MINUTES EMPORIA CITY COUNCIL CITY OF EMPORIA MUNICIPAL BUILDING FEBRUARY 18, 2025 Note to Reader: Although the printed agendaj for this City Council meeting is not part of these minutes, the agenda document provides background information on the items discussed by the City Council during the meeting. A copy ofthe agenda document for this meeting may be obtained by contacting the Office ofthe City Clerk. Emporia City Council held a meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers oft the Municipal Building, located at 201 South Main Street, Emporia, Carolyn S. Carey, Mayor, presided over the meeting with Bishop Lowery offering the invocation. ROLL CALL The following City Council members were present: Counci'woman Yolanda Hines Councilman Mark S. Lilly Councilwoman Carol Mercer Councilman James C. Saunders Councilwoman L. Dale Temple Councilwoman Doris T. White Others present: Dr. Carolyn S. Carey, Mayor William E. Johnson III, City Manager Eric A. Gregory, City Attorney Tessie S. Wilkins, City Clerk Mike Rae, Emergency Service Coordinator Alicia Hargrove, Finance Director Karen A. Taylor, Treasurer Alton Mason, Director of Public Services Joyce Prince, Commission of Revenue K. Prince, Sherriff E. Crawley, Major, EPD Absent: Councilman Clifton Threat MINUTES APPROVAL Mayor Carey stated that the Council had the minutes for Tuesday, January 21 and 28, 2025 and February 4, 2025, Regular Meeting and asked if there are any additions or corrections. Councilwoman Temple moved to approve the minutes for the Tuesday, January 21 and 28, 2025 and February 4, 2025, Regular Meeting, Regular Meeting, seconded by Councilwoman Mercer, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye APPROVAL OF BILLS A listing ofthe February 2025 bills was presented to City Council members. General Fund $ 2,074,511.84 Utility Fund $ 220,987.08 Councilman Saunders moved to approve the February 2025 bills as presented, seconded by Councilwoman Temple, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye FINANCIAL AND TAX REPORTS Honorable Karen A. Taylor, City Treasurer, provided her report to City Council members. There were no questions regarding her report. COMMISSIONER OF THE REVENUE REPORT Honorable Joyce E. Prince, Commissioner of the Revenue, provided her report to City Council members. There were no questions regarding her report. PERMIT AND INSPECTION REPORT Mike Allen, Code Official, provided his report to City Council members. There were no questions concerning his report. POLICE REPORT Troy Hawkins, Chief of Police, provided his report to City Council members. There were no questions concerning his report. CITY SHERIFF REPORT Keith Prince, Sheriff provided his report to City Council members. There were no questions concerning his report. Councilman Saunders stated that the local and state sales tax revenues for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24 over the past two years, local sales tax collections have declined from $2,641,000 to $2,405,000- ai reduction that poses a budgetary concern. He also stated that similarly, state sales tax revenue has dropped from $1.465 million to $1.254 million, a decrease of approximately $211,000. Councilman Saunders stated that on the positive side, meals and transient occupancy tax revenues have increased. He also stated that meals tax collections rose from $202,000 to $219,000, while transient occupancy tax revenue grew from $97,000 to $118,000. He further stated that while these gains help offset some losses, the decline in sales tax remains a significant concern. Councilman Saunders stated that another issue that warrants attention is the reduction in revenue from selective enforcement summonses. He also stated that while revenue in 2023 totaled $480,000 from 3,628 summonses, this is a sharp decline from previous years when we budgeted approximately $1 million annually. He further stated that the concern here extends beyond budgetary impact-iti is also a public safety issue on the highways. Councilman Saunders stated that for the 2024-25 budget year, after seven months, only 1,219 summonses have been issued, generating $215,000 in revenue. He also stated that at this rate, we are on track collecting approximately $315,000 for the year, $165,000 less than last year. He further stated that if you examine the report closely, removing just one officer from enforcement would reduce revenue to around $50,000. Councilman Saunders stated that he believes discussions will be necessary during the budget session with the Chief of Police to explore potential strategies for