DAMASCUS
TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES
FOR APRIL 2, 2007
Council
Members Present: Mariana Farmer, Mitchel Greer, Jim Cartwright,
Lannis Greene, Johnny Blevins and Maurice Parris
Creed
Jones, Mayor
Tonya
Triplett, Clerk
Aaron
Sizemore, Town Manager
Thomas
Dene, Town Attorney
Mayor
Jones called the meeting to order.
Mr.
Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance and Pastor Jane Ayers prayer.
ü
Mr. Cartwright made a motion to approve the March 5 minutes
with a spelling correction on page five corrected 2nd by Ms.
Farmer (6-0).
ü
Mr. Cartwright made a motion to approve the special called meeting
of March 12 minutes as written, 2nd by Ms. Farmer (6-0).
David
Winship addressed council about a new program, Imagination Library
that provides books to children 0-5 years old. Mr. Winship requested
town council support the program with a $500 donation and leads
on any more monies that might be available.
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to approve the $500 for the Imagination
Library 2nd by Mr. Greer (6-0).
Mayor
Jones deviated from the agenda to allow discussion on the library
property. A survey was done on the property near the pool and
it was determined the property was not large enough for a library.
Mr. Cartwright recommended going back to the original Water
Street property, also informed council if the $100,000 from
the Tobacco Commission would have to be returned if not spent
before October.
Ms.
Lamb stated the sign on the pool states 50% of the money for
the pool was federal through The Department of Conservation
and Recreation and any property purchased must be used as a
public recreational facility.
Ms.
Farmer stated the property was not purchased a part of the pool,
but was purchased at a later date.
Ms.
Lamb asked council to choose Water Street for the location of
the library.
Carolyn
Fleenor, Friends of the Library, asked council to support the
Water Street location.
Terry
Kammer stated a survey to both properties were done and Water
Street property won by only one point and would like know if
a new survey was done.
Mr.
Sizemore explained that when we first started looking at the
sites, in order to save money, they used the county’s
tax maps, but they were not correct and a true survey determined
the property too small.
Ms.
Campbell stated we need a library in Damascus.
ü
Mr. Cartwright made a motion to adopt the ordinance giving three
lots on Water Street to the Library, 2nd by Mr. Greene (6-0).
TOWN
OF DAMASCUS
ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING AND
DIRECTING
SALE OF PUBLIC PROPERTY
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Washington, County, Virginia,
(“the Board”) has proposed to construct a new public
library within the corporate limits of the Town of Damascus,
Virginia (“Damascus” or “the Town”);
and
WHEREAS, the Board has proposed that the Damascus Town Council
grant the Board three (3) parcels or lots of land located within
the Town for the purpose of erecting a public library upon same,
said lots or parcels being identified on the tax map of Washington
County as parcels numbered 172 B3-1-2, 172 B3-1-2A, and 172
B3-1-6 (“the real property”); and
WHEREAS, the Damascus Town Council has held a public hearing
on February 5, 2007 as required by law upon this ordinance authorizing
and directing said proposed grant, after notice of said hearing
was advertised once a week for two (2) successive weeks in the
Washington County News, a newspaper of general circulation in
the Town and Washington County, Virginia; and
WHEREAS, the Damascus Town Council finds that the citizens of
the Town would be substantially benefited by the erection of
a new public library; and
NOW, THEREFORE, be it hereby RESOLVED:
1.
That the sale of the real property to the Board for the sum
of One Dollar ($1.00) is hereby approved.
2.
The Mayor is authorized and directed to execute any and all
documents necessary to effectuate such sale, protecting and
preserving the Town’s right in the event the real property
ceases to be used as a public library, and ensuring that the
Board will construct a replacement basketball court at its expense.
ADOPTED
this 2nd day of April, 2007.
____________________
Blevins
____________________
Cartwright
____________________
Farmer
____________________
Greene
____________________
Greer
____________________
Parris
Mr.
Blevins stated in 1977 the water was more than five feet deep
on Wilson Street, and insurance can’t be purchased for
a building in a floodway. The handicapped ramp will have to
be over 100 ft. long.
Mr.
Bron Duncan questioned why his house, which is right across
from the Water Street property, was under about 4 ft. of water
and is classified in the 500 year floodplain.
Ms.
Farmer is not against a library, but has concerns about the
building being placed on Water Street.
Mr.
James Gilland stated he has been in every flood in the town
and has never been in water over his head.
Ms.
Grasselli reported the Virginia Creeper Trail Club is interested
in painting the Caboose at a cost of $500 and any financial
assistance from the town would be appreciated. Ms. Grasselli
will check to see if Norfolk Southern would be willing to donation
some paint.
