HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/25/2003 - Regular
135
February 25, 2003
Roanoke County Administration Center
5204 Bernard Drive
Roanoke, Virginia 24018
February 25, 2003
The Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia met this day at the
Roanoke County Administration Center, this being the fourth Tuesday and the second
regularly scheduled meeting of the month of February, 2003.
IN RE: CALL TO ORDER
Chairman McNamara called the meeting to order at 3:05 p.m. The roll call
was taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman Joseph McNamara, Vice-Chairman Richard C.
Flora, Supervisors Michael W. Altizer, Joseph B. “Butch”
Church, H. Odell “Fuzzy” Minnix
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
STAFF PRESENT:
Elmer C. Hodge, County Administrator; Paul M. Mahoney,
County Attorney; Brenda J. Holton, Deputy Clerk to the
Board; John M. Chambliss, Assistant County Administrator;
Dan O’Donnell, Assistant County Administrator; Diane D.
Hyatt, Chief Financial Officer
IN RE: OPENING CEREMONIES
The invocation was given by John M. Chambliss, Jr., Assistant County
Administrator. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
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February 25, 2003
IN RE: REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO, OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF
AGENDA ITEMS
Mr. Hodge added a briefing on the damage from the recent storm.
IN RE: PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS
1. Certificate of recognition to Roanoke County Public Schools for
receiving the Energy Star Label designation at the Roanoke
County School Administration Building and Oak Grove
Elementary School
Chairman McNamara presented a certificate of recognition to the County
Schools which was accepted by Dr. Weber, School Superintendent, and Richard Kelly,
Schools Energy Manager. He also presented a certificate to Oak Grove Elementary
School which was accepted by Principal Christina Flippen. Supervisor Minnix advised
that he was proud of this accomplishment and that the County schools were listed in a
national publication in the top 17% of all schools in the nation. Supervisors Church,
Altizer and Flora each expressed their appreciation. Mr. Kelly advised that by the end
of March, the schools will have saved $2 million. He thanked the custodians and
teachers for their support of the program and advised that this was a team effort.
2. Proclamation declaring the month of February 2003 as School
Board Appreciation Month
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February 25, 2003
Chairman McNamara presented the proclamation to the Marion Roark,
Chair of the School Board. Also present were Mike Stovall, School Board Member and
Dr. Weber, Superintendent of Schools. Chair Roark expressed appreciation for the
Board’s support and highlighted some of the Schools accomplishment during 2002: (1)
All schools passed their SOL’s. (2) Expectations on energy conservation were
exceeded. (3) The Schools received international and national certificates of excellence
in financial reporting. (4) The music program for K-12 was recognized as one of the best
100 music communities in the nation. (5) The vocational program at Arnold Burton is
rated one of the top three outstanding programs in the nation. School Board Member
Stovall thanked the Board for their continued support, especially financial, and advised
that this is a team effort.
3. Recognition of Japanese students visiting the Roanoke Valley
Mr. Hodge advised that eight students from a junior college in Saitama
City, Japan and their chaperone are visiting the Roanoke Valley. Their visit is an
extension of a Japanese student exchange program previously sponsored by Virginia
Western Community College (VWCC). He advised that Dr. Jennifer Mulligan from
VWCC and Jack Tompkins, member of the Roanoke Valley Sister City Program, were
instrumental in arranging this visit. Mr. Tompkins introduced the students’ chaperone,
Takeya Fujita, and Mr. Fujita introduced the students: Misato Yaginuma, Eriko Hasumi,
Asuka Miyuma, Yuko Saito, Shiroi Shimasaki, Ayae Maruama, Tomomi Sakumoto, and
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February 25, 2003
Kiyomi Kakinuma. Mr. Hodge and Chairman McNamara presented gifts and certificates
of honorary citizenship to the students.
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Update on recent storm
Mr. Chambliss advised that the County was spared major damages from
this storm because of the preventive methods already being utilized such as Project
Impact, the Drainage Improvement Program, regional stormwater projects, and the
Sanitary Sewer Evaluation/Rehabilitation (SSER) Program. Mr. Chambliss stated that
Extension Agent Jon Vest has indicated that no major damages had been reported to
the Farm Service Agency, and most of the losses to the farmers occurred where fences
were in low-lying areas and in the collection of debris along the stream beds. The
Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism incurred damages for the cleanup of
facilities, removal of debris along the waterways, repairs to roadways, service roads and
entrances to park properties, removal of silt, seeding and recovery of grass, and
removal of several trees. The worst damage was experienced in Green Hill Park, Camp
Roanoke, Garst Mill Park, Starkey Park and Brookside Park. Mr. Chambliss reported
several suggestions that Mr. Vest requested be given to the public: (1) As citizens make
improvements to their landscaping, they should divert water away from doorways and
windows while being careful not to divert it onto their neighbor’s property. (2) Citizens
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February 25, 2003
should be aware of the low-lying or flood prone areas of their property and not store
equipment or products there. (3) Drainways should be inspected to keep water moving
freely. (4) If water does get into a building, shut off the electricity. (5) Do not drive
through moving or standing water. There was one life lost from when a vehicle was
swept into the water and the Fire & Rescue personnel helped in the rescue of two
others people in Montgomery County, one of whom subsequently died from
hypothermia. Damage to County homes and businesses was primarily from water in
basements and garage areas with some sewer backups. However, most of these
damages occurred on property that had experienced these problems in the past. He
advised that Fire & Rescue Division Chief Todd Maxey, Chief of Police Ray Lavinder.
