Coraggio Consulting
Manassas City Council 5/14/2026

Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Place: Manassas City Council, Virginia
Length: 2h 46m (video)
Official meeting video (Wistia / RegionalWebTV): https://fast.wistia.net/embed/iframe/5h6hd04s9z

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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[00:00:07] Your continued protection of our staff, our council, and especially our men and women in uniform and first responders who put their lives on the line each and every day for us. Please continue to bring peace to our country as well as our community every day. For these things, we remain thankful. Amen.

[00:00:25] Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. Thank you.

[00:00:43] I'd like to welcome everyone to our, I guess, only city council meeting for the month of May as we have Memorial Day holiday on the 25th. we appreciate the time that you've taken to be here in person and for those of us joining us joining us via social media tv we welcome you to the meeting as well we have i think the only elected here is dr zella jones who i know we'll hear from um in a little bit when the schools present and council members always good to be with you thank you for consistently showing up for this community and we have a pretty full agenda tonight so we'll go ahead and get started

[00:01:20] with council time and i'll call on vice mayor wolf first thank you madam mayor uh first off let me start by reading my annual statement as we get into the budget mayor and council as you know this budget appropriates funds for approximately 25 non-profit community organizations the city one of which is the manassas ballet where my spouse is employed and i provide services to the ballet without compensation i have consulted the city attorney each year regarding this potential conflict of interest and with the acting city attorney currently and they advise me that i'm allowed to vote in the budget appropriation as long as I disclose my family's interest in the ballet which I'm doing so now and have done so in a

[00:01:57] written statement followed the clerk I would also ask the clerk to reflect this oral disclosure in the meetings and the minutes of this meeting and I'll add parenthetically that the support of the ballet extended long before I joined the council how many ever years ago that was and since it's Hilton night yeah yeah I I would be remiss if I didn't mention that ballet is closing the season with Don Quixote this weekend, which is one of the highlights of the Hilton season.

[00:02:26] So we would hope to see everyone there. And with that, thank you very much, Mayor. Thank you very much. Councilwoman Ellis. Thank you, Mayor. Yes, it's great to see everyone here tonight to listen, to speak, and to participate and have recognition.

[00:02:42] So thank you for being here. A couple of things. I just want to give a report about the great Manassas camp out and how that went. That was two weekends ago. And we had about 100 people that came out and were brave and slept in tents at Liberia House and grounds.

[00:03:01] And it dipped down to 40 degrees, and I was one of them. And it was cold, but we survived. So it was a lot of fun. We actually were recognized as a top event in Northern Virginia that takes care of the planet by local media because we were focused on sustainability and also going green at the camp out. We had some live musicians, and we had some naturalists, some speakers, and we also focused on nature as well as history. So it was a great event, and we hope to try

[00:03:36] to bring it back next year and continue the tradition and gain more pen campers. So we also have World Bee Day coming May 20th and that is to recognize the roles of bees and pollinators and I believe it was a United Nations proclamation years ago and so that brings us to the Manassas Bee Festival which is coming a month later June 20th and we're still looking for sponsors for that it's a non-profit and it's one of the one of the largest events that talk about saving our

[00:04:12] pollinators and planting native plants. So hope you come out in Liberia once again. I had an opportunity to visit Osborne High School and judge some of the divisional art from the kindergarten to high school. And it was, you know, amazing to see the talent of our youth. And also it's amazing to see the teachers who guide them and give them inspiration. So that was great. Thursday this week, May 14th is an HOA and Neighborhood Resource Fair at our Manassas Community Center from 6 to 8 p.m.

[00:04:47] It's been an ongoing process to bring out our HOA managers as well as people that live in the neighborhood. You do have to register. If you go on our Facebook page, you'll see the form to do that. A lot of information to help you understand the roles of HOAs versus the roles of city and how we also intersect.

[00:05:10] That's it. Thank you. Councilman Smith. Madam Mayor, I actually have no comment except to say kudos to HMI and all the work that they're doing, and particularly on the farmers market, because I've been noticing just glowing reviews, previews, and recommendations, and that's good news as the season starts.

[00:05:32] I encourage everyone, Thursdays and Saturday mornings. Thank you. Councilman Osina. So I had the pleasure of welcoming or congratulating the graduates of the Citizen Academy at their graduation last week.

[00:05:52] I think 20-plus residents who went through a five-week program to learn more about the city, the hands-on program, and I think all of them came out with a better understanding of what the departments do, all the way from ones that we see like police and fire to those a little bit behind the scenes, such as finance, community development, parks and rec, and even had a chance to go out to learn more about the airport here.

[00:06:25] in that regard so I was pleased to see again that residents are responding to that when that opportunity comes up again I do recommend any of you who can put aside five days in excuse me five weeks in a row to attend or as close to that as possible it's well worth the time there's no cost to participate tomorrow between 11:00 and 3:00 p.m. at the community center there'll be the city of Manassas blood drive and I encourage folks that who have an

[00:07:00] opportunity to go ahead and donate blood ideally they have slots they'd like you to sign up with but I have found that also if you show up and they've got an open slot they'll they'll fit you in there along the way again that's 11 a.m.

[00:07:16] to 3 p.m. tomorrow at the community center I'm the liaison to the utility Commission and I do want to remind folks that all of our boards committees and Commission's meetings are open to residents to attend and so with the utility Commission is meeting 5:30 this Thursday in the Public Works building given the fact that there's been concern and comment and about utility rates here this would be great to actually see what kind of information is

[00:07:53] coming forth to the utility Commission members as they process this and working with the staff to learn more about how these rates are developed and put forward along the way. And so, again, that's Public Works Building at 5.30 on Thursday. Busy weekend at Harris Pavilion.

[00:08:13] Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. will be the Quality Prince William Pride Festival. Again, no charge. It's open to the public. And then Sunday at the Harris Pavilion, 11 a.m. to 5, is L'AR Expo. Again, no charge, but two big events taking place in Old Town, so if you're passing through and all you want to do is pass through, you might want to avoid that part of Old Town because it does get busy here, but if you have a chance to stop by, I recommend that.

[00:08:47] And then I do want to point out, especially with my compatriot, Dr. Jones over here, that on Saturday morning, May the 30th, since we're not having a council meeting, I'm announcing it now we're doing another neighborhood walk and talk with residents to uh to talk about schools about the city answer questions hear concerns and so forth and dr jones has been good enough this year to join me on those and uh we're continuing those on may the 30th uh on that and you'll see more on our respective facebook pages with the details as we get closer to the 30th and that's - That's all, ma'am.

[00:09:26] - Thank you. - Councilman Vasquez-Luna. - Thank you, Madam Mayor, good evening, everyone, and welcome a couple of things. I will continue to have a great ribbon cuttings, and my ask is when you see a new business, please try it out as an opportunity, not only to welcome them, but support them as well.

[00:09:46] Thank you to the Economic Development Department for the business appreciation breakfast. I believe it was well attended, And the panel was great, so I'm really thankful for that and for everybody who made the time to go to the new location.

[00:10:04] I think we're yet to see the best of the community center. I think it's becoming fast, a great place, not only to be, but also to have different events. Congratulations to everybody who attended the Citizens Academy.

[00:10:21] It's been a couple of years. I'm really happy that it's back. I hope that, you know, those who graduated, they also consider maybe later the police academy as well, which it is new, and I hope they also have it too. I will be at, thank you, Casa Menosina.

[00:10:40] I will be attending the LAT Expo, so everybody's invited. Sometimes people don't relate to LAT Expo, but LAT Expo, it just means Latin American artisans. And it's a small business right here from Manassas that they are showcasing different countries where either where their parents are from or where they're from to try to share and make it an international festival.

[00:11:04] So that vibe, it's free, free parking and also, you know, great, great information and you can buy unique gifts. Happy Mother's Day to everybody that is mother or they are our mother to all the kids.

[00:11:20] I hope everybody had a great, great time and happy belated Mother's Day. A few more things I want to, don't forget, every beginning of the month we have our City Connection and in the back we have a lot of events coming up.

[00:11:39] One of them is the Neighborhood HOA that is done by our mayor and our leadership. So please, if you go to your HOA meeting, make sure that they also are getting involved. They will get a lot of great information. The Veterans Day is coming, and that's why we're not gonna have our fourth Monday meeting.

[00:12:01] But it's an opportunity for you to visit the Veterans Resources Fair, which is gonna be May 16th at Baldwin School from 10 to 2. I think there will be great information there.

[00:12:17] I already mentioned Lot Expo, but on Saturday I'll also be attending the Ribbon Cutting for the, I believe it's the FET, Equality Prince William. I hope you get a chance to attend and support them.

[00:12:33] I will be trying to attend, don't forget, we have a world-winning farmer's market every Thursday and every Saturday. from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's also another place. The reason why I like not only everything that you can find there, but it's also an opportunity for those trying to try out a new product or trying to start a new business. That could be a great opportunity for you to see how well it is accepted. I will be attending this week with Madam Mayor, our

[00:13:09] joining the traditional ADHOC committee. I thank everybody who has been working on saving the building and actually thank you sir for being here and for leading the charge. You know I hope that as many have done that I can continue and that we can find ways because I believe that is important. So thank you sir for what you're doing and everybody that has signed up I know they had over 800 over 900 uh residents supported which is you know uh important to show the um the support

[00:13:48] that we have uh uh for bennett school moving uh forward may 15 is the bike to work day so there will be a pit stop here in mananza so please uh join us there's also other uh events related to uh back to work or the month uh so please we just want to make sure that you're active i'm really proud of the work that manassee city has done and all the uh all the trails that we have for you to be able to bike uh safely uh especially now that we have great weather uh remember the stone wall

[00:14:28] park pool is coming up and opening weekend is may the 23rd and um the last thing i want to highlight for you will be the parent E3 series, Youth Mental Health. Everybody's welcome to that.

[00:14:43] It's gonna be our community center, I believe in my analysis, May 20 from 5:30 p.m. on. Again, it's another award winning series for part E3 series, Youth Mental Health.

[00:15:01] If you are here for the presentations, As a parent of two kids in the high school, I'm really happy to hear from our great principal. For the proclamation of foster care, I think this is a great opportunity to ask you if you ever thought or if you'd like to look into it.

[00:15:24] They always need great homes where you can see if you qualify and maybe it's something that you can do as now we have the proclamation. Also, congratulations to CFH and First Baptist Church for the commendation, and thank you for all the work that I am doing.

[00:15:44] There will be an event, I believe, for the World Hunger Day. I hope our community can continue to support, donate, and make a difference. The National Police Week, I'll close with that, and congratulations to everybody who will be recognized.

[00:16:02] thank you for keeping us safe and to continue to this council as well to continue to make our city the best place where to live work and enjoy this short time as well thank you madam mayor thank you councilman hudson thank you madam mayor good evening everyone thank you for joining us and thank you to everyone who has participated in the budget process so far we have a packed agenda to get through tonight so I'll keep my comments short I first wanted to echo Councilwoman Vasquez Luna that this is bike month and bike to work days this Friday if you've not seen them there are fire or pamphlets outside that have the

[00:16:41] bike maps all around the city it's a really useful tool and if you're like me and you won't be on a bicycle those paths are completely accessible by foot as well so I get out there and enjoy those I wanted to remind folks that we underway with the parks master plan if you have attended an event already to share your feedback thank you there are several more opportunities coming up including tables that will be at the previously mentioned events the Pride Festival and Lore Expo the parks folks will have tables at both of those to share or to collect feedback there will also be a meeting this Wednesday 6:00

[00:17:19] p.m. at Dean Park to talk about just the outdoor recreation portion of our parks and recreation plan so please come out and share your feedback you can also do that online if you google city of Manassas parks master plan it will bring you to a page where you can find the online survey and finally I think congratulations and thank you are in order for our colleague here miss Vasquez Luna for stepping up to run for delegate in the absence and resignation of our current delegate so thank you Sonia for stepping up it's a big a big challenge ahead but you know you have many of our support and excited for you and your

[00:17:58] journey so I'm excited to watch and support so I just wanted to say congratulations and thank you for that and that is all I have madam Mary thank you so much thank you I think everybody pretty much covered everything there's not much left this Saturday for those who may not be aware is our very first veterans resource fair it's going to be held at Baldwin intermediate and oh and let me stop and recognize dr. Newman I saw you come in and chair of our school Board Jill Spall is also here. Thank you for being here. The first ever Veterans Resource Fair, and this is a resource fair that we're hosting for the first time in the city ever for people

[00:18:38] to come and get resources for active, non-active community information about Manassas, employment, health, whatever a veteran may need, even if they're not a veteran, a spouse of a veteran, If you've lost a spouse that was a veteran, we have gathered over 20 vendors just to set up and be here for you to get information.

[00:18:59] I wanted it to be a one-stop shop, and so we're hoping that the needs can be met on Saturday. It's at Baldwin from 10 to 2, and there will be snacks, and there's a presentation also planned from 12 to 1 by Nova Vets talking about collaboration and how you can get more information even after Saturday.

