HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/12/2016 - Regular
January 12, 2016
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Roanoke County Administration Center
5204 Bernard Drive
Roanoke, Virginia 24018
The Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia met this day atthe
Roanoke County Administration Center, this being the second Tuesday and the first
regularly scheduled meeting of the month of January 2016. Audio and video recordings
of this meeting will be held on file for a minimum of five (5) years in the office of the
Clerk to the Board of Supervisors.
IN RE: CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Peters called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m. The roll call was
taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Supervisors George G. Assaid, Al Bedrosian, Martha B.
Hooker, Joseph P. McNamara and P. Jason Peters
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
STAFF PRESENT:
Thomas C. Gates, County Administrator; Daniel R.
O’Donnell, Assistant County Administrator; Richard
Caywood, Assistant County Administrator; Amy Whittaker,
Public Information Officer, Ruth Ellen Kuhnel, County
Attorney; and Deborah C. Jacks, Chief Deputy Clerk to the
Board
IN RE: ORGANIZATION OF COUNTY BOARD
1. Election of Officers
a. Chairman
Supervisor Assaid nominated Supervisor Peters to serve as Chairman.
Supervisor Bedrosian nominated Supervisor Assaid to serve as Chairman,
.
which nomination Supervisor Assaid declined
Supervisor Peters was elected by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Bedrosian
January 12, 2016
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b. Vice Chairman
Supervisor Assaid nominated Supervisor McNamara to serve as Vice
Chairman.
Supervisor Bedrosian nominated Supervisor Hooker to service as Vice
Chairman, which nomination Supervisor Hooker declined
Supervisor McNamara was elected by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Bedrosian
1. Resolution establishing a meeting schedule for the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County for calendar year 2016
Supervisor McNamara amended the resolution to change the meeting in
th
July to July 19, 2016 and to hold 7:00 p.m. session on July 19 and August 9, 2015.
There was no discussion.
RESOLUTION 011216-1 ESTABLISHING A MEETING
SCHEDULE FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
ROANOKE COUNTY FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2016
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
1. That for calendar year 2016, the regular meetings of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, are set forth below with public hearings
scheduled for 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise advertised.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, April 26, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, May 24, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
January 12, 2016
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Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, October 25, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at 3 pm
Tuesday December 20, 2016 at 3 pm and 7 pm
2. That the organizational meeting for 2017 shall be held on Tuesday,
January 10, 2017, at 2:00 p.m.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
At 2:10 p.m. Chairman Peters recessed until the 3:00 p.m. session.
IN RE: OPENING CEREMONIES
Before the meeting was called to order a moment of silence was
observed. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
IN RE: CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Peters called the meeting back into session at 3:01 p.m. All
members were present.
IN RE: PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS
1. Resolution of appreciation to Charlotte A. Moore, for her service
as a member of the Board of Supervisors from 2007 through 2015
The Clerk read the resolution. All supervisors offered their thanks.
RESOLUTION 011216-2 OF APPRECIATION TO CHARLOTTE A.
MOORE FOR HER SERVICE AS A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS FROM 2007 THROUGH 2015
January 12, 2016
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WHEREAS, Charlotte A. Moore was first elected to represent the Cave Spring
Magisterial District on the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County in 2007, and served
in that capacity through December 31, 2015; and
WHEREAS, during her (8) years as a member of the Board, Supervisor Moore
served with professionalism and dedication, working on behalf of the people of her
district and all citizens of Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, throughout her tenure Ms. Moore worked tirelessly to protect the
environment of Roanoke County through her support of various organizations and
projects, including the work of RC-CLEAR, a citizens committee tasked with identifying
and mitigating polluting activities; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Moore concern for the environment was also demonstrated
through her work and support in the creation of an award winning anti-litter campaign,
which combined legislative action, citizen participation, and public outreach as a method
to make County roadways cleaner ; and
WHEREAS, Supervisor Moore participated on various committees on behalf of
Roanoke County, including Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, the
Roanoke Valley Regional Stormwater Management Committee, the Roanoke Valley
area Metropolitan Planning Organization, National Association of Counties (NACo)
Defined Contribution and Retirement Advisory Committee, Partnership for a Livable
Roanoke Valley, the School Construction Committee, Total Action Against Poverty
(TAP) Board and Human Resources Committee; Virginia Association of Counties
(Liaison Board Member), Western Virginia Regional Jail Authority and Virginia’s First
Regional Industrial Facility Authority; and
WHEREAS, Supervisor Moore was appointed to the Commonwealth of Virginia
CSA Workforce Board by Secretary Hazel in 2015 and was appointed and served on
the Commonwealth of Virginia Human Resources Committee by Governor Kaine in
2010-2013; and
WHEREAS, Supervisor Moore’s leadership skills were recognized by her fellow
Board members when she was chosen to serve as Vice Chairman of the Board of
Supervisors in the years 2011 and 2013; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, expresses its deepest appreciation and that of the citizens of
CHARLOTTE A. MOORE
Roanoke County to for her commitment to public service,
dedication to the welfare of her fellow citizens, and thoughtful leadership while a
member of the Board of Supervisors; and
FURTHER, the Board of Supervisors congratulates Supervisor Moore at the
conclusion of her term of office and wishes her continued success in future endeavors.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
January 12, 2016
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2. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County to Charles I. Poff, for his service
as Sheriff from November 1, 2014 through December 31, 2015
The Clerk read the resolution. All Supervisors offered their thanks.
RESOLUTION 011216-3 OF APPRECIATION TO CHARLES I.
POFF FOR HIS SERVICE AS SHERIFF OF ROANOKE COUNTY
FROM 2014 THROUGH 2015
WHEREAS, Charles I. Poff was first appointed Sheriff of Roanoke County in
November 2014, and served in that capacity through December 31, 2015; and
WHEREAS, Sheriff Poff also served as Deputy Sheriff from 2002-2005; Deputy
Sheriff-Sergeant from 2005-2006 and Deputy Sheriff-Lieutenant Colonel; and
WHEREAS, during his eight (8) years of service, Sheriff Poff served with
professionalism and dedication, working on behalf of all citizens of Roanoke County;
and
WHEREAS, Sheriff Poff was responsible for the daily operation of the Roanoke
County/Salem Jail, Civil Process Service and security for all courtrooms in the County of
Roanoke. Sheriff Poff has been actively involved in the community and has had the
pleasure to serve on numerous criminal justice boards and committees.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, expresses its deepest appreciation and that of the citizens of
CHARLES I. POFF
Roanoke County to for his commitment to public service, dedication
to the welfare of his fellow citizens, and thoughtful leadership during his tenure with
Roanoke County; and
FURTHER, the Board of Supervisors congratulates Sheriff Poff at the conclusion
of his term of office and wishes him continued success in future endeavors.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
3. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County to Michael J. Warner, Chief
Deputy Sheriff, upon his retirement after more than thirty-four (34)
years of service
The Clerk read the resolution. All Supervisors offered their thanks and
congratulations.
