City Council

433 There being no further nominations, the abovementioned individuals were reappointed/appointed as Members of the Virginia Municipal League Policy Committees, by the following vote: FOR MEMBERS OF THE VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE POLICY COMMITTEES: Council Members Bestpitch, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne, Price and Mayor Lea.-6 (Vice-Mayor Cobb was absent.) There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Lea declared the regular meeting adjourned at 2:46p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ~:}~ta1t~~~ City Clerk Sherman P. Lea, Sr. Mayor 434 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION July 16, 2018 2:00p.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, July 16, 2018, 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 Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding, 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. 41181-070218 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 2, 2018. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Dykstra, John A. Garland, Djuna L. Osborne and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5. ABSENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch and Anita J. Price-2. OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. The Invocation was delivered by Bishop Jamaal L. Jackson, Pastor, ReFresh Roanoke. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. Mayor Lea welcomed Vice-Mayor Cobb to his first official Council Meeting. 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 will be referred to the City Manager for response, recommendation or report to Council, as he may deem appropriate. RENAMING OF STONEWALL JACKSON MIDDLE SCHOOL: David "Jacko" Lawhorn, 1710 Clinton Avenue, S. E., appeared before the Council regarding the renaming of Stonewall Jackson Middle School and gun violence in Roanoke City.  435 TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT: Robert Gravely, 3360 Hershberger Road, N. W., appeared before the Council regarding the termination of his employment with the City of Roanoke. 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. He called attention to two additional public hearing requests from the City Manager; and removal of C-2 due to Council Member Dykstra having a personal conflict of interest in connection with the matter. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF COUNCIL: Minutes of the regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, June 18, 2018; and Monday, July 2, 2018; and Organizational meeting of City Council held on Monday, July 2, 2018, was before the body. (See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) DISPOSITION OF APPROXIMATELY 12.10 ACRES OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY, BEING THREE PARCELS LOCATED AT 2839, 2903, AND 0 PETERS CREEK ROAD, N. W.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of approximately 12.10 acres of City-owned property, being three parcels located at 2839, 2903, and 0 Peters Creek Road, N. W., where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the bargaining position 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.) 436 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) RESIGNATION OF RACHEL WHEATON AS A MEMBER OF THE ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Rachel Wheaton as a member of the Roanoke Public Library Board, effective immediately, was before the Council. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) CERTIFIED COPY OF RESOLUTION RA #2018-812: A communication from Peggy Bishop, Secretary, Roanoke Valley Resource Authority, transmitting a certified copy of Resolution RA #2018-812 adopting a schedule of rates, fees and charges for the use of the Authority's system, effective July 1, 2018; and Roanoke Valley Resource Authority Waste Disposal Fees and Charges as of July 1, 2018, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the communication be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea.-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.)  437 OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD-BUILDING AND FIRE CODE BOARD OF APPEALS-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD-ROANOKE ARTS COMMISSION: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council: Mark K. Cathey, Laura D. Rottenborn and Richard M. Willis, Jr., as Trustees of the Roanoke City School Board for three-year terms of office, each, commencing July 1, 2018 and ending June 30, 2021; Patrick Williams as an Engineer representative of the Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals for a three-year term of office ending June 30, 2021; The Reverend Timothy Harvey as a Citizen at Large member of the Youth Services Citizen Board for a three-year term of office ending June 30, 2021;and Janet Carty and Greg Webster as members of the Roanoke Arts Commission for three-year terms of office, each, ending June 30, 2021. (See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) ESTABLISHMENT OF A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY IN PRESTON PARK: A written communication from the City Manager requesting a public hearing be scheduled to be held on Monday, August 20, 2018, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to lease approximately 0.062-acreas of City- owned property for the establishment of a wireless telecommunications facility in Preston Park, 3137 Preston Avenue, N. W. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 438 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) ESTABLISHMENT OF A WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY IN FALLON PARK: A written communication from the City Manager requesting a public hearing be scheduled to be held on Monday, August 20, 2018, at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, to lease approximately 0.064-acreas of City- owned property for the establishment of a wireless telecommunications facility in Fallon Park, 502 191h Street, S. E. