Tuesday, April 16, 2013

The council approved moving the RichmondBuild job training program into the general fund as backup funding. The program teaches construction skills to local residents but currently operates with uncertain funding sources. Approved 6-1, with Boozé voting no.

The council voted to inspect a vacant commercial building near A Street and Barrett Avenue for hazardous materials that could threaten public health. City staff will inspect the property within 90 days and report their findings. Approved 4-2, with Beckles and Rogers voting no, and McLaughlin abstaining.

A property lease was approved for 111-113 Macdonald Avenue to Saffron Strand for homeless services. The organization will provide job training and employment services for homeless residents in the currently unused city-owned building. Boozé abstained from the vote.

The council approved routine items including additional software modules for the Source Control Program that tracks pollution sources. They also scheduled public hearings on federal CDBG and HOME grants for affordable housing and community development projects.

The council approved 2 resident appointments to city advisory boards on consent for $120,000. They also voted to review whether to continue reading the Code of Ethics aloud at each meeting."}