HomeMy WebLinkAbout8/15/1995 - Regularf
w
~ POAN
o
~,
z ~ '~'
~3
C~~~x~#~ ~~ ~..~~xx~~~~
ROANOKE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
ROANOKE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
ACTION AGENDA
AUGUST 15, 1995 - 7:00 P.M.
rffwa a' r>E' ~ Rte'
Welcome to a Joint Meeting of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors and
the Roanoke County Planning Commission.
THIS IS A SPECIAL MEETING FOR THE
PURPOSE OF A WORK SESSION TO DISCUSS
THE VISIONING PROCESS.
Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangement in
order to participate in or attend Board of Supervisors meetings or other
programs and activities sponsored by Roanoke County, please contact the
ClerK to the Board at (703) 772-2005 We request that you provide at least 48-
hours notice so that proper arrangements may be made.
A. OPENING CEREMONIES (7:00 P.M.)
1. Welcome (Chairman H. Odell "Fuzzy" Minnix)
2. Roll Call
a. Board of Supervisors
ALL PRESENT AT 7:01 P.M.
b. Planning Commission
ALL PRESENT AT 7:02 P.M.
® Regded Paper
.`
B. INTRODUCTION OF THE CITIZEN STEERING COMIVHTTEE
MEMBERS (Dr. James C. Sears, Steering Committee Chairman)
C. OVERVIEW OF THE ROANOKE COUNTY COM1V~[UNITY
VISION PROCESS (Dr. James C. Sears)
D. PRESENTATION OF THE FOCUS GROUP REPORTS (Focus
Group Representatives)
1. Government Relations
PRESENTED BY AL THOMASON
2. Resource Preservation
PRESENTED BY BOB EGBERT
3. Housing
PRESENTED BY RICK
4. Transportation
PRESENTED BY ALAN GLEINER
5. Growth Management and Planning
PRESENTED BY TOHN STOKES
6. Agriculture and Forestry
PRESENTED BY WINTON SHELOR
7. Economic Development and Tourism
PRESENTED BY FRA1yK CALDWELL
8. Recreation and Culture
PRESENTED BY RUPERT CUTLER
9. Technology and Communications
PRESENTED BY TOM WILSON
10. Public Education
PRESENTED BY EVELYN BALL
E. CRITICAL THEMES CONNECTING THE FOCUS GROUPS
AND FUTURE TIlVIETABLE (Dr. James C. Sears)
F. QUESTIONS, COMI~~NTS AND DISCUSSION (Board of
Supervisors, Planning Commission)
BOARD MEMBERS THANKED STAFF AND CITIZENS INVOLVED IN
PROCESS.
LBE ASKED ABOUT STRATEGIES TO MEET VISION BY 2010. DR SEARS
ADVISED THIS WILL BE PART OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN.
G. ADJOURNMENT
BI{T MOTION TO ADJOURN AT 9:10 P.M. - UW
3
F~ AN,Y~
z ~ _'
z
,ate
1 38
(~~~xx~t~ ~~ ~~~xx~~.~~
ROANOKE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
ROANOKE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
AUGUST 15, 1995 - 7:00 P.M.
,~~~~~
Welcome to a Joint Meeting of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors and
the Roanoke County Planning Commission.
THIS IS A SPECIAL MEETING FOR THE
PURPOSE OF A WORK SESSION TO DISCUSS
THE VISIONING PROCESS.
Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangement in
order to participate in or attend Board of Supervisors meetings or other
programs and activities sponsored 6y Roanoke County, please contact the
Clerk to the Board at (703) 772-2005 We request that you provide at least 48-
hours notice so that proper arrangements may be made.
