City Council

245 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION November 16, 2015 2:00p.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, November 16, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle presiding, pursuant to Chapter 2, Administration, Article II, I City Council, Section 2-15, Rules of Procedure, Rule 1, Regular Meetings, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, and pursuant to Resolution No. 40280-070615 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 6, 2015. I PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Anita J. Price, Sherman P. Lea, Court G. Rosen, and Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle-6. ABSENT: Mayor David A. Bowers-1. The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: Christopher P. Morrill, City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; Andrea F. Trent, Assistant Director of Finance; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Andrew Whaley, Pastor, Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle. PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS-PROCLAMATIONS: The Vice-Mayor declared the week of November 16- 21, 2015 as Week of the Family. (See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) He presented a ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Ali Harned-Moore, Executive Director, and Juli Kent, Development Manager, Trust House; and Janice Dinkins Davidson, Executive Director, Children's Trust. 246 ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS-PROCLAMATIONS: The Vice-Mayor declared November 28, 2015 as Small Business Saturday. (See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) He presented a ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Lisa Soltis, Economic Development Specialist. UNITED WAY: The City Manager gave an update of the City's United Way Program; and thereafter, he recognized Josh Tessar, Vice President of Resource Development, and Ashley Reynolds-Marshal, City's Relationship Manager Executive Director, United Way who were in attendance. HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATIERS: The Vice-Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. All matters would be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation or report to Council, as he may deem appropriate. Martin Jeffrey, 421 Fairfax Avenue, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia 24017, appeared before the Council and spoke in support of an anti-corruption resolution, expansion of Valley Metro bus service to the Roanoke Centre for Industries and Technology, and an increase in minimum wages. He also commented on the exclusion of Inner-City Athletic Association as a participating recreation club in the City of Roanoke. Council Member Bestpitch reiterated previous comments given during the August 7, 2015, Council meeting in connection with Mr. Jeffrey's remarks, noting his offer still stands and he is willing to meet with the Inner-City Board of Directors. Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia 24017, appeared before the Council and again spoke about the unfair treatment in connection with his termination as a City employee. CONSENT AGENDA The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda were considered to be routine by the Members of Council and would be enacted by one motion in the form, or forms, listed on the Consent Agenda, and if discussion was desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Dawn C. Board as a member of the Youth Services Citizen Board , effective September 28, 2015, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  247 Council Member Rosen moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Charlene Graves as a member of the Roanoke Arts Commission, effective immediately, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6 . NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) BLUE RIDGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of R. Gail Burruss as the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare representative of the Court Community Corrections Program Regional Community Criminal Justice Board, effective November 2, 2015, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) 248 PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Erin M. Dudley as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, effective immediately, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of James M. Bullington as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, effective immediately, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-CITY CLERK-TOWING ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of Cecelia "Susie" F. McCoy as the Deputy City Clerk for the City of Roanoke, effective November 24, 2015; and Darryl Miley as a member of the Towing Advisory Board for a three-year term of office ending October 31, 2018, were before the Council: (See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  249 Council Member Rosen 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 Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) BID OPENINGS: FRANCHASES-GAS TRANSMISSION PIPELINE: Pursuant to notice of advertisement for bids for a franchise agreement to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, repair, and extend a natural gas distribution system, said bids to be received in the City Clerk's Office on or before 12:00 Noon, on Monday, November 16, 2015, and to be held unopened by the City Clerk until 2:00p.m., on that date, at which time all bids would be publicly opened and read aloud before the Council, the Mayor inquired if anyone had any questions with regard to the opening of the bids. There being none, he requested that the City Clerk open and read all bids received prior to the deadline. The City Clerk opened and read the sole bid received by the City from Roanoke Gas Company, as follows: • Bid: Bidder agrees that annual franchise payments will be made according to the Franchise Agreement. Payment is due to the City in accordance with the terms of the Franchise Agreement. • Bid Term: Up to 20 years, commencing on January 1, 2016 and ending or terminable pursuant to the terms of the Franchise Agreement. • Bid: Bidder agrees, if its bid is accepted, to execute, deliver, and perform all terms and conditions of the Franchise Agreement, a copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, Room 456, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia 24011. • Bid: The certificate of public convenience and necessity issued to the bidder by the Virginia State Corporation Commission, as attached as Exhibit A and made a part thereof. • Bidder agrees, if its bid is accepted, to reimburse the City for the costs of any advertisements for this matter. (For full text, see bid on file in the City Clerk's Office.) There being no additional responses for receipt of bids, the Mayor advised that the sole bid would be referred to the City Manager for review, evaluation and recommendation to the Council. 