HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/4/2020 - Regular
November 4, 2020
509
Roanoke County Administration Center
5204 Bernard Drive
Roanoke, Virginia 24018
The Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia met this day atthe
Roanoke County Administration Center, this being the first regularly scheduled meeting
of the month ofNovember2020.Audio and video recordings of this meeting will be
held on file for a minimum of five (5) years in the office of the Clerk to the Board of
Supervisors.
IN RE:OPENING CEREMONIES
Before the meeting was called to order, a moment of silence was
observed. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
IN RE:CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Radfordcalled the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m.The roll call
was taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT:Chairman David F. Radford; Supervisors Martha B. Hooker,
PaulM. Mahoney, Phil C. North and P. Jason Peters (by
conference call)
MEMBERS ABSENT:None
STAFF PRESENT:Daniel R. O’Donnell, County Administrator; Richard
Caywood, Assistant County Administrator;Rebecca Owens,
Assistant County Administrator; Peter S. Lubeck, County
Attorney; Amy Whittaker, Public Information Officer and
Deborah C. Jacks, Chief Deputy Clerk to the Board
IN RE:REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO, OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF
AGENDA ITEMS
Mr. O’Donnell requested the postponement of item C.1 Proclamation
commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Luigi's Italian Gourmet Restaurant and
expressing appreciation to Maristane Rocha and her family for 50 years of providing
outstanding gourmet food and service to the Roanoke community until November 17,
2020 at the request of Luigi’s.
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510
IN RE:PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS
1.Proclamation commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Luigi's Italian
Gourmet Restaurant and expressing appreciation to Maristane Rocha
and her family for 50 years of providing outstanding gourmet food and
service to the Roanoke community (Jill Loope, Director of Economic
Development
This agenda item was postponed until November 17, 2020
IN RE:FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1.Ordinance accepting and appropriating fundsin the amount of
$976,380 from the Commonwealth of Virginia, pursuant to the
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act of
2020 for broadband projects in the Catawba, Vinton, Cave Spring
and Windsor Hills Magisterial Districts (Due to the Pandemic
Disaster, it is requested, upon a four-fifths vote of the Board, the
second reading be waived and the ordinance adopted as an
emergency measure) (Bill Hunter, Director of Communications
and Information Technology)
Mr. Hunter outlined the requestfor the ordinance.
Supervisor North asked for confirmation that these funds, which came
from the Governor will offset the costs we had on the table and will mean more money
to allocate under the CARES Act. Mr. Hunter confirmed.
There was no further discussion.
ORDINANCE 110420-1ACCEPTING AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $976,380 FROM THE
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, PURSUANT TO THE
CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF, AND ECONOMIC SECURITY
(CARES) ACT OF 2020 FOR BROADBAND PROJECTS IN
CATAWBA, VINTON, CAVE SPRING AND WINDSOR HILLS
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICTS
WHEREAS,theGovernor of the Commonwealth has created a Fast Track
Broadband Program funded by federal Coronavirus Aid, Recovery, and Economic
Security (CARES Act) allocations to the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of the Governor’s Fast Track Program is to accelerate
expansion and improvement of broadband in under-served areas; and
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WHEREAS, the County applied for funds from the Governor’s Fast Track
Broadband Program to continue broadband constructionand installation projects in the
Catawba, Vinton, Cave Spring, and Windsor Hills Magisterial Districts; and
WHEREAS, the County was awarded $976,380 in funds for its broadband
projects on the condition that such funds be expended and work completed no later
than December 25, 2020; and
WHEREAS, Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter provides that funds be
appropriated by ordinance; and
WHEREAS, first reading of this ordinance was held on November 4, 2020, and
because time is of the essence for this broadband project, the second reading has been
waived, upon an affirmative vote of 4/5ths of the members of the Board, this being
deemed to be an emergency measure pursuant to Section 18.04 of the Roanoke
County Charter.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
1.That the sum of $976,380 is accepted and appropriated from the
Governor’s Fast Track Broadband Program for the purpose of improving
broadband access in under-served areas in Catawba, Vinton, Cave Spring
andWindsor Hills Magisterial Districts.
2.That this ordinance shall take effect upon its adoption.
On motion of Supervisor Hookerto adopt the ordinanceas an emergency
measure and waive the second reading upon a 4/5ths vote; seconded by Supervisor
North and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Peters, Radford
NAYS:None
2.Emergency ordinance readopting Ordinance 033120-1 to
effectuate temporary changes in certain deadline and to modify
public meeting and public hearing practices and procedures to
address continuity of operations associated with pandemic
disaster (Due to the Pandemic Disaster, it is requested, upon a
four-fifths vote of the Board, the second reading be waived and
the ordinance adopted as an emergencymeasure) (Peter S.
Lubeck, County Attorney)
Mr. Lubeck outlined the request for the ordinance.
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Supervisor Mahoney advised this the fifth time we are adopting this
emergency ordinance. Do you have any guestimate as to how many more times we
may have to dothis? Are we waiting for a vaccine or the Governor to make a
pronouncement from Richmond?Mr. Lubeck responded that we are all crossing our
fingers that we may not have to do this too many more times. He would recommend in
so far as the State emergencycontinues, that every sixty (60) days we bring it back
before the Board. Again, hestated he feels it accomplishesthree main things. The first
is to allow the Board to participateremotely, when needed for safety purposes. The
second purpose is that it waives certain deadlines that would otherwise be required in
order to allow us to act quicklywhen we need to. The third main point is it authorizes
our other Boards, Commissions and Authorities that have been created by the Board of
Supervisors to do the same things. So, for the foreseeable future, unfortunately, he
thinks we may be back here every sixty (60) days in order to adopt this ordinance.
There was no further discussion.
