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HomeMy Public PortalAbout2016_tcmin0112 COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, 7:30 p.m. Vice Mayor Burk presiding. Council Members Present: Thomas Dunn, II, David Butler, Katie Sheldon Hammler, Fernando "Marty" Martinez, Suzanne Fox, and Vice Mayor Burk. Council Members Absent: None. Staff Present: Town Manager Kaj Dentler, Town Attorney Barbara Notar, Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel, Deputy Director of Planning and Zoning Brian Boucher, Zoning Administrator Chris Murphy, Deputy Zoning Administrator Brandon White, Paralegal Carmen Smith and Executive Associate Tara Belote. AGENDA ITEMS 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. INVOCATION was led by Vice Mayor Burk 3. SALUTE TO THE FLAG was led by Council Member Hammier 4. ROLL CALL showing all members present. 5. MINUTES a. Work Session Minutes of December 7, 2015 On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Dunn, the work session minutes of December 7, 2015 were passed a vote of 6-0. b. Regular Session Minutes of December 8, 2015 On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Dunn, the minutes of December 8, 2015 were passed by a vote of 6-0. 6. ADOPTING THE MEETING AGENDA On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Dunn, the meeting agenda was adopted as presented by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Dunn, Fox Hammier, Martinez, and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: None Vote: 6-0 7. PRESENTATIONS a. Certificates of Recognition and Proclamation—Heritage High School Girls Cross Country 4A State Champions On a motion by Council Member Hammler, seconded by Council Member Butler, the following was proclaimed: 1 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 PROCLAMATION Heritage High School 4A Girl's Cross Country Champions WHEREAS, the Virginia Cross Country Championships were held in The Plains on November 13, 2015; and WHEREAS, the Heritage High School Girl's won the 4A State Championship; and WHEREAS, this is the first team from Heritage to win a State Title; and WHEREAS, runner Weini Kelati won the Girls 4A Individual Championship and Georgie Mackenzie came in 4th; and WHEREAS, coached by Head Coach Douglas Gilbert and Assistant Coaches Nancy Merriman and Matt Holton, the state champions are: Weini Kelati, 1st place, All State Georgie Mackenzie, 4th place, All State Audrey Corbet Neal Fleming Megan Collins Sarah Smith Gina Pallotta Malia Sample Maddie Wright THERFORE, PROCLAIMED by the Council of the Town of Leesburg in Virginia that the Heritage High School Girl's Cross Country team is recognized for their hard work and effort that made it possible for their win as Virginia High School League 4A State Champions. PROCLAIMED, this 12th day of January, 2016. b. Proclamation —Humane Society of Loudoun County: Celebrating 50 Years of Service PROCLAMATION Humane Society of Loudoun County Celebrating 55 years of Service 2 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 WHEREAS, the Humane Society of Loudoun County was established July 29, 1966 upon filing its Articles of Incorporation with the Commonwealth of Virginia; and WHEREAS, the Humane Society of Loudoun County adopted the eleven components of the No- Kill Equation: Partnership, Volunteers, Foster Care, Trap-Neuter-Release, Pet Retention, Adoption, Community Involvement, Medical& Behavioral Rehabilitation, Low Cost Spay/Neuter, Lost& Found, and Compassionate Management; and WHEREAS, the Humane Society of Loudoun County has made great strides in implementing these components to achieve an animal save rate of 90% or better; and WHEREAS, the Humane Society of Loudoun County is operated by a dedicated group of Volunteers who welcome the community to participate in a year-long extravaganza in 2016 to celebrate this success and to continue this important work until all Loudoun pets have loving homes and adequate medical care; and THERFORE, PROCLAIMED by the Council of the Town of Leesburg in Virginia that the Humane Society of Loudoun County is recognized for 50 years of service to the residents and animals of Loudoun. PROCLAIMED, this 12th day of January, 2016. c. Presentation—INOVA Master Plan Pat Walters and Stacey Miller from INOVA gave a brief presentation on the Master Plans for INOVA facilities in Loudoun County. 8. PETITIONERS The Petitioners section was opened at 7:55 p.m. • Andrew Borgquist: I have been coming and speaking before this council quite a few times. So, I am here again tonight. So, first, I would like to note that I had a request for information that has been denied. I had a response from the town attorney, Barbara Notar. The Town of Leesburg told me it was unable to give me information because it was not required to be disclosed by the Freedom of Information Act. I would like to note that the wording that I thought was a little bit suspect because I was told that they were unable to provide it, but the information existed and further response by the town there was nothing preventing the information from being exposed. So, I felt that the real truth of the matter was that the town was using discretion and there was a further email that said it was discretion. It is allowed by law to withhold the information and not that the town was unable to give something that didn't exist or that it was barred from releasing information in some manner. I think that there is a subtle but important difference between unable and unwilling because when I asked for an explanation for the use of discretion, I was again referred to the Freedom of Information Act. 3 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Essentially since no explanation was required by the act for that discretion, no explanation was given. I can't help but that tuck with the irony of this a little bit because it is called the Freedom of Information Act. To inform that the information can't be shared but will be withheld because the act does not [inaudible] no explanation will be given for using discretion so to me it seemed kind of a misuse of how the act was intended to be used. But, anyways, so to the point though just because something is legal doesn't necessarily make it right so bad management and poor customer service are not illegal, but if it clear that management is not acting appropriately or that things are not [inaudible] as appropriate, it still should not be allowed. It should not be something that is part of the town. So, I find the town's decision to withhold the information to be a little bit suspect. My reasoning is simple. I have knowledge that the Director of Parks and Recreation, Rich Williams, requested and received information similar to my request from Police Chief Joseph Price. Mr. Williams used the information for a purpose for which the information was not intended. Let me repeat that. Mr. Price shared information with Mr. Williams, who used the information in a manner of which —I don't see how it could have been intended to be used that way, but if the information is trivial and mere public record as Mr. Williams alleged, then why is the public being denied similar access to this type of information, particularly without explanation. Or is this information preferentially shared with members of the public based on, I don't know —favoritism? I don't know. I don't understand. Mr. Williams use of information and the fact that my own request for similar information was denied by discretion, suggests that he received the information based on—it appears to be like a favoritism of some sort. But again I don't know that. This is just how I feel about this. It seems as though rank and file members of the public or employees who would be adversely affected by the disclosure have no access. This to me seems like more of a power and privilege. That is how I see it. Second, I would like to express my disappointment with the length of time it took me to have a conversation with town manager Dentler regarding the other issue I have been bringing before the Council. Mr. Dentler did finally agree to speak with me after more than a year of requests. So, furthermore, I would like to express my disappointment with the phone call I had with Mr. Dentler. [Inaudible] Mr. Dentler. There are other opinions regarding my