January 12, 2016
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RESOLUTION 011216-4 EXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION OF
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY TO
MICHAEL J. WARNER, CHIEF DEPUTY SHERIFF, UPON HIS
RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN THIRTY-FOUR (34) YEARS
OF SERVICE
WHEREAS, Michael J. Warner was employed by Roanoke County on July 1,
1981; and
WHEREAS, Chief Deputy Sheriff Warner retired on January 1, 2016, after thirty-
four (34) years and six (6) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke
County; and
WHEREAS, Chief Deputy Sheriff Warner served as Corrections Officer, Road
Deputy for the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office; and
WHEREAS for the Police Department, as Uniform Patrol Officer, Police Office-
Criminal Investigator, Detective: Vice/Narcotics and DEA Task Force, Police Officer-
Sergeant, Police Office – Lieutenant: Uniform Division B Platoon and Lieutenant
Services Divisions, and Assistant Chief of Police during his tenure with Roanoke County
and has served with professionalism and dedication in providing services to the citizens
of Roanoke County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
MICHAEL J. WARNER
of Roanoke County to for more than thirty-four (34) years of
capable, loyal and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER, the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
4. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County to Philip G. Weddle, Deputy
Sheriff-Major (Civil Division), upon his retirement after more than
twenty-six (26) years of service
The Clerk read the resolution. All Supervisors offered their thanks and
congratulations.
January 12, 2016
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RESOLUTION 011216-5 EXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION OF
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY TO
PHILLIP G. WEDDLE, DEPUTY SHERIFF-MAJOR (CIVIL
DIVISION), UPON HIS RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN
TWENTY-SIX (26) YEARS
WHEREAS, Phillip G. Weddle was employed by Roanoke County on July 29,
1989; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Sheriff Weddle retired on January 1, 2016, after twenty-six
(26) years and five (5) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke
County; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Sheriff Weddle served as a Deputy Sheriff-Corrections
Division, Deputy Sheriff-Corporal-Corrections Division. In 1996, Corporal Weddle was
appointed temporarily acting commander of the ERT. Corporal Weddle had full authority
as commander in situations designated as emergency response potential; and
WHEREAS Corporal Weddle, continued his career as Deputy Sheriff-Sergeant-
Investigative, Deputy Sheriff-Lieutenant-Professional Standards, Deputy Sheriff-
Lieutenant-Civil Division and Deputy Sheriff-Captain during his tenure with Roanoke
County and has served with professionalism and dedication in providing services to the
citizens of Roanoke County;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
PHILIP G. WEDDLE
of Roanoke County to for more than twenty-six (26) years and five
(5) months of capable, loyal and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER, the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
5. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County to Carl L. Booth, Deputy Sheriff-
Captain, upon his retirement after more than twenty-nine (29)
years of service
The Clerk read the resolution. All supervisors offered their thanks and
congratulations.
January 12, 2016
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RESOLUTION 011216-6 EXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION OF
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY TO
CARL L. BOOTH, DEPUTY SHERIFF-CAPTAIN, UPON HIS
RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN TWENTY-NINE (29) YEARS
OF SERVICE
WHEREAS, Carl L. Booth was employed by Roanoke County on March 22,
1986; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Sheriff Booth retired on January 1, 2016, after twenty-nine
(29) years and nine (9) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke
County; and
WHEREAS, Deputy Sheriff Booth served as Deputy Sheriff-Corrections Division,
Deputy Sheriff-Rehabilitation Counselor in the Corrections Division, Deputy Sheriff-
Sergeant, Deputy Sheriff-Lieutenant-Corrections Division and Deputy Sheriff-
Lieutenant-Administrative during his tenure with Roanoke County and has served with
professionalism and dedication in providing services to the citizens of Roanoke County;
and
WHEREAS, during Deputy Sheriff Booth’s time serving the citizens of Roanoke
County, he was an Emergency Response Team member from 1987 to December 2009;
and a State certified Breath Alcohol Operator since 1989, a State certified VCIN
Operator since 1990, a State certified general instructor since 1994, and State certified
Defensive Tactics instructor since 1996. Additionally, Mr. Booth graduated second in
his class from the Law Enforcement Academy in 1992, was a certified OC Instructor
since 1994, was on the Sheriff’s Office Color Guard from 1995 until 2004 and was the
Department PREA Coordinator since 2012.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
CARL L. BOOTH
of Roanoke County to for more than twenty-six (26) years and five (5)
months of capable, loyal and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER, the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
6. Resolution of appreciation to P. Jason Peters for his service as
Chairman of the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors in 2015
The Clerk read the resolution. All Supervisors offered their thanks.
January 12, 2016
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RESOLUTION 011216-7 OF APPRECIATION TO P. JASON
PETERS FOR HIS SERVICE AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS IN 2015
WHEREAS, P. Jason Peters served as Chairman of the Roanoke County Board
of Supervisors during 2015; and
WHEREAS, during Mr. Peters’ term as Chairman, the County achieved a variety
of accomplishments, including:
The announcement of ten (10) new business and expansion projects
totaling $13.8 million in new investment and the creation of over eight
hundred (800) new jobs. Businesses included were AppTech Solutions,
Atlantic Emergency Solutions, Texas Roadhouse, Walmart Neighborhood
Market, First Citizens Bank, Magnets USA and WFXR News.
The announcement of five hundred and thirty (530) new jobs at Wells
Fargo
The receipt of a $60,000 Community Business Launch grant from the
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development in
partnership with The Advancement Foundation and the Town of Vinton to
support entrepreneurial growth and small business development in the
Vinton area.