A. OPENING CEREMONIES (7:00 P.M.)
1. Welcome (Chairman H. Odell "Fuzzy" Minnix)
2. Roll Call
a. Board of Supervisors
b. Planning Commission
B. INTRODUCTION OF THE CITIZEN STEERING COMMITTEE
MEMBERS (Dr. James C. Sears, Steering Committee Chairman)
® Recycled Paper
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROANOKE COUNTY CO
VISION PROCESS (Dr. James C. Sears)
PRESENTATION OF THE FOCUS GROUP REPORTS (Focus
Group Representatives)
1. Government Relations
2. Resource Preservation
3. Housing
4. Transportation
5. Growth Management and Planning
6. Agriculture and Forestry
7. Economic Development and Tourism
8. Recreation and Culture
9. Technology and Communications
10. Public Education
CRITICAL THEMES CONNECTING THE FOCUS GROUPS
AND FUTURE TIMETABLE (Dr. James C. Sears)
QUESTIONS, CONIlViENTS AND DISCUSSION (Board of
Supervisors, Planning Commission)
ADJOtirRN1vICNT
2
ACTION #
ITEM NUMBER
AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE
COUNTY, VIRGINIA HELD AT THE ROANOKE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION CENTER
MEETING DATE: August 15, 1995
SUBJECT: Work Session on Visioning
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR'S COMMENTS:
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION: This work session has been scheduled to
allow the visioning focus groups to present their work to the Board
of Supervisors and the Planning Commission. The focus group chairs
or their representatives will be present, as well as the Visioning
Steering Committee. A preliminary copy of their reports is
attached, along with copies of the overhead transparencies which
will be used during the presentation.
There are ten focus groups, and we have asked the chairs to
limit presentations to 10 minutes each. They have really done an
outstanding job and I appreciate the Board allowing us this
opportunity to present the information. In order to allow everyone
to have sufficient time to speak, you may wish to hold questions
and discussion on the reports until the end of the presentation.
E r Hodge, County Administrator
L~J
^~
._
++
._
0
V
0
._
.~-+
s
~•
N
N
V
a
a
a~
.~
_~
.~
L
a~
.N
}+
V
.N
N
0
~.
~ s ~
,_ .~
~
.~.r _
~
.
V ~' .N
~ ~
~ ~ ~
.
~ _ .~..
.~
~ L
N ~
-~ ~ ~
N ~.
~ s
.~
~ ~ ~
o
s. ~ _
~ ~ ~ ~
N
_ ._ ._
:~ > ~ ~
- a~ a~ c~
i
y...
o ~
L
~
.~
0 .~.+
L
~ ~
L ~ O
i.
~ ~ ~ 0
>
~
- ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~, ~
~ o ~ o
~ , ~
~ ~
=
~ ~
~
N = 4- _
~ ~ O ~
~ ~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~
~
~ ~ ~
~ ,
~ ~ ~ ~
o ~'' ~ ~
.~ ~ ~ ~ ~
L o ~
a~ o
~ _ ~ ~ ~
~ ~
~ ~ .~.+
~ ~ 'a ~ ~
~ _ ~ ~
.~ ~ ~ __
-~..~
~, ~ ~+.
_ ~ ~ V
_ ~ ,~ ~
V ~ ~ N = ~ 4-
~._ _ ~ ~
Q o ~ v ~ ~ i
s- ocno. o~
~ ~ V :}'~ L. V ~
N N N
~.~•N ~~
~ ~ c~ ~ V
s ,~ s s..
> ca- ~
•
L
-~ o
V -
.~ ~ .~
(~ ~ c~
N
m =
c~ o o •
o ._ ,~ N
~ 'N ~- O
V .-
~ ~ ~ .N
> >
~ ~ ~ N
t~ ~ ~ :=
~~ ~ ~
.~-+ ~ ~
~ ~ ~ .~
s ~ V
N ~ ~
~a~~ ~o
o ~a ._ o .~
V '- ~-~' V
~ ~~ ~ N
._ ._
N O ~ Q.~
_~ .~ .- _ ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
so_L s~
• •
~~
t~ 4~ •~
V ~ ~
~ p ~ ~ ~
._ -
L ~ ~ ~.
~ ~ ~
y- •
~ ~ 'a N
~+ ~ 41
O ' ~ 'i-+ t~ .~
,~ ~
^_ = i
~ ~ ~ i N N ~
N L ~ ~~
tJ~ ~+ ~ a, ~ = c
>, ~ '- ~
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ >
V ~ O ~ 4~ ~ 4~
~ v c~ 'a v ~
'~J
^~
~~
. ~.
p O ~ .~.
V ~ _ -~+
~ ~ L
to ~ p ~ `~
~ ~~ p ~ a
:~ ~ O ~
~ i ~ ~ ~
N
~ p ~ ~
p ~. p N p ..
