HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/16/2010 - RegularNovember 16, 2010 425
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 third Tuesday and the only
regularly scheduled meeting of the month of November 2010. 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: CALL TO ORDER
was taken.
Chairman Church called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. The roll call
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chairman Joseph B. "Butch" Church; Vice Chairman Eddie
"Ed" Elswick, Supervisors Michael W. Altizer, Richard C.
Flora, Charlotte A. Moore
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: B. Clayton Goodman III, County Administrator; Daniel R.
O'Donnell, Assistant County Administrator; Diane D. Hyatt,
Assistant County Administrator; Joseph B. Obenshain,
Senior Assistant County Attorney; Teresa Hamilton Hall,
Director of Public Information, Deborah C. Jacks, Deputy
Clerk to the Board
IN RE: OPENING CEREMONIES
The invocation was given by Pastor Tim Tate of the Bonsack United
Methodist Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
IN RE: REQUESTS TO POSTPONE, ADD TO, OR CHANGE THE ORDER OF
AGENDA ITEMS
Chairman Church moved the new business item regarding the
presentation of results of operations for fiscal year ended June 30, 2010, to Briefings.
426 November 16, 2010
Chairman Church added an agenda item under Briefings to discuss
Alcohol Energy Drinks (AED's) with a presentation from the Prevention Council of
Roanoke County.
Supervisor Altizer requested a work session be held in the near future to
discuss stormwater management regulations to make sure that Roanoke County is
doing everything that can be done to accommodate our citizens, businesses and
churches to make sure every legitimate option is made available.
IN RE: BRIEFINGS
1. Presentation of results of operations for fiscal year ended June
30, 2010 (Rebecca Owens, Director of Finance)
Rebecca Owens gave a brief presentation of the results of operations for
fiscal year ended June 30, 2010.
Supervisor Altizer commented back when the telecommunications tax was
delegated to the State, the State would take two to five percent off before it was
forwarded to us versus the original one hundred percent. Currently, there is a year -end
balance of $384,000 shortfall against budget for the year. He asked if staff knew what
lines the shortage comes from, i.e. an accumulation of lines, right -of -way fees, cable
collections, etc. Ms. Owens responded that currently the way the funds come in from
the State it is very difficult to identify specifically which line items because the funds
arrive from the State in one lump -sum. Ms. Owens advised that staff was keeping a
watchful eye on this account. She further added the budget was reduced in the coming
year to $3.9 million, and is currently trailing ahead in the 2010/2011 budget year as our
revenue collections are actually a little above budget. Ms. Owens stressed she would
be glad to research Supervisor Altizer questions to see if there was any way in which to
identify these components. Supervisor Altizer then questioned if this revenue was being
received monthly or on a quarterly basis with Ms. Owens responding that funds were
being received on a monthly basis. Supervisor Altizer stated his concern is just making
sure that Roanoke County is receiving all the funds it is due because as he looks at the
comparative budget and actual revenues for current year, the County is actually
trending to hit a $4.4 million budget for the year, which is budgeted for $3.9 million.
Accordingly, he advised there is an overage of $480,000 for the first four months and a
$384,000 shortfall for last year. Supervisor Altizer reiterated that he wanted to make
sure that all the eligible revenue this is supposed to be coming to Roanoke County is in
fact being received, especially under the current economic conditions. Supervisor
Altizer requested that County staff try to figure out those line items because there is an
approximate $700,000 swing in the comparison numbers. Ms Owens stated that last
year, staff actually changed how they were budgeting for that particular line. Last year,
two lines needed to be combined: the franchise tax line and the communication sales
and use tax line. Staff made some adjustments during the year resulting in some
November 16, 2010 427
months both line items must be combined to compare it to the budgeted line item for the
communication tax solely in this fiscal year. However, Ms. Owens advised staff would
revisit to make sure it is being correctly reflected.
2. Alcohol energy Drinks (AED's) (Nancy Hans and Arlene Murphy;
Prevention Council of Roanoke County)
Chairman Church advised that once again Roanoke County was faced
with another danger to our young people. He advised that on November 11, 2010 he
attended an event with Supervisor Moore and both were shocked at what is currently
occurring with alcohol energy drinks, which are being sold to just about any age and
appear to be very similar in appearance to juice. Chairman Church indicated that
Senators Edwards and Smith; Congressmen Cleveland and Ware were also in
attendance and expressed their alarm and were ready to move forward once the Board
acts.
Nancy Hans and Arlene Murphy of the Prevention Council of Roanoke
County advised the Board that these drinks are a potent blend of alcohol and caffeine,
with no content labels other than alcohol. They advised the stimulants mask the
intoxication and several deaths have occurred; all students under the legal drinking age.
Ms. Han then introduced the following students who addressed the Board regarding the
dangers of these drinks: Courtney Becker, Khadijah Fountain, Virginia Harris (Northside
High School); Morgan Firing from Hidden Valley High School; Erin Smith from Cave
Spring High School and Charisse Thompson and Sarah Kornegay from William Byrd High
School. Each student gave a brief speech.
Each Supervisor expressed their support of banning these drinks.
Chairman Church requested that based on the consensus of the Board, that the County
Attorney's office prepare a resolution to ban these drinks and ask that other localities
do the same. Chairman Church asked Ms. Han to verify that his understanding that the
alcohol in this drink would normally make a person sleepy, but the caffeine keeps you
awake. Ms. Han confirmed Chairman Church's statement and advised that doctors have
advised what happens is these drinks are tricking the brain by including both a
depressant and a stimulant.
IN RE: NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution to accept Knightsbridge Drive and Paddington Court
into the Virginia Department of Transportation Secondary System,
Cave Spring Magisterial District (Arnold Covey, Director of
Community Development)
Arnold Covey reviewed the resolution for the Board. There was no
428 November 16, 2010
discussion.
RESOLUTION 111610 -1 TO ACCEPT KNIGHTSBRIDGE DRIVE
AND PADDINGTON COURT 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 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 §33.1 -229, 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.
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.
On motion of Supervisor Moore to adopt the ordinance, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
2. Request to apply for Virginia Department of Transportation
(VDOT) Enhancement Grant — East Roanoke River Greenway —
Roanoke City Limits to Blue Ridge Parkway, Vinton Magisterial
District (Janet Schied, Greenway Coordinator)
November 16, 2010 429
A- 111610 -2
Janet Schied reviewed the request for the enhancement grant. Supervisor
Altizer asked the anticipated date to obtain the remaining right -of -ways from the eleven
private property owners. Ms. Schied responded by advising discussion with the other
private property owners had not been held in several years. She advised a Community
Meeting was held year ago and received a mixed response. Accordingly, the
negotiations have not started.
