1/26/2021 - Regular - DRAFT
January 26, 2021
47
Roanoke County Administration Center
5204 Bernard Drive
Roanoke, Virginia 24018
The Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia met this day at the
Roanoke County Administration Center, this being the second regularly scheduled
meeting of the month of January 2021. Audio and video recordings of this meeting will
be held on file for a minimum of five (5) years in the office of the Clerk to the Board of
Supervisors.
IN RE: OPENING CEREMONIES
Before the meeting was called to order, a moment of silence was
observed. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
IN RE: CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Peters called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. The roll call was
taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman P. Jason Peters; Supervisors Martha B. Hooker,
Paul M. Mahoney, Phil C. North and David F. Radford
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: PROCLAMATIONS, RESOLUTIONS, RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS
1. Resolution of appreciation to David F. Radford for his service as
Chairman of the Board of Supervisors in 2020 (P. Jason Peters,
Chairman)
All Supervisors offered their thanks to Supervisor Radford.
January 26, 2021
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RESOLUTION 012621-1 OF APPRECIATION TO DAVID F. RADFORD
FOR HIS SERVICE AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS IN 2020
WHEREAS, David F. Radford served as Chairman of the Roanoke County Board
of Supervisors during 2020; and
WHEREAS, during Mr. Radford’s term as Chairman, the County achieved a
variety of accomplishments, including:
Adapting to the challenges of continuing to serve the citizens of Roanoke
County during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adjusting operations while facilities were closed in order to conduct
business, stay connected with individuals and families, and provide
outdoor recreation opportunities.
Providing aid to small businesses, granting short term financial assistance
to citizens, and making important infrastructure improvements, utilizing
federal CARES Act funding and other grants.
The first Illuminights event, bringing in more than 43,000 visitors to
Explore Park.
Continued growth at Explore Park through its vendor partners.
Acquisition of additional land to double the size of the Read Mountain
Preserve.
Emphasizing support of our public safety departments to ensure our
citizens enjoy living in a safe and healthy community.
Ensuring adequate emergency response capabilities and improved
coverage to further protect our community through a $3 million grant from
the Department of Homeland Security for fifteen additional firefighter
positions.
Numerous local, state and national awards and accolades for County
programs and services.
A broadband study to identify areas in the County that are either under-
served or unserved by broadband services.
$976,000 from the Governor’s new Fast Track Broadband program,
enabling the County to advance broadband initiatives in the most rural
parts of Roanoke County.
Numerous transportation projects that will increase safety, ease traffic
congestion, and widen busy roadways.
The $13 million investment by Mack Trucks to produce a new line of
medium duty trucks and create 250 new jobs at its Roanoke Valley
Operations in the County.
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A $15,000 Community Development Block Grant for Opportunity Zone
marketing of the Wood Haven Technology Park.
Regional planning efforts with the City of Roanoke to move forward the
Oak Grove Center Plan.
Adoption of the Hollins Center Plan into the County’s Comprehensive Plan
to guide growth and development of the area.
A $20,000 Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development
Fund Grant for the Catawba Sustainability Center.
WHEREAS, the Board recognizes Chairman Radford’s contribution to the
economic growth in Roanoke County throughout his term; and
WHEREAS, Chairman Radford emphasized sound financial strategies and
practices and promoted regional projects and initiatives to benefit all the residents of the
Roanoke Valley.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Supervisors of
Roanoke County, Virginia, does hereby extend its deepest appreciation to David F.
Radford for his collaborative and steady leadership of the Board of Supervisors as
Chairman during 2020 and for his belief in democracy and championing of citizen
participation in local government.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Briefing to discuss with the Board of Supervisors the County
Administrator's Proposed Fiscal Year 2022-2031 Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) (Daniel R. O'Donnell, County
Administrator)
Mr. O’Donnell provided a PowerPoint an outlined the 2022-2031 CIP and
provided the following slide by slide explanation.
Mr. O’Donnell advised the ten (10)-year plan is balanced with funding
identified for all projects proposed and meets all criteria set forth in the Comprehensive
Financial Policy.
The priorities of this ten-year plan include funding for fire and rescue stations, library
replacement and the completion of the public service center. The plan also prioritizes
funding for ongoing projects that support the maintenance of existing facilities and
equipment. Lastly, the plan includes projects to continue the County’s commitment to
long term economic development strategies.
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Slide 2:
,
On January 122021, staff shared a work session with the Board to introduce the
projects planned for proposal and the funding sources. This briefing will provide a high-
level review of the projects and funding sources, but you’ll also learn more about my
priorities for the projects included.
Slide 3:
Beginning with the summary, Mr. O’Donnell advised he would share his priorities and
details on what defines a CIP project and the projects proposed by category.
Slide 4:
In developing the fiscal year 2022 budget, he has been clear that he believes our top
priorities should be employee compensation and restoring funding for capital needs.
Therefore, identifying funding for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) is a priority for
fiscal year 2022 and beyond. The proposed fiscal year 2022 – fiscal year 2031 CIP
reflects priorities to strategically locate fire stations to best meet citizen needs, funding
for the replacement of County facilities such as the Public Service Center and Hollins
Library, restore funding reduced in fiscal 2021 for ongoing projects that support the
maintenance of existing facilities and equipment and to continue our commitment to
long term economic development strategies.