The receipt of over $141,000 in training funds from the Virginia Economic
Development Partnership’s Virginia Jobs Investment Program to support
new job creation and the retraining of existing employees for three (3)
Roanoke County companies.
The opening of the new Chick Fil-A in Bonsack, a development project
actively supported by Chairman Peters
The opening of the Vinton Library
Establishment of the Roanoke County “Pipeline Advisory Committee”
Establishment of intergovernmental agreement between the County of
Roanoke, the City of Roanoke, and the County of Franklin for joint use of
the digital radio system known as the Roanoke Valley Radio System.
Appointment of the new County Attorney
WHEREAS, Chairman Peters emphasized sound financial strategies and
practices and promoted regional economic development benefitting all the residents of
the Roanoke Valley.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, does hereby extend its deepest appreciation to P. Jason
Peters for his service as Chairman during 2015 and for his belief in democracy and
championing of citizen participation in local government.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
January 12, 2016
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AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: Supervisor Peters
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Briefing to update the Board of Supervisors on the Community
Strategic Plan Public Engagement Process and Schedule(Daniel
R. O’Donnell, Assistant County Administrator)
Mr. O’Donnell outlined the process. In attendance with Mr. O’Donnell
were Gray Craig, Web Content Manager and Megan Cronise, Principle Planner to
discuss logistics and public information.
Chairman Peters commented he hoped staff will receive a lot of
applications.
Supervisor McNamara inquired about the characterization of the groups.
Mr. O’Donnell responded there would be a number of people from outside agencies,
etc. and hopefully will be able to capture that information and assign to the correct areas
of interest.
Supervisor Bedrosian inquired if the average citizen will receive notice with Mr.
O’Donnell advising there were would be public notices and media outreach.
IN RE: NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution requesting the United Way of the Roanoke Valley to
cease its financial support for Planned Parenthood Health
Systems in Roanoke, Virginia (Requested by Supervisor Al
Bedrosian)
Supervisor McNamara stated as a point of order, consideration of this
resolution was tabled on November 10, 2016. The appropriate action would be to
remove the resolution from the table. If you look at Robert’s Rules, Chapter 17, it
specifically states that when a motion is laid on the table, it is within the control of the
assembly. No other motion on the same topic subsequent is in order that would either
conflict or presented to answer the same question as the motion that is on the table.
His suggestion is that this item is out of order.
Chairman Peters advised the item was out of order and the correct motion
would be to take the item off the table.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated he asked that the item be taken off the table.
Chairman Peters advised to take an item off the table requires a majority
vote.
Chairman Peters asked Supervisor Bedrosian for clarification stating that
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he is asking that the resolution be a motion to take the item off the table. The motion
brought forward by Supervisor Bedrosian is to take the item off the table. The motion
was unanimously passed by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
Chairman Peters asked that the resolution be read by the Clerk.
Supervisor Bedrosian commented that it is not unprecedented that the
Board put together resolution asking organizations or companies to stop doing
something. The Mountain Valley Pipeline is a great example. Here is a company that
comes in and starts doing things that we going to want them to do and we as a Board
do a resolution and he feels that is fair. United Way is an organization that Roanoke
County deals with and thinks we have every right when they are exhibiting behavior that
really isn’t the type of behavior, at least the people in his district, would prefer them not
be involved in. Since we are going to have a relationship with the United Way and
spend taxpayer dollars and associate ourselves with them and help them that we do
have an input into this. Just prior to this, two hundred people signed up on the
Community Strategic Initiative and we thought two hundred people was incredible.
Three hundred and fifty people stood outside of Planned Parenthood demonstrating that
saying stop. It was specifically about government either directly or indirectly funding
Planned Parenthood. His personal opinion is in America we have the right, but we still
do not have to use taxpayer dollars to help an organization fund them. This is the issue
he has; Roanoke County should separate itself from this and that is why he brought this
up and feels it is very important. People on this Board may disagree, but this is America
a representative republic, but he thinks it is time with all the negative news and the
feelings people have about Planned Parenthood. If you look nationally, we have been
doing this, Congress has, the US Senate has, and this has been in the front headlines
for the last couple of years. We are either blind here in Roanoke or pretending
something does not exist. He would strongly urge his colleagues to pass this resolution.
We appreciate the other things that United Way does, just stop funding Planned
Parenthood.
Chairman Peters requested Supervisor Bedrosian clarify or correct his
statement. We are not using tax payer money and sending it to United Way. That is a
false statement. We are not taking money out of the coffers and sending it to United
Way.
Supervisor Bedrosian apologized and stated that he had interchanged his
words. We fund the United Way campaign, so whether we have a luncheon for them or
give them prizes, that is tax payer dollars. What he is asking is that we ask United Way
to stop funding Planned Parenthood because they are a partner of ours.
Supervisor McNamara moved to postpone this until the second meeting in
February, February 23, 2016.
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Supervisor Bedrosian commented this Board talks about all the time that
has been wasted on this issue and all he is doing is asking for a vote; not even asking
to vote with them. We have been going through this item for so long, we table it, we
don’t want to talk about it, he thinks we should vote on it today and be done with it and
move on as other Board members say to more important business. We keep
procrastinating, he does not see a need to postpone because it has been out there long
enough.
Supervisor Hooker stated she would like to say that she has some
concerns with the resolution as written. She has some of the same goals. She might
want to go about accomplishing those goals a little differently and she would like to have
an opportunity to discuss more with the Board some of those options. So, she would
like to wait until we have some opportunity for additional discussion like Supervisor
McNamara has moved.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated he thinks that is wonderful and thinks today
might be an appropriate day. Is there anything in particular that we could discuss right
not.
Supervisor Hooker stated she did not want to proceed with the resolution
as written, but may want to have a discussion about using our tax dollars for some of
the promotions that is more the angle that she would like to take. So, again, she would
like to repeat that she agrees with Mr. McNamara and postpone.
Supervisor Assaid stated he would like to discuss with Supervisor
Bedrosian a few items. One of which is he would like to know how this is not
government intervention. We stay away from that and to him, we are a government
entity and we are asking an organization to change their policy, so he considers it
government intervention and he does not agree with that and that is the biggest issue
he has with this. He does not think anyone on the Board agrees with abortion, but he is
not willing to have a government entity force an issue. This is against his beliefs.
