Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Committee Members, As a citizen of Portsmouth I respectfully request that you reject Bill 564. I second the comments made by Mr. Geduldig-Yatrofsky and, in fact, the concerns he raised are real-life experiences here in Portsmouth. Prior claims of misconduct under the existing Charter provision have sometimes been the result of internecine warfare among our Council members and while one might say that such a situation begs for a cure, whether or not it does this Bill is not that cure. Under current law, removal requires conviction in a Court, with a neutral judge presiding, on the misdemeanor crime of interference. If Bill 564 passes, the mere whims of a majority of 4 Councilmembers will be able to overturn the election results as to any of the 3 Councilmembers not in that majority. Last year, for example, the current majority of 4 accused a non-majority Councilmember of violating this provision just for sitting in his car at the site of our much-reported Confederate Monument burning. Nor should the juxtaposition of Bill 564 with Bill 1117 be ignored. Imagine, if you can, the chutzpah of the same Council asking in Bill 564 to be able to overturn the election results of a City of 64,000+ registered voters with a simple vote of 4 Councilmembers and then also asking in Bill 1117 to eliminate the current right of those 64,000+ registered voter citizens to recall a Councilmember even with majority vote of those citizens. Sadly, with Bills 564 and 1117 we do not need to imagine such a scenario. Consider also the juxtaposition of Bill 564 with a recently passed City Ordinance amendment to our procurement laws. Prior to the Ordinance amendment, the designated “Procurement Official” for the City was a City employee protected from Council interference by the very same Charter provision which is sought to be changed in Bill 564; after the amendment, the “Procurement Official” was changed to the City Manager, subject to firing at will by the majority of 4 who is pushing for passage of Bill 564. Even without Bill 564, we in Portsmouth live daily with the slow but steady erosion of our City Manager form of Government. But at least without Bill 564 this takes some effort – changing City laws one by one. With Bill 564 this majority can simply ignore laws altogether. Sadly, the citizens of Portsmouth are living this real-life scenario and that is why I appeal to you to help us, please. Vote no on Bill 564.

Against HB564, please move to report HB710. Thank you.

Chair and Honorable Committee Members: As a citizen of Portsmouth, I ask you to reject this bill. The proposed changes to the city charter actually invite council interference in the running of the city by eliminating any meaningful sanction for doing so. A maximum fine of $100 is insignificant compared to the prospect of forfeiting one's seat on council. Additionally, putting enforcement in the hands of a council majority rather than in a court of law invites decisions based on political considerations rather evaluation of facts and evidence. Charges of interference could be brought to undercut and embarrass a guiltless mayor or colleague just as a means of settling personal scores. Similarly, a member of one's own faction could be cleared of charges that were based in fact because his/her cronies found it to their political advantage. I want you all to be aware as well that when this measure went before the council, two citizens opposed it in the public hearing and none supported it. Although I asked council to send the measure to the public as a referendum item, as our charter permits, they declined to consider that request. Had council accepted my proposal, I feel confident that a majority of citizens would have rejected the changes before you. Furthermore, I consider this a solution in search of a problem. In my twenty-five years as a Portsmouth citizen, no commonwealth's attorney, regardless of political party affiliation, has ever prosecuted a mayor or council member for violation of the charter provision in question. I would conclude, therefore, that the penalty prescribed in the charter may be deterring the behavior that it is intended to prevent and should be left alone.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Dear Legislators, I urge you to support HB 568, which would allow two or more localities to join together relating to local green banks. People are seeking these banks as an important way to break away from fossil fuels and move to sustainable and clean energy investments. Thank you kindly, --Tyla Matteson, Chesterfield County

(SUPPORT)HB568 Green Banks, regional agreements: The City of Falls Church supports the local option provided with this proposed legislation as it extends existing state code to permit any two or more localities may enter into agreements with one another for joint action to establish a green bank to promote investment in clean energy technologies and provide financing for clean energy technologies. Thank you for considering these comments as you deliberate on HB568. If you have any questions please contact Cindy L. Mester, Deputy City Manager at cmester@fallschurchva.gov or 5710641-5586 (711 TTY).

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

I am in support of these bills.

Supporting Del Hudson's bill as it would allow a locality greater flexibility in enforcing quality of life infractions as civil rather than having to burden law enforcement and prosecutors with enforcement responsibilities.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Honorable Chair of the Committee: As an attorney for nearly 45 years; as a Prosecutor, Defense Counsel, and Criminal Trial Judge during my 25 years on active duty in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General's Corps (Retiring as a Captain); having defended clients at the local, State, Military, and Federal Court levels; and, as a local elected official where I now serve as the Chair of the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors, I have long been concerned regarding the disproportionality of criminal sanctions for minor conduct or behavior. For the last approximately 20 years, in my private practice of law, I have focused upon representing individuals in Federal Government Security Clearance Adjudications - a process for determining one's eligibility for access to classified information. In that practice I have frequently seen individuals employment and careers derailed as a result of the consequences of criminal convictions for minor infractions. The impact of a criminal conviction cannot be overstated. While there are, of course, instances where one's conduct or behavior warrants criminal prosecution with the consequences which flow from that, we - as a society - have too frequently turned to the most serious process (criminal prosecution) when lesser forms of processes (administrative/civil sanctions) could - and, I respectfully submit - should, first be explored. I write today to support HB627, a Bill to permit localities to create a schedule of civil fines and penalties for minor conduct or behavior which constitutes a violation of designated ordinances. This Bill would permit the establishment of dollar limits on fine amounts and frequency, as well as guidance on separate offenses. The bill would preclude prosecution as a criminal misdemeanor for aggregate penalties of all offenses from the same operative set of facts totaling less than $5,000. Significantly, however, the Bill would then allow prosecution as a criminal misdemeanor for violations arising from the same operative set of facts for penalties totaling $5,000 or more in those instances where the individuals recalcitrance or recidivism warrant. The bill provides for civil summons, waiver of trial, admitting liability, and payment of the penalty. The bill provides trial procedure and abatement of the offense and it creates liens for unpaid penalties, and enforcement guidelines for such liens. The economic and societal benefits of providing greater - not lesser - avenues for addressing minor instances of misconduct should not be overlooked and I urge passage of this bill.

Hello. I am writing for full support of HB670 from Delegate Hope. I am Adam Theo, a nine-year resident of Arlington County. For nine years I had worked alongside law enforcement across the country, from Seattle, New York City, Birmingham, and Kearney (Nebraska). I got to know local and state police extensively during that time. Oversight of local law enforcement isn't something to be scared of or avoided. On the contrary it's to be celebrated as part of a healthy civil and democratic society. Allowing Arlington County to establish their new civilian police oversight board as an independent office outside of our unique County Manager structure of government, and thereby helping it be resilient and more effective, is critical for restoring faith in our police and helping them protect both our public safety and our civil liberties.

I have been involved with and/or living in Arlington County since 1991. I have seen this county change dramatically in that time and sometimes not change enough. While Arlington County elected to not implement the full range of authority granted by the General Assembly, we were with much effort and community support able to get a modified Civilian Oversight Board (COB) enacted into the County Code. As part of the COB, the County also elected to have a County Police Auditor as part of the process. While many in the county were skeptical of this position, we ultimately thought it was a reasonable compromise. However, unless you the General Assembly grant authority for this position to be hired and supervised by the County Board, that police auditor can neither be independent nor objective. In Arlington’s form of government, that auditor would be hired by the County Manager. The Chief of Police and his department are directly supervised by Mr. Schwartz, the Arlington County Manager. The community fears that having the police auditor report to, be evaluated by, and be part of the political structure of the County Manager’s staff snd operations turns the laudable objective of accountability and CIVILIAN oversight into a merely performative exercise or gesture. To build trust and community buy-in that the COB can indeed objectively and fairly function, the position need to be housed, supervised and reporting to the Arlington County Board (whom we elect) not the county manager (who we do not elect and who tend to stay in place through many Boards and many, many different Board Chairs). This police auditor should be on the same level in the organization chart as the County’s Fiscal Auditor position, for which the County was provided statutory authority to hire several years ago. Same concept, just different audit responsibilities. In closing, many of you are likely aware of the death of an inmate this week and the previous deaths in our jail. While Sheriffs are not covered by the statute, 7 deaths in 7 years and 3 deaths in less than 3 years shows the danger of both insular cultures and placing the day to day “boss” in charge of policing their own. Help us in Arlington have a truly Independent Police Auditor who is removed from such insularity thus allowing our COB to fulfill its statutory mandate. Please support Delegate Hope’s bill so that the police auditor has a fighting chance to be truly independent. Thank you for your consideration of my views.

