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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-16-26Town Council Meeting Minutes June 16, 2026 1. The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and asked for a roll call. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 2. Modification to Closed Session: The Mayor asked for a motion to add one item under VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 29 (1 item): Award of a Public Contract Involving the Expenditure of Public Funds, Great Wilderness Brewery. The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilwoman Cope. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 3. The Mayor asked for a motion to enter into Closed Session to discuss the following items: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 5 (1 item): Prospective Location of a New Business or Expansion of an Existing One i. Economic Development b. VA Code 2.2-371 1 (A) I (1 item): Personnel i. Town Manager c. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 29 (1 item): Award of a Public Contract Involving the Expenditure of Public Funds i. Great Wilderness Brewery The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Vice -Mayor Dawson. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye The following council members and staff entered into Closed Session: Councilman Clark, Councilwoman Cope, Vice -Mayor Dawson, Councilman Clontz, Councilman Erickson, Councilman Burchett, Mayor Collins, Town Manager, Todd Day, and Town Attorneys, Scot Farthing and Andrew McBride. 7:00 p.m. Open Session Page 1 of 14/ June 16, 2026 4. Certification of Closed Session- The Mayor asked for a motion to certify that only the following items were discussed during Closed Session: a. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 5 (1 item): Prospective Location of a New Business or Expansion of an Existing One i. Economic Development b. VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 1 (1 item): Personnel i. Town Manager VA Code 2.2-3711 (A) 29 (1 item): Award of a Public Contract Involving the Expenditure of Public Funds i. Great Wilderness Brewery The motion was made by Councilwoman Cope and seconded by Vice -Mayor Dawson. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye 5. Councilman Clontz led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. 6. Councilwoman Cope gave the invocation. 7. The Mayor welcomed all in attendance and those viewing online. 8. Modification to Closed Session: No modifications were made. 9. Presentations a. Virginia Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund- Austin Painter, Town of Pulaski Project Engineer Town Project Engineer, Austin Painter provided an update on the Pulaski Interceptor Project, which involves rehabilitation of a major interceptor sewer line running through Dublin. This line carries wastewater from the Town of Pulaski, portions of Pulaski County, and the Town of Dublin. Mr. Painter announced significant funding success through the Virginia Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund. The project received $3.63 million in principal forgiveness on a total project cost of approximately $6.6 million, meaning 55% of the project cost will effectively be covered as a grant. This far exceeded the town's original expectation of approximately 15% principal forgiveness. Additionally, the remaining loan balance of just over $2.9 million will carry a favorable 0.5% interest rate, substantially lower than the anticipated 2.5% rate. Page 2 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Because of the increased grant funding and reduced borrowing costs, the town expects to expand the scope of the project, potentially rehabilitating additional sewer line footage and manholes beyond the original plan. Mr. Painter explained that the Town of Pulaski, Pulaski County, and the Town of Dublin are working under an existing sewer agreement that requires project costs to be allocated based on each locality's share of wastewater flow through the interceptor. Flow percentages provided by the Peppers Ferry Regional Wastewater Treatment Authority are being used to develop a formal cost -sharing agreement. Town staff and attorneys are currently coordinating with the other localities to finalize this arrangement. Vice -Mayor Dawson asked whether Pulaski County and Dublin would need to formally approve their financial obligations before the project could proceed. Manager Day confirmed that both localities are aware of the project and have been involved in discussions. Representatives from all parties had met earlier that day, and attorneys from each jurisdiction would review a draft agreement prepared by Pulaski's attorney. The proposed cost allocation is expected to reflect actual wastewater flows through the system. Dublin's share was described as relatively small, while the Town of Pulaski accounts for roughly 70% of the flow, with the remainder attributed to Pulaski County. Manager Day explained that annual "true -up" calculations would be performed to reconcile actual costs and usage, a standard practice in intergovernmental agreements. The cost -sharing arrangement will mirror language already contained in the existing sewer agreement. Manager Day emphasized that the project is being driven by requirements from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and noted that sewer rate increases over the previous three years had been implemented in part to address these infrastructure obligations. Despite receiving favorable