EMERGENCY 110420-2ORDINANCE READOPTING
ORDINANCE 033120-1, TO EFFECTUATE TEMPORARY
CHANGES IN CERTAIN DEADLINES
AND
TO MODIFY PUBLIC MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING
PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES TO ADDRESS CONTINUITY
OF OPERATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH PANDEMIC DISASTER
WHEREAS, on March 31, 2020, the Board adopted emergency Ordinance
033120-1, to effectuate temporary changes in certain deadlines and to modify public
meeting and public hearing practices and procedures to address continuity of
operations associated with the COVID-19 pandemic disaster; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 15.2-1427 of the Code of Virginia, emergency
ordinances shall not be enforced for more than sixty (60) days unless readopted; and
WHEREAS, the Board readopted the ordinance on May 26, 2020, July 14, 2020;
September 8, 2020; and
WHEREAS, due to the ongoing nature of the COVID -19 pandemic, it is again
proposed that the Board readopt Ordinance 033120-1; and
WHEREAS, the first reading of this ordinance was held on November 4, 2020;
and the second reading has been dispensed with, upon an affirmative vote of 4/5ths of
the members of the Board, this being deemed to be an emergency measure pursuant to
Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINEDby the Board of Supervisors of the
County of Roanoke, Virginia:
1.That Ordinance 033120-1is hereby readopted.
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513
2.An emergency is deemed to exist, and this ordinance shall be effective upon its
adoption.
On motion of Supervisor North to adopt the ordinance as an emergency measure
and waiving the second reading with a 4/5ths vote; seconded by Supervisor Mahoney
and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Peters, Radford
NAYS:None
Supervisor Peters lost connection at 3:20 p.m. for the remainder of the
afternoon session.
3.Ordinance authorizing the purchase of 304 acres of land located
off Old Mountain Road adjacent to Read Mountain Preserve
identified as Tax Map Numbers 028.00-01-08.00-0000 and 028.00-
01-09.00-0000 (Lindsay Webb, Parks, Planning and Development
Manager)
Ms. Webb outlined the request for ordinance. She noted that Mr. John
Bradshaw, one of the landowners is in attendance.
Supervisor Mahoney thanked Mr. Bradshaw for being in attendance. He
then asked Ms. Webb if she knew, off the top of her head, was the original acquisition in
2008 Dr.Durham, with Ms. Webb confirming. He noted this is a fantastic opportunity for
the citizens of the County. Thanked the families involved; very good for all of us in the
valley.
Supervisor Radford stated he noticed the appraisal came back lower than
the asking price, how was that adjusted?Ms. Webb explained the appraisal actually
came in $610,000, which was the agreed upon price. Supervisor Radford thought she
had said $660,000. Ms. Webb explained the $660,000 is the total amount for the
project cost and includes the asking cost as well as the due diligence items.
Supervisor Northmotion to approve the first reading andset the second
reading for November 17, 2020, was seconded by Supervisor Hooker and approved by
the following vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
November 4, 2020
514
IN RE:PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE
1.Ordinance authorizing the granting of an access easement for the
purpose of ingress/egress to Mr. Dallas J. Wright of 5057 Poor
Mountain Road in Salem of unimproved real estate owned by the
Roanoke County Board of Supervisors (Tax Map No. 064.04-03-
01.00-0000), Catawba Magisterial District (Tarek Moneir, Director
of Development Services)
Mr. Moneir outlined the request and advised there were no changes since
the first reading.
Chairman Radford recessed the meeting from 3:23p.m. until3:33 p.m. to
allow for citizen comment. There were no citizens to speak on this agenda item.
There was no discussion.
ORDINANCE 110420-3AUTHORIZING THE GRANTING OF AN
ACCESS EASEMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF
INGRESS/EGRESS TO MR. DALLAS J. WRIGHT OF 5057 POOR
MOUNTAIN ROAD IN SALEM OF UNIMPROVED REAL ESTATE
OWNED BY THE ROANOKE COUNTY BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS (TAX MAP NO. 064.04-03-01.00-0000),
CATAWBA MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT
WHEREAS, Mr. Dallas J. Wright, through his attorney James T. Jordan, has
requested that the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors grant him a twenty (20) foot
wide access easement over the property identified as Tax Map # 064.04-03-01.00-0000
which is owned by the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Dallas J. Wright is seeking the easement for the purpose of an
access road to Poor Mountain Road, and for the benefit of his parcel identified as Tax
Map # 064.02-02-56.00-0000 with an address of 5057 Poor Mountain Road, in the
Catawba Magisterial District; and
WHEREAS, Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter directs that the
acquisition and disposition of real estate be authorized only by ordinance; and
WHEREAS, a first reading of this ordinance was held on October 20, 2020 and
the second reading and public meeting wereheld on November 4, 2020; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1.That pursuant to theprovision of Section 16.01 of the Roanoke County
Charter, the interest in real estate to be conveyed is hereby declared to be surplus, and
is hereby made available for conveyance to Dallas J. Wright for an access easement.
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515
2.That the sale of this twenty (20) foot wide access easement toDallas J.
Wright is hereby authorized and approved.
3.That the sum of $750 is accepted and appropriated from Dallas J. Wright
for the value of the access easement and the costs associated therewith, including the
cost of legal advertisement.
4.That the County Administrator, or any Assistant County Administrator, is
hereby authorized to execute such documents and take such further actions as may be
necessary to accomplish this conveyance, all of which shall be on a form approvedby
the County Attorney.
5.That this ordinance shall be effective on and from the date of its adoption.
