City Council

17 ROANOKE CITY COUNCIL-REGULAR SESSION August 17, 2020 2:00p.m. The Council of the City of Roanoke met in regular session on Monday, August 17, 2020 at 2:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building, 215 Church Avenue, S. W., City of Roanoke, with participation by Members of City Council by electronic communication as permitted and authorized by Virginia Code Section 2.2-3708.0(A)(3), as amended, Ordinance No. 41703-032720; and Resolution No. 41704-032720; 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. 41772-070620 adopted by the Council on Monday, July 6, 2020. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Davis, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia L. White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7. ABSENT: None-0. OFFICERS PRESENT: RobertS. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Lea. PRESENTATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: ROANOKE HIGHER EDUCATION CENTER DAY: The Mayor declared Thursday, August 20, 2020 as Roanoke Higher Education Center Day. (See ceremonial copy of proclamation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following comments, the Mayor presented a ceremonial copy of the proclamation to Kay Dunkley, Executive Director, Roanoke Higher Education Center. 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. 18 Based upon Executive Order Number Fifty-One, issued by Governor Northam on March 12, 2020, Executive Order Number Fifty-Five, issued by Governor Northam on March 30, 2020, Virginia Code Section 2.2-3708.2(A)(3), Virginia Code Section 15.2- 1413, Ordinance No. 41703-032720, and Resolution No. 41704-032720, City Council will be conducting this regular session of City Council by electronic communication means without a quorum of City Council physically present in Council Chamber and without the presence of members of the public in the City Council Chamber. In order to afford citizens an opportunity to provide comments to City Council during the COVID-19 pandemic disaster, citizens wishing to address the Council during this regular session of City Council conducted by electronic communication means were instructed to sign-up by emailing or by calling the City Clerk's Office at clerk@roanokeva.gov and (540) 853-2541, by 12:00 p.m., on Monday, August 17. Those citizens, who have signed up to speak before the Council, have been provided the Zoom meeting information and will be allowed to join the regular session at this Agenda Item 3 and address City Council by electronic communication means. ROANOKE CITY SCHOOL BOARD'S PROPOSED PLAN TO RETURN TO SCHOOL: The City Clerk read an email, in its entirety, from Brenda Futrell, requesting that Council overturn the Roanoke City School Board's proposed plan to return to school. HAZARD PAY FOR EMS, FIREFIGHTERS AND POLICE: Sue Plymale, 2731 Lofton Street, S. W., addressed the Council regarding hazard pay for EMS, firefighters and police. SEAMLESS TRANSPORTATION IN THE ROANOKE VALLEY: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., addressed the Council regarding seamless transportation in the Roanoke Valley. WESTERN VIRGINIA WATER AUTHORITY EASEMENT: Robert Kennedy, 3507 Colonial Avenue, S. W., addressed the Council regarding stormwater and a Western Virginia Water Authority easement on his property. 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.  19 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL: Minutes of the regular meeting of City Council held on Monday, August 3, 2020, was before the body. (See Minutes on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Osborne moved that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with and approved as recorded. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: Non e-O. 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD: A communication from Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr., requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the 2020 Citizen of the Year Award, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1 0), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Osborne 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: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL AND BRIEFINGS BY STAFF MEMBERS OR CONSULTANTS PERTAINING TO ACTUAL LITIGATION: A communication from the City Attorney requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting for consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members or consultants pertaining to actual litigation, where such consultation or briefing in open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or litigating posture of the public body, pursuant to Section 2.2-3711 (A)(?), Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 20 !ll"ll"t! Council Member Osborne moved that Council concur in the request of the City Attorney as abovementioned. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. RESIGNATION OF KATELYNN LEWIS: A communication from the City Clerk advising of the resignation of Katelynn Lewis as a member of the Roanoke Neighborhood Advocates, effective immediately was before the body. (See communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Osborne moved that the resignation be accepted and the communication be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member White- Boyd and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. OATHS OF OFFICE-ROANOKE VALLEY REGIONAL CABLE TELEVISION COMMITTEE-ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD-BLUE RIDGE BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Reports of qualification of the following individuals were before the Council. Jane Missel! as the City representative of the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee for a three-year term of office ending June 30, 2023; Drew Kepley as a member of the Architectural Review Board for a four-year term of office commencing October 2, 2020 and ending October 1, 2024; and Daniel E. Karnes as a City representative to the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, Board of Directors, for a three-year term of office commencing January 1, 2021 and ending December 31, 2023. (See Oath or Affirmation of Office on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  21 Council Member Osborne moved that the reports of qualification be received and filed. