52- June 15, 2020 Regular Meeting TOWN OF ABINGDON REGULAR MEETING MONDAY,JUNE15; 2020 -6:301 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS-MUNICIPAL BUILDING A regular meeting/budget work session of the Abingdon Town Council was held on Monday, June 15, 2020 at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers, Municipal Building. A. WELCOME- Mayor Craig B. ROLL CALL - Kimberly Kingsley, Clerk Members ofC Council Present: Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Mr. Bradley C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Donna Quetsch, Council Member D. APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Mayor Craig (VIDEO 6:00-6:25) On motion by Mr. Webb, seconded by Mrs. Quetsch, approved the agenda as presented. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye Aye Nay Aye E. PUBLIC COMMENTS - Please place your name on the sign-up sheet provided and comments are limited to three (3) minutes per person. (VIDE06:26-9.30) Katy Brown, Barter Theatre May 18, 2020 Regular Meeting F. APPROVAL OF MINUTES (VIDE09:32-10:05) On motion by Mayor Craig, seconded by Mr. Webb, Council approved the May 18, 2020 regular meeting minutes as presented. -53- June 15, 2020 Regular Meeting The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye Aye Aye Aye G. PETITIONS AND PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. PUBLIC HEARING - A proposed right of way and easement for an electric power line(s) to. Appalachian Power Company, a Virginia corporation, on property known as "Fairview Farm and Foundation", located at or near 908 Hillman Highway, consisting of421 feet, more or less. - John Dew, Director of Public Works (VIDEO 10:07 - John Dew, Director of Public Works, advised Council that Appalachian Power Company has requested laright ofway and easement ont the "Fairview" site. Mr. Dew stated that Appalachian Power Company proposed aj parallel line to the existing line to improve reliability to better serve 17:03) East Abingdon and the request comes with an easement over Town's property. Mayor Craig declared the public hearing open. Dell Jones spoke on behalf of the Old Glade Antique Tractor Association regarding the placement of the electric power line(s) as Fairview has a historic significance. Mr. Jones further stated that the Association feels that the proposed area is a prime building location for a country- style store. Counsel Cameron Bell addressed Council with regard to the location of the proposed line was solely on Town owned property. Discussion ensued regarding the location with Ms. Patterson's requesting that the Town use due diligence to show Old Glade Antique Tractor Association where the right of way and easement will be located. On motion by Mayor Craig, seconded by Ms. Patterson, tabled this matter until the next meeting. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye Aye Aye Aye 54- June 15, 2020 Regular Meeting 2. PUBLIC HEARING - An proposed zoning text amendment to amend The Code of the Town of Abingdon, Appendix B - Zoning Ordinance, Article 8. OH Old and Historic District, Section 8-2. - Permitted uses - By Right, Subsection 8-2-4. -. Jason Jason Boswell, Director of Planning, advised Council that the proposed zoning text amendment pertaining to Article 8. OH Old and Historic District, Subsection 8-2-4 was referred from Town Council to the Planning Commission at the February 19, 2020 work session. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on June 1, 2020 and approved the proposed changes that would allow: restaurants in existing buildings or portions ofe existing buildings as permitted use by right. Mr. Boswell stated that this area includes Pecan along Main to Tanner Street to Plumb Alley. Mr. Bradley questioned whether this area included Rain Restaurant, with Mr. Boswell Boswell, Director of Planning (VIDEO 17:12-29:59) affirmatively confirming. Mayor Craig declared the public hearing open. Doug Ellis, 485 Court Street, Abingdon, Virginia addressed the Council regarding inconsistencies in the Code and urged Council to consider amendments across the board and understand the importance of proposed changes. Hearing no additional comments, Mayor Craig declared the public hearing closed. Council Mayor Craig questioned whether the proposal should be rejected. Hearing no objections, 3. PUBLIC: HEARING - Aj proposed zoning text amendment to amend The Code oft the Town of Abingdon, Appendix B - Zoning Ordinance, Article 8. OH Old and Historic District, Section 8-2. - Permitted uses - By Right, Subsection 8-2-13.- Jason Boswell, Jason Boswell, Director of Planning, advised Council that the proposed zoning text amendment pertaining to Article 8. OH Old and Historic District, Subsection 8-2-13 was referred from Town Council to the Planning Commission at the February 19, 2020 work session. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on June 1, 2020 and approved the proposed changes that would allow lofts in existing buildings or portions of existing buildings as approved use by rights in Old and Historic District specifically designated and located in the Old and Historic District Map, which encompasses the Arts Depot, the train depot, Momma Mia's, and the Old discussion ensued. the matter will move to a second reading. Director of Planning (VIDEO: 30:10-32:04) Abingdon Hotel/Abingdon Mercantile. Craig declared the public hearing closed. Mayor Craig declared the public hearing open. Hearing no additional comments, Mayor 55- June 15,2020 Regular Meeting Mayor Craig questioned whether the proposal should be rejected. Hearing no objections, the matter will move to a second reading. H. CONSIDERATION OF ANY BIDS . REPORTS FROM' THE TOWN MANAGER (VIDE032:30-43:38) Town Manager James Morani announced that Jon Holbrook has been appointed as thej permanent ChiefofPolice, stating that hei is confident that ChiefHolbrook will do a great 1. Discussion regarding vacation and sick leave policies - James Morani, Town Town Manager James Morani presented Council with revised vacation and sick leave policies and discussed the changes. Mr. Morani stated that this matter did not require action at 2. Discussion regarding FY 2019-2020 Budget - James Morani, Town Manager Town Manager. James Morani updated Council regarding the FY 2019-2020 Budget stating that staff was closely monitoring sO not to experience a deficit and would provide an update next week. Mr. Morani stated that the pickleball court at the Coomes Recreation Centerl has been placed on hold and the Russell Road crosswalk will not be complete until next fiscal year. job. Manager this time asl he would bring it before Council again on. July 1,2020. Town Manager James Morani requested Council consider a date for the July 2020 work session. Discussion ensued and it was agreed to schedule the work session on July 16, 2020 at 2:30 pm. J. PASSAGE OF RESOLUTIONS 1.A A Resolution Approving the Final Subdivision Plat for Michael C. and Lori B. Noonkester Tax Map ID 106-7-1A. - Jason Boswell, Director of Planning (VIDEO Jason Boswell, Director of Planning, stated that Michael C. and Lori B. Noonkestner was seeking subdivision approval for 3.28 acresi into seven lots, known as 1103 Empire Drive, presently zoned 08 &I. Mr. Boswell stated that the Planning Commission approved this subdivision on On motion by Mr. Bradley, seconded by Ms. Patterson, approved the 43:41-4 45:23) June 1, 2020. Resolution as presented. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Aye Aye Aye -56- June 15,2020 Regular Meeting Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye 2. Third Amended Resolution to suspend disconnection of water and/or sewer service effective from the date of its passage until June 30, 2020, to any customer due to non- payment. - James Morani, Town Manager (VIDEO 45:26-46:45) Town Manager James Morani stated that this is a Third Amended Resolution to suspend disconnection of water and/or sewer service effective from the date ofits passage until June 30, 2020, to any customer due to non-payment. Mr. Morani also stated that he was in communication with the Washington County Service Authority as well regarding their policies. On motion by Ms. Patterson, seconded by Mr. Bradley, approved the Third Amended Resolution as presented. The roll call vote was as: follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye Aye Aye Aye K. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES 1. First Reading Amendment to Part] II- Code, Chapter 2- Administration, Article VI. - Planning Commission, Division 2. - Powers and Duties, Section 2-351. - Officers and Section 2-356. - Secretary. - James Morani, Town Manager (VIDEO 46:49 - Town Manager James Morani advised Council that last month the Council adopted an Ordinance removing the Town Manager from the Planning Commission, who also served as the Secretary as set forth in the bylaws. This Amendment will allow the Planning Commission to appoint of the members as the Secretary. Mr. Morani also conveyed that Janice Dornon will continue to take and transcribe the minutes and would suggest that Council dispense with the 49:04) second reading. On motion by Mr. Bradley, seconded by Mr. Webb, Council approved the Ordinance as presented and dispensed with the second reading. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Aye Aye Aye Aye -57- June 15,2020 Regular Meeting Mayor Craig Aye L. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE 1. Motion to Amend Proposed FY2020-2021 Budget Ordinance - James Morani, Town Town Manager James Morani advised Council that Amended Proposed FY2020-2021 Budget Ordinance includes changes discussed and recommended at the May 18, 2020 meeting. Mr. Morani also conveyed that Council will adopt an Ordinance of categorical figures, not the detailed line by line budget document. Mr. Morani further stated that the bottom line of the On motion by Mr. Webb, seconded by Mrs. Quetsch, approved to amend the Manager (VIDEO 49:06-51:14) budget did not change. proposed FY2020-2021 Budget Ordinance. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Nay Aye Aye Nay Aye 2. Second Reading An Ordinance of the Council for the Town of Abingdon, Virginia proposing a budget for the Town of Abingdon, Virginia and to make appropriation for the current expenses oft the Town and to fix ai tax rate upon real and personal property, to fix all other local tax rates and fees and rates on utility services for the fiscal year beginning July 1,2020, and ending June 30, 2021.