Understanding The Process At Tuesday's City Council meeting, the Council considered several police-related grants as part of a first reading. Under Charter for the City of Lynchburg, Virginia, Chapter III, Section 10, all appropriations must go through two separate votes before they are officially adopted. The first reading is procedural — it introduces the item for review and discussion, while the second reading is the actual, final vote that determines whether the funding is approved.
Why I Voted 'No' On The First Reading My vote on Tuesday was not against funding the Lynchburg Police Department. Instead, I voted against approving the grants as a single block, ensuring that each item is reviewed and voted on individually at the next meeting. This allows for proper oversight and transparency, making sure each grant receives the attention it deserves.
Additionally, one of the grants was amended in the Finance Committee, but little explanation was provided to the full Council before the vote. Given that the Finance Committee meeting ran late — cutting into our scheduled Work Session — and the fact there were legitimate discrepencies, my tactics simply slowed things down for our next meeting when these appropriations will be finalized. Misjuns' Public Mischaracterization Unfortunately, rather than acknowledging the standard legislative process, Councilmember Marty Misjuns chose to go public with misleading claims, suggesting that I opposed police funding. This is simply not true.
Wanting to address the matter professionally, I tried to handle this discretely to clarify the facts. Instead of engaging in good faith, he doubled down, escalating his mischaracterizations with another public post. It’s disappointing that he would prioritize political point-scoring over transparency and responsible governance.
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What Happens Next?
Per city code, the second reading and official appropriation vote will take place at the next Council meeting. At that time, Council will determine whether these grants are officially adopted.
Commitment to Public Safety I fully support ensuring our police officers have the resources they need. However, oversight is a key responsibility of any elected official — especially when it comes to taxpayer dollars. Proper review and transparency are necessary steps in responsible governance.
I encourage residents to stay engaged and review the process for themselves. The final vote will take place soon, and I remain committed to supporting public safety in a way that is both effective and fiscally responsible.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you on Lynchburg City Council. If I may ever be of service to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Yours,
Chris Faraldi, M.A.
Lynchburg City Council
PAID FOR & AUTHORIZED BY FARALDI FOR LYNCHBURG