Slide 5
A capital project is generally defined as:
-A Useful life of five or more years
-Minimum project costs of $100,000
-If funded by a bond, useful life must be equal or exceed the length of the bond
Slide 6:
Before discussing projects, he reminded the Board and citizens viewing that the
st
proposal is a ten (10)-year planning document with only the first (1) year appropriated
by the Board. The County’s Comprehensive Financial Policy identifies the specific
borrowing years for the County per the “12-12-12” model, which allows $12 million of
borrowing every year, with one (1) out of every three (3) years borrowing coming to the
County and two (2) years to the Schools. Roanoke County’s next borrowing year will be
in fiscal year 2023, which begins July 1, 2022. Fiscal years 2023 through 2031 are
considered planning years and will be evaluated annually.
Slide 7:
For the next several slides, he will share a high-level view at the projects he is
proposing by category. Since fiscal year 2022 is the appropriation year and fiscal year
2023 is the next planned bond-funding year, he has included the amounts within the first
two (2) columns. Planned funding is combined from fiscal years 2024 through 2031.
This first group of projects include new and replacement facilities, which are all planned
to receive bond funding in fiscal years 2023, 2026, and 2029.
The Bonsack/460 Fire and Rescue Station is a new project and would add a new station
to enable better response times and service to County residents in that area. The $1.0
million proposed in fiscal year 2022 would fund land acquisition and initial A&E efforts.
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The remaining $4.825 million in fiscal year 2023 is planned for bond funding for
construction and equipment. Additional operating impacts are expected in fiscal year
2024 for this project and includes personnel and fleet and other equipment needs.
The Hollins Library Replacement budget has decreased from the current adopted CIP
due to updated construction figures. This project is proposed to be fully funded with
bonds with $1.525 million planned in fiscal year 2023 and the remaining $12.0 million
planned in fiscal year 2026.
The Public Service Center Replacement project continues as planned for bond funding
in fiscal year 2023. This funding is the final phase to move the General Services and
Parks, Recreation and Tourism offices from the Kessler Mill building.
The Hollins Fire Station replacement updates estimates for an existing project planned
for funding in fiscal year 2029 to renovate or replace a fire station with partial funding of
$12.1 million in fiscal years 2024-2029.
Slide 8:
These projects address facility and equipment maintenance issues and upkeep.
Properly planning for and funding these projects ensures that County facilities will
remain functional and safe for our citizens, visitors, and employees.
In fiscal year 2022, $1.76 million is proposed to adequately fund capital maintenance
programs for General Services, Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Green Ridge
Recreation Center and the Sheriff’s Office. Funding for the capital maintenance
programs increases by $663,076 in fiscal year 2022, compared to the adopted fiscal
year 2021 amount.
The Courthouse HVAC Replacement remains as planned for bond funding in fiscal year
23. Explore Park also continues to be planned for $1.4 million in bond funding for
infrastructure needs to continue with progress on the Adventure Plan.
The Green Ridge Dehumidification System Replacement and the Sports Field Lighting
Replacement Projects are planned for later years in the CIP, but it’s important to plan
for these replacements to maintain our recreation assets.
Slide 9:
Projects shown here support the ongoing efforts to expand economic opportunities in
Roanoke County. Both the Broadband Authority Initiative and Wood Haven Technology
Center projects are funded to cover the cost of debt service commitments. The
Roanoke County Broadband Authority Initiative project is proposed to be funded by the
Economic Development Authority in fiscal year 2022 in the amount of $386,875. This
debt is scheduled to be paid off in 2027.
The Wood Haven Technology Center project funding in fiscal year 2022, in the amount
of $117,992, is the final year of interest only payments. Full debt service payments will
begin in fiscal year 2023 and continue beyond the ten year plan.
To continue our progress toward economic and community development through
professional design services, this proposal includes funding in the amount of $100,000
in fiscal year 2022 for such services. Funding will provide professional design services
January 26, 2021
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needed to develop design guidelines and update zoning regulations in the 390-acre 419
Town Center Plan area.
The proposal also includes $300,000 in funding in fiscal year 2022 to be added to the
Rural Broadband Initiative to add to existing funds to be used toward future matching
funds for Virginia Telecommunications Initiative grant applications or other minor
broadband projects to improve data technology in inadequate service areas.
Slide 10:
To support economic development opportunities, it’s equally as important to maintain
infrastructure to support these efforts in both transportation and stormwater
maintenance.
The Route 460/Challenger Avenue Study provides $100,000 in funding for professional
design services to complete a land use analysis and propose road network changes to
serve properties in the vicinity of Challenger Avenue between the City and Botetourt
County.
The Fallowater Lane extension projects continues to receive $141,445 in Economic
Development funds in fiscal year 2022. This is paired with $250,000 in funds to be
distributed from the VDOT Revenue Sharing Program, shown on the next line.
