Martinsville city public meetings in 2023

CPMT

The Martinsville City and Henry County Community Policy and Management Teams are meeting to approve funding reports and discuss individual cases in closed sessions. Joint business includes reviewing the PSSF Five-Year Plan and SEC policy revisions.

• Review of cases with expenditures over $5,000.00 per month
• Approval of CSA funding reports and requests
• Discussion of PSSF Five-Year Plan
• SEC Policy Revisions public comment period
• General Assembly FY23 Progress Report on CSA

City Council

The City Council is discussing the donation of public land to the Danville Housing and Redevelopment Authority for housing development. The body is also considering amendments to the Nuisance Ordinance and updates to the City Charter.

• Conveyance of 1.547 acres on West Church Street and 42.305 acres on Rives Road to Danville Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Proposed Nuisance Ordinance amendment to allow reseeding properties in clover after four abatements in a calendar year
• Proposed changes to the City Charter
• Discussion of the City's proposed 2024 Legislative Agenda
• Finance Department update regarding a requested electric rate increase

City Council

The City Council will discuss a proposed electric rate increase and consider an ordinance to adopt the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program. The body will also review a resolution to support tobacco-free public spaces and an amendment to the Nuisance Ordinance.

• Proposed electric rate increase discussion
• Nuisance Ordinance amendment to allow replanting properties in clover or low-growth cover
• Second reading of Ordinance to participate in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program
• Resolution supporting 'Share the Air' for tobacco-free and vape-free public spaces
• Update on expenditure of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funds

CPMT

The Martinsville City and Henry County Community Policy and Management Team will meet to approve funding reports and new service contracts. The body will hold closed sessions to review foster care, IEP, and residential placement cases, including those with monthly expenditures exceeding $5,000.00.

• Contract approvals for AceWall Scholars and Breaking Through: A Clinical Consulting Firm
• Review of cases with expenditures over $5,000.00 per month
• Appointment of Dana Dehart as CPMT alternate for PCS
• Removal of Caitlin Helm as FAPT alternate for Strategic Therapies
• Approval of CSA funding reports and requests

City Council

City Council will discuss adopting an ordinance to participate in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program for building improvements. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding revenue-sharing agreements between the City, Henry County Board of Supervisors, and the Industrial Development Authority of Henry County.

• Ordinance to adopt the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program
• Public hearing on revenue-sharing agreements with Henry County Board of Supervisors and Industrial Development Authority of Henry County
• Proposed appointment of the City Manager as Executive Director of the Redevelopment and Housing Authority
• Update on the Aaron Mills Donation Agreement
• Parks Improvement Planning and Local Government Climate Action Plan updates

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss a 2% school tax, the legislative agenda, and a proposed City Charter update. The meeting includes a presentation by Share the Air and a review of remaining ARPA funding. A closed session will address personnel, real property, and legal matters.

• Discussion of 2% School Tax
• Proposed City Charter update
• ARPA funding update and remaining additions
• Presentation by Share the Air
• Closed session regarding real property acquisition or disposition

CPMT

The Community Policy and Management Team is meeting to approve funding reports and review individual cases in closed session. The body will also consider a new contract for Timber Ridge and review FY23 demographic and service reports.

• New contract approval for Timber Ridge
• Review of cases with expenditures over $5,000.00 per month
• Approval of CSA funding reports and requests
• FY23 Demographics, Locality Service Name, and Locality Comparison Reports
• Removal of Sharon Buckman as the alternate for PCS

City Council

City Council will hold public hearings on the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program and a development project for the western half of the Armory Property. The body will also consider approving an amended contract of sale for the BB&T building.

• Public hearing on participation in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program
• Public hearing and action on a development project for the western half of the Armory Property
• Action to approve the BB&T building Amended Contract of Sale and Development Agreement
• Presentation on a study to remove signalized intersections
• Presentation on the SDL Complaint system roll out

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a work session to discuss items in a closed session. The agenda focuses on prospective business interests and the investment of public funds.

• Discussion of prospective business or industry expansion
• Consideration of public fund investments involving competition or bargaining

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session to discuss confidential matters. The agenda focuses on prospective business interests and the investment of public funds.

• Discussion of a prospective business or industry expansion
• Consideration of public fund investments involving competition or bargaining

City Council

The meeting is dedicated to the swearing-in and welcome of City Manager Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides. The agenda consists of ceremonial introductions and remarks.

• Oath of Office for City Manager Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss public safety measures, including a second reading of an ordinance for school zone speed cameras. The body is also considering funding for a warming center and a school generator.

• Ordinance 2023-3 to install photo speed monitoring devices in school crossing zones with $100 civil penalties
• Proposed $35,000 in ARPA funding for the West Piedmont Better Housing Coalition to operate the MHC Warming Center
• Approval of additional ARPA funds for renovating Spruce St. Tennis Courts into combined Tennis and Pickleball Courts using a $25K PUP Grant
• Consideration of funds for the Martinsville Middle School Generator
• Resolution to appoint Directors of the Industrial Development Authority

CPMT

The Community Policy and Management Team is meeting to approve emergency and new service contracts and discuss the FY24 budget. The body will also vote on policy changes regarding residential reporting and QRTP requirements.

