Regular Meeting – October 10, 2012
Regular Meeting, Wednesday, October 10, 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
Becky Earhart, Senior Planner
Jennifer M. Whetzel, Director of Finance
Patrick J. Morgan, County Attorney
Patrick J. Coffield, County Administrator
Beatrice Cardellicchio-Weber, Community Development Executive Secretary VIRGINIA: At a regular meeting of the Augusta County Board of Supervisors held on Wednesday, October 10, 2012, at 7:00 p.m., at the Government Center, Verona, Virginia, and in the 237th year of the Commonwealth….
Chairman Pyles welcomed the citizens present.
Deanna Funkhouser and Nick Lunsford, seniors of Riverheads High School, led us with the Pledge of Allegiance. Deanna stated her goal in life is to become an X-ray Technician.
She also volunteers at Ride with Pride and at their church library. Nick would like to become a Staunton City Police Officer.
David A. Karaffa, Supervisor for the Beverley Manor District, delivered invocation.
VACo ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – PRESENTATION Larry Land, VACo Director of Policy Development, presented the Achievement Award for Fields of Gold Agritourism to the Board. He stated this year they received 37 entries. He stated this is the fourth award that Augusta County has won. He stated in 2003 Augusta County won an achievement award for the Rural Rustic Roads Programs, in 2004 Augusta County won an award for the Valley Library Connections Program, and in 2005 Augusta County won an award for the Stuarts Draft Park. He stated they will be showcasing the award at one of the breakout sessions at their annual conference as well as the award ceremony on November 13, 2012.
Mr. Land presented the award to Bonnie Riedesel.
Bonnie Riedesel thanked Mr. Coffield for encouraging them to apply for this award as well as Dennis Burnett, Economic Development Director, who is on their Fields of Gold Steering Committee, who has been very much involved in this project. She invited the Board to two upcoming events which includes the Shenandoah Valley Agritourism Festival on Sunday, October 21st from noon to 5:00 p.m. at Augusta Expo; and their Harvest Jubilee on November 1st at Barren Ridge Vineyards to celebrate the first year of the Fields of Gold Program. She thanked the Board for their support of this program and accepted the award from VACo.
Chairman Pyles added that Dennis Burnett, Andy Wells (Parks and Recreation Director), and Jennifer Whetzel (Finance Director) have worked hard on this project as well.
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
The Board considered Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) proposed boundary map and Memorandum of Understanding. This item was tabled at the September 26 regular meeting until October 10, 2012.
Timmy Fitzgerald, Director of Community Development, stated they have the latest version of the mapping. The Board asked staff to narrow the area down. He stated they had an MPO Policy meeting last week to discuss the boundary with other members of the group, consisting of representatives from Staunton, Waynesboro and VDOT. The recommended boundary is shown in blue on the map and he noted that it does not include Weyers Cave at this time. There is a potential in the future that the Board could ask to add that back in as the Memorandum of Understanding allows for that to happen through the Policy Board. Bonnie Riedesel and Kevin McDermott, from the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission, will serve as staff for the MPO and they are here to speak on some of the benefits of the MPO.
Mr. Moore added that the density for Stuarts Draft is one level below where it would have automatically been included as part of the MPO. He mentioned the boundaries are intended to be a “smooth line”.