Supervisor Bedrosian commented he loves this discussion because we
are going right where he wants to go. He would absolutely replace this with us severing
our ties with Untied Way. The reason that this has all come about, is that we are right
now mixing government and a private enterprise, United Way. We created this
relationship where we fund them, we give taxpayer dollars to a private organization.
Chairman Peters called a point of order, stating Supervisor Bedrosian’s
statement is not true. We are not giving money to United Way. We fund a campaign
within the County, whether it is a breakfast, etc. We are not giving the money to United
Way. Supervisor Bedrosian stated but if we didn’t then United Way would have to
spend their own money. We are splitting hairs, because the money to fund the
breakfast comes from us and if we did not fund, they would have to spend their money.
Chairman Peters reiterated that we are not giving money to United Way. We are
facilitating.
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Supervisor Bedrosian stated maybe this is the reason people get so upset.
We do a luncheon, we give prizes to people who raise the most money. It is so close to
the fact that we are giving them money, we are funding them, we are facilitating them.
We are giving money-in kind. He stated he does not think we would be in any of these
discussions if we just severed our ties with not only the United Way, but every private
institution. We should not be giving money, facilitating, giving in-kind, whatever
because we get into issues like we are having now. Supervisor Assaid is exactly right.
He should not have the right as a government official to tell a private institution what to
do, but we are being put into a situation where we are facilitating and funding these
organizations and we are stuck. This makes it very, very difficult. He would rather that
we cut ties with Untied Way. If you want to raise money, go to it and raise all the money
you want and use it for any purpose, but Roanoke County is out of the picture. We
don’t bring the Blue Ridge Women’s organization in and help facilitate them and we
should not; it is not our role.
Supervisor McNamara stated that the motion on the floor is to postpone
until the second meeting in February and was made in good faith to try and resolve
some differences. It is clear that is not possible and at this point, he would like to
withdraw his motion and offer a motion to amend page 2, section 1, “that the Board of
Supervisors does hereby request the United Way of the Roanoke Valley to cease it
financial campaign, support for and funding of Planned Parenthood Health Systems in
Roanoke Virginia, (add) from any Roanoke County Government source. This does not
impact private citizen donations whether Roanoke County employees or other.”
Chairman Peters then recognized Doug Phillips who has signed up to
speak on this issue.
Doug Phillips stated he would like to say that he just happen to see the
demonstration at Planned Parenthood and there were about three to four hundred
people out there. Actually, there were two gatherings. That amount of people is
significant and feels like we should settle something on this resolution.
RESOLUTION 011216-8 REQUESTING THE UNITED WAY OF
THE ROANOKE VALLEY TO CEASE ITS FINANCIAL SUPPORT
FOR PLANNED PARENTHOOD HEALTH SYSTEMS IN
ROANOKE, VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, over three hundred and fifty (350) people (according to media
reports) demonstrated outside of Planned Parenthood on Peters Creek Rd. in
Roanoke, Virginia on August 22, 2015, protesting the direct and indirect funding of
Planned Parenthood by local, State, and Federal governments; and
WHEREAS, hundreds of individuals from around the Roanoke Valley take part
every year in the Forty (40) Days for Life vigil outside of Planned Parenthood. This vigil
is conducted for forty (40) consecutive days each Spring and Fall to bring attention to
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14
the atrocities being committed at Planned Parenthood and praying for the end of
abortion and the closing of Planned Parenthood; and
WHEREAS, every year on the first of October, one hundred to one hundred and
fifty (100-150) individuals from around the Roanoke Valley gather at the intersection of
Orange Ave and Williamson Rd. to pray for the end of abortion and the closing of
Planned Parenthood; and
WHEREAS, investigative, undercover videos appear to reveal that Planned
Parenthood has been involved in the selling of body parts; and
WHEREAS, in 2011 an undercover sting operation revealed that Planned
Parenthood appeared to be aiding the sex traffickers of minor girls by supplying STD
testing, confidential birth control and abortion information; and
WHEREAS, as citizens can view for themselves the types of activities that go on
at Planned Parenthood of the Roanoke Valley at http://liveaction.org/blog/full-footage/;
and
WHEREAS, every year hundreds of babies are aborted at the Planned
Parenthood on Peters Creek Rd. In 2014, 813 babies were aborted and their
contributions to society were ended; and
WHEREAS, the United Way of the Roanoke Valley has taken an extreme
position with only five percent (5%) of other United Ways in supporting Planned
Parenthood; ninety-five percent (95%) of other United Way organizations do NOT
support Planned Parenthood; and
WHEREAS, each year Roanoke County uses taxpayer dollars to help facilitate
and promote The United Way of the Roanoke Valley and their fundraising efforts; and
WHEREAS, all other services besides abortion that Planned Parenthood
provides are services that women can receive from other organizations in the Roanoke
Valley.
BE IT RESOLVED, By the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia as
follows:
1. That the Board of Supervisors is hereby requesting the United Way of the
Roanoke Valley to cease its financial campaign support for and funding of
Planned Parenthood Health Systems in Roanoke, Virginia, from any Roanoke
County government source. This does not impact private citizen donations
whether Roanoke County employees or other.
2. That the United Way of the Roanoke Valley should concentrate on supporting
organizations that have a positive impact on our Valley.
3. That the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors is directed to send this Resolution
to United Way of the Roanoke Valley.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Assaid, Bedrosian
January 12, 2016
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2. Resolution of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Roanoke,
Virginia, urging no action be taken by the General Assembly to
diminish mental health services for the most seriously and
persistently mentally ill citizens of Southwestern Virginia (Daniel
R. O’Donnell, Assistant County Administrator)
Mr. O’Donnell outlined the request for the resolution.
Supervisor Hooker commented this was a very important issue. There
was no other discussion.