• Emergency contract approvals for Assuage Solutions, PHS Autism Center, and Virginia Institute for Autism
• New contract approvals for Anchor, Newport News Behavioral Health, First Home Care, and Three Rivers Treatment Center
• Review of FY24 Initial Pool and Base Pool allocations
• Proposed removal of residential reporting requirements to DBHDS and QRTP requirements
• Case reviews for expenditures exceeding $5,000.00 per month

City Council

City Council will discuss participating in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program and a proposed ordinance for camera speed monitoring in school zones. The body will also consider funding for mixed-use housing and a housing development consultant agreement.

• Proposed ordinance for camera speed monitoring and enforcement in school zones
• Industrial Revitalization Funds Resolution for One Ellsworth mixed-use housing and commercial spaces
• Possible public hearing for Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program
• Housing Development Consultant Agreement
• Resolution to appoint Directors of the Industrial Development Authority

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a closed session. The agenda lists the discussion, consideration, or interviews of prospective candidates for employment, assignment, or appointment.

• Interviews and consideration of prospective candidates for employment

City Council

The agenda consists of a single item for Council members to attend the homecoming game at Martinsville High School. No official city business or legislative actions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Attendance at Martinsville High School Homecoming Game at 351 Commonwealth Blvd

City Council

The Martinsville City Council and School Board are meeting for a joint session. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss shared goals.

• Discussion of shared goals

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a strategic planning work session with City Directors. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss personnel matters, including prospective candidates and employee performance.

• Strategic planning work session with Council Members and City Directors
• Closed session regarding personnel, appointments, and salaries

City Council

The City Council will discuss a funding request to cover a budget deficit for a winter warming center and hold a public hearing regarding the lease of the Armory Building. The body will also receive an update on the Uptown Survey and present several community proclamations.

• Funding request of $35,000 for the 2023-24 Warming Center at 603 Memorial Boulevard South
• Public hearing on the lease of the Armory Building at 315 West Commonwealth Boulevard to I Won’t Stop, LLC
• Update regarding the Uptown Survey
• Proclamation for Ms. Alberta Wilson's 101st birthday
• Awards for Martinsville Middle School students in the 'If I Were Mayor' contest

The council approved the lease of the Armory Building to I Won’t Stop, LLC with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. It also appointed Efigenia Mota and Alfonza Martin to the Northside Citizen Advisory Board, each approved 5‑0. Minutes from previous meetings were approved unanimously, and the request for funding the Warming Center was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved lease of Armory Building to I Won’t Stop, LLC (5‑0)
• Appointed Efigenia Mota to Northside Citizen Advisory Board (3‑year term) (5‑0)
• Appointed Alfonza Martin to Northside Citizen Advisory Board (2‑year term) (5‑0)
• Approved minutes from Aug 16 Joint Session, Aug 22 meeting, and Aug 25‑26 closed sessions (5‑0)
• Funding request for Warming Center tabled until next council meeting

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a strategic planning work session. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Strategic planning work session

The City Council conducted a work session to review the Strategic Plan and Action Work Plan. Members discussed major strategic goal areas with department heads. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session to discuss personnel matters. The agenda focuses on the consideration and interview of prospective candidates and the employment status of public officers or employees.

• Discussion of prospective candidates for employment, appointment, or promotion
• Review of salaries, disciplining, or resignation of specific public officers and employees

The City Council held closed meetings on August 25 and 26 to interview candidates for the City Manager position. Council members reviewed applicant ratings and were instructed to provide final decisions by Sunday.

• Interviewed candidates for City Manager position
• Reviewed ratings for each applicant

City Council

The City Council is meeting in closed session to discuss personnel matters. The agenda focuses on the employment, appointment, and salaries of public officers and employees.

• Discussion of prospective candidates for employment, appointment, and promotion
• Review of salaries, disciplining, or resignation of specific public officers and employees

The City Council held closed meetings on August 25 and 26 to interview candidates for the City Manager position. Council members reviewed applicant ratings and were instructed to provide final decisions by Sunday.

• Interviewed candidates for City Manager position
• Reviewed ratings for each applicant

CPMT

The Community Policy and Management Team is meeting to approve service contracts and review funding reports. The body will discuss youth connect surveys and hold closed sessions to review individual foster care, IEP, and residential placement cases.

• Emergency contract approval for Divinely Directed
• New contract approvals for Integrated Health and CPB Behavioral & Advocacy Services
• Review of cases with expenditures over $5,000.00 per month
• Proposed policy changes regarding residential reporting and QRTP requirements
• Removal of PCS FAPT representative Caitlin Stone

The Community Policy and Management Team approved contracts for Integrated Health and CPB Behavioral & Advocacy Services, as well as an emergency contract for Divinely Directed. The board also approved CSA funding requests and a required invitation list for FAPT.

• Approved contracts for Integrated Health and CPB Behavioral & Advocacy Services (Unanimous)
• Approved emergency contract for Divinely Directed (Unanimous)
• Approved CSA funding requests (Unanimous)
• Approved FAPT Invitation List requirement (Unanimous)
• Removed Caitlin Stone as the PCS FAPT representative (Unanimous)
• Approved July 27, 2023, meeting minutes and CSA Pool Reimbursement Report (Unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will discuss updating resolutions for the ANCHOR Commission and referring amended revenue sharing agreements with Henry County to the state for review. The body is also considering the creation of two Grade 20 positions: a City Clerk/Program Manager and a MINet Business Manager.