250 GAS TRANSMISSION PIPELNE: Pursuant to notice of advertisement for bids for a gas pipeline license agreement to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, and repair a certain gas transmission . pipeline, said bids to be received in the City Clerk's Office on or before 12:00 Noon, on Monday, November 16, 2015, and to be held unopened by the City Clerk until 2:00 p.m., on that date, at which time all bids would be publicly opened and read aloud before the Council, the Mayor inquired if anyone had any questions with regard to the opening of the bids. There being none, he requested that the City Clerk open and read all bids received prior to the deadline. The City Clerk opened and read the sole bid received by the City from Roanoke Gas Company, as follows: • Bid: Bidder agrees that annual franchise payments will be made according to the Franchise Agreement. Payment is due to the City in accordance with the terms of the Franchise Agreement. • Bid Term: Up to 20 years, commencing on January 1, 2016 and ending or terminable pursuant to the terms of the Franchise Agreement. • Bid: Bidder agrees, if its bid is accepted, to execute, deliver, and perform all terms and conditions of the Franchise Agreement, a copy of which is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, Room 456, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., Roanoke, Virginia 24011. • Bid: The certificate of public convenience and necessity issued to the bidder by the Virginia State Corporation Commission , as attached as Exhibit A and made a part thereof. • Bidder agrees, if its bid is accepted, to reimburse the City for the costs of any advertisements for this matter. (For full text, see bid on file in the City Clerk's Office.) There being no additional responses for receipt of bids, the Mayor advised that the sole bid would be referred to the City Manager for review, evaluation and recommendation to the Council. REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NONE. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: NONE.  251 ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: WESTERN VIRGINIA WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending recognition of the Western Virginia Workforce Development Board Program Year 2015 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds for award period July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2017. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#40385-111615) A RESOLUTION acknowledging and recognizing the PY2015 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ("WIOA") funding from the Virginia Community College System in the amount of $1,577,503.00 for WIOA activities, for the award period of July 1, 2015, through June 30, 2017, the foregoing funding to be administered by the Western Virginia Workforce Development Board. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78, page 42.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40385-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) BUDGET-COLONIAL AVENUE IMPROVEMENTS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending transferring funds for the Colonial Avenue Improvements Project to facilitate preliminary engineering services. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following budget ordinance: (#40386-111615) AN ORDINANCE to transfer funding from the Capital Improvement Reserve to the Colonial Ave Improvements project, 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. 78, page 43.) 252 Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40386- 111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. The City Manager gave a brief overview of the project, reporting that improvements to Colonial Avenue are being considered in the vicinity of Overland Road to Winding Way, adjacent to the Virginia Western Community College campus, which includes intersection improvements within the project area with a focus on increasing vehicular throughput, slowing vehicular velocities, improving bicycle and pedestrian circulation, and improved crosswalks to provide heightened awareness and emphasis on pedestrians. He concluded that plans were to move forward with the project and request funding at a later date. Following the City Manager's comments, Budget Ordinance No. 40386-111615 was adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea , Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6 . NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) COMMENTS BY THE CITY MANAGER. The City Manager shared the following comments: United Way Campaign Goal Reached • A special thank you to Aisha Johnson in the City Manager's Office, who coordinated our campaign; and to Laura Carini in the City Attorney's Office, and Jason Lane and Amber Yopp with Roanoke Public Libraries for their leadership in the city's campaign; as well as leaders in city departments. Announcement of Hockey Franchise Team Name • Thursday, November 19, 6:00p.m. , at the Berglund Events Center. • The addition of a Southern Professional Hockey League team in Roanoke was announced at a Berglund Center news conference on October 20. • The team will debut at the arena in the 2016 - 2017 season, playing 28 regu lar-season home games next season. • The name, logo, apparel and colors will be announced November 19, when the initial season-ticket drive will begin.  