concern. But there is an old saying—opinions are like armpits. Everyone has them and most of them stink. The point is that often people express opinions unsubstantiated by fact. Recently this council received an opinion from an accountant regarding their financial statements and we respect that opinion of the accountant because we know it is backed by documented procedures and past performance, so the opinion is reliable. I pressed Mr. Dentler for an explanation of the documented and uncontested facts which indicate that his opinion is inconsistent with good management practices and customer service. He told me that he does not have to justify himself or any of the actions of the management team. Members of the Council, yes he does. The town of Leesburg has taken from me. The actions of the town of Leesburg specifically and severely affected me. It is inappropriate and quite frankly insulting that Mr. Dentler suggests that he does not owe me an explanation. I'll sum up with am I so small and insignificant in the eyes of the manager that I do not deserve a thoughtful and reasonable explanation for actions the town has taken that would clearly have a severe and adverse impact on me? 4 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Ron Campbell, 812 Fort MacLeod Terrace. I am here again tonight to speak on the matter of the appointment of the mayor. I want to say a couple of things as I listened to the work session last night and as I have talked before with some of you, in previous one on one meetings and I have talked to other constituents. I think that everybody does recognize the fact that holding an elected office is an important value. I think as it was said last night again, having put yourself out there to be elected is an important matter but is not the only criteria obviously of being vetted as you consider what I think and others, is a very serious matter that the position of appointment even as an interim mayor should not be left to a particular job search criteria as a process. And as many of you have already spoken excessively to putting aside partisanship, putting aside your personal issues or your personal preferences that the matters of this town are too important and too great to be left up to chance just because it is a four person vote. As a petitioner, I now petition you to carefully consider what you have to do in your elected capacity to find one among you qualified to serve in that capacity—to not leave this to an outside job search or to a judge. That is not representing the best interests of this town and I don't have to tell you given the critical issues and topics that you are going to face for the next couple of months. It is not about whether somebody can be a quick learner or a good study or a good steward of running a meeting. This is a town— the citizens of this town deserve better. And in your capacity, I know it is a serious obligation that you have given a lot of thought to among your various constituents and among yourselves, but I ask you tonight to seriously think about the process that you must engage in as six remaining members of the town council despite the codes and legalese that have been very well explained—thank you very much, Town Attorney, but your obligation to the citizens that we cannot leave the appointment of the interim mayor to chance or to find somebody favorable in the eyes of four of you or maybe not so favorable in the eyes of a judge. So, again, I am here tonight as an important issue but I am also here to let you know how important this is to me and my constituents. Today is actually my birthday. There are many places I'd rather be and have been on this day, but it was important enough to again just continue to lend my voice—whatever that means—it is my voice, but I am a citizen of the town of Leesburg. I am not concerned about this process. I only urge you to seriously consider one among you as your first step in a very serious process. Lightower Steve Lee. So, I go to a lot of these meetings. There are always these sign in sheets and I think I may have inadvertently signed the wrong list. But, I just want to let you know we are here to let you know we are here to discuss the resolution to obtain a franchise or license from the city. I wanted to let everybody know I am here to answer any questions. Sola Pallotta, I own a little gift shop in downtown Leesburg called the Very Virginia Shop. It is right across the street at 16 South King Street and I promote Leesburg, Loudoun County and everything Virginia. So, I want to talk about this motion—or something on the agenda to rescind the funding for the town green stage and the interactive water feature that is going to be at Mervin Jackson Park. I am here to strongly urge you please do not kill that funding. Do not kill this great idea that we have something to bring families—a nice feature for families and kids to come downtown. We really need things like this. We could use neat, interactive art there too and stuff like 5 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 that. You know, the small businesses downtown, we are up against the Wegman's shopping center—the Village. They have something similar that brings tons of kids. We are up against One Loudoun. I think there is a new shopping center going in down South King Street called Crossroads, I think, that is going to go in—I don't know when —some years from now. We have the outlet mall that brings people to the outlet mall. We have got the Lansdowne Shopping Center. So, we could use some cool things downtown. We have got some neat shops and great restaurants, but please do not— everyone was so excited that this got approved—it was great. Now it was quietly been put on—a motion to kill it. As you can see, I am the only one here who took the time to come and talk about it. I think, mainly because they didn't know this was on the agenda tonight—that there is a chance that people are going to kill this idea. This is a great idea. If there are any safety concerns, I would recommend near where the alley is— there is an alley and then there is the barber shop. Maybe put some Leyland Cypress up, a couple of those—put a couple of benches there to kind of put a barrier. You don't have to build a big wall or anything—put something there that kind of has a finite end to where the splash park area ends —along the grass there. Something natural like trees — arborvitaes — anything that would help. Maybe put a little bit of a border there before the alley way if anybody is concerned about children or something. I think it would be a great addition to downtown and I think we should do some more things like this — maybe interactive art or some other stuff. Okay? So, please, please do not kill this great idea that has already started. The Petitioners section was closed at 8:09 p.m. 9. APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Hammler, the following consent agenda was proposed: a. Requesting the Virginia Department of Transportation Accept Certain Streets RESOLUTION 2016-001 Requesting the Virginia Department of Transportation to Accept Certain Streets b. Sycolin Road Widening Phase IV—Right-of-Way Dedications and Easements RESOLUTION 2016-002 Declaring that a Public Necessity and Use Exists, Authorizing an Offer to Acquire Right-ofWay Dedications and Easements for the Sycolin Road Widening Phase IV Project c. Art Exhibit by the C.S. Monroe Technology Center Students of Pam Smith RESOLUTION 2016-003 Approval of a Public Art Exhibit at Town Hall by the C. S. Monroe Technology Center Students of Pam Smith 6 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 d. Request for Funding from Northern Virginia Transportation Authority for the East Market Street(Route 7)and Battlefield Parkway Interchange Project RESOLUTION 2016-004 Application for Fiscal Year 2017 Northern Virginia Transportation Authority Regional Funds e. License Agreement between the Town of Leesburg and Lightower Fiber Networks II, LLC,for telecommunications facilities ini Town Right-ofWay RESOLUTION2016-005 Authorizing the Town Manager to Execute a License Agreement Between the Town of Leesburg and Lightower Fiber Networks II, LLC for Telecommunications Facilities in Town Right-ofWay f. Authorization to Acquire Land Rights for Construction of a Trail Along Harrison