• Proposed Joint Resolution with Henry County regarding amended revenue sharing agreements for Patriot Centre and Commonwealth Crossing
• Proposed update to the ANCHOR/Virginia Juvenile Community Crime Control Act Combined resolution
• Proposed creation of a Grade 20 City Clerk/Program Manager position
• Proposed creation of a Grade 20 Business Manager position for the MINet Expansion Project
• Closed session regarding a prospective business or industry expansion

City Council approved the creation of two new positions: a combined Clerk of Council/program manager and a Business Manager for MiNET. Council also approved a joint resolution with Henry County regarding amended revenue sharing agreements and a resolution for the ANCHOR/Virginia Juvenile Community Crime Control Act.

• Approved ANCHOR/Virginia Juvenile Community Crime Control Act Combined resolution (5-0)
• Approved joint resolution with Henry County for amended revenue sharing agreements (5-0)
• Approved creation of combined Clerk of Council and program manager position (5-0)
• Approved creation of Business Manager for MiNET position (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 8, 9, and 14, 2023 meetings (5-0)

Architectural Review Board

The Architectural Review Board will elect its officers and review three requests for Certificates of Appropriateness. The board will also vote to approve the meeting minutes from July 20, 2023.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 51 East Church Street (Danville Housing Authority)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 32 Franklin Street (Renewal Partners, LLC)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for surface finishes at 512 East Church Street (Damon Hill)
• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission are meeting for a joint session. The body will discuss processes regarding Special Use Permits.

• Discussion of Special Use Permit processes

The Planning Commission denied a request for street abandonment to prevent the creation of a land-locked lot. City Council and the Planning Commission discussed a proposed tiny home development on Mineral Street, but no ordinance to allow tiny homes has been approved.

• Denied street abandonment request by Mr. Buck (unanimous)
• Approved August 16, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted Joe Martin to remain Planning Commission Chair
• Voted Austin Roberson to maintain Vice Chair position

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and City Council are meeting to elect officers and review specific land use requests. The body will also hold a joint discussion regarding development processes in the city.

• Site plan review for Tekela Redd on Mineral Street
• Street abandonment request from Joseph Buck, Jr. on Harvard Street
• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary

City Council

The City Council is holding a work session to review offsite priorities. This meeting includes discussions with Council Members and City Directors.

• Work session to review offsite priorities

Council held a work session to review the Strategic Plan and Action Work Plan. Discussions focused on blight removal, business expansion, and the use of GIS and SDL software for development. No formal votes were recorded during this session.

• Requested a September retreat to meet with School Board officials

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a workshop focused on time management strategies. No other legislative items or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Workshop on time management strategies

The City Council participated in a 'Time Management for Real People' training session led by Interim City Manager Glen Adams. No legislative decisions or policy votes were recorded.

City Council

City Council will discuss moving $500,000 from FY24 roof and basin repairs to a sludge collector installation project at the Water Plant. The body will also consider a request from I Won’t Stop Family, LLC to rent the National Guard Armory for youth basketball training.

• Reallocation of $500,000 in FY24 Capital Funds for Water Treatment Facility sludge collector installation
• Requested use of National Guard Armory by I Won’t Stop Family, LLC for basketball skills development
• Awareness discussion by Intercept Health regarding the foster care process

City Council approved a temporary agreement for I Won’t Stop Family, LLC to use the National Guard Armory for youth basketball skills development. The Council also approved the reallocation of FY24 Capital Funds for a sludge collector at the Water Treatment Facility.

• Approved minutes from July 25, 2023 Council Meeting and August 3, 2023 Closed Session (unanimous)
• Approved temporary use of National Guard Armory by I Won’t Stop Family, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved reallocation of FY24 Capital Funds for Water Treatment Facility sludge collector (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session. The discussion is limited to personnel matters, including prospective candidates for employment and the performance or salaries of specific public officers and employees.

• Discussion of prospective candidates for employment
• Review of appointments, promotions, and salaries of public officers or employees

The City Council met in a closed session to discuss personnel matters, specifically the acceptance of Interim City Manager Glen Adams. No formal actions were taken out of the closed session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (5-0)
• Certified that only exempt public business was discussed (5-0)

CPMT

The Community Policy and Management Team is meeting to approve funding reports and service contracts for Martinsville and Henry County. The body will discuss individual foster care, IEP, and residential placement cases, including those with monthly costs exceeding $5,000.

• Emergency contract approval for Divinely Directed
• New contract approvals for Integrated Health and CPB Behavioral & Advocacy Services
• Review of cases with expenditures over $5,000.00 per month
• Proposed policy changes regarding residential reporting and QRTP requirements
• Removal of PCS FAPT representative Caitlin Stone

The Community Policy and Management Team approved several new service contracts and CSA funding requests. The board also updated FAPT representation and reviewed FY23 expenditures.

• Approved June 29, 2023 meeting minutes and CSA Pool Reimbursement Report (Unanimous)
• Removed Hank Daniels as private provider FAPT representative (Unanimous)
• Removed Vanessa Alonso as DSS FAPT Representative (Unanimous)
• Approved contracts for Healing Strides, Dr. Angie Dahl PLLC, Cumberland Hospital, North Spring Behavioral Health, Rivermont School, Harbor Point, Youth Connect, and Embrace Therapeutic Foster Care (Unanimous)
• Approved amendments to the Grafton contract (Unanimous)
• Denied Intercept Health amendments (Unanimous)
• Approved CSA funding requests (Unanimous)

City Council

City Council will hold a public hearing on selling the former Martinsville Housing Office to Piedmont Community Services. The body will also consider dissolving the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority and transferring the Smith River Sports Complex to Henry County.

