HomeMy WebLinkAbout9/27/2016 - Regular
September 27, 2016
405
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 second
regularly scheduled meeting of the month of September 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: 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 to order at 3:01 p.m. The roll call was
taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman P. Jason Peters,Supervisors George G. Assaid, Al
Bedrosian, Martha B. Hooker and Joseph P. McNamara
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
STAFF PRESENT:
Thomas C. Gates, County Administrator; Daniel R.
O’Donnell, Assistant County Administrator; Richard
Caywood, Assistant County Administrator; Ruth Ellen Kuhnel,
County Attorney; Amy Whittaker, Public Information Officer
and Deborah C. Jacks, Chief Deputy Clerk to the Board
IN RE: REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO, OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF
AGENDA ITEMS
Ruth Ellen Kuhnel, County Attorney asked if the order of New Business
items could be switched for continuity. There were no objections.
IN RE: PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS
1. Proclamation from the Town of Vinton(Town Council of Vinton)
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Mayor Grose, Council member Keith Liles, and Town Manager Barry
Thompson were in attendance to present the Proclamation to Chairman Peters. Mr.
Thompson introduced the Town staff what was in attendance.
2.Proclamation commending the Blue Ridge Conservancy upon its
20th anniversaryRichard L. Caywood, Assistant County
(
Administrator; David C. Perry, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Land
Conservancy)
Mr. Perry was in attendance to receive the Proclamation, which was read
into the record by the Chief Deputy Clerk.
3. Proclamation declaring the month of October as Fire Prevention
Month in Roanoke County (Stephen G. Simon, Chief of Fire and
Rescue)
Chief Simon was in attendance to receive the Proclamation, which was read
into the record by the Chief Deputy Clerk. Also in attendance were Brian Simmons, Fire
Marshall and Scott Jones, Fire Inspector.
4. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of
Supervisors of Roanoke County to James M. Skinner, Building
Maintenance Technician II, upon his retirement after more than
eighteen years of service (Rob Light, Director of General Services)
Mr. Skinner was in attendance to receive his resolution and quilt. The
resolution was read into the minutes by the Chief Deputy Clerk.
RESOLUTION 092716-1 EXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION OF
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY TO
JAMES M. SKINNER, BUILDING MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN II,
UPON HIS RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN EIGHTEEN
YEARS OF SERVICE
WHEREAS, James M. Skinner was employed by Roanoke County on June 1,
1998; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Skinner retired on September 1, 2016, after eighteen years and
three months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Skinner served as a Building Maintenance Technician II, during
his tenure with Roanoke County and has served with professionalism and dedication in
providing services to the citizens of Roanoke County; and
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WHEREAS, during Mr. Skinner’s time serving the citizens of Roanoke County, he
provided a critical role in the maintenance of facilities and ensured that citizens and staff
have access to safe and efficient buildings.
WHEREAS, most notably, Mr. Skinner was the Maintenance Technician
responsible for the Public Safety Building since construction.
WHEREAS, Mr. Skinner was innovative and cost conscious and was meticulous
in his documentation of systems and processes related to his facilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens of
JAMES M. SKINNER
Roanoke County to for more than eighteen 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, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Briefing to provide an update to the Board of Supervisors on police
activity in Roanoke County (Howard B. Hall, Chief of Police)
Chief Hall provided a PowerPoint presentation for his briefing.
2. Briefing to provide an update to the Board of Supervisors on the
Mountain (Richard L. Caywood, Assistant County Administrator)
Mr. Caywood provided a PowerPoint presentation for his briefing.
IN RE: NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution authorizing the execution of an agreement between
Roanoke County and the City of Roanoke relocating portions of the
boundary line between said governmental entities and authorizing
certain other actions relating to such boundary line adjustment be
taken as provided by law (Peter Lubeck, Senior Assistant County
Attorney)
Mr. Lubeck outlined the request for the resolution. He noted that the
Roanoke City action was approved on September 19, 2016. There was no discussion.
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RESOLUTION 092716-2 AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN
AGREEMENT BETWEEN ROANOKE COUNTY AND THE CITY
OF ROANOKE RELOCATING PORTIONS OF THE BOUNDARY
LINE BETWEEN SAID GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES, AND
AUTHORIZING THAT CERTAIN OTHER ACTIONS RELATING TO
SUCH BOUNDARY LINE BE TAKEN AS PROVIDED BY LAW
WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of Article 2, Chapter 31, Title 15.2 of the
Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, the governing bodies of Roanoke County and the
City of Roanoke wish to petition the Circuit Court for approval to relocate portions of the
boundary line between the two jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, the relocation the boundary line of such governmental entities in the
areas proposed will permit more effective and efficient delivery of municipal services and
promote the public health, safety, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, Roanoke County and the City of Roanoke have agreed to the
boundary relocation by action of their respective governing bodies.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County,
Virginia, that:
1. The County Administrator is hereby authorized to execute two agreements
between Roanoke County and the City of Roanoke, on forms approved by the County
Attorney, establishing a new boundary line at certain points between said jurisdictions as
follows:
(A) The first agreement (the “Williamson Road Agreement”) proposes a boundary
line adjustment as follows:
(1) A parcel of real estate owned by CFS-4 III, LLC, and containing
1.0736 acres, being located along Williamson Road, U.S. Route 11 and 220 (being a part
of Tax Map #38.14-01-77.00) and currently located in Roanoke County, will be included
within the corporate boundary of the City of Roanoke.