Bonnie Riedesel, Executive Director for the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission, stated Mr. Beyeler and Mr. Pattie serve on their Commission Board. She explained some of the projects that they have worked on for the County. She reported that they will be the staff to the Staunton/Augusta/Waynesboro MPO. They have also provided staff to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham MPO for the last ten years. The benefits of being an MPO is having a dedicated funding stream for transportation planning that you did not have before (approximately $250,000 each year for planning purposes which would not be available to you if you were not an MPO). This money could be rolled over into the next year if it is not used. By being in an MPO, you would be federally recognized as a decision making body and in charge of developing a long- range transportation plan for this region. You are among 350 MPOs across the country and one of 14 MPOs in the state. She stated you will have a stronger voice as an MPO than in a single jurisdiction. The MPO allows you to have the structure to speak with a unified voice on transportation issues that you think are important. Being an MPO will elevate the status in the transportation planning world. Staff resources and financial resources to do higher level planning will be available. Access to data, mapping, GIS, and transportation modeling will be available. There will be more opportunities for funding as a group. She stated many people say “here is another plan for the shelf,” but she emphasized that nothing will get done unless it is listed in a plan. She mentioned they needed to make sure that the projects they want to see move forward in this region get in a plan. The MPO will be at the table with VDOT, Department of Rail and Public Transit, Federal Highway, and Federal Transit and will have oversight of the projects that go into the local plan and get moved onto the state plan. The MPO will be recognized by the State Secretary of Transportation and the CTB. There will be opportunities to plan for future economic development goals for the County. An MPO boundary can be expanded upon if needed. This boundary is nothing more than a study area; it is not a growth area or an area slated for development or that the development is restricted. The MPO planning funding can be used to study the transportation network within that boundary. The Zoning Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan, or Land Use does not get affected by the MPO boundary. The Board will still have complete control of any development in the MPO area. The only thing the MPO Board does is that it deals with transportation-related projects that have regional significance or regional impacts. The MPO Board has no say whether you can or cannot develop in the area. The MPO Board deals with all methods of transportation including roads, rail, sidewalks, pedestrian and transit.
Mr. Moore stated only projects that have federal dollars on them are under the preview of the MPO Policy Board. He stated that anything that has state or local dollars the MPO has no bearing on the project.
Mr. Karaffa stated a project may not necessarily have federal dollars attached to it but it may have regional significance. He asked if it would fall under the MPO.
Ms. Riedesel stated the MPO Policy Board will determine if the project has regional significance. She added that the first thing, as being an MPO, would be to put out a long range transportation plan. These projects that impact Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro would be considered regionally significant but it is the Policy Board’s decision to define that. She stated they are just talking about transportation; not development or industry.
Mr. Karaffa asked, in the Rockingham MPO, had there been projects that did not have federal funds attached to it that were considered regionally significant.
Ms. Riedesel stated they are fairly new (since 2003) so the first couple of years they were in the organizational stage. The one big project they are working on now is the Stone Spring Connector which connects to the hospital. That project has federal funds with it and was in their long-range transportation plan.
Mr. Karaffa explained that changes to Exit 91 and Route 636 will be significant for Augusta County. He would deem it as regionally significant for economic development but asked if it would be regionally significant to the MPO if it did not have federal funds.
Ms. Riedesel stated it would be considered regionally significant but, if there are no federal funds, the MPO would not move forward.
Mr. Fitzgerald added that a project that is going to have regional significance will have federal funds. If it only has state funds with it, the chances of it being regionally significant are not very good.
Mr. Karaffa expressed concern that the majority of the district he represents borders Staunton and the regional significant question has a lot of bearing as they move forward. He asked how successful has the long-range planning been in Harrisonburg.
Ms. Riedesel stated the original one was done for 2030 and was just updated to 2035.
Most of the projects in the 2030 list got moved over to the 2035 list. She did not see a change and the priority projects still moved over.
Mr. Karaffa asked if the goal of the long-range plan is to put as much stuff in there as possible.
Ms. Riedesel stated Harrisonburg/Rockingham MPO has two lists: 1) The vision list that includes all projects like sidewalks, multi-use trails, rails, and transit; and 2) The constrained list, which there is funding, included about 12 projects.
Mr. Karaffa asked what the private sector involvement and influence is on the MPO.
Ms. Riedesel stated the meetings are open to the public and all major plans are shown through a public information process. The public does not serve on the committee but the MPO can appoint a citizen advisory committee on a specific project if they want to.
She said that on a safe route to school project, they have had teachers and principals involved.