On motion of Supervisor Hookerto adopt the ordinance; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoneyand carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
IN RE:CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION 110420-4APPROVINGAND CONCURRING IN
CERTAIN ITEMS SET FORTH ON THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AGENDA FOR THIS DATE DESIGNATED AS
ITEM G-CONSENT AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for November
4, 2020, designated as Item G-Consent Agenda be, and hereby is, approved and
concurred in as to each item separately set forth in said section designated Items 1
through 10 inclusive, as follows:
1.Approval of minutes –October 22, 2020
2.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to David Bergeron, Parks Maintenance Worker, upon his
retirement after more than thirteen (13) years of service
3.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to Jonathan Clifton, Deputy Sheriff-Sergeant-Court
Services, upon his retirement after twenty-three (23) years of service
4.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to Richard G. Crosier II, Police Officer IV, upon his
retirement after more than twenty-one (21) years of service
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516
5.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to Andrew Lewis, Parks Maintenance Service Specialist,
upon his retirement after more than twenty (20) years of service
6.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to Fred I. Lumb, Police Officer IV, upon his retirement after
more than twenty-two (22) years of service
7.Resolution expressing the appreciation of the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County to Cyd Walters, Senior Library Assistant, upon her
retirement after thirty-three (33) years of service
8.Confirmation of appointment of the Private Community Resource Providers to
the Roanoke County Community Policy and Management Team (CPMT)
9.Request to donate a Roanoke County surplus vehicle to the Cave Spring
Volunteer Fire Department
10.Request to accept a donation of a recycling trailer from Cox Communications
for additional capacity at Fallowater Lane
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoneyand carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
RESOLUTION 110420-4.aEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO DAVID BERGERON, MOTOR EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I,
UPON HIS RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN THIRTEEN (13)
YEARS OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,David Bergeron was employed by Roanoke Countyon November
24, 2012; and served as a Parks Maintenance Worker and Motor Equipment Operator I,
and
WHEREAS, Mr.Bergeron retired on April 1, 2020, after thirteen (13) years and
three (3) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS,Mr. Bergeron,through his employment with Roanoke Countyin the
Parks, Recreation and Tourism Departmenthas been instrumentalin providing expert
maintenance for Park grounds and amenities, greenways, and ballfields: and
WHEREAS, throughout Mr. Bergeron’s tenure with Roanoke County, provided
professional and qualified support for Parks response for snow removal and outdoor
emergencies at county facilities, and provided staunch support to Roanoke County
Special Events and Regional Sports Tournaments which has improved the quality of life
to the citizens of Roanoke County; and
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to DAVID BERGERONfor more than thirteen (13) years of capable,
loyal, and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
RESOLUTION 110420-4.bEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO JONATHAN CLIFTON, DEPUTY SHERIFF-SERGEANT-
COURT SERVICES, UPONHIS RETIREMENT AFTER TWENTY-
THREE (23) YEARS OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,Johnathan Clifton was employed by Roanoke County on January
20, 1997; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Clifton retired on February 1, 2020, after twenty-three (23) years
of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS,Mr. Clifton,through his employment with Roanoke County, has been
instrumental in improving the quality of life and providing services to the citizens of
Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, throughout Mr. Clifton’s tenure with Roanoke County, he has served
as a Deputy Sheriff-Care/Confinement, Deputy Sheriff-Sergeant, and Deputy Sheriff-
Sergeant (Court Services); and
WHEREAS, during Mr. Clifton’s time serving the citizens of Roanoke County, he
did so with exceptional dedication and determination to ensure that he provided the
highest level of service possible. Mr. Clifton served as a mentor to many new Deputy
Sheriffs in every facet of his job. His experience and knowledge provided a strong
foundation for these new employees to grow and excel in their careers. He served at
length as the Sheriff’s Office Range Master, organizing Academy and Departmental
training, as well as mentoring new recruits and veteran staff alike. Mr. Clifton is well
known for his outstanding work as the Sergeant of the Juvenile and Domestic Relations
Court. During his tenure, he was instrumental in helping develop the First Offenders
Program. This program explains to first time juvenile offenders just how incarceration in
the local jails and state penitentiaries is managed and is offered in an attempt to change
the path that they are currently experiencing. Mr. Clifton will be missed by his
November 4, 2020
518
colleagues and leaves behind a magnificent legacy of well-deserved respect and
outstanding service; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Clifton plans on continuing his career in law enforcement, he has
secured a position as a police officer for Carillion Hospital in Roanoke. His vast
experience will serve him well in this new endeavor and his colleagues wish him the
best in this new position.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to JONATHAN CLIFTON for twenty-three (23) years of capable,
loyal and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
RESOLUTION 110420-3.cEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO RICHARD G. CROSIER II, POLICE OFFICER IV, UPON HIS
RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN TWENTY-ONE (21) YEARS
OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,Richard G. Crosier II was employed by Roanoke Countyon
February 1, 1999; and
WHEREAS, Officer Crosier retired on April 1, 2020, after twenty-one (21) years
and two (2) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, Officer Crosier has been employed as a Police Officer in the Uniform
Division, advancing through the ranks from Police Officer I through Police Officer IV;
and
WHEREAS,Officer Crosier,through his employment with Roanoke County, has
been instrumental in improving the quality of life and providing services to the citizens of
Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, throughout Officer Crosier’s tenure with Roanoke County, he served
for many years as a Patrol officer, providing protective and investigative services to
citizens of the County; he also served as Crime Prevention Coordinator in which he
provided important safety and crime prevention information and services to private
citizens, businesses and business associations, church groups, and numerous
Neighborhood Watch groups in the County, earning the Chief’s Award for Excellence for
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519
his exemplary contributions in that position, which also included coordinating the
Citizens’ Police Academy, TRIAD, and the Virginia Rules Summer Camp.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to RICHARD G. CROSIER IIfor more than twenty-one (21) years of
capable, loyal and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the followingrecorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
RESOLUTION 110420-4.dEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO ANDREW LEWIS, PARKS MAINTENANCE SERVICE
SPECIALIST, UPON HIS RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN
TWENTY (20) YEARS OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,Andrew Lewis was employed by Roanoke Countyon April 3, 2000;
and served as the Parks Maintenance Service Specialist, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Lewis retired on May 1, 2020, after twenty (20)years and one
(1) month of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS,Mr. Lewis, through his employment with Roanoke Countyin the
Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, provided an essential role in managing the
Roanoke County Street Sign Program for the Police Department and the Roanoke
County Emergency Operations, and managing the Parks work order program that
supported all departments of Roanoke County.