financing terms, the town intends to continue following its existing long-term infrastructure plan. Mr. Painter reported that the project submitted to DEQ includes rehabilitation of 61 manholes and nearly 10,000 linear feet of sewer line. The town intends to bid the project based on this approved scope while requesting unit -price bids from contractors. Using unit pricing will allow the town to expand the project after bids are received if funding permits. Contractors will provide a fixed cost per linear foot Page 3 of 14/ June 16, 2026 and per manhole, allowing additional work to be added through change orders without exposing the town to unexpected pricing increases. Councilman Clark questioned how the bidding structure would work. Mr. Painter explained that while the contract would establish a fixed quantity of work, any additions during the project would use the pre -established unit prices. However, once the project is completed and the contract officially closed, future work years later would require a new bidding process and new pricing. Councilman Burchett requested clarification on the physical limits of the project. Mr. Painter explained that the rehabilitation begins where the interceptor transitions from a force main to a gravity sewer near the entrance to Dublin along Route 11. The approximately 10,000-foot project extends through Dublin and ends near the Stone Ridge residential development. Mr. Painter acknowledged that many thousands of additional feet of interceptor line remain beyond the project area. Preliminary evaluations indicate that conditions generally improve farther downstream, although additional maintenance and rehabilitation work will likely be required in the future as part of the town's ongoing responsibility for the system. Mr. Painter stated that the anticipated construction duration is approximately ten months once work begins when questioned about the timeframe from Councilwoman Cope. b. 177 Acres Housing Development Project Update- Austin Painter Mr. Painter reported that the property sale remains under review by SHAH Development. A subdivision plat has undergone multiple revisions involving the town's attorneys, SHAH's attorneys, and the surveyor. What Mr. Painter described as the final version of the plat is currently being reviewed by SHAH. Once approved, it will be recorded and forwarded to the attorneys so the transfer documents can be finalized. He also reported progress on development review activities. The town has completed and approved its review of the project's stormwater management plans, and inspections conducted under the town's internal specifications have also been successfully completed. Two major reviews remain underway, including a transportation review that has been submitted to VDOT for technical review, even though the town maintains authority over its own roads. Town staff wanted an independent evaluation of the proposed roadway design and traffic impacts. VDOT reviewed the plans and provided comments, which the town Page 4 of 14/ June 16. 2026 adjusted as needed before forearding them to Westwood, the engineering firm designing Phase One. Mr. Painter highlighted one particularly important area of review: roadway capacity. The town specifically requested that the developer analyze traffic impacts on Peppers Ferry Road as well as other key intersections, including Route 11 and Memorial Drive. VDOT concluded that the Phase One development would not create capacity concerns requiring additional turning lanes or roadway modifications. However, VDOT emphasized that future phases of the project would require a comprehensive Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) and more detailed studies of roadway capacity and turning movements. Those requirements have been formally communicated to both Westwood and the developer, SHAH. He then discussed the final major review component: utilities. SHAH and Westwood have hired CHA, the same engineering consultant that maintains the town's water system hydraulic model, to perform a detailed analysis of the town's ability to serve the development. The study will evaluate water system capacity and hydraulic performance and will result in a professional engineer —sealed report. Once completed, the report will be submitted to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) for review and approval. Mr. Painter stated that CHA was preparing to begin detailed discussions on the analysis and that the town is working to ensure all aspects of the development satisfy both local standards and regulatory agency requirements. Councilman Burchett asked when physical construction might begin. Manager Day cautioned that substantial work remains before construction can start. He reported ongoing conversations with project representatives, including David Hagan and Missy Gentry, and said several final documents are still being assembled before the project can move forward. Manager Day acknowledged concerns raised during previous public hearings, particularly regarding infrastructure demands such as parking and water supply. However, he characterized those concerns as indicators of growth rather than problems. He noted that communities facing increased demand for housing, water, and services are generally experiencing positive economic development. The discussion broadened into the importance of growth for the community's long-term sustainability. Manager Day reiterated his belief that communities that stop growing eventually decline and that local