(2) A parcel of real estate owned by Williamson Road Plaza, LLC, and
containing 0.0225 acre, being located along Williamson Road, U.S. Route 11 and 220
(being part of Tax Map #38.14-01-76.00) and currently located in Roanoke County will be
included within the corporate boundary of the City of Roanoke.
The proposed boundary line adjustment proposed by the proposed Williamson
Road Agreement is depicted in a plat entitled “Plat from Records for Roanoke County,
Virginia and the City of Roanoke, Virginia, Showing 1.0736 Acres (46,766 Sq. Ft.) and
0.0225 Acre (979 Sq. Ft.) Being Transferred from Roanoke County Corporate Limits to
the City of Roanoke Corporate Limits” dated August 4, 2016, and prepared and sealed
by Frank B. Caldwell, III on August 16, 2016 (the “Williamson Road Plat”) (Exhibit A).
(B) The second agreement (the “Blue Hills Village Drive Agreement”) proposes a
boundary line adjustment as follows:
(1) A parcel of real estate owned by the National Bank of Blacksburg,
and containing 0.7185 acre, being located between Challenger Avenue and Blue Hills
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Village Drive (Tax Map #050.05-01-26.00) and currently located in Roanoke County will
be included within the corporate boundary of the City of Roanoke.
(2) A parcel of real estate owned by the National Bank of Blacksburg
and containing 0.4904 acre, being located between Challenger Avenue and Blue Hills
Village Drive (Tax Map #050.05-01-26.01) and currently located in Roanoke County will
be included within the corporate boundary of the City of Roanoke.
(3) A public right-of-way containing 0.4070 acre, that is located between
the above-mentioned parcels (A) and (B) and currently located in Roanoke County will be
included within the corporate boundary of the City of Roanoke.
The proposed boundary line adjustment proposed by the proposed Blue Hills
Drive Agreement is depicted in a plat entitled “Plat from Records for Roanoke County,
Virginia and the City of Roanoke, Virginia, Lot 1 (0.7185 Acre), Common Area (0.4904
Acre), and Public Right of Way (0.4070 Acre) Plat Showing a Resubdivision of Parcel 1C-
2 11.0679 Acres (Instrument No. 200713164 – Rke Co) Showing 1.6159 Acres being
Transferred from Roanoke County Corporate Limits to the City of Roanoke Corporate
Limits,” dated August 4, 2016 and prepared and sealed by Frank B. Caldwell, III on
August 16, 2016. (the "Blue Hills Village Plat")(Exhibit B).
2. The boundary line adjustments set forth above were described in a Notice
of Public Hearing (Exhibit C), which was published as required by Section 15.2-3107 of
the Code of Virginia (1950), as amended.
3. Upon approval of the execution of the agreements between the governing
bodies, the County Attorney is authorized to petition the Roanoke County Circuit Court to
relocate the boundary line in accordance with the agreements and plats.
4. Upon entry of an order by the Circuit Court establishing the new boundary
line, a certified copy of such order will be forwarded to the Secretary of the
Commonwealth.
5. The County Administrator and County Attorney are authorized to take, or
cause to be taken, such other actions, and to execute other documents as may be
required by law to effect the change in the boundary line as set forth herein.
6. The Clerk to the Board of Supervisors is directed to forward an attested
copy of this resolution to the Clerk to the City Council of the City of Roanoke, Virginia.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
McNamara and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
2. Resolution approving a "Participation Agreement" as allowed
under the Amended and Restated Agreement creating the Western
Virginia Regional Industrial Authority (Thomas C. Gates, County
Administrator; Rebecca Owens, Director of Finance)
September 27, 2016
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Mr. Gates introduced Beth Doughty, Executive Director of the Roanoke
Regional Partnership and also serves as the Director of the Western Virginia Regional
Industrial Authority. Mr. Gates gave a brief history of the WVRIA and provided an
overview of the agreement.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated he knew nothing about this until about a week
ago and we were called into a Friday meeting with two Board members. We did not have
a closed session like we normally do. First question, in general, why was this not done
in closed session in terms of discussion?
Mr. Gates responded that the Board was briefed on the site analysis many
months ago and then a discussion was held in Closed Session about the options. The
first time was over a year ago. Mr. Bedrosian stated he was in agreement. Mr. Gates
stated we did not have a closed session partly because of convenience in order to
accommodate people’s schedules sometimes it is difficult to hold closed sessions.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated the reason he asked is that he has been on
the Board for three years and has never had a meeting like we had on Friday. Mr. Gates
responded that often times we will have what we call 2 x 2 meetings of Board Members,
just to brief them on issues. This is a fairly common practice and can think of probably
several issues that we have done this in the past.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated just for the record he does not remember ever
having a meeting where there is just two of us, then another two and then another one.