The VDOT Revenue Sharing project has $250,000 in fiscal year 2022 earmarked for
Fallowater. Funding planned for the out years of this project can be leveraged for
applications for VDOT funding for large scale transportation projects in the future.
The Storm Drainage Maintenance of Effort project provides funding to support
maintenance and upkeep of stormwater management, which is required for the County
to maintain its MS4 permit. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) MS4 BMP project provides an ongoing source of funding to be used as a
match for Stormwater Local Assistance (SLAF) grants.
Slide 11:
This final grouping of projects includes those that support technology and public safety
needs.
The Emergency Medical Dispatch is proposed for $150,000 in funding in fiscal year
2022, which is one year sooner than originally planned.
The Email & Productivity Tools Replacement is a new project planned for funding in
fiscal year 2022 through fiscal 2024. This project would research other email systems to
possibly replace our current GroupWise system.
The Network and IT Infrastructure Replacement Plan is proposed to receive $530,000 in
fiscal year 2022 to replace network components. Funding for this project was removed
in fiscal year 2021. Reestablishing funding for the program will assist in the replacement
of key network components.
The Diesel Exhaust Removal System project is currently proposed to receive $50,000 in
Department of Fire Programs funding in fiscal year 2022. In the current CIP, additional
funding was planned for fiscal year 2023, but the Fire and Rescue and General
Services departments have made significant progress on installing the systems using
available Department of Fire Programs funding and also Capital Maintenance Funds.
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Additional projects planned for fiscal year 2023 include the upgrade to our E-911 phone
system, funding for the final phase of the upgrade to the Global HR personnel
management software system, which is a shared cost with County schools, and
restoring funding for the ongoing computer replacement program. Other projects
planned for funding beyond fiscal year 2023 include the Library’s public computer
replacement program and the Voting Machine Replacement for Elections.
Slide 12:
Funding has been identified for all of the projects that have been presented, and all
funding and projects conform to the Comprehensive Financial Policy.
Slide 13:
In the adopted fiscal year 2021 capital year budget, we were forced to eliminate the
General Government Fund Transfer for one year in order to balance our budget. The
fiscal year 2022 proposal reestablishes the transfer at $1.4 million. The transfer is
intended to fund ongoing programs including the Capital Maintenance Programs.
Other County unrestricted cash in fiscal year 2022 includes the use of $2.5 million in
capital reserves and over $450,000 in funding from VPSA Refunding bonds and the
debt fund combined.
Funding in fiscal year 2022 within the Restricted Cash category totals $928,320 from
Economic Development funds, grant funds and other sources.
Total bond funding in the ten (10)-year plan totals $36.0 million. Additionally, the ten
(10)-year plan is fully funded using unrestricted cash, restricted cash and other sources.
Slides 14:
In conclusion, the proposed fiscal year 2022 – fiscal year 2031 CIP reflects priorities to
strategically locate fire stations to best meet citizen needs, to continue our commitment
to long term economic development strategies, and restore funding for ongoing projects
that support the maintenance of existing facilities and equipment.
The CIP is balanced and reflects the Board of Supervisors’ updated “12-12-12” model.
Each County project proposed for financing through debt issuance meets the approved
debt ratios assigned in the financial policy. Projections for future debt include an
assumption of $12.0 million for Roanoke County Public Schools during the years that
are scheduled for funding. As a reminder, this presentation and the proposed CIP in
PDF format can be found on the County’s website on the Budget Division page.
Supervisor Mahoney stated on page 9, for the CIP projects for Economic
Development and the Broadband Authority initiative and the $386,000, Mr. O’Donnell
had indicated the funds would be coming from the EDA. Mr. O’Donnell indicated they
had funded for the prior two (2) years and we had hoped we would have revenue to
fund it on an ongoing basis, but because of the budget crunch from the pandemic, we
went back and asked for one (1) more year and they were gracious enough to fund
through bond issuances and land sales. Supervisor Mahoney asked how much do have
them left in their “piggy bank?” Mr. O’Donnell indicated they had approximately
$400,000 unallocated and they also have $700,000 in reserve for the Mack Truck
project and they had some other reserve funds. Off the top of his head, he believes we
January 26, 2021
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get $90,000 off the bond issuance from Richfield. Supervisor Mahoney stated he was
concerned that if we are fortunate enough to have a prospect show up, whether it is
CRT or Woodhaven, we have always used initiatives from the EDA to help support that.
He was worried if we take too much out of that source of funding, we would not be able
to address an opportunity that comes down the road. Mr. O’Donnell advised that is
something the Board could discuss at the retreat on Saturday. There are funds that are
set aside for CRT capital improvement that we have not used yet. Supervisor Mahoney
advised there are a lot of opportunities and unfortunately, they cost a lot of money. Mr.
O’Donnell stated hopefully we can replenish some of those with end of year balances.
Mr. Mahoney stated so in May we are going to appropriate $5.3 million for capital
improvement projects. Mr. O’Donnell stated only $1.4 would be coming from new
money out of the general fund.