Hello, my name is Janmarie Peña. I live in Arlington, and I'm a member of the Arlington Branch of the NAACP. I am here today to express my support for HB 670. We need community oversight of police that is effective and that residents can trust. This bill addresses one of the minimum pre-requisites for that to be possible, which is allowing the creation of policing auditors that are truly independent. Accountability requires true independence. Thank you so much.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

I strongly support Delegate Hope's bill H670 because it will create an independent police auditor to support the newly-created Civilian Oversight Board. Right now, the auditor reports to the County Manager, who also oversees the police. Accountability and transparency require independence. Thank you. Kathleen McSweeney

Hello, and thank you for the opportunity to comment upon this proposed legislation. I am concerned that the proposed Arlington law enforcement Civilian Oversight Board is not independent enough to provide true and fair accountability. We need a truly independent policing auditor, one independent of local law enforcement, and I appreciate how Delegate Hope's bill will help accomplish this goal.

those of us who seek to have proper policing in our diverse communities think that it is best served when oversight is independent from the authorities for which the oversight board is created. We think it is common sense, appropriate, and just to have civilian oversight because police practices with no civilian oversight can turn tragic. No one should be afraid to ensure justice for all. because policing is such a dangerous job, and our officers have to be always alert, we see it as necessary to provide oversight for their safety as well. It is no easy thing to be a policeman. and lack of cultural competency sometimes gets in the way of doing the best job possible. Where there may be cultural insensitivity, independent civilian oversight can provide a better experience for all citizens and especially the police who serve our communities. to avoid conflict of interest, separate entities should provide the oversight and not someone who works within the realm of the very police force for which they have oversight. When we seek to have better societies, our police will have less volatile roles in communities and our country will be a better place in which to realize the American dream for all its residents. Thank you.

This bill would ensure a necessary procedural fix to the existing chain of command so that the oversight board is not supervised by the same person who also oversees local law enforcement. Accountability requires independence. I feel this is a must for our community to have fair justice to all. This is the type of change we need to get closer to equality

As a constituent from Patrick Hope's Distrcit I am pleased to lend my support to an independent way to audit law enforcement. I have had many positive interactions with Arlington police, but not entirely. One interaction was so unfortunate, I decided against submitting a crime report because of it. Arlington will be a safer and fairer place when it is easier to address these types of concerns.

Arlington County’s recent ordinance establishing a Law Enforcement Community Oversight Board was a compromise that did not adopt the full range of authority that Virginia Code §9.1-601 made available. Instead of giving the Oversight Board independent investigatory authority, it adopted a hybrid model of oversight by which an Independent Police Auditor will conduct an investigation jointly with the Arlington County Police Department (ACPD), and the Oversight Board may subsequently review the completed investigation. In other words, the Oversight Board will not investigate complaints in the first instance; it must trust the Independent Police Auditor to investigate for it. For this compromise to work, the Oversight Board must develop a close and trusting working relationship with the Independent Police Auditor (who also provides all necessary administrative and policy support for the Oversight Board). The Board will be heavily dependent on the professional skills and experience of the Auditor and the staff the Auditor hires to conduct complete and objective investigations. Ideally, in order to build that trust and rapport from the outset, the Oversight Board would have a role in interviewing and recommending, if not selecting, the Auditor. But selection of the Auditor by the County Board is the next best option, by helping assure not just the reality of the Auditor’s independence, but just as important, the appearance of independence. In contrast, leaving selection of the Auditor to the County Manager -- an unelected county official -- does the opposite. The County Manager’s supervises not just the police department, as county employees, but also the Auditor, and will evaluate the Auditor’s performance. Given the appearance of the Auditor’s dependence on the County Manager, it will be impossible for the Oversight Board – and the community it represents – not to wonder, “Is the ‘Independent Policing Auditor’ really independent”? HB670 would help preserve the appearance of independence and thus promote the rapport between the Oversight Board and the Independent Police Auditor that is essential to the Board’s effectiveness and credibility. It also returns the important decision of appointing the Independent Policing Auditor to the community’s elected representatives, instead of leaving it with an unelected county employee.

Please move to report HB116, HB710, HB1070, HB548, HB1088. Thank you.

Against HB564, please move to report HB710. Thank you.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

The Virginia First Cities supports HB 729 and urges its adoption. Our member cities have reported that maintaining a vacant building registry would be most helpful to them as they work so diligently to preserve and promote strong, vibrant cities that are well-maintained and sustaining. The passage of this bill will help enable that, so we hope that you will please pass this bill and advance it through the process.

As I type this, historic war monuments are being destroyed. Many more will be in the next year unless this Bill becomes law. This is not a normal situation where if you wait it can be corrected later. Under the current law I was given, without conditions, the Isle of Wight Monument to Confederate Dead. I have honorably re-erected it. If I had chosen or later decided to, I can destroy it at any time I wish. This was allowed because the current law is seriously flawed. At the very least the sentence " The local governing body shall have soul authority to determine the final disposition of the monument or memorial" should be removed. This is the phrase being used to alter and destroy monuments. You may not be a fan of some monuments, but as we have seen, all seem to be on the "destroy list". The founding fathers and even Columbus. You must ask if you want to be the ones responsible for the destruction of historic art and artifacts.

I consider this bill about as good as it gets. I recommend that it pass. Some protection must be provided for erected monuments or we will end up in an Orwellian world where nothing can be saved. The people who are most in favor of removing and vandalizing monuments will be shocked when people start coming after theirs, and the people who are in power now may be targeted by the very precedent they themselves established. I would preserve all monuments where some people still value them.

We as a people need to embrace Our culture and history. In 1861 when the State called for its young men to answer the call, they came. They came , and gave their all! Some have everything! After the War ended , Statues went up to remind all of the sacrifice that the Leaders and men endured! These were not put up to be signs of Racial Superiority! Now, politics of age deem these Statues archaic platitudes to Racisl Superiority! Nothing could be more false! Please vote that these Monuments are no longer tore down or defaced . Remember; it is only a question of time that WWI & WWII monuments will be next!!

Please support HB :778 As a student of U.S. history , ancient history , and world history I have learned do not destroy history but learn from the past .

I appeal to you all to please support HB778. The war Veterans who have served our commonwealth and this great country deserve nothing less than to have the Memorials erected in their honor protected to the best of our ability. Most Respectfully Tracy Clary

I would like to express my sincere hope that the Sub Committee will support HB778. I am in favor of this proposed bill as written and I am of the belief that we need to do more to preserve our rich Virginia history. Thank you. T B.Simmons,Sr. Sebrell-Southamptpn County Virginia

Please support HB778. Thank you.

I am speaking in support of House Bill 778. I light of the willful display of hatred toward certain Monuments over the past several years, there needs to be a method codified to preserve monuments. The hatred displayed to, specifically, Confederate memorials is a travesty to the preservation of our history. The move to give "context" to monuments is just a method for those who have a bias to be given authority to publicly display their bias under the guise of "explaining" the history of the monument. We saw how even the top elected officials of the Commonwealth behaved toward Monuments they chose to not try to understand, rather, those officials chose to pander to a portion of the population for future political gain. The Monuments in Charlottesville were the subject of a vile attack by one of Charlottesville City Councilmen. This individual has a long history of racist/bigoted comments toward Confederate history. The actions of this Councilman directly precipitated the tragic day which cost the lives of a protester and two of the Commonwealth's Officers. It is too late to restore those lives and the property which has been destroyed by hatred, hatred being portrayed as concern for truth as officials removed monuments "to hatred" rather than trying to understand the complex political and social issues of the mid-19th Century . I urge to Committee to support HB778 as a measure to help preserve Monuments to history for all citizens and generations. Sincerely, Michael W. Tyler

To the members of this committee: please be advised that I am in support of HB778 and wish that this bill be submitted to the entire House for approval. Billie Earnest

Members of the Committee, I am in support of and request that you too support HR 778. To ask that our monuments be treated with dignity and placed where they are wanted and may be viewed by the public who WANT TO understand that these monuments are very important. One of the greatest fallacies one can make in attempting to learn the truths history has to offer is to judge another's actions by the standards of one's own time Thank you, Lawrence D Mason King George, VA

I believe that Virginia monument should be preserved. They are an important part of our history and it is a great tragedy to have them taken down or removed. Thank You.

In regard to HB 778 I request all Virginia Representatives to support this bill. Please restore some protection for War Memorials and Historic outdoor works of Art. This senseless destruction of the symbols of our State and Country must stop. B. Frank Earnest, US Navy Retired, Vietnam era Veteran

The past couple years have seen the current VA law abused for political purposes. I support HB 778 because it is the moral thing to do to support our Veterans! Please support this Bill.

ALL monuments should be left where they are. That said I would like to see this bill passed as it at least gives those who the monument represents some say in what is done with it.

