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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-04-25 Town Council PacketAgenda Town Council Meeting Tuesday, February 4, 2025 6:00 p.m. Closed Session Council Chambers 1. Meeting Called to Order (Mayor Collins) 2. Roll Call (Clerk of Council) 3. Modification to Closed Session a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (1 item)- Personnel Matters i. Appointments to Boards ii. Town Manager b. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 8 (1 item)- Consultation with Legal Counsel i. Vegg Inc. 7:00 p.m. Public Session Council Chambers 1. Certification of Closed Session (Mayor Collins) 2. Pledge of Allegiance (Councilman Erickson) 3. Invocation (Councilman Clark) 4. Guests and Visitors (Mayor Collins) 5. Modification to Public Session (Mayor Collins) 6. Public Hearing a. Vegg Inc. Grant Funding (Fred Jeter & Cody Journell) (Presentation from Mr. Jeter & Mr. Journell, Mayor Collins reads ad that was published in The Patriot on 01/24 and 01/31 then opens/closes Public Hearing) 7. Presentations a. Fire Department Update (Chief J. Conner) 8. Resolution 2025-02 Affirming Commitment to Fund the Locality Share of Projects Under Agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation and Provide Signature Authority (voting) 9. Resolution 2025-03 Appropriating and Carry Forward Funds to Multiple Accounts (voting) 10. Resolution 2025-04 Appointing Joseph Goodman to the Calfee Community and Cultural Center Board of Directors (voting) 11. Resolution 2025-05 Reappointing Todd Day to the New River Valley Passenger Rail Authority (voting) Reasonable accommodation will be provided for persons with disabilities, if requested. 12. Resolution 2025-06 Reappointing Members to the New River Valley Agency on Aging Board of Directors (voting) 13. Discussion(s) 14. Public Comment Period (The Town Council welcomes your input. You may address the Council by completing a speaker’s slip available at the door and giving it to the Clerk of Council prior to the meeting. At this time, you may address Council on items that are not on the agenda. The limit is three (3) minutes for each speaker.) 15. Consent Agenda (Voting) a. Consideration of December 17, 2024 Town Council Minutes b. Consideration of January 7, 2025 Town Council Meeting Minutes 16. Council Comments & Board Updates 17. Manager’s Report (Manager Day) 18. Reminder of Future Council Meeting (Mayor Collins) a. February 18, 2025 Closed Session 6:00 p.m., Open Session 7:00 pm Public Hearing(s) Info Notice of Public Hearing - Published in the Patriot on January 24th & January 31st The Town of Pulaski Town Council will hold a public hearing on February 4th at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers located at 42 First Street NW to discuss the following: Planning Grant for Jefferson School from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Programs. The Planning Grant is for the amount of $60,000-$100,000. The grant requires no local match from the Town of Pulaski. All persons desiring to speak should appear at the stated time and place or submit comments in writing to the Clerk of Council by January 31, 2025 For disabled individuals who may require special auxiliary aids or services, the Town will make reasonable accommodations upon request. Please contact the Clerk of Council (540) 994-8602 before the above meeting date to arrange these accommodations. For individuals with visual or hearing impairment, contact Virginia Relay at 711 for assistance in reaching the town. Voting Items Resolution 2025-02 Affirming Commitment to Fund the Locality Share of Projects Under Agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation and Provide Signature Authority WHEREAS, the Town of Pulaski, Virginia is a recipient of Virginia Department of Transportation funds under various grant programs for transportation-related projects; and WHEREAS, the Virginia Department of Transportation requires each locality, by resolution, to provide assurance of its commitment to funding its local share; and NOW, THEREFORE be it RESOLVED, by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia hereby commits to fund its local share of preliminary engineering, right-of-way, and construction (as applicable) of the project(s) under agreement with the Virginia Department of Transportation in accordance with the project financial document(s); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Manager and/or his designees is authorized to execute all agreements and/or addendums for any approved projects with the Virginia Department of Transportation. This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted on this 4th day of February 2025 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of Pulaski, Virginia as follows: Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- Mayor Collins- TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA ______________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor ATTEST ______________________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council Resolution 2025-03 Appropriating and Carry Forward Funds to Multiple Accounts WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia has deemed it necessary to appropriate and carry forward funds; and NOW, THEREFORE it be RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia, sitting in regular session on this 4th day of February 2025 that the following appropriation is approved: From To Senior Center Donation $600.00 Senior Center Donation Expenditures $600.00 Fire Volunteer Recruitment & Retention $7,812.00 Volunteer Fire Service Expenditures $7,812.00 Fire Insurance Program $5,048.00 Fire Insurance Program Expenditures $5,048.00 DHCD IRF Grant- Brewery $200,000 IRF Grant Brewery $200,000 Carry Forward Amount Knox Box Expense $659.75 This Resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted this 4th day of February 2025 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski as follows: Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- Mayor Collins- TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA _____________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor ATTEST _______________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council RESOLUTION 2025-04 Resolution Appointing Joseph Goodman to the Calfee Community and Cultural Center Board of Directors WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that it is in the general interest of the residents to the Town of Pulaski to maintain full representation on the various agencies, authorities, and boards of which the town is a member; and, WHEREAS, the Calfee Community and Cultural Center Board of Directors has a vacancy and a resident desiring to serve; and, NOW, THEREFORE be it RESOLVED, by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia sitting in regular session this 4th day of February 2025 that the following person is appointed to the Calfee Community and Cultural Center Board of Directors, This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted on this 4th day of February 2025 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of Pulaski, Virginia as follows: Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA ______________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor ATTEST ______________________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council Appointee Entity Start Term Expiration Date of Term Joseph Goodman Calfee Community and Cultural Center Board of Directors 02/04/2025 02/05/2028 Resolution 2025-05 Resolution Reappointing Todd Day to the New River Valley Passenger Rail Authority WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that it is in the general interest of the residents to the Town of Pulaski to maintain full representation on the various agencies, authorities, and boards of which the town is a member; and, WHEREAS, the New River Valley Passenger Rail Authority needs a representative from the town, NOW, THEREFORE be it RESOLVED, by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia sitting in regular session this 7th day of February 2025 that the following person is appointed to the NRV Passenger Rail Authority for the term indicated below. This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted on this 4th day of February 2025 by the recorded vote of the Town Council of Pulaski, Virginia as follows: Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- THE TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA ________________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor Attest _______________________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council Appointee Entity Start Term Expiration Date of Term Todd Day New River Valley Passenger Rail Authority 02/01/2025 02/01/2028 Resolution 2025-06 Resolution Reappointing Members to the New River Valley Agency on Aging Board of Directors WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that it is in the general interest of the residents to the Town of Pulaski to maintain full representation on the various agencies, authorities, and boards of which the town is a member; and, WHEREAS, the New River Valley Agency on Aging has vacancies and residents desiring to reappoint and serve, NOW, THEREFORE be it RESOLVED, by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia sitting in regular session this 4th day of February 2025 that the following persons are appointed to the New River Valley Agency on Aging for the terms indicated below. This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted on this 4th day of February 2025 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of Pulaski, Virginia as follows: Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA ______________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor ATTEST ______________________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council Appointee Entity Start Term Expiration Date of Term Peggy Weston New River Valley Agency on Aging 10/01/2024 09/30/2025 Jenny Shepherd New River Valley Agency on Aging 10/01/2024 09/30/2025 Consent Agenda Town Council Meeting Minutes December 17, 2024 1. The Mayor called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. and asked for a roll call. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Absent 2. Modification to Closed Session- No modifications were made. 3. Mayor Collins asked for a motion to enter into Closed Session to discuss the following items: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 29 (1 item)- Award of a Public Contract Involving the Expenditure of Public Funds i. SHAH Development The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Vice-Mayor Dawson. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Absent The following councilmembers, staff, and guests entered into Closed Session: Councilman East, Councilman Clark, Vice-Mayor Dawson, Councilman Radcliffe, Sunshine Cope, Steven Erickson, Joel Burchett Sr, three members from SHAH Development, Town Manager, Todd Day, Town Attorney, Scot Farthing, and Clerk of Council, Ms. Hale. Councilman Reis joined Closed Session at 5:03 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Open Session 4. Oaths of Office for New Councilmembers Pulaski County Circuit Clerk Court, Spencer Rygas sworn in re-elected Mayor, Shannon Collins, and newly elected members of Town Council, beginning on January 1, 2025, Joel Burchett Sr., Sunshine Cope, and Steven Erickson. Town Manager, Todd Day, stated he was looking forward to what the future will bring and thanked Councilman East, Councilman Radcliffe, and Councilman Reis for working together in the past year. Manager Day recessed the meeting until 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 5. Certification of Closed Session- Mayor Collins asked for a motion that only the following items were discussed in Closed Session: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 29 (1 item)- Award of a Public Contract Involving the Expenditure of Public Funds i. SHAH Development The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Vice-Mayor Dawson. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Abstained Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 6. Councilman Clark lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. 7. Councilman East gave the invocation. 8. Mayor Collins welcomed all in attendance and viewing online. 9. Modification to Public Session Ms. Hale asked to remove the Filter Plant Update from the presentations, add Item B, VDH Drinking Water Fund under Discussion and also add Item C, Holiday Memo under Discussion. The motion was made by Councilman Reis and seconded by Vice-Mayor Dawson to approve the modifications. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 10. Board Updates- No updates were given. 11. Public Hearing a. Loitering & Camping Ordinances Manager Day reported that he’s had amazing conversations within the last year with people that are in key positions that want to try to help the community and within the Town, there is a situation where we need to reach out some way, at the local level, to assist with the less fortunate. Manager Day referenced when he received a speeding ticket, when he was younger, the Judge offered him to take a Driver Improvement Class rather than fining or penalizing him. He stated he looked at the situation that the court system had a law on the books, but it didn’t mean they had to use the law. He reported he has worked with Chief Shumate, the officers at the Police Department, and state governmental agencies, and the Town does not have anything in place to offer assistance when a resident calls that their home has been broken into or that there are people illegally on properties, etc. Manager Day reported there was no recourse that Chief Shumate or his officers have and the code book does not acknowledge any type of way to help, and the last thing the Police Department is looking to do is criminally charge people for camping. He stated he has invited multiple agencies to come together to find a way to help the locality address the situation and not have to use the tactics that will only be reversed. He stated the Police Department is building relationships with the entities and the Town has an oath to uphold the Constitution and these ordinances give the Chief and his officers options when there are no other options to uphold and allow officers communication with entities that can offer assistance to individuals. Manager Day also touched on the loitering ordinance