Regular Meeting – March 14, 2012
Regular Meeting, Wednesday, March 14, 2012, 7:00 p.m. Government Center, Verona, VA.
PRESENT: Tracy C. Pyles, Jr., Chairman
Jeffrey A. Moore, Vice-Chairman
David R. Beyeler
David A. Karaffa
Marshall W. Pattie
Michael L. Shull
Larry J. Wills
Timmy Fitzgerald, Director of Community Development
Jennifer M. Whetzel, Director of Finance
Patrick J. Morgan, County Attorney
John C. McGehee, Assistant County Administrator
Patrick J. Coffield, County Administrator
Rita R. Austin, CMC, Executive Secretary
VIRGINIA: At a regular meeting of the Augusta County Board of Supervisors held on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., at the Government Center, Verona, Virginia, and in the 236th year of the Commonwealth….
Chairman Pyles welcomed the citizens present.
Lauren Landram, a Senior, and Rebecca O’Roark, a Junior, at Fort Defiance High School, led us with the Pledge of Allegiance. Lauren plays on the Girls Varsity Soccer Team and is the SCA President. Rebecca is a Junior and will be graduating early and, hopefully, attending Mary Baldwin College.
Tracy C. Pyles, Jr., Supervisor for the Pastures District, delivered invocation.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION – VIRGINIA 4-H ALL-STAR LIVESTOCK JUDGING TEAM
Chairman Pyles introduced Coffman Liggett who spoke on the Virginia 4-H All-Star Livestock Judging Team. Mr. Liggett announced that he, Colby Redifer, Elizabeth Nixon and Jordan McCammon were on the team who participated in five different states including Indiana, Kentucky, Nebraska, Maryland and North Carolina. The team finished 3rd at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky and will be leaving June 17th and spend two weeks in Europe, primarily in England and Scotland. He stated that financing this trip is a large endeavor and they are going to the community in search of donations, selling raffle tickets and asked for the Board’s support. Chairman Pyles asked how much money was needed. Mr. Liggett said that it would cost $4,000 for each person. Chairman Pyles asked Mr. Coffield to research what has been done previously. Mr. Coffield suggested that an article be done by the media. Jason Carter, from Extension, was also present.
CONVEYANCE OF REAL ESTATE – COUNTY OF AUGUSTA
This being the day and time advertised to consider a conveyance of the following real estate owned by County of Augusta to Augusta County Service Authority:
1. Weyers Cave Sanitary District (Middle River District).
Patrick J. Morgan, County Attorney, reported that there was a parcel that Augusta County owned as part of the Weyers Cave Sanitary District that no longer exists. The parcel is .733 acres with a water tower that is operated by the Service Authority. The lease with the Service Authority provides once the debt is paid off from the Sanitary District, the property can be transferred to the Service Authority. The Service Authority had expressed the desire to have the property transferred; therefore, tonight’s public hearing was needed for the Board’s approval.
The Chairman declared the public hearing open.
There being no speakers, the Chairman declared the public hearing closed.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Shull, that the Board approve the conveyance.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE PUBLIC
Karen Olivares, of the Support our Schools coalition, supported an increase in taxes, and asked that the Board support school funding. She mentioned what General Assembly did relating to the VRS pension plan. She stated that, starting July, 2012, school employees will be contributing 5% of their salary. She felt that massive retirements will occur if there is no relief.
DEERFIELD RURITAN CLUB REQUEST – RABIES CLINIC
The Board considered request to hold a rabies clinic for the purpose of vaccination of dogs, cats and horses from rabies at the Deerfield Community Center (Pastures District).
John C. McGehee, Assistant County Administrator, advised that the Deerfield Ruritan Club has requested to hold a rabies clinic at the Deerfield Community Center on March 23rd. They have enlisted a veterinarian from McDowell. This program has been done in prior years; according to the Code of Virginia, the Board has to approve these rabies clinics.
Mr. Moore moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board approve the request.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
FISCAL YEAR 2012-13 ARTS GRANT
The Board considered submission of Arts Grant to State for the following programs:
STATE COUNTY TOTAL
Staunton/Augusta Art Center $1,583.33 $1,583.33 $3,166.66 ShenanArts 1,583.34 1,583.34 3,166.68 Stonewall Brigade Band 1,583.33 1,583.33 3,166.66 Shenandoah Valley Art Center 250.00 250.00 500.00 $5,000.00 $5,000.00 $10,000.00 Funding Source: Fine Arts Grant Account #81020-5698 $5,000 Mike Conner, Board President of ShenanArts, expressed appreciation to the Board for its support to the four agencies.
