Checking this reporter’s notebook

Readings from this week’s Alexandria City Council meeting:

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If Malcolm Larvadain is not running for mayor in the fall he sure sounds like a candidate. Paraphrasing:

On GAEDA, new council doesn’t agree with some votes of the past; On W&G building, he’d love to see it developed but not by the city, there are other things more pressing.

(Rescission of GAEDA agreement passed 4-1, Chuck Fowler the one and Jim Villard and Lizzie Felter abstaining.

Villard and Felter GAEDA appointments are open, though Felter seems leaning toward one soon. Both their council posts on Fall ballot.) On proposed budget and payroll, except for two council employees, Larvadain notes,  mayor calls the shots and sets the tone.

Larvadain does not have to relinquish his seat if he chooses to run.

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After all said and done budget ordinance adopted, Larvadain and Jules Green voting no.

Questions and gripes about proposed allocations but no amendments offered and it moves forward as proposed by administration.

Mayor Jacques Roy could under charter veto any such without voiding document ordinance, or let changes stand. But no amendments.

Same for GAEDA move, which some of his adversaries seem to be counting on even though the mayor says GAEDA is council’s creature, not his.

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Johnny Downs Complex is designated fall guy for deteriorating condition of Cheatham Park despite dollars plowed into city economy by host of baseball, softball, soccer and golf visitors at the rec area weekly.

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Council President Cynthia Perry walks on line between proper public comment on subject at hand and allowing opinions far afield.

Outbursts from audience still interrupt at times but president seems in control, and patient.

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Utility rate structure remains verboten topic.