City Council

355 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION October 10, 2019 9:00a.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Thursday, October 10, 2019, 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, 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. 41490-070119 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 1, 2019. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Davis, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia White-Boyd and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6. ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Cecelia T. Webb, Assistant Deputy City Clerk. VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss vacancies on certain authorities, boards, commissions and committees appointed by Council, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1 ), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) 356 2019 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the 2019 Citizen of the Year Award, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1 0), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Price moved that Council concur in the request of the Mayor as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) DISPOSITION OF AN APPROXIMATELY 1.00 ACRE PORTION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2424 BRAMBLETON AVENUE, S. W.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of an approximately 1.00 acre portion of City-owned property located at 2424 Brambleton Avenue, S. 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. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Price moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)  357 DISPOSITION OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1015 JAMISON AVENUE, S. E.: A communication from the City Manager requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of City-owned property located at 1015 Jamison Avenue, S. E., 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. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd moved that Council concur in the request of the City Manager as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) ITEMS LISTED ON THE 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL DOCKET REQUIRING DISCUSSION/CLARIFICATION AND ADDITIONS/DELETIONS TO THE 2:00 P.M. AGENDA: NONE. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: NONE. BRIEFINGS: Municipal Election Date Update The City Attorney submitted a written communication regarding a change in the election date from May to November. (See copy of communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Mr. Callaghan advised that the State Code permits localities to adopt an ordinance to change the date of the local election from May to November; and permits registered voters to file a petition for a referendum to change the election date. 358 He further advised that under either option, the change in the election date from May to November could provide for elections in even-numbered calendar years or odd-numbered calendar years. In addition, the variation to November elections will change the commencement date for each term to January 1 following the November election, and the length of the current Council Members' terms would either be shortened by six months (odd-year November elections) or extended by six months (even-year November elections). The City Attorney explained if City Council considered moving the election date to November, substantial input and comment from several sources, including Dr. Harry Wilson, the City Registrar, and election officials in other localities; strongly recommend it should occur in odd-numbered years. He pointed out data demonstrates local election experience significant "under voting" in November elections in which federal races are also on the ballot; and State elections currently occur in odd-numbered years in November. Furthermore, Mr. Callaghan stated if City Council seeks to change the date of elections to November, the recommendation is the General Assembly make similar changes in the City Charter. There was lengthy dialogue regarding the election date change and the effects of moving the election to odd-numbered versus even-numbered years, as well as the costs related to changing the election date from May to November. In conclusion, the City Attorney urged the Council to conduct a public hearing to receive citizen comments regarding the proposed change to the City municipal election date prior to consideration of any proposed change in the date of elections. Mayor Lea expressed appreciation to the City Attorney for his due diligence regarding the matter, noting all comments received and filed .. At 10:01 a.m., the Mayor declared the meeting in recess. At 11:18 a.m., the Council meeting reconvened, Mayor Lea presiding, noting continuation of the briefings.  359 Financial Planning /Debt Management Update David P. Rose, Senior Vice-President of Engagement Oversight, Davenport and Company, highlighted the following information regarding capital funding strategies including potential refundings for the City of Roanoke: • Overview o Davenport, as Financial Advisor, assists the City of Roanoke in implementing its approved multi-year Capital Improvement Program. o In addition, Davenport regularly monitor the City's Debt Portfolio for potential refundings, ie, debt service savings due to lower interest rates. o The City, via Roanoke City Public Schools, has identified an approximately $17 million energy efficiency performance contract which requires a like amount of debt funding. o Davenport has identified two potential refunding opportunities. o Davenport has prepared a comprehensive analysis of the individual and collective impacts that all of the financings will have on the City's cash flows and debt policies. o Davienport provided a recommended approach and proposed timetable for action. • Background o The City has two outstanding issues of Bond Anticipation Notes. o The City's five-year Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Years 2020-2024 contemplates a series of annual bond issues. • Davenport Recommended Approach o The City permanently refinance the 2018 Bond Anticipation Notes .. o Maintain 2019 Bond Anticipation Notes and assume a 2022 takeout. o Assume the $17 million energy performance lease is issued by Roanoke City Public Schools, but the debt service burden is fully reflected in the analysis herein. o The $98 million Capital Improvement Program is funded with a series of Bond Anticipation Notes similar to the 2018 and 2019 Anticipation Notes. o No refunding savings has been assumed for this analysis. • Historical Approach vs. Davenport Recommended Approach o Difference in total debt service between the Historical Approach and the Davenport Recommended Approach being a cash flow savings of $16,7 43,408.00. • Refunding Overview o Davenport monitors the credit and interest rate markets on a regular basis. At this time, Davenport has preliminarily identified two potential outstanding debt issuances. 