Director of Community Development Arnold Covey, Utility Director Gary Robertson, and
Assistant County Administrator Dan O’Donnell would make reports to the Board.
Division Chief Maxey reported that this was basically a flash flood event
with County roads being impassable due to rising water for varying lengths of time.
During a 26 hour period, Fire & Rescue personnel handled about 75 incidents which did
not include the calls coming into the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The major
incidents were flood service calls, approximately ten fire related calls, three or four
accidents and reports of wires being down. Assistance was provided in two search and
rescue events. As of today, there are no reports of any roads that are still closed.
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February 25, 2003
Chief Lavinder advised that officers were assigned to the areas that were
flood prone immediately upon the water rising and they resolved most of the issues very
quickly. One of the police cars belonging to a School Resource Officer was removed
from the flooded area, along with the officers’ personal car, before any damage could be
done. The Dispatch Center was very busy but extra staff was prepared to handle it.
There was one tower failure on Crowell Gap but because of redundancy in the system,
they were able to switch the work load to other towers and no service was lost. The
biggest problems were roadway flooding and debris. He advised that the citizens
worked well with the officers and their cooperation was outstanding.
Mr. Covey advised that there was a mud slide at New York Pizza in Vinton
but there was no structural damage. Staff will take some corrective action to resolve the
problem in the future. A large volume of water, silt, and mud overflowed the sediment
basin for Russlen Farms, a new subdivision adjacent to Woodbridge, and they will work
with the developer on corrective actions. Butch Workman, Drainage Engineer, as of
Monday morning, reported that the department received about 40 complaints. Mr.
Covey outlined the positive changes that have been made in the past fifteen years
which improved the drainage situation in the County and reduced the impact of flooding:
(1) Drainage Maintenance Program, (2) Stormwater Master Plan, (3) Regional
Stormwater Pond at Hidden Valley High School and Mudlick Creek, (4) Regional ponds
in the Montclair Subdivision, and (4) Project Impact. He advised that because of these
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February 25, 2003
projects, the community rating system is being raised to Class 8 which will be another
10% reduction in flood insurance for the citizens.
Mr. Robertson advised that they received 26 calls during the weekend
related to sewer backups and of these calls, 13 were minor sewer backups with the
remaining problems being those of stormwater in basements and two cases where
houses on septic system backed up. He commended the Board for implementing the
SSER Program to minimize stormwater getting into the sewer system. There were 11
manholes which had some overflow and as of yesterday, all had been cleaned up and
reported to the Department of Environmental Quality. He thanked his staff for
voluntarily working through the weekend and personnel at the Dispatch Center for their
assistance. In response to a question from Supervisor Minnix, Mr. Robertson advised
that approximately half of the 13 sewer backups were split between the Windsor Hills
and Cave Spring Magisterial Districts.
Mr. O’Donnell summarized that there were two lives lost and the message
for the public is that no one should drive through standing or moving water. He talked to
Real Estate Valuation Director Driver and was informed that real estate damage was
th
minimal with a total cost of less than $10,000. On February 20, he and Mr. Hodge
attended the Virginia Local Government Managers Association Meeting and heard a
presentation from Deborah Mills who is the Floodplain Program Manager for the State
Department of Conservation and Recreation. She met the day before with Mr.
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February 25, 2003
Workman to review the County’s flood prevention program and at the conference, she
pointed out that Roanoke County had one of the best programs she had ever seen.
Supervisor Church advised that he received a number of calls about the
threatening conditions in West County and he appreciated that staff came out to
investigate which showed the citizens that the County was concerned about the
problems. He advised that this briefing was very beneficial to the citizens.
Supervisor Minnix advised that there were problems but it could have
been worse. He expressed condolences to those who lost family and friends. He
suggested that a briefing like this be produced for viewing on the Roanoke Valley
Television Station and that all efforts be made to educate the public about the dangers
of driving through water during floods.
IN RE: NEW BUSINESS
1. Request to approve a field use partnership agreement with the
Southwest Soccer Association. (Pete Haislip, Director of Parks,
Recreation & Tourism)
R-022503-1
Mr. Haislip advised that he is seeking approval of a field use partnership
agreement with Southwest Soccer Association of the Roanoke Valley. This is a unique
partnership between Roanoke County and Southwest Soccer Association, in
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February 25, 2003
cooperation with Hidden Valley Youth Sports Foundation and the Cave Spring
Recreation Foundation. As part of the Roanoke County Public Use Manual for Sports
Organizations and Community Users, policies were approved to allow groups to enter
into partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department in return for the use of
Roanoke County athletic facilities by non-sanctioned teams or organizations. The
Valley AFC Soccer Program is the non-sanctioned travel soccer program of the
Southwest Soccer Association. Last year, when Hidden Valley High School opened,
there was a need for another lighted football field. The Cave Spring Recreation
Foundation, the Hidden Valley Youth Sports Foundation, and the Southwest Soccer
Association have agreed to share the cost, utilizing the County’s matching grant
program, of lighting Merriman 3 soccer field in Starkey Park in return for Southwest
Soccer’s relinquishing the rights to the lighted soccer field at Shell Park which has been
converted into a football field. The value of the project is $50,000 and the County has
contributed $10,000 through the matching grant program. He advised that Jim
McCaden, President of Southwest Soccer Association and Valley AFC, was present.