Mr. Beyeler stated they have a plan already and felt that they do not need additional studies. He felt that they needed money for construction and not on studies and planning. He did not see the value of this in Augusta County. He asked for an example in the Harrisonburg area that helped them on their project.
Ms. Riedesel stated the Stone Spring Connector was in a plan for a long time before it got built, but it did get built.
Mr. Beyeler, in reference to Exit 91, stated they are spending way too much money on planning and not enough on construction.
Ms. Riedesel stated construction dollars are very scarce. She stated they want to make sure that everyone is on board and these projects have been planned for to make sure the localities are using those scarce dollars in the most effective way.
Mr. Beyeler stated that Route 262 and Exit 91 has been planned for years, and asked why another group was needed to study it for the County. “We have shelves and shelves of plans and all they do is collect dust.” Mr. Moore emphasized that this is not a choice of whether we are part of it or not. He stated the importance of giving the PDC the best direction for the most efficient planning.
Mr. Wills referred to page two of the agreement where it stated that “Staunton/Augusta/Waynesboro or the State can withdraw from the three-C process with not less than 90 days written notice”. He asked if we would have a choice of not participating at all.
Ms. Riedesel suspected that there would be some ramifications if you withdrew.
Mr. Fitzgerald stated the County would not get any federal transportation dollars.
Mr. Wills referred to page five, article eight: “all applicable federal and/or state regulations pertaining to air quality shall be adhered to in the three-C process”. He asked if that would put industries at any more at risk than what they currently are.
Ms. Riedesel replied that they are not required to meet those air quality standards at this time. She stated that could be addressed in the Memorandum of Understanding if that is a problem and that the language could be removed. She reiterated that the air quality is not a requirement of the MPO.
Mr. Wills asked, with the exception of Stone Spring, have there been any other projects.
Ms. Riedesel stated in the City many sidewalks have been built, intersections that have been improved, terminals for transit buses, rail crossing improvements, Port Republic Road, and improvements all around James Madison University.
Mr. Moore stated many multi-national companies will only consider MPO areas.
Ms. Riedesel felt that when site selectors were looking at an area they would want to look at the transportation network and see that the County has a plan in place. She felt this would be a benefit.
Mr. Beyeler mentioned that Forest Springs and Ridgeview Acres are all developed and asked why that area needed to be in the plan.
Ms. Riedesel stated the industry in that area needs good roads.
Mr. Beyeler stated there will be no more road improvement in that area for the next 20 years.
Ms. Riedesel stated it is a requirement because it is considered an urban cluster.
Mr. Pattie felt that all of the benefits of the MPO are going to happen anyway. The undecided issue is the map. Strategically, they can always expand it when needed; but there is no sense in making it bigger than what it needs to be. He felt that they were giving up majority control for decisions in the County which he would have an issue. He stated it is supposed to be 50,000 people but we are including 80,000 people in the map. He stated the County should do the minimum of 50,000 and keep Fishersville in the area.
Mr. Fitzgerald reiterated that the map is down as tight as possible to meet all requirements. He noted that the population is over 50,000 but there are other requirements. They are required to include the urban clusters and look at what is going to be developed in the Comprehensive Plan over the next 20 years.
Mr. Shull asked how much money is this going to cost the County.
Mr. Fitzgerald stated it would be approximately $20,000.
Ms. Riedesel stated it is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local (split among the three jurisdictions).
Chairman Pyles stated if a plan did not exist then the work could not have been done.
He felt that it did not hurt to plan ahead and that the County is required to be part of the MPO.
Mr. Wills wanted clarification that the map does not include the Weyers Cave loop.
Mr. Moore moved that the Board approve the MPO boundary map and Memorandum of Understanding, with article eight, regarding air quality be omitted. There was no second to the motion.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Moore and Pyles Nays: Pattie, Karaffa, Wills, Beyeler and Shull Motion failed.