• Public hearing for the sale of 605 4th Street to Piedmont Community Services for a net price of $86,780.86
• Proposed resolution to dissolve the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority
• Discussion on the use of remaining American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funds
• Warming shelter location recommendations including The Salvation Army at 603 Memorial Boulevard South
• Recognition of retiring City Manager Leon Towarnicki

Council approved the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds for housing, branding, and planning. The body also approved a resolution to dissolve the Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority and transfer the Smith River Sports Complex to Henry County.

• Approved allocation of ARPA funds: $300,000 to MiNET, $150,000 to Comprehensive Plan, $70,000 to Branding Campaign, and $200,000 to Housing (5-0)
• Approved resolution to dissolve Southern Virginia Recreation Facilities Authority and transfer park management to Henry County (5-0)
• Approved minutes from July 11, 2023 Joint Meeting and Council Meeting (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Postponed public hearing for the sale of 605 4th Street to Piedmont Community Services

Architectural Review Board

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to consider certificates of appropriateness for two properties. The board will review requests for new signage and a rear porch addition.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 62 Fayette Street (JRS Realty Partners LLC)
• Tentative Certificate of Appropriateness for a rear porch/entrance at 8 Lester Street (Browns Inc.)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to elect its officers and approve previous meeting minutes. The body will also discuss a draft fee schedule for the Zoning Ordinance.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary
• Draft Fee Schedule for Zoning Ordinance

City Council

The Martinsville City Council, Henry County Board of Supervisors, and Henry County Industrial Development Authority are meeting to discuss splitting a 2007 revenue-sharing agreement into two separate contracts. This change is intended to facilitate grant funding and establish a sustainability plan for site marketing and development.

• Proposed split of revenue-sharing agreement into the Patriot Centre Expansion Agreement and the Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre (CCBC) Agreement
• Proposed first amendment to the CCBC Agreement to direct a portion of future tax revenue from Lot #2 to the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation
• Review of the Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre site in the Ridgeway Magisterial District
• Review of the Patriot Centre Expansion (Bryant Property) in the Collinsville Magisterial District

Martinsville City Council approved changes to the Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre (CCBC) Revenue Sharing Agreement. The agreement will be split into two separate agreements to facilitate grant funding and include a plan to direct a portion of future tax revenue from Lot #2 to the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation.

• Approved changes to the Commonwealth Crossing Business Centre (CCBC) Revenue Sharing Agreement (Unanimous)

City Council

City Council and the Land Bank Authority are considering a hotel development project on the western half of the Armory property. The council is also reviewing tax increases for cigarettes and transient lodging, as well as the sale of city property to Piedmont Community Services.

• Proposed hotel development by Kayak Hotels, LLC on 3.5 acres of the Armory property
• Proposed cigarette tax increase from $0.30 to $0.40 per pack
• Proposed transient lodging tax increase from 2% to 7%
• Proposed sale of 605 4th Street to Piedmont Community Services for $86,780.86
• Public hearing for the abandonment of a 30-foot wide street space at 1126 Rives Road

Council approved a resolution supporting a Holiday Inn Express hotel project and increased the cigarette and transient lodging taxes. The body also approved the abandonment of a street space at 1126 Rives Road and reappointed three members to various boards.

• Approved resolution supporting Holiday Inn Express hotel project (5-0)
• Approved increase in cigarette tax from $0.30 to $0.40 per pack (5-0)
• Approved increase in transient lodging tax from 2% to 7% (5-0)
• Approved abandonment of street space at 1126 Rives Road (5-0)
• Reappointed Rives Coleman to Blue Ridge Library Governing Board (5-0)
• Reappointed Jewell Drewery to Patrick & Henry Community College Board (5-0)
• Reappointed Brenda Ephriam to Piedmont Regional Community Services Board (5-0)
• Set public hearing for July 25, 2023, regarding sale of 605 4th Street to Piedmont Community Services (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a work session to discuss city operations and development projects. Topics include the resolution of vacant property complaints and the use of remaining ARPA funds. The body will also review development proposals for the Church Street lot.

• Vacant property inspections and complaint resolution process
• Uptown parking time limits and enforcement
• Allocation of remaining ARPA funds for marketing and other projects
• Church Street lot development proposals
• Funding for the City’s Industrial Development Authority

City Council appointed three individuals to the School Board and authorized an agreement for an Interim City Manager. The Council also earmarked $175,000 in ARPA funds for asbestos removal at One Ellsworth, contingent on matching contributions.

• Appointed Cody Williams to the School Board for a term ending June 30, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Heather Blankenbaker to the School Board for a term ending June 30, 2026 (Unanimous)
• Appointed Nekia Blackwell to the School Board for a term ending June 30, 2026 (Unanimous)
• Authorized execution of Interim City Manager Work Order Agreement with The Berkley Group (Unanimous)
• Approved earmarking $175,000 of ARPA money for asbestos removal at One Ellsworth/BB&T building, conditioned on matching $175,000 contributions from the developer and Harvest Foundation (Unanimous)

City Council

City Council is considering first readings of two ordinances to increase local taxes effective September 1, 2023. The body will also receive updates on American Rescue Plan Act funding and a YMCA facility project.

