Charleston public meetings in 2021
209 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team met via Zoom on Dec. 21, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no formal action items were taken. Members reviewed and discussed proposed bylaws, including a one-year term limit of two terms, to be adopted at the next meeting. They also decided to continue Zoom meetings through winter due to COVID-19. No substantive decisions were made.
- No quorum, no action items taken
- Bylaws revision proposed (term of office, two-term limit), adoption deferred to next meeting
- Meetings to continue via Zoom through winter
- Next meeting set for Jan. 18, 2022
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
This meeting consists of procedural items and a committee report. No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda.
- Building & Grounds Committee Report
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center / Municipal Auditorium Board approved spending up to $100,000 in capital improvement funds for a blackout curtaining system to screen the upper seating bowl. The board also accepted the October financial report showing a net loss of $145,496 and approved the October 26 meeting minutes with a correction. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved capital improvement spending up to $100,000 for blackout curtaining system (motion by Jordon, seconded by Nelson)
- Accepted October financial report showing net loss of $145,496 (motion by Nelson, seconded by White)
- Approved October 26 meeting minutes with attendance correction (motion by White, seconded by Brady)
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty will meet to review minutes from November 5, 2021. The committee is also scheduled to discuss and approve the criteria for evaluating insurance proposals.
- Approval of November 5, 2021, meeting minutes
- Discussion and approval of insurance proposal evaluation criteria
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty approved the insurance proposal evaluation criteria, including amendments to the scoring system. The scoring was changed to 10 points for Stability of the Firm, 45 points for Client Relations and Service, and 5 points for Broker/Agent Fees. The previous minutes from November 11, 2021, were also approved unanimously.
- Approved previous minutes for November 11, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved insurance proposal evaluation criteria with amended scoring (unanimous)
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider resolutions for various city contracts, including office renovations at City Hall and IT consulting services. The meeting also includes discussions on updating parking meters on Court Street and managing business district assessments.
- Contract with Agsten Construction Company, Inc. to renovate 1,330 square feet of City Hall office space
- IT consulting contract with SoftResources LLC for system replacements
- Ordinance to allow web-based parking meters on Court Street
- Grant application for athletic field turf renovations at four city fields
- Agreement with Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority regarding special levies
The Finance Committee unanimously approved all resolutions and bills on the agenda, including a $237,000 contract with Agsten Construction to renovate office space on the 3rd floor of City Hall for the Police Department, a $83,900 IT consulting contract with SoftResources LLC for ERP/RTS system replacement, and a $1,970,529 grant application to the Land and Water Conservation Fund for athletic field turf renovations. The committee also approved two bills amending the parking code to add Court Street to the web-based parking meter areas and to clarify fee assessments and appeal processes.
- Approved Resolution 571-21: Change Order No. 2 for Slack Plaza/City Center project (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 572-21: $237,000 contract with Agsten Construction for City Hall 3rd floor renovation (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 573-21: Established fund 046, HOME-ARP Investment Trust Fund (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 574-21: $83,900 contract with SoftResources LLC for ERP/RTS consulting (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 575-21: $1,970,529 LWCF grant application for athletic field turf renovations (unanimous)
- Approved Resolutions 576-21 & 577-21: Vehicle purchases for MDENT fleet ($34,462 and $25,550) (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 578-21: $83,500 contract with Brewer & Co. for fire alarm renovation at YWCA Sojourner's Shelter (unanimous)
- Approved Bill 7935: Ambulance Authority levy agreement for FY 2023-2028 (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council is reviewing several bills to amend the city's zoning ordinances, including the East End Historic District. The council will also consider resolutions for various city contracts, IT upgrades, and infrastructure projects.
- Rezoning of 104 Tennessee Avenue and 110-116 Monongalia Street
- Contract with Agsten Construction Company, Inc. to renovate City Hall office space
- Amendment to the East End Historic District Overlay
- Change Order No. 2 for the Slack Plaza / City Center project
- Grant application for athletic field turf renovations
The Charleston City Council passed several zoning ordinance amendments, including changes to front setback rules and the East End Historic District Overlay, and approved a $237,000 contract to renovate City Hall office space. The council also authorized a $1.97 million grant application for athletic field turf replacements and tabled a resolution regarding a property nuisance at 423 Beech Avenue.
- Passed Bill No. 7926 amending front setback exceptions (unanimous)
- Passed Bill No. 7931 amending East End Historic District Overlay (unanimous)
- Passed Bill No. 7933 rezoning parcels at 104 Tennessee Ave and 110-116 Monongalia St (unanimous)
- Passed Bill No. 7934 adjusting loading zone on Piedmont Road (unanimous)
- Passed Bill No. 7937 repealing parking prohibitions on Court Street (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 572-21 for $237,000 City Hall renovation (majority)
- Approved Resolution No. 575-21 authorizing $1.97M grant application for turf fields (unanimous)
- Tabled Resolution No. 581-21 regarding 423 Beech Avenue nuisance (majority, with 2 nays)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
⚠️ EPA compliance flag nearby: S-3002-02 & S-3015-06 (Violation Identified)
🏢 Building at this address: 7 m tall
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission will consider an application to replace two windows at 1608 Quarrier Street. The agenda also includes reports on minor work permits and project updates.
- Window replacement application (COA-21-0214) for 1608 Quarrier Street
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Project Updates
- Approval of November 18, 2021 meeting minutes
General
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding cable franchise agreement applications. This includes an application from CAS Cable and a renewal request from Suddenlink Communications.
- Application from Community Antenna Services, Inc. d/b/a CAS Cable
- Renewal request from Cebridge Acquisitions, LLC d/b/a Suddenlink Communications
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation divisions. Agenda items include Wertz Avenue public input and various tax sale properties.
- Wertz Avenue public input
- 739 Central Avenue
- 1726 Kemp Avenue and 1703 Kemp Avenue
- 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- 602 Thompson Street & 1548 Lewis Street EOI
City Center Business Improvement District
The Board of Directors will discuss an amended ordinance and the district's bylaws. The meeting also includes a review of minutes from the November 29, 2021, meeting.
- Discussion of amended ordinance
- Discussion of bylaws
- Review of November 29, 2021, meeting minutes
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee will review several bills to amend the City of Charleston's Zoning Ordinance. The agenda also includes requests for new street signs and changes to parking regulations on Court Street and Piedmont Road.
- Rezoning 104 Tennessee Avenue and 110-116 Monongalia Street to C-10 District
- Amending front setback exceptions in the Zoning Ordinance (Bill No. 7926)
- Repealing parking prohibitions on Court Street (Bill No. 7937)
- Adjusting a loading zone on Piedmont Road (Bill No. 7934)
- Naming an unnamed alley Bullock Lane
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee unanimously approved six items: two zoning text amendments (front porch flexibility and East End Historic District guidelines), a rezoning at 104 Tennessee Avenue and 110-116 Monongalia Street, a loading zone adjustment on Piedmont Road, parking changes on Court Street, and several traffic sign requests. The committee tabled the naming of an unnamed alley as Bullock Lane until the next meeting after concerns were raised.
- Approved Bill No. 7926 (front porch setback exceptions) 6-0
- Approved Bill No. 7931 (East End Historic District overlay consistency) 6-0
- Approved Bill No. 7933 (rezoning to C-10 at 104 Tennessee Ave and 110-116 Monongalia St) 6-0
- Approved Bill No. 7934 (loading zone adjustment on Piedmont Road) 6-0
- Approved Bill No. 7937 (Court Street parking changes) 6-0
- Approved No Parking signs at 1200 block of 1st Avenue 6-0
- Approved wayfinding signs in Westmorland area 6-0
- Approved Wrong Way/Do Not Enter signs on East End 6-0
⚠️ EPA compliance flag nearby: S-3002-02 & S-3015-06 (Violation Identified)
🏢 Building at this address: 7 m tall
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will review applications for fence height and signage variances. The board will also consider conditional use permits for a restaurant, brewery, and salon.
- Fence height variance at 1221 Quarrier Street
- Signage variance for Charleston Hospital, Inc. at 333 Laidley Street
- Conditional use permit for a restaurant and brewery at 180 Summer Street
- Conditional use permit for a salon at 1215 Quarrier Street
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will review audited and unaudited financial reports for the fiscal year. Members are also considering a $402,175.61 payment for the Woodward Branch sewer replacement project and an engineering task order for lift station improvements.
- $402,175.61 draw resolution for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project
- $160,100.00 task order with Burgess and Niple, Inc. for Davis Creek and Woodrum Lane improvements
- Review of the Audited Financial Report for the year ended June 30, 2021
Municipal Planning Commission
The Commission will consider rezoning parcels on Tennessee Avenue and Monongalia Street to a C-10 District. The meeting also includes reviews of text amendments regarding front setback exceptions and the East End Historic District Overlay.
- Rezoning 104 Tennessee Avenue from R-O to C-10
- Rezoning 110-116 Monongalia Street from C-8 to C-10
- Text amendment for front setback exceptions (Bill No. 7926)
- Text amendment for East End Historic District Overlay (Bill No. 7931)
The Municipal Planning Commission voted unanimously to table Bill No. 7926, a zoning text amendment that would have relaxed front setback rules for porches in traditional neighborhoods. The commission also approved naming an unnamed alley as Bullock Lane and approved the minutes from the September 8 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Tabled Bill No. 7926, zoning text amendment for front setback exceptions (13-0)
- Approved naming unnamed alley as Bullock Lane (13-0)
- Approved minutes of September 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team held a special meeting for administrative purposes. The agenda includes adopting minutes from November 16, 2021, appointing a new Chair, and potentially appointing a Vice Chair or discussing by-laws.
- Adoption of November 16, 2021 meeting minutes
- Appointment of a new Chair
- Potential appointment of a Vice Chair
- Discussion regarding adopting by-laws
The Green Team approved the November 16 minutes and unanimously elected Patti Hamilton as Chair, James Young as Vice Chair, and Linda Frame as Secretary. Linda will draft by-laws, and the next meeting is set for December 21 at noon. The group discussed moving meetings earlier and possibly in-person, with Patti adding that to the next agenda. Members were asked to submit contact info and future member/speaker suggestions.
- Approved minutes from November 16 meeting
- Elected Patti Hamilton as Chair unanimously
- Elected James Young as Vice Chair unanimously
- Elected Linda Frame as Secretary unanimously
- Scheduled next meeting for December 21 at noon
- Agreed Linda will draft by-laws for review
- Agreed to compile contact list via Nikki Smith
- Adjourned meeting unanimously
Facilities Committee
The committee will discuss a project to purchase a new voting and telecommunications system for Council Chambers. The agenda also includes Resolution No. 563-21, which authorizes the demolition of the former fire station at 502 26th Street.
- Discussion of a new voting and telecommunications system for Council Chambers
- Resolution No. 563-21: Demolition of the former fire station at 502 26th Street by West Virginia Demolition, Inc.
The Facilities Committee approved Resolution No. 563-21, authorizing the Mayor or City Manager to order the demolition of the former fire station at 502 26th Street and to contract with West Virginia Demolition, Inc. for the work. The decision was based on structural issues, including a floor at risk of collapsing and major water damage, with renovation costs estimated at $200 per square foot. The committee also discussed, but took no action on, a project to purchase a new voting and telecommunications system for Council Chambers. The meeting minutes from August 16, 2021, were approved.
- Approved the minutes of the previous meeting on 8-16-2021.
- Approved Resolution No. 563-21 to demolish the former fire station at 502 26th Street and contract with West Virginia Demolition, Inc.
- Discussed a new voting and telecommunications system for Council Chambers; no action taken.
Finance
The Finance Committee will review several resolutions regarding city contracts and grant applications. Items include agreements for affordable senior housing at Brooks Manor and fire department equipment. The committee will also discuss playground equipment for Celebration Station and police COVID-19 response items.
- Resolution 566-21: Affordable senior housing agreement at Brooks Manor
- Resolution 565-21: FEMA grant application for fire truck and breathing apparatuses
- Resolution 567-21: Fire alarm system upgrade at North Charleston Community Center
- Resolution 569-21: Playground equipment purchase for Celebration Station
- Resolution 564-21: COVID-19 response items for the Charleston Police Department
The Finance Committee approved five resolutions, including authorizing $39,426 for COVID-19 emergency response items for the police, applying for a $2,000,000 FEMA firefighter grant, and entering a regulatory agreement for affordable senior housing at Brooks Manor. It also approved a $28,000 fire alarm upgrade and a $397,464 playground equipment purchase for Celebration Station. All resolutions passed unanimously, with one abstention on the Brooks Manor item.
- Approved Resolution 564-21: $39,426 purchase of COVID-19 response items for police from Gall's.
- Approved Resolution 565-21: Application for $2,000,000 FEMA firefighter grant with 10% cash match.
- Approved Resolution 566-21: Regulatory agreement with WV Homes Inc. for 20-year affordable senior housing at Brooks Manor (one abstention).
- Approved Resolution 567-21: $28,000 contract with Brewer & Company for fire alarm upgrade at North Charleston Community Center.
- Approved Resolution 569-21: $397,464 playground equipment purchase for Celebration Station with Kanawha County Schools.
- Approved minutes from November 15, 2021 meeting as distributed.
City Council
The Charleston City Council will review several resolutions regarding public safety and community infrastructure. This includes authorizing the demolition of a former fire station and approving syringe services program licenses. The council will also discuss contracts for playground equipment and fire alarm upgrades.
- Demolition of former fire station at 502 26th Street
- Affordable senior housing agreement for Brooks Manor
- COVID-19 emergency response item purchase for police department
- Syringe services program licensure support
- Fire alarm system upgrade at North Charleston Community Center
The Council approved all six resolutions on the agenda, including amendments to the Charleston Fire Civil Service Rules, support for two syringe services program license applications by West Virginia Health Right, Inc., and the demolition of the former fire station at 502 26th Street. It also authorized purchases for police COVID-19 gear, a FEMA firefighter grant application, a housing agreement for senior affordability, a fire alarm upgrade, and playground equipment for Celebration Station. Six claims for property damage or vehicle loss were referred to the City Solicitor, and a petition for review of a public nuisance notice was scheduled for the next meeting.
- Approved Resolution 562-21, adopting amendments to the Charleston Fire Civil Service Rules.
- Approved Resolution 568-21, supporting syringe services program license applications by West Virginia Health Right, Inc. at 1520 Washington Street East and 600 Shrewsbury Street.
- Approved Resolution 563-21, authorizing demolition of the former fire station at 502 26th Street, with an estimated cost of $30,000.
- Approved Resolution 564-21, authorizing purchase of COVID-19 emergency response items for the Police Department for $39,426.00.
- Approved Resolution 565-21, authorizing a FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grant application for $2,000,000.
- Approved Resolution 566-21, authorizing a regulatory agreement with West Virginia Homes, Inc. for affordable senior housing at Brooks Manor.
- Approved Resolution 567-21, authorizing a $28,000 contract with Brewer & Company for a fire alarm system upgrade at the North Charleston Community Center.
- Approved Resolution 569-21, authorizing a cooperative agreement with Kanawha County Schools and a $397,464 contract for playground equipment at Celebration Station.
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The board will review financial reports, building and grounds committee updates, and venue status. The agenda also includes updates regarding Coliseum seat replacement and the Municipal Auditorium proforma.
- Coliseum Seat Replacement Update
- Municipal Auditorium Proforma Update
- Financial Report
- Building & Grounds Committee Report
- Venue Report
The board approved spending up to $100,000 in capital improvement funds for a blackout curtaining system, truss, and motors for the Coliseum. The system will screen the upper seating bowl, allowing for smaller-capacity shows. The next step is for City Purchasing to manage the RFP process, with final approval from City Council. The board also approved the October financial report and the October 26 minutes with a correction noting Tessa White's attendance.
- Approved spending up to $100,000 from capital improvement funds for a blackout curtaining system, truss, and motors for the Coliseum.
- Approved the October financial report, which showed a net loss of $145,496 for October.
- Approved the October 26, 2021 meeting minutes with an update to reflect Tessa White's attendance.
Firemen's Pension Board
The board will review rules and regulations and provide updates on corrective actions involving accounting firm EOIs. The meeting also includes discussions on individual pension matters and a decision regarding an investment firm.
- Approval of Rules and Regs
- Update on MPOB plan of corrective actions
- Pension corrections for Jackson, Virag, and Breedlove
- Return of contributions for Dave Byrd
- Investment Firm Decision
Police Pension Board
The Charleston Police Pension Board met on November 19, 2021. The agenda includes a decision regarding the selection of an investment firm.
- Decision on an investment firm
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will consider an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace 13 windows at 1525 Quarrier Street. The agenda also includes reports on minor work permits and project updates.
- Window replacement application (COA-21-0213) for 1525 Quarrier Street
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Approval of October 21, 2021 meeting minutes
General
The meeting consists of a public hearing regarding applications from Health Right for syringe service programs. The discussion includes proposed sites on Washington Street East and at Covenant House.
- Syringe service program application for Washington Street East
- Syringe service program application at Covenant House
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team will meet to adopt October minutes and select a new chair following Emmett Pepper's resignation. The agenda also includes a discussion on pedestrian safety regarding an incident on the 1000 block of Central Avenue.
- Selection of a new chair following Emmett Pepper’s resignation
- Pedestrian safety discussion regarding a death on the 1000 block of Central Avenue
- Updates on composting, energy, and glass recycling
- Reports on recycling at public events and the recycling facility
The Charleston Green Team met on November 16, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so no action items were considered. Members discussed pedestrian safety and recycling education, and agreed to study walkability starting in January. A special meeting will be scheduled to select a new chair.
- No action items taken due to lack of quorum
- Agreed to begin studying walkability in January
- Scheduled special meeting to select new chair
Finance
The committee will also review several applications for state funding for police and fire services. Other items include playground equipment for Beatrice Street Park and security cameras for the North Charleston Community Center.
- State funding applications for police and fire equipment
- Playground equipment purchase for Beatrice Street Park
- Fuel purchase agreements via Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority
- Security camera installation at North Charleston Community Center
- Amendment No. 5 to the FY 2021-2022 General Fund Budget
City Council
The Charleston City Council will discuss changing ward boundaries for the 2022 elections. The agenda also includes proposals to reorganize city commissions and several applications for state funding for police and fire services.
- Changing ward boundaries for City Council elections beginning with the 2022 election
- Reorganizing city commissions, including creating a public art commission
- Applying for funds for police department servers and 'stop the bleed' kits
- Purchasing playground equipment for Beatrice Street Park from Miracle Recreation Equipment
- Installing security cameras at North Charleston Community Center via Nitro Construction
The Council approved a new ward map for the 2022 elections, adopted a resolution creating a select committee to study council size, and passed a budget amendment giving police officers a $1/hour raise. It also approved several grant applications and equipment purchases, including security cameras for the North Charleston Community Center.
- Approved new ward boundaries for 2022 elections (25-1)
- Adopted resolution to create select committee on council size (15-11)
- Approved $1/hour police raise via budget amendment (unanimous)
- Approved $31,550 grant application for police server and hard drives
- Approved $59,000 grant application for cybersecurity assessment
- Approved $10,000 grant for stop the bleed kits
- Approved $25,000 grant for radio tower maintenance
- Approved $25,199 contract for security cameras at North Charleston Community Center
🗳️ How they voted — 10 divided votes
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment and receive an update on the Elk City/West Side project. The agenda includes RFPs for the Macy’s building sale or lease and the sale of 1341 Washington Street East. Members will also discuss legal updates regarding CTC Mall and parking garages.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- RFP for Macy's building sale or lease
- RFP for the sale of 1341 Washington Street East
- CTC Mall and parking garage legal update
- Property acquisition/disposition for Washington Street and Downtown
Municipal Beautification Commission
The meeting includes the election of new officers and the introduction of new members. The commission will also receive reports on Ruffner Park progress and public arts.
