Martinsville city public meetings in 2022

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to review and discuss draft definitions and a draft Zoning Map. The body will also consider general amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and approve the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Review of draft definitions for Zoning Ordinance amendments
• Review of draft Zoning Map
• Approval of 2023 meeting schedule

Architectural Review Board

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a property on East Main Street. The board will also approve the 2023 meeting schedule and previous meeting minutes.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for MHC Historical Society roof addition at 1 East Main Street
• Approval of 2023 Meeting Schedule

City Council

The City Council will hear a report on the FY22 audit and discuss the proposed 2023 Legislative Agenda. The body is also considering a resolution to support the Virginia 250 Celebration to become eligible for grants.

• FY22 audit report from Robinson Farmer Cox Associates
• Resolution supporting the Virginia 250 Celebration
• Discussion of 2023 Legislative Agenda priorities
• 2023 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list
• Proclamations for retiring Fire Chief Ted Anderson and Police Chief Eddie Cassady

City Council voted to terminate City Attorney Eric Monday's contract effective January 2, 2023. The council also approved a contract extension for Mustangs Management and adopted a resolution supporting the Virginia 250 Celebration.

• Terminated City Attorney Eric Monday's contract effective Jan 2, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved 3-year contract addendum for Next P.L.A.N. Athletics/Mustangs Management (3-1)
• Adopted resolution supporting the Virginia 250 Celebration (Unanimous)
• Approved FY22 audit report from Robinson Farmer Cox Associates
• Reappointed Imogene Draper and Bernadette Moore to Arts and Cultural Committee
• Appointed Pamela Allen to Patrick and Henry Community College Board
• Reappointed Veraine Randolph to Anchor Group Home Commission
• Appointed Jennifer Bowles to West Piedmont Planning District Board (3-0, 1 abstention)

Electoral Board

This meeting of the Martinsville city Electoral Board has no published agenda. The agenda text indicates only that no agenda is available and directs readers to review the minutes.

The Electoral Board met to conduct a risk limiting audit. The board also approved the agenda and the minutes from November 9 and 14, 2022.

• Approved agenda
• Approved minutes of November 9 and 14, 2022
• Conducted risk limiting audit

City Council

This is a regular meeting of the Martinsville City Council. The agenda includes the main agenda and an addendum, both of which are available as PDF documents. No specific items are listed in the provided text.

• Agenda approval
• Addendum agenda

Council approved a contract to develop the BB&T building into apartments and restaurant space and authorized a $5.2M sewer construction contract for Jones Creek. The City also purchased a property on E. Commonwealth Boulevard for $150,000 to secure event parking.

• Approved BB&T building Contract of Sale & Development Agreement (3-2)
• Approved resolution supporting Uptown Partnership Main Street application (5-0)
• Approved $150,000 purchase of 447 E. Commonwealth Boulevard (5-0)
• Approved Jones Creek sewer construction contract (4-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved $1,000 donation to Southern Area Agency on Aging for fuel oil assistance (4-0)
• Approved modifications to City Attorney’s employment contract (4-1)
• Approved modifications to City Manager’s employment contract (4-1)
• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is conducting a neighborhood tour and community meeting for the Southside area. The session includes a review of property inspection concerns and a crime statistics update from the Police Department.

• Report of 356 inspections in Southside area with 224 violations cited
• Review of 90 grass and 89 trash violations
• Report of 45 inoperable vehicle violations
• Status update on 7 utility releases awaiting demolition
• Police Department update on neighborhood crime statistics

City Council conducted a neighborhood tour and held a public meeting to discuss property maintenance, crime, and infrastructure. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken during these events.

• Planned Smith Lake Road repaving for spring following a successful rebid
• Police Department to deploy speed trailers on Emmett, Spring, Woodrow, and Short Streets to determine enforcement timing
• Mayor Lawson suggested adding cat-related concerns to the legislative agenda

City Council

City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding the transfer of various city-owned properties to the Martinsville Land Bank Authority to increase development flexibility. The body will also hear a presentation on the operation of a local drug court and consider budget amendments.

