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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-06-25 Town Council PacketAgenda Town Council Meeting Tuesday, May 6, 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 (Mayor Colling) 4. Enter into Closed Session for the following items: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (1 item)- Personnel Matters i. Town Manager b. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 8 (1 item)- Consultation with Legal Counsel i. SHAH Development 7:00 p.m. Public Session Council Chambers 1. Certification of Closed Session (Mayor Collins) 2. Pledge of Allegiance (Councilwoman Cope) 3. Invocation (Councilman Clark) 4. Guests and Visitors (Mayor Collins) 5. Modification to Public Session (Mayor Collins) 6. Public Hearing a. Land Transfer to SHAH Development- Mayor Collins (Mayor reads Public Hearing ad (advertised in the Patriot on April 25th & May 2nd), opens & closes public hearing, voting will be on May 20th) 7. Presentations a. Pulaski Area Transit Update- Monica Musick 8. Discussion(s) a. YMCA Funding Request- Manager Day (Voting on $500 for GALA event & $2,000 for Carl E. Hanks Memorial Fund) b. NRV Home Consortium Agreement- Shannon Ainsley (Voting to adopt the Cooperation Agreement) c. FY 25-26 Budget- Manager Day (Vote to move to Public Hearing on May 20th) Reasonable accommodation will be provided for persons with disabilities, if requested. 9. Resolution 2025-15 Appointing Nathan Smythers as the Town of Pulaski Certified Building Official (Manager Day) 10. Resolution 2025-16 Resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia, Expressing Official Support for the Pulaski County Sports Complex (Manager Day) 11. 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.) 12. Consent Agenda (Voting) a. Consideration March 27th Town Council Budget Work Session Minutes b. Consideration April 15th Town Council Meeting Minutes 13. Council Comments & Board Updates 14. Manager’s Report (Manager Day) 15. Reminder of Future Council Meeting (Mayor Collins) a. May 20, 2025; Closed Session 6:00 p.m., Open Session 7:00 p.m. Public Hearing(s) Info Town of Pulaski Notice of Public Hearing: Sale of Town Land to SHAH Development, LLC Public Hearing Ad was published in The Patriot on April 25th and May 2nd. The Town Council of the Town of Pulaski will hold a public hearing to receive input regarding the proposed sale of certain parcels of town-owned property identified on Pulaski County’s tax map as Parcel ID #63-1-21-9, Parcel ID #63-1-220, and Parcel ID #63-42-1, together totaling approximately 176 acres, on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Town of Pulaski Municipal Building located at 42 First Street N.W., Pulaski, Virginia, 24301. The proposed sale will convey the parcels to SHAH Development LLC, pursuant to a written agreement with the Town. The contract with SHAH Development includes benchmarks for the development of the land into workforce housing and, as needed, commercial space. The full text of the proposed contract of sale is available for public inspection from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday at the Town Manager’s Office at the Town of Pulaski Municipal Building located at 42 First Street N.W., Pulaski, Virginia, 24301 or by phoning (540) 994-8600. Comments may be present at the meeting or in writing prior to the meeting. All interested persons may express their views prior to the meeting by emailing ohale@pulaskitown.org or by mail to Clerk of Council, 42 First Street N.W./ P.O. Box 660, Pulaski, Virginia, 24301. All emails and written comments must be received at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Anyone having questions regarding the above may contact the Clerk of Council at (540) 994-8602, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In compliance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons requiring special assistance to attend and participate in the hearing should contact Olivia Hale at (540)994-8602 at least 24 hours prior to the hearing. By Order of the Town Council, Town of Pulaski, Virginia Todd Day, Town Manager Discussion(s) Information NEW RIVER VALLEY HOME CONSORTIUM COOPERATION AGREEMENT 1 COOPERATION AGREEMENT AMONG THE COUNTIES OF GILES, MONTGOMERY, PULASKI and FLOYD, THE CITY OF RADFORD, and THE TOWNS OF BLACKSBURG, CHRISTIANSBURG, PEARISBURG, PEMBROKE, PULASKI, RICH CREEK, NARROWS, FLOYD, DUBLIN, FOR DESIGNATION AS A PARTICIPATING CONSORTIUM UNDER THE HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM Recognizing the need to alleviate the housing problems within the region and, by virtue of the Resolutions of Support for participation in the HOME Investment Partnership Program, the Counties of Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski and Floyd, the City of Radford, and the Towns of Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Pearisburg, Pembroke, Pulaski, Rich Creek, Narrows, Floyd, Dublin, do hereby agree to establish the New River Valley HOME Consortium (the "CONSORTIUM"), through this Cooperative Agreement (the "Agreement"). A. Membership: 1. The Members of the CONSORTIUM shall have one class and shall be composed of contiguous units of local government. The members of the CONSORTIUM are the governments of the Counties of Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski and Floyd, the City of Radford, and the Towns of Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Pearisburg, Pembroke, Pulaski, Rich Creek, Narrows, Floyd, Dublin, (the "MEMBERS"). 