Mr. Haislip expressed appreciation to the Cave Spring Recreation Foundation and
Hidden Valley Youth Sports Foundation for their assistance with this agreement.
Supervisor McNamara expressed appreciation to the Southwest Soccer
Association, the Valley AFC, the Parks & Recreation Department and everyone involved
in providing the opportunity for this partnership.
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February 25, 2003
Supervisor Minnix moved to adopt the resolution. The motion carried by
the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 022503-1 AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A LICENSE
AGREEMENT WITH SOUTHWEST SOCCER ASSOCIATION OF THE
ROANOKE VALLEY, INC. AUTHORIZING THE USE OF ROANOKE
COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
WHEREAS, the Director of Roanoke County Parks, Recreation, and Tourism has
negotiated a field use partnership with Southwest Soccer Association of the Roanoke
Valley, Inc. (“Southwest Soccer”); and
WHEREAS, Southwest Soccer has agreed to make certain valuable
infrastructure improvements to Merriman Park in partnership with the Cave Spring
Recreation Foundation and the Hidden Valley Youth Sports Association in return for 714
units of play over a 5-year period of time; and
WHEREAS, this partnership with non-sanctioned teams or organizations will
benefit the citizens and taxpayers of Roanoke County by allowing such organizations to
make improvements or offer programs in exchange for ballfield use time
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1. That a License Agreement with Southwest Soccer dated March 1, 2003
for 714 units of play over a 5-year period in exchange for infrastructure improvements to
Merriman Park is hereby authorized and approved.
2. That the County Administrator, or an Assistant County Administrator, is
authorized to execute such documents and take such actions on behalf of Roanoke
County as are necessary to accomplish this transaction, all of which shall be upon a
form approved by the County Attorney.
On motion of Supervisor Minnix to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
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February 25, 2003
2. Request to approve a field use partnership agreement with
Badger Baseball. (Pete Haislip, Director of Parks, Recreation &
Tourism)
R-022503-2
Mr. Haislip advised that he is seeking approval of a field use partnership
agreement with Badger Baseball which is located in Southwest County. The first phase
of improvements will include the construction of a sewer line and hook up for the
proposed restroom and concession building in Starkey Park, which is on the park
master plan, and a bullpen. Badger Baseball will make approximately $8,000 - $9,000
in improvements over a five-year period in return for field use space for their program.
Mr. Steve Stilwell from Badger Baseball was present. Mr. Haislip recommended
approval of the agreement.
Supervisors McNamara and Minnix inquired if Mr. McCaden and Mr.
Stilwell would like to address the Board. Mr. Stilwell advised that he felt they had a
good agreement and thanked the Board. Mr. McCaden thanked the Board, advised that
it has been a pleasure to work with Mr. Haislip, and commended the staff for their
concern about the facilities during the storm.
Supervisor McNamara moved to adopt the resolution. The motion carried
by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
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February 25, 2003
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 022503-2 AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A LICENSE
AGREEMENT WITH BADGER BASEBALL AUTHORIZING THE USE
OF ROANOKE COUNTY RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
WHEREAS, the Director of Roanoke County Parks, Recreation, and Tourism has
negotiated a field use partnership with Badger Baseball, a Southwest County baseball
program; and
WHEREAS, Badger Baseball has agreed to make certain valuable infrastructure
improvements to Starkey Park in return for 550 units of play over a 5-year period of
time; and
WHEREAS, this partnership with non-sanctioned teams or organizations will
benefit the citizens and taxpayers of Roanoke County by allowing such organizations to
make improvements or offer programs in exchange for ballfield use time.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1. That a License Agreement with Badger Baseball dated March 1, 2003 for
550 units of play over a 5-year period in exchange for infrastructure improvements to
Starkey Park is hereby authorized and approved.
3. That the County Administrator, or an Assistant County Administrator, is
authorized to execute such documents and take such actions on behalf of Roanoke
County as are necessary to accomplish this transaction, all of which shall be upon a
form approved by the County Attorney.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS AND FIRST READING OF
REZONING ORDINANCES - CONSENT AGENDA
Supervisor McNamara moved to approve the first reading and set the
second reading and public hearing for March 25, 2003. The motion carried by the
following recorded vote:
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February 25, 2003
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
1. First reading of ordinance to obtain a Special Use Permit to
construct and operate a daycare on 15.652 acres located at Red
Lane Extension at Interstate 81, Baptist Children's Home,
Catawba Magisterial District, upon the petition of Fellowship
Community Church.
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1. First reading of an ordinance approving a lease for the Tinker
Mountain tower site. (Anne Marie Green, Director of General
Services)
Ms. Green advised that the County owns and/or rents several sites around
the Roanoke Valley for the purpose of maintaining towers and antennae for its public
safety radio communications system. The tower sites are part of a regional system that
also serves the City of Roanoke and the Town of Vinton. One of the tower sites is on
Tinker Mountain in Botetourt County, on property owned by Lee C. Hartman, Jr. This
site, which has been used by the County for over a decade, is important for reaching
certain parts of the Valley and also helps to provide back-up capabilities for the system.