- Election of officers
- Ruffner Park progress report
- Public Arts Report
- Introduction of new members
The Municipal Beautification Commission approved the October minutes, elected new officers (Chair Amy McLaughlin, Vice Chair Brenda Ellis, Secretary Bobbi Holland, Treasurer Donna Graham), and welcomed new member Alex Franklin. Mayor Goodwin announced the commission will continue with tweaked language, removing Wayfinding and Public Art elements, which will move to a new Public Arts Commission. No expenditures were reported, leaving the Project Fund balance near $32,781.10.
- Approved October 5, 2021 minutes as emailed
- Elected Amy McLaughlin as Chair, Brenda Ellis as Vice Chair, Bobbi Holland as Secretary, Donna Graham as Treasurer (vote passed)
- Accepted new member Alex Franklin to the commission
- Decided to proceed with Request for Proposal for Ruffner Park landscaping
- Noted no expenditures, Project Fund balance near $32,781.10
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. The meeting includes discussions regarding 2020 County Tax Sale properties and the potential acquisition of multiple lots. Members will also plan for upcoming tax sales and a report to City Council.
- Review of 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- Discussion of 1726 Kemp Avenue and 1703 Kemp Avenue
- Potential acquisition of multiple lots
- Planning for WVSAO lien purchases and Kanawha County Sheriff tax sales
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The committee will consider Bill No. 7927, which proposes creating a Public Art Commission and eliminating the Beautification and Wayfinding Commissions. The agenda also includes approval of the September 1, 2021, meeting minutes.
- Bill No. 7927: Creation of a Public Art Commission
- Elimination of the Beautification and Wayfinding Commissions
- Approval of September 1, 2021, meeting minutes
LGBTQ+ Working Group
The Charleston LGBTQ+ Working Group is meeting to discuss organizational priorities, social media management, and event opportunities. The group will also consider nominating a Secretary and setting future meeting schedules.
- Nomination of a Secretary
- Discussion on printed materials and banners for events
- Social media access and leadership discussion
- Review of working group priorities
- Setting future meeting dates and locations
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee will discuss Bill No. 7932, which proposes changing ward boundaries for City Council elections beginning in 2022. The committee will also review the minutes from the October 25, 2021, meeting.
- Bill No. 7932: Changing City Council election ward boundaries
- Approval of October 25, 2021, meeting minutes
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee held a special meeting to review redistricting options for City Council wards. After public input and discussion, the committee eliminated Options 1 and 3, focused on Option 2, and later adopted a revised version (Option 2b) as a committee substitute for Bill No. 7932. The committee also discussed reducing council size, term limits, and staggered elections, and voted to study these topics.
- Eliminated Options 1 and 3 for ward redistricting
- Adopted Option 2b as committee substitute for Bill No. 7932 (unanimous)
- Voted to study council size, term limits, and staggered elections
- Approved minutes of October 25, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
Police Pension Board
The Charleston Police Pension Board will meet to fill two board vacancies. The agenda includes appointing a new trustee to replace retired Captain Mike Chapman and selecting a new secretary.
- Appointment of a new trustee to replace retired Captain Mike Chapman
- Appointment of a new secretary
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The committee will review the minutes from the September 27, 2021 meeting. Members will also discuss and vote on insurance carrier allocations among competing brokerage, agent, and producer firms.
- Approval of September 27, 2021 minutes
- Discussion and approval of insurance carrier allocations among brokerage/agent/producer firms
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty approved the previous meeting's minutes and unanimously approved insurance carrier allocations among competing brokerage/agent/producer firms, as agreed to by the firms and recommended by the City Manager. No other substantive decisions were made; the committee discussed upcoming steps to approve a scoring process and review proposals.
- Approved previous minutes from September 27, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved insurance carrier allocations among firms (unanimous)
Finance
The Finance Committee will discuss the approval of previous meeting minutes and several proposed resolutions. These include amending Community Development Block Grant budgets and a lease renewal for space at 601 Morris Street.
- Resolution 549-21: Amending 2021 Community Development Block Grant budgets
- Resolution 550-21: Lease renewal for space at 601 Morris Street with Yoga Power LLC
- Resolution 551-21: Waiving hourly metered parking fees on select dates in late 2021 and early 2022
- Resolution 552-21: Change Order No. 1 for the concrete sidewalk and accessible ramp project with McClanahan Construction Co., LLC
City Council
The Charleston City Council will discuss a zoning change for 280 Oakwood Road and the waiving of metered parking fees for specific holiday dates. The meeting also includes discussions on community development grant budgets and a lease renewal at 601 Morris Street.
- Rezoning of 280 Oakwood Road from R-4/R-6 to C-8 (Committee recommends denial)
- Waiving hourly metered parking fees for 'Citizen Appreciation Parking' on select dates
- Lease renewal for space at 601 Morris Street with Yoga Power LLC
- Amendment of the 2021 Community Development Block Grant budgets
- Change order for the city's concrete sidewalk and accessible ramp project
The Charleston City Council filled the vacant at-large council seat by appointing Emmett Pepper, who was sworn in during the meeting. The council also approved several resolutions, including a lease renewal for Yoga Power LLC, free metered parking on select Saturdays, a sidewalk change order, and a CDBG budget amendment. A street naming for an alley was referred back to committee after a motion to table failed.
- Appointed Emmett Pepper to vacant at-large council seat (21-3)
- Adopted Resolution 549-21 amending CDBG budgets (23-1)
- Adopted Resolution 550-21 authorizing Yoga Power LLC lease renewal (1 abstention)
- Adopted Resolution 551-21 authorizing free metered parking on six Saturdays
- Adopted Resolution 552-21 approving sidewalk change order for $36,312.50
- Referred street naming of alley to Bullock Lane back to Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee (14-11)
- Withdrew Bill No. 7898 (rezoning at 280 Oakwood Road) unanimously
🗳️ How they voted — 4 divided votes
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The board will review the financial report and permitted check signers for the Ticket & Promotions Account. The agenda also includes a venue report and an update on the Municipal Auditorium Pedestrian Plaza.
- Financial report
- Permitted Check Signers – Ticket & Promotions Account
- Venue Report
- Pedestrian Plaza – Municipal Auditorium
The board approved moving forward with a permanent pedestrian plaza concept for the Municipal Auditorium, including conversations with committees and City Council. It also approved new signors for the checking account and accepted the August 2021 financial report. The meeting was otherwise routine.
- Approved minutes as distributed
- Accepted and filed August 2021 financial report (net income $184,448)
- Approved new checking account signors: add Anna Westfall, Wes Smith, Victor Hodges; remove John Robertson, Jim Smith, Joe Varney
- Approved proceeding with pedestrian plaza project for Municipal Auditorium
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The commission will consider two applications for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding roof replacements at 1514 Virginia Street, East and 1599A Quarrier Street. The meeting also includes a report on minor work permits and project updates.
- Application for slate roof replacement at 1514 Virginia Street, East
- Application for clay tile roof replacement at 1599A Quarrier Street
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Approval of September 16, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team will review minutes from July and August 2021 meetings. The agenda includes a landfill update and several updates regarding composting, energy, and glass recycling. The group will also discuss a concept for a monthly educational talk show.
- Landfill update with engineer Sam Strickland
- Updates on composting and energy
- Glass recycling update
- Recycling facility update
- Discussion of a monthly educational talk show concept
The Charleston Green Team approved minutes from July and August, honored the late Council member John Kennedy Bailey, and discussed the American Rescue Plan as a potential funding source. They heard a landfill update indicating the landfill will be out of space by 2026, requiring a tipping fee increase. The team formed an education committee to develop a recycling education program, possibly using Zoom, Facebook Live, or local radio.
- Approved minutes from July 20 and August 17 meetings
- Formed education committee (Patti, Linda, James) to follow up on recycling education concept
- Discussed American Rescue Plan as potential funding source for Green Team proposals
- Heard landfill update: tipping fee $40/ton, city gets $2.25/ton, landfill full by 2026, expansion planned
City Council
The City Council will consider several resolutions regarding vehicle purchases and infrastructure repairs. This includes replacing police and fire staff vehicles and a CPD SWAT van. The council will also review an amendment to the 2021-2022 General Fund Budget.
- Purchase of eight Ford Explorer SUVs for $225,328
- Contract with Mr. Asphalt, Inc. to re-pave North Charleston Community center parking lot and roads
- Repair of a roadway embankment slip on Stone Road near Overbrook Road
- Replacement of a CPD SWAT van
- Amendment No. 4 of the FY 2021–2022 General Fund Budget
The Charleston City Council unanimously approved five resolutions, including the purchase of eight Ford Explorer SUVs for police and fire departments, a contract to repave the North Charleston Community Center parking lot, a contract to fix an embankment slip on Stone Road, a new SWAT van, and a budget amendment. All resolutions passed without opposition.
- Approved $225,328 purchase of 8 Ford Explorer SUVs for police and fire (unanimous)
- Approved $157,975 contract with Mr. Asphalt, Inc. for North Charleston Community Center paving (unanimous)
- Approved $110,800 contract with Rock Forge Bridge Company for Stone Road embankment repair (unanimous)
- Approved $197,900 purchase of armored SWAT van from Alpine Armoring (unanimous)
- Approved FY 2021-2022 General Fund Budget Amendment No. 4 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals is reviewing an application to establish a tattoo studio at 308 41st Street, SE. The board will also approve the minutes from the September 23, 2021 hearing.
- Conditional use permit application for a tattoo studio at 308 41st Street, SE
- Approval of minutes from the September 23, 2021 hearing
Charleston Sanitary Board
The Charleston Sanitary Board will review financial reports and approve several service contracts. The agenda includes payments for the Woodward Branch sewer replacement and engineering services for lift station improvements. The board will also consider awards for chemicals used in water treatment processes.
- $4,406.70 payment to WV DEP for Woodward Branch sewer replacement and rehabilitation
- Contract award to Polydyne, Inc. for dry polymers totaling $90,750.00
- Contract award to Coastal Water Technology, LLC for liquid polymer ($24,840.00)
- Contract award to Premier Magnesia LLC for odor control slurry ($98,939.30)
- $72,200.00 task order for Chesterfield Avenue, James Street and Roosevelt Avenue lift station improvements
Spring Hill Cemetery Park Commission
The commission will review superintendent, business, and arboretum reports. Members will also elect a new Secretary and discuss cemetery endowment business.
- Mausoleum remediation expense of $4827.00, with half paid by the City
- Maintenance of Guill Family Plot
- Election of Secretary for the Commission
- Review of July 8, 2021, meeting minutes
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will discuss real estate assets including the CTC Mall and parking garages during an executive session. The meeting also includes updates on the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment and a request for proposals regarding the Macy's building.
- Ownership transfer of the Marriott hotel
- Ratification of garage lease for CTC Mall & Parking Garages
- RFP for sale or lease of the Macy's building
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- Outdoor advertising discussion regarding 609 Capitol Street
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency will discuss the draft 2021-2022 budget and properties from the 2020 County Tax Sale. The agenda also includes updates on specific addresses and an expression of interest for 602 Thompson Street.
- Draft 2021-2022 CLRA Budget
- 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- 739 Central Avenue, 1726 Kemp Avenue, and 1703 Kemp Avenue
- Potential acquisition of multiple lots
- 602 Thompson Street EOI
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission will consider a text amendment regarding front setback exceptions in the city's Zoning Ordinance. The meeting also includes a request to name an unnamed alley Bullock Lane and a discussion on reviewing bylaws.
- Text Amendment (Bill No. 7926) for front setback exceptions
- Request to name an unnamed alley Bullock Lane
- Review of bylaws and procedures
The Municipal Planning Commission unanimously approved Bill No. 7924, rezoning a parcel at 1313 Bigley Avenue from I-2 Light Industrial to C-8 Village Commercial. The applicant, Frank McCormick, stated the change aligns with neighboring properties. A proposed text amendment on syringe service programs was postponed.
- Approved rezoning of 1313 Bigley Avenue to C-8 Village Commercial (unanimous)
- Postponed text amendment Bill No. 7905 on syringe service program land use
- Approved minutes of August 4, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
Municipal Beautification Commission
The commission will discuss Bill #7927 regarding the elimination of the Beautification Commission. The agenda also includes progress reports on Ruffner Park and a vote on brick installation at Edgewood Drive.
- Bill #7927 to eliminate the Beautification Commission
- Vote on brick installation at Edgewood Drive
- Gold Star Mothers' Project at Patrick Street
- Ruffner Park progress report
The Municipal Beautification Commission unanimously approved the minutes, treasurer's report, and the nominating committee's slate of officers, reappointing Anna Forbes as Chair. The commission discussed plans for The Appalachian Spring Project, including a ceremonial tree planting on October 20 and a scaled-back initial planting of 50-100 trees in late 2025 and early 2026. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.
- Approved September 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved treasurer's report showing $292,200.05 balance (unanimous)
- Approved officer slate: Forbes Chair, Crichton Vice Chair, Dobbins Treasurer, Shumate Secretary (unanimous)
Finance
The Finance Committee will review resolutions regarding city contracts and legal settlements. Items include authorizing new park facilities at Cato Park and a five-year contract for electrical weapons.
- Contract with Benchmark Construction Company Inc. for Cato Park trails and disc golf course
- Sidewalk repairs on Chesterfield Avenue by McClanahan Construction Company
- Five-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for 90 conducted electrical weapons
- Settlement of pending disputed claims against the City of Charleston
- Amendment No. 3 to the FY 2021—2022 General Fund Budget
The Finance Committee approved four resolutions and a budget amendment. The most consequential was a $300,000 settlement to resolve two federal lawsuits against the city. The committee also approved contracts for a Cato Park recreation project, a Chesterfield Avenue sidewalk repair, and 90 tasers for police, plus a budget amendment to fund the taser purchase.
- Approved $300,000 settlement in Walter R. Myers et al. v. City of Charleston and Certain Underwriters at Lloyds v. City of Charleston (unanimous)
- Approved $278,850 contract with Benchmark Construction for Cato Park walking trail, bicycle pump track, and disc golf course (unanimous)
- Approved $259,950 contract with McClanahan Construction for Chesterfield Avenue sidewalk repair (unanimous)
- Approved $298,850 five-year contract with Axon Enterprise for 90 tasers and equipment (unanimous)
- Approved Amendment No. 3 to FY 2021-2022 General Fund Budget (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will review several zoning changes and infrastructure projects. This includes a rezoning request for Bigley Avenue and new parking regulations on Preston Street. The council will also consider contracts for Cato Park improvements and sidewalk repairs.
- Rezoning 1313 Bigley Avenue from Light Industrial to Village Commercial District
- Establishing a no parking zone on the north side of Preston Street
- Contract for a walking trail and disc golf course at Cato Park
- Sidewalk repair contract for Chesterfield Avenue
- 5-year contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for 90 electrical weapons
The Charleston City Council approved a $300,000 settlement for claims against the city and police, adopted a $278,850 contract for Cato Park improvements, and passed a rezoning and a no-parking zone. A sidewalk repair contract was referred back to committee after questions about scope.
- Approved $300,000 settlement in Myers wrongful death and insurance disputes (22-3)
- Adopted Resolution 540-21: $278,850 contract with Benchmark Construction for Cato Park trail, pump track, disc golf
- Passed Bill 7924: rezoning 1313 Bigley Ave from I-2 to C-8 (unanimous)
- Passed Bill 7929: no parking zone on north side of Preston St from Elmore Ave to Monroe St (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 542-21: $298,850 five-year contract with Axon for 90 Tasers
- Adopted Resolution 543-21: FY2021-22 General Fund Budget Amendment No. 3 (unanimous)
- Referred Resolution 541-21 (Chesterfield Ave sidewalk) back to Finance Committee
- Approved board and appointments (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee
The committee will review and approve American Rescue Plan Act applications. The agenda also includes an administrative report and the approval of minutes from May 26, 2021.
- Review and approval of ARPA applications
- Approval of May 26, 2021 meeting minutes
- Administrative report
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
This meeting consists of routine financial and committee reports. No specific new projects or decisions are listed in the agenda text.
- Financial Report
- Nominating Committee Report
- Building & Grounds Committee Report
- Budget & Rates Committee Report
- Venue Report
The board approved reallocating capital improvement funds and adding $16,500 to cover the higher cost of the Life Line Fall Protection system in the Coliseum, ensuring OSHA compliance. They also re-elected the existing slate of officers for 2021-22 and approved a motion to request a plan from OVG for the Municipal Auditorium with a capacity of 2,000-4,500. Financial reports showed a net income of $184,448 for August 2021.
- Approved reallocation of CIF and additional $16,500 for Life Line Fall Protection system (motion approved)
- Re-elected Carrie Fenwick as Chair, Andy Richardson as Vice Chair, Eric Nelson as Treasurer, Kim Burton as Secretary for 2021-22 (motion approved)
- Approved motion to request a plan for Municipal Auditorium from OVG with capacity range 2,000-4,500 (motion approved)
- Approved minutes of August 24, 2021 meeting as distributed
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will consider new proposals for rezoning properties on Bigley Avenue and Oakwood Road. They will also discuss a no-parking zone on Preston Street and a speed limit analysis for Park Avenue.
- Rezoning 1313 Bigley Avenue from I-2 Light Industrial to C-8 Village Commercial
- Establishing a no parking zone on the north side of Preston Street from Elmore Avenue to Monroe Street
- Request to abolish the loading zone at 1010 John Norman Street
- Discussion regarding rezoning parcels near 280 Oakwood Road to C-8 district
- Review of Traffic Engineer’s speed limit analysis on Park Avenue
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations will discuss scoring criteria and presentations from responding firms. Members will score firms individually to determine final average scores. The committee also plans to develop new criteria for evaluating upcoming insurance proposals.
- Approval of minutes from July 15, September 13, September 14, and September 22, 2021
- Discussion of scoring criteria and firm presentations
- Approval of final scores for responding firms
- Development of new scoring criteria for insurance proposals
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty scored four firms and approved the top three (USI, WVCoRP, and RCM&D) to move forward with the City Manager's Office to develop insurance proposals. The committee also approved previous meeting minutes and discussed future scoring criteria, with the City Manager's Office to draft new criteria. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved previous minutes for July 15, September 13, September 14, and September 22, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved USI, WVCoRP, and RCM&D to move forward in the Expression of Interest process (unanimous)
- Discussed that the City Manager's Office will draft new scoring criteria for the next stage
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty met virtually and heard a presentation from AssuredPartners in response to the City's Request for Expressions of Interest. The committee unanimously moved into executive session with AssuredPartners representatives, then returned to regular session and adjourned. No formal decisions were made.
- Moved into executive session with AssuredPartners representatives (unanimous)
- Ended executive session and returned to regular session (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Finance
The committee is reviewing resolutions for equipment purchases for the Charleston Fire Department. They will also consider a contract for a safety system at the Charleston Coliseum.