Supervisor Moore thanked Ms. Schied for all the hard work that had been
done on these grants, as our greenways are so important.
Senior Assistant County Attorney Joe Obenshain commented that due to
the hard work, diligence and patience of Ms. Schied and Ms. Belcher, an agreement
has been reached with Hollins University to allow an extension of the Greenway
segment from north of 1 -81 up to Carvins Cove. He indicated the final details were still
being worked on.
Supervisor Altizer moved to approve the request. The motion carried by
the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
IN RE: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS AND FIRST READING OF
REZONING ORDINANCES - CONSENT AGENDA
1. The petition of Timberbrook Properties IX, LLC, and Fincastle
Equipment Company, LC, to rezone 9.096 acres from AR,
Agricultural Residential, District to C- 2C /CVOD, General
Commercial /Clearbrook Village Overlay, District with conditions
in order to construct a general commercial, retail sales and
restaurant project, located on the northeastern side of Clearbrook
Lane and across from the intersection of Clearbrook Lane and
Clearbrook Village Lane, Cave Spring Magisterial District.
Supervisor Moore moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for December 14, 2010. The motion carried by the following
recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
2. The petition of Kingery Bros. Associates to obtain a Special Use
Permit in a AV, Agricultural/Village Center, District for the
purpose of operating a construction yard on 3.81 acres, located
430
November 16, 2010
near the 6000 block of Franklin Road, Cave Spring Magisterial
District.
Supervisor Moore moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for December 14, 2010. The motion carried by the following
recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
3. The petition of Fellowship Community Church to obtain a Special
Use Permit in a C -2, General Commercial, District to operate a
religious assembly on 4.088 acres, located at 7208 Williamson
Road, Hollins Magisterial District.
Supervisor Flora moved to approve the first reading and set the second
reading and public hearing for December 14, 2010. The motion carried by the following
recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
IN RE: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES
1. Ordinance authorizing the exercise of the option to acquire
approximately 0.27 acre of real estate (Tax map no. 97.05- 01 -17)
from Grace M. Spradlin for the expansion of Starkey Park, Cave
Spring Magisterial District (Diane D. Hyatt, Assistant County
Administrator)
Diane Hyatt reviewed the request for the ordinance authorizing the option
to acquire the property. There was no discussion. Supervisor Moore moved to approve
the first reading and set the second reading for December 14, 2010. The motion carried
by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
November 16, 2010 431
IN RE: SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES
1. Ordinance amending ordinance number 052510 -7 by providing for
the use of appropriations from the School Board year -end
balance (Diane Hyatt, Assistant County Administrator
Diane Hyatt reviewed the ordinance and advised there were no changes
from the first reading held on October 26, 2010. There was no discussion.
ORDINANCE 111610 -3 AMENDING ORDINANCE NUMBER
052510 -7 BY PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF APPROPRIATIONS
FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD YEAR -END BALANCE
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors approved the appropriation of funds for the
2010 -2011 budget by Ordinance # 052510 -7 , that was adopted on May 25, 2010; and
WHEREAS, paragraph five of this appropriation ordinance included the approval
for the use of the 2009 -2010 School year -end funds; and
WHEREAS, on October 14, 2010, the School Board approved an amendment to
the policy for the use of School funds remaining at the end of the fiscal year, and
requested that this amendment be approved by the County Board of Supervisors; and
WHEREAS, this first reading of this appropriation ordinance was held on October
26 2010, and the second reading of this ordinance was held on November 16, 2010
pursuant to the provisions of Section 18.04 of the Roanoke County Charter.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia,
1. That paragraph five of Ordinance #052510 -7 be amended and re- adopted as
follows:
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * **
5. That all School fund appropriations remaining at the end of the 2009 -2010
fiscal year not lapse but shall be appropriated to the School Capital Fund in fiscal year
2010 -2011 as follows:
a.) Two - thirds of the year -end balance in the School operating fund will be
allocated to the Major School Capital Reserve
b.) One -third of the year -end balance in the School operating fund will be
allocated to the Minor School Capital Reserve
* * * * * * * * * * * * **
That this ordinance shall be effective from and after the date of its adoption.
On motion of Supervisor Church to adopt the ordinance, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
432 November 16, 2010
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
IN RE: APPOINTMENT
1. Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare
Tim Steller, the Executive Director of Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare
recommended that Linda Manns and Dana Barnes Lee be reappointed. Both terms will
expire December 31, 2013. Confirmation of these appointments were placed on the
Consent Agenda.
2. Roanoke County Planning Commission (appointed by District)
Supervisor Altizer reappointed Jason Peters to represent the Vinton
Magisterial District. Mr. Peter's term will expire December 31, 2014. Confirmation of
the appointment was placed on the Consent Agenda.
IN RE: CONSENT AGENDA
RESOLUTION 111610 -4 APPROVING AND CONCURRING IN
CERTAIN ITEMS SET FORTH ON THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS AGENDA FOR THIS DATE DESIGNATED AS
ITEM I- CONSENT AGENDA
BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia, as
follows:
That the certain section of the agenda of the Board of Supervisors for November
16, 2010, designated as Item I - Consent Agenda be, and hereby is, approved and
concurred in as to each item separately set forth in said section designated Items 1
through 2 inclusive, as follows:
1. Approval of Minutes — October 14, 2010; October 26, 2010
2. Request to accept and appropriate funds in the amount of $89,290 to the
Roanoke County Public Schools
3. Confirmation of appointments to the Blue Ridge Behavior Healthcare and the
Roanoke County Planning Commission.
On motion of Supervisor Altizer to adopt the resolution, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
November 16, 2010 433
IN RE: CITIZENS' COMMENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Brooks McDaniel 1942 Oak Drive, Salem, Virginia stated that he is the
Chief Executive Officer of Boots at the Booth, a veterans lobbying organization. Mr.
McDaniel explained his organization has recently filed an injunction in the federal court
to prevent the Veterans Administration regional office from moving from the Roanoke
Federal Poff Building in downtown Roanoke. He advised that he is asking the Board for
an impact study as to the pros and cons of possibly moving the Salem Veterans
Administration Regional office to the Salem Veterans Administration Medical Center.
