Final Formal Meeting of 2012 is Last for Tyler, Jewell, Conner

Part 1/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Prayer, Pledge, Fire Evacuation, Rules for Speakers - Richmond City Council, Richmond, VA from Silver.

Meeting start time: 6:13 PM End Time: 7:58 PM

All members present with the exception of Chris Hilbert [3rd District].

This was the last Formal Council meeting of the year, though Council would convene two more special meetings to wrap up details on the gifts to Bon Secours Hospital and the Washington Redskins.

This was also the last meeting with Councilmen Marty Jewell [5th District], Doug Conner [9th District], and possibly Bruce Tyler [1st District] who has requested a recount and contested the November election he lost by 22 votes. One event noticeably missing was the "Thomas Jefferson Award for Government Service," which many out-going members have received in recent years. The award appears to be an engraved silver platter.

Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance.

Fire evacuation instructions [].

Rules for Speakers. Including a new section that says speakers may be banned for 6 months if they fail to follow Council's rules. This is a response to recent comments made by Teddy Parham, who was subsequently banned from Council meetings for 6 months. See the comments that got Ms. Parham in trouble, here.

Part 2/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Awards Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 3/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Amending the Agenda - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 4/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Citizen Comment Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 5/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Reading of the Agenda - Richmond City Council Meeting - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 6/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Citizens Opposed to Consent Agenda - Richmond City Council Meeting - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 7/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Expedited Resolutions & Approval of Minutes - City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 8/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Council Member Announcements - Richmond City Council Meeting - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 9/9 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Introduction of New Papers - City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger on Vimeo.

Informal Session

Part 1/6 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Adrienne Goolsby, CEO of RRHA - Informal Session - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Adrienne Goolsby, Chief Executive Officer for the Richmond Redevelopment & Housing Authority gave a presentation to the City Council as an update to what the organization has been doing under her leadership. She was joined by Carol Jones Gilbert, Chief Operations Officers, and another woman.

Part 2/6 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Docket Review Ord. 2012-209 - Informal Session - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 3/6 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Ord. 2012-221 & 222 - To Locate Water Treatment on Commerce Rd - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 4/6 - 2012 Dec. 10 - Docket Review Ord. 2012-225 - Informal Session - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 5/6- 2012 Dec. 10 - Relocating RPS from Diamond Stadium Site - Informal Session - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 6/6- 2012 Dec. 10 - Docket Review Concluded - Informal Session - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Hell to the Redskins - No Cost Training Facility in Quid Pro Quo Deal with Bon Secours

Part 1/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Prayer, Pledge, Chamber Evacuation Plan - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Meeting start time: 6:10 PM. The meeting opened with a prayer by Roslyn ? [0:35] from New Life Deliverance Tabernacle, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance [2:48]. Then City Clerk Alvin Anderson reviewed the Chamber evacuation procedure in case of an emergency [3:07].

Part 2/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Awards Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Delta Sigma Theta received recognition from Richmond City Council and Mayor Jone's office in honor of the sorority's 75th anniversary. The award was presented by XX, representing Mayor Jones and Council President Kathy Graziano.

Part 3/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Amending the Agenda - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

A number of papers were continued, this is not the complete list...

To STRIKE, Ord. 2012-64 Sponsored by Bruce Tyler [1d] "concerning Council approval of ... contract modifications, for the purpose of requiring Council approval by resolution for construction and professional services contracts with a value greater than $100,000 and for all contract modifications that increase a contract by 15 percent or $25,000 whichever is greater. Recommendation form Finance to strike."

To CONTINUE, Ord. 2012-141 sponsored by Ellen Robertson [6d], to amend the City Code "for the purpose of establishing a Derelict Building Abatement Program." Will be heard at January 22, 2013 Land Use meeting, and be before Council again on January 22, 2013.

Part 4/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Amending Riverfront Plan - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Parts 5-14 below pertain to the Redskins/Bon Secours Hospital Deal.

My Two Cents 2012 Nov 26 - Compilation of Comments by Silver Persinger Opposed to Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, VA from Silver.

I spoke out a number of times at the meeting in opposition to the Redskins/Bon Secours deal, the above video is a compilation of all my comments regarding the deal.

Part 5/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Conveying Westhampton School to City - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Ord. 2012-213 was the first requirement for the execution of the Bon Secours land deal for Redskins sponsorship. Ordinace 2012-213 conveyed the land from Richmond Public Schools to the City, through Chief Administrative Officer Byron Marshall.

Speaking in Opposition, Melvin Jones [3:55], Chris Dorsey [5:27], Silver Persinger [8:20], Carolyn Worsham [11:35], and Michael Delano [13:45].

Speaking in Support, David Napier [14:23]

Part 6/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Hilbert Explains "Enhanced" Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 7/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Citizens Opposed to "Enhanced" Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 8/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Citizens In Support of "Enhanced" Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 9/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - City Council Discussion on "Enhanced" Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 10/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Comments Against Conveying Westhampton School to EDA - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 11/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Comments in Support of Conveying Westhampton School to EDA - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 12/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Council Discussion of Conveying Westhampton to EDA - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 13/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Comments Against Bon Secours/Redskins Financing Package - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 14/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Comments In Support of Bon Secours/Redskins Financing Package - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 15/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Unannounced Council Recess after Bon Secours/Redskins Vote - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 16/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Citizen Comment Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Gloria Harrison of Gordon Avenue said that she and her neighbors would like their narrow street made into a one way street. She was instructed to contact the City's Traffic Engineer, Tom Flynn.

Part 17/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Consent Agenda - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 18/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Council Member Announcements - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 19/19 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Introduction of New Papers - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

"Enhanced" Redskins/Bon Secours Deal Explained at Informal

Part 1/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Virginia Union on Construction Plan - Informal Session - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Representatives from Virginia Union University spoke to members of Richmond City Council about proposed changes to their campus that they would like to make.

Part 2/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Review of the Consent Agenda - Informal Session - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

City Clerk Alvin M. Anderson read the items on the Consent Agenda, then about half way through the reading of the papers, President Kathy Graziano told the clerk to only read the paper number and not to read the description of each the paper.