- Resolution No. 535-21: Contract with Atlantic Emergency Solutions to purchase an ambulance
- Resolution No. 536-21: Contract with Evan Corporation for a fall protection system in the Charleston Coliseum
- Resolution No. 538-21: Contract with Atlantic Emergency Solutions to purchase five Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses
City Council
The Charleston City Council approved three resolutions: a $185,002 contract with Atlantic Emergency Solutions for a 2022 Ford F-450 ambulance for the Fire Department, a $134,810 contract with Evan Corporation for a fall protection system at the Coliseum, and a $94,419.10 contract with Atlantic Emergency Solutions for firefighter breathing apparatuses. All three resolutions passed unanimously. The council also introduced two bills: one to establish a no-parking zone on Preston Street and another to prohibit camping in public places, both referred to committees.
- Approved Resolution 535-21: $185,002 contract for 2022 Ford F-450 ambulance (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 536-21: $134,810 contract for coliseum fall protection system (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 538-21: $94,419.10 contract for SCBA equipment (unanimous)
- Introduced Bill 7929: no parking zone on Preston Street, referred to Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
- Introduced Bill 7930: camping prohibition with penalties, referred to Ordinance and Rules and Planning committees
- Referred four vehicle damage claims to City Solicitor
- Received and filed City Treasurer's Report for August 2021
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will consider an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace a slate roof at 1514 Virginia Street, East. The agenda also includes reports on minor work permits and the adoption of EEHD Design Guidelines.
- Application for slate roof replacement at 1514 Virginia Street, East
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Adoption of EEHD Design Guidelines
- Approval of June 17, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency will discuss several properties from the 2020 County Tax Sale, including addresses on Central Avenue and Kemp Avenue. The agenda also includes a presentation on housing trends and reviews of upcoming tax sales.
- Review of 739 Central Avenue, 1726 Kemp Avenue, and 1703 Kemp Avenue properties
- Presentation on housing and real estate trends by Josh McGrath
- Discussion of the draft 2021-2022 CLRA budget
- Updates on WVSAO and Kanawha County Sheriff’s tax sales
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency approved making $10 bids on nine vacant no-bid parcels near Amity Drive, following a recommendation from John Butterworth. The agency will first contact landowners to see if they would donate their property before bidding. The board also adopted the July 13, 2021 minutes, heard a treasurer's report showing a balance of $247,890.65, and discussed several properties including 739 Central Avenue, where Tony Harmon advised bringing the structure up to code rather than a full renovation.
- Approved $10 bids on nine vacant no-bid parcels near Amity Drive
- Adopted minutes from the July 13, 2021 meeting
- Discussed 739 Central Avenue, with advice to bring it up to code rather than fully renovate
- Noted receipt of deeds for properties purchased through the State Auditor's office bid process
- Discussed potential acquisition of multiple lots, with settlement pending
- Discussed 1703 Kemp Avenue, with Joe Baldwin finalizing the deed
- Discussed 1829 Clyde Court, with paperwork to be filed
- Scheduled Developer's Roundtable tentatively for October 7, 13, or 14, 2021
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property & Casualty will hear presentations from RCM&D and WVCoRP. These presentations address their respective responses to the City's Request for Expressions of Interest.
- Presentation by RCM&D regarding its response to the City’s Request for Expressions of Interest
- Presentation by WVCoRP regarding its response to the City’s Request for Expressions of Interest
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty met virtually and heard presentations from RCM&D and WVCoRP in response to the City's Request for Expressions of Interest. The committee unanimously moved into executive session with each firm's representatives and then returned to regular session. No formal decisions or proposals were approved; the chair noted four total presentations will occur over several meetings, with three selected to return with defined proposals. The meeting adjourned after the second presentation.
- Moved into executive session with RCM&D representatives (unanimous).
- Ended executive session with RCM&D representatives (unanimous).
- Moved into executive session with WVCoRP representatives (unanimous).
- Ended executive session with WVCoRP representatives (unanimous).
- Adjourned the meeting (motion by Reishman).
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property & Casualty will receive a presentation from USI. The presentation concerns USI's response to the City’s Request for Expressions of Interest.
- Presentation by USI regarding its response to the City’s Request for Expressions of Interest
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty met virtually and heard a presentation from USI in response to the City's Request for Expressions of Interest. The committee unanimously voted to enter executive session with USI representatives, then returned to regular session and adjourned. No formal decisions were made.
- Moved into executive session with USI representatives (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (motion by Hoover, second by Pharr)
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will review financial reports and progress on the Woodward Drive Sewer Replacement Project. Members will consider awarding a construction contract for Phase II of the project. The meeting also includes discussion of legal matters.
- Construction contract award for $4,922,374.00 for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Improvements
- Payment of $43,638.04 to West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
- Review of unaudited financial reports for June and July 2021
- Legal matters including CSB v. Colonial, et al.
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment and discuss a possible expansion or new Urban Renewal District. The agenda includes updates on RFPs for the Macy’s property and the West Washington DoH streetscape program. An executive session is scheduled to discuss real estate assets including CTC Mall and parking garages.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- RFPs for the Macy's property
- Billboard lease extension at 600 Capitol Street
- Possible expansion or new Urban Renewal District
- Real estate discussions regarding CTC Mall and parking garages
General
The Municipal Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 1313 Bigley Avenue. A text amendment regarding syringe service program land use was postponed. The commission will also review minutes from the August 4, 2021 meeting.
- Rezoning of 1313 Bigley Avenue from I-2 Light Industrial District to C-8 Village Commercial District
- Postponed text amendment (Bill No. 7905) regarding syringe service program land use
The Municipal Planning Commission voted 8-0 to approve Bill No. 7917, rezoning 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6 for RCCR's planned duplex and parking use. It also voted 8-0 to approve Bill No. 7918, rezoning three areas in the Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4. A text amendment (Bill No. 7905) creating a land category for syringe service programs was postponed. Minutes from May 5, 2021 were approved 8-0.
- Approved Bill No. 7917, rezoning 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6, by an 8-0 vote
- Approved Bill No. 7918, rezoning three Woodbridge Subdivision areas from R-6 to R-4, by an 8-0 vote
- Postponed Bill No. 7905, a text amendment creating a syringe service program land category
- Approved the minutes of the May 5, 2021 MPC meeting by an 8-0 vote
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission will vote on a brick installation at Edgewood Drive and discuss the Gold Star Mothers’ Project at Patrick Street. The meeting also includes progress reports regarding Ruffner Park, public arts, and wayfinding.
- Vote on brick installation at Edgewood Drive
- Gold Star Mothers’ Project at Patrick Street
- Ruffner Park progress report
- Public Arts Report
- Wayfinding Report
Finance
The Finance Committee will review resolutions regarding city contracts and budget amendments. This includes a contract for a new park at Beatrice Street and Washington Street, West, and engineering services for community center HVAC renovations. The committee will also consider requests for police cameras and vehicles.
- Contract with Tempo Construction LLC for a new park at Beatrice Street and Washington Street, West
- Grant application for two police pole cameras via the Kanawha County Public Safety Grant Program
- Engineering services from Pickering Associates, Inc. for HVAC renovations at MLK Jr. and North Charleston Community Centers
- Purchase of vehicles for the Charleston Police Department
- Amendment No. 2 to the FY 2021—2022 General Fund Budget
The Finance Committee unanimously approved five resolutions, including a $235,023.84 contract with Tempo Construction LLC to build a new city park at Beatrice and Washington Streets, West, with basketball courts, a playground, and parking. They also authorized a $19,900 grant application for two police pole cameras, a $30,000 HVAC engineering contract for two community centers, a $398,796 purchase of 12 police SUVs, and a budget amendment increasing boot allowance and adding a $500 vaccination incentive.
- Approved Resolution 530-21: grant application for $19,900 for two police pole cameras (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 531-21: $235,023.84 contract with Tempo Construction LLC for new park at Beatrice & Washington Sts. (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 532-21: FY 2021-2022 budget amendment with $50 boot allowance increase and $500 vaccination incentive (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 533-21: $30,000 contract with Pickering Associates for HVAC engineering at MLK and North Charleston Community Centers (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 534-21: $398,796 purchase of 12 police interceptor SUVs from Stephens Auto Center (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will consider several zoning changes and new parking regulations. The agenda also includes proposals for police equipment funding and park construction. A public hearing is scheduled regarding the establishment of a new business improvement district.
- Public hearing for creating the City Center Business Improvement District (Bill No. 7923)
- Rezoning of 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6 (Bill No. 7917)
- Contract with Tempo Construction LLC for a new park at Beatrice and Washington Streets (Resolution 531-21)
- Grant application for police pole cameras in high crime areas (Resolution 530-21)
- Engineering services contract for HVAC renovations at community centers (Resolution 533-21)
The council voted unanimously to create the City Center Business Improvement District (BID), a special district that will levy fees on commercial properties to fund services like cleaning, beautification, and events. The council also approved several zoning changes, including a rezoning at 808 Hendrix Avenue, and authorized a $235,023.84 contract for a new park. A resolution to require individual votes on mayoral appointments was amended and passed.
- Created City Center Business Improvement District (unanimous)
- Approved rezoning at 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6 (18-7, Adams abstained)
- Approved rezoning in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4 (unanimous)
- Approved parking prohibition in turnarounds and cul-de-sacs (20-6)
- Repealed no-parking zone on Hunters Ridge Road (unanimous)
- Established no-parking zone on Bream Street (unanimous)
- Authorized 5-year parking lease with Supreme Court of Appeals (19-7)
- Approved $235,023.84 contract for new park at Beatrice and Washington Streets (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 7 divided votes
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The Ordinance and Rules Committee will consider Resolution No. 529-21. This resolution proposes amending Council Rules No. 3 and No. 13 regarding the process for mayoral appointments. The proposal includes new filing deadlines and disclosure requirements for familial relationships.
- Resolution No. 529-21 to amend Council Rules No. 3 and No. 13
- New Friday noon deadline for filing appointment recommendations
- Requirement that each recommendation be voted on individually
- Mandatory disclosure of familial relationships between nominees and city officials
The Ordinance and Rules Committee approved Resolution No. 529-21 as a Committee Substitute, amending Council Rules No. 3 and No. 13. The approved version requires mayoral appointment recommendations to be filed with the clerk by noon on the Friday before a Council meeting and requires individual votes on each appointment. An amendment to remove the familial relationship disclosure requirement was approved, and the final resolution passed 6-1.
- Approved amendment removing familial relationship disclosure requirement (majority vote, Persinger nay)
- Approved Resolution No. 529-21 Committee Substitute (6-1, Bailey nay)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will review a density variance application for 604 Randolph Street. The request seeks to establish an additional dwelling unit on the property. The board will also approve minutes from the June 10, 2021 hearing.
- Density variance for an additional dwelling unit at 604 Randolph Street
- Approval of June 10, 2021 meeting minutes
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The board will welcome new members John Ingram and Brad Marple. The meeting includes a financial report, a venue report, and nominations for officer appointments.
- Welcome of new board members John Ingram and Brad Marple
- Financial report from Mr. Nelson
- Venue report from Mr. Leahy
- Nominating committee officer appointments
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center / Municipal Auditorium Board approved the June 8, 2021 meeting minutes as distributed. The board also appointed a nominating committee to propose officers for the 2021-22 year, which later recommended a slate to be voted on at the September 28 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved June 8, 2021 meeting minutes as distributed
- Appointed nominating committee (Richardson, White, Murad) to propose officer slate
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will consider the creation of a new Business Improvement District and several residential rezoning requests. The agenda also includes updates to parking regulations on Evergreen Street, Bream Street, and Hunters Ridge Road.
- Creation of the City Center Business Improvement District (Bill 7923)
- Rezoning 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6 (Bill 7917)
- Rezoning three areas in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4 (Bill 7918)
- Authorizing the use of low-speed vehicles (Bill 7915)
- Five-year parking lease agreement with the Supreme Court of Appeals (Resolution 518-21)
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will consider an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness to replace a slate roof at 1514 Virginia Street, East. The agenda also includes reports on minor work permits and project updates.
- Roof replacement application for 1514 Virginia Street, East
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Project Updates
- Approval of June 17, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Green Team
The meeting includes adopting minutes from July 20, 2021, and a presentation on the history of the Hanna Drive / North Charleston composting facility. Updates will also be provided regarding energy, glass recycling, and recycling at public events.
- History of Hanna Drive / North Charleston composting facility
- Updates on composting and energy
- Glass recycling update
- Recycling at public events
- City Council Environment & Recycling Committee updates
The Charleston Green Team met on August 17, 2021, but initially lacked a quorum, postponing the adoption of the July 20 minutes. After a quorum was established later in the meeting, the minutes were approved. The meeting included a presentation on the history of the Hanna Drive composting facility, updates on recycling efforts, and discussion of an energy bill passed by City Council.
- Approved July 20, 2021 meeting minutes (motion by James Young, seconded by Justin Marlowe)
- Postponed minutes adoption due to lack of quorum (later resolved)
- Discussed composting facility history (no action taken)
- Noted City Council passed energy bill to save 25% energy by 2030 (no action by Green Team)
Facilities Committee
The Charleston Facilities Committee is scheduled to review a bill regarding energy benchmarking for municipal properties. The meeting also includes a discussion concerning the Municipal Auditorium.
- Bill No. 7916: Energy benchmarking and meter/streetlight audits
- Discussion regarding the Municipal Auditorium
- Approval of April 1, 2021, minutes
The Facilities Committee approved Bill No. 7916 Committee Substitute, which would require energy benchmarking for covered municipal properties and establish an energy savings program. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes after correcting a clerical error. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Bill No. 7916 Committee Substitute on energy benchmarking (unanimous)
- Approved previous meeting minutes with clerical correction (unanimous)
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider several resolutions regarding city contracts and funding applications. These include a proposed traffic study at Virginia Street West and Delaware Avenue and authorization for a legal settlement.
- Traffic study at Virginia Street West and Delaware Avenue
- WV Governor’s Highway Safety Program fund application
- Esri mapping software renewal contract
- Pension calculations for Charleston Firemen’s Pension and Relief Fund
- Settlement of claims in Johny L. Barker v. City of Charleston
The Finance Committee approved six resolutions, including a $518,000 grant application to the WV Governor's Highway Safety Program for police overtime and safety enforcement. They also authorized contracts for a traffic study, GIS software, pension calculations, a sound system, and a $45,000 lawsuit settlement. All resolutions passed unanimously except the settlement, which had one dissenting vote.
- Approved Resolution 523-21: $518K highway safety grant application (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 524-21: $49,768.93 traffic study at Virginia St W & Delaware Ave (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 525-21: $112,000 ESRI GIS software license (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 526-21: $85,000 pension calculations contract (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 527-21: $61,049.67 sound system for Coliseum theater (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 528-21: $45,000 settlement in Barker v. City (majority, 1 nay)
City Council
The Charleston City Council unanimously passed Bill No. 7916, an energy benchmarking ordinance requiring the city to track and report energy and water use for its municipal properties, with a goal of reducing energy consumption by 25% by 2031. The council also approved several resolutions, including a $518,000 highway safety grant application, a $49,768.93 traffic study contract, a $112,000 GIS software license, an $85,000 pension calculation contract, a $61,049.67 sound system installation, and a $45,000 lawsuit settlement. Bobby Brown was appointed to fill the vacant Ward 18 council seat.
- Adopted energy benchmarking ordinance (Bill No. 7916) unanimously
- Approved $518,000 highway safety grant application (Resolution 523-21) unanimously
- Approved $49,768.93 traffic study contract with HDR Engineering (Resolution 524-21) unanimously
- Approved $112,000 GIS software license with ESRI (Resolution 525-21) unanimously
- Approved $85,000 pension calculation contract with Suttle & Stalnaker (Resolution 526-21) with two abstentions
- Approved $61,049.67 sound system contract for Coliseum (Resolution 527-21) unanimously
- Approved $45,000 lawsuit settlement in Barker v. City (Resolution 528-21) with three nays
- Appointed Bobby Brown to Ward 18 council seat unanimously
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Charleston Sanitary Board
The Charleston Sanitary Board is reviewing several sewer infrastructure projects and contracts. This includes a significant price increase for the Danner Hollow project and a payment request for the Woodward Branch project. The board will also consider audit services and maintenance contract awards.
- $426,466.18 change order for Danner Hollow Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project
- $181,624.94 payment request to WVDEP for Woodward Branch sewer project
- $84,000 audit services contract with Suttle & Stalnaker
- $39,819.19 reduction in Woodward Branch project contract price
- Maintenance contract award to Garcie R. Marker and Sons, Inc.
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment and several open requests for proposals. The agenda includes updates on the Macy’s building sale or lease and the West Washington DoH streetscape program. An executive session is scheduled to discuss CTC Mall, parking garages, and property acquisitions.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- RFPs for 1601 Washington Street East and Macy’s building
- Small Business grant/Art Program update
- West Washington DoH streetscape program
- CTC Mall and parking garages update
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. Members will address unfinished business regarding 2020 County Tax Sale properties and specific property bids. New business includes discussing Amity Drive property acquisitions and a fall public input session.
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- 739 Central Avenue, 1726 Kemp Avenue, and 1703 Kemp Avenue
- Potential acquisition of multiple lots including LT 11 PARSONS CT 6TH AVE
- Amity Drive Property Acquisitions
- Fall Public Input Session
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission is reviewing rezoning applications for residential districts in Charleston. A text amendment regarding syringe service program land use was postponed.
- Rezoning 808 Hendrix Avenue from R-4 to R-6
- Rezoning three areas in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4
- Postponed text amendment for syringe service program land use
The Municipal Planning Commission approved a subdivision application by WV Health Right Inc. for property at 1520 Washington Street East, including a waiver of lot size and depth requirements, with a unanimous vote of 11-0 (one abstention). The commission also recommended approval of Bill No. 7906, rezoning 312 21st Street from I-2 to C-10, by a vote of 12-0. Two other items were postponed: a rezoning for the Woodbridge Subdivision (Bill No. 7880) and a text amendment for syringe service programs (Bill No. 7905).
- Approved WV Health Right subdivision with lot size/depth waiver (11-0, 1 abstention)
- Recommended approval of rezoning 312 21st St from I-2 to C-10 (12-0)
- Postponed Woodbridge Subdivision rezoning (Bill No. 7880) to next month
- Continued syringe service program text amendment (Bill No. 7905) to next meeting (9-0)
- Approved minutes of April 7, 2021 meeting (12-0)
Environment and Recycling
The Environment and Recycling Committee will consider Bill No. 7916 regarding energy benchmarking. The meeting also includes updates on recycling and fall tree planting.
- Bill No. 7916: Amend Municipal Code to add a new article for energy benchmarking
- Update on recycling
- Update on fall tree planting
- Approval of May 19, 2021 minutes
General
The Charleston Police Pension Board will meet to approve minutes and recent election results. The agenda includes a vote on a disability pension for Derrick Coia and a discussion regarding investment company reviews.
- Vote on Derrick Coia’s disability pension
- Review of investment companies
- Approval of recent election
- Approval of new members
- Vote on pensions from the last quarter
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission will hear updates on Ruffner Park, public arts, and wayfinding. The agenda also includes the treasurer's report and a director's report.
- Ruffner Park progress update
- Public Arts report
- Wayfinding report
- Treasurer’s report
- Director’s report
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider several resolutions regarding city funds and equipment. This includes a $2,000,000.00 transfer to the General Maintenance Fund for the Slack Plaza / City Center renovation project.
