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HomeMy WebLinkAbout4/7/2026 - Public Hearing 1 Vinton Town Council Regular Meeting Council Chambers 311 South Pollard Street Tuesday, April 7, 2026 AGENDA Consideration of: A. 6:00 p.m. - ROLL CALL AND ESTABLISHMENT OF A QUORUM AND CITIZEN GUIDELINES B. MOMENT OF SILENCE AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE U.S. FLAG C. COMMUNITY EVENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/COUNCIL ACTIVITIES D. REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS E. CONSENT AGENDA 1. Consider a motion to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting on March 17, 2026. 2. Consider a motion to approve the minutes of the Joint Meeting on March 30, 2026. 3. Consider a motion to approve a Resolution in support of opposing current policy discussions in Virginia regarding “skill” gaming. F. AWARDS, INTRODUCTIONS, PRESENTATIONS, PROCLAMATIONS 1. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Proclamation (April 12-18) – Bekki Craft, Emergency Communications Manager 2. Child Abuse Awareness Prevention Month – Kathryn Sowers, Co-President of GFWC VA Woman’s Club of Vinton 3. Arbor Day Proclamation – Nathan McClung, Assistant Director of Planning and Zoning G. CITIZENS’ COMMENTS AND PETITIONS - This section is reserved for comments and questions about issues not listed on the agenda. Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Laurie J. Mullins, Vice Mayor Keith N. Liles, Council Member Sabrina M. McCarty, Council Member Michael W. Stovall, Council Member Vinton Municipal Building 311 South Pollard Street Vinton, VA 24179 (540) 983-0607 2 H. BRIEFINGS I. ITEMS REQUIRING ACTION 1. Presentation of the 2026-2027 operating budget for the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee. – Scott Ramsburg, Director of Roanoke Valley TV a. Consider a motion to adopt a Resolution approving the 2026-2027 operating budget for the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee in the total amount of $648,671.00. 2. Consider the adoption of a Resolution setting the allocation percentage for Personal Property Tax Relief in the Town of Vinton for the 2026 tax year. – Cody Sexton, Deputy Town Manager J. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Consideration of public comments regarding the setting of the real estate tax rates for the calendar year 2026. a. Open Public Hearing • Report from Staff – Cody Sexton, Deputy Town Manager • Receive public comments • Council discussion and questions b. Close Public Hearing c. Consider the adoption of an Ordinance regarding the setting of the real estate tax rate for the calendar year 2026. 2. Consideration of public comments regarding setting the personal property and machinery and tools tax rates for calendar year 2026. a. Open Public Hearing • Report from Staff – Cody Sexton, Deputy Town Manager • Receive public comments • Council discussion and questions b. Close Public Hearing c. Consider the adoption of an Ordinance regarding the setting of the personal property and machinery and tools tax rates for the calendar year 2026. 3. Consideration of public comments regarding the proposed appropriations for the funding of the Gus Nicks Blvd / Gish Mill Water Improvement Project in the total amount of $1,628,000.00 in both the Town’s General Fund and the Town’s Capital Fund. a. Open Public Hearing • Report from Staff – Richard “Pete” Peters, Town Manager • Receive public comments • Council discussion and questions b. Close Public Hearing c. Consider the adoption of a Resolution to amend the Town of Vinton’s FY2025- 2026 budget to appropriate funding for the Gus Nicks Blvd / Gish Mill Water Improvement Project. K. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES L. TOWN ATTORNEY 3 M. TOWN MANAGER’S PROJECT UPDATES/COMMENTS N. COUNCIL AND MAYOR O. ADJOURNMENT NEXT COMMITTEE/TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS AND TOWN EVENTS: April 7, 2026 – 6:00 p.m. – Regular Council Meeting – Council Chambers April 21, 2026 – 10:00 a.m. – Arbor Day Celebration and Wolf Creek Greenway Restroom Ribbon Cutting Ceremony April 21, 2026 – 3:00 p.m. – Finance Committee Meeting – TOV Annex April 21, 2026 – 6:00 p.m. – Regular Council Meeting – Council Chambers April 22, 2026 – 9:00 a.m. – Community Development Committee Meeting – TOV Annex April 24, 2026 – 6:00 p.m. – Dogwood Festival Concert – Vinton Farmers’ Market Stage April 25, 2026 – 10:00 a.m. – Vinton Dogwood Festival – Downtown Vinton April 30, 2026 – 1:00 p.m. – Glade Creek Greenway Ribbon Cutting Ceremony NOTICE OF INTENT TO COMPLY WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. Reasonable efforts will be made to provide assistance or special arrangements to qualified individuals with disabilities in order to participate in or attend Town Council meetings. Please call (540) 983 -0607 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date so that proper arrangements may be made. Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Town Clerk Issue Consider approval of the minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 17, 2026. Consider approval of the minutes of the Joint Meeting of March 30, 2026. Consider a motion to approve a Resolution in support of opposing current policy discussions in Virginia regarding “skill” gaming. Attachments Minutes from March 17, 2026. Minutes from March 30, 2026. Resolution Recommendations Motion to approve consent agenda as presented Town Council Agenda Summary 1 MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL HELD AT 6:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2026, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING LOCATED AT 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA MEMBERS PRESENT: Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Laurie J. Mullins, Vice Mayor Keith N. Liles Sabrina M. McCarty Michael W. Stovall STAFF PRESENT: Richard Peters, Town Manager Cody Sexton, Deputy Town Manager Julie Tucei, Planning Coordinator/Deputy Town Clerk Jeremy Carroll, Town Attorney Tiffany Stewart, Interim Director of Finance Fabricio Drumond, Chief of Police Jill Acker, Assistant Director of Public Works Mayor Grose called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. The Deputy Town Clerk called the roll with Council Member Liles, Council Member McCarty, Council Member Stovall, Vice Mayor Mullins, and Mayor Grose present. Roll call After a Moment of Silence, the grandson of Bev and Shirley Fitzpatrick led the Pledge of Allegiance. Under Upcoming Community Events/ Announcements, and Council Activities, Council Member McCarty announced the following events: April 2 – Vinton War