5/8/2001 - Regular
May 8, 2001
249
Roanoke County Administration Center
5204 Bernard Drive
Roanoke, Virginia 24018
May 8, 2001
The Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, met this day at the
Roanoke County Administration Center, this being the second Tuesday and the first
regularly scheduled meeting of the month of May, 2001.
IN RE: CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Minnix called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. The roll call was
taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chairman H. Odell "Fuzzy" Minnix, Vice-Chairman Joseph
“Butch” Church, Supervisors Bob L. Johnson, Joseph
McNamara, Harry C. Nickens
MEMBERS ABSENT:
None
STAFF PRESENT:
Elmer C. Hodge, County Administrator; Paul M. Mahoney,
County Attorney; Mary H. Allen, Clerk to the Board; John M.
Chambliss, Assistant County Administrator; Dan R. O’Donnell,
Assistant County Administrator; Kathi B. Scearce, Community
Relations Director
IN RE: OPENING CEREMONIES
The invocation was given by the Reverend Samuel W. Crews, Coopers Cove
Baptist Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
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IN RE: REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO, OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF
AGENDA ITEMS
Mr. Hodge added Item D-3, presentation by General Services Director Anne
Marie Green on the recently published Roanoke County Celebrate 2000 photograph book.
Mr. Mahoney added an item to the closed meeting pursuant to Section 2.1-
344 A (7) legal counsel concening litigation, Bova vs. Cox Communications.
Supervisor Nickens requested that item E-3, Expansion of Training
Opportunities for the Police Department, be discussed in closed meeting pursuant to
Section 2.1-344 A (7) consultation with legal counsel, contract with Cardinal Academy.
IN RE: PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS, AND AWARDS
1. Proclamation declaring week of May 13 - 19, 2001 as National
Historic Preservation Week.
The proclamation was accepted by Dr. Norma Jean Peters, the Roanoke
Valley Reservation Foundation Board member, and Dr. John Kern, Executive Director of
the History Museum and Historical Society of Western Virginia.
Supervisor Nickens moved to adopt the proclamation. The motion carried by
the following recorded vote:
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AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
2. Recognition of Connie Finnerty for being named Teacher of the
Year by the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce.
Mrs Finnerty was present to receive a Certificate of Recognition, and was
accompanied by Ms. Christina Flippen, Clearbrook Elementary School Principal.
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Briefing on Existing Business Survey. (Douglas Chittum,
Economic Development Director and Melinda Cox, Economic
Development Specialist)
The briefing was presented by Douglas Chittum and Melinda Cox. Ms. Cox
reported that on May 4, 2001, the 2001 Existing Business Survey was mailed to 5,569
Roanoke County businesses. The purpose of the survey is to receive input on how
Roanoke County might tailor its services to meet the current and future needs of the local
business community. It also provides the opportunity for willing participants to partner with
Economic Development staff in planning and implementing a comprehensive Existing
Business Retention Program that will be responsive to the needs and concerns revealed in
the survey results and the ensuing workshops to be held with the volunteer business
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partners. Economic Development Specialist Melinda Cox will be responsible for
implementing the Existing Business Program.
2. Briefing on Leadership trip to Portland, Maine. (Elmer Hodge,
County Administrator, Diane Hyatt, Chief Financial Officer,
Lorraine Lange, Roanoke County Schools)
The briefing was presented by Elmer Hodge, Diane Hyatt and Lorraine
Lange. Mr. Hodge reported that he, Ms. Hyatt, and Ms. Lange accompanied 40 other
people to Portland, Maine to see what methods they have used to improve their
neighborhoods and encourage economic development.
Ms. Hyatt advised that representatives from Roanoke County, Roanoke City,
and the Town of Vinton went to learn how Portland was turned into a technology center
with a vibrant downtown area. They developed a program with “spiral email” to contact
residents who had left Portland for other areas encouraging them to move back.
Ms. Lange represented the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce
and advised she was most impressed with the regional cooperation of the participants. Mr.