RESOLUTION 011216-9 OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
THE COUNTY OF ROANOKE, VIRGINIA, URGING NO ACTION
BE TAKEN BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO DIMINISH
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR THE MOST SERIOUSLY
AND PERSISTENTLY MENTALLY ILL CITIZENS OF THE
ROANOKE REGION OF VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, Governor Terry McAuliffe’s fiscal year 2017 budget requests
$1,000,000 for planning for the closing of Catawba Hospital in fiscal year 2018; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital serves the needs of the Roanoke region and
much of Western Virginia for geriatric and adult patients with serious and persistent
mental illness by providing fifty (50) adult beds and sixty (60) geriatric beds; and
WHEREAS, according to a report by the Department of Behavioral Health and
Developmental Services (Study of Piedmont Geriatric and Catawba Hospitals,
November 15, 2015 - pg. 21) geriatric admissions to State hospitals increased sixty-one
percent (61%) in fiscal year 2015, thereby showing a need to keep these beds; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital provides beds mandated by Senate Bill 260
requiring State hospitals to provide beds for individuals on Temporary Detention Orders
(TDO) when private beds are not available; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital saw an increase in admissions of forty-one
percent (41%) in fiscal year 2015 (Study of Piedmont Geriatric and Catawba Hospitals,
November 15, 2015 – pg. 22) indicating a substantial need for these TDO beds in our
region; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital currently serves the needs of the local and
regional public safety agencies and jails effectively and efficiently by providing
accessible emergency services for inmates and community members in crisis; and
WHEREAS, the closest similar state facility is Western State Hospital in
Staunton, nearly one hundred (100) miles away. The proposed substitute of Western
State for Catawba services would cause substantial local government cost increases for
transportation of prisoners and patients to Staunton for local and regional public safety
agencies; and
January 12, 2016
16
WHEREAS, the impact of closing Catawba Hospital would create an undue
burden on patients in crisis and their families from the Roanoke Valley and nearby
areas who would have to travel nearly one hundred (100) miles to Western State
Hospital; and
WHEREAS, in a proposed State bond issue, funding is requested to be provided
to increase beds at Western State Hospital by only fifty-six (56) adult and geriatric beds,
not nearly providing enough beds for Western Virginia based on the aforementioned
increased need and the loss of one hundred ten (110) beds at Catawba; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital is a vital part of the region’s continuum of care by
providing in-patient services for adult and geriatric individuals with the most severe and
persistent forms of mental illness; and
WHEREAS, patients with the severe and persistent forms of mental illness and
geriatric conditions simply cannot be served adequately in the less intensive community
based services available in the region, according to Diane Kelly, Executive Director of
Mental Health America of the Roanoke Valley; and
WHEREAS, Catawba Hospital employs approximately two hundred fifty (250)
area residents and has a budget of approximately twenty (20) million dollars. The
closure of Catawba Hospital would cause serious negative economic impacts for
Roanoke County and the Roanoke Valley.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of the
County of Roanoke, Virginia hereby urges the General Assembly to take no action that
would move toward diminishing mental health services for the most seriously and
persistently mentally ill citizens of the Roanoke region of Virginia; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of the County of
Roanoke, Virginia hereby directs the County Administrator, or his designee, to transmit
this resolution to Governor McAuliffe and all members of the Virginia Senate Finance
Committee and Virginia House of Delegates Appropriations Committee in addition to all
local State Delegates and Senators.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
3. Resolution accepting the employees of the Roanoke County
Sheriff’s Office into the pay and classification plan and the
personnel system of the County of Roanoke(Ruth Ellen Kuhnel,
County Attorney)
Ms. Kuhnel outlined the resolution.Supervisor Bedrosian commented this
seems to be the right thing to do.
January 12, 2016
17
RESOLUTION 011216-10 ACCEPTING THE EMPLOYEES OF
THE ROANOKE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE INTO THE PAY
AND CLASSIFICATION PLAN AND THE PERSONNEL SYSTEM
OF THE COUNTY OF ROANOKE
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
1. That the employees of the Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office, said
constitutional officer having heretofore agreed in writing that his employees be accepted
into the pay and classification plan and the personnel system of the County of Roanoke
as authorized in Chapter 6 of the Charter of the County of Roanoke, be and such
employees hereby are accepted into the pay and classification plan and the personnel
system of the County of Roanoke; and
2. That all of the terms, provisions, and conditions of the pay and
classification plan and the personnel system of the County of Roanoke as fully set forth
in the Roanoke County Employee Handbook and/or Administrative policies regarding
personnel shall from and after the adoption hereof be applicable to each of the
employees of the Sheriff’s office; and
3. That the Sheriff shall be exempt from the terms, provisions, and conditions
of the County personnel system. The Chief Deputy of the Sheriff and the Sheriff’s
command staff (defined as those deputies with a rank of Captain or above) shall be
exempt from the terms, provisions, and conditions of the County personnel system
relating to the application, qualification, appointment, disciplining, dismissal, and
grievance procedure provisions of the Roanoke County Employee Handbook and/or
Administrative policies regarding personnel. The Chief Deputy and the Sheriff’s
command staff are deemed to be a confidential, policy-making positions. These
positions shall remain subject to the express provisions of Section 15.2-1603 of the
State Code; and
4. That the participation of the employees of the Sheriff’s office in the County
personnel system shall continue until revoked by the Sheriff, either by written notice to
the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, or by the election, qualification, and
assumption of office by a new individual; and
5. That the effective date of this resolution is January 13, 2016.
6. That an attested copy of this resolution be forthwith transmitted to the
Sheriff of Roanoke County.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
January 12, 2016
18
4. Request to amend the scope of services for the Professional
Engineering Services contract with Whitman, Requardt &
Associates to add Construction Management and Project
Administration Services for the Plantation Road Bicycle,
Pedestrian and Streetscape Improvement Project, Hollins
Magisterial(David Henderson, County Engineer)
A-011216-10
Mr. Henderson outlined the request. Supervisor Bedrosian stated that Mr.
Henderson had stated that after the selection, then the price is negotiated. He
commented he thinks that is a funny way of doing things. So, we do not select based
on price and asked Mr. Henderson to explain. Mr. Henderson responded with regard to
professional service contract, the State code requires basically that we go through a
process. What is normally done, is that staff will write up a request for qualification and
then advertise it. Basically we set out the types of services we are looking for and state
the qualifications that staff is looking for. Interested firms then submit qualification
submittals that lay out their qualifications to do the work. At that time, staff goes through
and ranks. Selection can be made at that time or interviews can be conducted and from
that staff will select the firm that they believe is the most qualified. At that time, staff and
the selected firm get together and negotiate the final scope of work and the final price.
Supervisor Bedrosian asked if staff ever selected two firms at that point and then try and
negotiate with each one individually. Mr. Henderson responded that is not allowed
under State code. If staff negotiates and they cannot come to an agreement, then that
firm is disqualified and staff then goes to next highest ranked qualified firm. When this
was done in the beginning, it was done for design and construction, and negotiate the
price after it is designed. How are we sure that the construction piece is competitive?