WHEREAS, throughout Mr. Lewis’ tenure with Roanoke County, provided
professionalism and dedication when managing Park Projects and Facility Repairs, and
provided staunch support for Roanoke County Special Events, which has been
instrumental in improving the quality of life to the citizens of Roanoke County; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to ANDREW LEWIS for more than twenty (20) yearsof capable,
loyal, and dedicated service to RoanokeCounty; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
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520
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
RESOLUTION 110420-4.eEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO FRED I. LUMB, POLICE OFFICER IV, UPON HIS
RETIREMENT AFTER MORE THAN TWENTY-ONE (21) YEARS
OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,Fred I. Lumb was employed by Roanoke Countyon February 1,
1999; and
WHEREAS, Officer Lumb retired on May 1, 2020, after twenty-one (21) years
and three (3) months of devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS,Officer Lumb, through his employment with Roanoke Countyin the
has served as a Police Officer in the Uniform Division, advancing through the ranks
from Police Officer I through Police Officer IV and has been instrumental in improving
the quality of life and providing services to the citizens of Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, throughout Officer Lumb’s tenure with Roanoke County, he served
for many years as a Patrol officer, providing protective and investigative services to
citizens of the County; he also served as a School Resource Officer (SRO) in which he
provided protective and instructional services to countless children in the various
Roanoke County Public Schools to which he was assigned; as an SRO he also
provided assistance in coordinating events put on by such organizations as the
Roanoke County Prevention Council and the Little Feet Special Olympics, and served
as staff at the COPS Camp Summer Camp sponsored by the Police Department and
the County Department of Parks, Recreation, andTourism.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to FRED I. LUMB for more than twenty-one (21) years of capable,
loyal, and dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
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521
RESOLUTION 110420-4.fEXPRESSING THE APPRECIATION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF ROANOKE COUNTY
TO CYD WALTERS, SENIOR LIBRARY ASSISTANT, UPON HER
RETIREMENT AFTER THIRTY-THREE (33) YEARS OF SERVICE
WHEREAS,Cyd Walters was employed by Roanoke Countyon May 1, 1974 and
WHEREAS, Ms. Walters retired on July 1, 2020, after thirty-three (33) years of
devoted, faithful and expert service to Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS,Ms. Walters, through her employment with Roanoke Countyserved
as Library Page –Part-time, Library Assistant, Library Assistant I, Library Assistant II,
and Senior Library Assistant and hasbeen instrumental in improving the quality of life
and providing services to the citizens of Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, throughout Ms. Walters’ tenure with Roanoke County, she displayed
effortless joy in serving all of our patrons. For many she was their go-to readers
advisory solution. She brought a lot of entertainment to the technology classes she
taught or co-taught. With passport services, she was exemplary in customer service and
keeping our facility organized and up to standards. For many years she organized the
volunteers, maintained the book donation process, and played a huge role in making
library book sales successful. During her time in the Materials Management unit, Cyd
placed materials and supply orders, helped track materials spending, worked efficiently
and professionally with vendors, and assisted with database projects and materials
processing for the entire Library system. Cyd was particularly helpful with telework and
team building projects, and our popular virtual trivia program during the early stages of
the pandemic shut down.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County expresses its deepest appreciation and the appreciation of the citizens
of Roanoke County to CYD WALTERS for thirty-three (33) yearsof capable, loyal, and
dedicated service to Roanoke County; and
FURTHER,the Board of Supervisors does express its best wishes for a happy
and productive retirement.
On motion of Supervisor Hooker to adopt the resolution; seconded by Supervisor
Mahoney and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
A-110420-4.g
A-110420-4.h
A-110420-4.i
IN RE:CITIZENS’ COMMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
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522
Wayne Moore stated he lived in the Cave Spring District and just wanted
to share a little bit of his experience a couple of weekends ago. So bear withme and
visualize its Saturday morning. I am waking up and super excited as he is going to
meet his family, his friends up at McAfee Knob. It is going to be a long day, so we are
packing our lunch. We get up there and we have heard news reports telling us that we
should not park on Rt. 311 because there is towing, etc. Along with ourselves and
about 100 other cars, we decide to park on Old Catawba. We parked slightly on the
side of the road and made our way up the hill, seeing many smiling faces as we go
along. We get to the top, come back down really excited about the day that we had and
thinking about going out to eat afterwards and then he comes down to his car and low
and behold there is a police officer sitting right there on Old Catawba Road. She tells
him that his car has been towed. When he asked why, she stated that my tires were on
the road. He responded he did not see any no parking signs. She advised that it is
State law that if your tires are on the road. He looked around and there are many cars
around him that have their tires on the road. So, at the point, he is not in a good mood,
as he is sure no one would be. Then, he is told he is going to be extorted a $350 froma
tow company because they towed my car 2 miles down the road to a Citgo. Where they
decided to turn around and come back and get as many cars as they could so they
could get the $350 a pop. He found out from other people that it is $80 from Dragon’s
Tooth all the way back to Roanoke for a tow. This is Mitchell’s Towing; he is calling
them out for this. They also told him that it was the Roanoke County Police that set the
price and he should be mad at them. He called the Roanoke County Police. He talked
to Sergeant Chisester and Commander Kuyper and they are upset about this because
they don’t set the tow prices. So, as a result of this, he is sure there are plenty of other
people who were towed that day who were from out of town. We saw plates from
everywhere and he is sure they were going to go out to eat or spend money elsewhere
in the County and he does not know if they did,if they hadtheir car towed like that. So,
the concern he has as a citizen is that he went up there trying to follow the law in this
situation and hecomes back and has to pay $350 at the end of the day. That money is
going to one organization, which does not benefit the County itself. From what he is
hearing from Commander Kuyper they have no limit as to what the tow companies can
charge. So, they may say the minimum is $150, but he told him that he has heard
$1,200 for a tow, just ridiculous amounts. He just wanted to express his discontent at
how that scenario played out that day. Ultimately, it ruined his day and he issure it
ruined quite a few others who would have spent more money in the area.