Hodge responded that he was impressed with the cleanliness of the area.
3. Presentation of Roanoke County Celebrate 2000 Photography
Book. (Anne Marie, General Services Director)
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Ms. Green announced that the Roanoke County “Coffee Table” book, one of
the “Celebrate 2000" projects, has now been published and presented a copy to each of
the Board members.
IN RE: NEW BUSINESS
1. Request to approve Fiscal Year 2001-2002 Budget for the
Roanoke Valley Resource Authority. (Diane Hyatt, Chief
Financial Officer and John Hubbard, CEO, RVRA)
R-050801-1
Mr. Hubbard advised that the budget totals $8,323,525 which represents an
increase of 4% from the current budget, and includes a 4% salary increase and no new
personnel. The budget also maintains the commercial tipping fee at $55 per ton.
However, the municipal tipping fee will be reduced by nine cents to $42 per ton which is
due to the accumulation of surplus funds and conservative spending. The reduced tipping
fee will generate savings to the County of approximately $300,000.
Mr. Hubbard reported that the Resource Authority has been in business for
seven years and has used 20% of the landfill capacity. They have finished preparing
another eight acres which will last another six years, and the current bonds will be paid up
in 2012.
In response to questions from Supervisor McNamara, Mr. Hubbard advised
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there is $2.8 million in the reserve fund, and that there was no reduction in the tipping fees
for commercial and private haulers because they do not have a contract with the Resource
Authority similar to the one with that the City, County and Town has.
In response to questions from Supervisor Johnson, Mr. Hubbard advised that
there is $22 million in the Undesignated Fund Balance including all reserves, and that the
landfill is comprised of 1200 acres.
Supervisor Nickens moved to adopt the resolution approving the budget and
that $300,000 savings be added to the County’s budget to offset the current budget
shortfall as requested in the County Administrator’s comments. The motion carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 050801-1 APPROVING THE ROANOKE VALLEY
RESOURCE AUTHORITY BUDGET FOR THE YEAR ENDING JUNE 30,
2002
WHEREAS, Section 5.9 of the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority Members
Use Agreement provides that the Authority shall prepare and submit its operating budget
for the forthcoming fiscal year to the Board of Supervisors of the County, the City Council
of the City of Roanoke, and the Town Council of the Town of Vinton; and
WHEREAS, by report dated March 28, 2001, a copy of which is on file in the
office of the Clerk of the Board, the Chairman of the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority
has submitted a request that the County approve the budget of the Roanoke Valley
Resource Authority for the year ending June 30, 2002.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia that the budget for the year ending June 30, 2002 for the Roanoke Valley
Resource Authority as set forth in the March 28, 2001, report of the Authority Chairman, a
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copy of which is incorporated by reference herein, is hereby APPROVED, and the County
Administrator and the Clerk are authorized to execute and attest, respectively, on behalf of
the County, any documentation, in form approved by the County Attorney, necessary to
evidence said approval.
On motion of Supervisor to adopt the resolution approving the budget and
that $300,000 savings be added to budget to offset shortfall as requested in County
Administrator’s comment, and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
2. Request to approve Fiscal Year 2001-2002 Budget for Roanoke
Valley Cable Television. (Elaine Simpson, Cable Access
Director)
A-050801-2
Ms. Simpson reported that the initial equipment and facilities for the
television studio were funded through a capital grant from Cox Communications in the
amount of $480,000. The studio is located at the Jefferson Center, and currently employs
five full time staff members. The staff produces videos and shows for the local
governments and school systems, which are cablecast along with government meetings on
Cox Communications Channel 3 and Adelphia Communications Channel 3 in the West
County area.
Ms. Simpson explained that RVTV is governed by the Roanoke Valley
Regional Cable Television Committee, which includes representatives from the City, the
County, and the Town. The operational budget for RVTV is provided by the three
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governments, based on the proportion of Cox customers located in each jurisdiction; and
the governing bodies have informally agreed to provide up to 20% of the franchise fee paid
by Cox Communications to fund the operations of the facility. Roanoke County’s share of
the cable budget is 40%.
