Video index
Call to Order
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
1. Invocation - Rev. Reginald C. Woodhouse First Baptist Church Jefferson Park
The invocation was rendered by Reverend Reginald C. Woodhouse, First Baptist Church Jefferson Park.
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Councilwoman Patricia P. Woodbury.
3. Public Hearing
(a) Addendum to Lease Agreement between York County and the City for Recreation Site AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATEST, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, THAT CERTAIN ADDENDUM TWO TO AGREEMENT OF LEASE FOR CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF A PUBLIC PARK BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, AND THE COUNTY OF YORK, VIRGINIA, DATED THE 10TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009. This ordinance authorized the City Manager to execute Addendum Two, to the lease of City-owned property, which granted York County the right to construct and operate a public park. On April 26, 2005, City Council approved a lease agreement of City-owned property in York County for construction of a public park, known as the Sports Field Complex. The City agreed to revise the lease on November 28, 2006, to remove the provision for “Additional Rent.” Addendum Two revised Condition #3 of the agreement by deleting the provision for “Additional Rent” and included a clarification of rent computation. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to closure of the public hearing 3. Public Hearing Moved by Whitaker, seconded by McMillan.
Vote to closure of the public hearing 3. Public Hearing (Approved)
Motion to adoption of the ordinance 3. Public Hearing Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the ordinance 3. Public Hearing (Approved)
4. Consent Agenda
A. Minutes of the Work Session of January 27, 2009
B. Minutes of the Special Meeting of January 27, 2009
C. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 27, 2009
D. Resolution Supporting Removal of Ships from James River Reserve Fleet
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, ENCOURAGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO ADOPT REGISLATION AND TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS JAMES RIVER RESERVE FEET AND TO ENCOURAGE OTHER AFFECTIVED VIRGINIA LOCALITIES TO TAKE A SIMILAR ACTION. This resolution encouraged the United States Congress to adopt legislation and to appropriate funds for the removal of the environmentally-hazardous James River Reserve Fleet, and to encourage other affected Virginia localities to take a similar action. The James River Reserve Fleet, also known as the Ghost Fleet, is moored in the river near Fort Eustis. The Fleet of approximately 97 ships holes 7.7 million gallons of oils and fuels, and poses a serious and increasing environmental threat to the Hampton Roads region.
Motion to adoption of consent agenda 4. Consent Agenda Moved by Vick, seconded by Whitaker.
Vote to adoption of consent agenda 4. Consent Agenda (Approved)
5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy
A RESOLUTION FOR WITHDRAWAL FROM THE HAMPTON ROADS CRIMINAL JUSTICE TRAINING ACADEMY. This resolution authorized the City Manager to execute all documents necessary to effectuate and implement the City’s withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy (JRCJTA). The Police Department established itself as a satellite academy of the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy in July 2005. This resolution supported the Department’s desire to establish itself as an independent, locally-funded training academy for its personnel. To become an independent academy, the following actions were required: approval by the Board of Directors of the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy, and approval by the Virginia General Assembly and Department of Criminal Justice Services. The City paid $81,000 per year as the Police Department’s portion of the HRCJTA payment. After withdrawal, the City would pay $47,952 in FY 2010; $31, 968 in FY 2011; and $15,984 in FY 2012. The Police Department did not expect the creation of the independent academy to require any increase in funding or staffing. The Chief of Police strongly recommended this action, as outlined in his memorandum of January 5, 2009, attached and made a part of these minutes. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of the resolution 5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy Moved by McMillan, seconded by Whitaker.