Jennifer M. Whetzel, Director of Finance, stated that this process is done annually and the required local funding is included in the proposed budget for 2012-2013 conditioned upon state funding. An application had been included in the Board’s agenda package.
The four agencies are applying for a Local Government Challenge Grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts. She noted that if a locality matches $5,000, they would receive $5,000 from the grant (total $10,000). Augusta County has participated in this grant program since 1987. Ms. Whetzel said that they have come together collectively to apply for this grant.
Chairman Pyles added that the County has an obligation to spend a certain amount of Tourism funds that is predicated on the lodging tax received and a moral obligation made when the meals tax was done. This falls under the category of “tourism”. It is not competing against school funding.
Mr. Beyeler moved, seconded by Mr. Wills, that the Board approve the request.
Mr. Karaffa suggested that individual persons, representing each organization, be present next year to speak on their behalf.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
REGIONAL LANDFILL – LEASE AND ACCESS EASEMENT
The Board considered wind energy proposal for lease on landfill property.
Dennis Burnett, Economic Development Director, advised that their office had fielded multiple projects related to alternative energy source. Of those, wind as an alternative has quickly risen to the top. Mr. Burnett stated that we are in the preliminary stages of exploring wind energy in the area surrounding the Augusta County Regional Landfill.
The next step for the project would be continuation of a feasibility study fully funded by the developer. Further it would be anticipated that should the project prove feasible, the Developer, APEX Wind, would require a Lease Option for the landfill property.
Meaning, should the project prove feasible, a lease agreement would be in place to further the development. It is mportant to note that the project would require a public hearing in order to establish a public use overlay. Before the Board tonight is the request to allow the County Administrator to continue negotiations and enter into a lease option as Augusta County’s Trust representative.
Mr. Shull encouraged green energy and felt the need of determining its feasibility.
Mr. Shull moved, seconded by Mr. Moore, that the Board approve the request.
Mr. Karaffa added that if this came into fruition, it would provide good paying jobs.
Mr. Moore referred to a story told by Mr. Burnett of an Italian company looking at the Valley for a potential site. The company asked what alternative energy was provided here in the County. At that time, Mr. Burnett had to say there was no alternative energy.
The gentleman got in his car and drove off. “I think, as we try to promote this different type of business to come here and we have some alternative energy sources, it will be a real plus for the County.” Mr. Coffield mentioned that a 23rd Annual Environment Virginia Symposium – “Collaboration–Innovation—Results” conference will be held on April 10-12th. Pat Morgan will be serving on Virginia’s Model Wind Ordinances: Local Government/Stakeholder/DEQ Collaboration panel. Mr. Coffield added that similar requests will be considered by the Cities of Staunton and Waynesboro in the near future.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
RESCUE SQUAD ASSISTANCE FUND GRANT
The Board considered submittal of grant request for new ambulances (2) and equipment.
Funding Source:
Volunteer Fire and Rescue Equipment Grant Account #80000-8057 $150,000 Grant Match 120,000 Equipment $270,000 Greg Lambert, President of the Augusta County Emergency Officers Association, stated that he has received numerous calls expressing concerns of using this account for funding (#80000-8152). The biggest concern is that there are pending requests from September of last year for use of these funds by various departments that have not been fulfilled. The next round of requests is due tomorrow (March 15th). He noted that the $270,000 would deplete this particular account. This account was initially set up for fire departments take advantage of the revenue provided from Revenue Recovery so that they could get equipment needed at the various areas. He asked the Board to reconsider the account in which allocation of funding would come from.
Wayne Martin, Chief of Craigsville Fire Department, opposed using this account for the purpose of buying the ambulances. He stated that there were requirements in place stating that only two loans for $50,000 each were available in the spring and fall, totaling $200,000.
Mike Fisher, Chief of Dooms Volunteer Fire Department, agreed with Mr. Lambert. He stated that they have submitted a grant since September 2011 and agreed that this account would be depleted if this request is approved. He said that many fire-rescue agencies are dependent on this account. He said he did not oppose getting new ambulances but noted that career staff would have to be considered.
Fire Chief Carson Holloway provided a PowerPoint presentation with the following high- lights:
Grant Request:
• Rescue Squad Assistance Fund (RSAF) is a multi-million dollar grant program for Virginia non-profit EMS agencies and organizations. This grant has been utilized before – Last year, requested two defibrillators; received one. Went back and requested another defibrillator and received it. If the grant is approved, they have one year to spend the funds.
• Our request is a 50/50 grant for two ambulances (Type 1) – F450 4X4 – not including equipment.
• Ambulance is estimated $150,000 each, total of $300,000 an additional $120,000 for equipment.