Mr.
Russell McBride does not have enough information about the campground
development, so he requested coming back next month.
Committee Reports
Budget, Finance and Administration – Mr. Cartwright
Mr.
Cartwright reported the budget process has begun and thanked
Ms. Farmer and all council members for their help. The next
meeting is scheduled for April 18, 2007 at 6:00pm.
Employees
have permission to use town letterhead to purchase personal
gear at a discount, but must arrange their own financing. The
town will no longer pay for the items and take deductions from
paychecks.
A
representative from Nationwide Retirement Systems will be at
Town Hall on April 10 at 9:00 am to inform and register employees
who want to participate.
Street, Lights and Maintenance- Mr. Greer
ü
Mr. Greer made a motion to purchase a new riding mower at the
low bid of $6,382 from Abingdon Mower, 2nd by Mr. Greene (6-0).
ü
Mr. Greer made a motion to use unused funds in the public works
budget to purchase equipment and push mowers, up to $1,500 2nd
by Ms. Farmer (6-0).
Mayor
Jones has concerns about children playing in the ditch on North
Shady Avenue, near the river, and if the town would be responsible
if someone were to get hurt.
Sewer,
Water and Sanitation- Ms. Farmer
Ms. Farmer reported the Sewer Committee met on the 26th and
discussed a request to supply sewer to One Way Ministries on
Government Road. The committee would like to have an engineer
look at it to see what is required.
Gary
Ritchie thanked the council and sewer committee for investigating
the situation. The church feels it should be close to Damascus
and has served over 60 tons for food and serves about 175 families
per month.
ü
Ms. Farmer made a motion to allow the engineer to look at the
best possible route to serve the property on Government Road
2nd by Mr. Greer (6-0).
Parks and Recreation – Mr. Blevins
Mr.
Blevins reported Trail Days is on schedule and in order. The
Crooked Road will sponsor the stage this year.
Dana
Lethcoe, town pool manager, with start work on pool around May
1.
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to hire Jessica Widener as assistant
manager, and to increase her pay by $1.00 per hour 2nd by Ms.
Farmer (6-0). Jessica has worked at the pool for four years.
Mr.
Blevins would like to remodel restrooms in the park. The water
project is almost complete and two bids have been turned in
the electrical upgrade.
Mr.
Blevins made a motion for authorization to accept the low bidder
on the electrical work and let them get started 2nd by Mr. Parris
(6-0).
Mr.
Blevins made a motion to have permission to pursue the possibility
of a phone line in the park for vendors who have credit card
machines 2nd by Ms. Farmer (6-0).
The
State of Virginia determined the Legion Island belongs to the
American Legion. The state is building a bridge to the island
and has permission to store materials on the property. At the
next American Legion meeting they will give the town permission
to clean up the island and put a park on Legion Island.
Boy
Scout Troop #202 from Abingdon has been cleaning up the upper
end of the park where the Veteran’s Park will be located.
Easter
Egg Hunt will be at the Bayer Property on Saturday, April 7,
2007 at 2:00pm.
Planning
Commission
Mr.
Cartwright reported the Planning Commission turned down the
plan for the Library on Trestle Street.
Planning
Commission worked on the Comprehensive Plan and hopes to have
some maps ready next month; the plan will be brought to council
for approval.
Police and Fire Advisory
Mr. Richardson reported the Damascus Police Department will
host a ride the mountain motorcycle rally, May 26th at the BINGO
training center. There will be $10 fee for the poker ride and
$5 admission for the entertainment, all proceeds will go to
the Virginia Special Olympics.
Mr.
Richardson questioned where long term parking would be when
the library is built on Wilson Street. Council stated it would
still be on Wilson Street just back further.
DMV
will send some special agents to help with Trail Days at no
charge to the town.
Special Committee
Ms.
Farmer thanked Richard Smith for a job well done on the websites.
Citizen’s Comments
Nita
Morton with Discover Damascus requested $1,000 for flowers.
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to give Discover Damascus $1,000 for
flowers 2nd by Mr. Greene (6-0).
Jared
Yelton requested the town’s help with insurance for a
bike race. Last year he had 54 participants and hopes in the
future to able to draw more people and charge a small fee to
off set costs.
Two
races are planned this year May 5 and a fall race September
8, both races will begin at 1:00 to allow people traveling to
get here. The cost for insurance is $460.13 for coverage for
both races.
ü
Mr. Parris made a motion to pay the insurance for the bike races
at a cost of $460.13 2nd by Mr. Cartwright (6-0).