• Ordinance 2023-1: Increase cigarette tax from $0.30 to $0.40 per pack
• Ordinance 2023-2: Increase transient lodging tax from 2% to 7%
• Expenditure update on $15,463,451 in American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funds
• Update on Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA Facility Strategy & Design project
• Update on Virginia Career Works operations and services

City Council approved the first reading of ordinances to increase the cigarette tax and transient lodging tax. The council also appointed a new member to the Arts and Cultural Committee and approved several sets of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance 2023-1 to increase cigarette tax from $0.30 to $0.40 per pack (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 2023-2 to increase transient lodging tax from 2% to 7% (5-0)
• Appointed Lucy Treado to the Arts and Cultural Committee (VMNH) for a 3-year term ending March 31, 2026
• Approved minutes from May 10, May 16, May 17, May 22, May 23, June 12, and June 13 meetings

City Council

The City Council will meet in a closed session to consider appointments to boards and commissions. This meeting is conducted in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act.

• Appointment to Boards and Commissions

The City Council met in a closed session to discuss appointments to boards and commissions. No substantive actions or decisions were taken following the session.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a request for street abandonment and draft language regarding rooftop signs. The body will also review minutes from the March 15, 2023 meeting.

• Street abandonment request for 1126 Rives Road
• Drafting language for rooftop signs

City Council

The Council will consider the second reading of the FY24 Budget Ordinance, which includes tax rate changes and utility fee increases. The body will also hold a public hearing for School Board appointments and discuss a parks improvement plan.

• Amended Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1: reduces real estate tax to $0.99/$100, increases cigarette tax to $0.40/pack and lodging tax to 7%
• Proposed utility increases: average 8% electric rate increase and $3 monthly increase for water and sewer
• Resolution to apply for up to $5,000,000 from the Industrial Revitalization Fund for the One Ellsworth project
• Public hearing for appointments to the Martinsville City School Board
• Presentation by Site Collaborative on the Public Parks Improvements Plan

City Council adopted amended Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1 on second reading. The council also approved a resolution to apply for Industrial Revitalization funds for the One Ellsworth project.

• Adopted amended Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1 (5-0)
• Approved resolution for Industrial Revitalization Fund application for One Ellsworth (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 11, April 24, April 25, May 6, and May 9 meetings (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is conducting a neighborhood community meeting and tour in the Druid Hills / Uptown area. The session includes a review of inspection concerns and a crime statistics update from the Police Department.

• Review of 112 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since April
• Report of 231 total inspections, including 16 in the Druid Hills area
• Report of 45 property maintenance/special consultation inspections
• Confirmation of 1 completed demolition

City Council and staff conducted a tour of the Druid Hills and Uptown areas followed by a community meeting. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken; the session focused on resident concerns regarding property maintenance, speeding, and city services.

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing and consider the first reading of Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1 for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The proposed budget includes an 8% electric rate increase and a $3 monthly increase for both water and sewer rates.

• Public hearing and first reading of Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1
• Proposed 8% increase in electric rates
• Proposed $3 monthly increase in water and sewer rates
• Proposed setting a June 13 public hearing for Martinsville City School Board appointments
• Closed session to discuss public contract awards and employment candidates

Council approved the FY23-24 Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1 on first reading with modifications to fund two police officers and two teachers. The budget adjustments include potential cigarette tax increases and the combining of the Public Works Director and City Engineer positions. Council also approved two board appointments and scheduled a public hearing for school board appointments.

• Approved amended FY23-24 Budget Ordinance 2023-U-1 on first reading (5-0)
• Approved reappointment of Jean Odachowski to Henry County-Martinsville Joint Social Services Board (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Brittiany Freeland to West Piedmont Planning District Technical Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved motion to hold public hearing for school board appointments on June 13, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved motion to change policy on meal tax (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the upcoming FY24 budget. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Budget work session for FY24

The City Council held a budget work session to review proposed changes and staff recommendations. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on discussions regarding employee pay raises, staffing levels for police and schools, and potential tax adjustments.

City Council

The City Council is conducting a budget work session regarding the upcoming FY24 budget. This meeting serves as a follow-up to sessions held on May 10 and May 16 to reach conclusions or determine if further work sessions are required.

• FY24 budget follow-up from May 10 and May 16 sessions

Council members discussed proposed budget changes, including the elimination of ARPA funds to balance the general fund and a reduction of the real estate tax rate to $0.99. The City Manager and Finance Director will review these suggestions to update the proposed budget. A public hearing is scheduled for May 23, 2023.

• Approved remote participation for Council Member Pearson
• Agreed to eliminate use of ARPA money to balance the general fund
• Agreed to reduce real estate tax rate to $0.99
• Agreed on the lodging tax
• Scheduled additional budget work session for Monday at 6:00pm
• Postponed Monday's neighborhood meeting

City Council

The City Council is conducting a work session to review the upcoming FY24 budget. This session focuses on city departments, constitutional offices, and capital expenditures.

• FY24 budget review for City Departments
• FY24 budget review for City Constitutional Offices
• FY24 budget review for Capital expenditures

The City Council conducted a budget work session to discuss department funding and requests. No formal votes or final budget decisions were recorded during this session.

City Council

The City Council is conducting a work session to discuss the upcoming FY24 budget. This specific session focuses on City Schools and Outside Agencies, with potential discussion on Capital items.

• FY24 budget discussion: City Schools
• FY24 budget discussion: Outside Agencies
• FY24 budget discussion: Capital

The Council conducted a budget work session featuring presentations from city schools, the Department of Social Services, the 911 Center, and the Blue Ridge Regional Library. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on reviewing budget requests and capital expenditures.

