Coraggio Consulting
Manassas City Council 2/10/2025

Date: Monday, February 10, 2025
Place: Manassas City Council, Virginia
Length: 2h 56m (video)
Official meeting video (Wistia / RegionalWebTV): https://fast.wistia.net/embed/iframe/swy6mhw07g

Machine transcript (speech-to-text) produced by Coraggio Consulting. Not an official county record. Names and numbers may be misspelled; check the video at the timestamp before quoting.
Speech-to-text: whisper.cpp, model large-v3-turbo. Produced 2026-10-17. Timestamps are [HH:MM:SS] into the meeting video.

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[00:02:03] District Energy is the taking of excess heat from data centers. It's why we know all about those. And applying it so that you can leverage that heat to reduce overall need for other heating sources, emissions, fossil fuels, for the greater good.

[00:02:20] Basically, it's utilizing excess heat, free heat, that we would otherwise just go to waste or that would actually take energy to cool. They do this a lot in Canada and Europe, and this is a technology we're looking at possibly being able to implement here in the States. But more immediate to us was last Tuesday's vote of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors.

[00:02:42] They voted to cancel the 28 bypass, which is something that's been in the works forever. It was actually a project promoted by the city of Manassas initially. And I'm not going to attribute any ill intent or anything to anyone.

[00:03:00] Everyone voted their conscience, and I understand that. But their conscience did not, that decision did not benefit the citizens, the residents of the city of Manassas. Because you and our citizen surveys have told us loud and clear that one of the top three issues facing the city is congestion.

[00:03:21] And we know from the data that congestion is coming from people outside the city. It's not city residents. We haven't grown. We haven't had that many more cars. But it's more through traffic as the county around us becomes more and more developed. And the bypass is the only solution that's been offered that would have addressed that.

[00:03:39] So this has a negative impact upon the city. I understand the Prince William County decision, but that doesn't mean I'm happy with it or I'm going to not continue to advocate for what I consider, and I think the citizens have told us, is in the best interest of the city. And I would urge our citizens to do the same.

[00:03:58] So hopefully in the future we'll get another bite of the apple of this and be able to make this a better community, and not just for Manassas, but for the people in Fairfax or in Prince William County or wherever else that drive through Manassas and get caught up in our traffic every day. With that, thank you very much, ma'am.

[00:04:15] Councilman Manalas. Thank you, Mayor. Yeah, I just wanted to thank all of the businesses and the chefs and restaurants that participated in the Super Bowl that we had on Friday at our first Friday in historic Manassas.

[00:04:37] It was a sold-out event. I think they sold about 1,000 tickets, which is unbelievable, and I think there was about 40 different types of soups, And it's a great event because it brings people out to all of our businesses in Old Town.

[00:04:53] And it becomes, you know, just a big, nice community event. And the weather wasn't too bad. And I appreciate all the help that went in with the volunteers for the HMI board and everyone else.

[00:05:08] Valentine's Day is Friday. If you are out and about, try to support local. Go to one of our restaurants and have a good Valentine's Day. Thank you. Councilman Smith. Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[00:05:24] I will not be offering my comments tonight. Councilman Osina. Thank you, Mayor. First of all, we know that if you haven't gotten your milk or your bread or your toilet paper, you are in deep trouble because starting tomorrow we're going to get some serious snow and then more snow along the way.

[00:05:44] But all joking aside, I want to express my appreciation in advance to Public Works for the time they're going to be spending trying to clear roads and keep up and salt and all of that sort of thing.

[00:06:01] I hope that anybody who does not have to be on the roads can stay away and let the trucks do their job here and those kinds of things. In that sense, we've gone through it in January, so we do have sort of an idea of what's involved in clearing our walks and our driveways.

[00:06:24] And yes, the plows are going to come along and plow and push snow back in the opening of your driveway or on your sidewalk, and that's an unfortunate thing. We don't have the manpower to actually come afterwards after the plows and then clean all those places up that have been cleaned.

[00:06:39] But if we can all do our part with good cheer and cooperation, I think, again, we will do as well as we did last month on that. I wanted to express my thanks to the Art Factory as well as First AME Church, both of them.

[00:06:58] The Art Factory on Saturday, this past Saturday, First AME Church on Sunday had celebrations for Black History Month. At the Art Factory, it was an art exhibition that was opened and had a reception.

[00:07:15] At First AME, it was a very informative program about, it was basically called Black History 101, a mobile history exhibit. And so it wasn't just talking about black history, but actually having artifacts and memorabilia, the good, the bad, and the very, very, very ugly, to see some of the things that had gone on, and a very informative talk.

[00:07:47] And so both bodies were very welcoming, and they were great information sessions for us to go to. And more importantly, we'll have other celebrations and other things coming along. And lastly, let me just echo my concern, too, about the canceling of the Route 28, the Godwin extension, along the way here.

[00:08:13] From my standpoint, I did reach out to some of the supervisors. And for me, it was asking them that we actually pause a moment for making a final decision and see if we could get all the affected parties.

[00:08:28] This is not just a Prince William County item. This is a Manassas, Manassas Park, a Fairfax NVTA item. And if they could have paused for three, four months where we could all get together with appropriate representation to kind of talk these things through, see what is out there.

[00:08:45] I know there's been talk about smart transportation. Let's put those all on the table and start doing that sort of thing. There was talk about loss of affordable housing. And so there was a great opportunity, I think, for some regional cooperation.

[00:09:01] And let's face it, we are in a region when it comes to our roads, our transportation, and we have to be working together. One of the things City Council did a year ago was we have a variety of shared services with Prince William County.

[00:09:19] And they had reached the point where we wanted to be sure that we could talk to the county directly about some of those shared services on behalf of our residents here, but not on the staff level, but on the elected level.

[00:09:37] This was an offer that we made. We appointed two representatives a year ago. I am happy to report that at the most recent Prince William County Board of Supervisors meeting, they finally agreed to set up a committee to talk about shared services, health and social services, housing, economic development, infrastructure, and facilities plans.

[00:10:03] And so we're finally, a year later, ready to move ahead. I look forward to seeing what we can do on this regional level and actually step forward and see what we can do on your behalf as well as on behalf of the folks in the whole region.

[00:10:21] Because while I may be elected here by the city of Manassas, decisions made outside of our city do have an effect. And I think it's important that everybody in the region at least hears those from the elected level on that. And so with that, I'm hopeful that over time there will be better news, that this will be a new starting point, and we'll find some ways to actually address our transportation situation here, particularly on Route 28.

[00:10:50] Thank you, Mayor. Councilman Vesquez-Luna. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Good evening, everyone. It looks so nice to see the room full, and we have a full agenda with celebrations coming up.

[00:11:09] So great to, I want to, well, first of all, congratulate everyone that will be recognized tonight. I have heard and I have seen how you work, and, you know, I will say some of our residents may never know, you know, the danger that you might have kept us from.

[00:11:28] And for that, I'm thankful because, you know, I know that many of you go beyond, and, you know, I'm really happy to see that, you know, that you will be recognized. And for the families here, you know, thank you, too. And, you know, really happy to see you and to join this celebration.

[00:11:46] And like we said, when we have new employees, whether it's in the leadership or in any position, you know, thank you for choosing Manassas, not only to work and serve and to be here.

[00:12:03] Our mayor often, she says, you know, you choose us to our businesses and we choose you right back. So I truly want to congratulate you and, you know, can't wait to hear more. I have been reading about it over the weekend, and I know I will learn more about you today.

[00:12:24] Following that, you know, I attended the training ED. We welcomed them to Manassas. When we have small businesses opening, for us it's a joy, but for them it's just a dream come true.

[00:12:41] So happy, and if you have a business and if you haven't done a ribbon cutting, that's a great way to get your business highlighted. Please reach out to our economic development, whether if you're trying to open your new business or just expand your current business, and they will be happy to help you and work with you.

[00:13:06] And we continue to celebrate the Black History Month. This month is special as we celebrate. And I just want to make sure that we don't forget our own mayor made history a few years ago when she became the first African-American mayor to represent us and to lead us here.

[00:13:29] And also, you know, to me it's an honor to serve with Councilman Ralph Smith as he has been a human rights activist. As a labor union leader, for me, that is very important. I not only fight for human rights, but I also fight for workers' rights and to make sure that they are getting what they're supposed to.

[00:13:53] Speaking about that, I think I cannot go without making my voice heard when it comes to how our residents are scared when it comes to immigration.

[00:14:09] I know that for some people, it might feel like if you have documents, you shouldn't be afraid. But it's not about documents. It's about the attacks on the community. It's about, maybe it's not the right way to say it, but it's about over 20 years ago when we had 287G in the Prince William community, how the people felt.

[00:14:35] And tonight, I want to make sure, I will do a part in Spanish towards the end, but I want to make sure that all the residents understand, you know, if kids don't go to school, if you see changes, that might even affect our businesses or future businesses.

[00:14:55] It's not about having your legal status. It's about the community feeling like because you look like me, because you look like my kids, you know, you might feel that, you know, you are no welcome.

[00:15:12] So I want to make sure that, you know, all the residents know, all the immigrants know that, you know, our city, it's not after you. Our city, you know, has support you, and it hasn't been different.

[00:15:27] And I hope that when a decision comes to us, you know, that we have great discussions. If there's the opportunity, I, you know, understand we all have to follow the law. But please know that there's no human being that is illegal.

[00:15:45] There aren't documented workers. I, you know, I don't, you know, all I want to make sure is that they have rights. I fight for workers, I fight for immigrants, I fight for our community, and tonight is no different.

[00:16:02] I want to make sure that they see us as their home, and, you know, I will not be asking. I don't want to know about, you know, people's status, but when that gets, you know, I look forward to doing what I need to do for the betterment of all the residents of our city.

[00:16:27] The reason why I say this is because, you know, when I was elected over three years ago, I wanted to be a voice and be a vote for the community. We are a minority, and that has not changed.

[00:16:42] But when I'm up here, I'm serving everybody, and I want you to have confidence. Regardless if you have opposition or if you're supportive of the votes that this elected body makes, you know, everybody's input is important to me.

[00:17:00] Everybody's input or point of view, it can make a difference in how we vote or how we make things. But anyway, moving on because I don't want to hold you up too long. I believe it was mentioned about the weather is coming up. You know, I want to thank our new city manager who's sitting here.

[00:17:23] Welcome first, first time here. We have been working together, but I'm really, really happy and looking forward. Hopefully I can set up some monthly meetings and have conversations. I had a great feedback on the last snow, which, you know, I believe it was positive.

[00:17:42] I know that the more it is, it might be more challenging, but I hope that, you know, these little changes can make their life better for people that need to go to work. So I just want to say thanks to you and to the staff for working on making the change.

[00:18:01] There is a Powering 3 series, our award-winning series for the police department. They work with the schools, and I believe that will be a great opportunity.

[00:18:18] If you have questions to come and learn, they will be speaking specifically about, I think it's, let me see, the substance abuse awareness. But to me, it's a celebration of the community, community coming together.

[00:18:36] So I hope that people continue to come and enjoy. They have a free dinner, too, and they have so many things that will be on February 12th from 5.30 to 8 p.m. I want to remind residents that we have at all council meetings, we have a Spanish translator.

[00:18:59] So if you need assistance, make sure that you come up front and you will find Ms. Kelly. She'll be able to help you, whether it's in any, you know, comments at the residence time or in between the meeting.

[00:19:16] If you have any questions, you know, you can reach out to this council at 703-257-8200. Or you can also email all of us together at Mayor and Council at Manassas, Virginia.gov.

[00:19:33] The last, in regards to the 28, I want to focus on what moving forward is all about. They are talking about the widening. There will be a Manassas Park City Hall, an open session, a hearing.

[00:19:53] I have shared that information. Please, if you can attend, it will be towards the end of the month. And that will be an important meeting so we can speak about how it will make a difference. And the project was, for them, it was too expensive.

[00:20:16] You know, being here, you know, every expense matters. So I'm sure they did everything they could to try, you know, to keep it alive. I, you know, I will continue to talk to them, to advocate. but I know that I wouldn't want them to try to hold us accountable for something that we can know for.

[00:20:34] So, in the meantime, they'll still be continuing widening and doing changes to make our road better. So, too close. I will have some words in Spanish. I'll try to keep it short.

[00:20:51] Para nuestros amigos que hablan español, los residentes. Siempre yo digo residentes, o nosotros decimos que son residentes, porque no son los que viven aquí, no es con respecto a su estatus legal. Es importante que vean a nuestra comunidad como la vieron en diciembre, como la vieron el año pasado, no ha cambiado.

[00:21:14] Estamos aquí en la comunidad, trabajamos juntos. Lo importante pues es que no tengan miedo, que manden a sus hijos a su casa, que sigan comprando. Y si tienen preguntas y no, pueden llamarnos. El número de teléfono de la ciudad es 703-257-8200.

[00:21:37] También pueden mandar un correo electrónico a mayorandcancel.gv. Espero poder en el futuro tener sesiones donde puedan explicarle.

[00:21:53] Para mí lo más importante es que ya sea los trabajadores, los inmigrantes o todas las personas sepan sus derechos. Ahorita lo importante es que sepan sus derechos, que entiendan de que nadie, no hay paradas.

[00:22:08] Si ustedes no están haciendo nada malo, pues nadie los está persiguiendo. Eso para mí es importante. Como hispana, como latina, deseo representarlos en la mejor manera y esa es la razón por la que estoy aquí. Así es que por favor, si yo les puedo ayudar, háganme saber y ahorita nada ha cambiado pero cuando las cosas cambien yo voy a estar aquí para dar mi voz, para apoyarles y para hacerles saber sus derechos y poder, como dije, dar mi voz y voto para la comunidad. Gracias. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Gracias.