- $2,000,000.00 transfer from Sinking Fund for Slack Plaza / City Center renovation
- DOJ grant application for pole cameras and officer training
- Five-year parking lease for spaces on Venable Avenue and California Avenue
- Purchase of 37 sets of bunker gear for Charleston Fire Department
- Contract for Cured-in-place Thermosetting Resin Pipe Lining
The Finance Committee approved five resolutions, including a $2,000,000 transfer from the Sinking Fund to the General Maintenance Fund for the Slack Plaza/City Center renovation project. Other approvals included a $76,294 grant application for police equipment and training, a five-year parking lease renewal with the Supreme Court of Appeals, a $255,510 pipe lining contract, and a $70,302.22 purchase of firefighter turnout gear. All resolutions passed unanimously.
- Approved Resolution 517-21: grant application for $76,294 for police pole cameras and training (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 518-21: five-year parking lease with Supreme Court of Appeals (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 519-21: $2,000,000 transfer from Sinking Fund to General Maintenance Fund for Slack Plaza (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 520-21: $255,510 contract with Insight Pipe Contracting for pipe lining (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 522-21: $70,302.22 contract with Red Hot Fire Equipment for 37 turnout gear sets (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will consider measures to prohibit conversion therapy on minors through new ordinances and resolutions. The council also plans to discuss a $2,000,000 fund transfer for the Slack Plaza/City Center renovation project. Other items include updates on low-speed vehicle use and fire department equipment purchases.
- $2,000,000 transfer from Sinking Fund to General Maintenance Fund for Slack Plaza / City Center renovation
- Resolution declaring conversion therapy on minors unwelcome in Charleston
- Bill to authorize the use of low-speed vehicles
- Five-year parking lease for spaces on Venable and California Avenues
- Purchase of 37 sets of bunker gear for the Fire Department
The Charleston City Council passed Bill No. 7919, as amended, prohibiting conversion therapy on minors, with a 14-9 vote. The bill defines conversion therapy, exempts clergy acting in a pastoral role, and sets a $1,000 fine per violation. The council also adopted a resolution opposing conversion therapy, referred a low-speed vehicle ordinance back to committee, and approved several contracts and a $2 million transfer for the Slack Plaza renovation.
- Passed Bill No. 7919 banning conversion therapy on minors (14-9)
- Adopted Resolution No. 521-21 opposing conversion therapy (17-6)
- Referred Bill No. 7915 (low-speed vehicles) to Planning and Public Safety committees
- Adopted Resolution No. 517-21 for $76,294 police grant application
- Referred Resolution No. 518-21 (parking lease) to Planning committee
- Adopted Resolution No. 519-21 transferring $2,000,000 for Slack Plaza renovation
- Adopted Resolution No. 520-21 for $255,510 pipe lining contract
- Adopted Resolution No. 522-21 for $70,302.22 fire gear purchase
🗳️ How they voted — 6 divided votes
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee will discuss updates for the Earl Lloyd Sr. Family Basketball Courts, the skate park, and East End Park. The committee will also consider approving the minutes from the June 24, 2021, meeting.
- Approval of June 24, 2021, meeting minutes
- Earl Lloyd Sr. Family Basketball Courts discussion
- Skate park update
- East End Park update
The Parks and Recreation Committee discussed a request from the Lloyd family to name a Charleston park or recreation center after Earl Lloyd Sr., the first African American NBA player. No formal decision was made, but the committee expressed interest and agreed to develop a list of contacts for potential sponsorship and follow up next month. Other updates included progress on the skate park and East End Park splash pad.
- Approved minutes of 6-24-2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Discussed naming a park or rec center after Earl Lloyd Sr.; no vote taken
- Noted skate park is half finished; area chained off due to break-in attempt
- Reported concrete poured for East End Park splash pad; pump house due by end of week
- Reported North Charleston pool running; MLK pool closed due to lifeguard shortage
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The Ordinance and Rules Committee will meet on July 27, 2021. The agenda includes the approval of minutes from May 27, 2021, and a review of Bill No. 7919. This bill proposes amending the Municipal Code to prohibit conversion therapy and establish enforcement penalties.
- Approval of May 27, 2021, meeting minutes
- Bill No. 7919: Prohibiting conversion therapy and establishing related penalties
The Ordinance and Rules Committee approved Bill No. 7919, which would prohibit conversion therapy for minors in Charleston, with a 6-1 vote. The bill now moves to the full City Council for consideration. Councilmember Persinger voted against, citing a lack of evidence that the practice occurs in the city and suggesting a resolution instead.
- Approved Bill No. 7919 banning conversion therapy for minors (6-1)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting on 5-27-2021
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The Committee will consider bills to establish a no parking zone on Evergreen Street and a 20 MPH speed limit on Park Avenue. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding scooters.
- Bill No. 7899: New no parking zone on the westerly side of Evergreen Street
- Bill No. 7914: 20 MPH speed limit on Park Avenue from Washington Street West to Woodsedge Way
- Discussion regarding scooters
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team will meet virtually to discuss solar initiatives and recycling updates. The agenda includes a presentation by Nick Kasza regarding the SolSmart program and topics from the NAACP Environment & Sustainability Justice Committee.
- Presentation: 'How to Become a Solar-Friendly Community through SolSmart'
- Topics from the NAACP Environment & Sustainability Justice Committee
- Updates on composting, energy, and glass recycling
- Recycling facility and public event recycling updates
The Charleston Green Team met via Zoom and approved the June 29th minutes. They discussed the SolSmart solar program with a National League of Cities representative, agreeing to fact-find and consult with similar cities before deciding on participation. They also discussed sustainability recommendations from the NAACP's Environment & Climate Justice Committee, including public transit, sidewalks, and recycling, and agreed to continue considering most of them. Updates were given on a city council energy benchmarking ordinance discussion and the team's website launch.
- Approved the June 29th meeting minutes
- Agreed to fact-find and consult with similar cities on the SolSmart program
- Agreed to continue considering most NAACP sustainability recommendations
- Noted City Council Environment & Recycling Committee will discuss energy benchmarking ordinance in August
- Announced the Green Team website is launched
Finance
The committee will consider several resolutions regarding city equipment purchases and grant applications. This includes requests for police body cameras, medical equipment for fire ambulances, and budget amendments.
- Grant application for 90 police body-worn cameras
- Purchase of 1,000 folding chairs and 17 carts for the Charleston Coliseum
- Purchase of emergency medical equipment for fire department ambulances
- Amendments to the FY 2021-2022 General Fund and Coal Severance budgets
- Change order for concrete pavement repairs on Kanawha Boulevard
The Finance Committee unanimously approved Resolution No. 505-21, authorizing the Mayor to submit a substantial amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan to HUD, combining $285,865 in CDBG-CV Round 3 funds and $168,032 in unprogrammed Round 1 funds for COVID-19 response activities. The committee also approved resolutions for a Celebration Station grant application, body-worn cameras, Coliseum chairs, fire department equipment, computer equipment, software maintenance, a budget amendment, asphalt purchases, and a concrete pavement change order.
- Approved Resolution 505-21: Authorized submission of $453,897 in CDBG-CV funds for COVID-19 homeless and low-income assistance.
- Approved Resolution 506-21: Authorized co-sponsoring a $35,000 grant application with Charleston Rotary Club for Celebration Station revitalization.
- Approved Resolution 507-21: Authorized applying for $180,000 to purchase 90 body-worn cameras for the police department.
- Approved Resolution 508-21: Authorized a $72,973.30 contract with MityLite Inc. for 1,000 folding chairs and 17 carts.
- Approved Resolution 509-21: Authorized a $293,492.10 contract with Stryker Medical for fire department ambulance equipment.
- Approved Resolution 510-21: Authorized a $49,479 contract with Dell for computer equipment.
- Approved Resolution 511-21: Authorized renewal of a $69,427.26 software maintenance contract with Tritech.
- Approved Resolution 512-21: Approved FY 2021-2022 General Fund Budget Amendment No. 1.
City Council
The Finance Committee is presenting several resolutions regarding equipment purchases and budget amendments. The council will consider grant applications for housing and the revitalization of Celebration Station. Items also include infrastructure repairs and new medical equipment for fire department ambulances.
- Grant application for 90 body-worn cameras for the Charleston Police Department
- Purchase of 1,000 folding chairs and 17 carts for the Charleston Coliseum
- Budget amendments for the FY 2021–2022 General Fund and Coal Severance funds
- Concrete pavement repairs on Kanawha Boulevard between Magic Island and the Elk River
- Purchase of emergency medical equipment for Fire Department ambulances
The Charleston City Council approved a substantial amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan, allocating $453,897 in CDBG-CV funds to six entities for COVID-19 response, including Manna Meal, The Salvation Army, United Way, WV Health Right, and YWCA programs. The council also authorized a $180,000 grant application for 90 body-worn cameras for the police, approved a $72,973.30 contract for new coliseum chairs, and passed resolutions for fire department equipment, computer purchases, and budget amendments. All resolutions were adopted unanimously, with Councilmembers Minardi and Steele absent.
- Adopted Resolution 505-21, authorizing submission of a substantial amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan, allocating $453,897 in CDBG-CV funds for COVID-19 response activities.
- Adopted Resolution 506-21, authorizing co-sponsorship of a $35,000 grant application with the Charleston Rotary Club for Celebration Station playground revitalization.
- Adopted Resolution 507-21, authorizing a $180,000 grant application for 90 body-worn cameras for the Charleston Police Department.
- Adopted Resolution 508-21, authorizing a $72,973.30 contract with MityLite Inc. for 1,000 folding chairs and 17 transport carts for the Coliseum.
- Adopted Resolution 509-21, authorizing a contract with Stryker Medical for up to $293,492.10 for emergency medical equipment for the Fire Department.
- Adopted Resolution 510-21, authorizing a $49,479 contract with Dell Marketing LP for computer equipment.
- Adopted Resolution 511-21, authorizing renewal of a software maintenance contract with Tritech Software Systems for up to $69,427.26.
- Adopted Resolutions 512-21 and 514-21, approving amendments to the FY 2021-2022 General Fund and Coal Severance budgets.
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations will meet to approve minutes from July 1, 2021. The committee will also discuss and review an Expression of Interest submitted by the City Manager.
- Approval of July 1, 2021 minutes
- Review and approval of the City Manager's Expression of Interest
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty approved the City Manager's Expression of Interest (EOI) for insurance broker services, with amendments. The amendments require three current client references (one from a municipality), limit the shortlist to no more than six firms, and remove cost from the shortlist evaluation criteria, increasing the weight of implementation services/experience to 55/45 points. The EOI was approved as amended unanimously.
- Approved the minutes from the July 1, 2021 meeting as distributed.
- Amended Section 3.1 to require 3 current client references, one of which must be a municipality.
- Amended Section 4.1 to limit the shortlist to no more than six firms.
- Amended Section 4.2 to eliminate cost from shortlist evaluation and set implementation services/experience criteria at 55/45 points.
- Approved the Expression of Interest as amended unanimously.
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission will review several progress updates. The agenda includes reports on Ruffner Park, public arts, and wayfinding.
- Ruffner Park progress report
- Public Arts report
- Wayfinding report
- Treasurer's report
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. Discussion includes updates to a 1-year action plan and bids on property at the WV State Auditor’s Office. New business involves potential acquisitions of multiple lots and officer elections.
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- Proposed updates to 1-year action plan
- Potential acquisition of multiple lots
- Officer elections
Charleston Sanitary Board
The Charleston Sanitary Board will consider a payment requisition of $891,216.01 for the Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project. The board will also review a request to write off $88,351.99 in uncollectible accounts from the first half of 2020.
- $891,216.01 payment requisition for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project, Phases I and II
- $88,351.99 write-off of uncollectible accounts from January 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020
- Woodward Drive Sewer Replacement Project update
Spring Hill Cemetery Park Commission
The Commission will discuss new prices, website development, and seasonal worker costs. The meeting also includes reports on the arboretum, mausoleum, and cemetery endowment business.
- New Prices
- Motion for updated website development
- Motion for additional seasonal worker cost
- By-law changes regarding meeting dates
Finance
The Finance Committee will review the approval of previous meeting minutes. The committee is also considering several resolutions to authorize contracts for materials, construction services, and a single audit.
- Resolution 500-21: Services for West Side master plan implementation
- Resolution 503-21: Sidewalk and accessible ramp construction services
- Authorization to purchase aggregate stone (Res No. 499-21)
- Authorization to purchase portland cement (Res No. 501-21)
- Authorization to purchase road salt (Res No. 502-21)
The Finance Committee unanimously approved six resolutions, including contracts for aggregate stone, cement, road salt, sidewalk construction, and a city audit. It also approved a $250,000 McGee Foundation-funded master plan for the West Side, to be managed by Jackson/Clark Partners. All votes were unanimous with no objections.
- Approved Resolution 499-21: contract with Martin Marietta for aggregate stone, prices fixed for one year.
- Approved Resolution 500-21: $250,000 McGee Foundation donation for West Side master plan with Jackson/Clark Partners.
- Approved Resolution 501-21: contract with Hanson Ready Mix for ~1,000 cubic yards of portland cement.
- Approved Resolution 502-21: contract with Compass Minerals for ~6,000 tons of road salt at $79.84/ton.
- Approved Resolution 503-21: $457,487.50 contract with McClanahan Construction for sidewalk and ramp projects.
- Approved Resolution 504-21: $82,080 audit contract with Suttle & Stalnaker, PLLC for FY 2021.
City Council
The City Council is reviewing several resolutions regarding city contracts and infrastructure projects. This includes authorizing park improvements, purchasing construction materials, and managing the West Side master plan.
- Lease agreement for basketball courts at Washington Street West and Beatrice Street
- Contracts for West Side master plan implementation and economic development
- Purchases of aggregate stone, portland cement, and road salt
- Contract for concrete sidewalk and accessible ramp construction services
- Service contract for the City’s FY 2021 single audit
The Charleston City Council adopted a resolution requesting Amtrak restore daily Cardinal Train service, supporting Senators Manchin and Capito's efforts. It also approved several contracts, including a $457,487.50 sidewalk project and a $250,000 master plan for the West Side, after rejecting a referral attempt. All decisions were made with unanimous votes except one abstention.
- Adopted Resolution No. 498-21 urging daily Amtrak Cardinal service (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 492-21 authorizing lease for basketball courts at Washington St W & Beatrice St (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 499-21 for aggregate stone contract with Martin Marietta (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 500-21 for $250,000 West Side master plan with Jackson/Clark Partners (unanimous, after referral failed 7-15)
- Adopted Resolution No. 501-21 for portland cement contract with Hanson Ready Mix (majority affirmative)
- Adopted Resolution No. 502-21 for road salt contract with Compass Minerals at $79.84/ton (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 503-21 for $457,487.50 sidewalk & ramp project with McClanahan Construction (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution No. 504-21 for FY2021 audit with Suttle & Stalnaker for $82,080 (majority, Campbell abstained)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations will discuss parameters for an insurance broker request for proposal (RFP). Members will also plan the timeline for preparing, publishing, and reviewing proposals. The committee intends to make a recommendation to City Council.
- Approval of January 28, 2021, minutes
- Developing parameters for an insurance broker RFP
- Discussing the timeline for RFP publication and review
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations – Property and Casualty discussed and approved a two-phase process for selecting an insurance broker. The City Manager will draft an Expression of Interest (EOI) by July 13, 2021, to be reviewed at the next meeting on July 15, 2021. The committee also agreed to have the City Manager present an outline for the second phase (RFP and short-list) at that meeting, though a motion to formalize this was withdrawn.
- Approved the minutes from the January 28, 2021 meeting as distributed.
- Approved a motion for the City Manager to send a draft EOI to the committee by July 13, 2021, for discussion on July 15, 2021.
- Withdrew a motion for the City Manager to present a phase 2 outline at the next meeting, as it was deemed already included in the EOI.
Firemen's Pension Board
The Charleston Firemen's Pension Board is meeting to discuss rules and regulations updates and corrective actions for MPOB. The board will also consider several pension approvals, adjustments, and benefit discontinuations.
- Johnny Droddy pension approval
- Sarah Miller pension adjustment approval
- Hettie Myers discontinuation of benefits
- Update on MPOB plan of corrective actions
- Rules and regulations update
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will discuss a ground lease with the City for the construction of a basketball park. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss real estate assets, specifically Dickenson and Leon Sullivan properties.
- Ground lease between the City and CURA for a basketball park at 1213-1223 Washington Street West
- Executive session regarding Dickenson & Leon Sullivan properties
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team will discuss policy proposals regarding Reimagine Appalachia, Blue Green Alliance, and Ethylene Oxide. The meeting also includes updates on energy, composting, glass recycling, and a recycling facility.
- Policy proposals for Reimagine Appalachia and Blue Green Alliance
- Ethylene Oxide policy recommendations
- Review of website draft language
- Discussion regarding recycling at public events
- Updates on composting, glass recycling, and recycling facilities
The Charleston Green Team approved three letters to the Mayor: one supporting ReImagine Appalachia's policy goals, one amended from the Blue Green Alliance, and one on ethylene oxide issues in Charleston and Kanawha Valley. They also approved website language and will send a letter suggesting recycling at public events. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved sending a letter of support for ReImagine Appalachia and a resolution to the Mayor (unanimous).
- Approved sending an amended letter from the Blue Green Alliance to the Mayor (unanimous).
- Approved sending an amended letter to the Mayor regarding ethylene oxide issues (unanimous).
- Approved proposed language for the Green Team website (unanimous).
- Approved sending a letter to the Mayor suggesting recycling at public events like Live on the Levee and Power Park.
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee will review bills to establish 20 MPH speed limits on West Ave and Park Avenue. The agenda also includes a proposal for a no-parking zone on Evergreen Street and the use of low-speed vehicles. A discussion regarding scooters is scheduled.
- Bill No. 7899: No parking zone on Evergreen Street north of Piccadilly Street
- Bill No. 7913: 20 MPH speed limit on West Ave from Washington Street West to Park Avenue
- Bill No. 7914: 20 MPH speed limit on Park Avenue from Washington Street West to Woodsedge Way
- Bill No. 7915: Authorizing the use of low-speed vehicles
- Discussion regarding scooters
Parks and Recreation Committee
The committee will consider a resolution to authorize a lease with the Charleston Urban Renewal Authority. This would allow construction of community basketball courts and park infrastructure. Members will also discuss disc golf at Cato Park.
- Resolution No. 492-21: Lease for basketball courts and park infrastructure
- Discussion regarding disc golf at Cato Park
- Approval of May 27, 2021 minutes
The Parks and Recreation Committee recommended installing a disc golf course at Cato Park, with an estimated cost of $17,000 for materials. The committee also approved a resolution authorizing a lease agreement with the Charleston Urban Renewal Authority to build community basketball courts and related infrastructure at Washington Street West and Beatrice Street. Both items were approved by voice vote with a quorum present.
- Recommended disc golf course at Cato Park (approved)
- Approved Resolution No. 492-21 for basketball courts lease (approved)
Finance
The Charleston Finance Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city operations. This includes adopting the 2021-2022 budgets for the Parking System and the Coliseum & Convention Center. The committee will also consider software licenses and a vehicle purchase.