Mr. Clarence DeBusk complained about bicycles on the sidewalks
and drivers not stopping at crosswalks.
Bron
Duncan suggested the town check into an erosion project near
Water Street to control and protect the property.
Diane
Smith requested the fire department consider having one night
a month smoke free. Many people would like to play BINGO but
don’t want to be in the smoke. Bobby Smith suggested Ms.
Smith attend a fire department meeting the first Thursday of
the month at 7:30pm.
Peggy
Carter questioned the dead trees near her mother, Ruby McConnell’s
house. Mr. Blevins stated the trees have been marked and will
be taken down.
Manager’s Report
Mr.
Sizemore has been in touch with Abingdon Roofing about the leaks
and they are not finished and the leaks will be taken care of
as soon as the end caps are installed.
Mr.
Sizemore presented council with the attached Regional Water
Supply Plan
RESOLUTION
A
Resolution Regarding Regional Water Supply Planning and Application
for a FY08 Water Supply Planning Grant
Whereas
the Virginia General Assembly has mandated the development of
local and regional water supply plans throughout the Commonwealth
and the State Water Control Board has developed regulations
to implement this planning process; and
Whereas,
based upon these regulations, Damascus is required to complete
a water supply plan that fulfills the regulations by deadlines
based on population, specifically:
November 2, 2008 for local governments with populations in excess
of 35,000
November 2, 2009 for local governments with populations between
15,001 and 35,000
November 2, 2010 for local governments with populations 15,000
or less
Whereas,
local governments may elect to join one or more other local
governments to develop a regional water supply plan for which
a deadline of November 2, 2011 has been established.
Whereas,
the following elements must be included in all local or regional
water supply programs:
·
A description of existing water sources in accordance with 9
VAC 25-780-70;
·
A description of existing water use in accordance with the requirements
of 9 VAC 25-780-80;
·
A description of existing water resource conditions in accordance
with the requirements of 9 VAC 25-780-90;
·
An assessment of projected water demand in accordance with the
requirements of 9 VAC 25-780-100;
·
A description of water management actions in accordance with
the requirements of 9 VAC 25-780-110 and 9 VAC 780-120;
·
A statement of need in accordance with the requirements of 9
VAC 25-780-130;
·
An alternatives analysis that identifies potential alternatives
to address projected deficits in water supplies in accordance
with the requirements of 9 VAC 25-780-130;
·
A map or maps identifying important elements of the program
that may include existing environmental resources, existing
water sources, significant existing water uses, and proposed
new sources;
·
A copy of the adopted program documents including any local
plans or ordinances or amendments that incorporate the local
program elements required by this chapter;
·
A resolution approving the plan from each local government that
is party to the plan; and
·
A record of the local public hearing, a copy of all written
comments and the submitter's response to all written comments
received, and
Whereas,
it is reasonable and prudent for the following local governments
to coordinate and collaborate in the development of a regional
water supply plan:
Bristol
City Galax City
497
Cumberland Street 111 E. Grayson Street
Bristol,
VA 24201 Galax, VA 24333
Bland
County Carroll County Grayson County
PO
Box 510 605-1 Pine Street PO Box 217
Bland,
VA 24315 Hillsville, VA 24343 Independence, VA 24348
Washington
County Wythe County Smyth County
205
Academy Drive 340 South 6th Street 121 Bagley Cir. Suite 100
Abingdon,
VA 24210 Wytheville, VA 24382 Marion, VA 24354
Abingdon
Chilhowie Damascus
PO
Box 789 PO Box 5012 PO Box 576
Abingdon,
VA 24212 Chilhowie, VA 24319 Damascus, VA 24236
Fries
Glade Spring Hillsville
PO
Box 452 PO Box 98 PO Box 545
Fries,
VA 24330 Glade Spring, VA 24340 Hillsville, VA 24343
Independence
Marion Rural Retreat
PO
Box 99 PO Box 545 PO Box130
Independence,
VA 24348 Marion, VA 24354 Rural Retreat, VA 24368
Saltville
Troutdale Wytheville
PO
Box 730 PO Box 16 PO Drawer 533
Saltville,
VA 24370 Troutdale, VA 24378 Wytheville, VA
and;
Whereas
the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has announced
the availability of grant funds to assist localities offset
some of the costs related to the development of these plans
and are encouraging localities to submit applications for grant
funds using regional water supply plans; and
Whereas,
regional water supply planning is a sensible approach to developing
a water supply plan since watershed boundaries do not follow
political boundaries and since there will likely be cost savings
to all jurisdictions participating; and
Whereas,
for purposes of this DEQ water supply grant fund program, Damascus
will participate within a water supply region consisting of
the localities of the Mount Rogers Planning District Commission
(MRPDC); and;
Whereas,
the Mount Rogers Planning District Commission has previously
managed the development of successful regional water supply
plans and other regional plans and is a logical entity to organize
and manage a regional water supply planning process; and
Whereas,
the MRPDC has previously written, received, and managed DEQ
water supply grants and is the logical entity to apply for,
on behalf of the communities participating in the regional water
supply plan; and
Whereas,
the MRPDC desires to manage and develop a regional water supply
plan for the region, and participating localities in the region
agree with this approach, and
Whereas,
the region, through the MRPDC wishes to apply for and secure
DEQ grant funds to help offset the cost of the plan development.