addressing this decline in enforcement activity. He also stated that he wanted to bring this to Council attention as we prepare for those conversations. AGENDA APPROVAL Councilwoman Hines moved to approve the agenda, seconded by Councilman Saunders, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye NEW BUSINESS 25-18. District 19 Community Services Board - Presentation by Terrelle Stewart, Executive Director Mrs. Terrelle Stewart presented the following presentation: DISTRICT 19 COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARD Emporia Emporta Counselag Bervices (434) 348-8900 Bame Day Acoess (804) 882-8008 Main orrioe (804)682-8002 241 Hour Orois Line:(804) 0e2-8000 To Free 24-Hour Crisis Line: (866) 365-2130 1 ABOUT OUR MISSION Our mission is toi improve the quality and productivity of the lives of individuols who A experience, or ore atrisk of experiencing. & mental disabiltios and/ or substance abuse. wec accomplish this througho fully integrated i conlinuum of services in collaboration with 4 the localities of Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, : Y : se Emporia, Greensville, Hopewel Petersburg, Prince George, Surry. and Sussex 2 ALL LOCALITIES v naps Hp bes Ciun P N COLONIAL HEIGHTS DINWIDDIE HOPEWEEL SURRY PRINCE GEORGE SUSSEX PETERSBURG EMPORIA GREENSVILLE 3 CONTINUUM OF SERVICES INFANT& MENTAL SUBSTANCE COMMUNITY CHILDREN ID/DD HEALTH USE & CRISIS TODDLER 69 & B 8 * 9 & & %* 4 Reglonal Programs & Services Acute Care Project Marcus Alert Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit Regional Education. Assessment Children's Crisis Stabilization Unit Crisis Services Habilitation Crisis Response and Stabilization (REACH) Team (CRest) Regional Crisis Call Center Discharge. Assistance Program Regional Jail Team HOPE Co-occurring Residentia! Regional Recovery Services Services Service Members, Veterans & Housing Coordinator Services (for Families (SMVF) those discharging from state SUD Diversion Liaison hospitals) Utilization! Management Individual Support Funds (one- time funding for short term housing or transportation needs) 5 D19 EMPORIA-GREENSVILE LOCATION 1101 Greenaville county Circle Emporia, VA 23847 6 "T n3y cl Sen 3 Proviant by Muntt D19ICSB Re : & Imporia Ton Services for Emporaa wa * 34 p a C - G Uu - - de :n 237 sa G a L 6,084 719 2.511 641 10,155 u 404 4,187 reces 66 e 14 : 14 M 43563 5 00 & 15.00 000 a à - by Me h : - 7 FY26 FUNDING REQUEST & RATIONALE -D19 CsB ie requesting approvalfor $79,131 in FY26 from Emporia -This is ani increase of $7,950 from FY25's request of $71,181. Section 37.2-500 or 37.2-611 of the Code of virginia requires the CSB1 tot function as the single point of entryi into publiclyf funded mental health, developmental, and substance use disorder servioes. District 19 CSB fulfilis this function for any person who ie locatedi in the CSB's servicearea and needs mentalhealth, developmental, or aubstance use disorder services. Section 37.2-509 and 37.2-611 of the Code of Virginia establiah criteria for allocation of funde to commurityaervicest boarda by the matching funds requirement reciprocally at 10 percent. 8 FY26 FUNDING REQUEST & RATIONALE The amount requeated from localitiesi ia based on projected state funding! for the upcoming fiscaly year. =FY26 state funding ie roughly 10-12 million forD D19 Exact amount of atatet funding the CSB receives will not be available until the statel budget is aignedand inj place. 9 Greater Reach Community Services Board Community Access Resiliance Empowerment 10 Closing Remarks D19 csB has proudly served our local communitiest for over 50) yeara. As wecontinue so innovate and enhance ourprograms, our missi ion remains focused on eupporting the citizens of this region. with the approval of our FV25 fundingrequest, we are committed to advancing our services to meet state andnational standardst for behavioral health care, ensuring we provide thel highest level of supportto the residents of Emporia. 1H1 jwf S Excoutive Dtreotor, D10 CSE 1o 11 Mayor Carey thanked Mrs. Stewart for her presentation. 