2. Additional members may be added from time to time with approval of a majority of existing members. Upon approval, new members shall execute the Cooperation Agreement. 3. Each local government within the CONSORTIUM shall make a three-year commitment to participate. 4. The Consortium Agreement shall be considered for renewal every three years. B. Responsibilities of MEMBERS: 1. The MEMBERS of the CONSORTIUM agree to cooperate to undertake or assist in undertaking housing assistance activities for the HOME Investment Partnership Program. 2. The MEMBERS agree to affirmatively further fair housing within the CONSORTIUM. 3. The MEMBERS of the CONSORTIUM designate the Town of Blacksburg (“Blacksburg”) to act in a representative capacity for all members for the purposes of the HOME program (LEAD ENTITY) and for ensuring (without assuming financial responsibility therefore) that the CONSORTIUM’s HOME program is carried out in compliance with the HOME program requirements, including requirements concerning a Consolidated Plan in accordance with HUD regulations in 24 CFR Parts 92 and 91, respectively, and the requirements of 24 CFR 92.350. The LEAD ENTITY will obtain assistance in fulfilling its obligations under the HOME Program by contracting with the New River Valley Regional Commission (NRVRC). 4. BLACKSBURG and the NRVRC shall be responsible for (a) the development of the regional portion of the Consolidated Plan; (b) preparation of an annual budget that assures sharing of NEW RIVER VALLEY HOME CONSORTIUM COOPERATION AGREEMENT 2 funds based upon HUD’s formula allocation; (c) development of rules and regulations consistent with federal rules and regulations; (d) development of program design and oversight; (e) provision of financial management, compliance oversight and general management; and (f) other such requirements which may, from time to time, be promulgated by the federal government. Policy, consistent with the terms of this agreement, is assigned to BLACKSBURG and the NRVRC, and the administration duties to the staff. 5. The MEMBERS further designate the NRVRC and BLACKSBURG (the "ENTITIES") to provide services necessary for the administration of the HOME Investment Partnership Program. For these services, the ENTITIES will be compensated with administrative funds from the annual HOME allocation, up to 10% of the allocation. Distribution of the compensation to the ENTITIES shall be based on their respective responsibilities. If sufficient administrative funds are not made available to the ENTITIES to cover the costs of the responsibilities created by this Agreement, either ENTITY may terminate its responsibilities to provide service after sixty (60) days notice. 6. The MEMBERS recognize that two types of housing organizations may use the CONSORTIUM’s HOME funds: a SUBRECIPIENT or a CHDO. A SUBRECIPIENT is a housing organization designated by the MEMBER, by resolution, to implement housing activities using HOME CONSORTIUM funds. Community Housing Development Organizations (“CHDO’s”) are a type of sub-recipient. A CHDO is a non-profit housing organization which has met federal guidelines to manage, own, or otherwise control a housing activity other than homeowner rehabilitation and thereby qualifies for a portion of the HOME funds designated by federal laws as a minimum 15% of the total allocation to the CONSORTIUM. CHDO designation may be by the LEAD ENTITY or by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. The ENTITIES may allocate a portion of the Administrative Funds to the local SUBRECIPIENTS and/or Community Housing Development Organizations to insure proper use of the HOME funds by the SUBRECIPIENT or CHDO. C. HOME Consortium Board: 1. The HOME Consortium Board (the “BOARD”) will oversee the HOME Program and make decisions as necessary. 2. The BOARD will prepare Bylaws to support its operation and to meet the requirements of the HOME Program. 3. The BOARD will participate in consolidated planning activities including the development of a Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. 4. The BOARD will consist of two (2) representatives appointed by the governing bodies of the following localities: Giles County, Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Floyd County and the City of Radford. Each representative will have one vote. The appointments will be for three years to coincide with the Consortium’s renewal period with HUD. 5. The BOARD will solicit input from all MEMBERS and SUBRECIPIENTS, including CHDOs, in its administration of the HOME Program. 6. The BOARD will be provided staff support by the ENTITIES. 