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The County entered into a lease with Mr. Hartman in 1997, with a payment
of $2,300 per year for the first three years, and $2,600 per year for the following two
years. The lease terminated in June, 2002. Staff and Mr. Hartman have negotiated a
new lease with the following terms: (1) Two years, beginning July 1, 2002, at a rent of
$3,000 per year. (2) An additional two year term, at the option of the County, at a rent
of $3,400 per year.
Supervisor Minnix advised that he thought the increase in rent was
reasonable and inquired if the County had considered purchasing property for a tower.
Mr. Hodge advised that tower space is at a premium and purchasing adjoining property
is difficult. In this case, because of the favorable price, it is more advantageous to lease
rather than purchase and build. Ms. Green advised that Mr. Hartman owns almost all
the property on the mountain and has been very agreeable in negotiating the lease
agreement.
Supervisor McNamara moved to approve the first reading and set the
second reading for March 11, 2003. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: APPOINTMENTS
1. Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare
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February 25, 2003
Supervisor McNamara nominated Dan O’Donnell to complete the
unexpired portion of the three-year term of Gary I. Kelly which expires December 31,
2003.
2. Roanoke Valley Resource Authority
Supervisor Church nominated Daniel R. Lineberry to complete the
unexpired portion of the four-year term of Douglas J. Anderson which expires December
31, 2005.
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
R-022503-3
Supervisor McNamara moved to adopt the Consent Resolution. The
motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 022503-3 APPROVING AND CONCURRING
IN CERTAIN ITEMS SET FORTH ON THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AGENDA FOR THIS DATE DESIGNATED
AS ITEM J - CONSENT AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
1. That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for
February 25, 2003 designated as Item J - Consent Agenda be, and hereby is, approved
and concurred in as to each item separately set forth in said section designated Items 1
through 5, inclusive, as follows:
1. Approval of minutes - February 11 and February 19, 2003
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February 25, 2003
2. Confirmation of appointment to Commission for Senior and Challenged
Citizens (appointed by district)
3. Request to appropriate grant monies concerning the Comprehensive Services
Act Programs
4. Request to accept water and sewer facilities serving Moran Storage Building
5. Request to accept and appropriate grant in the amount of $39,725 from the
Department of Criminal Justice Services to the Violent Crimes Against
Women Unit
That the Clerk to the Board is hereby authorized and directed where required by
law to set forth upon any of said items the separate vote tabulation for any such item
pursuant to this resolution.
On motion of Supervisor McNamara to adopt the Consent Resolution, and
carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: REQUESTS FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS
Supervisor McNamara moved to authorize the public hearings to be
scheduled for March 11, 2003. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
1. Request to hold the following Public Hearings on March 11, 2003
(a)Public Hearing to elicit citizen comment for items to be
included in the budget for the 2003-2004 fiscal year.
(b)Public Hearing on the “effective tax rate increase” as a result
of increased assessed value of real estate.
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(c)Public Hearing to elicit citizen comment to set the real estate,
personal property and machinery and tools tax rates in
Roanoke County.
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor McNamara moved to receive and file the following reports.
The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
1General Fund Unappropriated Balance
.
2Capital Fund Unappropriated Balance
.
3Board Contingency Fund
.
4. Future School Capital Reserve
5. Statement of Expenditures and Estimated and Actual Revenues
for the month ended January 2003
6. Statement of Treasurer's Accountability per investment and
Portfolio Policy as of January 31, 2003
7. Report from VDOT of changes to the Secondary Road System in
January 2003
8. Proclamation signed by the Chairman
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February 25, 2003
IN RE: CLOSED MEETING
At 4:21 p.m., Supervisor McNamara moved to go into Closed Meeting
following the work session pursuant to Code of Virginia Section 2.2-3711 A (7)
consultation with legal counsel with respect to pending litigation, namely Roanoke
County vs. General Electric (Dixie Caverns Landfill); Section 2.2-3711 A (5) discussion
concerning a prospective business or industry where no previous announcement has
been made. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Joint work session with Planning Commission to discuss the
following matters:
The work session was held from 4:21 p.m. until 5:46 p.m. Chairman
McNamara welcomed the members of the Planning Commission to the meeting.
Chairman Witt called the Planning Commission meeting to order at 4:31
p.m. with all members present: Martha Hooker, Steve Azar, Al Thomason. Todd Ross
and Don Witt. Also present were Jeff Echols, Resident Engineer, and Bill Manning from
the Virginia Department of Transportation; Arnold Covey, Janet Scheid, Anthony Ford,
and David Holladay from the County staff.
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(a)Secondary Road System Six-Year Construction Plan (2003-2009)
and consideration of projects for FY 2003-2004 VDOT Revenue
Sharing Program. (Arnold Covey, Director of Community
Development)
Mr. Covey introduced Anthony Ford, who was recently hired as the
County’s Traffic Engineer. Mr. Covey advised that the County’s budget for F/Y 2003-
2004 is approximately $3.16 million; that $330,000 has been allocated for the Rural
Addition List; and that $500,000 is being requested from the State Revenue Sharing
Program. He advised that two projects from last year’s Rural Addition List, Creekside
Drive and Smokey Ridge Road, have been removed. He reviewed the numbered
priority projects and advised that two projects, Garman Road and Shadwell Drive/Old
Mountain Road, were added to the plan. He advised that some of the projects include a
bikeway which has an additional cost and the Board will need to decide whether to
include bikeways. Mr. Hodge suggested that the date that the project was originally
placed on the six-year plan and the cost of the bikeway be added to the project sheets.