Mr. Henderson advised staff normally is sure because they have the rate per hour for
different categories of employees and these are rates that were negotiated with VDOT,
where they identify their overhead rate and salary costs, so staff has a rate for a certain
category of employee.
Supervisor McNamara commented if you go back and look at the numbers
are they comparable. Mr. Henderson advised there were no numbers in the original
contract for construction. Supervisor McNamara asked why they were not done at the
same time. Mr. Henderson advised there was still a lot of study that needed to be done
when the contract was originally done and construction phase services costs are largely
driven by the duration of the construction project. Additionally, at the time the project
started, staff was actively attempting to obtain grant funds, which were received after
the contract was signed. Supervisor McNamara stated the thing that always caused
him a little bit of concern is that professional services are different than everything else.
He commented he is always more comfortable when someone thinks they have a
January 12, 2016
19
competitor when negotiating than someone that does not have a competitor. The savior
is that you have the rates and rates cannot change, but you can still change the hours
around. He added that he thinks it is a bad procurement law. If he is buying something,
he wants to know how much it costs and how long it is going to take. He added it is like
going to the dentist,
On motion of Supervisor Bedrosian to amend the scope of services for the
Professional Engineering Services contract with Whitman, Requardt & Associates to
add Construction Management and Project Administration Services for the Plantation
Road Bicycle, Pedestrian and Streetscape Improvement, and carried by the following
recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE
1.Ordinance amending Section 2-114 “Agenda” and Section 2-115
“Rules of Debate” of the Roanoke County Code to provide for the
requirement of a “Second” for all motions before debate at the
Board of Supervisors Meetings(Requested by Supervisor Joseph
P. McNamara)
Supervisor McNamara stated as a County we put a lot of processes in
place that we previously did not have, whether it be Personnel processes or training,
ethics, just how we as a County function and interface with our citizens. It seems logical
as towards the end of last year a number of Board members discussed our Board’s
rules and procedures. It seemed logical, given the fact that we are a new Board and a
new year that we revisit and look at how we step up our game, as you will, as the
County has. The ordinance essentially has two parts as it is presented. It is truly for
discussion. The first part essentially modifies a section of our Board’s rules of
organization that states, “There is a time when any Board member may bring a motion
requesting the Board consider an action.” The first section of this ordinance would
require a second for that motion to receive consideration and action. The section
portion of this ordinance would require seconds, in effect, to all motions as they occur
throughout the course of our actual meeting, which really is in line with Robert’s Rules
of Order. The second section is in line with the way the Roanoke County Republican
Party conducts their business, in line with the Virginia General Assembly conducts their
business and in line with the way most organizations conduct their business. The first
section is not specifically addressed in Roberts Rules of Order and after further thought,
he would like to remove the first section in its entirety and replacing it with a modification
to Section 2-115 (h) Section 2-115(h) of our Board’s Rules of Procedure states,
“Nothing herein shall be construed from any member of the Board from making or
January 12, 2016
20
remaking the same or any other motion at a subsequent meeting of the Board.” He
stated he does not think it is appropriate in our Board’s Rules of Procedure that anyone
of us can remake the same motion at every single meeting. It is not logical. It is not
professional and it is not in accordance with Roberts Rules of Order. He would propose
that the entire first section be replaced with a sentence added to what he just read that
says, “provided the existing Board has not acted on this same or similar motion in the
last twelve (12) months.” Essentially, any member of the Board can make a motion to
be considered by the Board, assuming the same or similar motion has not already been
made in the last twelve (12) months or a change in the Board. So, if there is an election
with a different composition of the Board, we would start the clock again. He stated he
feels that is efficient and effective and also thinks requiring the second will be efficient
and effective in guiding us as we continue through the year.
Chairman Peters reiterated Supervisor McNamara’s changes.
Supervisor Bedrosian asking with regard to the first change, what is your
difference with what we have now? He added that he brought the same thing up
because it was tabled and never really debated.
Supervisor McNamara stated he is not suggesting this has been a
problem for the Board in the past, but is suggesting that any Board member can get
something on the agenda, but they can only do it once a year. Supervisor Bedrosian
commented he thought that had already passed.
Supervisor McNamara stated that between now and second reading we
will research, but the Chairman thought it was in the Rules of Organization. We had this
conversation earlier today. It is not in the version he is using, which is May 27, 2014, so
we are going to look and see. He also thought it was in at one point as well.
Chairman Peters requested that the Clerk would look at the minutes for
late January and early February of 2015. It was about the same time we passed the
ethics.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated with regard to item two, is that if we are going
to debate an issue and he will have to get a second as a duly elected Supervisor from
somebody else here in order to have a debate. Supervisor McNamara stated any
Supervisor would require a second, just as any delegate requires a second, just as
anyone in the Roanoke County Republican Party. He stated he was wondering why as
he feels healthy debate is good. Why would we limit? Why do we look for ways to not
have debate? He understands not bringing something up that we have already debated
and voted down, but debate to him is healthy and anything that stops debate is wrong.
If one person feels it is important and he is a duly-elected Supervisor of the Hollins area
and he has representatives that want him to bring something up, if the other four people
don’t it does not get heard. It seems like we are stifling debate rather than bring it up,
debate it and vote no. This seems like a much better way to get the matter out. If you
don’t do that you are going to get people who feel their view is not getting out.
Supervisor Hooker asked for clarification stating the way she understands
it, only one other person would need to second the motion with Chairman Peters
January 12, 2016
21
responding in the affirmative. Supervisor Bedrosian stated but he is a duly-elected
representative and has been hired to bring up concerns to the Board no matter what the
rest of the Board thinks. We negate that. Why do that when the alternative is so much
better: bring it up, debate it and vote no. This just seems so much more logical. We
need more debate not less.
Chairman Peters commented that he would respectfully disagree,
because as a duly-elected representative, this is not keeping you from putting it on an
agenda.
Supervisor McNamara motion to approve the first reading as amended
and to establish the second reading for January 26, 2016, was approved by the
following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Church, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Bedrosian
Chairman Peters recognized Dale Thompson who had signed up to speak
on this issue.
Mr. Thompson first welcomed the new Board members.