253 City of Roanoke Christmas Tree Lighting • Friday, December 4, in Wells Fargo Plaza. • The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the Winds of the Blue Ridge Brass Ensemble; followed by the lighting of the City of Roanoke Christmas Tree at 6:15p.m. • At 6:30p.m., the Southwest Virginia Ballet will perform; from 7:10p.m.- 7:30 p.m. Enviro Drums Percussion Show will occur. • The evening continues with additional entertainment and attractions until 10:00 p.m. • This is the kickoff to Dickens of a Christmas, DRI's annual signature event- first three Friday evenings in December. City Turns Star Red, White, and Blue • After the tragedy in France last week, the City showed its support by turning the Star on Mill Mountain red, white and blue. Staff in the Office of Communications assisted in posting information about this, as well as photos of the Star, on the city's Facebook page; more than 736,000 people viewed photos of the star on Facebook. • The Star will remain red, white and blue through Tuesday evening. • The City plans to turn the lights in the interactive fountains in Elmwood Park blue, white, and red beginning tonight. "Elmwood on Ice" Skating Rink • The skating rink being constructed in Elmwood Park will open on Monday, November 23. 2015 Go Outside Festival • This has become a signature event for the City. Final numbers are in for this year's event: o 25,000 attendees o 25 percent growth over last year's event o $110,000.00 food truck sales o $50,000.00 on-site retail sales o 3,335 people climbed the climbing wall o 37 bike events o 13 pro athletes o 125 free activities o 8,500 people introduced to standup paddle boarding o 10,000 social media followers o Roanoke County Parks and Recreation participated as a partner this year. 254 CITY ATTORNEY: CITY CODE-TAXES: The City Attorney submitted a written report recommending amendment of the City Code to provide for payment of personal property tax bills arising from the purchase of new vehicles or acquiring new taxable situs within the City to be due thirty days from the bill date or by May 31 , whichever is later. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#40387-111615) AN ORDINANCE amending Section 32-108.1(5), Proration of personal property tax generally, Article Ill , Tax on Tangible Personal Property Generally; of Chapter 32, Taxation, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 44.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40387-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: LEGISLATION: Council Member Court G. Rosen, Chair, Legislative Committee, presented the Proposed 2016 Legislative Program. (See copy of Proposed 2016 Legislative Program on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following resolution: (#40388-111615) A RESOLUTION adopting and endorsing a Legislative Program for the City to be presented to the City's delegation to the 2016 Session of the General Assembly. (For full text of resolution , see Resolution Book No. 78, page 45.)  255 Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40388-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. In connection with the Legislative Program, Council Member Lea inquired about the status of a measure whereby decisions and policy established by governments must be made in the best interests of the community and the government and must be responsive to the needs of the community, free of undue or inappropriate influenced by interest and entities regulated by governmental officials, in order that the public maintains confidence in the integrity and transparency of its government; whereupon, the City Attorney stated that the matter was listed on the agenda for action by the Council at Item 10, Introduction and Consideration of Ordinances and Resolutions. He added that a joint meeting with the School Board and area legislators has been scheduled for Monday, December 7, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., in the Council Chamber. There being no additional comments, Resolution No. 40388-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) CITY CHARTER-CITY CODE-DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: Council Member Raphael E. Ferris, Chair, City Council's Task Force on City Charter amendments affecting the duties of the Director of Finance, submitted a written report. (For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#40389-111615) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended, by repealing Section 32-37, Appointment, Division 2, Assessment of Real Estate Generally, Article II, Real Estate Taxes Generally, Chapter 32, Taxation; and Section 34-147, Records of trips, Article IV, Horse-Drawn Vehicles, Chapter 34, Vehicles for Hire; of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended; and by amending and reordaining Section 7-2, Removal. repair. or securement of structures; recovery of costs, Article I, In General, Chapter 7, Building Regulations; Section 19-31, Commissioner's records and reports, and Section 19-32.1, Appeals and rulings, Article I, In General, of Chapter 19, License Tax Code; Section 21-25 Willful damage to or defacement of public or private facilities, Article I, In General, Chapter 21, Offenses-Miscellaneous; Section 22.3-8. Board of trustees generally, Article II, Administration, and Section 22.3-78, Administration and investment, Article XIV, Defined Contribution Plan, of Chapter 22.3, Pensions and Retirement; 256 Section 30-90, Inspection of work; accounting for costs, Division 2, Construction of Sidewalks by Property Owners, Article IV, Construction of Sidewalks. Curbs and Sidewalk Crossings, Chapter 30, Streets and Sidewalks; Section 32-171, Local water and telephone utility tax, Article VII, Tax on Purchase of Utility Services, Chapter 32, Taxation; and Section 33-22, Accounting for abatement costs, Article II, Weed and Trash Abatement, Chapter 33, Vegetation and Trash; of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), 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. 