governments are often left with only two options: increase taxes or encourage growth. Since the town cannot control which businesses or residents choose to locate in Pulaski, officials said their responsibility is to make the community as attractive as possible for investment and development. Page 5 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Councilman Erickson asked what would happen if future development phases caused traffic levels to exceed roadway capacity. Mr. Painter explained that the required traffic studies for future phases would identify any deficiencies and recommend solutions. Because those studies have not yet been completed, specific mitigation measures cannot yet be determined. Manager Day explained that VDOT evaluates roadways using a grading system similar to academic letter grades, ranging from A through F. The town wants to avoid conditions approaching a D or F level of service because such conditions indicate congestion and reduced roadway performance. If traffic conditions become problematic, VDOT would raise concerns and provide recommendations. Councilman Erickson specifically discussed Peppers Ferry Road, noting its narrow sections and limited room for opposing traffic in some locations. Questions were raised about whether the town would eventually have the ability to widen the road if traffic volumes increased significantly. Manager Day responded that road widening is a major undertaking that typically requires acquiring additional right-of-way through purchases or donations from property owners. Any such improvements would ultimately be the responsibility of the Town of Pulaski, and decisions regarding how aggressively to pursue roadway improvements would be policy decisions made by local elected officials. While acknowledging residents' concerns about traffic, Manager Day again emphasized that increased demand on infrastructure is often a byproduct of successful community growth. Councilman Erickson also asked how the town estimates future water demand from a completed development and how officials can ensure adequate water pressure in neighborhoods surrounding the project, particularly given the nearby water tower. Manager Day explained that several engineering and regulatory safeguards exist. Any new water line with fire hydrants must receive approval from the Virginia Department of Health, which reviews hydraulic modeling to verify that adequate flows can be maintained. Fire protection requirements also ensure that system operation does not reduce residential water pressure below 20 PSI during fire - flow conditions. He also discussed potential future options should water demand eventually exceed current capacities. These options could include purchasing additional water from the Public Service Authority (PSA), similar to arrangements that have been used previously. He cited an example in which the PSA supplied water to the James Page 6 of 14/ June 16, 2026 I Hardie facility for nearly a month while water system issues were being addressed. Manager Day also explained the relationship between elevation and water pressure, noting that pressure is determined by the height difference between the water storage tank and the customer. Pressure can be reduced through pressure - reducing valves, but increasing pressure generally requires mechanical assistance. While many questions about long-term water demand remain unanswered, Manager emphasized that the hydraulic studies currently underway are intended to provide those answers before development proceeds. As the discussion concluded, Vice -Mayor Dawson thanked Mr. Painter for the update and emphasized that the purpose of the presentation was to demonstrate to both the council and the public the extensive level of analysis, regulation, and oversight involved in the development process. He noted that issues involving roads, water, sewer infrastructure, and other public services are thoroughly studied and reviewed before approvals are granted. Manager Day agreed and stated that the town would continue providing updates as additional studies are completed and more information becomes available. 10. Public Hearing a. Transfer of Town -Owned Property to the Town of Pulaski Redevelopment and Housing Authority The Mayor explained the public hearing procedures, reminding attendees that the hearing was intended solely to receive public input on the proposed land transfer. Citizens wishing to speak were instructed to sign in, identify themselves, and limit comments to three minutes. The Mayor emphasized that public hearings are one- way communications designed to gather input and that council would not respond to questions or comments during the hearing. The official public hearing notice was then read into the record. The notice explained that the council was considering the transfer of three town -owned parcels identified as tax map numbers 072-22-156-2, 072-22-156-3, and 072-22- 156-5 to the Town of Pulaski Redevelopment and Housing Authority. The properties are located on South Madison Avenue and would be transferred to support redevelopment efforts, eliminate blighted conditions, and advance future housing opportunities. Page 7 of 14/ June 16, 2026 The notice further stated that the full text of the proposed ordinance was available for public inspection at the Town Manager's Office and that written comments could be submitted by email or mail prior to the hearing. After completing the reading of the public hearing notice, Manager Day provided additional context for