Mr. McDaniel indicated Boots at the Booth would be interested in knowing what the
Board's position would be as far as the economic and physical impact of such a location
that would involve at least four hundred Veterans Administration employees as well as
the veterans being congregated to the Salem Veterans Administration Medical Center
for medical care as well as filing their claims for benefits.
Chairman Church requested Mr. Goodman, staff and the County Attorney
to review and advise what the next steps would be.
IN RE: REPORTS
Supervisor Flora moved to receive and file the following reports. The
motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
1. General Fund Unappropriated Balance
2. Capital Reserves
3. Reserve for Board Contingency
4. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Expenditures
and Encumbrances for the month ended October 31, 2010
5. Comparative Statement of Budgeted and Actual Revenues for
the month ended October 31, 2010
434 November 16, 2010
6. Treasurer's Statement of Accountability per Investment and
Portfolio Policy as of October 31, 2010
7. Accounts Paid — October 2010
8. Proclamations signed by the Chairman
IN RE: REPORTS AND INQUIRIES OF BOARD MEMBERS
Supervisor Moore gave a heartfelt thank you to all veterans who
participated in the Veterans Days Parade in Roanoke City on Saturday, November 13,
2010. Ms. Moore also thanked everyone who participated in the events on Veterans
Day all over Roanoke County. David Helmer gave a PowerPoint presentation on what
Cambia looks like today and went over some of his tragic moments during his tour of
duty in Vietnam. The Green Valley school students gave a wonderful presentation of
songs and speeches honoring our veterans. Ms. Moore asked that everyone please
join her in thanking all servicemen and women and our veterans for giving us our
freedom.
Supervisor Altizer advised that he just wanted to announce it is his hope
as the agenda has not quite come out yet, but he believes the Board's petition to restrict
tractor trailers on Route 116 is going to be heard before the Commonwealth
Transportation Board in December and appropriately the meeting will be held in
Roanoke. He just wanted to let anyone living along the Route 116 corridor and to our
friends in Franklin County, who certainly endorsed our resolution to stay advised. He
indicated there should be a citizen comment part of that meeting.
Supervisor Flora advised Mr. Goodman that he had several conversations
with merchants out in Hollins where Crouch's Pharmacy is located. There seems to be
an issue about refuse collection, not about whether it is going to be picked up, but
where the cans are going to be located. He further commented the location where the
County is asking to put the cans would occupy about five or six parking spaces which
could conceivably reduce the number of parking spaces below what the zoning is
required. There is an alternative, which in my opinion would be more convenient
because the one -armed bandits can just pull up, dump them and keep going; they
would not have to turn around. This issue may have been resolved, because
Supervisor Flora stated he not talked to them now for a week and requested Mr.
Goodman to follow -up. Mr. Flora then stated he has a meeting with the Homeowner's
Association on a subdivision right off of Brookfield and if staff could provide him with
some background on Brookfield Road and any attempts to improve this area. One of
the original roads in the Starmount area which was developed probably back in the
early 1950's, maybe late 1940's, it is very narrow as it used to serve probably less than
a half a dozen homes and now it serves a lot of homes back in there.
November 16, 2010 435
Mr. Flora asked if he could get some historical information so he can meet with the
homeowners association in a couple of weeks, it would be appreciated.
Chairman Church congratulated all the veterans and stated what they
have done for us is the reason we are free and have our liberties and freedom in the
United States. Mr. Church remarked it was a good parade in downtown Roanoke; it has
been a while since it has been held there. Hopefully, this parade can grow even
stronger. Chairman Church then thanked Fire and Rescue and the Invisible Fence
Company who is the company that donated pet oxygen masks at a presentation in
Clearbrook recently and remarked so many pets are lost by smoke inhalation and fire so
this is another proactive step in taking care of our pets. Chairman Church advised it
was quite interesting to see what is available for our pets who are really members of our
family.
IN RE: CLOSED MEETING
At 4:00 p.m., Chairman Church moved to go into closed meeting following
the work sessions pursuant to the Code of Virginia Section 2.2.3711.A.1.Personnel,
namely discussion concerning appointments to the Economic Development Authority,
Grievance Panel, Roanoke Valley - Alleghany Regional Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy Committee, Roanoke Valley Resource Authority and Western
Virginia Regional Jail Authority; Section 2.2- 3711.A.7. Consultation with legal counsel
and briefings by staff members pertaining to probable litigation, namely, enforcement of
stormwater management ordinance for maintenance of facilities in commercial and
residential developments and property owners' associations; and Section 2.2- 3711.A.5.
Discussion concerning a prospective business or industry or the expansion of an
existing business or industry where no previous announcement has been made of the
business' or industry's interest in locating or expanding its facilities in the County. The
motion carried by the following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
The closed meeting was held from 5:28 p.m. until 6.05 p.m.
The session on Section Section 2.2- 3711.A.7. Consultation with legal
counsel and briefings by staff members pertaining to probable litigation, namely,
enforcement of stormwater management ordinance for maintenance of facilities in
commercial and residential developments and property owners' associations was
postponed to the December 14, 2010 meeting.
436 November 16, 2010
At 4:01 p.m., Chairman Church recessed to the 4 floor for work session
and closed meeting.
IN RE: WORK SESSIONS
1. Work session to discuss the conducting of a County -wide
Citizens Survey (B. Clayton Goodman III, County Administrator)
Mr. Goodman gave a PowerPoint presentation on the possibility of
conducting a County -wide citizens survey. A copy of this presentation is on file in the
office of the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors.
Mr. Goodman explained that a survey was first mentioned approximately
four Board meetings ago when discussing trying to engage our citizens in determining
what kind of information they would like to share with us with regard to the type of
services provided by Roanoke County, how well the County provides these services
and as part of the budget process. Mr. Goodman indicated at that time, it was pointed
out that staff was seeing things that might require further reductions of the budget and
staff thought that by conducting a citizen survey, they could better find out what the
citizens like, what they see as important and essential and as the County goes through
the budget process in the coming six months would have a better idea of what our
citizens would like to see. He explained the last time a citizen survey was done was
approximately ten years ago. Additionally, more recently, Parks and Recreation is in
the process of completing a survey now, but also had one with the master plan involving
engaging citizens for a survey approximately five years ago. Mr. Goodman stressed
that the County has not reached out to our citizens in some kind of formal process in
quite some time. Mr. Goodman emphasized the survey results could be used to
determine County -wide goals based on citizen priorities and it would strengthen our
connection between the County government and our citizens. A satisfaction - priority
relationship can aid budgetary planning and direct funding to areas important to citizens.