Supervisor Hooker asked about the rural broadband initiative and we have
one (1) year allocated and she is fairly certain that one (1) year is not going to fix the
problem. What are the thoughts for future years? Mr. O’Donnell responded that we do
not have a reoccurring funding source, so we put $200,000 in last year and added to it
at year end. He added they will be looking at year-end funds.
Supervisor North stated on the Roanoke County Broadband Authority
initiative isn’t there another component of $300,000 towards the operating costs. Mr.
O’Donnell stated he does not think it is that much, but this year is what we have told
them that we can continue to subsidize. The Broadband Authority Board has a planning
meeting to look at the future needs and it will be a discussion point in March. This
current fiscal year coming up is the last year of the commitment to an ongoing operating
subsidy.
2. Briefing on the Economic Development Strategic Planning
process for 2021 (Jill Loope, Director of Economic Development;
Scott Tate, Ph.D., Associate Director, Economic Development,
Office of Economic Development Outreach and International
Affairs) –
Jill Loope provided an overview and Dr. Tate provided a PowerPoint
presentation outlining the planning process.
Supervisor Radford asked Dr. Tate if he could share who the stakeholders
are. Dr. Tate explained they start with a base group and Ms. Loope has been working
to put that list together and they include business stakeholders, bank statement holders,
workforce development providers, regional partners that work in economic
development.
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We will look at the base list and start there. As we begin to figure out the
best way to collect data, surveys and interviews, we do anticipate using both. When
other additional strategies are worked out it might include some focus group type
conversations with particular types of industries. We have a base list, but want to keep
an eye out to be flexible going forward and be able to adapt. Supervisor Radford asked
if they normally involve schools systems as stakeholders with Dr. Tate responding that
usually they do.
Supervisor North asked if this study tells us about population shifts away
from this area because of weaknesses. Dr. Tate responded in the affirmative and part
of the reason to update our data throughout the process is that some of the
demographic data that we will rely on from the recent census will not come out until
farther into the year. They will look at what the data tells us now and as more data is
released, we will continue to revisit that and hopefully give us a better picture about
demographics.
IN RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS AND FIRST READING OF
REZONING ORDINANCES - CONSENT AGENDA
1. The petition of R. P. Fralin, Inc. to rezone approximately 41.85
acres from I-1, Low Intensity Industrial, District to R-1, Low
Density Residential, District to develop a 124-lot single-family
home subdivision located at 5524 Old Mountain Road, Hollins
Magisterial District
Supervisor North’s motion to approve the first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for February 23, 2021, was seconded by Supervisor Radford
and approved by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
2. The petition of Zye and Gaven Reinhardt to obtain a special use
permit in an AR, Agricultural/Residential, District for a special
events facility on approximately 31.32 acres, located at 2875
Timberview Road, Catawba Magisterial District
Supervisor Hooker’s motion to approve the first reading and set the
second reading and public hearing for February 23, 2021, was seconded by Supervisor
Radford and approved by the following vote:
January 26, 2021
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AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1. Ordinance amending Article I (General Provisions), Article II,
(Definitions and Use Types), Article III (District Regulations),
Article IV (Use and Design Standards) and Article V
(Development Standards) of the Roanoke County Zoning
Ordinance (Philip Thompson, Director of Planning)
Mr. Thompson provided a PowerPoint presentation and outlined the
requested changes.
Supervisor Hooker stated with regard to Mr. Whitt’s email, he mentioned
specifically the time limit on temporary and in construction yard she saw where staff
stated for the duration of the construction plus restorations and thought that cured that,
but then there were some other issues. Mr. Thompson advised he thinks he was
looking for a set time and we talked about that. We reviewed the comments from the
Planning Commission and there were some with specifics on the time. We are trying to
be flexible enough to basically be anytime. The intent regarding when it becomes
temporary and when it transitions to more permanent. There is no fast rule. It should
be in the opinion of the staff and thinks Mr. Whitt was looking at whether we need a
hard, set number. Supervisor Hooker asks if this also applies in short-term rental;
because he mentioned that specifically. Mr. Thompson advised that is for any short-
term rental. If you rent for 30 days or less is not considered short-term rental. There is
the practicality, if you rent for 30 days and move somewhere else and rent for 30 days;
typically it is for someone that rents for a year or someone is using it for an investment
property and rented by the week or longer. Supervisor Hooker stated he listed the
Section 30-100-14, “consider deleting the subparagraph as an unnecessary expense for
a temporary issue.” It is not her intention to rehash all the conversation. Mr. Thompson
responded that deals with the screening and buffering requirement of a temporary
construction yard. So, staff’s opinion is that it is not necessarily required. It allows you
to have the ability to put it in. He feels his point is that if it is short-term in nature, what
is the purpose of the screening and buffering, staff would say depending on the
construction and if it is a two (2) year project and there is a house next to it, he would
imagine the house would want that screening and buffering and could be many things.
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Supervisor Mahoney stated he was thinking about the beauty salons and
asked if knew under the building code, would the building commissioner require certain
modifications to the structure if they were doing this as some of the fire code issues we
have had in the past or obligations to install handicap access ramps. Would this kind of
activity trigger something that Morgan Yates would come in? Mr. Thompson stated he
did not know, but would run this by him and let him know by the public hearing.