Memorial Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 3:00 p.m., April 21 – Wolf Creek Greenway Restroom Ribbon Cutting & Arbor Day event at 10:00 a.m., April 24 – Vinton Dogwood Concert at 6:00 p.m., April 25 – Vinton Dogwood Festival at 10:00 a.m., April 25 – Open House at Vinton History Museum During the Dogwood Festival, April 30 – Glade Creek Greenway Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 1:00 p.m. Vice Mayor Mullins announced the following Council activities: February 26 – Council Member Liles and Council Member Stovall attended the Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization meeting; March 11 – Mayor Grose attended Virginia’s Blue Ridge “Good Morning” series; March 11 – Vice Mayor Mullins and Council Member McCarty attended the Public Works Committee meeting; March 12 – Mayor Grose attended the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission Executive Committee meeting; March 13 – Mayor Grose and Council Member McCarty 2 attended the Town Employee Appreciation “March Madness” Event; March 13 – Mayor Grose and Council Member Liles attended the Regional Skatepark Ribbon Cutting ceremony; March 17 – Mayor Grose and Council Member Stovall attended the Finance Committee meeting. Requests to postpone, add to or change the order of agenda items, no requests were offered. Council Member Stovall made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented; the motion was seconded by Council Member Liles and carried by the following vote, with all members voting: Vote 5-0; Yeas (5) -Liles, McCarty, Stovall, Mullins, Grose; Nays (0) – None. Approved minutes of the Regular Meeting of February 17, 2026. Under Awards, Introductions, Presentations, and Proclamations, Vice Mayor Mullins read the proclamation for Multiple Sclerosis Month. Ms. Suzanne O’Connell from MS Alliance of Virginia accepted the proclamation. Under Citizens’ Comments and Petitions, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick shared comments about their grandson and the government class that he is taking that requires a certain number of government related hours to complete his class. Mr. Fitzpatrick thanked Council for allowing their grandson to take part in tonight’s meeting. Under Citizen’s Comments and Petitions, Mr. Tony Robertson spoke about the increased traffic and debris on his road, Dale Avenue, from those traveling to the scrapyard. He requested Council to evaluate reconfiguring the route back to the way it used to be. Under Briefings, Chief Drumond presented the Vinton Police Department’s 2025 Annual Report. The PowerPoint presentation will be on file at the Town Clerk’s Office as part of the permanent record. The report is on file at the Vinton Police Department. Calls for service increased by 1.6% with a total of 13,618 calls. Arrests increased by 3.6% with a total of 401 arrests. Traffic crashes decreased by 8.1% with a total of 384 crashes. 3 All members of Council expressed appreciation for the report. There were no questions or additional comments. Under Items Requiring Action, Mr. Peters presented Council with the Gus Nick Blvd / Gish Mill Water Improvements Reimbursement Agreement for the Town to fund associated construction costs. This project provides public benefits, enhances public infrastructure, and supports economic development and revitalization. Mr. Peters then presented a Resolution to adopt this agreement. There were no comments or questions. Council Member McCarty made a motion to adopt a Resolution to approve the Gus Nicks Blvd / Gish Mill Water Improvements Reimbursement Agreement; the motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Mullins and carried by the following vote, with all members voting: Vote 5-0; Yeas (5) -Liles, McCarty, Stovall, Mullins, Grose; Nays (0) – None. Under Public Hearing, there were no items for this section. Under Reports from Committees, Mrs. Stewart shared the topics that were discussed at the Finance Committee meeting that was held on March 17, 2026. Topics included Financial Statements for January 31, 2026, and February 28, 2026, and an update to the FY24 and FY25 audits. The General Fund revenues and expenditures remain sufficient to meet budget goals. The General Fund revenues are $7.2M, which is 52% of the budget. The General Fund expenditures are $7.9M, which is 57% of the budget. The total cash in investments is $9.7M with no significant financial concerns currently. Approved Resolution No. 2666 approving the Gus Nicks Blvd / Gish Mill Water Improvements Reimbursement Agreement. 4 The revenues are currently in line with budget. We had a 14% increase in real estate tax collection for the 2025 bills. We are at 60% of the budget goal for local tax collection. We are at 11% year over year increase for the pari- mutuel tax collection. The average collection is approximately $38K per week for January and February. We have collected 401 business license fees with 169 still remaining. Real estate and personal property tax bills are scheduled to be billed with Roanoke County and are expected to be mailed around April 14th. The payment due date will be May 31, 2026. February was a low month for personal property tax collection, but we do expect March to have a 23% increase. Over the last five accounts payable periods, we had about $636K in capital improvement expenditures in addition to the $92K Cease Fire grant that the Police Department received. We had to pay the money up front, but that will be returned to us by the end of the fiscal year. We will move the $636K from investment account into the General Fund. When we receive the $92K back, we will return that to the investment account. At this time, departments are not projected to exceed their current budgets. FY24 audit is projected to be complete by mid- April. FY25 audit is projected to be completed by the end of this fiscal year. Council thanked Mrs. Stewart for the report. There were no questions. Council Member Stovall made a motion to approve the Financial Statements for January 31, 2026, and February 28, 2026; the motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Mullins and carried by the following vote, with all members voting: Vote 5-0; Approved Financial Statements for January 31, 2026, and February 28, 2026. 