATHS OF OFFICE-COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the three-year terms of office of R. Gail Burruss and Judge Charles Dorsey as City representatives of the Court Community Corrections Program, Regional Community Criminal Justice Board ending June 30, 2015, whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of R. Gail Burruss and Judge Charles Dorsey. There being no further nominations, Ms. Burruss and Judge Dorsey were reappointed as City representatives of the Court Community Corrections Program Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MS. BURRUSS AND JUDGE DORSEY: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-MILL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY COMMITTEE: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the three-year terms of office of J. Mathew Bullington, John Montgomery and Thomas Turner (Zoo representative) as members of the Mill Mountain Advisory Committee ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of J. Matthew Bullington, John Montgomery and Thomas Turner. There being no further nominations, Messrs. Bullington, Montgomery and Turner (Zoo representative) were reappointed as members of the Mill Mountain Advisory Committee for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MESSRS. BULLINGTON, MONTGOMERY AND TURNER: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) 482 OATHS OF OFFICE-PERSONNEL AND EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the three- year terms of office of Gerardo (Jerry) Manuel Correa, Jr., Katina Hamlar and Dr. William L. Lee as members of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Gerardo (Jerry) Manuel Correa, Jr., Katina Hamlar and Dr. William L. Lee. There being no further nominations, Mr. Correa, Ms. Hamlar and Dr. Lee were reappointed as members of the Personnel and Employment Practices Commission for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MR. CORREA, DR. LEE AND MS. HAMLAR: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that the City residency requirement for Ms. Hamlar be waived in this instance. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the three-year terms of office of Jeanne Fishwick, Margaret Hannapel, Amy Moorefield, Lucy H. Lee, and Greg Webster as members of the Roanoke Arts Commission ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Jeanne Fishwick, Margaret Hannapel, Amy Moorefield, Lucy H. Lee, and Greg Webster.  483 There being no further nominations, Ms. Fishwick, Ms. Hannapel, Ms. Moorefield, Ms. Lee, and Mr. Webster were reappointed members of the Roanoke Arts Commission for three-year terms of office, each , ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MS . FISHWICK, MS. HANNAPEL, MS. MOOREFIELD, MS. LEE AND MR. WEBSTER: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea , Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES: The Mayor called attention the upcoming expirations of the three-year terms of office of Brenda A. Allen and Charles J. Medlinger as members of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Brenda A. Allen and Charles J. Medlinger. There being no further nominations, Ms. Allen and Mr. Medlinger were reappointed as a members of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30 , 2018, by the following vote: FOR MS. ALLEN AND MR. MEDLINGER: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the three-year terms of office of Jean Bollendorf, Marlene Preston and Sharon L. Ramey as members of the Roanoke Public Library Board ending June 30, 2015 ; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Jean Bollendorf, Marlene Preston and Sharon L. Ramey. There being no further nominations, Ms. Bollendorf, Ms. Preston and Ms. Ramey were reappointed to the Roanoke Public Library Board for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR MS. BOLLENDORF, MS. PRESTON AND MS. RAMEY: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) 484 OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY- ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expiration of the three-year terms of office of Council Members William D. Bestpitch and Raphael E. Ferris - Elected Officials, Christopher P. Morrill - City Official, Braxton Naff and James M. Bullington - Citizen Representatives of the Roanoke Valley-Allegheny Regional Commission ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Council Members William D. Bestpitch and Raphael E. Ferris- Elected Officials, Christopher P. Morrill- City Official, Braxton Naff and James M. Bullington. There being no further nominations, Council Members Bestpitch and Ferris as Elected Officials, Messrs. Morrill as the City Official, and Naff and Bullington as City representatives were reappointed to the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2018, by the following vote: FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS BESTPITCH AND FERRIS AND MESSRS. MORRILL, NAFF, AND BULLINGTON: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU : The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of one-year terms of office of Renee "Butch" Craft, Jeffrey Marks, Douglas Robison, and Gary Walton as City Representatives of the Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, Board of Directors, ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Renee Butch" Craft, Jeffrey Marks, Douglas Robison, and Gary Walton. There being no further nominations, Ms. Craft, Mr. Marks, Mr. Robison, and Mr. Walton were reappointed as City Representatives of the Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, Board of Directors, for one-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2016, by the following vote: FOR MS. CRAFT AND MESSRS. MARKS, ROBISON, AND WALTON: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.)  