Minutes 01/14/1997 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 1997 Minter noted the recently-adopted BPOL Ordinance was defective (as was the old BPOL Ordinance) in that the tax rate for financial services companies was listed as 8.20 per $100 of gross receipts, whereas the old Ordinance's tax rate schedules listed financial services companies at $.58 per $100 of gross receipts. In practice, financial services companies have been taxed according to the tax rate schedules at $.58 per $100. Mr. Minter recommended Council adopt the proposed Ordinance which would make the $.20 per $100 rate applicable only to small loan companies, which was the original intention of the old BPOL Ordinance. Upon motion, duly seconded and by unanimous vote, Council approved the Ordinance on first reading as proposed by Mr. Minter. Council considered approval, on first reading, of Ordinance No. 97-3 amending the City Code, Chapter 13--Offenses-Miscellaneous, Article I-- In General, by adding Section 13-43--Place used for illegal drugs a nuisance; presence at such nuisance. Commonwealth's Attorney J. Randolph Smith stated the Ordinance would declare certain locations used as "drug houses" common nuisances. where drugs are in open view could misdemeanor. City Attorney David B. Persons present in such places be charged with a Class 2 Worthy expressed doubt as to whether the proposed Ordinance would be upheld in Court as it would make it a crime to be present at the scene of a crime--which is contrary to common law. Council Member Haskell expressed concern regarding the broad nature of the proposed Ordinance and the possibility that an innocent person's rights could be violated by its enforcement. Upon motion, duly seconded and by a vote of 4-1 (Council Member Haskell opposing), the Ordinance was approved on first reading. Upon motion, duly seconded and by unanimous vote, Council supported a