Ms. Simpson reported that during 2000-2001, RVTV has produced 29 videos
and television shows, 24 live Board meetings, and upkeep of the Message Board for
Roanoke County. RVTV staff members are responsible for writing original scripts,
videography, graphic design, and video editing. During the past year, video production at
the studio has increased by 8%, the average hours of programming per month has
increased by 13%, and closed captioning capabilities were added to the Board of
Supervisors meetings.
Ms. Simpson advised that the Roanoke Valley Cable Television Committee
has approved the RVTV budget request of $269,616, of which Roanoke County’s share is
40%, or $107,846, an increase of $6,806 over last year’s budget. The total franchise fee
paid by Cox to Roanoke County last year is $625,385 and 20% of that is $125,077 or
$17,231 more than this budget request.
Supervisor McNamara moved to approve the budget for Roanoke Valley
Cable Television. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
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3. Request to expand the training opportunities for the Police
Department. (Ray Lavinder, Chief of Police)
This item was discussed in Closed Meeting and no action was taken.
4. Request to apply to the State for a Social Work Supervisor
Position in the Department of Social Services. (Betty McCrary,
Director of Social Services)
A-050801-3
Dr. McCrary reported that this request is to seek permission from the State to
employ a full time Social Work Supervisor effective July 1, 2001, and to increase the
Classification Plan by one full time position. The State will provide 80% funding required
for this position. The remaining 20% will come from Title IV-E reimbursement, City of
Salem share of administrative costs and the current Social Service budget. No new
County dollars will be required.
Dr. McCrary requested authority to seek approval by the State Department of
Social Services to add one Social Work Supervisor position to the Department of Social
Services. Once approved, staff will submit a report on the consent agenda authorizing the
increase of allocated staff by one position and appropriating the new monies to cover the
cost.
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Supervisor Minnix moved to authorize the application for an additional
position. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
5. Request for appropriation for new fire alarm system for the
Roanoke County Administration Center. (Anne Marie Green,
Director of General Services)
A-050801-4
Ms. Green explained that the current fire alarm system at the Roanoke
County Administration Center met the Fire Code at the time it was installed, but is not in
compliance with current law. There is no visual alarm, the floors are not connected, and
the elevators automatically return to the first floor, even if a fire is detected there. During
recent fire drills at the building, employees and citizens were not able to evacuate in a safe
manner, because the alarm system could not be heard throughout all four floors. In a real
emergency, people in the building would be at risk of serious injury. During the recent
purchase of the Salem Bank and Trust Building, funding was included to address similar
issues in that facility. The only other two story County building with public access is the
Courthouse, which has an alarm system in place.
Ms. Green advised that staff worked with a consultant to review the current
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Code and the fire alarm system at the Administration Center. The consultant designed a
system which will address the deficiencies and bring the building up to Fire Code and ADA
regulations. The fire marshal and building official have reviewed the plans and are in
agreement with the design. The system was placed out to bid, and a bid opening was held
on April 10. Including professional fees and a 10% contingency fund, the lowest
responsible bid was $101,500, and funds are available in the capital fund unappropriated
balanceto cover this cost.
Supervisor Church moved to appropriate $101,500 for the new fire alarm
system for Roanoke County Administration Center. The motion carried by the following
recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1. First reading of ordinance appropriating the funds for the fiscal
year 2001-2002 budget. (Brent Robertson, Budget Director)
Mr. Robertson reported that the 2001-02 fiscal year budget was presented to
the Board on April 24, 2001. A public hearing is being held later during this meeting to
receive written and oral comment from the public. This year’s appropriation ordinance
again includes Projected Fund Balance amounts and discloses all significant financial
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resources available to fund County operations for the fiscal year. The total County budget
is $281,939,816 including all interfund and intrafund transfers. The budget net of transfers
is $205,570,726.