5 Yeas (5) -Liles, McCarty, Stovall, Mullins, Grose; Nays (0) – None. Under Reports from Committees, Mrs. Acker shared the topics that were discussed at the Public Works Committee meeting that was held on March 11, 2026. The Farmers’ Market compactor is still in progress. We are continuing to price out some of the work. The furniture downtown is being refurbished. The trash cans have been painted and put back in place. Benches and planters will be painted next. The contractor is on site at the Public Works Department removing the old fuel tanks. Public Works Department staff is in the process of clearing trees and brush for the disc golf course. Baskets and supplies for the course will be ordered soon. The waterline at the Vinton War Memorial Park has been installed for the restroom. All entrance signs for the Town have been installed. Mr. Peters spoke about the 3rd Street Repair project. RK&K provided a study that showed a new design for the roadway, stormwater improvements and road construction. The cost estimate for this project is $2M. This will be a multi-year project. The next items discussed were new projects that included spring paving that will take place on Virginia Avenue from South Pollard Street up to Clearview Drive. The sidewalk at Lee Avenue is being replaced. The crosswalk and ramp at Lee Avenue and Walnut Avenue will be installed in the next few weeks. Council thanked Mrs. Acker for the report. Under Town Attorney, no comments were offered. Under Town Manager’s Projects Updates, Mr. Peters reminded everyone about the upcoming 6 joint meeting with Roanoke County Board of Supervisors on March 30, 2026. The Vinton War Memorial Park will open on Thursday, April 2nd with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 3:00 p.m. The Community Clean-up event is the week of April 6th. Details are being shared on social media. Clean Valley Day is April 9th. Currently, 15 Town of Vinton staff and Council have signed up to volunteer on this day. The Public Works Department is participating in the annual Roadeo event on April 8th. The Cedar Avenue/Pollard Street Stormwater project RFP should be posted by Monday, March 23rd. Bids will be due back by April 15th. Mr. Peters then expressed appreciation for all the work that is performed by the Public Works Department. Under Council and Mayor Comments, Council Member Liles spoke about the Regional Skatepark Ribbon Cutting ceremony, the Vinton War Memorial Park, and the construction of the new hotel. Council Member McCarty gave a shout-out to Renee’s Restaurant. Next, she expressed her appreciation for all of the condolences for the passing of her father. She then thanked Donna Collins, Director of Human Resources & Risk Management, for putting together the staff appreciation event at the bowling alley. Vice Mayor Mullins expressed appreciation for Mrs. Stewart. She then shared excitement for the hotel. Council Member Stovall shared that Mr. Fitzpatrick has made a difference in local government for a long time. Mayor Grose reiterated most of the comments from the Council members. All members of Council expressed appreciation to Mr. and Mrs. Fitzpatrick’s grandson for his attendance at tonight’s meeting. 7 All members thanked Mrs. Tucei for assuming her duty as Deputy Town Clerk. Council Member Liles made a motion to adjourn the meeting; the motion was seconded by Council Member McCarty and carried by the following vote 5-0; Yeas (5) – Liles, McCarty, Stovall, Mullins, Grose; Nays (0) – None. ATTEST: _______________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk Meeting Adjourned at 7:21 p.m. APPROVED: _______________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor 1 MINUTES OF A JOINT MEETING WITH TOWN COUNCIL AND ROANOKE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS HELD AT 12:00 P.M. ON MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2026, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING LOCATED AT 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA. MEMBERS PRESENT: Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Laurie J. Mullins, Vice Mayor Michael W. Stovall Keith N. Liles Sabrina M. McCarty SUPERVISORS PRESENT: Tammy E. Shepherd, Chair David F. Radford, Vice Chair Martha B. Hooker Paul M. Mahoney Phil C. North VINTON STAFF PRESENT: Richard Peters, Town Manager Cody Sexton, Deputy Town Manager Megan Lawless, Town Clerk Jill Loope, Special Projects Assistant to the Town Manager Anita McMillan, Director of Planning and Zoning ROANOKE CO. STAFF PRESENT: Richard Caywood, County Administrator Megan Baker, Director of Economic Development Mayor Grose called the meeting to order at 12:04 p.m. The meeting began with lunch. During lunch, Mr. Peters gave a presentation on placemaking, the Comprehensive Plan: Vinton 2050, the Town of Vinton Strategic Plan 2026-2030, budget balance analysis, major revenue sources, and projects. This presentation will be filed at the Town Clerk’s office as a part of the permanent record. Mr. Peters then showed a short video of the hotel construction site. This video will be filed at the Town Clerk’s office as part of the permanent record. The council members and board of supervisors then boarded a bus and traveled to Walnut Avenue to view the bike and pedestrian improvements, the Wolf Creek Greenway to see the new restrooms, the new Vinton War Memorial Park, the Gish Mill construction site, 121 E. Lee Avenue (Cornerstone Antiques), and 7 Walnut Avenue. Supervisor Hooker had to leave the meeting early, so she was taken back to the Municipal Building at approximately 2:00 p.m. before the tour ended. Due to time restraints, the group was unable to view the Vinton War Memorial renovations but received a brief verbal update on the project while at the Vinton War Memorial Park. Everyone returned to the Council Chambers, where Mayor Grose delivered closing remarks. Council members and board of supervisors expressed appreciation for the updates and the tour. 2 Mr. Peters recognized the work of the staff with the tour. Vice Mayor Mullins made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 3:07 p.m.; the motion was seconded by Council Member McCarty. All council members and board of supervisors signified by leaving the meeting. APPROVED: _________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk RESOLUTION NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 PM IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA 24179. WHEREAS, legislation has been proposed in the Commonwealth of Virginia to legalize so-called “skill” gaming machines in convenience stores, gas stations, and other everyday commercial establishments; and WHEREAS, the Town of Vinton has experienced the benefits of a legal, regulated, destination- based gaming model through the operation of Rosie’s Gaming Emporium, which has generated meaningful revenue to support infrastructure, public improvements, and community initiatives; and WHEREAS, the legalization of dispersed “skill” gaming machines would undermine Virginia’s existing regulated gaming framework by introducing a fragmented and less accountable model of gaming expansion; and WHEREAS, such expansion risks diverting economic activity away from lawfully authorized gaming facilities while increasing the potential negative impacts of gambling across a wider range of communities; and WHEREAS, the current policy discussions in Virginia regarding gaming oversight further underscore the importance of maintaining a clear, consistent, and accountable regulatory approach. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Vinton hereby expresses its opposition to legislation that would legalize “skill” gaming machines in the Commonwealth of Virginia; and This Resolution was adopted on motion made by, seconded by, with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED: ____________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: ______________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Administration Issue Proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Summary The week of April 12 through April 18 has been declared "National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week" by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America. The Town of Vinton would like to recognize the Communications Officers of the Roanoke County Emergency Communications Center, who serve the Town of Vinton and Roanoke County faithfully and professionally with a proclamation for their service. Attachments Proclamation Recommendations Present Proclamation Town Council Agenda Summary PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, the week of April 12 through 18, 2026, has been declared "National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week" by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America; and WHEREAS, the President of the United States issued a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States to observe that week with appropriate ceremonies and activities; and WHEREAS, problems of crime, fire, and other disasters touch and affect all segments of our society, and if unabated, can undermine and erode both the moral and economic strengths of our community; and WHEREAS, men and women are engaged in the operation of emergency response systems for the Town of Vinton; and WHEREAS, these professionals are responsible for responding to stressful telephone calls from the general public for police, fire, and emergency medical assistance, and for calmly and professionally dispatching appropriate assistance to help save the lives and property of our citizens; and WHEREAS, our Communications Officers daily serve the public in countless ways without recognition by the beneficiaries of their services. NOW, THEREFORE, Mayor Bradley E. Grose and the Town Council of the Town of Vinton, on behalf of all our citizens, do hereby proclaim APRIL 12 TO 18, 2026 as NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK in the Town of Vinton, and call upon the citizens of the Town of Vinton to observe this week with appropriate ceremonies and activities. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Vinton, Virginia to be affixed on this 7th of April 2026. _______________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Council Issue Proclamation – National Child Abuse Prevention Month Summary The GFWC Woman’s Club of Vinton in conjunction with the Police Department planted pinwheels in the flower garden in front of the Municipal Building to promote the month of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This took place on Tuesday April 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A member of the Woman’s Club will be present at the meeting to make brief comments and receive the Proclamation. Attachments Proclamation Recommendations Present Proclamation Town Council Agenda Summary PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, the health and safety of all citizens is important to the prosperity and well-being of our families and communities; and WHEREAS, our children are our most valuable resource and will shape the future of the Vinton community; and WHEREAS, child abuse is considered to be one of our nation’s most serious public health problems, and the majority of child abuse cases stem from situations and conditions that are preventable in an engaged and supportive community; and WHEREAS, we acknowledge that we must work together as a community to increase awareness about child abuse and how we can prevent it because prevention remains the best defense for our children; and WHEREAS, displaying pinwheels during the month of April will serve as a positive reminder that together we can prevent child abuse and neglect and keep our children safe; and WHEREAS, the partnership between the General Federation of Women’s Clubs – Vinton Women’s Club and the Vinton Police Department have worked together to raise awareness and promote the prevention of child abuse in our community. NOW, THEREFORE, Mayor Bradley E. Grose and Town Council of the Town of Vinton, on behalf of all our citizens, do hereby recognize the month of April 2026 as NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in the Town of Vinton and call upon all citizens of the Town of Vinton and surrounding areas to work together to prevent child abuse. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Vinton, Virginia to be affixed on this 7th day of April 2026. ____________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Planning and Zoning Issue Proclamation – Annual Arbor Day Event, April 21, 2026 Summary The Town of Vinton has been designated as a Tree City USA for the past 25 years. To retain the Tree City USA designation, the Town is required to hold an Arbor Day Celebration, along with tree plantings and tree education outreach each year. The 2026 Arbor Day Celebration will be celebrated in conjunction with the Wolf Creek Greenway Restroom Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Attachments Proclamation Recommendations Present Proclamation Town Council Agenda Summary PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees; and WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska; and WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife; and WHEREAS, trees are a renewable source giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products; and WHEREAS, trees in our town increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community; and WHEREAS, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal. NOW, THEREFORE, Mayor Bradley E. Grose and the Town Council of the Town of Vinton on behalf of all our citizens, do hereby proclaim April 21, 2026, as ARBOR DAY in the Town of Vinton, and urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the hearts and promote the well-being of this and future generations. