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Parksley council adopts facade committee bylaws and a 2nd Amendment sanctuary resolution, forms sewage committee
Summary
Council unanimously adopted Facade Improvement Committee bylaws required for a DHCD contract, formed a sewage committee and adopted a 2nd Amendment sanctuary resolution by majority vote; the meeting included public comments both supporting and opposing the sanctuary pledge.
At its Jan. 13 meeting, the Parksley Town Council took multiple formal actions: it unanimously adopted bylaws to formalize a Facade Improvement Committee tied to an upcoming DHCD contract, formed a sewage committee, and adopted a 2nd Amendment town resolution after public testimony both for and against the pledge.
Shannon Alexander, Director of Planning for the Accomack‑Northampton Planning District Commission (ANPDC), introduced the Facade Improvement Program and asked the council to approve committee bylaws so the town could meet the DHCD contract start date of Feb. 1, 2020. The council approved the bylaws unanimously.
Several residents addressed the council during public comment on a proposed 2nd Amendment sanctuary resolution. Chris Hamlin urged the council to join other localities with a pledge, saying the proposed state laws were "about controlling people, not reducing crime." Supporters including Paul Muhly and Carl Thornton urged adoption; several residents, including Beth McHenry and Jerry McCorkie, questioned what practical effect the resolution would have and whether it would change local enforcement responsibilities.
Councilman Alan Russell moved to adopt the proposed resolution; the motion passed with four votes in favor and one against (Councilman Dan Matthews). Council members and the police chief clarified that the resolution was a non‑binding pledge of support rather than a binding change to local law; Police Chief Greer reiterated officers' oath to the Constitution and described the resolution as an expression of discontent with proposed state measures.
Other formal actions recorded: the council voted to pay bills and approve the previous month's minutes (both unanimous); it formed a sewage committee and appointed Vice Mayor John Parks and Councilman Vince Savona; and it adjourned at 8:08 p.m.
The council scheduled a public hearing on zoning and sidewalk ordinances for March 9 to consider formal sidewalk and parking regulations.