25-19. Request for. Public Hearing - March 18, 2025, City Council Meeting Mr. Johnson stated that the proposed zoning ordinance text amendment was reviewed by the Planning Commission on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, and is now ready to proceed with the City Council for a public hearing on Tuesday, March 18, 2025: Zoning Text Amendment #2025-01: An Ordinance to amend the Emporia, Virginia Code of Ordinances, Chapter 90, Zoning and Subdivision, as follows: Article VI, Division 3. Use Matrix, Section 90-344. Matrix, Table 6.1, Residential to add Dwelling, townhouse as a "by-right" use in the Downtown District (DT), and to amend Article VII, Use Standards, Division 2. Residential, Section 90-375, Dwelling, townhouse to require that townhouse dwellings proposed in identified historic districts shall incorporate architectural elements of the surrounding structures and character ofthe district; and Article I, In General, Section 90-2. Definitions to amend the use name and definition for Outdoor Sales, Seasonal/Temporary to Outdoor Sales, and to amend Article VII. Use Standards, Division 4. Commercial, Section 7-4-10 Outdoor Sales, Seasonal/Temporary to change the use to allow outdoor sales and display as a customary, accessory use to commercial retail development as determined by the zoning administrator, and shall be permitted within an area not greater than 800 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the ground floor of the building, which is greater, and shall be located at least 25 feet from any residential use or zone and to amend the provisions to add standards for more long-term commercial uses, such as the sale of sheds, and other outdoor products. He recommended that Council authorize this public hearing. Councilwoman Hines made a motion to authorize this public hearing on March 18, 2025, seconded by Councilwoman Temple, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye 25-20. Request) for Public Hearing = TEFRA Hearing. for Bon Secours Bonds Mr. Johnson stated that a memorandum has been sent to the City Council requesting that City Council schedule a public hearing for Tuesday, March 4, 2025, concerning the issuance of bonds by the Henrico County Economic Development Authority for the benefit of Southern Virginia Medical Center (Bon Secours). Mr. Johnson stated that since the hospital is located within the jurisdiction, each locality must approve the resolution. He also stated that before the resolution can be approved, a public hearing is required. Mr. Johnson stated that a representative from Bon Secours is expected to attend the meet- ing. Councilman Lilly made a motion to authorize this public hearing on March 4, 2025, seconded by Councilwoman Temple, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye 25-21. Emergency Medical Technician (EMO) Course Update Mr. Michael Rae, Emergency Services Coordinator for Emporia, provided an update on the current EMT class. He also stated that this is the second annual class. He further stated that last year, he requested funding from this governing body to support the program, with the goal of assisting the Greensville Volunteer Rescue Squad and, more importantly, putting trained lifesavers in the community. He stated that the first course was a remarkable success, the second course is shaping up to be just as impactful. He stated that the class began with thirty students, and if we had the capacity for sixty, we could have easily filled those seats- -interest in this program is high. He also stated that currently have twenty-six students, with four dropping out due to personal or scheduling conflicts, none have failed academically. He further stated that compared to the statewide attrition rate, the reten- tion remains well above average. He stated that while EMT training is available through community colleges and four-year programs, these options often do not accommodate full-time workers. He also stated that the pro- gram is designed to fill that gap, offering classes on evenings, weekends, and flexible schedules. He further stated that finding an instructor willing to teach at these times is challenging, but this non-traditional approach has proven successful for our community. He stated that the first course was a learning experience, but we have improved and stream- lined the process. He also stated that initially, the City of Emporia and himself facilitated and funded the course, with expenses shared equally between the City of Emporia and Greensville County. He further stated that this year, the rescue squad has taken on facilitation, reducing his workload fair and much-appreciated change. He stated that looking ahead, Greensville County has committed to facilitating the next course, and we anticipate continuing this rotation in the future. He stated that this program is a collaborative effort, with contributions from: City of Em- poria, Greensville County, Greensville Volunteer Rescue Squad, Greensville Volunteer Fire De- partment, Emporia Police Department, Southern Virginia Medical Center, Virginia Department of Health, and