Part 3/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Review of the Regular Agenda - Informal Session - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 4/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Reva Trammell on Expulsion of Teddy Parham - Informal Session - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver

During a lag in the meeting while Redskins officials were being ushered into the Council Chamber, President Kathy Graziano [4th] brought up Reva Trammell's complaint regarding Council's Rules of Procedure. Ms. Trammell [8th]objected to the sixth month expulsion of Teddy Parham from Council meetings for six months, though Ms. Parham's name was not used during the discussion, it was not hard to figure out who they were talking about.

Part 5/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - "Enhanced" Bon Secours/Redskins Deal Discussed - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

At the Informal Session, member of Council received new information about an "enhanced" package negotiated chief by Chris Hilbert [3rd] with the help of Bruce Tyler [1st], Reva Trammell [8th], and Marty Jewell [5th].

In the "enhanced" deal gives an addition 4.5 million to Schools over the next 8-10 years. Bon Secours agreed to pay an additional $1 million by dedicated contributions of $100,000 over the next 10 years. The other $3.5 million is composed of concessions on the part of the administration to dedicate various taxes and revenue to Richmond Public Schools over the next 8-10 years.

Here are the sources of these revenues:

1.) $5000 annual lease with an additional $28,000 tacked on for the city to maintain the fields. Previously, Bon Secours had said they would pay to maintain the fields at a cost of $35,000 annually.

2.) The city will dedicate $288,000 for ten years, this is the real estate tax paid on the Westhampton School property. With an additional $32,000 annually for ten years from non-real estate taxes, such as BPOL.

3.) The city will also dedicate for the next 8 years $195,000 which is the projected taxes revenue generated by the 100,000 visitors spending $8.5 million in three weeks during summer training camp.

4.) The city will dedicate $60,000 annually for 10 years in Payment in Lieu of Taxes from the Leigh Street Office building to schools’ program enhancements as determined by City Council.

Part 6/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Bruce Allen speaks on Redskins / Bon Secours Deal - Richmond, VA from Silver Persinger on Vimeo.

Bruce Allen, General Manager of the Washington Redskins, and brother to former Governor and Senator George "Macaca" Allen, turned on the charm for Richmond City Council.

Responding to a question posed by Charles Samuels [2d], What is the Redskins Foundation Leadership Council?

Part 7/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Bon Secours on Community Outreach - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 8/8 - 2012 Nov. 26 - Council Discussion on Bon Secours/Redskins Deal- Informal Session - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Comments from Council Members.

Another Turn at Bat - Administration Continues to Push Football & Bon Secours Deal

Meeting Start Time: 3:04 PM Meeting End Time: 6:38 PM.

The fourth official Council discussion within 8 days pertaining to the Redskins/Bon Secours Hospital deal was called as a Special Meeting at Tuesday's Land Use, Housing, and Transportation Committee meeting. The special meeting was posted today on the Times-Dispatch website and the City Council Calendar as scheduled to be held 4 PM - 5:30 PM, and 4 - 5 PM, respectively. However the meeting actually began at 3 PM and the Redskins discussion took up an hour and half and ended at 4:36 PM.

Council members present included: Chair Doug Conner [9th District], Land Use committee members Charles Samuels [2nd District] and Ellen Robertson [6th District], as well as Council President Kathy Graziano [4th District, unknown arrival time], Bruce Tyler [1st District, 3:07 PM], Reva Trammell [8th District, 3:09 PM], Running a little later were Marty Jewell [5th District, 3:33 PM] and Cynthia Newbille [7th District, 3:34 PM].

Part 1/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Suzette Denslow on Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Introductory comments from the Mayor's Chief of Staff, Suzette Denslow on the Bon Secours land deal for the Washington, D.C. Redskins' training field sponsorship back-room deal.

Ms. Denslow goes through the numbers and projected revenues pretty quickly.

Part 2/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Byron Marshall on Redskins/Bon Secours Deal - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Comments from Chief Administrative Officer, Byron Marshall on the Bon Secours land deal for the Washington, D.C. Redskins' training field sponsorship back-room deal.

Part 3/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Council Questions to Byron Marshall - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Chief Administrative Officer, Byron Marshall answered questions asked by Council members.

Part 4/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Jane Ferrara on Westhampton School Site - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

At the request of CAO Byron Marshall, Deputy Director of Economic & Community Development, Jane Ferrara ran through some potential sale values under different scenarios for the land and building associated with the Westhampton School site.

Part 5/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Bon Secours Speaks on Redskins Deal - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 6/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Public Comment - Land Use Committee - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

The first hour and a half had been set aside to discuss the proposed Redskins & Bon Secours Hospital deal.

After a twenty minute break, the meeting reconvened and opened with Public Comment Period. There were three speakers. Valerie West spoke in support of urban hens and encouraged the committee to support adopting urban hen legislation [0:40]. Chris Dorsey [1:50] and Silver Persinger [4:16] spoke in opposition to the Redskins/ Bon Secours deal.

Part 7/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Riverfront Development Plan - Land Use Committee - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Council members have a conversation and asked questions of Mark Olinger, Director of the Department of Planning & Development Review for the City of Richmond, Virginia.

The amendments to the Riverfront Plan were continued from Council's last meeting to accomodate the owner/s of Mayo Island who feels the proposed amendment would affect the use and value of their land. The City has a long standing expressed interest in acquiring the island for park land. I believe Mr. Olinger said it had been a stated goal of the city since 1984.

Part 8/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Riverfront Plan - Public Comment & City Council Discussion - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Public Comment:

Opposition:

[0:33] Andy Condlin, Lawyer from Williams Mullen representing owners of Mayo Island
[5:35] Jan Bryan, Project Development Manager, representing USP (Echo Harbor)
[9:17] Alan Shia, co-owner of Mayo Island.

Support:

[12:29] Silver Persinger, Citizen
[14:53] Leighton Powell, Executive Director, Scenic Virginia and member of Falls of the James Scenic River Advisory Committee.

[18:55] Comments from Al Bowers who identified himself as a citizen. Yes, the same Al Bowers who a few years back attempted to sue the City of Richmond for $205 million.

Mr. Bowers spoke in support of "this amendment for USP" to the Riverfront Plan. He stated his reasons: 1200 new jobs will be created, it will generate $4.5 million in tax revenue, public access will be provided.