• No substantive decisions were made; meeting was a work session

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing on a proposal to keep the real estate tax rate at $1.04/$100 of assessed value. The body will also consider a grant application for a downtown renovation project and set a hearing date for the FY2024 budget.

• Public hearing on retaining real estate tax rate at $1.04/$100 of assessed value
• Proposed $500,000 MUMS grant application for renovation of 16-18 East Church Street
• Proposed FY2024 City budget public hearing for May 23, 2023
• Consent agenda budget amendments: $3,775 (General Fund), $75,100 (Refuse), and $144,739 (Capital Fund)
• Proclamation recognizing May 2023 as Building Safety Month

Council authorized a work order with The Berkley Group to recruit a new City Manager following Leon Towarnicki's planned retirement. A resolution was approved supporting a grant application for the renovation of 16-18 East Church Street. A public hearing was held regarding the real estate tax rate, but no change was decided.

• Approved work order for The Berkley Group to conduct City Manager executive search (5-0)
• Appointed Karen Despot to the Blue Ridge Regional Library Governing Board (5-0)
• Approved resolution supporting 'mixed-Use on Main Street' grant for 16-18 East Church Street (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for proposed FY2024 City budget for May 23 meeting (5-0)
• Held public hearing on proposal to retain real estate tax rate at $1.04/$100; no action taken

City Council

City Council is meeting for a facilitated strategic planning retreat led by The Berkley Group. The session covers various topics related to the functions of city government.

• Strategic planning retreat facilitated by The Berkley Group

The Martinsville City Council held a retreat on May 6, 2023, discussing a wide range of topics including revising the city's mission and vision statements, concerns about the City Manager's performance and span of control, customer service issues with MiNET, and the need for better communication with boards and commissions. No formal votes or binding decisions were taken; the retreat was a discussion and planning session only.

• No formal votes or binding decisions were taken at the retreat
• Discussed revising city mission and vision statements, with no final version adopted
• Discussed City Manager performance and need for an Assistant City Manager, no action taken
• Discussed MiNET customer service issues and developing a plan, no action taken
• Discussed possible termination of the Tree Board, no action taken
• Discussed meeting with School Board by August 1, Mayor Jones to initiate
• Discussed housing evaluation project, Vice Mayor Rawls to take lead
• Discussed Uptown parking concerns, signage to be installed within 30 days per Rawls

City Council

City Council will review a proposed FY24 budget and a grant application for the McCollum-Ferrell Building. The body will also hear reports on affordable financing options and a neighborhood tour. A closed session will address board appointments and public fund investments.

• Resolution for $500,000 Mixed-Use on Main Street grant for 16-18 East Church Street
• Presentation of the proposed FY24 City budget
• Report from UVA Darden School of Business on affordable financing options
• Proclamation for National Correctional Officers and Employees Week (May 7-13)
• Proclamation for National Arbor Day (April 28)

Council appointed three individuals to city commissions and boards. The council also approved a work order for a retreat with The Berkley Group and tabled a resolution regarding a grant for a renovation project on East Church Street.

• Appointed Barbara Shively to the Transportation Safety Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Greene to the Architectural Review Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Khalil Baker to the Citizen Advisory Board (West End) (unanimous)
• Approved work order for Council Retreat with The Berkley Group (unanimous)
• Tabled resolution for 'Mixed-Use on Main Street' grant for 16-18 East Church Street

City Council

City Council is conducting a neighborhood tour and a community meeting at Chatham Heights Baptist Church. The session focuses on Northside area crime statistics, property maintenance, and citizen questions.

• Police Department update on neighborhood crime statistics
• Report of 22 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since March
• Report of 44 total inspections, 14 of which were in the Northside area
• Issuance of 1 demolition permit
• Review of 32 property maintenance and special consultation inspections

City Council conducted a neighborhood tour to inspect property conditions and held a public meeting to discuss crime and maintenance. No formal votes or legislative decisions were recorded; the session focused on resident concerns and staff reports.

• Reported tall grass on Banner Street to Public Works
• Police Department committed to addressing wrong-side parking and sidewalk usage

City Council

City Council will discuss nominations for the 2023 Virginia Municipal League Policy Committees and recognize Fair Housing Month and National Library Week. The body is also considering budget amendments to incorporate federal and state grant funds.

• Sewer Fund appropriation of $5,203,181 in federal grant funds for the Jones Creek Interceptor Project
• General Fund appropriation of $181,094 in federal grant funds for the Police Department
• Capital Fund appropriation of $217,110 from the School Construction Grant Program
• Resolution recognizing April as Fair Housing Month
• Proclamation recognizing April 23–29, 2023, as National Library Week

Council appointed three members to the Citizen Advisory Board and one member to the West Piedmont Planning District Board of Commissioners. The city also announced a new agreement with Sands Anderson Law Firm to serve as City Attorney.

• Appointed Susan Tyler to Citizen Advisory Board (Druid Hills) (5-0)
• Appointed Robert Price to Citizen Advisory Board (City Business Owner/Operator) (5-0)
• Appointed Charlie Holland to Citizen Advisory Board (West End) (5-0)
• Appointed Joe Martin to West Piedmont Planning District Board of Commissioners (4-1)
• Approved resolution recognizing April as Fair Housing Month (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved March 28 and April 4 minutes (5-0)
• Tabled VML 2023 Policy Committee nominations

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session to discuss confidential matters. The agenda focuses on board appointments, real estate transactions, and prospective business investments.