Medical College of Virginia. He also stated that the level of community involvement is remarkable, and everyone is playing a role in making this initiative a success. He stated that he thanks the Council for funding this program. He also stated that this is one of the most impactful and well-spent investments this governing body makes. He also stated that by the end oft this course, we will have at least twenty-two newly trained EMTs in the com- munity- - -22 people with the ability to save lives. Councilwoman Hines asked do you know how many went and passed the EMT board exam. Mr. Rae stated that the EMT course follows ai non-standard approach, as we fund the train- ing and guide students through graduation. He also stated that once they complete the course, they are eligible to take the state EMT certification exam, which they can attempt up to three times. Mr. Rae stated that he does not formally track how many students pass the EMT board exams since that is a personal matter between the State of Virginia and the individual does know that they have provided them with the necessary training. He also stated that at a minimum, they leave with CPR and advanced first aid skills, even if they do not pass the final test. He further stated that those who do pass are eligible for paid EMT positions. Mr. Rae stated that although he does not collect exact numbers, he can tell you unofficially that at least four members of the Greensville Volunteer Rescue Squad successfully completed the course. He also stated that three students who passed the exam are now employed full-time at Bon Secours, MCV, or Southside Rescue Squad. He further stated that overall, he estimates that at least 60% of students passed the exam. Mr. Rae stated that he prefers not to track names unless required, as it allows students to maintain their privacy without feeling pressured. He also stated that however, in his opinion, this program has been successful in preparing individuals for life-saving roles. Councilwoman Hines stated that she thought it would be a clever idea to keep track to highlight the success ofthe class as well. Mr. Rae stated that he could send an email right now based on last year's results, and he imagines 99% of participants would respond if he asked. He also stated that however, they are under no legal obligation to disclose their results. Mr. Rae stated that he does know there were some failures. He stated that one individual, for example, plans to retake the exam, and two others have become volunteers at Greensville Vol- unteer Rescue Squad. He also stated that while they can drive the ambulance and assist, they cannot practice as EMTs until they pass the state exam. He further stated they are currently preparing for their third attempt by sitting in on some of our ongoing classes. 25-22. Lease. Agreement for 102 Commonwealth Blvd- -General Registrar Office Mr. Johnson stated that the attached lease is being presented with approval to grant the City Manager the authority to sign. He also stated that as you may recall, we previously agreed to relo- cate the Registrar's Office to 102 Commonwealth Boulevard, with an anticipated move-in date of April 1, 2025. He further stated that preparations are already underway, and some items have al- ready been moved. Mr. Johnson stated that the lease includes a 50% discount for the first year, reducing the rent to $750 per month to help offset moving expenses. He also stated that after the first year, the rent will increase to $1,500 per month. He further stated that this is a three-year lease agreement, with the option to renew upon expiration. Mr. Johnson stated that City Attorney Greg has reviewed the lease and confirmed that it is legally sound and ready for signing. Mr. Johnson stated that regarding the Registrar's Office setup, everything currently housed in the existing building will be accommodated in the new location. He also stated that a meeting was held last week with Registrar Ashley Wall and three board members, who are enthusiastic about the move. He further stated that they particularly appreciate that the new location will be solely occupied by the Registrar' S Office, providing them with a dedicated space. He recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to sign the new lease. Councilwoman Hines made a motion to authorize the City Manager to sign the new lease, seconded by Councilwoman Temple, which passed as follows: Councilman Mark Lilly aye Councilwoman L. Dale Temple aye Councilwoman Yolanda G. Hines aye Councilwoman Doris T. White aye Councilman James