Please support passage of this bill, introduced by Del. Williams. This bill is necessary to protect our war memorials and other monuments in Virginia. One only has to look down Monument Avenue to see what the wanton destruction of this once beautiful avenue has wrought to the utter disregard of residents in the area. This bill would help with the appropriate relocation of monuments and memorials, when deemed necessary. Thank you, Mike Hahn Arlington

Thank you for your time! I have watched in complete horror my Southern history destroyed over the past 2 years. We have become Nation no better than the Taliban who destroyed antiquity in Afghanistan, and ISIS who bombed Roman Temples in Paul Maria, Syria. Because someone doesn't agree with another, it doesn't give the opposing entity the right to destroy (as in the case of our Southern Memorials). All memorials should remain intact and studied. Look at Lee, he freed his (wife's) slaves before war began. Lincoln, did not! so is he next?? The Confederate Constitution Article 1 Section 9, 1-2 "Forbids the importation of slaves into the South or its territories from any foreign Country." However, The Corwin Amendment, (March 1861) pre war, was passed by House and Senate by a majority vote and ratified in Kentucky, Ohio, Rhode Island, Illinois, and Maryland, all NORTHERN states. This Amendment would have made slavery perpetual, forever, in our Country. The only thing stopping it from being ratified, was War. If the war was fought over slavery why did Northern States vote ratify it. The money allocated toward destruction of our history/memorials should be placed in education. We are heading down a slippery slop of which there is no return. Who will be next? What buildings are next? The Capital?? built by slave labor. It must stop. PLEASE PROTECT WHAT MEMORIALS ARE LEFT. Slavery began in this Country in 1619, not in the short 4 years of the Southern States existence. It flourished 242 years before there was a Confederate States of America. EDUCATION is the key. Thank you Roy Perry 540-207-5037

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

I support HB778. I ask that every memeber support this bill.

Please Support this bill to help stop the destruction of our heratige.

My wife and I both support HB 778, as we believe it is very important to protect Virginia's historic War Memorials to Veterans.

Virginia's various war monuments and memorials, and the epitaphs inscribed on them, to remember those to whom they were erected, serve, not only as a memoriam to all who served, but as a final resting place for the soldier who never returned home. They are a solemn place where people can come to remember or memorialize their loved one, friend, or ancestor, and honor their call to duty, their service, and for some, their ultimate sacrifice. To allow any of these monuments or memorials to be wantonly moved from the public eye, or to be vandalized, or to be destroyed, is a most shameful act for anyone to support. Therefore I urge every member of this committee to support House Bill No. 778, offered January 12 of the 2022 Session, to amend and reenact § 15.2-1812 of the Code of Virginia, relating to relocation of monuments and memorials. I thank each of you for your time and consideration of these comments.

Thank you for introducing this bill to the current session for consideration. I have been saddened at the removal and attack our beautiful monuments have undergone in the last several years. Richmond City Council destroyed the heritage and beauty of Monument Avenue with the removal of the statues. Those publicly owned monuments were subjected to graffiti, demolition and finally removal. I actually lived several blocks from the monuments and moved out of the City of Richmond, back to my hometown of Farmville because of the civil unrest and destruction of the area. Items of historical significance should never be removed, hidden and destroyed but explained in their context and history learned. We teach by example and instruction. Without objects of reference, our history is slowly eroded. Absolutely, please pass a bill that monuments of historical significance should be gifted or preserved and given to a respective body that will maintain them and allow them to be displayed.

Please protect monuments to all Virginia soldiers. These soldiers left home and family to protect their state and many gave the ultimate sacrifice. Please consider those of us who wish to honor their memory.

Mr. David McCullough, historian and author, reminds us. "We should never look down on those of the past and say they should have known better. What do you think they will be saying about us in the future? They are going to be saying "we" should have known better." "Monuments are erected to commemorate particular achievements of imperfect people. There are other mechanisms - schools - museums -documentaries - books - to instruct us on the purported flaws of our forebears." Jeffrey Collins - Professor of History - Queens University These two comments alone should make us realize that we should support HB778. A monument that was erected to honor the men of a county in Virginia for their service in the Civil War, the VietNam war, the Spanish-American war, or some future war were all erected in a time of pain, loss, and pride. Many of those people never came home and this local monument is in fact their only gravestone. Think about that. This is their gravestone. Misguided people are tearing down statues of Lincoln, Grant, Douglas, Lee, Jefferson, Columbus, Catholic Missionaries and more. That is also very misguided but may be a bit off point on a War Memorial HB. The concept is the same. History, including statues, provide teaching moments. If there is no monument to the horrors of the Trail of Tears . . . did it happen? If there is no monument to what happened on the Pettis Bridge . . . did it happen? If there is no monument in Williamsburg to honor the local soldiers and sailors who answered the call of Virginia to defend her from invasion in 1861-1865 . . . did it happen? One of the most amazing documents in American history came from the mind of Thomas Jefferson and he considers it one of his three major life achievements. That document alone should have a statue of Tom erected in every state in the Union . .. naturally I refer to the 'Virginia Article of Religious Freedom.' Support the bill. Protect history.

Please help, support House Bill 778 that protects Virginia's historic War Memorials to Veterans Thank you Jim Martin Jim Martin, Appomattox 5th. Districk jimchoppermartin59@comcast.net

I support this bill as I feel the preservation of all war monuments is extremely important.

I am writing in support of HB778. This bill would still allow localities the ability to vote to remove, relocate, contextualize, or cover monuments that are on public land. However, we need an orderly process that insures Virginia's historic monuments do not get placed in "permanent storage" or destroyed. This bill outlines an appropriate process to follow.

I ask you to support for HB778. Protecting Virginia's storied history has never been more important not only for Virginia, but for our entire nation. Virginia is at the heart of the American identity itself. For no story about America can begin without her. From it's founding days to the present, our entire nation has looked to Virginia and it's role as the nation's history keeper. Let us not lose this noble charter we have been entrusted with. Thank you.

I am a retired Air Force Veteran having served during the Viet Nam War and Desert Storm and with the Coast Guard Auxiliary during 9/11. Please save our war memorials to veterans. Don’t let history forget us. Respectfully, Jimmy Kerr

It is imperative that this bill be moved forward. For far to long, radical voices have shouted down those of the reasonable majority who wish to see these monuments remain in place or at least be moved to a location where those who honor what they stand for can continue to remember the sacrifice of the men and women they honor. And make no mistake. The opinions of those who claim to show that they represent white supremacy are expressing not facts, but their own jaundiced opinion. These monuments were placed by people who wished to honor their comrades in arms, whom they formed an unbreakable bond and brotherhood with through the contest of combat. They are no different that the memorials placed by veterans groups today to honor those they lost in Iraq or Afghanistan. Furthermore, they were placed by the wives, sons and daughters whose loved ones marched off to war and never returned, their fate and final resting place forever unknown. I implore you to remember the true spirit in which these monuments rose and honor the memory of your fellow citizens whom they seek to honor by allowing cooler heads to decide their disposition. It is already too late for some monuments, such as the one violently and crimanaly destroyed in Portsmouth, aided by one of your own Senators. It is too late even for the monument here in Newport News that I used to regularly visit. But there are hundreds of other monuments that it is not to late to save or at least provide the opportunity for people who still care deeply about them to continue to honor their memory. Please give us this chance. And you would do well to consider, those who placed these monuments never dreamed that the day would come when a mob or politically motivated officials would tear them down. What assurance do you have that 100 years from now, mobs of misguided people or politicians will not tear down monuments to civil rights or WWII because they find them offensive?

I am against removal or moving any and all historic Monuments in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The state has lost millions of dollars of revenue from tourism since the Monuments have been removed. From around the globe people would come and tour Virgunias Civil War Trails, if they come now they will be sorely disappointed, leave the Monuments alone.

Memorial statues that have been illegally taken down should be put back in its rightful place. If this is not done then in the least the historical statue should go to a Southern/Confederate group who would appreciate it and place the statue in a proper place instead of scrapping it.

Sir I would like to say myself along with many, many Virginia Military Veterans are in strong favor of protecting ALL our Statues and Monuments to the best of our ability. These Statues and Monuments represent Virginia's finest men and women who fought for what they believed in. If we lose this fight to preserve our sacred monuments and Statues then Virginia is letting down her Military Veterans of all wars in which we fought in. Please don't let this happen to us. Please preserve out monuments and Statues to the best of our ability.

I am writing in strong support of Delegate Wren Williams' bill, HB778, regarding the relocation of monuments and memorials in Virginia. The current state statute, as I understand it, allows a locality to remove or relocate a war or other memorial or monument pretty much at its own discretion, without regard to public sentiment. We have seen this statute utilized across the Commonwealth the last few years by certain localities to remove memorials dedicated primarily to soldiers or other persons who served in the Confederate armed forces. One need look no further than the graffiti-emblazoned remnants of the memorials on Monument Avenue in Richmond to see how the wanton removal of memorials debases our culture. We are somehow led to believe by proponents of these actions that removing monuments leads to healing, but in my opinion, it does the exact opposite. I am a resident of Patrick County, birthplace of Maj. Gen. JEB Stuart, whose memorial on Monument Avenue was one of those desecrated and then removed last year. The Trust that manages Stuart's birthplace has sought to have his statue brought to his home place. This certainly seems like a reasonable compromise, yet, to my knowledge, Stuart's statue remains with the others from Monument Avenue in limbo at the City's waste treatment facility, where I personally believe the City is content to have it remain until they can give it to someone who will melt it down into new politically correct "art". Delegate Williams' bill would go a long way toward ensuring that memorials with tremendous meaning to many people of this Commonwealth, such as Stuart's, are not desecrated at the whim of a local city council or board of supervisors. His bill would ensure that others with an interest in maintaining our collective history may have a fighting chance to do so. It should be remembered that Confederate veterans are, by act of the US Congress, considered veterans on legal par with American veterans of all other US wars. Their memorials are legally equivalent to those to World War II veterans and all others. Though the current statute has been invoked to target Confederate memorials and monuments thus far, there is no guarantee it will not be used in the future to target those erected in memory of veterans of other wars should the winds of political correctness ever shift. How a people choose to honor or remember their past and those who participated in it speaks volumes about their character. Virginia's history is rich. Destroying monuments will not erase parts of it some would like to forget. Though a locality may desire to remove or relocate a memorial or monument under current law, they should not be able to do so in a wanton manner that seeks to erase from public memory altogether the object or event commemorated by that memorial. Please support HB778.