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and caused the seal of the Town of Vinton, Virginia to be affixed on this 7th of April 2026. _______________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Administration Issue Consider adoption of a Resolution approving the 2026-2027 operating budget for the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee in the amount of $648.671.00. Summary The annual operating budget of the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television must be submitted for approval by each of the governing bodies after approval by the RVTV Committee. Scott Ramsburg will be present at the meeting to make comments and answer any questions. Attachments Memo-RVTV Operating Budget-FY2026-2027 Resolution Recommendations Motion to adopt Resolution Town Council Agenda Summary To: Roanoke Regional Cable Television Committee Re: FY 2027 RVTV Operating Budget From: Scott Ramsburg, Director Date: 4/2/2026 BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Roanoke Valley Television (RVTV) is a civic media resource serving the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, Town of Vinton, and their respective school systems. Since 1993, RVTV has provided government and educational media services for the three localities, and distributes video content via cablecast, live-stream, social media and on-demand. RVTV is located at the Jefferson Center (541 Luck Ave. SW). The operational budget for RVTV is provided by the three local governments, and it is funded through the Virginia Communications Sales and Use Tax Revenue paid by telecommunications operators such as Cox Communications and Shentel/GloFiber, as well as the EG fee paid by customers to each locality. Primary functions of RVTV are as follows: • Government Meetings & Remote Live Coverage In 2025, RVTV facilitated the recording, directing and live streaming of (84) government meetings including: (24) Roanoke county Board meetings (49) Roanoke City Council Meetings and (11) special event social media event live streams. • Creative Media Production RVTV produces original media content for the municipalities we serve. In 2025, RVTV carried out 565 unique projects including 3,049 minutes (over 50 hours) of finished video. • Short-form Video: Productions that are typically 30 seconds to 10 minutes in length, suitable for use on social media and general public communications efforts. • Graphic & Print Design: RVTV offers custom creation of digital graphics, and limited print production such as postcards, flyers and brochures. • Podcasts: RVTV offers a podcast studio for the use of our partners to record monthly content, which our staff typically edits into 30-60 minute long productions. • Archival Photo/Video/Drone & Event Documentation: Includes documentation of municipal events, as well as the capture of file video, aerial drone video, and still photography for future use. • Long-form Video: Productions that are typically 11 to 30 minutes in length. This may include recurring programs (quarterly/monthly) or stand-alone long-form productions by request. • Distribution - Live Stream 24/7 Video Feed o RVTV Website www.RVTV.org/live o Roku Devices – RVTV App (NEW IN 2026) o Apple TV Devices – RVTV App (NEW IN 2026) o Amazon Firestick Devices – RVTV App (NEW IN 2026) o Cox Cable - Channel 3 o Comcast Cable – Channel 3 o Shentel/GloFiber Cable – Channel 7 • Social Media Distribution On Demand o RVTV YouTube www.youtube.com/RoanokeValleyTV o RVTV Facebook www.facebook.com/RoanokeValleyTelevision o RVTV Instagram www.instagram.com/roanokevalleytelevision/ o RVTV X www.X.com/RoanokeValleyTV o RVTV LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/roanokevalleytv/ FISCAL IMPACT: Since 2007 the Virginia Communications Sales and Use Tax Act of 2006 (Va. Code 58.1-645 et seq.) required cable television providers to pay a five percent (5%) sales or use tax to the Commonwealth of Virginia in place of paying franchise fees to the localities, including the City of Roanoke, County of Roanoke, and Town of Vinton. Under the Act, the Commonwealth pays the amount of revenues it receives from cable television providers, like Cox and Shentel/GloFiber, to the localities. Additionally, each locality passes an EG fee of $0.20 per subscriber to be used in support of PEG programming. The operational budget for RVTV is provided by the three local governments, and it is funded through the Virginia Communications Sales and Use Tax Revenue and EG fees communications providers. The RVTV budget amount paid by each locality is based on US Census Population Data for each partner government. Locality US Census Population (2024) Percentage  City of Roanoke 97,171 50.04%  Roanoke County (excl. Vinton) 88,980 45.82%  Town of Vinton 8,043 4.14% FY 2027 Operating Revenues Roanoke County is the fiscal agent for Roanoke Valley Television, and RVTV team members are included in the County’s payroll and benefits system. Personnel expenses represent approximately 80% of our budget and include any Cost of Living adjustments adopted by the Roanoke County Board of supervisors, as well as insurance changes by the County’s group plans. This year County administrator’s budget proposes a 3% Cost of Living adjustment for employees, as well as increases to the cost of health and insurance, some of which are offset by a decrease to Virginia Retirement System expenses. Non-personnel expenses from RVTV’s budget include small increases mainly in the area of technology and computer software, due to increases in fees for vendor services. This finalized budget has been approved and recommended by the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee as of April 2, 2026. Locality FY24 Budget FY25 Budget FY 26 Budget FY 27 Budget  City $297,033 $311,582 $313,933 $324,595  County $266,085 $282,991 $287,459 $297,221  Vinton $24,077 $25,614 $25,973 $26,855  From Surplus _$0_____ __ $0__ $0_____ $0_________  TOTAL $587,254 $620,187 $627,365 $648,671 Capital and Reserve Budgets – Projected for July 1, 2026 The Capital Budget is appropriated by Regional Cable Television Committee vote as needed, following the 10-year capital plan laid out by RVTV’s director. Cable Grants represent capital and equipment funds provided through past franchise agreements. The Operating Reserve is a rollover account representing unused funds from the Operating Budget from previous years. Committee policies recommend a target balance of the operating reserve of 20%. PROJECTED C817-9602 (Salem Cable TV Grant)……………………….. $21,892 PROJECTED C817-9603 (Cox Cable Capital Equipment Grant)…………..