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. '._, NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF THE ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR PUBLIC PURPOSES: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for discussion and consideration of the acquisition of real property for public purposes, 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 Dykstra advised of a personal conflict of interest and read the following statement into record:  439 "STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST I, Michelle L. Dykstra, state that I have a personal interest in agenda Item C-3 of ,. ' the 2:00 p.m. Session of City Council on July 16, 2018, regarding a communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss or consider the acquisition of interests in real property by the City for public purposes, whether in fee simple, in leasehold, or in other interest, because my employer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia, Inc., has an interest in a lease transaction with Restoration Housing, or its assigns, and members of Restoration Housing hold interests in the entity which holds interest in the real property in which the City may consider acquiring an interest. 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 the following signature made this 161h day of July 2018. S/Michelle L. Dykstra Michelle L. Dykstra, Member of Council" (See Statement of Conflict of Interest on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request as abovementioned. The motion was seconded by Council Member Garland and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-4. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent; and Council Member Dykstra abstained from voting.) REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: NEW DAY CENTER IN THE SOUTHEAST AREA OF THE CITY: Captain Monica Seiler, Salvation Army, updated Council on the recent projects of the Salvation Army and a new Day Center, which opened on Friday, July 20 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 440 She noted that recently the Salvation Army went through a strategic plan process and as a result merged all programs into a poverty reduction model of care that was proactive, preventative, focused on empowerment and strived to end the cycle of poverty for teaching skills of personal responsibility. Captain Seiler announced that a new Day Center would open soon to serve as a drop in center for 18-24 year olds aging out of foster care, at risk, homeless or in traffic. The center would be located in southeast Roanoke and featured a lazy lounge recreational suite, think tank, quiet library zone, a small conference and counseling room, laundry facilities, cafe, locker room and an art space in an effort to inspire young people who may be vulnerable to become successful. Mayor Lea expressed appreciation for the hard work of the Salvation Army and thanked Captain Seiler for her compassion for the people of Roanoke and that the City was better off by far because of the vision of the Salvation Army to help people in need. Following accolades by several Council Members, Captain Seiler advised that information with regard to the program and Day Center was promoted by the Salvation Army website, hotline, street outreach, tours with foster care agencies, community town hall meetings with service providers and young people and a youth action board in which a representative would provide feedback to the Continuum of Care to ensure the youth voice was being heard. ....,. There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Mayor Lea advised that the update would be received and filed. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: Financial Policy Overview The City Manager advised that in 2017 the City retained Davenport & Company, LLC, as its financial advisors to embark on a multi-phased process to ensure that the City was enhancing its financial strength in a variety of areas and the second stage was to review the City's financial policies. He introduced David Rose, Senior Vice-President and Co-Head of Public Finance, Davenport & Company, LLC, to provide overview of a proposed Financial Policy for the City. (See copy of the Financial Policy Overview on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  441 Mr. Rose advised that the City's policies were strong, but given the rating agencies focus over the last two years, there were ways to further enhance the policies and remain in good stead. He noted that Davenport & Company, LLC, previously recommended taking three distinct policies and rolling them together into a stabilization reserve. He explained the current Unassigned General Fund Reserve Policy and recommended that in order to make the City's policy consistent with regional peers and the expectations of the national rating agencies, the minimum threshold should be raised from 10 percent to 12 percent of General Fund expenditures. He pointed out that the City could achieve the new minimum through the provision of funding from a budgeted reserve contribution and residual revenue in excess of the budget. Mr. Rose further explained the Risk Management Reserve, Economic Downturn Reserve and Economic and Community Development Reserve policies and recommended that it was best to combine them in one policy called a stabilization reserve, which would have a targeted three percent of the General Fund expenditures. In conclusion, Mr. Rose stated that in about five years from now, between the one reserve, the unassigned, and the stabilization reserve collectively, the City would be at 15 percent of the General Fund expenditures and in a very good position for a down turn to allow for ample funds for things such as