[00:19:18] So, please, if you know anybody that can benefit from this resource fair, please have them come out on Saturday to Baldwin Intermediate from 10 to 2. This week, we have OTBA, I believe, and the inter-jurisdictional meeting. Sorry, Councilman Vasquez-Luna, I will not be there.

[00:19:36] Vice Mayor is going to fill in for me and also for the HOA meeting, too. Vice Mayor is going to take that because I have NVTA that evening. We do have a ribbon-cutting also coming up for Cannon Branch Dental That's on the 15th. I already talked about the resource fair. You heard about our Expo We will not have the midday with the mayor and city manager on the 22nd But I want to thank all those who do take time to get on that virtually from 12 to 1 every other Friday and spend time with us just to Have questions answered by the two of us and if we don't know we get the answers for you. So

[00:20:12] Grateful for Pastor Donahue was my last guest, and I always keep it a surprise, so you have to get on to see who the next guest is. So at this time, it gives me pleasure to introduce, we've been busy, our new city attorney, Mr. Robert Dawson. He's sitting back in the back.

[00:20:28] Can you stand up, sir? Happy to have you here. He will join the city of Manassas family on the 15th of June, I believe, and he comes to us from the city of Rockville.

[00:20:45] And he has more than 20 years of experience in corporate law as well as municipalities similar to the size of the city of Manassas. He's a graduate of UC Berkeley School of Law, Syracuse University, and Tuskegee University, and has significant experience identifying, analyzing, and solving complex legal, regulatory, and business issues.

[00:21:08] Exactly what we need. Thank you. We look forward to welcoming you officially in June, but thank you for being here tonight, and we look forward to working with you for many years to come. Okay, thank you so much for being here. So with that, I will turn it over to City Manager Burke for your time. Thank you, Madam Mayor.

[00:21:24] Our Water Department is continuing to do spring flushing of hydrants to test hydrants and confirm the system integrity. Stonewall Pool is opening this weekend, and it will operate on weekends only through June 14th, and then we'll go to normal summer hours.

[00:21:40] The pool will be operating from 11 a.m. till 6 p.m. City business offices will be closed Monday, May 25th, in observance of Memorial Day. And Railway Fest is coming back up June 6th. That's a Saturday. Please visit the HMI website for tickets and information.

[00:21:59] And I, too, would like to introduce Sarah Jimenez-Rocca. She is our new public affairs coordinator in the communications division. She is a graduate of GMU with a bachelor of individualized study, concentrating in crisis communication in law and public affairs.

[00:22:21] And prior to joining the city of Manassas, she had worked for the city of Manassas Park. So, welcome. That's all I have, madam. OHS grad, right? Osborne, Tim, did you hear that? Okay, thank you. Welcome. We're so glad that you're here and shows us.

[00:22:36] Thank you. Any questions for City Manager Burt? Okay. If not, we'll move forward in the agenda. Item 1, presentations, is 1.1, MCPS school presentation from Osborne High School. Dr. Jones is going to come forward and introduce the principal.

[00:22:54] Thank you for being here. Good afternoon, Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger, Vice Mayor Wolfe, and city council members. My name is Dr. Zella Jones. I'm the vice chair of the Manasseh City School Board.

[00:23:10] I'm happy to introduce to you Dr. Jennifer Chapman. She is the principal of Osborne High School. Dr. Chapman started her position in 2024. She supports students and staff to bring positive energy to the school every day.

[00:23:27] Dr. Chapman helps make Osborne High School a nest, a place that students are proud to call their home. Dr. Chapman will now highlight what has been evolving at Osborne High School this year. I present to you, Dr. Chapman.

[00:23:45] - Thank you for having me tonight. I always love the opportunity to brag about what our Eagles are doing. So I have a couple quick highlights to share from a lot of things happening this spring in our school as well as some things that have happened across the year.

[00:24:01] Our performing arts programs are absolutely crushing it right now. All of our programs who can qualify for a blue ribbon award have earned it this year. So that is our choir, our band, and our orchestra. They all receive superior ratings at their relative competitions and have again brought home that blue ribbon.

[00:24:21] We have recently hosted Rock Fest, which is some pictures highlighted from there. Our choir spring show, which was a Disney spectacular after some of our choir students actually were invited to perform down at Disney earlier in the year through a competition that they had held.

[00:24:38] We had, just this past week, slightly after I had to have this presentation together for you, our orchestra and our band and our fine arts division art show also happening recently at the school. And we have incredible representation. We have students who are competing to go on and compete at the state level in all of the groups.

[00:24:57] too. So our performing arts are absolutely having a stellar year this year. Our spring sports are also crushing it. Our e-sports team made state playoffs for the second year in a row. So they're doing fantastic. We had one of our speech and debate students earn the state runner-up in storytelling recently. We also have one of our SkillsUSA students coming up to a competition in two weeks that she is a one first place which got her a bit at nationals and photography just does some incredible work so she'll be traveling to that competition coming up in the next couple

[00:25:33] of weeks and you may have heard our boys soccer team has yet to uh lose a game this season so we're actually higher than that we won another one last week after i set the presentation but we are going to make a good show coming up here in district playoffs and we want to invite the whole city to come out and support our boys as they continue on in that next step across the year we've had a lot of events that our whole student body has gotten to celebrate it in in the bottom right is our ovations that's a quarterly event where we celebrate students who are nominated by a teacher for any type of positive contribution to the school or going above and beyond I am proud to

[00:26:09] announce that our last ovations we did last quarter we had the most students ever in the history of ovations nominated and we had actually an additional 70 students in that one beyond the last previous one and then literally supposed to pull the data tonight for our next one but we're coming in really close to that number again we had two different attendance celebrations for attendance all-stars across two different quarters so you can see photos of the students getting local businesses that were supporting us to help reward our students at those so we very much appreciate that glory days has been a big contributor in that one as well and providing us with some items to

[00:26:47] celebrate our students we recently had field day for the entire sophomore class that won an ongoing attendance challenge and improved their attendance in order to win the opportunity to participate in that event and then some highlights from our homecoming dance that we had earlier in the year so the biggest thing that I just want to share across all of our celebrations our performing arts groups our sports adult groups is that we have a lot of people who will come out they'll support our football team in the fall I know our soccer team's been pulling a lot of guests, but a lot of our other teams oftentimes just have parents or students coming to support them, and it would be a really great challenge to ask every resident of the city to

[00:27:25] pick one event in a year that they want to come out and support one of our teams, whether it's performing arts, whether it's athletics, whether it's the art show. We can cater to any of your interests, but it really shows positive examples for our students about how to engage in their community and be a community member, and that positive show of good sportsmanship from a spectator as well, and we appreciate and welcome everyone coming out to celebrate our students and their achievements. Thank you, Dr. Chapman. Any questions or comments for Dr. Chapman? Ms. Vasquez-Luna?

[00:27:59] Thank you. I appreciate it. I think one of my favorite parts is that you offer 11 of 13 CTEs, and to me that's a great advantage for all the students as they have different skills or all different interests could you talk a little bit about that so again we do have significantly uh one of the largest number of career paths currently at the school that we have and i know off the top of my head i'm not going to even hit all of them while i'm on the spot but we offer auto tech program we offer a construction tech program we have robotics we have cad architectural

[00:28:39] design project lead the way classes which are engineering based we have a cosmetology program We have a nursing program that partners with UVA Health. We have an EMT program this year. We are actually starting next year a new pathway to build towards early childhood education by starting with bringing in child development as a new course for our students to again expand those opportunities for students.

[00:29:04] But when the students are in those programs, they get to engage in the same training that an adult who would be signing up and paying for that program would do. They have to meet the same hours in the classroom activities that they do. They have to show that they have mastered the same competencies that adults and adult training programs do.

[00:29:23] And then we also cover the cost for the students to take the certification exams associated with those programs as well. So some of the students can leave our building and they can go right into the workforce with the certification to start in many of those career fields.

[00:29:39] - I appreciate it and you know, to me it's important 'cause they can go to work. absolutely right after graduation so congratulations i'll be joining the ceremony i can wait and uh how many students will be graduating i'm sorry no way i have the number off the top of my head but we are um we still have a a handful there are still um our sol testing starts next week our main window of testing and that's someone that times the final hurdle for a couple students so we should have our solid graduation number near the end of next week thank you any other

[00:30:12] questions for Dr. Ossina. So Dr. Chapman, welcome. Good to see you. I will try not to keep you as I know you have another activity to go to. In fact, it never ends, does it? We've got girl soccer senior night tonight and baseball and softball tomorrow if anyone wants to join. But let's, I wanted to talk a little bit about the real kind of meat of what our schools are doing, supposed to be doing for our kids. So first of all, I recognize that right now the SOL testing

[00:30:49] is taking place. What can you recall or share about last year's SOL test scores in comparison to the previous year before you came on board, first of all? So I can share some broad highlights that we have. I will say one of the subject areas that I most want to highlight is our mathematics department we had a nine percent gain in mathematics last school year on the SOL so we that program really made some instructional shifts from looking at their data we supported some changes in our tier one instruction approach as well as some of our responsive

[00:31:28] approaches in our remediation efforts to students who had not passed it originally and then that was what the group that saw one of our largest gains last school year in it our other ones pretty much held steady. We did not have any programs that took a dip last year. Our other ones were either very similar to where they were in the past or they went up by a small handful of points. I will say one of our biggest areas for growth is still working with our English language learners and some of the progress that they're making, particularly on our very literacy-heavy exams that they have to take. Science is one of the areas that sometimes hits them where there's a lot

[00:32:06] really technical academic language on the test so we have been shifting some of our processes this year to again partner that literacy support outside of just English classes also to make sure we can support the students on those and we should have more SOL data coming in in about a little bit over a week so next week's our largest testing days on the 18th and 19th and then our retakes really roll through the end of the school year and then secondly attendance or truancy has been a concern over the years here.

[00:32:41] I know that one of the things that was done there was enclosing the corridor to the Johnson Learning Center there, but overall, what have you seen in terms of attendance rates this year in comparison to the previous year, recognizing that this year isn't completely done?

[00:33:00] So absolutely, and still going to be honest, attendance is our single biggest struggle that we consistently have with students. We really focus on partnering with parents on that one to help support. We have done an excellent job within the building with attendance.

[00:33:16] So I will say we have seen gains in reducing tardiness, reducing class cuts, reducing students vacating the building once they get there. So we have really cut down on all of that. One of the ones we do still struggle with is students who have not made it to the building in the morning.

[00:33:33] And we are about monitoring on our full-day absenteeism, very similar to where we were last year. And I take it you have, for lack of, there's probably a much better term, but liaisons that work in the community here.

[00:33:52] Is that correct? Well, we do. So we have, our attendance focus starts really with, for full-day attendance, with our counselor. If students have five unexcused days, our counselor connects with the student and family. Once they accrue more than that, hit the seventh threshold, our dean of students work with the families and they'll have a family meeting where the families have to come in.

[00:34:12] We work, we come up with a plan to support them. Once it goes beyond that, when students have 10, we have our attendance officers that actually work in the building, but they will also work with students who potentially go to the court system. They will do home visits with families. They will go out in the community quite often, particularly to connect with students who has maybe been a long-term absence and we have not seen in quite a couple of days.

[00:34:32] we're trying to get more information about what's going on with them. So with the students at your school what are you finding as the obstacles the major obstacles for for attending school? For attending school one of the obstacles we hit this year is that our regular communication methods that went home to parents we do daily call outs for it was disrupted when we had the cyber incident we have since reinstated them but students caught on pretty quickly mom and dad weren't getting that phone call anymore tried to get around it so then we had to pivot by doing some weekly notices to parents so they could monitor them retraining parents that in that interim how can you still access your students daily attendance so there

[00:35:12] was a little bit dip in there while we were at that component I appreciate you being here and sharing along the way I find it very helpful for us and the community at large to learn more not to say the school board meetings are not well watched but this is a different audience as well that you reach out to and I think it's important for our other residents and our businesses to know what's going on.

[00:35:38] So thanks for making the time. - Definitely, and I'm happy to share with our community members, just something they can do to support us with attendance. All of our students who may have an early release because they go to a job or something do have purple lanyards and a pass attached to their book bag when they leave the school that indicates that they have an early release, the periods that they have it.

[00:35:57] So if you have an establishment and you have some kids coming in to get food in the middle of the day and you're not sure if they should be there or not, you're always welcome to call us and let us know there, but that's also a quick way that if they have their book bags, they hang them on the outside of their book bags for a quick, easy visual to know, oh, early release, okay, you're supposed to be here, or I'm just gonna give your school mom a call and let her know so we can help wrangle those in together.

[00:36:22] - Thank you, Dr. Chapman, always good to see you. Thank you for being here. Next on the agenda is item 1.2, presentation from Hilton Center Performing Arts Center's Annual Report, Carolyn Hayes is here. Good evening, ma'am.