• County share would be $150,000 plus $120,000 for equipment for two (if only one ambulance approved through grant, then County share would be $75,000 plus $60,000 for equipment = $135,000).
• Funding source recommendation is the Fire-Rescue Fund – 8152 (current total in fund $383,000) Fire Chief Holloway noted that there is a stipulation of the grant that it is not to exceed $50,000. That had been adjusted at different times: 1) when Toughbooks and software were bought (used as a county- wide project); 2) AFG grant (an 80/20 federal grant) for a reserved engine that would be utilized county-wide. They were unsuccessful in receiving this grant, but did have Board approval to go up to 20% of cost ($120,000 estimated). He reiterated that the County should deviate from these guidelines to fill an emergency response need.
Fire Chief noted that this request is to augment services throughout the County. He added that, currently, the County’s reserve ambulance is deployed in Craigsville and is being utilized on a rotating basis with them. The County has in its five-year plans the acquisition of new ambulances that could be stationed wherever they are needed in Augusta. He suggested that one could be placed at the Preston L. Yancey Fire Department, which is currently being serviced by SARS and Waynesboro on a sharing basis. He suggested that if they received two ambulances, one could be placed at Preston L. Yancey and the second one could be placed at Craigsville. These ambulances could be moved from one location to another when needed. For example, if Craigsville is successful on their grant, that ambulance could be redeployed as future growth demands. He noted that the ambulance they are considering is a Type 1 ambulance, four-wheel drive, F450. The only options to be considered would be an extra compartment where firefighters and career personnel would have their gear and air-packs available.
Chairman Pyles asked when the grant was due. Fire Chief Holloway said that the grant request is due tomorrow evening at 5:00 p.m. in Richmond. Chairman Pyles asked what the normal timing for response was. Fire Chief Holloway said he felt they would hear something by June or July.
Mr. Beyeler felt that the expense would not be cost-effective given that ambulance service is already available. He stated:
Take Riverheads District, South River District, Wayne District, Beverley Manor District, part of North River District and part of Pastures District; that is first due area for Staunton-Augusta, Waynesboro and Stuarts Draft. That is 66% of your calls and we’re doing all of that for less than $100,000 a year. You’re talking about us spending $210,000 to put an ambulance there and we have no backup if we are out on a call.
What we had at Fishersville, we worked hard to get and it is working. Why do you want to mess it up?
Fire Chief Holloway’s response:
I don’t intentionally want to mess up anything. I’m just simply trying to put forth a plan for your consideration to look at. There are other ways to look at it to possibly do business.
The Revenue Recovery generated would not completely cover the cost, it would somewhat supplement and augment the cost of the career staffing there, now.
Mr. Beyeler’s response:
Right now, you put the pencil to it and it does cover it. Why do we want to mess that up?
Mr. Moore stated that he would not support tonight having an ambulance placed at Preston Yancey, but clarified that the motion tonight was to authorize the submittal of the grant application.
Fire Chief Holloway reiterated that the five-year plan is still being considered by the Board.
Mr. Moore commented:
The point is that these ambulances could be supplemental, or if one of the other companies that has one go down, we could use this as a secondary vehicle for them as a reserved if we don’t end up putting it somewhere as a primary vehicle. If I understand what I think we’re voting on is that the grant is due by tomorrow and it will be a 50/50 matching grant. If we don’t get in for tomorrow and then, if we decide, after we’ve had the discussion that we need to purchase two ambulances, then we’re funding 100%.
We’re taking the advantage of the opportunity of coming up with $150,000 from the State.
I don’t think we’re voting on where the ambulances are going at this point.
Fire Chief Holloway’s response:
Again, that falls within the scope of the plan. There is a lot of flexibility in the five-year plan and a lot of things to be considered there. When I came forward, I had that suggestion for your thought. The entire plan can be changed at any point. The grant can be changed.
Mr. Karaffa commented:
We keep hearing about how the rescue organizations that are in existence right now that are paid staff are increasingly feeling the burden of their increased responsibilities. We hear about their losing their volunteers the same as we are having problems with our fire departments’ loss of volunteers. I think the road that we are on right now, based on the numbers that we see, based on what we have these agencies telling us, one-on-one some of these rescue agencies are telling us that we are operating in the red. Our obligations and our responsibilities are over-taxing the staff that we have and volunteers are leaving. We’re looking at having to hire more. I think we’re going to get to that point that we reach the threshold where we say ‘Is this something that we can do better?’ I think what Mr. Moore said is correct. The discussion is about whether or not we move ahead and prepare for that, what I believe, is an inevitability that we are going to have Staunton and we know we are going to have Augusta County rescue squads. We are going to have Augusta County rescue vehicles. I think if we have a great opportunity in front of us, and it is a 50/50, that we should move ahead with that. It is an investment in the infrastructure of service that we are going to provide for our people.