Vote to adoption of the resolution 5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy (Approved)
6. Waterworks’ Property Acquisition at Skiffe’s Creek Reservoir - 9390 Pocahontas Trail, James City County
A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM PUBLIC UTILITIES LAND FUND ($247,500.00) TO PUBLIC UTILITIES LAND ($247,500.00). This resolution appropriated $247,500 from the Waterworks’ Land Fund to acquire a 7.17+ acre parcel, located at 9390 Pocahontas Trail, in James City County. Health-E-Community Enterprises of Virginia, Inc. originally proposed a mixed use development, on three parcels adjacent to Skiffe’s Creek Reservoir. Waterworks negotiated to purchase one of the three parcels, were a gas station/convenience store or restaurant was planned. James City County did not have a reservoir protection overlay; therefore, purchase of this land would provide water quality protection to the reservoir. Funds in the amount of $247,500.00 were available to be appropriated from the Waterworks’ Land Fund Account. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of the resolution A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500 Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the resolution A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500 (Approved)
B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATTEST, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, THAT CERTAIN REAL ESTATE PURCHASE CONTRACT, AND ALL OTHER AGREEMENTS, DOCUMENTS AND NOTES RELATED TO THAT REAL ESTATE PURCHASE, BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, AND HEALTH-E-COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES OF VIRGINI, INC., DATED THE 10TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009. This ordinance authorized the City Manager to execute that certain real estate purchase contract, and all other agreements, documents and notes related to the acquisition of 9390 Pocahontas Trail, between the City of Newport News and Health-E-Community Enterprises of Virginia, Inc.
Motion to adoption of the ordinance B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the ordinance B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract (Approved)
7. Appropriations
A. Libraries and Information Services - VA Foundation for the Humanities Grant - $6,500; No Local Match Required
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM STATE REVENUE ($6,500.00) TO CONTRACTUAL SERVICES ($6,500.00). This resolution appropriated $6,500.00 from the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities to the Department of Libraries and Information Services. The Foundation awarded a grant in the amount of $6,500.00 to the Newport News Public Library System. The monies allowed for establishment of an exhibit which chronicled the development of the City of Newport News through the Old Dominion Land Company records. The online exhibit would make the story of Newport News readily available to thousands of people, including students, scholars, citizens, community leaders and historians. No future financial or operational responsibilities were required for this grant. The City Manager recommended approval.
B. Police Department/Sheriff's Department - Bulletproof Vest Grant - $7,142; No Local Match Required
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM FEDERAL REVENUE ($7,142.00) TO SPECIALIZED POLICE SUPPLIES ($7,142.00). This resolution appropriated funds from the Department of Justice to the Police and Sheriff’s Departments. The Police Department received a federal grant to purchase bulletproof vests. The grant had historically been shared between the Police Department and Sheriff’s Department. Of the $7,142.00 grant award, the Police Department would receive $5,071.00 and the Sheriff’s Department would receive $2,071.00. Each department purchased vests on an annual basis. Localities were reimbursed up to 50% for the cost of each vest purchased under the grant by the Department of Justice. No local grant match was required. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of appropriation 7. Appropriations Moved by Whitaker, seconded by McMillan.
Vote to adoption of appropriation 7. Appropriations (Approved)
8. Citizen Comments on Matters Germane to the Business of City Council
Mr. William Pelkey, 556 H Loch Ness Drive, NN, RETRO recent letter of recommendation. Requested real estate tax revenue be held to the same amount collected last year. Asking rate be adjusted to accommodate assessment. Appreciate Economic Summit being hosted. Disappointed that summit being held during time when most citizens would be at work. More prudent if done at time when more citizens could come out. Most want dialogue with the City. Take this into consideration, being more open to needs of the citizens. Glad to see expenditure cuts implemented by CM is helping with balancing the budget. Asked to make some of these changes more permanent.
Mr. John Gergely, 449 Winterhaven Drive, NN, re Zoning Map Oyster Point Existing Land Use, who authorized this? Is this a what if study? Does the Jewish Community Center know there are proposed changes?
Mr. Stephen Pincus, 120 Leslie Lane, Yorktown, addressed general concerns re changes to the Retirement System. Still have concerns, specifically re life insurance and OPEB benefits. Question the lack of involvement for lower level employees. Have duty to be good stewards of taxpayers money. Request a deeper level of participation. NNFD employees will collect information/data. Will submit specific concerns and suggestions for alternatives. Want Council to be aware that they have kept their end of the bargain, putting themselves in harms way to keep the City safe.
City Manager addressed comments made by Mr. Pincus. Proposal was submitted to all employees. A number of meetings were held to listen to comments. Tried to seek considerable amount of employee input. The process continues. City Council has heard from a number of employees and is considering those concerns, suggestions, and recommendations. Believe the process has not been done behind closed doors. It is a complex issue, will be difficult to reach a solution. Believe opportunities
Mr. John Procyson, 305 Normandy Lane, NN, addressed real estate tax rate. Recession did what RETRO had been pleading City to do in 3 years.