Mr. Goodman outlined the other localities that are currently using citizen surveys. He
advised the question then becomes how would a citizen survey be implemented. He
explained the options as follows: professional survey organizations, i.e. Virginia Tech;
ICMA, a national citizen survey and private consulting firms or County staff could do the
survey. The pros for the professionals are the proven methodology, scientifically valid
results that are representative of citizen priorities and satisfaction, unbiased, quick
turnaround. Mr. Goodman expressed his opinion a really good result can be obtained
by using a professional. The con is the cost, which would be approximately $20,000 to
$30,000. If County Staff conducts the survey, it would be less costly as staff is familiar
with the County, but opined he preferred the scientific validity. He further explained
there is little to no survey expertise among the Staff, there is a potential for bias and
would require a significant amount of staff time. Mr. Goodman explained using
standardized surveys, which could be done by ICMA, is a little cheaper than the $20-
30,000 range, but in Mr. Goodman's opinion is a canned type of survey and cannot be
customizable for our locality. He explained components can be added and expanded,
but it is still a very basic survey. Mr. Goodman advised that he is not familiar with this
option, but it is something we could look into further, but stated he is not comfortable
November 16, 2010 437
with it for a lot of reasons. Mr. Goodman outlined that with a customized option, the
survey questions can be developed to meet localities needs, which is the key. He
stressed that how you ask the questions is the key and what questions are asked. He
expressed his opinion these questions must be asked in the proper way to avoid biased
results, etc. Mr. Goodman indicated his suggestion would be to conduct a telephone
survey and then use some kind of statistical analysis. He added that James City
County called people back up to eight times to try to get them to confirm. He indicated
there is also a prequalifier or screener to take care of overlapping telephone numbers,
as steps need to be taken to make sure the people called are actually citizens of the
County. He explained that typically the call is screened to make sure it is a County
resident and then confirmation is done. Mr. Goodman indicated Roanoke County
consists of approximately 90,000 residents and the survey would be between 500 and
1,000 and would provide the necessary results; 95 of 100 surveys completed will
produce results within five percent of the results that would be produced if every
potential respondent in Roanoke County were to be interviewed.
Chairman Church inquired if Mr. Goodman believed the numbers represented
with Mr. Goodman responding in the affirmative.
Mr. Goodman then outlined the professional survey organization would
develop the survey instrument in conjunction with County staff. Mr. Goodman also
stated that he had reviewed with the Chairman that the Board would be included in the
development as well. Mr. Goodman stated if this survey is approved, which Mr.
Goodman recommends, it will have to be done right and a great deal of time and energy
will be spent to arrive at the right questions and the right topics.
Chairman Church stated that he believed you can get just about any answer
you want to get if you ask the question to get that answer. Mr. Goodman indicated he
agreed and explained that is why you need someone that is familiar with doing surveys
and knows how to ask the question.
Supervisor Elswick stated that he extensively reviewed the ten -year old
survey for his campaign and objected to some things. He advised if that is an example
of how professional organizations do the survey then "they are not good for much."
Supervisor Elswick stated in his opinion it was ambiguous, it could be interpreted
anyway that a person wanted to interpret it which it obviously was and it had no dollars
and sense on it. He stated "if you ask people do you like this, oh yeah, we love that,
even if it costs you a hundred bucks a month and then they will say, no we don't like it
quite that much." Supervisor Elswick advised as far as the sampling, Roanoke County
has a computer program that sends tax bills to all Roanoke County property owners and
with a quick program adjustment, say send this survey to every 20 person on the list or
every 50 or 100 person on that computer list, it would be very easy to select who
these surveys go to.
Mr. Goodman stated that is correct, however, he felt it would be biased
because only the people who are highly motivated, positively or negatively would return
the survey. He stated typically, mail surveys have a very low return rate, less than ten
percent, and it seems to him there is some kind of inherent bias because only property
owners are being contacted and that is not all inclusive of Roanoke County citizens.
Mr. Elswick stated that he is of the opinion that staff can get a lot of
volunteers from the community to help do a survey and maybe a small amount of effort
438 November 16, 2010
by Virginia Tech and small amount of effort by County Staff plus plenty of volunteers
from the communities, Civic Leagues and the CommonSense organization, which would
enable the survey to be done without spending a lot of money.
Mr. Goodman stated it might be possible to do that and he does not want to
close the door on anything. He indicated he would be concerned in certain segments of
our County; there could be charges of bias because a certain group represents this or
that. He stated that he was bringing this up only because there will be difficulty with
people questioning, based on the fact that Roanoke County is government; people have
questions of their governments. People are skeptical and everything must be done to
insure that the survey is done in an objective, non - biased way. Mr. Goodman stated he
feels that the cost of having a professional handle the survey would be money well
spent.
Mr. Elswick stated that he does not disagree as long as the Board is involved
in how the questions are asked, the kind of questions that are asked and some kind of
determination of the impact on their tax bills.
Mr. Goodman explained if the Board authorizes the survey, a Request for
Proposal (RFP) would be requested. Staff would review the proposals and then bring to
the Board what staff thinks would be the best proposal to move forward with.
Supervisor Elswick stated that he is one hundred percent behind conducting a
survey and if the economy took a downturn, there would be some justification for where
cuts are made.
Mr. Goodman stated that the reverse could also be true and if so, where
would the citizens want us to spend the money first.
Mr. Goodman stated he feels staff has a good relationship with our citizens as
we continually reach out to them and we do a lot of things on the web; including sending
newsletters out. Publications are not sent out as much as they are costly. Mr. Goodman
also indicated social media is being used for reaching out to County citizens. Staff
wants to know and involve our citizens, but this goes a little farther as this could become
the foundation for future strategic planning. He advised if done correctly could be the
foundation whereby the Board could make policy decisions for the next three to five
years. Additionally, Mr. Goodman commented that it is his opinion that in order to be
done correctly, a survey would need to be done on an ongoing basis, probably every
three to four years. This would be the beginning, not the end. On the next survey, a
standardized survey can be done cheaper and customizable and with County staff
would just be staff time. In conclusion, he commented a connection would be
established between government and its citizens and would enable staff to determine
citizen priorities, gauging citizen satisfaction and then with that information aligning
organization goals with those priorities to assist in developing budgets consistent with
those priorities. He stated he was not going to sit here and say this is foolproof and one
hundred percent perfect, it is not.