the proposed transfer of town -owned property to the Town of Pulaski Redevelopment and Housing Authority. He addressed a common question from the public: why the town would transfer property without receiving direct payment. He explained that the Housing Authority is a legislatively authorized entity closely affiliated with the Town of Pulaski and possesses powers that the town government itself does not have. Similar to economic development authorities and industrial development authorities, the Housing Authority is structured to pursue redevelopment activities that serve the community's long-term interests. He emphasized that different local government managers might pursue different approaches to achieving redevelopment goals, but the town's objective remains the same: eliminating blight and encouraging reinvestment. Manager Day noted that the town has a significant number of dilapidated properties and that addressing them has historically been difficult because of the substantial costs involved. He referenced legislation championed by former Delegate Todd Pillion that has provided communities with tools to address blighted properties and seek grant funding for demolition and redevelopment efforts. Manager Day acknowledged that demolition projects are funded with taxpayer dollars and are expensive to complete. However, he argued that replacing deteriorated structures with new homes ultimately provides a positive return on investment through neighborhood improvement, increased property values, and future tax revenue. He explained that the goal of the program is to transfer cleared properties to the Housing Authority, which can then work with qualified builders to construct new homes. The town currently has three such properties available and has been working with a developer regarding potential redevelopment opportunities. He referenced a solicitation letter issued from his office on February 18 seeking qualified contractors interested in participating in the program. According to Manager Day, only a limited number of contractors have expressed interest, including SHAH and one additional contractor. Contractors must meet several requirements, including holding a Virginia Class A Contractor license, carrying appropriate insurance and bonding, providing statements of qualifications and Page 8 of 14/ June 16. 2026 experience, demonstrating previous residential construction work, showing financial capacity, and providing estimated construction schedules. Manager Day emphasized that these requirements are designed to protect the town and ensure that no additional public funds are required for home construction. Rather than the town financing new homes, qualified developers would assume responsibility for construction after receiving the property. The town's primary investment is the acquisition and demolition of blighted structures. He further explained that legal agreements have been reviewed by the town's attorneys and include provisions requiring developers to complete construction within specified timeframes. If obligations are not met, contractual provisions allow the town or Housing Authority to recover its interests. Depending on the qualifications and financial strength of a developer, performance bonds may also be required. Manager Day concluded by encouraging anyone aware of qualified contractors capable of participating in the program to contact the town. Before opening the public hearing. council members discussed the redevelopment strategy. Vice -Mayor Dawson expressed strong support for the program, noting that blighted properties have been a recurring concern for many years. He highlighted successful examples where deteriorated properties had been replaced with new homes occupied by new residents. He stated that the greatest limitation facing the program is not a lack of commitment but rather constraints involving funding, available contractors, legal processes, and the time required to move properties through the court system. He also noted that the town is actively pursuing approximately one hundred problematic properties and that progress is limited by available resources and redevelopment capacity. Councilman Erickson raised concerns regarding the financial return on taxpayer investment. He pointed out that the town often spends approximately $25,000 demolishing and clearing a blighted property before transferring the lot for redevelopment. Councilman Erickson questioned whether the town should attempt to sell the cleared lots for an amount equal to its investment before transferring them, arguing that doing so would allow taxpayers to recover some of the public funds spent on demolition. Page 9 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Councilwoman Cope and Councilman Burchett responded that the town's primary objective is eliminating blight and returning properties to productive use. They argued that even if the initial demolition cost is not recovered immediately, long- term benefits arise when new homes are built and returned to the tax rolls. Manager Day acknowledged Councilman Erickson's suggestion and proposed testing the concept on future properties to determine whether qualified buyers would be willing to purchase lots while also committing to construct homes on them. Manager Day noted that, based on past experience, many of the lots involved are small or challenging development sites, making it difficult to find builders willing to pay substantial amounts for the land in addition to covering construction