I support this bill as I feel the preservation of all war monuments is extremely important.

I am writing to support HB778. I am opposed to the moving of any war memorials, but if a majority want it moved, the monuments should be protected and placed where they can be honored as originally intended.

I am the son of and the father of a military veteran. We are very concerned about what,s happening to our monuments and our history. We feel as though our goverment doesnt care about us or our opinion . Change our mind !!!!!!!!!

I am in support of House Bill 778 that aims to protect Virginia's historic War Memorials to Veterans. Prior to gifting a monument/memorial to another organization or entity, it is important to have public participation with ties to the locality and expertise on war memorials in the Commonwealth. This will ensure relocation and placement are consistent with the original intent of the monument/memorial.

Comments Document

I am writing is strong support of HB778! HB778 is critically significant in providing a solution to highly problematic localities that have misused the intent of the legislation. (Chapter 1101 Acts Of Assembly) "The local governing body shall have sole authority to determine the final disposition of the monument or memorial," has been inappropriately misused by two localities, Richmond and Charlottesville, that have stated they will "alter or destroy" significant monuments to the artistic legacy of this Commonwealth and of America. These localities have circumvented the legislation that has prohibited "alter or destroy" as an option for localities. Attached is Senator Reeves' letter to Charlottesville that highlights that localities blatant violation of 15.2-1812. The Commonwealth should never condone, support or legitimize the alteration or destruction of art. Localities can remove, relocate, cover or contextualize these monuments, however this Commonwealth, its localities and state agencies, such as the VMFA, DHR and DGS, as well as the executive branch of government, should never support altering or destroying ANY work of art. HB 778 removes the one sentence that these localities will use out of context to alter or destroy these grand monuments. These monuments are significant to the artistic legacy of Richmond, this Commonwealth and of the City Beautiful Movement of America. They can not be replaced, the foundries do not even exist. The work of these foundries are recognized worldwide. The bronze statues, other bronze elements and pedestals of these monuments constitute a complete monument. The nefarious statements of The Valentine Museum and its supporters are potentially going to alter or destroy these monuments by decree of the Commonwealth, Mayor and City Council of Richmond, in violations of 15.2-1812. Please support HB 778!

The current monuments statute 15.2-1812 is confusing to or being purposely misused by the attorneys for localities. They believe that the phrase in the current law “ The local governing body shall have sole authority to determine the final disposition of the monument or memorial” allows them to destroy, facilitate the destruction of by third parties and alter monuments and memorials. This is not the legislative intent . Senator Bryce Reeves , member of the Conference Committee who authored the current law has stated in writing that the current laws intent was to allow only the removal and storage, relocation of, covering of and contextualization of a monument or memorial. Not the destruction or alteration of same. Example- under the current law ,Isle of Wight County, Virginia gave me the 30 foot tall carved granite ,Isle of Wight Monument to Confederate Dead with clear title and no strings attached . I can sell, destroy, alter or do anything else I want with it. I have re- erected it in an honorable way ,the way I verbally promised ,but I had no legal obligation to do. These historic monuments belong to the citizens of Virginia and are part of Virginia history. Like any other historic artifact should be preserved. To allow their destruction or alteration is an insult to all Virginians. To judge the people of the distant past using 21 Century hindsight and knowledge is unjust and unfair. We did not grow up during their time and in their established culture. At the very least the current 15.2-1812 needs to be clarified so it can not be misinterpreted to allow for the destruction and/or alteration of any historic war monument or memorial. They started with Confederate and have moved on to Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, Roosevelt and even Columbus. How will the people of the 22 Century judge this being allowed.

HB778 should be supported because the current 15.2-1812 has a the phrase " a locality shall have the soul authority to determine the disposition of the monument or memorial". localities say this phrase allows them to destroy, facilitate the destruction of and alter historic war monuments. I know this as a fact because Isle of Wight County GAVE me the Isle of Wight monument ( a 30 foot tall 116 year old statue) with an unrestricted title and I can destroy it today if I wish. They used this phrase in 15.2-1812 to justify this. Other cities such as Charlottesville have facilitated the destruction by a third party of a historic monument using this phrase as justification. If any historic monument is to be saved the provisions in HB778 must be enacted. The left wing radicals have already demonstrated in other localities that Washington, Jefferson and the rest of the founding fathers will be next.

HB778 should be supported because the current 15.2-1512 has a the phrase " a locality shall have the soul authority to determine the disposition of the monument or memorial". localities say this phrase allows them to destroy, facilitate the destruction of and alter historic war monuments. I know this as a fact because Isle of Wight County GAVE me the Isle of Wight monument ( a 30 foot tall 116 year old statue) with an unrestricted title and I can destroy it today if I wish. They used this phrase in 15,2-1512 to justify this. Other cities such as Charlottesville have facilitated the destruction by a third party of a historic monument using this phrase as justification. If any historic monument is to be saved the provisions in HB778 must be enacted. The left wing radicals have already demonstrated in other localities that Washington, Jefferson and the rest of the founding fathers will be next.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

The right of accused persons to due process is one of the most fundamental rights enshrined in the US Constitution. Public defenders are vital guardians of that right. About four put of five criminal defendants nationwide are represented by a public defender. These legal professionals work tirelessly to defend the rights of those they represent, and are often managing large caseloads with few resources at their disposal. It stands to reason that our public defenders should be adequately compensated for the work they do. Given the obscene amounts of money our cities, counties, and municipalities spend on policing and prosecution, guaranteeing equal compensation for public defenders is the least our commonwealth can do to protect the constitutional right to a fair trial.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Mr. Chair, Members of the Committee, The County in its testimony elsewhere, has claimed that it has exhausted its options within the city limits and that it therefore cannot honor the codified and uniform referendum rule by waiting for 4 more years for a new vote. Specifically, the County claims that because it doesn't have the power of eminent domain within the city boundaries, the bank property across the street from the Courthouse is only available at an inflated price and the City appears unwilling to help. What the County fails to tell you is that it hasn't asked the General Assembly to grant it the right of condemnation in the city, an action that the General Assembly clearly contemplates in 15.2-1901, Clause B. ("A locality may acquire property or property interests outside its boundaries by exercise of the power of eminent domain only if such authority is expressly conferred by general law or special act."). Because it has not considered asking for such condemnation power, it has not adequately estimated the true cost of property acquisition in the City nor has it considered how such an action could strengthen its negotiating position with the City. There remains a strong contingent on the Board of Supervisors that has been committed to moving the County Seat out of Staunton for some period, and I believe this has colored the negotiations and strategies it has engaged in since losing the 2016 referendum vote. If the General Assembly passes this special bill, it will encourage elected local officials to across the Commonwealth to seek the same type of dispositions after losing referendums. The General Assembly has within its power, the ability to consider measures that will assist Augusta County in honoring the referendum results of 2016, such as the special condemnation power referenced above. Such actions would strengthen the County's bargaining position with the City of Staunton and property owners. Therefore, it would premature to pass this bill. For these reasons, I encourage the Committee to reject this bill and ask the County to consider all of its legislative options with its patrons for moving foward in the City.

HB 902 Mr. Chairman, Members of the Subcommittee: For more than a decade failed negotiations between Staunton and Augusta County have produced no solution to the problem of relocating the courts and the county seat. In 2016 the decision making was wisely turned over to Augusta County voters in the form of a referendum that those voters defeated. Those same voters made their will known with the full understanding that a ten-year window of time would exist before another referendum could be brought forward. Clearly county officials did not feel bound by those results and having lost, they now want to change the outcome of that vote by using legislation to disenfranchise the voters who rejected the idea and thought they had done so for at least ten years. Presently two pieces of legislation are making their way through the General Assembly; House Bill 902 (Avoli) and Senate Bill 283 (Hanger). The bills call for a new referendum to be held this year, 2022, five years earlier than the initial moratorium called for. Both bills have several qualifiers, all of which seem to favor the county since city voters will have no say in the matter. That means they are taking voters out of the equation. The city and county have failed to reach any kind of mutual agreement in fifteen years so how do they make that happen now? The most troublesome in all this remains to be the way it is being sought. It is never right for elected or appointed officials, at any level of government, to attempt to reverse the outcome of a fair and honest election because they didn’t get the results they wanted. It is especially troubling that legislators are complicit in this side door approach to deny the voters their chosen outcome. In our system of government, we allow for these defeated referendums to be reconsidered after ten years. Voters who rejected the 2016 proposal believed those were the terms and conditions of that vote and no one, no one, should be able to move the goalposts at halftime hoping for a different outcome. Honorable Dickie Bell HD 20 Retired

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

As an Augusta County resident who voted on the referendum in 2016, I find it unconscionable that legislation is being introduced to specifically try to circumvent the will of the Augusta County voters. The referendum should only be permitted to be reintroduced in 2026, consistent with the 2016 vote--to allow it to be presented prior to that sends the message that the state's laws aren't worth the paper they're written on and that the voters' voices don't matter. This problem exists because the County has failed to properly maintain the courthouse over the years. I ask that you oppose this legislation in keeping with the will of the voters and their decision in 2016.