Chairman Church inquired of Teresa Hall, Director of Public Information if she
is receiving any feedback, especially feedback that indicates problems of a certain
nature. Ms. Hall stated on a routine basis, during the Board of Supervisors meeting, the
Public Information Office is constantly putting out information to the public about what
the Board's final decisions are regarding items on the agenda and typically the
November 16, 2010 439
responses are of a positive nature, with an occasional question requesting additional
information, but in large most of the information is of a positive nature.
Chairman Church then inquired if other departments are receiving any
complaints. Anne -Marie Green, Director of General Services indicated they had not
received any more complaints than usual. She commented that General Services does
not receive much positive feedback; if people are happy, they don't call us, and nothing
has changed in the last several years.
Supervisor Flora stated that if a survey is done, it needs to be done right;
customized for Roanoke County, specifically and needs be done professionally.
Additionally, he advised one thing that you have to be careful of when you put a survey
out there is be prepared for the responses you get as they may not be what you want. In
other words, be careful what you ask for because you may get it. Supervisor Flora
stated he is not personally convinced that funds should be spent on a survey. He
further commented if people were lining up to speak at public hearings and on the
budget regarding the tax rate and criticizing us at meetings or if the Board was receiving
a lot of critical phone calls about the way the Board is handling things then that would
be indicative of a problem which would need to be responded to, however, this is not
the case. Supervisor Flora expressed his opinion is that the message is that by far the
majority of the people are happy with the way Roanoke County is doing business.
Supervisor Elswick stated that is not true in his neighborhood with Supervisor
Flora responding that Supervisor Elswick might want to do a survey just in his
neighborhood. Supervisor Elswick replied that he had conducted a survey for the entire
Windsor Hills district. He stated that the response he received was that people do not
like the fact that taxes have doubled, did not like the Recreational Center as a way to
spend money, have had interactions with certain portions of County personnel that they
did not like and there were a number of complaints about regulations that have been
imposed, especially those related to building houses. Supervisor Elswick stated that he
feels there is an undercurrent out there that is not seen at public hearings. At our public
hearings there tend to be people with an agenda and the Board does not hear from the
citizens who are sitting at home complaining, not liking the fact that their tax bill has
gone up; they are not going to come to our public hearings. Supervisor Elswick stated
he has always thought, especially based on his feelings regarding the other survey that
was done and was used in way he did not think it should have been; as it was so
grossly broad that it could be interpreted in any way. He further commented that he
feels the Board needs to know what the people think and what they consider the
priorities are.
Supervisor Moore stated that she has some concerns as well. She
commented that she is very transparent and always lets the citizens know what is going
on and she would like to hear from them. She further stated Roanoke County holds a lot
of community meetings for comprehensive plans which Staff spends a lot of money on
and receive feedback from citizens on what they want and what they want to see in their
community and then the County does not do them. Staff does not do some of some or
portions of them, but the comphrehensive plan are not adhered to. Supervisor Moore
indicated Roanoke County is also limited on funds; and in her estimation the $20- 30,000
could go toward public safety or something that was really needed right now. She
further stated she thinks with the budget situation, caution should be exercised.
440 November 16, 2010
Additionally, she is of the opinion that if things change, then it could be put to our
citizens in the community as we have done in the past.
Supervisor Altizer expressed his opinion he is not sold on the idea "the wheel
is missing a spoke or the core is broke out of it." He commented that he feels all of the
Board receives phone calls when people are angry about certain things. Some of those
things, we as Board members bring forward to try and correct. Some of those things, as
Board members when we talk to the people and explain the situation, it is taken care of.
Supervisor Altizer asked if we would use this survey for ongoing budget years and to
guide us into what services will need to be cut. Supervisor Altizer stated he thinks that is
why citizens of Roanoke County elected each and every one of the five Board members
with the confidence that the Board would do the right things with public property. He
then stated that does not mean everybody in Roanoke County is consistently going to
agree with everything. It all varies, which is one of the things he has learned during his
eight years on the Board; things consistently move as a semblance of importance in
each district. He further commented that he feels that with all of the time this Board has
served on the Board, the members have become more and more cognizant of what is
important in each individual district. Additionally Supervisor Altizer commented
discussion can take place about the Green Ridge survey; however, he did not know
what that would prove as some people are still angry and some people like it and some
of the people that were against it are now members at Green Ridge. He further
commented that from a budget standpoint, the real estate tax has dropped and most
citizens understand that.
Supervisor Elswick stated emphatically that he did not agree.
Supervisor Altizer stated that he felt the Chairman did an excellent job in
talking about why Roanoke County's tax rate is $1.09 at the State of the County
address.
Supervisor Elswick then asked what about the assessment percentages of
ninety -three percent; tax bills have doubled.
Supervisor Altizer asked what can be done, as the Board is not going to
change State law and does not know how a survey is going to change that.
Supervisor Elswick stated tax rates have doubled and he wished the other
Supervisors would quit saying the tax rate has dropped. He emphasized there are two
aspects to a tax bill; the tax rate assessment percentage and the rate. He further stated
people do not like the fact that their taxes have doubled.
Chairman Church asked Supervisor Elswick if he was aware Roanoke County
has nothing to do with the assessments with Supervisor Elswick responding he did not
see how that could be as Roanoke County does the assessments. Chairman Church
then asked Billy Driver, Director of Real Estate Assessments to explain the structure of
the State Department of Taxation. Supervisor Elswick stated that it can go as low as
eighty percent with Supervisor Flora responding it can go as low at seventy percent, but
State funding is lost if the reassessment is not done correctly.
Mr. Driver explained in this process, which must be done annually, the State
Department of Taxation has their codes that Roanoke County must adhere to in
accordance as it would be done in appraisal practices by the appraisal institute.
Roanoke County is combining those practices in the assessment. He further detailed
that basically, at seventy percent you would lose the ABC monies that Roanoke County
November 16, 2010 441
has in addition to the ratios at a certain percentage that the properties that are in the
SEC and are appraised by SEC and in determining our ratios determines the amount of
money Roanoke County receives. There are standards of assessment ratios; CODs
and PRDs that Roanoke County adheres to in order to make sure that it is uniform and
of market value, which Roanoke County is striving to do in every general
reassessment.