~ ~ ~ ~
O '~= i' U
O O ~ ~ ~~
~ ~ p i ~ ~
._ ~ p .~
:~' '~ ~
._ v cn ~ ~
L. ~ ~ p ~ ~ O
~C1~-~c~v
• . • • . •
FOCUS GROUP SPEAKERS FOR TONIGHT'S MEETING
In order of presentations:
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS: AL THOMASON
RESOURCE PRESERVATION: BOB EGBERT
HOUSING: RICK WHITNEY
TRANSPORTATION: ALAN GLEINER
GROWTH MANAGEMENT AND PLANNING: JOHN STOKES
AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY: WINTON SHELOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM: FRANK CALDWELL
RECREATION AND CULTURE: RUPERT CUTLER
TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATIONS: TOM WILSON
PUBLIC EDUCATION: EVELYN BALL
~-1
DRAFT
ROANOKE COUNTY 2010
A COMMUNITY VISION PROJECT
RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE FOCUS GROUPS
Government Relations
In 2010, Roanoke County, recognizing the importance of regional
planning efforts, is an active participant in the New Century
Region, and has become the leader in regional cooperation. Roanoke
County has initiated and achieved proactive relationships with
County citizens, businesses, other municipalities, colleges and
universities, and social, cultural and recreational organizations.
The citizens of Roanoke County have benefitted from the County's
cooperation and collaboration with each of these groups through
specific projects and activities.
This high level of regionalism has been accomplished through state-
of-the-art citizen involvement programs that have included voting,
citizen groups and civic leagues, citizen volunteers, citizen
advisory committees and ombudsmen, and town meetings. An efficient
and technologically sophisticated level of communication has been
established between the County government, and the citizens it
serves, that allows County citizens to be directly involved in
their government.
The proac~ive, cooperative efforts that the County has provided
leadership for have resulted in a more efficient government, with
reduced costs, and a government structure that is able to provide
services to its citizens in a more effective manner. As a result
of regularly scheduled meetings between local government officials
and staff, a great deal of compatibility has been achieved between
governmental services such as zoning, permitting and building
codes. This has enhanced the marketability of the Roanoke Valley
as a place to live, play and do business.
The regional quality of life in Roanoke County has been enhanced by
an active and on-going relationship with the colleges and
universities in the New Century Region. In addition, as a result
of improved communications and support, the availability of human,
cultural and recreational services to all citizens has been
improved.
1
~l
Government Relations
Page 2
Rey vision statement from the Government Relations Focus Group:
In 2010, Roanoke County is one of a group of regional independent
counties and cities, that choose to practice - as an aggressive and
proactive policy - broad based, regional collaboration and
cooperation in: 1) meeting the current day-to-day needs of the
citizens of Roanoke County, and 2) preparing for the challenges and
opportunities of the future. In these cooperative efforts, Roanoke
County government leads the way, thereby ensuring the prosperity
and happiness of the citizens of Roanoke County.
-T
2
~-.~
Resource Preservation
In 2010, Roanoke County can be found picturesquely nestled within
the embrace of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains of Virginia.
Its natural features -- mountaintops, forests, productive soil,
free flowing streams, fresh air, and wildlife -- as well as its
spectacular mountain vistas and cultural heritage, serve to
distinguish the greater Roanoke Valley as a uniquely attractive
urban center. The allure of the Appalachian Trail and the Blue
Ridge Parkway, as they wind through groves of rhododendrons,
hemlocks, hickories, oaks and pines past banks of lady
slippers and trillium remind citizens of the value of this
natural gem and fosters an enduring stewardship ethic.
In the year 2010, Roanoke County citizens have welcomed and adopted
environmentally sound growth policies, successfully integrating
both sustainable economic and population growth with the
preservation of its natural, scenic, and historic resources.
Recognizing that our natural systems are vital to providing both
economic needs and quality of life for all citizens, sustainable
development has become the hallmark of county planning.
Rey vision statements of the Resource Preservation Focus Group:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County has incorporated principles of
sustainability into County ordinances. These principles will
maximize energy efficiency and minimize waste and pollution.
To assist with this effort, the County has adopted and enacted
local interpretations of the recommendations of the "Blueprint
for sustainable Development of Virginia".
2. In 2010, Roanoke County continues to support the educational
efforts of Explore Park and includes environmental education
in the public school curriculum.
3. In 2010, Roanoke County has enacted ordinances and programs to
preserve the integrity of the surrounding mountains and open
space. These include mountainside and ridgeline protection.
4. In 2010, Roanoke County has established tax incentives to
encourage landowners to dedicate their mountain land to scenic
easements. This has been facilitated by the establishment of
the Natural and Scenic Resources Foundation - a local land
trust.