He just wanted to understand why we did it that way. To bring up a general point, he
thinks cooperation with the different Counties and Cities is a great thing because he finds
that we all fight each other and we are all trying to do the same exact thing when we have
companies coming in, try to outbid each other, tax incentives, etc. He understands that
piece. The reason he is going to vote against this is that he is adamantly opposed to us
doing this is he sees the role of government more like a referee in a game and now we
are coming these participants. We should be there to make sure that it is an even playing
field. People that may want to come in and vest or buy the land, develop it. We have
rules, everybody has to follow the same rules, it has to be zoned a certain way. Now we
have skirted that and we are buying the land now and we are going to sell it and we are
going to develop it the way we want to do it versus a community doing it the way they
want to do it. Everyone on the Board has their own views and maybe it has never been
like this, maybe he is dreaming. In a prior time governments did not get so involved all
the time and the private sector did it. They bought the land and they developed it and
they sold it and they made the profit. This is what concerns him and that is why he is very
uneasy. It goes against his free market ideal. We are basically taking this property off the
market so that someone else could buy it, we are holding it in an Authority, there is no
customer yet and we are holding it and using his money, tax payer dollars to buy the
property and go into debt. We don’t have the money so we are going into debt. We are
speculating.
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Mr. Gates advised we do not have an economic development business or
other entity that is interested in buying the property immediately. We are, in fact, through
the three jurisdictions and the partnership acquiring this property, determining what would
be an appropriate use for this gateway site and we will actively market and recruit a
business of high quality, high investment to our area for the purpose of economic
development. Supervisor Bedrosian stated this is what he disagrees with. He thinks the
community should come up with what they want. Mr. Gates stated he would like to remind
Supervisor Bedrosian that we will engage the community in the discussion. We will ask
them what it is they would like to see there. We will have those conversations with the
community and the neighborhoods close to that site in particular because it is important
that they do in fact weigh in. In fact, our land use processes provide for that. This is not
exactly the case that we, as the partners of this agreement, would dictate what happens
here. It will be a community engaged process. All of this is oriented to our collective
desire to economically grow our region. Supervisor Bedrosian stated a lot of the time
when someone has a piece of property and want to build something, they go to the
Planning Commission and get approval and then it comes to the Board for final approval;
they are private citizens, private entrepreneurs, etc. When we take the piece of property,
the government owns it, do we get any leniency. For example, if you want to put
something there and it is not zoned for that, since we own it, does it make it any easier to
give ourselves all those approvals than if it were a private citizen. Mr. Gates responded
in this particular case, there is some complications to this issue. In this case, the Western
Virginia Regional Facilities Authority will be the owner of the property and therefore the
applicant for potential land use changes. They will be the ones asking for what the land
use change will be. Functionally, it will of course be influenced by the three partnership
jurisdictions and be a matter of course because the property is located with in Roanoke
County, the Planning Commission and the Board will make determinations as to what
kind of land use language will be on the site. So, we have a history of abiding by our own
rules; we will continue to do that in this process.
Supervisor Hooker stated she thought she heard over 200,000 sites were
reviewed in this process for a site selection. Ms. Doughty advised they started with about
200,000 went down to 165,000 that actually got more serious consideration. When you
look at 200,000 parcels that means this was for example was five different parcels. Each
one of those was not a minimum of 100 acres. Supervisor Hooker then asked so this
came back in what place from the overall site selection with Ms. Doughty responding it
was the number one choice.
Supervisor Hooker then stated to Ms. Doughty’s point regarding the citizens
and how important it is to have their involvement, this property was seriously considered
several years ago for a trucking terminal and she thinks the neighbors were pretty
concerned about that and think we would all agree that is probably not the highest, best
use for this type of property. When she was doing a little bit of research on the residential
side and she was adding up the R-1 and the AR properties, it looks like potentially that
there could be 367 homes developed on that residential property and she is pretty sure
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that the citizens are not excited about that prospect either. So, Supervisor Bedrosian to
your point, she would say that we are trying to do exactly what the neighbors are
concerned about that we feel that this is a process that could deliver a better product for
this parcel and we are looking at how to control this gateway that is going to announce to
everyone that comes through our area what kind of development we intend; what kind of
industries we are looking for. So, it is a high stakes situation and thinks we are up for this
game, we are ready to be engaging the citizens and getting their feedback. She has
already been talking to quite a few citizens and hearing some of their concerns and for
many of them, they understand, they understand the process and they are willing to talk
about this just to help mitigate the process. Change is always concerning and she
guesses what is to be duly noted is that the likeliness of this staying as it is, is very slight.
Change will happen and it would be to our best interest to try to help control that future
for the County and for our partners in this prospect. This is about regional cooperation
and this is about job creation and she is looking forward to working with our neighbors
and working with our partner jurisdictions with Roanoke City and Salem that have agreed
to partner with us and we are going to establish quality standards for this parcel and she
really believes that it is possible to have a well-designed property that is worthy of this
site.
Supervisor McNamara congratulated everyone. It is extremely difficult to
find a negative in this process, extremely difficult. When he looks at all the sites we have
available, generally small and when you have a large site, guess what it is a big site, but
it is going to cost about $8 million and we don’t have $8 million. Salem is hurting for sites
too. Roanoke City is hurting for sites too. Let’s get together and we can come up with
some amount of money so that we can develop this site into a real moneymaker. He
would like to congratulate the Chamber, County staff from the perspective of keeping the
various governments involved while not letting all the information out of the bag and
impacting the acquisition costs. He stated he thinks they did an excellent job with that.