Supervisor Mahoney stated he would hate to have an unintended consequence.
Supervisor Mahoney’s motion to approve the first reading and set the
second reading and public hearing for February 9, 2021, was seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and approved by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
2. Ordinance authorizing the acquisition of permanent and
temporary easements on parcels owned by the Roanoke Valley
Resource Authority (Tax Map Parcel Numbers 080.00-05-02.01-
0000, 080.00-05-03.00-0000, and 080.00-05-04.00-0000) for
development of the Roanoke River Greenway in the Vinton
Magisterial District (Lindsay Webb, Parks, Planning and
Development Manager)
Ms. Webb outlined the request for the ordinance. There was no
discussion.
Supervisor Peters’ motion to approve the first reading and set the second
reading for February 9, 2021, was seconded by Supervisor Hooker and approved by the
following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
3. Ordinance approving a permanent easement to Roanoke Gas
Company on parcel owned by Roanoke County Board of
Supervisors (Tax Map Number 036.03-01-01.00-0000) for the
development of the Stormwater Operations Building at the Public
Service Center (Doug Blount, Director of General Services and
Parks, Recreation and Tourism)
Mr. Blount outlined the request for ordinance. There was no discussion.
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Supervisor Hooker’s motion to approve the first reading and set the
second reading for February 9, 2021 was seconded by Supervisor Radford and
approved by the following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, Radford, Peters, North
NAYS: None
4. Ordinance authorizing the acquisition of permanent and
temporary easements at Explore Park owned by the Virginia
Recreational Facilities Authority (Tax Map Parcel Number 080.00-
05-24.00-0000) for development of the Roanoke River Greenway in
the Vinton Magisterial District (Lindsay Webb, Parks, Planning
and Development Manager)
Ms. Webb outlined the request for ordinance. There was no discussion.
Supervisor Peters’ motion to approve the first reading and set the second
reading for February 9, 2021, was seconded by Supervisor North and approved by the
following vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, Radford, Peters, North
NAYS: None
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION 012621-2 APPROVING AND CONCURRING IN
CERTAIN ITEMS SET FORTH ON THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AGENDA FOR THIS DATE DESIGNATED AS
ITEM H-CONSENT AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for January
26, 2021, designated as Item H - Consent Agenda be, and hereby is, approved and
concurred in as to each item separately set forth in said section designated Items 1
through 4 inclusive, as follows:
1. Approval of minutes – December 1, 2020
2. Request to accept and allocate funds in the amount of $1,816 to the Clerk of
Circuit Court from the Commonwealth of Virginia for Technology Trust Funds
3. Resolution requesting the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT)
accept Old York Road into the Virginia Department of Transportation System
4. Confirmation of appointment to the Roanoke County Audit Committee
January 26, 2021
59
On motion of Supervisor North to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
Radford and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
A-012620-2.a
RESOLUTION 012621-2.b REQUESTING ACCEPTANCE OF
OLD YORK ROAD INTO THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION SECONDARY SYSTEM
WHEREAS, the streets described on the attached Addition Form AM-4.3, fully
incorporated herein by reference, are shown on plats recorded in the Clerk's Office of
the Circuit Court of Roanoke County; and
WHEREAS, the representative for the Virginia Department of Transportation
(VDOT) has advised this Board that the street(s) meet the requirements established by
the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Subdivision Street Requirements; and
WHEREAS, the County and the Virginia Department of Transportation have
entered into an agreement on March 9, 1999 for comprehensive stormwater detention,
which applies to this request for addition.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, this Board requests the Virginia
Department of Transportation to add the street(s) described on the attached Additions
Form AM-4.3 to the secondary system of state highways, pursuant to §33.2-705, Code
of Virginia, and the Department's Subdivision Street Requirements, after receiving a
copy of this resolution and all outstanding fees and documents required of the
developer, whichever occurs last in time; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this Board guarantees a clear and unrestricted
right-of-way, as described, and any necessary easements for cuts, fills and drainage;
and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the Residency Administrator for the Virginia Department of Transportation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this Board hereby guarantees the performance of
the street(s) requested herein to become a part of the State maintained secondary
system of State highways for a period of one year from the date of the acceptance of
the referenced streets by VDOT into the secondary system of State highways. This
Board will reimburse all costs incurred by VDOT to repair faults in the referenced streets
and related drainage facilities associated with workmanship or materials as determined
exclusively by VDOT.
On motion of Supervisor North to adopt the resolution, seconded by Supervisor
Radford and carried by the following recorded vote:
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AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
A-012321-2.c
IN RE: CITIZENS’ COMMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Grace Terry of 4718 Wembley Place, Roanoke Virginia submitted the
following written comment. This comment presents objections to a proposed zoning
amendment on Temporary Construction Yards to go before the Board for a First
Reading on January 26, 2021.
1. Zoning Amendment would have the effect of allowing the Mountain Valley
Pipeline project to establish construction yards without any longer having the
restrictions currently available in agricultural zoning classifications where the
construction developers have to obtain a special use permit.
2. By eliminating the process of a special use permit, that eliminates the chance for
public input or review.