5. In 2010, Roanoke County has participated in a regional effort
to identify, and protect, visual viewsheds along the Blue
Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail.
6. In 2010, Roanoke County has established sound growth
management policies that preserve the region's scenic assets
while allowing residential development.
3
J7 - 2
Resource Preservation
Page 2
7. In 2010, Roanoke County continues to recognize the economic
and scenic value of its farm lands and has actively
participated in promoting the economic viability of the rural
lifestyle.
8. In 2010, Roanoke County citizens exhibit a strong public and
private sector commitment to the preservation of Roanoke
County's distinctive cultural heritage -- its historic
buildings and landscapes, archaeological sites and folk
traditions. Recognizing that the architectural and
archaeological records of this valley lend character and
identity to our area, historic preservation has become an
important tool for economic development. Through efforts to
identify heritage resources, through cultural heritage
education in the public schools and through cooperative
efforts with other groups the County has, over the last 15
years, set the standard for a sound preservation ethic.
~-
4
"~
Housing
In 2010, Roanoke County provides a wide variety of housing styles
and prices. The County actively promotes the benefits of living in
the County and by doing so has increased housing starts relative to
neighboring counties - reversing a trend begun in the early 1990's.
Over the past fifteen years, the County has shown an increased
concern about the quality and income level of the employees of
companies it attracts to the area. This has avoided problems with
depreciating house values.
Roanoke County has a keen awareness of the importance of Roanoke
City in attracting people to the County. The County fully
appreciates and helps support the Market area and cultural and
recreational programs offered by the City. In addition, the
County has worked cooperatively with the City to develop additional
regional services programs.
Rey vision statements of the Housing Focus Group:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County has developed incentives and a sliding
scale of fees to encourage affordable housing. Housing costs
have been addressed by controlling utility connection fees,
erosion control requirements and waste disposal options.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County has a diverse housing stock meeting
the demands of current and future residents. Dwellings are
available in a range of prices, styles and designs to
acco~nodate students, single persons, the elderly and
families. Alternatives to single family ownership are being
met by an adequate supply of apartments, duplexes, attached
housing, senior services and nursing homes for rent.
3. In 2010, Roanoke County has managed a healthy economic growth
while protecting and maintaining its natural resources.
Through careful planning and orderly development, our natural
resources have been protected to ensure the quality of life
for future generations. Open spaces and greenways have been
provided through the use of cluster development and innovative
site design concepts.
4. In 2010, Roanoke County has taken a leadership role in
valleywide cooperative efforts to hold the cost of public
services to a relatively low level. Services have been
extended, in a planned and orderly manner, to meet housing
demands.
5
~ - /yt
Transportation
In 2010, transportation in Roanoke County is readily available to
citizens through a variety of modes: automobiles, bicycles,
pedestrian walks and public transit via bus, van and light rail.
As the County's population continues to age, public transit has
become even more relevant to maintaining a high quality of life.
Previously disadvantaged segments of the County population are now
better served by the evolving mix of transportation alternatives.
The elderly, the young, the poor, the physically and mentally
challenged and one-car households can now travel with relative
ease.
Over the past 15 years, Roanoke County has given consideration to
issues of sustainable development when making transportation
decisions. The County has used resources efficiently while
preserving as much as possible for future generations. Roanoke
County has also worked in concert with transportation agencies to
protect natural resources.
Roanoke County has developed a comprehensive transportation plan in
concert with neighboring jurisdictions and fully supports the
transportation visions of the New Century Council. The County has
developed a good understanding of how transportation plans and
decisions affect other areas served by these transportation
networks.
Transportation planning has worked in conjunction with sound growth
management and planning policies. Growth is encouraged where
adequate loads and other transportation systems exist. In areas
where future growth is desired, road and public transportation
systems are planned and developed. Where growth is to be
controlled, new roads are not built, but existing roads are
maintained.
Since the turn of the century, the County has encouraged cluster
development. This trend has reduced the miles of new roads,
preserved open space and protected natural resources.
Continuing a trend begun in 1995, the County has accepted more
responsibility for its own transportation network. Citizen input
is encouraged during the early stages of transportation planning
and the County acts as ombudsman for citizens concerns. Over the
past 15 years, County citizens have become more proactive and more
informed about transportation planning and alternatives.