costs. Nevertheless, Manager Day agreed that attempting such a sale in the future would allow the town to demonstrate that it had explored all available options. Mayor Collins opened the Public Hearing. Melinda Musick suggested that the town consider offering cleared lots for sale to neighboring property owners as an alternative redevelopment strategy. She also criticized the high cost of demolishing blighted structures, arguing that demolition expenses often seem excessive relative to the value of the properties and questioned why taxpayers should bear demolition costs if the resulting lots are ultimately transferred without compensation. With no additional speakers, the Mayor then closed the Public Hearing and indicated that action on the property transfer ordinance would be scheduled for a future meeting rather than voted on immediately. 1 1. Voting Items a. Resolution 2026- 21 Adopting Water Rates for FY 2026-2027 The motion was made by Vice -Mayor Dawson and seconded by Councilman Clark to adopt Resolution 2026-21 as written. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye b. Resolution 2026-22 Appropriating Grant Funds The motion was made by Councilwoman Cope and seconded by Councilman Clark to adopt Resolution 2026-22 as written. Page 10 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 12. Public Comment Period Melinda Musick addressed several concerns regarding town infrastructure, budgeting, and utility rates. She criticized the condition of certain town streets, specifically mentioning State Street and Highland Terrace, and argued that road repairs should be a higher priority. She referenced budget allocations for streets and highways and questioned why roadway conditions remained poor despite the level of funding identified in the budget. Ms. Musick also questioned police department funding, suggesting that staffing decisions involving part-time officers may have affected budget allocations. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding solid waste and wastewater -related charges. She claimed that fee increases imposed on residents appeared disproportionately larger than the town's corresponding increase in expenses and urged council to reexamine the figures. She also raised concerns about gasoline prices at a local service station, alleging excessive pricing practices. 13. Consent Agenda a. Consideration of June 2, 2026 Town Council Meeting Minutes The motion was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilwoman Cope to adopt the minutes as written. Jeremy L. Clark- Aye G. Tyler Clontz- Aye Mayor Collins- Aye Sunshine N. Cope- Aye Steven W. Erickson- Aye Brooks R. Dawson- Aye Joel B. Burchett- Aye 14. Council Comments & Board Updates Councilwoman Cope highlighted upcoming community events, particularly the upcoming 4x4 Takeover Cruise -In event scheduled for Saturday. She expressed enthusiasm about the variety of vehicles expected to attend and encouraged residents to participate. She also praised progress on the mural project, noting that it is becoming a popular attraction for residents and visitors who stop to take photographs. She suggested promoting the mural further through social media and hashtags to increase visibility and engagement. Vice -Mayor Dawson congratulated Town Project Engineer Austin Painter for his work on securing funding assistance for the Pulaski Interceptor Project. He emphasized the significance of obtaining approximately $3.63 million in principal forgiveness through Page 1 1 of 14/ June 16, 2026 C� the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), noting that the funding substantially reduces the burden on local taxpayers. He remarked that while such presentations can sometimes seem routine, the financial impact is substantial because the town will be able to complete needed infrastructure improvements without requiring taxpayers to fund the full project cost. He also expressed appreciation to DEQ for its cooperation in the process. Responding to comments made during the public comment period, Vice -Mayor Dawson clarified that roadway funding is not simply discretionary money available exclusively for pothole repairs. He explained that much of the funding comes from state allocations designated for transportation -related purposes and must be used to address a wide range of street and highway needs throughout the town. He stated that council's responsibility is to use those state -provided resources as effectively as possible to address the town's transportation priorities. Councilman Erickson reported on a recent meeting of the Virginia's First Regional Industrial Authority. He noted that the authority recently held a public comment period concerning a proposed data center project. Several residents attended to voice concerns about the proposal. Councilman Erickson emphasized that the authority's role at this stage is to listen to public feedback and gather information. He stated that there were no major updates regarding the project but acknowledged that many questions and concerns have been raised by citizens and stakeholders. Councilman Erickson revisited the earlier discussion regarding the 177-acre housing development project. He clarified that his questions should not be interpreted as opposition to the development. To the contrary, he expressed support for the project and stated that he hopes to see all planned phases completed successfully. His primary concern, he explained, is ensuring that potential infrastructure impacts are identified early rather