When he stands to speak to the Board, he only tries to bring a bigger issue to it
because he is citizen of the Hollins District, but he is also a citizen of Roanoke County.
He wants the best Roanoke County that we can possibly have. One of the things that
peaked his interest was the fact that you wanted to go with the seconding of motions for
debate. He agrees with Mr. Bedrosian that will limit debate and thinks the cool thing is
and he will be watching very closely because he may have a different understanding of
what Republican means. We have five (5) Republican Board members now and you
guys will be showing Roanoke County, all the citizens and the surrounding area and
Virginia what Roanoke County Republicanism is. One thing he wanted to do is read the
creed. He will be sending an email to start a conversation as to whether you actually
believe the Virginia Republican creed. As he said, he is a citizen and has no affiliation,
he is just interested in what is happening in the future. “We Believe:“That the free
enterprise system is the most productive supplier of human needs and economic
justice, That all individuals are entitled to equal rights, justice, and opportunities and
should assume their responsibilities as citizens in a free society, That fiscal
responsibility and budgetary restraints must be exercised at all levels of government,
That the Federal Government must preserve individual liberty by observing
Constitutional limitations, That peace is best preserved through a strong national
defense, That faith in God, as recognized by our Founding Fathers is essential to the
moral fiber of the Nation.” He added that he would be asking for each Board member’s
personal email and as much engagement as the Board can possibly have with the
citizens of the Roanoke County area. He stated that not many people come to these
events, not many people watch them on TV, but we need to become more and more
invested in our community and in working together to make the best Roanoke County
January 12, 2016
22
that we possibly can. Lastly, more debate is better. He thought that agenda item E-1
that you guys had to struggle through, he is glad they were uncomfortable with that
because you show your character as we discuss difficult topics for the County and we
make our County better.
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION 011216-12 APPROVING AND CONCURRING IN
CERTAIN ITEMS SET FORTH ON THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AGENDA FOR THIS DATE DESIGNATED AS
ITEM I- CONSENT AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for January
12, 2016, designated as Item I - Consent Agenda be, and hereby is, approved and
concurred in as to each item separately set forth in said section designated Items 1
through 2 inclusive, as follows:
1. Resolution accepting Flora Farm Drive, Hollins Magisterial District, into the
Virginia Department of Transportation Secondary Road System.
2. Confirmation of appointment to the Planning Commission (appointed by
District)
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 011216-12.a REQUESTING ACCEPTANCE OF
FLORA FARM DRIVE INTO THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION SECONDARY SYSTEM
WHEREAS, the streets described on the attached VDOT Form AM-4.3, fully
incorporated herein by reference, are shown on plats recorded in the Clerk's Office of
the Circuit Court of Roanoke County, and
WHEREAS, the representative for the Virginia Department of Transportation has
advised this Board that the street(s) meet the requirements established by the Virginia
Department of Transportation’s Subdivision Street Requirements, and
WHEREAS, the County and the Virginia Department of Transportation have
entered into an agreement on March 9, 1999, for comprehensive stormwater detention
which applies to this request for addition.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, this Board requests the Virginia
January 12, 2016
23
Department of Transportation to add the street(s) described on the attached Additions
Form AM-4.3 to the secondary system of state highways, pursuant to §33.2-705, Code
of Virginia, and the Department's Subdivision Street Requirements, after receiving a
copy of this resolution and all outstanding fees and documents required of the
developer, whichever occurs last in time; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this Board guarantees a clear and unrestricted
right-of-way, as described, and any necessary easements for cuts, fills and drainage;
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the Residency Administrator for the Virginia Department of Transportation.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
A-011216-12.b
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor McNamara moved to receive and file the following reports.
The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
1. General Fund Unappropriated Balance
2. Capital Reserves
3. Reserve for Board Contingency
4. Outstanding Debt
5. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Revenues as of
November 30, 2014
6. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Expenditures and
Encumbrances as of November 30, 2014
7. Accounts Paid – November 30, 2014
8. Treasurer’s Statement of Accountability per Investment and
Portfolio Policy as of November 30, 2014
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Bedrosian thanked everyone for attending today; he really
looks forward to it. He knows at times it seems we are in heavy discussion up here, but
January 12, 2016
24
as he has always said, this is his third year on the Board and he thinks it is very, very
healthy for a growing county, governing a community is that we do have these kinds of
discussions and we do disagree, then we agree and we get the best that we can out of
it. So, as the last speaker just said, he really does think that is good and he never
wanted to be interpreted as being controversial or disrespectful. This is our job. If we
all came and just voted in line always yes, yes, yes, you would think something is up.
He just wants to make people aware of that because he thinks it is important. He looks
forward this year as he has done each year to best represent the people of Hollins and
Roanoke County. The big initiatives for him are that we are a fiscally responsible
County. He knows we all interpret fiscally responsible differently, but what he tries to do
and you can hold him accountable for this is that he tries to look at how we govern our
County and how we spend money the exact same way he would do at home. He stated
he thinks it would be irresponsible to bring a different mindset to using someone else’s
money than he does at home. All he does at home is that he just does not spend more
than he actually has. He thinks that is very important. He would love to see our County
go towards eliminating debt altogether. When you say that everybody gets really
nervous. When you say no debt that does not mean you cannot do big things. He is
doing big things at home. At his house, he can purchase big things and pay for it. It is
not about that, it is about when you don’t go into debt, then your priorities really have to
get focused and you will have to make a solid decision. Do we really need that? Debt
allows you to do about twenty (20) things at the same time because each one just costs
a little bit, but you have them forever. When you really have to make a tough decision;
when you really have to say, “Hey”. We are looking at having to build a school, great, it
is going to cost us $25 million. All that we have in our little kitty is $30 million. Do we
really want to spend all of $25 million to do that or is it better to do something else. So,
he thinks it hones your decision making when you really have to look and say, “You
know what, let’s see what we have. This is what the tax payers gave us to spend.”
