Shane Gunter

The Town Council meeting included the approval of the agenda, amended to include the re-appointment to the IDA, and the approval of the consent agenda with a correction regarding comments on the Flock Camera system. Key discussions involved the financial report as of January 2024, showing fund statuses, and the process for the FY27 budget, highlighting a projected $1.2 million shortfall needing resolution through revenue adjustments or spending cuts. A significant topic was exploring the sale of the water system under the PPEA process due to impending infrastructure replacement costs, with a vote scheduled for February 10th to formally begin the evaluation of unsolicited proposals. The Police Chief reported on activity including call volumes, arrests, citation issuance, and the re-institution of the K-9 program. The Town Manager provided updates on storm response, grant awards for infrastructure projects, and the appointment of a new Cemetery Superintendent. Business concluded with the approval of several budget amendments and the confirmed reappointment of a member to the Industrial Development Authority.

The Town Council meeting primarily addressed three critical areas: the presentation of the annual audit, a robust discussion regarding the implementation and privacy concerns of Flock safety cameras, and updates on significant town projects. The annual audit yielded an unmodified opinion, indicating healthy finances, although expenditure growth in the General Fund was flagged for monitoring. During the camera discussion, citizen concerns about privacy and data security were formally raised, to which the council strongly defended the technology as essential for public safety and crime prevention, committing to regular internal audits to prevent misuse. Furthermore, the Town Manager reported progress on major initiatives, including securing nearly $550,000 in grant funding for the Graham Jewelry building revitalization, the reopening of the Fincastle golf course, and the ongoing restoration of the Bank of Graham building. Minor budget amendments were also approved.

The organizational meeting included the swearing-in of new and returning council members, notably establishing a council with three women members for the first time in the town's history. Key procedural actions involved the election of a Vice Mayor, who was appointed as Mr. Trigg. The Town Manager was appointed to continue in their role, and a new Town Clerk, Miss Stacy, was elected. The Mayor and Colonel provided introductory remarks, and there was a discussion regarding upcoming meeting schedules, including an open organizational meeting on the 14th for introductions and a financial overview in preparation for budget season.

The meeting began with an invitation/invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda minutes for September 9th. A special presentation honored Mr. Todd Little for his 19 years of dedicated service, primarily to the water plant, before his semi-retirement. The council heard the town's financial report for September 18th, detailing revenues and expenses for the general fund, water department, cemetery, transit, and the Bin Castle. New business involved the first reading of a resolution adopting guidelines pursuant to the Public Private Education Facilities and Infrastructure Act of 2002 (PPE). Additionally, budget amendments were discussed, including a $70 insurance payment reimbursement for a damaged guard rail repair and a request for $2,000 annually for Bradford pear tree maintenance, referencing the ornamental tree planting project initiated in memory of Jeannie Hancock and Betty Cork.

The council meetings focused primarily on two major initiatives: Phase 2 of a security camera upgrade utilizing Flock Safety LPR technology, estimated at $50,000, which involves data retention for 21 days; and a proposal to erect a life-sized bronze statue honoring baseball hero Billy Wagner, aiming to raise nearly $290,000. The council voiced strong support for the statue and will consider a financial contribution in the next fiscal budget. Additionally, the council approved a rezoning ordinance for 715 Virginia Avenue to B2 classification and passed two minor budget amendments, including one related to police overtime reimbursement. The Town Manager's year-end report highlighted successful grant acquisition, the opening of new businesses (WingStop, Jersey Mike's), and significant code enforcement achievements, including the demolition of 9 blighted houses.