TOWN OF VIENNA SPECIAL TOWN MEETING MINUTES

February 8, 2023

PRESENT: Supervisor Michael M. Davis Sr., Councilman Jason C. Lamb, Councilwoman Gail Whitham,  Councilman Jason Spellicy, Councilman Darrin Smith, Deputy Town Clerk Kathy Pavelock, Constable James Hite

CALL TO ORDER:

Supervisor Davis called the meeting to order at 5:00PM. Pledge of Allegiance.

NEW BUSINESS:

Supervisor Davis announced the purpose of this special meeting is to discuss improved town hall and town meeting safety measures.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

A motion was made by Supervisor Davis and seconded by Councilman Spellicy to enter executive session to discuss town hall safety and will take action at 5:01pm. Motion carried. Voting Record:

Supervisor Davis                 Aye

Councilman Spellicy              Aye

Councilman Lamb                  Aye

Councilwoman Whitham             Aye

Councilman Smith                 Aye

A motion was made by Supervisor Davis and seconded by Councilman Lamb to return to regular session at 5:15pm.                                              Motion carried.

Voting Record:

Supervisor Davis                 Aye

Councilman Spellicy              Aye

Councilman Lamb                  Aye

Councilwoman Whitham             Aye

Councilman Smith                 Aye

PUBLIC COMMENTS.

 

Resident Rick Roberts commented that the town should take action based on the behavior observed at the February 1, 2023 town meeting. The meeting should have been stopped. He believes the town could still submit a report to the sheriffs. Rick is also concerned with the safety of employees and in particular, Codes Enforcement Officer (CEO) Reay Walker.

Supervisor Davis reported that he spoke with CEO Walker after the meeting and CEO Walker stated that he is not concerned about the comments made at the February 1, 2023 meeting.

The council agrees that a report should be filed on the events of the February 1, 2023 meeting. Supervisor Davis will call the sheriff’s office tomorrow. Tech support, Russ Johnson has access to the February 1, 2023 video and the supervisor has been provided a copy of the audio recording.

The council agrees that further action will be taken including requesting the Town Attorney to draft a letter to the individual with the town code of conduct. The council will also take action on enhanced security measures for the town hall and meetings.

Supervisor Davis made a motion to seek two additional candidates for constable training at a cost to the town of $1,500 each. The ARPA funds will be used for all security enhancements. Seconded by Councilman Lamb. Motion carried. Voting Record:

Supervisor Davis                 Aye

Councilman Spellicy              Aye

Councilman Lamb                  Aye

Councilwoman Whitham             Aye

Councilman Smith                 Aye

The next town special meeting will be held on February 15, 2023 to discuss a new water district feasibility. The council is requesting there be two constables at this meeting.

A motion to adjourn was made by Councilman Lamb and seconded by Councilman Spellicy. All in favor. Motion carried at 5:49pm.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Kathy M. Pavelock/s/ Deputy Town Clerk