[00:22:42] Councilwoman Hudson. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'd like to start by acknowledging that diversity makes our community great. It is heartbreaking that the dialogue happening at the national level has our families scared. It's heartbreaking that we have students that are afraid to go to school.

[00:23:00] And so, you know, I stand here, you know, ready to work for these, ready to work for our residents. You know, echoing what Sonia just said, it's really important for all of us to consider what people are dealing with to really just recognize that we're all people in one community working together.

[00:23:16] So on that note, I also want to wish everybody a happy Black History Month. Echoing what Tom acknowledged, there's an art exhibit at the Art Factory featuring an artist who, I think he was born in D.C., named William Kennedy. Really powerful pieces there. I highly recommend checking it out.

[00:23:33] The museum is going to have a book talk as well as a history gallery talk on February 22nd. And finally, if you haven't visited Jenny Dean Park and actually just read the plaques that are there, I encourage you to do that as well this month and maybe at least once a year moving forward.

[00:23:52] Additionally, in the past week, our library celebrated four years, and they have a variety of events for both children and adults. If you haven't been over there, I recommend that as well. They served nearly 50,000 people in 2024, so if you weren't one of them, why not?

[00:24:09] Echoing what my colleagues here said, the Super Bowl was really well done and really well attended. So thank you to HMI and all of the volunteers that were involved in that. Very cool event there. And then finally, I wanted to share that with the community that I'll be serving on the Northern Virginia Regional Commission on behalf of Manassas.

[00:24:26] I just had an orientation in the past couple weeks as well. This commission works on a variety of things from environmental to housing to health and regional services. So in kind of off of what Tom said as well, one of the important roles of government is learning from our neighbors and learning from, you know, other communities around the country and around the world.

[00:24:44] So the NVRC does a good job of collecting information from the other local jurisdictions and, you know, kind of getting people to work together and get the most out of our services. So I'm very excited to serve on your behalf on that commission.

[00:25:01] And then we'll close out by saying definitely stay safe in the weather, get your cars off the street if you can. And a head thank you to the public workers and everybody who's going to be involved in getting that snow off the ground. So thank you very much. Thank you, all council members, echoing what everybody said about Route 28 and as well as the diversity, equity, and inclusion uneasiness that is going on.

[00:25:27] We all live here in our wonderful city, and we just want to do what's best for everybody here. want to take a moment to recognize Dr. Newman is here tonight and school board member Jill Spall snuck in there on me in the back there I know did you sleep at all Dr. Newman because I know the Eagles you know that's your that's your team I know I know you've probably been up all night but it's okay but thank you both for being here tonight and they are here at my invitation because I want to acknowledge the if I were mayor essay contest winners I invite the first place winner to join me at council he also was with me at the tree lighting as well but I invite them

[00:26:06] that individual to come to council to be recognized and so tonight I am so glad to have Mr. Anthony Neal here with me and his mom and I'm going to ask Anthony to stand up as I read the wonderful essay that he submitted for this year to be our first place winner our third place winner was dana or dana i can't remember her ms neal was helping me with that um vanessa campos second and she's from baldwin second place was josue hernandez from mayfield and of course first place with anthony and anthony if you want to stand up while i read your essay everybody has

[00:26:42] to hear this wonderful essay it was so great um to mayor if i were mayor i would help the city to clean up the roads and sidewalks i would also help give food to the homeless people and dogs I shall help poor businesses, help to add new exquisite food trucks.

[00:27:01] I think it was that word that made me pick you as the winner, exquisite. And restaurants that come from all around the world. I will help to expand the community. If I were mayor, I'll help the people in need of shelter.

[00:27:18] I'm going to help put up new buildings. I would help Old Town Museum to make it bigger so we can have more stuff from the past. I will increase the car garage in Old Town so it can fit more cars. You have work to do. This city is amazing.

[00:27:36] It can hold lots of memories from the past and future. What I like about our community is I like how they have festivals, ice skating, restaurants. What I would like to know is what do you do after the job? Like traveling, hanging out with family, restaurants, and what's your favorite restaurant?

[00:27:56] I think that was an awesome essay. And congratulations again, Anthony. You're amazing. Thank you for coming tonight. It was really great to have you and see you again.

[00:28:12] And I asked him how school was today. It was good. So that's really good. And Ms. Neal, thank you. I think we had the most number of entries this year. It was more than 40. And it's just fifth grade. So it's just amazing to see how it's evolved. This was my fourth year doing it. So when you bring out the superintendent and school board members for you, Anthony, that's pretty special, Right. So thank you again for coming tonight.

[00:28:34] I appreciate it. So for me, thank everybody for coming out for Super Bowl. I did do that for the next two weeks. We have OTBA this week. I am attending a webinar, I think it is, with talking about the federal freeze and the impact on local governments. I'll be sitting in on that.

[00:28:51] I have my NVTA meetings this week. On the 18th, we have a work session, which Steve may talk about. I'll be attending and going to Osborne to talk to Dr. Wallace's history class for Black History Month and happy Valentine's Day to one and all. Please hold all of those that you love closely and tell them that you love them not only on that day but every day. I have been reminded recently that life is indeed short and we cannot take moments for granted and wasting time on hate and revenge is simply not worth it. We need to choose

[00:29:27] love. And also want to shout out Ms. Linda Griffin at Round Elementary. I was able to go and be a surprise broadcaster last week for Black History Month and that was a lot of fun as well. So I'll turn it over to City Manager Steve. First meeting in here. Good and ready to go. Yes ma'am. For your City Manager time.

[00:29:47] Thank you. Thank you. And hello to everyone in Manassas. As everyone has indicated, we are expecting a good little bit of winter weather coming our way over the next few days. As such, the city has declared an emergency snow parking restriction that will go into effect at 8 a.m. tomorrow morning in advance of the snow that is supposed to arrive at noon.

[00:30:11] By enacting this parking restriction, if you see a sign that says snow emergency route, please don't park there. That assists us in removing snow from the arterial and collector roads so that we can better negotiate through the winter weather event.

[00:30:30] Let's see. Ms. Luna indicated that the parent E3 series was scheduled for Wednesday due to the weather that has been postponed, and we will announce when it's available once the police department has rescheduled it.

[00:30:47] For those that are interested in our community's art, we did install two new public art programs. displays at the public safety building and at the train depot. The brown statues were ordered in 2022 from the Broden Studio in Minnesota. At the public safety facility, the artwork includes a uniformed police officer holding his cap on a child with a police canine resting its paw on another child's hand. At the train depot, we have an 1870s railroad conductor standing next to a girl

[00:31:25] who is resting on her suitcase, and she is sitting next to her mother who is on a bench. The artwork at PSF was funded through drug seizure money, and the artwork at the depot was funded through the 150th anniversary allocation.

[00:31:44] And then finally, Monday, February 17th is President's Day. City business offices will be closed that day. Please visit our website or the payment boxes if you have a payment that's due during that time. And that's all that I have, Madam Mayor. Okay. Any questions for City Manager Burke?

[00:32:01] Ms. Luna. It would be more a comment for you. I know this is a special moment for Anthony. I was wondering if you wouldn't mind taking a picture with him for the record. Oh. Okay. What you want? You and Dr. Newman with Mr. Anthony.

[00:32:19] Oh, with Anthony. Okay, sure, we can do that. You want to go ahead and do that? Take pictures. Okay. Come on down. Do you want Diana to come down tonight?

[00:32:29] Thanks, I'll call on Vice Mayor Wolfe.

[00:33:51] He has a motion. Madam Mayor, I'd like to amend the agenda to include a proclamation honoring Chief Douglas W. Keene for his exemplary service to the city of Manassas. Second. We have a motion by Vice Mayor Wolfe and seconded by Councilwoman Luna to amend the agenda to include a proclamation honoring Chief Keene.

[00:34:12] All in favor, say aye. Aye, aye. Any opposed? All right, let's go. he did not know about this because he wouldn't be able to do it if he knew thank you yeah okay resolution number r 2025-556 proclamation honoring chief douglas w keene for his exemplary service to the city of manassas whereas chief douglas w keene has faithfully

[00:34:51] served the city of manassas since 1989 demonstrating unwavering dedication integrity and leadership in his various capacities within the city government and whereas he has served as chief of police since may 1 2010 providing steadfast leadership and sharing the safety and security of the community and fostering a culture of professionalism and excellence within the department and whereas in recognition of his expertise and commitment to public service chief keen was appointed assistant city manager in 2021 expanding his responsibilities to include

[00:35:29] oversight of critical municipal functions including special projects human resources public works social services fire and rescue operations and city-wide employee leadership development and whereas his extensive institutional knowledge strategic vision an unwavering commitment to the success of the city led to his appointment as interim city manager a role in which he served with distinction for 15 months while a national search for a permanent appointee was conducted and whereas during his tenure as interim city manager chief keen provided exemplary leadership ensuring the seamless continuation of municipal operations

[00:36:08] fostering collaboration among city departments and guiding the organization through a period of transition with professionalism and dedication and whereas his accomplishments in this role include oversight of the city hall renovation the restoration of full municipal service operations the preparation administration of fiscal year 25 and 26 budgets the successful facilitation of council retreats in 24 and 25 and ongoing engagement with residents to address community concerns and whereas chief keen played an instrumental role in the city's presentation to credit rating agencies, contributing to the historic achievement of an upgrade to

[00:36:45] a AAA credit rating from Moody's, and whereas his leadership was further demonstrated through his successful negotiation of the Marsteller property acquisition, thereby securing 20 additional acres of parkland, enhancing recreational opportunities, and establishing a future site for fire station number one.

[00:37:03] Now, therefore, I, Michelle Davis Younger, Mayor of the City of Manassas, Virginia, and behalf of the Manassas City Council, do hereby recognize and commend Douglas W. King for his outstanding service as interim city manager and for his continued dedication to the safety, well-being, and progress of the city of Manassas. His leadership has left a lasting impact on our community and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. Thank you so much.

[00:37:28] Amy King, you're in trouble. I thought you were here for accreditation, but either Either way, make it short.

[00:37:52] Can't do this without good people. They're there to support you. I said this at my last meeting. Council, everyone supported me all along the way. Great staff and a great community that gave you support.

[00:38:08] And you know they have your back. And, again, without my family, there were many times she didn't see me. With long hours, we'd pass each other in the morning with a cup of coffee. So, Amy, I love you. Thank you for your support. Zach and Jonathan, my two sons as well.

[00:38:24] Everybody stood behind me, and that's what made all of us successful. Thank you very much. Let me get a photo with the fam.

[00:38:51] Thank you so much for that.

[00:39:16] Next on the agenda we have item one is presentations, police department recognition, and Mr. Keene will help us with that item. Well, after thoroughly embarrassing me, this is what we're really here for tonight.

[00:39:32] Mayor, I'm going to get some help as I come up, but I want to go over the agenda first. Thank you, and counsel, for giving us this time. It is going to be a little long this evening. We have several things. The first up is going to be our CLEA award presentation.

[00:39:48] Then we have a couple of awards from the Attorney General's Office. We have the announcement of our Employee of the Year, the Field Training Office of the Year, and then congratulations to Lieutenant Barahona for the National Academy graduation.

[00:40:04] So first up, I'm going to ask Mr. Craig Hartley, the executive for Kalia, to come down and join me. I'm going to turn the mic over to him as he presents you, us, and our community with our accreditation award.

[00:40:25] Well, thank you, Chief Keene, and thank you, Madam Mayor, for your invitation to be here tonight. You know, I think he had it right when he wrote his essay that Manassas is a city of excellence. But that doesn't happen by chance. It happens through good governance, and it takes place through good staff to carry out the policy wishes of your commission here tonight.

[00:40:43] And so, again, I want to make sure Doug and others know the value of this. CALEA serves as an organization that promulgates standards in the public safety industry, and we've been in that business now for almost 50 years, and we accredit the very best organizations in this country.

[00:41:00] In fact, only about 7% of this nation's law enforcement agencies are actually accredited through CALEA, And that represents about 35% of the nation's law enforcement officers work for agencies that are engaged with us. Tonight, I was inspired by your comments around the table because whether they're Valentine's Day parties or infrastructure issues or congestion things that may occur or any number of issues that impact your city, it always lays sometimes at the foot of public safety in some way, and it requires comprehensive planning and readiness to make that happen to carry out your wishes and desires.

[00:41:35] Here at Manassas, you have an organization that is committed to continuous improvement, adherence to professional standards. They have done that now for, I think, two and a half decades. I don't know the number of their eighth award. So many of the organization's staff have no idea what it's like to work for an agency that's not accredited.

[00:41:54] That really comes through good leadership, but it also comes from practitioners who are also committed to professional excellence. We're very proud to be here tonight and make this presentation for you. And Chief Keene, if I may read the certificate, and it reads, Be it hereby known that the Manassas City, Virginia Police Department, having fully demonstrated its voluntary commitment to law enforcement excellence by living up to a body of standards deemed essential to the protection of life, health, safety, and the rights of citizens it serve, and having exemplified the very best professional practices

[00:42:34] in the conduct of its responsibilities is hereby upon the recommendation of the members of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies awarded this certificate of advanced law enforcement accreditation effected the seventh day of November 2024 and it is recognized as an accredited law enforcement agency for a period of four years thereafter. Again, this is the eighth award and it is a meritorious award for their long-standing engagement in the accreditation process. You should be proud of the organization. We're proud to have them engage with us, and we're very happy to have the leadership of Doug Keene

[00:43:10] and his staff in accomplishing this very important goal. Thank you for your time

[00:43:14] here this afternoon. Taking the time to be here tonight.