C. Saunders aye Councilwoman Carol Mercer aye PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Carey asked if anyone wished to bring a matter before City Council members adhering to the three-minute time limit. Councilwoman Mercer stated that on Saturday, the 15th, she attended the NAACP Black District Awards Program at Royal Baptist Church. She also stated that the event was well attended, but as a City Council member, she had hoped to see more of my colleagues present. She stated that we recently issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month in Emporia. She also stated, however, we did not attend this significant event, which was held in honor of Black History. She stated that during the program, the organizers thanked the City Council and the City Manager for their support in helping to present the event. She also stated that she took the initiative to introduce herselfto the guest speaker as a representative oft the City Council. Mr. Johnson stated that the event was well attended, despite the rainy weather. He also stated that the guest speaker from North Carolina spoke very well, and although he was a member of a different fraternity, he did an excellent job. He further stated that he found the event beneficial, particularly in learning more about Mr. Tucker. Mr. Johnson stated that after posting about the event on social media, he received several calls from friends in Richmond, one of whom spoke highly of Mr. Tucker's impact-not just in Emporia, but nationwide. He also stated that Mr. Tucker's connection to the late Senator Henry Marsh, as they were part of the same law firm. He further stated that a friend shared a story highlighting Mr. Tucker's brilliance, recalling how he once received an A-minus in class for leaving out a single comma while reciting a legal statute. Mr. Johnson emphasized the importance oflearning more about Emporia' 's history and recognizing the contributions of local figures. He stressed that educating the youth about the community's history is crucial, and that celebrating all aspects of history benefits both residents and visitors. He hopes for more events like this in the future. Mr. Johnson expressed disappointment at the lack of patience shown by some drivers when assisting elderly attendees in crossing the street. He stated that he found it disrespectful that people were honking and rushing senior citizens in the rain. He also stated that while the police eventually arrived and did a wonderful job. Mr. Johnson addressed the rumors about Chick-fil-A, explaining that while the property is listed for sale on LoopNet for $6.8 million, the Chick-fil-A franchise itself is not closing. He stated that this is a frequent practice, as 90% of Chick-fil-A locations operate on leased properties. Mayor Carey stated that she would like to recognize another influential Black figure in Emporia's history, Dr. Willie Joyner, the first African American doctor in the area. She also stated that although he may not have reached the same level of recognition as Lawyer Tucker, he made significant contributions to this community. Mayor Carey stated that Dr. Joyner was not only a doctor but also a businessman who owned much ofHalifax and Atlantic Street. She also stated that he operated his own medical practice, a pharmacy (where people could also buy ice cream), and the first and only Black-owned theater in Emporia- one of only four Black-owned theaters in the state of Virginia. He further stated that additionally, he owned a barber shop, which remains in operation today. Mayor Carey stated that she had collected extensive information about him, enough to dedicate half a wall at my church to his accomplishments. She also stated that she encourages you to visit and learn more about its impact on the community. Mayor Carey stated that Dr. Joyner passed away sleep at the age of forty-two, and his daughter told me that he rushed to accomplish sO much because he had a feeling he would not live long. She also stated that his funeral was even held at his beloved theater, reflecting his deep passion for his work and community. Mayor Carey stated that his legacy is one that should be recognized and celebrated, just as we have done for other historical figures in Emporia. With there being no further comments to come before the City Council, Mayor Carey closed the public comment portion of the meeting. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to come before the City Council, Mayor Carey adjourned the meeting. Chrolyh S. Carey, Mayor SenisW Willns Tessie S. Wilkins, CMC City Clerk