Part 9/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Review of Papers Cont'd @ Land Use - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Papers under consideration included:

X X X

COMING SOON 11/28/2012

Part 10/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Presentation on HUD Section 3 @ Land Use - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Opening comments from Doug Conner [0:16]

Presentation on Housing and Urban Development [HUD] Requirements for Section 3 by Earl Bradley [1:33] and Otis Brown [5:37] from Bradley Development.

Closing comments from Doug Conner [8:48].

Part 11/11 - 2012 Nov. 20 - Presentation on Green Alleys @ Land Use - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

The last order of business for Councilman Doug Conner's [9th District] last committee meeting of his term was a presentation pertaining to green alleyways. He said in his opening comments that he did not do this to embarrass Councilman Bruce Tyler [1st District], who happens to live near a recently installed green alley. Mr. Tyler's challenger in the November election, Jon Baliles, called the alley the "Taj Mahal of alleys." Mr. Conner and Charles Samuels [2nd District] received a presentation from Michele Virts, Deputy Director from the Dept. of Public Utilities [1:06]. Mr. Conner had many questions after the presentation concluded [7:19].

At the end of the meeting, Bob Steidel, Director of Dept. of Public Utilities, responded to Mr. Conner's statement that his constituents were not able to get flood insurance. Mr. Steidel said that no one may be denied flood insurance. He stated that the Federal Flood Insurance Program is open to all and no one can be denied [16:59]. The meeting ended at 6:38 PM.

Special Council Meeting on the Redskin/Bon Secours Deal Announced

I just saw that the Richmond Times-Dispatch had this notice on their website:

"What: Special meeting to discuss the proposed Washington Redskins training camp site and the Bon Secours hospitals project. When: 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Where: Council Chambers, Richmond City Hall, 900 E. Broad St."

Also tonight there will be a meeting from 6 - 7:30 PM at St. Mary's Hospital:

"What: Community forum to discuss Bon Secours’ partnership with Richmond for the Redskins training camp, including plans for the Westhampton School property. When: 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Where: St. Mary’s Hospital Auditorium, 5801 Bremo Road"

Alternatives to Incarceration? Get to Work or Go to Jail!

Part 1/4 - Nov. 19, 2012 - Public Comment & Approval of Minutes - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Meeting Start Time: 5:10 PM Meeting Run Time: 1 hour 32 minutes

Richmond City Council's Public Safety Committee meeting was held at the Richmond Police Academy on Graham Street near Virginia Union University. Councilwoman Cynthia Newbille [7th District] chaired the meeting in the absence of the regular chair, Reva Trammell [8th District]. Newbille was joined by committee member Councilman Marty Jewell [5th District], and Councilwoman Ellen Robertson [6th District], who was there to support an ordinance she sponsored to establish a "Citizen Advisory Board on Alternatives to Incarceration." That's what it was called at any rate. See Part 3, for more on the proposed Citizen Advisory Board.

[0:50] The meeting opened with the Public Comment Period. Citing a recent car accident, Council regular Melvin Jones spoke to the committee urging them to do something to enforce the speed limit on Fendall Avenue in Richmond's Northside. Mr. Jones also said he still had a problem with drugs in his neighborhood. He said he had called the Police Chief but had not received a call back.

[4:55] Ms. Newbille asked Mr. Jewell to make a motion to approve the minutes, he did so and the minutes were approved 2-0.

[5:37] There were no presentations or Staff Report, though Mr. Steve Taylor, Richmond City Council Policy Analyst, told Council members what was in the works. I was sitting nearby and had a hard time hearing him.

Part 2/4 - Nov. 19, 2012 - Accepting Money for Emergency Preparedness - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 3/4 - Nov. 19, 2012 - Citizen Advisory Board on Alternatives to Incarceration - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

A hour long discussion on the Citizen Advisory Board on Alternatives to Incarceration.

Read the proposed ordinance, Ordinance 2012-16.

[0:31] Five minutes of introductory comments by the ordinance's sponsor, Councilwoman Ellen Robertson [6th District].

[5:38] Ten minutes of comments by co-author of the ordinance, Joyce Davis, Richmond City Council Policy Analyst.

[15:11] Followed by 17 minutes of Council discussion

Public Comment

[32:21] Comments from Rufus Fleming, Department of Justice Services

[36:31] Comments from Silver Persinger

[41:34] Comments from Melvin Jones

[43:16] Further Council discussion

Part 3/4 - Nov. 19, 2012 - Board Vacancy & Canceling Dec. Meeting - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver .

Details of Redskins/Bon Secours Deal Discussed at Finance Committee

At Thursday's Finance and Economic Development Committee meeting five ordinances dealing specifically with the Redskins/Bon Secours deal were considered and discussed by Council members and members of the administration. Video parts 3-5 below show the discussion.

PUBLIC NOTICE:

Bon Secours is sponsoring a Community Discussion on the proposal on Tuesday, November 20, 2012 at 6 PM at St. Mary's Hospital, Room 163 in the Administration Building.

I hope to have some more reporting on this issue soon.

Part 1/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Presentation on Minority Business Participation - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 2/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Papers for Consideration - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 3/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Redskins/Bon Secours Presentation & Discussion - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 4/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Redskins/Bon Secours Public Comment - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

That fellow in the background is the City Attorney, Allen Jackson. Clearly, I am wrong about the 2 year cap on renting from a private entity, but there is a limit. If you know what it is please leave a comment.

Part 5/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Redskins/Bon Secours Discussion Cont'd - Richmond City Council - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Part 6/6 - 2012 Nov. 15 - Papers for Consideration Cont'd - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Redskins/Bon Secours Giveaways & Riverfront Plan Delayed Amid Chaos

Part 1/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Prayer, Pledge, Veterans' Day - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

The meeting started late as usual at 6:24 PM. The meeting opened with a prayer by Samuel Patterson, Council woman Cynthia Newbille's Council Liaison [7th District], followed by the Pledge of Allegiance [1:10]. Then City Clerk Alvin Anderson reviewed the evacuation procedure in case of an emergency [1:30]. Council President Kathy Graziano made a special announcement recognizing Veterans' Day and asked veterans to stand and be recognized [2:39].