Thank you for opportunity to speak against HB904. I’m Steve Trivett, a resident of Ashland VA. I live six hours from Pound. Why do I care? Because, I’m 10 years into serving on Ashland’s Town Council and in my 2nd term as Mayor. I’m also in my 2nd term as VML’s Town Section Chair and of course, a citizen of a Town, so towns matter to me and I hope towns also matter to you. Pound has elected their own local officials for about 80 years- they value their Town. Even with well-intention elected official’s best efforts hampered by Council peer discord and dysfunction, they all still value their town. True that poor management by past Pound leaders have compounded today’s challenges and that is indeed not fair to the citizens of Pound. But, repealing their Charter negates Pound’s future on account of past errors and that is also not fair to the citizens and businesses of Pound. Del. Kilgore has shared about news accounts of their floundering, but just as they are starting to get a grip on a lifeline, HB904 would drown Pound right out of existence. This bill purports to give Pound a year. Indeed, Chief Patron, Del. Kilgore, characterizes it a wake-up call to the Town. Well then, message received, so give Pound a year to fix what’s wrong without this duress. Del. Pillion, Pound’s Delegate, can monitor their progress this next year. If it's failure instead, he can take up Pound’s demise in 2023. But for now, there’s a better way to assist Pound. I’ve been talking to some of Pound’s past and current leaders and following their challenges for a couple of years. There’s plenty of determination in Pound to carry out a ‘re-set’ for accountability and positive performance for Council, Mayor, and citizens alike. Numerous ‘friends of Pound’ such as myself, will be offering our support to their task as well. Please allow a chance to accomplish their re-set! Another serious impact of HB904- this bill raises serious concerns about protections and connections within relationship between each Town and County all over Virginia as it very much favors a County by dooming a Town.

hb904 Repeal This a continuation from my previous comments: 9). Mayor Carson has made the comment numerous times she is very well competent of being the Mayor of Pound, Va. She was a Military Mayor, Ms. Carson was never in the Military, she was a military spouse. Each housing area has it a Mayor of their own. The definition of a Military Mayor is as follows;The Mayor is a Liaison from housing to the the Commanding General of the post to ensure the Soldiers housing is order upon deployment and redeployment. She also would plan functions for the Soldiers. Sounds to me like she was just a planner! 10.) She has said numerous times that she has volunteered her time to make the Town Hall a presentable place for the community and not getting paid a penny for anything. Well the Town of Pound put her on the payroll making $300.00 per week, whether she was present or not. She resigned at her own will when she lost a FOIA request to attorney Tim McAfee. She was taken to court. How can she be a professional and make decisions for the Town of Pound when she couldn't answer a request? 11.) Ms. Carson fraternizes with the female community service worker in the town. The worker has made the comment around the citizens that the Mayor sure is good to her, she buys her lunch everyday. 12.) A keyless entry was placed at the Town Hall from door, The locksmith that was called didn't have the correct tools to fix the door, said he would have to come back a week later to repair it. Chief Wilcox, said we the have someone that can repair it. He called an ex-council member that is not a locksmith is a gunsmith by trade. So how could this individual by qualified to install the lock? The citizens found this out in the December 2021 meeting. 13.) They have been gofundme accounts set up to assist the Mayor with her personal law suit against the citizens petition trying to remove her from office. The fund was for her personal gain. Another gofundme account was set up when the 10 residents took the Town of Pound to court over an illegal appointment in September. The gofundme accounts was set up by the same individual. 14.) Donations were solicited for the Town of Pound Christmas parade in 2020, I do wonder if any receipts were kept specifying where the money went, if the citizens and business were given receipts? If not, how was that money spent and where? 15.) Ms. Carson also reported in a town council meeting that she has 2 individuals assist her in sending out Town of Pound water bills? So those individuals volunteered their time and had access to the account numbers and personal information for the citizens at the request of Mayor Stacey Carson.16.) During Public expression, individuals are allowed to speak in support of the Mayor that doesn't even live in corporation, and they are making decisions that our tax money is spent for. They should have no say so in how he Town is operated. Very seldom you may have a tax paying citizens speak. 17.) The Mayor has sabotaged prior and prior council members, employees, Police Department, public works and Attorneys to benefit herself and her ways. The town is not getting any better. You as our lawmakers were voted on by the citizens of the Commonwealth to help citizens. Support the Wise County Board of Supervisors. The Town of Pound isn't getting any better, I am asking each of to please reconsider hb904, and vote to repeal the Town of Pound Charter on July 01, 2023.

Dignitaries, Legislatures and Elected Officials: I am contacting you today in hopes that you will pass hb904 and repeal the Town of Pound before July 01, 2023. I have listed information that you may be unaware of. 1.) Mayor Stacey Carson has no regard to Virginia Law, She currently drives a black hummer with illegal tint and expired Virginia tags effective Sept. 21. 2.) Sending out checks the bank will not honor. 3.) Shut down Town of Pound Government during the peak of tax season. I received my Real Estate Taxes in October 2021. The due date to have them paid was November 30, 2021. I made several trips to the Town Hall they were a sign on the door, Town Hall offices closed per Mayor Stacey Carson. Her cell phone number was listed by she didn't answer it. I have yet to receive my personal property taxes. 4.) What exactly is my Tax Money going for. We have no Water, Sewer or Police protection. The Chief of Police has stated in my meetings, that he was not hired to Patrol, he as hired only to organize the evidence room and that is all he is going to do. He hired Cindy Mullins as his secretary and later gave her the position of Crime Prevention Officer. Exactly what does a Crime Prevention Officer do, she has never been sworn in, she has never went to the school or a business and give them tips on crime prevention. She hasn't implemented "The McGruff" program in the town per Code of Virginia Cha. 868 9-173.17. They are no way even to reach the Police Department, we have to call Wise County Sherriff's Department for assistance of needed. It has taken since July 2021 to organize an evidence room by 2 people. They are not at the Town Hall so you can speak to them,. Sounds like someone is wasting Town Funds. 5.) Ms. Carson is continuously down grading or emergency services in the town. I hope and pray our Emergency Services ie Fire and Rescue continues to give the Town of Pound the excellent services that provide the town even with her down grading the departments. 6.) Miss Carson has placed and continues to place individuals and guests in a hostile environment at council meetings by yelling, screaming, and since July 2020, she has continues to talk bout her being abused. The town has business to conduct and don't need to hear about her personal life. 7.) An ex-council member reported in the December Meeting that he had visited business in Town of Pound and they had written letters to Mayor Carson that they were refusing to pay their taxes until an Audit is completed and they would like to see the results. That seems to me as individuals in the business are refusing to pay taxes. I guess the citizens question is who gave him the authority to do that, or did he take it upon himself? Seems to me that the business owners feels like the citizens, what are they getting for their money? 8.) This town is a disgrace to live in, It is nasty, as an handicap individual you can't even walk on the sidewalk for the uneven concrete, the doors aren't even wide enough to access a wheel chair. The laughing stock of Wise County, Southwest Virginia and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Town of Pound is in newspapers, state and local of the events that are taking place. Just pick up a newspaper and you can read it, how embarrassing is that?

Comments Document

Honorable Delegates, I respectfully ask that you oppose HB 904, repealing Town of Pound’s charter.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

I am writing to respectfully ask that you not support HB904. The town has been besieged with many problems over the last few years. Most of these can be attributed to a few people that have served in the town council that turned a blind eye to mounting issues. There are many people in the town that have and are currently trying to turn the situation around. It will be a monumental task. This is a situation that will have to be monitored closely but, I believe it can be accomplished without the drastic measure of rescinding the town's charter. Thank you.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please move to report HB116, HB710, HB1070, HB548, HB1088. Thank you.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

This is submitted regarding the destruction and removal of monuments in Virginia. Dear sirs, It is high time to restore the damage the Visigoths, who in the recent bacchanalia of destruction, attempted to erase the history of this great Commonwealth. You are regarded by many of its citizens as a breath of fresh air in this new administration, It is my hope that you take a careful look at undoing the horrendous damage wrought to our monuments . I might remind you of the obvious; nobody ever voted to undertake this vandalism. Do not allow the actions of corrupt persons, acting on their own volition, to destroy our history and our heritage. Respectfully, Maj. Bruce Wallace Raich, USMC (ret)

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

I am in support of these bills.

