City Council

371 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION February 1, 2016 9:00a.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, February 1, 2016, at 9:00a.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, 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, with Mayor David A. Bowers presiding. PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Sherman P. Lea (arrived late), Court G. Rosen, David B. Trinkle, and Mayor David A. Bowers-6. ABSENT: Council Member Anita J. Price-1. 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. At this point, Council Member Lea entered the meeting (9:02a.m.) ITEMS 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 2.23711(A)(1 ), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 372 Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) CITY-OWNED PROPERTY-COUNTRYSIDE: A communication from the City Manager requesting that the Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of City-owned property located at 2206 Countryside Road, N. W., where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) CITY-OWNED PROPERTY-COUNTRYSIDE: A communication from the City Manager requesting that the Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of an approximately 20-acre portion of City-owned property located at 2100 Countryside Road, N. W., where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2- 3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  373 Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) CITY-OWNED PROPERTY-COYNER SPRINGS: A communication from the City Manager requesting that the Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of City-owned property located Coyner Springs area of Botetourt County, where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining or negotiating strategy of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(3), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manger to convene in Closed Meeting as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00P.M. AGENDA: NONE. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: NONE. 374 BRIEFINGS: Public Safety Briefings for CY2015 Roanoke Fire/EMS - 2015 Fire Chief David Hoback gave a brief overview of the following items in connection with the yearly performance of the Fire-EMS Department: ISO Class 1 Rating Department Activities- 2015 Fire Marshal Inspections- 2015 Demand for Service- 2010-2015 Structure Fires Travel Time Performance- 2011-2015 Working Fires - 2010-2015 Cause of House/Building Fires Arson History- 2010-2015 Structure Fires Confined to Floor of Origin - 2010-2015 Annual Fire Loss History - 201 0-2015 Critical -Advanced Life Support Response Time Performance - 2010-2015 Basic Life Support Response Time Performance- 2010-2015 EMS Demand for Service Trend- 2007-2015 EMS Demand for Service Time of Day- 0:00-22:00 EMS Demand -System Impact- 2013-2015 Recruitment and Diversity Activities for 2016 (See copy of full presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch inquired about the unfunded positions that were removed in 2008, and asked the City Manager to give thought to adding the positions back into the budget. Following additional comments by the Council, the Mayor advised that the presentation would be received and filed. Roanoke Police Annual Report Police Chief Christopher C. Perkins gave the following presentation for the 2015 calendar year regarding the Police Department: Myth vs. Reality Violent Crime Rate by FBI 2014 Data Myth Busters GSW/Firearm Murder Incidents- 2013-2013  375 GSW/Firearm Murder Incidents- 2014-2015 Violent Crime Influences Police/Citizen Initiation Rate by Zone Policing Perception and Prudent Action Policing Perception/Prudent Police Action Leveraging Literacy and Education Juveniles- What are the Facts? Leveraging Technology and Analysis Leveraging Recruitment Diversity Where are we, How did we get here and Where are we going? Assessment of GEO 3.0 Roanoke Part I Crime Trend - Since Geo 1.0 Comparison Future RPD Efforts Chief Perkins stressed the need for involvement from the neighborhoods, emphasizing that the Police Department cannot have a serious impact unless the neighborhoods are involved. Following accolades and positive comments by the Council, the Police Chief distributed copies of the Police Department's Annual Report. (See copy of Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Without objection by the Mayor, the briefing was received and filed. At 11:06 a.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess. At 11:20 a.m., the Council meeting was reconvened in the Council Chamber, Mayor Bowers presiding and all Members of the Council in attendance, with the exception of Council Member Price. Amelia C. Merchant, Director of Management and Budget and Barbara A. Dameron, Director of Finance, briefed the Council on the development of the FY 2016 - 2017 budget process and highlighted the following topics: Ms. Merchant pointed out that with regard to projected revenue by major category for fiscal year 2017, general property taxes increased by $2.9 million or 2.6 percent, commercial and multi-family real estate increased slightly, personal property taxes increased about $1 million, and other local taxes increased 2.2 percent largely due to meals and business and occupational licenses. 