Part 2/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Awards Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Award recipients included the YWCA and YMCA, both celebrating their 125th Anniversary. Other honorees included the American Youth Harp Ensemble, Virginia Choristers, Saint Bridget Parish Girl Choir and Parish Boy Choir "to recognize...their accomplishments and being invited to perform at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts' prestigious Alice Tull Hall in New York City on April 27, 2013."

Part 3/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Redskins & Bon Secours Giveaway - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Richmond City Council approved by a vote of 6 to 2 with Councilmen Bruce Tyler [1st District] and Chris Hilbert [3rd District] in the minority, Resolution 2012-R141 which expressed the Council's support for the proposal to bring the Washington Redskins' training camp to Richmond for 3 weeks a year for the next 8 years and to build for the team a $10 million facility at no cost to the $1.6 Billion NFL team.

Bon Secours has agreed to put up $6.4 million in exchange for naming rights and to receive a "sweetheart" deal to lease the former Westhampton School located at Patterson and Libbie Avenue for $5,000 a year for the next 60 years! The 6.5 acre property is assessed at $7.5 million.

There is a good article on the matter at Style Weekly.

A presentation was made to the Council by Mayor's Chief of Staff Suzette Denslow [1:54].

Citizen Comments opposed to the proposal begin at 26:10 with Chris Dorsey, followed by many others.

Comments in support came from individuals representing the Chamber of Commerce, Jack Berry from the Convention & Visitor's Bureau, Richmond Sportsbackers, and several others beginning at 1:13:00.

Part 4/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Mayo Island Owner Delays Approval of Riverfront Plan - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 5/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Citizen Comment Period - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 6/6 - 2012 Nov. 12 - Consent Agenda & Council Announcements - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Raucous Citizen Comment Period Leads to Council Recess

2012 Oct. 22 - Formal Session - Entire Meeting - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Awards Period [5:45] Amendments to Agenda [23:42] Regular Agenda [26:49] Citizen Comment Period [45:41] Consent Agenda

GRTC Offers Public Info Session on Downtown Transfer Center

2012 Oct. 18 - GRTC Info Session on Downtown Transfer Center @ U of R on Broad - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

GRTC (Greater Richmond Transit Company), Richmond's public transportation bus company held an open house format public meeting at the University of Richmond's downtown location at 7th & Broad. There were powerpoint slides on easels showing the process for the site selection for the downtown transfer center, explaining what transfer centers are, and showing examples from other cities. At the end of this video is a video produced by GRTC about Transfer Centers, but the volume was not loud enough to make a good recording but you can get an idea of what they are talking about.

Fan District Association Candidate Forum for the 5th & 2nd Districts

The Fan District Association held a City Council candidate forum on Wednesday night at Fox Elementary for the 5th and 2nd Districts located in the Fan. From the 5th District candidates Parker Agelasto, Marty Jewell, and Lee Shewmake were present. From the 2nd District, Charles Samuels and Charlie Diradour were present.

2012 Oct. 10 - Fan District Assoc. Candidate Forum - 5th District - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 2/2 - 2012 Oct. 10 - Fan District Assoc. Candidate Forum - 2nd District - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Formal Session

2012 Oct. 8 - Formal Session - Entire Meeting - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Informal Session: Virginia Municipal League Lawyer Discusses Eminent Domain Ballot Question

2012 Oct. 8 - Informal Session - Entire Meeting - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Council Reviews Budget Process, Citizen Survey, Priorities, and Legislative Agenda

Richmond City Council held a retreat at the Richmond Police Academy on Monday, October 1 to have an early discussion about timeline, process, and priorities for the next City Budget. In Part 2, Chief Administrative Office Byron Marshall explained the results of the 2012 Richmond Community Survey, where a random selection of Richmond residents ranked their satisfaction with various services provided by the City. They also got a talking to by Ron Jordan, the City's hired lobbyist at the General Assembly. He discussed the process and timeline for developing the City's Legislative Agenda in Part 4.

The advertised meeting time was 3 PM - 7 PM. The meeting began at 3:21 PM and ended at X:00 PM. Entering the meeting late were Marty Jewell [5th District], 3:28 PM, Charles Samuels [2nd District] 3:34 PM, and Chris Hilbert [3rd District] 5:36 PM. Reva Trammell [8th District] was not present at the meeting though her liaison, Henry Mease was.

Part 1/4 - Council Retreat 2012 Oct. 1 - Budget Process & Timeline - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 2/4 - Council Retreat 2012 Oct. 1 - Community Survey - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 3/4 - Council Retreat 2012 Oct. 1 - Council Prioritiies - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Part 4/4 - Council Retreat 2012 Oct. 1 - Legislative Agenda - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

School Board Candidate Forum Covers Wide Range of Topics

This event was organized by the VCU Political Science Department, the A. Philip Randolph Institute, The Alliance for Progressive Values, The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, People of Faith for Equality, RePHRAME - Residents of Public Housing in Richmond Against Mass Evictions, Richmond NOW, Sierra Club - Fall of the James, S.O.N.G. Southerners On New Ground, UniteWomen.org - Virginia Chapter, Virginia New Majority - Central Virginia Chapter, and Virginia Organizing.

The Forum started about 8:10 PM. Scott Price, Policy Director for The Alliance for Progressive Values, opened the forum and introduced the moderator for the evening, Kirsten Gray. Kirsten described the format and rules for the evening and then allowed each candidate two minutes to make an opening statement.

Mary Blanchard, 4th District [3:41], Dr. Patricia C. Churchill, 4th District [5:25], Kristen Larson, 4th Distict [7:21], Mamie Taylor, 5th District [9:21], Maurice Henderson, 5th District [10:53], Shondra Harris-Muhammed, 6th District [12:59], Rich Savage, 4th District [14:44], Vaness Womack Easter, 4th District [16:46], Norma Murdoch-Kitt, 3rd District [18:49], Jeff Bourne, 3rd District [20:58], Kim Gray, 2nd District [23:05], Mariah White, 2nd District [25:03], Daisy Weaver, 2nd District [27:11], Trent Park, 1st District [29:36], Glen Sturtevant, 1st District [31:53], Tichi Pinkney-Eppes, 9th District [33:58], and Albertina Carter, 8th District [34:44].

Candidates from the 3rd and 2nd Districts were asked their position the School Board's recent decision to reopen A.V. Norrell, a fifty year old school built on or near an old city landfill for a kindergarten class of 3 and 4 year olds.