7. For purposes of voting, a majority of voting representatives will be considered a quorum. A quorum of representatives will be necessary to call for a vote. 8. An affirmative vote by a majority of the representatives of the BOARD is needed to make a decision. No decision shall be made in case of a tie. NEW RIVER VALLEY HOME CONSORTIUM COOPERATION AGREEMENT 3 D. Responsibilities of BLACKSBURG and the NRVRC: 1. BLACKSBURG, through its Town staff, will administer the overall program, as LEAD ENTITY, and report progress to MEMBERS on a quarterly basis. 2. NRVRC staff will provide and report information to BLACKSBURG for inclusion in CONSORTIUM reports. 3. BLACKSBURG and NRVRC staff will work together with the BOARD to prepare the Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), and other such documents, which are, from time to time, required by the MEMBERS or the federal government. The Annual Report and the Consolidated Plan will be presented to the BOARD at a regular meeting. The Consolidated Plan is subject to a public participation process in accordance with 24 CFR 91.105, as outlined in the Citizen Participation Plan of the Lead Agency. 4. Upon approval of this AGREEMENT, BLACKSBURG and the NRVRC will enter into a contract detailing the roles and responsibilities of each regarding the administration of the CONSORTIUM. E. Allocation of Funds 1. Funds available annually to the CONSORTIUM, including CHDO funds in the total, under the HOME Investment Partnership Program will be available based on HUD’s allocation formula to each county or city and committed to projects approved by the BOARD, minus administrative funds provided to the ENTITIES. 2. MEMBERS must commit funds within two (2) years of HUD allocating funds to the CONSORTIUM. (As used in this AGREEMENT, “commit funds” means a MEMBER has executed a legally binding agreement with a SUBRECIPIENT or CHDO, or has met the requirements to commit to a specific local project as stipulated by 24 CFR 92.2 as amended.) Each MEMBER must expend funds within three (3) years of HUD allocating funds to the CONSORTIUM. MEMBERS will be notified by the BOARD at 30 months of the status of their allocation, and after three (3) years, funds not expended may be made available to any MEMBER based on a priority system developed by the BOARD. The BOARD’S DECISION on the allocation of unexpended funds shall be final. 3. Each MEMBER unit of local government may, by resolution, name a SUBRECIPIENT to carry out housing activities outlined in the Consolidated Plan within the locality that are funded with HOME program funds (as differentiated from HOME CHDO funds). The SUBRECIPIENT will enter into a contract with the MEMBER to insure proper implementation and management of the HOME program and funds. 4. All member localities will have the opportunity to submit projects to the BOARD for consideration on an annual basis. The intent of the CONSORTIUM is to serve all MEMBERS with HOME funds over time. F. Comment Period: NEW RIVER VALLEY HOME CONSORTIUM COOPERATION AGREEMENT 4 1. The term of this Agreement shall be effective on the date of signature of the last MEMBER and will include Federal Fiscal Years 2024-2027, ending June 30, 2027. The terms of this Agreement will be automatically renewed for participation in successive three-year qualification periods and the LEAD ENTITY will notify each MEMBER in writing of its right not to participate for the successive three-year qualification period six months prior to the expiration of the current AGREEMENT. Each member must notify the LEAD ENTITY of its intention to renew the AGREEMENT or to allow it to expire no later than 90 days prior to the expiration of the current AGREEMENT. It is understood that non-participation by any one MEMBER may have the effect of discontinuing the CONSORTIUM, and the forfeiture of future funding under the HOME Investment Partnership Program for all MEMBERS. The CONSORTIUM will adopt any amendment to the Agreement incorporating changes necessary to meet the requirements for cooperation agreements set forth in a Consortia Qualification Notice applicable for a subsequent three-year consortia qualification period, and will submit the amendment to HUD as specified in the Consortia Qualification Notice for that period. Failure to do so will automatically void the automatic renewal of the Agreement. 