[00:36:37] - Thank you, Madam Mayor and the Council. I'm Carolyn Hayes, I am the Executive Director, and I am joined by several of my colleagues today, and I'm going to call them out. - Please do, please do. - Just to embarrass them, right? So, Dave Baylor, our General Manager, as well as Dr. Niaty Dokai, our Program Director of the Veterans and the Arts Initiative, and Associate Professor of Research at George Mason University, and Marit Majewski, who directs the education initiative at the Hilton Center.

[00:37:06] Now, I would be remiss if I didn't point out we have two representatives here tonight who are on our executive board, one of whom is sitting in front of you, or for everybody out here sitting in front of you. Steve Burke, city manager, is currently serving his first term with us.

[00:37:22] And we also are joined today by the infamous Cheryl Bass, who is in her second term, which will conclude at 2028. So that is the Fearless leadership team at the Hilton Performing Arts Center. So, of course, you know this is only a fraction of the individuals who have helped make the Hilton Center a fantastic place to be.

[00:37:46] We closed our 16th season this past Saturday, and it truly has become a true civic success story, proving the impact of local and state governments can make when they partner with each other. It started as a dream in the late 90s.

[00:38:03] Our sir here, Mark Wolf, was part of that dream that brought it to fruition. And today it is one of the premier performing arts centers here in Northern Virginia. The center is led by a 19-member appointed executive board with representatives from the city of Manassas, George Mason, Prince William County, and the community at large.

[00:38:24] The city of Manassas came to the table with a $5.6 million construction investment, which is 10% of the total debt that we undertook to build this center. To date, 70% of that has been paid with the final $1.69 million coming to fruition or will be paid off at 2032.

[00:38:48] In addition to the construction investment, we received $12,200 in total support, not only for our anniversary gala in that 2024-25 season, but also an additional investment in our Veterans in the Arts Initiative. And later in the program, I'll ask for Dr. Dokai to come up and say a few words about that program.

[00:39:10] As a member of the tripartite agreement, the city also receives two free events at the Hilton Center every year. During the 24-25 season, that was a $3,700 value with bringing in just shy of 1,000 participants, and that was the Manassas Volunteer Reception and the Manassas All-City Chorus.

[00:39:31] Truly what makes the Hilton Center great is our commitment to the community. So more than 100,000 people come through the Hilton Center every single year. Of that 623 total number of facility uses, 76% of those are external use.

[00:39:51] So only a small portion, 24%, are put on by the Hilton Performing Arts Center. We are proud to say as of the 24-25 season, we had an $11 million endowment, but we have brought that to the $15 million goal as of this season.

[00:40:07] So that's a huge, huge testament to the work of the community and the leaders at the Hilton Performing Arts Center. Staying committed to our community arts facing stance that we have is that we have an arts alliance that's made up of 11 individual groups, many of which you will recognize up there, including Manassas Ballet, Manassas Chorale, and Manassas Symphony Orchestra.

[00:40:33] These organizations receive marketing and visibility support, financial and professional incentives, including subsidized discounts on the rent. And so that saved those organizations about $120,000 during that season, which will continue and continues throughout the tripartite agreement.

[00:40:56] In addition to that, facing out into the community, we're not only driving individuals into our doors, but we're making a point to make it out into the community. So through our education initiative alone in that 24/25 season, we reached 22,000 individuals with free programming.

[00:41:13] And here, specifically for the city of Manassas, what that means is we created 3,639 engagement opportunities for city school participants. So we reached eight out of nine and 89% participation rates by those schools.

[00:41:30] Not only did they come to the Hilton Center, but they were able to participate in those programs seated in their classrooms through our virtual field trips. And we provided third grade students an in-school residency where we brought an artist to them to do hands-on curriculum at Hayden Elementary School.

[00:41:52] So I just wanna lean in and note, 3,600 participation to the City of Manassas students, all free to those participants. And so at this time, I wanna bring up Dr. Dokai, who's gonna talk about the Veterans in the Arts Initiative and what that $4,000 investment has done for this community.

[00:42:14] - Thank you very much. It's a pleasure to brief you, Ms. Mayor, Mr. Vice Mayor, council members, and also congratulations to my dear colleague, Carolyn Hayes on her first day as executive director of the Hilton Performing Arts Center. So the Veterans in the Arts Initiative, I'm really proud to highlight has served for over 10 years our veteran service members, military family members, and military caregivers in our community.

[00:42:44] We have experienced a year of unprecedented growth. We have served over 3,900 military connected community members in this past year. A lot of folks have been asking us why that is. And one of the reasons why I can say is because of the changing health landscape and mental health landscape for our veterans, service members, and their families.

[00:43:04] We are noticing that resources are changing at the federal and at the state levels. And as they do, folks are seeking further health and mental health support. And so we are receiving a larger than usual number of referrals from the vet centers, as well as from VA rec specialists to our programming.

[00:43:22] We do have a long-term legacy of programming to our service members and during this time, we have served over 20,000 people. We have also been a trailblazing program for the National Endowment for the Arts for which we won several contracts.

[00:43:40] Our ukulele workshops actually became a cornerstone model that the National Endowment for the Arts asked us to study based on repeated iterations of this ukulele workshop series as well as 11 other workshop series around the United States.

[00:43:58] National Endowment for the Arts actually created a community engagement grant program that they started to operationalize three years ago, and it continues to award grants nationally every year. I'm very proud to say that we were the advisors for the start of that community engagement grant program, and we continue to advise to that community engagement grant program.

[00:44:20] I currently am serving the National Endowment for the Arts from 2024 to 2027 to now teach the National Endowment for the Arts, the best practices to evaluate the impacts of this type of programming. As for how it is that we support close to 3,900 people, over 3,900 people actually, it's through 63 different workshops and special events that we held in the past year.

[00:44:44] We have had in-person workshops, virtual workshops, workshops through Prince William Public Library so that we can meet veterans where they are at, as well as through professional concerts. Through the professional concerts that we highlight and curate, specifically at the Hilton Performing Arts Center, we've given close to 600 free tickets to our veterans and service members so that they can create community at the Hilton Performing Arts Center.

[00:45:09] We also have specific social events for them prior to the concerts as they can meet, talk about their experiences, and then go to the concerts together. In terms of City of Manassas engagement, as you'll see on the chart to the right. We looked here at in-person workshops.

[00:45:25] So these were in-person workshops at both the Hilton Performing Arts Center, as well as through Prince William Public Libraries. And we were noticing not including workshops that we had at Bull Run Library, as well as Chin Park Library, which did definitely include City of Manassas residents, but who were not counted in these numbers.

[00:45:44] An average of 13% of our participants are City of Manassas residents. Not only that, but we feel that the Veterans and the Arts Initiative has put the city of Manassas on the map for our veterans and their families in the DMV. We note that our veterans are traveling up to 50 miles one way to Manassas for this specific programming because it is not available anywhere else in Northern Virginia, the district, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, or Howard County.

[00:46:14] So we are noticing that people are coming from quite a ways away to make Manassas their arts home. Thank you again for the opportunity to share. - And then I would just say, in conclusion, thank you. Thank you for your investment.

[00:46:29] Thank you for the original foresight of what this could bring to the city of Manassas. We have become an integral part of this city's infrastructure and are helping to drive people to utilizing downtown businesses as well as seeing the performing arts.

[00:46:47] So thank you very much. - Thank you, Carolyn. Any questions for Ms. Hayes? First day, please come back. It was good, is that why there's no questions, because you want me back? There you go. We'll bring you back. Thank you so much. At public comment time, if you wish to, you can do that.

[00:47:07] Thank you. We're going to do a little bit of a switch around in the agenda. We're actually going to have, we have proclamations coming up. The first proclamation we're going to do, because it's a little larger, is the World Hunger Day and recognizing CFH and East End and First Baptist Church. So I will go down front, and we'll do the next part of the agenda.

[00:47:38] Hello, hello. Can you hear me? Okay, good. I'm going to first read the proclamation for World Hunger Day, and then I'll have the two organizations come up that are receiving commendations for their efforts in relieving hunger. First, the proclamation for World Hunger Day, whereas World Hunger Day, observed annually on May 28, raises awareness of the global crisis of chronic hunger and the urgent need for sustainable solutions that address address its root causes and whereas over 800 million people

[00:48:18] worldwide face hunger and food insecurity every day with many more at risk due to economic instability conflict and the effects of climate change and whereas hunger is not only a global issue but a local one as well affecting families and individuals right here in the city of manassas and the greater Northern Virginia region.

[00:48:41] And whereas addressing hunger requires coordinated efforts from governments, nonprofit organizations, faith communities, businesses, and individuals all working together to ensure access to nutritious food and to support long-term solutions that promote food justice and self-sufficiency, and whereas the City of Manassas acknowledges and supports the tireless efforts of local food pantries, community partners volunteers and advocates who work every day to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry and whereas world hunger day serves as a call to action for all residents

[00:49:17] to reflect on the impact of hunger support efforts to combat food insecurity and commit to building a more equitable and nourished community for all now therefore i'm michelle davis mayor of the city of manassas virginia and on behalf of the manassas city council do hereby proclaim May 28, 2026 as World Hunger Day in the city of Manassas and encourage all residents to raise awareness, support local and global hunger relief efforts, and work together toward a future

[00:49:45] where everyone has access to the food they need to thrive. And that is the process of the first

[00:49:59] Baptist. I got a whole crew. Come on, y'all. Thank y'all for being here. The commendation reads,

[00:50:34] Whereas food insecurity and material hardship remain persistent challenges for families and individuals across the nation and within the city of Manassas, calling for compassionate and community-based responses, and whereas World Hunger Day, observed annually on May 28, brings global attention to the urgent need to eliminate hunger and support sustainable, long-term solutions for food justice and human dignity.

[00:50:58] And whereas for over 153 years, First Baptist Church has been a committed and active presence in the city of Manassas, currently located at 9258 Center Street, serving as both a place of worship and a center for outreach and service.

[00:51:15] And whereas since 2010, the First Baptist Church, through its Barnabas Food Ministry, has operated a weekly food distribution program to support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and basic needs, with an average of 100 families served each week.

[00:51:34] The ministry is open and serving unhoused individuals on an as-needed basis. And whereas in partnership with the Northern Virginia Food Rescue, Manassas Presbyterian Church, Buck Hall United Methodist Church, and Panera Bread, the First Baptist Church Barnabas Food Ministry ensures that food is distributed in a safe, welcoming, and secure environment to the community's most vulnerable residents.

[00:51:58] and whereas the church's ministry also seeks to meet spiritual needs by offering a listening ear and prayer for those who request it providing a holistic and compassionate response to those facing hardship and whereas first baptist church's long-standing commitment to providing resources feeding clothing and supporting those in need reflects the core mission of world hunger day through sustained volunteer driven and community-centered action now therefore i'm michelle davis mayor of the city manassas virginia and on behalf of the manassas city council hereby commend the first baptist church for over 16 years of faithful service through its food and emergency

[00:52:38] assistance ministries and in honor of world hunger day on may 28 2026 their ongoing dedication continues to uplift and nourish the city of manassas demonstrating the power of faith in action and the strength of a community united in service congratulations thank you on behalf of first baptist church and the entire first baptist family it is always an honor we have been birthed together as city and church and so it is part of our dna of what we do we have it in

[00:53:14] our vision that we provide indispensable ministry to communities and families locally and globally and our kingdom mandate is disciple people serving people so we're always about serving people the great thing about it is we're hunger day we understand how important it is so it is a part of what we do and so we're grateful to you madam mayor we're grateful to the entire city council for the recognition but more importantly the partnership to make sure that we love on our communities together and on behalf of bonnibus and the entire first baptist family

[00:53:44] we say thank you again for this honor next we have the uh eastern food pantry and creating

[00:54:21] foundations of hope folks ladies commendation reads and i have whereas food insecurity continues to affect families across the nation and within the city of manassas creating urgent needs that require community-based responses and sustainable solutions and whereas world hunger day observed annually on May 28 seeks to raise awareness of chronic hunger and highlight the importance of

[00:55:00] coordinated action to address its root causes and whereas during the COVID-19 pandemic Helen's Rita established the East End Food Pantry and launched Stomp Out Hunger serving up to 1,000 families daily through volunteer efforts and partnerships with local organizations and donors and whereas in May 2021 creating Foundations of Hope a non-profit focused on community support adopted the Stomp Out Hunger initiative and expanded its impact by hiring a community liaison to strengthen outreach and collaboration. And whereas in 2024, Creating Foundations of Hope

[00:55:37] received a grant from the Potomac Health Foundation to purchase a delivery van, now central to the mobile food pantry efforts, which brings food directly to residents who are unable to travel to the East End Food Pantry site. And whereas through biweekly food distributions and ongoing mobile delivery, the East End Food Pantry and Creating Foundations of Hope currently serve approximately 800 families each month, offering not only food but also referrals and support for rental and utility assistance.

[00:56:10] And whereas the organizations maintain close collaboration with school liaisons, social workers, and community agencies to identify households facing urgent food insecurity and respond promptly with needed resources.