485 OATHS OF OFFICE-VIRGINIA WESTERN COMMUNITY COLLEGE LOCAL ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the upcoming expirations of the four- year terms of office of Mark Lawrence and J. Granger Macfarlane as City Representatives of the Virginia Western Community College Local Advisory Board ending June 30, 2015; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the names of Mark Lawrence and J. Granger Macfarlane. There being no further nominations, Messrs. Lawrence and Macfarlane were reappointed as City representatives of the Virginia Western Community College Local Advisory Board for four-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2019, by the following vote: FOR MESSRS. LAWRENCE AND MACFARLANE: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea , Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE CULTRAL ENDOWMENT: Pursuant to the By-laws of the Roanoke Cultural Endowment, the Mayor called attention to the Article I, Directors, Section 2, Number, that two directors shall be appointed by the Council of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, one of which will serve initially a two year term and the second of which will serve initially a three year term, with their successors to be appointed for three year terms; adding that Sherman P. Lea, Jr., was appointed as a City representative to the Endowment at the April 6, 2015 Council meeting for an initial three-term of office; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Vice-Mayor Trinkle placed in nomination the name of Patice Holland. There being no further nominations, Ms. Holland was appointed as an At-large Citizen Representative of the Roanoke Cultural Endowment Board of Directors for a two-year term of office ending December 31, 2017, by the following vote: FOR MS. HOLLAND: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) 486 Council Member Bestpitch moved that the City residency requirement for Ms. Holland be waived in this instance. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea , Price, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) CITY COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded Council Member Price moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his or her knowledge that: ( 1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and (2) only such public business matters as were identified in any motion by which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City Council. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Rosen was absent.) There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting in recess at 4:36 p.m., until Monday, May 11, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, at which time the Council will adopt the City of Roanoke Recommended Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget. The recessed meeting of Roanoke City Council, was called to order on, Monday, May 11, 2015 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., with Mayor David A. Bowers presiding. PRESENT: Council Members David B. Trinkle, William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Sherman P. Lea, Anita J. Price, Court G. Rosen, and Mayor David A. Bowers-?. ABSENT: None-0.  487 The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: Christopher P. Morrill, City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; Barbara A. Dameron, Director of Finance; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Sherman P. Lea. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Bowers. BUDGET: The Mayor advised that the purpose of the meeting was to adopt measures in connection with the City's Recommended 2015-2016 Fiscal Year Budget. BUDGET: The Director of Finance submitted a Certificate of Funding certifying that funds required for the 2015 - 2016 General Fund , Stormwater Utility Fund, Civic Facilities Fund, Parking Fund, Department of Technology Fund, Fleet Management Fund, Risk Management Fund, School Fund, School Food Services Fund, School Athletics Fund and Grant Fund budgets were available for appropriation. (See Certification on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Without objection by the Council, the Mayor advised that the Certificate of Funding would be received and filed. GARAGES-LIBRARIES-FEE COMPENDIUM: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City's Fee Compendium for fees charged at the City-owned and/or controlled parking facilities; and certain library rate adjustments. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Lea offered the following resolution: (#40249-051115) A RESOLUTION providing for an amendment of the fees charged at the City owned and/or controlled parking facilities, namely: Campbell Garage, Center in the Square Garage, Church Avenue Garage, Elmwood Park Garage, Gainsboro Garage, Market Garage, Tower Garage, Elmwood Lot, Higher Ed Center Lot, Market Lot, and Warehouse Row Lot; authorizing the City Manager to modify, waive, or reduce such parking fees under certain conditions; providing for assessment of certain fees for late payment or nonpayment of such parking fees; establishing an effective date; authorizing the City Manager to issue guidelines to implement, administer, and enforce such fees; and directing amendment of the Fee Compendium. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 446.) 488 Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40249-051115 . The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Lea offered the following resolution: (#40220-051115) A RESOLUTION amending certain fees as set out below to be charged for after hour use of the community rooms at certain branches of the Roanoke Public Libraries; providing for an effective date; and directing amendment of the Fee Compendium. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 452.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40220-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Lea offered the following resolution: (#40221-051115) A RESOLUTION establishing certain fees for the Main Library Reading Porch; directing amendment of the Fee Compendium; and providing for an effective date. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 453.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40221-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0.  489 Council Member Lea offered the following resolution: (#40222-051115) A RESOLUTION establishing certain fees for sending and receiving facsimiles at the Roanoke Public Libraries; directing amendment of the Fee Compendium ; and providing for an effective date. (For full text of resolution , see Resolution Book No. 77, page 454.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40222- 051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Lea offered the following resolution: (#40223-051115) A RESOLUTION updating and providing for adjustment of fees charged by the Roanoke Public Libraries for damaged or lost library materials, as set out below; directing amendment of the Fee Compendium; and establishing an effective date. (For full text of resolution , see Resolution Book No. 77, page 455.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40223-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. CITY CODE-TAXES-VEHICLES: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City Code to increase the motor vehicle license tax on certain vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers operating within the City. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 490 Vice-Mayor Trinkle offered the following ordinance: (#40224-051115) AN ORDINANCE amending Section 20-28, Tax imposed, of Article II, Vehicle Licenses, of Chapter 20, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to increase the vehicle license tax rate on certain motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers operating within the City of Roanoke, as authorized pursuant to Section 46.2-752 of the Code of Virginia (1950) as amended, consistent with the rates and limits authorized by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 457.) Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40224-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-7. NAYS: None-0. CITY CODE-TAXES-FOOD: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City Code to increase the tax rate on the tax on prepared food and beverages. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#40225-051115) AN ORDINANCE amending Section 32-284, Levy of tax; amount, of Article XIV, Tax on Prepared Food and Beverage, of Chapter 32, Taxation, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to increase the tax rate on the tax on prepared food and beverage from the rate of five percent (5%) to the rate of five and 1/2 percent (5.50 %) on the purchase of all food and beverages sold in the city in or from a restaurant, whether prepared in such restaurant or not, and whether consumed on the premises or not, as authorized by Section 58.1-3840 of the Code of Virginia(1950), as amended; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 461 .) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40225- 051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris.  491 Vice-Mayor Trinkle reminded the Council that although he is a restaurant owner, he does not believe a personal conflict exists, and therefore he plans to vote on the proposed measure. There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 40225-05115 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: Mayor Bowers-1 . CITY CODE-TAXES: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending amendment of the City Code to increase the tax rate levied on real property, improvements and the special rate for certain energy-efficient buildings. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#40226-051115) AN ORDINANCE amending Section 32-16, Levied; Rate, of Division I, Generally, of Article II, Real Estate Taxes Generally, of Chapter 32, Taxation, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, to increase the tax rate levied on real property and improvements from the rate of one dollar and nineteen cents ($1.19) on every one hundred dollars ($1 00.00) of the fair market value of such property, to a rate of one dollar and twenty two cents ($1.22) on every one hundred dollars ($1 00.00) of the fair market value of such property, and to increase the tax rate levied on buildings that qualify for the special rate for certain energy-efficient buildings pursuant to Division 9, Tax Rate for Certain Energy-Efficient Buildings, of Chapter 32, Taxation, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended, from the rate of one dollar and seven cents ($1.07) on every one hundred dollars ($100.00) of the fair market value of such buildings, to the rate of one dollar and ten cents ($1 .10) on every one hundred dollars ($100.00) of the fair market value on such buildings; providing for an effective date; and dispending with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 462.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No.40226-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. 