Rey vision statements from the Transportation Focus Group:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County roads are well maintained. New roads
are initiated and planned in cooperation with VDOT and with a
high level of citizen participation. Transportation planning
is carried out in conjunction with the County Comprehensive
6
~_y
Transportation
Page 2
Plan. New roads are designed to accommodate large vehicles
and incorporate new technology wherever possible. The design
and construction of new roads is accomplished in an
environmentally sensitive manner, protecting natural resources
and minimizing various forms of pollution.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County, Roanoke City and Salem City have
encouraged the growth of public transit throughout the Roanoke
Valley. An active and successful public relations campaign
has resulted in increased ridership. Public transit is now a
vital link in the Valley's multi-modal transportation network.
3. In 2010, Roanoke County has incorporated the efficient
movement of freight into the overall transportation system
design. The new Inland Port has given southwest Virginia's
industries a promising global connection.
4. In 2010, Roanoke County has incorporated the use of bicycle
trails, pedestrian walkways and greenways into the
transportation network.
5. In 2010, Roanoke County has embarked on a multi-purpose light
rail project. This project serves as a valuable
transportation and recreational facility for residents and
visitors alike.
7
-~
Growth Management and Plannin
In 2010, Roanoke County planning and growth management are carried
out under the concept of sustainability - present needs are met
without compromising future needs. These strategies are
accomplished while improving the quality of life of County
residents, on a long term basis.
Strategies to foster this concept of positive growth management
have been developed with full citizen participation. Communication
methods, utilizing current technological resources, have been
developed to encourage citizen participation at the early stages of
project planning. As a result, Roanoke County has a highly
involved citizenry who are knowledgeable in planning principles,
proactively participate in the planning process, and believe they
can influence that process. Due largely to the high level of
citizen involvement, Roanoke County in 2010 is a good place to
live, work and play.
Rey vision statements of the Growth Management and Planning Focus
Group:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County growth management provides for
greenways and open space as an integral part of communities
and individual lifestyles.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County has addressed the impacts of
strategies to provide for sustainability within growth
management.
3. In 2010, Roanoke County communities have small commercial
nodes and business opportunities that serve local areas. This
strategy has encouraged and enabled citizens to use
alternative forms of transportation such as pedestrian
corridors, bicycle paths and public transit.
4. In 2010, Roanoke County allows flexibility, within a
consistent framework of sustainable development, to encourage
community redevelopment, commercial development, infill
development and industrial revitalization while preserving
neighborhood stability and property values. This planning
process is successful due to extensive community and private
sector involvement.
5. In 2010, Roanoke County transportation planning is an integral
part of growth management strategies. Following through with
a trend begun in 1995, Roanoke County citizens have continued
to be pro-active participants in the transportation planning
process.
8
,~
Growth Management and Planning
Page 2
6. In 2010, Roanoke County growth management strategies and
sustainability are guided and measured by a system of
benchmarks established with citizen input. This results in a
highly involved citizenry who are knowledgeable in planning
principals, proactively participate in the planning process,
and believe they can influence the process.
9
Aariculture and Forestr
In 2010, Roanoke County has taken deliberate actions to support
farming and forestry as viable rural lifestyle options. As the
world around us urbanizes, there is an increased awareness,
appreciation and pride that farming contributes over $12.5 million
dollars in sales to the economy each year.
Due to increased knowledge and sensitivity to issues such as
quality of life, resource protection, sustainable development and
growth management, trends in the late 20th century, showing a
declining numbers of acres devoted to farming, have been arrested.
There is a renewed appreciation for the importance of farming and
the rural lifestyle for both those who actively participate in that
way of life and those who simply enjoy knowing it is there, in
close proximity to most citizens of Roanoke County.
Balanced, equitable and widely supported land-use policies to
preserve rural areas of the County - including cluster housing,
historical districts, open space easements and land trusts - have
been achieved through cooperative efforts of citizens and County
government. Rural residents are directly represented, have been
continuously consulted and advised, and are involved in the day-to-
day decisions that effect their rural lifestyles.
Small, part-time farms remain the dominate agriculture in Roanoke
County. Due to technological advances and the active cooperation
of local markets, grocers and restaurants many Roanoke Valley
businesses support local farmers by purchasing and selling their
farm products and proudly displaying "Grown in the Roanoke Valley"
signs.