and breaking and entering, stating him and the Chief get calls weekly and that Pulaski, as a Town, is stepping up and trying to create a program where we can offer assistance and have a recourse if individuals do not follow through with the programs offered. The Mayor read the Public Hearing ad that was advertised in The Patriot on December 6th and December 13th. The Mayor opened the Public Hearing for Ordinance 2024-12. Jeff Worrell thanked Manager Day for his comments on the ordinances, and that he felt better having heard those remarks, but it does sadden him to see this Council consider ordinances that target the homeless. He stated he wasn’t sure how big of a problem it is but he hopes it’s not a solution in search of a problem, and if Council wants to pass an ordinance to drive out the homeless from the community, they have a right to do that and other communities have done it, but it doesn’t accomplish anything. He stated the problem hasn’t been addressed, it’s only treated the center and you’ve made your problem someone else’s problem and you will add additional burden to already broken lives. The Mayor closed the Public Hearing as there were no other speakers. i. Ordinance 2024-12 Amending Chapter 70 of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia Town Code to include Article VI, Loitering. The motion was made by Councilman East and seconded by Councilman Clark to adopt Ordinance 2024-12. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Nay ii. Ordinance 2024-13 Amending Chapter 70 of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia Town Code to include Article VII, Camping on Public Sidewalks and Right of Ways The Mayor opened and closed the Public Hearing for Ordinance 2024-13 as there were no speakers. The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilman Radcliffe to adopt Ordinance 2024-13. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Nay 12. Honoring Gregory C. East for his Service as a Member of Town Council Vice- Mayor Dawson read the plaque recognizing Councilman East for his thirteen years of service as an elected official for the Town of Pulaski. Mayor Collins presented the plaque to Councilman East. 13. Honoring James A. Radcliffe for his Service as a Member of Town Council Vice-Mayor Dawson read the plaque recognizing Councilman Radcliffe for his twelve years of service as an elected official for the Town of Pulaski. Mayor Collins presented the plaque to Councilman Radcliffe. 14. Honoring Michael P. Reis for his Service as a Member of Town Council Vice-Mayor Dawson read the plaque recognizing Councilman Reis for his four years of service as an elected official for the Town of Pulaski. Mayor Collins presented the plaque to Councilman Reis. Mayor Collins thanked each member of Council and stated he believes the Town has moved forward in the past few years and he hopes to see it continue on. 15. Presentations a. Audit Update- Emily Viers with Robinson, Farmer, & Cox Associates Ms. Viers reported three types of auditors reports and the results of those reports. She first reported on the Independent Auditor’s Report, where they state or refine rather the Town’s financial statements are materially correct in accordance with generally accepted accounting principals and she reported the Town has a clean, unmodified opinion, which is what we want, which means they think that the numbers as presented are materially correct. The second report is what Ms. Viers referred to as the ‘yellow book report’, which looks at internal controls as well as some compliance-related items that are required to test in accordance with the Auditor of Public Accounts. She reported one item related to internal controls and one material proposed audit adjustment, this does not have to do with day-to-day operations of the Town, as the Town operates on a cash basis. This is mostly getting financial statements to modify in full-of-role accounting and for this year, the material entries related to proposing some accounts receivable that needed to be posted to offset the related expense, that was coming from grant funding or other sources that had not been included. The second item that was noted related to compliance matter, last year there was a management comment that related to chemicals for the water, the chemicals were not procured. Quotes were obtained last year but a formal process was not followed, wherein either sealed bins or RFPs were not requested and didn’t go back out to bid again in 2024 so that was moved from a management comment to a finding in the report and hopefully that will get procured in 2025, move it back down to a management comment or get rid of it all together. The third report related to uniform guidance. Since the Town receives and expends more than $750,000 in federal funds, the Town has to undergo a single audit, where program-specific requirements and other overarching uniform guidance federal requirements for all federal funds. She stated typically 40% of the Town’s federal funds are tested based on the type of entity the Town is, but because the Town has received so many large and new grants during the year, 95% to 99% were tested. Ms. Viers stated they had no internal control-related items related to the federal programs tested. She reported for the Economic Development cluster, they had to test the quarterly reports that were filed to make sure that those reconciled to the underlying accounting records, which were difficult to match up and make sure they had been reported the way they felt they should have been reported but it’s an odd thing to test because the Town does reimbursement based requests for this grant and it would have made more sense had the Town received money up front and then report to the deferral government what was spent. Ms. Viers summarized the income statement for the General Fund, stating the Town had an unusual amount of unusual activity in grants, EDA, and water and sewer funds and also items that were a little different than normal noting the $1.2 million land purchase. She also noted the total revenues for the capital projects has grown slightly at a higher rate than total expenditures and intergovernmental revenue that dropped relating to ARPA funds that went from $1 million to $600,000 which was offset by the increase in urban highway maintenance state money that the Town receives every year. An increase in Community Development was noted which included a $450,000 contribution to Pulaski County that related to the new radio system for public safety. She also noted the increase in ‘other financing sources’ which relates to transfers to other funds, predominantly a $250,000 to the EDA to establish a new EDA fund. Councilman Reis questioned charges jumped from 2023 from $200,000 to $900,00 and asked if that was recategorization. Ms. Viers stated it was for garbage services. She also stated the reserve balance dropped slightly, predominantly to the land purchase and the reserves in the general fund are healthy and strong. Manager Day asked what the fund balance would look like if ARPA funds were removed. Ms. Viers stated it wouldn’t affect anything because ARPA funds have been recognized in full to this point. Manager Day thanked staff that has been involved and stated it’s nice