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:
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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
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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.
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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?
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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• 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?
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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.
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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.
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• 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
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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• 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:
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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David S. Butler, Mayor
Town of Leesburg
A. TES :
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Clerk of Co ncil
2016 tcmin0112
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