• Public hearing for transferring city properties to Land Bank Authority, including the Armory Property at 315 W Comm. Blvd valued at $2,892,200
• FY23 General Fund budget amendments: $15,660 for Forfeited Assets and $13,427 for a State Grant
• FY23 Capital Fund (School Construction) budget amendment: $289,480 for a State Grant
• Presentation by Piedmont Community Services on the start-up and operation of a local drug court
• Proclamation recognizing November 1, 2022, as Extra Mile Day 2022

Council approved the transfer of specific city-owned properties to the Martinsville Land Bank Authority. The body also voted to seek guidance from the Virginia Conflict of Interest Council regarding a city employment policy. Other actions included approving the consent agenda and previous meeting minutes.

• Approved transfer of city-owned properties to Land Bank Authority (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from October 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Directed administration to contact Virginia Conflict of Interest Council regarding employee policy (4-1)
• Denied motion to exclude L.C. Jones from new employment policy (1-3, 1 abstention)
• Denied motion to remove employee policy Section 7.8.1E (died for lack of second)

City Council

The City Council will discuss reappropriating unspent FY22 funds to FY23 and the potential sale of a vacant lot to The Lester Group. The body will also hear public input on the future of the Paradise Inn and consider transferring various city-owned properties to the Land Bank Authority.

• Reappropriation of $3,634,857 in unspent FY22 funds to FY23
• Proposed sale of vacant lot at 228 Amy Avenue to The Lester Group for $4,000
• Public input on the future of the Paradise Inn at 802 W. Fayette Street
• Proposed public hearing to transfer city-owned properties to the Martinsville Land Bank Authority
• Update on operations and programs at New College Institute

The council appointed Ouss Sahhar to the Patrick & Henry Community College Board for a term ending June 30, 2026, with a 4-1 vote. They also reappointed Rives Coleman and Andy Quirk to the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority. A public hearing was set for October 25 to transfer city-owned properties to the Martinsville Land Bank Authority, and the Land Bank Authority sold a vacant lot at 228 Amy Avenue to The Lester Group for $4,000.

• Appointed Ouss Sahhar to Patrick & Henry Community College Board (4-1)
• Reappointed Rives Coleman to Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority (5-0)
• Reappointed Andy Quirk to Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 13, 26, and 27 meetings as corrected (5-0)
• Set public hearing for October 25 to transfer city-owned properties to Land Bank Authority (5-0)
• Sold vacant lot at 228 Amy Avenue to The Lester Group for $4,000 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda for reappropriation of unspent FY22 funds to FY23 (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will receive public comments regarding the potential demolition of the Paradise Inn at 802 W. Fayette Street. The body will also review a recap of the West End neighborhood tour and consider budget appropriations for forfeited assets.

• Public input on possible demolition of Paradise Inn at 802 W. Fayette Street
• Budget appropriation of $3,319 for FY22 General Fund (Forfeited Assets)
• Budget appropriation of $502 for FY23 General Fund (Forfeited Assets)
• Proclamation for the 20th anniversary of The Harvest Foundation
• Overview of September 26, 2022 West End neighborhood tour

The council heard public input on the possible demolition of the Paradise Inn at 802 W. Fayette Street but took no vote on the matter. They also appointed Crystal Dallas to the Southern Area Agency on Aging Board, approved consent agenda items, and discussed neighborhood concerns from a West End tour. No final decision was made on the Paradise Inn; the session was primarily for gathering resident opinions.

• Appointed Crystal Dallas to the Southern Area Agency on Aging Board for a 3-year term ending September 28, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 9 and August 23, 2022 council meetings, with amendments to add statements from Council Member Turner and Vice Mayor Bowles (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Motion passed to research and review installing historical markers for Paradise Inn and other black community historical spaces (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a community meeting regarding the Westside area. The session includes an update on a neighborhood tour, a review of prior inspection concerns, and a period for citizen comments.