492 Mayor Bowers recognized the following citizens who appeared before the Council in opposition of the increase in the real estate tax rate increase: Elaine C. Niemann, 5040 Old Mountain Road, N. W. Dan Cullather, 3002 Rosalind Avenue, S. W. John Brill, 1727 Memorial Avenue, S. W. Sue Brocker, 5214 Woodbury Street, N. W. Dallas Powell, 501 Bullitt Avenue, S. E. Wayne Heine, 4615 Elva Road, N. W . Following lengthy discussion regarding the proposed increase in the real estate tax rate to $1.22 on every 100.00 of the fair market value of real property and improvements; and $1.10 on every $100.00 of the fair market value on buildings that qualify for the special rate for certain energy-efficient buildings, effective July 1, 2015, Ordinance No. 40226-051115 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: Mayor Bowers-1. INSURANCE-GRANTS-BUDGET-TECHOLOGY-EQUIPMENT-STORMWATER- PARKING-CIVIC CENTER-SCHOOLS: Vice Mayor Trinkle offered the following budget ordinance, in connection with the City's allocation for Fiscal Year 2015- 1026: (#40227-051115) AN ORDINANCE adopting the annual General, Stormwater Utility, Civic Facilities, Parking, Department of Technology, Fleet Management, Risk Management, School General, School Food Services, School Athletics, Grant Funds, and State Asset Sharing Program Appropriations of the City of Roanoke for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015, and ending June 30, 2016; and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 464.) Vice-Mayor Trinkle moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40227- 051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: Mayor Bowers-1.  493 BUDGET-CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending an endorsement of an update to the Five-year Capital Improvement Program for Fiscal Years 2016-2020. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#40228-051115) A RESOLUTION endorsing the update to the Capital Improvement Program submitted by the City Manager by letter dated May 11, 2015. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 472.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40228-051115. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-7. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance: (#40229-051115) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding for the FY 2016-2020 Update to the Capital Improvement Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2015-2016 General, Capital Projects, and Risk Management Funds Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 472.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40229- 051115. The motion was seconded by Vice- Mayor Trinkle and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-7. NAYS: None-0. 494 BUDGET-GRANTS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending appropriation of FY 2016 funds for Enterprise Zone. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance: (#40230-051115) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Economic and Community Development Reserve for the Enterprise Zone Projects, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2015 - 2016 Capital Projects Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 473.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40230- 051115. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. BUDGET-GRANTS-HOUSING: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval of the 2015 - 2019 HUD Consolidated Plan and 2015 Annual Plan; and authorization to submit documentation to HUD for final review. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Price offered the following resolution: (#40231-051115) A RESOLUTION approving the 2015 - 2019 Consolidated Plan and authorizing the City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, to submit the approved Consolidated Plan, and to execute and submit any necessary documents pertaining thereto, to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for final review and approval; and authorizing the execution of all necessary documents pertaining to such Consolidated Plan. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 77, page 474.)  495 Council Member Price moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40231-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. CITY EMPLOYEES-PAY PLAN: Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance recommending adoption of a Pay Plan for officers, employees and constitutional officers; and salary adjustments/increments, merit increases, and monthly stipends for certain Council-appointed boards and commissions: (#40232-051115) AN ORDINANCE to adopt and establish a Pay Plan for officers, employees and Constitutional Officers of the City effective July 1, 2015; providing for certain salary adjustments; authorizing various annual salary supplements for certain officers and employees; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 476.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40232-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-?. NAYS: None-0. CITY MANAGER-MUNICIPAL AUDITOR-CITY ATTORNEY-CITY CLERK- DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance approving compensation for Councii-Appo_inted officials and certain compensation benefits for the Director of Finance: (#40233-051115) AN ORDINANCE establishing compensation for the City Manager, City Attorney, Municipal Auditor, and City Clerk, for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2015; establishing and confirming certain compensation benefits for the Director of Finance; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 77, page 481.) 496 Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40233-051115. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Trinkle, Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Price, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-7. NAYS: None-0. There being no further business, the Mayor declared the recessed meeting adjourned at 2:47p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ~:~:r:M~~ City Clerk GGCJI--- David A. Bowers Mayor