NOW,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Damascus agrees to participate
with the localities listed above in the development of a regional
water supply plan and authorizes the MRPDC to manage and develop
said regional water supply plan that will comply with mandated
regulations; and
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the MRPDC is authorized to develop
an application for water supply planning grant funds to offset
to the extent feasible the cost of developing said regional
water supply plan; and
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that David Barrett, Executive Director of
the MRPDC is authorized to sign the DEQ grant contract and other
appropriate documents related to the source water planning grant
and the regional source water supply plan, and
BE
IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Damascus intends to provide in matching
funds 40 hours in-kind services for the project for work performed
within the organization to meet the requirements of the regional
water supply planning effort, and
BE
IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the State Water Control Board and the
Department of Environmental Quality should consider this resolution
from each of the participating localities their Letters of Intent
to participate in a regional water supply plan with a completion
due date of November 2, 2011, in accordance with 9 VAC 25-780-50.B.4.
Upon
the Motion of _______________ and second by ________________,
this RESOLUTION is hereby approved on this the _____ day of
______ , 2007.
Mr.
Greene made a motion to adopt the Regional Water Supply Plan
2nd by Mr. Parris (6-0).
The
phase one environmental on the Triplett Property can be paid
for through a T-21 grant and Town of Abingdon will take care
of that.
Hill
Studio has a contract amendment for the campground, does not
include any more money.
Mr.
Greer made a motion to accept the amendment 2nd by Mr. Cartwright
(6-0). The amendment is attached to the hard copy of the minutes.
The
VDOT planning grant was not approved, the grant was aimed toward
metropolitan areas, but another round of grants will be available
for small towns in the near future. When Mr. Sizemore has more
information on this he will bring a resolution to council.
Mr.
Blevins ask where we stand on the Beaver Dam Trail. Mr. Sizemore
stated the Department of Historic Resources return part of the
environmental, Marine Resources and Army Corp of Engineers are
looking at a joint permit for the bridge. As soon as these things
are completed the bid process can begin.
Attorney Report
Mr.
Dene will wait to move forward on the Triplett Property until
Abingdon gets the environmental review, if everything comes
back clean he will prepare the deed, if it comes back questionable
he will ask Mr. Sizemore to put in council packets for discussion.
The
appraisal for the .28 acres of town property near the pool came
in at $8,500.
Mr.
Dene asks if anyone had a survey of the Water Street Property,
please let him know. It would be very helpful in preparing a
deed. Mr. Dene will prepare the deed have Mayor Jones sign it
and send it to the County Attorney with a request to get approval
from the Board of Supervisors. Two things Mr. Dene will include
are provisions about if the building ever ceases to be a library
and they will have to rebuild a basketball court.
Mr.
Dene stated the Bayer Property has not been surveyed and a deed
can’t be prepared without survey.
Mr.
Dene requested closed session for the following:
·
Discussion of performance of police officers; salary of police
officers; and discussion of applicants for position(s) of police
officers all pursuant to 2.2-2317(A) (1)
·
Consultation with legal counsel regarding compliance with the
Town’s tax ordinance pursuant to 2.2-2317 (A) (7)
·
Discussion of Applicants for position in the maintenance department
pursuant to 2.2-2317 (A) (1).
Consent Agenda
Ms.
Farmer made a motion to pay the bills 2nd by Mr. Cartwright
(6-0).
Council
Members Reports
Mr.
Blevins requested permission to get a load of sand for the fire
pit area. Richard Smith said there is an alternate plan and
the sand is not needed.
Mr.
Cartwright made a motion for closed session to discuss the items
listed in the Attorney’s Report 2nd by Ms. Farmer (6-0).
_____________________________
____________________________
Creed Jones, Mayor Tonya Triplett, Clerk
Closed
Session Minutes
A
motion was made by Mr. Cartwright and 2nd by Ms. Farmer to go
out of closed session (6-0).