376 She continued stating that the transfer to Roanoke City Public Schools was calculated based on 40 percent of adjusted local taxes and $1.7 million would be transferred to the schools in 2017; a total of $14.2 million would be transferred to debt service and was comprised of anticipated debt payment and the debt service for one time funding needs. In response to an inquiry with regard to the allocation for the CCAP Program and the number of Roanoke City students compared to Roanoke County students who utilize the program, Ms. Merchant indicated that $100,000.00 was allocated for the program and that program participation statistics would be reported at Budget Study. After reviewing the City's priorities, Ms. Merchant advised that there was a total of $286.9 million in requests compared to a price of government of $277.3 million resulting in a variance of $9.6 million. She referenced to last February at the beginning of the process in which the variance was about $10 million which did not include a compensation increase. In response to an inquiry with regard to the Classification and Compensation Study, the City Manager explained that it was a comprehensive review of the classification of all positions in the organization as well as the compensation associated with each position and it was deeper than the annual survey relative to positions and how the City benchmarked toward more local competitors; and while funding had been requested, it was not necessarily recommended for funding. Ms. Merchant reminded the Council that the budget public hearing would be held on Thursday, April 28, and the budget adoption would be held on Monday, May 9. She indicated that $23.4 million was allocated in bond funding across five years in the current CIP. She further stated that there was a need for additional funding of $4.5 million identified for bridge rehabilitation and replacement in FY 2021 and $500,000.00 annual cash funding was included in the current operating budget for bridge maintenance and support total. The Assistant City Manager for Operations explained that Council was previously advised of some changes to the revenue sharing program and to possibly expect a lower level of funding in the upcoming years. He pointed out that the City had been successful in leveraging the funding that was allocated for a number of projects inclusive of bridge repair and renovation, curb, gutter and sidewalk, both new construction and maintenance, storm drain, paving and streetscape projects, as well as, in the last several years getting the maximum amount of $10 million.  377 Council Member Bestpitch inquired about the impact of changes to the revenue sharing program funding; whereupon, Mr. Stovall advised that he was concerned about street paving more so than any other category and for the last couple of years an excess of 60 lane miles had been paved and in the FY 17 preliminary allocation no funding was included for street paving. Council Member Bestpitch further inquired about the impact on street maintenance such as fixing potholes; whereupon, Mr. Stovall advised that maintenance was funded from a separate category. Council Member Rosen commented that the matter was. discussed in the last Commonwealth Transportation Board meeting and advised that the Department of Transportation has the idea that when revenue sharing goes down, the funding for HP 2 would theoretically replace the revenue sharing funding. Mr. Stovall explained that over the next five years the amount of funding received from revenue sharing would decrease even more than expected in FY 17 and under the current plan revenue sharing would decrease from a high of $185 million down to $54 million in a span of about five years The City Manager stated that the other long term challenge was to rework the capital plan and put more money into street paving and major maintenance items, luckily the City was successful in getting the $10 million match each year, and with the reduction to $3.4 million, it will decline the maximum needed for core maintenance projects. He noted that the City must look at how to leverage to get discreet projects funded to ultimately free up funds for street paving and other major projects. With regard to passenger rail infrastructure, Mr. Stovall advised that the current CIP included $2.5 million for passenger rail infrastructure which was not planned for issuance. He noted that the appropriated funding was sufficient for the Norfolk Avenue street improvement and currently there was no need to issue additional bonds to support infrastructure related needs of the project. In response to an inquiry as to how the passenger rail station would operate, Mr. Stovall advised that Amtrak planned to use a public information display system which provided information upon arrival and departure times. He pointed out that even if an actual brick and mortar station was built, Amtrak would not staff it because staffing was dependent upon the state providing funding; and further noted that the state and Amtrak would need to review actual performance from Roanoke assess the need for a brick and mortar station. Ms. Merchant concluded stating that the next briefing would be held on March 7 and would contain follow-up information and an update on capital project planning. (For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 378 Discussion ensued with regard to the Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau and consideration of a possible regional indoor athletic facility; whereupon, the City Manager stated that it was a part of their strategic plan which was not yet completed. Vice-Mayor Trinkle inquired as the next steps with regard to the multimodal facility; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the concept was based on the transportation system and currently ridership and a regional system were in the review process. There being no further comments and/or questions from the Council Members, the Mayor advised that the briefing would be received and filed. At 12:42 p.m., The Mayor declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting in Council's Conference Room, Room 450, and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00p.m., in the Council Chamber. At 2:00p.m., the Council meeting was reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor David A. Bowers presiding. PRESENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch, Raphael E. Ferris, Sherman P. Lea, Court G. Rosen, David B. Trinkle, and Mayor David A. Bowers-6. ABSENT: Council Member Anita J. Price -1. 