2. This Cooperation Agreement may be amended to provide for a change in managing body or funding formula or any other component, provided such a request for change is submitted to the LEAD ENTITY at least ninety (90) days before the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1). Changes in membership or funding allocation will be subject to unanimous approval by the BOARD. Other changes to the AGREEMENT will be subject to a majority vote of the BOARD. This Agreement shall be approved by the governing body of each MEMBER, and permission shall be given to the City Manager, County Administrator, and/or Town Manager to sign the agreement on behalf of the MEMBER. Agreed: Town/ City/ County of ______________________________________ By: ___________________________________________________ Its: ___________________________________________________ Date: ___________________________________________________ Voting Items Resolution 2025-15 Resolution Appointing Nathan Smythers as the Town of Pulaski’s Certified Building Official WHEREAS, the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) requires that every local building division have a building official, appointed by the local governing body, as the executive in charge of the division; and, WHEREAS, Mr. Smythers has been acting Building Official since July 2, 2024; and, WHEREAS, Mr. Smythers, due to his education, training, and experience has been adjudged qualified to both meet the position requirements of and perform the duties as a certified building official for the purposes of administering the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and the Code of Ordinances, Town of Pulaski, Virginia NOW, THEREFORE be it RESOLVED by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia, sitting in regular session this 6th day of May 2025, that the Town Council hereby appoints Nathan Smythers as Certified Building Official for the Town of Pulaski, Virginia. This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted this 6th day of May, 2025 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of the Town 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 2025-16 A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA, EXPRESSING OFFICIAL SUPPORT FOR THE PULASKI COUNTY SPORTSPLEX WHEREAS, Pulaski County has proposed the development of a multi-purpose indoor Sports Complex designed to provide significant recreational, athletic, and community opportunities for residents throughout the region, including the Town of Pulaski; and WHEREAS, the Sportsplex is expected to improve the local economy through increased tourism, business activity, and job creation while also enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing accessible spaces for physical activity, sports, and social engagement; and WHEREAS, the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski recognizes the value of regional collaboration in fostering economic growth and community well-being; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Pulaski hereby expresses its support for the Pulaski County Sportsplex and formally declares its intent to be the first locality to join as a member in support of this transformative initiative. ADOPTED AND APPROVED by the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia, at a regular meeting held on this 6th day of May, 2025. Jeremy L. Clark- G. Tyler Clontz- Sunshine N. Cope- Steven W. Erickson- Brooks R. Dawson- Joel B. Burchett- Mayor Collins- _____________________________ __________________________ Mayor W. Shannon Collins Vice-Mayor Brooks R. Dawson _____________________________ __________________________ Councilman Jeremy L. Clark Councilman G. Tyler Clontz _____________________________ __________________________ Councilwoman Sunshine N. Cope Councilman Steven W. Erickson ________________________________ Councilman Joel B. Burchett TOWN of PULASKI, VIRGINIA _____________________________ W. Shannon Collins Mayor ATTEST _____________________________ Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council Consent Agenda Town Council Budget Work Session March 27, 2025 1. The Vice-Mayor called the meeting or order at 6:01 p.m. and asked for a roll call. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Absent Sunshine N. Cope- Absent Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 2. Mayor Collins joined the meeting at 6:38 p.m. 3. The Town Council discussed the 2025-2026 budget, focusing on water and sewer projects. Key points include a $25 million water plant upgrade with possible principal forgiveness, and a $1.7 million backwash tank project. The water fund's revenue is projected to rise $601,000, with a $296,700 annual debt service payment for the water plant. The water fund's budget includes $150,000 for water line replacements. The council emphasized the need for transparency and long-term planning to address systemic issues and ensure sustainable funding. The Town Council discussed the proposed budget for water and sewer rates. Water rates will increase by an average of 26% for inside usage and outside rates will be 25% more than inside, which was discussed in the rate structure meeting. Sewer rates will rise by 6.35% across the board. The council highlighted the need for significant investments in pump stations, with a $180,000 cost per pump. The sewer system faces critical issues, including outdated equipment and maintenance challenges. The council emphasized the importance of balancing rate increases with the town's financial health and future development. Transparent communication and strategic planning were also stressed to mitigate community impact. 4. With no further business, the Mayor adjourned the meeting at 8:50 p.m. Town Council Meeting Minutes April 15, 2025 1. The Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and asked for a roll call. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 2. Councilman Burchett led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. 3. Councilwoman Cope gave the invocation. 4. The Mayor welcomed all in attendance and viewing online. 5. Modification to Public Session- No modifications were made. 6. Presentations a. YMCA Funding- Dave Adkins Dave Adkins, Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA in Pulaski reported the YMCA is a 501c3 organization that operates within the town and has been in continuous operation for nearly eighty years. Mr. Adkins recited the YMCA’s mission statement. He mentioned various programs they offer to the community which include childcare services, water safety and introductory swim lessons, workout classes and activities, and workout facility rooms. The YMCA relies on membership funds, child care payments, grants, and donor involvement and membership fees cannot fully fund their operations, their goal is to provide any of their programs and services to all who desire to participate regardless of their financial status and they do that through their Bridging the Gap program and through scholar shipping and what’s left, they absorb the cost. Mr. Adkins stated the YMCA has developed the Carl E. Hanks Memorial Fund which would provide financial awards based on needs or scholarly endeavors for fully or partially paid memberships, tuition, classes, and services. Mr. Adkins asked the town for $2,000 to fund their Carl E. Hanks Memorial Fund and to consider a similar amount in the future year budgets as the need for this scholarship is going to be perpetual. He also asked the town to consider an additional $500 for a sponsorship for their GALA event that will be held on April 26th. Councilman Burchett asked where the GALA will be held. Mr. Adkins stated at the Omni Center in Fairlawn, that tickets are currently on sale and it will be a fully catered dinner with music and a silent auction. Manager Day asked where Mr. Adkins sees the YMCA in four to five years concerning the sports complex. Mr. Adkins stated he sees the YMCA being in business, the YMCA supports the sports complex and the YMCA has some reinvention to do and he believes they have the team in place to accomplish that. Manager Day stated he wants to see the YMCA be successful and recommended reaching out to the County to create a program or some form of relationship with the sports complex. b. Economic Development Update- Shannon Ainsley Ms. Ainsley reported her everyday tasks to continue business development, communication, and involvement, new ways to communicate with residents including push notifications and a new website, marketing the town’s assets on Facebook, and Project Revitalize. She reported the town has been awarded the Virginia Energy EECBG grant for $10,000, which will help support a new initiative called Revive and Renew, a greener historical town philosophy, the project will focus on educating residents and small business owners about energy- efficient upgrades that can be made to historical structures, improvements that will not only preserve the community’s character, but also help lower utility bills. Councilman Burchett asked about details regarding the new legislation that was passed at the state level regarding blighted properties. Ms. Ainsley stated it’s going to eliminate some steps but we will know more once it’s in effect in July. Councilwoman Cope asked if there is any initiative to replace the current EV chargers with hyperchargers. Ms. Ainsley stated staff have looked at several grants, and will continue to search for funding to replace them. 7. Discussion(s) a. Claytor Lake Sponsorship Manager Day reported there are three tiers of sponsorship funding and encouraged the council to donate at least $500, if not $1,000, which will be budgeted. The motion was made by Councilwoman Cope and seconded by Councilman Burchett to authorize the Town Manager to budget $1,000 for the Claytor Lake sponsorship. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye b. SHAH Development Contract (voting to move to Public Hearing on May 6th) Manager Day reported the town is still finalizing the ordinance but there has been approval from both attorneys on public hearing language. The motion was made by Councilman Burchett and seconded by Councilwoman Cope to set a Public Hearing on May 6th to transfer the land, 177 acres for future development. Manager Day elaborated stating this motion is just to move forward with the public hearing, that the town is not signing the contract, there is an ordinance that has to be put into play and there are things that are going to take place before an ink has an opportunity to get placed on that contract. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye c. Mowing Bids Manager Day reported the town had advertised in February summer help in regards to mowing and he recommends that the council approve this project, and accept the lowest bid from Turner Properties, as it has been budgeted for and will be budgeted for again next year if it is decided to move forward. Turner Properties would not be doing 100% of the mowing, they would be mowing the large areas in town. Councilman Erickson asked about the mowing schedule. Jackie Reid, Human Resources Manager, reported the quote from Turner Properties is once every ten days, the calendar that is shown is an estimate of the days. Councilman Erickson asked if we can ask Turner Properties not to mow on Saturdays and Sundays to ensure the park’s availability to residents and events. The motion was made by Councilwoman Cope and seconded by Councilman Erickson to accept the bid from Turner Properties. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 8. Resolution 2025-14 Appointing Candidates to the Town of Pulaski Planning Commission and the Town of Pulaski Economic Development Authority The motion was made by Councilman Erickson and seconded by Councilwoman Cope to adopt the resolution as written. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 9. Public Comment Period- No speakers were present 10. Consent Agenda a. Consideration of March 27, 2025, Town Council Budget Work Session Minutes Councilman Erickson asked to table the consent agenda as there were not enough council members present to vote. b. Consideration of April 1, 2025, Town Council Meeting minutes The motion was made by Councilman Burchett and seconded by Councilwoman Cope to adopt the minutes as written. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 11. Council Comments/ Board Updates Councilwoman Cope stated she has gotten compliments from visitors regarding how downtown is looking and she appreciates everyone working hard on that project. Councilman Erickson stated he has gotten compliments as well but also asked if there was something that could be done to remove the brown paper on the inside of the windows of the unopened businesses. Manager Day stated he would get with Ms. Ainsley and see what could be done to improve the cosmetics of those buildings. Councilman Burchett asked about inmates doing trash cleanup throughout the town. Manager Day stated he would reach out to the jail and check on the program. 12. Manager’s Report Manager Day reported the Town of Dublin and Pulaski County are going to be closing on Friday, April 18th to recognize Good Friday and requested that the council do the same for town staff. The motion was made by Councilwoman Cope and seconded by Councilman Erickson to close town offices on Friday, April 18th in observance of Good Friday. Jeremy L. Clark- Absent G. Tyler Clontz- Absent Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Absent Joel B. Burchett- Aye 13. Reminder of Future Council Meeting a. May 6, 2025, Closed Session 6:00 p.m., Open Session 7:00 p.m. 14. With no further business, the Mayor adjourned the meeting at 7:43 p.m. General Info Town of Pulaski Town Manager’s Office P.O. Box 660 42 1st Street NW Pulaski, VA 24301 540-994-8602 April 30, 2025 To: Mayor Shannon Collins, Town of Pulaski Town Council Members From: Olivia Hale, Clerk of Council RE: March Department Head Monthly Summary Clerk of Council- Olivia Hale • IIMC Assessment Assignment • IIMC Online Training Courses (2) • 04/01 Town Council meeting/minutes • 04/07 ARB packets/ meeting/ minutes • 04/15 Town Council packets/ meeting/ minutes • 04/29 Budget Work Session meeting/minutes • Worked with the Engineering Dept. to develop recommended ordinance changes for the Cemetery Board • On-boarding for new board members • Updating Zoning Ordinance handbook for Planning Commission members (8 books) • May Event Calendar • Various news ads for The Patriot • Website/Social Media updates • Facebook Live with Engineering Dept at Filter Plant • FOIA Requests (3) Fire Department- Chief Jeff Conner • Ran 70 calls o 3 Structure Fires o 4 Other Type Fires (Brush, Cooking, Trash) o 21 EMS calls o 14 Motor Vehicle Crashes o 2 Gas leaks o 3 Hazmat calls o 3 Illegal burns o 17 Public Service calls and false alarms o 1 Police assist o 2 Power Lines Down • Training o 4 Volunteers completed Firefighter 2 o 1 Career Staff continued EMT- Basic o 1 Career staff and 1 Volunteer started Fire Officer 1 o Weekend department school – Extrication training Economic Development- Shannon Ainsley New: Pulaski on Main/Town of Pulaski were selected as one of 10 communities to take part in a pilot program with Virginia Main Street and Friends of Southwest Virginia to evaluate underutilized properties and determine their best. This will involve you as Council members, Pulaski on Main Board members, Town staff, property owners, business owners, and citizens. We will communicate specific dates and times of your requested involvement soon via email. This will take place the 2nd week in June. The following will be an invitation to citizens: Help Shape the Future of Downtown Join us for a Walking Visioning Tour in the Town of Pulaski! This is your opportunity to share ideas and a vision for the heart of our community. What types of businesses would you like to see? What makes our