Council adopts EMS grant appropriation and updates police tow rates (both 7-0)

The Portsmouth City Council unanimously adopted two ordinances at its April 8 meeting.

Ordinance accepting EMS grant funds

The council approved an ordinance accepting $71,391.84 in “4 for Life” funds from the Virginia Department of Health Office of Emergency Medical Services and appropriating the amount in the FY2025 grants fund for use by the Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services to purchase EMS equipment, supplies and training. The clerk recorded the vote as adopted 7–0.

Ordinance amending police tow list rates

The council also adopted an ordinance amending subsection 37‑250(b) (tow book to be maintained by the chief of police) and appendix A of the Code of the City of Portsmouth to modify police tow list rates. That measure also passed by a recorded tally of 7–0.

Both measures were presented under the city manager’s report; the clerk called for motions and asked members to vote electronically. No roll‑call names were given in the public record; the clerk announced both items adopted 7–0.

Votes at a glance

- Ordinance accepting 4 for Life EMS funds — Adopted 7–0. Amount: $71,391.84. Purpose: purchase EMS equipment, supplies and training for Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. - Ordinance amending police tow list rates (Code §37‑250(b); Appendix A) — Adopted 7–0. Purpose: revise tow rates on the police tow list.

The text of both ordinances was read into the record and each passed without further discussion.