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IN RE:REPORTS
Supervisor Hooker moved toreceive and file the following reports. The
motion was seconded by Supervisor Mahoney and carried by the following recorded
vote:
AYES:Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
1.Unappropriated, Board Contingency and Capital Reserves Report
2.Outstanding Debt Report
IN RE:REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Mahoney stated he really did not have anything, but after
listening to Mr. Moore’s comments, he thinks it reinforces the discussion we had at our
last meeting that Supervisor Peters had brought forward in terms of perhaps
establishing a towing advisory board and working with the County Attorney and see if
we can develop an ordinance to try and place some fairness in the process.
Supervisor Hooker thanked Mr. Moore and wanted him to know that she
has heard from several people and it is unfortunate. None of us liked what was going
on that day; we arefollowing up with solutions. We have some ideas and some things
that we are working on, but want you to know that we are working on this problem; it is a
problem. We all acknowledge it and are ready to start working on it andappreciate you
coming today and talking to us. The second thing is that she spent the day at the polls
and had an opportunity to visit and greet a lot of citizens; held conversations with many
people. She really enjoyed the day; it was a beautiful day. It started very chilly and
ended a little chilly, but the conversation was warm and whether we totally agreed on
every conversation it was still civil and good natured and kindand she was really proud
of that and wanted to mention it.
Supervisor North stated he shares Mr. Moore’s frustration because if he
had gone up there or any place else and found his car wasn’t there when he got back
and had to pay that kind of money for a one-time tow, he would not be happy either.
We will look into that as Supervisor Mahoney mentioned because we have had these
discussions going on before. He asked Supervisor Peters a question, who is not here,
and he will share his answer with us concerning why are some of the tow people
interested in a tow board now and he will let Supervisor Peters share that with the
Board later in work session when we get to that point in time. It is an interesting answer
andbecausehe is not here, he will not steal his thunder. On some other news, Elbit
Systems in the Hollins District was awarded a contract from the United States Army for
the production of binocularsystem, which could reach a maximum of $442 million. Elbit
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524
successfully renegotiated their union contract this year, which lasts through 2024 and
this bodes well for Elbit and those employees that work in Roanoke County. It is a great
economic impact.Also, some additional economic development news within the Hollins
area being ranked in the top ten (10) of the most affordable places in Virginia according
to Smart Asset.com, which if you go onto that website you can read more about. Lastly,
Roanoke County’s unemployment rate dropped from the COVID high in April of this
year of 9.6% to September of 4.5%. This compares to January of this year of 2.8%,
which was the low water markof recent years. So, we are still working our way
downward as the local economy continues to improve slowly, but surely, in this COVID
world and we hope in the winter it will continue to fall and people can get back to work
safely. Lastly, Chief Hall, our police chief and he attended the Sun Valley and Boxley
Hills neighborhood watch meeting; had a great conversation on crime and crime
prevention, especially during the holidays coming up. There was about 14 people at the
meeting. He gave a brief overview of what has been going on in the County, but one
reminder because of the holiday season, make sure that you lock your car up when
your packages are in there and make sure they are out of view or sight or better yet, just
get in the car and go home if you have packages or lug them around with you until you
are ready to go home. There has been a spike in some of those folks who like to take
your Christmas shopping so they don’t have to do theirs. Be aware and be safe.
Supervisor Radford thanked Mr. Moorefor coming here this afternoon and
noted he was appalled when he read about that. It is such a shock to walk up and find
your car missing and then find out why and how much it is to get it back. It is just does
not make sense and yes, we are going to work out some type of solution so that it does
not happen again. Thank you for coming here and letting us hear it live. The second
thing he wants to mention, fresh off the press is the Community Strategic Plan and we
usually give this out at the State of the County message, which will be represented on
November 12, 2020. The only problem is we won’t have a table of these spread out
and we are not going to have breakfast because of COVID, so we are going to beon
RVTVChannel 3 and live streaming through our website. So, 8:00 a.m. on November
12, 2020, be ready and we will also have the plan in a digital format on our website.
IN RE:CLOSED MEETING
At 3:46 p.m.,SupervisorRadfordmoved to go into closed meeting
following the work sessions pursuant to the Code of Virginia Section 2.2-3711 A (7) of
the Code of Virginia, in order to consult with legal counsel and receive briefings from
staff members pertaining to probable litigation, where such consultation or briefing in an
open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or litigating posture of the public
body. Specifically the Board will consider participation in class action litigation or
settlement with manufacturers of polychlorinated biphenyls.And Section 2.2-3711 (A)
(7) and A (29) of the Code of Virginia in order to consult with legal counsel and receive
briefings from staff members pertaining to 1) Probable litigation, where such
November 4, 2020
525
consultation or briefing in open meeting would adversely affect the negotiating or
litigating posture of the publicbody, and 2) the award of a new public contract for goods
or services, and discussion of the terms or scope of such contract, where discussion in
open session would adversely affect the bargaining position or negotiating strategy of
the public body. Specifically, the Board will discuss litigation options for proceeding
against a vendor of goods or services for breach of contract, and the award of a new
public contract for such goods or services.
Themotion was seconded by Supervisor carried by the following recorded
vote:
AYES:SupervisorsMahoney, Hooker, North,Radford
NAYS:None
ABSENT:Supervisor Peters
At 3:47 p.m.Chairman Radford recessed the meeting to the fourth floor
for work session and closed session
Supervisor Peters once again joined the meeting by conference call at
4:05 p.m.