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. REGULAR AGENDA PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS: REGIONAL DRUG PROSECUTOR GRANT: The Commonwealth Attorney submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of grant funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Board for the Regional Drug Prosecutor's Office; and the City Manager submitted a written communication concurring in the recommendation. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#41828-081720) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of funding for the regional drug prosecutor's office from the Compensation Board of the Commonwealth of Virginia and authorizing the acceptance, execution, and filing of appropriate documents to obtain such funds. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 305.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41828-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Bestpitch offered the following budget ordinance: 22 (#41829-081720) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia for the Regional Drug Prosecutor Grant, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 306.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41829- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member White-Boyd and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS AND COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: CITY MANAGER: BRIEFINGS: Strategic Plan Update Focus Groups The City Manager advised that each Council Member hosted a series of focus group meetings comprised of City residents, business owners, and senior City staff to discuss each of the Council's seven Strategic Priorities in preparation for their annual retreat and update to the Strategic Plan. He asked each Council Members to briefly highlight their focus group and identify key points: Education - Council Member Price Foster an environment for lifelong learning which encompasses cradle to career and beyond through shared services and community involvement. Community Safety- Mayor Lea Foster a community where citizens feel safe and they and their property are safe in their homes, businesses and neighborhoods. Human Services - Council Member Osborne Foster a caring community that uses an equitable, regional and collaborative approach to encourage preventative measures, intervention services, and self- sufficiency while providing a social safety net for citizens.  23 Infrastructure -Vice-Mayor Cobb Maintains and builds quality infrastructure that supports healthy residential neighborhoods, successful commercial areas, and accessible public facilities and amenities. Good Government- Council Member Bestpitch Seeks to provide exceptional and competitive government services that are collaborative, transparent, responsive, and innovative. Livability- Council Member White-Boyd Seeks to enhance Roanoke's exceptional vitality as an attractive, diverse, culturally inclusive, vibrant and active city in which to live, learn, work and play. Economy- Council Member Davis Seeks to cultivate a thriving business environment and innovative workforce opportunities to ensure the prosperity f our community, recognizing our role in both the regional and global economies. (See narrative of the Strategic Plan Update-Focus Groups, July/August 2020 on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Each Member of Council gave a brief overview of their specific strategic priority and how the information gained will be used and what the next steps in the process. In conclusion, the City Manager thanked each Council Member for their leadership and garnering value insights and recommendations from the community. ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR ACTION: KIWANIS CENTENNIAL PLAYGROUND: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of a donation of the Kiwanis Centennial Playground located at 2730 Melrose Avenue, N. W., from the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41830-081720) A RESOLUTION accepting the donation of a playground from the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke; and authorizing the City Manager to take such further actions and execute all documents as may be necessary to obtain, accept, implement, administer such donation; and expressing the City's appreciation for such donation. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 307.) 24 Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41830- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne. Dr. Cheri W. Hartman, President, and Jackie Bledsoe, Project Co-Chair, Kiwanis Club of Roanoke, appeared before the Council in support of the donation of the Kiwanis Centennial Playground to the City of Roanoke; and offered remarks in connection therewith. Following comments and accolades by several Council Members, Resolution No. 41830-081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution: (#41831-081720) AN ORDINANCE providing for the acquisition by the City of a permanent trail easement across Roanoke Official Tax Map No. 2420205 owned by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, Inc. ("Goodwill"); authorizing the City Manager to execute appropriate acquisition documents; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 308.