Street RESOLUTION 2016-006 Declaring that a Public Necessity and Use Exists and Authorizing an Offer to Acquire Permanent and Temporary Easements for Crescent Place Harrison Street Roadway Improvements g. Appropriation of Net Proceeds from 2015 Jingle Jam Concert Series to the Parks and Recreation Budget RESOLUTION 2016-007 Approving a Supplemental Appropriation in the Amount of$12,200 Resulting from the 2015 Net Proceeds of the Jingle Jam Concerts h. Addition to Adopted 2016 Legislative Positions Statement RESOLUTION 2016-008 Modification to the Adopted Legislative Positions Statement for the 2016 Virginia General Assembly Legislative Session Initiating Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance for Small Cell Antennas RESOLUTION 2016-009 Initiating Amendments to the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance Regarding Regulation of Telecommunications Facilities to Address Anticipated Service Demands and the Implementation of New Technologies in Accordance with Town Plan Objectives The Consent Agenda was approved by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Dunn, Fox, Hammler, Martinez, and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: None Vote: 6-0 7 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 10. PUBLIC HEARINGS a. TLOA 2015-0004 Zoning Ordinance Batch Amendment The public hearing was opened at 8:12 p.m. Chris Murphy gave a brief presentation on proposed batch of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance. Key Points: • Annual batch amendment process makes amendments to the zoning ordinance that fall into four general categories: meeting updated state code requirements, addressing ease of use and interpretation, correcting errors, and being responsive to the changing needs of the community and/or town code directives. • Change in the Sign Ordinance will update current procedures established in Article 15 for Comprehensive Sign Plan review. • Planning Commission would like to see exhibits, illustrations and/or section drawings and comparative tables showing the amount of open space, parking spaces, lot sizes, gross floor area of commercial space and residential density, etc. per the zoning ordinance as compared to the development as modified. • Updated language regarding variances heard by the Board of Zoning Appeals to conform with language in the state code. • Updated language regarding appeals to administrative decisions of the Board of Zoning Appeals to conform with language and updates in the state code. Puts the burden of proof on the appellant to rebut the presumption of correctness with the preponderance of evidence. • Ease of use change for archeological and historical information that establishes a procedure if a phase I archeological survey reveals archeological deposits of local, state, and/or national significance. This follows state historical preservation office and National Register standards. • Establishes a voluntary process for providing input on potential applicants for Certificate of Appropriateness in the H-1 and H-2 overlay on preliminary designs before the applicant makes more significant investments on more significant design—before they make their official application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. • Allows administrative approval of Certificates of Appropriateness for review of bollards, traffic control devices outside of the public right of way, installation of HVAC units and supporting structures, utility related improvements, and change of appearance of gutters, downspouts, attic vents, and exterior doors on non-contributing resources. • Removes indoor vehicle auctions from the use table in Section 9.2 consistent with the prohibition on use established in Section 9.1.5. 8 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 • Moves the use standards for Family Day Homes, which currently reside in Section 9.3.11, which are use standards for primary uses since Family Day Homes are accessory uses to the primary use of a dwelling. • Changes Section 9.5.4.D2, which revises the duration of events from three consecutive days five times per year for a total of 15 days, 3 consecutive days, 8 times per year for a total of 24 days. • Specifies in lots with single family detached, duplexes, multi-families, end units of single family attached townhouses, that mechanical units require a 5 foot setback and establishes on interior townhouse lots, that HVAC mechanical equipment is 18 inches. • Clarifies that the accessible parking spaces will be calculated based on the number of spaces provided versus the minimum required. • Removes the County garage as a qualifying facility for waiver of parking requirements since the parking restrictions limiting the use of the county garage. • Ease of use change to the 20 year canopy requirements. • Codifies the established practice of the town to exclude the width of entrances from street tree calculations. • Clarifies language establishing perimeter parking screening requirements. • Expands plant ground cover requirement on any slope greater than 3:1. • Establishes a sunset provision for non-conforming signs that are no longer in use. Council Comments/Questions: • Dunn: On number 7, the one dealing with the H-2,just more of a comment than a question. Again, I wish we were moving along the removal of the H-2. This was a town council directed priority and it keeps getting pushed further and further back and here we are making more changes to the existing regulations when it should just be taken out as a failed effort. Number 9, why are indoor vehicle auctions prohibited? Staff answer: Vehicle auctions all together have been prohibited in the zoning ordinance for quite a while. The indoor vehicle auction somehow is still left in the zoning ordinance—the use table in Section 9.2, but it is not permitted in any district, so what this does is cleans out this apparent inconsistency and makes the ordinance reflect the prohibition. There are certain uses in the town that are prohibited all the way around, vehicle auctions included. I am sure Mr. Boucher would probably have better knowledge of this since he was zoning administrator at the time this was established, but there were some vehicle auction uses that were not quite on the up and up, so to speak. So to avoid that all together, it was felt by Council at that time, to eliminate the use altogether. • Dunn: Rather than eliminating a use, I would rather figure out how we can make the use be more in line with what would be acceptable. I realize this was one thing that was left out and I am sure we don't get a lot of vehicle auctions, especially those indoors, correct? When was the last time we had one? 9 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Staff answer: We actually did have one once. The ordinance used to prohibit vehicle auctions of any type. Someone proposed a vehicle auction where Jerry's Chevrolet is now. This was back in the 90s. So, the ordinance was changed to allow it. That auction went under. I think it was found that it has certain impacts on the apartments nearby. Indoor vehicle auctions can be noisy. You have a lot of activity on the weekends or the middle of the week and there is a lot of noise, loudspeakers, etc. So, it was after that it closed. It was revisited to revert to the status quo before, and just removed the use. I will say this—my family is in the used car business. I have been to a lot of vehicle auctions and they do tend to be—they are usually out in some place that is not exactly surrounded by residential uses. Given by how Leesburg is kind of configured, there aren't too many places you can go without being in somewhat close proximity to residential uses. We just had a reversion and at the time was felt that we tried the experience and it didn't go over too well. • Dunn: I would think that an indoor auction would be less impacting, than outdoor. Staff answer: I'll just say this —when you say indoor, it means that they run the cars from outside indoor, but they open the doors and the sound reverberates out. • Dunn: On Number 11, why are we not allowing even more weekends because that is really what we are talking about—three day weekends. Three consecutive days, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Why not allow more weekends. This is only