78, page 46.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40389-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. Following comments by Council Member Ferris regarding the various repealed sections of the City Code that were obsolete, Ordinance No. 40389-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: Non e-O. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) BUDGET-SCHOOLS: A report of the Roanoke City School Board requesting appropriation of funds for various educational programs; and the Director of Finance submitted a written report recommending that Council concur in the request. (For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris offered the following budget ordinance: (#40390-111615) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal Government and the Commonwealth grants and the Schools General Fund for various educational programs, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2015 - 2016 School Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 51.)  257 Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40390- 111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: Council Member Price called attention to the appointment of Paula Page Williams as a Director of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke to fill the unexpired term of office of Brian K. Redd ending October 20, 2017, which appointment was confirmed at the November 2, 2015 Council meeting; and offered the following resolution: (#40391-111615) A RESOLUTION appointing a Director on the Board of Directors of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke, Virginia to fill the remaining portion of an unexpired four (4) year term on its Board of Directors. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78 page 52.) Council Member Price moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40391-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Lea and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) 258 LEGISLATION: Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution encouraging the United States Congress and the Commonwealth of Virginia General Assembly to pursue and enact legislation that establishes substantial requirements on campaign financing, coordinated campaigns, and independent expenditures to promote full transparency and fairness throughout the election process to ensure and promote responsible government that is responsive to the needs of all people: (#40392-111615) A RESOLUTION supporting state and federal legislation that fosters, supports, enhances, and strengthens responsive and responsible government by reducing the influence of unregulated campaign contributions upon elected officials and establishing limitations upon governmental officials who transition to the private sector. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78 page 53.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40392-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price. Council Member Bestpitch expressed his sincerest appreciation to the citizens for bring the matter before the Council ad for reaching out to other governmental officials, and also to the City Attorney. Council Member Ferris noted his concerns which were voiced at a previous Council meeting regarding transparency and participation in a non-confrontational way. Council Member Lea was thankful for the grass roots efforts and that the measure was fair and equitable. There being no additional remarks by the Council, Resolution No. 40392-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE. At 3:00 p.m. , the Vice-Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess until 7:00p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.  259 At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle presiding. PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Anita J. Price, Sherman P. Lea, Court G. Rosen, and Vice-Mayor David B. Trinkle-6. ABSENT: Mayor David A. Bowers-1. The Vice-Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: Christopher P. Morrill, City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; Andrea F. Trent, Assistant 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 Boy Scout Troop No. 17 of St. John's Episcopal Church. PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-UNITED WAY: The Vice-Mayor called attention to a Community Health Promoter Program (CHPP), remarking that Healthy Roanoke alley is in discussions with United Way on the roll-out of a coordination of care initiative -a HUB, that includes the utilization of community health workers (CHWs) in the delivery of care; CHWs would be used to promote population health and health equity here in the Roanoke Valley; the CHPP, a 30-hour wellness program that has been in place in the Roanoke Valley for about eight years, provides instruction to laypersons (volunteers in communities) on health promotion and wellness information so that they may disseminate their learning to members in their communities; and Healthy Roanoke Valley intends to build on such a program (CHPP) to develop and implement a broader CHW curriculum and course as we execute a coordination-of-care HUB. He recognized Sandi Davis, Community Health Promoter Program Coordinator and presented Certificates to the program graduates. ACTS OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT-LIBRARIES: On behalf of the Awards and Recognitions Committee of the Virginia Library Association, Vice-Mayor Trinkle recognized Michael L. Ramsey as a recipient of the Trustee Library Award, noting Mr. Ramsey's continuing support of the Roanoke Public Library Foundation being commendable and that the Committee unanimously endorsed the nomination. 260 DONATIONS-LIBRARIES: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a donation from the Roanoke Public Library Foundation in connection with the Raleigh Court Branch Library Renovation and Expansion Project. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following resolution: (#40393-111615) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of a $50,000.00 donation from the Roanoke Public Library Foundation that the Roanoke Public Library Foundation received from the Dorothy Koch Family Foundation to support the renovation and expansion project at the Raleigh Court Branch Library; and authorizing execution of any and all necessary documents to accept the donation. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78, page 55.) Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40393-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price. Sheila Umberger, City Librarian stated that the Roanoke Public Library Foundation received a $50,000.00 donation from the Dorothy Koch Family Foundation to support the renovation and expansion project at Raleigh Court Branch Library, with funding being used towards construction of an outdoor courtyard space as well as for any additional needs of the project. Following expression of appreciation from Susan Koch, Member of the Roanoke Pubic Library Board for the City's support in soliciting donations, Resolution No. 49393- 111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) Council Member Rosen offered the following budget ordinance: (#40394-111615) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Roanoke Public Library Foundation to the Raleigh Court Library Branch Renovations project, 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. 78, page 55.)  261 Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40394-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2015, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of the City of Roanoke to amend the Planned Unit Development Plan as it pertains to 3837 Williamson Road, N. W., bearing Official Tax No. 2090601, previously rezoned to Institutional Planned Unit Development Plan (INPUD), during the comprehensive rezoning, and proffering a Development Plan, showing a particular site layout and Building Evaluation, both of which are dated September 28, 2015, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, October 27, and Tuesday, November 3, 2015. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1, as amended, at the Planning Commission public hearing and later submitted as Amended Application No.2, is consistent with the overall goals of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Williamson Road Area Plan, and Zoning Ordinance as the Library will expand their facilities and services in a manner appropriate to the surrounding area. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following ordinance: (#40395-111615) AN ORDINANCE amending a Planned Unit Development Plan as it pertains to 3837 Williamson Road, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 2090601, by proffering a Planned Unit Development Plan dated September 28, 2015, and Building Elevations bearing that same date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 56.) 262 Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40395-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris. The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed, and Ordinance No. 40395-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) ZONING: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2015, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of Evergreen Assisted Living Community, LLC, to amend proffered conditions as part of a previous rezoning at 23 24th Street, N. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 2311102, pursuant to Ordinance No. 28817-101987, adopted by City Council on October 19, 1987, requiring a special exception permit for a group care facility, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, October 27, and Tuesday, November 3, 2015. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No. 1 is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan, Loudon-Melrose/Shenandoah West Neighborhood Plan, and Zoning Ordinance as it allows for continued use of the site in a manner that is appropriate to the surrounding neighborhood. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Price offered the following ordinance: (#40396-111615) AN ORDINANCE deleting proffered conditions presently binding upon property located at 23 241h Street, N. W., zoned RMF, Residential Multifamily District, with conditions, and . proffering a new condition; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 57.)  263 Council Member Price moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40396-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. Council Member Rosen advised of a personal interest in the abovementioned public hearing; therefore he will reframe from participating in any discussion regarding the matter; and read the following Statement of Conflict of Interest for the record: "STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST "1, Courtney B. Rosen, state that I have a personal interest in agenda item C.2., regarding the request of Evergreen Assisted Living Community, LLC to amend proffered conditions as part of a previous rezoning at 23 24" Street, N. W., pursuant to Ordinance No. 28817-101987, adopted by City Council on October 19, 1987, because I serve on the Board of Directors of Total Action Against Poverty in the Roanoke Valley, the owner of the subject property Therefore, pursuant to Virginia Code Section 2.2-3112, I must refrain from participation 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 for the following signature made this 1ih day of November 2015. S/Court G. Rosen Courtney G. Rosen Member of Council" (See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Patience Odupelu, Agent, appeared in support of the amendment to the proffered conditions as part of a previous rezoning at 23 243th Street, N. W. The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed. Following a comment from Council Member Lea expressing appreciation regarding the utilization of the property, Ordinance No. 40396-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-5. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) (Council Member Rosen abstained from voting.) 