360 • Approach and Proposed Timetable o Consider a "Dual Track" approach for the two potential refundings. o Purchase a direct bank loan(s) via competitive bid process, which would provide a known/fixed result for the Staff and City Council to evaluate. o If desired, consider a public sale in the conjunction with the 2018 Bond Anticipation Notes takeout, if the direct bank loan(s) process does not meet the City desired result(s). • Timetable/Next Steps (See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Mr. Rose explained potential refunding opportunities and the importance of swapping higher interest rates for lower rates, if available. In closing, he reviewed the next steps and timetable, noting that Davenport, City Staff, along with Hawkins, the City's Bond Counsel, met and prepared a parameters resolution for the refunding opportunity(s) for consideration by the Council at its October 21 meeting. Following conclusion of the briefing, Mayor Lea thanked Mr. Rose for an ~""' informative presentation and stated all comments received and filed. Strategic Planning Update The City Manager gave an overview regarding the City of Roanoke Strategic Plan, highlighting the following items: • Current Plan o Purpose o Organizational Responses • Review of Current Plan o Met in Retreat July o Validated Existing Vision/Priorities o Discussed Transformative Initiatives o Values Discussion with Directorate • Enhanced Priorities o Community Safety • Selection of new police chief • Task Force on Gun Violence o Neighborhood Vitality • Enhanced Target Neighborhood Selection Process • Increased emphasis on economic development in target neighborhood  361 • Next Steps o Council Budget Planning Retreat- October 28 o Draft Revised Strategic Plan - December o "Condition of the Organization" Presentation and Adoption of the Revised Strategic Plan - January or February 2020 (See copy of presentation and the Strategic Plan for 2019 on file in the City Clerk's Office.) As part of Council's discussion at the July 29, 2019 Retreat concerning community safety and neighborhood vitality being identified as areas for enhancement, he noted priorities included selection of a new police chief, and creation of a Task Force on Gun Violence, which would lead to identification of revised strategies, new actions, etc., but most likely would require additional resources. He explained that in the area of neighborhood vitality priorities included-- enhanced target neighborhood selection process, increased emphasis on economic development in target neighborhood would likely require resources in addition to HUD (CDBG /HOME) funds; and that the Department of Economic Development was directly involved in target neighborhoods to resuscitate resources which were declining or stagnant. Mr. Cowell concluded that next steps would be further discussion at the Council's October 28 Annual Budget Retreat, adding that copy of the draft Plan would be presented in December by email, with approval of a revised Plan in either January or February 2020. There being no questions or comments by the Council, Mayor Lea thanked the City Manager and advised that the presentation would be received and filed. At 11:56 a.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting in the Council's Conference Room, Room 451; and thereafter to be reconvened at 2:00p.m., in the Council Chamber. At 2:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the Council Chamber, with Mayor Lea presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Davis, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia White-Boyd and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-6. ABSENT: Council Member William D. Bestpitch-1. 362 The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Cecelia T. Webb, Assistant Deputy City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by The Reverend Kevin McNeil, Pastor, Bethany Christian Church. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: RED RIBBON WEEK: Mayor Lea declared the week of October 20 - 26, 2019 as Red Ribbon Week. (See ceremonial copy of Proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The Mayor presented a ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Shakira Williams, Director; and Sheila Lythgoe, Chair, Red Ribbon Week, Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition (RAYSAC). ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH: The proclamation declaring October 2019 as Arts and Humanities Month was presented under the Petitions and Communications - 6.c. VIRGINIA MUNICIPAL LEAGUE CONFERENCE AND HOST NIGHT: Council Member Price presented flowers to Melinda Mayo, Communications and Media Officer, for her tireless efforts, along with commendations to City volunteers in making the Virginia Municipal League Conference and Host Night reception a great success. 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. OAKEY'S FUNERAL HOME: Samuel Oakey, Ill, 3211 Oak Ridge Road, S. W., appeared before the Council concerning the Funeral Home bearing the majority of the responsibility of providing services on behalf of the City for indigent funeral services, and the inadequacy of funding.  363 CHANGING COUNCIL ELECTIONS: Mark Lazar, 1901 Carter Road, S. W., and Barbara Andes, 2803 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before the Council with regard to changing Council elections from May to November. SCRIPTURES FROM THE BIBLE: Alexandros Filth, 319 Mountain Avenue, S. W., appeared before the Council and quoted scriptures from the Bible. GUN VIOLENCE TASK FORCE: Catherine Koebel, 2625 Longview Avenue, S. W., appeared before the Council with regard to the structure of the Gun Violence Task Force. 