Current School Board member Dr. Norma Murdoch-Kitt, 3rd District, supported the decision [1:24]. Jeff Bourne, 3rd District candidate, did not support the decision [3:25]. Current School Board member Kim Gray, 2nd District, was the only School Board member to vote against the decision [5:13]. Mariah White [7:22] and Daisy Weaver [8:56], 2nd District candidates, also were opposed to the decision to reopen Norrell.

The five candidates for 4th District were asked what they thought of the recommendations from the Citywide Task Force on Rezoning and its recommendations for school closures.

Rich Savage [0:40], Kristen Larson [2:34], Vanessa Womack Easter [4:37], Dr. Patricia C. Churchill [6:54], and Mary Blanchard [9:10] responded to the question.

Several candidates were asked "When administrators lack incompetence or misbehave are you comfortable with their being promoted in the system? What would you do to stop this?" The example of the former Blackwell Elementary principal was cited.

Trent Park, 1st District [1:24], Glen Sturtevant, 1st District [3:33], Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District [5:18], Tichi Pinkney-Eppes, 9th District [7:43].

Candidates were asked if they supported incorporating specific language about gender and sexual orientation into the schools' anti-bullying policy.

Maurice Henderson, 5th District [1:05], Mamie Taylor, 5th District [2:56], and Albertina Carter, 8th District [5:26] responded.

"How did our schools get millions of dollars in debt?"..."Was it a good idea to cut plant service transportation jobs and to give 5 day furloughs to all employees in order to balance the budget?"

Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District [1:29], Mariah White, 2nd District [4:08], Daisy Weaver, 2nd District [6:14], and Kim Gray, 2nd District [8:37] responded.

5th District candidates Mamie Taylor [1:53] and Maurice Henderson [3:50] were asked, Why are test scores so low and how can they be improved?

The question: What recommendations of the Mayor's RPS Budget Task Force do you support or oppose? Please be specific.

Tichi Pinkney-Eppes, 9th District [0:55], Glen Sturtevant, 1st District [2:31], and Trent Park, 1st District [4:12] responded to the question.

How can we replicate the success of some Richmond schools in other schools that do not perform so well?

Kristen Larson, 4th District [0:39], Patricia Conn Churchill, 4th District [2:34], Mary Blanchard, 4th District [4:36], Rich Savage, 4th District [5:47], and Vanessa Womack Easter, 4th District [7:40] responded.

Candidates were asked about recent salary increases for the Superintendent in the face of budget cuts for schools.

Jeff Bourne, 3rd District [1:00], Norma Murdoch-Kitt, 3rd District [2:59], and Albertina Carter, 8th District [5:14] responded.

What interest or stake do 1st District Parents and Voters have in devoting its resources to struggling schools in other districts?

First District candidates Trent Park [0:47] and Glen Sturtevant [2:41] responded.

How can Richmond Public Schools become more green?

Daisy Weaver, 2nd District [0:35], Mariah White, 2nd District [2:12], and Kim Gray, 2nd District [3:18] responded.

The question: Traditionally, Superintendents have had a powerful influence on their boards. How will your tenure be different?

Tichi Pinkney-Eppes, 9th District [0:47], Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District [1:51], Maurice Henderson, 5th District [3:43], and Mamie Taylor, 5th District [5:56] responded to the question.

What would you do to make RPS meetings more accessible to the public?

Norma Murdoch-Kitt, 3rd District [0:42], Jeff Bourne, 3rd District [2:10], Vanessa Womack Easter, 4th District [3:35], Rich Savage, 4th District [4:26], Patricia Conn Churchill, 4th District [5:32], Kristen Larson, 4th District [7:22], and Albertina Carter, 8th District [9:25] responded.

Each candidate was given an opportunity to make closing comments.

Patricia Conn Churchill, 4th District [1:06], Kristen Larson, 4th District [1:26], Mamie Taylor, 5th District [2:11], Maurice Henderson, 5th District [3:05], Shonda Harris-Muhammed, 6th District [5:05], Albertina Carter, 8th District [6:34], Tichi Pinkney-Eppes, 9th District [8:27], Glen Sturtevant, 1st District [9:18], Trent Park, 1st District [10:08], Daisy Weaver, 2nd District [10:56], Mariah White, 2nd District [11:52], Kim Gray, 2nd District [12:15], Jeff Bourne, 3rd District [12:58], Norma Murdoch-Kitt, 3rd District [13:44], Vanessa Womack Easter, 4th District [15:55], and Rich Savage, 4th District [16:45] made closing comments.

Economic Development & Finance Committee Meeting

2012 Sept. 20 - Economic & Finance Committee - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Called to order: 3:12 PM / Meeting running time: 59 minutes.

Land Use, Housing, & Transportation Committee Meeting

Land Use, Housing, & Transportation Committee - 2012 Sept. 18 - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Short Public Safety Meeting without Trammell

Public Safety Committee - 2012 Sept. 17 - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Called to order: 5:09 PM / Meeting Run Time: 1 hour, 9 minutes

This was the first Public Safety Committee meeting since Council's August break. Reva Trammell [8 District], the regular chairperson, was not present at the monthly meeting. Chris Hilbert [3rd District] chaired the meeting and was joined by Cynthia Newbille [7th District] and later by Marty Jewell at 5:12 PM [5th District] and Council President Kathy Graziano at 5:20 PM [4th District].

City Council/Mayor Candidate Forum at VCU

A public forum featuring candidates running for Richmond City Council and Mayor was held at a VCU building located in a former grocery store. The event was organized by The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government in partnership with the A. Philip Randolph Institute, The Alliance for Progressive Values, The Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, People of Faith for Equality, RePHRAME - Residents of Public Housing in Richmond Against Mass Evictions, Richmond NOW, Sierra Club - Fall of the James, S.O.N.G. Southerners On New Ground, UniteWomen.org - Virginia Chapter, Virginia New Majority - Central Virginia Chapter, and Virginia Organizing.

The Forum started about 8:10 PM. Scott Price, Policy Director for The Alliance for Progressive Values, opened the forum and introduced the moderator for the evening, Dr. Kim Allen from the Martin Luther King Jr. Living History Center. Dr. Allen described the format and rules for the evening and then allowed each candidate make an opening statement.