$534,349 PROJECTED C817-9604 (Operating Reserve)……………………………..$70,000 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS KPI #1 – Total Estimated Service Value An estimate of the value of RVTV’s services based on current industry production rates in our market. Below are current service values for projects completed within Calendar Year 2025. • Creative Media Production o Total Unique Projects = 565 o Total Finished Minutes of Video = 3049 o Value at Estimated $800 per finished minute = $2,439,200 • Live Meetings o Total meetings, averaging 3 hours each o Total live stream events = 84 o Value Estimated at $1,000 per meeting = $84,000 • Drone & Photography Services o Total aerial photography shoots = 170 o Total still photography shoots = 8 o Value Estimated at $300 per hour event = $53,400 • Graphic Design & Animation Services o Total unique projects = 11 o Value Estimated at $500 per project = $5,500 RESULTING VALUE = $2,570,900 (approximately 4x RVTV’s Operating Cost) KPI #2 – Annual Satisfaction Survey As a service department for our government partners and their dedicated communications staff, client satisfaction is one of the most important measurements of our success. New in 2025, RVTV is implementing an annual survey each December of any stakeholder who requested a project during the calendar year. Each performance measure will be rated on a scale of 1-10, with the goal of 90% of responses rated at 9 or higher. KPI#3 – Accessibility Through Demonstrated Growth in Reach In addition to providing custom media content to our partners, RVTV continues to maintain public facing distribution platforms. Our main focus will be growth in subscribers and viewership on YouTube, as well as RVTV’s self-hosted content platforms including new capabilities for OTT streaming on Roku, Firestick and AppleTV. Our secondary focus will be growth in subscribers on other social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram (Note that viewership data on traditional cablecasts are not provided by service providers Cox, Comcast and Shentel). COMMENTS OF SUPPORT FROM ROANOKE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Roanoke Valley Television (RVTV) is irreplaceable. They provide such a value to the entire community, whether or not people know. They punch far above their weight, providing a level of service and output that is simply unmatched by their number of staff and budget. The quality and breadth of work are stunning. They help to inform the broader community about so many topics, from the classroom to the mountain bike trail, and from a downtown restaurant kitchen to McAfee Knob's peak. All of the localities that use RVTV's services have very small communications teams, so RVTV fills a vital role in directly supporting efforts to transparently and effectively communicate with constituents/families. Speaking on behalf of a small team of three — and previously a team of two — that serves 14,000 students, their families, and nearly 3,000 staff members for Roanoke City Public Schools, RVTV is essential to effectively engaging our community. They are an extension of our department, and this is not only a testament to the quality of their work but the way in which they conduct themselves. In particular, I would like to call out Allen Francis, who completes 90+% of our project requests. Allen is a consummate professional who works very well with our department and the entire division's staff. He goes above and beyond, sometimes taking on a project last-minute if a need arises. He can take direction if given, but is also able to work independently if our staff is unable to be present — which I trust him to do because he is such a part of our team. He has built trusted relationships with our staff. He produces videos that tell the full story of our school division, getting to the heart of why we do this work. RVTV is all of the best parts of both a newsroom and a boutique videography firm, all at a government price. I once had a staff member approach me to ask if it was possible to "receive an estimate" for RVTV's services for a video they wanted to create. I explained how we had access to RVTV's services at no cost per project, and they were astounded. They had watched their videos for years and were always blown away by the quality, and did not realize this was a service available at no additional cost beyond the yearly funding that our localities provide. This, to me, shows how rare it is to have this opportunity — and how lucky we should all feel that it is possible to have RVTV. Thanks to the leadership of Scott Ramsburg in collaboration with his top-notch staff, RVTV has positioned itself well to transition from a cable streaming service to an agency that can do all things visual. This alone is a testament to Scott's leadership and innovation, and I sincerely hope that those making budgetary decisions on behalf of our localities likewise see this value and how these gentlemen provide an essential service. -Claire Mitzel, Director of Communications & Public Relations for Roanoke City Public Schools OTHER NOTEABLE STAKEHOLDER SURVEY COMMENTS RVTV is simply amazing. The staff is very professional and I'd put their level of production on par with big city agencies and production houses. All I can say is WOW. It is such a pleasure to be able to work with RVTV in all aspects. Quality is top-notch and I can always expect quick turnarounds. I appreciate all of the creativity, willingness to try new things, and how things have just skyrocketed with quality. You all provide a service that is professional, creative and engaging! We are very fortunate to be able to utilize your brain power and equipment! Thank you for everything RVTV does for RCACP to find loving families for the homeless animals of the Roanoke Valley! The work was far beyond what I could have expected. The design is noticeable from afar without being too extreme and it is bringing the right attention to the cause as we would hope. I would trust you to do this project again! RESOLUTION NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 PM IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA 24179. WHEREAS, the Town of Vinton, along with Roanoke County and the City of Roanoke pursuant to ordinance, have established the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee, in part to assist with the development of educational channels and governmental access cable programming; and WHEREAS, each member jurisdiction annually approves the operating budget prepared by the Cable TV Government Access Director and recommended by the Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee for operation of the cable access Channel 3. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vinton Town Council does hereby approves the 2026-2027 operating budget for Roanoke Valley Regional Cable Television Committee in the amount of $648,671.00, of which Vinton’s allocation based on subscribers is four-point one percent (4.14%), or the amount of $26,855.00 of the total budget. This Resolution was adopted on motion made by, seconded by, with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED: ____________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: ______________________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Finance Issue Consider adoption of a Resolution setting the allocation percentage for Personal Property Tax Relief in the Town of Vinton for the 2026 tax year. Summary The Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA or the Act) of 1998 established a statewide program to provide relief to owners of personal use motor vehicles. The 1998 Act envisioned a five-year phase-in of relief expressed as a percentage of the bill related to the first $20,000 of personal use vehicle value. Costs soared, and the percentage was frozen at 70% since 2001. In 2004 and 2005, additional legislation was passed to amend the original Act. This legislation capped PPTRA at $950 million for all Virginia localities for Tax Years 2006 and beyond. PPTRA funds are allocated to individual localities based on each government’s pro rata share of Tax Year 2004 payments from the Commonwealth. The Town’s share of the $950 million is $203,096. In order to put these changes into effect, the Town Council adopted an Ordinance that set the framework for the implementation and administration of the 2004-2005 changes to the Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA) of 1998. This ordinance was adopted on December 6, 2005. A new personal property model has been developed by Roanoke County Information Technology staff to allocate the State block grant. Based on this model, the calculated effective reimbursement rate for Calendar Year 2026 is 43.28%. The new model incorporates current personal property data and runs real-time scenarios to estimate percentage rates that allocate the State block grant. While the results are generally comparable to the historical state model, the updated model typically produces slightly greater tax relief due to its use of current data. Attachments Resolution Recommendations Motion to adopt Resolution Town Council Agenda Summary 1 RESOLUTION NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL, HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M., IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA 24179 A RESOLUTION setting the allocation percentage for Personal Property Tax Relief in the Town of Vinton for the 2026 Tax Year. WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements set forth in Section 58.1-3524 (C) (2) and Section 58.1-3912 (E) of the Code of Virginia, as amended by Chapter 1 of the Acts of Assembly and as set forth in item 503.E (Personal Property Tax Relief Program or “PPTRA”) of Chapter 951 of the 2005 Acts of Assembly, a qualifying vehicle with a taxable situs within the Town commencing January 1, 2026, shall receive personal property tax relief; and WHEREAS, this Resolution is adopted pursuant to Vinton Code § 86-58 enacted by the Council of the Town of Vinton on December 6, 2005. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF VINTON, VIRGINIA, as follows: 1. That tax relief shall be allocated so as to eliminate personal property taxation for qualifying personal use vehicles valued at $1,000 or less. 2. That qualifying personal use vehicles valued at $1,001-$20,000 will be eligible for 42.17% tax relief. 3. That qualifying personal use vehicles valued at $20,001 or more shall only receive 42.17% tax relief on the first $20,000 of value. 4. That all other vehicles which do not meet the definition of “qualifying” (for example, including but not limited to, business use vehicles, farm use vehicles, motor homes, etc.) will not be eligible for any form of tax relief under this program. 5. That the percentages applied to the categories of qualifying personal use vehicles are estimated fully to use all available PPTRA funds allocated to the Town of Vinton by the Commonwealth of Virginia. 6. That entitlement to personal property tax relief for qualifying vehicles for tax year 2005 and all prior tax years shall expire on September 1, 2006, or when the state funding for tax relief is exhausted or depleted. Supplemental assessments for tax years 2005 and prior that are made on or after September 1, 2006, shall be deemed ‘non-qualifying’ for 2 purposes of state tax relief and the local share due from the taxpayer shall represent 100% of the assessed personal property tax. This Resolution shall be effective from and after the date of its adoption. This Resolution adopted on motion made by, seconded by, with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED: ____________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk 1 Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Finance Issue Consideration of public comments regarding the setting of the real estate tax rate for calendar year 2026. Summary The Town of Vinton’s total real estate assessment increased by approximately 7.16% for the calendar year 2026. The real estate assessment less new construction increased by approximately 6.57% for the calendar year 2026. A summary of the preliminary assessed values and corresponding tax levies are shown below: Assessed Values: Year 2026 $ 797,144,500 Year 2025 - 743,889,300 Total Increase $ 53,255,200 Less New Construction - 4,380,800 Net Increase $ 48,874,400 Tax Levy: Year 2026 $ 558,001 Year 2025 - 520,722 Increase $ 37,279 Assessment Increase Less New Construction - .0657 or 6.57% Section 58.1-3321 of the 1950 Code of Virginia, as amended, required that certain notices be published and a public hearing be held when the annual real estate assessment less new Town Council Agenda Summary 2 construction results in an increase of 1% or more. Said Notice of Public Hearing is required to be advertised at least seven days before the date of such hearing. The Notice was placed in The Vinton Messenger on March 26, 2026, to advertise for this public hearing to set the tax rate. The current rate is $0.07 per $100.00 of assessed value. No change is being recommended for calendar year 2026. Attachments Ordinance setting the real estate tax rates Recommendations Conduct Public Hearing Motion to adopt Ordinance setting real estate tax rate ORDINANCE NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL, HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M., IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA 24179 AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE FOR THE ANNUAL LEVY ON REAL ESTATE IN THE TOWN OF VINTON, VIRGINIA WHEREAS, it is desirable of the Town of Vinton to collect real estate taxes semi-annually by June 5th and December 5th; and WHEREAS, the annual levy is necessary to provide for the daily operation of various municipal departments of the Town of Vinton and thus avoid creating an emergency. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Vinton that the tax levy for the calendar year 2026 on all real property and improvements shall be as follows: "All Real Estate shall be assessed at 100% of fair market value, local levy of SEVEN CENTS ($0.07) per ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100.00) of the assessed value for the calendar year 2026." BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that a copy of this Ordinance be immediately forwarded by the Town Clerk to the Commissioner of Revenue for Roanoke County/Town of Vinton, and to the Finance Director/Treasurer of the Town of Vinton. This Ordinance adopted on motion made by , seconded by , with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED: ____________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk 1 Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Finance Issue Consider the adoption of an ordinance regarding the setting of personal property and machinery and tools tax rates for the calendar year 2026. Summary The current personal property tax rate is $1.00 per $100.00 of the assessed valuation of all personal property excepting there from household furnishings, and 50% or $.50 per $100.00 of the assessed valuation of one motor vehicle owned and regularly used by a disabled veteran, subject to certain qualifications. No change is being recommended for calendar year 2026. The current machinery and tools tax rate is $1.00 per $100.00 of the assessed valuation of all machinery and tools. No change is being recommended for calendar year 2026. Attachments Ordinance setting the personal property tax rate Recommendations Motion to adopt Ordinance setting personal property tax rate Town Council Agenda Summary ORDINANCE NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL, HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M., IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA 24179 AN ORDINANCE to provide for the annual levy on all personal property in the Town of Vinton, Virginia, and to provide for the annual levy on the classification of vehicles owned by disabled veterans, pursuant to § 58.1-3506 of the Code of Virginia (1950, as amended, and by the adoption of Ordinance No. 594 dated August 17, 1993, by the Vinton Town Council. WHEREAS, it is desirable for the Town of Vinton to collect personal property taxes by May 31, 2026; and WHEREAS, the annual levy is necessary to provide for the daily operation of various municipal departments of the Town of Vinton and thus avoid creating an emergency. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Vinton that a tax levy for the calendar year 2026 shall be one dollar ($1.00) per one hundred dollars ($100.00) of the assessed valuation of all personal property excepting therefrom household furnishings; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Vinton that a tax levy for the calendar year 2026 shall be fifty percent (50%) or fifty cents ($0.50) per one hundred dollars ($100.00) of the assessed valuation of one motor vehicle owned and regularly used by a disabled veteran, subject to certain qualifications; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that a copy of this Ordinance be immediately forwarded by the Town Clerk to the Commissioner of Revenue for Roanoke County/Town of Vinton, and to the Finance Director/Treasurer of the Town of Vinton. This Ordinance was adopted on motion made by and seconded by, with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED: ____________________________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________ Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk Meeting Date April 7, 2026 Department Administration Summary Council recently approved an easement associated with the Gus Nicks Blvd/Gish Mill Water Improvement Project and a reimbursement agreement. Town Manager, Richard ‘Pete’ Peters will present a Resolution to Council to amend the Town of Vinton’s FY2025-2026 budget to appropriate funding for this project in the amount of $1,628,000.00. Attachments Resolution Recommendations Motion to approve Resolution appropriating funds Town Council Agenda Summary 1 RESOLUTION NO. AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE VINTON TOWN COUNCIL, HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026, AT 6:00 P.M., IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE VINTON MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 311 SOUTH POLLARD STREET, VINTON, VIRGINIA, 24179. WHEREAS, on April 7, 2020, the Vinton Town Council authorized the sale of the historic Gish Mill property located at 350 Gus Nicks Blvd. in the Town of Vinton to Gish Mill Davii, LLC, which is planning to redevelop the property into a mixed-use commercial, residential and retail development known as the Gish Mill Redevelopment Project; and WHEREAS, water utility infrastructure improvements are needed to provide the water pressure, capacity, and fire flow necessary for the Gus Nicks Blvd/Gish Mill Redevelopment Project; and WHEREAS, the Town and WVWA agree that it will be mutually beneficial for WVWA to install the project, and the Town has agreed to fund associated construction costs thereof; and WHEREAS, the proposed amendment to the Town of Vinton’s FY2025-2026 budget is intended to appropriate funding for this water improvement project in the total amount of $1,628,000.00. WHEREAS, Section 15.2-2507 of the 1950 Code of Virginia, as amended, requires any locality to hold a Public Hearing in order to amend its budget when any such amendment exceeds one percent (1%) of the total expenditure show in the currently adopted budget; and, WHEREAS, the Notice of this Public Hearing was advertised in The Vinton Messenger on March 26, 2026; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Vinton Town Council does hereby approves the budget amendments, transfers, and appropriations as shown on the attached. This Resolution adopted on motion made by_____, seconded by______, with the following votes recorded: AYES: NAYS: APPROVED:________________________ ATTEST:__________________ Bradley E. Grose, Mayor Megan K. Lawless, Town Clerk