Supervisor McNamara asked about the $650,000 anticipated year-end
surplus and how the $300,000 savings from the Resource Authority will be used. Mr.
Hodge responded that the County deferred the CPMT funding and the funding for the
Detention Center which left a shortfall of $300,000.
Supervisor McNamara also inquired how the funding for tourism will be used
and Mr. Hodge responded that he would like to discuss that in a work session format.
Supervisor Church asked about funding to the various agencies and requested that the
Board develop a better format for future budget discussions. Mr. Robertson also advised
that there was consensus by phone conversations with several of the Board members to
fund an additional $2,500. Supervisor Nickens responded that he was philosophically
opposed to decision-making by telephone conversations.
Supervisor Johnson moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading for May 22, 2001. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
2. First reading of ordinance enacting Article VI. Fee for Services of
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Chapter 2, Administration of the Roanoke County Code, to
require a permit to operate emergency medical services vehicles
in the County, to establish reasonable charges for permitted
activities and minimum standards for operations, and to provide
for appeals from denials, revocations or suspensions of permits.
(Joseph Obenshain, Sr. Assistant County Attorney)
Mr. Obenshain advised that this ordinance will authorize the establishment of
an ambulance fee for service. The actual fee will be determined by resolution at a later
date.
Supervisor Nickens questioned the need for the detailed language in the first
paragraph on Page 2 of the ordinance and felt that the ordinance did not need this level of
specificity. Mr. Obenshain responded that the staff was trying to encapsulate the purpose
of the ordinance but will change it for the second reading of the ordinance.
Supervisor Church advised that many elderly are concerned that they will
have to pay the fee even if they don’t have insurance, that the County needs to make sure
that no one will be denied, and that the procedure should require as little paperwork as
possible.
Supervisor Nickens moved to approve the first reading with paragraph 1,
page 2 of the ordinance amended with less specific language by the second reading, and
set the second reading and public hearing for May 22, 2001. The motion carried by the
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following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
3. Ordinance amending the Roanoke County Code by amending
Section 21-73, General Prerequisites to grant of Division 3,
Exemption for elderly and disabled persons of Chapter
21.Taxation to increase the total combined income provision for
real estate tax exemption for the elderly and handicapped. (Paul
M. Mahoney, County Attorney)
Mr. Mahoney reported that this ordinance increases the total combined
income limitation of the County’s real estate tax exemption program for elderly or disabled
persons from $30,000 to $50,000. The real estate tax is a calendar year tax. If the Board
adopts the ordinance, it will go into effect January 1, 2002 for the 2002 calendar year. No
fiscal impact would be realized until the next fiscal year.
Supervisors Johnson and Church advised that they thought the ordinance
would go into effect immediately, not in January 2002 and would support moving forward
with the increased limit at this time. Supervisor McNamara expressed concern that while
he supported tax relief for the elderly and disabled, this increase is higher than the median
income in Roanoke County which is $43,000. Supervisor Nickens expressed concern
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about the impact on the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office if the ordinance went into
effect immediately.
Supervisor Nickens moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for May 22, 2001. The motion carried by the following recorded
vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
Staff was directed to bring back the implications of the ordinance going into
effect on July 1, 2001.
4. First reading of an ordinance authorizing conveyance of an
easement to Verizon-Virginia, Inc. for Communications Facilities
on the northwesterly side of Peters Creek Road on property
known as the Public Safety Center owned by the Board of
Supervisors and located in the Catawba Magisterial District.
(Anne Marie Green, General Services Director)
Ms. Green advised that Verizon-Virginia, Inc. has requested a 14 x 30 foot
easement on the Public Safety Center property, Tax Map No. 37.10-1-21.2, to allow
access to and installation of new fiber optic fed equipment that will provide facilities relief
in the Peters Creek Road area. The new equipment will consist of two cabinets to be
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mounted on concrete pads with buried conduit running to the closest pole.