economic development or any other purpose. He noted that the next steps included finalizing the policy changes within the next 30 to 45 days. Council Member Garland commented on the difficulty to accrue the $3 million per year and inquired about cessation of the Moody's rating; whereupon, Mr. Rose indicated that the City technically had a Moody's rating due to outstanding debt; however, as of late, the City had not proactively interacted with Moody's agency and recommended that the City reengage with the agency. Council Member Garland inquired as to how the City could achieve AAA rating status and the impact of that rating; whereupon, Mr. Rose remarked that ultimately the City would have a little more cost-effectiveness in borrowing funds and it looked good in terms of economic development and the health of a city; and he pointed out that it was aspirational because very few cities in Virginia have AAA ratings. The City Manager commented that the primary objective was to ensure the current rating with no downward movement and for example, the Governor has looked at moving $550 million in surplus revenue to retain their AAA rating, demonstrating it was a costly undertaking to maintain that level. 442 In response to an inquiry from Council Member Dykstra as to estimates or models to show the actual cost savings on that bond, if the City had a AAA rating, Mr. Rose replied that depending on the environment and because rates were much more compressed, the difference between a AA and AAA might be 5 - 10 basis points of a percent. Council Member Dykstra asked if any additional revenue generated by the Solid Waste Fee could be a viable option to increase the reserve; whereupon, the City Manager advised that the Solid Waste Fee was collected to pay for solid waste services which in turn frees up funds for other services and some aspect of those funds go into the appropriation for the reserves. Mayor Lea inquired whether the City's partnership with the School Division influenced the financials. The City Manager indicated that the school division was a part of the City's overall budget rating and to make it less challenging there was a formula for funding in place which would be shared with the rating agencies to remind them of volatility. In terms of strategy, Vice-Mayor Cobb asked if any additional policy changes were anticipated in achieving the aspirational goal; whereupon, Mr. Rose advised that ~ ... once the policies were in place, they would be reviewed every three years. Vice-Mayor Cobb further commented that as a City it would be meaningful to communicate the process as a way of strengthening the health of the City and the more citizens know about the value of the policies not only in terms of the rating, but also in terms of sustainability, would be really beneficial. There being no further comments/inquiries by the Council Members, Mayor Lea expressed appreciation to Mr. Rose for an informative presentation; and advised that the briefing would be received and file. GRTC Comprehensive Operational Analysis Elisabeth Rood, Senior Transportation Planner, KFH Group, gave a report of the Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) draft recommendations, highlighting the following areas: • Introduction o Primary Goals of the COA • Valley Metro Fixed Route- Overview • Draft COA Recommendations o Route Changes  443 o Proposed Route Adjustments and Changes Using Existing Resources- Short Term o New Routes- Short Term- Using Existing Resources o New Routes- Short Term- Require Additional Investment o Schedule Analysis and Recommendations o Passenger Facilities o Marketing and Advertising o Service Planning • Next Steps (See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following comments by the Council about the City's transit system, Kevin Price, General Manager, Valley Metro, thanked City Council for supporting the Greater Roanoke Transit Company in this endeavor, and he wanted the Council to know that the transit system is changing in the positive direction and this was the time that we are able to mold these recommendations into something responsive to the passengers. He concluded by asking for the continued support of City Council regarding the recommendation as set forth above. There being no additional questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Rood for a great analysis and report and stated the presentation would be received and filed. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: ACCEPTANCE OF THE VIRGINIA HOMELESS SOLUTIONS GRANT AWARD: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Virginia Homeless Solutions Grant Award from the Department of Housing and Community Development to support Continuum of Care strategies and homeless service and prevention programs. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Dykstra offered the following resolution: (#41183-071618) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Virginia Homeless Solutions Program Grant ("Grant") to the City of Roanoke ("City") by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development ("VDHCD") in the amount of $93,984.00; authorizing the City of Roanoke to be the fiscal agent for distribution of the grant proceeds; and authorizing the City Manager to execute any documentation required to accept the Grant on behalf of the City, including Memorandums of Understanding with certain provider agencies. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 79, page 734.) 444 Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41183-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Garland and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) Council Member Dykstra offered the following budget ordinance: (#41184-071618) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Community Development for the Virginia Homeless Solutions Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 735.) Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41184-071618. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-D. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) ACCEPTANCE OF THE FY 2017 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the FY 2017 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds from the United States Department of Justice for use by the Roanoke Police Academy and Roanoke Sheriff's Office. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  445 Council Member Dykstra offered the following resolution: (#41185-071618) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a grant from the FY 2017 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program made to the City of Roanoke by the United States Department of Justice; and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf of the City. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 79, page 736.) Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41185-071618. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) Council Member Dykstra offered the following budget ordinance: (#41186-071618) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal government, Department of Justice, for the Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 737.) Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41186- 071618. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) DE-APPROPRIATION OF 2018 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTE FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending de-appropriation of 2018 Bond Anticipation Note funds in connection with Fire-EMS Airpacks. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 446 Council Member Dykstra offered the following budget ordinance: (#41187-071618) AN ORDINANCE to de-appropriate funding from the 2018 Bond Anticipation Note Issuance for the Fire & EMS Airpacks project, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 Capital Projects Fund Appropriations and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 738.) Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41187-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Garland and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) EXECUTION OF AN ASSISTANCE AGREEMENT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of an assistance agreement between the City of Roanoke and the Town of Vinton for the loan of a solid waste vehicle in ~~- emergency situations. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Garland offered the following ordinance: (#41188-071618) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to enter into a joint intergovernmental agreement with the Town of Vinton, Virginia ("Vinton") pursuant to the provisions of Section 15.2-1300, Code of Virginia (1950) as amended, for the purpose of allowing Vinton to rent certain City-owned solid waste collection vehicles on an emergency basis in the event Vinton's solid waste management vehicles are unavailable for use by Vinton; upon certain terms and conditions, and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 738.)  447 Council Member Garland moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41188-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER. The City Manager offered the following comments: Plan Roanoke This week, the city will launch "Plan Roanoke," the process to develop its next Comprehensive Plan. On Thursday, July 19, staff will be in Market Square from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., to begin the process of gathering input from citizens. • "Plan Roanoke" is an initiative to develop a new comprehensive plan - City Plan 2040 - over the next 18 months, and will include several phases. • Open House Meetings will be held in August at City library branches to invite citizens to tell us what Roanoke should look like in 20 years. • A website has been created where citizens can learn more and sign up to receive notifications: www.planroanoke.org. A digital survey is also posted on the site for public input. Fair Housing Seminar • The City's Fair Housing Board and the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation will host a Fair Housing Seminar in Jefferson Center's Fitzpatrick Hall, 541 Luck Avenue on July 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. • The public is encouraged to attend. To register, visit the Brown Paper Ticket website at www.brownpapertickets.com and search for Roanoke Fair Housing. • More information is available through the city's HUD Community Resources Office at 853-5681, or you can send an email to fairhousing@roanokeva.gov. National Night Out • Tuesday,August7,2018 • Neighborhood events will heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for local anti-crime programs; and strengthen neighborhood spirit. • Public safety agencies, neighborhood organizations, neighborhood crime watch groups, and local officials will participate in the events. • Some events have been posted on the city's website, but there's still time to register at www.roanokeva.gov/nno, or contact Bob Clement, Neighborhood Services Coordinator, at 853-5210. 448 CITY ATTORNEY: EXECUTION OF A NONEXCLUSIVE REVOCABLE LICENSE AGREEMENT: The City Attorney submitted a written report recommending execution of a Nonexclusive Revocable License Agreement with Shentel Communications, LLC, that will allow telecommunications facilities on various City school properties. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following ordinance: (#41189-071618) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute on behalf of the City a Temporary Nonexclusive Revocable License Agreement with Shentel Communications, LLC (Shentel) that allows Shentel to use various City school properties to install and operate a telecommunication system or facilities to provide telecommunications services from the City's public right-of-way to Roanoke City Public Schools; authorizing the City Manager to implement, administer, and enforce such Temporary Nonexclusive Revocable License Agreement; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 739.