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74 Mr. Towe stated that he felt it was fitting for this Council to support the American flag. Ms. Waters stated that she would not vote in faVor of the resolution as it would restrict freedom of speech, The resolution supporting a constitutional amendment prohibiting burning of the American flag was defeated by the following vote. Ayes: Mr. Towe. ' Noes: Mr. Buck, Rev. Edwards, Mr. Vandever, Ms. Waters. Mr. Buck made a motion to support a resolution in support of the American flag, the Fourth of July, ~and the values they represent. Rev. Edwards seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved by Council. Th~meeting was adjourned. ~r~ioent . ~rk Council met in regular session on this date with the following members Present: Rev. Edwards, Mr. Towe,.Mr. Vandeve~/ Ms. Waters. Absent: Mr. Buck. MINUTES On motion by Rev. Edwards, seconded by Mr. Towe, the minutes of the June 26th meeting were approved as presented, with Mr. Vandever abstaining. On motion by Rev. Edwards, seconded by Mr. Vandever, the minutes of the July 3rd meeting were approved as presented. PUBLIC Mr. G. Edward White, a resident of Park Street and representing the Neighborhood's Environment and Safety CitizenS Association (NESCA), expressed concerns about Virginia Power increasing the voltage levels and pruning trees along Park Street. Mr. White recommended that regulations be established for tree pruning which would ensure full citizen participation prior to any further action by Virginia Power. Mr. White also stated that there was concern about the safety of the high voltage lines. Mr. Vandever questioned whether the City has the ability to regulate Virginia Power with regard to tree pruning and increasing voltage. Mr. Clyde Gouldman, City Attorney, explained that the 1935 franchise agreement regarding electric service gives the City the authority to regulate the location of electric poles, but noted that it was his understanding that Virginia Power was not planning to install new poles. Mr. Gouldman stated that the City may be able to negotiate a new franchise agreement with Virginia Power. Mr. David Roop, District Manager for Virginia Power, explained that the voltage along Park Street is scheduled to increase to 35,000 volts in order to meet present and future electric demands downtown and to minimize power outages. Mr. Roop stated that the height of a few poles will be raised in order to minimize the impact on trees and lines along East Jefferson Street may be move to the opposite side of the street. Mr. Roop stressed that tree trimming is expected to be minimal.