Mr. Pattie asked:
Supporting the idea of adding equipment, what is the total amount of grants that they requested from this pool and how much would be remaining from this grant fund?
Fire Chief Holloway’s response:
I can’t answer what’s pending right now. I asked this evening and we just couldn’t get the numbers pulled. Traditionally, between what they got from the grant over the last five years has been about $100,000 a year. The Board has put in about $200,000 a year, so that’s why the grant is somewhat up now. There is $383,000 presently in that grant. The AFG grant last year was turned down so that money was originally earmarked out, but is now back in. If the Board follows this year’s budget and follows through with tradition, there will be about $200,000 more going in, which would make it $583,000. At the worst case scenario, taking money out for the ambulances, would be $270,000 from the $583,000.
Chairman Pyles commented:
Dr. Pattie, it is not necessary we take the money from that particular budget. We could just take it from the County CIP. We’ve done that in the past. We built Riverheads’ entire station with other funding other than from that account. It would not be my position that we would make those guys suffer because of this.
Mr. Moore’s comments:
They shouldn’t be penalized if we decide to buy something.
Chairman Pyles’ response:
It will be and it comes in and the Board, as a whole, doesn’t want all of it. When you look at that cost, you think of our Volunteer stations. It’s tough to come up with that money. I think, at some point, we’re going to have to do more to rotate vehicles. That’s the kind of forward thinking that we’re trying to . . . that Mr. Moore and Mr. Karaffa are talking about because the one that Pastures Infrastructure bought a few years ago has been very important to a lot of agencies. Churchville was down. Others have been down. It’s been all over the County. The fact that we only have this one old vehicle doesn’t say a lot for us at this time.
Mr. Pattie’s response:
I’m in support of the grants. Where we’re pulling the money from is, I think, something that we need to consider further down the road.
Mr. Beyeler’s response:
If we apply in the same pool, it just reduces the amount of money that they make get.
And we put a maximum of $50,000 on the Volunteer organizations that they could draw from this at any time. Now, we’re cutting into their funds, which I consider their funds, and this Board can always change policy, but that’s the policy in effect right now.
Chairman Pyles stated that the Board could entertain a motion to fund it out of the CIP account.
Mr. Wills understood from Chief Holloway that the grant specified where the ambulance would be placed. Chief Holloway said that it would be front-line pieces, but did not specify the location. If they are awarded the grant, it has to be deployed for front-line service. Mr. Wills expressed concern of the grant mentioning Craigsville because it would interfere with the grant that Craigsville Fire Company is applying for. Chief Holloway reiterated that it is not written in the grant.
Mr. Shull asked, after Preston Yancey’s issues are resolved, would there be volunteers working with career staff. Chief Holloway said that was their goal.
Mr. Moore affirmed that is Preston Yancey’s goal, the current management has attempted to recruit volunteers and has not been successful. This is why he does not support having an ambulance placed at Preston Yancey at this time.
Mr. Shull mentioned that the incentives for volunteers are being considered and stated, “Down the road, when we get something approved on this that the volunteers are receiving some money, I see that they may be able to work together and wouldn’t have to have career staff there.” Chief Holloway said that was part of the plan. “If we can reallocate resources, it certainly is a good thought process.” Mr. Moore moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board approve the submittal of grant request, subject that it does not stipulate where the two ambulances are to be placed and that they will be front-line pieces. Funding Source: Fire/Rescue Equipment Account #80000-8057 in an amount not to exceed $270,000.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, and Pyles Nays: Beyeler Motion carried.
Mr. Beyeler made the following comment:
There are things we need to do in Augusta County for Fire and Rescue. If you look at the five-year plan that’s being proposed, we’re talking about a 15¢ to 17¢ tax increase just for Fire and Rescue. That covers nothing else but the additional cost that they are proposing for Fire and Rescue. Somehow, I do not believe that the people of Augusta County want that.
OUTDOOR MUSICAL OR ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL APPLICATION
The Board considered application as submitted by Eagle Ridge Motor Sports, LLC, dba Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, for outdoor events to be held from April through September, 2012 (Beverley Manor District).
Rita Austin, Executive Secretary, reported that new ownership has taken over the Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, and for that reason the application had to be treated as a new application instead of a renewal. The outdoor events are similar to those that have occurred in previous years. The applicant has met all requirements.
Thomas Lynton Hurdman, an owner of Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, expressed his appreciation to the Board for considering this application.
Mr. Karaffa added that many of the events draw people from far distances and some are for charity.
Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Shull, that the Board approve the request.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
SCHOOL FUNDING
The Board considered preliminary school budget estimates and local funding.
Patrick J. Coffield, County Administrator, updated School Board information regarding the budget. At the time of discussion, the Growth number ($453,267) was lower than what is currently projected in red ($607,079). He cautioned the Board that the School Board’s State revenue projections are based upon the House estimate with the revised ADM and that these figures are fluid. If the General Assembly changes the VRS, it would require the employee to pay 5% with a corresponding responsibility for the jurisdiction to match that with a 5% salary increase. “When you look at it side-by-side, it doesn’t equalize.” Superintendent Chuck Bishop had told Mr. Coffield that 5% has an unfunded liability of $800,000.
Dr. Chuck Bishop made the following comment:
We have run the numbers on the proposed VRS rates. It is unfortunate that for every 1% that we would charge employees’ VRS, we would have to give an offsetting raise of 1%.
That would cost us $162,000. The implementation of the full 5%, with the 5% corresponding increase would be over $800,000 in cost of the locality. For an employee to break even, we would have to give a 5.7% increase and charge them the 5%. We’re in quite a quandary. All of us are because that is going to be in effect for local governments. It’s all relative; a lot larger because you will also see the same thing on your side as well.
Mr. Coffield confirmed that it is still a fluid process with not knowing what the General Assembly will do. “These numbers were the best that the School Board had to present.” Dr. Bishop confirmed that was correct and that the balanced budget will be presented to the School Board tomorrow night (May 15th).
Mr. Karaffa asked, with the increase of VRS and the associated increase in pay that would have to be given to the employees, if it had to come from the locality. Dr. Bishop said that it did not appear that there will be any salary increase shared by the State.
The VML document received today, that outlined the proposed changes to VRS, did not say anything about additional State support for salary increases. Mr. Karaffa stated that, from that report, “it is assumed that it comes from the locality.” He asked how our legislators voted. Dr. Bishop said they supported it.
Mr. Moore made the following comment:
Even though Dr. Bishop and the School Board have whittled their budget down to where they can balance it, I think we have heard from many that technology is basically what they have in there is enough to turn the internet on but there is no new equipment. They have buses that are ’91 to ’99 – buses that haven’t been bought for a number of years.
They are at the point that it doesn’t seem like the State can get their stuff straight. I think we have heard from constituents who have stated that they would like to see some additional support from this Board. I would like to go back to the deficit of the February 23rd of $1.4 million and propose that we provide that as additional revenue to the schools and we’ll figure out, as a Board, how we’re going to fund that.
Mr. Moore moved, seconded by Mr. Pattie, that the Board authorize funding for the School Board by $1.4 million . . . $3 million total.
Mr. Karaffa made the following comment:
This year, this Board has repeatedly asked that the people of Augusta County to trust the process for school funding. We have seen throughout this process in Richmond how it has let us down. My comments aren’t pointed to a particular member of the House or the Senate, or towards a political party. My comment of disappointment is focused on the entire mess in general. We know that the schools, regardless of what goes on in Richmond, have to produce a balanced budget. At this point, all we have to go on is the unapproved House budget and I think that is what we’re still using. The loggerheads of the State, with no end in sight, leads me to the belief that it is up to us. It leads me to believe that for all that we’re doing, trying to trust the process here at the local level, trying to trust that the process is going to work for us in the State, we just see them go home. I’m going to support that we put this money in the hands of the Superintendent and in the hands of the School Board to work with. My hope is that the money will go towards teachers, but that is up to the School Board in how they use the funds.
Mr. Beyeler made the following comment:
Using Dr. Bishop’s figures and adding that other 7.7%, it comes to $944,000. I’m going to support the motion. Again, I’m beating a dead horse, but we are very loose in spending money someplace, but we should not be putting our education system at risk so I’m going to support the motion that’s on the floor.
Mr. Wills’ comments:
When you’re in a budget process, I have a lot of trouble with committing to giving money that we don’t know where it is going to come from. I think we need to wait until the budget process, we see what comes in, we see what our definite numbers are going to be, and then we have the decision to make. Are we going to raise taxes or where is the money coming from? I support it. I don’t have any trouble with supporting it. But you’re looking at a nickel on the tax rate to get to $3 million. I think we’re too early in the process to be making those decisions. I will not support the motion tonight. It’s not that I’m against the schools, but I just don’t think it is the proper time in the process.