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 The Reverend Dr. Quenton L. Keatts, Pastor, First Baptist Church-Gainsboro The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Bowers. Since Vice-Mayor Trinkle would not be able to participate in Item 9.a., having disclosed a personal conflict of interest during the 7:00 p.m. session of Council on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 in connection with a request of 2123 Crystal Spring, LLC; and that Council Member Lea must leave the meeting by 3:00 p.m., due to a personal matter, Mayor Bowers announced that the matter would be taken out of order and acted upon prior to Item 5 - Petitions and Communications.  379 PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: NONE. HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: The 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. ZONING: Barbara N. Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before the Council in connection with Item 9.a. and expressed concern regarding the removal of the proffers on the property at 2123 Crystal Spring Avenue, S. W.. She believed the removal would prevent the neighborhood from being contacted regarding any changes affecting the property and urge the Council to deny the request. CONSENT AGENDA The Mayor advised that all matters listed under the Consent Agenda are 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 were desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. MINUTES: Minutes of the regular meetings of the Council held on Monday, April 6, 2015; Monday, April 20, 2015; and Monday, November 2, 2015; and the recessed meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2015, were before the body. (See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) 380 ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION-PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD-ROANOKE VALLEY-ALLEGHANY REGIONAL COMMISSION-LOCAL OFFICE ON AGING ADVISORY COUNCIL: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council: William Penn as a member of Roanoke Arts Commission to fill the unexpired term of office of Charlene Graves ending June 30, 2017; Claude "Sport" Paige as a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to fill the unexpired term of office of Sonya Echols ending March 31, 2016; Jerry Smith as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission for a term of office ending June 30, 2018; and Cindy L. McFall as the City of Roanoke's representative to the Local Office on Aging Advisory Council for a one-year term of office ending February 28, 2017. (See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Ferris moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) REGULAR AGENDA UNFINISHED BUSINESS: At this point, Vice-Mayor Trinkle left the Council Chamber. ZONING: Mayor Bowers stated that the request of 2123 Crystal Spring, LLC, to repeal conditions proffered as part of a previous rezoning at 2123 Crystal Spring Avenue, S. W., pursuant to the adoption of Ordinance No. 36819-081604 on August 16, 2004, the matter had been continued following the closing of the public hearing held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016, and was again before the body.  381 Council Member Ferris offered the following ordinance: (#40428-020116) AN ORDINANCE to rezone certain property located at 2123 Crystal Spring Avenue, S.W., by repealing proffered conditions presently binding upon such property; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 78, page 140.) Council Member Ferris moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 40428-020116. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. Ann B. Trinkle, Co-Owner, appeared before the Council in support of the amendment to the rezoning. There being no comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 40428- 020116 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen and Mayor Bowers-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Price was absent.) (Vice-Mayor Trinkle was not present when the vote was recorded.) At this point, Vice-Mayor Trinkle re-entered the meeting. COUNCIL: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded Council Member Rosen 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 Council Member Ferris and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Lea, Rosen, Trinkle and Mayor Bowers-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Price was absent.) PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. 