- Amending 2019 and 2020 Community Development Block Grant budgets
- Agreement for Microsoft software licenses
- Adopting the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Parking System budget
- Adopting the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium budget
- Purchase of one replacement vehicle for the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team
The Finance Committee approved six resolutions, including reallocating Community Development Block Grant funds to install a fire alarm system at YWCA Sojourner's shelter, and adopting the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budgets for the Parking System and the Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium. It also approved a Microsoft software license agreement, a workers' compensation insurance renewal, and a vehicle purchase for the drug enforcement team. All resolutions passed unanimously.
- Approved Resolution 485-21: Amended 2019/2020 CDBG budgets, cancelling funds for Pro Kids, WV Refugee, and Kanawha Valley Senior Services, and reallocating $54,000 to YWCA Sojourner's for a fire alarm system.
- Approved Resolution 493-21: Authorized a $97,056.42 Microsoft Enterprise Agreement with SHI International Corp. for software licenses.
- Approved Resolution 494-21: Renewed excess workers' compensation insurance with Safety National for $236,433 for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.
- Approved Resolution 495-21: Adopted the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Parking System budget, projecting lower revenue and adding a Security Custodian position.
- Approved Resolution 496-21: Adopted the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium budget, the first with OVG's participation.
- Approved Resolution 497-21: Authorized purchase of one vehicle from Jim Robinson, Inc. for $28,544 for MDENT, using MDENT funds.
City Council
The Charleston City Council will consider various financial resolutions during its June 22 meeting. These items include adopting budgets for the Parking System and the Coliseum & Convention Center. The council will also review requests for software licenses and a vehicle purchase.
- Adopting FY 2021-2022 Parking System budget
- Adopting FY 2021-2022 Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium budget
- Purchase of Microsoft software licenses
- Purchase of one replacement vehicle for Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team
- Amending 2019 and 2020 Community Development Block Grant budgets
The Charleston City Council unanimously adopted resolutions to amend CDBG budgets, approve a Microsoft software license agreement, renew an excess workers' compensation policy, and adopt the FY2021-22 parking and coliseum/convention center budgets. It also approved the purchase of a vehicle for the drug enforcement team. All resolutions passed with unanimous or majority votes.
- Adopted Resolution 485-21 amending CDBG budgets, reallocating funds to YWCA Sojourner's fire alarm (unanimous)
- Approved $97,056.42 Microsoft Enterprise Agreement with SHI International Corp. (unanimous)
- Approved $236,433 excess workers' compensation insurance renewal with Safety National (majority)
- Adopted FY2021-2022 Parking System budget (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2021-2022 Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium budget (unanimous)
- Approved $28,544 vehicle purchase from Jim Robinson, Inc. for MDENT (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will consider applications for stone retaining walls at 1416 and 1585 Quarrier Street. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the potential rehabilitation of the Harden Gilmore House.
- COA-21-0209: Replace concrete curb with stacked stone wall at 1416 Quarrier Street
- COA-21-0210: Construct a stacked stone retaining wall at 1585 Quarrier Street
- Potential rehabilitation of the Harden Gilmore House
- Report on minor work permits
General
The Select Committee on Cable Franchise will hold an introductory meeting. The agenda includes welcoming remarks from Altice/Suddenlink and a period for public comment.
- Committee introduction
- Welcoming remarks from Altice/Suddenlink
- Public comment
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will review a variance application from William and Lori McNabb regarding a river lot. The request seeks permission to install an accessory structure at 3001 Kanawha Avenue, SE. The board will also approve minutes from the May 13, 2021 hearing.
- Variance application for an accessory structure at 3001 Kanawha Avenue, SE
- Approval of May 13, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will review May 2021 financial reports and approve previous meeting minutes. Members will consider a $254,061.89 payment to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection for the Woodward Branch sewer project. The agenda also includes a $63,106.13 change order for Tribute Contracting and Consultants, Inc.
- $254,061.89 payment to WV DEP for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project
- Change Order No. 5 for Tribute Contracting and Consultants, Inc. ($63,106.13 increase)
- Review of unaudited financial reports through May 31, 2021
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss property acquisition and development for Washington Street and CTC Mall.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- Completion of 1212 Quarrier Street transfer
- Dog Park on the Ott Property update
- Small Business grant transition to Art Program
- Executive session regarding Washington Street assets and CTC Mall & Parking Garages
Municipal Beautification Commission
The commission will review a project proposal from the Kanawha City Community Association. The meeting also includes updates on Ruffner Park progress and the election of officers.
- Kanawha City Community Association project proposal
- Ruffner Park progress update
- Election of officers
- Public arts report
- Wayfinding report
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions and address unfinished business regarding specific properties. New business includes a sale offer for multiple lots and proposed updates to the one-year action plan.
- Sale offer of multiple lots
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- Updates on 739 Central Avenue and 1726 Kemp Avenue
- BRIM Insurance Renewal Proposal
- $64.26 reimbursement for Public Input Sign supplies
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
This meeting consists of procedural reviews and committee reports. The board will approve minutes from April 27, 2021, and receive updates regarding finances, budget, personnel, and venue operations.
- Approval of April 27, 2021, meeting minutes
- Financial report
- Budget & Rates Committee report
- Personnel Committee report
- Venue report
The board approved the FY 2021-22 budget in a new format (Option B), approved pay raises for three furloughed employees, and accepted the April financial report. The board also discussed moving to quarterly meetings but took no action.
- Approved minutes of April 27, 2021 meeting
- Approved pay raises for three furloughed employees (motion by Storage, second by Cavacini)
- Approved FY 2021-22 budget as presented (motion by Nelson, second by Richardson)
- Accepted and filed April 2021 financial statement (motion by Hoover, second by Burton)
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider several resolutions regarding city contracts and budget amendments. This includes a grant application for a new park at Washington Street West and Beatrice Streets.
- Amendment No. 8 of the FY 2020-2021 General Fund Budget
- Grant application for a new park at Washington Street West and Beatrice Streets
- Agreement with OptumRx as the City's Retiree Plan Pharmacy Benefit Manager
- Revised fee schedule for Charleston Coliseum, Convention Center, and Municipal Auditorium
- Contract for pyrotechnic effects for the 2021 Fourth of July celebration
The Finance Committee unanimously approved all eight resolutions on the agenda. Key approvals include a $30,000 grant application for a new West Side park, a $27,000 contract for a postcard mural, a three-year pharmacy benefit manager agreement with estimated annual savings of $499,053, and a revised fee schedule for the Coliseum & Convention Center. The committee also approved a recycling MOU with Raleigh County and a $27,000 contract for Fourth of July fireworks.
- Approved Resolution 483-21 granting Woodbridge HOA right-of-way for private road signs (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 484-21 authorizing $30,000 grant application for West Side park (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 486-21 authorizing $27,000 contract with Greetings Tour for postcard mural (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 487-21 approving revised Coliseum & Convention Center fee schedule (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 488-21 authorizing OptumRx as pharmacy benefit manager, est. $499,053 annual savings (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 489-21 approving Amendment No. 8 to FY 2020-2021 General Fund Budget (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 490-21 authorizing recycling MOU with Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 491-21 authorizing $27,000 contract with Ferrell Electronics & Pyrotechnics for July 4th (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will consider several legislative items including updates to the Human Rights Ordinance and new traffic regulations. The meeting also includes discussions regarding school resource officers and various city contracts.
- Amending the Human Rights Ordinance to include protections against discrimination based on hair textures and hairstyles
- Rezoning 312 21st Street from an I-2 district to a C-10 district
- Establishing one-way street traffic patterns on 2nd Avenue and Russell Street
- Authorizing Prevention Resource Officers at West Side Middle, Capital High, and George Washington High Schools
- Approving a contract for pyrotechnic services for the 2021 Fourth of July celebration
The council passed Bill No. 7907, updating the Human Rights Ordinance to ban discrimination based on hair textures and protective hairstyles (CROWN Act), and Bill No. 7906, rezoning 312 21st Street from I-2 industrial to C-10 commercial. It also approved several traffic changes, including one-way streets on 2nd Avenue and Russell Street, and authorized contracts for a postcard mural, fireworks, and a park grant application.
- Passed CROWN Act updating Human Rights Ordinance to ban hair-based discrimination (unanimous)
- Rezoned 312 21st Street from I-2 to C-10 commercial (15-10)
- Established one-way street on 2nd Avenue from Florida to Bream (23-2)
- Established one-way street on Russell Street from Grant to 1st Avenue (23-2)
- Approved no-parking zones at Iris Drive/Fields Street and Daisy Drive dead end (unanimous)
- Adopted MOU for three Prevention Resource Officers in schools (unanimous)
- Authorized $27,000 contract for postcard mural with Greetings Tour (adopted, 2 nays)
- Authorized $27,000 fireworks contract for July 4th (adopted, 1 nay)
🗳️ How they voted — 4 divided votes
🏢 Building at this address: 5 m tall
Charleston Green Team
The meeting includes a presentation regarding energy savings in city buildings and a vote on the Building Energy Benchmarking Proposal. Members will also discuss a proposed letter and ordinance. Updates on composting, glass recycling, and recycling facilities are scheduled.
- Vote on Building Energy Benchmarking Proposal
- Presentation on energy savings in city buildings
- Discussion of a proposed ordinance for city buildings
- Updates on composting and recycling facility status
- Adoption of April 27, 2021 meeting minutes
The Charleston Green Team unanimously approved sending a letter and proposed ordinance to the mayor, requesting support for building energy benchmarking. The ordinance would require measuring and benchmarking all city-owned buildings, auditing meters and streetlights by July 1, 2023, establishing a plan to reduce energy usage by 25% by 2030, and evaluating solar panel feasibility for city buildings. The team also discussed updates on composting, recycling, and other initiatives.
- Approved sending letter and proposed ordinance to mayor (unanimous)
Public Safety Committee
The Public Safety Committee will consider a resolution regarding the placement of school safety officers. The item proposes authorizing an agreement with the Kanawha County Board of Education for three Prevention Resource Officers at West Side Middle School, Capital High School, and George Washington High School.
- Resolution No. 472-21: MOU with Kanawha County Board of Education for three Prevention Resource Officers
- Officer placement at West Side Middle School, Capital High School, and George Washington High School
- Approval of March 30, 2021, meeting minutes
The Public Safety Committee approved Resolution No. 472-21, authorizing the Mayor or City Manager to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kanawha County Board of Education to continue placing three Prevention Resource Officers at West Side Middle, Capital High, and George Washington High Schools. The vote was 6-1, with Councilmember Wesley-Plear voting nay. The decision followed a lengthy discussion about the program's impact on students.
- Approved Resolution No. 472-21 for continued placement of three Prevention Resource Officers (6-1, Wesley-Plear nay)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting (3-30-2021) unanimously
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee will discuss updates for several local parks. Topics include the Cato Park walking and bike pump track, the Cato dog park, and the West Side basketball courts and playground. The committee will also approve minutes from the April 29, 2021 meeting.
- Cato Park Walking and Bike Pump Track discussion
- West Side Basketball Courts/Playground discussion
- Cato Dog Park update
- Approval of April 29, 2021 minutes
The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed three park projects: a walking/biking trail and bike pump track at Cato Park, a basketball court/playground on the West Side, and the Cato Dog Park. No formal votes were taken on these projects; they were presented for discussion and updates.
- Approved minutes of 4-29-2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Discussed Cato Park walking/biking trail and bike pump track (no vote)
- Discussed West Side basketball courts/playground at West Washington and Beatrice Streets (no vote)
- Discussed Cato Dog Park fencing and amenities (no vote)
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The Ordinance and Rules Committee will discuss Bill No. 7907, which proposes amending the Municipal Code to include protections against discrimination based on hair textures and protective hairstyles. The committee will also consider approving minutes from the April 26, 2021 meeting.
- Bill No. 7907: Amending the Human Rights Ordinance regarding hair textures and protective hairstyles
- Approval of April 26, 2021 meeting minutes
The Ordinance and Rules Committee approved Bill No. 7907, which updates the Charleston Human Rights Ordinance to include protections against discrimination based on hair textures and protective hairstyles. The vote was unanimous. The bill now moves to the full City Council for consideration.
- Approved Bill No. 7907, updating the Human Rights Ordinance to protect hair textures and protective hairstyles (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting on 4-26-2021
General
The Charleston Police Pension Board will meet to consider retirements for the quarter and discuss various pension questions. The agenda also includes votes to approve updated rules, regulations, and investment policy.
- Vote on a hearing regarding Todd Taylor’s pension calculation
- Approval of quarterly retirements
- Approval of updated rules and regulations
- Approval of an updated investment policy
American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee
The American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee will discuss released guidance from the U.S. Treasury. The meeting includes a review of community meetings, online suggestions, and a presentation of collected community input.
- Review of released guidance from the U.S. Treasury
- Review of community meetings and online suggestions
- Presentation of collected community input
- Approval of April 14, 2021 minutes
The American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee met to review US Treasury guidance and community input, but took no substantive votes or decisions. Members discussed allowable uses, reporting requirements, and top project categories from nearly 300 public submissions. The committee will continue refining project ideas for the three funding buckets: Economic Recovery, Healthy and Safe Communities, and Infrastructure/Investing in the Future.
- Approved minutes from the 4-14-2021 meeting (unanimous)
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will review several bills regarding zoning changes and new traffic controls. Proposed measures include establishing one-way streets and no-parking zones in various locations. Members will also discuss Saturday parking.
- Rezoning 280 Oakwood Road from R-4/R-6 to C-8
- Rezoning 312 21st Street from I-2 to C-10
- Establishing one-way streets on 2nd Avenue and Russell Street
- New no-parking zones on Evergreen Street, Iris Drive, and Daisy Drive
- Discussion regarding Saturday parking
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team will discuss an EPA grant involving Energy Efficient WV and the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnership regarding energy efficiency for Charleston. The meeting also includes space for other business and announcements.
- EPA Grant discussion regarding energy efficiency for Charleston
Environment and Recycling
The Environment and Recycling Committee will discuss several environmental topics. This includes the potential for an energy efficiency audit on city-owned buildings and setting up a Material Recoveries Facility near Charleston. The committee will also discuss renewing the recycling services agreement with Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority.
- Renewal of recycling services agreement with Raleigh County Solid Waste Authority
- Possible energy efficiency audit on city-owned buildings
- Setting up a Material Recoveries Facility in or near Charleston
- Update on Green Team's last meeting
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider resolutions regarding grant applications for police resource officers and drug enforcement team salaries. The meeting also includes discussions on stadium leases for Appalachian Power Park and contract services for the Slack Plaza construction project.
- Grant application for $112,000 to reimburse salaries for Metro Drug Enforcement Network Team members
- Revised pricing for internment and services at Spring Hill Cemetery Park
- Placement of three Prevention Resource Officers in Charleston schools
- Contract services for the Slack Plaza / City Center construction project
- Authorization for concrete street repair work contracts
The Charleston City Council Finance Committee approved all 14 resolutions on the agenda, including a $5 million CDBG-DR grant application for long-term flood recovery, a new five-year stadium lease with Charleston Professional Baseball Company, and a $559,750 concrete street repair contract. All votes were unanimous. The committee also approved a bill to remove Coliseum and Convention Center rate schedules from city code, allowing rates to be set by resolution.
- Approved Resolution 467-21: revised Spring Hill Cemetery Park internment rates (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 471-21: $84,000 grant application for school Prevention Resource Officers (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 472-21: asbestos inspection contract with Pinnacle Consultants (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 473-21: $112,000 grant application for MDENT drug enforcement team (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 474-21: confirmed sales tax refunding revenue bonds for Coliseum project (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 475-21: waived $354,135.95 owed by West Virginia Baseball LLC (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 476-21: five-year stadium lease with Charleston Professional Baseball Company (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 477-21: $109,934 contract with Mead & Hunt for Slack Plaza/City Center project (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding a $50 million bond issuance for the Coliseum and Convention Center Project. The agenda also includes discussions on stadium lease agreements for Appalachian Power Park and various grant applications for police and drug enforcement services.
- Ordinance for up to $50,000,000 in sales tax refunding revenue bonds for the Coliseum and Convention Center Project
- Stadium lease and service agreement for Appalachian Power Park
- $112,000 grant application for the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team
- Contract for quality assurance services for the Slack Plaza / City Center construction project
- Revised price schedule for interment and services at Spring Hill Cemetery Park
The Council approved a 5-year stadium lease with Charleston Professional Baseball Company, LLC for Appalachian Power Park, including a $240,000/year lease payment. It also approved a $354,135.95 waiver of unpaid fees from the previous owner, a $559,750 concrete street repair contract, and a $5 million CDBG-DR grant application. A resolution to fund school resource officers was adopted after a motion to postpone failed.
- Approved 5-year stadium lease with Charleston Professional Baseball Company, LLC (unanimous)
- Approved waiver of $354,135.95 owed by West Virginia Baseball LLC (unanimous)
- Approved $559,750 concrete street repair contract with McClanahan Construction (unanimous)
- Approved $5,000,000 CDBG-DR grant application (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 471-21 for $84,000 grant for school resource officers (23-1)
- Referred Resolution 472-21 (school resource officer MOU) to Public Safety Committee
- Approved $109,934 contract with Mead & Hunt for Slack Plaza project (unanimous)
- Passed Bill 7909 to move Coliseum rate schedule out of city code (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Firemen's Pension Board
The board will discuss updates to rules, regulations, and the MPOB plan of corrective actions. It will also address specific retiree pension corrections and approve new pension items.
- Update on MPOB plan of corrective actions
- Retiree Jackson’s pension correction for vacation payout
- Update on Retiree Wheeler’s pension discrepancy
- Donnie Matthews pension approval
- Ira Gunter pension adjustment approval
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals is reviewing an application from RPG WV Properties LLC. The request seeks a conditional use permit to establish an indoor self-storage facility at 931 Oakhurst Drive. The board will also approve minutes from the April 22, 2021 hearing.
- Conditional use permit application for indoor self-storage at 931 Oakhurst Drive
- Approval of April 22, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Sanitary Board
The Charleston Sanitary Board will review a presentation regarding legislation on the sale of public utilities. The board will also consider approving a construction contract for lift station improvements and a funding request for the Woodward Branch sewer project.
- Construction contract award to C.J. Hughes Construction Company, Inc. for $1,698,800.00 for lift station improvements
- $651,399.03 draw resolution for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project
- Presentation by West Virginia-American Water Company regarding legislation on the sale of public utilities
- Review of unaudited financial reports and check registers for March and April 2021
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment. The meeting includes updates on the Small Business Grant program and property transfers. Members will also discuss potential project ideas for the American Rescue Plan.
- Review of West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment
- RFP closing for 1341 Washington St. East
- Small Business Grant program — Phase II
- Discussion of American Rescue Plan project ideas
- Executive session regarding CTC Mall and parking garages
LGBTQ+ Working Group
The LGBTQ Working Group will discuss potential changes to its bylaws regarding recruitment, retention, and engagement. The group will also consider approving a letter in support of banning conversion therapy for minors. The meeting includes updates on Pride month events and the working group fund.
- Bylaw discussions regarding recruitment, retention, and engagement
- Approval of a letter supporting banning conversion therapy for minors
- Working Group Fund update
- Pride month updates and events
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency will discuss updates on 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties. The meeting also includes reviewing bids for property at the WV State Auditor’s Office and a sale offer for multiple lots.