than becoming costly surprises later. He specifically referenced possible future road improvements and water system upgrades that could arise as the development expands through later phases. He stressed the importance of careful long- term planning so that major infrastructure obligations do not unexpectedly fall upon the town after development is underway. Councilman Burchett expressed appreciation for Austin Painter's continued work managing the complex 177-acre development project and noted that progress appears to be moving steadily forward. He also provided updates on several community improvement projects. He reported that restoration work on the caboose is progressing well and appears likely to be completed in time for the town's July 4 celebrations. Residents watching online were encouraged to visit and see the restoration efforts in person. Page 12 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Additional positive updates included construction activity related to the new farmers market and continued progress on the mural project at the Fine Arts Center. Councilman Burchett also thanked Public Works employees for their efforts to restore and reconstruct parts of the historic cannon display, including work on replacement wheels. Councilman Burchett also requested an update on several long -discussed blighted properties along Route 11, including sites near the former flower shop and former vehicle storage locations. Manager Day responded with encouraging news, reporting that one of the targeted structures had been demolished earlier that day. He indicated that photographs had been emailed to council members documenting the demolition. He further stated that additional structures along Route 11 are expected to be removed in the near future. The discussion concluded with council members identifying the specific properties involved, including references to the former green house and other long -vacant commercial structures that have been subjects of redevelopment and code enforcement efforts. Following the conclusion of board updates, Mayor Collins reflected on the public comment period and emphasized support for citizen participation in local government. He stated that public comments are valued and encouraged, but expressed frustration when individuals ask questions during public comment and then leave before hearing any responses or clarifications that may be provided later in the meeting. Mayor Collins noted that council intentionally avoids interrupting speakers during public comment in order to preserve each speaker's allotted time. However, residents are encouraged to remain for the remainder of the meeting if they wish to hear additional information or clarification regarding issues they raise. Addressing concerns mentioned earlier during public comment, Mayor Collins stated that town crews have been actively repairing potholes throughout the community and had completed repairs in multiple locations recently. He also highlighted the progress being made on the caboose restoration project, reporting that discussions with staff indicated the work would be completed by July 2 so that it would be ready for public viewing during Independence Day festivities and the community parade. Mayor Collins also responded to comments regarding alleged gasoline price gouging. It was explained that fuel pricing enforcement falls under the jurisdiction of Virginia's Weights and Measures program rather than the Town of Pulaski. Residents with concerns about fuel pricing or pump accuracy were encouraged to contact the appropriate state agency for investigation. 15. Manager's Report Page 13 of 14/ June 16, 2026 Manager Day followed with brief remarks, noting that many of the topics he intended to discuss had already been addressed by council members. He expressed excitement about the caboose restoration project and stated that, to the town's knowledge, it will be the only caboose in Virginia painted in its selected color scheme. He voiced hope that the unique restoration would become a tourism attraction and bring additional visitors to Pulaski. Manager Day also took time to recognize town staff for their work. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of town employees involved in preparing agendas, organizing public hearings, maintaining legal notices, supporting boards and commissions, and handling the numerous administrative responsibilities required to keep town government functioning effectively. He noted that much of this work occurs behind the scenes and often goes unnoticed by the public, but is critical to the town's operations. 16. Reminder of Future Council Meeting a. July 7, 2026 Closed Session 6:00 p.m.; Open Session 7:00 p.m. Before adjourning, Mayor Collins wished residents a happy Independence Day, noting that council would not meet again until after the holiday. He encouraged citizens to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary and reflect on the freedoms enjoyed by Americans regardless of current political or social disagreements. Mayor Collins emphasized the importance of remembering the principles upon which the country was founded and the freedoms that allow citizens to participate in government and public life. Councilman Erickson also noted that Town Hall would be closed on Friday in observance of Juneteenth. 17. With no further business, the Mayor adjourned the meeting at 7:57 p.m. AT EST Olivia C. Hale Clerk of Council TOWN of PUL KI, RGINIA W. Shannon Collins Mayor Page 14 of 14/ June 16, 2026