3. Without the chance for public input or review, the County would be allowing
conditions that could be dangerous for a community.
4. The wording of the zoning change is confusing in that it states a restriction of a
location within 500 feet of the actual work and, then immediately suggests that
there is not requirement to adhere to that if it is “ not practicable” .
5. The proposed change cedes decision making to the Zoning Administrator
thereby further taking away the rights of citizens since they would no longer be
able to raise concerns with their elected officials, the supervisors.
6. Definition of “ Temporary” is not specified in the ordinance which would have the
effect of NO regulatory oversight on how long the disruption of a construction
yard with increased traffic, noise, dust,
7. The amendment treats all current zoning districts as equal when, in reality, the
presence of a construction yard with heavy equipment and workers would
present varying challenging circumstances depending on the surrounding zoning.
8. Strong justifications for this proposed change were not evident in watching the
video of the Planning Commission’ s discussion during the January 5, 2021,
Public Hearing. It was simply stated that Staff and Commissioners had “ talked
about it a lot.”
Staff, Commissioners and Supervisors may state that this zoning ordinance change is
only intended to accommodate “ public infrastructure projects” such as sewer lines,
water lines, etc. However, the Pipeline Project is frequently referred by the Pipeline
Develop as a “ utility” . Landowners and Citizens of Roanoke County who are
negatively affected by having this project on our farms and in our midst know
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better, but the legal language of this proposed change does NOT exclude the
Pipeline.
On behalf of my family and neighbors on Bent Mountain who oppose the Mountain
Valley Pipeline Project, PLEASE DO NOT APPROVE THIS ZONING AMENDMENT
CHANGE IN THE FORM THAT IT IS CURRENTLY PROPOSED.
Chairman Peters requested Mr. Thompson provide detail on this when he
returns on February 9, 2021.
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor Radford moved to receive and file the following reports. The
motion was seconded by Supervisor Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
1. Unappropriated, Board Contingency and Capital Reserves
2. Outstanding Debt Report
3. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Revenues as of
December 31, 2020
4. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Expenditures and
Encumbrances as of December 31, 2020
5. Accounts Paid – December 31, 2020
6. Statement of Treasurer's Accountability per Investment and Portfolio
Policy as of December 31, 2020
th
Chairman Peters recessed the meeting at 4:21 p.m. to the 4 floor for
work session.
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session to review with the Board of Supervisors fiscal year
2020-2021 mid-year revenues and expenditures and fiscal year
2021-2022 budget issues (Laurie Gearheart, Director of Finance
and Management Services; Steve Elliott, Budget Manager)
A PowerPoint presentation was given by Ms. Gearheart and Mr. Elliott.
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Supervisor North asked with regard to shared revenues with the schools,
based on their attendance as of the last measure, what would it be if we did not hold
them harmless? Ms. Gearheart responded that has not been officially calculated
because our population has not come in yet. Staff used Weldon Cooper and will not be
th
published until January 29. Next time we meet, she will be happy to share the
number. Supervisor North asked the reason he asked the question was at the School
Board’s recent meeting, their Board package had a comparison of what the State would
give them based on their ADM now and based on what the State would give them
holding them harmless. It was a substantial difference, about $1.4 million more, which
is good for them and we support in our legislative agenda. The Weldon Cooper
estimate will be used in the revenue-sharing formula.
Supervisor Hooker asked with regard to the tax relief programs, why is it
that the tax relief for disabled veterans has been hard to estimate. Mr. Elliott advised in
speaking with the treasurer’s office, part of that was there were a few constitutional
amendments on the ballot, which drew people’s attention to that and when they request
their reimbursement of taxes paid, they are allowed to go back to the inception of the
tax relief program, which is currently around five (5) years. So, there are some one-time
payouts that are driving up the costs. We anticipate it is going to increase for another
year or so and then level off.
Supervisor Mahoney stated the budget amendment that staff would
present to us in February is in effect what is reflected on page 20. So, the question
would become what would be the problem if we delayed the budget amendment a
month. What he is suggesting is that since the lion’s share of the increased revenue is
from sales tax, and we have a two (2) month delay in sales tax, wouldn’t you not know
what the holiday’s sales tax revenue is until the end of February and the beginning of
March. Ms. Gearheart responded that Supervisor Mahoney was correct; we do not
have that number yet. Mr. O’Donnell advised there is budget development issue
because we would like to base the proposed budget off the revised budget. So, if this
doesn’t happen in February, it is hard to calculate the difference between the mid-year
adjustment and the actual budget. Supervisor Mahoney stated he understands.
The work session was held from 4:35 p.m. until 4:58 p.m.
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Chairman Peters called the meeting back into session at 7:00 p.m.