* * * Mr. Fitzgerald stated the Memorandum of Understanding has to be approved by this Board, Staunton, and Waynesboro prior to the Policy Board being able to be formed. He noted that they meet the first Wednesday in November. He added that the map does not have to be approved by the three localities and that; essentially, once the Memorandum of Understanding is approved the Policy Board can then put the boundaries on the map.
Chairman Pyles asked if the cities, on their own, could create the map.
Mr. Fitzgerald stated the cities, along with VDOT, could create the map. The three Boards have to agree on the Memorandum of Understanding before the Policy Board can be formed. It is his expectation if they do not join, the federal dollars that come to Augusta County may be at risk.
Chairman Pyles stated funds for Exit 91 could be at risk.
Mr. Beyeler felt that they could get to 50,000 with the three localities.
Mr. Fitzgerald stated that the blue line indicates 75,000 to 80,000 but stressed that it is not just population. He stated that you would need to look at the urban clusters and the planned development for 20 years.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Moore, to approve the Memorandum of Understanding.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Moore, Pyles, Pattie, Karaffa, Wills, Beyeler, and Shull Nays: None Motion carried.
* * * Mr. Wills clarified the motion to be that the Board approve the Memorandum of Understanding only. The map should be looked at closely to reflect the minimum amount of area.
Chairman Pyles stated if this is not approved they will not have any federal money.
Mr. Karaffa agreed with the Chairman but he felt that they are representatives of the people and they should vote the way the people would want them to vote. He expressed concern of “losing control” if they chose not to endorse the MPO.
Mr. Moore suggested that the Board endorse the MPO and review in a year.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Beyeler to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with article eight, regarding air quality being omitted.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Moore, Pyles, Pattie, Karaffa, Wills, Beyeler, and Shull Nays: None Motion carried.
* * * Mr. Wills stated staff should work with Mr. Beyeler and Mr. Pattie to try to tighten the map.
Mr. Fitzgerald clarified direction regarding the map and stated staff would look at the map again. He noted the importance to realize that this map would go back before the Policy Board for the decision on the boundary. If there are areas that the Policy Board has a strong desire to include or not include, they have the ability to make changes at that point.
He confirmed that Mr. Moore and he would vote as this Board would like but there will be other people at the table making that decision. He stated as they get it as tight as possible, what comes out in the end may not be what they have presented.
SAW CONSORTIUM – 2013 HEALTH INSURANCE RATES
The Board considered Committee recommendations for 2013 Health Insurance Rates.
Faith Souder, Human Resources Director, reported that the consultant came back with a 12.1% increase in health insurance. After review of claims and changes to the benefit structure, Coventry Health has figured a 9% increase to the health insurance premiums effective January 1, 2013. She noted that the rate came in lower than what was budgeted with a net savings of $9,300. The revised budget will reflect a decrease in employee cost and an increase in dependent supplement. She also noted that the County, back in 2010, applied for the Early Retirement Reinsurance Program (ERRP) and they had enough claims that they were awarded $25,000. Those funds are available. Her recommendation is to approve the rates as submitted.
Mr. Wills asked about the $300 credit.
Ms. Souder noted starting with the plan year of 2014, the Consortium has approved a medical premium differential. All employees are asked to get their annual physical at no cost to them. The differential would be a $25 a month credit to them. Currently the employee pays $5 a month for their insurance; next year, they would pay $30. If they get their physical, they would get the $25 back.
Mr. Wills asked if someone does not get a physical, in the end they would be charged $300 more.
Ms. Souder said that was correct.
Mr. Beyeler asked what the rate would increase to if the deductibles did not change. Ms. Souder stated the rate increase would have been 15.3%.
Ms. Souder stated they made the changes with specialty co-pay, annual deductible, and the one-tier prescription drug.
Mr. Karaffa asked if there is any decrease in service coverage that the employees will see this coming year with the changes. Ms. Souder stated there would be no change in coverage. Mr. Karaffa noted that our plan currently meets all of the health insurance mandates. Ms. Souder agreed that the plan currently meets those standards and stated by law they have to follow the new health care reform.
