1)      Gary Patterson reported the business technology seminar was successful and with Council’s support would like to hold more seminars in the future.  This was a free seminar, led by Gary Patterson and other volunteers, for business owners where experts walked them through setting up a website, Face book page, and business logo.  Council Members thanked Mr. Patterson for volunteering his time for these seminars and for helping to gain positive publicity for the Town in the local news.      

2)      Briana Campbell reported updates for the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce as follows for August through November:  2,034 calls from tourist, 9,414 walk-in tourist, 3,892 local calls, and 1,386 local walk-ins.  She noted the 2011 Virginia Travel Guide has a 2 page ad for the County.  Also, the new Visitors Guide has a list of seasonal events for all the Towns as well. Also, a 2011 Calendar of Local Events is being developed, which will cover the entire County, including the Towns.  Council thanked Ms. Campbell for everything she does to help promote the Town and the County. 

3)      Approved a subdivision of lot request from Joyce Whiteside for a parcel of property located at the intersection of Denver Avenue and Wahnona Avenue. This division will allow for one lot with 12,796 square feet and a second lot with 9,623 square feet.

4)      Authorized refinancing the Town’s Suntrust loans for a total savings of $3,910.08 a year in payments.  The term of the loan will not change and there will be an initial investment of $1,500 for closing costs on this refinance plus Bond Counsel fees.    

5)      Authorized employee Christmas bonuses at $100 for full-time employees and $50 for part-time employees in appreciation for everyone’s hard work.   

6)      Authorized canceling the December 28, 2010, Town Council meeting.

7)      Received the November 2010 Police Report for review.

8)      Received a letter from VDOT regarding a meeting with state and local leaders to identify improvements needed to Interstate 81.  The meeting will be held on December 15, 2010, from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., at the Augusta County Government Center in Verona.

9)      Received an invitation to attend the Virginia Regional Transit Annual Awards Luncheon on January 6, 2011, at 11 a.m., at the Belmont Country Club in Ashburn, VA.

10)  Christmas Decorating Contest is being sponsored by the Shenandoah Merchant’s Association with cash and prizes totaling over $1,100!  Shenandoah Residents and Businesses may register for the contest by December 15, 2010, by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling Enchanting Florals and Gifts at 540-652-2261.

11)  Heard valves were opened slightly more again to try to increase water pressure for residents along Seventh Street (between Denver Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue).  This caused several main water line leaks throughout Town.  The homeowner may have to install a booster pump, at his own expense, as the current pressure exceeds the requirements by the state health department. 

12)   Parks and Recreation News:  BIG GEM PARK - Christmas tree lighting ceremony was held on December 10^th and it will be advertised more next year to try and gain more participants to enjoy the free hotdogs, marshmallows, cookies, and hot chocolate that was served.  Thanks to the Public Works Department for their assistance with ensuring proper lighting to allow for the event to go on after a transformer went out.; BASEBALL FIELDS –  The Shenandoah Indians and the Shenandoah Recreation League are working out an agreement for use of the fields if the stadium is rebuilt.  There is an entire checklist of items needed and items that have been completed thus far.    

13)  Agreed to request Town Attorney Blatt begin condemnation, at no cost to the Town, on the property “gap” needed to secure easements to allow for the installation of a new water line to serve residents along Shenandoah River Road.  This project is being paid for by North American Phillips Company.

14)  Work Orders requested:  Water leak on Senior Avenue; Clean leaves and debris from ALL storm drains in Town; letter to property owner on Third Street where a load of trash has been dumped on the property; sweep gravel from roadway at the intersection of 10^th Street and Pocahontas Avenue (water hauling station entrance.)

15)  Council noted their appreciation for the contractor and property owner of the old Casey Jones Building for the excellent clean up efforts following the demolition of this building. 

16)  The Town is still waiting on the County for information regarding the property maintenance code.

17)  Town Employee Christmas Dinner will be held at Noon on Friday, December 17^th.  Mayor and Council Members may attend as well.  Employees are requested to bring a covered dish.