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41189-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE. INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: NONE. MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:  449 INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL. Street Pub Roanoke 2018 by Deschutes Brewery was held on Saturday, July 14, 2018 in Elmwood Park. Vice-Mayor Cobb and Council Member Osborne served as volunteers. Roanoke Police Department Lip Sync Challenge was a success. Food Truck Rally Benefit for the Roanoke Refugee Partnership was on Thursday, July 12, 2018. Professional football team returns to Roanoke at the Berglund Center in spring 2019. VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE. At 4:17 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451; and thereafter to be reconvened at 7:00p.m., in the City Council Chamber. At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the City Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, with Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Dykstra, John A. Garland, Djuna L. Osborne and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-5. ABSENT: Council Members William D. Bestpitch and Anita J. Price-2. OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Stephanie M. Moon Reynolds, City Clerk. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend David A. Jones, Pastor, Williams Memorial Baptist Church. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. 450 CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, with the exception of discussion and consideration of the acquisition of real property for public purposes, Council Member Dykstra moved that each Member of City Council certify to the best of his or her knowledge that: (1) only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and (2) only such public business matters as were identified in any motion by which any Closed Meeting was convened were heard, discussed or considered by City Council. The motion was seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, with regard to discussion and consideration of the acquisition of real property for public purposes, Vice-Mayor Cobb 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 Garland and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-4. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent; and Council Member Dykstra abstained from voting.) PUBLIC HEARINGS: AMENDMENT OF CERTAIN PROFFERED CONDITIONS IN CONNECTION WITH PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 2541, 2545, 2549, 2607, 2613, AND 2619 BELLE AVENUE, N. E: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, July 16, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of MCE Owner Occupied, LLP (formerly J&K HTTC, LLP), to amend the conditions proffered as part of a previous rezoning at 2541, 2545, 2549, 2607, 2613, and 2619 Belle Avenue, N. E., bearing Official Tax Map Nos. 3410302, 3410303, 3410304,  451 3410305, 3410306, and 3410307, respectively, previously rezoned with conditions through the adoption of Ordinance 34182-030199 on March 1, 1999, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, June 26, 2018, and Tuesday, July 3, 2018. (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, Hollins/Wildwood Area Plan, and Zoning Ordinance as the subject property, as conditioned, will be developed and used in a manner appropriate to the surrounding area. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following ordinance: (#41190-071618) AN ORDINANCE to amend conditions presently binding upon property located at 2541, 2545, 2549, 2607, 2613, and 2619 Belle Avenue, N. E., conditionally zoned IN, Institutional District; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 740.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41190-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra. Maryellen F. Goodlatte, Attorney, representing the petitioner, appeared before the Council in support of the request. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, Chris Craft, President, Wildwood Civic League, appeared before the Council in support of the request. There being no further speakers, Mayor Lea declared the public hearing closed. Following a comment from Vice-Mayor Cobb, Ordinance No. 41190-071618 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) 452 AUTHORIZATION OF FY2019 GENERAL OBLIGATION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BONDS AND FY2019 BOND ANTICIPATION NOTE: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, July 16, 2018 at 7:00p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on the request of the proposal of the City of Roanoke for authorization of FY2019 General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds and FY2019 Bond Anticipation Note and appropriation of funds for capital projects, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, July 2, 2018 and Monday, July 9, 2018. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Manager submitted a written report recommending authorization of the issuance of bonds/BAN up to $42,765,000.00 for the projects in the aggregate amount of $41,100,000.00, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following resolution: (#41191-071618) A RESOLUTION authorizing the issuance and sale of not to exceed forty-two million seven hundred sixty-five thousand dollars ($42,765,000.00) aggregate principal amount of General Obligations of the city of Roanoke, Virginia, in the form of General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds of the City, for the purpose of providing funds to pay the costs of the acquisition, construction, reconstruction, improvement, extension, enlargement and equipping of various public improvement projects of and for the city (including related design and architectural and engineering services); fixing the form, denomination and certain other details of such bonds; and otherwise providing with respect to the issuance, sale and delivery of such bonds; and authorizing and providing for the issuance and sale of a like principal amount of general obligation public improvement bond anticipation notes in anticipation of the issuance and sale of such bonds. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 79, page 742.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41191-071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dykstra. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter. There being none, he declared the public hearing closed.  453 There being no questions and/or comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41191-071618 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) Council Member Dykstra offered the following budget ordinance: (#41192-071618) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding to be provided by the issuance of general obligation Bonds to the Stormwater Improvements, Civic Center Upgrades, Fire/EMS Station 7, E911 Facility, RCIT Improvements, Fleet Capital Purchases, Revenue System, Radio Conversion, Public Works Service Center, Capital Building Maintenance, City-wide Curb, Gutter & Sidewalk, South Roanoke E-Branch and Gainsboro Library Renovations, Parks & Recreation Master Plan, Roanoke River Bridge the Gap, Streetscape Improvements, Fallon Park Expansion, and Maintenance upgrades projects, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2018 - 2019 Stormwater Utility, Civic Facilities, Capital Projects, and School Capital Projects Funds, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 79, page 758.) Council Member Dykstra moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41192- 071618. The motion was seconded by Council Member Garland and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Dykstra, Garland, Osborne and Mayor Lea-5. NAYS: None-0. (Council Members Bestpitch and Price were absent.) HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATIERS: ADVANCED NOTIFICATIONS: Chris Craft, President, Wildwood Civic League, appeared before the Council and expressed concern about the lack of advanced notifications regarding ceremonial and public events held in the Wildwood neighborhood; and a lack of response from City departments regarding removal of overgrown trees in the 1500 block of East Gate Avenue. 454 In conclusion, Mr. Craft extended an invitation to the Council and City Administration to meet with him and walk through the neighborhood in order to discuss matters of mutual interest and concern involving drugs and crime in the Wildwood community. At 7:22 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the meeting in recess until Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 9:00a.m., in the Community Room, Williamson Road Library, 3831 Williamson Road, N. W., for a Council Strategic Planning Retreat The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, fourth floor, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., with Mayor Lea presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Dykstra (arrived late), John A. Garland, Djuna L. Osborne (arrived late), Anita J. Price, William D. Bestpitch and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7. ABSENT: None-0. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: RobertS. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, Deputy City Clerk. Mayor Lea remarked that the recessed meeting was to come together to define the City's priorities as a group and to have an open and candid dialogue. The City Manager gave a brief overview of the objectives: o Clear understanding of the demographic, social, economic and governance context within which we work o Review of current Council vision, objectives and strategies o Recognition of roles in policy making, policy execution and accountability o Clear understanding of Council priorities including any refinements, additions or deletions regarding strategic approaches o Clear understanding of how priorities and strategies will be executed and how performances will be measured o Recognition of next steps (See documents on file in the City Clerk's Office.) ~'.  455 During the overview, Council Member Dykstra (9:14a.m.) and Council Member Osborne (9:16a.m.) entered the meeting. The City Manager reviewed the following items for comments: o Current approach of the City's Vision/Mission Statement. Consensus was the Statement was appropriate as currently written. o Current Strategic Areas of Importance - leadership development, communication and engagement were also identified. o Organization's Response to the current Vision and Strategic Areas of Importance. This review included the organization's value statements, the organization's framework and the five strategies currently deployed by the organization (For full text, see copies of documents on file in the City Clerk's Office.) There was discussion regarding each of the Strategic Areas of Importance, including the current strategies and performance measures used for each. As part of the discussion, the following was noted: o Education: Council satisfied with the current approach in general, including an emphasis on preparing children to enter and succeed in school and helping them receive a quality education and increase graduation rate. Increasingly, there is a need to (with our partners) dedicate more or our focus, time and money on what happens after graduation - how do we get more students to attain post-high school education (degrees, certifications, etc.). Also felt there should