Roanoke council approves park tax exemption and water easement; residents press council on school overcrowding
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Summary
Council adopted an ordinance granting tax‑exempt status for two Old Southwest Inc. lots used as pocket parks and approved a water/sewer easement to the Western Virginia Water Authority. During citizens' remarks residents and PTA leaders urged swift reallocation of city funds to address overcrowding at Roanoke high schools and timely release of financial reports.
Roanoke City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance to exempt two Old Southwest Inc. properties on Day Avenue from real estate taxation because they are used as privately owned public pocket parks. Deputy City Attorney David Collins explained the constitutional framework under which local governing bodies may grant tax exemptions for nonprofit‑owned property used for public parks; Mary Anne Mayer of Old Southwest described the sites as sustainable pocket parks that support the city's climate action goals and public programming.
Council then adopted an ordinance granting a public waterline and sanitary sewer easement to the Western Virginia Water Authority on a City‑owned Roanoke County parcel adjacent to Peters Creek Road; staff described the easement location and council voted aye.
During the "citizens to be heard" period several parents, PTA officials and community members urged the council to prioritize reappropriating a capital fund balance returned by Roanoke City Public Schools and to release a delayed city revenue report so schools can order learning cottages (trailers) to address severe overcrowding at Patrick Henry and William Fleming high schools. Speakers provided capacity figures they said the schools are exceeding by hundreds of students and called for council action to expedite funding and transparent reporting.
Votes at a glance: - Old Southwest Inc. tax exemption ordinance: adopted (unanimous roll call). - Western Virginia Water Authority easement ordinance: adopted (unanimous roll call).
Next steps: The tax‑exempt parcels will remain publicly accessible as neighborhood green space; city staff will continue to coordinate with Old Southwest on maintenance and public programming. Council members heard pleas from school community members and may schedule follow‑up briefings on the capital fund and revenue reporting.