Supervisor Church asked that the magisterial district be shown. Supervisor McNamara
objected and stated that these decisions should not be made political based on the
district in which the project is located. Mr. Covey advised that there will be a public
th
hearing at the March 25 meeting and adoption of the plan is proposed for April.
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February 25, 2003
(b)To discuss the issues of Residential Growth and the provisions of
Public Services in Roanoke County. (Janet Scheid, Chief Planner)
Mr. Mahoney advised that the Capital Improvement Program needs to be
considered if the Board wants the Planning Commission to address road placement and
residential growth as zoning issues. Supervisor Minnix advised that he would like more
in-depth work sessions where maps could be reviewed. Supervisor Church advised
that he would like to meet regularly with the Planning Commission. Ms. Scheid advised
that it has been assumed that the Virginia Department of Transportation would have
sufficient funds to improve the roads to meet the demands but that assumption is no
longer valid and the responsibility for funding projects is being shifted to localities. Mr.
Hodge advised that there are other concerns such as requests for water and sewer,
setback problems and revision of the Comprehensive Plan. He distributed a handout
that highlighted major industrial users by jurisdiction for Roanoke’s Water Pollution
Control Plant and reported that most of the County’s allocation in the sewage plant is for
non-commercial and non-business. He suggested that the Planning Commission, with
the assistance of the construction community, revise the Comprehensive Plan through a
series of work sessions and bring that information back to the Board.
(c) Proposed amendments to the Roanoke County Zoning Ordinance,
Section 30-93, Signs. (David Holladay, Senior Planner/Zoning
Administrator)
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February 25, 2003
Mr. Holladay advised that these amendments are the result of meetings
through 2002 between staff, the Planning Commission and sign industry
representatives. The amendments include: (1) Allowing temporary signs (banners) by
annual permit, but in exchange, reducing the number of banners allowed from two to
one. (2) Prohibiting roof and portable signs. (3) Offering a reduced setback option for
freestanding signs in commercial and industrial zoning districts in exchange for reduced
sign height. (4) Amending the off-premises (billboard) regulations by placing a cap on
the number of billboards currently existing in Roanoke County. Construction of new
billboards would still be allowed, but only after removing an existing billboard.
Billboards that do not conform to current standards would be removed first. (5)
Amending definitions to support the proposed regulatory changes.
Ms. Scheid advised that there are some differences of opinion on the
Planning Commission concerning these amendments but they are ready to move
forward. There was some discussion concerning these amendments and a trivision
sign which is not allowed under the County’s ordinance. There were no suggested
changes to the amendments and the Planning Commission will proceed to schedule a
public hearing.
2. Work session on Fiscal Year 2003-2004 budget development.
(Brent Robertson, Budget Director)
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February 25, 2003
The Budget Work Sessions were postponed until after the evening
session.
3. Work session to discuss the After School for Kids (ASK) program.
(Pete Haislip, Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism)
This work session was postponed until after the evening session.
IN RE: CLOSED MEETING
The Closed Meeting was held from 5:45 p.m. until 6:45 p.m.
IN RE:. CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION
R-022503-4
Supervisor McNamara moved to adopt the Certification Resolution. The
motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 022503-4 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.
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February 25, 2003
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, hereby certifies that, to the best of each members
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 McNamara to adopt the Resolution and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: PUBLIC HEARINGS AND SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES
1. Second reading of ordinance to rezone .67 acres from C-1 Office
District to C-2 General Commercial District in order to operate a
beauty salon located at 3505 Brambleton Avenue, Windsor Hills
Magisterial District, upon the petition of Windsor House, Inc.
(Janet Scheid, Chief Planner) POSTPONED UNTIL MAY 27, 2003
BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Chairman McNamara announced that this item had been postponed by
the Planning Commission to the May 27, 2003 meeting.
2. Second reading of ordinance to rezone 17.034 acres from R-3
Medium Density Multi-Family Residential District to R-4 High
Density Multi-Family Residential District with conditions in order
to construct multi-family dwellings located at the east side of
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Plantation Road at the intersection with Hershberger Road,
Hollins Magisterial District, upon the petition of Carroll
Investment Properties, Inc. (Janet Scheid, Chief Planner)
O-022503-5
Ms. Scheid advised that this is a request to rezone 17.034 acres from R-3
Medium Density Multi-Family Residential District to R-4 High Density Multi-family
Residential District. She explained that under the R-3 Medium Density, the petitioner
could build 12 units per acres or 204 units. Under the R-4 High Density, the petitioner
could build 24 units per acre or 408 units. The petitioner has proffered to limit the
development on this site to 16 units per acre or 272 units, an increase of 63 units
between the R-3 and R-4 zoning. The Planning Commission recommended approval
with the following proffers: (1) The subject property will be developed in substantial
conformity with the "Preliminary Sketch Plan for Carroll Investment Properties, Inc.,
Roanoke, Virginia," prepared by GPT Engineering and Surveying, Inc. dated December
9, 2002. (2) A greenway easement shall be dedicated between Tinker Creek and the
centerline of Tinkerbell Lane (private access easement). (3) Pedestrian access shall be
made available to the Hershberger Road/Plantation Road Intersection. (4) Pedestrian
access shall be made available to the adjoining shopping center property line located to
the east of the property. (5) A maximum of 272 units (16 units per acre) shall be
allowed. (6) The exterior of all buildings shall be substantially brick, hip roofing, and post
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tension slabs. (7) The number and square footage of units shall be: (a) 76 one-bedroom
units, minimum 685 square feet. (b) 156 two-bedroom units, minimum 950 square feet
(c) 40 three-bedroom units, minimum 1,456 square feet (8) The following amenities
shall be provided: (a) club house (approximately 2,658 square feet) (b) swimming pool
(c) laundry facilities (d) tennis court (e) playground. The Planning Commission was
concerned that most of the vegetation would be lost during the grading of the site. The
petitioner stated that they are planning 13 different buildings plus the clubhouse and
expect to do a substantial amount of replanting of trees, landscaping and buffering
around the apartment complex. She advised that the petitioner and his attorney were
present.