- 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- 30th Street and 2nd Avenue EOI Recommendation
- Sale offer of multiple lots
- Updated Stakeholder Input Policy
Municipal Planning Commission
The Municipal Planning Commission is discussing new zoning applications, including a text amendment to permit syringe service programs in specific districts. It is also reviewing a rezoning request for 312 21st Street and a subdivision application for 1520 Washington Street East. A previous rezoning request for the Woodbridge Subdivision was postponed.
- Text Amendment Bill No. 7905: Creates a land category for syringe service programs, permitting them in PMC, CBD, UCD, and CVD districts.
- Rezoning Bill No. 7906: Proposes changing zoning from I-2 to C-10 for parcels at 312 21st Street.
- Subdivision Application: WV Health Right Inc. seeks approval for property at 1520 Washington Street East, including waivers for lot size and depth.
- Rezoning Bill No. 7880: Postponed request to rezone three areas in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4.
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission/Tree Board is meeting to approve April 2020 minutes, hear the treasurer's report, and receive updates on Ruffner Park, public arts, wayfinding, and the director's report. They will also consider a tree removal request for 100 Demming Drive. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or phone.
- Tree removal request at 100 Demming Drive
- Ruffner Park progress update
- Public arts report
- Wayfinding report
- Treasurer's report
Finance
The Charleston Finance Committee is reviewing resolutions for various city contracts and infrastructure projects. This includes asphalt resurfacing, Slack Plaza renovations, and a grant application for a new fire department boat. The committee will also discuss bills regarding park fees and cemetery rates.
- Resolution 462-21: Grant application for a new Charleston Fire Department response boat
- Resolution 464-21: Contract for asphalt resurfacing of City streets
- Resolution 465-21: Contract for the Slack Plaza / City Center Renovations Project
- Bill 7903: Issuance of sales tax refund revenue bonds for the Coliseum and Convention Center
- Resolution 468-21: Replacing a $1,000,000 Letter of Credit with a $500,000 agreement with WesBanco
The Finance Committee unanimously approved all items on the agenda, including contracts for street resurfacing, the Slack Plaza/City Center renovation, and a bond ordinance to refund up to $50M in sales tax revenue bonds. All resolutions and bills passed with unanimous votes. The meeting was held at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center with a live stream via Zoom due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Approved Resolution 461-21: Annual Action Plan for HUD CDBG funds (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 462-21: Port Security Grant application for new fire boat, $423,448 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 463-21: Asbestos inspection contract with Pinnacle Consultants (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 464-21: $1,821,885 asphalt resurfacing contract with Mr. Asphalt, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 465-21: $3,127,950 Slack Plaza/City Center renovation contract with SQP Construction (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 466-21: $246,000 sculpture contract with Simon Sculpture, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 468-21: Levy order for FY 2021-2022 (unanimous)
- Approved Bill 7903: Up to $50M sales tax refunding revenue bonds for Coliseum project (unanimous)
City Council
The council will review several financial resolutions, including contracts for asphalt resurfacing of city streets and the Slack Plaza renovation project. The agenda also includes updates to urban deer management and the issuance of revenue bonds for the Coliseum and Convention Center.
- Sales tax refund revenue bonds for the Coliseum and Convention Center
- Asphalt resurfacing contract for City streets
- Contracts for Slack Plaza / City Center Renovations Project and new sculptures
- Update to urban deer management laws to align with state law
- $500,000 Standby Letter of Credit agreement with WesBanco, Inc.
The Charleston City Council approved a $50 million bond ordinance to refund 2015 sales tax bonds for the Coliseum and Convention Center, expected to save nearly $3.5 million. It also approved a $3,127,950 contract with SQP Construction Group for the Slack Plaza/City Center Renovations Project, and a $1,821,885 contract with Mr. Asphalt for street resurfacing. The council passed an ordinance updating urban deer management to align with state law, allowing crossbow use without a special Class Y license, and approved several other resolutions including a $246,000 sculpture contract for Slack Plaza.
- Approved $50M bond refunding ordinance for Coliseum and Convention Center (unanimous)
- Approved $3,127,950 contract with SQP Construction Group for Slack Plaza/City Center Renovations (adopted, 1 nay)
- Approved $1,821,885 contract with Mr. Asphalt for asphalt resurfacing (unanimous)
- Approved $246,000 contract with Simon Sculpture for Slack Plaza sculptures (19-5)
- Approved urban deer management update allowing crossbow use without Class Y license (21-3)
- Approved $423,448 grant application for new fire department response boat (unanimous)
- Approved $1,000,000 letter of credit cancellation and $500,000 WesBanco standby letter (unanimous)
- Approved Bill 7901 waiving certain park and recreation fees (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Parks and Recreation Committee
The committee will consider Bill No. 7901, which proposes authorizing the waiver of specific fees for using city parks and recreation facilities. Members will also receive updates on City Pools and the AEP Project at Cato Park. Additionally, the committee will discuss recreational investment opportunities related to the American Rescue Plan.
- Bill No. 7901 regarding fee waivers for public parks and recreation facilities
- Update on the AEP Project at Cato Park
- Update on City Pools
- Discussion of American Rescue Plan recreational investment opportunities
The Parks and Recreation Committee approved Bill No. 7901, which authorizes the waiver of certain fees for use of public parks and recreation facilities, allowing the department to work cooperatively with diverse groups. The committee also discussed updates on the AEP project at Cato Park, city pool openings, and potential recreational investments using American Rescue Plan funds, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved Bill No. 7901 to authorize fee waivers for park and recreation facility use (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting (unanimous)
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The meeting consists of routine procedural items and committee updates. The Board will review minutes from the March 30, 2021, meeting and hear reports regarding finances, budget, and grounds.
- Financial Report
- Budget & Rates Committee Report
- Building & Grounds Committee Report
- Venue Report
The Board approved a new fee structure and rate language for the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center and Municipal Auditorium, as recommended by the Budget & Rates Committee. It also voted to recommend that City Council approve the fee structure, remove the requirement to post fees on the facility's website, and repeal Municipal Code § 82-4. Additionally, the Board approved a list of repairs and improvements prioritized by life safety needs.
- Approved minutes of March 30, 2021 meeting as distributed
- Accepted and filed financial statement with corrected insurance line items
- Adopted Budget & Rates Committee's proposed fee structure and language changes
- Recommended City Council approve the proposed fee structure per Municipal Code § 2-553
- Recommended City Council amend Municipal Code § 2-556 to remove website posting requirement for fees
- Recommended City Council repeal Municipal Code § 82-4
- Approved list of repairs/improvements as presented by Building & Grounds Committee
Charleston Green Team
The Charleston Green Team is meeting to vote on the group's guiding principles. The agenda also includes discussing sustainability ideas and identifying areas for investigation regarding recycling and waste management.
- Vote on Guiding principles of the Green Team
- Discussion of members' top two sustainability ideas
- Identification of recycling and waste management investigation needs
- Identification of a non-recycling issue to address
The Charleston Green Team held its second meeting via Zoom and unanimously adopted its guiding principles. Members discussed various sustainability ideas, including composting, tree planting, bike-sharing, and recycling, and assigned point persons to research specific topics. The team set a goal to have a recommendation on energy-efficient buildings ready for City Council approval by next month.
- Adopted guiding principles unanimously
- Set goal to present energy-efficient buildings recommendation to City Council next month
- Assigned point persons for recycling research topics
- Scheduled next meeting for June 1st at 5:30 pm
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will consider rezoning parcels near 280 Oakwood Road from R-4 and R-6 districts to a C-8 district. The agenda also includes establishing a no parking zone on the westerly side of Evergreen Street. Discussion regarding auxiliary signs is also scheduled.
- Rezoning of land at or about 280 Oakwood Road to C-8 district
- Establishing a no parking zone on the westerly side of Evergreen Street
- Discussion regarding auxiliary signs
- Approval of March 22, 2021 meeting minutes
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The Ordinance and Rules Committee will review minutes from February 11, 2021. The committee is also considering Bill No. 7897, which seeks to align municipal deer management with state law regarding crossbows.
- Approval of February 11, 2021, minutes
- Bill No. 7897: Amending Municipal Code for urban deer management and crossbow use
The Ordinance and Rules Committee unanimously approved Bill No. 7897, which updates the city's urban deer management code to align with state law allowing crossbows during the normal archery hunting season. The change removes the previous restriction that limited crossbows to those with a special Class Y license. The urban deer hunt remains limited to November through December at Cato Park and Pacific Street, with existing permit, tract, and safety rules unchanged.
- Approved Bill No. 7897 to allow crossbows in urban deer hunt, aligning with state law (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting on 2-11-2021
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals is reviewing an application for a conditional use permit to allow horse keeping for personal recreational use at 416 Woodbridge Drive. The board will also approve the minutes from the March 25, 2021 hearing.
- Conditional use permit application for horses at 416 Woodbridge Drive
- Approval of March 25, 2021 meeting minutes
City Council
The Charleston City Council is reviewing reports from the Finance Committee. This includes Bill No. 7900, which relates to laying levies on real, personal, and public utility property for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021.
- Bill No. 7900 regarding levies on real, personal, and public utility property
The City Council held its statutory meeting and approved Bill No. 7900, which sets the levy rates and property taxes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021. The bill passed unanimously with 25 yeas and 0 nays, with two members absent. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Bill No. 7900, the levy order and rate sheet for FY 2021-2022 (25-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider resolutions for police equipment purchases and budget amendments. The meeting includes discussions on establishing a fund for American Rescue Plan Act revenues. Additionally, the committee will review bills regarding property levies and business tax changes.
- Purchase of 170 gas masks for Charleston Police Department
- Purchase of one Ford pickup truck for Charleston Police Department
- Establishment of a Special Revenue Fund for American Rescue Plan Act revenues
- Contract for mowing services at Spring Hill Cemetery Park
- Tax relief and regulation updates for street and itinerant vendors
The Finance Committee unanimously approved a major overhaul of street and itinerant vendor regulations, including a $5,000 annual B&O tax exemption for qualifying vendors. The committee also approved several police equipment purchases, a cemetery maintenance contract, and the creation of a fund for federal COVID-19 relief money.
- Approved $197,783.50 for 170 gas masks for police (unanimous)
- Approved $32,639 Ford F250 pickup for police (unanimous)
- Approved FY2020-21 General Fund Budget Amendment No. 7 (unanimous)
- Established special revenue fund 073 for American Rescue Plan Act funds (unanimous)
- Approved MOU with Vandalia Civic Club for community garden at pool (unanimous)
- Approved $280,500 grounds maintenance contract for Spring Hill Cemetery (unanimous)
- Approved Bill No. 7900 levying ~$17M in property taxes (unanimous)
- Approved Bill No. 7902 reducing B&O tax on manufactured goods wholesale to 0% (unanimous)
City Council
The Charleston City Council is reviewing several financial resolutions and municipal code amendments. Items include updates to business and occupation taxes, regulations for street vendors, and the purchase of police equipment. The council will also discuss new rules regarding hypodermic needle distribution.
- Purchase of 170 gas masks and one Ford pickup truck for the Police Department
- Amendment to reduce Business and Occupation tax on manufactured products
- Regulation updates for street and itinerant vendors
- New requirements for hypodermic needle distribution within the city
- Purchase of two refuse packer trucks
The City Council passed Bill No. 7893, which requires harm reduction programs distributing hypodermic needles to obtain state certification and a syringe services program license, and sets a 90% syringe return goal. The bill also eliminates the Chief of Police's ability to grant exceptions and establishes a public hearing process for program applications. The vote was 25-1, with Councilmember Sheets voting against.
- Passed Bill No. 7893 requiring state certification and license for needle distribution programs (25-1)
- Adopted Minardi Amendment requiring individual syringe marking (26-1)
- Adopted Third Pharr Amendment setting 90% syringe return goal (14-12)
- Adopted Jenkins Amendment requiring public hearing for syringe program applications (19-7)
- Approved $197,783.50 purchase of 170 gas masks for police (unanimous)
- Approved $32,639 purchase of Ford F250 pickup for police (unanimous)
- Approved $280,500 contract with MLC Lawn and Landscaping for cemetery maintenance (majority vote)
- Passed Bill No. 7902 reducing B&O tax on manufactured goods to zero (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 7 divided votes
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will review an application to replace a noncontributing accessory structure with an 8’x10’ storage building. The meeting also includes reports on minor work permits and project updates.
- Application for an 8’x10’ storage building at 1422 Virginia Street, East
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Project Updates
- Approval of March 18, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment and provide updates on the Small Business Grant program Phase II. The commission will also enter executive session to discuss real estate assets including CTC Mall, parking garages, and properties on Quarrier and Washington Streets.
- Review of West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment
- Small Business Grant program — Phase II update
- Dog Park on the Ott Property
- Discussion of CTC Mall & Parking Garages
- Discussion of Quarrier Street and Washington Street assets
American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee
The ARPA Advisory Committee is discussing the American Rescue Plan Act, including U.S. Treasury guidance and mandatory reporting requirements. The committee will also review the timeline for receiving funds and a proposed budgeting framework based on issue categories.
- Overview of the American Rescue Plan Act
- Proposed budgeting framework based on issue categorization
- Proposed subcommittee structure and citizen participation
- Timeline for receiving funds from the U.S. Treasury
The American Rescue Plan Act Advisory Committee met to review the City of Charleston's estimated $38 million ARP allocation, with the first distribution of approximately $19 million expected. No formal decisions were made; the committee discussed potential spending categories, including economic recovery, infrastructure, and community projects, and agreed to hold community meetings and create an online forum for public input. The next steps include the administration presenting findings on recovering lost revenue and scheduling another committee meeting before community engagement sessions.
- No formal votes or decisions taken; meeting was informational and planning-focused
- Agreed to create an online forum and host community meetings for public input
- Agreed to have administration present findings on recovering lost revenue at next meeting
- Agreed to schedule another committee meeting before community meetings
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. Discussion includes unfinished business regarding 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties. New business items include a grass cutting quote and sale offers for multiple lots.
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- 739 Central Avenue and 1726 Kemp Avenue updates
- Sale offer of multiple lots
- 30th Street and 2nd Avenue EOI Recommendation
- Grass cutting quote
Charleston Sanitary Board
The Charleston Sanitary Board will meet to consider the FYE 2022 budget and several updates to the Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project. This includes a payment requisition of $658,220.19 to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. The board will also review change orders related to contract pricing and timelines for the Woodward Drive project.
- Approval of FYE 2022 Budget
- $658,220.19 payment requisition for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement
- Change Order No. 4 to Tribute Contracting ($26,477.26 increase)
- $54,846.13 Work Change Directive for sewer stubs on Woodward, Zabel, Blackwell, and Diana
- Legal matters regarding CSB v. Colonial and Russell Williams vs. CSB
Spring Hill Cemetery Park Commission
The commission will consider several motions regarding cemetery maintenance and proposed price increases. This includes a $2,700 expenditure to rebuild a wall on Middleton Drive and sharing repair costs for the Jewish Cemetery.
- $2,700 expenditure to rebuild one wall on Middleton Drive
- Proposed price increases
- Maintenance of the privately owned Lowenstein lot by park personnel
- Allowing Mountain View Cemetery personnel to maintain lots in the park
- Sharing costs for repairs at the Jewish Cemetery
Municipal Planning Commission
The Commission will consider rezoning land near 280 Oakwood Road from R-4 and R-6 districts to C-8. A request to rezone three areas in the Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4 has been postponed.
- Rezoning of parcels at or about 280 Oakwood Road from R-4 and R-6 to C-8
- Postponed rezoning for three areas in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission will review a cost estimate for West Side handrails on Kanawha Boulevard. The meeting also includes progress updates regarding Ruffner Park and reports on public arts and wayfinding.
- Cost estimate for Kanawha Boulevard handrails (West Side)
- Ruffner Park progress update
- Public Arts report
- Wayfinding report
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider several resolutions to authorize the purchase of street department vehicles and medical equipment. The committee will also review resolutions regarding property easements for a sewer rehabilitation project and work for the Slack Plaza Project.
- Purchase of a wheel loader, mower attachment, and chipper body truck
- Purchase of two refuse packer trucks and three tow-behind leaf collectors
- Purchase of a heart monitor/defibrillator and associated equipment
- Property condemnation for Woodward Branch Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project easements
- Agreement with The Thrasher Group, Inc. for Slack Plaza Project services
The Finance Committee approved all eight resolutions on the agenda, including the purchase of a Hyundai wheel loader for $126,500 and a boom arm mower attachment for $28,980. They also authorized filing civil actions for sewer easements needed for the Woodward Branch Sewer Replacement Project. All resolutions were approved unanimously.
- Approved Resolution 447-21: Purchase of one Hyundai HL940A-TM Tool Master Wheel Loader for $126,500 from West Virginia Tractor Company for the Street Department.
- Approved Resolution 448-21: Purchase of a boom arm mower attachment with installation for $28,980 from State Equipment.
- Approved Resolution 449-21: Purchase of one chipper body truck for $101,400 from West Virginia Tractor Company.
- Approved Resolution 450-21: Purchase of a LIEFEPAK 15 V4 Heart Monitor/Defibrillator and equipment for $26,419.65 from Stryker Corporation, including a $5,000 trade-in credit.
- Approved Resolution 451-21: Purchase of three tow-behind leaf collectors for $154,333.02 from Infrastructure Solutions Group.
- Approved Resolution 452-21: Purchase of two refuse packer trucks for $282,000 from West Virginia Tractor Company.
- Approved Resolution 453-21: Authorized filing civil actions for condemnation of property for sanitary sewer easements for Phase II of the Woodward Branch Sewer Replacement Project.
- Approved Resolution 454-21: Authorized an agreement with The Thrasher Group, Inc. for $38,500 for additional scope of work on the Slack Plaza Project.
City Council
The Charleston City Council will review a bill regarding requirements and penalties for hypodermic needle distribution. The agenda also includes zoning changes and several resolutions to authorize the purchase of city equipment.
- Bill No. 7893: New regulations and penalties for hypodermic needle distribution
- Bill No. 7896: Rezoning parcels near 931 Oakhurst Drive and 112 Mullins Road to C-8 district
- Resolution No. 453-21: Property condemnation for Woodward Branch Sewer Replacement Project Phase 2
- Resolution No. 454-21: Agreement with The Thrasher Group, Inc. for Slack Plaza Project services
- Various resolutions authorizing purchases of city equipment including trucks and a wheel loader
The Charleston City Council postponed two significant items: Bill No. 7893 Committee Substitute, which would have imposed new requirements on harm reduction programs distributing hypodermic needles, and Resolution No. 452-21, authorizing the purchase of two refuse packer trucks. Both were postponed until April 19, 2021. The council also approved several other resolutions, including a rezoning, equipment purchases, and a resolution honoring a former police officer.
- Postponed Bill No. 7893 Committee Substitute on needle distribution requirements until April 19, 2021 (15-12)
- Postponed Resolution No. 452-21 for two refuse packer trucks ($282,000) until April 19, 2021 (14-13)
- Adopted Resolution No. 446-21 naming MLK Community Center wing after Officer Robert Edward Easley Sr. (unanimous)
- Passed Bill No. 7896 rezoning parcels near 931 Oakhurst Drive and 112 Mullins Road to C-8 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 447-21 for Hyundai wheel loader ($126,500) (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 448-21 for boom arm mower attachment ($28,980) (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 449-21 for chipper body truck ($101,400) (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 453-21 authorizing condemnation for sewer easements (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 3 divided votes
Firemen's Pension Board
The board is meeting to discuss updates to rules, regulations, and corrective action plans. Members will address specific pension discrepancies for retirees Jackson and Wheeler. Additionally, the board will consider the approval of Scott Harper's pension.
