Minutes 11/27/2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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November 27,2007 Staff Recommends: Adoption of proposed ordinance. Vision Principles Advanced: Thriving Neighborhoods and a Sense of Community. Next Steps Following Council Action: . Provide training that qualifies under the "Four for Life" program and acquire equipment and medical supplies. Motion by Mr. Moody, and seconded by Mr. R. Smith, to adopt the following ordinance, and was adopted by the following vote: "ORDINANCE ACCEPTING FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $70,830 FROM THE VIRGINIA OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES AND APPROPRIATING THE SAME AMOUNT IN THE FY 2007-2008 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET TO BE USED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FIRE, RESCUE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES FOR TRAINING AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES." Ayes: Heretick, Moody, Psi mas, D. Smith, R. Smith, Randall Nays: None 07 - 482 - Adoption of an ordinance to amend Chapter 24 of the Code of the City of Portsmouth, Virginia (2006) by amending Section 24-259 thereof pertaining to prohibited conduct in public places and by repealing Section 24-260 thereof pertaining to loitering. Vision Principle: Thriving Neighborhoods and a Sense of Community. Background: . This ordinance would deal with objectionable conduct in public places, primarily in the downtown area. Discussion: . The present code sections on this subject are in part unconstitutional, and they are confusing and difficult for the police to enforce. They will be repealed. . Since present laws are inadequate, there has been an increase in objectionable conduct in the downtown area, making the area less hospitable for families, visitors, and businesses. . The new ordinance is drawn in part from "urban camping" ordinances that have been used effectively in other cities, including Atlanta and Philadelphia. . It was prepared with input from the Commonwealth Attorney, the Portsmouth Police Department (PPD), Oasis Ministry, and the Olde Towne Business Association. It has been carefully drafted to deal only with certain specific types of objectionable conduct in public places and not with anyone's social status, and it is intended to create a better environment for families and visitors to enjoy and shop in our downtown area. . The ordinance will be complemented by efforts of the PPD to coordinate with other public and private agencies, so that persons in need of resources can be directed to such resources. Financial Impact: . There is no financial impact. Staff Recommends: Adoption of proposed ordinance. Vision Principle: Thriving Neighborhoods and a Sense of Community. Next Steps Following Council Action: . Enforcement by PPD. . Continuing coordination by PPD with public and private service agencies for persons in need of services.