Tuesday, July 23, 2019

The council approved a new litter cleanup fee that property owners will pay to fund environmental programs, passing 6-1 with Bates voting no. The money will support the Environmental Quality Fund and anti-litter efforts across the city.

The council banned the sale of electronic cigarettes without FDA approval, requiring retailers to verify federal clearance before selling vaping products. The measure passed with Bates voting no and Myrick abstaining.

A 46-unit housing development at 5620 Central Avenue was approved after environmental review found no major impacts. The council also banned gas-powered leaf blowers citywide due to noise and air pollution concerns.

The council opposed a state retirement bill affecting public employee benefits for workers like police and firefighters, with Mayor Butt casting the lone no vote. They also set sewer service charges for the 2019-2020 budget year.

The council approved 19 routine items on consent, including a $450,000 contract for sewer inspection services, a $240,000 annual lease to Richmond Grown cannabis business, and $434,300 for a bulky item pickup pilot program.