At the turn of the century, forestry management practices in the
Roanoke Valley are undertaken in recognition that forestry
resources provide visual and aesthetic beauty, contribute to the
economy and enhance the overall quality of life in the Valley.
While recognizing these attributes, forestry clear-cutting is only
undertaken when essential and using sound management practices.
Rey vision statements of the Agriculture and Forestry Focus Group
include:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County has taken action to identify and
establish distinct rural areas worthy of preservation that
will balance the rights of property owners while protecting
the productive value of rural lands.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County has implemented policies to tax rural
land on its specific value for agriculture and/or forestry
production.
10
~.D
Agriculture and Forestry
Page 2
3. In 2010, Roanoke County has taken action to reinforce the
"right to farm" and there exists a high level of mutual
respect between farmers, non-farm owners and rural visitors of
individual property rights, responsibilities and privacy.
4. In 2010, Roanoke County has established markets for small
scale farm and forestry products that support and sustain a
viable rural land-based economy and robust farmers' markets in
the Valley.
5. In 2010, Roanoke County continues to value, protect and
preserve the scenic vistas, water resources and other
important natural and cultural resources of the rural areas.
There continues to be strong recognition that these resources
are critical components of the quality of life of the region.
6. In 2010, Roanoke County has established and has been operating
a level of public services, particularly fire and rescue, to
the rural areas that is appropriate and consistent with the
needs of an aging rural population.
7. In 2010, Roanoke County has established mechanisms so that
rural residents are directly represented, consulted, advised
and involved in their local government.
11
~-7
Economic Development and Tourism
In 2010, Roanoke County has taken advantage of its prime location
in the mid-atlantic region and has overcome the economic
development challenges of four local governments, topography and
limited infrastructure. The County has cooperated, for mutual
benefit, with other local governments in the New Century Region to
avail itself of a qualified work force, a top-ranked public school
system, beautiful scenery and a high quality of life to attract
environmentally friendly, small, diverse industries.
Support for the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership has
been expanded, resulting in increased marketing and promotional
activities. The Partnership has focused primarily on attracting a
major industry to replace Norfolk-Southern and Dominion Bank and
has continued activities to attract multiple small to medium-size
companies in the light manufacturing field.
A partnership has been developed with other Roanoke Valley
governments to promote visitor, sporting and recreational
attractions. This partnership works closely with citizens, the
National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, local Parks and
Recreation departments and other organizations interested in
tourism to plan, schedule, promote and coordinate events.
Rey vision statements of the Economic Development and Tourism Focus
Group:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County has played a major role in developing
the Roanoke Valley into a center of industrial and commercial
technology by adequately funding the Industrial Development
Authority, enabling them to acquire property and providing the
infrastructure to encourage economic growth.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County and the surrounding areas have become
a natural playground for visitors and residents. The local
governments have provided the necessary infrastructure to
permit full usage and enjoyment of our scenic resources - both
private and public - such as a regional greenway system,
pedestrian friendly roads, campgrounds and recreational
vehicle parking areas. Strong incentives have been put into
place to encourage developers to include dedicated lands and
connected greenways in all new development projects.
3. In 2010, Roanoke County has taken the lead to preserve our
most valuable natural asset, the scenic environment and
natural ridge lines of the mountains surrounding the Roanoke
Valley.
12
-~
Recreation and Culture
In 2010, Roanoke County's recreational and cultural resources are
valued by citizens, and appreciated by visitors, for their
contributions to the quality of life of this area. The high level
of recreational and cultural offerings in the Roanoke Valley has
become an integral part of County and regional economic development
efforts.
Every citizen of Roanoke County has a park within walking distance
of their home. Improved public transportation networks, bicycle
trails, greenways and pedestrian walkways provide easy access to
these parks and other recreational and cultural sites. This high
level of accessibility results in a high level of public support
for funding. A one half of one percent sales tax has been adopted
with the proceeds dedicated to recreational and cultural facilities
and programs.
Roanoke County citizens are involved in park planning and exhibit
their commitment to recreational and cultural programs through a
high level of volunteer activity.
Recreational and cultural programs are well integrated into the
County's educational system and have provided the basis for closer
ties to area colleges and universities. Virginia's Explore Park
has become a nationally recognized environmental and cultural
education center, zoo, and performing arts venue.
