Tuesday, March 15, 2016

The council rejected two sets of ballot measures that could have appeared before voters this year. The first proposal would have required voter approval before the city gives subsidies to developers or takes on new debt, but failed 4-2 with Bates, Beckles, Martinez, and McLaughlin voting no. The second set of three tax measures for the November ballot, including taxes on sugary drinks and litter plus a real estate transfer tax increase, was voted down 4-2 with Butt and Pimplé opposing.

The council approved 17 routine items on consent, including a $233,743 contract to design replacement of the 23rd Street sewer main. Other notable approvals included $10,000 from the police league for adult literacy services and $12,000 in federal funding for laptops in adult education programs.

Staff presented an update on the city's pesticide ban and weed control practices implemented in 2015. The presentation covered how Richmond maintains parks and roads without chemical herbicides using integrated pest management citywide.

Discussion of a $95,000 contract with Advance Peace for neighborhood safety programs was continued to a future meeting.