• 87 nuisance ordinance violation notices issued since July 25th
• 248 total inspections conducted from 74 complaints
• 49 property maintenance or special consultation inspections performed
• 1 demolition permit issued

The Martinsville City Council held a neighborhood meeting in the West End, beginning with a tour of the area and followed by a public forum. No formal votes or binding decisions were taken; the meeting was informational, with staff and council responding to resident questions about property maintenance, demolition, the Paradise Inn, and the Pine Hall CDBG grant project.

• No formal votes or decisions taken at this meeting
• Council heard updates on demolition list (142 homes, 3 going to bid)
• Council discussed ARPA funding earmarked for drainage and demolition
• Council discussed Pine Hall CDBG project status (16 participants, first home starting soon)

City Council

This is a regular meeting of the Martinsville City Council. The agenda includes the main agenda and an addendum, but no specific items are listed in the provided text.

The Martinsville City Council approved funding for lobbying efforts related to the Southern Connector Project, adopted the updated Emergency Operations Plan, and approved the consent agenda. Four appointments to boards and commissions were made. The council also scheduled public input sessions on the future of the Paradise Inn property.

• Approved $60,000 for lobbying for Southern Connector Project (5-0)
• Adopted updated City of Martinsville Operations Plan (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Appointed Mandy Gordon to Arts & Cultural Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Steve Draper to Patrick & Henry Community College Board (5-0)
• Appointed Conrade Young to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Michael Sanguedolce to Transportation Safety Commission (5-0)
• Scheduled public input sessions on Paradise Inn demolition (5-0)

City Council

City Council will consider a resolution to set the personal property tax relief allocation for qualifying vehicles for tax year 2022. The meeting also includes operational updates on the local hospital, public transit, and utility systems.

• Proposed 36.82% tax relief for qualifying vehicles valued between $1,001 and $20,000
• Operational update from Sovah Health regarding the Martinsville hospital facility
• Ridership and route update for the PART public bus system
• Update on the City's new utility outage call-in system
• Update on the Martinsville Mustangs 2022 Coastal Plain League season

The Council appointed Derrick Ziglar, Jr. and Duane Saufley to the Board of Zoning Appeals for five-year terms, with Ziglar approved 4-1 and Saufley unanimously. A resolution setting the personal property tax relief allocation percentage for 2022 was adopted unanimously. The meeting also included updates from Sovah Health, the Martinsville Mustangs, the PART bus system, and the utility outage call-in system, but no other binding decisions were made.

• Appointed Derrick Ziglar, Jr. to Board of Zoning Appeals for 5-year term (4-1)
• Appointed Duane Saufley to Board of Zoning Appeals for 5-year term (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution setting personal property tax relief allocation percentage for 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 12, July 25, and July 26 meetings (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding the Martinsville Historic District 2022 Update. The body will also receive operational and safety updates from Sovah Health, the 911 Center, and City Schools.

• Public hearing on the Martinsville Historic District 2022 Update
• Request for City funding for a United Way housing eviction prevention program
• Update on 988 system from 911 Center Director Tierra Dillard
• Report on enforcement of §15.5-21 of the City Code regarding property maintenance violations
• School safety and security update from Director T. J. Slaughter

The Martinsville City Council approved a $60,000 per year for two years funding request from the United Way for an eviction prevention program, with all members voting in favor. The council also approved a revised power purchase agreement for a solar energy project at the former Lynwood golf course in a 4-1 vote. A motion to remove the City Attorney's discretionary authority over property maintenance violations failed in a 2-3 vote. The meeting included updates on the 988 crisis system, school safety measures, and a presentation on the Historic District expansion, but no action was taken on the latter.

• Approved $60,000/year for 2 years for United Way eviction prevention program (5-0)
• Approved revised power purchase agreement for solar project at Lynwood golf course (4-1)
• Denied motion to remove City Attorney's discretionary authority on property maintenance (2-3)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)

City Council

The provided text lists only the meeting date and references to an agenda and addendum PDF file. No specific decisions, discussions, or item details are included in the source text, so the content of the meeting cannot be summarized.

The City Council tabled a revised solar power purchase agreement for the former Lynwood golf course until the next meeting, after discussion about increased costs and supply chain delays. The Council also approved fully funding the City's share of a library staff pay raise, amending a prior motion to add $6,571. A motion to waive discretionary authority for property cleanup was tabled.