264 ZONING : Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2015, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of Retirement Unlimited, Inc., to rezone property located at 0 Colonial Avenue, S. W., bearing Official Tax Map No. 1490201, from RM-2, Residential Mixed Density District, with conditions, to MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit District, with conditions, said conditions accepted by the adoption of Ordinance No. 26387 by Roanoke City Council on March 14, 1983 the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, October 27, and Tuesday, November 3, 2015. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval of the rezoning request, finding that the Amended Application No.1 is consistent with the overall goals of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Franklin Road/Colonial Avenue Area Plan, and Zoning Ordinance as the subject property that has been vacant for decades will be put back into service in a manner that is appropriate to the neighborhood context. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Lea offered the following ordinance: (#40397-111615) AN ORDINANCE rezoning certain property located at an unaddressed lot on Colonial Avenue, S.W., from RM-2, Residential Mixed Density District, with conditions, to MXPUD, Mixed Use Planned Unit Development District, with conditions, and repealing Ordinance No. 26387, adopted March 14, 1983, to the extent that it placed certain conditions on the subject property; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title . .(For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 59.) Council Member Lea moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40397-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen. On behalf of the petitioner, Maryellen F. Goodlatte, Attorney, appeared in support of the rezoning request. The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.  265 There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 40397-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) FRANCHASES-GAS TRANSMISSION PIPELINE: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2015 at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke recommending execution of a Franchise Agreement, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, November 2, 2015 and Monday, November 9, 2015. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Manager submitted a written report recommending Council adopt a Franchise Distribution Ordinance and award to Roanoke Gas Company a certain franchise for the right to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, repair, and extend a Natural Gas Distribution System in the City of Roanoke, Virginia, for a term of 20 years. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#40398-111615) AN ORDINANCE providing for one or more non-exclusive franchises to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, repair, and extend a Gas Distribution System within the City of Roanoke, Virginia; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 61.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40398-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. John S. D'Orazio, President and Chief Executive Officer, Roanoke Gas Company, appeared in support of the Franchise Agreement. The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed. 266 There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 4D398-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-D. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#4D399-111615) AN ORDINANCE accepting a bid for a franchise to construct, operate, and maintain a natural gas distribution system in the City, upon certain terms and conditions, for a twenty (2D) year term; authorizing the execution of a Gas Franchise Agreement by the City Manager; authorizing the City Manager to take such further actions and execute such other documents as may be necessary to implement, administer, and enforce the Gas Franchise Agreement; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 72.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 4D399-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-D. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) GAS TRANSMISSION PIPELNE: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2D15 at 7:DD p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, for execution of a Gas Pipeline License Agreement, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, November 2, 2D15 and Monday, November 9, 2D15. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  267 The City Manager submitted a written report recommending City Council award to Roanoke Gas Company a certain Gas Pipeline License Agreement for the right to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, and repair a gas transmission pipeline for a term of 20 years within a certain right-of-way approximately 14,129 feet in length on City-owned property known as the Carvins Cove Reservoir property in Botetourt County, Virginia, and Roanoke County, Virginia. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#40400-111615) AN ORDINANCE accepting a bid for the right to construct, reconstruct, operate, maintain, and repair a gas transmission pipeline on certain property of the City and authorizing the execution of a Gas Pipeline License Agreement for a twenty year term; authorizing the City Manager to execute the Gas Pipeline License Agreement; authorizing the City Manager to take such further actions and execute such other documents as may be necessary to implement, administer, and enforce the Gas Pipeline License Agreement; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 74.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40400-111615. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. John S. D'Orazio, President and Chief Executive Officer, Roanoke Gas Company, appeared in support of the Gas Pipeline License Agreement. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed. There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 40400-111615 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) 268 ELECTORAL BOARD: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, November 16, 2015 at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to consider adopting an ordinance realigning the boundaries of voting precincts and reducing the number of voting precincts within the City of Roanoke, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, November 2, 2015 and Monday, November 9, 2015; and The Roanoke Tribune on Thursday, November 5, 2015. (See publishers' affidavits on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Attorney submitted a written report with regard to a proposed Ordinance to realign Voter Precincts to reduce the number of voter precincts to 21 voter precincts and one central absentee voter precinct and to establish polling places for the 21 precincts and maintain the central absentee voter precinct at the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved to take the November 17, 2014 matter that was heard by the Council off the table. The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted. Council Member Bestpitch then moved to amend the proposed ordinance that would implement the Task Force Recommendation in its entirety and replace it with the 2015 Proposed Ordinance, which was advertised for public hearing to be held on Monday, November 16, 2015, at 7:00p.m.: (#40401-111615) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Article II, Election Districts; Voting Precincts and Places, Chapter 10, Elections, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended, to establish one election district, 21 voter precincts and 21 polling places within the election district, and one central absentee voter precinct; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (Ordinance read into the record with typographical errors) The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris and adopted.  269 The City Attorney called attention to the following typographical errors appearing throughout the proposed ordinance that needed to be corrected: Page 2, 2nd paragraph - "express their opinions 'of' (not to) the proposed voter precinct plan." Page 24, Section 10-29 - Interstate 581 ends at Elm Avenue, so the references to Interstate 581 in the 6th line should be changed to "the Roy L. Webber Expressway." Page 25, Section 10-33- As above, change Interstate 581 to "the Roy L. Webber Expressway" in the 10th and 11th lines. Pages 26-27, Section 10-37- Can we say, "South along the North- South line of the Norfolk Southern Railway Company to the centerline of Oakland Road, S. W., as extended?" Pages 28-29, Section 10-43- As above, change Interstate 581 to "the Roy L. Webber Expressway" in the 2nd line and in the 1ylh and 18th lines of the section at the top of page 29. Page 29, Section 10-45 - Can we say, "North along centerline of Colonial Avenue, S. W., to Oakland Road, S. W., thence, South along the centerline of Oakland Road, S. W., as extended, to the North-South line of the Norfolk Southern Railway Company?" Page 31, Section 10-51 - Insert "as" before "extended" in the 20th line. Council Member Bestpitch then moved to amend the substituted proposed 2015 ordinance: (#40401-111615) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Article II, Election Districts; Voting Precincts and Places, Chapter 10, Elections, of the Code of the City of Roanoke (1979) as amended, to establish one election district, 21 voter precincts and 21 polling places within the election district, and one central absentee voter precinct; providing for an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (Amended Substituted Ordinance read into record without typographical errors) (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 76.)  270 Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40401-111615, as amended, which includes a description of the boundaries, and the following map showing the boundaries of the realigned precincts. '' ' VOTI!I'I PI'II!CINCT MAP ,, I I \ \ '' \ '\ ' \ \ \ \ \ I I -- ' I I ' I I ' \ '\ 'I I I \ \ 'I I I \ I --- ... ' , ,, I ...... ~-- ... c--- ,: : ..... 01119*1~ ,, I - I I CITY OF ROANOKE • ...\. , .. •• • •t : J #" . . . . I ' _ _ -.-.!..,_ ___ ,.:;.:.. ___________ ._ ' (See official copy of Voting Map Precincts on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The motion was seconded by Council Member Ferris. Council Member Bestpitch advised that the main purpose of the proposal was to reduce the disparity and the number of voters in the 32 precincts in the City of Roanoke; and currently one precinct contained 965 voters with the largest precinct being more than three times as large as the other. He pointed out that two sections of the State Code were reviewed when determining an appropriate size of the precincts, and the new proposal contained 21 precincts with approximately 2,400 to 2,600 voters in each, better ensuring equal access to the ballot for all voters and reducing the difficulty of finding enough handicapped accessible polling places as well as meeting all the other requirements for polling places.  271 Melvin Williams, Secretary, Roanoke Electoral Board provided background information on how the realignment of the precincts came into existence in 2011 . He added that the Electoral Board and the City Registrar wholeheartedly support the plan, believing it was good for the City, the voters and allowed the precincts to be equitable. Council Member Bestpitch pointed out that if the new proposal was adopted, citizens could access their new precinct information on the City's website at www.roanokeva.gov or by contacting the City Registrar's Office at (540) 853-2281. He continued noting a concern about minority voters who may think their voting strength was diluted and further noted that the City of Roanoke voted at Large with the exception of the House of Representatives which was split with the County, and that the vast majority of minorities voted in eight precincts and the new proposal offered no reduction in the number of precincts. The Vice-Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, the City Attorney advised that available to the public was a precinct map and if the substituted