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20 structure, and related alternatives. An executive session on this subject is also authorized by Section 15.1-945.7(D) of the Virginia Code. Council reconvened in open session and, on motion by Ms. Daugherty, seconded by Mr. Toscano, certified that, to the best of each member's knowledge, (i) only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements by Virginia law were discussed in the executive meeting to which this certification resolution applies, and (ii) only such public business matters as were identified in the motion convening the executive meeting were heard, discussed or considered by the Council. OTHER BUSINESS Mr. Cox said that Congressman Virgil Goode and former Congressman L. F. Payne have offered to lend their support for the City's opposition to the Cherry Hill apartment complex proposed for Elliott Avenue, and presented a letter for Council's signature. Ms. Richards also suggested that Council provide input into the hearing on HR 589, regarding group homes, in which the National League of Cities has been participating. The meeting was adjourned. President .~/C~ COUNCiL CHAMBER - May 19, 1997 Council met in regular session on this date with the following members present: Mr. Cox, Ms. Daugherty, Ms. Richards, Ms. Slaughter, Mr. Toscano. PUBLIC bar. Charles Moran, 511 North First Street, recommended that the City begin enforcing the no parking requirement in fire lanes in private parking lots such as Barracks Road Shopping Center. REPORT/PUBLIC HEARING: UTILITY RATES Ms. Rita Scott, Director of Finance, explained the basic parameters of utility rates: it wilt be self-supporting over time; water and sewer serves a "captive" audience; gas serves City and County customers, with a growing number of customers in the county; gas rates are weather sensitive; the cost of service purchased and supply are the largest portion of expenditures. Ms. Scott said that water rates are proposed to increase an average of 4.1%, sewer rates to increase less than 1%, and gas rates to increase 4%. The public hearing was opened, but as there were no speakers, the public hearing was closed. Responding questions from Mr. Toscano, Ms. Scott said that the ratio of the cost of operations to the cost of gas has remained fairly constant, with maintenance increasing a small amount, and the working capital formula is based on 60 day needs plus $500,000, and while it is a little lower now than in past years, staff feel there is no need for concern. Mr. Toscano asked about the City'S ability to compete in the market place for gas customers, and Ms. Scott replied that a marketing study is currently being conducted. Ms. Richards asked about the City's water conservation efforts and whether higher rates could be charged for large water users.