Do not increase tax rate, continue to reduce none-essential services, maintain hiring freeze, Do away with EDA; People to People wrote a twisted article in Sunday 2/8/09 edition of the Daily Press. They attacked the North District Community Center. This project had been delayed so many times. Commended Tina Vick for doing her homework. City is spending enough money now.
Ms. Carol Hogge, 3 Gay Drive, NN, addressed Council on Deep Creek Pier. Bonnie Belle Meltzer gave access to the land and to the Pier. Meant to be forever. Advocated replacing the Pier.
Reverend Norman Cunningham, on behalf of SCLC, thanked Mayor Frank for leadership and for serving as Honorary Chair. Thanked Vice Mayor Whitaker for hosting MLK Banquet. Thanked Tina Vick for Feeding 1,000 Holiday Feast. Thanked Madeline McMillan for hosting afternoon with the Tuskegee Airmen on 2/21/09. Thanked Bert Bateman for service as Honorary Chair of MLK Presidential Reception. Thanked Dr. Woodbury for serving as Media Relations Director informing public about works of Dr. MLK, Jr. and his organization. Thanked all members of Council for their ongoing support of the SCLC.
Mr. Andrew Shannon, SCLC, made presentation to members of City Council. Congratulated Mabel on her recent nuptials. Offered condolences to Mr. & Mrs. John McMillan in the loss of their loved one. Special note of thanks to all members of Council who participated in their events. Paid homage to some of the SCLC members, Hampton Roads Academy students, Mr. James Stanley, band director of Phoebus High School for their ongoing support. SCLC believes in service and civil rights. Thanked the community. Summarized the "4 bones": wish bones, jaw bones, knuckle bones, and the back bones.
*9. New Business and Councilmember Comments
Dr. Woodbury thanked cits for attending her Town Meeting, hosted with Betty Dixon. Hosting another on the first Monday night in March. Thanked citzs for attendance and participation at tonight’s meeting. Condolences to John McMillan on loss of his mother. Re Economic Summit, encouraged people to sign up.
Councilman Bateman, expressed condolences to Mr. & Mrs. McMillan on their loss. Thanked citzs for attendance and participation. Requested that the Summit also be streamed on-line. Addressing Mr. Pincus’ remarks,
Mayor Frank expressed condolences to the McMillan’s on their loss. Re Economic Summit, scheduled for 3//9/09, 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.. Governor Kaine was invited. Professor from Old Dominion would be present. Would be televised and re-broadcast, streamed on web site, hoped everyone would attend. Council did annual evaluation of Stuart Katz, City Attorney, pleased by his efforts. 3 % salary increase given.
Motion to adoption of the resolution *9. New Business and Councilmember Comments Moved by Whitaker, no second required.
Vote to adoption of the resolution *9. New Business and Councilmember Comments (Approved)
3% salary increase given to City Attorney Katz.
Councilwoman McMillan thanked SCLC, thanked members of Council for their condolences. Hosting an event with SCLC Feb. 21, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. event with the Tuskegee Airman. Extended best wishes for a speedy recovery to Ms. Darcy Terry
Councilwoman Scott offered condolences to the McMillans. Thanked City Attorney for his briefs. Announced next Town Hall Meeting scheduled for 2/23/09 at American Legion Post 368 at 7 p.m.
Councilwoman Vick extended condolences to the McMillans. Thanked Andrew Shannon and the SCLC. Expressed condolence to Euna Harris on the passing of her husband Mr. Sing Harris.
Vice Mayor Whitaker extended condolences to the McMillans. Wanted all Council districts to be working together, with each other. Felt Council could work together. Commended the SCLC for their work, which brought people together without violence.
Mayor Frank commended the SCLC for its work and accomplishments.
Adjournment
Feb 10, 2009 Regular City Council Meeting
Full agenda
Share this video
Video Index
Full agenda
Share
Call to Order
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
Roll call (7 Present, 0 Absent, 0 Excused)
1. Invocation - Rev. Reginald C. Woodhouse First Baptist Church Jefferson Park
The invocation was rendered by Reverend Reginald C. Woodhouse, First Baptist Church Jefferson Park.
