PRESENT: Mayor David P. Helms; Eugene Hendrick, Buford Cregger, Herbert Clay, Mel Leaman, Mark Warren, Ken Heath and Dr. James Gates, Council Members; Town Manager John E. B. Clark, Jr.; Town Engineer/Assistant Town Manager Cecil Hicks; Police Chief Michael Roberts; Town Attorney Mark Fenyk; and Town Clerk/Director of Finance Dixie Sheets.
Marion Planning Commission Members: Bob Ramsey, Chairman; James Barker, M. J. Hubble, Alice Freeman, Cameron Wolfe, Mel Leaman (Town Council representative).
INVOCATION/PLEDGE TO THE FLAG: Mr. Hicks rendered the invocation. Mayor Helms led the Pledge to the flag.
MINUTES: Mr. Hendrick noted that his name was inadvertently omitted from those present at the January 17, 2006 meeting. Upon motion of Mr. Clay, seconded by Mr. Heath, and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, the minutes of the meeting held 1/17/06 were approved as corrected. Messrs Hendrick, Heath, Cregger, Leaman, Warren, Clay and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
VISITORS: Dr. Kris Gandhi, Scott Wilson, Tom Taylor, Jeff Spickard, Julie Hensley, Rebecca Sprouse
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING-REQUEST TO REZONE FORMER PEPSI BUILDING ON NORTH MAIN STREET FROM INDUSTRIAL TO COMMERCIAL- DR. KRIS GANDHI: Dr. Kris Gandhi had requested that his property located on N. Main Street be rezoned from Industrial to Commercial General. Also in attendance was Julie Hensley, owner/operator, and Rebecca Sprouse, SCCH Committee for Child Care. Cameron Wolfe is the architect for Dr. Gandhi and excused himself from the Planning Commission on this item. Chairman Ramsey opened the Public Hearing. No one was present to object to the rezoning request. The developer proposes to open a Day Care Center and a Day Spa. Plans for the proposed renovations were displayed. Discussion ensued. Mr. Hicks stated that as the property is located at the 100-year flood elevation, it was recommended that an additional egress area be established. He further stated that the required parking would be met. This had been addressed by the architect and discussed with the Smyth County Building Inspector. Upon motion of Mr. Barker, seconded by Mr. Hubble and vote of 3 AYES and 1 NOE (Mrs. Freeman), Marion Planning Commission recommended that the request be approved. Several members of Town Council expressed concern on the effect upon traffic flow, ingress and egress to and from North Main Street. It was discussed that the children (maximum of 75) will not be collected or dropped off at the same time. Day Care hours will be 6:30 am to 6:00 pm. Ms. Sprouse stated that SCCH has a contract with Ms. Hensley to provide childcare for SCCH employees. Mr. Clay expressed concern of having children in this building due to the age of the structure. Dr. Gandhi would be responsible to secure an asbestos study and certify safety of the structure. Ms. Freeman noted that the rezoning might pose a problem in renting the former Happy’s property with regard to the serving of alcoholic beverages. Mayor Helms noted that the ABC Board and Department of Health regulate such matters. Upon motion, duly seconded and vote of 5 AYES and 2 NOES (Clay, Cregger), the request to rezone the property was granted. Messrs Hendrick, Heath, Leaman, Warren, and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON REVISED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: It was noted that the comments and corrections discussed at the previous public hearing have been considered and incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan. Chairman Ramsey opened the public hearing. There was no public comment. Upon motion of Mr. Hubble, seconded by Mr. Wolfe and vote of 5 AYES and 0 NOES, Marion Planning Commission recommended approval of the Comprehensive Plan and certification that approved changes have been incorporated into the Plan. Mr. Hendrick noted that the plan has been an extensive project and that some of the data should be updated. The Plan should note that the Biking Trail and Chilhowie Street Bridge renovations have been completed and that ownership of the Department of Corrections Water Tank has been returned to the Commonwealth. These updates will be included in the final document. Mr. Heath noted that the Plan expressly comments the need for low-income housing. He would have liked for the Plan to address the need for all levels of housing, including low, moderate and upper income. Mr. Clay moved that the Comprehensive Plan be adopted with the incorporation of the updates described by Mr. Hendrick. Mr. Heath seconded the motion. Council approved the same unanimously. Messrs Hendrick, Heath, Clay, Leaman, Cregger, Warren, and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
SET SECOND PUBLIC HEARING ON BOND ISSUE WITH DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR WATER TREATMENT PLANT PROJECT ON FEBRUARY 21, 2006: Upon motion of Dr. Gates, seconded by Mr. Leaman, and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, a second public hearing on the bond issue with the Department of Health for the Water Treatment Plant Project was set on February 21, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. The general purpose for which the bonds are to be issued is to finance improvements to the Town’s Water Treatment System. The estimated maximum amount of the bonds is $1,684,600.