A
motion to certify was made by Mr. Cartwright and 2nd by Ms.
Farmer (6-0).
A
motion was made by Mr. Cartwright and 2nd by Mr. Blevins to
move Keith Hagy to part time (6-0).
A
motion was made by Mr. Greer and 2nd by Mr. Cartwright to hire
Doug Puckett at $8.50 per hour for the maintenance department
for review after 90 days (6-0).
A
motion was made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Cartwright to table
the hiring of police officers and to discuss it at a special
called meeting on April 16, 2007 at 5:30pm (6-0).
Discussion
made about drug fund
Discussion
about people in town knowing the police on a more personal level;
meeting owners of businesses.
A
motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Cartwright and 2nd by Mr.
Blevins.
DAMASCUS
TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES FOR MAY 7, 2007
Council
Members Present: Mariana Farmer, Mitchel Greer, Lannis Greene,
Johnny Blevins and Maurice Parris
Creed
Jones, Mayor
Tonya
Triplett, Clerk
Thomas
Dene, Town Attorney
Mr.
Parris made a motion to approve the April 2nd minutes as written,
2nd by Mr. Blevins (5-0).
Ms.
Farmer made a motion to approve the special called meeting of
April 16th minutes as written, 2nd by Mr. Blevins (5-0).
Tim
Widener requested financial support for Boy Scout Troop #117,
for a trip Great Brittan. The cost is approximately $2,500 per
person with seventeen people attending.
Mr.
Greene made a motion to give the troop $550 for the trip, 2nd
by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
Tom
Horsch with the Virginia Creeper Trail Club reported the club
is going to paint the caboose; also the club is in the installation
phase of interpretive signage along the trail. Mr. Horsch requested
the $2,000 approved by the previous council for the matching
part of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Mr.
Greene made a motion to honor the original commitment of $2,000
for trail maintenance, 2nd by Mr. Blevins (5-0).
Eileen
Hoornstra with Embarq requested the town issue two more parking
spaces on the town right of way. There are two spaces and most
of the time that is sufficient, but on occasion additional parking
is needed. Mr. Blevins suggested 172-B2-A-17, an old alleyway
belonging to the Town, be used for additional parking for Embarq.
Mr. Blevins suggested the town verify the property is owned
by the town and allow Embarq to gravel and use it for parking.
Committee Reports
Budget, Finance and Administration – Ms. Farmer
Ms.
Farmer reported the budget will be finalized and advertised
in the paper and a public hearing will be held.
Mayor
Jones requested $3,500 be put in the budget for Holston High
School for Backer Park.
Mayor
Jones also has a request from American Red Cross for the purchase
of a building.
Ms.
Farmer made a motion to table the issue until more work on the
budget is complete, 2nd by Mr. Greene (5-0).
Street, Lights and Maintenance- Mr. Greer
Mr.
Greer reported the water lines are complete in the park and
the public works department will be working on the sidewalks
on Clifton Street. A drain line on Smith and Liberty needs to
be repaired.
Mr.
Greer discussed purchasing a 95 GMC dump truck for $20,000 and
2001 Dodge ¾ ton diesel for $15,000. Mr. Greene suggested
seeing what payments would run. Mr. Dene will help Mr. Greer
in getting bids from lenders.
Mayor
Jones stated the problem on North Shady Avenue has not been
taken care of.
Sewer,
Water and Sanitation- Ms. Farmer
Ms.
Farmer made a motion to approve $2,630 for blower repairs 2nd
by Mr. Blevins (5-0).
The
sewer committee has discussed purchasing equipment to do videoing.
Mr. Alexander has a price of $34,000, but is not sure if that
covers everything needed. He will be getting three bids on the
equipment.
Mayor
Jones and Mr. Greene would like to know what the Town of Abingdon
charges, before we purchase TV equipment.
Mr.
Sizemore will meet with property owners concerning the sewer
extension on Fig Tree Road.
Ms.
Farmer requested closed session for personnel.
Parks and Recreation – Mr. Blevins
Mr.
Blevins has a $500 estimate from Dale Adams for removal of trees
behind trestle leaving brush or $550 to remove the brush. There
are eight trees in park and Mr. Adams will remove those for
$400 leaving the brush and wood or $600 removing brush.
Mr.
Blevins made a motion to pay Mr. Adams $1,150 to remove trees
and brush 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
Mr.
Blevins made a motion to place Mr. Adams on retainer for the
Town for tree removal 2nd by Mr. Greene (5-0).