I’m writing in support of HB 670 because it will provide the legislative assurance needed for Arlington County to create a truly independent policing auditor to support Arlington’s law enforcement civilian oversight board. It does not work for the same person to supervise the oversight board to also supervise local law enforcement. Accountability requires independence. Thank you Delegate Hope for introducing this bill. I live in South Arlington and I personally know teens who have had negative interactions with police officers that concern me. I’m sadly also aware of adults who have come to harm through their interactions with police. Community oversight is necessary.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Comments Document

Provided here are my written remarks for HB 1210 for the hearings scheduled for tomorrow, 4 February, 2022. I have also registered to speak. Thank you very much. Tom Dickinson Save Historic Arlington

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

Comments Document

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute respectfully submits the attached comments in opposition to HB 1337 RE gas-powered leaf blowers. Please do not hesitate to contact us directly if there are any questions or we can provide additional information regarding the subject concerns.

I’m Joan Lowy, director of Quiet Clean NOVA. Despite their relatively small size, gas-powered leaf blowers emit a tremendous amount of noise and pollution. HB1337 would enable local governments to regulate these machines. The bill is permissive – local governments aren’t required to take any action if they choose not to. If leaf blower noise and pollution isn’t an issue in your community, no problem. But public officials in communities where residents are complaining that gas-powered leaf blowers are disturbing their peace and fouling their air would be able to curb their use under HB1337. Please let the elected officials who are closest to the people decide what solution best fits their community. Gas-powered leaf blowers are typically used three-quarters of the year, mostly to blow grass clipping. They generate an especially deep, oscillating noise. Research has shown that the noise from gas-powered leaf blowers travels farther and penetrates windows and walls more easily than other engine noise. It's like second-hand smoke – you can’t escape it. The seriousness of this problem is increasing as more people work and study at home. Most gas-powered leaf blowers have crude 2-stroke engines that use a mix of gas and oil. These are the same types of engines typically used in the motorized rickshaws that have contributed mightily to the choking air pollution in many Asian cities. The rest of the world is moving away from this obsolete technology, but its use continues unchecked in the U.S. landscape industry. About a third of that fuel is released UNCOMBUSTED into the air. This includes known carcinogens such as benzene, butadiene, and formaldehyde. The California Air Resources Board says a popular model gas-powered leaf blower emits as much smog-forming pollutants in ONE HOUR as driving a Toyota Camry 1,100 miles. A test by the Edmunds car journal, with help from AAA, found that a 2-stroke engine backpack leaf blower emitted 300 times more hydrocarbons and 23 times more carbon monoxide than a 6,200-pound Ford 150 Raptor pickup truck. We’re asking you to give us some relief. Please pass HB1337. Thank you for your consideration.

Please support HB1337 to empower local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. Lawn crews arrive at neighbors' yards at the crack of dawn and spend hours standing just around and blowing every single leave they can find, well beyond what is necessary to keep excess leaves from killing the grass. They blow the leaves off of the driveway and sidewalks into the streets, and then they turn around and blow the leaves off of the street. And it is not just one neighbor. As soon as one crew finishes, another crew starts up at another house, or multiple crews overlap at different neighbors, droning on and on and on in stereo. All. day. long. All autumn long. It ruins everybody else's right to quiet enjoyment of their property. One really should be able to open the house's windows and enjoy nature when the summer temperatures finally break. And it is not just in autumn. It's more leave-blowing in the winter. It's blowers for leaf-cleanup in the spring. It's blowing grass clippings in the summer. The homeowners may not even be aware of how long their lawn crews are there aggravating the neighbors because the homeowners commonly are away at work and don't have to deal with it themselves. But it is certainly noticed by the neighbors who work from home.

I fully support HB1337. As a home owner and tax payer, I'm appalled by how prevalent these old fashioned nuisances have become year-round in VA. Gas powered leaf blowers are destructive to community air quality and cause horrific noise pollution. It's an antiquated technology that can easily be replaced by cleaner alternatives. The sooner they are banned the better, and the faster that cleaner alternatives will be embraced. Help Virginia be cleaner, less noisy, and smell less like gasoline year round! Offer incentives to move to cleaner alternatives, and we can put old fashioned fossil fuel based tech behind us.

I strongly support Kaye Kory's Bill HB1337. Polluting gas powered leaf blowers are a nuisance and are bad for the environment and the health of users. Electric powered motors are much quieter and are a good alternative. Noise knows no bounds and using gas powered motors disturbs the peace for the entire community.

Please save all of Virginias history, by leaving our monuments intact and historic memorabilia on display. The Commonwealths history should not offend anyone who takes the time to understand it and respect the changes that occurred. For instance Virginias State park history, the Commonwealth’s Roadways or the quaint country town with the history of its namesake and deep rooted genealogy of the people who lived there. The Monuments are no different, they speak of times gone by, appreciated by some, disliked by others. Maybe they are a symbol that change is needed and to remind us to do so, whatever the cause, our history brought us to this day in time. We need to respect each other’s heritage and appreciate how each native Virginian helped to shape all of us. Respectfully, Alan Crawford

We are strongly opposed to the loud and polluting gas powered motors that we hear and smell on Saturday and Sunday, oftentimes early in the morning. They are not necessary, particularly in small back yards. We strongly support Kaye Kory's Bill HB1337.

I would like to register my support of HB 1337 for the peace and health of the citizens of Fairfax County. I live in Lake Barcroft, a community with an enormous number of trees. The proliferation of noisy and polluting gas-powered leaf blowers seriously impinges on my and my neighbors enjoyment of our community, and impacts our health and welfare. Gas blowers are unregulated and spew air pollutants in incredibly higher quantities that automobiles. When landscape companies are working near our home, with two or three blowers going at the same time, we can smell the exhaust fumes on our property and the noise is deafening. Please give localities the power to regulate this equipment. There are battery-powered alternatives (I have one!) that are just as effective as the gas-powered blowers, and the trend nationwide in communities around the country is to get rid of these blowers and go green with battery-powered equipment. New landscaping companies are being established that solely use battery-operated and solar-charged landscaping equipment. Fairfax County itself will phase out the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in county operations. Please pass this bill.

Pass HB1337 (Kory) Gas-powered leaf blowers (GLBs) are disturbing the peace and fouling the air of Virginia communities. They are often used three-quarters of the year, mostly to blow grass-clippings. Cities and counties are severely limited in their ability to curb the use of GLBs. HB1337 would enable – but not require – local officials to regulate these noisy, polluting machines. With more Virginians working and studying at home, this problem takes on greater urgency. Background Most GLBs have crude 2-stroke engines that emit an oscillating noise research shows travels farther and is more likely to penetrate walls and windows than other types of engine noise. US health agencies consider 85 decibels to be the threshold at which hearing damage takes place. GLBs often measure over 100 decibels at the ear of the operator, which means people using them for just a few hours, such as lawn care workers, are likely to experience hearing loss. Even when measured from farther away, GLBs often exceed 70 decibels. The World Health Organization says outdoor noise over 55 decibels is disturbing to people. For their size, GLBs have an outsized impact on the environment. Their engines are similar to those used in the motorized rickshaws that have contributed mightily to the choking air pollution in some Asian cities. The rest of the world is moving away from this technology, but its use persists unchecked in the US lawn care industry. About a third of GLBs’ fuel is released UNCOMBUSTED into the air. These emissions include such known carcinogens as benzene, butadiene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde. The California Air Resources Board says using a popular model GLB for ONE HOUR emits as much smog-forming pollution as driving a Toyota Camry 1,100 miles. Tests by the Edmunds car journal, with help from AAA, found that a 2-stroke backpack leaf blower emitted 300 times more hydrocarbons than a Ford 150 pickup truck. There are alternatives, including battery-powered leaf blowers. A growing number of landscape companies are using all-battery equipment – mowers, blowers, edgers, trimmers, etc. Often, they recharge batteries using mobile solar panels on the roofs of their trucks. They have made this switch because it’s good business. Battery equipment doesn’t have the same overhead as gas-powered machines. You don’t have to buy fuel or filters, and there’s less maintenance and fewer repairs. Companies say the return on investment over time is greater with battery equipment. Please empower local governments to nudge GLB users into modernizing their equipment for the health and tranquility of their communities.

I strongly support HB1337, the bill giving local jurisdictions claim to regulate the use of gas powered leaf blowers. The high decibel production of these tools causes hearing loss in the users and anyone in the immediate and relatively distant vicinity. The exhaust emitted causes much air pollution. The damage to wildlife--birds, the reproductive cycle of insects which feed birds, and humans is high. Electric and battery powered blowers are quieter and pollute less. Please, for the sake of our environment, our ecosystem, wild animals and humans, pass this bill. Respectfully submitted. Thank you for your time.

Please support HB 1337 to enable Virginia local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. Gas-powered leaf blowers emit high decibel levels of noise pollution which is incessant for months, every single day! Gas blowers also emit massive amounts of carbon pollution. They cashed serious harm to lung health and heart health, not to mention mental health, with their constant awful noise. They disturb the tranquility of the neighborhood, endanger the hearing and health of landscape workers forced to use them. That’s a serious equity issue. Noise levels exceed 100 decibels, producing a low-frequency roar that penetrates our entire neighborhood on a daily basis for months. Pollutants include smog-forming nitrous oxides, greenhouse gas emissions, and carcinogenic hydrocarbons. Additionally, gas blowers, with their blowing power, blow off critical insect eggs from the leaves, the chrysalis of lunar moths and other pollinators, as well as the eggs of fireflies. How much more must we disturb the eco balance of nature? More than 100 communities across the United States now restrict or ban gas-powered leaf blowers, including Washington, DC. I would like to see gas powered blowers completely eliminated, particularly because of their harm to the climate and wildlife. Electric and battery operated blowers are very effective now and are far quieter and do not pollute as much. Please allow local governments to address the issue as needed, not only to restore peace and quiet but also reduce pollution.