[00:44:04] Next up, I'm going to ask Captain Trey Lawler. First, I want to thank him publicly for stepping in. You celebrated me tonight, but I had to have someone that I could trust and we could trust and rely on to step in the police department take my role there as chief captain lawler came in and filled in as interim chief of police he's going to help us through the rest of the presentations tonight since he was there for the last year good evening madam mayor council members mr burke so our first presentation tonight we're going to talk about two officers who have made

[00:44:43] incredible contributions to our community last fall we became aware of an opportunity to nominate some of our staff for the Attorney General's Award for Outstanding Service in Community Policing. And as you know, the chief talks about it all the time, and you've experienced it as well.

[00:45:01] We take our responsibilities for community policing very seriously. Since before I got promoted the first time we started talking about this, we understand the importance of community policing, how it improves our relationship with our citizens, how it focuses on the problems in our communities that are most important to our citizens.

[00:45:19] And we've benefited from that greatly, as have our citizens. So when we became aware of the opportunity to nominate our staff for this award, we'd never done it before. Nobody in our department had ever received it. But Sergeant Stumpf, Lieutenant Barajon, and the folks in our community services unit did a fantastic job of writing the nomination.

[00:45:40] And as a result, we were notified late last year that Master Police Officer Thomas Rodriguez and Master Police Officer Shauna Mueller had been awarded the award through the Attorney General's Office. So there were several hundred applications, and this is the first time in the history of the awards, they've been doing this for seven years, that two people from the same department actually received awards.

[00:46:06] There were officers from nine different states. There were some group awards, some individual awards, but we couldn't be any prouder of Shauna and TJ for what they've accomplished. Can we share the video real quick, and then we'll call him up and make the presentation. We're fortunate enough that one of the staff members at the Attorney General's office actually lives just a few blocks from here in Old Town, and we made contact with him, and he offered to use his services.

[00:46:33] He's a public information social media fellow to do some public announcement, and what you're about to see is a result of that. Well, Manassas City is what's not to say about Manassas. It's great, right? You know, Manassas is one of those cities that are just outside the Washington, D.C. area that can be considered suburbia, but it has a lot of history with kind of a modern twist to it.

[00:46:55] So 10 square miles, just a little bit over 42,000 people in the city, a lot of great social events. It's very much an event city, so we're real excited to host a lot of events. So that's what the city really is, just a great opportunity for families to feel the historic aspects of it, but also with a modern feel.

[00:47:18] Well, in fact, I live in the city. I live in the Wellington community. My wife and I purchased our home back in 1999, and so, yeah, I'm a strong supporter of working and serving in the community in which I live. and you know I always reference the fact that Sir Robert Peel and his nine principles I think that's key you know we the police are policed by the people and I think it's important for us to understand that we can't police without the community and so the stakeholders in any of the conversations when it comes to programming so my advice to any entity that is looking to build this

[00:47:57] out is to look for those stakeholders and those partners that are outside of the norm look for public health, look for public schools, look for non-profits, look for your social services departments. Those that tend to also have their pulse on the concerns that you also have with related to safety and healthy communities, you're going to find that you can do more. I'm a strong believer that as a team you can achieve more and working together you can accomplish a lot more have greater impact so it's very important to think outside the box in creating programs like

[00:48:33] this and looking at it from a different strategic way from a law enforcement sometimes we get boxed in and whether or not you know the laws right but when you look at it from a public health perspective i think when you look at it in that way you are addressing in a unique way that if If you have a healthy community, you have a safe community.

[00:48:56] So the city of Manassas is a smaller city, but we definitely have the historic feel to the city, which is something that I love.

[00:49:12] I grew up in a very historic town, and when I left home, finding a place in Northern Virginia that still had that same feeling to it was just really comforting to me. I grew up in a suburban area.

[00:49:27] We don't have any skyscrapers or big buildings or anything like that. So I was looking for a job down here. That definitely drew me into Manassas. We're a tight-knit community. We're very small. And if you go anywhere, there's always people looking to help, a friendly face, a smile.

[00:49:47] It's a great family feel when you're working here. We can only do so much as a police department, right? We typically, first responders, we come in, we see a problem, we do what we can, but we're held tight by the legal system.

[00:50:05] So there's only some things we can get involved in. There's only some things that we have actual services for. But in the community, there's so many available resources out there that people just don't know about. So having that open communication with all the resources in the area, with the hospital, with the community services board, with the jail, with the social services department, having those communications helps bridge the gap in care with these individuals.

[00:50:34] Because what we're seeing on our end is the repeat disorderlies, the repeat reports of a larceny. It's just an elderly woman with dementia who thinks that someone's in her house and stealing things, but there's no one there. So we see those all the time.

[00:50:52] So having that communication to go to those other resources and say, hey, there's a real problem going on here. What can we do to help you? It really makes a difference so that these people aren't falling through the cracks. And if you are someone that's lucky enough to be in a place where you want to offer your help, there's so many different areas here that you can get involved.

[00:51:17] And I highly recommend you do so because it really allows you to see your community in a different light. And also, it's just fulfilling for yourself. Thank you. Shawna, you want to come up first? I'm just going to, if you don't mind, take an opportunity to share with you exactly what they did to receive this award.

[00:51:38] NPO Shauna Moeller has been instrumental in reducing the impact of mental health crisis calls on the Manasseh City Police Department. She proactively identifies individuals in need, connects them with resources, and introduced the Greater Prince William Outreach Forum, collecting 100 referrals herself.

[00:51:55] Her innovative approach has led to positive outcomes for both individuals and the department, cutting hospital custody order time by over 50%. And that is a big deal because our officers spend a lot of time at the hospital assisting mental health patients. MPO Mueller has also tackled special issues, organizing a domestic violence awareness event, collaborating on mental health interventions, and launching a Girls on the Run program with police and fire EMS volunteers.

[00:52:22] She revamped the department's resource pamphlets and developed a mental health guide for those in crisis. Additionally, she partnered with the department's employee assistance counselor to create a suicide prevention presentation reinforcing the department's commitment to mental well-being. Her dedication has driven meaningful change in both the community and the department.

[00:52:42] Congratulations, Sharma.

[00:52:54] MPO Thomas Rodriguez leads Manassas City Police Department's Community Vitality Officer Program and created the Parent E3 series to engage, educate, and empower parents on at-risk behaviors.

[00:53:17] The program includes expert lectures, resource tables, and panel discussions covering topics like mental health, cyberbullying, and youth violence prevention. With the Manassas City Public Schools as a key partner, the program moved to Osborne High School, added Spanish interpretation, and expanded marketing, doubling attendance from 2022 to 2023.

[00:53:39] Manassas City Public Schools also provides child care, enhancing accessibility. Parent E3 is data-driven, evolving based on feedback. When parents requested youth involvement, Manasseh City Police Department added a student panel on violence prevention.

[00:53:55] The program has strengthened police-community school relationships and inspired other Manasseh City police initiatives, including driver safety outreach. NPO Rodriguez's leadership embodies the department's commitment to 21st century policing and community engagement. Congratulations, TJ.

[00:54:12] Next, we'd like to recognize our Employee of the Year and our Field Training Officer of the Year.

[00:54:29] So the things that they do and they contribute are quite lengthy, and I don't think it would be any justice if I tried to shortcut them. So I want you to know exactly what they do and why they each got this award. First, I want to call up Master Police Officer Cantali Gaines. We are pleased to announce Master Police Officer Cantali Gaines as a 2024 recipient of the Sergeant John Connor Memorial Award.

[00:54:58] The recipient of this award is an individual that consistently honors Sergeant Connor's sacrifice in their daily duties by dedicating themselves to the ideals of police service with their impeccable integrity, commitment to respect, selfless public service, and exemplary professional standing.

[00:55:16] Her selection followed a thorough review of 2024 commendations and memos submitted to the Peer Review Advisory Committee with her recognition stemming from one such memo. Over the past year, MPO Gaines has exemplified the organization's values through her dedication and work ethic.

[00:55:35] Her commitment to excellence has driven key achievements, strengthening the department's success. In January, she led a surveillance operation in Brentwood Apartments that resulted in a suspect arrest without incident and the recovery of a firearm. Consistently ranking among the top five in arrests and felony arrests, MPO Gaines has played a critical role in apprehending dangerous individuals, including a murder suspect in Prince William County and a repeat offender with a history of evading custody.

[00:56:05] In June, MPO Gaines completed a rigorous International Police Mountain Bike Association instructor course in Arkansas, becoming one of only three instructors in the department. She collaborated with another sergeant to develop an approved lesson plan and hosted the department's first police bicyclist course in October, certifying officers and establishing a foundation for future police bicycle training.

[00:56:28] MPO Gaines positively impacted the department as a field trainer, personally training four probationary officers and assisting with two others. Known for learning and preparing, excuse me, known for her high standards, she challenged and supported trainees accelerating their learning and prepared them for solo patrol.

[00:56:47] Additionally, MPO Gaines remains a key member of the Emergency Services Unit, also known as SWAT, honing her skills in firearms and tactical operations. In February, during the Bayberry Avenue officer-involved shooting, she was part of the primary entry team and helped take the suspect into custody after their surrender.

[00:57:06] MPO Gaines excels in community policing and addressing citywide concerns. During a spree of over 50 vehicle break-ins in August and September, she mapped incident locations and assisted the lead detective. Using surveillance footage, she identified the suspect and helped execute a search warrant, recovering evidence linking the suspect to the crimes.

[00:57:26] Kintali Gaines is a rock star. Congratulations. This is Master Police Officer Christopher Daniels, and he's being recognized as our Field Training Officer of the Year.

[00:57:48] We are pleased to announce Master Police Officer Christopher Daniels is the Field Training Officer of the Year. With 19 years of dedicated service with the department, Master Police Officer Daniels has established himself as a cornerstone of our training program. His depth of knowledge and practical expertise have been instrumental in preparing new officers for the challenges of their roles, ensuring they are not only technically proficient, but also embody the values and ethics required to excel in the field.

[00:58:17] One of Master Police Officer Daniels' most notable strengths is his ability to lead by example. He maintains high standards in all aspects of duty, from operational tasks to interpersonal interactions. This unwavering dedication inspires trainees to strive for excellence and fosters a culture of accountability and integrity within our organization.

[00:58:40] Master Police Officer Daniels is also deeply committed on the professional growth of his trainees. He tailors training approaches to meet individual learning styles, creating an environment where each trainee feels supported and empowered to succeed. His mentorship has had a lasting impact, as evidenced by the consistent performance and professionalism of the officers he has trained.

[00:59:01] During this past year, Master Police Officer Daniels has field-trained six different officers. Beyond his technical and instructional skills, he embodies professionalism in every aspect of his work. He consistently approaches challenges with a calm demeanor, sound judgment, and a solutions-oriented mindset, earning respect and admiration of his colleagues and trainings alike.

[00:59:24] Field training officers like M.P.O. Daniels are an asset to this organization. His enthusiasm, dedication, and job knowledge prepare new officers for a long, incestful career. And I would just like to add, Chris served as a detective for 10 years. and worked a lot of pretty serious crimes, and he did a fantastic job of that.

[00:59:43] So it doesn't matter what Chris has done for us. He has done an exceptional job. This is a very well-deserving award, Chris. Thank you, Gio. So the last thing we want to do is recognize Lieutenant Gio Barahona, our good friend Gio.

[01:00:12] You all know Gio very well, another master of many trades. So back in December, Gio graduated from the FBI's National Academy, which is a 10-week course where the FBI invites over 250 law enforcement professionals from around the world to come and spend 10 weeks.

[01:00:33] It's basically like going back to college for 10 weeks. There's also an aspect of physical fitness. Did you take any graduate classes while you were there? Yeah. So he was actually able to get credit for some graduate-level college courses while he was there. it's a phenomenal experience for a number of different reasons first of all the professional development and growth but also with the networking geo was supposed to go visit with his roommate here a few weeks ago but he had a family situation come up so he hadn't even been out probably a month and he's already maintaining those relationships so we're very proud of geo for his work at the national academy it's a big deal it's a milestone in anybody's law enforcement

[01:01:11] career. So just let me read real quick. The FBI National Academy is a prestigious professional development course for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders. Held at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, the program offers advanced training in leadership, investigative techniques, and fitness.

[01:01:28] Participations by invitation only, with graduates joining an elite network of law enforcement professionals who dedicate to excellence and innovation in policing. Quite an accomplishment, Joe. Congratulations. Thank you, Trey. Mayor, can we get a five-minute recess just so we can get some pictures and you intermingle yes just closing remarks before you know how I feel policing can make or break your community I think you feel the same way how we treat people was very important I think this is the building blocks of our future

[01:02:07] I think our our standards how we feel how we should treat people is very demonstrated here tonight by everybody's commitment and yours and our community with the accreditation it is hard work for accreditation and that's the reason there's only a few police departments that are doing thank you for your time tonight and look forward to mingling with you thank you five

[01:02:30] minute recess everyone thank you interim public works director welcome sir thank you for having me madam mayor vice mayor mr burke members of council my name is mike morgan i'm the interim public works director and i'm here to present our annual report apologize all right so public works

[01:03:05] consists of five departments streets traffic control sorry streets traffic control refuge and recycling buildings and grounds and vehicle maintenance we have 57 and a half full-time employees and an operating budget of just north of 23 million dollars our street departments essential functions are to maintain 254 and a half lane miles concrete repairs storm water system maintenance leaf collection snow removal street sweeping event cleanup and emergency response

[01:03:41] highlights of the street department over the last year development of a five-year pavement management plan performed residential crack sealing performed snow removal and emergency services completed the fy 24 paving and supplemental paving work completed fy 25 pavement testing, completed storm sewer flushing in the Lucasville drainage area, managed emergency culvert replacement on Shannon Lane, complete sidewalk trip hazards, managed emergency culvert replacement on Berkshire Lane, and managed Dumfries Road paving by VDOT. Our traffic control divisions,

[01:04:20] essential functions, 63 intersection signal maintenance, pavement markings, street signs, event setup, and emergency responses. Highlights in the traffic control department are preventative maintenance and inspection and repair on liberia and wellington corridors performed emergency signal repair on grant avenue and center street installed new traffic signals at main street and church street as well as main street and center street performed annual re-striping along the arterial roadways installed a four-way stop intersection with crosswalk at clover hill

[01:04:57] road and berkshire street performed emergency traffic signal replacement at quarry road and Liberia Avenue, re-striped and installed new signals at Marcella Community Center and installed a crosswalk and a four-way stop sign at Williams Road and Calverly Lane. Vehicle maintenance department. Essential functions are to maintain 570 vehicles and pieces of equipment including the school buses, our new electric school buses and our fire apparatus as well as our ambulances.

