1992-02-03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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73 Mr. Toscano stated that he was comfortable amending the ordinance as suggested by Mr. Gouldman. On motion by Mr. Vandever, seconded by Ms. Slaughter, the ordinance was unanimously amended to vacate one half of the street, conditioned upon receiving $950. The ordinance entitled "AN ORDINANCE CLOSING, VACATING AND DISCONTINUING A PORTION OF UNOPENED RIGHT-OF-WAY OFF GROVE STREET," which was offered at the January 21st meeting, as amended, was approved by the following vote. Ayes: Rev. Edwards, Ms. Slaughter, Mr, Toscano, Mr. Vandever, Ms. Waters. ORDINANCE: AMENDING ZONING ORDINANCE RE: WAIVER/TREE REPLACEMENT POLICIES TREE AND SIDEWALK Mr. Gouldman explained that the Planning Commission, at the request of City Council, had considered changes to the zoning ordinance, did not reach a consensus on the tree policy and recommended that the sidewalk appeal be to the Circuit Court. Mr. Gouldman recommended addition of a provision which would allow the decision regarding tree removal to be made by the City Manager in emergency situations. Ms. Slaughter stated that she would prefer that the sidewalk appeal be to Council rather than the court. Responding to a question from Mr. Toscano, Mr. Huja stated that he felt that having the appeal go to the Circuit Court encouraged people to compromise. Mr. Gouldman stated that he did not think there was enabling legislation which allowed Council to confer jurisdiction to the Circuit Court in this situation. Mr. Toscano stated that he was ambivalent about having sidewalk appeals come to Council. Ms. Waters requested that current requirements for sidewalk and other appeal procedures for site plans be provided to Council. It was agreed that Mr. Gouldman would prepare an ordinance for consideration by Council at the next meeting. PUBLIC There were no matters by the public. OTHER BUSINESS Ms. Slaughter recommended that the Mayor write and oppose legislation being considered by the General Assembly which would make it difficult to designate historic districts. Mr. Toscano stated that the U. S. Senate has passed a bill which would allow localities to regulate rates for the basic tier of cable service, defined as the lowest service subscribed to by 30% of subscribers, and if less than 30% subscribe to the lowest service, then the next tier can be regulated. On motion by Ms. Waters, seconded by Ms. Slaughter, Council unanimously voted to meet in executive session as authorized by Section 2.1-344(a)(1) of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act for the purpose of discussion of personnel matters, including the appointment of persons to various boards and commissions.