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41831-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. FY 2021 - 2023 NEXT GENERATION 9-1-1 GRANT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the FY 2021 - 2023 Next Generation 9-1-1 grant from the Virginia 9-1-1 Services Board in transition from the Public Safety Answering Points Grant Program. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) - Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution:  25 (#41832-081720) A RESOLUTION accepting the Public Safety Answering Point grant to the City from the Virginia E-911 Services Board, and authorizing execution of any required documentation on behalf of the City. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 309.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41832- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. Vice-Mayor Cobb offered the following budget ordinance: (#41833-081720) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia 9-1-1 Services Board for the Public Safety Answering Point NG9-1-1 implementation, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020- 2021 Grant Fund - Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 31 0.) Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41833-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. MEMORIAL AVENUE, S. W., STORMWATER DRAINAGE AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acquisition of real property rights in connection with the Memorial Avenue, S. W., Stormwater Drainage and Improvement Project. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 26 Council Member Osborne offered the following ordinance: (#41834-081720) AN ORDINANCE providing for the acquisition of real property rights needed by the City in connection with the Stormwater Drainage Improvement Project - Memorial Avenue, S. W. (Project); authorizing City staff to acquire such property rights by negotiation for the City; authorizing the City Manager to execute appropriate acquisition documents; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 311.) Council Member Osborne moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41834-081720. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. SMART SCALE PROGRAM FUNDING: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending amendment to Resolution No. 41827-080320 to include support for FY 2022 regional applications for SMART Scale Program funding. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member Osborne offered the following resolution: (#41835-081720) A RESOLUTION amending, supplementing, and reordaining Resolution No. 41827-080320 to support Smart Scale Program applications by the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, the Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization, and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission; reaffirming the support for four applications and the authorization of the City Manager to submit such applications to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for funds from the Smart Scale Program for certain projects; and authorizing the City Manager to take certain actions in connection with such projects. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 312.)  27 Council Member Osborne moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41835-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. FISCAL YEAR 2021 CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMIC SECURITY ACT - CORONAVIRUS RELIEF FUNDS: The City Manager submitted a written communication recommending acceptance of the Fiscal Year 2021 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act - Coronavirus Relief Funds allocated to state and local governments based on population proportions. (For full text, see communication on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution: (#41836-081720) A RESOLUTION authorizing the acceptance of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) funds from the United States Department of Health and Human Services, which provides financial aid to families and businesses impacted by the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic, authorizing acceptance of the funds, and execution of documents to obtain such funds. (For full text of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 315.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41836- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. Council Member Price offered the following budget ordinance: (#41837-081720) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the United States Treasury for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)- Coronavirus Relief Fund, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 316.) 28 <~ Council Member Price moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41837- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. COMMENTS OF CITY MANAGER: NONE. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: The Roanoke City School Board submitted a written report requesting appropriation of funds for various educational programs; and the City Manager submitted a written report recommending that Council concur in the request. (For full text, see reports on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following budget ordinance: (#41838-081720) AN ORDINANCE to appropriate funding from the Commonwealth, federal and private grant for various educational programs, amending and reordaining certain sections of the 2020 - 2021 School Grant Fund Appropriations, and dispensing with the second reading by title of this ordinance. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 317.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Budget Ordinance No. 41838-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: NONE.  29 INTRODUCTION AND CONSIDERATION OR ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: EQUITY AND EMPOWERMENT ADVISORY BOARD: Council Member Osborne offered the following ordinance to amend the City Code in connection with the newly created Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board: (#41839-081720) AN ORDINANCE amending and reordaining Section 2-305(b)(3), Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board, Division 2, Permanent Committees, Article XIV Authorities, Boards, Commissions and Committees Generally, Chapter 2, Administration, Code of the City of Roanoke (1979), as amended; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 320.) Council Member Osborne moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41839-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Price and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. HONORING DR. RITA D. BISHOP: Council Member Bestpitch offered the following resolution honoring Dr. Rita D. Bishop on the occasion of her retirement as Superintendent of Roanoke City Public Schools: (#41840-081720) A RESOLUTION recognizing the accomplishments of Dr. Rita D. Bishop as Superintendent of Roanoke City Public Schools and congratulating Dr. Bishop on her retirement. (For full test of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 320.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41840-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Price. Mayor Lea praised Dr. Bishop and said she was an exemplary leader and advocate for the children of Roanoke during her tenure as Superintendent. He recalled that Dr. Bishop stood up for what she thought was best for students, calling her a warrior and fighter and credited her for changing Forest Park Elementary School into the Forest Park Academy which has helped increase graduation rates. 30 There being no additional comments from the Council, Resolution No. 41840- 081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Council Member Davis offered the following resolution reappointing William Poe as a Director of the Economic Development Authority for a four-year term of office ending October 20, 2024: (#41841-081720) A RESOLUTION reappointing a Director on the Board of Directors of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Roanoke, Virginia. (For full test of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 324.) Council Member Davis moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41841-081720. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE: Council Member White-Boyd offered the following resolution to amend Resolution No. 41772-070620 establishing a meeting schedule for City Council commencing July 1, 2020, and terminating December 31, 2020: (#41842-081720) A RESOLUTION amending, restating, and reordaining Resolution No. 41772-070620, adopted on July 6, 2020 to amend the schedule of regular meetings of City Council to include the Strategic Planning Meeting for City Council. (For full test of resolution, see Resolution Book No. 81, page 324.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Resolution No. 41842- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Osborne and was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: Non e-O.  31 MOTION AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: INQUIRIES AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF COUNCIL: EQUITY AND EMPOWERMENT ADVISORY BOARD: Council Member Bestpitch recommended Council approve information with regard to the appointment to the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board as it relates to the Interwoven Equity Vision Statement in the 2040 City of Roanoke Comprehensive Plan; and noted information was sent to Council Members for review and approval. The deadline for application to the Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board is September 30, 2020 by 5:00p.m. ROANOKE JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM: Vice-Mayor Cobb praised Patrick Boas, Recreation Manager and the Parks and Recreation Department for the recent Roanoke Junior Ranger Program; participants learned about Roanoke and how to become stewards of its natural resources through a series of activities, challenges, and questions. SCHOOL OPENING: Council Member Price commended the Roanoke City School Board and new Superintendent Verletta White for the courageous and difficult decision with regard to school opening and students' participation in virtual learning for the first nine weeks. VACANCIES ON CERTAIN AUTHORITIES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES APPOINTED BY COUNCIL: NONE. At 4:32 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting conducted by electronic communication means; and thereafter reconvene at 7:00p.m., in the Council Chamber, Room 450, Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building. At 7:00 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened in the 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. Davis, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia L. White-Boyd, William D. Bestpitch and Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr.-7. ABSENT: NONE-0. The Mayor declared the existence of a quorum. 32 OFFICERS PRESENT: Robert S. Cowell, Jr., City Manager; Daniel J. Callaghan, City Attorney; and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. The Invocation was delivered by Council Member William D. Bestpitch. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Mayor Sherman P. Lea, Sr. 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 Davis and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-D. PUBLIC HEARINGS: VACATE, DISCONTINUE AND CLOSE AN ALLEY: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, August 17, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of Mimi G. Young to vacate, discontinue and close an alley in the 1800 block of Westover Avenue, S. W., between Winborne Street, S. W., and Watauga Street, S. W., adjacent to multiple properties along Westover Avenue and 1322 Watauga Street, S. W., the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 and Tuesday, August 4, 2020. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  33 ... The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending the approval of the vacation of right-of-way as requested, contingent upon the following conditions: 1. The applicant shall submit a subdivision plat to the Agent for the Planning Commission, receive all required approvals of, and record the plat with the Clerk of Circuit Court for the City of Roanoke. Such plat shall combine all properties which would otherwise dispose of the land within the right-of-way to be vacated in a manner consistent with law, and retain appropriate easements for the installation and maintenance of any and all existing utilities that may be located within the right-of-way, including the right of ingress and egress. 2. Upon meeting all conditions to the granting of the application, the applicant shall deliver a certified copy of this ordinance for recordation to the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Roanoke, Virginia, indexing the same in the name of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, as Grantor, and in the name of the petitioner, and the names of any other parties in interest who may so request, as Grantees. The applicant shall pay such fees and charges as are required by the Clerk to effect such recordation. 3. Upon recording a certified copy of this ordinance with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of the City of Roanoke, Virginia, the applicant shall file with the Engineer for the City of Roanoke, Virginia, the Clerk's receipt, demonstrating that such recordation has occurred. 4. If the above conditions have not been met within a period of twelve ( 12) months from the date of the adoption of this ordinance, then such ordinance will be null and void with no further action by City Council being necessary, unless extended by the Agent for the Planning Commission for an additional sic (6) months prior to the end of the twelve (12) month period. 5. Authorizes the City Manager to sign the plat required by Condition 1 above that releases the city's interest in the portion of the alley to which the city would otherwise be entitled. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 34 Council Member White-Boyd offered the following ordinance: (#41843-081720) AN ORDINANCE permanently vacating, discontinuing and closing a public right-of-way in the City of Roanoke located on the 1800 block of Westover Avenue, S. W., between Winborne Street, S. W., and Watauga Street, S. W., adjacent to properties at 1801 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1805 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1809 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1815 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1819 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1823 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1829 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1833 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1837 Westover Avenue, S. W., 1322 Watauga Street, S. W., 1742 Memorial Avenue, S. W., and 1312 Winborne Street, S. W., as more particularly described hereinafter; and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 326.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41843- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis. Mimi G. Young, Petitioner, offered remarks in support of the alley vacation. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic platform: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before Council in support of the matter. There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. The City Attorney explained that the proposed Ordinance contained errors with regard to a few of the addresses listed and a motion to amend the Ordinance to correct the errors was appropriate. Council Member Bestpitch offered a motion to correct the scriveners error in the proposed ordinance in connection with properties listed within the ordinance. The motion seconded by Vice-Mayor Cobb and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0.  35 Vice-Mayor Cobb moved the adoption Ordinance No. 41843-081720, as amended. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. STREET CLOSURE BY BARRICADE: Pursuant to Resolution No. 25523 adopted by the Council on Monday, April 6, 1981, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, August 17, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a request of the City of Roanoke for street closure by barricade at Deyerle Road, S. W., between Windsor Road, S. W., along the north and heading southeasterly towards Grandin Road, S. W., for approximately three hundred forty feet, adjacent to 3318 Windsor Road, S. W., 2334 Deyerle Road, S. W., 3305 Grandin Road, S. W., and 2308 Barnhill Lane, S. W., respectively, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 and Tuesday, August 4, 2020. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Planning Commission submitted a written report recommending approval of the closure by barricade as requested, contingent upon the following conditions: 1. The applicant is responsible for all costs associated with such barricade. 2. City Council retains the authority to authorize removal of the barricade. 3. If the above conditions have not been met within a period of twelve (12) months from the date of the adoption of this ordinance, then such ordinance will be null and void with no further action by City Council being necessary, unless extended by the Agent for the Planning Commission for an additional six (6) months prior to the end of the twelve (12) month period. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) 36 Council Member Bestpitch offered the following ordinance: (#41844-081720) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the alteration and closing by barricade of certain public right-of-way located on Deyerle Road, S. W. between Windsor Road, S. W. along the north and heading southeasterly towards Grandin Road, S. W. for approximately three hundred forty feet, adjacent to 3318 Windsor Road, S. W., 2334 Deyerle Road, S. W., 3305 Grandin Road, S. W., and 2308 Barnhill Lane, S. W., in the City of Roanoke, Virginia, as are more particularly described hereinafter, and dispensing with the second reading of this ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 328.) Council Members Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41844- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, the following individual addressed the Council by electronic platform: Barbara Duerk, 2607 Rosalind Avenue, S. W., appeared before Council in - support of closing by barricade of certain public right-of-way located on Deyerle Road, S. W. between Windsor Road, S. W. There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41844-081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. FORMER MELROSE LIBRARY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, August 17, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to convey the Former Melrose Library located at 2607 Salem Turnpike, N. W., consisting of 3.0 acres, to the City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, August 10, 2020. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.)  37 The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of the proposed Contract for Purchase and Sale, including the special warranty deed reserving easements for the Horton Park pedestrian walkway, approved as to form by the City Attorney. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following ordinance: (#41845-081720) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the proper City officials to execute a Contract for Purchase and Sale of Real Property ("Contract") between the City of Roanoke, Virginia ("City"), and the City of Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority ("the Authority"), to sell to the Authority an approximately 3.0 acre parcel of City-owned property located at 2607 Salem Turnpike, N. W., Roanoke, Virginia, designated as Official Tax Map No. 2420206, which parcel consists of City-owned property, upon certain terms and conditions; authorizing the City Manager to execute such further documents and take such further actions as may be necessary to accomplish the above matters; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 330.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41845- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, the following individual addressed the Council by electronic platform: Frederick Gusler, representing Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority, 2624 Salem Turnpike, N. W., appeared before Council in support of the purchase of the Former Melrose Library. There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41845-081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. 38 SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, August 17, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to convey approximately 0.0160 acres located at 0 Church Avenue, S. E., to Upper Church, LLC, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, August 10, 2020. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Manager submitted a written report recommending execution of the proposed Contract including the special warranty deed conveying the Property to Upper Church, LLC, approved as to form by the City Attorney. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following ordinance: (#41846-081720) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents providing for the conveyance of a parcel of City-owned property consisting of 0.0160 acres (697 sq. ft.), more or less, bearing Official Tax Map No. ~ • 4011119, to Upper Church, LLC, a Virginia limited liability company, 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. 81, page 332.) Council Member Bestpitch moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41846-081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Davis. The Mayor inquired if there were persons present who wished to speak on the matter; there being none, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41846-081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0.  