[00:56:26] And whereas the commitment of the East End Food Pantry and Creating Foundations of Hope reflects the core principles of World Hunger Day by addressing local food insecurity and sustainable, compassionate, and community-driven solutions. Now, therefore, I'm Michelle Davis, Mayor of the City of Manassas, Virginia, and on behalf of the Manassas City Council, hereby commend the East End Food Pantry and creating foundations of hope for their exceptional service to the community and in honor of World Hunger Day on May 28, 2026.

[00:56:57] Their tireless work to reduce hunger and support families in need continues to strengthen the health, stability, and well-being of the city of Manassas. Congratulations. Thank you, Madam Mayor and Council, for recognizing the work that is done, boots on the ground serving hundreds every month congratulations to first baptist church as well the work that we do cannot be done without volunteers like tammy tammy is my uh second

[00:57:37] hand woman so to speak she keeps me up on tabs of where we're going and what neighborhoods need to be done and for my supervisor who keeps up with my daily schedule sometimes trying to figure out where I am and you know what's next but we can't serve people that don't want to be served people want to be served but we have to understand when they come to us they're human they need to be shown love compassion and because they entrust us to serve them I take that very very lightly

[00:58:14] because it takes a lot for a family or a mother or a single father or anyone just to come up and say, hey, I need help. So I received this certificate, this recognition on behalf of all the families we serve because they entrusted us to serve them. Thank you.

[00:58:34] I need to, let me take that one. Next we'll do the Foster Care Awareness Month and we have

[00:59:08] Nicole Curvin and Group here for that. No, thank you all for being here. The proclamation reads, Whereas Virginia's children and youth are our hope for the future, and we assert that

[00:59:47] all children deserve a safe, loving, stable, and nurturing home, and whereas families serving as the primary providers of love, identity, self-esteem, and support are the very foundations of our communities and our commonwealth, and whereas a child's success is best supported in a child welfare system that is family-focused, child-centered, and community-based, and and preserving families is the primary goal of the child welfare system.

[01:00:17] And whereas while the city of Manassas has 24 children and youth aged 18 and younger in foster care, there are 20 placed in approved kinship, foster, and adoptive families. And whereas kinship families and foster families play a critical role in serving as a support, not a substitute for the parents of children in foster care to make family reunification possible.

[01:00:42] And whereas through the partnerships among kinship, foster, and adoptive families, child welfare staff and public and private child-serving organizations' efforts are made to ensure that voices are heard and support offered for youth at every step of their foster care journey, including helping young adults successfully transition to independence.

[01:01:05] And whereas we honor and celebrate the enduring contributions of kinship, foster, and adoptive families during National Foster Care Awareness Month and recognize the outstanding service and commitment kinship foster and adoptive families provide to Virginia's children and youth while recognizing that foster care supports entire families.

[01:01:27] Now, therefore, I, Michelle Davis, Mayor of the City of Manassas, Virginia, and on behalf of the Manassas City Council, hereby proclaim the month of May 2026 as Foster Care Awareness month in the city of Manassas and call upon all citizens to call this observance to the attention of all of our residents. Congratulations. Madam Mayor, City Council, everyone, I just want to say, you know, we had a great day for Mother's Day and we look at family and that's really what it boils

[01:02:01] down to. As we talk about this year after year, it never gets old. That being said, as we talk, we look at matriarchs and we look at patriarchs we look at those that are uh kind of that i guess part of that village that we have you know and being able to raise a child um that being said i did want to give a special shout out um regarding a true matriarch that has been a matriarch for the city of manassas department of social services along with a matriarch for our own family um and

[01:02:32] And that is Mrs. Lori Jackson, who is retiring after 31 years and nine months of service. That being said, I'm going to step back a little bit and I'm going to let Miss Lori talk.

[01:02:55] Madam Mayor, City Council, Mr. Burke, residents present and virtual, thank you for this proclamation and the recognition of the selfless work performed by our foster care workers. Their dedication to the well-being of the city's children is unmatched.

[01:03:12] They come to work daily with renewed energy and focus. They truly are dedicated. Foster care work is difficult but rewarding. Cases can be complex, but there is joy when you can see a child overcome a difficulty like a speech delay or when a child tells you they've decided to stop using drugs and have raised their grades from failing to all A's and B's.

[01:03:37] The utmost joy comes when you see a family overcome their challenges and be reunited. The great thing about foster care is that just about anyone can be involved. Our foster parents do not have superpowers, but are regular average people that have a heart for children and families.

[01:03:56] As I close, I would like to say that it has been my honor and privilege to serve the residents of the city of Onassis for 31 years. I've worked for every director the department has had since its inception. The late Judy Hayes, Jim Oliver, Ray Spicer, Ron King, Michelle Gere, and our current director.

[01:04:16] With every director, the most important task has been the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents. This work has been challenging and has stretched me, but I count it all joy that I have had this amazing opportunity. I urge everyone here to get involved in our community and to see to it that our youngest residents are protected and cared for.

[01:04:38] Volunteer at your neighborhood school or with the Girl Scouts. Coach a team. Impart your wisdom on a young person. Speak to young parents in your neighborhood and give them encouragement. And most importantly, consider becoming a foster parent. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent or would like more information, reach out to our office at 703-361-8277.

[01:05:03] Like Mr. Rogers said, it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, our neighborhood, Manassas. Thank you.

[01:05:43] Put gum in your hair. Very extra, give them out to folks at the office. Next on the agenda, item 1.5, National Prevention Week. And that is here for that.

[01:06:02] Okay, good. Come on then. Just you by yourself. You're holding it up for everybody. I'm going to give these. Okay, the proclamation reads for National Prevention Week, Whereas substance misuse and mental health problems affect all communities nationwide, the substance use prevention and mental health landscape continues to evolve to better meet the pressing issues of today.

[01:06:39] The impact of mental health and substance misuse disorders is apparent in our local community. We have the power to change lives by enhancing community and individual protective factors to make substance-free lives an easier choice and assistance with mental health challenges easier to access.

[01:06:58] Whereas with commitment and support, substance misuse, addiction, and mental health issues can be prevented. The focus of National Prevention Week is to change the prevention landscape by providing evidence-based and accessible resources to facilitate collective action and story sharing.

[01:07:19] By showcasing the work of our partners in prevention, we can confront the societal challenges surrounding substance misuse together while celebrating stories of prevention. Whereas through National Prevention Week and the work of Prince William Community Services Wellness and Prevention Team and the Prevention Coalition of Greater Prince William, people become more aware and able to recognize the signs of mental health and substance use disorders.

[01:07:48] Equally important, community members from all walks of life learn how they can help implement prevention strategies and showcase the effectiveness of evidence-based programs. Whereas we need to recognize the seriousness of substance use and mental health issues in our communities, the power of prevention, and the tireless efforts of those working to make a difference.

[01:08:12] The small daily actions done by individuals, combined with the actions of families, communities, and coalitions, come together to make up the larger, bold movement of prevention. For the above reasons, we're asking the residents of the City of Manassas to join in celebrating National Prevention Week 2026 this May by encouraging in a learning or engagement activity hosted by the Prince William County Community Services Wellness and Prevention Team.

[01:08:40] Now, therefore, I'm Michelle Davis, Mayor of the City of Manassas, Virginia, and on behalf of the Manassas City Council, proclaim May 10-16, 2026 as National Prevention Week in the City of Manassas and call upon our community to join us this week in celebrating the compelling strategies and resources that support increasing awareness of and action around mental health and or substance use disorders year-round. Congratulations. Thank you. Hello, my name is Natalie Lozano. I am one of the wellness and prevention specialists for the Prince William Community Services. Thank you for the

[01:09:19] recognition and recognizing the importance of National Prevention Week and also the work that our team and members do throughout the community. Please join us this week to Popsicles and prevention at one of our events or take one of our trainings thank you and have a great evening

[01:09:36] the monassas city i'm sorry the national police week this place to be right now here

[01:10:19] oh the scariest right which one which one all right all right thank y'all for being here tonight the proclamation for national police week 2026. Whereas National Police Week was established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy along with a joint resolution of Congress to pay special tribute to those law enforcement officers who

[01:10:57] have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. And whereas there are more than 800,000 law enforcement officers serving in communities across the United States, including 103 sworn members of the city of Manassas Police Department who worked devotedly and selflessly on behalf of the citizens of the city of Manassas, regardless of the peril or hazard to themselves. And whereas since the first recorded death in 1786, more than 24,000 law enforcement officers in the United States have made the ultimate sacrifice and been killed

[01:11:35] in the line of duty including sergeant john d connor iii july 24 1988 of the city of manassas police department and whereas the names of 24 775 of these dedicated public servants are engraved on the walls of the national law enforcement officers memorial that was dedicated in 1991 in Washington D.C. And whereas 363 new names of fallen heroes were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial including 109 officers killed in 2025 and 254 officers who

[01:12:14] died in previous years whose stories of sacrifice had been lost to history until now. And whereas the service and sacrifice of all officers killed in the line of duty will be honored and the names of the officers newly engraved on the memorial will be formally dedicated during the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund's 38th annual candlelight vigil to be held on the evening of Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and whereas May 15, 2026 is dedicated as Peace Officers Memorial Day in honor of all fallen officers and their families. Now, therefore, I'm Michelle Davis,

[01:12:53] mayor of the city of manassas virginia and on behalf of the manassas city council meeting in regular session this 11th day of may 2026 hereby proclaim and recognize the week of may 10 to 16 2026 as national police week 2026 in the city of manassas and publicly salute the service of law enforcement officers in our community and in communities across the nation congratulations the entire department thank you mayor council and our community for having the

[01:13:31] trust in all of us to serve you and protect you and be here 24 hours a day I think in the next ceremony you'll hear about some of the commitment and dedication that these men and women go to every day so thank you for taking the time to recognize us tonight

[01:14:06] on the agenda we have item 1.7 which is the manasa city police department

[01:14:41] recognition and after that we will take a 10-minute recess after that item so chief you want to again thank you mayor council and the residents that are here tonight for allowing us a few moments tonight is a special night between the proclamation and the recognition of some of our staff we have several things and we asked for some assistance from the assistant chiefs to come up we're to do the medal of merit we're going to introduce two of our new officers we're going to recognize one of our leaders who just finished one of the leadership schools and we have a promotion to

[01:15:21] recognize tonight captain barahona is going to come up first he's going to do the medal of merit and then we'll proceed through the rest of the program good evening madam mayor council members mr city manager thank you for the opportunity to come in front of you this evening to recognize the the amazing work that our staff continue to do on a regular basis.

[01:15:50] The Medal of Merit is awarded to members of the Police Department, who have rendered distinguished service. These are folks that have gone above and beyond that of which is required as part of their duties. They have demonstrated outstanding judgment and commitment. For the Medal of Merit this evening, we would like to recognize Master Detective Urie and Master Detective Barnes.

[01:16:19] Detective Urie is not with us this evening, and I am honored to accept the award on his behalf. stage, the following investigation began in November 2025 and recently concluded in 2026. Throughout this investigation, Master Detectives Urie and Barnes demonstrated exceptional professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of a juvenile in crisis. Through patience and empathy, they developed a trusting relationship with the juvenile, a bond that proved critical in maintaining ongoing communication, providing

[01:16:57] reassurance and guiding the juvenile towards safety and support their efforts extended beyond again normal expectations with sound judgment genuine care they remain steadfast in the commitment to protecting a vulnerable member of our community most notably their actions directly contributed to a critical intervention that prevented serious harm and ensured that you and i was brought to safety in recognition of their in recognition of their exceptional service in the protection of a vulnerable juvenile during what was a prolonged and highly sensitive

[01:17:36] investigation both detective yuri and detective barnes are being awarded with medal mayor this evening congratulations next up we're going to introduce two of our new officers if we could ask officer dallas neely and officer dion eddie to come up these are two of our newest hires mayor you just said we were at 103 we were at 101 until last week all right these two gentlemen

[01:18:12] joined us we want to get them as usual in front of you in front of our community so they can get to know you and they can get to know you and you can get to know them officer dallas neely came to us with five years experience and officer dion edie came to us with 15 years experience it's important to understand they could choose any department in northern virginia to go work for they chose Manassas City. It was a prolonged background process because not only did they choose us, we also do policing differently here in Manassas, as you know.

[01:18:45] We chose them. They were also recruited, I think this is very important, because it shows you and our community the type of organization that we're trying to build. They were recruited by some of the officers within our own police department. They're going out and finding members and other agencies that they believe are a good fit for us these two gentlemen or two last week they heard from me I'm gonna repeat those words to them tonight what you do matters how you do it matters as you just heard and more importantly each of you matter to us

[01:19:21] what you do every day you're now part of the family you can't get out it's like being in a game you're part of the family every family reunion we're gonna be there we're there for you every day it is hard work we expect a lot from you but we are confident that you're going to be a right fit for us congratulations gentlemen and we ask captain Brooks or who's doing it captain Hyde's going to come up and do the

[01:19:52] recognition of the leadership award to lieutenant Lance good evening madam mayor council mr. Burke tonight's my honor to present to you the latest graduate of the professional executive leadership school or PELS which is in partnership with the University of Richmond and is sponsored by the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police.