Mr. Moore’s response:
We may be too early in our budget process to determine where the money comes from, but the schools are required to have a budget to us by the 31st of this month; so to say that they have time to see where things are going to come from, I don’t think . . . we’re not going to have to go through our complete budget process and they’re going to have to make their budget decisions on what we tell them. I think, for them to be able to have a public hearing, to come up with a firm budget, have a public hearing, and to be able to have a firm budget to us by the 31st, it’s a little over two weeks. I don’t believe there is time to wait on their behalf. I agree with you that we, as a Board, still have to have those discussions of where that money is coming from. From their standpoint, I think, we need to support them and allow them to move forward with their budget process.
Mr. Karaffa’s comments:
I agree with where you’re coming from, Mr. Wills, but, again, in your comments, you said we have to let the process work and I think we’re all on display everyday in the newspaper and it seems that the process in Richmond isn’t working. It’s falling apart and they went home! Again, I’m not pointing fingers at any individual member or any political party, but the fact that that process, that we depend on to work, we have to adhere to guidelines; we have to turn in a budget. The schools have to turn in a budget. They have to have a way of operating and I think that the fact that our State legislators went home says a lot about how they feel about the process and we have a responsibility here. I’m not prepared to pass at this point.
Mr. Shull’s comments:
I think in the past meetings here that we’ve heard from just about everybody throughout this County and each one of us, sitting up here, represents these people who were in here. Now, we can’t let Dr. Bishop, or the school systems, stand here and wonder what is going to go on. I think each one up here said that they were going to support the schools. I’m going to support this. Somewhere or another we’ll come up with the funds.
We said we were going to take of them. Now, let’s put our vote where our mouth is and vote where it needs to be.
Chairman Pyles’ comments:
I think you’re correct. Every member of this Board, at one time or another, from up here, or in the paper, said they wanted to support the schools more than we’ve done in the past. In talking with each member here, there is a broad difference on how to do that.
There are people who want to take it all out of our reserves and some say ‘we’ll take none out of our reserves’, and somewhere in between. So what we’re going to come up will be something that we will discuss at our budget meetings and Ms. Whetzel will have other information for us. But as far as allowing the School Board to proceed with something definitive from us, so they can make their budget and not have to make a second budget, and then we go back and forth on that, it all becomes cumbersome.
Let’s make it clean. Let’s make it that this is going to be $3 million money going to the School Board this year. It is unprecedented, where we would normally had done $5 or $600,000. We’re doing that in recognition with what Mr. Karaffa is doing about, Mr. Moore is talking about that they’re not doing their job in Richmond and somebody has to be a responsible adult when it comes to our education.
Mr. Wills’ comments:
To provide the flexibility to this Board, when we get into the budget process, I would like to note that it is not necessarily all in Operating and may be some in Capital. That it is not totally in Operating. I would like to amend the motion to say that the $3 million additional dollars for this year would include Capital and Operating. There has been conversation from individuals about advancing money that they will receive next year from Ladd. To me, that’s bad business. You’re going to put them in the same hole next year to start that they’re already in this year? You get very little money from the State and if all of their money for buses or computers is over in Capital, then it is not something that is in Operating that they automatically will lose that $500,000 to start with.
Chairman Pyles stated that that was a different discussion.
Mr. Wills did not want to see the School Board in a $600,000 hole starting the 2013 budget. Mr. Wills reiterated that, the Board could have the flexibility to include money in their Capital account or in the budget, but not necessarily $3 million into the Operating account.
Chairman Pyles explained that the motion did not state where the funds would come from, but it would be determined where the $3 million would come from during the budget process.
Mr. Wills felt that this motion was telling the School Board to prepare an Operations budget around the $3 million.
Mr. Beyeler said that Mr. Wills’ suggestion did not need to be made now. He asked for clarification of the exact amount of money needed.
Chairman Pyles said that there was a $1.4 million difference and the additional $1.6 million brought the total up to $3 million.
Mr. Karaffa, in representing Beverley Manor, hoped that these funds would support teachers. “I agree we need flexibility. I have a concern about how it will affect the School’s budget in terms of what it does for teachers.” – Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: Wills Motion carried.
Mr. Pattie made the following comment:
I am glad we bridged the gap. So far Dr. Bishop and the School Board members have been great about giving us information, but, if we do have any lingering questions, if there are any ideas that we have, maybe, as a Board, it would be good to send those questions to them and then get those answers back as well.
Mr. Moore asked Dr. Bishop for an update of the Wilson Elementary School renovations.