for the new elected officials to come in with the financials in the black. b. Public Works Department Update- Kim Caudill Ms. Caudill started with the Street Departments updates from November and December. She reported the Street Department has completed leaf collection, ending with twenty-five loads as of the end of November and thirty-one loads in the leaf vac as of the second week in December. There have been some cosmetic clean up in the cemeteries which include cleaning up signs and old posts, collecting brush and downed trees. Other projects for the Street Department included pothole filling, and operating the Convenience Center. Ms. Caudill reported having to continuously repaire the fence around the Convenience Center as it continuous to get broken into. She reported projects with the General Properties Department include the Christmas lights in the park and decorations town wide, within the Vehicle Maintenance Department, she reported routine maintenance on town owned vehicles and winterizing the equipment. Within the Water and Sewer Department she reported continued maintenance on the pump stations with some housekeeping at those stations, a total of fifteen water breaks within November and December and seven problematic sewer calls which require preventative maintenance. She also reported the replacement of two water hydrants that were both hit by vehicles at Food City and Northwood and Prospect, and lastly the beginning of replacing five hundred water meters. Councilman Radcliffe recommended that the new councilmembers tour the various Town Departments so when the budget comes in, they can see how those funds are being distributed and thanked Ms. Caudill for her work in the department. Councilman Reis also thanked the Public Works Department and their response time of getting things fixed when they’re reported. He then reported the storm drain, near the newly replaced water hydrant on Northwood and Prospect, is about to collapse. Vice-Mayor Dawson asked how staffing was. Ms. Caudill stated there are three to four openings, which is normal for 2024, but always looking to recruit. 16. Discussion a. Battery Storage Facility Town Attorney, Scot Farthing, reported a Public Hearing was held on November 19th for Peak Creek Energy Storage Center and the Planning Commission had recommended granting a special exception for a battery storage facility located on Monte Vista Dr. Extension, near the AEP substation. He stated their proposal at this point includes 11.5 acres, 20 megawatts fenced in storage facility, using trees as sound buffers along with 11 additional conditions recommended by the Planning Commission. Mr. Farthing suggested some additional conditions and a change that the representative from the energy company made in paragraph 13E about environmental testing; when they decommission or leave, it originally stated a phase two instead of phase one. Mr. Farthing recommended approval from Town Council with the conditions presented to them. Manager Day thanked Mr. Farthing and the Planning Commission for their consideration and work regarding this facility. Councilman Reis questioned the decommissioning security. Mr. Farthing stated a third-party, a professional engineer determines the price, if you decommission the site, the cost is based on recycling the equipment and it’s evaluated every five years. As the equipment ages, there’s another decommissioning plan done and then they adjust the bond every five years and when the company applies for the building permit, they have to have that bond in place. The motion was made by Councilman Reis and seconded by Councilman Clark to approve the special use permit as outlined in the document provided by the Town Attorney. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye b. VDH Drinking Water Fund Manager Day reported the new water tank is finished but is not online yet due to a pressure reducing valve throughout the system. The Engineering Department applied for a grant through the Virginia Department of Health in the amount of $1,289,000, which was an estimate given by an engineer, and the Town has been awarded full funding. He stated it will be at least a year before the PRVs are installed and located within the system. c. Holiday Memo Manager Day reported to mimic what the County has approved, which would include employees to have an additional days, December 26th and January 2nd off. The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilman Reis to approve the holiday memo, to have December 24th, 25th, and 26th and January 1st and 2nd off for employees. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 17. Public Comment Period- No speakers were present 18. Consent Agenda a. Consideration of December 3, 2024 Town Council meeting minutes The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Vice-Mayor Dawson to adopt the minutes as written. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 19. Council Comments Councilman Clark congratulated the new council members and thanked the three councilmen leaving. He also thanked Mr. Day and Town Staff for their work this year. Vice-Mayor Dawson stated it’s been a pleasure working with Mr. East, Mr. Radcliffe, and Mr. Reis, that he’s learned a lot from Mr. Radcliffe and Mr. East when he was elected onto council and really enjoyed getting a chance to hear and know the experiences they have had in those years. He stated it will be a loss not having those councilmen on board and appreciate everything they’ve done and he looked forward to working with the new members coming on and there is a lot of work to be done in the coming year. Councilman Radcliffe stated there were better days ahead and stated he’s enjoyed working with the other councilmen. Councilman Reis thanked the other councilmen for working together over the last four years, stating it hasn’t always been fun but it’s always been worthwhile and he has a new appreciation for people who work in local government. He stated it’s not easy and often thankless and he appreciates all the hard work, effort, and care that everyone has put into this town. Mayor Collins thanked the councilmen, who are leaving, stating they have made his time at the Town a lot easier, and we’ve not done everything that we wanted to do, it’s not as easy as you think it should be and how it should be but we worked and we tried to do it. He stated he looks forward to the three new members joining council and thanked Manager Day for this work within the last year. He also thanked Town Staff and the community for the support. Mayor Collins requested that VDOT check the street light at the elementary school with the leading green in the turning lanes when no one is in the lane to turn. 20. Manager’s Report Manager Day thanked and recognized staff for their accomplishments this past year. He also asked Shannon Ainsley to report on a Pulaski on Main update. Economic Developer, Shannon Ainsley reported that Pulaski on Main exists to support revitalization on Main Street and they were notified that they have moved from the entry-level tier of Virginia Main Street, which is a program with DHCD, to the mobilizing Main Street Tier, the second of three tiers. The organization will be a part of a cohort over the next two years, taking part in trainings which will cover nonprofit management, board engagement, and revitalization tools. 