2008-04-07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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6 Responding to a question from Mr. Huja, Mr. O’Connell said that there was no conclusion when Council discussed the signage program during a work session, but it can be discussed tonight. The public hearing was opened. Ms. Alyson Sappington, representing the Soil and Water Conservation District, said information has been provided to Council in response to questions, and she is available for clarification if needed. She said the Soil and Water District emphasizes education. Ms. Carolyn Mickler, 413-A Moseley Drive, supported funding for the African American Teaching Fellows Programs. She said 85% of Charlottesville High School graduates are white and only 63% black. She said only 15% of the teachers at CHS are African American, and the goal is to increase that percentage as well as the graduation rate of black students. She said it is a small program and no funding was recommended. Ms. Ann Smith, 1025 Cottonwood Road, a board member of the African American Teaching Fellows Program, said they recruit and support qualified African American teachers in the City and County. She asked that Council reconsider funding for the program. Mr. Ryan Hubbard, 1211 W. Main Street, a member of the Charlottesville- Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors, asked for funding for the wayfinding signage program. He said it will enhance visitors’ experiences. Mr. Bob Stroh, 1412 Kenwood Lane, representing the Downtown Business Association, spoke in support of the wayfinding program. Mr. Bill Sampson, 609 Wine Cellar Circle, asked how many of the budget items are essential. He said we have aging infrastructure, but are spending $5 million for a new Smith Pool. He said we have new bus routes, but low ridership. He said there is funding for affordable housing, but homeowners are being taxed to support it. He said gym memberships are provided for school employees. He said we continue to fund agencies and are contributing to IMPACT. He said the rescue squad has survived without help from the City. He said he thinks the rescue squad will slowly disappear with the new City EMS service. He said charity should be left to individuals. He said the budget should be reviewed and unnecessary items removed. Mr. Norris clarified that the City has never provided any funding to IMPACT and none is proposed in the budget. Mr. Dick Gibson, 1431 Grove Road, Chairman of Jefferson Area Board for Aging, asked that Council support the 6.7% increase for Mountainside. He said it is a lean operation. He asked that Mountainside and JABA be reviewed together in the future. Ms. Helen Plaisance, 702 Dell Lane, supported full funding for Mountainside. She said it operates on a shoe string, and has increased costs due to its commitment to serving fresh food. Ms. Virginia Marshall said she has lived at Mountainside for two years. She said 50% of the residents are on subsidized payments which do not cover the cost. Ms. Cheryl Cooper, 289 Blackthorn Lane, said Mountainside is a good investment for the City, and houses 28 former City residents. She said a modest increase is being requested. She asked that Mountainside be reviewed with JABA next year. Mr. John Grant, 1709 Old Forge Road, representing the McGuffey Arts Center, presented a brief annual report. She said there is energy and enthusiasm for arts in the community. He asked Council to continue their support of McGuffey and to support the