- - James Morani, Town Manager Town Manager James Morani presented the Ordinance in amended form pursuant to motion. Ms. Patterson questioned Mr. Bradley as to whether he had something to say. Mr. Bradley questioned the outside agencies (non-departmental) status. Mr. Morani advised Council that at this time, $25,000 would be allocated to Abingdon Redevelopment and Housing Authority and $10,000 for Feeding America Southwest Virginia. Mr. Morani conveyed a conversation with David Millsap with Feeding America Southwest Virginia that the funds could be ear-marked for some ofthel loçal food pantries and/or agencies based on need tol be later determined. Mr. Bradley questioned if the budget includes maxing out the Town's credit card with borrowing an extra $2,000,000 for the Sports Complex? Mr. Morani affirmed that the budget included borrowing funds, however not on the Town's credit card. Mr. Bradley stated that it was through the Town's MVIDE0S1a5-1W0.0) credit rating and that is maxed out. On motion by Mr. Webb, seconded by Mrs. Quetsch, approved the amended FY2020-2021 Budget Ordinance as presented. Mayor Craig questioned if there were any discussion. -58- June 15, 2020 Regular Meeting Ms. Patterson stated would like to bring one item to the attention of the citizens of Abingdon is balancing the budget with $600,000 from the proposed sale oft the Hassinger House. Ms. Patterson stated he recalled having a closed session to talk about the Hassinger House, which is also known as the Visitor's Center on Cumming Street. Cameron Bell, Counsel, advised Ms. Patterson that she not be speaking regarding matters Ms. Patterson further stated that she basically wanted to say that the sale oft this property was only mentioned one time to the public at the April 20, 2020, where Mr. Morani included to balance the budget. Ms. Patterson stated first-of-all that the property has notl been properly vetted by the citizens of Abingdon, not discussed or on an agenda; second-of-all, we don't know when or if we will sell it or if we will get the $600,000. Ms. Patterson continued by commenting that the Council has not had a second reading the sports complex to approve the $2,000,000 bond, therefore feels it is premature to even have the $2,000,000 in the budget. Ms. Patterson also discussed what she felt was a lack of fundraising for the sports complex that was discussed at the joint meeting with the Recreational Advisory Committee on November 19, 2018. Discussion ensued regarding the fundraising matter. Mr. Bradley questioned the return date for the sports complex bid, which Mr. Morani responding that it would be this month and John Dew, Director of Public Works, responding that the staff was working on the second interview on revised plans. discussed in a closed session. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Nay Aye Aye Nay Aye M. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATIONS 1. Proclamation of the Council for the Town of Abingdon Recognizing June 7-13, 2020 as National Garden Week - Cindy Patterson, Vice Mayor (VIDEO 1:00:10- 1:02:17) Ms. Patterson read the Proclamation recognizing June 7 - 13, 2020 as National Garden Week. N. OLD BUSINESS 0. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS (IDE014222-10710, Ms. Patterson thanked all her friends, constituents and supporters for assisting in her election. Ms. Patterson stated that it was an honor and privilege to serve on the Council and for -59- June 15, 2020 Regular Meeting the past two years as the Vice Mayor, as well as several committees and boards, together with other notable events. Ms. Patterson thanked all the staff stating it was a pleasure working with everyone. Mr. Bradley stated that he had a written report that he would like to distribute. Mr. Bradley "Due to ill health, Ihereby resign as ai member oft the Abingdon Town Council effective 1 Imake my apologies to the voters who elected me, but find resignation to be the best Mayor Craig thanked Mr. Bradley for his service. Ms. Quetsch also thanked Mr. Bradley. P.A APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMITTEES (VIDEO 1:07:11-1:08:15) than read a letter addressed to Mayor Craig as follows: July 2020. alternative for my situation. Sincerely, Albert C. Bradley" 1. Tourism Advisory Committee Reappointment of] Nicole Dyer, representative for retail or downtown business Reappointment of Kathy Shearer, Member at Large, who is eligible to serve owner, who is eligible to serve an additional term an additional term On motion by Ms. Patterson, seconded by Mr. Webb, reappointed Nichole Dyer, representative for retail or downtown business owner, to serve an additional term and reappoint Kathy Shearer, Member at Large, to serve an additional term. The roll call vote was as follows: Mr. Bradley Mrs. Quetsch Mr. Webb Ms. Patterson Mayor Craig Aye Aye Aye Aye Aye Mayor Craig adjourned the meeting. Mayor orek.Wabb Kimberly Kingsley!