21. Reminder of Future Council Meeting a. January 7, 2025 Closed Session 6:00 p.m., Open Session 7:00 p.m. 22. The Mayor asked for a motion to enter back into Closed Session at 8:07 p.m. to discuss the following items: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (2 items)- Personnel Matters i. Police Department ii. Town Manager The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Vice-Mayor Dawson. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 23. Certification of Closed Session- The Mayor asked for a motion that only the following items were discussed in Closed Session: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (2 items)- Personnel Matters i. Police Department ii. Town Manager The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilman Clontz. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 24. The motion was made by Councilman Reis and seconded by Councilman Clark to extend Town Manager, Todd Day’s contact for an additional five years, commencing on December 17, 2024 to December 17, 2029, with the terms and conditions set forth within his contract. Gregory C. East- Aye James A. Radcliffe- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Michael P. Reis- Aye 25. With no further business, the Mayor adjourned the meeting at 9:07 p.m. Town Council Meeting Minutes January 7, 2025 1. Councilman Clark called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and asked for a roll call. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 2. Modification to Closed Session- No modifications were made. 3. Councilman Clark asked for a motion to enter into Closed Session to discuss the following items: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (1 item)- Personnel Matters i. Appointment to Boards b. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 3 (2 items)- Acquisition/Disposition of Real Property i. Hogans Dam ii. 177 Acres The motion was made by Councilman Clontz and seconded by Councilman Burchett. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye The following council members and staff entered into Closed Session: Councilman Clark, Councilwoman Cope, Councilman Clontz, Councilman Erickson, Councilman Burchett, Town Manager, Todd Day, Town Attorney, Scot Farthing, and Clerk of Council, Ms. Hale. Vice-Mayor Dawson joined Closed Session at 6:12 p.m. Councilman Clontz exited Closed Session before the discussion of the 177 acres. 7:02 p.m. Open Session 4. Certification of Closed Session- Vice-Mayor Dawson asked for a motion that only the following items were discussed in Closed Session: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (1 item)- Personnel Matters i. Appointments to Boards b. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 3 (2 items)- Acquisition/Disposition of Real Property i. Hogans Dam ii. 177 Acres The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilwoman Cope. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Abstained Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 5. Councilman Clontz lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. 6. Councilman Clark gave the invocation. 7. Vice-Mayor Dawson welcomed all in attendance and viewing online. 8. Modification to Open Session- Ms. Hale asked that Resolution 2025-01 be added to the agenda before the Public Comment Period and to change the date for the future council meeting from January 21 to February 4, 2025. The motion was made by Councilman Clontz and seconded by Councilman Clark. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 9. Presentations a. Pulaski Area Transit- Monica Musick Ms. Musick reported the Transit Development Plan (TDP) report and microtransit study has been completed and it was determined to continue with routes the way they are currently being done, rather than going to the microtransit system. She stated the consultants were concerned that ridership may drop and revisit the option in 10 years but there were modifications that were recommended to increase ridership which will be presented at a later time. Councilman Clark asked if their routes were posted on the transit’s website. Ms. Musick stated there is a map on the website. Councilman Erickson asked if there was a way to create a QR Code to put at each bus stop that riders could scan with their phone and see the routes. Ms. Musick stated there should be a way to market that and they also need to increase their marketing on their Facebook page. Councilman Burchett commented stating elderly riders and less fortunate don’t use Facebook or have computers. Ms. Musick stated the transit does participate in activities and events throughout the area to market the transit and communicate with the community. Councilman Burchett stated the transit’s tracking system is impressive and thanked her for her work. Vice-Mayor Dawson asked Ms. Musick to give a brief summary of where the transit’s funding comes from to inform the new council members and also an update on the board’s decision to allow the Town to purchase used vehicles at the same price they were selling them for. Ms. Musick stated funding is through a grant with the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and their grant cycle is annually, opening in December and closing in February. She stated after the grant cycle, herself and Jennifer Byer come up with the total budget, 50% of that is covered by federal, 29% currently is covered by the state and the remaining balance is the local match from the Town and Pulaski County. Ms. Musick reported a negative change in the state funding coming in FY 2027 and FY 2028, although an exact number wasn’t determined, it would be a significant change and they are looking at ways to fund programs. Ms. Musick reported that it was determined by the board that the Town could purchase vehicles for sale before allowing other entities the opportunity to purchase. Ms. Musick reported a ridership increase of 2,384 passengers from FY 2023 to FY 2024 and for the month of December, ridership increased almost 450 passengers from December 2023 to December 2024. She stated grants for DRPT are open and are due on February 1, 2025 for FY 2026 and PAT is requesting, for their operating budget, $838,012 capital assistance, they are looking to replace two body on chassis vehicles that have met their useful life, and also requesting $15,000 to be used for spare parts. Ms. Musick stated the total local match would be $101,138 from both the Town and the County. Manager Day stated he would communicate with Town Council an ratify an internet vote. Ms. Musick scheduled the next meeting date for May 6th. b. Filter Plant Update- Stephen Steele, CHA Mr. Steele reported the consent order issued by Virginia Department of Health stating the Town has not been able to meet the requirements set forth by VDH and in 2021 the consent order required upgrades to both the water distribution and water filtration plant. Mr. Steele gave a brief history of the consent order issued by VDH in 2018 for DBP violations in the Brookmont area, in 2019 all the water tanks were inspected and it was determined to remove multiple smaller tanks and build one large tank. Also, in 2019 at the water