In response to a question from Supervisor Minnix, Ms. Scheid advised that
the petitioner has agreed to all the proposed proffers. Ms. Scheid confirmed to
Supervisor Church that the petitioner is proffering to build 16 units instead of the 24
units that the R-4 zoning allows.
Mr. Ed Natt, Attorney representing Carroll Investment Properties, advised
that no citizens spoke in opposition to the petition at the Planning Commission public
hearing. He advised that Dennis Montgomery and Rick Early from Carroll Investments
were present and they would be glad to answer questions. He advised that the
petitioner buys properties so they can build, develop and manage them. They plan to
build a high-end apartment complex which will be an asset to the County.
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February 25, 2003
Ms. Debbie George, 6717 Oleander Circle, spoke of her concerns about
the increased traffic that would be generated with this development; that there are
already problems entering Plantation Road from Hedgelawn Avenue; and that before
the Board approves this project, these traffic concerns should be addressed.
In response to Supervisor Flora’s inquiry, Mr. Natt advised that there will
be one entrance to the property from the intersection of Plantation Road and
Hershberger Road and the three-way traffic light will be developed into a four-way light.
Also, the Virginia Department of Transportation may require some improvements with
acceleration and deceleration lanes leading to that light.
Supervisor Flora advised that he had several concerns which had been
addressed by the proffered conditions which will protect the community. This is a good
transition from commercial to single family and if they build the apartment complex
according to the proffers, this project will enhance that portion of Plantation Road.
Supervisor Flora moved to adopt the ordinance with conditions. The
motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
ORDINANCE 022503-5 TO CHANGE THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION
OF A 17.034-ACRE TRACT OF REAL ESTATE LOCATED ON THE
EAST SIDE OF PLANTATION ROAD AT ITS INTERSECTION WITH
HERSHBERGER ROAD (TAX MAP NO. 38.16-1-3.9) IN THE HOLLINS
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT FROM THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF
R-3 TO THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF R-4 WITH CONDITIONS
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February 25, 2003
UPON THE APPLICATION OF CARROLL INVESTMENT PROPERTIES,
INC.
WHEREAS, the first reading of this ordinance was held on January 23, 2003, and
the second reading and public hearing were held February 25, 2003; and,
WHEREAS, the Roanoke County Planning Commission held a public hearing on
this matter on February 4, 2003; and
WHEREAS, legal notice and advertisement has been provided as required by
law.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
1. That the zoning classification of a certain tract of real estate containing
17.034 acres, as described herein, and located on the east side of Plantation Road at
its intersection with Hershberger Road (Tax Map Number 38.16-1-3.9) in the Hollins
Magisterial District, is hereby changed from the zoning classification of R-3, Medium
Density Multi-Family Residential District, to the zoning classification of R-4, High
Density Multi-Family Residential District.
2. That this action is taken upon the application of Carroll Investment
Properties, Inc.
3. That the owner of the property has voluntarily proffered in writing the
following conditions which the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia,
hereby accepts:
(1) The subject property will be developed in substantial conformity
with the "Preliminary Sketch Plan for Carroll Investment Properties, Inc.,
Roanoke, Virginia," prepared by GPT Engineering and Surveying, Inc.
under date of December 9, 2002.
(2) A greenway easement shall be dedicated between Tinker Creek
and the centerline of Tinkerbell Lane (private access easement).
(3) Pedestrian access shall be made available to the Hershberger
Road/Plantation Road Intersection.
(4) Pedestrian access shall be made available to the adjoining
shopping center property line located to the east of the property.
(5) A maximum of 272 units (16 units per acre) shall be allowed.
(6) The exterior of all buildings shall be substantially brick, hip roofing,
and post tension slabs.
(7) The number and square footage of units shall be:
(a) 76 one-bedroom units, minimum 685 square feet.
(b) 156 two-bedroom units, minimum 950 square feet
(c) 40 three-bedroom units, minimum 1,456 square feet
(8) The following amenities shall be provided:
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(a) club house (approximately 2,658 square feet)
(b) swimming pool
(c) laundry facilities
(d) tennis court
(e) playground
4. That said real estate is more fully described as follows:
Beginning at a point on the east side of Plantation Road at the northwest corner
of the property of CBL Plantation Plaza Ltd. (Tax Map No. 38.16-1-3.3) ; thence
with the easterly side of Plantation Road the following courses and distances: N.