382 PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: SISTER CITIES: Mary Jo Fassie, President of the Roanoke Valley Sister Cities Incorporated, shared information about the organizations mission, recent accomplishments and future projects. Ms. Fassie distributed a copy of the current Sister Cities Newsletter. (See copy on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following comments by the Council Member Bestpitch that he currently serves as a Board member, and his appreciation to the City for its support; and Vice-Mayor Trinkle's comment that the Sister Cities Committee had also renewed its exchange agreement with Brazil, Mayor Bowers thanked Ms. Fassie for the informative presentation; and he encouraged citizens to become members and participate in the Roanoke Valley Sister Cities Committee. He also asked that the incoming City Council consider reinstating the City's financial support to the Roanoke Valley Sister Cities Committee. BLUE RIDGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE: Susan Reives-Austin, Coordinator of Prevention Planning and Evaluation at Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, appeared before Council and presented the 2015 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) results, the final Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant (SPF-SIG) results and the announcement of a new DMV grant. (See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Ms. Reives-Austin emphasized that in 2013 to 2014, there was 28% increase in young adults reporting it would be very likely they would be stopped by police if they drink and drive (36% to 46%), a five percent increase in perceptions that they will be arrested if they are stopped for drinking that agree that Roanoke Police have increased efforts to catch people drinking and driving. She shared that one lesson learned is that RPA may not be reaching its target population as well as it would like to and that the actual 21 - 24 year old alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes increased from 17 to 20 from 2012 to 2014, with a decrease in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes for 25 - 54 year olds from 75 in 2012 to 54 in 2014.  383 Therefore, with a new DMV grant, a partnership with three other coalitions: Prevention Council of Roanoke County, FRESH Coalition in Franklin County; and the HiPe Coalition in Campbell County, being used to continue the media campaigns from SPF-SIG, Ms. Reives-Austin reported that RPA is focusing on increasing PSAs on YouTube, while the majority of the grant funds being used to cover the cost of six media campaigns and compliments that DMV increased enforcement grants that the Roanoke Police Department receives Following extensive dialogue regarding mental health issues and random drug testing, Mayor Bowers expressed appreciation for the informative presentation, and advised that all comments would be received and filed, without objection by the Council. At this point, Council Member Lea left the meeting (2:46p.m.) REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: 2014 Community Carbon Emissions and Energy Summary Dr. Sean McGinnis, Director of Virginia Tech Green Engineering Program, Roanoke City - Citizens for Clean Green Committee, shared information regarding the City of Roanoke 2014 Community Greenhouse (GHG) Emissions and Energy Summary: Atmospheric C02 Concentration Data Climate Change Overview- IPCC5 5 Step Process for GHG Reduction Clean & Green Citizens Academy Roanoke Energy and GHG Inventory Analysis City of Roanoke Electricity Usage City of Roanoke Natural Gas Usage City of Roanoke Transportation Analysis City of Roanoke Community GHG Emissions Summary Next Steps- Set New Target (For full text, see copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) During discussion of the briefing, Vice-Mayor Trinkle urged the Administration to use the numbers as identified in the presentation for economic business purposes. Following the informative presentation, Mayor Bowers acknowledged that all remarks would be received and filed. 384 ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: SNOW EVENT: The City Manager submitted a written communication . recommending authorization to confirm that a local emergency existed throughout the City of Roanoke due to a major winter snow event which began on Friday, January 22, 2016. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following resolution: (#40429-020116) A RESOLUTION confirming the declaration of a local emergency by the Assistant City Manager for Operations, as successor to the City Manager during the absence of the City Manager from the Commonwealth of Virginia, and confirmed by the City Manager after he returned to the Commonwealth; conferring emergency powers in the City Manager as Director of Emergency Management; authorizing the City Manager to make application for Federal and State public assistance to deal with such emergency; designating a fiscal agent and an agent for submission of financial information for the City; calling upon the Federal and State governments for assistance; and ending the declaration of local emergency. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78, page 141.) Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40429-020116. - The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Price and Lea were absent.) GRANTS-RAILWAY PASSENGER STATION-BUDGET: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a Roanoke Chapter National Railway Historical Society (RCNRHS) Transportation Enhancement Grant for the renovation of the Virginian Railway Passenger Station. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  385 Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#40430-020116) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding to the City of Roanoke from the Virginia Department of Transportation ("VDOT") to be used by the Roanoke Chapter National Railway Historical Society ("RCNRHS") for the renovation of the Virginian Railway Passenger Station; and authorizing the acceptance, execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78, page 143.) Council Member Bestptich moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40430-020116. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Price and Lea were absent.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance: (#40431-020116) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding for the Virginian Railway Passenger Station 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 144.