Supervisor Church moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading for May 22, 2001. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
5. First reading of an ordinance authorizing a lease agreement with
Devon Mobile Communications, L.P. for use of the Goat Rock
Water Tank for installation of a cellular antenna located in the
Catawba Magisterial District. (Gary Robertson, Utility Director)
Mr. Robertson reported that Devon Mobile Communications, L.P. has
approached the Roanoke County Utility Department about the possibility of installing a
cellular repeater antenna on the Goat Rock water tank. The Goat Rock water tank is
located on the western side of “Big Hill” off Viewpoint Avenue. Devon Mobile
Communications, L.P. has submitted a proposed lease agreement and an offer of
$1,000/month for the use of this site. The initial term requested is for five years with the
ability to renew for four successive five-year terms. Approval of this lease agreement will
generate $12,000 annually for the water fund and these monies will assist the County with
future maintenance of sites such as this without the need for rate increases.
Supervisor Church moved to approve the first reading and set the second
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reading for May 22, 2001. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
IN RE: APPOINTMENTS
1. Board of Zoning Appeals
Supervisor McNamara requested the Clerk to contact Eldon Karr to
determine if he wishes to serve another term.
2. Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission
Supervisor Johnson nominated David Thompson to represent the Hollins
Magisterial District for another three-year term which will expire June 30, 2004. Supervisor
Minnix will contact Jack Griffith, representative for the Cave Spring Magisterial District, to
determine if he wishes to serve another term.
3. Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission
Supervisor McNamara nominated Joseph Butch Church and Alfred
Anderson, elected representatives, and Lee B. Eddy, citizen representative, to serve
additional three-year terms which will expire June 30, 2004.
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
R-050801-5; R-050801-5.d
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Supervisor Nickens moved to adopt the Consent Resolution. The motion
carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 050801-5 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:
1. That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for
May 8, 2001, 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 6, inclusive, as follows:
1. Confirmation of committee appointments to New Century Venture
Center Board of Directors and Virginia’s First Regional Industrial
Facility Authority.
2. Acceptance of donation of a 20' sanitary sewer easement from
Beverly M. Hite and William L. Hite.
3. Appropriation of $2,804.25 Valley Beautiful grant funds for
landscaping of the grounds at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor
Center.
4. Approval of resolution revising the membership and increasing the
number of members of the Court-Community Corrections Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board.
5. Request from Schools for acceptance of $32,688 Universal Service
Fund grants for technology equipment.
6. Reimbursement for overtime expenditures for Roanoke County
Narcotics Officer serving on the Drug Enforcement Administration
Task Force.
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2. 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 Nickens to adopt the Consent Resolution, and
carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 050801-5.d REVISING MEMBERSHIP CHANGES TO
THE REGIONAL COMMUNITY CRIMINAL JUSTICE BOARD FOR THE
COURT COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS PROGRAM
A RESOLUTION
of the Board of Supervisors for the County of Roanoke,
establishing, by joint action of the Boards of Supervisors of the Counties of Alleghany,
Bath, Botetourt, Craig, Roanoke and Rockbridge, and the City Councils of the Cities of
Buena Vista, Covington, Lexington, Roanoke and Salem, the membership of the Court-
Community Corrections Regional Community Criminal Justice Board to serve the region
composed of those Counties and Cities.
WHEREAS, the Boards of Supervisors of the Counties of Alleghany,
Bath, Botetourt, Craig, Roanoke and Rockbridge, and the City Councils of the
Cities of Buena Vista, Covington, Lexington, Roanoke and Salem have
established and operate the Court-Community Corrections Program, a local
pretrial services and community-based probation program established and
operated pursuant to the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 53.1and
Article 1 of Title 19.2 of the 1950 Code of Virginia, as amended; and
WHEREAS, the Virginia Comprehensive Community-Corrections Act
for Local-Responsible Offenders (Virginia Code § 53.1-180 .) and the
et seq
Virginia Pretrial Services Act (Virginia Code §19.2-152.2 .) require the
et seq
establishment and appointment of a Community Criminal Justice Board for the
Court-Community Corrections Program; and
WHEREAS, a Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for the
Court-Community Corrections Program previously has been established in
accordance with law, and this Board of Supervisors, in conjunction with the
governing bodies of the other jurisdictions which participate in this
multijurisdictional program, deems it appropriate to reconstitute the Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board for the Court-Community Corrections
Program, pursuant to the authority granted to local governing bodies under
Virginia Code §15.2-1411 and in consideration of changes in the Code of Virginia
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and the fact that the Town of Clifton Forge, which had participated in this
program, will revert to a town as of July 1, 1001.
NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority granted to this Board
of Supervisors by Virginia Code §§15.2-1411, 19.2-152.5, 53.1-183 and the Charter
of this County, IT IS RESOLVED:
1. That a Regional Community Criminal Justice Board for the Court-
Community Corrections Program is established.
2. The Counties of Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt, Craig, Roanoke and
Rockbridge, and the City Councils of the Cities of Buena Vista, Covington,
Lexington, Roanoke and Salem are the jurisdictions which participate in the
Court-Community Corrections Program. Each of these jurisdictions shall be
represented on the Regional Community Criminal Justice Board. The Regional
Community Criminal Justice Board shall consist of up to 25 persons, a number
established by this resolution and by similar resolutions of the governing bodies
of each of the other participating jurisdictions. The composition of the Regional
Community Justice Board shall at all times comply with all applicable statutes
and regulations. Each participating city or county shall have an equal number of
appointments.
3. In conjunction with resolutions of appointment adopted or to be
adopted by the governing bodies of all participating jurisdictions, this Board of
Supervisors, jointly with the other participating jurisdictions, appoints the
following persons to the Regional Criminal Justice Board for the terms of years
set forth below. Each appointment shall be effective as of July 1, 2001. Because
§53.1-183 provides that the Board’s membership shall include persons who hold
certain positions, this resolution sets out, beside the name of each person
hereby appointed, a descriptive title for that person’s position or occupation.
Name and Title Term
Mr. John Chambliss 3 Years
Assistant County Administrator
County of Roanoke
Honorable Clifford R. Weckstein 2 Years
Judge, Circuit Court
Twenty-third Judicial Circuit
Honorable Julian H. Raney, Jr. 1 Year
Judge, General District Court
Twenty-third Judicial District
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269
Honorable John B. Ferguson 1 Year
Judge, Juvenile &
Domestic Relations Court
Twenty-third Judicial District
James C. “Chris” Alderson, Esquire 2 Years
Commonwealth Attorney
Alleghany County/City of Covington
Sheriff George McMillan 3 Years
Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Gerald Holt 2 Years
Roanoke County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Ronnie Sprinkle 1 Year
Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff C. E. “Butch” Simpson 2 Years
Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office
Mr. John Higgins 3 Years
Superintendent
Rockbridge Regional Jail
William H. Cleaveland, Esquire 3 Years
Attorney-at-Law
Roanoke, Virginia
Chief Ray Lavinder 2 Years
Roanoke County Police Department
Mr. Ray Burton Fitzgerald 2 Years
Chief Magistrate
Twenty-fifth Judicial District
Dr. David Smith 1 year
Superintendent
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Bath County Public Schools
Ms. Gail Burrus 2 years
Director, Counseling Services
Blue Ridge Behavioral Health Care
Roanoke, Virginia
4. This Board of Supervisors, in conjunction with the governing bodies of the other
jurisdictions which have established the Court-Community Corrections Program, hereby designates
and appoints the City of Salem as the fiscal agent for the program.
On motion of Supervisor Nickens to adopt the resolution, and carried
by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
IN RE: REQUESTS FOR WORK SESSIONS
Supervisor Minnix requested a brief work session with some Colonial
Avenue residents on the Colonial Avenue corridor study following the work sessions
that are already scheduled for this date.