Mr. Beyeler moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board accept the recommendations.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
The Board considered supporting Virginia Poultry Federation’s request for a waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standard.
Patrick J. Coffield, County Administrator, reported that Rockingham County has requested support of a waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standard II for corn-based ethanol for 2013.
Mr. Beyeler commented that he sells corn and this waiver could result in lower corn prices. He did not support this request.
Mr. Karaffa pointed out that, in the reading, it talked about the drought and how it has impacted a lot of the different industries that are in farming. He supported a waiver of a regulation of the EPA.
Mr. Wills advised that he had spoken with two dairy farmers who supported the waiver.
Both farmers felt, in our County, there would be an 80/20 split between those that would be affected. He agreed that the EPA is overregulated when they try to set certain standards.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board supports Virginia Poultry Federation’s request for a waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standard.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Moore, Wills and Pyles Nays: Beyeler Motion carried.
RURAL RUSTIC ROADS
The Board considered resolutions for 2012 projects:
1. Route 759, Oak Hill School Road (North River District) 2. Route 642, Barren Ridge Road (Wayne District) Mr. Fitzgerald reported that both roads meet the criteria.
Mr. Pattie moved, seconded by Mr. Moore, that the Board adopt the following resolutions:
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Section 33.1-70.1 of the Code of Virginia, permits the hard surfacing of certain unpaved roads deemed to qualify for designation as a Rural Rustic Road; and WHEREAS, any such road must be located in a low-density development area and have no more than 1,500 vehicles per day; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Augusta County, Virginia (“Board”) desires to consider whether Route 759 (Oak Hill School Road), From: Route 761 To: Route 756W should be designated a Rural Rustic Road; and WHEREAS, the Board is unaware of pending development that will significantly affect the existing traffic on this road; and WHEREAS, the public has been made aware that this road may be paved with minimal improvements; and WHEREAS, the Board believes that this road should be so designated due to its qualifying characteristics; and WHEREAS, this road is in the Board’s six-year plan for improvements to the secondary system of state highways.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board hereby designates this road a Rural Rustic Road, and requests that the Local Manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation concur in this designation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Board requests that this road be hard surfaced and, to the fullest extent prudent, be improved within the existing right-of-way and ditch-lines to preserve as much as possible the adjacent trees, vegetation, side slopes, and rural rustic character along the road in their current state.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Local Manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation.
* * *
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Section 33.1-70.1 of the Code of Virginia, permits the hard surfacing of certain unpaved roads deemed to qualify for designation as a Rural Rustic Road; and WHEREAS, any such road must be located in a low-density development area and have no more than 1,500 vehicles per day; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors of Augusta County, Virginia (“Board”) desires to consider whether Route 642 (Barren Ridge Road), From: 0.25 miles south of Route 795 To: 1.1 miles south of Route 795 should be designated a Rural Rustic Road; and WHEREAS, the Board is unaware of pending development that will significantly affect the existing traffic on this road; and WHEREAS, the public has been made aware that this road may be paved with minimal improvements; and WHEREAS, the Board believes that this road should be so designated due to its qualifying characteristics; and WHEREAS, this road is in the Board’s six-year plan for improvements to the secondary system of state highways.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board hereby designates this road a Rural Rustic Road, and requests that the Local Manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation concur in this designation.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Board requests that this road be hard surfaced and, to the fullest extent prudent, be improved within the existing right-of-way and ditch-lines to preserve as much as possible the adjacent trees, vegetation, side slopes, and rural rustic character along the road in their current state.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Local Manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The Board received a review of the Comprehensive Plan and Ordinance changes.
Becky Earhart, Senior Planner, provided the Board with information regarding the Comprehensive Plan and Ordinance changes.
Mr. Beyeler explained that the County has made the code changes. He noted that they made a number of changes from what the Planning Commission recommended.