Dr. Bishop stated that the weather has allowed construction to proceed. They are continuing to spend money out of the Qualified School Construction Bond Program. They have recently filed application for the VPAS Spring Bond sale. The project is on schedule and anticipate the new section will open next fall. At one time, the steel contractor could not keep up with the work; however, he has been replaced and the work is being caught up. “We are on schedule at this point and moving forward with the anticipation we will open the new wing, which will include classroom spaces, gymnasium, a new kitchen cafeteria and the guidance office suite which will be completed at the end of the summer.” Mr. Moore also asked about the roundabout. Dr. Bishop said there were some continuing conversations about the roundabout. Timmy Fitzgerald, Director of Community Development, has been involved in those conversations with VDOT. The project was bid based on feedback from multiple organizations and groups, including VDOT. It had been determined that it was going to cost additional money ($153,090.90). He reminded the Board that this was funded out of Wayne and Beverley Manor infrastructure accounts.
That $153,090.90 did not include utilities being moved. Mr. Fitzgerald said they were working with the contractor who had stated that, because of some changes that had been made, an additional $153,090.90 was needed. Mr. Fitzgerald did not feel that the changes made were significant enough to justify the additional cost. He said that they are working together to get better numbers. Dr. Bishop added that this job was very competitive. He said they have been extremely vigilant in terms of change orders. Mr. Fitzgerald said that he will give an update in the near future and pointed out that they had the ability to bid the project out separately if an agreement cannot be met.
WAIVERS/VARIANCES – NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Wills, that the Board approve the consent agenda as follows:
MINUTES
Approved minutes of the following meetings:
• Staff Briefing Meeting, Tuesday, February 21, 2012 • Regular Meeting, Wednesday, February 22, 2012
CLAIMS
Approved claims paid since February 8, 2012.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE BOARD
The Board discussed the following issues:
Mr. Wills:
1. Ordinance Committee – asked that the Committee look at the County Ordinance in reference to the 6-story apartments to reduce that maximum to 4-story unless it is approved by waiver by this Board. That waiver would include that it would not exceed the permitted density stated in the Comprehensive Plan and that all apartments would be sprinkled if it were a 6-story building. He did not feel that the County could provide appropriate fire protection for 6-story apartments. Mr. Beyeler said that apartments in Augusta County were being built with sprinklers.
Mr. Fitzgerald said that was correct. Mr. Wills still wanted the density to be considered.
2. Fire and Rescue Agencies’ disposal of equipment was not offered to the County – Suggested that it be offered to the County first in which they can make a decision of purchasing at the fair market value.
Mr. Karaffa asked Chief Holloway to explain the correct procedure. Chief Holloway said that, at the present, there is nothing in place that requires equipment to be offered to the County first.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board authorize Fire Chief Holloway to draft a policy to submit to the Board for review, which would require Fire and Rescue agencies to offer to the County the right of first refusal of any equipment they intend to dispose of.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
* * * 3. Goodlatte EPA/Chesapeake Bay Model meeting– sat in on meeting on Monday.
“Some of the things in his new bill would be beneficial to the County. He wants to put it back in control of the State and get it out of the Federal hands.” Mr. Shull: Rescue call in McKinley – SARS punched in the road name “Walker Creek” (instead of Walker’s Creek) – confusion as to the GPS and asked that it be made uniformed. An incident occurred on March 4th on Walker Creek Road – an hour and five minutes response time to a critically ill patient.
Chief Holloway explained that it was punched in on a phone to get the GPS. Toughbooks are in the ambulances which have a mapping system.
While the name could be changed, the numerics in the counties would be different. For example, Augusta County may start numbering 100 from the County line and Rockbridge could do the same thing. They would have the same name and the same numerics and that would throw it off. There is an investigation and Donna Good, ECC Director, met with VDOT today.
He noted that there are some challenges with the Toughbooks. Chief Holloway said that he would provide a report on this in the near future.
Mr. Shull mentioned that he will be meeting with Raphine and Walkers Creek to discuss the Fire and Rescue situation.
Mr. Karaffa:
1. Property Committee – currently reviewing county’s holdings and have scheduled some viewings. Will be providing some recommendations to the Board in the near future.
2. Reassessment Committee – Huge undertaking! Commended staff. RFPs have been received and interviews have been conducted. Still evaluating companies and checking references and licenses to assure that they are current. Have continued to consider the in-house model. Information will be provided at the Staff Briefing on March 26th.
3. Fire and Rescue incentives – Blue Ridge Community College and he will have a discussion regarding incentives for students who also serve as Volunteer Fire and Rescue providers.
* * *
CENTRAL SHENANDOAH PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION EXECUTIVE
BOARD and REAPPOINTMENT Mr. Moore moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board nominate Marshall W. Pattie to stand for election for the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission Executive Board and to serve a three-year term on the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission, effective July 1, 2012, to expire June 30, 2015.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Abstain: Pattie Motion carried.