IN RE: PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public Hearing to receive written or oral comment concerning
the proposed annual budget for fiscal year 2001-2002 and the
FY2002-2006 Capital Improvement Program. (Brent Robertson,
Budget Director)
Aletha Bolden, Executive Director of the Harrison Museum of African
American Culture
requested $5,000 funding for the museum.
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271
IN RE: CITIZENS' COMMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Annie Krochalis
expressed concern about the following: (1) several
issues concerning the fee for service, including the amount of paperwork the volunteers
will have to file under fee for service, assurance from the County that the additional
staff will result in improvements in the rural areas, and the effect it will have on
volunteer fund raising. (2) She reminded the Board that they still need improvements
to the Bent Mountain Library.
Supervisor McNamara asked Mr. Hodge to provide Ms. Krochalis with the
report showing the plan for coverage with the additional fire and rescue staff.
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor Minnix moved to receive and file the following reports. The
motion carried by a unanimous voice vote.
1. General Fund Unappropriated Balance
2. Capital Fund Unappropriated Balance
3. Board Contingency Fund
4. Future School Capital Reserve
5. Resolution from the Commonwealth of Virginia recognizing Dr.
Betty McCrary for hosting the Social Services state
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272
conference.
6. Statement of the Treasurer’s Accountability per investment
and portfolio policy as of April 30, 2001.
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Nickens:
He advised that there were officials from the
federal, state and local level attending the recent Blue Ridge Parkway Visitors Center
Grand Opening which is the only federally recognized facility not on federal property,
and will help Explore Park to become a destination location. He advised that he told
those in attendance why Supervisor Church was unable to attend.
Supervisor Johnson:
(1) He attended the event also and expressed
agreement with Chairman Minnix’s comments about the lack of state funding. He
commended the staff for their work on the event. (2) He expressed concern about the
damage and work that was necessary to fix the Vinton fields after the Vinton Dogwood
Festival. Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director Pete Haislip responded that they
have been in contact with the people from the festival and they will be helping repair
the damages.
Supervisor McNamara:
(1) He thanked Supervisor Nickens for all his
contributions to the Visitors Center over the years. (2) He advised that he attended the
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission and a comment was made that
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Roanoke County doesn’t have enough water to take care of our needs and help other
jurisdictions. He asked for a report at the next meeting on: (a) how many million
gallons a day we treat currently; (b) how many million gallons a day we can treat with
upgrades to our treatment capacity; and (c) how many million gallons a day we pull out
on average, how many million gallons a day we pull out on a peak and our projections
on water usage assuming normal use of the water system. (3) He asked for a report on
the tax structure on changes to the BPOL with deductions up to $100,000 across all
service lines or broken down by service lines. (4) He asked for the report on the
regional refuse collection study that was funded about a year ago.
Supervisor Church:
(1) He thanked Supervisor Nickens for explaining
his absence at the Visitor Center event because he attended his son’s graduation. (2)
He reported that he spoke at the Catawba Hospital volunteer and employee service
recognition and thanked the Catawba staff for their outstanding service to the
community. (3) He advised that his agency manager commended his service and work
on the Board of Supervisors.
Supervisor Minnix:
He thanked everyone involved in the Visitor Center
event; advised that Senator Warner and Secretary Norton were very gracious, but he
felt that the TV coverage was disappointing. He emphasized that a debt of gratitude is
owed to Supervisor Nickens for his vision of the future of Explore Park. The park has
grown by leaps and bounds and he expressed appreciation to everyone who has been
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involved in the growth of Explore Park.
IN RE: CLOSED MEETING
At 5:30 p.m., Supervisor Minnix moved to go into Closed Meeting
pursuant to Code of Virginia Section 2.1-344 A (5) discussion concerning a prospective
business or industry where no previous announcement has been made; 2.1-344A (7),
consultation with legal counsel pertaining to specific legal matters, namely contract with
Walmart; and contract with Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy; 2.1-344A (7)
consultation with legal counsel concerning litigation, Bova v. Cox Communications.