39 GENERAL ROBERT E. LEE PLAZA: Pursuant to instructions by the Council, the City Clerk having advertised a public hearing for Monday, August 17, 2020, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, on a proposal of the City of Roanoke to remove the Lee Monument located in General Robert E. Lee Plaza, also known as Lee Plaza, located in the 200 Block of Church Avenue, S. W., in accordance with Section 15.2-1812, Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, the matter was before the body. Legal advertisement of the public hearing was published in The Roanoke Times on Monday, July 13, 2020. (See publisher's affidavit on file in the City Clerk's Office.) The City Manager submitted a written report recommending the adoption of the attached ordinance authorizing the removal of the Lee Monument from Lee Plaza. (For full text, see report on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Council Member White-Boyd offered the following ordinance: (#41847-081720) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the removal of the Lee Monument in Lee Plaza; directing the City Manager to implement the procedures established by the General Assembly to remove the Lee Monument; authorizing the City Manager to administer, implement, and effectuate the provisions of this Ordinance; establishing an effective date; and dispensing with the second reading of this Ordinance by title. (For full text of ordinance, see Ordinance Book No. 81, page 333.) Council Member White-Boyd moved the adoption of Ordinance No. 41847- 081720. The motion seconded by Council Member Bestpitch. The Mayor inquired if there were persons who wished to speak on the matter; whereupon, the following individuals addressed the Council by electronic platform regarding the removal of the Lee Monument: The City Attorney read emails, in their entirety, from James Matthew and John Woolwine, in opposition of the removal of the Lee Monument, located in Lee Plaza. Liniel Gregory, 200 The Glebe Boulevard #5044, Daleville, Virginia, spoke in opposition of the removal of the Lee Monument and was concerned that the new law could lead to not only Confederate statues being removed, but possibly monuments to other American wars. 40 '" Dr. G. S. Rosenthal, 829 Ferdinand Avenue, S. W., spoke in support of the removal of the Lee Monument. William Drewery, 4347-B Garst Mill Road, S. W., spoke in opposition of the removal of the Lee Monument. Charlie Nave, 1225 Third Street, S. W., spoke in opposition of the removal of the Lee Monument. Brenda Hale, P. 0. Box 12362, Roanoke, spoke in support of the removal of the Lee Monument and stated one must learn from history never to repeat the horrors of suffering of one group of people again and that the statue did not include the service of African American veterans and all veterans. There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. Council Member Bestpitch shared in-depth comments with regard to the Lee memorial and said that the Council would have taken action following the deadly protest in Charlottesville three years ago had state law at the time not prohibited it. He said the Lee memorial erected by the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1960, was more a remnant of Jim Crow policies than a monument to Southern valor and was the history of .._ 1960. (For full text, see written remarks on file in the City Clerk's Office). Following additional remarks by Vice-Mayor Cobb and Council Member White-Boyd, Mayor Lea commended the Council for abiding by the law to remove the memorial and for carrying out the process legally. The City Attorney advised that for at least 30 days the City must entertain offers from museums, historical societies or battlefields that may want the memorial. There being no further speakers, the Mayor declared the public hearing closed. There being no comments and/or questions by the Council Members, Ordinance No. 41847-081720 was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Member Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. HEARING OF CITIZENS UPON PUBLIC MATTERS: NONE.  41 At 8:26 p.m., the Mayor declared the Council meeting in recess until Thursday, August 27, 2020, at 1:00 p.m., at Charter Hall, 32 Market Square, S. W., for a Council Strategic Planning Work Session. The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Thursday, August 27, 2020 at 1:00 p.m., at Charter Hall, 32 Market Square, S. E., with Mayor Lea presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Dykstra, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price (arrived late), Patricia L. White-Boyd, 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; Troy A. Harmon, Municipal Auditor, and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. OTHERS PRESENT: Sherman M. Stovall, Deputy City Manager; W. Brent Robertson, Assistant City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer, Senior Assistant City Attorney; Tiffany T. Bradbury, Community Engagement Manager; and Cecelia T. Webb; Deputy City Clerk. Mayor Lea remarked that the purpose of the recessed meeting was to discuss items and provide feedback to the City Manager. Mayor Lea announced that the City Manager has called a special meeting for Friday, August 28th at 4:00 p.m. at Charter Hall for the Council to (I) consider adoption of measures to provide hazard pay to certain public safety employees; and (II) consider the adoption of measures to provide bonuses to other employees; and the Mayor has called a special meeting for Monday, August 31, at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber to interview candidates for the position of City Attorney. The City Manager gave a brief overview of the objectives, update process, retreat conduct, and highlighted the efforts of each Council Member with regard to the series of focus group meetings comprised of city residents, business owners, and senior City staff related to the seven Strategic Priorities. He commended each Council Member for hosting the focus groups and identifying key points of emphasis and concern. 