• Tabled revised solar power purchase agreement until next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved full funding of City's share of library staff pay raise, adding $6,571 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for VDOT Smart Scale funding application for West Fayette Street project (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Tabled motion to waive discretionary authority for property cleanup at Cherokee Court/Cherokee Trail
• Set no public hearing for truck route change; discussion deferred to City Manager meeting

City Council

The City Council is conducting a neighborhood community meeting and tour of the Druid Hills/Uptown area. The session includes a review of property maintenance and inspection concerns. Residents may provide comments and questions to the council.

• Report of 30 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since June 27
• Report of 58 nuisance inspections performed
• Report of 16 Property Maintenance/Special Consult Inspections
• Status update on 3 demolitions awaiting final inspection
• Breakdown of concerns including 26 grass-related and 4 debris and trash issues

The Martinsville City Council held a neighborhood meeting on July 25, 2022, beginning with a tour of the Uptown and Druid Hills areas to observe properties on the demolition list, overgrowth, and other issues. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff and council responding to resident comments about demolition, kudzu, truck traffic, speeding, and parking enforcement. The council directed follow-up on some items, such as having the City Attorney review kudzu ordinances.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; meeting was informational
• Council asked to see past energy audit for Gwen Williams' house
• Council Member Bowles asked City Attorney to review kudzu ordinances
• Police advised resident to call when speeding observed; radar unit possible
• Discussed parking enforcement options; no action taken

City Council

The City Council will consider a request to fund portions of one-time stipends for 911 and DSS employees. The meeting also includes information regarding city street paving schedules and an update on the solar energy project at the former Lynwood golf course.

• Request to fund $44,653 in total stipends for 911 ($8,300) and DSS ($36,353) employees
• Presentation on city street paving, funding, and criteria by Public Works
• Update on the solar energy project at the former Lynwood golf course site
• Recognition of City Employees for Service Awards from April 1 – June 30, 2022

The City Council approved a request from Henry County to fund one-third of one-time stipends for 911 and DSS employees, totaling $44,653. The council also appointed Michael Williamson and James Woods to the School Board. A motion to table public discussion of the City Attorney's contract until August failed 3-2, as did a subsequent motion to hire an outside attorney for contract review.

• Approved $44,653 for 911 and DSS employee stipends (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Williamson to School Board for term ending June 30, 2023 (unanimous)
• Appointed James Woods to School Board for term ending June 30, 2024 (4-1, Pearson against)
• Motion to table City Attorney contract discussion until August failed (3-2)
• Motion to hire outside attorney for contract review failed (3-2)

City Council

The City Council will consider adopting the 2021 West Piedmont Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan to qualify for assistance grants. The meeting also includes an update on the contract between the City and the Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA regarding parks and recreation programming.

• Adoption of the 2021 update of the West Piedmont Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Update on the City/YMCA contract for city parks & recreation programs
• Overview of the June 27, 2022 Northside neighborhood tour and meeting
• Approval of minutes from May 23, May 24, and June 14, 2022 meetings

The Martinsville City Council held its regular meeting on June 28, 2022, and took several actions. It adopted the 2021 West Piedmont Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, approved minutes from prior meetings, and made appointments to the Piedmont Regional Community Services Board and the Planning Commission. Two motions related to the City Attorney's contract—one to hire outside counsel for review and one to terminate and rewrite the contract—both failed on 2-3 votes. No action was taken on School Board appointments because one candidate was absent.

• Adopted 2021 West Piedmont Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 23, May 24, and June 14, 2022 meetings (unanimous)
• Appointed Ann Gibson to Piedmont Regional Community Services Board for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jonathan Martin, Austin Roberson, and Joseph Martin to Planning Commission for 4-year terms (unanimous)
• Motion to hire outside counsel to review City Attorney contract failed (2-3)
• Motion to terminate City Attorney contract and rewrite with $50,000 buyout failed (2-3)

City Council

City Council is holding a neighborhood tour and community meeting to review inspection concerns in the Northside/Chatham Heights area. The session includes an update on the tour and a period for citizen comments and questions.