[01:05:28] We maintain a fueling station. With our group we have 120 plus years of specialized experience. We perform the Virginia State inspections, and we also support the emergency response. Highlights of 24 are our intern program with Manassas City Public Schools.

[01:05:45] 392 Virginia State inspections performed. Our labor rate is 53 to 64 percent below the commercial rate. We maintain 59 licenses and certifications amongst us. The implementation of the maintenance of the city's emergency vehicles. Our hybrid vehicles and our police department give us a 62 percent fuel economy improvement and adding electrical vehicles as appropriate.

[01:06:08] our recycling and refuge group essential functions collection of trash and recycling along with yard and bulk waste the drop-offs the household hazardous waste paper shredding and electronics litter control with keep manassas beautiful historic downtown parks and public spaces and public partnerships and outreach with organizations volunteers and schools the highlights of 24 for them are they joined the purple can club for glass collection the streamlined city collection events achieved a 40 rating with the recycling rate expanded food

[01:06:47] waste composting programs worked with manassas city schools and sustainability club established seed library at the library house and the keep america beautiful presidential award our buildings and ground departments essential functions are the general government cips building maintains 22 13 parks are maintained and two cemeteries are maintained they take care of the public landscaping cutting the grass maintaining school playgrounds snow removal and emergency response their

[01:07:26] highlights for 24 are the completion of the construction and oversight the renovation of city hall the rose hill scatter gardens celebrating the fourth year as b city usa celebrating the 40th year of arbor day and celebrating 35 consecutive years of tree city usa so what's up next to complete the 2025 excuse me the 2024 to 2025 paving plan with additional local street funding, develop designs for city hall parking garage, complete Harris Pavilion ice rink

[01:08:02] renovations, continue sidewalk and intersection safe improvements, and continue acquisition of the hybrid and electric vehicles where needed. All right. Anybody have any questions? Because I will do the best to answer. If not, I'm going to pull on Mr. Burke's knowledge. Thank you.

[01:08:18] Thank you so much. Mr. Osina. Yes. Thank you, Mayor. So in light of the inclement weather that's coming this week here does your department handle the clearing of the parking lots for the schools yes we assist the schools with that so they do some of the clearing and and the city does or how does it work yes yes city takes the lead and the schools helps all right and does that also include sidewalks at the schools that is public sidewalks I should say yes sir along the

[01:08:52] And lastly, all the employees there certainly do an amazing job when, you know, our lights go out and things of this sort. And we hear that from utilities, but your folks have to come out and sometimes get equipment out.

[01:09:09] Or when we had a traffic light problems over there at the corner of Grant and Center Street and the temporary traffic light had to go up and, you know, handling all of these things. And sometimes they don't conveniently happen Monday through Friday, 9 through 5, do they?

[01:09:27] No, sir. On that sort of thing. But I will say that one of the things that, as I go around to neighborhoods and hear from people and so forth, and we talk about the city-owned property and so forth, is how well the grounds are maintained, particularly not just the cutting of the grass and stuff, but the shrubs, the flowers, and these sorts of things that are periodically changed and kept up and so forth along the way here.

[01:09:53] It's not an easy task to do all of those things, very labor-intensive, to bring water in along the way. So, again, kudos. That department certainly needed some recognition for their efforts because they do make our city look very attractive from the way they're coming in to the various places along the way here.

[01:10:13] So please pass that on, I hope. Yes, sir. We'll do. Thank you very much. Any other comments or quick? Mr. Wim. I have to admit, I should know this, but I don't. The Vehicle Service Department, the work we do for the schools? Yes, sir. Do we absorb that cost, or do we send a bill to the schools for that?

[01:10:30] The schools pay us, sir, for the maintenance we do on their vehicles. Thank you, sir. Appreciate it. Any other comments? Okay. All right. Thank you, Ms. Monson. All right. Well, thank you very much. I'm going to cut out. We're going to have a very busy week ahead of us. Yes. Yeah, you do. You'll have a wonderful evening. Thank you for your time. Go get ready. Thank you.

[01:10:46] Next on the agenda is item 1.3. the department and report for our airport and i'll call on mr hall mr rivera to help us with that item welcome gentlemen good evening matter ma'am members of council uh just wanted to say that uh the chairman mr hall will be giving the presentation uh i do want to recognize that our assistant airport director is here miss jolene berry and mr hall will introduce the members of of the airport commission that are here and also would like to say that the airport stays very busy

[01:11:25] during snow season as well so uh we will also be in the thick of it so with that madam mayor i will turn it over to mr hall our chairman thank you one good evening sir good evening madam mayor members of the council mr city manager uh again i'm rod hall and i have distinct pleasure serving as uh chairman of the nasa's airport commission i think i've been in the chair for about three months now. So if you have any pleasantries, I'll take them. Any unrest or upheaval, I'll send those to Rivera. So thank you for the opportunity to provide a brief update with respect to

[01:12:02] developments over the past year. But before I do that, I would like to recognize members of the commission that are here with us this evening. Distinguished Vice Chair, Commissioner Anthony McGee, Commissioner Vanslyn Augustus, Commissioner Jacqueline Melgar, Commissioner Carla Cox, Commissioner Allison Paylor, Commissioner Cheryl Masias, and Commissioner Felipe Smith.

[01:12:32] And so, as you can see, Madam Mayor, we roll deep, but I think their presence here this evening is a testament that we understand who we are responsible and accountable to, and that is all of you as well as the constituents of this great city.

[01:12:48] I'm delighted to be associated with the airport at such an exciting time in the history of one of the best run, best maintained, and all-around first-in-class airports within the national airport system. I can speak with certainty that the airport serves as an unequivocal, callous, and positive economic development not only here locally but throughout the region.

[01:13:08] For example, last year airport businesses contributed roughly $882,000 to the general fund through various taxes and fees collected, and over the past five years have contributed approximately $4 million. Moreover, I also view the airport as a vital hub for the education and training of our country's next generation of aviation professionals.

[01:13:29] With respect to aviation, we're facing a worker shortage. That's no surprise. Yes, we need pilots, but we also need air traffic controllers. We need engineers. We need mechanics. We need airport executives. Somebody's got to replace Rivera after he decides to retire, as well as service providers.

[01:13:45] And I strongly feel, and I think I share the sentiment of the commissioners as well, that the airport is uniquely positioned to help me to meet this national challenge. Just one summer ago, I was delighted to see my son take his first pilot instructor-led flight out of Manassas.

[01:14:02] And two summers ago, was delighted to co-lead efforts as part of my fraternity's effort to bring the triumphant stories of the Tuskegee Airmen as well as that of the women aviation pilots. And so that was a week-long traveling exhibit that was free and open to the public.

[01:14:22] And so I want to thank you and all of those here within the city that were involved in that and also Mr. Rivera as well. We've got a lot of positive press coverage, and we're very excited about that. I think I'm preaching to the choir here.

[01:14:39] For almost 60 years, the airport has served the community as a public-use airport in the Commonwealth. It's absolutely astonishing to see the level of growth. The original single runway serving the field was 3,700 by 100 feet.

[01:14:56] Early FBOs included the names of several recognized businesses, including Cogan Airways, Piedmont Aviation, and Vellas Aviation. The airport has boasted an enormous level of growth in the decades that have followed since its origin. And I'd be remiss, staff advises that the statistical information has been provided in your respective packets.

[01:15:16] But I'll just touch on a few and summarize, because I understand there's a video teed up, and it's meant to filibuster-proof me so that I do not talk all night, because we have work to do, as they've indicated. The airport is categorized as a reliever airport in both the Virginia Air Transportation System Plan, or VATSIP, and the Federal Aviation Administration's National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems and an airport role of national significance in the national FAH, General Aviation Airports, a national asset report, excuse me.

[01:15:49] As the largest general aviation airport in the Commonwealth, is home to 426 based aircraft. That's up from 403 the previous year. It's all north of 102,000 aircraft operations last year, easily outpacing a state forecast of 85,000 operations.

[01:16:11] And I received that information from my former staff down in Richmond. I'm the former chair of the Virginia Aviation Board. And so clearly economic activity, aviation operations are of robust nature out at the airport. The airport sold roughly 2.5 million gallons of aviation fuel.

[01:16:31] And obviously, ensuring a robust business climate is of utmost importance, not only to myself, but also to Director Rivera as well. And to that end, added three new businesses, Arrow Elite, which focuses on flight training, Legend Aviation, which focuses on aircraft maintenance, and Open Air, a flight training facility that specializes in high-performance aircraft.

[01:16:57] Its owners and operators range from private citizens to local businesses, the federal government, to multinational corporations. The airport now consists of two parallel runways, 6200 by 100, and one that is 3,700, roughly 3,700 by 75 feet, on-field weather reporting, and a host of navigational aids, which obviously are enticing and very vital to pilots so that they are able to land and access the airport in a myriad of weather conditions.

[01:17:30] In addition, the airport has an air traffic control tower, which I will speak just briefly to in a little bit here. The services are provided by the FAA, and the air traffic control tower is on site, and is currently served by two FBOs, APP Jet Center and Chantilly Air.

[01:17:50] And I'd like to take a point of personal privilege just to extend a hat tip not only to the staff of the airport, but as well as the businesses on the airports. There's nothing that drives planes more so than Super Bowls and inaugurations, and while we don't have a Bourbon Street here in the area, We do have – we can be assured of a presidential inauguration every four years.

[01:18:11] And there was a surge in not only reservations, but traffic as well. And I'm happy to report that everything – all operations went off without a hitch. I can say that with certainty because had there been an issue, you most certainly would have heard about it.

[01:18:28] But I think it's a testament to the staff and their collaborative efforts with the air traffic control staff. We talked about it at the early beginning. Today, the airport stands at the cusp of becoming a Part 139 certificated airport, offering commercial service, working in collaborative efforts with our partner, AFPORT.

[01:18:48] Our team is working up and down the certification checklist from ARF, security, environmental assessments work, to addressing current infrastructure deficiencies. All parties are working diligently towards achieving certification this year.

[01:19:03] this year. And just to put this in proper perspective, Madam Mayor, there are roughly 550 Part 139-certificated airports across the country. Of the 66 public-use airports within the Commonwealth of Virginia, only nine are Part 139-certificated. And so Manassas is preparing itself to enter some rarefied air, if you will, no pun intended. And so, as Chairman, I've spelled out three were the principal areas of focus that tracked the six-year capital improvement program

[01:19:37] which our video presentation will speak to but in short ensuring at all times we cultivate the highest levels of safety and security we create and sustain a robust and welcoming business climate and supporting the next generation of airport modernization along the lines of what this this council so forth so forward thinking did back in 2023

[01:20:00] I mentioned our six-year capital improvement plan. It calls for the replacement of the current air traffic control tower. I think it has passed its useful life date, if you will. And I'll speak on a particular ask in just a second. The rehabilitation of runways, taxiways, and parking ramps, and security upgrades, all of which will contribute to a robust business climate.

[01:20:24] So as I close, I'd just like to say, given its prime location, to the extent there continues to be sensible land use policy, the amenities offered at the airport, and the planned modernization that we spoke on briefly, I think the airport should be expected to continue a very positive level of growth in addition to its unrestricted airport fund balance of $17 million.

[01:20:51] And so it is an honor to work with such a dedicated staff, as well as my fellow commissioners. If I could, just lastly, as I close, talk about the air traffic control tower. The director indicates that there has been some design work that has taken place.

[01:21:09] However, we are looking at a total of about $18 to $20 million. And so obviously, as we marshal towards the Part 139 certification, I think it is fair to expect, anticipate that we have also a corresponding modernized air traffic control tower to correspond with it.

[01:21:32] And so my ask would be, as we continue to work collaboratively as a staff, to the extent that there is an appetite for potentially congressional earmarking with respect to an appeal to our congressional delegation, would ask that we also consider that, because this will be, you know, not a heavy lift, but obviously any time you're engaging in new infrastructure, to the extent that you can pull in multiple sources of funding, that is most certainly ideal.

[01:22:01] And then lastly, Mayor, if I could just take a point of personal privilege to associate the Commission's condolences with those expressed nationally with respect to the tragic loss of life stemming from American Eagle Flight 5342 and the Army Black Hawk helicopter that crashed on 29 January.

[01:22:20] The aviation community, obviously, is a very close-knit community, and whatever policy that ultimately comes from the investigation is one that I think all of us will wrap our arms around to ensure that we pay honor to the lodge laws and ensure that aviation within the country, within the United States, remains the gold standard for the globe.

[01:22:45] Jennifer Homidy, the, bless you, the chair of the National Transportation Safety Board is a friend and mentor of mine for over 20 years. She's tough, she's fair, she has an innate ability of drowning out the noise. Our friendship dates back to our time on Capitol Hill.

[01:23:03] I have no doubt that whatever recommendations NTSB brings forward, it will be embraced by the industry and pay homage to the lives lost. And so with that, I know we have a video teed up, and we will go right to it. Thank you for your indulgence.

[01:25:28] Madam Mayor, this concludes our presentation to you on the remainder of the council.