Rey vision statement of the Recreation and Culture Focus Group:
In 2010,"Roanoke County - through unique initiatives and as a
result of reciprocal arrangements and partnership efforts with
neighboring local governments and private entities- is nationally
known as a preeminent East Coast recreational and cultural center
and is the major recreational and cultural center on the Blue Ridge
Parkway. Awareness of the County's unique and high quality
recreational and cultural programs is reflected in large audiences,
a high level of individual participation and volunteer activity,
broad-based financial support, a healthy citizenry and increased
tourism.
13
~'-9
Technology and Communications
In 2010, Roanoke County citizens are able to work where they live
and live where they work, due to significant and even startling
technological advances. A decade beyond the turn of the century,
and due to positive steps the County has taken, a very high quality
of life has been combined with technological education, skills,
training and resources to make Roanoke County the envy of the
Valley and an attractive place for businesses and industries to
locate.
Roanoke County citizens have access to "direct democracy" through
home computer technology that allows them to voice their opinions
on, and comment about, issues before the various County boards and
commissions. Citizens have access to new technology through their
homes, work places, and public facilities such as libraries,
schools, or technical centers. These positive steps, along with
adequate education and training for both adults and children, have
avoided the potential problems of two classes of people - those
with technological skills and those without.
These great technological strides have been accomplished through
cooperative efforts between citizens, industries and governments.
Committees have been established to keep track of fast changing
technological advances, to ensure inter-connectedness and
compatibility between users and to keep abreast of future training
needs. As a result, information transfer and use is seamless
across municipal boundaries, encouraging the use of new
technologies, services and information systems.
Rey vision statements from the Technology and Communications Focus
Group include:
1. In 2010, Roanoke County provides its citizens opportunities to
interface with each other, the capability to access local and
global community services through the latest communications
technologies and encourages - through both public and private
means - the use of the latest technologies to enhance the
quality of life in the Roanoke Valley.
2. In 2010, Roanoke County encourages technological improvements/
innovations in manufacturing, -power transmission,
communications, commerce and transportation to preserve and
enhance the natural resources of the Roanoke Valley. Roanoke
County facilitates a managed technological environment that
balances education, productivity, social skills, health and
the ecosystem.
3. In 2010, Roanoke affords its citizens opportunities - through
technical schools, extension programs, and a four-year school
of higher learning - to obtain the technological skills
required to work and function in a rapidly changing world.
14
~ -9
Roanoke County
Vision 2010
technology and
Communications Focus
Group
Tom Wilson, Chairperson
Roanoke County Vision 2010
Technology and Communications
Vision Statements
~k A county that provides its citizens the opportunity to
interface electronically with each other and the capability
to access all community services, both local and global,
through communication technologies, and that
encourages, through both public and private means, the
use of the latest technologies to enhance the quality of
life in the Roanoke Valley.
~k A county that encourages technological improvements
/innovations in manufacturing, power transmission,
communications, commerce, and transportation that
preserves and enhances the natural resources of the
Roanoke Valley. This county would facilitate a managed
technological environment that balances education,
productivity, social skills, health, and the ecosystem.
~k A county that affords its citizens the opportunity, through
technical schools, extension programs, and a four year
school of higher learning, the facilities and training
programs to obtain the necessary high tech skills needed
to work and function in a changing work force.
Roanoke County Vision 2010
Technology and Communications
Opportunities and Challenges
~k Cost
~k The major obstacle to implementing new
technologies
~ Cooperation of Communities
~k Essential to inter-operability and
standardization ofservices
~k Education
~k Ease of Use
~ Critical to the older citizen
~k Support
~ Technical and social is necessary
~k Access
~k Technology must be made available to all
~k Standardization
~k Essential to keep costs down
Roanoke County Vision 2010
Technology and Communications
Recommended Strategies & Actions
to Accomplish Visions
~k Establish an on going committee composed of citizens
and industry and government representatives to
investigate the fast changing technologies and how
existing infrastructures can be better utilized. This could
be instituted in the near term and should be considered
for implementation as early as the October 1995,
~k Roanoke County should appoint a full time Technology
Coordinator (possibly reporting to the County
Administrator) to investigate new technology, implement
changes, coordinate with other municipalities, and to
communicate to the Board of Supervisors the technology
needs of Roanoke County. This could be established
initially as a part time position, but should eventually
become full time. The Focus Group recommends a part
time position be established by January, 1996, which
would become full time by January, 1997.