IN RE: PUBLIC HEARINGS AND SECOND READINGS OF ORDINANCES
1. The petition of Kent Wheeler to rezone approximately 13.023 acres
from R-1C, Low Density Residential, District with conditions to I-2,
High Intensity Industrial, District and to rezone approximately
14.483 acres from I-2, High Intensity Industrial, District to AG-1,
Agricultural/Rural Low Density, District, located at and near 5454
Aerospace Road, Vinton Magisterial District (Philip Thompson,
Director of Planning)
Supervisor Radford read the following statement: My construction
business, along with many others, routinely purchases insulation materials from Kent's
Insulation business, which is located on the property that is the subject of tonight's
rezoning petition. I do not expect to receive any direct or indirect benefit from Kent's
Insulation business as a result of the proposed rezoning. However, in an abundance of
caution, I consulted with the County Attorney; together, we reviewed the matter and the
applicable provisions of the Conflicts of Interests Act. I have concluded that the
provisions of the Act do not prevent me from fully participating in this matter. I am
confident that I will be able to participate in a fair, impartial manner. Thank you.
Mr. Thompson outlined the request for ordinance. The petitioner was in
attendance for any questions. There was no discussion.
Chairman Peters recessed the meeting from 7:08 p.m. until 7:18 p.m. to
allow for comment. There were no citizen comments.
ORDINANCE 012621-3 REZONING APPROXIMATELY 13.023
ACRES FROM R-1C (LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL) DISTRICT
WITH CONDITIONS TO I-2 (HIGH INTENSITY INDUSTRIAL)
DISTRICT AND REZONING APPROXIMATELY 14.483 ACRES
FROM I-2 (HIGH INTENSITY INDUSTRIAL) DISTRICT TO AG-1
(AGRICULTURAL/RURAL LOW DENSITY) DISTRICT, LOCATED
AT AND NEAR 5454 AEROSPACE ROAD, VINTON
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT (TAX MAP NO. 090.00-03-12.03-0000)
WHEREAS, Kent Wheeler is requesting to rezone approximately 13.023 acres
from R-1C (Low Density Residential) District with Conditions to I-2 (High Intensity
Industrial) District and to rezone approximately 14.483 acres from I-2 (High Intensity
Industrial) District to AG-1 (Agricultural/Rural Low Density) District, on a parcel located
at and near 5454 Aerospace Road, in the Vinton Magisterial District; and
WHEREAS, the first reading of this ordinance was held on December 15, 2020,
and the second reading and public hearing were held on January 26, 2021; and
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64
WHEREAS, the Roanoke County Planning Commission held a public hearing on
this matter on January 5, 2021; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends approval of the petition as
requested; and
WHEREAS, legal notice and advertisement has been provided as required by
law.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke
County, Virginia, as follows:
1. The petition of Kent Wheeler to rezone approximately 13.023 acres from
R-1C (Low Density Residential) District with conditions to I-2 (High
Intensity Industrial) District, is approved.
2. The Board finds that the proposed rezoning request of the approximately
13.023 acres is not consistent with the Future Land Use Designation of
Conservation; however, the property is already being used for an industrial
use, the rezoning will not bring about a major expansion of the current
industrial use, it is consistent with an adjacent parcel which is also zoned
I-2 (High Intensity Industrial) District and is used for multiple industrial
uses, is good zoning practice, and will not result in a substantial detriment
to the community.
3. The petition of Kent Wheeler to rezone approximately 14.483 acres from I-
2 (High Intensity Industrial) District to AG-1 (Agricultural/Rural Low
Density) District, is approved.
4. The Board finds that the proposed rezoning request of the approximately
14.483 acres is consistent with the purpose and intent of the County’s
adopted comprehensive plan, is good zoning practice, and will not result in
a substantial detriment to the community.
5. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its final
passage. The Zoning Administrator is directed to amend the zoning district
map to reflect the change in zoning classification authorized by this
ordinance.
On motion of Supervisor Peters to adopt the ordinance, seconded by Supervisor
Hooker and carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Mahoney, Hooker, North, Radford, Peters
NAYS: None
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Mahoney stated his first comment deals with career and
technical education, the second one deals with a ribbon cutting and the third deals with
restrictricting on our horizon in the next several months. It was a busy week last week,
January 26, 2021
65
Supervisor Radford and I had an opportunity to go to the Build Smart Institute and meet
with Rob Leonard. The Bill Smart Institute is located at 701 Gainsboro Road. To him it
was a very impressive facility for the different trades, whether carpentry or plumbing or
electrical and he was very impressed by the operation they have there and what Mr.
Leonard is doing. He indicated to Supervisor Radford and I that they were in
negotiation with City of Salem schools to have City of Salem students attend. He thinks
he said currently Roanoke City students were attending and also students from Bedford
County. He thought it was a great operation and sees an opportunity for Roanoke
County to have a public-private partnership to try an address CTE programs. He thinks
all of the Board believes that CTE is a critical component of our economic development
initiatives. If we can work with the private sector and public-private partnerships to
accomplish those goals would be great. Supervisor Radford knows a whole lot more
about some of the activities they were engaged in and would hope he would chime in
later when he has his opportunity to speak. The second opportunity that he and
Supervisor Radford had last week was a ribbon cutting with Cast, Plates and Pints.
