1990-11-05 - Laserfiche WebLink

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73 Ms. Waters made a motion to approve the appropriation to the Minority Business Association, but noted that she would have preferred that the Housing Authority support the request. Ms. Waters shared Mr. Toscano's concern about setting a precedent by appropriating the money and also express concern about appropriating funds out of the budget cycle. Mr. Vandever seconded the motion~ Ms. Slaughter noted that she had voted against the request when it was considered by the Housing Authority and was concerned about using the funds for a speaker and about setting a precedent. Ms. Slaughter added that she would prefer to contribute personally. Mr. Toscano stated that while he supports the Minority Business Association he also has concerns about allocating funds for a speaker and questioned whether the City could loan the funds or make up whatever shortfall existed. Ms. Waters and Mr. Vandever amended their motion to approve an appropriation of up to ~1,500 to the Minority Business Association, with the understanding that any excess funds raised by the Association will be repaid to the City. The appropriation was carried~over to the next meeting for consideration. Mr. Robert Winters, representing the University of Virginia's Institute for Black Athletes and the Sports Psychology Program, described a pilot program to be held on November llth in Pen Park, "Say Yes to Golf." Mr. Winters explained that the program has been endorsed by the Interfaith Alliance for Youth and the Mayor and requested Council's endorsement of the program. On motion by Mr. Vandever, seconded by Ms. Slaughter, Council unanimously endorsed the "Say Yes to Golf" Program. Ms. Joy Johnson, a resident of the Westhaven community, expressed disappointment with the resignation of Mr. Gerald Strand, adding that it appeared clear that~no one understood his job description and that he was not given a chance in the position. Ms. Johnson stated that a signal is being sent that the City does not take the drug problem seriously and before the position is filled in the future, she recommended that the Council decide what the job should be and the person should be given the freedom to work in the community and build trust in the neighborhoods. Rev. Edwards stated that he was considering reconvening the original Drug Task Force° Mr. Otis Lee, 1876 Woodberry Road, demanded the resignation of Jerry Tomlin, City Housing Inspector, claiming that Mr. Tomlin's enforcement of the Housing Code is applied in a biased and discriminatory manner. Mr. Lee continued that while he was in City Hall in the process of signing an easement requested by the City, Mr. Toml±n interrupted him to give him a letter and Mr. Bill Tomlin,' a police officer, came. in with a citation for housing violations which was embarrassing for Mr. Lee. Mr. Lee stated that he had to leave town when his son had a heart attack and Mr. Tomlin took advantage of his absence by taking action against him for housing violations even though he had informed City officials that he would continue work on the houses when he returned. Mr. Lee stated that if Mr. Tomlin does not resign he may seek legal action against the City. Mr. Hendrix stated that it was his duty as City Manager to defend City employees when such charges are made. Mr. Hendrix stated that Mr. Tomlin has a difficult job, having to work with property owners who often violate the Housing Code. Mr. Hendrix stated that no evidence eXists that Mr.