HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/21/2003 - MinutesROANOKE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
WORK SESSION MINUTES — JANUARY 21, 2003
Present: Mr. Don Witt
Ms. Martha Hooker
Mr. Al Thomason
Mr. Todd Ross
Mr. Steve Azar
Ms. Janet Scheid
Mr. David Holladay
Mr. Chris Lowe
Mr. Tim Beard
Ms. Tammi Wood
Susan Carter, Recording Secretary
WORK SESSION:
Session opened at 4:00 p.m. by Mr. Don Witt.
Approval of Agenda
Mr. Al Thomason moved to approve the agenda. Motion passed 5 -0.
Review and Discussion of the Planning Commission Bylaws
Ms. Scheid led the discussion regarding 2003 Planning Commission Bylaws. Mr. Witt stated he
was unsure about the word 'Certify' being used in Article V: A -4. Mr. Beard stated this word
has historically been used by the Board of Zoning Appeals also. The Commissioners agreed on
the following:
1. Article IV -A, the word 'Director' should be replaced by 'Chief
2. Article V -C -8 should be removed entirely
3. Article VII -A the phrase should be added, '...right to cancel or change date and time of any
regular meeting.'
4. Article VIII, it was noted that both a section on a tie vote and reconsideration of a petition
should be added. It was recommend Mr. Paul Mahoney, County Attorney, be consulted
regarding the proper procedure to use when making a negative motion.
Discussion of 2003 Workprogram
Ms. Scheid reviewed the programs completed and not completed during previous years. She
reported on staffs involvement in each project. Mr. Witt stated neighborhood advocates should
not be discouraged. He stated more attention should be directed to the Catawba District. Ms.
Hooker concurred. Mr. Witt stated a letter should be written to Parks and Recreation from the
Planning Commission commending the department. The Commissioners expressed interest in
touring the Roanoke County Center Research & Technology.
The Commissioners agreed on the following 2003 Workprogram:
1. Review and revise the Comprehensive Plan
2. Complete Sign Ordinance Revision
3. Continue work on NPDES
4. Review R -1 standards of Zoning Ordinance regarding roads, impact fees, and lot size
5. Work more directly with Economic Development
6. Continue to work on Ridgetop Protection
Discussion of Draft Sign Ordinance
Mr. Holladay gave a brief history of the rotating sign on Peters Creek Road, which is not allowed
by the current Sign Ordinance. He stated the state legislature does allow turning signs, He
requested input regarding possible Sign Ordinance changes from the Commissioners. He stated
that Charles Franklin Advertising, the owners of the tri-vision sign, would most likely contest the
ordinance prohibiting the moving sign. Mr. Thomason stated the sign might cause a diversion
for drivers, Mr. Ross stated the moving sign might be better maintained compared to other
billboards, although he was unsure if the majority of the Commissioners want to go in this
direction. Ms. Hooker noted this type of sign does attract more attention, but she stated this
would only cause this type of signage to grow in number. Mr. Ross stated it might be possible to
reduce the number of other billboards by replacing them with moving boards. Mr. Witt stated it
may be possible to allow a moving sign if another billboard is taken down. Mr. Holladay stated
VDOT has approved the sign. Ms. Hooker stated although the Commission does want to
promote safety, it does not want to conflict with VDOT's opinion of the sign. The
Commissioners made the decision to leave this portion of the sign ordinance as it is at this time.
Comments
Ms. Scheid introduced Mr. Steven Azar, the newly appointed Planning Commissioner. Mr. Azar
stated he might have a problem making it to meetings that begin before 5:00pm. Mr. Ross and
Ms. Hooker stated they both prefer an earlier start for the meetings.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. by Mr. Witt.
Respectfully Submitted,
Approved:
Secretary, Roanoke County Planning Commission
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