ordinance was adopted , the precinct map would be filed with the City Engineer and in Richmond outlining the new voting precincts for the City of Roanoke, but would not include the polling places. He further explained that the ordinance in fact identified the polling places, but the map was required to only identify the voting precincts because polling locations do not require the same level of detail with changes as the map did. Following comments by the City Attorney, the following individuals appeared before the Council and spoke with regard to the matter: Martin Jeffrey, 421 Fairfax Avenue, expressed concern with regard to the polling places that provide access to voting and asked if any external experts were consulted. He further expressed concern of potential civil rights implications, the elderly, and how accessible would the proposed precincts be. The City Attorney called attention to the map identifying the 21 precincts and asked Kennie Harris, GIS Analyst II , to display each of the 21 polling places individually; whereupon, Mr. Harris depicted the polling places in each precinct noting no changes. Brenda Hale, President, Roanoke Chapter NAACP, thanked Council Member Bestpitch and City staff for their efforts and expressed support of the proposal, noted that education was a key element in the voting constituents, suggested an increase in the pay of poll workers and urged curbside voting for seniors and people with disabilities. There being no additional speakers on the matter, Vice-Mayor Trinkle declared the public hearing closed. 272 Council Member Price inquired if Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations were taken into consideration when looking at the accessibility of all the polling locations just identified ; whereupon, Mr. Williams advised that compliance with the ADA for polling places in every precinct in the City was evaluated by Blue Ridge including the proposed precincts, as well as, the current polling locations. He pointed out that curbside voting was available at each polling location for the disabled and extra poll workers were added for that courtesy. Ms. Price further inquired of the numerical comparison of voters in the current and proposed Villa Heights and Eureka Park precincts; whereupon, Mr. Williams advised that currently Eureka Park had 1,512 voters and Villa Heights had 2,598 voters compared to the new precinct which would have 2,414 voters. Council Member Lea commented that timing was critical; increasing voter participation should always be a priority and stated that he was in agreement with the proposal because it showed equity. The City Attorney advised that under state law a locality cannot propose a change in the boundaries of its voting precincts within 60 days of a general election, State code defining that to be an election in November or in May. He further advised that if the plan were adopted, it would be effective December 31 and with the primary election scheduled for March 31 , it allowed adequate time; and under State Code in a Presidential election year with regard to local primary elections where people go to the polling places to vote, that has to be on the day of the Presidential primary, March 1 or if the party wished to have an alternative voting process, such as a firehouse election, it could be held earlier than March 1. The City Registrar advised that notices would be sent to all active and inactive voters in the City of Roanoke and State code only required notice three weeks prior to the presidential primary which begins the second week of January. He added that last year, every Registrar's Office was required to issue notice of photo identification changes and Roanoke issued more photo IDs than any other locality in the state. Council Member Bestpitch concluded stating that he was bothered in 2008 and again in 2012 with citizens expressing that lines were very long to vote and moved so slow that many were unable to stay and vote and that was unacceptable. He addressed concerns with eliminating some polling places and recalled the resolution adopted earlier promoting good government and part of that was trying to get more people involved in the political process and making sure that they show up to vote. He personally committed that in the months of December, January, and February, prior to the presidential primary on March 1, he would visit as many neighborhood associations and churches as possible to address concerns.  273 Council Member Lea inquired as to who paid for the elections held in November; whereupon, the City Registrar advised that the City of Roanoke paid for those elections as well. There being no additional questions/comments by the Council, Ordinance No. 40401-111615, as amended was adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Price, Lea, Rosen, and Vice-Mayor Trinkle-6. NAYS: None-0. (Mayor Bowers was absent.) HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATIERS: The Vice-Mayor advised that City Council sets this time as a priority for citizens to be heard. All matters would be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation or report to Council, as he may deem appropriate. Casey Steward, 378 Elm Avenue, S. W., Apt. 6, appeared before the Council with regard to the Roanoke City Police Department's recent decision to transfer Officer Ronald Robinson out of his position as the Resource Officer at Patrick Henry High School. (See copy of comments and petition on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Michael Cooper appeared before the Council in connection the Youth Athletic Council's guidelines prohibiting volunteers from serving with criminal records that extend over 20 - 25 years; whereby volunteers were still be punished for minor convictions that had occurred almost 22 years ago. The City Manager alleged that City staff was reviewing the Youth Athletic Council guidelines and a report of their findings will be forwarded to the Council. There being no further business, Vice-Mayor Trinkle declared the Council meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ~:::e~5r City Clerk