The
water and electricity projects in the park have been completed.
Planning
Commission
Mayor
Jones reported Planning Commission is continuing work on the
Comprehensive Plan.
Police
and Fire Advisory
Mr. Blevins stated the police officers over time for the yard
sale and carnival should come out of Parks & Recreation,
Mr. Richardson has contacted Sheriff Newman about some extra
help.
Mr.
Richardson has Bike Patrol, Mounted Patrol, and extra deputies,
agents for the DMV and ABC Commission for Trail Days.
Mr.
Richardson will use the Brem Grant to pay for the $1,200 radios
that have already been ordered.
Mr.
Richardson requested permission to purchase lockout tool kits
for each police car at $59.95 each.
Mayor
Jones suggested purchasing two lockout kits.
The
blue light on the blue ford is out and needs to be replaced.
Mr. Greene recommended the police advisory committee handle
the light.
Mr.
Richardson requested closed session for the hiring of a police
officer.
Citizen’s Comments
Richard
Byron read a letter written by Chad Byron, stating a town employee
had humiliated citizens and citizens would like to know what
is going to happen to the employee.
Nancy
Lamb stated as long as she has known Ms. Brand she has done
a good job for the town and ask council to consider that.
Manager’s Report
Mr.
Dene reported Mr. Sizemore is working on the medical clinic
parking lot with Rural Development.
Mr.
Sizemore is also contacting banks to try and get a lower interest
rate for the maintenance building.
Town
of Abingdon has contacted engineers and has four bids for the
Triplett Property, but they have not made a decision.
Attorney Report
Mr.
Dene stated in order for the meals and lodging taxes to be raised
to 6%, it must be advertised and a public hearing must be held.
Mr.
Greer made a motion to raise meals and lodging to 6% 2nd by
Ms. Farmer (4-1 Mr. Greene opposed).
The
lease agreement with the County for the Little League fields
was discussed. Mr. Blevins would like to see #12 changed to
include Damascus Town Council approval.
Mr.
Greene made a motion to approve the lease with changes discussed
with Town Attorney, 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
Mayor
Jones has a request from Holston High School PTSA for help with
a scholarship to be awarded to a Holston High School student.
Mr.
Blevins made a motion to approve $500 from the Town of Damascus
2nd by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
Consent Agenda
Ms.
Farmer made a motion to pay the bills 2nd by Mr. Greer (5-0).
Mr.
Blevins made a motion for closed session to discuss the following
items:
ü
The performance of the Chief of Police 2.2-2317 (A) (1).
ü
The performance of the Police Department 2.2-2317 (A) (1).
ü
The performance of the Treasurer 2.2-2317 (A) (1).
ü
The suspension of Chad Byron’s employment 2.2-2317 (A)
(1).
ü
Discussion of a candidate for employment with the police department
2.2-2317 (A) (1).
ü
Consultation with legal counsel regarding enforcement and collection
of the Town’s real property tax 2.2- 2317 (A) (7).
ü
2nd by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
Closed
Session Minutes
A
motion was made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Blevins to go out
of closed session (5-0).
A
motion to certify was made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Blevins.
(5-0).
A
motion was made by Mr. Blevins and 2nd by Mr. Greene to hire
Chris Shumate as a police officer at an hourly rate of $8.50
(4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion was made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Blevins to terminate
the employment of Chad Byron at the sewer department, effective
immediately. (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion was made by Mr. Blevins and 2nd by Mr. Greene to terminate
the employment of Chad Byron from the auxiliary police force,
effective immediately. (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion was made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Greene to terminate
the employment of Shirley Brand and dismiss her from the office
of treasurer, effective immediately. (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion made by Mr. Greene and 2nd by Mr. Blevins to appoint
Tonya Triplett as Treasurer. (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion made by Ms. Farmer and 2nd by Mr. Blevins for the Town
Manger to advertise for the positions of treasurer and sewer
treatment plant operator (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
A
motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Greene and 2nd by Mr. Blevins
(4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstaining).
__________________________ __________________________________________
Creed Jones, Mayor Tonya Triplett, Clerk
DAMASCUS
TOWN COUNCIL
MINUTES FOR JULY 2, 2007
Council
Members Present: Mariana Farmer, Mitchel Greer, Lannis Greene,
Johnny Blevins, and Maurice Parris.
Jim
Cartwright, absent
Creed
Jones, Mayor
Aaron
Sizemore, Town Manager
Tonya
Triplett, Clerk
Thomas
Dene, Town Attorney
ü
Ms. Farmer made a motion to approve the June 4, 2007 2nd minutes
as written, 2nd by Mr. Blevins (4-0).