• Review of 51 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since May
• Report of 22 Property Maintenance/Special Consult Inspections
• Status of 1 demolition awaiting final inspection
• Report of 96 total inspections including 45 non-valid complaints

The Martinsville City Council held a neighborhood meeting and tour of the Northside area on June 27, 2022, where residents raised concerns about property maintenance, parking, and safety. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff noting that most reported issues were already in the system and would be followed up by appropriate departments.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; meeting was informational
• Resident complaints logged for follow-up by Inspections, Police, and Public Works
• Petition filed for extended inspection of a private property with a 'swamp' (noted by Council Member Turner)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing to receive names for two Martinsville City School Board vacancies. The body is also considering a memorandum of understanding for Bird scooter operations and a tax refund for a local business.

• Public hearing for two Martinsville City School Board appointments (terms ending June 30, 2024, and June 30, 2025)
• Proposed $13,481.54 BPOL tax refund for a local business for tax year 2020
• Proposed Memorandum of Understanding for Bird scooters including a $0.10 per ride revenue-share to the City
• Proposed resolution to accept ownership of the former National Guard Armory on Commonwealth Boulevard
• Proposed resolution to change the membership policy for the Arts & Cultural Committee

The Martinsville City Council approved several items, including accepting ownership of the former National Guard Armory on Commonwealth Boulevard, authorizing a $13,481.54 BPOL tax refund, and executing a Memorandum of Understanding for Bird scooters. The council also adopted a resolution changing the Arts & Cultural Committee membership policy and approved the consent agenda. A request to review the City Attorney's contract was deferred to a future meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 3, 4, 10, and 18 meetings (unanimous)
• Authorized $13,481.54 BPOL tax refund (unanimous)
• Authorized MOU for Bird scooters (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution changing Arts & Cultural Committee membership (unanimous)
• Adopted revised resolution accepting former National Guard Armory (unanimous)
• Deferred review of City Attorney's contract to future meeting
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)

City Council

City Council will consider the second reading of Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2 for the 2023 fiscal year. The proposed budget includes a 7% increase in refuse collection fees while maintaining other tax rates and fees at FY22 levels. Council will also discuss school board appointments and a neighborhood tour recap.

• Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2: Proposed FY23 budget with a 7% increase in refuse collection fees
• Proposed 80% assessment ratio for tangible personal property for FY23
• Proposed $350,000 reduction in school funding
• Public hearing for Martinsville City School Board appointments proposed for June 14, 2022
• Consent agenda item: $32,218 appropriation for ARP Homeless Children Grant

The Martinsville City Council approved Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2 on second reading with a 4-1 vote, with Council Member Pearson dissenting. The council also set a public hearing for June 14, 2022, to receive names for two school board appointments, and approved minutes and the consent agenda. No action was taken out of closed session.

• Approved Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2 on second reading (4-1)
• Set public hearing for June 14, 2022, for school board appointments (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 25, April 26, and April 27 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Certified closed session compliance and returned to open session (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is conducting a neighborhood tour and community meeting for the Westside area. The session includes a review of prior inspection concerns and a public comment period for citizens.

• Report of 111 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since April 25
• Report of 150 total inspections including 39 non-valid complaints
• 9 Property Maintenance issues inspected, condemned, or issued notices
• 1 demolition permit issued
• Breakdown of concerns including 79 for grass and 22 for trash

The Martinsville City Council held a neighborhood meeting on May 23, 2022, after touring the West End area. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with residents raising concerns about property maintenance, traffic, and code enforcement. Staff committed to follow up on specific issues, such as extra patrols for speeding and investigating sewer lines for rats.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational
• Police Chief committed to address 4-wheelers and dirt bikes city-wide
• Extra patrols and speed/radar units to be implemented for speeding
• Staff to look into smoke testing sewer lines for rat issue
• New Massey Street sign made, installation pending crane work

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the upcoming FY23 budget.