one out of every eight that we are allowing this possibility, so one every two months. Why not allow more? Staff answer: What we don't want to happen—again, the R-1 district is a low density residential primarily zoning district. We don't want essentially event centered uses to come out of this change. This is something that Paxton has requested and we are accommodating that. If the Council feels that it is in the best interest of the town to permit these things any and all weekends of the year, then by all means. That was our intent to try to accommodate the needs of an existing place while not turning it into an event center. • Dunn: I know that Paxton is a special circumstance. Because obviously we are not going to have a lot of locations within the R-ls holding major events. This is kind of a special situation, but I am glad we are increasing it and if that is acceptable to Paxton, that's great. I just am not sure why we are just limiting it to once every two months. It looks like one of those things that it will be good now, but then we may have to request coming in the future saying yeah, we'd like to do a couple more and the thing that I think also separates Paxton is the folks in the neighborhood—they know that Paxton is there. It is not like it is something new to them. I have appreciated they're working with my son's boy scout troop over the years. Just wondering why we have selected the number we did. If you are saying that number was requested by Paxton. 10 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Staff answer: We spoke with them, worked with them while we were crafting this particular regulation and this was the number that they felt comfortable with. • Dunn: Well, I don't have a problem going with more, if it is needed. If you feel that is acceptable then okay. But again, it is only once every two months and I know that sometimes the need is there for additional. Then the last one is the—I am not sure I am thrilled about number 19. I theoretically own a piece of property and I have a sign that is out there that is blank and on the weekend I go out and put up a sign that says have a nice weekend. But now you are saying I can't do that. Staff answer: This only applies to non-conforming signs that are blank and not in use. If you had a non-conforming sign on your property and used that sign, you would only be able to do so under certain stipulations of the zoning ordinance. What this does is, if you have a preexisting nonconforming sign on your property that is not being used for advertising for a period of at least two years, state code gives municipalities the authority to remove those signs. Again, remember when the zoning ordinance was amended to eliminate certain types of signs, I'll say for example, in Leesburg pole signs were permitted. That's how you got the big tall signs with the little thing on top. Pole sign. At some time in the past, before I got here in 2003, Town Council decided they didn't want those signs in the town anymore, so they removed those as permissible signs. Thus, they became preexisting nonconforming signs. It was the will of the Town Council to eventually get rid of those where they existed; however, if you have one you can use it so long as it meets the nonconforming sign criteria under Article 15; however, there are places in town where these signs are existing—may not be being used and in those instances, we would not permit a sign to go on those signs. We would not permit them to revise those signs to be used in instances like that. This establishes a provision whereby under the state code this is permissible. We would require the property owner to remove that sign and they would be able to get legal signs on that property instead. • Dunn: But the key was that I said I was using it on the weekend and I don't get much staff enforcement on the weekend. So, actually I am using the sign, even though your impression is that I am not. Staff answer: We don't have any instances of that happening and this is just something that we want to put in place so we have the authority to remove those signs that Town Council wanted to see removed over time in the town. • Dunn: So, we don't have any instances currently where we even need this, but we are going to go ahead and regulate... Staff answer: No, we have. We have some out there today. • Dunn: Okay. I'm not thrilled about that one. Thanks. • Hammier: Just a quick one. What is a family day home? Staff answer: A family day home is an in-home day care. 11 1 Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 • Hammler: Okay. That's what I thought. I just wanted to clarify. Just for the record, from a disclosure point of view—number 11, my house backs up to Paxton and certainly appreciate where Tom was coming from, but this seems like a good balance. You know, I can certainly speak for our neighbors that I am in touch with despite the fact that we hear the haunted house all the time late into the night, we are very, very supportive of everything that you do. You are a wonderful neighbor, but this is probably a good number to be able to help support what you need from a fundraising perspective. I will also try, if this passes, to get the word out so that everybody knows that this is a change. Jennifer Lassiter: I am the executive director at Paxton. I am really glad that I get to speak right now on the heels of that Katie, because I did want to explain a little bit about what we are asking for here. When we originally had the ordinance for a fair in the R-1 district, it really was talking about Shocktober and the Haunted House because there really hadn't been anything like this and it was really wonderful for you guys to help us figure that out. Now, though our events, our fairs have expanded beyond what we did for fundraising. Now we have an Easter Egg Hunt for our spring festival. We have a snowflake celebration during the winter holidays. We have an initiative this summer where we were doing music at the manor where we had local bands play from 5 to 7 and a winery was selling wine and the community came together—when I say the community I mean our community of people with disabilities and our neighbors and everyone. And so in order to be within compliance for zoning we need to have permits for all of those things so we are not talking about having 24 days of a haunted house. We are talking about our weekends in October for our haunted house that makes great money and you guys are very supportive of and we appreciate that, but also for more of these kinds of family and community events that bring our communities into one community of Paxton, which really has been our goal all along. So, I really appreciate working with Chris and Brandon, they have been great. We originally asked for 30 because that was encompassing all of the things we wanted to do. We also wanted to do a movie event—movies at the Manor and some fourth of July picnic. Things like that. They are daytime events. I just can't stress enough—it is not the haunted house, right? This is families coming together. Families who can't go to Ida Lee for it because they may melt down with the fireworks. Paxton is a beautiful property and everybody enjoys it. That is why we asked for the increase of days and we do try to be good neighbors. If you wanted to give us more, we would love it and not abuse it—I promise you. We are not going to always be haunted forever. We are growing into love and sunshine and butterflies too. If you have any questions for me, I am happy to answer them. Mary Pellicano: I am the treasurer for the ARC of Loudoun at Paxton Campus. I am also a neighbor. My house is behind Paxton as well. Paxton has a long and storied history of hosting public events on the property. If you look back at the historical newspapers—the Washington Post—you can get them from the library—you can see on the society pages, Paxton was the place to be and be 12 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 seen in the late 1800s and in 2015-2016. It really is a place for the community to come together, our special community as well as the greater community. It has really become a model for inclusivity and I would echo Jennifer's statements that it is not just the haunted house. There are lots of happy things happening and we appreciate