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America was led by Councilwoman Patricia P. Woodbury.
3. Public Hearing
(a) Addendum to Lease Agreement between York County and the City for Recreation Site AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATEST, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, THAT CERTAIN ADDENDUM TWO TO AGREEMENT OF LEASE FOR CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF A PUBLIC PARK BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, AND THE COUNTY OF YORK, VIRGINIA, DATED THE 10TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009. This ordinance authorized the City Manager to execute Addendum Two, to the lease of City-owned property, which granted York County the right to construct and operate a public park. On April 26, 2005, City Council approved a lease agreement of City-owned property in York County for construction of a public park, known as the Sports Field Complex. The City agreed to revise the lease on November 28, 2006, to remove the provision for “Additional Rent.” Addendum Two revised Condition #3 of the agreement by deleting the provision for “Additional Rent” and included a clarification of rent computation. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to closure of the public hearing 3. Public Hearing Moved by Whitaker, seconded by McMillan.
Vote to closure of the public hearing 3. Public Hearing (Approved)
Motion to adoption of the ordinance 3. Public Hearing Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the ordinance 3. Public Hearing (Approved)
4. Consent Agenda
A. Minutes of the Work Session of January 27, 2009
B. Minutes of the Special Meeting of January 27, 2009
C. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 27, 2009
D. Resolution Supporting Removal of Ships from James River Reserve Fleet
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, ENCOURAGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO ADOPT REGISLATION AND TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS JAMES RIVER RESERVE FEET AND TO ENCOURAGE OTHER AFFECTIVED VIRGINIA LOCALITIES TO TAKE A SIMILAR ACTION. This resolution encouraged the United States Congress to adopt legislation and to appropriate funds for the removal of the environmentally-hazardous James River Reserve Fleet, and to encourage other affected Virginia localities to take a similar action. The James River Reserve Fleet, also known as the Ghost Fleet, is moored in the river near Fort Eustis. The Fleet of approximately 97 ships holes 7.7 million gallons of oils and fuels, and poses a serious and increasing environmental threat to the Hampton Roads region.
Motion to adoption of consent agenda 4. Consent Agenda Moved by Vick, seconded by Whitaker.
Vote to adoption of consent agenda 4. Consent Agenda (Approved)
5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy
A RESOLUTION FOR WITHDRAWAL FROM THE HAMPTON ROADS CRIMINAL JUSTICE TRAINING ACADEMY. This resolution authorized the City Manager to execute all documents necessary to effectuate and implement the City’s withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy (JRCJTA). The Police Department established itself as a satellite academy of the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy in July 2005. This resolution supported the Department’s desire to establish itself as an independent, locally-funded training academy for its personnel. To become an independent academy, the following actions were required: approval by the Board of Directors of the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy, and approval by the Virginia General Assembly and Department of Criminal Justice Services. The City paid $81,000 per year as the Police Department’s portion of the HRCJTA payment. After withdrawal, the City would pay $47,952 in FY 2010; $31, 968 in FY 2011; and $15,984 in FY 2012. The Police Department did not expect the creation of the independent academy to require any increase in funding or staffing. The Chief of Police strongly recommended this action, as outlined in his memorandum of January 5, 2009, attached and made a part of these minutes. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of the resolution 5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy Moved by McMillan, seconded by Whitaker.
Vote to adoption of the resolution 5. City’s Withdrawal from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy (Approved)
6. Waterworks’ Property Acquisition at Skiffe’s Creek Reservoir - 9390 Pocahontas Trail, James City County
A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM PUBLIC UTILITIES LAND FUND ($247,500.00) TO PUBLIC UTILITIES LAND ($247,500.00). This resolution appropriated $247,500 from the Waterworks’ Land Fund to acquire a 7.17+ acre parcel, located at 9390 Pocahontas Trail, in James City County. Health-E-Community Enterprises of Virginia, Inc. originally proposed a mixed use development, on three parcels adjacent to Skiffe’s Creek Reservoir. Waterworks negotiated to purchase one of the three parcels, were a gas station/convenience store or restaurant was planned. James City County did not have a reservoir protection overlay; therefore, purchase of this land would provide water quality protection to the reservoir. Funds in the amount of $247,500.00 were available to be appropriated from the Waterworks’ Land Fund Account. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of the resolution A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500 Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the resolution A. Appropriation Resolution - $247,500 (Approved)
B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATTEST, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, THAT CERTAIN REAL ESTATE PURCHASE CONTRACT, AND ALL OTHER AGREEMENTS, DOCUMENTS AND NOTES RELATED TO THAT REAL ESTATE PURCHASE, BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, AND HEALTH-E-COMMUNITY ENTERPRISES OF VIRGINI, INC., DATED THE 10TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009. This ordinance authorized the City Manager to execute that certain real estate purchase contract, and all other agreements, documents and notes related to the acquisition of 9390 Pocahontas Trail, between the City of Newport News and Health-E-Community Enterprises of Virginia, Inc.