* * * Chairman Pyles: Craigsville Sewer Work – Reimbursement to ACSA for work performed for Town of Craigsville – to be discussed at next Staff Briefing.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY STAFF
Staff discussed the following:
1. ISO – Chief Holloway reported that both the service areas for the Preston L.
Yancey Volunteer Company and Company 10 have received a rating of 5/8B as of July 1st. He commended staff, ECC, ACSA, and Fire-Rescue for their efforts.
He noted that Riverheads is still considered as 4/9 and will be re-evaluated. Will keep the Board informed. Mr. Karaffa asked if people would be able to get their insurance premiums adjusted. Chief Holloway said they could. A press release will be done tomorrow and this should help inform local insurance companies.
Mr. Karaffa commended Chief Holloway and his staff on their diligent work.
Chairman Pyles asked that this be placed on the web. Chief Holloway announced that Company 10 was also rated a 5/8B (previously a 4/9). He explained that 5 applies to residents living within a 5-mile radius and the second number means that you are in the primary call area but outside of the 5-mile radius. There are other stipulations.
2. Land and Water Conservation Fund Application – Natural Chimneys trail construction and swimming pool repairs. Total projected estimate is $112,670. Recommended submission of Grant proposal as follows:
Department of Conservation and Recreation $56,335 Natural Chimneys Depreciation Account 30,000 In-kind staff labor 17,670 North River Infrastructure Account 8,665 $112,670 Mr. Pattie moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board authorize the submittal of grant application and allocate $8,665 from the North River Infrastructure Account #8013-37.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
3. Canada Run – Informed the new Board that on April 13, 2011, the previous Board discussed Flood Control Dams; April 24th, the previous Board discussed again; November 22nd, the previous Board authorized submission of funding for the planning study. Headwaters submitted the grant – $250,000 (federal), $10,000 (state) and $20,000 (local).
4. Scenic Byway Designation – information distributed to Board regarding the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) request. In 1998, the Board denied a request on Route 608 (concern on development); in 2006, program was changed (became less limiting to local development) Board endorsed sections of Route 11. Mr. Fitzgerald noted that this request originally came from Highland County and asked CSPDC to coordinate with Augusta County.
5. EPA meeting – well attended. Similar meetings were held in Lynchburg and New Market. Thank you, Mr. Wills, for representing the Board 6. Wildfire Protection Plan – meeting on March 19th – 3:00 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. – Survey available for Augusta County residents to provide input.
7. Budget Work Sessions Agenda distributed to Board – March 26th and 27th. The Board advised to cancel the 27th and add for the 28th.
8. General Assembly Update – John C. McGehee, Assistant County Administrator, distributed information to Board.
9. Budget survey update – Jennifer M. Whetzel, Director of Finance, distributed report to those who did not receive it by e-mail. Approximately 66 surveys have been received since the last meeting.
CLOSED SESSION
On motion of Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Beyeler, the Board went into closed session pursuant to:
(1) the personnel exemption under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(1) [discussion, consideration or interviews of (a) prospective candidates for employment, or (b) assignment, appointment, promotion, performance, demotion, salaries, disciplining or resignation of specific employees]:
A) Boards and Commissions (2) the economic development exemption under Virginia Code § 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 its interest in locating or expanding its facilities in the county]:
A) Industrial Prospect (3) the legal counsel exemption under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A)(7) [consultation with legal counsel and briefings by staff members or consultants pertaining to actual or probable litigation, and consultation with legal counsel regarding specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by such counsel, as permitted under subsection (A) (7)]:
A) Reassessment On motion of Mr. Beyeler, seconded by Mr. Shull, the Board came out of closed Session.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Beyeler, Moore and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
The Chairman advised that each member is required to certify that to the best of their knowledge during the closed session only the following was discussed:
1. Public business matters lawfully exempted from statutory open meeting requirements, and 2. Only such public business matters identified in the motion to convene the executive session.
The Chairman asked if there is any Board member who cannot so certify.
Hearing none, the Chairman called upon the County Administrator/ Clerk of the Board to call the roll noting members of the Board who approve the certification shall answer AYE and those who cannot shall answer NAY.
Roll Call Vote was as follows:
AYE: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles NAY: None The Chairman authorized the County Administrator/Clerk of the Board to record this certification in the minutes.
AUGUSTA COUNTY RECYCLING COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT
Mr. Shull moved, seconded by Mr. Beyeler, that the Board accept the resignation of Mona Lee Welliver and appoint Jo-el Lorraine Nelson to an unexpired 4-year term on the Augusta County Recycling Committee, effective immediately, to expire September 24, 2012.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no other business to come before the Board, Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Pattie, the Board adjourned subject to call of the Chairman.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
Chairman County Administrator h:3-14min.12
