Minutes 01/09/1990 - Laserfiche WebLink

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January 9, 1990 "A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF T~E CITY OF PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA EXPRESSING ITS DETERMINATION TO PROTECT OUR SCHOOLS FROM DRUG TRAFFICKING AND TO PROSECUTE ALL VIOLATORS TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW. WI~EREAS, the Schools of the City of Portsmouth have the responsibility for the education of our children and youth, and such education should occur in an atmosphere free of crime, fear and violence; and WHEREAS, an academic environment conducive to. learning is free of drug trafficking, drug possession and use, and free of trespassers who would disrupt the orderly program of our schools; and WHEREAS, the General Assembly of Virginia has passed legislation that makes drug trafficking at schools and school grounds separate and distinct felonies punishable by imprisonment for terms hot less than one year nor more than five years and by fines not more than $100,000. and further making it Unlawful to manufacture, sell or distribute or possess with intent to sell, give or distribute any controlled substance, imitation controlled substance or marijuana on the property, including buildings and grounds of any public, private or parochial elementary, middle or high school, upon public property within 1,000 feet of ~uch school property or while on any school bus; and WHEREAS, the Mayor's Task Force on drugs has emphasized the importance of security of our schools and the protection we provide for our students, faculty, and staff; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESCLVED by the Council of the City of Portsmouth: 1. That every member of the community be aware of the importance of protecting our schools from the scourge of drug trafficking; 2. That the Council hereby expresses its will that our schools be posted as drug-free zones; and 3. That all school students, patrons, personnel, and law enforcement officials be alert to prosecution of anyone who violates Virginia Code Section 18.2-255.2, "prohibiting the sale of controlled substances or marijuana on schooll property," which makes drug trafficking at schools and school grounds separate and distinct felonies punishable by imprisonment for terms not less than one year nor more than five years and by fines not more than $100,000. 4. That this resolution shall be in effect from the date of its adoption." Ayes: Barnes, Corprew, Gray, Hawks, Simpson, Webb Nays: None 90-29 - Councilman Barnes brought up a matter of our youth not being able to use our schools gymnasiums and due to the problem with drugs in our City this might be a good way to keep our youth involved with healthy activities. Motion of Mr. Barnes and seconded by Mr. Simpson, to refer the matter to the City Manager to see if a program can be implemented to allow our youth to use the schools gymnasiums, and was adopted by unanimous vote.