downtown vibrant and inviting? Let your voice be heard and be part of an exciting conversation about the future of our town! This Walking Visioning Tour is a key component of the Downtown Inventory + Real Estate Redevelopment Strategy project with nationally recognized consultant, Place + Main Advisors. This project is a comprehensive effort to revitalize downtown areas across ten Virginia Main Street communities, including the Town of Pulaski, aiming to identify development opportunities, analyze market conditions, and attract investment by creating a data-driven redevelopment strategy. The project was made possible through the support of the Appalachian Regional Commission in partnership with Friends of Southwest Virginia, Virginia Main Street, and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Meetings with economic development partners: • Met with Pulaski County and Retail Strategies to update them on projects and initiates here in the Town that impact the promotion of our area. • Engaged in collaborative discussions with economic development professionals from neighboring localities to exchange ideas and explore best practices. Business Growth: •New business license applied for: o Main St. Boutique & Bath – opening May 16th (formerly weekend boutique) o Premier Auto (the old Reynolds Performance) Ongoing: •Website update is progressing. •Working on updating Town business incentives to attract new businesses. •Pursuing grant opportunities as they pertain to economic development. •Business newsletter is delivered digitally, monthly. Engagement with Businesses and Property Owners: •Conduct regular visits to businesses to enhance retention efforts. •Maintain communication with Main Street businesses to assess their needs and ensure minimal disruption during construction. Upcoming business celebrations in the ToP: o Main Street Boutique – Grand Opening May 16th, 10am – 6 pm o Bimmerworld – June 12, 2025, 12:00 pm, Memorial Square •Coordinate with Pulaski on Main and Virginia Main Street to maintain the Mobilizing Main Street efforts Filter Plant- David Peyton We collected quarterly and annual samples for VDH along with our monthly samples. The monthly operating report was submitted to VDH. Edmr sent in to DEQ. Due to warm weather and fixed leaks we have been able to reduce hours run. We have been able to reduce the chemical usage as the warm weather helps us. Repaired multiple chlorine leaks. Alkalinity Has been usually low so still adding additional soda ash light to boost alkalinity. Replaced modem at Bertha tank. Had a water break on Main Street on 4/8. Talked with Sandy at Hayden, our lighting system has bulbs they can’t get anymore. She recommended replacing ballasts and going with LED replacement. Skimmed the Pulsator. Due to a power failure had to reset Air Scour drive unit. Repaired hole in concrete walkway. Had to reset Pierce Avenue PS, problems with the telemetry. Fire at apartments downtown. Fire Department had to use lots of water to extinguish it. Received a silver award for the operation of the plant from VDH for the year of 2024. Police Department- Chief Sam Shumate The only thing the police department has is that our newer officers are out of Field Training and doing great. We promoted Officer Jamie Williamson to Sergeant. We are running a hiring process for officers for the July academy, along with taking applications for a Lieutenant’s position. We have one lieutenant leaving May 9 to go to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office. The police department continues to work hard answering calls, protecting the community, and getting much-needed time off over the next couple of months. The 17 months without losing someone has come to an end with the lieutenant going to the county. It’s out of the ordinary to go this long under a new chief without losing anyone, and it's something that I’m very proud of. I know of one more that is building a house in North Carolina and will be finished with that in the fall if everything goes as planned for him. He has been working on this house before I ever arrived here in the town. I also have one looking to go to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office because of his newborn child, and closer to home for him. This is where the police department stands at this moment. Public Works- Kim Caudill Street Department •Began mowing town wide, two cemeteries •Contract mowing of 6 of 8 parks began •Put down gravel on the trail that was washed out by rain •Patched potholes with cold patch town wide as requested •Patched water break repair areas •Operate brush site each Saturday (part time attendant M-F 1:00 – 5:00) •Cleaned catch basins town wide as needed. •Packed dumpsters at the convenience center 3-4 times weekly •Empty town trash cans and pick up trash/debris from roadside at least once weekly General Properties Department •Continue prepping and erection of parking shed(s) on the Public Works lot •Worked on fountain in Jackson Park. Drained/cleaned/refilled •Cleaned out fountain after contract mowing •Worked