[01:20:15] PELS is an intensive leadership school aimed at giving leaders a space to sit back and introspectively look at how they lead, confer with other peers, senior leaders at their own ranks across the Commonwealth, come back with fresh ideas, new perspectives, a broad perspective on how to lead a modern police department.

[01:20:35] So it is my honor to present to you our latest graduate of PELS Session 59, Lieutenant Lance Rust, a proven leader at our agency. Just a few words for the lieutenant as well. It's committed members like him that are helping build this organization and makes it a good place for some of these certified officers to come work at. Lance, thank you very much for your commitment and your ongoing support.

[01:21:10] Next up, we're going to recognize our newest promotion, if we can get Lieutenant Rollins to come up. Lieutenant Rollins is one of our newest promotees.

[01:21:26] He has been promoted from sergeant to lieutenant. You may recognize him as Sergeant Rollins when he was doing the recruitment and training supervisor. He is part of the reason these two new officers came on board. He was the recruitment officer when they were hired.

[01:21:43] Shortly thereafter, he was promoted to lieutenant. Lieutenant Rollins has 15 years experience with us. You may recognize the last name Rollins. It has deep roots here in western Prince William County, specifically in the Nooksville area.

[01:21:59] His family is some of the original farmers in that area. So he is tied to the community, committed to the city of Manassas, and time and time again he has proven that he is willing to put in the work to be promoted. He wants to be part of the future, continue his education.

[01:22:15] you graduate with your nba or npa this saturday again as each of you know anybody that's been to school as an adult trying to raise a family it's not easy it takes commitment he has done that and again proven that he wants to be part of the leadership here in the future lieutenant do you

[01:22:36] have any family members here tonight you'd like to recognize and introduce thank you lieutenant

[01:23:30] we want to congratulate you on your promotion to the family thank you for sharing him with us we know it's a big commitment missed holidays missed birthdays missed mother's day i'm not sure you will forgive me for that one but he did get a pay raise with the promotion so maybe that'll make up for it maybe lieutenant congratulations thank you for being part of the commitment into leading this agency into the future thank you mayor we made it quick if we could get 10

[01:24:04] minutes for you to mingle with some of the new staff and the promotees and spend some time with

[01:24:11] their families ten minutes thank you ten minute recess thank you next on the agenda is item two

[01:24:46] is our public comment um section of the agenda let me bring up sorry my little spiel to make before that stop being prepared at this time we welcome residents and community members who wish to speak about services policies and affairs of the city of manassas anyone who has not requested additional time four days prior to this meeting from the city manager we have a timer and your comments will be limited to three minutes we appreciate the time you have taken to be here a reminder that council does not engage in back and forth conversation with speakers during this time the lack of an

[01:25:25] immediate response to your comments should not be taken as a lack of interest or concern as we have staff present taking notes and we will respond to your concern in a timely manner when you approach the podium please give us your name and we would appreciate it if you would state if you are a city resident and you may provide your address if you so desire it is not required we ask that you please be respectful when presenting your comments to not only council members but to those residents and community members who are also present with that i do have a sign-up sheet here and i will call off the names and even if you didn't sign up you will

[01:26:01] will still have an opportunity to speak the only person i have signed up is mr monty zimmerman oh okay welcome sir thank you for being here yes ma'am madam mayor and city council hello i'm monty zimmerman a city resident and a george mason phd candidate in environmental science concerning heavy metals in surface water.

[01:26:26] First, I'd like to say thank you for having the Veterans Resource Fair. I will be there representing the George Mason students, the military students, and the VFW post of the city. So anyway, I'd like to thank and commend the way the city of Manassas helps us with our water through our utility system.

[01:26:50] I think that the utility system does a great job. I've had the opportunity to speak with several employees about fees tied to our electric bill and believe we have reasonable cost for our electricity at this time. I am concerned about the future concerning data center impacts on our life in Manassas.

[01:27:12] Data centers use two resources at a rate that will impact us in the future: electricity and water. We are about to be hit with a Dominion Energy price hike. The place to watch on individual bills is the line item called power cost adjustment.

[01:27:32] I worry that we'll see a cost increase for electricity use that has nothing to do with our residential use throughout the Commonwealth beyond just what we do in the city. Likewise, on Saturday, a news article in Political just stated that a data center drained 30 million dollars, 30 million gallons of water unnoticed in the Atlanta area until residents complained about water, low water pressure. Two illegal industrial water hookups went to a data center

[01:28:05] 20 miles away from a reservoir, and the impact was that they charged the data center for their prior illegal use, and then they told the residents to conserve water because now there's not enough water for them to water their lawns and take care of their non-drinking needs so we need to stay vigilant and I'd like to help if there's anything that I can do as a PhD student working on water so thank you very much for letting me speak thank you sir thank you for being here and we have your contact info thank you anyone else that wishes to speak for a public

[01:28:44] comment time come on you just give us your name and if you're a city resident Good evening, Madam Mayor and City Council. I'm not a public speaker, so I'm going to try my best.

[01:29:00] Pull the microphone down a little bit so we can hear you. My name is Karen Kennedy. I live right outside of Old Town on Windsor Avenue in Manassas, and I am just here to voice my concerns regarding First Friday, not the event that occurs at 6 p.m. when they close the streets, but later in the evening.

[01:29:21] So as a retired school teacher from the city of Manassas and a current substitute teacher in the city of Manassas, I love going to the events. I think they're wonderful. They support the businesses in the city, and families seem to enjoy them.

[01:29:39] Later in the evening, I feel it gets very unsafe, and that if there's a way to increase the police presence um i would be much more feel much more safe i go to these events sometimes by myself to enjoy the music at the different venues but i have come to take an uber because i don't feel safe walking after a certain hour so and the kudos were to the manassas ballet for providing

[01:30:14] the events for the city of Manassas public school children which I got to go to many times as a teacher of second grade and that would be their only opportunity to enjoy a ballet even if it were just in little blips. So those are my comments and thank you for your time. Thank you Ms. Kennedy. Anyone else who wishes to address council for public comment time? Good evening Janet Plevniak and I live in the city of Manassas.

[01:30:53] I am going to read Zach Murphy's email that he sent to the mayor and city council earlier today. Dear Mayor, City Manager, Chief Keene, and members of city council, I write to highlight ongoing concerns regarding zoning enforcement, property overcrowding, and economic development incentives in our city.

[01:31:14] These issues affect public safety, neighborhood stability, and our trust in local governance. One, vehicle sticker program. The city's parking decal program has been an essential tool for linking vehicles to specific properties, helping identify multifamily occupancy or illegal boarding. Eliminating the sticker removes a critical enforcement mechanism. I respectfully request that the city retain the requirement while waiving the fee, preserving oversight without imposing a financial burden on residents.

[01:31:50] Two, overcrowding and zoning enforcement observations across multiple neighborhoods show recurring patterns of potential zoning violations. Fully paved backyards, curbs cut out for rear access, and unpermitted dwelling conversions.

[01:32:08] While police department and zoning coordination has yielded positive results, enforcement remains inconsistent citywide. A formal transparent strategy is needed to ensure all properties are held to the same standards, supporting fire safety, emergency access, sanitation, and neighborhood stability.

[01:32:32] Three, economic incentives and accountability. Micron has received $50 million in incentives while generating record profits. yet tangible benefits for residents, lower taxes, improved roads, safer streets, and better schools are unclear.

[01:32:49] I request a full accounting of net revenues received from Micron after public investment, expected timeline for measurable benefits to residents, justification for the scale of the incentive relative to community returns, Number four, next steps, residents deserve transparency and actionable enforcement measures.

[01:33:15] I urge the city to maintain vehicle stickers, fee waived, as a compliance tool, implement a citywide plan for addressing overcrowded and multifamily properties, zoning and enforcement workshop, provide a public report detailing incentive programs, expected benefits, and timelines. Ensure consistent, equitable enforcement across all neighborhoods. Economic development and public resources should prioritize residents first. Without clear accountability, families bear rising costs while corporate beneficiaries accrue gains. I respectfully request a written

[01:33:54] response detailing how the city will maintain enforcement tools, address overcrowding, and Ensure economic incentives produce measurable benefits for residents. Sincerely, Zach Murphy, Main Street resident. And he also had three or four other people that were involved in finding out this information.

[01:34:14] And you said that was emailed? That was emailed to everyone. Okay, so we all got it. Thank you, Ms. Plattman. Anyone else who wished to come forward for public comment? Hello, Mary.

[01:34:32] City of Manassas since 2009. Here again, as I was last time, to discuss this budget, I see an increase here of 22%. I don't know any business that can increase 22% and still retain customers.

[01:34:48] You guys are trying to push us out. You're doing what the government is doing everywhere and pushing the blue-collar people out. People cannot afford to continue to live here. We've been here our entire lives, and we're having to look at selling our homes. Do you guys not understand this?

[01:35:04] We are all hurting. Everybody, this whole country is hurting right now, and we're increasing our budget by 22%. That's insane to me. Businesses can't do that. I don't know how we intend to do that or how we feel that it's okay to continue to do something like that.

[01:35:22] The utilities here, we're saying, are going up. The data center's not even open yet. They're going to go way higher than $20 a month for us. I don't know where you expect us to grab that from. You're taking it from me for my real estate tax. You know, that little bit of bonus that I got? You guys took it all.

[01:35:37] this year and last year. Every single year my taxes go up and I get a shortage on my real estate. What's going on? When is this going to stop? When is enough enough? Stop stealing from us because that's what you're doing. You're taking from the hard working people that the city built on. You built it on our backs. We've been here putting money in for years and years and years and you're just bleeding us dry like the rest of the government. You should all be ashamed of yourselves, and I will be lobbying against every single one of you if this continues to go through.

[01:36:09] It looks like it's going to, and I respectfully ask that you take some more time to discuss this budget amongst yourselves, and think about the people before you implement this. People are selling their homes. People are taking their kids out of sports because they can't afford AAU anymore. People are not sending their kids to college because they can't afford it. They can't afford their room and board it to feed the rest of their family. You guys really need to think about the Manassas residents. It's not about you. This isn't a profitable thing. The city's not supposed to be making a profit. You're supposed to be working for us, and we cannot survive right now. We need you

[01:36:40] to back your residents, not you. Anyone else? Anyone else to come forward? Good evening, Mayor and members of council. Colin Turner, Manassas City resident. I wanted to briefly speak tonight about the next few days and encourage public engagement around the future of the old Bennett School and the judicial campus. First, I want to encourage residents to attend the Prince William County Board of Supervisors meeting tomorrow, May 12th, at either 2 p.m. or 7 p.m.,

[01:37:18] Public comment will help shape the conversation moving forward. The judicial campus may be owned by the county, but it sits in the city of Manassas and serves the broader region, including the city of Manassas and Manassas Park, and that's why these conversations matter. I also wanna remind everyone that the joint inter-jurisdictional ad hoc meeting is taking place on May 13th, later this week.

[01:37:41] I know many residents are interested in following that discussion and hearing how the different jurisdictions are approaching the future of the judicial campus and the Old Bennett School site. And lastly, I wanted to share some exciting news. On May 20th, Preservation Virginia representatives will be in the city of Manassas for a special announcement related to the Old Bennett School.

[01:38:00] Preservation Virginia is one of the leading historic preservation organizations in the Commonwealth and their involvement brings important statewide attention to this conversation. We'll be gathering outside the Manassas Museum for an event on the plaza, and I'd like to invite city council, staff, local boards, and the public to attend.

[01:38:19] More information will be shared, including an event on Facebook soon. The Bennett School is more than just a building. It tells part of the story of education, growth and civic life in our community for over a century. The building has already been recognized by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources as eligible for the Virginia Landmarks Register and National Register of Historic Places.

[01:38:42] I'm hopeful that over the next few weeks continue moving forward. Conversation will move towards collaboration, transparency and thoughtful planning for the future of the site, thank you. - Thank you, anyone else to come forward?

[01:39:04] - Hi, thank you for listening to our comments. Just in general, having just saw the roundabout announcement, I don't know what more our citizenry can do to bring it to your attention.

[01:39:26] I believe in majority roles and when I was at the last meeting or two, many years ago now, about this roundabout potential. I didn't hear five people that said, yay. Everybody had a reason that this was not going to be correct for us and our citizenry.

[01:39:48] I am getting terribly disappointed in bothering to even come and make myself known along with what I know other people are feeling. And then just turn around. And finding an excuse after an excuse to say, well, everybody voted for us. Everybody wanted this. No, everybody is a misterm for us.