Unfortunately, we take everything the taxpayers give us to spend and in addition to that
we go out and borrow and we just keep pushing it out for future generations. He would
really like us to think differently about that, okay. We can do it. In our unappropriated
fund balance, we have $25 million or so. We have money and he would love to see us
start saving money instead of borrowing money every year. If we keep borrowing folks,
we are in a bad habit and he does not think the citizens gave us the right to do that and
if we want to borrow money, we should put it out to a referendum and ask the citizens,
“hey, is it okay if we borrow money, which is going to be putting this on your shoulders
and the next generation to come?” The other thing that we would like to close with is
that we are going to be going upstairs in a work session and looking at some surveys
and we just talked about strategic direction of the County. Every time we put out
surveys to do things about what people want in the County, we never put a price tag to
it. He always sees these surveys come back and everybody answers them, yes, they
want this, this and why not, he would say the same thing; yep, yep. He wants us to
focus on putting a price tag to things. Do we want this? Sure, this is what it is going to
January 12, 2016
25
cost and this would be what the taxes would be to pay for it because you have to pay for
everything, nothing is free. This is the kind of mind set he would like to have for
Roanoke County. He does look forward, and it may not seems like it all the time, but he
does look forward to working with all of us and just engaging in great conversation and
dialogue and debate throughout the year.
Supervisor McNamara stated he wanted to welcome the new members to
the Board and stated he is looking forward to a great year. He thinks things are looking
up; stock market was up today for the first time since Christmas and would assume it
has something to do with the Board and the future for Roanoke County. There is a lot
of work that has to be done this year. We need to stay focused and focus on the work
at hand to make Roanoke County the best place we can for our citizens. So, as we
undertake that the fewer the distractions the better, in his opinion. He looks forward to
being part of the process throughout the year and looks forward to working with
everybody.
Supervisor Peters stated he too would like to welcome George and
Martha to the Board. He has already had many conversations. Martha and I have
already talked over the Catawba Hospital and she has already been engaged and that
is wonderful. He does look forward to this year. WE covered a lot of ground last year
and this strategic plan is a big piece in where we are going to move forward and hopes
when the strategic plan comes back that it will be a living, breathing document that we
will continue to look to for what our community wants and needs.
At 5:08 p.m., Supervisor Peters moved to go into closed meeting followed
by the work sessions pursuant to the Code of Virginia Section 2.2-3711.A.5, Discussion
concerning a prospective business or industry or the expansion of an existing business
or industry where no previous announcement has been made; 2.2-3711.A.1, Personnel,
namely discussion concerning appointments to Partnership for a Livable Roanoke
Valley, Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission (Regional Stormwater
Management Committee), Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization,
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, Social Services Board, Total Action
Against Poverty (TAP), Virginia Association of Counties, Virginia’s
First Regional Industrial Facility Authority and Western Virginia Regional Jail Authority
and Section 2.2-3711.A.5, Discussion concerning a prospective business or industry or
the expansion of an existing business or industry where no previous announcement has
been made. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara Peters
NAYS: None
January 12, 2016
26
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session to provide an Explore Park Master Plan update
(Doug Blount, Director of Parks, Recreation and Tourism)
Work session was held from 5:27 pm until 6:07 pm. Also in attendance
was Lindsay Blankenship, Greenway Planner was also in attendance. Mr. Blount
provided a PowerPoint presentation. A copy of the presentation is on file in the office of
the Clerk.
Supervisor McNamara asked regarding alpine runs and the amphitheater.
Supervisor Assaid asked when the master plan would be evaluated with Mr. Blount
advising annually for the first several years.
Supervisor McNamara asked if we could use revenue sharing funds for
the roads with Mr. Blount advising he did not think that was possible. He added there
were other grants and public money for parks. Mr. O’Donnell advised that is why you
have to have the Master Plan in order to obtain the grants.
Supervisor Hooker asked if there was signage now so she could go
through the Park. Mr. Blount responded in the affirmative.
Supervisor Peters asked if there would ever be some point in the future to
ask to buy the property. Mr. Blount advised it would be possible at some point.
Supervisor McNamara asked if we put the amphitheater on the Bedford
County side, we could not charge a surcharge. Mr. Blount advised there were other
options available. Mr. Blount advised the plan will be released to the public tomorrow
and back to the Board in March for the final approval of the master plan.
2. Work session to discuss with the Board of Supervisors the
Children’s Services Act (CSA)(Patience O’Brien, Assistant
Director of Social Services; Jessica Webb, Children’s Services
Act (CSA) Coordinator; and Christopher Bever, Director
Management and Budget)
Work session was held from 6:08 p.m. until 6:38 pm Mr. Bever gave a
brief overview and turned the meeting over to Patience O’Brien who started the
PowerPoint presentation and then turned the session over to Jessica Webb to discuss
the CSA portion of the presentation. Chris Bever reviewed the funding sources. Ms.
Hooker asked the age group; 18-22. Supervisor McNamara asked if this could be
funded over multiple years; phased in approach. Additionally, use one-time funding.
January 12, 2016
27
N RE: CLOSED MEETING
I
The closed session was held from 5:39 p.m. until 6:25 p.m.
IN RE: CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION
At 6:30 p.m., Supervisor Peters moved to return to open session and
adopt the certification resolution.
RESOLUTION 011216-13 CERTIFYING THE CLOSED MEETING
WAS HELD IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CODE OF VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia has convened
a closed meeting on this date pursuant to an affirmative recorded vote and in
accordance with the provisions of The Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
WHEREAS, Section 2.2-3712 of the Code of Virginia requires a certification by
the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, that such closed meeting was
conducted in conformity with Virginia law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, hereby certifies that, to the best of each member’s
knowledge:
1. Only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting
requirements by Virginia law were discussed in the closed meeting which this
certification resolution applies; and
2. Only such public business matters as were identified in the motion convening
the closed meeting were heard, discussed or considered by the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Peters adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
January 12, 2016 27
RESOLUTION 011216-13 CERTIFYING THE CLOSED MEETING
WAS HELD IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CODE OF VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia has convened
a closed meeting on this date pursuant to an affirmative recorded vote and in
accordance with the provisions of The Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
WHEREAS, Section 2.2-3712 of the Code of Virginia requires a certification by
the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, that such closed meeting was
conducted in conformity with Virginia law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, hereby certifies that, to the best of each member's
knowledge:
1. Only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting
requirements by Virginia law were discussed in the closed meeting which this
certification resolution applies; and
2. Only such public business matters as were identified in the motion convening
the closed meeting were heard, discussed or considered by the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Peters adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Su.'"fitted by: Approved by:
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D_.orah C. J•'c P. Jason 'eters
Chief Deputy ' erk to the Board Chairman
28 January 12, 2016
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