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 40431- 020116. The motion was seconded by Council Member Rosen and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Price and Lea were absent.) 386 STREETS-TRANSPORTATION: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending authorization to waive sovereign immunity and to execute an agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to place art under the 1-581 Bridge on Tazewell Avenue, S. E., located in the Belmont and Southeast neighborhoods. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Rosen offered the following resolution: (#40432-020116) A RESOLUTION authorizing the waiver of the City of Roanoke's ("City") sovereign immunity in connection with a land use permit agreement between the City and the Virginia Department of Transportation ("VDOT") to gain access to the space under the 1-581 Bridge on Tazewell Avenue, S. E., Roanoke, Virginia to place artwork; and authorizing execution of any and all necessary documents to comply with the terms of the agreement. (Forfull text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 78, page 145.) Council Member Rosen moved the adoption of Resolution No. 40432-020116. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Trinkle and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, Trinkle, and Mayor Bowers-5. .,.,..,. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Price and Lea were absent.) COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER The City Manager commented on the following items: Economic Development Department launches new website • The department announced today the launch of its new website, www.bizroanoke.com. • The website will serve as an important tool to individuals and businesses seeking economic development information about Roanoke including how to conduct business in Roanoke, data and demographics, and available resources. -- ...  387 • Provides economic development information in a more user-friendly and marketing-oriented format. o Offers pages listing available properties; o Includes a media center for news and events, and videos; o Provides assistance to those looking to start, locate or expand their business to the City of Roanoke. • Funding for the new site was awarded by the AEP Appalachian Power Economic Development Growth Enhancement (EDGE) grant program and the Economic Development Authority to support marketing and promotion efforts of the Economic Development Department. 2016 Leadership College • Begins Thursday, March 17. • Sponsored by the Office of Neighborhood Services. • Classes meet each Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Municipal Building for nine weeks. • Leadership College is an interactive, practical, and engaging series of discussions, lectures, role plays, team building, and related field work that will help you: o Learn best practices in organizing your community; o Learn how to access city services; o Personally meet those who provide city services; o Understand city procedures and policies. • To register, go online to: www.roanokeva.gov/leadershipcollege or call 853-1286. DIRECTOR OF FINANCE: FINANCIAL REPORTS: The Director of Finance provided a commentary on the City's financial results for the six months ended December 31, 2015. (For full text, see copy of Financial Report and presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Ms. Dameron shared information regarding the FY16 General Fund overview, noting that through December, FY16 year-to-date revenues were $101.9 million, or 37.4% of the adopted revenue estimate for the year; that significant tax revenues, such as Personal Property and Business License were taxes not due until later in the year; and year-to-date revenues increased 1.4% or $1.4 million compared to the same period in FY15, with the increase primarily due to higher current real estate tax and several local tax revenues, such as sales, meals and lodging taxes. 388 In closing, she reported that the U. S. economy continued to show mixed signals from late November to early January, with improvements in the labor market and consumer spending offset by the drag of a strong dollar and low energy prices; and for all of 2015, the nation added 2.65 million jobs, aping a two-year, back-to-back gain that was the best since the late 1990s. In addition, she stated that the local economy has continued to grow at a moderate pace in the first half of fiscal year 2016; and the City's financial performance will continue to be carefully monitored by the various departments which are involved with oversight of the City's budgeting and financial processes. Following a question by Council Member Bestpitch as to whether there is a correlation between tipping fees and recycling, and the City Manager's responding that there was no connection, Mayor Bowers stated that the financial report would be received and filed. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE. INTRODUTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: NONE. (At this point, Vice-Mayor Trinkle left the meeting (3:40p.m.) MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: LEGISLATION: Council Member Court G. Rosen, Chair, Legislative Committee, stated that Virginia Tech and Carilion Clinic formed a public-private partnership which has created the Virginia Tech-Carilion Research Institute and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, adding that the next step in this development is the creation of facilities to enable innovation in the health science and technology sector. Council Member Rosen further stated that a part of this progression includes the development of a 105,000 square foot facility to serve as the hub for research; and Virginia Tech is seeking funding support from the Commonwealth through the budget currently under consideration by the General Assembly.  