[01:28:45] Prepare to entertain any questions you or your colleagues may have. Thank you, Mr. Hall. Appreciate it. Mr. Rivera, thank you for being here. Council members, any questions or comments? Mr. Wolfe. Yeah, thank you. Great presentation, and we managed not to mention the word apports once.

[01:29:03] I didn't get it. One time, I think. So I'm assuming, Mr. Rivera and I talked earlier, Are you planning to come back to Council in late spring with an update as to the commercial air service progress? Mr. Vice Mayor, yes, we plan on having AvPorts come back and give a presentation.

[01:29:24] As we move through this process, like everything else, environmental processes take time. And so getting it right, I believe that AvPorts has gone through several different iterations of how they want to do the phase one.

[01:29:41] I think they have come to a point where we can all agree that all of the other things that we looked at, I'm glad that we're where we're at right now. I think they have gone through just about every possible scenario, and I think that's where they want to be, and I think that's what they want to present to council, a plan that they have vetted from a constructability point of view, cost of the project, and obviously aesthetics of what it's going to look like.

[01:30:14] Mr. Vice Mayor, thank you for that question. Obviously, I'm extremely sensitive to that and want to associate myself with the distinguished director of the airport. You only get one time to make it right, obviously, and so we have sent a clear message that don't rush.

[01:30:33] I mean, obviously, we want this done right and in order with safety as the utmost North Star for us, But, you know, I'm accustomed to getting angry calls, but I particularly don't want yours or the mayor's as a result of something going south.

[01:30:51] But I'm pleased with where we are, as the distinguished director indicated, and obviously full transparency is the goal here, and so we'll be back shortly. And so to the extent there is good news for you to herald, we will offer that. I'm a firm believer bad news doesn't get better with time, and so to the extent that there are challenges where we may need your help on, We will also be totally, 100% transparent on that front as well.

[01:31:15] And I appreciate it. Again, this was not to push the process. Absolutely. Just ensuring that we have communication to the council and to the citizens where we're at. So thank you. Any other questions from council members? Well, I think if you want to say something to Mr. Hall, you can, but if you want to invite her up to the podium to speak.

[01:31:37] She's a member of the commission, correct? Oh, yes, sure. Sorry. Yes, please. Hello, Jacqueline Melgar, Commissioner at the airport. Since we do have new members at the board, I would like to ask if we can have the honor of taking the picture in front of all of you.

[01:31:57] It's an easy question, since there are new members. But if that's allowed, if not, that's fine. Any other questions for Mr. Hahn and Mr. Rivera? Everybody? Okay. I think we're good. Oh, you have a question. Go ahead. There will be more comment.

[01:32:14] I know you were new, but I appreciate the leadership and everybody being here shows support. So thank you for making time. And I look forward, you know, maybe right now, we don't have time, but I look forward to the volunteers, the commission's award, the dinner.

[01:32:34] Yes, I hope that time, you know, to talk about, you know, everything that is happening. But no, thank you for the hard work. I say the other, like the EDA, be careful what you wish for. You know, this is going in the right direction, but it does create a lot of work and many decisions to bring forward to keep the results that we continue to see.

[01:32:59] Thank you, sir. Absolutely, Councilwoman. Thank you very much. Yeah, it's extremely exciting, and you all should be extremely proud of the crown jewel that you have out there. And to those of you that I have not had the pleasure of meeting just yet, I invite you out.

[01:33:14] I'm going to take control of Juan's schedule, should you like a tour of whatever. I'm particularly interested in you all seeing, for those that haven't, the air traffic control tower, which I think you will share my assessment that it is past due for modernization.

[01:33:34] There's nothing that can, in all my days at FAA, and a host of ribbon cuttings of new air traffic control towers across the country, it is definitely a symbol that you have arrived, per se, within the industry. So in addition to that, it just creates an exponential increase in safety as well in providing situational awareness.

[01:33:56] Thank you, Mr. Hall. Thank you, Commissioners, for coming. So if I could, another last point of personal privilege, Madam Mayor, I'd like to present this book to you by Carol Hobson. It was inspired by the life of an aviation pioneer, Bessie Coleman.

[01:34:13] And it was also authored by, again, Carol Hobson, who is a Boeing 737 captain. Oh, thank you so much. Accept this on behalf of our relationship going forward as in aviation. They're not always smooth skies.

[01:34:29] Sometimes there will be turbulence, but you have our commitment that, you know, 100% transparency is the goal. Thank you so much. I appreciate that. Okay. Thank you. All right. No other questions? Thank you, Mr. Hall, for that presentation. Thank you all for being here from the commission as well and supporting.

[01:34:47] All right. Next on. I'm sorry. Oh, yeah, I get the photo. I forgot. So we'll just gather down here for the photo, I guess, all the commissioners, or did you just, did you want everybody? No, it's good.

[01:35:06] We'll go ahead and get it done now, and then that way it'll be done, so. Okay. I have no idea. She didn't say. I'm sorry, it's a good time. What do you want? You want us up here?

[01:35:24] How about y'all stay seated? Mary, you come down and we just gather again. Sure, you come to the sand.

[01:35:56] Good catch. Thank y'all.

[01:36:35] Okay, now item 1.4, Department Annual Report for Electric Water Sewer. Tariq and Anna are going to come up and help us with that. Oh, there you are. I know I saw you. Anna, welcome, ma'am. Thank you for being here. I've got Tarek with me and I've got our new director.

[01:36:53] Right into the microphone because we can't hear. And I've got our new director of water sewer, Jeff Smalls, with me as well. So we're going to be tag teaming the report this evening. So with that, I am going to start. Madam Mayor, members of council, good evening.

[01:37:09] Mr. Burke, it's a pleasure to be here. Utility department, our mission is we exist to ensure availability of safe, adequate, reliable water, wastewater, and electric. And we take that mission very serious.

[01:37:26] We follow our teamwork. We collaborate. We make sure that we do the best that we can and keep the environmental concerns in our focus. So we're going to start with finances and the electric department, and then I will turn it over to Tarek.

[01:37:48] Our operating revenues increased approximately 4.6% in FY24. This was primarily due to higher energy costs.

[01:38:06] There we go. Our operating expenses increased approximately by 11.5%. We continued investments in infrastructure replacement and upgrades as well. Our overall electric usage decreased by 1% from FY23.

[01:38:26] Could be weather-related that people just didn't use enough. Residential usage decreased by 0.3%, commercial decreased by 2.04%. Our commercials make up 48.34% of our base.

[01:38:46] Residential is now 42.12% and industrial 9.54%. We're going to be looking for that to increase a little bit with data centers arriving. So we have one data center that is up and running currently, which is over by the break yard.

[01:39:03] but they're not fully ramped up either. EWS is in the process of building the substation, so once that comes up, that's going to be quite a bit of revenue that we're going to be receiving. And with that, I'm going to turn it over to Tarek to go over our CIPs.

[01:39:24] Thank you. Good evening, Madam Mayor. Good evening, Mr. Vice Mayor, Mr. Burke, and Council members. I'm pleased to be here tonight to present the annual report for the electric department.

[01:39:44] It's a very short presentation for electric, only two slides, but packed with numbers and statistics, just like what engineers like. The first slide we're going to go over, which is something that is very paramount and critical for the electric department, which is the reliability.

[01:40:03] How good do we do when we serve our customers, how many times they're interrupted on average yearly, and how long is that outage? How long is the average of those outages? So last year, in 2024, the city, we reported and documented about 150 power outages during the year.

[01:40:23] Good news is the average customer, so only the outage average time of about 27.70 minutes. This is a major improvement and significant improvement from the year before where we had about 90 minutes of average interruption duration.

[01:40:40] So we cut back on our outage interruption time by about 65 to 70 percent. To elaborate a little bit more about the number of the outages and the figures that you see on the slide, that 150 number, that 150 figure, actually includes momentary outages, customer-related outages, scheduled or planned outages, and even external outages, which we are allowed as a utility to actually exclude that from our reliability statistics and calculations.

[01:41:16] But for the sake of transparency, we recorded everything, and we reported everything. The actual numbers that impact the reliability standards and the indices that we track will actually drop to about 100 because we had about 29 momentary outages, 6 customer-related, and 17 plant outages, which do not count against our reliability.

[01:41:37] The vast majority of those, or about half of those 100 outages, were related to equipment failure, about 51. The remaining 22 were animal-related outages, 22 percent. Animal-related outages due to squirrels and getting on our overhead lines.

[01:41:55] Good news, like I said, we met our target. Our target is 52 minutes. So this year, we actually met the target by far. And again, for the sake of transparency, that number, 27.7 minutes, exclude the transmission-related outage minutes that was caused by Dominion Line when it was struck by a truck in the city.

[01:42:20] And that alone contributed to about 27 minutes. So without those outages, exclusion, that number would have been 54. But like I said, IEEE standard, 1366, which we adopt and follow, allow you to exclude that from your reliability statistics.

[01:42:40] I just want to share, it's not on the screen, it's not on one of the slides, but I want to share, I pulled the reliability information from the EIA, which is the Energy Information Administration, for the past two years, 22, 23.

[01:42:57] There is a form called 861, which about 1,700 utilities all over the U.S., they use that form and use that platform to report all their outages and reliability data. I pulled the data for the state of Virginia, and there is about 19 to 20 electric utilities in Virginia that participate in that program.

[01:43:19] City of Manassas is one of them. The breakdown is about five municipals, 10 co-ops, three investor-owned, and one state utility, electric utility, which is Virginia Tech. Even in 2023, when we had, I would describe as a bad year for our reliability because of the battery heights, substation outage, we still rank in the top three in the state of Virginia.

[01:43:43] In fact, 22, 23, the average outage minutes for those 19 utilities in Virginia was about 381 minutes. Our numbers were about 80 to 90 minutes.

[01:43:58] In 2022, when the average for the electric utilities in the state of Virginia, the outage interruption duration minutes were 331, we reported about 50 minutes of outage duration. So we actually ranked very high, at least in the state of Virginia, according to the EIA ranking.

[01:44:24] The next slide, we're going to talk a little bit about the capital, the CIPs that are currently under management by the electric department. We currently have about eight active and ongoing CIPs.

[01:44:41] In 2024, we completed the repair at battery-hide substation, and we energized the substation back in May of 2024. That went without a glitch. We replaced about 24 new transformers, distribution transformers, not substation transformers, And we completed about 75,000 feet of underground cable that were placed in mainly about six to seven areas within the city of Manassas, the King Carter, Douglas Street, Oakenshaw Drive, Weems, Jackson Stonewall, and Braxton Lane.

[01:45:17] We added about 55 new streetlights, mainly along Grant Avenue. I think the number was about 44, and Douglas Street, about 10 to 11 streetlights. We're currently working on evaluating a new LED replacement for the Sternberg lights in Old Town Manassas.

[01:45:36] I believe that we have about 440 LED lights, Sternberg lights, in Old Town, the historic district. We're evaluating a new technology that will allow us to just replace the bulb without having to worry about the fixture or the poles.

[01:45:53] And if that is a success, that means we will be able to upgrade all the LED lights in Old Town at a fraction of the cost that we initially budgeted for. Some of the major highlights in 2024 is, of course, like Anna pointed, the Foster Drive substation, which is to serve the data centers along Dean Drive.

[01:46:17] And we are in discussion with the developers and the data center owners to actually extend, now that we have an excess capacity, we believe, at the Foster Drive substation to feed the data center that is proposed for the Wakeman Drive by the airport.

[01:46:37] I think that summarizes my presentation for tonight. I'll be happy to answer any questions. Thank you. Council members, any questions? Mr. Osino. Good evening. Good evening, sir. So at our last council meeting, I asked this question of Mr. Arcieri, who gave me an overview here.

[01:47:03] But I thought I'd drill down a little bit more. Sure. So there's value in undergrounding our utilities, is there not? Yes. Sure. Along the way. And I believe where we are now, is that 86 percent?

[01:47:21] 84, 85, 86 percent. Okay. All right. 85.5 percent. No. Anyway, and when I asked about the pace of the work here, it was pointed out to me that a lot of the low-hanging fruit has been done.

[01:47:38] Some of it is done, obviously, as we do projects, as the city does projects. Yes, sir. But some of this just has to be done to get done along the way. So from your standpoint here, are there any noticeable obstacles to this last 15% of undergrounding?

[01:48:05] Ideally, we'd like to get up to 100, but close to it along the way here, in your opinion. And if so, what would be some of the things we might do to overcome them or to move this along? Our plan and what we've been doing is an average of about a mile a year, a mile of conversion or undergrounding of overhead facilities.

[01:48:31] The next project we're working on is Douglas Street. We're about 60% done with the design. It will take about two years to complete at a cost of about, I think the last update we gave to Mr. Burke was about, I want to say, 2.5, 2.6.

[01:48:50] And since we budget about $1.4 annually, $1.4 million, so we believe we can do that over a two-year period to finish and complete the whole project. Any other questions or comments?

[01:49:10] If I could add, one of the contributing issues, Councilman Ossina, is the 14 miles of existing underground that we're having to replace. And that is probably maybe 10% of our underground. And part of what Mr. Ali is having to do as far as upgrading the transformers, it's also ensuring that the existing facilities, underground facilities, can continue to serve our areas.

[01:49:40] So it's not only trying to transition the above-ground to underground, but it's also making sure that what is underground is still operable and they have a proactive way of replacing those facilities. Yeah, Steve, you're absolutely correct, Mr. Burke.

[01:49:57] We have about, I believe, left about 60, maybe 70,000 feet of underground cable that are 30 years plus, that have been in the ground for 30 years or more. So we also pay attention to those, especially 30 years plus.

[01:50:13] Back then, the technology was direct buried. And right now, of course, we put everything in PVC conduits. So they're actually more vulnerable to outages and interruptions. So we're simultaneously working on, we have two separate CIPs, one for the overhead to underground conversion project, and one for the underground cable replacement initiative.