Motion to adoption of the ordinance B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract Moved by Whitaker, seconded by Vick.
Vote to adoption of the ordinance B. Ordinance Authorizing Execution of Contract (Approved)
7. Appropriations
A. Libraries and Information Services - VA Foundation for the Humanities Grant - $6,500; No Local Match Required
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM STATE REVENUE ($6,500.00) TO CONTRACTUAL SERVICES ($6,500.00). This resolution appropriated $6,500.00 from the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities to the Department of Libraries and Information Services. The Foundation awarded a grant in the amount of $6,500.00 to the Newport News Public Library System. The monies allowed for establishment of an exhibit which chronicled the development of the City of Newport News through the Old Dominion Land Company records. The online exhibit would make the story of Newport News readily available to thousands of people, including students, scholars, citizens, community leaders and historians. No future financial or operational responsibilities were required for this grant. The City Manager recommended approval.
B. Police Department/Sheriff's Department - Bulletproof Vest Grant - $7,142; No Local Match Required
A RESOLUTION APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM FEDERAL REVENUE ($7,142.00) TO SPECIALIZED POLICE SUPPLIES ($7,142.00). This resolution appropriated funds from the Department of Justice to the Police and Sheriff’s Departments. The Police Department received a federal grant to purchase bulletproof vests. The grant had historically been shared between the Police Department and Sheriff’s Department. Of the $7,142.00 grant award, the Police Department would receive $5,071.00 and the Sheriff’s Department would receive $2,071.00. Each department purchased vests on an annual basis. Localities were reimbursed up to 50% for the cost of each vest purchased under the grant by the Department of Justice. No local grant match was required. The City Manager recommended approval.
Motion to adoption of appropriation 7. Appropriations Moved by Whitaker, seconded by McMillan.
Vote to adoption of appropriation 7. Appropriations (Approved)
8. Citizen Comments on Matters Germane to the Business of City Council
Mr. William Pelkey, 556 H Loch Ness Drive, NN, RETRO recent letter of recommendation. Requested real estate tax revenue be held to the same amount collected last year. Asking rate be adjusted to accommodate assessment. Appreciate Economic Summit being hosted. Disappointed that summit being held during time when most citizens would be at work. More prudent if done at time when more citizens could come out. Most want dialogue with the City. Take this into consideration, being more open to needs of the citizens. Glad to see expenditure cuts implemented by CM is helping with balancing the budget. Asked to make some of these changes more permanent.
Mr. John Gergely, 449 Winterhaven Drive, NN, re Zoning Map Oyster Point Existing Land Use, who authorized this? Is this a what if study? Does the Jewish Community Center know there are proposed changes?
Mr. Stephen Pincus, 120 Leslie Lane, Yorktown, addressed general concerns re changes to the Retirement System. Still have concerns, specifically re life insurance and OPEB benefits. Question the lack of involvement for lower level employees. Have duty to be good stewards of taxpayers money. Request a deeper level of participation. NNFD employees will collect information/data. Will submit specific concerns and suggestions for alternatives. Want Council to be aware that they have kept their end of the bargain, putting themselves in harms way to keep the City safe.
City Manager addressed comments made by Mr. Pincus. Proposal was submitted to all employees. A number of meetings were held to listen to comments. Tried to seek considerable amount of employee input. The process continues. City Council has heard from a number of employees and is considering those concerns, suggestions, and recommendations. Believe the process has not been done behind closed doors. It is a complex issue, will be difficult to reach a solution. Believe opportunities
Mr. John Procyson, 305 Normandy Lane, NN, addressed real estate tax rate. Recession did what RETRO had been pleading City to do in 3 years.