When you look at how these sites are ranked, one is suitability but two is return on
investment. This is not adding to debt. This is an investment that has a very significant
return on investment if things pan out. He thinks it is wonderful opportunity that we have
created. We still have a few more weeds to go through to work out access issues a
couple little spots to round out the property, but it is a very, very positive thing. He does
not want there to be any discussion that the two on two meetings are somehow secret,
unusual, which is what he thinks he heard from the gentleman from Hollins that two on
two meetings are unusual. It happened on Friday, no one knew anything about it. Just
glancing through his calendar, he has been involved in six two on two meetings in a sixty-
thth
day period (July 29, Fire and Rescue, Supervisor from Cave Spring, August 12, Social
nd
Services, Supervisor from Catawba, August 22, General Services, Supervisor from
st
Cave Spring, a meeting with Franklin County on September 1, Supervisor from Vinton,
stth
September 21, legislative lunch, Supervisor from Vinton, September 28 tomorrow he
has a two on two meeting with the Supervisor from Vinton again) He is not counting
September 27, 2016
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thinks like the 419 Visioning effort that had more than two supervisors. Two on Two
meetings is how we do business. So, he would encourage you to participate in those.
Supervisor Bedrosian responded those meetings are a little different, but it
is very rarely that he has been involved when we have all five of us meeting on a topic,
but it is broken up into smaller groups. Your meetings are different. On page 24,
regarding “The Authority agrees it will not lease, use, sell, encumber, transfer or dispose
of any real or personal property comprising part or all of the Project or take any action or
perform any function related to the Project or any portion thereof without the unanimous
consent of all of the Participants as reflected by action of the Committee. We say we are
going to get the citizens involved, but the final say is the Committee or is it the Board of
Supervisors? If you are going to build something is it the Industrial Authority’s final say
or does is come back to the Board of Supervisors? Mr. Gates deferred the legal response
to the County Attorney and for land use matters, Roanoke County controls the land use
issues because the site is located in Roanoke County. He stated he thinks the language
that Supervisor Bedrosian is referring to is unanimous consent amongst the partners i.e
do we accept this particular prospect as a prospect that would develop on that site, which
would require a unanimous vote of three partners of the agreement.
Supervisor Bedrosian responded so it has nothing to do with the Board of
Supervisors; if you find somebody and that is who you want, it would have nothing to
do with the people that are elected by the citizens of Roanoke County to say, “We
agree.” It is three individuals that are not elected with Mr. Gates responding in the
affirmative.
County Attorney Kuhnel clarified that those three individuals are acting in
their capacity for the Authority.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated that is the whole point. If we are going to be
taken out of the realm of when a person is going to come to Roanoke County and build
on a certain piece of property it goes to the Planning Commission and the Board approves
it at the end. We are the final authority. We are elected by the people and they will come
in and comment. Now that we have taken it out of our hands and put it into the Authority,
the three of them negotiate, it does not come to us as elected officials. Ms. Kuhnel
responded he is correct. This has come up with citizens calling in. Your authority as the
Board still has the land use control and your process would be just like any other third-
party coming in the community and you have full authority over the zoning parts; it is not
corroded at all. The prospect and the financing part of the deal would go to the Authority.
Supervisor Peters clarified that we have no control over that today. For
example, the Chick-fil-A in Hollins. If that property had already been zoned on Rt. 460,
Challenger Avenue. They would have gone in and purchased that property and do what
they had to do. Zoning the property is where we have our last say.
Supervisor Bedrosian inquired if some of the property was still zoned
residential. Mr. Gates responded that is correct.
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On page 26, should we talk about the money, the initial project debt? He
heard that we are not going into debt for this and wanted to clarify if we are not going into
debt. It says, the principal amount is not to exceed $10 million in initial project debt. As
he reads further down, it says the maximum amount not to exceed $20 million maximum
project debt. His questions is so this project is starting off with a $10 million tag that could
go to $20 million. Mr. Gates responding that staff is estimating that the cost of the
acquisition of the property and some very limited site work will be between $8.5 million
and $10 million. The participation agreement addresses what may happen subsequent
to acquisition, which may be an additional $10 million for infrastructure improvements.
We would hope that $10 million would not be borrowed by the local jurisdictions, but would
get participation from the State and others. In the financing agreements and in the
ordinance on the agenda item to come, it limits the authorization in of the bonding to $10
million. So anything beyond that initial $10 million would have to come back to all the
jurisdictions. The only actual authorization of financing would be the $10 million for
acquisition and some very limited site improvements. Ms. Doughty advised that is a total
number and Roanoke County’s portion would be 44.2%.
Supervisor Bedrosian said up to $10 million. Mr. Gates clarified that today
the Board is being asked to authorize the County’s portion of 44.2% of $10 million.
Beyond that it would require other action. Supervisor Bedrosian stated we borrowed
money with the Broadband Authority, $3.5 million, not on the debt books because it is
really the Authority borrowing money. As he reads this, it seems like it is the same way.
We don’t count this on the debt ratio because we say that this Authority is borrowing it,
even though we have to make the principal and interest payments it is not counting toward
debt. Is that correct? Mr. Gates responded in the affirmative stating the financing of this
at least at the $10 million level will perform exactly like we did with the Broadband
Authority bonds. The Authority would borrow the money, the County would pledge its
moral obligation to pay the principal and interest payments for what is borrowed by the
Authority. We do record the expense in our financial reports; it is part of our
comprehensive annual financial report. It is audited as all other financial transactions of
the County, but it does not technically hit against our debt limitations. So, if you will look
at the document provided, it will show you what the impacts are against our debt limits
and against our debt ratios (our policies) assuming not only our ordinary debt, that debt
obligation does count toward our debt obligations of the County but also assuming the
debt that has been incurred for Broadband and this project. So, you can see what the
impact is.