Facebook event page: facebook.com/events/234730533315637/

Part 1/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - Introductory Comments - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Parker Angelasto, 5th District [4:34], Ellen Robertson, 6th District [6:52], Bruce Tyler, 1st District [9:03], Chris Hilbert, 3rd District [9:54], Charles Samuels, 2nd District [11:58], Mike Ryan, candidate for Mayor [14:09], Johnny Walker, 4th District [16:18], Jimmy Hart, 8th District [18:34], Marty Jewell, 5th District [20:07], Lee Shewmake, 5th District [22:23], Erin Delp, 3rd District [24:43], Dawn Page, 8th District [25:57], Michelle Mosby, 9th District [27:38], and Charlie Diradour, 2nd District [29:59].

Part 2/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - Building by Design or Default? - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

The first question posed to candidates referenced Mayor Jones' statement about building the City by design and not by default in the context of so many Special Use Permits being granted recently. The question was put to Mayoral candidate Mike Ryan [1:07], and 5th District City Council candidates Marty Jewell [3:16] and Lee Shewmake [4:41].

Part 3/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - Redeveloping Public Housing - 1 to 1 Replacement? - Richmond, VA from Silver.

The second question directed to candidates Dawn Page, 8th District [0:51], and Ellen Robertson, 6th District [2:42], asked if they supported one to one replacement of units for individuals who currently live in Public Housing.

Part 4/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - On Spot Zoning - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

The question referenced varying parking requirements for recently proposed developments in Richmond's West End and Oregon Hill. The questioner asked, "Why is Spot Zoning like this allowed?"

Bruce Tyler, 1st District candidate [0:43] and Charles Samuels, 2nd District candidate [1:43] responded to the question.

Part 5/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - On Transportation/GRTC - Richmond, VA from Silver.

A question about improving Public Transportation and their support for a rapid transit bus line to Willow Lawn was posed to 4th District candidates Erin Delp [0:55] and Chris Hilbert [2:18]; Mayoral candidate Mike Ryan [4:29] and 8th District Council candidate Dawn Page [6:30] also commented on the question.

Part 6/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - On LGBTQ - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Moderator Dr. Kim Allen asked Council candidates Johnny Walker, 4th District [1:13], and Jimmy Hart, 8th District [3:08], what they would do to promote a safe and tolerant community for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer youth? Mr. Walker initially tried to avoid the question by attempting to discuss the previous question but Dr. Allen made him answer the question.

Part 7/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - On $10M from Altria - Richmond, VA from Silver.

Considering a recent agreement between the city and Altria for naming rights to the Landmark Theatre for $10 million, Dr. Kim Allen asked how this money could be used to benefit people of Richmond. Jimmy Hart, 8th District [0:28], Marty Jewell, 5th District [1:50], and Ellen Robertson, 6th District [4:25] responded.

Part 8/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - How will you create jobs? - Richmond, VA from Silver.

A perennial favorite was asked, "What would you do to create jobs in Richmond?" Attempting to answer the age-old question were Charles Samuels, 2nd District [0:31], Marty Jewell, 5th District [1:43], Johnny Walker, 4th District [4:04], Dawn Page, 8th District [5:27], Lee Shewmake, 5th District [7:02], and Mike Ryan, candidate for Mayor [8:57].

Part 9/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - Should City Sell Monroe Park to VCU? - Richmond, VA from Silver.

The question was initially asked to Charlie Diradour, a real estate developer and 2nd District candidate [0:33]. Diradour was the only candidate who publicly supported the idea of selling Monroe Park to VCU. Charles Samuels, 2nd District [1:29], spoke in opposition to the proposal and got a big round of applause; other sitting Council members also spoke in opposition to the proposal including Chris Hilbert, 3rd District [3:25], and Ellen Robertson, 6th District [4:20].

Part 10/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - On Working with the School Board - Richmond, VA from Silver.

The question this go-round was, How will you work with the School Board to address future budget shortfalls?

Many candidates answered this question including Dawn Page, 8th District [0:49], Jimmy Hart, 8th District [3:05], Michelle Mosby, 9th District [4:23], Bruce Tyler, 1st District [5:55], Erin Delp, 4th District [7:36], Lee Shewmake, 5th District [8:25], and Johnny Walker, 4th District [10:30].

At the end of this clip, moderator Dr. Kim Allen asked if there was an ordinance that prevented the sale of City Parks, Council members thought there was such an ordinance [12:32].

Part 11/11 Richmond City Council Candidate Forum 2012 Sept. 13 - Backyard Chickens? - Richmond, VA from Silver.

All candidates present were asked their postion on allowing backyard chickens in the City. Michelle Mosby, 9th District [0:42], Dawn Page, 8th District [1:41], Erin Delp, 3rd District [2:40], Lee Shewmake, 5th District [3:18], Marty Jewell, 5th District [4:05], Jimmy Hart, 8th District [6:15], Johnny Walker, 4th District [6:48], Mike Ryan, candidate for Mayor [6:59], Charles Samuels, 2nd District [7:39], Chris Hilbert, 3rd District [9:36], Bruce Tyler, 1st District [11:33], Ellen Robertson, 6th District [13:30], Parker Angelasto, 5th District [14:40], and Charlie Diradour, 2nd District [16:04].

Formal Meeting

2012 Sept. 10 - Richmond City Council Meeting - Entire Meeting - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Over 3 1/2 hour long meeting called to order at 6:30 PM. All members were present.

Informal Session

2012 Sept. 10 - Informal Session - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver.

Docket Review. Much discussion about the granting of tax exempt status to local nonprofits. The recipients of tax exempt status included James River Apartments [2 properties assessed at $720,000 for $8640 in annual relief], Good Samaritan Ministries, Ltd. [2 properties assessed at $1,134,600 for $28,276 in annual relief], Cary Street DFIND, LLC [2 properties assess at $356,300 for $7980 in annual relief], FIND, Inc. [1 property assessed at $477,000 for $5724 in annual relief], Chestnut Hill Apartments, LLC [1 property assessed at $221,000 for $2652 in annual relief], The Byrd Theatre Foundation [1 property assessed at $1,250,000 for $15,000 in annual relief], Cherokee Hill of Richmond, Inc. [1 property assessed at $369,000 for $4,428 in annual relief], Boaz and Ruth, Inc. [9 properties -- More time is needed to calculate, attachments with the Ordinance are incomplete], Bliley Manor, Inc. [1 property assessed at $399,000 for $4788 in annual relief], and Friends of East End Day Care, LLC. [1 property assessed at $2,680,000 for $32,160 in annual relief].