REPORT ON REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR “HAPPY’S RESTAURANT” BUILDING: The Town had requested proposals from entrepreneurs/restaurateurs to operate a restaurant in the town-owned building located at 437 N. Main Street on or before 1/31/06. Qualifying proposals were to include a complete Business Plan. The Business Plan was to include owners of the business, resumes highlighting past small business and restaurant experience, complete financial report and plan, marketing plan and letters of reference. Mr. Heath reported that only one (1) proposal was submitted. Upon motion of Mr. Heath, seconded by Mr. Leaman and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, the proposal was referred to the Building and Grounds Committee for study and recommendation.
REPORT ON DILAPIDATED BUILDINGS-THOMPSON TRAILERS ON S CHURCH STREET; MCCLANAHAN PROPERTY ON ORANGE STREET; FUNK PROPERTY ON SPRINKLE AVENUE, AND OVERBAY PROPERTY ON S. CHURCH STREET: Town Attorney Mark Fenyk stated that letters of violation were mailed to property owners and each given 45 days to respond. One property owner requested an extension (which was granted) and all time limits have expired, including the extension. One property owner is deceased and his heirs are to be notified. Mr. Fenyk stated that he would file these matters with the General District Court for action.
Mr. Clark noted that the Ordinance Committee had met and discussed the Town’s approach to yard work when notices have been mailed and property owners have not adhered to the violation. The Town performs the duties and the owners are billed for the services. He and the Ordinance Committee had liability concerns with the Town’s removal of dilapidated structures and has requested that Mr. Fenyk have them declared a nuisance and presented to the judge as such.
Upon motion, duly seconded and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, Mr. Fenyk was directed to pursue resolution of these matters with the court system. Messrs Hendrick, Cregger, Clay, Heath, Leaman, Warren, and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
REPORT ON LEE STREET PROJECTS-WATER/SEWER, WIDENING AND BRIDGE: Mr. Hicks reported that the storm drain installation by Ken Construction is 70% complete. The bridge has been completed and will be delivered by Permatile in March 2006. The water project by Teaters Trucking is 65% complete. Mr. Hicks added that one of the “pay items” for the water project is the replacement of the sewer line.
Sprint is 70% complete on their line installation and AEP is 100% complete, however one pole must be replaced.
The closing of Lee Street has been difficult, however whenever possible one lane has remained open. Provisions have been made to accommodate H&R Block during this tax season.
REPORT ON WATER TREATMENT PLANT AND PRATER LANE PUMP STATION UPGRADE PROJECTS: Mr. Spickard reported that approval has been received from VDH on the tentative award and they are awaiting receipt of the contract from the contractor. Mr. Clark noted that the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) would require no environmental reviews. He added that a Notice of Award has been signed.