Supervisor Elswick then asked if the ninety -three percent the highest one for
all of the surrounding counties with Mr. Driver responding no. Mr. Goodman asked what
Supervisor Elswick was referring to as the ninety -three percent, with Supervisor Elswick
responding the assessment as a percentage of market value. Mr. Driver advised that in
2008, there were over twenty some localities that had over one hundred percent ratios
with Supervisor Elswick advising that he was referring to this area. Mr. Driver replied by
stating that he is of the opinion that local localities are between ninety and one hundred
percent.
Chairman Church indicated that he was attempting to explain every penny
represents $800,000. He further commented that this cannot be put on the side of the
assessments and Supervisor Elswick was correct, the tax bills are going up, but it is the
old double -edged sword because most of the citizens that he talks to want properties
assessed low, but when they sell they want it assessed high.
Supervisor Elswick then stated what about the farmer out there, who is
retired, living on social security, and his farm land has tripled in value; he cannot afford
it. Chairman Church replied by stating that is why there is land use, with Supervisor
Elswick responding this farmer has always been in land use. Supervisor Flora
responded that his taxes are not going up, with Supervisor Elswick stating taxes are still
going up because his house keeps going up. Supervisor Flora responded by stating
that his house goes up but not the land.
Supervisor Elswick then commented that this same farmer does not get to
enjoy some of the facilities that Roanoke County has built over the last four or five
years, because he lives out in a rural area.
Supervisor Flora replied by stating one of the differences between Roanoke
County and some of the more rural counties around it, is an assessment that is done
annually. It is possible to go as much as every six years, so if you want to assess every
six years then you don't have to go through that misery but once every six years, but
when your real estate values go up fifty or sixty percent when you have a
reassessment, then you wish you were not on the Board. He further indicated that
these assessments can go to four years or two years, any of those combinations, but
you can probably count on one hand other counties that have six -year reassessments
and they are getting away from the practice as quick as they can. He further stated that
those huge increases just fire the people up, plus that locality is losing revenue during
year because spending is higher, but your revenue is static which results in getting
behind and then all that is being done is catching up when there is a reassessment.
Mr. Goodman brought the discussion back to the survey, by advising one of
the reasons that he and staff think a survey is important is that it is a tool that could be
used to identify what our citizens want. He commented further by agreeing with
Chairman Church that there are not a lot of phone calls. He advised that he does not
believe there is a problem and if the data collected in a survey is properly done, it will
442 November 16, 2010
provide the necessary information. Mr. Goodman agreed Supervisor Flora is correct
that a survey must be done carefully to make sure citizens input is recognized. Mr.
Goodman also stated that Supervisor Moore was also correct in that staff is reaching
out to the people, for example, in Glenvar right now, the West County area, with
extensive comprehensive plan updates. Mr. Goodman also reiterated that staff does
identify things that citizens want as a sort of wish list, however, that is completely
different than a survey. Typically, as in the Glenvar meetings, staff does not discuss
with the citizens what it is going to cost to do these things, they are asking what the
citizens would like to see. There is no cost association.
Chairman Church indicated this is being done throughout the County with Mr.
Goodman responding that Chairman Church is correct as it has been done in Vinton,
Hollins and Route 221. Mr. Goodman explained staff is not ignoring the citizens, but
feels that this is another tool that has been identified in the industry that can be used to
start the foundation for further strategic planning.
Supervisor Elswick stated that he is in agreement one hundred percent. He
thanked Mr. Goodman for working on it. Supervisor Elswick then stated that if the other
Board members did not agree he wanted to remind them that they represent citizens
and if the Board does not do its best to find out what our citizens want us to spend their
money on then he feels the Board is neglecting their respective constituencies. He
added that for $30,000, the Board has a great opportunity to have our citizens tell us
how Roanoke County ought to spend their money; adding that to date, the County has
been spending their money the way staff thought they wanted us to without a lot of
input. He further added that the Board and staff can attend civic league meetings, but
that is statistically invalid, as are questions on a website as well as telephone calls.
Supervisor Altizer stated surveys have their place and he does not disagree
with this.
Chairman Church advised that he was not saying surveys are a bad idea.
Supervisor Altizer then stated that he does not disagree that you do not get all
the information, but where in the crossroads do you say you ignore the survey because
let's face it, we as five Board members sitting around this table, understand and know
just because of the positions held and things we have been subjected to from our years
on the Board, what do you do when you know in your heart that the best decision for
your citizens is contrary to what that survey might tell you. He further asked do you
take that survey and that is the way we go, or do we do what the Board has always
done and look out for what the Board believes is the best for the whole of the County
and move forward. He further commented that he does not have a clue what the
questions would be because if the citizens come back and say they want to pay lower
taxes, that is all regulated and the County is mandated to do those things, as explained
by Supervisors Church and Flora. The only other thing to do to accomplish that would
be to cut the tax rate.
Mr. Goodman advised that he knows that the country relies on surveys,
surveys paid for by various groups and he is not saying these surveys are controlling us
because he feels we have a democratic government. Mr. Goodman commented further
by stating the Board is elected to represent the citizens in the best interest that the
Board sees fit and the Board members are right in that information can change, nothing
is static, nothing stays the same in government. Mr. Goodman stated he does not think
November 16, 2010 443
this survey would be used in order to say the Board voted against the survey. He
further clarified by stating that he is sure some people might say that; some might read
it and say that because whatever is done will be public record, however, the use of the
survey should assist Staff in the right direction. Staff would never intend to do such a
survey or even ask questions in a way to create that environment, but what we are
trying to look at is what the citizens would prioritize. Mr. Goodman advised just because
not many people respond to the fact that Roanoke County might be making widgets Y
instead of widgets X; does not mean that there is not a public need for that item, it just
shows you the priority ranking of it within the whole community. Additionally, he added
that does not mean the Board will not fund it because a lot of items are funded that go
across a wide spectrum and does not have one hundred percent support. He stated the
Board uses their own judgment, information and contacts with their constituents. He
further commented that he is aware that all the Board members do a lot of work with
their constituents and staff is not trying to eliminate that or remove that, as staff feels a
survey, properly done with some limits can be done in such a way that would help staff
set up priorities for the future.