[1:51:35] Urban Hens Presentation from Keith Rogers, Assistant to CAO Byron Marshall, and formerly of the City Clerk's Office.

Organizational Development Meeting

Organizational Development 2012 Sept. 4 - Entire Meeting - Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Items on the meeting's agenda. A report from Deputy City Auditor Amarilis Hernandez on the process the Auditor's office follows when conducting investigations and issuing reports.

Tax Exemption Papers (Ord. No. 2012-112 to Ord. No. 2012-138)

Setting the date for the 2012 Budget Retreat.

Current GRTC Members were reappointed with little discussion.

Council Approves 2nd Street Connector

Formal Meeting 2012 July 23 - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

I haven't written a report of this meeting yet. The major event of the night was Council's unanimous approval the Second Street Connector which will run from Second Street on the backside of the Virginia War Memorial down to the riverfront Tredegar Street, for the benefit Dominion Power's trading floor, Meadwestvaco, the Richmond Federal Reserve, and visitors to the Tredegar American Civil War Center. Watch the passage of Ord. 2012-152 and Ord. 2012-153 [11:14] The property was conveyed to Venture Richmond. More details soon.

Read more about the 2nd Street connector on C. Wayne Taylor's website, www.cityhallreview.com.

GRTC Task Force Discusses Site Selection for Downtown Transfer Center

GRTC and Transit Study Task Force - 2012 July 12 - Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

The Task Force held its regular monthly meeting at 4:00 PM on Thursday, July 12 at the Department of Economic Development's offices located on the third floor of Main Street Station.

The first order of business was the approval of minutes from two previous meetings. Scott Burger asked that the minutes be amended to reflect him asking about additional members for the Task Force. The amendment was adopted and the minutes were approved. [0:23]

The largest part of the meeting was a presentation from Stephen McNally, GRTC Project Administrator about the process for the site selection for a Transfer Center located in the downtown area located between 14th, Belvidere, Leigh, and Canal. [1:50]

SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS

[41:28] Montigue Magruder from the User Services Subcommittee gave a report of their last meeting.
[52:16] Jack Berry [Richmond Convention & Visitors Center] talked about the recent event Paralyzed Veterans Wheelchair Games, then discussed a June 26 meeting with Bob Crum from the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission.
[56:00] Miscellaneous Discussion

Formal Meeting 2012 July 9 - Richmond City Council - Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger on Vimeo.

Very interesting meeting. I began recording about 35 minutes after the meeting began. The video begins with the Citizen Comment Period. Teddy Parham was the first speaker [0:17]. In an unprecedented move, President Kathy Graziano [4th District] called a 5 minute recess when Teddy would not stop talking even after they cut her mic. Scott Burger talked about the high charge of the minimum water rate in the City [21:53].

President Graziano tried to cut off Councilman Marty Jewell [15:02] which he did not appreciate. The two had another tussle when Mr. Jewell was asking clarifying questions of Scott Burger [28:15].

[30:18] Robert "Bob" Stiedel, Direct of Public Utilities, spoke to the Council about the Water Utility

[42:22] Amend and Continue, Item 6, Ord. 2012-103 -- the digital signal started breaking up while the clerk was reading the amendments. [45:10] Mr. Bruce Tyler noted he had a conflict of interest on the paper and would not participate in the vote or discussion.

 [46:15] Consent Agenda. Tyler abstain from Item 5, Ord. 2012-102, because of a Conflict of Interest [51:32].

[52:28] Expedited Resolutions. 2012-R100 and 2012-R101.

[55:07] Approval of Minutes

[56:00] Reports and Announcements. Many Council members lamented the loss of Council regular and active community member Ruby Turner.

Doug Conner [56:07]
Charles Samuels [58:34]
Chris Hilbert [1:00:14]
Marty Jewell [1:04:48]
Cynthia Newbille [1:08:02]
Reva Trammell [1:09:43]
Bruce Tyler [1:16:30]
Ellen Robertson [1:18:41]
[1:25:14] Additional comments from Tyler, Hilbert, and Trammell
Kathy Graziano [1:28:03]

[1:29:23] Introduction of New Papers Meeting End Time: 8:20 PM

[1:37:45] Comments from Dick Harmon

Public Support does not Affect Council Vote on Schools' Budget

Monday's meeting lasted over 5 hours. The main topic of discussion was the City's Budget. Citizens spoke for 80 minutes in opposition to the proposed budget which does not fully fund Richmond Public Schools.

Full house because of all of the awards being given out tonight, not because of a genuine interest in the adoption of the City Budget, though there were some people here for that too (see Parts 4 - 6, below). In Part 1, you can experience the Prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, an explanation of the Evacuation Instructions in case of an emergency, and a moment of silence in honor of Councilman Chris Hilbert's mother who passed away that day. All members were present with the exception of Mr. Hilbert.

Part 2 is the Awards Period.

A majority of the people spoke in support of fully funding the public schools. Speakers in Part 4 included Thad Williamson [2:00], Angela Dews [5:32], John Reed [9:15], Thomas Hartman [12:47], Lola Van McDowell [14:46], Dave Ballard [18:42], Kirsten Gray [22:17], and Barbara Haas [26:13].

Speakers in Part 6 included Shirley L. Harvey [0:16], Vivek Jain [2:54], Chris Dorsey [7:22], Teddy Parham [11:20], Benony Tony Amekudzi [15:05], Dr. Angela Renee Jones [19:43], David Napier spoke supportively of the Council's efforts [22:09], Jill Brown? [23:12], Donny "Dirt Woman" Corker provided comic relief [26:16], and Donald Hatcher [27:43].

A few comments of support for the City Budget from interested parties [0:17] followed by Council discussion [12:43] and then a quick vote on the C.I.P. [Capital Improvement Program] Budget [48:26].

