Christiansburg Town Council held a regular meeting in chambers on Tuesday, April 1.
The Mayor opened the meeting by requesting legal counsel research and report on requirements relative to the
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), regarding proper meeting notification, what constituted an official meeting, and any suggested training for council members and personnel to ensure full compliance with this law.
The Citizens Hearing included a presentation by
Brain Injury Services of Southwest Virginia, seeking a nominal funding request of approximately $3496. Explaining the support they provide to citizens who have suffered head trauma or injuries, the organization stated it receives 75% of its budget from the General Assembly and requests localities provide additional support for residents residing within their jurisdictions. Requests were based on populations served, citizens needing service and median income levels. Success examples were shared for supporting individuals receiving these services locally, and several questions from council about funding from other sources were responded to.
The Street Committee presented two recommendations to council. The first was for a subdivision of the Farm Bureau property located at the intersection of Peppers Ferry Road and Walters Drive. A building has been demolished and a new building is planned, with the possible sale of the subdivided property expected. This business is being temporarily housed in the former Curtis-Mathis building. Council approved this request.
The second recommendation was for a lot line adjustment for properties located on Tower Road. The two lots are owned by the same family and is a simple reconfiguration of the lots. Council approved this action.
Council reviewed and authorized payment of the bills as presented, without comment.
Councilman Wade requested street closings for each of the summer "
Cruisin' Christiansburg" festivals, scheduled for May 17, June 14, July 19 and August 23. He recognized efforts of several
business operators in the planning effort. Council requested advance notice of street closing be provided as part of the marketing of these community events. Approval of the street closing was granted and will be coordinated through the town's Police Department.
The Mayor indicated the
Virginia Municipal League's "Go Green" initiative was sponsoring a seminar later in the month, as previously reported, with three town officials or council members attending. The Mayor indicated a fourth attendee could also participate. This is similar to the "Cool Cities" program, with both initiatives having the intent of reducing energy consumption and needs within localities.
The Mayor noted the audience included several students from Christiansburg High School (CHS), who were attending as part of a government class assignment.
The Mayor reported that
RFPs (request for proposals) had recently been issued for updating the town's website, and several responses had been received. That committee was expected to meet in the near future and was expected to ensure the incorporation of suggested changes or improvements as part of the selection and award process.
The town manager reported that construction is proceeding well at the future aquatic center, with significant work completed on the access road and building's roof. Council requested signage identifying the site as the home of the future aquatic center as there continue to be queries about the construction activity.
Downtown street work was reported as delayed due to temperatures.
Two
conditional use permits were scheduled for the May 6th meeting. The first is located at 375 Bell Road (old Pepsi facility) for a contracting business, and the second located at 385 Radford Road (former Food Tyme store) for contractor equipment storage. The first is within an area currently zoned Industrial, the second in an area currently zoned for Business.
The
next meeting of the Christiansburg Town Council will be held on
Tuesday, April 15 at 7:30 pm in the Town Hall. Members of the Montgomery County Public School's CHS championship wrestling team will be present for recognition by council. Also at this meeting, the Mayor reported the county chamber of commerce president would be present to provide an update on the Blacksburg, Montgomery County and Christiansburg funded tourism development initiative. This project is known as the Tourism Development Council and is staffed by lodging industry and funding source representatives.