your support. We would appreciate as many days as you could give us. We have fun and inclusive happenings and we invite you all to attend them. The public hearing was closed at 8:43 p.m. On a motion by Council Member Martinez, seconded by Council Member Butler, the following was proposed: ORDINANCE 2016-0-001 Amending Article 2 Review and Decision Making Bodies;Article 3 Review and Approval Procedures;Article 7 Overlay and Special Purpose Districts;Article 9 Use Regulations;Article 10 Density/Intensity&Dimensional Standards;Article 11 Parking, Loading and Pedestrian Access;Article 12 Tree Preservation, Landscaping, Screening, Open Space and Outdoor Lighting;and Article 15 Signs Council Member Dunn offered a friendly amendment to change Number 11 from eight events to twelve events. The amendment was not accepted as friendly. Council Member Dunn offered an amendment, seconded by Council Member Martinez to increase the number of days for a fair in the R-1 district to three days per event twelve times per year. Council Comments/Questions: • Hammier: Would we not have to re-advertise? Staff answer: I don't know. I don't think so. It is increasing the impact but in an abundance of caution, I think you would have to readvertise. Thank you for bringing that to our attention. I appreciate that. So, you should split the question—maybe vote on the rest of the amendments. Maybe bring that up at another time. Council Member Martinez withdrew his second as he would like to see the ordinance passed as soon as possible. Council Member Dunn requested to split the question. Council Comments/Questions: • Dunn: If we split the question and make and advertise this anew, this can still go forward tonight and can we readvertise to make that change later? Staff answer: I am not sure I understand the question. • Dunn: In other words, this amendment—this zoning ordinance change is going to go forward—passed and these numbers will be here—the 24 days that we have now. Can we go ahead and bring up the increased number of days to be voted on at a later date? 13 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Staff answer: Yes, if the majority of Council agrees. • Martinez: One clarification—by splitting the question are you not taking out that ordinance change and laying it back on the table as a separate item. If you do that and you ask to change it, then we have to wait for the public hearing for that. So, would it be better to just go ahead and pass the ordinance as is and then in new business, Tom bring it up for an ordinance change? Staff answer: Yes, I thought that was where we were going. Absolutely. You may split the question—you don't need a second. The problem is the question you want to be voted on—I have decided thanks to Ms. Hammier that additional notice would be needed. I am afraid if you vote on that by itself, it is going to be void because as we discussed today, notice is crucial in these kinds of matters and notice was not appropriate. Mr. Dunn, I think your only option is to bring it up later. Council Member Dunn retracted his request to split the question. The motion to approve the original ordinance was approved by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Dunn, Fox, Hammier, Martinez, and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: None Vote: 6-0 11. ORDINANCES a. None. 12. RESOLUTIONS AND MOTIONS a. Rescinding Approval of Funding for Town Green Stage and Interactive Water Feature on Mervin Jackson Park Council Member Dunn: When I was bringing this up, I had mentioned my main reason for it was that this has not gone through the CIP process and I felt that it should have. We found that there were funds available and why let the dust settle on those funds — spend them quickly. Well, I didn't quite agree with that and I could see going forward with the stage because it looks like those funds are coming from an accident that happened at the garage, but for$300,000 to go towards a splash water feature, I just didn't feel would fit into the character of downtown. There may be some other type of water feature that could be put in that would be more fitting, but I think that it should go through the CIP process because there are other projects that we may determine through that process that are more fitting of those funds. So, I don't have to—unless these are both on the same amendment. Are these both on the same amendment? So, both the stage and the water feature were both on the same amendment. So, what I would be willing to do is ask for a rescission of that amendment and then bring the stage as a separate vote from the water feature. Council Member Dunn made a motion to rescind the vote on the Town Green Stage and Interactive Water Feature. The motion failed for lack of a second. 14 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 b. Northern Virginia Transportation Authority Planning Coordination Advisory Committee (PCAC)Appointment Vice Mayor Burk noted that these meetings are held in Fairfax near Gallows Road. She stated that there is not always a quorum, so it is not consistently on a monthly basis. She noted the meetings are generally held at 6:30 p.m. in the evening. On a motion by Council Member Martinez, seconded by Council Member Fox, the following was proposed: MOTION 2016-001 I move to Appoint Dave Butler as the Town of Leesburg representative to the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority Planning Coordination Advisory Committee(PCAC) The motion was approved by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Dunn, Fox, Hammier, Martinez, and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: None Vote: 6-0 c. Selection of Council Representatives to Meet with Sheriff and Board of Supervisor Representatives in Advance of Council Work Session on Potential Efficiencies between Leesburg Police Department and Sheriff's Office On a motion by Council Member Martinez, seconded by Council Member Hammier, the following was proposed: MOTION I move to Appoint Vice Mayor Burk and Council Member Hammler to meet with representatives of the Sheriff's Office and the Board of Supervisors to discuss potential efficiencies between the Leesburg Police Department and the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office Council Comments/Questions: • Butler: This is different from what we discussed last night. • Burk: The names are different, yes. It is the same— sheriff's office and the Board of Supervisors meet with the Leesburg police and should have moved to appoint to meet with the representatives, yes. • Butler: Okay, so considering since you didn't seem enthusiastic last night and Tom did... • Dunn: I am waiting to have a work session on it. I thought that is what we decided to do. Staff answer: The direction was to proceed with a work session on it, but to go ahead and make your appointments in the meantime and move forward were some of the direct comments made. 15IPage COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 • Burk: It doesn't affect the work session. We are still going to do the work session. Staff answer: The work session is scheduled for your next meeting. • Dunn: However, as we discussed last night that the people attending the— being on the committee may not necessarily share the views that are expressed by all of Council. We have had that happen before. I would rather wait until we have a work session on it so we know what we are talking about. And I would like to hear those people who are interested in serving on that committee, what their views are to bring in essence forward the Council's views. • Burk: Well, this is —the representatives will be simply meeting with the Board of Supervisors representatives, the Sheriff's and the Leesburg police to see what efficiencies can come forward. I think if out of the meeting comes any efficiencies, I don't think there is going to be anybody on Town Council that is going to object to having efficiencies between the Sheriff's office and the Leesburg police. I would think that would be pretty straightforward. • Dunn: Except the individual's view of what is efficient. Some people feel that... • Burk: It would have to come back to Council. It most certainly is not something that two people would decide. It would have to come back to Council before any efficiencies were made. • Dunn: I would say that I did mind when my name was brought up as being on the subcommittee. I don't mind serving on it. I think I can represent the Council's wishes very well. • Burk: I guess I will withdraw. I would like to have served on it. I think we should have some leadership so let's vote on it. Let's see how it goes. • Butler: As long as it is not me, I really don't care who is serving on this. But last night, I did say that I thought it was a good point waiting until we have a work session on it before we decide because while yes in theory any two council members can be on there and represent council, in real life it can be different. I would prefer to have a couple of people who are the most enthusiastic with whatever ideas we come up with after the work session. So, tonight, I probably won't vote for anybody, but I hope nobody takes it personally because I really don't have a lot of energy one way or the other. • Hammier: I like Tom's point [inaudible] and sincerely appreciate all the time and energy as he consistently talks about the importance of ultimately ensuring that we get kind of our proper tax share worth of sheriff's support. I know that both of you would do a great job, so I am happy to support both. • Fox: Does that mean that you would rather see Kelly and Tom? • Hammler: I think that we all have the same goal. To the extent that I think we summarized last night that no matter who shows up at all the meetings that we act as a council. We vote as a council, we act as a 16 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 council. We represent the Council whenever we are officially designated the liaison to any commission, committee or otherwise. • Dunn: I would say that again regardless of where this vote goes, I would recommend that we don't select anybody until we know what Council's position is which is what we discussed last night, working on it at our next work session. The motion to appoint Vice Mayor Burk and Council Member Hammier was failed by the following vote: Aye: Martinez, Hammler and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: Butler, Dunn and Fox Vote: 3-3 On a motion by Council Member Fox, seconded by Council Member Hammier, a motion was made to appoint Council Member Hammer and Council Member Dunn. • Dunn: Again, I don't have a problem doing it. I just would not recommend us moving forward like this until we discuss what it is that Council wants. You can make any motion you like. • Hammier: I will second it because I think it is important to make our appointments so we can get organized and have an efficient work session. The motion to appoint Council Members Hammler and Dunn,failed by the following vote: Aye: Hammier and Fox Nay: Butler, Dunn, Martinez and Vice Mayor Burk Vote: 2-4 d. Amending Resolution 2015-001 Making Councilmanic Appointments On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Hammler, the following was proposed with Vice Mayor Burk as the Councilmanic Liaison to the Planning Commission: RESOLUTION 2015-001 Making Councilmanic Appointments The motion was approved by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Fox, Hammier, Martinez, and Vice Mayor Burk Nay: None Vote: 5-0-1 (Dunn abstaining) e. Appointment of Mayor On a motion by Council Member Martinez, seconded by Vice Mayor Burk, the following was proposed: MOTION 17 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 I move to direct staff to solicit interest from the public for appointment to the vacant mayoral seat Council Comments/Questions: • Martinez: I just hear all the different arguments. I still believe that we would serve better having somebody from the outside with no political agenda to be our new mayor than try to select somebody from this council who has already declared their candidacy for mayor and one who is already campaigning. The town would be served better to have a person who is not politically motivated. • Dunn: I can't support this motion at this time. I think that we are still early in the process. As I stated last night, there is no rush. • Hammier: My understanding of the discussion that we had last night is that certainly based on the feedback I have gotten from the community is that there is a tremendous amount of experience any one of us have relative to our numbers of years having served as elected officials on the council and that the majority direction was that we would select the interim mayor position from amongst ourselves. That is my understanding of the direction that we discussed last night. • Burk: When it comes to replacing a council member, the council in the past made it a practice to select somebody from the public who doesn't want to run for any future political office. It helps to keep the position from becoming a political payback. So, if we change that policy to appoint the mayor, we are creating an artificial incumbency for somebody on the council who plans to run in the future. I personally don't think that's fair and I know that you all know that. I have been pretty straight forward with that. As Council members, yes, we have the experience of running a meeting and understanding the items that come before council; however, I think it is very elitist of us to assume that no one in the public is qualified to do the same. There are many public members who have no interest in running for office, but would like to have the chance to serve the town. They have run boards or businesses or nonprofits and are very well versed in town concerns and most certainly can run a meeting and will represent the town professionally. Someone may apply that has the experience on the board of supervisors level as a staff person or someone may apply that ran a nonprofit and understands how to stretch the dollar. Someone else may have been high up in a business and have some new ideas to bring to the council. There could be a great deal of benefit to the town to have a new experience for the term of the mayor's seat. We on council are all political animals, but we should not pick the town interim mayor based on who knows who or who is friends with who. We should allow the public to bring their names forward and we should set a policy now and for in the future if this event should ever happen again. This process should not be closed and should not be limited to Council only. While certainly we should consider council members, but it most certainly should also be open to the public. Let's be honest and admit that each of us would be glad to serve and we would do so and a great job, but it is not 18 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 the right time to do it. It is the time to allow others to join the table. So, for that reason, I am supporting Marty's motion. • Fox: So, you are saying from your comments that whomever is chosen has to swear not to run for anything and if they don't that's an elitist point of view? • Burk: No, you can't make anyone swear not to run. You couldn't make anybody do that. The motion failed. On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Dunn, the following was proposed: MOTION I move to appoint Vice Mayor Burk Mayor of the Town of Leesburg effective January 13, 2016 for a term ending December 31, 2016 Council Comments: • Burk: I don't think that is a very good... • Butler: I don't want to nominate somebody if they don't want to accept the nomination. So, I'd give her a chance to think. • Martinez: My big concern is that if she does accept the interim mayorship, it kind of counters what she just discussed; but I will say that even though I do agree with her discussion, I think she would do a fine job as interim mayor and I could support Dave's motion. • Burk: I have been pretty open about the fact that I don't think it is the best thing to do. I don't think that—can you explain to me why you would think that it would be better to nominate me rather than bring it out to the public? • Butler: I think, as I said last night, I agree with Mr. Ron Campbell that I think it is better for someone on Council to take the mayoral position and then we pick somebody from the outside to replace that person. So, you happen to be to my left. I would like to nominate you, if you accept the nomination. If not, I will make additional motions. • Burk: I would be willing to accept it. • Hammler: It