I strongly support HB1337 to give local jurisdictions the authority to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. The noise created by leaf blowers is ear shattering at its worst. The fumes are known to be extremely dangerous to our health as are the now proven ill effects of the noise. Further they are seemingly ever present. They are as antiquated as buggy whips because new technology, including solar panel-powered machines, has provided workable and sustainable alternatives. Find a way to help the “buggy-whip” companies and their employees transition to state-of-the-art tools and solve both problems... environmental preservation and employment generation.

Please support (SB537 or HB1346). Because of the unregulated use of noisy, carcinogen-spewing gas-powered leaf blowers throughout our neighborhood and surrounding areas, sitting outside is disrupted by the penetrating noise and fumes of gas-powered machines. Please empower local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers should they choose to do so. Your support of our quality of life is desperately needed.

I strongly support this bill and urge lawmakers to pass it. The amount of emissions, air pollution and noise pollution produced by these machines is terrible, and most are produced by a relatively few companies and ppl while everyone else suffers. There is such a high externality cost produced. And there are much cleaner and quieter alternatives! We should phase out all Gas powered lawn tools and incentivize electric or manual counterparts.

I am writing in support of HB1337 that would authorize localities to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. It gives authority (but no requirement to act) to the unit of government closest to the people, and is not burdensome because of its phased-in approach. While I personally wouldn't oppose banning them altogether, this legislation is a reasonable approach to reducing toxic emissions, increasing workplace safety, and reducing noise pollution in our neighborhoods. Let's enable Virginia communities to join hundreds of other communities around the country to take this important step.

Please support Kaye Kory’s House Bill 1337 Gas-powered leaf blowers. The noise & air pollution produced by these machines is toxic to human health & the environment. Given the dangerous health and environmental impacts we know these machines have, it’s unconscionable not to regulate them or at least allow local jurisdictions to regulate them.

I am in support of the restriction of two-stroke leaf blowers. These machines are a menace because is the pollution they emit, both sound and fumes, and are a hazard to all who are within earshot, mostly the users of them. Please ban these tools and instead require the use of electric-powered blowers.

I urge the Assembly to pass this resolution banning gas blowers. Small items like this have a huge impact on the quality of life. If they were just used for a few short weeks during fall when leaves have fallen it would be tolerable but they are used weekly by every Yard company to blow cut grass from sidewalks, etc. noise is a pollution. It harms.

Although this may seem to be a relatively small issue, small changes can have larger impacts. Allowing local governments to regulate gas leaf blowers could result in a larger shift towards electric leaf blowers that ends up reducing toxic emissions in a meaningful way. Supporting HB 1337 is an easy way to make a positive change for our communities.

I'm writing to ask that you support HB1337 to empower local governments to regulate the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. Gas-powered leaf blowers (GLBs) are disturbing the peace and fouling the air of Virginia communities. These machines are used almost year-round, often just to blow around grass clippings. HB1337 would enable – but not require – local officials to regulate these noisy, polluting machines. With more Virginians working and studying at home, this problem has become more acute. GLB engines emit an oscillating noise that is louder, travels farther, and penetrates walls more easily than noise emitted by other types of engines. Moreover, their inefficient 2-stroke engines generate staggering amounts of pollution. About one-third of their fuel is released UNCOMBUSTED into the air. Tests by the Edmunds car journal, with help from AAA, found that a 2-stroke backpack leaf blower engine emitted 300 TIMES more hydrocarbons than a Ford 150 pickup truck. In addition, GLB emissions include known carcinogens such as benzene, butadiene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde. More than 150 communities around the country have already acted to curb the use of these noisy, filthy machines. There are several alternatives to GLBs, including battery-powered leaf blowers, which have been found to be just as effective and more economical over time. HB1337 will not require anything of local governments. Rather, it will simply give them the ability to take some action regarding leaf blowers if they choose to do so. Please give local public officials in Virginia the right to determine solutions for their communities where gas-powered leaf blowers are disturbing the peace and polluting the air. Sincerely, Kristi Karls Annandale, VA

Please support HB 1337 to enable Virginia local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. Gas-powered leaf blowers cause ear-splitting noise and dangerous pollution. They disturb the tranquility of the neighborhood, endanger the hearing and health of landscape workers forced to use them, and emit more pollution than a pickup truck. Noise levels exceed 100 decibels, producing a low-frequency roar that penetrates my home no matter what I do. Pollutants include smog-forming nitrous oxides, greenhouse gas emissions, and carcinogenic hydrocarbons. More than 100 communities across the United States now restrict or ban gas-powered leaf blowers, including Washington, DC. In some areas of Virginia, gas-powered leaf blowers may not be a problem, but in my community, they are out of control. Please allow local governments to address the issue as needed, not only to restore peace and quiet but also reduce pollution.

Let's be green and not pollute the air with toxic exhaust!

Please support HB # 1337 allowing localities to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. They produce harmful pollution, both air pollution and noise pollution. They are harmful to people who use them and people who are nearby when they are being used. They cause hearing loss and lung damage, to name a few of the more serious health consequences. They disturb and kill plant life and wildlife. They are unnecessary. The environment benefits when leaves and grass clippings are left where they are to decompose and nourish plant and animal life. Brooms and rakes are better alternatives to leaf blowers.

I wish localities were free to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. They are polluting and noisy, and lots of people don't like that. Communities in Virginia should be able to regulate things like this.

We support the bill. We believe that local communities should have the right to regulate leaf blowers in the interest of the common good.

As a Virginia resident concerned about health and the environment, not to mention our neighborhood noise levels, I’m writing to ask that you support HB1337 to empower local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. These machines are used for most of the year just to blow grass clippings around, while their two-stroke engines make a howling, oscillating noise that is louder, travels farther and penetrates walls more easily than noise from other types of equipment. The engines also produce staggering levels of pollution. About a third of their fuel is released UNCOMBUSTED into the air. The California Air Resources Board says that using a popular model gas-powered leaf blower for ONE HOUR emits as much pollution as driving a Toyota Camry 1,100 miles. There are alternatives, including battery-powered leaf blowers. More than 150 communities around the country have already acted to curb these noisy, polluting machines. This bill is permissive. If you don’t feel gas-powered leaf blowers are a problem in your community, your local government is under no obligation to act. But please give public officials in Virginia communities where gas-powered leaf blowers are disturbing the peace and fouling the air the ability to craft their own solution. Sincerely, Mike Christensen Vienna

I strongly support HB1337, empowering local jurisdictions to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. Jurisdictions should have the authority to manage their landscapes to promote a healthy environment for all. I believe strongly that local communities best represent their citizens, not the state government in Richmond. Republicans and Democrats should embrace the rights of communities to determine their quality of life. Supporting this bill is consistent with protecting the rights of individuals. Please support HB 1337 for the peace and health of the citizens of the Commonwealth. Thank you

I am in support of these bills.

Please vote yes to regulate gas leaf blowers so we can get at least some measure of peace and quiet in our neighborhoods and in our homes. Do not cave to the demands of the landscape lobby!

I strongly support HB1337, empowering local jurisdictions to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. The noise produced by these machines is obnoxious and dangerous for users and everyone in the neighborhood. Many jurisdictions around the U.S. are regulating or banning gas-powered leaf blowers. Fortunately alternatives are readily available in battery-powered electric equipment for homeowners and commercial landscapers. This comment is in support of the grass-roots group Quiet Clean NOVA, which is educating neighbors and users about the problem and solutions.

I support this bill as a first step toward a quieter approach to landscaping and lawn care. We are a nation of inventors, and we can invent and use tools that are quieter and less harmful to humans and animals. Jurisdictions should have the ability to decide how to manage their landscapes to promote a healthy environment for all.

This is a great initiative. It offers local communities a way to move forward in partnership with lawn care companies to limit and reduce the use of gas leaf blowers while ensuring that companies have time to adapt and sustain employment in this sector. In general , gas blowers are terribly damaging to habitats and quite disruptive to study and work for the millions of Virginians at home during the working day. Their fumes are a menace - I have to run or walk to the opposite side of the street when I am near them, but workers are with them all day. I believe strongly that local communities best represent their citizens, not the distant state government in Richmond. Republicans and Democrats should embrace the rights of communities to set stricter limits on the use of gas leaf blowers by commercial companies. It is true that electric blowers have limitations, which is why a period of regulation and adaptation is best for companies and homeowners to adapt, but we do need to begin this change. This bill represents a great win for the health of Virginians and for the liveability of our communities.

I strongly favor this bill. There are certain areas in which regulation is appropriate and the counties and cities are the appropriate level.