Several speakers during the Citizen Comment period spoke in support of changing the law to allow residents to keep chickens in their yards. I spoke to encourage folks to run for elected offices. At the end of the comment period Charles Samuels [2nd District] said he was bring forward an ordinance for such a thing, Marty Jewell [5th District] said he wanted to be a co-patron on the paper.

One paper was amended and continued, Ord. 2012-79 pertaining to the Landmark Theatre. On the Consent Agenda, there were just few items, mostly small Council member expenditures which were approved, followed by Approval of Minutes [4:46] and Reports and Announcements from Council members: Doug Conner, 9th District [5:42], Charles Samuels, 2nd District [6:46], Bruce Tyler, 1st District [7:13], Reva Trammell, 8th District [7:51], Cynthia Newbille, 7th District [8:43], Marty Jewell, 5th District [10:07], Ellen Robertson, 6th District [12:56], Kathy Graziano, 4th District [15:42].

The Introduction of New Papers was the last order of business [18:13], I just filmed the beginning of it because after 5 hours I was ready to go.

Wanted: City Clerk/ Request from City Attorney/

2012 March 5 • Organizational Development Committee - Entire Meeting • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Richmond City Council's Organizational Development meeting began at 5:04 PM. All Council members were present for the entire meeting. This video ends when the body moved to go to closed session to discuss the appointment of a RRHA commissioner.

The meeting opened with a presentation from Interim Deputy Chief of Staff Steve Taylor [formerly, Council Policy Advisor] and Deputy City Clerk Jean Capel reporting the results of their research into combining the positions of City Clerk and Council's Chief of Staff. Their recommendation was to keep the positions separate. Though it was not stated explicitly in the meeting, I realized that City Clerk Lou Ali will become the Council's Chief of Staff and the Council will need to hire a new City Clerk.

[32:18] City Attorney Allen Jackson requested that the deadline for submitting requests for legislation be moved from 12 noon on Wednesday before the Monday Formal Meeting to the end of the day on two Fridays before the Formal Meeting. He said that this would provide his office with an additional half day and allow the Council members ample time to review the legislation and make any desired changes, prior to its introduction.

Introducing Bob Zullo • Times-Dispatch's latest Council Beat Reporter • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Before the Organizational Development Committee went into closed session, Michael Martz from the Richmond Times-Dispatch (who has been filling in since reporter Will Jones left) introduced Robert "Bob" Zullo as the new Council beat reporter. Martz said Zullo had spent the last five years in Louisiana.

A brief google query turns up that he was recently writing for houmatoday.com He was City Editor for The Courier and Daily Comet in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes in Louisiana. Today was his first day.

Formal Meeting

Richmond City Council • 2012 Feb. 27 • Entire Formal Meeting from Silver Persinger.

At this meeting Council approved Bruce Tyler's [1st District] resolution to appoint a member of Council to the Capitol Region Airport Commission. [9:00] The vote was 5 - 3. Doug Conner was absent, against Hilbert, Jewell, and Graziano.

Citizen Comment Period [37:30]

Irene Feltner spoke on bus route concerns.

Elizabeth Fraizer, owner of the Richmond Raiders, gave an update on the team.

Benony Tony Amekudzi spoke on "General Comments."

Informal Session - Convention Center / 2nd Street Connector / Unassigned Fund Balance / Budget Timeline / Docket Review

Part 1/2 - 2012 Feb. 27 • Convention Center/ 2nd St. Connector • Informal Session • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Richmond City Council's Informal Session began at 3:14 PM.

Jack Berry, President & CEO of the Richmond Metropolitan Convention & Visitors' Bureau showed a 4 minute, $150,000 video that had recently been produced and gave Council an update about the Convention Center. [0:55]

Jeannie Welliver, Project Development Manager, discussed the proposed 2nd Street Connector. [20:00]

Part 2/2 - 2012 Feb. 27 • Unassigned Fund Balance /Budget Timeline /Docket Review • Informal Session • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Land Use

Part 1/ • 2012 Feb. 21 • Public Comment • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 2/ • 2012 Feb. 21 • Review of Papers • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 3/ • 2012 Feb. 21 • Review of Papers Cont'd • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 4/7 • 2012 Feb. 21 • Review of Papers Cont'd • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 5/7 • 2012 Feb. 21 • Coliseum Lease Renewal • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 6/7 • 2012 Feb. 21 • Status Report on RRHA • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

Part 7/7 • 2012 Feb. 21 • Board Vacancies & Appointments • Land Use Committee • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

A Short Meeting for Council

Formal Meeting 2012 Feb. 13 • Richmond City Council • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

There was not much substance at Monday's meeting. I arrived 5 minutes late, missing the prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. A summary of the meeting, as well as the Informal Session, should be posted over the weekend. In the meanwhile, you can watch the video.

At Informal Session - Juvenile Justice Center

Entire Informal Session 2012 Feb. 13 • Richmond City Council • Richmond, Virginia from Silver Persinger.

The Informal Session opened with Docket Review at 3:15 PM [0:35].

Dr. Carolyn Graham, Deputy CAO of Human Services, gave an update on the Juvenile Justice Center [3:10]. She discussed corrective actions that had been taken to address issues raised by a recent City audit and the Commonwealth. Issues included repairing defective door locks, reactivating intercoms, installing 32 new cameras, installing a new server, a camera recording system and new monitors, correcting water pressure, distributing hair brushes to female residents, TB testing for staff and staff training, replacing chairs, "no evidence of bed bugs found," and the medical mismanagement of child "unfounded."

[13:40] Charles Samuels [2nd Distict] for several minutes asked questions related to the medical management and was not satisfied with Dr. Graham's responses. A girl made an initial complaint in February 2011 and Mr. Samuels alleged that the treatment was not given until November/December. Dr. Graham disputed that claim with information from a report. Then Mr. Samuels pursued a line a questioning about hair brushes [20:00]. Then Mr. Samuels asked about bug bites [21:45]. He also asked about the replacement of 35 mattresses and a "funny question" about the use of anti-itch cream to treat acne.

[23:58] Ellen Robertson [6th District] asked if any resident has filed a complaint. Dr. Graham said that no complaints had been filed.

[26:10] Marty Jewell [5th District] asked about timelines for work completion, the intercom system, and the door locks. 39 youths are currently in the facility and capacity is 60.

[38:00] Review of Council Priorities.