Supervisor Bedrosian stated he was looking at our debt and it has gone
down to $167 million, but with have $3.5 million and now $4.5 million off the books. He
hates these games. One day we wake up and we keep creating these Authorities that
have the ability to borrow money, we make the payments and take it off the books.
September 27, 2016
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Mr. Gates responded that his comment that we take it off the books is not
particularly accurate. These are financial transactions that are recorded as part of the
County’s financial record. Supervisor Bedrosian responded when he says off the books,
he is talking about Roanoke County’s debt ratio. We are taking it off the debt ratio sheet
for the County, which he thinks we shouldn’t because we should always know what our
debt ratio is. We have limits, but we don’t count. We always say it is insignificant. If it is
so insignificant, make it part of it. Let’s know all the obligations. Mr. Gates responded
that is the purpose for staff showing you what the implications of this additional debt would
be on our debt ratios and our debt limitations and as you can see from the document,
obviously we are still well below even with the addition of this debt. Supervisor Bedrosian
stated he agrees and stated it should be on there.
Next Supervisor Bedrosian commented regarding this building being the
collateral with Mr. Gates responding in the affirmative. It is the moral obligation. Unlike
the City, who is issuing General Obligation debt to secure their portion of the financing.
They put their full faith and credit behind the principal and interest payments that they
have to make because we issue a moral obligation, we do not do that and so the bank in
this case who is lending the money has asked for collateral, which is a fairly normal
request for a bank when borrowing a significant amount of money and we would
collateralize an asset that is sufficient to meet their 80% test.
Supervisor Bedrosian asked if they would ever take the building. Mr. Gates
responded the only way that would happen in the event that the County would default on
its debt or loan obligations. Supervisor Bedrosian asked on our portion or the Authority’s
with Mr. Gates responding ours.
Supervisor Peters inquired how many Authorities is Roanoke County a part
of with Mr. Gates responding the Resource Authority, the Water Authority, the Broadband
Authority, the Regional Industrial Facilities Authority, and the Roanoke Regional Jail
Authority. Supervisor Bedrosian inquired if we had any debt with the others. Mr. Gates
responded we have debt in the Regional Jail Authority, Water Authority, Resource
Authority, and Broadband Authority. Every one of those Authorities incur some measure
of debt for their capital improvements. In one way or another, we are contractually
obligated to pay portions of the expense of these operations.
Supervisor Peters inquired when these Authorities are created, he has seen
that they seem to be much better managed because they have to run more like a
business. They have to make sure their money is there, make sure they are able to make
their payment. Nothing that has come back on us. He stated he was going to take a little
different tone because this Board in January set forth a process called a Strategic Plan.
We went out into our communities and talked to as many citizens that would come out
and talk with us, many by phone. They said their number one concern was jobs. Our
number one concern is economic development to the point that they are asking for help.
This is not going to happen on its own. This land is not going to be acquired on its own.
We had to step in to make that happen.
September 27, 2016
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First, he commends Mike Altizer for the vision, but he would also would say that we can
look at other parts of the State where regional efforts have come together and flourished.
We want to be an area that flourishes and that means we have to come together as three
localities in this case and can be as much as six to make that happen. So, he feels like
we are complying with what our citizens asked us to do. A document that was brought
before this Board and was passed. At the end of the day, we want to have a great school
system, educate our kids, town centers, activity centers for them to live and play. We
need quality jobs and this is an avenue to do that. He thinks it is a great economic driver.
It is going to be right there on Interstate 81 corridor. He thinks that there has been a lot
of vision put into this. Our efforts to acquire the property, he commends them for that.
He thinks it is something we definitely look forward to. Again, our citizens have asked us
to do this and they want us to look for opportunities to bring jobs here and to facilitate
that. When he thinks the conversation is a little be skewered is that we are not in this
long term. We purchased a piece of property to design what we would like for it to look
like. We are going to sell this property. We are not going to be holding it for the next 50
years. Is he correct? Mr. Gates responded that is our intention. So, in an area that is
growing with Carillion and everything that is going on downtown, VA Tech, he thinks it is
a great fit and he is very happy to support.
RESOLUTION 092716-3 ADOPTING THE PARTICIPATION
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE WESTERN VIRGINIA REGIONAL
INDUSTRIAL FACILITY AUTHORITY, AND THE COUNTY OF
ROANOKE, THE CITY OF ROANOKE, AND THE CITY OF SALEM
WHEREAS, the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority (“the
Authority”) was created to promote economic development by its member localities under
the provisions of Chapter 64 of Title 15.2 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended; and
WHEREAS, three member localities, being the County of Roanoke, the City of
Roanoke and the City of Salem (the “Participants”), and the Authority desire to enter into
a Participation Agreement for the Authority to acquire and develop real property (“Real
Property”) located in Roanoke County to be used for an industrial park or other economic
development purposes (the “Project”) as an important project for the region to promote
the purposes for which the Authority was formed; and
WHEREAS, the Participants and the Authority desire to establish the scope of the
development of the Project, describing the contributions of the Localities and the Authority
toward development of the Project, and providing for the sharing of certain revenue from
the Project.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that in order to carry out the purposes for
which the Authority was formed, the Board of Supervisors approves the Participation
Agreement and authorizes the County Administrator, or his designee, to execute and
endorse the Participation Agreement in substantially the form presented to this meeting
September 27, 2016
417
between the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority and the Localities,
named as the County of Roanoke, the City of Roanoke, and the City of Salem.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Bedrosian
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1.Ordinance of the Board of Supervisors of the County of Roanoke,
Virginia in relation to approving Roanoke County support of
financing by the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility
Authority (Thomas C. Gates, County Administrator; Rebecca
Owens, Director of Finance)
Mr. Gates outlined the request for the ordinance; financing agreements.