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to approve the special called meeting
of June 20th minutes as written, 2nd by Mr. Greer (4-0).
ü
Ms. Farmer made a motion to approve the emergency called meeting
of June 23, 2007 minutes as written, 2nd by Mr. Blevins (3-0-1
Mr. Parris abstained, not present at the meeting).
Jared
Yelton reported the spring bike race went well and the Fall
Race is scheduled for September 8th.
Mr.
Yelton asked council to consider a dedicated webpage for the
race. Council has concerns about finding someone to maintain
the site. Mr. Yelton will meet with the Adam Committee and see
if something can be worked out.
Marcia
Horne with Husky Rescue reported on the winter fest, planned
for January 19, 2007. She would like the town to do the bonfire
and free hot chocolate again. She requested the restrooms be
open and assistance with parking. The Serum Race, Intermont
Search & Rescue, Chili Cook-off, woodcarving and a doxie
race sponsored by Pet Partners and some Forestry events are
possible events for winter fest.
Committee Reports
Budget, Finance and Administration
The
budget was approved with some amendments at the June 28, 2007
special called meeting.
Street, Lights and Maintenance- Mr. Greer
Mr.
Greer made a motion to raise Doug Puckett’s pay .50 per
hour, his 90 day probation is up, 2nd by Mr. Blevins (5-0).
Mr.
Greer reported the ditch behind Ms. Lamb’s needs to be
fixed.
ü
Mr. Greer made a motion to approve the purchase of 10 sections
of pipe to fix the drain at a cost of $606. 90 to be taken out
of 10-500- 05 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to approve the purchase of twenty 6ft.
trees and eight more trees if necessary, from the pool budget,
to replace trees taken down at the pool, 10-590-09, 2nd by Mr.
Greer (5-0).
Mayor
Jones would like to see parallel parking near the Dollar General.
People are parking long term and loading and unloading bikes
in the street.
ü
After discussion Mr. Greene made a motion to purchase two public
parking signs to be placed at the parking area near the Damascus
Old Mill, and also, two Public Parking with an arrow, to place
east and west on Laurel Avenue, pointing to the parking lot
at the Old Mill 10-500-25 2nd by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
Sewer,
Water and Sanitation- Ms. Farmer
Ms.
Farmer reported Mr. Haynes is doing a good job. The committee
discussed TV camera system
For
videoing the sewer lines and the Town of Abingdon has not been
charging us to do small jobs.
Ms.
Farmer suggests the town move forward with installing water,
sewer and electric on the Bayer Property, once the ball fields
are built, the county would not want us to dig to install those
lines.
Mr.
Dene suggested council wait on a site plan before they consider
installing lines.
Parks and Recreation – Mr. Blevins
July
4th celebration will be held July 3rd in the Town Park with
food, music and fireworks.
Dale
Adams started work on the trees in the park today.
Everything
is going well at the pool.
Citizen’s Comments
Ms.
Grasselli reported the grant for the library has been sent out.
Mr.
Kammer questioned the trees at the pool. Council explained the
trees were part of the deed when the pool was installed 25 years
ago.
Mr.
Kammer suggested leaving the police force at five and having
a working administrator. Mr. Kammer stated if council does not
think this is doable, that is fine.
Mayor
Jones stated the town authorized Discover Damascus permission
to do the road block fund raiser, but the town did not authorize
Discover Damascus to distribute literature. Jack McCrady requested
Mayor Jones read a portion of a letter from Emmitt Yeary, concerning
literature distributed by Discover Damascus at a road block
fund raiser. The letter stated the literature contained disparaging
remarks and comments regarding the Board of Supervisors and
Mr. McCrady.
Mr.
Blevins stated, “There were not disparaging remarks about
Mr. McCrady. The literature stated what Mr. McCrady stood in
a meeting and said which was Damascus does not need a Veteran’s
Memorial, they have one in Abingdon that serves the entire county
and that Damascus should be supporting that one instead of building
our own.”
Ms.
Farmer stated this was not targeting anyone politically it was
a statement that was made.
The
fund raiser totaled $1,147.01 in donations and the project will
move forward.
Manager’s Report
Mr.
Sizemore reported the Town of Abingdon will use the grant money
for their projects and there will not be money for the Triplett
Property.
Mr.
Blevins questioned if we could apply for these grants ourselves.
Mr. Sizemore stated we could but there is a match.