is important for the record— I have stated that the methodology, I think is important, but you have been very public about— you have stated specifically given that you have already announced your candidacy for mayor that you would not serve as the interim mayor. I think that we also discussed that it would be at a cost of$17,000 to $20,000 just relative to a special election. Could we just review to the record what the process will be if someone who ultimately—by taking this office will lose your Council seat so you will be running obviously for mayor and if you lose, you will no longer be on the council. So that's the other aspect of this, which is why with the complexity of staggered terms. So, you are running for mayor and will no longer be a Council member 19 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 with the term ending in 2018 and we will have to have a special election which is a $20,000 fee for taxpayers. Staff answer: That fee, that cost will only be if the Council asks for a different date than the general election. The fall back by the court when they order a special election, is the date of the general election, unless the Council asks otherwise. • Hammier: But we would need to fill the Council seat certainly before November? Staff answer: It is up to you, but it just not a given that it is $20,000. A special election is $20,000 if it is earlier than the date of the general election and that would be up to Council. • Burk: So, would you appoint somebody in the meantime? Staff answer: Yes, you have 90 days. The process would start again. You would have 90 days to make that appointment. If you don't make the appointment, the court makes the appointment. • Burk: Could you make that appointment until November? Until the election? Staff answer: You have 15 days from the time of your vacancy—you have 15 days to ask the court for a special election date. So, we would have to petition within 15 days once that vacancy occurs for that special election. That special election can occur either earlier, if you ask, or on the date of the general election. • Burk: So, we could ask for the election to be in November and appoint somebody in the meantime and there would be no additional cost. Staff answer: Yes, a few hundred dollars is the quote I got. Yes. • Fox: This is appoint a Council member in the meantime. I just want to make sure I have that straight. An appointment of a Council member without a special election would be permitted in this situation. Staff answer: Yes. • Hammler: But her term ends in 2018 and so, my understanding of your memo is that we would have to have a special election to fill the Council member seat vacated by any member of Council who's term ends in 2018. Staff answer: Correct. • Hammler: And you are suggesting, which was not in your memo, that we could appoint someone in the interim and then have the special election for that seat in November? Because that is the first time you have stated that. Staff answer: No, I said in my memo and several times, I have said that special elections can occur at the date of the general election and they will occur at the date of the general election unless you ask otherwise. If you don't ask for a date earlier than the general election, the court will give you a date of the general election. • Hammler: That is news that we can in fact appoint somebody to that Council seat vacated by any member of Council who's term ends in 2018. So, in the interim before November, we can appoint somebody. 20 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 • Butler: This would be no different from when Ken left for the Board of Supervisors. We would have to appoint somebody until the special election. In that particular case, we asked for the special election to be as soon as possible and it was early in April. We can certainly ask that the special election be in November which would save money, so the process would be no different than when Kelly left to go to the Board of Supervisors and when Ken left to go to the Board of Supervisors. Same thing. So, it's normal. • Hammler: It answers the question, but I just think you have already stated publically your position on this. • Burk: I have and I am very surprised. But if it is the will of the Council I would accept it. • Hammier: I guess I'll just add this comment which is that I agree with Council Members who have stated that it is best, preferably not to appoint someone who is seeking the office. So, for that reason, from a seniority perspective, now that I understand the point about appointing a Council member to me it makes more sense for Marty, who has seniority. So, I think that it is good news that we can appoint someone who has a term that ends in 2018. The motion failed by the following vote: Aye: Burk and Martinez Nay: Butler, Dunn, Fox, and Hammler Vote: 2-4 Council Member Dunn made a motion to appoint Council Member Hammler as mayor. The motion was seconded by Council Member Butler. The motion failed by the following vote: Aye: Butler and Hammler Nay: Burk, Dunn, Fox and Martinez Vote: 2-4 Council Member Dunn made a motion to appoint Council Member Butler as mayor. The motion was seconded by Council Member Fox. The motion failed by the following vote: Aye: Butler, Dunn, and Fox Nay: Burk, Hammier and Martinez Vote: 3-3 Council Member Hammier made a motion to appoint Council Member Martinez as mayor. The motion was seconded by Council Member Dunn. Council Member Martinez did not accept the nomination. The motion failed by the following vote: 211 Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Aye: Hammler Nay: Burk, Butler, Dunn, Fox and Martinez Vote: 1-5 Council Member Dunn made a motion to postpone discussion until the next meeting in January. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Burk. Council Comments/Questions: • Dunn: I guess we could continue to go around and around, but it seems like we are at a bit of a standstill. I would just recommend maybe taking this again to possibly a work session. Then if not, then directly to our next meeting later this month. • Hammler: For the record, Tom. I was going to nominate you just relative to the fact that the will of Council truly was that we would select someone from the dais. I am not going to support postponing this because I don't see how we are going to make any progress. If this does not pass, I would support just sending this straight to the courts at this point. • Martinez: Tom, I will support your motion. I think that since we have gotten this far, we are in a position to sit there and just keep nominating people and looking for a vote. Not only that, I really—this does not go directly straight to a district court. How many days do we have until we have to make a decision? Staff answer: 90 days from December 31. You have until March 31. • Martinez: So, we have got plenty of time and you know I still believe that there is no problem with this except the resumes of people wanting to volunteer to be interim mayor and consider them. But I will support postponing this motion until our next working session for discussion. The motion to postpone discussion to the next work session with a vote at the following meeting was approved by the following vote: Aye: Burk, Dunn, Martinez, and Fox Nay: Butler and Hammler Vote: 4-2 13. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. None. 14. NEW BUSINESS a. None. 15. CLOSED SESSION a. None. 16. COUNCIL COMMENTS Council Member Fox: Had no comments. 