IN RE:WORK SESSIONS
1.Work session to review with the Board of Supervisors fiscal year
2020-2021 first quarter financial information (Steve Elliott, Budget
Manager and Meredith Thompson, Budget Division Director)
Mr. O’Donnell provided overview and turned over to Meredith Thompson
who provided a PowerPoint presentation.
Supervisor Mahoney asked with regard to the sales tax number, $2.1
million, is that two months, July and August with Mr. Elliott confirming. Supervisor
Mahoney commented he is surprised that it is that good.
Mr. O’Donnell stated his assumption is that the sales tax is from the
November and December sales and asked how much does that cover. Mr. Elliott
advised it increases to $1.2 million to $1.4 million in January and February so we do see
a significant increase. Mr. O’Donnell added it is not a huge number.
Supervisor Mahoney asked if it is the same for meals tax? When he looks
at sales and meals tax and from what he has heard anecdotally that so many of the
local restaurants have closed, but again, is that a one month day with Mr. Elliott
responding in the affirmative. There will be additional information on another slide.
November 4, 2020
526
Supervisor Radford asked with regard to business license, don’t we
usually receive that around March. Mr. Elliott responded that February and March is
when we receive the bulk, some is paid monthly. Supervisor North stated he was
wondering why the big difference between 2020 and 2019. Mr. Elliott advised it had to
do with year-end accruals that happened this year.
Supervisor North asked in hisprior job, they kept track of revenue losses.
Are we keeping tract somewhere of the businesses in Roanoke County that have closed
by name and looking to see what we are going to potentially lose from the time they
close until the end of the fiscal year because they are gone? Mr. Elliott advised he
would check with Economic Development and the Commissioner of the Revenue.
Supervisor North stated he was not trying to micromanage, but it would be nice to know
if they closed how much they contributed to sales tax, meals tax, etc. He does not know
of too many businesses that are opening back up. It helps to anticipate what might be
coming instead of waiting on the results of the State. Ms. Owens advised there is a
Revenue Team that looks at these types of things.
Supervisor North commented real estate and personalproperty seem to
be okay.Supervisor North asked if the numbers included schools. Ms. Thompson
advised the transfer to the schools was in the last line. Supervisor North then asked if
the transfer was done monthly or quarterly. Ms. Gearheart advised it was a monthly
transfer.
This work session was held from 4:06 p.m. until 4:36 p.m.
2.Work session to reviewwith the Board of Supervisors the
budgets for the allocations of CARES Act funding (Laurie
Gearheart, Director of Finance and Management Services)
Mr. O’Donnell provided an overview and turned the floor over to Ms.
Gearheart who provided a PowerPoint presentation.
Supervisor Radford asked with regard to the Town of Vinton, do the
numbers come from them. So, they have $706,000 in their account. Ms. Gearheart
advised staff is reimbursing them as they are asking to be reimbursed. We did not cut a
check for $706,000, but it has been set aside.
Supervisor North asked for confirmation that we had payroll costs for
public safety and we reimbursed ourselves from the CARES Act. How much do we
have left with Ms. Gearheart responded $2.95 million.
Supervisor Hooker asked how does this all work together when we don’t
have a contract with Mr. Lubeck explaining.
Supervisor Radford asked about the Citizen Emergency Assistance
Program from Social Services. Ms. Gearheart advised as of today, there have been
404 applications and has spent $523,439 of the total $650,000.
Supervisor Hooker asked for examples of what that is spent for with Ms.
Gearheart responding rent assistance, mortgage assistance, food and utility assistance.
November 4, 2020
527
Supervisor North asked with regard to schools, what will happen if they
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start sending fourth (4) and fifth (5) graders back. Mr. O’Donnell responded he
received today a memo from Doug Blount, Director of General Services and Parks,
Recreation and Tourism regarding the agenda item on the School Board’s agenda to
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bring back fourth (4) and fifth (5) graders even before the end of the second nine (9)
weeks. If they do that, we will need to have a discussion with them because it would
displace both RoCo Cares and Ask Programs in the elementary and high schools
involved in our daycare programs. He just received today, so it will be discussed with
the schools at the Chairs and Vice Chairs meeting.
Supervisor Hooker stated she is curious on how they can do that. Are
they still going to be tied to the CDC standard of six (6) feet? Mr. O’Donnell advised he
did not know and on another topic during the conference call with the Health Director,
they noted the cases were up and in a high risk situation. Supervisor Hooker advised
she hear a rumor that there may be a break between Thanksgiving and all the way
through Christmasbreak due to the holiday gatherings to let people’s germ pool stay at
home. Mr. O’Donnell stated what puzzles him is the Director of the Health Department
for the region gives us a very stern report of how risky things are, yet when asked by
reporters if the Governor is going to establish any new regulations, she does not know
what the Governor has planned or if that is going to happen.
Supervisor North stated if the Governor is going to do something it should
be in the next week before Thanksgiving. He added he looks at the numbers every day
and the State’s numbers have gone up a full percent Statewide, 6% or 7% and this area
is 8% or 9%.
Supervisor Radford stated when talking to the Carilion people, they
advised the masks are not helping because of the load at Carilion, but they are looking
at the virility load of the virus and the mask is helping with that, but they are seeing a
decrease in the virility load of a patient so they are seeing less deaths.
It was the consensus of the Board to move forward with the
recommendations of staff.
Next, Supervisor North asked to discuss the recommendation for one-time
hazard pay, employee bonus and retention bonus for uniformed sworn police officers as
outlined that was outlined in an email from Dan O’Donnell.