389 Council Member Rosen moved that Rob Catron, Legislative Liaison for the City, .., . be authorized to represent the City to support the request of Virginia Tech in seeking funding from the General Assembly for the expansion of the Virginia Tech-Carilion Research Institute through development of a 105, 000 sq. ft. research facility. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, Mayor Bowers-4. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Lea and Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle were absent.) VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE: Council Member Ferris gave an update regarding VML Day that was held in Richmond on Wednesday, January 27, 2016; advising that he, along with the Roanoke contingent consisting of the City Manager, City Attorney, Director of Finance and City Treasurer, had a very productive day, having been able to discuss the legislative package, work on issues that arose, which were not a part of the current program; and promote economic development with area state leaders. He highlighted the following items of interest: Legislative Agenda SB 197 will provide funding for the Interstate 73 corridor in Virginia. This bill will be heard in Senate Finance on February 2. New Issues SB 416 will regulate homestays such as AirBnB at the state level and preempt local regulation. Delegation urged members to oppose this bill. However, this bill has bipartisan support, including support from Governor McAuliffe. City's legislative liaison will work to seek some amendments to allow localities that have adopted regulations to continue with those regulations. Economic Development Delegation met with Martin Briley, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and several of his staff; and expressed appreciation for the support his office has provided Roanoke and the region and encouraged continued support. Mr. Briley was also encouraged to support the 1-73 corridor expansion as a key tool to further economic development. (See copy of VML Day Outline on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 390 VACANCIES ON VARIOUS AUTHORITIES, BOARD, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES: OATHS OF OFFICE-PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: The Mayor called attention to the expiration of the three-year terms of office of Pete Eshelman, William Modica and Steve Stinson as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, ending March 31, 2016; whereupon, he opened the floor for nominations. Council Member Ferris placed in nomination the names of Pete Eshelman, William Modica and Steve Stinson. There being no further nominations, Messrs. Eshelman, Modica and Stinson were reappointed as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for terms of three-years, each, ending March 31, 2019, by the following vote: FOR MESSRS. ESHELMAN, MODICA AND STINSON: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, and Mayor Bowers-4. (Council Members Lea and Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle were absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-WESTERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY: The Mayor called attention to the expiration of the two-year terms of office of Wayne Bowers and Robert Ledger as City representatives of the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority ending February 3, 2016; whereupon he opened the floor for nominations. Council Member Ferris placed in nomination the names of Wayne Bowers and Robert Ledger. There being no further nominations, Messrs. Bowers and Ledger (Alternate) were reappointed as members of the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority for terms of four-years, following be initial appointment shall be for a term of four years each, ending February 3, 2020, by the following vote FOR MESSRS. BOWERS AND LEDGER: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, and Mayor Bowers-4. (Council Members Lea and Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle were absent.)  391 OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY RESOURCE AUTHORITY: The Mayor called attention to the expiration of the four year term of office of James W. Harkness., as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority ended December 31, 2015; whereupon he opened the floor for nominations. Council Member Ferris placed in nomination the name of Robert Edwards. There being no further nominations, Mr. Edwards was appointed to replace James W. Harkness as a City representative of the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority for a term ending December 31, 201 by the following vote: FOR MR. EDWARDS: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, and Mayor Bowers-4. (Council Members Lea and Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle were absent.) PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Council Member Ferris moved that the Non-City residency for Pete Eshelman and William Modica as members of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board be waived in this instance. The motion was seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Bestpitch, Ferris, Rosen, and Mayor Bowers-4. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Lea and Price and Vice-Mayor Trinkle were absent.) There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Bowers declared the Council meeting adjourned at 4:04 p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ~~·:ts~dv City Clerk 9~--- David A. Bowers Mayor