Chairman Church stated that he is not saying a survey is bad, he just feels
there are other areas where the $20/$30,000 could be better used. If the survey comes
back and says overwhelmingly that citizens want whatever, and we cannot do it as a
Board, then doesn't the Board have the danger of the blowback from the citizens that
say, "You did a survey and you did not listen to us, it is worthless." Chairman Church
explained that he is not trying to be a naysayer, but if enough people want a certain
item, for example, a lot of people out there think the Board can just arbitrarily move back
the assessments, etc. with no problems, no ramifications and the Board can cut the
revenues down by $6 million, unfortunately something would have to go. So, for every
action there is to be a reciprocal action someplace else. The budget makers know that
better than anybody, because the County cannot print money.
Mr. Goodman stated if Roanoke County had to cut the budget $6 million,
services would need to be drastically cut. He emphasized if the survey came back with
the citizens wanting to see a significant revenue reduction, which he does not feel would
be one of the questions, this action would devastate Roanoke County services, as with
a reduction of $6 million, some services would have to be totally wiped out because
there are a lot of State mandates that are done because the State of Virginia requires
that we do so.
Supervisor Flora stated perhaps the first survey we should do is to ask the
citizens if they want to spend $30,000 to find out what they want us to do.
Supervisor Elswick stated he does not think Roanoke County should be afraid
to ask the citizens what they think, with Supervisor Altizer commenting that he does not
think anyone is afraid to ask the citizens what they think as it is done all the time.
Supervisor Elswick stated emphatically that we do not do that. Mr. Goodman stated
staff does reach out, just not in the form of a survey. He stated staff has comprehensive
plan meetings, quarterly civic league meetings and RVTV.
Chairman Church stated that he could not speak for the other areas, but 115
or 120 citizens attended the meetings in Glenvar. He stated that he got everything from
"give me this, give me that, and take this or whatever in between" because the citizens
are there to talk to you and he cannot speak for the other Supervisors, but that is just
444 November 16, 2010
one select community. Chairman Church then questioned Pete Haislip, Director of
Parks and Recreation concerning what kind of survey he is doing and are we risking
duplication? Mr. Haislip responded that Green Ridge is in the process of doing a
customer satisfaction survey because everyone knows it is important at Green Ridge to
recover its operating costs and so it is important for us to be connected to our members,
our users. Mr. Haislip further commented if you go back to the Parks and Recreation
survey and the master plan which is a statistically valid survey, but stated if you go look
at that survey right now, the programs that people said were important, the programs for
their families and the programs that had the biggest need, staff followed that survey,
designed Green Ridge with those things that people said were needed and were
important and that is why we are successful today. He commented that was a good
process and he is a believer in surveys.
Brent Robertson, Director of Management and Budget explained to the Board
that Jimmy Lyons and he did some of the research for Mr. Goodman's presentation and
it is his opinion the Board is uncomfortable with open ended questions about what
citizens want. Mr. Robertson stated that he was in agreement because everybody
wants less taxes and more service. Further, he commented that he thinks those types
of questions would be avoided. Based on research, there are a great deal of localities
doing these surveys currently. He stated that he feels there should be two dimensions:
service level satisfaction and priority in services. Mr. Robertson stated that he does
not think there are any problems, but thinks one of the things that has been discussed
previously are current services sustainable if our revenues continue to decline or do not
rebound and corresponding service area cuts need to be done. Mr. Robertson stated
that his point after looking at the research is the sustainability of services moving
forward.
Supervisor Moore asked if some of those service cuts are not obvious, if all
the Department Heads have been cut down to the bare minimum already and have
done a fabulous job, it will become a matter or priority and she feels our citizens realize
that.
Mr. Robertson remarked that Roanoke County has two hundred services that
are currently being offered. Staff knows what their own top fifteen are, but does the
Board know number one through two hundred. He stated that he feels the Board has a
good idea, but this is where we would need to work together.
Mr. Goodman stated that staff would fine tune what you would receive from
your citizens from this survey. He commented that he feels this information would
reflect what you are already hearing from your citizens, but staff would be able to fine
tune it with a little more information.
Supervisor Moore stated that if the County got to the point that cuts needed to
be made, perhaps that would be the best time to reach out and ask what the citizens
want.
Supervisor Altizer asked if the survey is being done a year or eighteen
months in advance, how valid are the statistics or those questions with Mr. Goodman
responding that the statistics are only good for the time that you complete the survey.
Supervisor Altizer responded by agreeing and stating that priorities change based on
the economy and how the economy is doing.
November 16, 2010 445
Mr. Goodman agreed with Mr. Altizer and stated that is why he has stressed
you cannot just do one survey and not do another one for a long period of time. He
explained in order to have any type of continuity and seeing the movement within the
citizenry, the priorities, service levels, you have to do it every three or four years. Mr.
Goodman compared a survey to an audit stating an audit is a snapshot; a survey would
be a snapshot for a month that would represent the public's input for that month.
Additionally, Mr. Goodman noted there could be a major catastrophic event that could
change everything the month after that. Once again, surveys are somewhat stable, so
think it would be a good tool.
Supervisor Church made a suggestion stating that Supervisor Elswick has a
valid point. He suggested that if Windsor Hills has some dissatisfaction or disconnect or
whatever, then staff needs to find out the number. When I say number, you have the
same number we have, 16/17,000 people and if it is out of kilter then we need to listen
to what they have to say and maybe ask ourselves, is that different or does it coincide
with the other four districts or not. Chairman Church advised that if Roanoke County
has one district that is 1/5 of this Board, the Board does need to listen to them.
Supervisor Elswick explained that when he visited approximately three to four
thousand homes certain things had happened to the citizens and that he personally had
experienced and did not like and would hope that this survey that would bring out more
things that are similar to those in which the people that the citizens mentioned that have
an attitude or an overexpenditure on the part of the County that they would not like to
see their tax dollars spent on. He stated there were specific issues that this setting is
not the proper forum to discuss. Additionally, he noted a survey would enable staff to
find out whether or not there are other instances of potentially negative approaches to
citizens or potentially wrongful spending of the tax dollars that the people have paid that
they disagree with. Supervisor Elswick stated that he feels a survey would bring out
more of those kinds of things, because most people are sitting back and saying the
County raised taxed taxes and they gripe about it but they do not do anything about it,
they do not attend civic league meetings, they do not come to Board meetings, they
write letters to the editor, but it still bothers them and they just pay the bills and become
more frustrated. He advised he thinks a properly worded survey, once it is explained to
the citizens why it is being conducted, would enable the County to find out some things
that staff need to know.