Term is for 20 years, first 5 years interest only, beyond are required. $200,000 in first
year and will be brought forward in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and he will bring
this back to the Board with the balance of the CIP projects in the capital budget process
in January. Obviously, it is our hope that we will not own this property for 20 years, but
instead will convey the land to a high-quality business for development to facilitate the
marketing of the site, he and his colleagues with the Cities will be asking our Economic
Development staff and Economic Development partners to develop a site specific
marketing strategy. Once we have clearly identified the appropriate uses for the property
and engage the community in that discussion.
Supervisor Bedrosian inquired we are only paying interest on the first five
years. Is there a reason for that, he guesses that lowers the payments for the first five
years with Mr. Gates confirmed. Supervisor Bedrosian asked if there was a penalty for
doing that with Mr. Gates responding in the negative.
Supervisor Peters advised he had one other comment. Economic
Development is something that we keep pushing. He is constantly after his Economic
Development Director and pushing for more and more, but at the same time he has to
realize two things. He sees Max Beyer here who serves on our Economic Development
Authority. Sometimes you have to give them the tools to work with and he thinks this
would definitely do that. We know it is the number one ranked site in this area for this
kind of activity. Again, he thinks it is a win-win for everybody. He understands the five-
year plan because his hope is not to have it in five years.
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Supervisor Bedrosian stated the other two things he had were first we
brought up the Strategic Plan. One of the things and he brought this up when we did the
plan was that he was so concerned about was that it would be used first of all by the
citizens who would say we want everything and that we would use it to say it, they wanted
it so we have to give it to them. He did not vote for it, in fact, he was not here that day.
He would have voted against it just for those reasons. He thinks the people want jobs,
but does not think people are saying County go out and put us into more debt, speculate.
He just does not see it. He knows people want high paying jobs, but that is the free
enterprise system and whole different thing than government going out and buying land,
taking the land off the market, holding it and then doing something. The other thing is the
CRT. Is that our property with Mr. Gates responding in the affirmative. How long has
that property been there? Mr. Gates advised since 1997. How many sites are not
occupied? Ms. Jill Loope, Director of Economic Development advised four parcels and
150 acres left. So that is a site that we have had for twenty years and he knows when
we had the Broadband discussion, ten years or so it was wired by Cox. Ms. Loope
advised both Cox and Verizon are in the Park. So, his comment is that just because you
have land does not mean they will come. He would think that is a very strategic piece
between Roanoke and Virginia Tech.
Mr. Gates responded he feels he could make a very easy distinguish
between that site, which is attractive, and we continue to promote and market or any
number of reasons and the 581/81 site, which is a gateway site into the region. This is a
site that actually communicate what the Roanoke Valley is if the appropriate, high-quality,
high-value development occurs on that site. It is a different piece of property. We will
continue to market both. To him, it is a little bit apples and oranges to compare the site
in Dixie Caverns with the gateway site.
Chairman Peters commented, “Let’s be honest.” We have had this
discussion over the last three years and he has heard it longer that that from the Planning
Commission as well as the lady from Catawba. If this Board wants to authorize $4 to $5
million for site prep, we could probably get another business there. There is a lot of terrain
issues there. It is nowhere near site ready. We know that companies are not ready to
wait 18 months or longer for us to get a site ready. This is why this site is much more
conducive to marketing, not only as a gateway site, but it is a much more developable
piece of property. Mr. Gates responded it is true that are additional work needs to be
done to the CRT property in order to provide a pad-ready site. The investment we believe
is better made at this site.
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419
Supervisor McNamara wanted to comment since they are talking about
debt. There is not anyone on this Board that does not agree with the general principle
the gentleman from Hollins is purporting. The County needs to be very, very, very
cautious with our investments. We need to be cognizant of our total debt loads. This
Board is doing that. It is easy to get wrapped around debt spirally out of control because
we read about in the National marketplace. He stated he thinks is the $19-20 trillion,
national debt and four to five years ago it was $17. We added $3 trillion as a Country.
What does that have to do with Roanoke County? Guess what, our debt was $195 million
and now it is $167 million. The way he learned math, debt is dropping and dropping pretty
precipitously. It is roughly 15% in the last four years or so. You may recall that this Board
took a vote and withheld capital financing for two years. So, now we are making a
strategic investment. We are not added debt per se. We are making an investment that
has a return on investment. A lot of businesses do that. If you want to run it more like a
business; that is what businesses do. There are very few people making money in
business without putting money in to start. So, he just wants to clarify that there is solid
agreement on this Board about being fiscally conservative and watching our debt.
Chairman Peters commented we are very cautious on this Board about our
debt and our taxes. As we have discussed before, when it comes to taxes everybody
wants to lower taxes. You can do that versus raising revenue. He prefers to raise
revenue and thinks that he speaks for the majority of the Board.
