Tuesday, March 24, 2009

The council approved new restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertising on store windows. The current law allows stores to cover up to 25% of their windows with advertisements, but community group DROC presented concerns about excessive advertising in Richmond neighborhoods.

City officials provided an update on $3.7 million in debt forgiveness for Richmond schools through a federal voluntary integration program. The city is requesting technical legislation to help local schools by getting this federal debt forgiven.

Police presented an overview of Richmond's 37 security cameras installed throughout the city for public safety monitoring. The surveillance network helps officials monitor public areas and review crime footage when incidents occur.

The council received updates on federal stimulus funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Major allocations include $1.5 million for the Housing Authority and $366,000 for removing lead paint from homes.

A design firm presented a feasibility study for building a velodrome in Richmond. The specialized cycling facility would feature a steeply banked oval track for bicycle racing, though no vote was taken on the proposal.