22 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Council Member Hammler: I have several disclosures. On December 18 —it has been a long time since we have met. I received a call about two text amendments from Mike Banzhaf dealing with parking in the service station consuming, if they prepare on site. I also received a text from Mr. O'Connor regarding the O'Connor tract. I also just wanted to—disclosure because we have new rules that are instituted, but just because it is an actual event but the fire banquet was absolutely lovely that we all—several of us attended—most all of us attended last Saturday. I just want to mention I attended. They gave a lovely tribute to Bob Zoldos. So, I know many of us who worked with him were just extremely honored that he deservedly got such a lovely commemoration at that event. A couple of other comments. I wanted to congratulate Simpson Middle School and Chad Runfola, the principal. They have won the school to watch award and I was very happy to participate just as a community partner because of their great support of our pilot for the youth in local government initiative that we have that has been well documented and publicized around the state. So,just wanted to congratulate Simpson Middle School. We are also following up with Bill Beazer from Loudoun County Public Schools at the end of the month to talk about possibly expanding that with a partnership with Loudoun County Public Schools and Stephanie who is the new executive director of Morven Park that runs the civics program. First of all, welcome to her, but she will also be doing that meeting. Just a couple of quick things. I appreciate Delegate Minchew for the resolution that we passed—has initiated the SCC public hearing requirements for power lines. I think that was a great initiative. I want to thank him for that and I am glad we added it. I want to thank Jingle Jam. They had a wonderful set of concerts over the holiday and we earned several thousand dollars that were donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, so that is just a win/win for the community. Finally, congratulate all the Board of Supervisors members that were sworn in. I know most of us attended the swearing in that was bi-partisan and I thought was just a wonderful event so looking forward to working with all of them. Thought Phyllis did a lovely job just embracing all of her colleagues and starting off with a great tone for the board. One quick note— I might bring it under new business, but I was hoping that we could take a look at the clean up that we might be able to do at the ramp from the bypass to Rt. 7 east, Kaj. There is a lot of litter there. Just wanted to highlight that as something hopefully we can take a look at—either staff doing it if we need to bring under new business,just let us know. Speaking of new business, I appreciated the SRTC bringing forward the mid-block crosswalk for Plaza Street. I would be happy to bring that up under new business or we can bring it up under the budget, whatever is the recommendation of Council. So, those are my comments. Looking forward to the six of us doing a great job until we iron out getting our new appointment. Council Member Martinez: I just want to say thank you to the Council for another entertaining evening. I do want to say that VML—I don't know if you have seen the latest email article or magazine, but there is an article about the education— school thing that we did. That was pretty cool. Take a few minutes to read that over. I did have to let everybody know that I am on the board of directors for Paxton Campus so I am real excited with the support they got for the events and hopefully we can get more. I do want to congratulate Ron Rordam for being president of VML. I think he just started his term this year. I was also at the volunteer fire dinner and I had a lot of 23 I Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 fun with all the people there and it was great. Lastly,just so you know I have been appointed to the state's aerospace advisory council. That is all. Council Member Dunn: Well, I am not on the Board of Paxton. My son is special needs although I don't take nearly enough advantage of all that you all offer. I did appreciate your comments though about fourth of July and fireworks. He doesn't seem to be bothered by those, but I will have to get by there sometime and give him a chance to try you all out. Hopefully we can help you out moving forward to get you all a few more events. By the way, if you could—if no one else let me know what those 30 events you are planning—if those were day events or week long—weekend long events. I had, and I will just say this—these people already know it—but for the public just so they don't think I am more loopy than I normally am, I had oral surgery yesterday so this side of my mouth looks like the godfather. And my speech is messed up and so is my thinking. But anyway, I hope everyone had a good Christmas, good new year and can move into—what's next Kevin? Whatever, enjoy the next holiday coming up. I'm beat. Thanks. Council Member Butler: I just want to say happy new year to everybody. Last I knew it was snowing so I think winter may actually be upon us. So, that's all. 17. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Vice Mayor Burk: We haven't met since the Christmas holidays, so happy new years to everyone. I do have a few items to share. I presided over a ribbon cutting for the new location for Puccios. It is still on Loudoun Street, but down the street closer to the gas station. It is a great location. Great sandwiches. If you get the opportunity to stop by and support the local business. On Saturday, January 8, I was honored to administer the oath of office for the Leesburg Volunteer Firefighter's Board of Directors. Dave was there. Katie was there and Marty was there. They also were in attendance and helped me give the donation to the volunteers. The volunteers were very excited we were there and were very grateful. On Sunday the 9`h, the Friends of Balch Library held their annual meeting and presided over their newest oral history presentation. If you have not had an opportunity to see these, they are just amazing. They interview well known people within the community that have been around for a long time. In this case it was William Allen and he was an artist and photographed many, many pictures of the children of the Kennedys when they were in Middleburg and became good friends with them because he did not sell these pictures. He felt that because they were of the kids, they were for posterity and he was not going to sell them. She appreciated it so much that she had him do official photographs. Many of the photographs were on national magazines, but he talked about his life starting in Middleburg. His wife started the fun shop. If you have ever been to Middleburg, that is just the greatest shop in town and his daughter is the Mayor of Middleburg—Betsy Davis. They are just very, very well done. Very interesting and they are being stored at the Balch Library, so if you have the opportunity to go and look at it, it is really worth it. I also attended the Economic Development Summit. I want to thank the Economic Development Commission and the Economic Development Department and all the business people that came out that were willing to give their time to discuss ideas and concepts to help develop ideas for the downtown. It was a good job. It was a great event. I appreciate everybody going. 24 Page COUNCIL MEETING January 12, 2016 Today, we did a ribbon cutting—Dave was present—for the recyclers. That is on Market Street. They used to be a business in town but they moved out of town but they are back. It is a very unique bicycle shop that also has a coffee shop within it. It has a knitting club within it. It has a book club within it. It reaches out to the disadvantaged community when they get donated bikes. It really is a great business. Stop by and see it. Great people that run it. I want to thank the council for their patience this first meeting that I ran. These first two meetings. You have all been wonderful and though I did stumble at times, I do appreciate your patience. Thank you very much. 18. MANAGER'S COMMENTS I just want to update Lowenbach project is almost done. If you have been through the neighborhood recently you will see that the final paving and striping on the roadway is completed. The four-way stop at Queen and Blue Ridge that was approved by the SRTC recently will be installed hopefully by the end of this week. We have some final clean up that is going on. All the sidewalks are installed, etc. It looks great. In the spring, we will finish the project with tree plantings, crosswalks, etc. We have made a lot of progress. I think you will be proud as we finish everything up. If you haven't had a chance, please drive through there and just see it. 19. ADJOURNMENT On a motion by Council Member Butler, seconded by Council Member Dunn, the meeting was adjourned at 9:36 p.m. ji8d4 David S. Butler, Mayor Town of Leesburg A. TES : AIL_ A ► 1A Clerk of Co ncil 2016 tcmin0112 25 I Page