treatment plant, filter four failed catastrophically, during the years 2019-2021 filters 1,2,3, and 4 were replaced and added air scour, and polymer upgrades. Mr. Steele reported on the critical needs of the filter plant, some being replacing the raw water pumps, replacing existing generator, and constructing new sedimentation basins. He stated the water filtration project is totaled at $16,289,000 and we have to figure out how to get as much grant money towards that project as possible. There were five water system funding options he presented, first was the Virginia Department of Health Drink Water State Revolving Loan Fund, that application is due in May, an award of funding is offered in August, the terms are typically 1% below the domestic bond rate, they’ll do a term as long as 30 years, the loan portion is around 2.5% interest, and the probability of the Town getting the grant is very high. The second funding option presented was the Congressionally Directed Spending grant, that application deadline is in April, and the funding varies, the third option was the USDA Rural Development, it requires compliance with extensive program requirements, if rates are not at one and a half percent of your median household income, which is fifty thousand four hundred dollars, you cannot receive grant money. The forth option Mr. Steele presented was the VRA Pooled Financing, they sell bonds twice a year with a 4% interest and there’s no grant money available. The last funding option presented was the Southeast Regional Community Assistance Project, they help communities with seed money ranging from $50,000-$100,000 every year with different studies. Mr. Steele stated he highly recommends the VDH funding option and supplement with the Congressionally Directed Spending option. Vice-Mayor Dawson asked if there was a local match associated with the funds or is it purely a loan. Manager Day stated VDH is primarily low interest loans and if we take the 30% principal forgiveness and the 2.5% interest rate, the Town’s annual increase per resident would be about $8 over three consecutive years. He stated the Congressionally Directed Spending was the same pool of money the Fire Department received a half a million dollars for, but those funds won’t be voted on until March 2025. He stated we would need to do our due diligence to see what USDA offers and the Town currently has some debts with Rural Development. Manager Day reported he lost a grant opportunity in the past with Rural Development because he did not do the rate structure study and RD was not going to subsidize their losses. Mr. Steele ran over the application process and application requirements, how much money is requested, who the engineer is, project description, and why we’re doing what needs to be done at the filter plant, and the point system of how the applications are chosen for funding. Councilwoman Cope asked if having one of two of the only super pulsators in the state would help with funding. Mr. Steele stated it would help and Ms. Crabtree, the Town’s VDH Field Officer, is amazed that David Peyton has been able to keep it running as long as he has. He stated the filter plant is switching to a traditional treatment process with sedimentation basins that every operator in the state of Virginia knows how to operate so we could share operators. Currently, if something happened to our filter plant and we needed an operator to come from another part of the state, they wouldn’t know how to run a super pulsator. Mr. Steele gave a brief history on the 120-year-old water lines that were installed in 1908. He reported there is a program coming up that will help replace lead jointed pipe, which the town currently has, and the lead service line mapping is currently taking place. 10. Discussion a. 177 Acres Manager Day announced the he has been working with a developer on a potential project. He reminded council and listeners of the purchase the Town made in December 2023, using ARPA funds, of a 170-acre parcel for 1.2 million dollars. He reported in February 2021 there was a study done in conjunction with Virginia Tech and the NRV, with a number of other entities that spoke about the need for housing affordability and availability. He stated on December 17, 2025 the Town of Pulaski was given an unsolicited bid by a local developer, SHAH Development, for a housing development on the 170 acres. He reported it will be approximately 174 acres development, it’ll have 187 detached single-family dwellings, 102 townhome units, 18 acres of commercial development, and 72 acres of terrain based open space, parks recreation and the development will take place within 6 phases. Manager Day stated he felt like this project is going to be the difference in Pulaski being successful in the future when it comes to economic development and it’s going to bring Pulaski an opportunity for a larger, more family sustaining businesses in the community. He also mentioned with the estimated tax revenue and building fees and the amount of time the project will take to be completed, a 6-10 year build out, the project will pay for itself. Manager Day reported he has no intentions to enter into any contractual agreements or contracts with SHAH Development, that they will be developed, the objective is to develop those contractual documents and to negotiate for the best interest of both the Town and SHAH Development. He mentioned that SHAH Development offered a trade for a structure that is owned by SHAH Development that the Town currently uses to house a fire truck. Vice-Mayor Dawson commented saying while he has been on Town Council, he has heard we need improved housing, new housing, and we need to support our businesses, and we need new business and all of those things are addressed with us trying to grow our population by improving our housing and the housing stock will naturally help support our businesses and create opportunity for new business at the same time. Councilman Burchett stated he heard from his constituents, the citizens, that we need more income for the town, more housing, and more affordable level housing. He stated this looks like a great opportunity for the town and he gives his full support. Th motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilman Burchett to support the Town Manager, Mr. Day’s continuation of discussions with SHAH Development and to solidify procurement and contractual terms for the proper design of a new modern affordable housing development to be located on the 170 plus acre property along Route 11, Memorial Drive, and Pepper’s Ferry, which is owned by the Town of Pulaski. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Abstained Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye Councilman Clontz abstained due to the possibility of a conflict of interest. 11. Public Comment Period- No speakers were present. 12. Resolution 2025-01 Reappointing Roger Bell to the Economic Development Authority for the Town of Pulaski, Virginia The motion was made by Councilman Clontz and seconded by Councilwoman Cope to adopt Resolution 2025-01 as written. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 13. Consent Agenda a. Consideration of December 17, 2024 Town Council Meeting Minutes The motion was made by Councilman Clontz and seconded by Councilman Clark to table the consideration of the minutes from the consent agenda as there were not enough voting members present to vote on the adoption of minutes. The minutes will be moved the to February 4, 2025 meeting. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 14. Council Comments & Board Updates Councilwoman Cope stated she was glad to join Town Council. Vice-Mayor complemented the Public Works Department in their work with clearing the snow off the roads. 15. Manager’s Report Manager Day thanked Council for their unanimous support to move the 170-acre property project forward and also thanked Public Works for the work they’ve done with fixing seven major water leaks in town. Manager Day stated the distribution system is just as important as the raw water lines, which has gone beyond its life expectancy. He stated Public Works has $75,000 to work with water line funds, and when it comes to water rate structures, we will be doing a wealth of due diligence in the water system. 16. Reminder of Future Council Meeting a. February 4, 2025 Closed Session 6:00 p.m., Open Session 7:00 p.m. 17. With no further business, the Vice-Mayor adjourned the meeting at 8:32 p.m. General Info February 2025 Town of Pulaski Event Calendar Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 EDA Meeting Council Chambers 10am Town Council Meeting Council Chambers 7pm 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Pulaski Redevelopment & Housing Authority Meeting Council Chambers 6pm Water Cut Off Day Cemetery Board Meeting Council Chambers 6pm 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 President’s Day Town Offices & Convenience Center Closed; GFL pickup as scheduled Town Council Meeting Council Chambers 7pm 23 24 25 26 27 28 ____________________ GFL Bulk Pickup ______________________ February Pulaski Senior Center(540)994-8627 2025 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Sign-up Day 8:30a.m.- 5:00p.m. Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Bingo at the Center 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m. Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Breakfast at the Senior Center 9:00a.m./ $3.00 Movie at 12:30p.m. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Lunch Bunch: Golden Coral in Mt. Airy 10:00a.m./ $5.00 Fiddler’s Restaurant 9:00a.m./ $3.00 Ruritan Bingo and Lunch 11:00a.m./ Free Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Highland Ridge & Wythe Hospice Valentine Bingo 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 Senior Center Closed Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Lunch Bunch: Country Kitchen 10:45a.m./ $3.00 Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Library Craft 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m. 23 24 25 26 27 28 Pizza and Movie 11:30a.m./ $3.oo Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Bingo at the Center 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m./ Free Friendship Café 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Puzzle Competition 10:30a.m./ Free Movie at 1:30a.m. **Please Sign up for all events you plan on attending.** Bereavement Group February 19th 3PM-4PM Department Head Monthly Report- January Clerk of Council January Town Event Calendar Facebook/ Website updates Patriot Public Hearing Ads SOEI/ Disclosure of Real Estate Forms Town Council Packets Town Council Meetings/Minutes Planning Commission Meeting/Minutes ARB meeting/ Minutes RSVP-ing for various events with Chamber Reviewing Zoning Ordinance Regulations Travel Forms Purchase Orders Scheduling Board meetings Updating Boards & Committee Lists Groundbreaking Event Police Department 1. 3,398 Incident numbers were generated 2. 1,533 Business Checks were conducted 3. 3 Trespass arrest 4. 17 Trespass notifications were issued We had our second Coordinated Response Team (CRT) meeting on 1/24/2025. We had individuals from NRVCS, Pulaski County, and the Town of Pulaski. We talked about what Burlington Vermont was doing to help out with providing assistance to individuals who were in need. We discussed if we felt like that would be helpful here in the Town of Pulaski and the County. We feel like parts of that could be used here but we want to talk with the whole team before we move forward with any of it. I am hoping to hire a part-time community outreach individual soon. We also have Officer Nash who started the police academy on 1/16/2025 and crushed it on the first day of physical assessments. This is one of if not the hardest day in the academy. They are doing physical activity all day long all while being monitored by Pulaski County EMS. Officer Saunders and Officer Minor who graduated the academy in December are still in Field Training and doing an outstanding job. Chief Shumate has been appointed to the Smaller Department Section of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) along with being nominated to be on the Forensics Committee for IACP. The Smaller Department Section serves as the collective voice of law enforcement agencies with fewer than 50 officers or serves populations under 50,000. It addresses the unique needs of these agencies and provides a forum for information exchange. The Forensics Committee helps develop best practices and new and improved techniques for collecting evidence from crime scenes along with developing best practices. Fire Department • Ran 71 calls o 7 Structure Fires o 1 Vehicle Fire o 19 EMS calls o 3 Brush Fires o 5 Motor Vehicle Crashes o 1 Gas Leaks o 7 Public Service calls o 18 False alarms o 3 PD Assist o 4 Power Lines Down • Training o 4 Volunteers started Firefighter 2 class o 1 Career Staff passed EMT- Basic o Deputy Fire Marshal Completed NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector Property Maintenance/Code Enforcement/ Zoning • 23 new property maintenance cases • 33 complaints received/investigated • 35 follow up inspections for compliance • 10 inoperable vehicle violations • 2 vehicles towed • 12 trash/debris violations • 2 properties trash abated • 1 vacant structure re-boarded • 1 structure vacated & boarded/ no water supply • Assist PD w/ boarding of structure • 5 liens released • 2 liens placed • 1 VAZO virtual mtg • 3 properties posted unsafe/uninhabitable • 1 ARB mtg • 4 zoning violations issued for camper/outbuilding/commercial building dwelling • 2 zoning inquiries concerning properties of interest Filter Plant We have collected monthly samples. We were granted a variance by VDH to allow Wayne Trail to run a shift during this difficult time. We are short licensed operators and that was a huge help in covering these long hours. Daily monitoring report for DEQ and water withdrawal numbers for the year have been submitted. The monthly operating report was submitted. So many leaks in the distribution system, producing up to million gallons a day over the norm. Mostly running round the clock. Had to issue a boiled water notice the 18th of January. This was lifted on January 20th. All in all the issue down town went as good as could be expected. Many people pulled together and worked day and night to get the break fixed. We have had our bench top turbidimeter damaged due to a wind storm power outage. I have replacement