• Appointments to boards and commissions
• Acquisition or disposition of real property
• Prospective business or industry expansion
• Investment of public funds

The City Council met in a closed session to discuss board appointments, real property, prospective businesses, and public fund investments. Mayor Jones reported that no action was taken on any of these matters.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (5-0)

City Council

City Council will receive a presentation on the Police Department's 2022 Annual Report and recognize the department for its reaccreditation. The meeting also includes the swearing-in of a newly appointed Council Member and a proclamation for Bee City Month.

• Police Department 2022 Annual Report presentation
• Recognition of Martinsville City Police Department for Reaccreditation
• Proclamation recognizing April 2023 as Bee City Month
• Oath of Office for a newly appointed Council Member

The Council administered the Oath of Office to new member Lawrence Mitchell. The body also approved previous meeting minutes and expanded the Citizens Advisory Committee to include any city business owner or operator.

• Sworn in Lawrence Mitchell as Council Member
• Approved minutes from March 13 Neighborhood Meeting, March 14 Council Meeting, and March 15 Closed Session
• Approved adding any City business owner or operator to the Citizens Advisory Committee

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session. The body will consider appointments to boards and commissions.

• Appointments to boards and commissions

City Council appointed Lawrence Mitchell to fill the seat vacated by Chad Martin. The appointment is for an unexpired term ending December 31, 2024.

• Appointed Lawrence Mitchell to City Council seat (3-0, 1 abstention)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss potential changes to the Historic Preservation Overlay (HP-O) District and the Historic District Guidelines.

• Possible Amendments to Historic Preservation Overlay (HP-O) District
• Possible Amendments to Historic District Guidelines

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session. The body will consider appointments to boards and commissions.

• Appointments to boards and commissions

The City Council convened in a closed session to discuss appointments to boards and commissions. No action was taken following the session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (4-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (4-0)

City Council

City Council is conducting a public hearing to receive names of citizens interested in a partial term ending December 31, 2024. The body is also considering the formal establishment of a new Citizen Advisory Board.

• Public hearing for appointment to a partial City Council term ending December 31, 2024
• Proposed establishment of a Citizen Advisory Board consisting of eight adult residents
• Overview of the March 13, 2023 West End neighborhood tour and meeting
• Update from Joanie Petty, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Blue Ridge
• Recognition of 13 city employees for service awards

City Council approved a resolution to create a Citizen Advisory Board and filled three board and commission appointments. The council also held a public hearing to receive names of citizens interested in filling a vacant City Council seat.

• Approved resolution to establish a Citizen Advisory Board (4-0)
• Appointed Vice Mayor Rawls to the West Piedmont Planning District Board of Commissioners (4-0)
• Appointed Mayor Jones to Virginia First Cities (4-0)
• Reappointed Mandy Gordon to the Arts & Cultural Committee for a 3-year term (4-0)
• Approved minutes from February 27 and February 28, 2023 meetings (4-0)

City Council

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

• Review of 14 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since February
• Report of 27 property maintenance/special consultation inspections
• Issuance of 1 demolition permit
• Police Department update on neighborhood crime statistics

City Council members and staff toured the West End area to observe property conditions and discussed neighborhood concerns with residents. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken during the meeting.

Arts & Cultural Committee

The Arts & Cultural Committee is meeting to elect a Chair and Vice-Chair. The body will discuss the vision, mission statement, and building blocks for the Master Plan. Members will also review the community survey and public input meeting.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice-Chair
• Vision/Mission Statement for the Master Plan
• Building Blocks of the Master Plan
• Review of Community Survey and Public Input Meeting

City Council

The City Council will discuss options for filling a vacant seat created by Council Member Chad Martin's resignation. The body will also consider establishing a new Community Advisory Board and review budget amendments for grant funds.

• Proposed public hearing on March 14, 2023, to accept applications for the vacant Council seat
• Discussion on establishing a new Community Advisory Board
• Budget amendment for $217,110 School Construction Grant
• Budget amendment for $126,789 in Opioid Settlement Funds
• Budget amendment for $224,000 in State Grant Funds for the School Operating Fund

Council scheduled a public hearing for March 14 to solicit candidates for a vacant seat. The body also appointed several citizens to the Arts and Cultural Committee and the Transportation Safety Commission.

• Scheduled public hearing for March 14 to fill vacant Council seat (Unanimous)
• Appointed Jennifer Nease to Arts and Cultural Committee (Unanimous)
• Appointed Edward Mitchell to Arts and Cultural Committee (Unanimous)
• Appointed Doug Sharpe, Melissa Taylor, and Michael Law to Transportation Safety Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved February 14, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (Unanimous)

City Council

City Council is conducting a neighborhood tour and community meeting for the Southside area. The session includes a police department update on crime statistics and a review of property maintenance and inspection concerns.

• Police Department update on neighborhood crime statistics
• Report of 40 Nuisance Ordinance notices of violation issued since November
• Report of 62 property maintenance inspections
• Issuance of 9 demolition permits

City Council conducted a neighborhood tour and public meeting to review property maintenance and public safety. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken; officials provided updates on crime rates and property code enforcement.