Supervisor Flora stated that he feels he is hearing two different things. He
advised that he is hearing a survey that is going to determine priorities and Supervisor
Elswick is are looking for a survey to get names of people who messed up in the County
that has done something wrong so they can be punished or fired or whatever. He
stated he does not think that is the kind of survey we need to do. Supervisor Elswick
responded by stating that he does not know why Supervisor Flora got that impression.
Supervisor Flora stated that Supervisor Elswick had just stated there was negative
feedback from some of the County employees and if you are looking for that kind of
information, does not think a survey is going to give him this information. Supervisor
Elswick stated he also stated that there may be ways that the County is spending
money that is in conflict with how citizens think their tax dollars ought to be spent.
Supervisor Elswick further explained he does not see how that type of survey cannot be
done. Additionally, he commented there were instances, though, where people have
446 November 16, 2010
encountered situations that they did not think they should be treated that way, or the
regulation was properly written. He further added that he does not know why the
County could not address those types of things. Supervisor Flora responded by
advising if there is an employee that is not treating people right, the citizen need to call
the County Administrator and have a chat with him. He commented by advising these
type of issues are taken care of entirely different; privately. Supervisor Elswick
responded that these citizens will not do that. Additionally, he advised that when it
happened to him he did not call the County Administrator because the County
Administrator would tell him to "go fly a kite." Supervisor Elswick indicated that he does
not feel that the current Administrator would not do the same, however, he has been
told not to complain by some very important people in the County. It is their opinion if a
complaint is made; it will only lead to more trouble. Supervisor Flora indicated that
these "people" have given him bad advice. Supervisor Elswick stated that he was not
given bad information, as it had happened twice to him personally.
Mr. Goodman stated that if there is any citizen in Roanoke County that is
unhappy with an employee of Roanoke County, they need to call him at 540 - 772 -2004.
Supervisor Elswick stated that Mr. Goodman was already receiving calls with Mr.
Goodman responding that was correct and staff was working on the issues.
Supervisor Elswick again expressed his opinion that this type of information
was not statistically valid, his few instances are not statistically valid either and he is
hoping that doing a survey will point out this is just one person complaining and will
point out to him that he is the only guy that had the kind of trouble he had and nobody
else is having that trouble; a survey might do that.
Mr. Goodman stated that he has been in government for thirty -two years and
he is used to dealing with the public and he reaches out to the public. He added if a
citizen has a complaint, it is dealt with. Mr. Goodman suggested to the Board that due
to time limits, it is his suggestions that the Board think about this issue and discuss
further at a later date.
Chairman Church stated that he feels, which has nothing to do with the
survey, but with Supervisor Elswick and his citizens, there needs to be an open channel
of communication with Mr. Goodman which will hopefully eliminate those problems. If
not, it will be brought to the Board and then handled. He commented hopefully that will
be a start of confidence builder, or seeing action done and things if they are wrong, if
they are, make them right. Chairman Church indicated that he feels this needs to be
discussed more as he feels you cannot do anything bad by involving our people.
Chairman Church cautioned however that staff would want to be careful with what they
are asking so that it does not become a budget maker, because we could end up in
financial chaos. He further advised that there needs to be some inroads and these
concerns needs to be handled because if there are citizens out there that feel this way
and nothing has been done, it needs to be corrected.
Daniel O'Donnell, Assistant County Administrator advised that he has been
listening to the entire conversation and is hearing a little bit of not necessarily confusion
but not really clearly understanding what is the content of the citizens survey and what
questions would be in it. Mr. O'Donnell suggested that it might help the Board members
to see specific examples of what other communities have done. Mr. Goodman advised
he would send this information to the Board.
November 16, 2010 447
Supervisor Elswick asked if anybody wants to help him out as he already has
questions.
Mr. Goodman stated it is his understanding that Mr. Donnell was talking about
examples of what other communities have done which should give you some idea.
Supervisor Elswick responded by stating most of those are face - saving kinds of surveys
and in his opinion are worthless.
Supervisor Altizer stated his interpretation is people have been mistreated or
have the perception they have been mistreated. He stated that is something that should
be directed to Mr. Goodman. He further added our employees, all of them, should
always hear about customer service and about whom they all work for and it is the
people who pay the bills. If we have an issue like that, then people need to understand
there are citizens that have the perception that they are not being treated right and that
is something the Board will not tolerate. Mr. Goodman explained that Supervisor Altizer
is correct and he meets routinely with directors and deals with these issues. He added
that sometimes what the citizen wants cannot always be done, but we try to help them
in any way that we can.
Supervisor Flora remarked something he has learned in his forty years in
local government is that it is not the fact that you are saying no, but how you say no.
Supervisor Elswick commented he wanted everyone to know that his
incidents were serious enough that he had run for Supervisor partially as a result of
what happened to him personally.
Supervisor Flora remarked that if there are employees that do not understand
customer service, then they need to be retrained; that is the bottom line. He stated that
these employees need to learn it is in the way you tell a citizen that it cannot be done
and the next thing is to figure out how they can do what they want and not violate any
regulations or codes.
Chairman Church then indicated that it was time for closed session and this
issue would be continued at a later time. Supervisor Elswick remarked it was a good
discussion.
The work session was held from 4: 17 p.m. until 5:20 p.m.
IN RE: CERTIFICATION RESOLUTION
At 5:05 p.m., Chairman Church moved to return to open session and
adopt the certification resolution.
RESOLUTION 111610 -5 CERTIFYING THE CLOSED MEETING
WAS HELD IN CONFORMITY WITH THE CODE OF VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County, Virginia has convened
a closed meeting on this date pursuant to an affirmative recorded vote and in
accordance with the provisions of The Virginia Freedom of Information Act; and
OF
448 November 16, 2010
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:
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 Church to adopt the ordinance, and carried by the
following recorded vote:
AYES: Supervisors Moore, Altizer, Flora, Elswick, Church
NAYS: None
IN RE: ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Church adjourned the meeting at 6:06 p.m.
Approved by:
CL
oseph 6. "Butch" Church
Chairman
Deputy Clerk to the Board