[01:50:35] Ms. Vasquez, on there. Thank you, Madam Mayor. The powder outage, it says 150 documented, and then the outage time, it was, you know, 27.

[01:50:53] 27.7. Yes, and, you know, I appreciate it based on the ability. I mean, 99.99 in many instances is, like, perfect. But, yeah, you know, one or a couple of minutes, you know, it can make, you know, people feel like a long time.

[01:51:11] And I know people have experienced that. But I just want to ask, I mean, it will maybe to the manager. I'm not sure. But I believe the investment that the city made when we were doing the transition, will that continue to be a plus?

[01:51:30] That's the way I see it. I just wanted to make sure if you could say something in regards to that, because it does give us an advantage now. That's my way of seeing it. I just want to. If you're referring to the battery heights, the city did acquire an additional transformer that we can, if there ever is another issue at substation or possibly a different substation, it can be moved to provide us the necessary equipment in a pinch.

[01:52:03] However, Mr. Ali is actually taking it upon himself and his crews to be much more proactive with all of our substation equipment. We are monitoring an increased number of items with each of the components.

[01:52:20] And so we are definitely in a better position now to monitor and to see issues coming online and be in a better position to react positively and quickly to address them so that we don't have the catastrophic issue that we did at Battery Heights.

[01:52:39] Yes, like Mr. Berg said, we leased the spare transformer for about five or six months. Then we decided to actually buy it. The specification, the configuration of the transformer fit our system. So we decided to keep it and actually buy it rather than leasing it.

[01:52:55] Especially we were able to negotiate a good price for the spare transformer. So now we have a spare transformer sitting at battery heights. Actually, we are putting that pad, permanent pad, rather than the temporary one. Because when we boarded or leased that transformer, it was put on a temporary pad.

[01:53:12] Right now, we have it on actually a permanent pad. It's smaller in size. It's only 20 MVA transformer versus the 40 MVA we have right now. But it's enough to help us tremendously in the case of emergency. Thank you.

[01:53:30] No other questions? Thank you. Thank you. Right. So now we're moving on to water and sewer. And again, we're going to start with the finances. The operating revenues increased by approximately 4.8% in FY24.

[01:53:52] Operating expenses for FY24 increased by about 6.8. A lot of that is chemicals that are just increasing. We are continuing to invest significantly in capital projects.

[01:54:07] Overall, usage rose 0.63%. Residential usage increased almost 0.5%. Commercial usage was up 0.07. Industrial was down 1.16%.

[01:54:23] And our wholesale was up by 0.85%. What we're looking at currently, residentials make up 14.85%, commercial 11.67%, industrial 23.64%, and wholesale is 49.84% of our total usage.

[01:54:44] Any questions on the financials? I will turn it over to Jeff, our new director of Watersilver. Good evening. I haven't met most of you yet, so I'm Jeff Small.

[01:55:02] I've been on one about four weeks now, so bear with me a little bit on some of the details, but I'm coming up to speed. I just wanted to back up one slide. I wanted to give a call out to the treatment plan operators.

[01:55:18] It's the second year in a row that they've achieved the Gold Status Award. We like to continue this and make it a trend. I said they've done it twice, so they ought to be able to keep getting it every year. But no, this really is a big deal to achieve this award, and it wouldn't happen without them.

[01:55:38] So I will jump forward now to capital improvements. And so actually, I'm going to go forward one. So W-042 is the water main replacement. This gives you a better view all the way from the water treatment plant to Dean Drive.

[01:55:58] Currently, we have phase four that's in the last stages. Basically, it's disinfection and then connection stage. So phase four is just about complete. I would say next month should have that wrapped up with connections, and then there'll be a little bit of restore work that happens after.

[01:56:17] So that leaves us just with the Phase 5 section, which is in two segments. And I'll jump back to the stats. And so the Phase 4 is the first line item. That's the one just about complete. Phase 5B has started construction.

[01:56:37] Contractor is mobilized. And then Phase 5C is under notice to proceed, and the contractor is getting in submittals and working on ordering materials. And both of those segments have a final completion date of around November 26, currently.

[01:56:55] And then the last segment, which is an ancillary 36-inch but not part of the main line, is the water main on Dean Drive, a separate contractor. A&M Contracting has that contract, and they are currently working on submittals, and that will also start moving into construction in the near future.

[01:57:19] Another item was the lead and copper inventory surveys. Staff indicated to me that we had zero reportable findings and that that has been submitted and VDH has accepted our inventory.

[01:57:34] That's sort of the version of approved, and so that is also good news for the city with implications that that could have led to. These are just some pictures that highlight some of the 36-inch replacements and some of the other work that our internal staff does on projects on an as-needed basis.

[01:58:00] And then I'll jump over to the water treatment plant itself. We have a lot of work at the plant. Currently, we achieved quite a bit of on-call work with WGK, our on-call contractor, and that was the flow controls and the rate and flow controllers, rehabbing the carbon silos, basically to eliminate some old operational issues, made some improvements to those functions, and I'm hearing good reports on that project.

[01:58:38] We also replaced a sodium hypochlorite tank and pumping capabilities and some actuator and control valves that had aged and needed replacement throughout the plant. And so these are some of the pictures, the sodium hypochlorite in the center.

[01:58:59] The carbon column is right upper. And then back to the internal chambers there are the pipes. Those are the flow control valves. And on the bottom right, that's kind of the pictures of the actuators and some of the valves, larger piping.

[01:59:14] That's what controls the automation of your open and close and so on on the system for functionality. CPP is the big capital project that is the expansion from 14 to 18.

[01:59:31] They are currently at the site. They've made some observations. We're going through some items. NTP we're anticipating mid-March, but we want to be sure we get out the gate in a very positive manner.

[01:59:47] I look forward to bringing my 16 years from UOSA of capital improvement experience to bolster air contracts and keeping those on quality budgets. And then, again, some of the staff with the award proudly showing that.

[02:00:11] And then we can jump, sorry, to the sewer department. Not nearly as much going on with the sewer department. And I will actually let Anna jump back up for the finance section. All right.

[02:00:31] Financials for sewer. Sewer wasn't quite as busy. So we ran into some budgetary issues real early on. So operating revenues for the SOAR fund increased approximately 1.17%.

[02:00:47] The operating expenses increased by 2.6%. A lot of the increased expenses is the UOSA charges for treating our SOAR. So a lot of that.

[02:01:03] We're continuing to invest in INI rehab, which every little bit that we can fix on the INI does not go to UOSA, hence saves us money. Total sewer usage was down by 3.9%, residential usage was up by 1.01%, industrial usage was down by 5.5%, commercial usage was down by 0.5%.

[02:01:27] And again, we're continuing to prepare for additional growth to make sure that we have enough capacity and such at the UOSA plant. Industrial customers make up 43.36%, residential 31.59%, and commercial 25.05% of our customer base.

[02:01:51] Any questions on financials? Just a couple more highlights. As Anna referenced, we have the INI systems.

[02:02:07] It makes up elements like lateral fixes, smoke testing for identification of issues, basically CCTV lines to look for issues. And with those CCTVs, you can look for illegal connections, things of those elements that would be adding unanticipated flows to the system.

[02:02:27] And then ultimately combining those research actions and studies of the lines to develop your lining programs for areas of need, and that's a continual process that we hope to get more done this year with hopefully better budget issues before surprises, I should say, in budgets.

[02:02:52] But another couple of elements to call out is we did in-house work for refurbishment of the Church Street lift station. That was pumps and control systems. That was a good development there to get that done in-house.

[02:03:09] A project that has completed design is the main replacement, and we call it the Douglas Street Sewer Easement, not to confuse it. It's not in Douglas Street. It's back along the creek, which is kind of the upper reaches of Winter's Branch, and that is in the location of the new van meter development.

[02:03:29] So that is a project that is coming into its final stage as a design. And then those are some pictures kind of of the sewer rehabilitation. You have the lining crew that's showing the elements there and some CCTV work in the right with the camera truck on the right also above it.

[02:03:54] And then any questions back for water or sewer? Thank you so much. Any questions, council members? All right. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for being here. All right, next on the agenda is the item two, the consent agenda.

[02:04:12] I'll call on Mr. Ossina as a suggested motion. Thank you, Madam Mayor. I move that item 2.3 be removed from the consent agenda and be added as item 3.3, and that the remaining consent agenda items be approved as it now appears, and the readings of the ordinances be dispensed.

[02:04:37] Second. We had a motion by Councilman Osina, seconded by Councilwoman Vasquez-Luna to amend the consent agenda as stated. Any discussion? Hearing and seeing none, Mr. Smith, please call the roll. Councilmember Osina?

[02:04:54] Yes. Councilmember Vasquez-Luna? Yes. Vice Mayor Wolfe? Yes. Councilmember Ellis? Councilmember Smith? Yes. Councilmember Hudson? Yes. The motion carries. Okay, thank you. Now, that moves us forward to our consent agenda passed with the amendment.

[02:05:13] Item 3, ordinances and resolutions, 3.1, resolution number R, 2025-540, approving a real estate donation agreement with the Virginia Electric and Power Company for Jenny Dean Cottage. Your Honor, members of council, good evening.

[02:05:29] The item before you is the approval of a real estate agreement, which, as was announced in fall of 2025, involves the model cottage at the Manassas Industrial School site. The picture, I did a quick slide just to talk us through what was before you this evening.

[02:05:45] That is the cottage. It was built in approximately 1914 to 1915 as an example of some of the student's skills at the Manassas Industrial School. We have come to learn over the last year that the model cottage was moved in the 1960s to its current location on Jefferson Street. It is the only remaining known structure from the original campus and quite an amazing discovery.

[02:06:05] Again, I always have to acknowledge the work of Ms. Myra Brent and members of the community who identified this brought us to staff's attention. Mayor Davis Younger sent a note letter to the executive director of Virginia Energy and said this is a structure that the city believes needs to be preserved.

[02:06:21] So I'm excited to be before you this evening. We have before you, as Dominion owns the property, has agreed to donate the structure. Just a little bit. So obviously the action before you is the donation agreement, accepting the donation. Just a little bit of timeline, and I'll talk to you again over the next year or two as we prepare for this project.

[02:06:37] The goal right now would be to, upon completion of Jenny Dean Elementary School, new Jenny Dean, relocate the cottage after that time. So the new school opened in August of 2026. Old school was offline. At that point, we do have a site. Chief Keene, now Chief Keene and I have met with Dr. Newman, looked at, we did some archaeology.

[02:06:56] We know pretty close to where the foundation was, so we believe we have a good site to move it back to. So the next year and change, we will be working on design and the moving plans. And then once it's back at its original location, we intend to take it through a full restoration on the exterior to as it would have appeared around 1914-1915.

[02:07:15] So a lot of work ahead of us. This is a donation-supported project. There's a lot of support from the community through donations, just like there was when we did the statue of Ms. Jenny Dean out there. So I'm excited to recommend approval of this resolution, 25540, and look forward to working with Council and the community on moving a house.

[02:07:32] Stand ready for any questions. Awesome. So awesome. Thank you, Mr. Arcieri. Motion? Council? Madam Mayor, I move to approve the Resolution R-2025-540. Second.

[02:07:48] We have the motion by Councilwoman Vasquez-Luna, seconded by Councilman Ocina, approving Resolution R-2025-540. Any discussion? Hearing and seeing none, Mr. Smith, please call the roll. Councilman Vasquez-Luna?

[02:08:03] council member osina yes vice mayor wolf yes council member ellis yes council member smith yes council member hudson yes the motion carries thank you very much for that um item 3.2 was excuse me resolution number r 2025-530 making appointments to boards committees commissions am i calling on mr osina okay yes yes ma'am thank you mayor um this is resolute i move the adoption

[02:08:38] of resolution r-2025-530 making appointments to boards committees and commissions whereas the manassas city council appointments committee interviews and recommends approval of certain applicants to vacant seats and various city boards committees and commissions and whereas the manassas city council provided notice of its intent to appoint lisa climber to the community Services Board at their January 27, 2025 meeting of City Council. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City Council of the City of Manassas hereby makes the following recommendation for

[02:09:15] appointment. Recommends the appointment of Lisa Clymer as the City's representative to the Community Services Board as a regular member for a full term ending January 1, 2028. I believe you made a motion. I will second it. Thank you.

[02:09:35] We have a motion by Councilman Ocina, seconded by Councilman Vasquez-Luna, approving resolution number R-2025-530. Any discussion? Hearing and seeing none, Mr. Smith, please call the roll. Yes.

[02:09:58] Council Member Hudson? Yes. The motion carries. Okay, thank you. Next item that was removed from consent and placed for regular item 3.3, resolution number R-2025-550, Micron Technology, Inc. Expansion 2025.

[02:10:15] And Mr. Small is here to help us with that. Good evening, sir. Thank you, ma'am. Thank you, Councilman Acena, for the opportunity to present this item by pulling it off the consent agenda. And I look forward to clearing up any confusion or misinformation that may exist surrounding what we're asking city council to do this evening.

[02:10:36] I would remind everyone that companies like Micron locate where they're wanted, not because they have to, And a big reason why they choose to locate or expand is the tax and regulatory environment in a community.

[02:10:53] These companies can do business anywhere in the world. We're blessed that Micron has chosen to do business here. They are the city's largest taxpayer, largest utility user, and largest employer. The semiconductor equipment tax rate was established by the General Assembly almost 30 years ago.

[02:11:14] For those of you who have been around the community a long time, you'll recall IBM. And then subsequently to IBM, Toshiba Dominion Semiconductor. Micron acquired that plant that they operate today in 2002.

[02:11:32] And the city has had the semiconductor equipment tax rate in effect since at least then. This was a General Assembly approved subset of the machinery and tools tax rate. So it is specific to companies like Micron and enables localities like ours to set a tax rate that is differently than that you set for other manufacturers in the community.