Roanoke County Vision 2010
Technology and Communications
Recommended Strategies & Actions
to Accomplish Visions
~k Recommend to other municipalities the establishment of
a Valley-wide committee and/or task force made up of
Technology personnel from each Valley municipality to
coordinate standards, connectivity, and compatibility, and
to investigate both existing and new technologies and to
recommend direction. This group should be established
by January, 1996, and complete its work no later than
December, 1997.
~k The Focus Group further recommends that the business
and education communities be surveyed to determine
their technology and training needs for the future. To
facilitate this process, the Focus Group recommends a
Joint Government/Private Task force be established to
address on a continuing basis both technological and
educational changes and to provide inputs to the
Technology Coordinator(s) as well as appropriate
Government representatives, This Task Force should he
established no later than December, 1996.
Roanoke County Vision 2010
Technology and Communications
Summary
~k The Technology and Communications Focus Group
has in a short period of time attempted to address
the broad area of technology. Although much of
the discussions were directed toward
communications, the Group did address other
technologies which resulted in the concept of a full
time Technology Coordinator to ensure a
continuing assessment and analysis of the changing
technological needs and environment of Roanoke
County.
~k The Focus Group was composed of a group of
dedicated and enthusiastic individuals, They are to
be commended for their support and should be
called upon in the future should the opportunity
present itself.
~ - /~
Public Education
In 2010, Roanoke County emphasizes a philosophy of lifelong
learning for all County citizens. This philosophy addresses the
needs of a high technology society and worker retraining as well as
the critical need to develop a sense of responsibility and
productivity in school children while preparing them for the work
force.
Education in Roanoke County is provided at all levels - from pre-
school to adult education. A high quality school administration
recognizes the importance of on-going professional development and
the benefits of providing a level of compensation that will attract
the best qualified administrators, teachers and support staff.
School buildings are appropriate for their multiple purposes and
are well maintained. Classrooms are of adequate size to avoid
overcrowding and to allow a low student/teacher ratio.
Linkages to the corporate sector have been developed and nurtured
over the last 15 years. This has enabled the schools to design
curriculum that meets the needs of their students entering the work
force and takes full advantage of mentorships and resources
available through the corporate workforce.
In addition, other community resources have been utilized to their
fullest. The public library system is linked and is interactive
with the public school library system. The vast resources at area
community colleges have been tapped. In acknowledgement of the
commitment to lifelong education, Roanoke County has successfully
encouragec'i senior citizens to become school tutors and volunteers.
As has always been-the case, the single most critical factor in the
success of the Roanoke County public school system is the high
level of involvement from parents and other members of the
community. This involvement has been encouraged and facilitated by
the school administrations commitment to neighborhood schools.
Rey vision statement of the Public Education Focus Group:
In 2010, Roanoke County provides access to world class educational
services to all citizens. The educational focus is to prepare
learners for the work place and to develop in them characteristics
of responsible, productive members of society for whom learning is
a lifelong endeavor.
15
E
Visioning Process
Timetable
• 1994 -The Board of Supervisors requested
that staff develop a community vision
process.
• January 1995 -Community demographics
compiled and community survey developed.
• February 1995 -Community survey
conducted.
• March 1995 -First meeting of Citizen Steering
Committee.
• April 1995 -First county-wide community
meeting.
• April-July 1995 -Focus groups met. Over 60
meetings held involving over 200 citizens.
• July 1995 -Focus groups and Steering
Committee drafted vision statements.
• August 1995 -Presentation to the Board of
Supervisors.
~~...
-~-~ ' . O
~ ~~
~ a~
^ ~ ~ '>
O
U ~
~ ~ ~
to '~' .~
~ ~ ~
~ ~ ~
O .~ ..
L:T ~ ~
~ -a+ ai
Q. ~
~ ~ Rs
~ L
~- a
O N ~
^ . ~ '~
~ ~~
.~ ~ _
~ c~
Q a.
'~
O ~ ~ ~
~~ ~o ~~
~`~ oM ~~
o N ~ o ~
V o zs ~ ~
O
.~
~ > ~ O ~t~
~ ~
Rt v ~~ ~ N
4~~ ~_ ~ O
~ 4~ O '~ '~ t!1
_ ~ ~-
~ ~ v.N O
O p L ~ Q. L
L ~ QQ O ~ ~ Q.
~ .- .-
_ •-
Q.N`~' ~ ~M > ~ O
~ O i C~ ~r O O.~
cn ~-a O ~~ zm>