25 deg. 25' 56" W. 372.42 feet; N. 19 deg. 43' 18" W. 251.25 feet; N. 27 deg. 20'
29" W. 150.08 feet; N. 30 deg. 14' 36" W. 194.96 feet; N. 18 deg. 25' 50" W.
94.13 feet; N. 07 deg. 51' 08" W. 223.82 feet; thence leaving Plantation Road
and with the line of Ethel V. Fulcher (Tax Map No. 38.12-5-6); N. 84 deg. 04' 05"
E. 572.46 feet; thence S. 16 deg. 00' 28" E. 441.80 feet; thence S. 15 deg. 28'
10" E. 85.44 feet; thence N. 72 deg. 07' 55" E. 175.10 feet; thence S. 21 deg. 40'
18" E. 236.34 feet; thence S. 34 deg. 38' 30" E. 111.56 feet; thence S. 36 deg.
34' 20" E. 197.11 feet; thence S. 64 deg. 34' 04" W. 749.23 feet to the Point of
Beginning, and containing 17.034 acres (excluding the area in the cemetery).
5. That this ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its
final passage. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the
provisions of this ordinance be, and the same hereby are, repealed. The
Zoning Administrator is directed to amend the zoning district map to reflect
the change in zoning classification authorized by this ordinance.
On motion of Supervisor Flora to adopt the ordinance with conditions, and carried
by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Flora, Church, Minnix, Altizer, McNamara
NAYS: None
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Altizer:
He congratulated the William Byrd swim team for
their excellent season and finishing second in the state.
Supervisor Church:
(1) He distributed a brochure to the Board members
entitled “How to Avoid Identify Theft – A Guide for Victims” from Attorney General
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Kilgore and asked that the County be first to endorse the program at no cost. He
requested that Elaine Carver, IT Director, provide a link to the information on the
County’s website for all citizens. (2) He reported that the County’s Driving under the
Influence (DUI) ordinance, which became House Bill 2505, passed the House and
Senate, and will be signed into law by the Governor. It passed with a couple of added
convictions, reckless driving and driving on revocation, and as soon as it becomes law,
this will allow the County to begin recouping expenses.
Supervisor Minnix:
(1) He reminded Mr. Hodge that he has requested a
work session concerning remedies for citizens who use their yards for landfills. (2) He
advised that Carvins Cove is full again and recalled that in August, it was 33 feet down,
and that the Spring Hollow Reservoir was also down. There were many prayers said at
that time and he reminded everyone to give thanks now. (2) He advised that he will be
in South Carolina with family and unable to attend the joint meeting with the City of
Roanoke on Thursday concerning the Water and Sewer Authority. He requested a
briefing upon his return.
IN RE: CONTINUATION OF WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session to discuss the After School for Kids (ASK) program.
(Pete Haislip, Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism)
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The work session was held from 7:30 p.m. until 7:46 p.m. Mr. Haislip
distributed an information sheet about the ASK program and a copy of a letter from the
Parks, Recreation & Tourism Advisory Commission to School Board Chair Irvin dated
December 3, 2002, asking why they wanted to end the partnership. Mr. Haislip advised
that they are unaware of any problems, that there has been no response to the letter,
and that Dr. Gallion, Assistant School Superintendent, issued an RFP to the private
sector for this program. Ms. Lee Blair and Ms. Debbie George, Members of the Parks,
Recreation & Tourism Advisory Commission, were present and expressed their
concerns that the program might be discontinued. Mr. Haislip advised that the Park,
Recreation & Tourism Department plans to respond to the RFP. It was the consensus
of the Board that Mr. Hodge contact School Superintendent Dr. Weber to discuss this
situation and report back to the Board.
IN RE: CONTINUATION OF BUDGET WORK SESSIONS
The work sessions were held from 7:48 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Mr.
Robertson advised that this is the continuation of the budget work sessions which the
Board scheduled with the County departments.
(a)Police (Ray Lavinder, Chief of Police)
Chief Lavinder introduced Donna Furrow, who is the new Assistant Police
Chief. He identified the following accomplishments: (1) There are 100 neighborhood
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watch groups which have reduced crime. (2) The detectives’ clearance rate is three
times the national average. (3) The school resource officers do a good job and the
department has an outstanding relationship with the schools. (4) Roanoke County is
the first in the state to have a crisis intervention team to deal with mentally ill citizens.
(5) Roanoke County Police has been recognized by the state for the past five years for
their achievements in the traffic safety program. (6) Their accreditation which is due this
year is accomplished at a lesser cost than expended by Salem and Vinton.
Chief Lavinder advised that the goals for next year are: (1) Study the need
for a new facility. (2) Create a new patrol district for eastern and northeastern areas to
enhance response times by dividing Patrol District 3, which covers Route 220 to Route
460, into two separate districts. Additional funding for six police officers with vehicles
would be needed to accomplish this. (3) Add three detectives because of an increase in
calls. He advised that the need for additional officers and detectives is primarily driven
by the new Wal-Mart on Route 460 which has approximately one crime case per day.
He advised that they may also need additional funds due to the increase in fuel costs.
Mr. Robertson advised that the public safety team manages the E-911
Center which is funded through taxes on hard-line phones and wireless phones. He
pointed out that the amount from the state for wireless phones, which was $140,000 the
first year, was down to $110,000 this year and may be reduced further. Supervisor
McNamara commented that the fire and police chiefs may want to request through their
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state organizations a more equitable distribution of funds due to the increasing number
of wireless phones versus hard-line phones. Mr. Hodge advised that this may be a
legislative issue for next year.