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 were desired, the item would be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered separately. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the regular meeting of City Council held on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 and recessed until Thursday, September 12, 2019, were before the body. (See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) RESIGNATION OF WILLIAM SELLARI AS A MEMBER OF THE MILL MOUNTAIN ADVISORY BOARD: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of William Sellari as a member of the Mill Mountain Advisory Board, effective immediately, was before the Council. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 364 Council Member Davis moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White .. Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) APPRECIATION TO GARY LEE ROBERTSON, P. E.: A communication from Gayle Shrewsbury, Secretary, Western Virginia Water Authority, transmitting a resolution expressing appreciation to Gary Lee Robertson, P. E., for his service as Executive Director of the Western Virginia Water Authority Water Operations Division, was before the Council. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the resolution be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) ANNUAL REPORT OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE PENSION PLAN, BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Annual report of the City of Roanoke Pension Plan, Board of Trustees for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2019, was before the Council. (See Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the Annual Report be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)  365 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE PENSION PLAN, DEFINED CONTRIBUTION BOARD: Annual report of the City of Roanoke Pension Plan, Defined Contribution Board for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2019, was before the Council. (See Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the Annual Report be received and file. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) ANNUAL REPORT OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE FINANCE BOARD: Annual report of the City of Roanoke Finance Board for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2019, was before the Council. (See Annual Report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the Annual Report be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD-YOUTH SERVICES CITIZEN BOARD-ROANOKE NEIGHBORHOOD ADVOCATES-HUMAN SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council: Jessie Coffman and Amy Morgan as members of the Roanoke Public Library Board to fill the unexpired terms of office of King Tower and Douglas Jackson ending June 30, 2020 and June 30, 2021, respectively; Brianna Wilson as a member (Student/William Fleming High School) and Ray Bemis, Ill, as a Citizen at Large representative of the Youth Services Citizen Board for terms ending June 30, 2020; 366 Sunni Purviance as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates for a two-year term of office, commencing October 1, 2019 and ending September 30, 2021; and Siclinda Canty-EIIiott as a member of the Human Services Advisory Board to fill the unexpired term of office of Aaron Cain Turner ending November 30, 2022. (See Oaths or Affirmations of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Davis moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: COMMUNITY COLLEGE ACCESS PROGRAM (CCAP): James Agnes, CCAP Success Coach, and Amanda Mansfield, Philanthropy Director, Virginia· Western Community College, appeared before the Council and shared information with regard to the successes of the Virginia Western Community College Community College Access Program (CCAP). Mr. Agnes expressed appreciation to the City for their partnership of the CCAP Program for the past ten years. Ms. Mansfield advised that the CCAP Program has helped alleviate debt for 2,832 students, with 20,438 hours of service with area non- profit organizations since the Program's inception in 2008; and the overall program "success percentage" was currently at 96 percent. In closing, Mr. Agnes introduced William Hobbs, a CCAP Program participant, who shared his experience with participating noting that due to the program, he was able to secure a great internship and will transfer to the University of Virginia in fall of 2020.  367 Following accolades by the Council Members, Ms. Mansfield announced that Virginia Western recently opened a food pantry to help address student needs in all aspect of their lives. Mayor Lea thanked Messrs. Agnes and Hobbs and Ms. Mansfield for a great presentation, and advised that the briefing would be received and filed. ROANOKE CULTURAL ENDOWMENT: Shaleen Powell, Executive Director, Roanoke Cultural Endowment, and Randy Cohen, Vice-President of Research and Policy, Americans for the Arts, presented information regarding efforts of the Endowment; and gave an overview of the Americans for the Arts Organization Economic Development Impact Study. Ms. Powell advised that the arts and culture community was pleased to commission for the study, which would serve as a foundation for arts advocacy, adding it would not have been possible if it had not been for an anonymous donor and consultant Katherine Greenberg. She recognized members of arts and cultural organizations in attendance and introduced Randy Cohen who provided an overview of the results of the Study. In summary, Mr. Cohen explained that arts organizations were businesses that employs people locally, purchases goods and services from other businesses in the community, brings people into the community, improves the quality of life, and are an economic development strategy for the community. He noted that a typical attendee to a non-profit arts and council event spends $32.28 per person, per event not, including the cost of admission. In conclusion, Mayor Lea declared October 2019 as Arts and Humanities Month and presented a proclamation to Douglas Jackson, Arts and Culture Coordinator. (See ceremonial copy of Proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following accolades by several Council Members, Mayor Lea thanked Ms. Powell and Mr. Cohen and received and filed the remarks. 