continue to be an emphasis on talent recruitment into the area (especially in light of the number of college students in proximity) but also that there should be an increasing emphasis on developing further those currently in Roanoke through workforce development, training, etc. - in an effort to expand labor pool from within and through attraction. o Safety: Council satisfied with the current approach in general with the understanding that safety entails much more than police and fire services. It is also about providing safe homes and businesses in safe neighborhoods with require addressing poverty, creating opportunities, code enforcement, empowering 456 neighborhood leaders, etc. Benchmarking of public safety services may be appropriate to help determine "right-sizing" of operations and budget but recognition that the primary measure should be are we getting the results/outcomes we are seeking - for example accredited departments, ISO ratings, reductions in Part I Crimes, etc. Increasing awareness of the role public health (opioids for example) is playing in safety for our residents and neighborhoods. o Human Services: Council satisfied with the current approach with perhaps an increasing emphasis on addressing homelessness issues - perhaps through some additional direct action oriented around employment opportunities (for example a program where homeless individuals are employed by the City or through a program the City sponsors).Recognize that the emphasis is (and should remain) on children and families. o Infrastructure: Council satisfied with the current approach in general with a continued emphasis on providing quality infrastructure in an environmentally responsible manner. Interest in expanding services and facilities, especially in the areas of drainage, sidewalks and perhaps alleys. Recognition that the community should be engaged in the CIP project development phase sooner than current practice. Interest in enhancing the vehicle replacement schedule but recognition that often constrained by available funds. Some interest in expanding consideration of energy conservation and alternative energy generation. Interest in enhancing transit services - first through implementation of the recommendations of the recent operations assessment and the relocation of the Campbell Transfer Facility then through expanded hours and routes as funds permit. o Good Government: Council satisfied with the current approach in general with an increased emphasis on community engagement and communication - maintain the current approach of multiple channels but perhaps more strategic use of some (such as direct mailers) along with increased opportunities for the Council to engage directly face to face with residents and businesses. Establish regular (quarterly or twice-annual) "town-hall" meetings of the · ""'  457 Council based around a specific topic. Increased opportunities for Council to formally recognize the contributions of excellent work performed by City employees. Adopt a strategic plan with refined and more meaningful performance measures/outcomes and report on progress on a frequent basis. o Livability: Council satisfied with the current approach in general, with perhaps an increased emphasis on more direct engagement with residents about priority investments - sidewalks, parks, alleys, etc. This is probably achieved best through updates of the neighborhood plans. Continue to emphasize Village Centers and the role they play in the livability of neighborhoods, the opportunities to "age in place" their contribution to walkability, etc. o Economy: Council satisfied with current approach in general which is maintain emphasis (with our partners) on economic "game-changers" such as our efforts in bio- health, tourism, and entrepreneurialism while working to improve opportunities for small businesses currently located in the community. Perhaps an increased emphasis on assisting small businesses establish and grow especially minority-owned businesses, may be desirable. Recognition that much of the area's economic success is linked directly to the quality of the education opportunities that exist within the community. There is an on- going need to understand where the gaps between labor force skills needed and skills possessed and how the gaps can be closed. Interest in understanding more about high-risk financing (angel investors, micro-loans, etc.) to aid in start-ups and/or acceleration and what the proper (if any) role might be for local government. Council was also asked to identify what they perceived as the community's greatest strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. A list was generated that consisted of a set of priority strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. These priorities were used to evaluate the prior discussions to ensure gaps did not exist and will also be used in the formulation of the strategic plan. The priority strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats noted were: Strengths: caring and knowledgeable staff and arts culture and other tourism 458 Weaknesses: Economic segregation and poverty Outdated revenue structure Discrepancies in neighborhood assets and resource equity Opportunities: Youth leadership and programming Regionalism Engaged community - Threats: Poverty Following review of the abovementioned items, the City Manager stated that the next steps would include preparation of notes to be forwarded to the Council in August, a draft strategic plan for individual review with Council Members, presentation to the community with planned receipt of a final draft at the October Council Budget Planning Retreat. There being no additional comments by the Council, Mayor Lea adjourned the recessed meeting at 3:51 p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ~c:'/k~ ~~tJ~ Sherman P. Lea, Sr. Deputy City Clerk Mayor .