- Rules and Regs update
- MPOB plan of corrective actions update
- Retiree Jackson’s pension vacation payout correction
- Retiree Wheeler’s pension discrepancy update
- Scott Harper pension approval
Facilities Committee
The Facilities Committee will discuss updates regarding the 601 Morris Street building and new management staff at the Convention Center. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from February 23, 2021.
- Update on 601 Morris Street building
- Update on new management staff at the Convention Center
- Approval of February 23, 2021, minutes
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The Board will review a financial report and a venue report covering rental rates and maintenance. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the February 23, 2021, meeting.
- Approval of February 23, 2021, meeting minutes
- Financial report presentation
- Review of rental language and rates
- Discussion on capital improvements and maintenance
The board approved the February 23, 2021 minutes with three changes and accepted the February financial report as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the board discussed rate changes and capital improvement projects, referring them to committees for further review and recommendations at the April meeting.
- Approved February 23, 2021 minutes with three changes
- Accepted and filed February 2021 financial statement
Public Safety Committee
The Public Safety Committee will review survey results and consider Bill No. 7893. This bill proposes that any distribution of hypodermic needles in the city must be performed by entities certified as a West Virginia Harm Reduction Program. The proposal also seeks to remove exceptions from the Chief of Police and establish penalties for violations.
- Bill No. 7893 regarding hypodermic needle distribution
- Review of survey results
- Approval of February 24, 2021 minutes
The Public Safety Committee approved a committee substitute for Bill No. 7893, which requires any needle distribution in Charleston to be done by entities certified as Harm Reduction Programs by the state, removes the Chief of Police's ability to sponsor or approve needle exchanges, and adds requirements for 1:1 syringe exchange, marking, and offering medical services. An amendment to exempt hospitals from these rules was rejected. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and reviewed survey results on the Health Department's needle program.
- Approved minutes of the 2-24-2021 meeting
- Approved amendment to Bill No. 7893 adding 1:1 syringe return, marking, and medical service requirements
- Rejected amendment to exempt hospitals from Bill No. 7893 requirements
- Approved Bill No. 7893 Committee Substitute, requiring state certification for needle distribution and removing police exceptions
- Reviewed survey results on the Health Department's needle program, with most respondents opposing it
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Charleston Green Team
This meeting focused on organizational matters for the Charleston Green Team. Members discussed the group's official charge per ordinance, communication methods, and potential committees.
- Review of the Green Team's charge per ordinance
- Discussion of official communication methods
- Reflection on member survey results
- Discussion regarding committee formation
- Establishment of guiding principles
The Charleston Green Team held its introductory meeting with no votes or action items. Members agreed by consensus on a set of guiding principles for prioritizing projects and policies, which Mayor Amy Goodwin concurred with and will be formally adopted at a later meeting. The team also decided to work on all four focus categories as a whole group rather than forming committees, unless a smaller work group is needed.
- Agreed by consensus on guiding principles for prioritizing projects and policies
- Determined by consensus to collaborate on letters to the Mayor and copy appropriate officials for recommendations or policy
- Determined by consensus to work on all four categories as a team unless a smaller work group is needed
- Set next meeting for April 27, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.
Board of Zoning Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals will review several applications regarding parking variances and conditional use permits. These requests involve healthcare facility expansion, alcohol service at a restaurant, and a distillery extension. The board will also approve minutes from the March 11, 2021, meeting.
- Parking variance for West Virginia Health Right at 1520 Washington Street, East
- Conditional use permit for parking areas at 1521 & 1523 Jackson Street
- Alcohol service permit for a restaurant and golf simulator at 1022 Bridge Road
- Extension request for The Bullock Distillery LLC at 121 West Washington Street
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee will discuss the redesign and construction of Slack Plaza. The meeting includes updates on Cato Park, ballfields, and the Vandalia Pool project. Additionally, members will discuss city pools and recreation centers for Summer 2021.
- Slack Plaza redesign and construction discussion
- Update on Cato Park
- Resolution No. 446-21 honoring Robert Easley Sr.
- Update on Vandalia Pool project
- Discussion on Summer 2021 recreation centers and city pools
The Parks and Recreation Committee approved Resolution No. 446-21, dedicating the western wing of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center as the 'Robert Edward Easley, Sr. Annex' in honor of the late patrolman. The committee also received updates on the Slack Plaza redesign, the AEP transmission line project affecting Cato Park, and summer plans for rec centers and pools. No other formal votes were taken.
- Approved Resolution No. 446-21 to name the MLK Community Center's western wing after Patrolman Robert Edward Easley, Sr.
- Approved the minutes from the January 28, 2021 meeting.
- Heard a presentation on the Slack Plaza redesign by Thrasher Engineering, with plans to bid in March/April and complete construction by year's end.
- Received an update on the AEP Capitol Hill Chemical Transmission Line Project, which will affect about 15 feet of Cato Park trail, with work starting April 5.
- Discussed summer 2021 operations for rec centers and pools, with plans to open centers and get pools operational for maintenance.
- Noted that Little League ballfields at Bigley and Kanawha City will be maintained by Capital Midwestern, while Oakmont and North Charleston fields will be maintained by Parks and Recreation.
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will consider rezoning several parcels near 931 Oakhurst Drive and 112 Mullins Road to a C-8 district. Members will also review a proposal to establish a no parking zone on the westerly side of Evergreen Street. Other items include discussion regarding auxiliary signs and approval of February minutes.
- Rezoning parcels near 931 Oakhurst Drive and 112 Mullins Road to C-8 (Bill No. 7896)
- Establishing a no parking zone on Evergreen Street (Bill No. 7899)
- Discussion regarding auxiliary signs
- Approval of February 22, 2021 meeting minutes
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Commission will review applications for certificates of appropriateness regarding property renovations. These include window replacements at 1513 Virginia Street, East and roofing changes at 1613 Virginia Street, East.
- Window replacement at 1513 Virginia Street, East
- Roofing changes at 1613 Virginia Street, East
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Approval of January 7, 2021 meeting minutes
Firemen's Pension Board
The board will review rules, regulations, and updates regarding the MPOB plan of corrective actions. Agenda items include approving pension benefits for Scott Harper and discussing potential annuity reductions for non-duty disability pensioners based on tax return reviews.
- Approval of pension benefits for Scott Harper
- Discussion on annuity reductions for non-duty disability pensioners
- Update on MPOB plan of corrective actions
- Review of retiree pension complaints and corrections
- Investment plan meeting with Mike Payne, Steel Oaks
Finance
The Finance Committee will consider several resolutions regarding police equipment and infrastructure. This includes purchasing radios for Neighborhood Assistance Officers and body armor for SWAT members. The committee will also review the proposed municipal budget for fiscal year 2021-2022.
- Approval of FY 2021-2022 Official Municipal Budget Document
- Purchase of radios for Neighborhood Assistance Officers program
- Body armor for 19 SWAT Team members
- Streetlight repairs on Kanawha Boulevard, East
- Construction contract for a new City skate park
The Finance Committee unanimously approved the FY 2021-2022 municipal budget, which includes $3 million for road paving, no position eliminations, and no cuts to police and fire funding. The committee also approved six resolutions authorizing grant applications, equipment purchases, a streetlight repair contract, a health benefits consultant agreement, and an increased skate park contract. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved FY 2021-2022 budget (unanimous)
- Approved VOCA grant application for $39,850 (unanimous)
- Approved $26,938.78 purchase of radios for NAO program (unanimous)
- Approved $62,805.50 purchase of SWAT body armor (unanimous)
- Approved $633,750 streetlight repair contract with Specialty Groups, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved renegotiated health benefits consulting agreement with J. Arthur Dail, Inc. (unanimous)
- Approved $289,016.52 skate park contract with American Ramp Company (unanimous)
City Council
The council will review the proposed Official Municipal Budget Document for the upcoming fiscal year. The agenda also includes resolutions regarding police equipment, streetlight repairs, and a new skate park.
- Approval of FY 2021-2022 Official Municipal Budget Document
- Adoption of CROWN to protect against natural hair discrimination
- Contract for streetlights on Kanawha Boulevard, East
- Construction contract for a new City skate park
- Purchase of radios and body armor for police use
The City Council approved the FY 2021-2022 municipal budget, with a roll call vote of 22 yeas and 3 nays. The budget maintains funding for paving and demolition, adds two positions, and moves three Municipal Auditorium employees to the Convention Center budget. Councilmember Snodgrass expressed disappointment that no raise was included for the Police Department, and Councilmember Robinson noted the budget process lacked a public hearing. The budget was adopted despite these concerns.
- Approved Resolution No. 445-21, the FY 2021-2022 municipal budget, with 22 yeas and 3 nays (Snodgrass, Knauff, Persinger).
- Approved Resolution No. 438-21, expressing support for CROWN non-discrimination legislation in West Virginia.
- Approved Resolution No. 439-21, authorizing application for a $39,850 VOCA grant for a Police Crime Victims Specialist.
- Approved Resolution No. 440-21, purchasing 18 handheld and 5 mobile Kenwood radios for $26,938.78 for the Neighborhood Assistance Officers program.
- Approved Resolution No. 441-21, purchasing body armor for 19 SWAT team members for $62,805.50 from Galls, LLC.
- Approved Resolution No. 442-21, contracting with Specialty Groups, Inc. for $633,750 to repair/replace streetlights on Kanawha Boulevard, East.
- Approved Resolution No. 443-21, renegotiated one-year agreement with J. Arthur Dail, Inc. for health plan management, with 3 nays (Campbell, Snodgrass, Knauff).
- Approved Resolution No. 444-21, increasing the skate park contract with American Ramp Company to $289,016.52 for a more inclusive design.
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will consider several items related to sewer infrastructure and engineering services. This includes a payment request for the Woodward Branch project and an insurance policy purchase. The meeting also covers legal matters in executive session.
- $544,318.61 draw resolution for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project
- Purchase of a $5M catastrophic pollution liability insurance policy for $84,252.66
- $98,700.00 task order for Chesterfield Avenue, James Street, and Roosevelt Avenue Lift Station Improvements
- Resolution requesting City Council authorization for property condemnation for sewer easements
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment. The meeting includes updates on a dog park on the Ott Property and the Small Business Grant program. The commission will also enter executive session to discuss real estate assets including CTC Mall, parking garages, and properties on Quarrier and Washington Streets.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- Dog Park on the Ott Property
- Small Business Grant program
- Discussion of Quarrier Street and Washington Street assets
- Discussion of CTC Mall and parking garages
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. The meeting includes updates on 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties and a discussion regarding a bulk lot acquisition concept.
- 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- 739 Central Avenue EOI
- 30th Street and 2nd Avenue
- 1726 Kemp Avenue
Municipal Beautification Commission
The Municipal Beautification Commission will discuss handrails for the west side of Kanawha Boulevard and receive a progress update on Ruffner Park. The meeting also includes reports regarding public arts, wayfinding, and the director's office.
- Kanawha Boulevard handrails for West Side
- Ruffner Park progress update
- Public Arts report
- Wayfinding report
- Treasurer’s report
Finance
The Finance Committee will review a budget presentation and an insurance renewal presentation. The committee will also consider resolutions regarding KRT agreements, fire department equipment, and a vehicle purchase for MDENT.
- Resolution No. 431-21 and 432-21: KRT Construction and Lease Agreements
- Resolution No. 433-21: Purchase of Power Cots for Charleston Fire Department Ambulances
- Resolution No. 434-21: Purchase of vehicle for MDENT
- Resolution No. 436-21: MOU with Kanawha Charleston Health Department
- Insurance Renewal Presentation by Frank Baer
The Finance Committee unanimously approved six resolutions, including agreements with KRT for construction and lease on Laidley Street, purchases for the Fire Department and MDENT, a mutual aid agreement with KCHD, and an insurance contract. The committee also heard a presentation on the proposed $99.8 million FY 2021-2022 budget, which includes no new taxes or fees and uses $1.8 million from the Rainy Day Fund to close a budget gap.
- Approved Resolution 431-21 authorizing construction agreement with KRT for Laidley Street project (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 432-21 authorizing lease agreement with KRT for Laidley Street property (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 433-21 authorizing purchase of 4 power cots for Fire Department up to $69,524 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 434-21 authorizing purchase of vehicle for MDENT for $27,445 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 436-21 authorizing mutual aid agreement with KCHD for COVID-19 response (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 437-21 authorizing insurance contracts totaling $1,630,042.69 (majority; Burton abstained)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will review several resolutions presented by the Finance Committee. These items include construction and lease agreements for KRT, as well as equipment and vehicle purchases.
- KRT Construction Agreement (Resolution 431-21)
- KRT Lease Agreement (Resolution 432-21)
- Purchase of Power Cots for Charleston Fire Department Ambulances (Resolution 433-21)
- Vehicle purchase for MDENT (Resolution 434-21)
- MOU between City and Kanawha Charleston Health Department (Resolution 436-21)
The Charleston City Council unanimously approved resolutions authorizing agreements with the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority (KRT) for construction and lease rights on Laidley Street, part of the City Center project. The council also approved purchases for the fire department and drug enforcement, and a mutual aid agreement with the health department. The insurance contract was approved with two dissenting votes and one abstention.
- Approved Resolution 431-21 authorizing construction agreement with KRT for Laidley Street (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 432-21 authorizing lease agreement with KRT for Laidley Street (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 433-21 to purchase four power cots for fire department, $69,524 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 434-21 to purchase one vehicle for MDENT, $27,445 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 436-21 mutual aid agreement with Kanawha-Charleston Health Department (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 437-21 insurance contract, $1,630,042.69 (majority, 2 nays, 1 abstention)
- Adopted Resolution 435-21 honoring former council member Dave Higgins (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Public Safety Committee
The Public Safety Committee will meet to approve February 4, 2021, minutes and discuss a first responder survey. An agenda amendment removed the discussion of Bill No. 7893 from the meeting.
- Approval of February 4, 2021, minutes
- Discussion of First Responder Survey
The Public Safety Committee heard from seven invited speakers about harm reduction and syringe service programs, then voted to approve a 13-question survey for city employees. The survey asks about needle program impacts on crime, litter, and safety, and was approved after several amendments. The committee also approved the minutes of the previous meeting.
- Approved the minutes of the previous meeting on 2-24-2021.
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe the Health Department’s needle program was good for the City of Charleston?' (striking 'in 2018').
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe the Health Department’s Needle Program led to an increase in crime?'
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe needle programs increase or decrease the likelihood of an accidental needle prick for the public at large, refuse employees or first responders performing their job duties?' (changing 'and' to 'or').
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe that needle programs increase or decrease syringe litter throughout the community?'
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe that needle programs result in an increase in the number of intravenous drug users coming into the City of Charleston from outside areas?'
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe participants in a needle program should be required to meet with a medical professional during each visit to the program?'
- Approved survey question: 'Do you believe participants in a needle exchange program should be required to return their used needles to receive new ones?' (as originally read).
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
General
The Firemen's Pension Board will meet to seat two new trustees for vacant positions and elect a new secretary. The agenda also includes miscellaneous business.
- Seating 2 new trustees to fill vacant positions
- Election of a new secretary
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center / Municipal Auditorium Board will meet to discuss employee pay increases for CCCC. The agenda also includes a financial report and a venue executive summary.
- CCCC employee pay increase discussion
- Financial report
- Venue report/executive summary
The board approved a $2,000 across-the-board pay increase for the 11 active CCCC employees, to be caught up for the current fiscal year. The financial report for January 2021 was accepted and filed, showing an operating loss of $50,000 and a required subsidy of $235,000. No other substantive decisions were made; discussions covered use of CARES funds and vaccination clinic reimbursements.
- Approved $2,000 pay increase for 11 active CCCC employees (motion by White, seconded by Brady)
- Approved minutes of January 27, 2021 meeting as distributed
- Accepted and filed January 2021 financial statement
Facilities Committee
The committee is scheduled to hold discussions with current tenants, including Yoga Power at 601 Morris Street and Mel Wolf of the YWCA. The meeting also includes an executive session regarding current city leases.
- Discussion with Yoga Power at 601 Morris Street
- Discussion with Mel Wolf (YWCA)
- Executive session regarding current city leases
- Approval of March 2, 2020 minutes
The Facilities Committee discussed complaints from tenant Jamie Dickenson of Yoga Power about drug use, vandalism, and unsanitary conditions at 601 Morris Street. City Manager Jonathan Storage reported steps already taken, including filling a custodial vacancy, contacting a security firm, and adding police patrols. The committee then moved into executive session to discuss current city leases, and no decisions were made on the building issues.
- Approved the minutes of the previous meeting on 3-2-2020
- Moved into executive session to discuss city leases
- Moved out of executive session
- Adjourned the meeting
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The committee will discuss Bill No. 7891, which proposes creating a no outlet on Overbrook Road and updating the city's traffic control map. The agenda also includes discussions regarding auxiliary signs and approval of minutes from the January 25, 2021 meeting.
- Bill No. 7891: Creating a no outlet on Overbrook Road
- Discussion of auxiliary signs
- Approval of January 25, 2021 meeting minutes
Finance
The Finance Committee will discuss the approval of minutes from February 1, 2021. The committee is also reviewing several resolutions regarding municipal bond services, vehicle purchases, and fire safety upgrades.
- Resolution 427-21: Purchase of 4 pickup trucks for the Parking System
- Resolution 429-21: Fire alarm system installation for Kanawha City Community Center
- Resolution 430-21: $37,000 FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant application
- Resolution 426-21: Agreement for municipal bond refunding services
- Resolution 428-21: Purchase of traffic marking paint
The Finance Committee meeting on February 16, 2021, was held via Zoom and CivicClerk. No motions were made or seconded on any agenda items, including approval of previous minutes and five resolutions. The committee took no substantive decisions.
- No action on approval of previous minutes (2-1-2021)
- No action on Resolution No. 426-21 (bond refunding underwriting)
- No action on Resolution No. 427-21 (purchase of 4 pickup trucks)
- No action on Resolution No. 428-21 (purchase of traffic marking paint)
- No action on Resolution No. 429-21 (fire alarm system for Kanawha City Community Center)
- No action on Resolution No. 430-21 (FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant application)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will consider a survey regarding hypodermic syringe distribution and the establishment of an Adopt-A-Street Program. The agenda also includes various equipment purchases and a FEMA grant application.
- Survey regarding hypodermic syringe distribution and suspension of uncertified programs
- Establishment of the Charleston Adopt-A-Street Program
- Purchase of four pickup trucks for the Parking System
- Installation of a fire alarm system for Kanawha City Community Center
- $37,000 FEMA Fire Prevention and Safety Grant application
The Council adopted Resolution No. 419-21 Committee Substitute as Amended, directing the Public Safety Committee to survey first responders and Public Works employees about syringe distribution programs. An amendment removing language that requested unlicensed organizations to suspend needle distribution was approved 15-9. The Council also passed the Charleston Adopt-A-Street Program, approved the 2021 Fire Department Policies and Procedures Manual, and authorized several purchases and contracts.