[02:12:01] The value of Micron's equipment varies wildly from year to year. They're an extremely capital-intensive business. of equipment in their facility can run upwards of tens of millions of dollars. As the company buys new equipment or surpluses old equipment, that valuation changes, which causes the revenues that the city would realize from holding a consistent tax rate to fluctuate wildly. That causes revenue unpredictability for the city, as well as expenditure unpredictability for

[02:12:39] the company. Prior to 2018, the city had not increased or adjusted its semiconductor equipment tax rate in over a decade. In 2018, we made an agreement, which is referenced in the documents in your package this evening, as part of a comprehensive state and local incentive package which secured a $3 billion investment in the city of Manassas and guaranteed the longevity of the plant. I know I've spoken to council and others in the past. Make no mistake, had we not

[02:13:12] secured that investment in 2018, that facility likely would not be here today or certainly would be on its way to not being here. It had to be modernized or it was going to be closed. And as I said earlier, the company had the option to do that anywhere in the world. They chose Manassas in part because of our tax environment and the semiconductor equipment tax rates.

[02:13:36] The current agreement that we have that we established with Micron, again referenced in the package, runs through 2030. That agreement causes their semiconductor equipment tax collection, the amount that they pay, not the rate, the collection to increase by 4% every year.

[02:13:55] There's a chart in your package that shows what that is. I believe their current payment is about $5.5 million a year. That is strictly, again, for their equipment. That doesn't count their real estate, doesn't count their building, doesn't count their business license taxes or otherwise.

[02:14:13] That's strictly machinery and tools. We solidified an agreement with them in 2018 that has that amount increased by 4% every year. So we have revenue predictability, and they have expenditure certainty. That 4% is a rate that is above inflation, so it's a pretty good deal for the city of Manassas.

[02:14:35] Since 2018, our collections on this loan tax have increased by a million dollars a year, and the chart shows you what they will increase going forward. Micron has proposed an additional $2 billion investment.

[02:14:51] They are working with the federal government, the CHIPS Act, as well as the state. They received an award from the Department of Commerce, and I would note while we don't have a date set yet, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the governor would like to visit the city of Manassas in March.

[02:15:08] You, of course, will all be invited and be treated as VIPs at that event when we announce the official expansion. So look forward to that, and as soon as it's settled, we'll set that up, but as part of the city's commitment to support the federal and state incentives, Micron has requested and the state requested that we extend our tax treatment of them, again, the 4% increase annually for an additional five years, which matches the timeline that they're committing

[02:15:44] to the state and to the federal government for the CHIPS Act proposal. So, again, revenue certainty, expenditure certainty. I mentioned they're equipment intensive. This agreement says that no matter how much equipment they put in there or how much they take out, we don't have to be concerned about that.

[02:16:01] Their bill goes up 4% a year. I'm happy to address any questions the council may have about this, but, again, this is our proposed match to what the state and federal government are doing to induce what is now becoming a national defense critical industry.

[02:16:22] This company is shifting some of its production. We all are very proud of the fact that over 40% of all the automotive chips in the world are produced here in the city of Manassas, but the company is going to begin aligning itself with some of the federal government expectations that more of our tech be produced here in the United States, so the chips that go into our Patriot missiles and our nuclear submarines and otherwise.

[02:16:49] The federal government believes that they are best manufactured here in the United States. They're putting $275 million of their money into supporting this expansion, and they have asked us to match. I would also add one thing. This is not money you're giving away.

[02:17:05] This is money you don't have. If this company didn't invest this money in the city of Manassas, you'd get nothing if this company leaves the city of Manassas. You lose the $5.5 million a year that you have now. So I'm saying all this for the benefit of the public primarily.

[02:17:23] I know council is very aware of much of this. But, again, I'm happy to answer any questions that you may have. Thank you, Mr. Small. Any comments? Vice mayor. Yeah. Allow me. I think I'm – Theresa may have been here, but I think I'm the only one who goes back to when we did this.

[02:17:41] And you have to think back to 2017 and 2018 and essentially where the city was competing against nation states. We were competing against Singapore and Taiwan and whoever else. And Mr. Small's point, this is found money.

[02:17:59] And this is ensuring that that found money, which is, if I remember correctly, Minecron generates about $8 or $9 million in total revenues to the city now, continues flowing to the city at almost zero cost. We actually even make money off the water that they use.

[02:18:18] So from a business perspective, this is like the no-brainer of all time. I'm going to address one other thing. I've seen some comments, social media, with regard to the mayor and her relationship with Micron. Let me just say, BS.

[02:18:35] The mayor has recused herself from any discussions with regard to Micron and any insinuation that there has been any influence upon this council in any way, shape, or form because of her relationship with the person at Micron is utterly unfounded. And I am very pleased to move this adoption of this resolution.

[02:18:59] You can second, and then we'll do discussion. I second the motion that Vice Mayor Wolfe made. Okay. We have the motion by Vice Mayor Wolfe, seconded by Councilman Vasquez-Lunan to approve this resolution.

[02:19:16] Any discussion? Mr. Osina. Dang. Stay with me. Don't go anyway. The matter before us, would you describe this as a financial incentive?

[02:19:50] Technically, yes. Practically, as Vice Mayor Wolfe said, no. Is it a tax break? Technically, yes. Practically, no. You want to talk further?

[02:20:07] Well, I think, as I said, the fact that the council is able to set a separate rate for a single business, which you cannot do otherwise, is a de facto incentive.

[02:20:26] The fact that you charge one business less for machinery and tools than another is a de facto incentive. However, this is found money. But for that tax rate, this company would not be here.

[02:20:42] So, yes, it's an incentive, but this company is critical to your financial wherewithal. This semiconductor tax rate, it is authorized by, meaning we can charge that because it's authorized by the state of Virginia?

[02:21:03] Yes, it's in the Code of Virginia. It's General Assembly legislation. Are you aware of any other localities that use it? I'm not aware of any others. There are no other semiconductor facilities in the state. There was one in Henrico for the White Oak Semiconductor Facility for a while.

[02:21:23] I don't know if they had ever adopted this tax rate, though. So when the word tax break is used, you're using it, just tell me again, you're using it how?

[02:21:49] I wouldn't use the word tax break. I use the word incentive. Yes, you do. I did ask you if it was a tax break. The incentive is the ability to charge them something differently than you charge others.

[02:22:05] That's how I'm using it. Okay. In order to, an incentive, also known as an inducement, is something that a local government does in order to cause someone or some industry to do something they might not otherwise do.

[02:22:28] For example, your facade grant programs are an incentive. They're an incentive to induce people to fix up property they might not otherwise fix up or have the wherewithal to fix up. So the semiconductor tax rate is an inducement to cause a company like Micron to invest in a city like Manassas when they otherwise might have put that plan in Singapore or Taiwan.

[02:22:53] The facade grant, just for a moment, since you brought that up, is that open to every business in the city of Manassas? It is. Is it open to every resident in the city of Manassas?

[02:23:08] It is not. And the reason is? Because the resolution that was adopted by city council that established the program restricted it to commercial and industrial uses only, provided they are visible from a public right-of-way. And so, by extension, there was a community good or a public good that would be achieved through the facade grants being restricted to businesses because of their presence on – we wanted to keep the businesses in the city.

[02:23:43] Absolutely. On that, in that regard. How long have you been the director of economic development for the city? Ten years this past August. In your opinion, would Micron have come here if there had not been this semiconductor tax rate agreement?

[02:24:07] It's my opinion that the company was beginning to unwind and ultimately would have closed its investment in the city of Manassas in 2018 when they expanded. It is also my opinion that but for the CHIPS Act money, the incentive package that's working its way through the General Assembly, and the city's semiconductor tax rate, that they would not be making this additional $2 billion investment in the city of Manassas.

[02:24:39] And has Micron indicated that this CHIP grant money that they plan on investing it here in Manassas? Yes, they've also secured CHIPS Act money for some of their other facilities.

[02:24:57] This $275 million, the application was specific to this facility. And then, again, for my slow mind, or again, to the purpose of extending it another five years, does what in light of the CHIPS Act?

[02:25:15] It is the local government match to the federal government contribution, and it's also a match to the state contribution. So the three parties are participating in the incentive package. If the city didn't participate, would the grant have come forward or go forward, I should say?

[02:25:36] It's hard to say what the federal government would do. However, Micron's application and the documents that are also included in your package, the federal government's decision was made with the expectation that the city of Manassas would participate in supporting the company.

[02:25:56] And I believe that's a requirement of the CHIPS Act. Mayor, thank you. Mr. Small, thank you. Any other questions? Ms. Vasquez? Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'm looking at most of the communications.

[02:26:15] Before I go there, everybody that sent me an email before 5 o'clock, I have received it, and I appreciate Council pulling this off to have a discussion and to hear from the Director of the Economic Department.

[02:26:32] To me, it is very important and significant. We're talking about 340 jobs. While we see that a lot of government workers are losing their jobs, we see changes and changes. And we are at a point where we're looking at the work of legislators from Senator Mark Warner, Senator Tim Kaine in the federal side, Governor John, hey, John Kim, my apologies, in the state side.

[02:27:05] They all have done press release. They all have spoke highly of this. I mean, it's an investment in the city. I understand the feel that, you know, that could be income that the city could have, but it could be jobs that we might no longer have, too.

[02:27:24] So the way I see it is, you know, that is, even though I have heard, I think in the future I'm going to go ask, I believe, maybe we can do some more based on different communications, like for a small business or other businesses.

[02:27:42] I will come back to that, but I just want to say this, you know, to me is important. I echo Vice Mayor Wolf, his comments. If you look at the letter that was provided on our package, the letter is signed by our mayor and signed by the city manager.

[02:28:04] So you will see tonight in the meeting when we take the role, when we vote, who is voting. And I think, you know, I understand, you know, the feeling as we're human beings and, you know, and I appreciate you bringing it up.

[02:28:23] But at the same time, you know, where something is due, you know, I feel, you know, we would have said something or may have changed. But I feel that this, you know, is unfair to our mayor and, you know, our positions as elected officials, you know, we have a higher standards, I would say, being here.

[02:28:50] You know, we tried our best, you know, not only to do the right things, but to go beyond. And, you know, to me, you know, make sure that our residents know that, you know, she will not vote because that's the way this council works.

[02:29:07] And then to me, it's 340 jobs that the federal and the state has been working hard in last year to get it done. Even last month, we still had more communications in regards to this, so I'm asking each one of you to support it and to do your part.

[02:29:30] And then continue to look at the feedback that we get to see if there is something that we can do in regards to that. Thank you. Any other discussion? Ms. Ellis? The amount that they're going to receive from the CHIP Act, how much is that?

[02:29:52] I believe it's $275 million. Let me refer to the press release that should be in your package. $275 million. So 2018, they were given the semiconductor machine and tool tax rate of .756 as opposed to 2.10 for a standard machine and tool.

[02:30:20] And then that was going to expire 2030. So they had the tax incentive that entire period of time. They've had it since 2002. Since 2002. Okay. It's even longer. So we have given, we have been very generous and appreciative of Micron's contribution to Manassas.

[02:30:42] I wouldn't say that this is, you know, I have a couple questions. Why, so since we set an expiration of 2030 and we didn't just say the semiconductor machine and tool is 0.756, you know, across the board, is that why we have to vote on this because there was an expiration on that rate?

[02:31:07] That's why I'm a little confused. Like we don't vote on, like, you know, the data center, we changed that to 2.15, but we didn't say, oh, that's going to expire in 10 years. We just said that's the rate. So I'm kind of confused why this is even coming.

[02:31:23] So what you are voting on is a moral commitment on the city's behalf to Micron that you will not increase the semiconductor equipment tax rate such that it results more than a 4% increase in what they pay.

[02:31:42] The documents also say this is non-binding on future councils. You are directing future city managers to incorporate that rate into their budget. But next year, city council can set whatever rate it chooses to set.

[02:32:00] As it regards just fixing your semiconductor equipment tax rate at 75 cents per hundred, if this year the company has a billion dollars worth of semiconductor equipment, multiplied, divided by 100, multiplied by 75 cents per hundred, comes up with whatever number it comes up with.

[02:32:25] But if in the following year they remove half of that equipment and you apply that same 75-cent tax rate to $500 million worth of equipment, you've just cut your revenues in half. So what this says is if that happens, you will raise that rate to a level such that you collect 4% more in that fiscal year than you collected in the year prior, regardless of how much equipment they have.

[02:32:56] And the city has been doing that with Micron since 2002. And as I mentioned earlier, up until 2018, for the decade prior to that, to induce a prior expansion, The city hadn't raised that amount of revenue annually.

[02:33:15] Each year, your commissioner was calculating the value of the equipment and selecting a tax rate or using math to arrive at a tax rate that would result in the city receiving the same amount of money that it received in the year prior. So whatever the amount of inflation was in any given year is the amount by which you went negative in your tax collections.

[02:33:39] This guarantees that in each given year you will, assuming inflation doesn't exceed 4%, we all hope that doesn't happen, you will beat inflation going forward. I think my issue is it was going to end 2030, and it's $10 million a year.

[02:34:00] So to extend it for five more years, that's $50 million. That's a lot of money. They were prepared to have it end. I know they got the CHIPS Act. It's also a lot of more tax money going to them.

[02:34:18] I mean, that's federal, but still, it's the taxpayers' money. So I can't support this. Mr. Smith. No, no, I was just doing some out loud calculations. I'm sorry. Yeah, if I might.

[02:34:36] Well, it doesn't. Again, this is not money going out of our coffers. This is down to money that we would not have otherwise. And this actually gets back to a discussion we had, I think, in the work session. Part of the challenge that the city has in this is that Micron, to Mr. Small's example, may have a billion dollars of equipment.