Supervisor Peters’s motion to approve first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for October 11, 2016, was seconded by Supervisor Hooker
and approved by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisor Assaid, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: Supervisor Bedrosian
IN RE: PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES
1.Ordinances authorizing the granting of two, public, variable-width,
drainage easements by John F. Daugherty, Norma K Goff (Tax Map
No. 076.20-05-41) and Barbara R. Hanby (Tax Map No. 076.20-05-40)
to the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County for the purpose of
facilitating storm water management in the vicinity of Luwana
Drive, Windsor Hills Magisterial District (Tarek Moneir, Deputy
Director of Development Services)
Mr. Moneir advised there were no changes from the first reading held on
September 13, 2016, on either ordinance. There was no discussion.
Chairman Peters opened and closed the public hearing with no citizens to
speak on this issue.
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420
ORDINANCE 092716-4 AUTHORIZING THE GRANTING OF A
NEW PUBLIC VARIABLE-WIDTH DRAINAGE EASEMENT BY
JOHN F. DAUGHERTY AND NORMA K. GOFF TO THE BOARD
OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY ON PROPERTY
OWNED BY JOHN F. DAUGHERTY AND NORMA K. GOFF (TAX
MAP NO. 076.20-05-41) FOR THE PURPOSE OF FACILITATING
STORM WATER MANAGEMENT, WINDSOR HILLS
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS, Roanoke County has requested that John F. Daugherty and Norma
K. Goff (“Owners”) grant the County a new variable-width public drainage easement
measuring 498 square feet across Owner’s County property (Tax Map No. 076.20-05-41)
said new drainage easement to adjoin an culvert easement currently located on the same
parcel; and
WHEREAS, the new public variable-width drainage easement will facilitate storm
water management along Luwana Drive in the Nottingham Hills development, which is a
residential area; and
WHEREAS, Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter directs that the
acquisition and conveyance of real estate interests be accomplished by ordinance; the
first reading of this ordinance was held on September 13, 2016, and the second reading
and public hearing was held on September 27, 2016.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1. That the County shall acquire a new variable-width public drainage
easement across property belonging to Owners, adjacent to Luwana Drive, more
specifically identified on Tax Map No. 076.20-05-41, containing 498 square feet and
shown on the attached plat prepared by Caldwell White Associates, dated July 8, 2016,
and such conveyance is hereby authorized and approved.
2. That the County Administrator, or any Assistant County Administrators,
either of whom may act, are authorized to execute, deliver and record the deeds, and any
other documents on behalf of the County and to take all such further action as any of
them may deem necessary or desirable in connection with this project. The form of the
deed is hereby approved with such completions, omissions, insertions and changes as
the County Administrator may approve, whose approval shall be evidenced conclusively
by the execution and delivery thereof, all of which shall be approved as to form by the
County Attorney.
3. That this ordinance shall be effective from and after the date of its adoption.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the ordinance, seconded by
Supervisor Peters and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
September 27, 2016
421
ORDINANCE 092716-5 AUTHORIZING THE GRANTING OF A
NEW PUBLIC VARIABLE-WIDTH DRAINAGE EASEMENT BY
BARBARA R. HANBY TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
ROANOKE COUNTY ON PROPERTY OWNED BY BARBARA R.
HANBY (TAX MAP NO. 076.20-05-40) FOR THE PURPOSE OF
FACILITATING STORM WATER MANAGEMENT, WINDSOR
HILLS MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS, the Roanoke County has requested that Barbara R. Hanby (“Hanby”)
grant the County a new variable-width public drainage easement measuring 242 square
feet across Owner’s County property (Tax Map No. 076.20-05-40) said new drainage
easement to adjoin an culvert easement currently located on the same parcel; and
WHEREAS, the new public variable-width drainage easement will facilitate storm
water management along Luwana Drive in the Nottingham Hills development, which is a
residential area; and
WHEREAS, Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter directs that the
acquisition and conveyance of real estate interests be accomplished by ordinance; the
first reading of this ordinance was held on September 13, 2016, and the second reading
and public hearing was held on September 27, 2016.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1. That the County shall acquire a new variable-width public drainage
easement across property belonging to Hanby, adjacent to Luwana Drive, more
specifically identified on Tax Map No. 076.20-05-40, containing 242 square feet and
shown on the attached plat prepared by Caldwell White Associates, dated July 7, 2016,
and such conveyance is hereby authorized and approved.
2. That the County Administrator, or any Assistant County Administrators,
either of whom may act, are authorized to execute, deliver and record the deeds, and any
other documents on behalf of the County and to take all such further action as any of
them may deem necessary or desirable in connection with this project. The form of the
deed is hereby approved with such completions, omissions, insertions and changes as
the County Administrator may approve, whose approval shall be evidenced conclusively
by the execution and delivery thereof, all of which shall be approved as to form by the
County Attorney.
3. That this ordinance shall be effective from and after the date of its adoption.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the ordinance, seconded by
Supervisor Peters and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
September 27, 2016
422
2. The petition of Roanoke H&R RE, LLLP and Fralin & Waldron
Commercial Rental Limited Partnership to rezone approximately
23.01 acres from PTD with conditions, Planned Technology
Development, District and R-1, Low Density Residential, District to
PTD, Planned Technology Development, District with proffered
conditions on property located in the 1300 block of Electric Road
and 4000 block of Keagy Road, Windsor Hills Magisterial District.