Cast, Plates and Pints is a restaurant that opened at 355D Electric Road in West
Village. It used to be the old Annie Moore’s restaurant. He said to the owners that he
had to admire their spirit of entrepreneurship and their courage in trying to open a small
business in the middle of the pandemic year, but he gives them credit for what they are
doing. When we look at this stretch of Rt. 419 on Electric Road, it is one of Roanoke
County’s few commercial areas. He knows we have been doing a lot to try to improve
that stretch of road. He is really happy that these young people are starting this new
business. What was also so impressive to him was the three (3) owners are all from
Roanoke County and two (2) of the three (3) were graduates of Cave Spring High
School. He thought that was great. Again, we are looking at small businesses that are
fantastic to our community. His third topic is redistricting. He has exchanged some
emails with Mr. Thompson trying to get a sense of whether or not he had any
information about when we might start receiving some of the census data. From
reading the national media there is a lot of controversy over the census data and a lot of
litigation, but at least in the past, we would receive that census data sometime in March
or April and we would have a very short time window to try to redistrict the County to try
to comply with the Voting Rights Act and the various State Code provisions. So, with
consent of the Board, he would like their support to request the County Attorney or
County Administrator to look into this and perhaps in 30-60 days give some
recommendations to the Board as to how to address redistricting because of the short
time frames because we would have to redistrict the County for the November elections,
both for Board of Supervisors and School Board. After the 1990, 2000 and 2010
censuses, the Board had established a committee made up of the Registrar, the
Director of Planning and Zoning and the County Attorney and we did that in-house. He
knows other counties hired outside consultants to do that. He knows that redistricting is
a hot-button issue on a Statewide or National basis, but for Roanoke County it is fairly
easy. You just make minor changes in order to have equal population in each of your
January 26, 2021
66
districts. He would hope either the County Attorney or County Administrator could
check with the Registrar, Ken Srpan, Gailen Miles, Jeff Krasnow, the Electoral Board to
see how we could approach this in a timely fashion. If we get that census data by
March or April you have a pretty short window to try to put together redistricting because
we would have to adopt local ordinances in June or July in order to have that in place
for the November elections.
Supervisor North stated recent news from the Commonwealth Transportation
Board recommends five (5) or seven (7) road projects to Roanoke County amounting to
$37 million in State SmartScale revenue. Of these five (5) projects, two (2) are in the
Hollins area, but others are at Rt. 419 and Phase II Streetscapes as well as Starkey,
Buck Mountain Roundabout and also the Valley Point Parkway realignment that could
impact Woodhaven. In the Hollins area, two (2) projects: Rt. 460 intersection
improvement at West Ruritan Road and Rt. 460 Carson Road to Huntridge, both would
amount to $9 million of the $37 million and would improve safety along that corridor in
the future after the funds are approved in June by the Commonwealth Transportation
Board. Also, he has been advised from the Virginia Association of Counties, known as
VACo, of his reappointment as Vice Chair of the State Transportation Steering
Committee for 2021 as well as the Economic Development and Planning Steering
Committee.
Supervisor Radford stated he would like to hitchhike on Supervisor
Mahoney’s comments about Build Smart, it was a great time to go there and see their
operation. It is the vision of Gary Feazell, the owner of F&S Building and Innovations.
We have been clamoring for some type of building trade center where people, no matter
their age, some vehicle to train people to come into the construction industry and he has
hit the nail on the head. What Supervisor Mahoney and he saw was a fantastic
operation; a building that they are leasing. It is just a great opportunity for people that
want to change careers and get into a skilled trade. They had electrical, masonry,
carpentry, plumbing and other stuff they also do. When you get through with them, you
end up with a certification, which is what we need in the homebuilding industry and
AGC, the commercial side. So, that is very important. The schools that Supervisor
Mahoney mentioned did not include Roanoke County and hopes one day there will be
programs that will fit within their program. It is going to be a great opportunity for the
region and community to try and utilize their new facility. On the Cast, Plates and Pints,
Supervisor Mahoney did not mention their pool table. All the guys play pool and thought
it was a neat attraction and it is a one-of-a-kind pool table because of the marble.
Those guys are really proud of it and he took home a Cuban Panini that afternoon for
lunch.
Supervisor Hooker thanked Supervisor Radford for his service last year
and applauded Supervisor Peters for taking on that same duty this year.
Supervisor Peters stated if anyone has been in the Vinton area for any
length of time, probably the last ten years, the old Vinton Motors has been sitting empty
and Roanoke County, the Town of Vinton and our EDA all came together and put
January 26, 2021
67
together a nice package for the developer who is down their now and the restaurant that
is being put in, Joe Goodpies, will be opening in the next week or so. He is glad to see
that area of Vinton come back to life. They have a beautiful job with the facility. He
invited his fellow Supervisors to make your way to Vinton. We all took a tour of that
area about a year ago when the construction was just beginning and think you will be
amazed to see what it looks like today. That have done a fabulous job.
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Peters adjourned the meeting at 7:35 p.m. to January 30, 2021,
at 9:00 a.m. for the Board’s Retreat to be held in the Roanoke County Administration
Center, Third Floor Conference Room.
Submitted by: Approved by:
________________________ ___________________________________
Deborah C. Jacks P. Jason Peters
Chief Deputy Clerk to the Board Chairman
January 26, 2021
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