Minutes 05/24/2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

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May 24, 2022 Discussion:  City staff and the Portsmouth Police Department are interested in participating in a firearm buyback program.  The Virginia Code requires that City Council adopt an ordinance prior to any such participation. Financial Impact:  The City’s share of the cost of any program can be paid from previously appropriated funds in the General Fund Budget. Staff Recommends:  Adoption of the Ordinance. Next Steps Following Council Action:  The City and PPD will evaluate and plan possible firearm buyback programs. 1. Cedric Cradle, 721 Bold Street, wanted to know why buy back was not included in Crime Prevention Plan. 2. Conrad Schesventer, 3706 Greenway Ct. East, spoke in opposition to this item. Motion by Ms. Lucas-Burke, and seconded by Mr. Woodard, to adopt the following ordinance, and was adopted by the following vote: “ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO PARTICIPATE IN FIREARM BUYBACK PROGRAMS AND DESTROY SURRENDERED FIREARMS.” Ayes: Lucas-Burke, Moody, Woodard, Glover Nays: Barnes, Battle, Whitaker 22 - 157 - Adoption of a resolution to acquire 320 Quebec Street (Tax Parcel 0094- 0910). Background:  Several years ago, City-affiliated entities, including PPIC and PRHA, acquired a number of properties in the Sugar Hill section of Portsmouth. PRHA acquired 320 Quebec Street at tax sale in 2005.  While the acquisitions were originally made with an eye toward potential development of the area, it was ultimately determined by the City that development was not desirable because the Sugar Hill area is too low-lying and has too many flooding concerns.  At the request of City Council in 2013, PPIC conveyed all of its property in Sugar Hill to the City.  The 320 Quebec Street property has a home on it, and until recently PRHA leased the home for residential occupancy.  The structure is now vacant and PRHA has expressed a willingness to deed the property to the City. Discussion:  The acquisition of 320 Quebec Street furthers the interest of the stormwater and flood mitigation programs by preventing development in a flood hazard area.  PRHA will deed the property to the City through a deed of gift. No purchase price will be paid.  After acquiring the property, the City will demolish the existing structure. Financial Impact:  No purchase price will be paid for the acquisition. After taking title to the property, the City will pay for demolition of the structure on the property.