[01:40:20] Not everybody wants it. And if you look at the majority of what people really want, take a poll, referendums, I don't care how you do it, you will find that the majority of some of the things recently that have been adopted are not appropriate or wanted by the main amount of citizens here. And it's becoming the fact that you're laughing in our faces. And it is very disappointing, for one. And I don't think it's a good look for our citizenry. I don't think it's a

[01:41:00] good look for our town we have been here I have been here all over 40 years now and this is never happened like it's happened every time you turn around somebody is buying something and it's sitting somebody is promising us oh well if we do this affording house afforded housing thing right costs us money yes but we'll get it back and and all that now all of a sudden there's been changes with that. When the airport thing came up, nobody said there'd even be a concern

[01:41:36] about changing our name, and it has been done. And now you come up with asking us for more money every single month to turn around and use money in ways that we don't have a say in. That's not government. That is not true government. That is ramrodding, that is railroading, and that is making profits by somebody somehow other than the people who are paying for it.

[01:42:12] And I've got to tell you, it's sad. I don't have a problem with real estate assessments going up. I don't have a problem with having to charge me more to turn on a water spigot or to flip a switch and get more electricity.

[01:42:30] I do have a problem with if there is going to be money made, where it's going. and to turn around and level buildings and buy buildings just to have them sit for years and years and years and years, just like the Mathis Avenue thing.

[01:42:49] Okay, great, Mathis Avenue. We'll get somebody in here, and we're going to give our opinion on how we think it should look. We have no opinion anyway. It doesn't matter what we say. They're going to do what they're going to do, whoever purchases this.

[01:43:05] And I've got to tell you, we don't even know if it's only going to be one person. It very well could be two or three people. We could have four different kinds of ways that this is going to look. Then you want to reduce a street, and then you want to add a roundabout. I'd like to know what engineering school everybody went to, because it's not one that I can imagine.

[01:43:29] Thank you, Ms. Brady. Anyone else to come forward? Hi, my name is Angelica Zacatellis, and I'm a City Manassas resident. And I just want to just – I was here a few weeks ago about the budget for the real estate tax, and I just want to reiterate, like, my opinion about it and how I strongly encourage that you guys bring down the tax rate because our taxes have been going up for – I've been living here about 15 years now.

[01:44:00] And, I mean, the past five years have been pretty incredible on how much has gone up. And I'm just looking – asking you guys just to decrease it even more now. I know it's going down two cents, but it's not affecting the amount of how much I'm paying at the end of the month.

[01:44:19] I'm still paying more than I did, you know, even 10 years ago. So I just wanted to let you guys know that as well. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else to come forward? Hello, Mayor and Council.

[01:44:37] Lynn Forkel-Green here, Monassau City resident. Yeah. I feel so badly because I just hear myself nine years ago standing up here asking you guys to pay attention to what was going on, and I remember in my mind I can see Ken Elston sitting right here saying, we have to raise the taxes to not raise the taxes, and you can find that quote on the internet verbatim.

[01:45:03] We have to raise the taxes to not keep raising the taxes, and you haven't stopped raising the taxes. And we can manipulate the conversation by saying we're reducing the tax rate, But when the assessments continue to go up, you're still taking from us. And so the reality is there is a contingency fund that is overinflated.

[01:45:23] Government should not be making money, okay? You should not be a for-profit business. So you can look at your contingency fund. I'm sure your finance manager or director will let you know that that is an okay place to look at. So I encourage you to look there for another penny to help people out.

[01:45:42] It is just kind of exhausting to continue to beg the people who asked to represent us to represent us. Represent us. We're your biggest stakeholders. I'm all for the businesses. I'm all for all the things.

[01:45:58] But we are the people. We're the heart of the city. You all represent us. And we're asking you to hear what we have to say. And all of you, maybe not Ashley, but every single other one of you has had some kind of conversation about aging in place, Being able to afford living here as a senior or retire, and what you are doing is preventing that from even happening.

[01:46:26] And that's just disappointing because I thought every single one of you, probably Ashley does, but she's new, wanted that. That was a theme we talked about for many years. We talked about affordable housing. Now it's attainable housing. So it's not that it's affordable. It's just that you can get it here cheaper than you can in Arlington, so we feel good about ourselves.

[01:46:45] But all the utility increases, all of the assessment, real estate hikes, all of these things have now come to a head. We don't have three or four more years to wait. We need some relief now. You have the ability to do it. You have the tools at your disposal to do it. And I'm asking for you to please consider doing that this round.

[01:47:04] It's necessary. It's just, it is absolutely time. You've made all the other decisions. Make this one. Finally, I just want to say I really appreciate Ashley getting back to me and Ms. Cote-Dallas getting back to me. And Mayor, I really do appreciate what you've been doing with the public comment time and the safety portion of making sure we just have to say that we're a citizen.

[01:47:25] And I did send an email about making sure we could do that across all boards and committees, 'cause I think it's really important. And then if you could please continue to look into making sure all public hearings are recorded by video, that would be great. Thank you so much. - Thank you.

[01:47:46] - Good evening. Thanks, Tim Blatniak, we all know each other. It's two years now that my wife and I have been coming to these meetings. And what brought us here originally was the price we paid for the Old Town Inn. All the real estate that's been purchased over the last two years has been over market value.

[01:48:05] And you say it's to make sure that we have a foundation for the future of the city. Okay, that's great. And then I was asking, you're taking our money. And then you're telling us, no, we use COVID money, we use found money, whatever that is, or one-time money, whatever that is.

[01:48:23] I understand there's different funds that most of the citizens don't really know, you know, unless you have a little more conversation with you. Last year, during the budget, I was sitting in one of the budget meetings, and the reserve funds for our utilities were all low.

[01:48:42] And talking about raising the rates for utilities over the next five years to replenish that reserve fund. Why couldn't we use that one-time money or COVID money to do that rather than buy this real estate? I mean, that would strengthen this city.

[01:49:00] I've always felt the strength of the city was our utilities and how well they've been maintained. And I've always bragged about my utilities here, but I can't brag about it now because it's costing me too much. So I think, you know, right now, it's a little too late to change that, but we don't need a roundabout right now.

[01:49:25] I don't know. Have we done a traffic study to tell us we need a roundabout, or are we just putting a roundabout because we like roundabouts? I don't know. It's probably on the website. You say, go to the website. It's a very hard website to go through if you're really looking for things.

[01:49:43] We don't need it right now. Wait for our data centers to come up online and we get a little more. The money you have set aside for that roundabout, save it, and if an emergency comes up, like Lynn said, There are funds that you can get into right now.

[01:50:04] I don't think you should vote for this budget as it is. You can still drop our rates a little more. Do something for the citizens. Ray Brady said she's tired of coming here. She feels like you're not listening. Look at this room. People don't think you're listening, so they don't show up.

[01:50:21] In a year from now, three of you won't be sitting here as counsel. So do you not care? Do you want to leave a legacy? One of you should stand up and say, let's not do it this way let's listen to the people listen to these people they're yelling they're very passionate they feel like they need to be heard we've been standing here for two years telling you you need you need transparency people need to know what's going on i'm asking you to not vote yes on this budget go back find a break for the citizens please thank you

[01:50:57] anyone else some of you i know very well jane jones i'm from grant avenue and i've lived here since 1978. I've seen much change. As a matter of fact, the gazebo where the fundraiser was held at my house was just torn down for a new one. People worked together. Private funds were used

[01:51:32] to build public spaces. Many people, many hands came together. What we have now is a conflict of words. So you can see one thing that's happening very positive at Osborne High School, and I want to point to it. You see that the performing arts are bringing students out as well as sports. That raises interest in education. I am a 35-year veteran teacher retired, and one

[01:52:06] thing I found is that by having students perform, they got interested in education. But it is only that the students driving education and the public driving what goes on in the city that you come to some sort of agreement and you start having what is a head-butting kind of contest. Some things have to change. Some things have to improve. We have to make really difficult choices. And what I'm hearing tonight is that very difficult thing going on. And it's the kind of debate that used to happen

[01:52:43] free-flowing in my classroom almost on a daily basis. One time they almost came to blows in my classroom over music whether there should be emo music emo music I believe it was called or another type of music more heavy metal you wouldn't believe the kind of fisticuffs but eventually they settled down and agreed that some of this could go on and some of this could go on and that's the way I feel about it here is that we have to make compromises in the budget we have

[01:53:18] to make compromises about the roundabout, I visualize what will happen. And that's where I want to take everybody for just a second. Visualize the roundabout. Visualize trying to pull out of that CVS. That's what I've been doing lately. The roundabout is in place and I'm trying to come out and traffic is flowing the whole time. I will not be able to get out of the CVS. I'll be stuck in CVS in perpetuity, trying to get out after I had picked up my medication. Can you imagine for just

[01:53:53] a second? I shop at the Food Lion all the time. I'll be trying to get out of the Food Lion in perpetuity. So this is a thing I think about, imagination. So imagine what happens once a project is completed. We've got the fine arts piece going on beautifully. We've got the Harris pavilion being used beautifully. So I want to celebrate what we're doing that's good. And I want to think about what we're proposing to do that we might want to back away from. And I want to ask the council to be really sensitive to that in a positive way. What can we leave alone? What

[01:54:31] can we move forward on to help our citizens survive? We're going to stay in our house. I'm 76. My husband's 83. That's a lot of staying in the house. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else?

[01:54:49] to come forward. Mr. DeMaria, I'm sorry I did not recognize you at the beginning of the meeting. Commissioner of the Revenue. You know, because you don't. Tim DeMaria, 8529 Burlington Court, City of Manassas. I'll be celebrating my 50th year in the City of Manassas come July.

[01:55:12] Keep going. I want to thank you all for the work you've done on the budget. It's not easy, and I just appreciate that. And there's so many positive things in this city that I'd like to speak about, but I'm not going to do all of that. The folks that you recognize tonight, it's just wonderful what we do in this city, and I want to let you know that I appreciate you and I appreciate them.

[01:55:36] What I really wanted to speak about was the camp out. Look up. And I live right there, and I walk my dogs all the time. And one day there's nothing going on there.

[01:55:51] The next day there's 100 people there with all of these tents and events and vehicles and all this stuff all over Liberia. The next day, not right away because, you know, Ms. Ellis was still sleeping, but when I walked the dogs, I walked down to Public Works and came back, and then in the afternoon I walked back over there again, walked the dogs again.

[01:56:16] The only sign that anybody was there were lines of trash cans neatly lined up in the circle. Besides that, you never knew anybody was there. And I just want to commend the people that spent the night, people that started this whole thing that that's what's great just one of the great things in this city is that we can have that sort of event 100 people in a field and no trace of them the next day it was great and I'm a zealous and everybody that that presented that it was it was done very well and I appreciate

[01:56:50] that mr. Burke you know and I don't ever say mrs. mayor and mr. vice mayor and Mr. Burke when I start so sorry about that you didn't mention the Friday did you our bicycles it's bicycle to work day on Friday Ashley did I believe oh did she I think yeah in her comments not about Friday though it's Thursday it's Thursday it's Thursday it's Friday I don't know

[01:57:23] the day that we're riding is Thursday you sure it's the 15th isn't it we're gonna need to check on that. Anyway, whichever day it is, we're going to meet at Dean at the Boys and Girls Club and ride from there to the depot. So at 8 o'clock, is that what time we meet? Because he's looking it up now. I knew it was 8 o'clock and I'm pretty positive it was Thursday. I'm pretty sure it was Friday. Okay. And I've still got time. You're right. I apologize.

[01:57:57] Thank you. So Friday, everybody, if you've got a bike, you coming? You coming? Friday, uh eight o'clock we'll be right longest 30 seconds now my time is up thank you ma'am anyone else anyone else okay if not we will move on to the next item on the agenda thank you all for your comments tonight um next on the agenda is the consent agenda i'll call on vice mayor wolf for

[01:58:27] that motion we had a motion by vice mayor wolf seconded by councilwoman vasquez luna to approve our consent agenda any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member vasquez luna council member ellis council member smith yes council member osina yes council member hudson yes motion carried thank you so much for that that moves us forward to item four ordinances and resolution item 4.1 is resolution number r

[01:59:04] 2026-964 appointment of city attorney ms hicks is here to help us with that madam mayor members of council uh for your consideration is a resolution appointing robert dawson as city attorney effective june 15th 2026 to serve at the pleasure of council great thank you so much for that is there a motion my mayor i move to approve the resolution i'm sorry uh resolution now 20 20 26 964 appointing a city attorney for the motion by councilwoman vasquez luna seconded by councilwoman

[01:59:43] ellis to approve resolution number r 2026-964 appointment of city attorney any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll council member vasquez luna yes council member ellis vice mayor wolf yes council member smith yes council member osina yes council member hudson yes motion carries okay thank you so much for thank you for being here darla the next few items are for the budget and miss bergeron is going to come forward item 4.2 we will vote on each item separately but i'll ask her to stay at the podium for any questions or discussion 4.2

[02:00:21] uncodified ordinance number o 2026-966 setting the tax year 2027 real estate tax rates to support the fiscal year 2027 budget hello hi thank you madam mayor members of council we have i think it's a total of nine ordinances and resolutions coming up that we will take action on tonight they're necessary for the operation and administration of the city for fiscal year

[02:00:51] 2027 which begins on july 1st of 2026 they include tax rates utility rates other rates the budget the cip and everything that's needed for fyi 2027 and i stand ready to answer any questions on all of them one of them or any way you please thank you the first one is the real estate tax rate so any questions from mr. Bergeron on that at all madam mayor move adoption of ordinance 2026-966 second we have a motion by vice mayor wolf seconded by councilman Smith to approve ordinance

[02:01:29] number oh 2026 966 setting the tax year 2027 real estate tax rates any discussion. Ms. Ellis. Thank you, Mayor. This would be the real estate tax rate to set it at 1.24, correct? Correct. Last budget cycle is at 1.26, and the advertised and the manager proposed tax rate was 1.24. To adjust that tax rate, every penny is $850,000. So during our budget process,

[02:02:08] We did review for weeks, months, how we could get it down to be more affordable to our city residents. The assessments did go up. That is what really is impacting the bills, because the rate goes down, assessment goes up, bills are going to go up.