Mr. Wills stated the Planning Commission is supposed to be able to revisit the Comprehensive Plan every five years and update it. He felt that the Board restricted them from doing their job with their previous action.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Pattie, that the Board give the Planning Commission the authority to re-evaluate the Comprehensive Plan beyond the state code changes if they find reason.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, and Pyles Nays: Beyeler Motion carried.
ROUTE 636 PPTA
Patrick J. Morgan, County Attorney, stated late yesterday afternoon he received a draft Comprehensive Agreement for Route 636. He did a preliminary review and some changes need to be made before Board approval. He noted there was discussion that, at this point, an interim agreement may need to be considered concerning development of portions of the road that would not involve the expenditure of federal funds. Mr. Morgan plans on presenting the agreement to the Board for consideration at the next Staff Briefing.
VDOT REVENUE SHARING PROGRAM FOR FY2012-2013
The Board considered VDOT Revenue Sharing Program for FY2012-2013.
Mr. Fitzgerald advised that the Board has been provided with the application, which is due to Richmond by November 1, 2012.
Mr. Coffield provided the Board with the following information:
Route 636 (W) $5,055,614 (Bond) Project Funding: Countywide VDOT Account $ 900,000 Existing VDOT (SR) Account $ 2,633,772 State Revenue Sharing $ 5,055,614 County Revenue Sharing Match (Bond) $ 5,055,614 $13,645,000 Route 870 (MR) $75,000 Project Funding: State Revenue Sharing $ 75,000 County Revenue Sharing Match $ 75,000 $ 150,000 Mr. Coffield stated Mr. Wills has expressed willingness for the $75,000 to come out of his infrastructure account.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Shull, that the Board adopt the following resolution and accept the proposed staff recommendation to include approving $75,000 from Middle River Infrastructure Account #80000-8012-74:
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the County of Augusta desires to submit an application for an allocation of funds of up to $5,130,614 through the Virginia Department of Transportation Fiscal Year 2014 Revenue Sharing Program; and, WHEREAS, $5,130,614 of these funds are requested to fund the following:
SUMMARY – Designation of Funds Form FY14 Revenue Sharing Program Augusta County District Staunton Residency Requested Locality Rev Rev Sh Route # / TOTAL State Rev Sh Sh Match Priority # Road Name FUNDS ($) Match ($) ($) Route 636 1 Goose Creek $5,055,614 $5,055,614 $10,111,228 Road Route 870 2 Point $75,000 $75,000 $150,000 Lookout Road
TOTAL OF ALL FUNDS $5,130,614 $5,130,614 $10,261,228
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Augusta County Board of Supervisors hereby support this application for an allocation of $5,130,614 through the Virginia Department of Transportation Revenue Sharing Program.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
LANDFILL TIPPING FEES
The Board received a presentation by staff of fees at the Augusta Regional Landfill.
Mr. Coffield stated during the budget process, there were conversations that Rockingham County was going up on their landfill tipping fees and that all revenue sources should be looked at after the budget was completed. The Landfill Committee, which includes Waynesboro, Staunton, and Augusta, had staff review regional tipping fees. Greg Thomasson’s report outlined several scenarios. Mr. Coffield stated it was his and the two City Managers’ recommendation not to proceed at this time to change the base rate of $45.00; however, the report identified two areas of which Augusta County may wish to uniquely consider. That report addressed residential haulers, which have a base rate of $7.50. He also noted that if individuals come in with dump trucks and wish not to go to the public use site, the landfill staff allows them to go the landfill face. Most of the time that is not a problem but sometimes they receive reports of scavenging. He noted that “if you make it really easy to put the items in a dump truck and take it to the landfill face, you are not encouraging recycling. Some of the people who come to the landfill face are farmers.” Mr. Coffield noted that the Service Authority manages all of the fees. As reflected in the report, the County’s residential subsidy for the current year is $559,167.