- Adopted Resolution 419-21 as amended, directing a survey of first responders and Public Works employees on syringe programs (23-1)
- Approved amendment to Resolution 419-21 removing request for unlicensed needle distribution suspension (15-9)
- Passed Bill 7894 establishing the Charleston Adopt-A-Street Program (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 425-21 approving the 2021 Fire Department Policies and Procedures Manual (unanimous)
- Passed Bill 7895 updating fire department division names in the Municipal Code (unanimous)
- Authorized agreement with Piper Sandler & Co. for bond refunding services (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of four Ford Ranger pickup trucks for $107,916 (unanimous)
- Authorized $29,472.85 contract with Ozark Materials LLC for traffic paint (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will consider a payment of $762,730.79 for the Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project. Members will also review financial reports and an engineering services agreement with Burgess and Niple, Inc. The meeting includes executive session discussions regarding personnel and legal matters.
- $762,730.79 payment for Woodward Branch Sanitary Sewer Replacement and Rehabilitation Project
- Engineering services agreement with Burgess and Niple, Inc.
- Unaudited financial reports for December 2020 and January 2021
- Legal matters regarding CSB v. Colonial, et al. and Russell Williams vs. CSB
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The committee will consider approving the 2021 Charleston Fire Department Policies and Procedures Manual. The agenda also includes a bill to update fire department division names in the municipal code.
- Resolution No. 425-21: Approving the 2021 Fire Department Policies and Procedures Manual
- Bill No. 7895: Updating fire department division names in Section 54-41 of the Municipal Code
- Approval of January 13, 2021 meeting minutes
The Ordinance and Rules Committee approved Resolution No. 425-21, authorizing the 2021 Charleston Fire Department Policies and Procedures Manual and a process for future amendments, and Bill No. 7895, updating fire department division names in the Municipal Code. Both items passed unanimously. The meeting was held electronically due to COVID-19.
- Approved Resolution No. 425-21, authorizing the 2021 CFD Policies and Procedures Manual (unanimous)
- Approved Bill No. 7895, updating fire department division names in Municipal Code Section 54-41 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the previous meeting on 1-13-2021
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment. The agenda also includes updates on Atlas Lofts apartments, a small business grant program, and a dog park on the Ott Property. An executive session is scheduled to discuss Washington Street property and CTC Mall parking garages.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- Dog Park on the Ott Property update
- Small Business Grant program discussion
- Atlas Lofts apartments update
- Washington Street property and CTC Mall & Parking Garages discussion
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The agency will review reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. The meeting includes discussions on 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties and property bids at the WV State Auditor’s Office.
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- Review of 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- Discussion regarding 30th Street and 2nd Avenue
- Update on 1726 Kemp Avenue
- 739 Central Avenue EOI
Public Safety Committee
The committee will consider a resolution requesting surveys of first responders and sanitation workers before acting on syringe exchange or distribution programs. The agenda also includes a Q&A with the fire, police, and refuse departments.
- Resolution No. 419-21 regarding input for syringe exchange programs
- Q&A with Charleston Fire, Police, and Refuse Departments
- Meeting logistics for Bill No. 7893
- Invitations to the next SOAR event and a WVDII Town Hall
The Public Safety Committee approved a substitute resolution directing the committee to create and administer an anonymous survey of first responders and Public Works employees about syringe exchange programs. The resolution also requests that any organization operating a needle distribution without state certification suspend such distribution until Council acts on pending legislation. The amendment adding the suspension request passed 4-3, and the full resolution was approved by majority vote.
- Approved minutes of 1-14-2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved amendment to add needle distribution suspension request (4-3)
- Approved Resolution No. 419-21 Committee Substitute (majority vote)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Municipal Planning Commission
The commission addressed unfinished business and new business items during the meeting. One rezoning request for the Woodbridge Subdivision was postponed, and a request for 1133 Oakhurst Drive was withdrawn.
- Postponed rezoning of three areas in Woodbridge Subdivision from R-6 to R-4
- Withdrawn rezoning at 1133 Oakhurst Drive from R-4 to R-O
- Review of January 6, 2021, meeting minutes
Environment and Recycling
The Environment and Recycling Committee will meet to review the results of a recycling study. The agenda also includes consideration of Bill No. 7894, which relates to establishing the Charleston Adopt-A-Street Program.
- Presentation of recycling study results
- Bill No. 7894: Establishing the Charleston Adopt-A-Street Program
- Approval of January 6, 2021 minutes
Municipal Beautification Commission
The commission will review updates regarding tree removal at 3803-3805 Staunton Avenue and handrails for the west side of Kanawha Boulevard. The meeting also includes reports on Ruffner Park, public arts, wayfinding, and the director's budget.
- Tree removal request update at 3803-3805 Staunton Avenue
- Handrails for the west side of Kanawha Boulevard
- Ruffner Park progress report
- Public Arts and Wayfinding reports
- Director's report on 2021 planting budget
Finance
The Finance Committee will review several resolutions on February 1, 2021. Proposed actions include authorizing contracts for Barlow Drive repairs and new fencing at Cato Park and Dunbar Street dog parks. The committee will also consider a settlement regarding claims against the city.
- Contract for Barlow Drive repair (Res. 420-21)
- Settlement of claims by the Estate of Heather Ross (Res. 421-21)
- Purchase of a miniature refuse collection truck (Res. 422-21)
- Fencing and gates for Cato Park and Dunbar Street dog parks (Res. 423-21)
- FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program application (Res. 424-21)
City Council
The Charleston City Council will meet to discuss several financial and infrastructure resolutions. These include a legal settlement, road repairs, and park improvements.
- Resolution No. 415-21: Establish an honorary street on Garrison Avenue for Patrolman Cassie Johnson
- Resolution No. 420-21: Contract for Barlow Drive repair
- Resolution No. 421-21: Settlement of claims by the Estate of Heather Ross and her children
- Resolution No. 422-21: Purchase of a miniature refuse collection truck
- Resolution No. 423-21: Fencing and gates for Cato Park and Dunbar Street dog parks
The Council approved a $1.15 million settlement for claims by the estate and minor children of Heather Ross, who died in a police chase crash. It also approved an honorary street for fallen Patrolman Cassie Johnson, a $428,624.13 contract for Barlow Drive repairs, a $69,992 dog park fencing contract, and a FEMA grant application for firefighter gear. A $91,975 refuse truck purchase was postponed to the next meeting.
- Approved $1.15M settlement for Heather Ross estate and children (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution 415-21 establishing honorary street for Patrolman Cassie Johnson (21-6)
- Approved $428,624.13 construction contract with RK Construction for Barlow Drive repairs (unanimous)
- Approved $69,992 contract with McNeil Fence for dog park fencing at Cato Park and Dunbar Street (unanimous)
- Approved FEMA grant application for $325,939 for firefighter gear (unanimous)
- Postponed $91,975 refuse truck purchase to next meeting (unanimous)
- Motion to discharge Resolution 419-21 from Public Safety Committee failed (9-18)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Parks and Recreation Committee
The Parks and Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss several local park locations. Agenda items include East End Dog Park, Cato Park, Skate Park, and Magic Island. The committee will also look ahead to the spring and summer seasons.
- East End Dog Park
- Cato Park
- Skate Park
- Magic Island
- Spring/Summer outlook
Select Committee on Insurance Relations - Property and Casualty
This meeting includes an introduction and an overview of current insurance agent relationships. The committee will also discuss its scope of work and next steps.
- Overview of current insurance agent relationship
- Discussion regarding the scope of committee work
The Select Committee on Insurance Agent Relations discussed the process for selecting a new property and casualty insurance broker for the City of Charleston. No formal decisions were made, but the committee agreed to have the Administration draft a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Committee to review. The goal is to have a recommendation by May 2021 for the next insurance renewal.
- Agreed to have Administration draft an RFP for broker selection (no vote recorded)
- Assigned committee members to research other cities' RFPs and potential consultants
- Discussed timeline for RFP publication and broker selection by May 2021
Civic Center/Auditorium Board
The Board will review financial and venue reports. The meeting also includes the introduction and recommendation of Patrick Leahy as General Manager effective February 1, 2021.
- Approval of November 24, 2020 minutes
- Financial Report
- Venue Report / Executive Summary
- Approval of Finance Manual
- Introduction and recommendation of Patrick Leahy as General Manager
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center / Municipal Auditorium Board approved the Finance Manual, a handbook for financial governance, and authorized the City Manager to reimburse the CCCC for COVID-related expenses using $500,000 in CARES Act funds. The board also accepted the financial report showing significant revenue losses due to the pandemic. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of November 24, 2020 meeting as distributed
- Accepted and filed financial statement as presented
- Approved Finance Manual as presented
- Approved motion to allow City Manager to reimburse CCCC for CARES Act eligible expenses
General
The Select Committee on Cable Franchise will review the overview of cable franchise authority and discuss a plan for next steps. The agenda consists of introductory items and procedural discussions.
- Overview of Cable Franchise Authority
- Plan for next steps
Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee
The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee will consider a bill to create a no outlet on Overbrook Road. The committee will also review a resolution to establish an honorary street on Garrison Avenue. Additionally, the meeting includes a discussion regarding auxiliary signs.
- Resolution No. 415-21: Establishing an honorary street for Patrolman Cassie Johnson on Garrison Avenue
- Bill No. 7891: Creating a no outlet on Overbrook Road and updating traffic control maps
- Discussion regarding auxiliary signs
Finance
The committee will review minutes from the January 4, 2021 meeting. Members will also consider resolutions to amend the 2019 Community Development Block Grant budget and establish a propriety fund for Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center revenues.
- Resolution No. 414-21: Amendment to the 2019 Community Development Block Grant CV budget
- Resolution No. 417-21: Establishment of a propriety fund for Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center revenues
The Finance Committee approved two resolutions: one amending the 2019 CDBG-CV budget to allocate $44,600 to COVID-19-related projects (Kanawha Valley Collective and Keep Your Faith Corporation), and another establishing a new grant fund for the Coliseum and Convention Center to receive a $500,000 state grant. Both were approved by majority vote. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Resolution 414-21 amending CDBG-CV budget, reallocating $44,600 to Kanawha Valley Collective and Keep Your Faith Corporation
- Approved Resolution 417-21 establishing Fund 428 for Coliseum and Convention Center grant funds
City Council
The Charleston City Council will review several items regarding public safety, finance, and council procedures. This includes a proposed agreement between the police department and the U.S. Marshals Service and new rules for electronic meetings. The council will also address budget amendments for community grants and a fund for the Charleston Coliseum.
- Resolution 418-21: Police MOU with US Marshals Service
- Bill 7889: Prohibiting traffic obstruction at dangerous intersections
- Resolution 416-21: Amending council rules for electronic meetings
- Resolution 414-21: Amending the 2019 Community Development Block Grant budget
- Resolution 417-21: Establishing a fund for the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center
The Charleston City Council voted down Bill No. 7889, which would have prohibited standing or congregating within 25 feet of inherently dangerous intersections or highways. The bill failed with 9 yeas and 18 nays after a proposed amendment to require committee approval for designating such intersections was tied 13-13 and failed. The council also adopted resolutions to amend CDBG-CV funds for COVID-19 quarantine and behavioral health outreach, and to establish a grant fund for the Coliseum and Convention Center.
- Bill No. 7889 (pedestrian obstruction near dangerous intersections) rejected (9-18)
- Amendment to Bill No. 7889 (committee approval for dangerous intersection designations) failed on tie vote (13-13, 1 abstention)
- Resolution No. 416-21 (electronic meeting rules for public speakers) adopted (21-6)
- Resolution No. 418-21 (MOU with U.S. Marshals for fugitive task force) adopted unanimously
- Resolution No. 414-21 (CDBG-CV budget amendment for Kanawha Valley Collective and Keep Your Faith Corporation) adopted (25-2)
- Resolution No. 417-21 (establish Coliseum and Convention Center Grant Fund) adopted unanimously
- Appointment of Christina Merbedone-Byrd as City Collector confirmed unanimously
- New bills introduced: No. 7891 (no outlet on Overbrook Road), No. 7893 (needle distribution certification), No. 7894 (Adopt-A-Street program), Resolution No. 419-21 (survey first responders on syringe programs)
🗳️ How they voted — 3 divided votes
Charleston Sanitary Board
The board will review several infrastructure and financial items, including a construction contract for Danner Hollow sewer improvements. Members will also consider waiving the 2021 grease trap fee due to the pandemic and approving uncollectible account write-offs.
- Construction contract award for Danner Hollow Sanitary Sewer Improvements totaling $2,393,353.20
- $399,577.46 payment request to the WVDEP for Woodward Branch sewer replacement
- Write-off of $192,266.07 in uncollectible accounts from 2019
- Waiver of the $450.00 Grease Trap Fee for FYE 2021
Spring Hill Cemetery Park Commission
The Commission will review reports from the Superintendent and Business Manager. Agenda items include approving price increases for lots and services and costs for rebuilding retaining walls. The meeting also includes a report on previous expenditures.
- Proposed price increases for cemetery lots and services
- Approval of cost for rebuilding retaining walls
- $9,352.97 City of Charleston grass cutting expense
- $26,700 Don Lambert wall rebuilding expense
- $1,006.76 reimbursement for trees and shrubs
Public Safety Committee
The Public Safety Committee will review a bill to prohibit obstructing traffic near dangerous intersections. The committee will also discuss an agreement with the U.S. Marshals Service and receive updates on SOAR and house fires.
- Bill No. 7889: Prohibiting obstruction of traffic at dangerous intersections
- Resolution No. 418-21: MOU with U.S. Marshals Service for a Regional Fugitive Task Force
- Discussion on SOAR update
- Discussion on house fire updates
- Discussion on inspection of registered apartments
The Public Safety Committee approved Bill No. 7889, which prohibits standing or congregating within 25 feet of designated 'inherently dangerous' intersections or highways to prevent obstructing traffic. The bill passed with a 5-1 vote, with Chairperson Steele voting against it. The committee also approved a resolution authorizing a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Marshal Service for a Regional Fugitive Task Force.
- Approved Bill No. 7889 restricting standing near dangerous intersections (5-1)
- Approved Resolution No. 418-21 for U.S. Marshal Regional Fugitive Task Force MOU (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of previous meeting (9-24-2020) (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Charleston Urban Renewal Authority
The Charleston Urban Renewal Authority will review the West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment. The meeting includes updates on the Ott Property dog park and presentations regarding health development. An executive session is scheduled to discuss Elk City property and CTC Mall parking garages.
- West Side Community Renewal Plan Amendment review
- Dog Park on the Ott Property
- Elk City Property request
- CTC Mall & Parking Garages discussion
Ordinance and Rules Committee
The Ordinance and Rules Committee will review the approval of minutes from July 28, 2020. The meeting includes consideration of Resolution No. 416-21 to amend Council Rules regarding procedures for public speakers during electronic meetings.
- Approval of minutes from July 28, 2020
- Resolution No. 416-21 regarding electronic meeting procedures for public speakers
The Ordinance and Rules Committee approved Resolution No. 416-21, which amends the Rules of Council to clarify the order of business and address electronic meeting procedures, including a larger sign-up window for public speakers and adding 'Remarks by Members' to the order. The resolution was approved unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Resolution No. 416-21 amending Rules of Council for electronic meetings (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of previous meeting on 7-28-2020 (no objection)
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency is conducting a developer's roundtable to introduce its agency goals and potential development incentives. The meeting will also summarize the Expression of Interest (EOI) process used by the agency. Developers are invited to participate in general discussion and ask questions.
- Introduction of CLRA
- Overview of agency goals and potential development incentives
- Summary of EOI process
- Developer comments and discussion
Charleston Land Reuse Agency
The Charleston Land Reuse Agency will discuss 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties. The meeting includes reports from the Redevelopment and Conservation Divisions. Members will also consider new property acquisition and inspection policies.
- 2019 and 2020 County Tax Sale properties
- Bids on property at WV State Auditor’s Office
- 30th Street and 2nd Avenue
- 1726 Kemp Avenue
- New Property Acquisition and Inspection Policies
LGBTQ+ Working Group
The LGBTQ+ Working Group will discuss recommendations for a transgender workplace policy and a contractor nondiscrimination ordinance. The meeting also includes updates on subcommittee progress and a youth-focused MLK painting workshop.
- Recommendation for Transgender Workplace Policy
- Letter to Mayor regarding transgender inclusive benefits
- Contractor nondiscrimination ordinance recommendation
- Youth-focused MLK Painting Workshop discussion
- Working Group Fund Update
Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission
The Charleston Historic Landmarks Commission will consider an application from Rea of Hope, Inc. regarding property at 1411 Quarrier Street. The agenda also includes reports on minor work permits and project updates.
- Application to demolish accessory structure and build a 2-story, 3-bedroom dwelling at 1411 Quarrier Street
- Report on Minor Work Permits
- Approval of November 19, 2020 meeting minutes
Municipal Planning Commission
The Commission will consider renaming Garrison Avenue to Patrolman Cassie Johnson Ave for E-911 compliance. It will also hold an election for the Vice President position for the 2020-2021 term. A rezoning request for the Woodbridge Subdivision has been postponed until February.
- Request to rename Garrison Avenue to Patrolman Cassie Johnson Ave
- Election of Commission Vice President
- Postponement of Woodbridge Subdivision rezoning (Bill No. 7880)
Environment and Recycling
The Environment and Recycling Committee will discuss an update on the recycling study and the Landfill Gas Collection Plant. The meeting also includes discussions regarding Green Team appointments and storm water management. The committee will review the minutes from the December 9, 2020, meeting.
- Approval of December 9, 2020, meeting minutes
- Update on recycling study
- Landfill Gas Collection Plant discussion
- Green Team Appointments
- Storm Water Management discussion
Finance
The Finance Committee will review previous meeting minutes and several resolutions regarding city vehicle purchases. The committee will also consider a grant application for the police department and an amendment to tax revenue allocation.
- Resolution 410-21: Purchase of 5 Jeep Grand Cherokees for Charleston Police Department
- Resolution 411-21: Purchase of 4 vehicles for Public Grounds
- Resolution 412-21: Purchase of 1 Ford Explorer for Spring Hill Cemetery
- Resolution 413-21: Grant application for the Charleston Police Department
- Bill 7890: Amendment to tax revenue allocation for Coliseum renovations
The Finance Committee approved four resolutions and one bill. Resolutions authorized purchases of police and public grounds vehicles, a cemetery SUV, and a grant application for police technology. Bill No. 7890, a technical correction to the city code regarding sales tax revenue allocation, was also approved.
- Approved Resolution 410-21: purchase of 5 Jeep Grand Cherokees for police ($139,675)
- Approved Resolution 411-21: purchase of 4 vehicles for Public Grounds ($112,249 total)
- Approved Resolution 412-21: purchase of 1 Ford Explorer for Spring Hill Cemetery ($28,166)
- Approved Resolution 413-21: application for Project Safe Neighborhoods grant ($114,000)
- Approved Bill 7890: amended city code to correct sales tax revenue allocation errors
City Council
The Charleston City Council is reviewing resolutions for vehicle purchases for the police department, Public Grounds, and Spring Hill Cemetery. The council will also consider a new no parking zone on 24th Street West.
- No parking zone at 24th Street West and an unnamed alley
- Purchase of 5 Jeep Grand Cherokees for Charleston Police Department
- Purchase of 4 vehicles for Public Grounds
- Purchase of 1 Ford Explorer for Spring Hill Cemetery
- Amendment to tax revenue allocation for Coliseum and Convention Center renovations