(b)Information Technology (Elaine Carver, Director)
Ms. Carver advised that the IT Department is using the $500,000
appropriated previously by the Board for the H. P. migration to build the infrastructure to
deploy new applications. They are also working to replace the radio system and move
to digital. Their operating budget is $770,164 with 94% for issues supporting
departments. The increase of 6.59% is driven by the increases in software and
hardware maintenance costs. They have accumulated $105,000 in their capital account
which is used to replace servers, hard disks and last year, an air conditioning unit. They
have 31 staff members who spend 90% of their time supporting County departments.
Next year, they will continue the H. P. migration which will include improved systems for
building permits, business licenses, and real estate valuation. Not driven by the H.P.
migration but also being planned is a pilot program at the library for wireless access.
(c)Commissioner of the Revenue (Nancy Horn, Commissioner)
Ms. Horn advised that she was requesting an auditor for the business
personal property program because during 2003, they have to confirm all qualified
vehicles that are predominantly used for non-business purposes. This request also has
to be reviewed and approved by the Compensation Board. At this time, her office is not
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seeking to take on any Division of Motor Vehicles functions. She advised that they
anticipate an 11% cut from the Compensation Board through 2005 depending upon the
economy. The amount of this reduction was $23,000 in 2002.
(d)Parks, Recreation & Tourism (Pete Haislip, Director)
Mr. Haislip advised that their budget request for 2003-04 has pass-through
funds for Explore Park and the Convention and Visitors Bureau. He distributed a
handout that listed the total as $2,381,802 with $754,440 being the pass-through funds.
Mr. Hodge advised that the amendment sponsored by Senator Trumbo to
allow the county to own part of the Explore Park was passed with revisions. He advised
that staff will develop a plan and forward to the Secretary of Natural Resources to begin
the process.
Ms. Pitts, Assistant Director of Recreation, advised that they have two
budgets: (1) General Fund provides the indirect cost of recreation services including
administrative staff, facility utilities and office operations. (2) User Fees provides for the
direct cost for instructors, supplies, materials and equipment. There are no fees for
Roanoke County residents to participate in athletics but the recreation clubs collect fees
to buy uniforms and equipment. She advised that 86% of the budget is for staffing with
14% for operations. They have 8 regular part-time employees, 25 full-time and many
seasonal part-time employees. There are 719 youth athletic teams with 8,615
participants. Brambleton Center averages 80,000 participant visits per year. There are
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nine recreation sections and five recreational facilities. Some of the issues for the future
include: (1) maintaining facilities; (2) space needs as school programs are increasing
along with County programs; and (3) creating community recreational facilities with
gymnasium space.
Mr. Courtright, Assistant Director of Parks, advised that the Parks Division
is responsible for taking care of the turf, landscaping and outdoor amenities for many
different areas of the County, and the sign shop. He distributed a sheet showing the
growth from 1993 to 2003 in the number of properties they mow/trim and manage.
They are requesting the upgrade of a part-time technician in the sign shop to full-time to
assist with the approximately 1,400 signs made and/or repaired each year. Some of
their other concerns are facilities maintenance with the growth of all the activities and
replacement of mowers that are approaching five years old.
Mr. Haislip advised that their priorities are (1) capital maintenance within
their existing facilities, (2) equipment replacement, and (3) greenway development and
construction. He also stated that another area they are trying to develop is sports
marketing. He advised that the Fire & Rescue Department is mowing seven sites and is
in the process of adding two more. They will also be responsible for ice and snow
removal at these sites.
(e)Real Estate Valuation (Billy Driver, Director)
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Mr. Driver advised that their objective is to produce a quality
reassessment, which achieves market value, assures equalization and accuracy. Their
specific goals are: (1) To appraise 42,600 parcels annually. (2) To achieve an assessed
value ratio of 92% plus/minus. (3) To achieve a coefficient of dispersion less than 10.
(4) To achieve a price related differential of 1. (5) To insure that all citizen concerns or
appeals are reviewed by the Board of Equalization (BOE). They have 15 staff members
with 8 appraisers being certified and another appraiser working on certification.
Mr. Driver advised that legislative changes effective January 2004 have
been made this year in the guidelines for the BOE: (1) limit of 9 years to serve; (2)
require 30% of the board members to have some commercial or real estate professional
experience; and (3) require that members take some continuing education every four
years.
Mr. Driver advised that in 1992, there were 1,017 people at public
hearings concerning their assessment. In 2002 there were 50, not including calls to the
office. The establishment of the internet web site for citizen use was a tremendous
asset this year. He distributed a brochure describing the Land Use Program which they
developed for citizen information. An objective for the future is the first phase of H.P.
migration which will define their business processes and identify the functional
requirements for a new Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) system. There may
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be some hardware needs in preparation for the CAMA system but this is at least a year
away. Some of their other concerns are fuel and postage costs.
Mr. Robertson advised that the next budget work sessions will be held on
March 4, at 5:00 p.m. at the County Administration Center, in the fourth floor
Roanoke
training room.
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman McNamara adjourned the meeting at 9:05 p.m.
Submitted by: Approved by:
________________________ ________________________
Brenda J. Holton, CMC Joseph P. McNamara
Deputy Clerk to the Board Chairman