Chairman Pyles added that he was one of the Board members who wanted to look at that but the Board needs to be aware of what other places are charging. “From 1990 until now is kind of unusual not having an increase.” Mr. Karaffa stated one of the nice things for homeowners is that you do not get charged when you haul your own trash. He mentioned when someone brings their own private dump truck then he would agree with Chairman Pyles.
Chairman Pyles stated if there is no desire to move any of them, the Board can leave them as it is.
Mr. Wills reported that there were some residential haulers who pick up at businesses.
Mr. Karaffa felt that if you go to the face of the landfill and are dumping more than residential trash than you should have to pay a fee.
Mr. Shull stated there are many farmers that bring in a lot of trash.
Mr. Karaffa asked what are they bringing that is not residential.
Mr. Wills stated, this passed week, he took his sidewalk to the landfill. The first time he went to the landfill, he was told that the slats were too big and was sent to the face. He mentioned he did not request to go there.
Mr. Karaffa noted that they are charging for commercial and industry and asked if farming was an industry.
Mr. Shull stated farmers are not making the money that industry is making.
Mr. Karaffa disagreed noting that there were a lot of businesses that were going out of business.
Mr. Wills pointed out that someone could be doing residential remodeling and using his personal pickup truck and take it to the landfill and would not be charged; however, he may have to go to the face because the waste cannot fit in the dumpster. He added that because of the fee process, the amount of off-road dumping in the County has been reduced, which was a priority twenty years ago when he was on the Board.
Mr. Beyeler moved, seconded by Mr. Shull, that the Board not increase the fees at the Augusta County Landfill Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
MILL PLACE COMMERCE PARK
The Board considered professional services associated with stormwater permitting.
Funding Source: CIP Economic Development Account #80000-8145 Mr. Fitzgerald advised that Mill Place Commerce Park has several Stormwater detention areas that have required permitting and noted that it is time to update the permit. Timmons has been asked to review the permitting and to determine where the best management practices can be done and what the requirements will be as far as any construction in those areas in order to comply with the permit. This review will allow the County to go back to the DEQ and with the Army Corp. of Engineers to update the permit. The proposal from Timmons should not exceed $6,000.
Mr. Karaffa noted as the dirt is moved around, we need to be aware of where we want our pad-ready sites to be. “As we pull up the dirt, let’s look for the best places to put the dirt.” He mentioned Timmons may want to look at that as well while they are doing their review.
Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Wills, that the Board approve the request in an amount not to exceed $6,000 to be appropriated from the CIP Economic Development Account.
Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE PUBLIC
Mr. Bill Tueting, 92 Fieldhaven Place, Staunton, stated tonight’s meeting was quite enjoyable and he had heard some really good discussions. He mentioned that he served on the Comprehensive Steering Committee a few years ago and noted that one of the things the committee voted unanimously on was limiting eminent domain. He stated that the citizens are interested in stopping eminent domain for economic development, i.e., private sector gain. It was the will of the Planning Commission and Steering Committee that it be in there and asked that the Board reconsider that point.
WAIVERS/VARIANCES – NONE
CONSENT AGENDA
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Karaffa, that the Board approve the consent agenda as follows:
MINUTES
Approved minutes of the following meetings:
• Staff Briefing Meeting, Monday, September 24, 2012 • Regular Meeting, Wednesday, September 26, 2012
CLAIMS
Approved claims paid since September 12, 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: New Hope Fire and Rescue has asked for assistance while their rescue people are at a convention so that they know the area is covered. He mentioned Chief Holloway has given him a figure not to exceed $2,500 to provide coverage. Funding Source: Middle River Infrastructure Account # 80000-8012-75.
Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Pattie, that the Board approve the request.
Funding Source: Middle River Infrastructure Account #80000-8012-75 Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
* * * Mr. Shull: Met with the Athletic Director of Riverheads who has an entire list of wants. One thing that is on the top of the list is that they want to have another field. He will try to meet with contractors and hopes that he could get donated work on this; however, he stated they may have to pay for a little fuel. This field will be there for the Elementary School and other activities.