The following is the revised budget for the Marion Water Treatment Plant Improvements.
| Expenses: | |
| Total Construction (Low Bid) | $1,788,700 |
| Engineering | |
| Study Report | 2,000 |
| Basic | 110,000 |
| Prater Lane Design | 8,450 |
| Inspection fees (45 weeks) | 81,000 |
| Additional Engineering fees | 14,100 |
| Administration | 12,500 |
| Legal | 4,000 |
| Bond Counsel | 8,000 |
| Contingency | 89,435 |
| Estimated Project Cost | $2,118,185 |
| SW VA State Grant | 188,960 |
| MRPDC Grant/Loan | 100,000 |
| Tobacco Grant | 144,612 |
| VDH Loan 20 yr (3.5% Interest) | 1,576,700 |
| Local | |
| Total Funding | $ 2,010,272 |
The Town requested an increase in VDH loan funding for the project in the amount of $107,900, resulting in a total loan amount of $1,687,600.
FLOURIDATION GRANT FUNDING REQUESTED FROM THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH: Mr. Clark stated that Mr. Jeff Spickard was instrumental in securing possible funding to provide for the installation of the fluoride equipment to be installed during the Water Treatment Plant and Prater Lane Pump Station Upgrades. The cost would be approximately $19,500. This would include $15,000 for the volumetric feeder and $4,500 for the saturator. Mr. Clark has submitted a letter of request to VDH.
RESOLUTION-COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
CERTIFICATION AND RECOMMENDATION OF THE
TOWN OF MARION COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
BY THE TOWN OF MARION PLANNING COMMISSION
WHEREAS, the Town of Marion is required to prepare and adopt a Comprehensive Plan for the physical development of its territory in accordance with the Code of Virginia, Title 15.2, Chapter 22, Section 15.2-2223; and
WHEREAS, the Code of Virginia, Title 15.2, Chapter 22, Section 15.2-2231 mandates that at least once every five years the Comprehensive Plan be reviewed by the local Planning Commission; and
WHEREAS, the Town of Marion Planning Commission has reviewed the current Comprehensive Plan and determined it advisable to amend that plan; and
WHEREAS, amendments have been proposed for incorporation in the 2006 Town of Marion Comprehensive Plan through a series of work sessions held by the Town of Marion Planning Commission; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing on the 2006 Town of Marion Comprehensive Plan be held and recommends that this plan be presented to the Town of Marion Town Council for final approval and adoption.
This item was continued to the next meeting.
INSTALLATION OF GATE ON WATERMILL ROAD: Mr. Fenyk advised that the Town is waiting for a response from Dr. Wassum on the use of the road by Town employees on Town business.
FINANCE COMMITTEE-REQUEST FROM SONG OF THE MOUNTAINS: Dr. Gates moved that $6,000 be allocated for fiscal year 2005-06 and that an additional $6,000 be included in the 2006-2007 Budget for the Song of the Mountains. He added that most of this funding is to be applied toward the salary of the SOM Director, Tim White. Mr. White will be responsible to secure sponsors or grant funds for continuation of the program. Mr. Leaman seconded the motion. Council approved the same by a vote of 6 AYES and 1 ABSTENTION (Heath).
BUILDING & GROUNDS-REPAIRS TO FORMER POLICE DEPARTMENT AT 144 W. MAIN STREET AND POTENTIAL FIRE FIGHTER TRAINING FACILITY: Upon motion of Mr. Cregger, seconded by Mr. Warren and vote of 6 AYES and 1 ABSTENTION (Heath), this item was continued.
EQUIPMENT COMMITTEE-TRUCK REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR AND LEAF BLOWER: Mr. Leaman reported that the Council had approved $80,000 for a new dump truck and bed (50% this FY and 50% next FY). Public Works Director Jack Perry had requested that $8,000-$10,000 be approved to allow the purchase of a replacement motor to be installed in the current dump truck and not replace the dump truck and bed. Mr. Leaman moved that the Town Council approved Mr. Perry’s request. Mr. Clay seconded the motion and Town Council approved unanimously. Messrs Hendrick, Cregger, Leaman, Warren, Heath, Clay and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
Mr. Leaman moved that the savings realized with repairs to the dump truck instead of purchase of a new vehicle, might be used in purchasing the budgeted loader. The projected cost for the loader was considerably higher than anticipated. Mr. Leaman moved that the loader be placed for bid with authorization to utilize the extra funds saved from the dump truck toward the purchase of the loader. Mr. Clay seconded the motion. Council approved the same by a vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES. Messrs Hendrick, Cregger, Leaman, Warren, Clay, Heath and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
Mr. Leaman moved that the leaf vacuum be repaired at a cost not to exceed $3,000. Industrial Welding will perform these repairs. Dr. Gates seconded the motion. Town Council approved the same unanimously. Messrs Hendrick, Leaman, Cregger, Warren, Heath, Clay and Dr. Gates voted affirmatively.