Do not increase tax rate, continue to reduce none-essential services, maintain hiring freeze, Do away with EDA; People to People wrote a twisted article in Sunday 2/8/09 edition of the Daily Press. They attacked the North District Community Center. This project had been delayed so many times. Commended Tina Vick for doing her homework. City is spending enough money now.
Ms. Carol Hogge, 3 Gay Drive, NN, addressed Council on Deep Creek Pier. Bonnie Belle Meltzer gave access to the land and to the Pier. Meant to be forever. Advocated replacing the Pier.
Reverend Norman Cunningham, on behalf of SCLC, thanked Mayor Frank for leadership and for serving as Honorary Chair. Thanked Vice Mayor Whitaker for hosting MLK Banquet. Thanked Tina Vick for Feeding 1,000 Holiday Feast. Thanked Madeline McMillan for hosting afternoon with the Tuskegee Airmen on 2/21/09. Thanked Bert Bateman for service as Honorary Chair of MLK Presidential Reception. Thanked Dr. Woodbury for serving as Media Relations Director informing public about works of Dr. MLK, Jr. and his organization. Thanked all members of Council for their ongoing support of the SCLC.
Mr. Andrew Shannon, SCLC, made presentation to members of City Council. Congratulated Mabel on her recent nuptials. Offered condolences to Mr. & Mrs. John McMillan in the loss of their loved one. Special note of thanks to all members of Council who participated in their events. Paid homage to some of the SCLC members, Hampton Roads Academy students, Mr. James Stanley, band director of Phoebus High School for their ongoing support. SCLC believes in service and civil rights. Thanked the community. Summarized the "4 bones": wish bones, jaw bones, knuckle bones, and the back bones.
*9. New Business and Councilmember Comments
Dr. Woodbury thanked cits for attending her Town Meeting, hosted with Betty Dixon. Hosting another on the first Monday night in March. Thanked citzs for attendance and participation at tonight’s meeting. Condolences to John McMillan on loss of his mother. Re Economic Summit, encouraged people to sign up.
Councilman Bateman, expressed condolences to Mr. & Mrs. McMillan on their loss. Thanked citzs for attendance and participation. Requested that the Summit also be streamed on-line. Addressing Mr. Pincus’ remarks,
Mayor Frank expressed condolences to the McMillan’s on their loss. Re Economic Summit, scheduled for 3//9/09, 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.. Governor Kaine was invited. Professor from Old Dominion would be present. Would be televised and re-broadcast, streamed on web site, hoped everyone would attend. Council did annual evaluation of Stuart Katz, City Attorney, pleased by his efforts. 3 % salary increase given.
Motion to adoption of the resolution *9. New Business and Councilmember Comments Moved by Whitaker, no second required.
Vote to adoption of the resolution *9. New Business and Councilmember Comments (Approved)
3% salary increase given to City Attorney Katz.
Councilwoman McMillan thanked SCLC, thanked members of Council for their condolences. Hosting an event with SCLC Feb. 21, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. event with the Tuskegee Airman. Extended best wishes for a speedy recovery to Ms. Darcy Terry
Councilwoman Scott offered condolences to the McMillans. Thanked City Attorney for his briefs. Announced next Town Hall Meeting scheduled for 2/23/09 at American Legion Post 368 at 7 p.m.
Councilwoman Vick extended condolences to the McMillans. Thanked Andrew Shannon and the SCLC. Expressed condolence to Euna Harris on the passing of her husband Mr. Sing Harris.
Vice Mayor Whitaker extended condolences to the McMillans. Wanted all Council districts to be working together, with each other. Felt Council could work together. Commended the SCLC for their work, which brought people together without violence.
Mayor Frank commended the SCLC for its work and accomplishments.
Adjournment
Link
Start video at
Social
Embed
<iframe title="Swagit Video Player" width="640" height="360" src="http://newportnewsva.new.swagit.com/videos/36720/embed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Disable autoplay on embedded content?
Download
Download
Download Selected Item