Mr. Karaffa:
1. Gochenour House – Requested that $400 be set aside to update an appraisal.
Previously money had been put aside for survey work and platting. There is a small amount of excess funds remaining but not enough to cover the appraisal.
Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Beyeler, that the Board approve the appropriation $400 to update the appraisal of the Gochenour House.
Funding Source: Beverley Manor Infrastructure Account #80000-8011-60 Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Beyeler and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.
* * * 2. Ordinance Committee meeting today – He asked if panhandling had been discussed. Mr. Morgan reported that the draft ordinance will be discussed at the next Staff Briefing.
Mr. Moore: Stated Chief Holloway and he met with the Waynesboro First Aid Crew last night as directed. A draft agreement was distributed to the Board for review.
Chief Holloway stated they have thirty (30) days and need to move forward rapidly. He noted that in draft agreement, WFAC would provide an ambulance and one person 24/7, 365 days a year. Augusta County would depend on them to provide the Advanced Life Support provider and Augusta County would provide the EMT. They will be working as a team and build a relationship together. They talked about the geographic service area and the oversight for the County. Chief Holloway noted that he would work very closely with their Rescue Chief and would maintain the insurance for the station. Augusta County would buy disposables for the rescue unit but other than that fuel, oil, maintenance would be WFAC responsibility. The split on revenue recovery would be 50/50. There would be a 90-day termination clause in the agreement with a three-year contract, renewable every year. He noted that this is still in draft form and that Mr. Morgan and Ms. Whetzel have looked at the document. He added that he spoke with SARS today and learned that they will be coming out of Preston L. Yancey by November 1, 2012. He noted that if there is an issue, the County does have a reserve ambulance.
Mr. Moore stated October 16, 2012 Preston L. Yancey will have their Board meeting and hopes that the agreement will be signed.
Mr. Karaffa thanked Chief Holloway and Mr. Moore for working with the Waynesboro First Aid Crew.
Mr. Wills expressed his appreciation to Waynesboro First Aid Crew and felt that this is a win-win situation.
Mr. Beyeler suggested that Waynesboro First Aid Crew start sooner than January 1st. Chief Holloway reiterated that SARS will not pull out until November 1st. Chairman Pyles suggested that the Board read the proposal and make their decision at the next Staff Briefing.
Mr. Shull asked if they said anything about Riverheads. Chief Holloway said it would be January 2, 2013 and would brief the Board at the next meeting.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY STAFF
Staff discussed the following:
1. Gypsy Moth information was distributed to the Board. Mr. Coffield noted that he has already shared this information with Matt Booher in Extension.
2. Legislative Dinner on October 22, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. – Agenda was distributed to the Board.
3. Stormwater Management Meeting is on November 27, 2012 at Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
4. FY2014-2019 Six Year Improvement Program – distributed to the Board. Mr. Moore will be hosting on November 5, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the Government Center. Draft will be placed on Board’s next Staff Briefing agenda.
5. Presidential Nominee Event – Last week Law Enforcement, Fire and Rescue, and Emergency Services was notified that the Presidential and Vice-President Nominees were coming to Augusta County. Staff did a fantastic job in coordinating everything with the Secret Service and State Police. Mr. Shull had spoken with the one of the Secret Service agents and it was said that Sheriff Randy Fisher and all of his staff were excellent to work with. Mr. Karaffa said that the County should have put in place some sort of traffic pattern for high volume events on how to get people out of Expo more successfully.
6. Autogas – The County has ten vehicles that use the Autogas Program and it has saved the County $19,965.84 over the past year.
7. Augusta County School Board 2011-2012 Year-end Budget Summary – distributed to the Board. They asked that the funds continue to be put in the CIP School Account. Mr. Coffield noted that the Board previously approved this on August 20, 2012.
8. Route 640 curve – Mr. Morgan has received a letter and staff is working on a response to the letter.
CLOSED SESSION – NONE
ADJOURNMENT
There being no other business to come before the Board, Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Mr. Shull, 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:10-10min.12