The proposed proffered conditions include conformance to the
Concept Plan and Elevation Plan, limiting uses, signage, lighting,
and buffers. (WITHDRAWN AT THE REQUEST OF THE
PETITIONER)
3. The petition of IYS XXII, L.C. to rezone approximately 8.46 acres
from I-1S, Low Intensity Industrial, District with special use permit
to C-2, High Intensity Commercial, District for the operation of
guidance services and general office, located at 5673 Airport Road,
Hollins Magisterial District (POSTPONED AT THE REQUEST OF
THE PETITIONER)
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION 092716-6 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 September
27, 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 3 inclusive, as follows:
1. Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County to Steven R. Martin, Deputy Sheriff (Civil Division-Sheriff's Office), upon
his retirement after more than 29 years of service
2. Request to accept and allocate grant funds in the amount of $278,950 from the
Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for the design and construction of
the Murray Run Stream Restoration Project
3. Request to accept and appropriate three (3) Division of Motor Vehicle Grants
in the amount of $127,375
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
September 27, 2016
423
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 092716-6.a EXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY TO
STEVEN R. MARTIN, DEPUTY SHERIFF, UPON HIS
RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN TWENTY-NINE YEARS OF
SERVICE
WHEREAS, Steven R. Martin was employed by Roanoke County on December
13, 1986; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Martin retired on September 1, 2016, after twenty-nine years and
nine months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Martin served as a deputy sheriff, 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 Mr. Martin’s time serving the citizens of Roanoke County, he
did so with exceptional dedication and determination to ensure that he provided the
highest level of service possible. Mr. Martin was known for his pleasant nature towards
the public as he worked as a bailiff in the Roanoke County General District Court. It was
not uncommon for him to purchase Special Olympics candy bars for children entering the
courthouse or obtaining a bus pass for a citizen in need of a ride. He was extremely
devoted to his family and neighbors alike, frequently completing chores like mowing their
lawns or snow blowing their driveways and sidewalks. Mr. Martin had a way to bring a
smile to the public’s face with just his everyday pleasant attitude and genuine concern for
their well-being. Mr. Martin will be missed by his colleagues and leaves behind a
magnificent legacy of well-deserved respect and outstanding service.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens of
STEVE R. MARTIN
Roanoke County to for more than twenty-nine 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, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
A-092716-6.b
A-092716-6.c
September 27, 2016
424
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor Peters moved to receive and file the following reports. The
motion was seconded by Supervisor McNamara carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Assaid, Bedrosian, Hooker, McNamara, Peters
NAYS: None
1. Unappropriated, Board Contingency and Capital Reserves Report
2. Outstanding Debt
3. Proclamation signed by the Chairman declaring October 2 through
8, 2016, as Mental Illness Awareness Week in the County of
Roanoke
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Bedrosian invited everyone to an event called the Lifechain,
th
which is done every first Sunday of October and this year is the 29 annual one at the
intersection of Williamson Road and Orange Avenue, just celebrating the gift that God
has given us of life; a wonderful thing. Also, he strongly urges everybody in a kind way
to tell your local United Way to stop funding Planned Parenthood.
Supervisor Peters thanked the employees for all that they do and the
School Board as well. School is back in session and they are having a blast from what
he hears. He would bring up William Byrd’s record, but won’t do that today.
Chairman Peters then recessed the meeting to the South County Library
at 6:00 p.m. at 5:11 p.m.
At 6:05 p.m., Chairman Peters called the meeting back into session and
clarified the date of October 11, 2016, for the second reading of the financing documents.
Additionally, the order off the work sessions was reversed.
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session to review the preliminary budget and financial results
for fiscal year ending June 30, 2016, for the County of Roanoke
(Rebecca Owens, Director of Finance; Christopher Bever, Director
of Management and Budget)
Mr. Bever and Ms. Owens provided a PowerPoint presentation to the Board
to review the preliminary results.
September 27, 2016 425
Supervisor Peters inquired with regard to the Unappropriated Balance
showing a 10.95%, with a target of 11%, why would staff not bring this percentage up to
11%. Ms. Owens responded that can be done.
Supervisor McNamara explained the reason is they budgeted upfront
instead of after the fact.
Mr. Gates, County Administrator, advised that number can be changed.
Supervisor McNamara stated he wants to self-fund the life insurance so
please take a look at. He thinks there should be significant savings; but will need enabling
legislation. He reiterated that he prefers the 11% and noted something will need to be
done with CSA.
The work session was held from 6:06 pm until 6:50 pm
2. Work session to discuss issues of importance regarding the
Regional and Local Behavioral Health System (Daniel R. O'Donnell,
Assistant County Administrator)
In attendance for this work session: Diane Kelly, Mental Health America of
the Roanoke Valley, Debbie Bonniwell, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare; Marlene
Bryant, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare; Mitch Mitchell, Catawba Hospital
Mr. O'Donnell gave a brief overview and turned the meeting over to the
others, who each spoke concerning their areas of expertise.
Mr. O'Donnell gave a brief wrap up reiterating the significant impact on the
service provided by Roanoke County due to State changes. He advised staff would stay
involved in the State conversation.
The work session was held from 6:51 pm until 7:56 pm
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Peters adjourned the meeting at 7:56 p.m.
• itted by: Approved by:
Air•/40/
De•orah C. Fs P. Jason Peters
Chief Deputrk to the Board Chairman
September 27, 2016
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