[02:35:01] That equipment depreciates exceptionally fast. It can have a 30% or 50% depreciation first year, if I remember correctly. So you get into essentially a yo-yoing of your tax revenues with very little predictability because we can't control when Micron will replace equipment or if they will replace equipment.

[02:35:23] You could actually see a situation where it's fully depreciated in three years or five years, and you're essentially getting nothing. So the rationale at the time was that this gave the city great predictability in terms of its revenue stream.

[02:35:41] And to Mr. Small's point, for whatever, good, bad, or indifferent, we had no mechanism. We were not increasing the rate at all. the amount of revenue received from Micron. And finally, again, this is one of those things.

[02:36:03] I mean, I will say for me, because I know I've done it, and I'm sure other members of this council have done it, I've been talking to Mark Warner about this for two years. Micron could take just as easily put this in their new plant that they spent $10 billion for in upstate New York.

[02:36:26] Again, it's an absolute knife edge to be able to get these plants and keep them. And are we, I don't want to say beholden to them, but we have to work with them to ensure the revenue stream for the community, for the city, and, frankly, the jobs.

[02:36:47] So there's, what, 1,500 jobs that might run right now. Probably, I think if I did my study, about 10% of those are in the city. The rest are in the county, wherever. That is a huge regional impact. So those are great, high-paying, quality jobs.

[02:37:05] And if you took 1,500 jobs out of the community, the immediate community, it would make a tremendous difference overnight. I lived here in the 90s. When we first moved here, it was like, huh, we're safe because IBM's here.

[02:37:24] My home's never going to go down in value. And what happened? Two years later, IBM said, adios, we're out of here. And home prices and manassas crashed. Absolutely plummeted.

[02:37:39] It took years and years and years to recover. Doug's over there, not his head, you remember. So that's the kind of, you know, certain things that we have to bear in mind when doing this. I understand Ms. Cotellis, you know, concerns, but again, this is plus money.

[02:37:57] This is reducing the tax rate on every other citizen and every other business in the city of Manassas because of Micron being here and handing us this $8 or $10 million that we get. That's money that's got to be found somewhere else. So you basically probably got a 5% increase in your taxes without Micron.

[02:38:15] Look at it that way. Any other comments, questions? Okay, we have the motion and the second, so discussion no more. Mr. Smith, please call the roll. Vice Mayor Wolfe, yes.

[02:38:35] Council Member Vasquez-Luna? Yes. Council Member Ellis? No. Council Member Smith? Yes. Thank you for your clarification. Thanks, do matter. Council Member Osina?

[02:38:50] Yes. Council Member Hudson? Yes. The motion carries. Thank you, Madam Mayor. Thank you for that. Thank you, Mr. Small. Public comment time is next on the agenda. Thank you all for that. Item four on the agenda. At this time, we welcome residents who wish to speak about services, policies, and affairs of the city of Manassas government.

[02:39:14] Because we want to ensure we hear from everyone, we have provided a timer, and ask that comments be limited to three minutes. We appreciate the time you have taken to be here. We treat resident comments as a public hearing. We do not engage in back-and-forth conversation with speakers.

[02:39:31] The lack of an immediate response to your comments from the mayor and council members or the city manager from the dais should not be taken as a lack of interest or concern. We have staff members who are taking notes of your concerns and will address them accordingly. We ask that you please be respectful when presenting your comments.

[02:39:48] Thank you. I have a sign-up sheet in front of me. Thank you, Mr. Brown. Timothy Plevniak is first on our list. Good evening. Good evening, sir. I'm here today because last month, as a community, we failed to recognize January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

[02:40:18] The reason I bring it up is our city police department on their Facebook page on the 26th of the month put a post up, and it got me looking. I did a lot of research just to see, you know, what I could find out about it.

[02:40:37] and it's right here in our neighborhood. It's right here in front of us. People that you see out panhandling on the corners, many of them are victims of human trafficking. They're collecting money for somebody else. So anyways, I did some research, and I wanted to know what I could do, what we could do as a community. First of all, awareness. So I did some looking around, And I was fortunate to meet a wonderful woman.

[02:41:12] Her name is Chrissy Faust, who works with victims. I'm sure many of you know of her. She pointed me in the direction of what to look for and where to get education. And I think we have to, as a community, educate ourselves.

[02:41:32] She pointed towards Officer Rodriguez and his E3 program. One thing that wasn't referenced today with his program is he does a program on human trafficking awareness for families for children.

[02:41:48] I got to meet him today, and we're going to have further discussions. My feeling is I want to learn as much as I can. I want to know where I can make a difference. So now that it's budget time, I don't know what programs are here.

[02:42:09] I'm very new at this. I don't know what programs are at E3. I don't know what other programs the city does or the police department does but I think maybe as a community as a city council is we have to maybe try to invest into whatever part of the community what you know social services or wherever find something for victims what I found was there's no place for victims to go to escape the trafficking situation

[02:42:46] One thing I found is 80% of the people that escape end right back up in trafficking because there's no place where they go. There's no resources from them. So I think now as you're working on your budget, maybe you should consider something in one of our departments where we can do something.

[02:43:10] Maybe work with the county in Monassas Park for our total community to have something. It's something that we as a community, we missed it in January. We need to do more about it. Thank you for your time. Thank you, Mr. Plevnihan.

[02:43:26] Janet Plevnihan. Good evening. Good evening. I guess the Route 28 project, you are talking that the county didn't coordinate with the city, didn't coordinate with Manassas Park.

[02:43:47] It's kind of how I feel as a citizen coming here to the meetings, that decisions are made and it's not coordinated with residents. So take that feeling and know that that's what the city people are experiencing. Talked to a young lady this evening.

[02:44:06] She said we used to have more open communication, council people out there, mayor meeting with people. We're talking about community, but I come here and all they hear about is the economic development and all the, you know, doing things like that.

[02:44:21] The community is the people. It's the residents. It's the ones that live here. That's what the community is. The rest of it is benefits to the community. Vice Mayor, you said a moral tax rate for this business.

[02:44:39] Yeah, you said you used a moral tax rate. How about a moral tax rate for the residents? For Micron, yeah, it's a moral tax rate. We're a sanctuary city. There I said it. It's been known.

[02:44:55] That money is probably going to disappear from the state, from the federal. How are we going to make that up? But we're going to give that tax rate, that tax benefit to Micron. They're already getting it until 2030. I agree with Councilwoman Ellis. They're getting it until 2030.

[02:45:11] Why does that have to be decided tonight when we're five years from that to extend it for another five years after that? You're counting on the people of Manassas to pay the tax rates. So I see a big disconnect between council and residents.

[02:45:31] We're here. This is our city, support in this city, and the business comes first. When IBM left, somebody else came in. Let Mike Ron leave. Somebody else will come in. We don't need to kowtow to them and that tax rate when we should be coming first.

[02:45:52] We should be coming before the businesses. So I think that's all I have. This is less and less of a community the longer I live here, and that's a sad thing. Thank you, Ms. Plavniak. Next is Carolyn Milenek.

[02:46:08] Good evening. Good evening, ma'am. um so remember many months ago years ago i told you all that i worked more at the federal level than the local level for this past year 2024 was all medical it was all local for my parents and for me but i appreciated what mr hall said tonight about how the city of manassas airport was in high swing for the inauguration because i was able to conduct meetings here without having

[02:46:43] to go into D.C. to see former friends, colleagues, governors, cabinet members, because I know them all. Been around 30 years. I was disappointed when I was here two weeks ago. Sadden, really, because I run late because of the care of my parents. I was really saddened. I waited till I got home, didn't watch everybody's opening remarks, and I was saddened that four years ago I could handle President Biden, but there was no mention of a new sheriff, a new commander-in-chief,

[02:47:17] and President Donald Trump. There was no mention of even an executive order, since we're in Black History Month, or Human Trafficking Month, or Member Appreciation Month, or President's Month, and you all went to your retreat, that he signed executive orders to release the files of JFK, RFK, and Martin Luther King Jr. So I'm still looking for common ground, common unity. It's not about Republicans, not about Democrats. It's about free transparency, freedom, law, and

[02:47:50] messaging. I appreciate all the conversations tonight by Councilmember Osina with Mr. Small because I was going to say where are the incentives or the inducements that allow us as citizens to know how to engage in the budgeting because I've already asked the tough questions at the federal level with friends that have called on me and I've asked what happens with ICE what happens with federal money what happens if we don't comply here how do we make sure our city council knows to fund the police department to cooperate with the federal what does it mean on

[02:48:28] the on the education all the awareness so I've already gotten answers at the federal level of where Manassas could or couldn't fit in so I really would like to engage as we move into the budget that we look at revenue predictability if we do lose federal money. Now I was here when George Allen was our congressman and then with redistricting he gave it up and became governor and as governor he went. I know I was in meetings in Richmond where we became the Silicon Valley of

[02:49:00] the east and not the west. So it's just by God's providence and I've got 20 seconds that colleagues of mine are dealing with what the governor and the feds are going to do because of permitting problems with our data centers in Manassas, with waivers that weren't taken care of correctly, with infrastructure that's not corrected.

[02:49:24] So you know what? There's a lot of open-endedness, and it's time for 100% transparency to get both levels talking. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. Malinette. Next, we have Andrew Smith. Welcome, sir. Yeah, thank you.

[02:49:47] Yeah, so I added a few things based on some of the other comments but basically I did want to come here today and just thank the city for you know moving forward I saw on some of the updates around like electric vehicles and other items like that I do want to make it clear that I do work for an electric vehicle charging company and automotive company here locally so it is something I'm very passionate about but I do want to make sure that the city's investing in that I'm fully electric our family as my wife. We go to Michigan. We go to Florida. We go all the time. So please, you know, make sure we're investing and kind of ignoring the politicalization of newer technologies and, you

[02:50:26] know, making sure that we're doing what's right and what's best for the city. For the Route 28 expansion, you know, I do want to make sure that we also sometimes take a chance to kind of zoom out a little bit and think about other alternatives. We have VRE. I think that's an extremely underutilized we you know i moved out here originally from michigan my wife met my wife in utah moved out here never been here before during the pandemic we moved here partially because of the community the local small town feel and vre and so the more we can expand that

[02:51:05] i think we can get people coming into the city going out to do you know without traffic so i'd like it to see, make sure we're making more improvements there. Let's see. Speaking of transparency, the other thing too, I would also like the council and the city to kind of be more communicative on other social platforms. Seem very Facebook and Instagram heavy, and I'd like to see things like Blue Sky. Let's meet kind of our constituents where they're at, not just on those platforms. And kind of the last thing here too around Micron, you know, I did grow up in

[02:51:42] Michigan we saw you know the recession and a lot of factories leave so it is a fine balance of meeting their needs making sure that it's a good position for the city and the company because I can tell you right now you need to be cognizant of that because if they leave sometimes it could be a cascading effect and you know it can bring a lot of devastation so you know it's something that's top of mind. I definitely do not want to be in a position where we are beholden to corporations, but there is a fine balance. So I just implore you every time we look at those that

[02:52:21] we're really being critical and making sure it's the best for both sides. And yeah, I think the last couple of seconds here, I do want to call it to, you know, that I think it's very disheartening at the national level regarding any type of politics. It is concerning that some constitutional issues are happening and I would encourage everybody to just focus like I am locally and hopefully bubble things up from that perspective. So with that, that's all. Thank you, Mr. Smith.

[02:52:56] Anyone else that wishes to address council for public comment time? Hello, Lynn Farquhar-Green. I wasn't going to speak tonight, but because I did make a post on Facebook this evening and I've received a couple text messages and there were some statements here about misinformation, My Facebook post had no misinformation except for one typo.

[02:53:23] I said 2035 when I meant 2030 and then into 2035, and that's what happens when you are trying to hurry up and do something. So apologies for that. But that said, I am grateful that you all pulled that item from the consent agenda and had that discussion openly.

[02:53:40] I think transparency is very important. I fight very hard for that. And I think our residents deserve that. I don't think that's a topic that should have ever been included in the consent agenda. And I hope that going forward, some of these topics that you see for the consent agenda, you yourselves decide, hey, we should probably have this discussion openly and not wait for our residents to reach out and ask for that.

[02:54:01] Because clearly, I didn't even see it until today. There was a statement made by a couple folks with regards, and I'm going to preface this by saying I'm sorry, Mayor. There was a statement made by two people regarding a relationship with the mayor.

[02:54:18] and I myself have only ever said that the city and the mayor but any of you as I know having been there needs to handle any conflicts of interest in the best manner possible and you need to be transparent about it. It is none of my business about certain things. How that's supposed to be handled up there you guys know the policies and procedures as does Craig Brown. So I never said anything in my post that alluded to anything that was addressed this evening what I did allude to is what I believe in which is our residents are asking for

[02:54:56] a tax break our small businesses are asking for a tax relief and we keep focusing on Micron I'm not against Micron I want those jobs here too but on one hand in a discussion you will say that 10% of ballplayers are not enough to keep something here, but 10%, which is 34 jobs in the city, I understand it's 340 total, but if only 34 city residents have those jobs and that's enough, I get a little frustrated with that.

[02:55:26] I want some fairness in how you're applying this. I want you to feel blessed that you have all of us here and that you don't just want me to move and the next person to move in because you're not asking for the next Micron to come here, but you're okay if the next Lynn comes here.

[02:55:42] That's what I'm asking for. When you're doing this budget, fight for us the way you're fighting for Micron. Help us a little bit. That's all I'm asking for, guys. Thank you so much. I know it's a hard job. And I do appreciate most of you getting back to me today.

[02:55:58] And I realized between 3 and 5 was a really hard ask. So thank you. Have a great night. Thank you. Anyone else that wishes to address council or public comment time? If not, then we are adjourned. Thank you.

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