368 LEAGUE OF OLDER AMERICANS AGE FRIENDLY ACTION PLAN: Dr. David B. Trinkle and Dr. Nancy Brossoie, Virginia Tech Center for Gerontology, appeared before the Council and gave a presentation regarding the League of Older Americans Age Friendly Action Plan. (See copy of presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following comments by Council Member Price, Mayor Lea thanked Drs. Trinkle and Brossoie for an informative presentation, and advised that the presentation would be received and filed. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: NONE. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: 2019 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the 2019 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant from the United States Department of Justice. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following resolution: (#41570-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of a grant from the FY 2019 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. 80, page 597.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41570-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)  369 Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following budget ordinance: (#41571-1 01 019) 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 2019 - 2020 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 80, page 598.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41571-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) STRATEGIES FOR POLICING INNOVATION COMPETITIVE GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a Strategies for Policing Innovation Competitive Grant to the Roanoke Police Department from the Bureau of Justice Assistance Office. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41572-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION authorizing acceptance of the Strategies for Policing Innovation Competitive Grant made to the City of Roanoke Police Department by the Bureau of Justice Assistance Office, and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf of the City. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 599.) 370 Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41572- '* 101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance: (#41573-1 01 019) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Federal government, Department of Justice, for the Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant Program, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2019 - 2020 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 80, page 600.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41573-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) 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. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  371 Council Member Price offered the following resolution: (#41574-101019) 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. 80, page 601.) Council Member Price moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41574-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following budget ordinance: (#41575-101019) 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 2019- 2020 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 80, page 602.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41575-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) 372 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT FUNDS POLICY: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending approval of the revised Department of Housing and Urban Development Funds Policy. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41576-101019) A RESOLUTION adopting revisions to the Council of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, Policy on United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Funds, and authorizing the City Manager to execute documents approved as to form by the City Attorney necessary to effect the intent of this Resolution. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 603.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41576- 101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price. The City Manager advised that the Belmont neighborhood in southeast Roanoke would become the next target area associated with HUD funding; and he acknowledged the Southeast neighborhood residents in attendance in support of the decision. There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41576-101019 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) VA811/E911 COMMUNICATIONS CENTER: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of additional amendments to the City's contract with West Safety Solutions Corp., for relocation services at the new VA811/E911 Communications Center. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  373 Council Member Davis offered the following resolution: (#41577-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and execution of additional Amendments to the City's Contract with West Safety Solutions Corp. ("West Safety") for relocation services at the new VA811/E911 Communications Center; and authorizing the City Manager to take certain other actions in connection with such Amendments. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 604.) Council Member Davis moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41577-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) CITY'S CONTRACT WITH MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS, INC.: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of additional amendments to the City's contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc., for relocation services and additional radio equipment at the new VA811/E911 Communications Center. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41578-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and execution of additional Amendments to the City's Contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc. ("Motorola") for relocation services at the new VA811/E911 Communications Center and additional dispatcher radio equipment; and authorizing the City Manager to take certain other actions in connection with such Amendments. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 605.) 374 Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41578- 101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) CITY'S CONTRACT WITH MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS, INC.: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending execution of an additional amendment to the City's contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc., for relocation services to move the computer aided dispatch hardware and software to the new VA811/E911 Communications Center. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41579-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager's issuance and execution of an additional Amendment to the City's Contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for relocation services for the computer aided dispatch hardware and software to the new VA811/E911 Communications Center; and authorizing the City Manager to take such actions and execute such documents as may be necessary to provide for the implementation, administration, and enforcement of such Amendment to the above mentioned Contract, as well as the Contract itself. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 606.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41579- 101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)  375 "PEARL FU PLAZA": The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending adoption of a resolution naming and designating the area at which the Friendship Fountain and Sister Cities Flags Pavilion are installed and adjacent to the intersection of Church Avenue and Market Street, S. E., as "Pearl Fu Plaza", in honor of Ms. Fu's many contributions to the City of Roanoke. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Price offered the following resolution: (#41580-101019) A RESOLUTION designating the area around Friendship Fountain and Sister Cities Flags pavilion as Pearl Fu Plaza to pay tribute to the numerous and significant contributions of Pearl Fu to the City of Roanoke and to express the appreciation of the entire Roanoke community; and waive the requirements of Resolution No. 37976-121707 to allow such designation. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 607.) Council Member Price moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41580-101019. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb. Vice-Mayor Cobb stated he and Council Member Bestpitch had an opportunity to visit with Ms. Fu, and she asked that I share a handwritten letter addressed to the Fabulous Roanoke and City Council expressing her deepest gratitude for making all feel welcome and loved, while spreading peace and goodwill to all; and in closing, will miss everyone deeply. In addition, Ms. Fu wanted to present to the City a plate symbolizing "good luck", which was a gift to her family by the Chinese government. The Vice-Mayor suggested displaying the Letter and Plate in the Sister Cities cabinet on the Second Floor of the Municipal Building. Mayor Lea recognized Courtney Campbell, President, Board of Directors; Jay Saunders, former President, Board of Directors; Beth Lutjen, former Executive Director, Local Colors; and Lisa Spencer, Executive Director, Local Colors who were in attendance on behalf of Pearl Fu. Ms. Campbell commented that the City of Roanoke and Local Colors have enjoyed a wonderful relationship for many years, adding 2019 marked the 30th Anniversary of Local Colors and there would be an enormous celebration. Although she had not the pleasure of knowing Ms. Fu, Ms. Spencer acknowledged that Ms. Fu had left the mark of her legacy; and she too was grateful for the recognition acknowledgement of Ms. Fu's contribution to the City of Roanoke. 376 Ms. Lutjen also was grateful of the City's honor of Ms. Fu. Mayor Lea thanked everyone in attendance and commented that the citizenry as a whole was thankful for the tremendous contributions of Ms. Fu to the City of Roanoke. There being no additional comments by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41580-101019 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: NONE. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: NONE. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY: Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution in support of immediate funding of repairs for the Blue Ridge Parkway closures at Milepost 106 - 112 and the Roanoke Mountain Loop Road at Milepost 120: (#41581-1 01 019) A RESOLUTION supporting immediate funding for repairs to the Blue Ridge Parkway Closures at MP 106 - MP 112 and the Roanoke Mountain Loop Road at MP 120. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 80, page 609.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41581-101019. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.)  377 MOTIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: ROANOKE VALLEY VIOLENCE PREVENTION: Roanoke Valley Violence Prevention Council presents "A Walk in Their Shoes," Domestic Violence Awareness Event on Friday, October 11, at 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m., in Holton Plaza, 106 Franklin Road, S. E. VML CONFERENCE HOST NIGHT RECEPTION: Council Member Price recognized Valley Metro for coordinating shuttle service and Council Member White- Boyd commended over 20 City restaurants that provided food in connection with the VML Conference Host Night reception on Monday, October 7. VML CONFERENCE: Vice-Mayor Cobb recognized Marc Nelson, Manager; and Aisha Johnson, Economic Development Specialist, Department of Economic Development, for coordinating tours of the Innovation Corridor in connection with the VML Conference on October 6- 8, 2019. VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE. CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, Council Member White-Boyd 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 seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd and Mayor Lea-6. NAYS: None-0. (Council Member Bestpitch was absent.) 378 There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 4:09p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: ecelia T. Webb, CMC ~~ \(. 12~~ Sherman P. Lea, Sr. Assistant Deputy City Clerk Mayor