Supervisor Radford advised he liked Option C and Mr. O’Donnell
recommended option A. The options were provided as follows:
Option A:Option B:Option C:
Hazard Pay / Hazard Pay / Hazard Pay /
GratitudeBonus Gratitude Bonus Gratitude
Employment CategoryAmountAmountBonus Amount
Full-Time, Sworn/Uniformed$1,000$1,500$1,000
Part-Time, Sworn/Uniformed$500$750$500
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Full-Time, Regular Employee$500$750$750
Part-Time, Regular Employee$200$250$250
Estimated Total Fiscal $831,380.95$1,235,014.63$1,008,650
Impact
Supervisor Peters stated historically we do not do mid-year raises. His
concern is that we continue to throw this money out there. Why would we not at some
point look at making those more of a permanent thing. Mr. O’Donnell responded he
considered that but the problem is that this is one-time money. Appropriate budget
practice is not to spend one-time money on reoccurring expenditures. He recommends
doing this and also that leaves your reoccurring money in next year’s budget to do
something a little more significant along the permanent compensation lines. We all
recognize we need to do something, especially in public safety. Supervisor Peters
stated hisconcern and the reason he brings itup, we continue to talk about public
safety and how our scale is off.We continue to regurgitate that over and over again.
So, that is why at this point should we not be looking at something to make it right.
When are we going to address this?Mr. O’Donnell asked Rebecca Owens to respond
as she has been working closely with Human Resources on putting together the whole
new compensation system and looking at a step system for Public Safety and we are
not quite there yet. Ms. Owens explained that she has been working closely with
Human Resources. Prior to March and COVID and we shut down, we contracted with
Gallagher, reviewed job description, put a salary increase in the budget to finish the
process and begin the implementation and then COVID hit and we had to pull back the
budget and closed the door to a lot of things. Over the last six weeks, she has been
working with Human Resourcesand have picked back up. We are working through the
study, evaluating what the consultant worked onand going into each and every position.
Today, we began the discussions of looking at a step program for public safety and the
issues of compression. We looked at Prince William County who actually implemented
the same philosophy. Will bring to the Board under the budget process. The thought
behind another hazard pay and/or bonus for employees is just an additional amount
since we were not able to do a raise and we are able to fund it with one-time money and
then reserve the funds to implement the comp study and deal with compressionissue.
Supervisor Peters stated we need to step up and protect our public safety. Why would
we not do option B?
November 4, 2020
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Supervisor North stated there was dialog to cut the first round from
$750 to $500 and we issued $2,000 and $750 to full-time employees. Under Option C,
which is what he is proposing, we don’t do anything different than what staff proposed
andrecommended. Two rounds will be $3,000 and $1,500 for all other employees,
which is half what fire and rescue and police have received. If we don’t do that other
employees get about 41.6% of what the $3,000 received by Police and Fire. He point is
he is trying to get a better comparison. The other reason is that other municipalities,
Montgomery County was $2,000, and $1,000 for other employees. Botetourt has given
$1,000 to other employees and $2,000 for hazard. The Town of Vinton did the same
thing. We went first before anybody else did and we only gave $750. All he was trying
to give $1,500 for hazard pay and $750 for all other employees. At least it is a two (2)
to one (1) ratio.
Supervisor Peters stated Option A was not even up for discussion with
him. When Mr. O’Donnell first put this out, Option A was not considered. This is
CARES Act money, money that we were given for this purpose. I did lean toward
Option B and he still kind of leans there. He advised he would go along with whatever
the Board decides, but feels like we know the morale is terrible and the overall
sentiment in the public of what public safety looks like, he feels that we have the money
to do it, so we should. The other employees would still get the same amount of money
in either Option B or C.
Supervisor Radford asked Supervisor Peters about the retention bonus
that we got the email on retention and a signing bonus.
Mr. O’Donnell stated he is not recommending what the City is
contemplating, which is to provide a recruiting bonus to certified officers because that
has a horrible morale impact on your current officers. Supervisor Peters stated he and
Supervisor North talked about this about a month ago. When someone comes from
another department, a larger city into Roanoke Countyandthe understanding he had
and Supervisor North had, they start in Roanoke County as a rookie. They do not get
any bump based on their experience. Mr. O’Donnell stated he thinks you can hire them
in at a higher level based on their experience.
Supervisor North stated what we were talking about and he has known
some people from when he was campaigning that there family wanted to move from
Manassas, Prince William County, down here, but they would have to start all over
again in the six-month training for fire. With respect to police and the State police and
the State police do this now, they have a condensed training program and he has talked
to a senior trooper that lives near him. They have a condensed training program for
other officers that come from departments that are certified in the State of Virginia. It is
about six (6) toeight (8) weeks, not the 26 week program.
November 4, 2020
530
If they are certified in the State of Virginia, he does not know what they need to do in
Roanoke County to get on board. Mr. O’Donnell stated he does not feel comfortable
answering those questions without the Chief of Police and/or Human Resources
Director in the room. Supervisor North stated the point is that this is an opportune time
when people are moving out of the cities. Mr. O’Donnell stated he thinks they do that
on a case by case basis but does not have data.
Mr. O’Donnell stated once Rebecca Owens works through where staff is
appropriate to bring the Chief of Police in to talk about the new scale is and how do we
make this work going forward to bring in those types of people. He knows you have to
be careful of that because of the morale impact it has on the current employees if you
bring somebody in at a higher level.
Supervisor Peters stated the concern he has with all of that is the report
that Chief Hall gave showing the number of officers he was down. Why would we not
look at a signing bonus?Mr. O’Donnell stated he would be happy to have that
discussion when he and Richard Caywood have the discussion with Chief Hall as he did
not recommend that because of what it does to the morale of the existing officers, but if
we work that in with putting in a new pay system and have some structure on how that
might fit in would certainly make sense. He thinks we need to work it through the
process that Rebecca Owens is working through with Human Resources and then we
will roll that to the different department heads to make sure they understand it.