Dear Legislators, the level of noise in my community caused by leaf-blowing, snow-blowing, and other landscape activities powered by gas equipment is deafening and constant. I have had to resort to wearing noise-blocking ear muffs of the kind used at airports by runway personnel just to be able to have peace inside my own home. The many months of the year when I am no longer able to enjoy my outdoor space is increasing because of the incessant noise. None of this is necessary when there are environmentally healthier and efficient options. Please support HB 1337 for the peace and health of the citizens of the Commonwealth. Thank you

I am writing to ask you to support Kaye Kory’s House Bill 1337 Gas-powered leaf blowers; local regulation, civil penalty. When we bought a house in a forested lake community, we thought that we would be spending our retirement years in a nature-lovers’ paradise with a peaceful quality of life. Nothing could be further from the truth. Because of the unregulated use of noisy, carcinogen-spewing gas-powered leaf blowers throughout our neighborhood and surrounding areas, we might as well be living in a construction zone seven days a week from dawn until dusk. There is never a time when we can sit outside with friends or take a dip in the lake without the infernal penetrating noise and fumes of these antiquated, unregulated machines. The stress is overwhelming for adults and children alike, and the medical literature documents the consequences on our health and hearing. Please empower local governments to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers should they choose to do so. Your support of our quality of life is desperately needed.

One of the good things about this time of year is that there is no noise and air pollution being generated by gasoline leaf blowers in our neighborhood. It won’t be long, however, when the landscape companies return to our street with these obnoxious machines. For most of the year, it is almost a daily occurrence, sometimes even on weekends. The noise even can begin before and after normal work hours. And, unless you pass HB 1337, our local authorities continue to be almost powerless to mitigate the problem . Aside from the fact that these devices are annoying, research has shown they are highly polluting, as much as 20 times the pollution caused by a mid-sized gasoline-powered passenger car. Plus, there are alternatives, such as battery operated leaf blowers. This bill deftly avoids the sledge-hammer approach of a state-wide regulation, but allows local jurisdictions—if they so choose—to make specific requirements that account for their situation. I urge you to report this bill to the House of Delegates for a vote. Thank you, Robin Kent Great Falls, VA

Dear Counties, Cities and Towns Committee, Being residents of Dublin, Ireland, we can't vote in Virginia elections, but as impacts us, we decided to write to you. Please support HB1337 to regulate gas-powered leaf blowers. We haven't visited our two daughters, one in Virginia, one in Maryland, for a decade because of infernal noise from their neighbors' lawn mowers, and when this is over, just when we think we'll get some peace and quiet, out come the blowers, blowing largely nothing. We were thinking of coming in the winter, but the weather is cold, and gas-powered blowers are still used. These machines are used year round, and the noise travels easily through walls of homes. At no time of the year is there respite from the noise. Being in our 80s, we depend on a good two-hour nap every afternoon - as do many old people. Or else we can't make it through to the evening. As the households of our daughters are busy and chaotic, weather permitting, we prefer to set up our chairs under a shady tree and nap there. Our being outside also gives the families space. We don't want to be under their feet all day. We also spend the afternoon reading out on the deck - again to give the families space - but we have to come inside when lawn crews arrive. Long visits can be stressful to hosts! We enjoy family meals on the deck - but again these are often disrupted by landscaper crews, and we have to grab plates, glasses, silverware, and dishes to scurry inside to shelter from the noise - 15 to 20 minutes per yard for summer mow 'n' blows, and up to an hour in leaf season. Such obtrusive interruptions is no way to enjoy family life. In densely populated areas, why are 100 dB-level engines, permitted on a routine basis, when quiet alternatives exist? Battery lawn mowers are no noisier than dishwashers. Battery blowers are less noisy and are emission-free. Best of all are rakes. Is the lower cost of gas mowers and blowers, given the noise and dirty emissions, really worth the disruption to the quality of life? You have beautiful tall trees in Virginia - but the price for having them, it seems, is the frantic and noisy removal of all their fallen leaves. When I bring up this issue to others, I've been told it would harm the livelihoods of thousands of workers. Has this been the case in cities with gas blower bans or restrictions? If so, do we permit loud disruptive noise because this loud disruptive noise helps employ people? Surely a business is there to serve the needs of society, not vice versa. Republicans and Democrats, protecting the quality of life should be a common sense, non-partisan issue. Any measure that can regulate gas mowers or gas blowers is a win for peace and quiet in Virginia neighborhoods. Vote yes for HB1337! Sincerely, Roger and Lal Garland 43 Butterfield Drive, Dublin, Ireland

Regulating gas leaf blowers should be a totally bi-partisan issue. Every day of the year, the noise and pollution from these filthy 2-stroke engines fills our streets and homes, degrading the quality of life in communities all over the U.S. And it is NOT A MATTER OF FREE CHOICE as to how one moves one's leaves. Gas leaf blowers don't just drive leaves to the curb, they also drive people raking back into their homes. If neighbor A is blowing his leaves, neighbor B won't rake his at the same time. Likewise, those gardening or just sitting outside enjoying their yards are driven indoors. Friends or family sharing a meal on their deck have to get up and continue their meal elsewhere. Most of us spend at least 30 years working to pay for our homes and we are entitled to the rightful use and enjoyment of our own properties. We rely on our homes for peace and quiet. They are our sanctuaries from an often harsh and unfair world. Hence, no one should have to tolerate loud noise invading their homes and yards without a compelling reason. Loud noise in neighborhoods should be limited to the providers of emergency services and the occasional setting off of fireworks. Using gas leaf blowers in residential areas is not just inconsiderate, it is anti-social and should be strongly discouraged. Localities must have the authority to curb the plague of noise and toxic fumes these machines inflict upon them on a daily basis. Let's put peace before profits! Please support HB1337.

Leaf blowers in residential neighborhoods severely disrupt taxpayers' quality of life from March through December - 10 full months of the year. They disrupt sleep. They disrupt work. They disrupt conversations, phone calls, and Zoom meetings. They persist daily, from dawn 'til dark. They cause anxiety and other health issues, especially ill health effects resulting from disrupted sleep. The health-injuring noise is utterly inescapable, as it penetrates walls and permeates every inch of indoor space. Toxic fumes from inconsiderate neighbors' daily use also penetrate indoor space, causing further health injury. Despite the fact that these public NUISANCES wildly exceed noise code decibel limits, local authorities claim that noise ordinances are "unenforceable," and so they abdicate responsibility for protecting taxpayers from that persistent nuisance. These same local bureaucrats claim that "if only the State would grant us power to regulate, we could address the problem." Well, State, here is your chance: DO SOMETHING! Pass H.R.1337. Thank you.

Please support HB 1337 tallow for local regulation of gas-powered leaf blowers. They prepresent a serious threat to the health and safety of residents and the machine operators. Localities should have the right to regulate use according to their specific conditions and needs.

Please make this as strong as possible so communities can have control over the noise and pollution in their very back yards. It is hugely important for access to a safe , happy and healthy life. So many other cities are cutting the way for this, and DC has banned them along with Miami Beach! And California!Thank you

I support a total ban on gas powered leaf blowers. HB 1337 is inadequate because it does not allow communities the option of banning and prohibiting these obnoxious and very loud polluting machines.

Gas-powered leaf blowers (GLBs) are disturbing the peace and fouling the air of Virginia communities. They are often used three-quarters of the year, mostly to blow grass-clippings. Cities and counties are severely limited in their ability to curb the use of GLBs. HB1337 would enable – but not require – local officials to regulate these noisy, polluting machines. With more Virginians working and studying at home, this problem takes on greater urgency. Background Most GLBs have crude 2-stroke engines that emit an oscillating noise research shows travels farther and is more likely to penetrate walls and windows than other types of engine noise. US health agencies consider 85 decibels to be the threshold at which hearing damage takes place. GLBs often measure over 100 decibels at the ear of the operator, which means people using them for just a few hours, such as lawn care workers, are likely to experience hearing loss. Even when measured from farther away, GLBs often exceed 70 decibels. The World Health Organization says outdoor noise over 55 decibels is disturbing to people. For their size, GLBs have an outsized impact on the environment. Their engines are similar to those used in the motorized rickshaws that have contributed mightily to the choking air pollution in some Asian cities. The rest of the world is moving away from this technology, but its use persists unchecked in the US lawn care industry. About a third of GLBs’ fuel is released UNCOMBUSTED into the air. These emissions include such known carcinogens as benzene, butadiene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde. The California Air Resources Board says using a popular model GLB for ONE HOUR emits as much smog-forming pollution as driving a Toyota Camry 1,100 miles. Tests by the Edmunds car journal, with help from AAA, found that a 2-stroke backpack leaf blower emitted 300 times more hydrocarbons than a Ford 150 pickup truck. There are alternatives, including battery-powered leaf blowers. A growing number of landscape companies are using all-battery equipment – mowers, blowers, edgers, trimmers, etc. Often, they recharge batteries using mobile solar panels on the roofs of their trucks. They have made this switch because it’s good business. Battery equipment doesn’t have the same overhead as gas-powered machines. You don’t have to buy fuel or filters, and there’s less maintenance and fewer repairs. Companies say the return on investment over time is greater with battery equipment. Please empower local governments to nudge GLB users into modernizing their equipment for the health and tranquility of their communities.