The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session on commercial and private stables. (Dana
Lazzuri, County Intern)
The work session was held from 5:35 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., and was
presented by Terry Harrington. Mr. Harrington summarized the zoning standards for
commercial stables in the County explaining that private stables are allowed in AG-3,
AG-1 AR, and AV by right and R-1 by Special Use Permit as long as they comply with
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specific requirements. Commercial stables are allowed in AG-3, AG-1, and AR by right
and AV by Special Use Permit as long as they comply with general standards and
prepare and follow a management plan for all animal wastes.
Supervisor Church emphasized that he was not advocating wholesale
changes to the zoning ordinance. His primary concern was the manure disposal and
the number of horses. Mr. Harrington responded that the Department of Environmental
Quality only investigates those areas with more than 150 horses. Supervisor Church
suggested getting some assistance from the Virginia Tech Extension Office. He
suggested that a stipulation could be added to the zoning ordinance concerning
manure disposal.
Mr. Mahoney reported that the County has entered into a Consent Decree
with the Dantzlers to reduce the number of animals on their property and remove the
manure. If they do not comply with the Consent Decree after one year, the court can
close their operation.
Supervisor Church requested that staff look at ways to strengthen some
of the language in the zoning ordinance.
2. Work session and presentation on recruiting and retaining
young professionals in the Roanoke Valley. (Dana Lazzuri,
County Intern)
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The work session was held from 6:00 p.m. until 6:15 p.m., and was
presented by Dana Lazzuri. Ms. Lazzuri advised that one of the economic
development issues that has been discussed during the past several years has been
retaining and recruiting young professionals to the Roanoke Valley. During a
discussion with department directors, the question, “what can I do?” was asked of each
director. The directors offered the following suggestions: (1) Change Mind Set; (2)
Change Demographics; (3) Workforce Development; (4) Grow our own/tell our story;
(5) Develop Strategic Partnerships
Ms. Lazzuri explained that she was asked to chair a subcommittee to look
at ways to market the Roanoke Valley to recent college graduates and to encourage
those living in the Valley to remain here. A subcommittee was formed to gain more
knowledge and determine what is necessary in order to successfully meet the 2001-
2002 goals. After several meetings the subcommittee developed several actions to
meet the goals/suggestions from the department directors.
Supervisor Nickens asked Mr. Hodge what Portland was doing to recruit
and keep their young adults. Mr. Hodge advised that alumni groups in the Portland
area e-mailed those who had left the community encouraging them to return.
Supervisor McNamara suggested working with Tanglewood Mall to sponsor events in
spaces that were not rented similar to First Fridays in downtown Roanoke.
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3. Discussion on Colonial Avenue Corridor Study
The work session was held from 6:15 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. The Board
discussed with two area residents their concerns about a commercial rezoning request
in the area which is currently zoned residential but was recommended to remain
residential in the Colonial Avenue corridor study. They encouraged the Board not to
make changes to the corridor study. Supervisor Nickens pointed out that it was not
appropriate to discuss a specific rezoning request unless both sides were present to
discuss the issues.
IN RE: CLOSED MEETING
The closed meeting was held from 6:36 p.m. until 7:05 p.m.
IN RE: CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION
R-050801-6
At 7:06 p.m., Supervisor McNamara moved to return to open session and
adopt the Certification Resolution. The motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
RESOLUTION 050801-6 CERTIFYING THE CLOSED
MEETING WAS HELD IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CODE
OF VIRGINIA
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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 2.1-344.1 of the Code of Virginia requires a
certification by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, that such closed
meeting was conducted in conformity with Virginia law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, hereby certifies that, to the best of each 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 Certification Resolution,
and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Johnson, McNamara, Church, Nickens, Minnix
NAYS: None
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
At 7:06 p.m., Chairman Minnix adjourned the meeting May 10, 2001, at 12
noon at the Boxtree Lodge for the second regional leadership summit.
Submitted by, Approved by,
__________________ _____________
Mary H. Allen, CMC H. Odell Minnix
Clerk to the Board Chairman
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