AD HOCK COMMITTEE-HOUSING ASSESSMENT: Mr. Clark, Mr. Heath, and Mayor Helms met with local leaders to receive input on their participation in the $20,000 proposal from BB&K for the Housing Assessment. The Bank of Marion committed to the project, with interest from the Industrial Commission and other leaders. Mr. Clark and Mr. Heath spoke with BB&K concerning their proposal. BB&K required a contract prior to meeting with interested parties. The Committee is not comfortable with signing a contract with the company without discussing it with them. This item was continued.
RIVERWALK PATROLS: Mr. Clay stated that he has had several requests asking that the Marion Police Department more regularly patrol the Riverwalk area.
GENERAL FRANCIS MARION INN: Mr. Heath noted that the General Francis Marion Inn was the subject of a recent article in the Roanoke Times.
COMMUNITY VISIONING SESSION: Marion Downtown and the Commonwealth of Virginia will conduct a “Community Visioning Session” on February 16, 2006 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers. The group will discuss the types of business, how to make the business grow, desired local events, and future plans for the Town.
ENTERPRISE ZONE APPROVED: According to Sally Morgan, Smyth County Planning Director, the Enterprise Zone was approved for the Town of Marion. This will enable the Town of Marion to enhance benefits to existing business and industry and to use these “perks” to attract new business and industry.
BRJC-ROMANTIC EVENING: The Blue Ridge Job Corps will open the Courtyard Cafe next to the Courthouse on Saturday, February 11 for a Romantic Evening Dinner.
LINCOLN THEATRE: The Roanoke Symphony is scheduled to perform at the Lincoln Theatre on February 11 at 7 p.m.
PARKING ISSUES ADDRESSED: Letters have been mailed to merchants concerning the complaints about the lack of parking. It explained the need for funding to create additional parking areas, including parking decks, and that the Town is working on a long-range plan to alleviate these problems. While in Richmond on another matter Mayor Helms, Mr. Clark, Mr. Heath, and Police Chief Roberts met with the Department of Housing and Community Development to discuss the dire need for parking in the Downtown area.
CIVIL ENGINEER’S AWARDS BANQUET: Mayor Helms, Mr. Heath, Mr. Clark and Police Chief Roberts attended the American Council of Civil Engineer’s Awards Banquet held in Richmond, VA. Thompson & Litton’s Town project of renovation of the Chilhowie Street Bridge was an award recipient. Allison’s Gap Sewer Line in Saltville also received an award.
JOB SHADOW DAY: Ms. Sheets reported that the Town Clerk’s Office and Office of Finance participated in the BRJC Job Shadow Day and hosted four (4) young ladies from the Blue Ridge Job Corps who are students in the Clerical/Computer field.
MARCH OF DIMES: Upon motion of Mr. Warren, seconded by Mr. Heath and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, Mayor Helms was authorized to work with Chief Roberts on the Annual March of Dimes Walk-A-Thon to be held on May 6, 2006. Council approved the same unanimously.
COMMENDATION FOR PUBLIC WORKS: Mayor Helms commended the Town’s Public Works Department for the assistance they give to the citizens and businesses of the Town.
TOWN DUMP: Mr. Hicks stated that the Town Dump monitoring might be near an end. The process to officially closeout the monitoring phase has begun.
TOWN SPRING: Mr. Hicks stated that the Town Spring is operating within legal limits again. He felt that the cleaning out of boxes helped to bring this about.
Upon motion, duly seconded, and vote of 7 AYES and 0 NOES, the meeting was adjourned.