Mr. Caywood stated it is something in the short run while you are looking
at a longer term new pay scale.
Supervisor North stated he offers Option C as itonly cost $177,269 more
and was piggy backing on Mr. O’Donnell’s Option A or Option B.
Supervisor Hooker asked why Mr. O’Donnell was recommending A. Mr.
O’Donnell stated part of it had to do with the discussions with the school and part of it
had to dowhat the Water Authority is looking at doing. He stated he would always
rather be criticized for being fiscally conservative. If the Board wants to do more, we
can afford it.
Supervisor Mahoney asked if this comes out of the remaining $2.2 million.
Mr. O’Donnell responded in the affirmative stating another small piece is a memo from
the Compensation Board where the Sherriff’s employees are eligible for a $500 bonus
so we can use some of that to offset some of this cost.
Supervisor Mahoney advised hewas happy with either B or C, both are
good.
Supervisor Hooker stated that Supervisor North’s reasoning sounded
good; she wants to be generous and would like to know how different are we than the
other situations. If we go with C are we way more generous than the other localities.
Mr. O’Donnell stated doing anything than Montgomery County, we are more generous
than our neighbors. We took the led last time and would assume they would do the
same thing again.
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531
He added he thinks it is the right thingto do when we did not give percentage
compensation in a year and we can afford it and give the people the understanding that
we are supportive and getting ready to do a real compensation program that provides
long-term hope.
Supervisor Radford asked if the $1,500 would be part of the CARES Act
with Mr. O’Donnell stating it all comes out of the rolled over CARES Act.
Ms. Owens advised Option B would leave you $1 million and Option C
would be $1.25 million less any money we receive from the Sheriff and we also talked
about a retention bonus at $217,000 that we would recommend come out as well.
Supervisor Radford stated if we give them $1,500 from hazard pay, that
would give them $3,500 and then the full-time employees would be $1,500.
Supervisor Northstated he was opposed to giving the other full-time
employees $500 because it would be giving a signal that the other employees of
Roanoke County were worth less than Fire and Rescue. We were using funds for the
CARES Act for Fire and Rescue and year-endfunds for the bonus. Supervisor North
asked what is the average pay for a firefighter, $45,000, if you give $3,000 total in
bonuses in this year, you have given the equivalent of 6.7% in 12 months. The old
adage is the more they get, the more they expect. They are not going to get that with
any type of compensation plan. Mr. O’Donnell stated it was part of the consideration.
It was the unanimous consensus of the Board to go with Option C.
Mr. O’Donnell then asked if they were okay with a retentionbonus along
with for the Police. The concept would be to put everything into one ordinance.
Supervisor Mahoney stated the only question he had when talking to Ms.
Owens was why April; not that he was opposed to April, he was trying to get a sense of
the thinking that staff had. He was thinking if we are going todo a retention bonus, he
th
would want the employee to stickaround until June 30.He understands from the
memo that the hope is that by April, we would have had an opportunity to review and
approve a new pay plan. So, he was just concerned with all the things we have to do
with budget and we still don’t know what is going on with the virus that would be
pushing staff to get something done. What he is hearing from Ms. Owens is they are
really close.
Mr. O’Donnell stated his goal, not promise, goal to have that part of the
March budget presentation.
Supervisor Mahoney stated it was every three months try to reward staff,
reward the employees. It was not a negative, more of a concern.
Supervisor Hooker stated she was in favor of a retention bonus.
Supervisor North stated he was for the concept of a retention, but he
agrees with Supervisor Mahoney, there is no incentive to stay. When he was at Norfolk
Southern, if you paid an employee to move and you did not stay two years, then you
owe a pro-rated amount of that compensation to move.
Mr. O’Donnell stated he brought the same point up and the issue of that is
that it is negative message.
November 4, 2020
532
Mr. Caywood advised it is psychological. He feels we need to support the
police and not hold them hostage with Mr. O’Donnell advising he was in agreement.
Mr. North stated you should stagger the dates; he agrees with Supervisor
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Mahoney and June 30.
Supervisor Mahoney asked Mr. O’Donnell to talk more about what he was
hearing with respect to Roanoke City’s bonus. He understands we compete on a very
broad regional area; not just with Roanoke City, but obviously if you are living in this
region, and you can go to Roanoke City and you don’t have to move is a big deal.
Mr. O’Donnell stated that came up at a lunch with the Chiefs. He call Bob
Cowell, City Manager and it is not a done deal, but they are considering $5,000 to
$7,000. He does not think we need to be dollar for dollar as they have a different
retirement system and a different work environment. If we do something just to show
support, provide a retention bonus and work on the compensation plan, most of them
are not going to want to work for the City.
Supervisor Radford stated he likesthe idea of a step retention. So, you
pay some now and some later, which is exactly how Amazon kept their employees in
cold Seattle.
It was the unanimous consensus of the Board to include a step retention
and put on the December 1, 2020 Board Meeting and waive the second reading.
This work sessionwas held from 4:37 p.m. until 5:35 p.m.
Supervisor Peters left the meeting at 5:35 p.m.
IN RE:CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION
At 6:38p.m., Supervisor Radford moved toreturn to open session and
adopt the certification resolution.
RESOLUTION 110420-5CERTIFYING THE CLOSED MEETING
WAS HELD IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CODE OF VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia has convened
a closed meeting on this date pursuant to an affirmative recorded vote and in
accordance with the provisions of The Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
WHEREAS, Section 2.2-3712 of the Code of Virginia requires a certification by
the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, that such closed meeting was
conducted in conformity with Virginia law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, hereby certifies that, to the best of each member’s
knowledge:
November 4, 2020 533
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 Radford to adopt the resolution; seconded by
Supervisor North and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Supervisor Peters
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Radford adjourned the meeting at 6:39 p.m.
S itted by: Approved by:
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Chief Deputy CI to the Board Chairman
November 4, 2020
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