parts ordered and expect them here this coming Monday. Have been working on numbers for the upcoming budget. Finance Department • Processed Payroll End of Year reports, W2’s and 1099’s • Submitted final close out report for the Virginia Arts Grant • Attended a GovTalk event provided by our software provider for potential opportunities for activity and facility management • Collected FY26 budget worksheets from departments • Reviewing Town property and vehicles for VACorp insurance renewal • Staff is working on collections with debt setoff and DMV stops for Personal Property and Real Estate • Working with the Utility Billing Clerk and Public Works to complete the manual reads and replace no read meters • Working with Badger meter to have meter reading equipment tested for possible technical issues – waiting on results • Processed utility bills – 4,265 • Customers participating with E-bills – 469 • Customers participating with ACH - 700 • Non-payment cutoffs for the month - 108 • Revenue collections for month of December: General Fund - $341,128.49 Water Fund - $208,868.04 Sewer Fund - $351,204.53 Garbage Fund - $ 69,800.98 Total - $971,002.04 Engineering Department Water Projects Lead Service Line Program Preliminary LSL Inventory – CHA has sorted through all water and building documents housed at the Town and County, sent out surveys to acquire citizen entries, and have coordinated with the Town to pothole different areas within Town. On October 16th 2024, CHA submitted the preliminary LSL Inventory. They are currently working on notifying citizens on the results and continuing identifying all unknown lines. Filter Plant Backwash Tank: Design – CHA is conducting the full project design using the VDH funding. Brookmont (Water Distribution System Improvements) Pedestal, Tank, and Filter Plant Pumps are complete. Awaiting PRV Project scope of work to utilize the new tank. PRV Project Design – CHA is performing preliminary system mapping and design work while we await the construction funds. Filter Plant Improvement Project Approval – Seeking project funding. Sewer Projects I&I Abatement: Conducting Manhole Inspections and smoke testing on Zone 10. Determining next area and method of remediation. Critzer Repairs: Seeking funding opportunities for hut replacement. PCB Testing: Completed Convenience Center Manhole and Valley Road Manhole. Awaiting Valley Road Manhole data and scheduling of Commerce St Manhole testing. Direct Injection: Finalization – Substantial and Final completion have been awarded. Processing final paperwork. Pulaski Interceptor: Preparing DEQ funding application and Design Procurement. Transportation Projects SGR Rt. 99 Bridge: Approval – VDOT has allocated $8.0 million for the project. Staff is currently working with VDOT to advertise for Design’s Request for Proposal. Design will likely take ~2 years. SGR Commerce St. Bridge: Recent Bid results were significantly over budget. Schwartz is working to make the scope of work more appealing and thus more competitive. The hope is that with the changes, the new bids will be under budget. We received the updated scope and it is under review with VDOT. Once they approve the changes, we will re-advertise for bid. SGR Thornspring Bridge: Approval – VDOT has awarded $2.0 million. Working with VDOT to fill out necessary documents and advertise for Design’s Request for Proposal. Design will likely take ~1 year. Streetscape Project: • Construction Notice to Proceed was issued December 20th 2024. • Meeting with contractor February 3rd to finalize business access plan to start on- site construction. Washington Railroad Project: VDOT Engineers are working alongside Norfolk Southern to relocate the railroad crossing bar pole so that it does not block the pedestrian pathway. Community Development Projects Calfee School: • Finalization of Phase 1. • Seeking design, procurement, and grant management from NRVRC for Phase 2. Brewery: Construction – Substantial completion within the next 2 months. Environmental Projects Floodplain Acquisition: Gathering interest and data to support the funding application process. Army Corps – Low Head Dam: Army Corps is acquiring hazard sampling of area to determine how to environmentally proceed in construction. General Property Projects Canine Facility: Braxton Cox is working on a project cost estimate. Should be receiving his estimate by next week. This will then be used to apply for funding. Firehouse Addition: A needs assessment and risk analysis were conducted to prioritize the needs of the firehouse. A structural analysis was conducted of the property to evaluate what is feasible. In communication with Senator Kaine’s office to evaluate how we can use funds. Basement Mold and Flood Remediation: Flooding • We have received all quotes. Currently seeking funding source. Mold • Collaborated with the contractor, PD, and PW to remove the remaining mold. Cemetery GIS: Finalization – All data has been submitted and we are implementing it into GIS. Foster Continuous Engagement with Businesses and Property Owners: Continue to connect with commercial property owners to learn about their intentions and properties. Conduct regular visits to businesses to enhance retention efforts. Work with Building Inspection Department to go on final inspections for businesses to offer support as they begin their new venture. Continue to update all Town businesses with monthly newsletter. Meetings with economic development partners: Visited Richmond: Met with Virginia Tourism Corp. Along with Town Council members we met with Senator Hackworth;Attended the Pulaski Legislative Appreciation Reception hosted by Pulaski County Chamber ofCommerce meeting Delegate Ballard, Delegate Arnold, and others; Attended the Industrial Council event to hear presentation by Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Joe Guthrie. Maintain vacant and available properties: Contact 540-994-8619 for a complete list of available Town of Pulaski properties in the Town of Pulaski. Work with Pulaski on Main: Continue to work with PoM to strengthen the organization’s presence on Main Street, and facilitate Virginia Main Street efforts. Business Growth: Broussard’s has opened a new seating area. Ribbon cutting scheduled for February 19, 12:00 pm Family Market and Corner Deli has plans to expand seating and move solely to a restaurant as they have seen success with the prepared food side of their business. Ongoing Projects: Coordinating with engineering for communications plan for the streetscapes project. Coordinating with Town Departments and County for a website upgrade and Push notifications.Working on updating Town business incentives to attract new businesses. Continuing Economic Development Training.Opened discussion of updating Town’s comprehensive plan. Pursuing grant opportunities as they pertain to economic development. Regional Participation: NRV Home Consortium Board, NRV LEDO meetings with Onward NRV,welcome event for Fall’s Stamping plant manager, update County’s retail recruitment on upcominghousing projects.Evaluating Town assets and making plan to promote these assets. TOWN OF PULASKI E C O N O M I C D E V E L O P M E N T U P D A T E February 2025 Shannon Ainsley, Economic Developersainsley@pulaskitown.org