[02:02:32] To get to a flat tax bill, no increases whatsoever, would be $1.18. cents. So that's another six cents decreased, which is $5,100,000. I'm just going over the numbers just to give a summary to people that are listening. I know for me, I did not vote for some of the things that happened with the money that our residents are giving the city. One is the

[02:03:08] good housing project, which was $3 million, which could have helped to go towards a $5,100,000 drop in our tax rate. There's different buckets for different things. That's where things get a little mixed up and confusing, but that basically was coming from capital reserves. So reserves are savings. It's already voted upon. I did not vote for that. It is a for-profit company. It's moving forward. I heard there's a couple missed deadlines, but I just talked to economic development. They

[02:03:47] said that's not true so we'll see what's going on there as time goes on but when we're starting to put money into projects are for affordable housing and then we raise your tax bill it makes no sense because that is basically affecting the people that are struggling the most in our city people that are renting their rent is going to go up because the tax bill is going to go up for the owner of that that building or that apartment or that house so to me it

[02:04:22] just doesn't make any sense the roundabout you know we need to take a look at that I agree moving forward we should get more revenue from the data centers with the real estate and also the property the machine and tool tax right now we have not received any additional money and there is a dispute with the brick yard data centers assessment so a lot's going on I did not

[02:04:57] vote for this. I'm not going to vote for this $1.24. I see how this is impacting our residents. I am listening to you, and I do appreciate you all coming up and speaking and staying on with this and emailing and posting on social media. I am listening to you, and I'm trying to do the best I can to try to help. The utility tax is next, and I'll get to that later, but it does kind of roll into this because even as we talk about giving tax relief for your car decal which to me is a tax

[02:05:32] it's a fee but it's a tax in my opinion that's a million dollars but when you have dominion opposing a 250 percent increase that we cannot even dispute it just keeps going up and up you know residents are going to have to really start looking at their utility usage honestly it's a usage tax, but you know, some people can't. Businesses can't. So I'll talk more about that later, but I do not support this. I am listening to you. Thank you. Thank you, Ms. Elves. Any other

[02:06:10] discussion? Ms. Vasquez, Luna? Thank you, Madam Mayor. Just to highlight a couple of things. I mean, I believe, you know, through the process, we all were trying to find a way to not only lower the tax, but, you know, I'm thankful for everybody who sent emails, did phone calls, or provided input through the process, which is very important. I want to highlight a couple of things. I believe

[02:06:42] in the last four years, we have been not only trying to attract the best employees to work here, And we did have a new hire today, our future city attorney. But also part of that is not only have competitive salaries for the employees, but also, you know, this budget, we were looking at the health insurance rates increase, and it was, you know, super significant.

[02:07:12] I was trying to lower for another penny, but I do, you know, it is difficult, but I do understand, you know, on the parts that we have to do.

[02:07:28] And the boat is no, there were no listening. You know, we are listening, and we have to do a due diligence to do what's best for the city. Part of it was very important to me when staff recommended that they couldn't, if we were any lower, they couldn't assure that the tax will not have to be increased.

[02:07:54] And as much as I want to lower the tax rate more, I would not agree to any increases in the future. So there's a lot of things that come into place in making the decisions. You will see six full-time employees in this budget, but at the same time, many of them are offset by expenses that we already have, so it's just changing, and I believe it will be more effective, especially the one for the assistant to city attorney.

[02:08:28] The app force is also doing one, so I just want to highlight those things. You know, I do know it's a difficult time, so we have to continue working on not only retaining the best, attracting, and making sure that we take care of all the employees.

[02:08:46] But also, if we look at the percentage of the increases in different places, it has been flat for some departments, or it has been steady. I wanted, like in the prior session, I wanted to look also for more for the schools.

[02:09:08] We have all been worried about social services and many things, and I believe, you know, we are pressured by things happening at the federal level. We still don't have a budget at the state level, and all those things influence the decision and concern us, because after we take the vote tonight, you know, we won't be able to change it.

[02:09:29] So, I am ready to do this. know what I have planned to do but I do understand why many of you have you know made your decision and I hope that we find other ways to to continue to reduce it in the future thank you any other discussion points it's Hudson yeah thank you just echoing a couple of the points that Councilman Vasquez Luna made I too am listening and was looking at the possibility to reduce by another cent but was you know you reduce the cent you

[02:10:08] raise it again next year you you go back and forth but I was encouraged by our professional finance team who suggested that if we can if we we have lowered it two cents and that we can hopefully keep it there next year by doing that this year so I think that that's fiscal responsibility and I tend to trust our finance department so i thank you for that thank you any other comments discussion yeah and i do appreciate our last uh work session um that we had ashley and um councilwoman hudson and councilwoman

[02:10:49] um sonia vasquez luna that we're also they were rallying to reduce it even more um i was really surprised that they they did not agree to that because we do have the contingency fund of 1.2 million, which is basically an extra fund in our reserves. That would have brought it down to at least a penny. I understand it might go up again. If we put it down now, it might go up again, but we're talking about right now. You know, right now, how can we help, especially with this

[02:11:23] dominion power that does basically affect, you know, what's coming out of their own paycheck, their family's income, that 250% could be adjusted. We've seen it adjusted in the past.

[02:11:40] It was like up and then went down, and it just depends. They're blaming it on a fuel charge right now, but I'm not sure if that's really, that doesn't make any sense to me. But I think that this is going across, believe it or not, party lines.

[02:12:00] I don't see a lot of people in here saying, yes, this is good. I hear everyone saying, no, this is not good. So I think it was Mary that spoke when she said, back your residents. I think we should give them a penny.

[02:12:19] I mean, you know, I would love to go down six cents, but I know that that is going to be very difficult. It's going to take a lot of planning next year. I'm hoping that we commit to next year giving our residents a break as the data center revenue starts coming in.

[02:12:37] I know that adjusts year to year. I understand that, but so does the tax rate. So, you know, we can still bring it down a penny. And I would love to see it go down a penny just for the sake of our residents. Thank you. Thank you.

[02:12:53] Any other points? Mr. Luceno. Well, just briefly here, you know, I know there are residents who believe we should reduce the tax burden. And we also have residents who think we should be spending more, particularly on our schools that we hear from along the way here.

[02:13:15] I'll be honest, like what I'm hearing from several of you at our work sessions, this isn't the exact budget I would have written on my own, but it is the one that we're at. And so I look at this and I say, you know, budget is providing funding for our city departments, our schools, or when I say our city departments, primarily our personnel.

[02:13:43] One of the criticisms that have been expressed is about turnover in city staff. And as we've heard with the police recognition about getting officers to come here, as well as to stay with us along the way is an important thing, and pay is an important part of that.

[02:14:07] Budget also provides funds for local funding to social services. That, unfortunately, is due to the fact that we have to do that. We're required by the state to be able to do that, to not be able, but to do that.

[02:14:27] We don't have a choice in that, Matt, for that funding along the way. It also provides funding for a fully staffed engine 501. That has been, over the years, one of the criticisms, that 501 isn't fully staffed 24-7.

[02:14:49] And so this budget finally gets us to that point along the way. And then, of course, as you've heard and mentioned, it eliminates the car circuit rate along the way. So I weigh all these things here and say, you know, with the contingency fund, as we, you know, we discussed how to use it, if I understand correctly, Ms. Bergeron, the 1.2 is what is in the contingency fund, but part of that is being held in reserve as well. Is that correct?

[02:15:27] It's being set aside for unknowns in the budget, correct? Correct. But I mean for the appeal of the assessment of Brickyard Dental Center. is that correct yes sir because we don't know how that that will go is that correct that's correct all right so we have to have money to to pay that that sort of thing otherwise we'd be trying to figure out what we would where we would come up with that that money with that in mind i i think

[02:16:05] this budget as i said is not the one i would have written doesn't necessarily reflect the far ires that i would have all the way through but it is you know based on being elected and you have a of representative government here where we're asked to do the best of listening to all our residents, those who come to public hearings, those who come to council meetings, those who talk to us, those who write us along the way, those that we see, share their thoughts along the way.

[02:16:39] And so I do want to make sure that we continue to fund the city as best we can. So I'll be voted for it. Any other comments? Mr. Smith? I just want to ask you a question. Okay. Thank you, Ms. Bergeron. Can you give me perhaps an elevated answer with regard to the contingency fund if we were to use it immediately tonight?

[02:17:04] Or even, in fact, if we have an emergency, what happens to a city who has little or no contingency funds longer term? But the longer term meaning within the next 12 months, not down the line.

[02:17:21] I just want to emphasize the importance of being physically responsible with regard to the contingency fund. It's not a slush fund for us. No, it's not a slush fund. It helps to ensure that the $1.24 does not need to be raised next year.

[02:17:44] So if one of those issues comes to fruition, like more cuts from the federal government, more funding needed for social services, or the appeal on one of the data centers, and we don't end up getting that revenue, we would have that money set aside and reserved so that it is already built into the budget and can handle those issues for the next year, helping to keep the $1.24 tax rate for, we believe, a few more years, foreseeable future.

[02:18:19] And does it have any impact on our bond rating, potentially, if we reduce a have-no contingency fund? No. If you didn't have contingency fund and any of these issues came up, you would have to start tapping into your reserve funds, which major draws on those.

[02:18:40] At some point do impact your bond rating, yes. But I can't say exactly what level that would occur. Right. I mean, it's like insurance. Yeah. Thank you. I just want to put some of that in perspective that we have to be physically responsible for the city's health as well as the residents' well-being and safety.

[02:19:05] Thank you. Any other comments? Ms. Ellis? Just to talk more about the reserves. So we have $33 million in reserves right now, right? Correct. Okay. Yeah.

[02:19:21] Yeah. So we have 33 million, which is 20 percent Yeah, we require well we we would like a 15 percent. So we are already five percent above that Threshold I do understand about keeping the reserves at a level that will not affect our triple-A bond rating But the 1.2 1.2 million in the contingency fund will not affect our bond rating if we use that We do have excess in our reserves if we do need to use some funds for the assessment on the data centers

[02:19:59] or some of the other things that you mentioned. That's why the one penny is the least that we can do by using that contingency fund money. And I also want to say something about the assessment on the data center.

[02:20:18] So we have to remember this. They're starting to challenge what we're asking them to pay. That's something we really gotta remember as we go forward Because there's three coming on Dean, there's one at the airport, and there could be a couple others coming where they already have a buy rate zoning.

[02:20:40] So, as people talk about data centers being the golden thing, you know, making so much money, they're going to get the power to challenge the assessments, the rates. And then we're going to really have to struggle with trying to figure out a budget.

[02:20:58] So, just taking that into account. I don't see an issue using the contingency fund. I would like to do a substitute motion. is that possible for a dollar 23 tax rate for real estate is there a second for that putting it out there thank you thank you okay thank you ms ellis are you done ma'am i am thank you i am done okay

[02:21:25] thank you any other points of discussion on this motion mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member smith yes council member ellis council member osina yes council member vasquez luna yes council member hudson yes the motion carried okay thank you for that that moves us forward to item 4.3 uncodified ordinance number 0 2026-967 setting the tax year 2026 personal

[02:22:04] property tax rates to support the fiscal year 2027 budget miss bergeron anything to add um no in this resolution i i mean i'm sorry ordinance setting the personal property tax rates i just wanted to point out that the um this is where you set the data center computer a computer peripheral rate at four dollars and fifty cents which matches the rate of prince william county thank you for that any questions for miss bergeron is there a motion madam mayor move adoption of

[02:22:38] ordinance 2026-967 okay we have the motion by vice mayor will second by councilman vasquez luna to approve ordinance oh 2026-967 setting the tax year 2026 personal property tax rates any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member vasquez luna yes council member ellis yes council member smith council member of cena yes council member

[02:23:10] hudson yes the motion carried okay item 4.4 uncodified ordinance number oh 2026-974 repealing section 114 to 75 of article 3 of chapter 14 of the code and ordinances city Manassas first reading this is the ordinance that would repeal the $25 vehicle license fee that's charged annually per vehicle in a household thank you from information from the commissioner of revenue the average

[02:23:48] household has 2.25 vehicles, so that's at least $50 savings because it's $25 per vehicle. And aggregate for the savings? A million dollars. A million dollars. Let's ask us. Hi, Madam Mayor.