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to request and recommend the Circuit
Court of Washington County appoint Casey Bledsoe to the serve
the remaining portion of the unexpired term of Wade Farmer on
the Board of Zoning Appeals, 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
Two
contractors came to look at the drainage, sidewalk project on
Laurel and South Shady. Both contractors stated taking up the
sidewalks would not fix the problem and recommended storm drains.
Mr. Sizemore will meet with someone from VDOT and see if the
Town can get on six-year plan to install a storm drain system.
Mr.
Sizemore opened the sealed bids surplus vehicles and equipment.
The high bid for the dump truck was $2,250 from Wade Farmer.
The
high bid for a push mower is $20 from Ralph Grove.
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to accept the $20 bid for the push
mower from Ralph Grove, 2nd by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
ü
Mr. Greer made a motion to reject the bid of $2,250 from Mr.
Farmer and to put the equipment out to bid again, 2nd by Mr.
Greene (3-0-2 Mr. Blevins & Ms. Farmer abstained).
Attorney Report
Mr.
Dene has not heard from the County on the lease for the sports
complex. When Mr. Dene gets a copy he will let council know.
Mr.
Dene stated that council has taken all the legally required
steps to take action to increase the meals and lodgings tax,
if they are inclined to do so.
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to table the meals and lodging tax
issue, 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
Mr.
Dene gave council members a copy of a section from Code of Virginia
that relates to some of the limited purposes for closed meetings.
New
Business
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to add 3 hours to Ralph Grove’s
schedule to make him full time so he can receive full holiday
pay, 2nd by Mr. Greer (5-0).
Mr.
Blevins stated Mr. Grove is not interested in any other benefits
except the eight hour holiday pay.
Mr.
Blevins has concerns that if we leave VML insurance and all
their services, and if something happens that we would have
three or four claims would the town be allowed back in.
Mr.
John Henderson stated he does not know how VML works, but does
not think the town would have any problems rejoining.
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to stay with VML for insurance coverage,
2nd by Mr. Greer (3-0-2 Mr. Parris and Mr. Greene abstained).
Committee
Assignments
Mayor
Jones stated the parks & recreation department should be
run like a business and it was not run that way last year. Mr.
Blevins stated the parks & recreation committee was appointed
last year and can’t be changed this year. Mr. Blevins
reported less than ½ was spent this year compared to
last year.
Mr.
Greene stated his schedule would be changing and he declined
park & recreation, budget, finance & administration.
Mr. Greene requested he be on the police advisory committee,
Health Commission, Creeper Trail Advisory, and Bayer Administrative.
Mr.
Dene stated the appointment to parks and recreation made last
year is for a 4 year term.
Mayor
Jones asked Mr. Parris to serve on the Budget, Finance and Administration.
ü
Ms. Farmer made a motion to add Tonya Triplett and Terry Kammer
to the ADAM Committee, 2nd by Mr. Parris (5-0).
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion to replace Ms. Campbell with Terry
Kammer on the parks and recreation committee, 2nd by Mr. Greer
(5-0).
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to reappoint Tom Horsch, contingent
on acceptation, to the Planning Commission, 2nd by Mr. Greer
(5-0).
ü
Mr. Blevins made a motion not to approve Mr. Greer to the Bayer
Administrative Committee 2nd by Ms. Farmer (2-1-2 Mr. Greene
nay, Mr. Greer and Mr. Parris abstained).
ü
Mr. Greene made a motion to approve Mr. Parris to the Bayer
Administrative Committee, 2nd by Ms. Farmer (3-1-1 Mr. Blevins
nay, Mr. Parris abstained).
Consent Agenda
Mr.
Parris made a motion to pay the bills, 2nd by Ms. Farmer (5-0).
Mr.
Greene made a motion for closed session to discuss the following
items:
ü
The discussion and consideration of performance of possible
disciplining of Tony Richardson presently under suspension as
Chief of Police
ü
Discussion and consideration of performance of the officers
of the Damascus Police, Department 2.2-2317 (A) (1), 2nd by
Mr. Blevins (5-0).
Closed
Session Minutes
A
motion was made by Mr. Blevins and 2nd by Mr. Parris to go out
of closed session (5-0).
A
motion to certify was made by Mr. Parris and 2nd by Mr. Blevins.
(5-0).
A
motion was made by Ms. Blevins and 2nd by Ms. Farmer to terminate
Tony Richardson as police chief (4-0-1 Mr. Parris abstained).
A
motion was made by Mr. Blevins and 2nd by Mr. Parris to advertise
for the police chief position (5-0).
A
motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Parris and 2nd by Mr. Blevins
(5-0).
__________________________ __________________________________________
Creed Jones, Mayor Tonya Triplett, Clerk
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