• FY23 budget work session

The Martinsville City Council held a budget work session on May 18, 2022, and approved a 20% reduction in personal property tax assessments, which will reduce revenue by $342,658.55. A motion to provide half the funds requested by the Public Defender's office failed on a 3-2 vote. The council also discussed using ESSER funds for school capital projects and the possibility of a $350,000 reduction in school funding, but no final decision was made on that item.

• Approved 20% reduction in personal property tax assessments (4-1)
• Denied motion to provide half the funds requested by Public Defender's office (3-2 against)
• Discussed but did not decide on $350,000 reduction in school budget
• Discussed but did not decide on ARPA fund allocation

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the FY22-23 Budget and consider approval of Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2. Additionally, council members will consider a second reading of Ordinance 2022-3 regarding the use of electric scooters in the Uptown area.

• Public hearing on the City’s FY22-23 Budget
• First reading of Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2
• Second reading of Ordinance 2022-3 regarding electric scooter use
• Proclamation for National Police Week 2022 and Peace Officers’ Memorial Day
• Proclamation for the 50th anniversary of Piedmont Community Services

The City Council adopted Ordinance 2022-3 on second reading, allowing an electric scooter program in the city, with the only remaining step being a memorandum of understanding with Bird corporation. The Council also approved Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2 on first reading, including requested changes to the library budget, and discussed various budget items such as a potential library pay raise, personal property tax relief, and public defender funding.

• Adopted Ordinance 2022-3 on second reading for electric scooters (5-0)
• Approved Budget Ordinance 2022-U-2 on first reading with library budget changes (5-0)
• Moved to give $13,000 for library pay raise if Patrick and Henry counties agree (amended motion)
• Moved to approve 5% assessed value on personal property tax assessments (motion made, discussion deferred)
• Moved to award half of $11,262 requested by Public Defender's office (motion made, discussion deferred)

City Council

The City Council is conducting work sessions to review the upcoming FY23 budget. These sessions include reviews of city departments, constitutionals, and outside agencies.

• Budget review for Outside Agencies including 911, Library, and Social Services
• Budget request review for the Public Defender’s Office
• Budget review for City Departments & Constitutionals

The City Council held a budget work session, reviewing multiple department budgets and discussing potential personal property tax relief. No formal votes were taken; the council will continue discussions at a future work session. Key topics included the electric, refuse, telecom, water, and wastewater budgets, as well as ARPA fund allocation and school funding.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the work session
• Discussed options for personal property tax relief, including rate adjustment vs. rebate
• Discussed setting aside $4 million of ARPA funds for the 2023-24 budget
• Discussed school budget and ESSER fund usage
• Discussed funding for 911 Center, Library, Public Defender, and Uptown Partnership

City Council

The City Council is conducting two work sessions to review the upcoming FY23 budget. Discussions include city departments, constitutional officers, and outside agencies such as 911, the Library, and Social Services.

• FY23 budget work session regarding Outside Agencies
• Public Defender’s Office request to address Council
• Review of City Departments & Constitutionals

The Martinsville City Council held a budget work session on May 3, 2022, to review the upcoming budget. No formal votes were taken; the session was for discussion and information. Council heard funding requests from the 911 Center, Social Services, the Blue Ridge Region Library, and the Public Defender's office, all citing staffing and retention challenges. The Council also reviewed various departmental budgets and discussed options for addressing a 26.14% increase in personal property tax values.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the work session
• Heard 911 Center request for $40,000 on-call compensation and $1.50/person salary increase
• Heard Social Services request for staff pay raise due to 45% vacancy rate
• Heard library request for $13,000 from Martinsville for staff pay increase
• Heard Public Defender request for 5% salary supplement for 10 employees, $11,262 from Martinsville
• Discussed options for personal property tax rate adjustments due to 26.14% value increase

City Council

This Martinsville City Council meeting has no published agenda. The only available record is the meeting minutes, so there are no specific items to report as decided or discussed.