[02:24:04] Since last year, I have been advocating for this, and to me, it is important. Even though one penny would have saved, I believe, $28 from the average tax bill, These will actually save households an average of $50, so to me it's important.

[02:24:24] It does bring a relief not only to homeowners, but to those that have a card for a sticker that we don't longer use. And I also want to go back to the comment that I made that also is important for retention.

[02:24:44] other part that was used took over the premium for the health insurance premium for current employees because if you add it all up it is more than a penny so i appreciate it i will be supporting this any other mother mayor i move to approve the uncutified ordinance uh 0 20 26 974 for appealing section 114.75 second okay the motion by councilman vasquez on the second of our vice mayor wool

[02:25:21] approving ordinance number 0 2026-974 any discussion ms ellis i do support this eliminating the 25 per car tax decal fee we don't even have the decals anymore so i was always curious why that continued so i'm glad to see that going i know that there are some citizens that are concerned about um identifying cars that are not that are in the city that are not paying the taxes for the city um but if i recall chief keen i don't know if you can help me on this when when you have the

[02:25:58] license plate readers the police can tell can they they can tell their residency i'm assuming as they read plates is that correct there isn't if there was ever like a dispute you know people are concerned about that for the parking districts um like for example if there's a yeah there's a car can you read the the license plate and tell where they are residing where it's registered that is what the license plate reader does okay that is correct so we do have some some some things that

[02:26:35] are already happening to help with that if people are concerned that's not what it's used for i was answering that's what it can do we don't have the right to do that enforcement unless there's a parking district that you're doing it for if there is a car that's been parked there for a month or something that has tickets all over it i mean if somebody's curious if they live there okay any other discussion points mr smith please call the roll council member vasquez luna yes

[02:27:08] vice mayor wolf yes council member ellis council member smith council member elsina yes council member hudson yes the motion carries thank you item 4.5 uncodified ordinance number oh 2026-968 setting the water utility rates sewer utility rates electric utility rates effective july 1 2026 rates any questions you have a question oh okay go ahead make the motion okay

[02:27:42] thank you is there a second second we have a motion by councilman will sing the second about councilwoman hudson to approve ordinance number 0 2026-968 any discussion uh thank you madam mayor for me it was important to explore i do understand whether it's uh uh i don't want to say um i don't want to say unlawful but whether it's permitted or not permitted when it comes to putting money from uh general funds to the enterprise uh the enterprise as it was provided in one of our presentations are self-supported all

[02:28:21] costs are covered by their own income rather than the income from the general fund they do operate like business and the you know whatever uses that you have is what you pay the cost necessary they are intended to use from the fees or the rates they are generated as much as I try to do that I know it will hurt the city of the long run because we want to continue to not only maintain the rate but as we have uh we want to make sure that we have our credit rate uh so we can have lower rates in

[02:29:01] other parts uh so it is difficult i do want to also add the part that was stated about the data centers paying their own utilities uh the uh the fees and the charge base is actually in customer consumption so all the utilities cost for data center are paid by the data center and there's no negative impact to the rate pay all the rates data centers also pay an electric surcharge and top fees and i know we are going to have different rates for different enterprise funds

[02:29:39] and in order to do good finances and make sure that they are doing and maintaining what they need to do, as much as I wanted to have general funds into that, I do understand why it's best to stay away from that, and I will be supporting this.

[02:30:00] - Thank you, Madam Mayor. - Any other discussion points, Ms. Hudson? - Thank you, Madam Mayor. I voiced at our full-day work session that one of my least favorite charts that I've seen since joining the city council is the one that shows that we had zero increases to our utility rates for five plus years and you know, in each category, different numbers of years in each category, but very, very minimal increases.

[02:30:30] I do think our utilities system and our public works folks are something worth bragging about and I would like to keep it that way. You know, we've seen some pretty catastrophic stuff from the pipe burst up the Potomac and we don't want that happening here in our city.

[02:30:47] The cost of construction materials, of doing the work, of getting these types of utilities and maintaining them to the best extent that we can is costly and unfortunately, because we weren't doing gradual increases, it's coming at a larger all at once increase.

[02:31:04] My hope is that when we do, when our data centers are online and they are bringing in revenue for the city, that we can look at this again And hopefully come down in the rates as soon as as early as next year. I'd like to hope And that is definitely something that I'll be looking at but not a mayor I do want to support these utility rates any other discussion points Thank you mayor Yeah, the utilities I we really looked I know that we looked at this hard and our utility director I was a lay liaison for the utility

[02:31:44] commission for a few years. And with the lack of increase in the rates for a long time, it's starting to hit us hard. And we have equipment that has to be replaced. We have to make sure our infrastructure is strong. It is probably one of the most important things next to public safety that we need for our city. So as much as I hate to see this increase, I do want to find out if there is any we do have like some tax relief programs in our city if you're

[02:32:20] over 65 if you are have a disability veterans I don't know if we have any relief programs for utilities do we Anna we do there is a program and it's actually administered through social services in the winter we've got the heating program and in the summer is cooling assistance crisis so customers

[02:32:52] do get referred to us by social services um we also have operation roundup available and that is that program is for customers is a one-time help that don't quite fall within the need for assistance or they don't qualify for um social service assistance but they're experiencing a hardship so we can help at one time so they would apply with social services the operation roundup through utilities and then we go to the utility department okay we did come to us and then we uh

[02:33:28] take it over to social services basically we're doing the free okay and then you know just uh so for the public to know um thank you anna for tax relief on any real estate tax personal property tax vehicle registration fee relief to 65 or older permanently or totally disabled you can contact manassas.gov backslash tax relief so thank you okay any anyone else any other discussion mr smith please call the roll council member osina yes council member hudson yes vice mayor

[02:34:07] wolf yes council member ellis yes council member smith yes council member vasquez yes motion thank you item 4.6 uncodified ordinance number 0 2026 969 setting the storm water management service fees effective july 1 2026. it says matt but you're still there it's fine madam mayor move adoption of ordinance 2026-969 second we had a motion by vice mayor will second by councilman vasquez luna to approve ordinance number 0 2026-969 any discussion hearing and

[02:34:44] seeing none mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member vasquez luna yes council member ellis yes council member smith yes council member elicina yes council member hudson yes the motion okay item 4.7 uncodified ordinance number o 2026-970 setting the airport fees rates and charges effective july 1 2026. their motion madam mayor move adoption of ordinance 2026-970 second hear the motion by vice mayor wolf seconded by councilwoman vasquez luna

[02:35:19] to approve ordinance number zero 2026-970 any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member vasquez luna yes council member ellis council member smith yes council member elicino yes council member hudson yes the motion carries thank you item 4.8 resolution number r 2026-971 adopt and appropriate the annual operating budget the first year of the five-year capital improvement program and other related items necessary for operation and administration of the city for the fiscal year beginning july 1 2026 and ending june

[02:35:58] 30 2027. any questions motion may the mayor move adoption of resolution 2026-971 second that one to ashley we have the motion by vice mayor will second it by councilwoman hudson approving resolution number r2026-971 any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll vice mayor wolf yes council member hudson yes council member ellis council member smith yes council member elcina yes council member vasquez luna yes the motion

[02:36:35] carries item 4.9 resolution number r2026-972 approving the city of manassas fiscal year 2027 five-year capital improvement program and is there a motion i may make the motion to approve resolution r2026 972 approving the city of menace five-year program second we have the motion by councilwoman vasquez luna seconded by councilwoman hudson to approve resolution number r2026-972 any discussion hearing yes thank you madam mayor for me one of the things that i want to highlight

[02:37:14] There's different important things within these, and one of them has been, you know, the parking garage for the north area, I believe. And these are some of the examples on the airport line cell research.

[02:37:32] But to me, it's important that we highlight, you know, not only this year, but the five year. And this year is really what is going to take place. but it shows the priorities that the city have and sometimes they are urging me that the city have and for that i will be supporting thank you any other discussion point mr smith please call the roll council member vasquez luna yes council member hudson yes vice mayor wool yes council member ellis yes council member smith yes council member elicino yes thank you item 4.10 resolution

[02:38:07] number r2026-973 authorizing the funding of the city's share of potomac and rappahannock transportation commission related expenditures from the city's gas tax funds

[02:38:28] we had a motion by councilwoman vasquez luna seconded by councilman smith to approve resolution number r2026-973 any discussion miss vasquez uh thank you madam i want to take this opportunity to remind our um our residents that when you put uh gas within the city uh that revenue goes to the city so if you put gas in in the county outside you know that revenue stays there and this is important for uh uh everything they um that we do in regards to our transportation so i just want

[02:39:05] to make sure that uh that we highlight as we have this in front of us thank you any other discussion points mr smith please call the roll council member vasquez luna yes council member smith yes vice mayor wolf yes council member ellis yes council member elicino yes council member hudson yes item 4.11 resolution number r2026-965 thank you diane a resolution approving the interim agreement relating to center street manassas redevelopment by and between the city

[02:39:42] of manassas virginia and center street llc and mr burke yes ma'am this is simply an agreement that allows the city to continue the partnership with what used to be MLG.

[02:39:59] They renamed it to Center Street LLC so that they can begin the design of the site improvements for the parking garage, the hotel, and for the apartments, the rehabilitation of the site, utilizing some of the state funding for that.

[02:40:16] The city, for this contract, the city will reimburse them for our share of the garage design and it allows this project to continue and at the end we will have design for the parking garage that the city can utilize regardless of whether or not the apartments proceed thank you any questions for mr burke on that item is there a motion i may have moved to approve resolution

[02:40:46] art 2026 965 approving the new agreement interim agreement second and the motion by councilwoman vasquez luna seconded by councilwoman hudson approving resolution number r 2026 965 any discussion i'm sorry yeah go ahead um actually this is a question for mr burke um on the actual cover page it says the financial obligation of the city capped at 1 million 450 000

[02:41:18] is that what to reimburse them for what that that is the the upward limit that this agreement allows for them to seek reimbursement for the design of the garage and that is the cost that we anticipate that we expect would be the upward limit for the design itself so if they design the garage we would have to pay them for the um design ultimately yes ma'am because the the intent is that the garage would is on city property and would remain city ownership okay thanks

[02:41:51] any other discussion miss vasquez i have a comment okay thank you madam mayor i believe this is uh some it's important step to get us where we want and now number one thing is to make sure that we sell the property but we can do that unless we have a property garage not only for the employees for visitors but also for future development so i believe this is a positive message to get us closer to where we need to be when it comes to the future project here thank you thank you vice

[02:42:27] mayor yeah i just want to reiterate that this is a step in the process for uh the redevelopment of the mifco property and i know i understand the feedback from some of our citizens the frustration and saying that you know things take years well unfortunately these things just do take a significant amount of time to do them and to do them right she candidate and uh in in water will I think we'll attest to that but we are moving a pace and we're doing this with every idea that we will end up with a finalized agreement this is just to

[02:43:04] keep the ball rolling in the most expeditious manner possible while as you might imagine a finalized agreement of it this nature is an exceedingly complex item requiring a lot of attorney hours thank you very much any other discussion points mr. Smith please call roll councilmember Vasquez Luna yes councilmember Hudson yes vice mayor wolf yes councilmember Ellis councilmember Smith yes councilmember Ossina yes the motion thank you so much for that item five on the agenda authorizing a closed meeting I'll call on Amelia

[02:43:41] to help us with that good evening madam mayor and council the next item on your agenda this evening is a closed meeting there's one item for discussion it is the potential disposition of city owned property at 9518 Fairview Avenue pursuant to the terms of a submitted letter of intent where discussion in an open meeting would adversely affect the city's bargaining position or negotiating strategy pursuant to Virginia code 2.23711 a3 this discussion may take place in a duly convened closed meeting of City Council to convene the closed meeting I'd recommend for your

[02:44:18] adoption resolution number R 2026 978 authorizing a closed meeting of City council second we had a motion by councilman osina and seconded by councilman vasquez luna improving resolution number r2026-978 any discussion hearing and seeing none mr smith please call the roll council member osina yes council member vasquez luna yes vice mayor wolf yes council member ellis council member smith council member hudson yes the motion carries

[02:44:51] following a closed meeting of city council the virginia freedom of information act requires a of certification by City Council that such closed meeting was conducted in the manner required by law. Council must certify to the best of each member's knowledge only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements under the Freedom of Information Act and only such public business matters as were identified in the motion by which the

[02:45:29] closed meeting was convened were heard, discussed, or considered in the meeting by City Council. In order to certify the closed meeting this evening, I recommend for your adoption Resolution number our 2026-977 resolution certifying a closed meeting of City Council so we met a mayor and a motion by vice mayor will second by councilman Vasquez Luna approving resolution number our 2026-977 resolution certifying a closed meeting of City Council any discussion hearing and seeing none mr.

[02:45:59] Smith please call the roll vice mayor will yes councilmember Vasquez Luna yes councilmember Ellis councilmember Smith yes councilmember Osina yeah council member hudson yes motion carries thank you very much is there anything else to come before the council if not we are adjourned

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