42 City Department Directors gave an overview of their department as it related to the City's vision and strategic areas of importance: Community Safety Sam Roman, Chief of Police David Hoback, Chief of Fire/EMS Education Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries During the overview (2:03p.m.), Council Member Price entered the meeting. Human Services Steve Martin, Director of Human Services/Social Services Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries Infrastructure Vanessa Bohr, Director of Technology Mark Jamison, Director of Public Works - Good Government Amelia Merchant, Director of Finance Angelia Vernon, Director of Human Resources Livability Chris Chittum, Director of Planning, Building, and Development Michael Clark, Director of Parks and Recreation Economy Rob Ledger, Director of Economic Development Brian Mann, Executive Administrator, Park Roanoke and Executive Director, Hotel Roanoke Conference Center Commission (See presentation on file in the City Clerk's Office.) Following the overview, the City Manager provided a description of the agenda for the August 28, 2020 workshop discussion. There being no additional comments by the Council, Mayor Lea recessed the meeting at 5:18p.m.  43 The Recessed Meeting of Roanoke City Council was called to order on Friday, August 28, 2020 at 9:00a.m., at Charter Hall, 32 Market Square, S. E., with Mayor Lea presiding. PRESENT: Council Members Joseph L. Cobb, Michelle L. Dykstra, Djuna L. Osborne, Anita J. Price, Patricia L. White-Boyd, 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; Troy A. Harmon, Municipal Auditor and Cecelia F. McCoy, City Clerk. OTHERS PRESENT: Sherman M. Stovall, Deputy City Manager; W. Brent Robertson, Assistant City Manager; Timothy R. Spencer, Senior Assistant City Attorney; Laura M. Carini, Assistant City Attorney II; Amelia C. Merchant; Director of Finance, Tiffany T. Bradbury, Community Engagement Manager; and Leisha S. Cook, Administrative Assistant IV. Mayor Lea remarked that the purpose of the recessed meeting is to continue discussing Strategic Plan and provide feedback to the City Manager. Mayor Lea advised that the City Manager has submitted a communication requesting that Council convene in a Closed Meeting to discuss the disposition of City- owned property and/or the acquisition of real property by the City, where discussions 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. Council Member Davis 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, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. 44 The City Manager briefed the Council on the purpose of the Strategic Plan and update process. He underscored the following considerations: • WHY ~ Vision, Mission • WHAT ~ Goals • HOW ~ Strategies, Values • WHAT ~ Tactics, Actions • HOW DID WE DO ~ Outcomes He reminded the Council of the vision statement: 'The City of Roanoke is a safe, caring and economically vibrant community in which to live, learn, work, play, and prosper. A vibrant urban center with strong neighborhoods set amongst the spectacular beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge"; and asked if Council Members were comfortable with the vision related to emphasis on equity. He highlighted the following considerations: EQUITY TOOL: • What Are The Racial/Economic Impacts • Who Will BenefiUBe Burdened • Accessible Regardless of Ability/Status • Help Build Just, Equitable, Sustainable Future • Mitigation of Unintended Negative Consequences At 10:34 a.m., Mayor Lea left the meeting. Council Members made comments with regard to the seven areas of strategic importance including the use of the "equity" in the City's vision statement, focusing on the use of eco-systems for minority businesses and programs, entrepreneurial development, enterprise zone opportunities, livability for seniors, creation of sustainable neighborhoods, financial planning support for small businesses, recycling reconsideration, youth athletics, transportation necessities, review effectiveness of Boards and Commissions, and community engagement and leadership academy. At 11:47 a.m., Mayor Lea entered the meeting. At 12:19 p.m., Mayor Lea declared the Council Meeting in recess for a Closed Meeting; and thereafter reconvened at 1:49 p.m., in Charter Hall, 32 Market Square, S. E.  45 CERTIFICATION OF CLOSED MEETING: With respect to the Closed Meeting just concluded, 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 seconded by Council Member Price and adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Cobb, Davis, Osborne, Price, White-Boyd, Bestpitch and Mayor Lea-7. NAYS: None-0. The City Manager continued dialogue with regard to the areas of strategic importance with City Council Members proposing additional areas of concentration such as focus on community safety concerns with the Sheriff's Office and the Roanoke City Jail; Police Department involvement in mental health calls for service, traffic enforcement by zone, officer initiated incidences, and accessibility to human services and School Resource Officers' effectiveness. Additional areas of significance were the City's poverty rates, sidewalk and street paving schedules, internet and broadband access for citizens, area college recruitment, partnerships with Roanoke City Public Schools such as internships, summer employment, and apprenticeship programs. Mr. Cowell advised he would revisit all recommendations and prepare for the budget proposal to be presented next spring to the existing Council Members and the perspective new Council Members that will be elected on November 3, 2020, and will begin serving on January 1, 2021. He concluded the meeting expressing thanks to the City Council Members for their participation and feedback. There being no additional comments by the Council, Mayor Lea adjourned the recessed meeting at 3:48p.m. APPROVED ATTEST: (}_~J.~ Cecelia F. McCoy, CMC City Clerk Mayor