• No agenda items listed

The City Council held a budget work session to review proposed budgets for schools, fire/EMS, and police, but took no formal votes. School officials requested level funding, while police and fire discussed vacancies, equipment needs, and the new transport program. The city manager warned of future budget cuts once ARPA funds expire.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the budget work session
• Reviewed Martinsville City Schools proposed budget and level funding request
• Discussed Fire and EMS transport program, which is generating profit
• Reviewed Police Department budget, including vacancies and equipment costs
• Noted proposed 7% refuse increase, first since July 2013

City Council

The City Council will review the proposed FY23 budget and discuss the use of ARPA funds for Uptown renewal. The body is also considering a resolution to hire a private collection attorney for delinquent taxes and an ordinance regarding electric scooters.

• Proposed FY23 City budget presentation
• Resolution to employ a private collection attorney for delinquent taxes
• Ordinance 2022-3 regarding the use of electric scooters
• Public Hearing on the 2021 Martinsville-Henry County Solid Waste Management Plan update
• Discussion on ARPA funds for Uptown renewal

The Council voted 3-2 to retain William Hurd to file actions with the Virginia Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the referendum legislation related to reversion. The vote followed a closed session and discussion, with Council Member Pearson opposing due to costs and concerns about citizens' voting rights. The Council also approved several appointments, a delinquent tax collection resolution, and an electric scooter ordinance on first reading.

• Retained William Hurd to file actions with VA Supreme Court on reversion referendum (3-2)
• Appointed Julian Mei, Jennifer Reis, Kathleen McEvoy to Arts and Cultural Committee
• Reappointed Michael Kirby to Joint Social Services Board
• Appointed Lydia Martin to Pittsylvania County Community Action Agency Board
• Approved resolution authorizing City Treasurer to employ TACS for delinquent tax collection (5-0)
• Adopted Solid Waste Management Plan update (4-0, Martin abstained)
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-3 on electric scooters on first reading (5-0)
• Allotted $500,000 to demolition list (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting in the Southside area to tour the neighborhood and hear citizen comments. The session includes a review of property maintenance and inspection concerns.

• Review of 1,611 Nuisance Ordinance inspections since October 21, 2019
• Report of 571 notices issued with violations cited
• Report of 187 property maintenance inspections
• Report of 46 demolition permits issued
• Review of specific complaints including 264 for grass and 150 for trash

The Martinsville City Council held a neighborhood meeting in the Southside area, touring the district and hearing resident concerns. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff explaining property maintenance processes, demolition lists, and police responses to issues like speeding and drug activity. The council discussed the future of Oak Street Park and agreed to seek resident input via a survey.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
• Council agreed to survey residents about Oak Street Park's future
• Staff to review no-dumping sign installation at Graves Street location
• Police to address 4-wheeler concerns on Village Street and Smith Lake Road

City Council

The provided documents consist only of an agenda and an addendum without specific item descriptions. No decisions or discussions are documented in the source text.

The Council voted unanimously to authorize staff to execute an option agreement with Martinsville Methodist Properties, Inc. for the possible acquisition of properties at Depot and Lester Streets, giving the city site control for grant applications. The Council also adopted a resolution recognizing April as Fair Housing Month and approved the consent agenda. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included proclamations, updates, and discussion.

• Authorized option agreement with Martinsville Methodist Properties, Inc. for Depot and Lester Streets property (5-0)
• Adopted resolution recognizing April as Fair Housing Month (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 8 and March 22, 2022 meetings (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public input session regarding the potential use of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) funds. The body will also hold a public hearing concerning properties to be included in the Rental Inspection Program.

• Public input session on American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) funds
• Public hearing on properties for the Rental Inspection Program
• Proclamation for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge art winners (prizes of $500, $200, and $150)
• Proclamation recognizing the 75th anniversary of Martinsville Speedway
• Proclamation for Martinsville High School football coach Bobby Martin

The Martinsville City Council approved using ARPA funds for stormwater improvements and affordable housing, specifically the Five Points and Aaron Mills projects, after a public input session. The council also approved adding three properties to the Rental Inspection Program and the consent agenda. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included proclamations and community comments.