Architectural Review Board

The Architectural Review Board is meeting to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a project at 30 Cleveland Avenue. The board will also review meeting minutes from January 19, 2023.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for partial roof replacement at 30 Cleveland Avenue (Martinsville School Board)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially approve amendments to the city's Zoning Ordinance. The focus of the session is on Sections 9 through 21 of the ordinance.

• Approval of Zoning Ordinance Amendments: Sections 9 - 21

City Council

City Council will discuss a development project by Renewal Partners, LLC and a proposed settlement for opioid-related claims. The body will also review the second quarter FY23 finance report and a membership policy change for the Arts & Cultural Committee.

• Incentive package for Uptown project at 32 Franklin Street by Renewal Partners, LLC
• Proposed settlement of opioid-related claims against Teva, Allergan, Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS
• Quarterly finance report showing total actual revenues of $37,343,323 through December 31
• Resolution to re-designate two Arts & Cultural Committee positions as Citizen Representative appointments
• Proposed 2023 neighborhood meeting dates: March 27, April 24, September 25, and October 23

City Council approved an incentive package for Renewal Partners, LLC to open a brewery at 32 Franklin Street. The council also adopted resolutions regarding the Arts & Cultural Committee membership and a statewide opioid settlement.

• Approved incentive package for Renewal Partners, LLC at 32 Franklin Street (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Jan 9, Jan 10, and Jan 24 meetings (5-0)
• Adopted resolution changing Arts & Cultural Committee membership to citizen positions (5-0)
• Adopted resolution to participate in opioid-related claims settlement (5-0)
• Approved quarterly finance report (5-0)
• Scheduled 2023 neighborhood meetings for Southside, West End, Northside, and Druid Hills

Arts & Cultural Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the Arts & Cultural Master Plan and identify potential community partners. The body will also address scheduling a public meeting and exploring grant opportunities.

• Arts & Cultural Master Plan
• Identification of community partners
• Scheduling of a public meeting
• Review of grant opportunities
• Committee vacancies and community survey

City Council

Martinsville City Council will discuss an immediate electric rate increase and the creation of a new housing commission. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a demolition appeal for a property in the Historic District.

• Proposed 8% electric rate increase effective February 1, 2023, with an additional estimated 6% increase considered for July 1, 2023
• Public hearing on a demolition request appeal for a residential structure at 632 Fayette Street
• Proposed establishment of the Emergency Housing & Community Support Commission
• Approval of the 2023 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list
• Proclamation recognizing February 2023 as Black History Month

City Council approved a change in the PCA equivalent to a 7% electric rate increase effective February 1, 2023. The council also established the Emergency Housing and Community Support Commission and approved the 2023 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy list.

• Approved 7% electric rate increase via PCA adjustment effective Feb 1 (5-0)
• Approved resolution to establish Emergency Housing and Community Support Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Kerri Bradley to Architectural Review Board for 3-year term (5-0)
• Recommended Michael Greene to Board of Zoning Appeals for 5-year term (5-0)
• Appointed Tom Conroy to Transportation Safety Committee for 4-year term (5-0)
• Appointed William Galyean to Transportation Safety Committee for 4-year term (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)

City Council

City Council will vote on a resolution to stop proceedings to change Martinsville's status from a city to a town. The body will also discuss a proposed electric rate increase and the creation of a new housing commission.

• Resolution to terminate proceedings for reversion from city to town status
• Proposed electric rate increase: 8% effective 2/1/2023 and approximately 6% effective 7/1/2023
• Proposed establishment of the Emergency Housing & Community Support Commission
• Approval of the City's proposed 2023 Legislative Agenda
• Public comments from Uptown residents and businesses regarding the state of Uptown

City Council voted to end the reversion process and approved the 2023 Legislative Agenda. The Council also established the Emergency Housing and Community Support Commission to address homelessness, though member appointments were deferred for public input.

• Terminated reversion process (3-2)
• Approved 2023 Legislative Agenda (5-0)
• Established Emergency Housing and Community Support Commission (5-0)
• Approved minutes from December 13, 2022 and January 3, 2023 meetings (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a work session to review the proposed 2023 Legislative Agenda. The body will also discuss the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) List.

• Proposed 2023 Legislative Agenda
• Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) List

Council members reviewed and proposed revisions to the 2023 Legislative Agenda and the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) list. No formal votes were taken; the CEDS list was scheduled for approval at the January 24 meeting.

• Tabled approval of CEDS list until January 24 meeting

Electoral Board

This meeting has no agenda available; it appears to be procedural only. The agenda text states there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

The Electoral Board approved the minutes from November 28, 2022, and reorganized its membership. William Agee, John Christian, and Dwayne Waller were designated as Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary, respectively.

• Approved November 28, 2022 minutes
• Appointed William Agee as Chairman
• Appointed John Christian as Vice-Chairman
• Appointed Dwayne Waller as Secretary

City Council

The City Council is meeting to swear in newly-elected members and select a Mayor and Vice Mayor. The body will also consider establishing a regular meeting schedule.

• Oath of office for Council Member L.C. Jones
• Oath of office for Council Member Aaron Rawls
• Nominations and oath of office for Mayor
• Nominations and oath of office for Vice Mayor
• Establishment of regular meeting schedule

During an organizational meeting, City Council elected its leadership for the term. The council also agreed to maintain its existing meeting schedule.

• Elected LC Jones as Mayor (4-0)
• Elected Aaron Rawls as Vice Mayor (4-0)
• Agreed to continue meeting twice a month on the second and fourth Tuesday at 7:00pm