on AC in the Municipal Building Vehicle Maintenance Department •Performed oil changes on 12 units •Performed 3 state inspections •Performed 12 daily checks on patrol units •Serviced/repaired multiple NRVSS/PAT buses •Serviced mowing equipment Water/Sewer Department •Continued to check pump stations daily. Perform house keeping in both 4A and 4B •Working on pumps and motors at 4B •Dealt with overflow due to transformer shorting out •Repaired 2 water service line leaks •Ran all problematic sewers once weekly. Responded to 4 separate sewer back up calls •Sprayed and cleaned Food Lion lot twice and worked with Fire Dept to further clean up area from major water line break •Responded to 123163 Miss Utility Locates •Non payment disconnects •Assisted in manual reading of zero reads for meters •Continued to replace non functioning meters and drilling lids to insert endpoints Outdoor Facilities- Nathan Repass •Provided support for the Easter Egg Hunt event in Jackson Park •Coordinated dirt delivery and install with the local gardening club for the Train Depot planters •Provided support for the Marketplace Spring Edition •Hiked in to inspect and clear Draper Mountain Trails •Worked with volunteers to repair the Pollinator Garden in Heritage Park after vandalism •Represented the Town at monthly board meetings for Friends of Peak Creek and Pulaski On Main non-profits •Attended the first session of 6 Southwest Virginia Local Government Leadership Academy trainings •Assisted with Save our Streams volunteer water quality monitoring of Peak Creek; counting macroinvertebrates in the water to evaluate stream health; Peak Creek scored an 11 out of a possible 12, indicating a healthy stream •Processed 7 Heritage Park shelter reservations Finance Department- Jackie Morris •Completed the budget for FY26 and met with Town manager and Council for a work session •Preparing budget ads for public hearing in May 2025 •Attended an ARPA webinar and submitted yearly report on expenditures and allocated funds •Attended a meeting with the Calfee School board •Preparing requested reports for the auditors prior to year end and completing adjusting entries from prior year •Fulfilling responsibilities of the Assistant Finance Director due to vacancy •Processed real estate bills for first half totaling - $929,218.84 •Processed utility bills – 4264 •Customers participating with E-bills – 476 •Customers participating with ACH - 696 •Non-payment cutoffs for the month – 55 •Revenue collection for month of April: General Fund - $337,150.80 Water Fund - $219,754.41 Sewer Fund - $369,829.31 Garbage Fund - $ 69,236.33 Total - $995,970.85 May 2025 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 EDA Meeting Council Chambers 10am Town Council Meeting Council Chambers 7pm 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Mother’s Day Planning Commission Meeting Council Chambers 6pm Marketplace Opens Train Station 4-7pm Water Cut Off Day Cemetery Board Meeting Council Chambers 6pm Chrome in the Valley Cruise-In Jackson Park 11a-1p Music & Merchants Festival Downtown 4-9pm 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Town Council Meeting Council Chambers 7pm 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Town Offices & Convenience Center Closed for Memorial Day ____________________GFL Bulk Pickup Week ____________________ *Note* The Marketplace season schedule: Every Tuesday evening from 4-7pm at the Train station located at 20 S. Washington Ave from May 13th- August 26th * May Pulaski Senior Center 540-994-8627 2025 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 Sign up Day 8:30a.m.-5:00p.m. Breakfast at the Center 9:00a.m./$3.00 Movie at 12:00p.m. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Open Day: Come enjoy the center. Movie at 12:00p.m. Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Highland Ridge Craft 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m. Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Mystery Lunch Bunch 10:00a.m./ $4.00 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Mother’s Day Walker Valley Market 10:30a.m. Lunch on your own. $4.00 Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Ruritan Bingo & Lunch 11:00a.m./ Free Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Library Craft 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Olive Garden and New River Valley Mall 10:45a.m./$4.00 Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Bingo at the Center 11:00a.m./ Free Movie at 1:00p.m. Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Hot Dogs and Chips 11:45a.m./ $4.00 Movie at 1:15p.m. 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Senior Center Closed Memorial Day Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Bingo at the Center 11:00a.m./Free Movie at 1:00p.m. Friendship Café’ 9:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Come enjoy the Center Movie Day and Lunch 11:30a.m./ $3.00 *Please sign up for all events you plan on attending* May 21st Bereavement Group: 3PM-4PM Financial Information Expenditure Reports Revenue Report