• Approved ARPA funding for stormwater project and affordable housing (unanimous)
• Approved resolution adding three properties to Rental Inspection Program (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)

City Council

This is a procedural agenda for the Martinsville City Council meeting on March 8, 2022. The agenda lists only an addendum and the main agenda as items, with no substantive decisions or discussions detailed in the provided text.

• Addendum document (030822_ADDENDUM_AGENDA.PDF.PDF)
• Agenda document (030822_AGENDA.PDF.PDF)

City Council

The City Council will consider ordinances regarding disguise restrictions and uncut grass height. The meeting also includes discussions on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and the City's Strategic Plan.

• Ordinance 2022-1: Repealing city disguise and mask restrictions
• Ordinance 2022-2: Amending allowable height of uncut grass to ten inches
• Discussion regarding potential use of ARPA funds
• Review and possible update to the City’s Strategic Plan
• Proposed schedule for the FY22-23 budget process

The Council approved on first reading Ordinance 2022-1, repealing the city's disguise and mask restrictions from 1971, and Ordinance 2022-2, amending the allowable height of uncut grass to match the Property Inspections policy. The Council also discussed the use of $15,463,451 in ARPA funds, agreeing to move forward with the Summit View project to accept bids, and reviewed the city's Strategic Plan and the FY22-23 budget process schedule. The minutes from January 25 and 27, 2022, and the consent agenda were approved.

• Approved minutes from the January 25, 2022 Council Meeting and January 27, 2022 Special Session as presented.
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-1 on first reading, repealing City disguise and mask restrictions, with a unanimous roll call vote.
• Adopted Ordinance 2022-2 on first reading, amending the allowable height of uncut grass, with a unanimous roll call vote.
• Agreed that the Summit View project should move forward to accept bids using ARPA funds.
• Approved the consent agenda as presented.

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a special session to consider the second reading of Ordinance No. 2022-U-1. This ordinance authorizes a contested reversion process following a report from the Commission on Local Government and the refusal of Henry County to honor a previous settlement agreement.

• Second reading of Ordinance No. 2022-U-1 authorizing contested reversion

The Martinsville City Council voted 4-1 to adopt Ordinance No. 2022-U-1 on second reading, authorizing the city attorney to file a petition for a contested reversion from Henry County. This procedural step allows the city to request a three-judge panel to hear the case. Council Member Pearson voted against, urging more public engagement and negotiation with the county.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-U-1 authorizing contested reversion (4-1)
• Allowed Council Member Pearson to participate by phone (4-0)

City Council

This is a procedural meeting agenda with no substantive items listed. The council will consider the agenda and an addendum, but no specific decisions or discussions are detailed.

The Martinsville City Council voted 4-1 to adopt the first reading of Ordinance No. 2022-U-1, authorizing the city to proceed with a contested reversion from Henry County. The ordinance is a statutory step to request the Supreme Court of Virginia to appoint a 3-judge panel. Council Member Pearson voted against it. A special meeting is scheduled for January 27 to consider the second reading.

• Approved minutes from January 11, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance No. 2022-U-1 authorizing contested reversion (4-1)
• Approved quarterly finance report (unanimous)
• Allowed Council Member Pearson to participate by phone (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will review a budget amendment for the General Fund and receive operational updates from the Electric Department and the Department of Social Services. The meeting includes a closed session for board appointments and legal consultations.

• Proposed FY22 General Fund appropriation of $78,775 from prior year accumulated funds
• Update on the Henry-Martinsville Department of Social Services CarePortal Project
• Operations and projects update from Electric Department Director Durwin Joyce
• Recognition of 10 city employees for service awards ranging from 5 to 20 years

The Martinsville City Council held a regular meeting on January 11, 2022, and made several appointments to boards and commissions. They reappointed Karen Garrett to the Anchor Group Home Commission, appointed Sharon Shepherd to the Architectural Review Board, and appointed Jewell Drewery to the Patrick Henry Community College Board. The council also approved the consent agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and heard updates on the CarePortal Project and Electric Department operations.

• Reappointed Karen Garrett to Anchor Group Home Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Sharon Shepherd to Architectural Review Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Jewell Drewery to Patrick Henry Community College Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kris Shrader to Western Virginia EMS Council (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)