Regular Meeting – February 25, 2015

Regular Meeting, Wednesday, February 25, 2015, 7:00 p.m. Government Center, Verona, VA.

PRESENT: Michael L. Shull, Chairman
David A. Karaffa, Vice-Chairman
Carolyn S. Bragg
Jeffrey A. Moore
Marshall W. Pattie
Tracy C. Pyles, Jr.
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
Rita R. Austin, CMC, Executive Secretary

VIRGINIA: At a regular meeting of the Augusta County Board of Supervisors held on Wednesday, February 25, 2015, at 7:00 p.m., at the Government Center, Verona, Virginia, and in the 239th year of the Commonwealth….

Chairman Shull welcomed the citizens present.

Seth Long, a senior of Buffalo Gap High School, led us with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Seth plays basketball and soccer and is a member of NHS. He applied to University of Virginia and Virginia Tech’s School of Engineering and hopes to be an aerospace engineer.

Tracy C. Pyles, Jr., Supervisor for the Pastures District, delivered invocation.

BEILER FAMILY PROPERTIES, LLC – REZONING

This being the day and time advertised to consider a request to rezone approximately 9.3 acres from General Agriculture to General Business and approximately 10.8 acres from General Agriculture to Multi-Family Residential with proffers owned by Beiler Family Properties, LLC. The property is located on the east side of Colters Place Drive less than 0.1 of a mile north of the intersection of Colters Place Drive and Stuarts Draft Highway (Route 340) in Stuarts Draft (Beverley Manor District). The Planning Commission recommends approval with proffers.

Becky Earhart, Senior Planner, displayed property outlined in pink. The applicant submitted the following proffers:

1. A public street system will be constructed from Colters Place Drive and will be stubbed to the remaining General Agricultural portion of Tax Map 75-52.

The exact location will be determined at time of final design. The road may be constructed in phases.

2. Building permits for no more than 66 dwelling units will be issued until the continuous public street from Colters Place Drive to the remaining General Agricultural portion of Tax Map 75-52 has been built or bonded.

3. No multi-family development shall have direct access to Colters Place Drive.

4. Prior to the issuance of the first building permit for any new structure on the 20.059 acres, the developer will provide a HEC-1 hydrology and hydraulics existing conditions model of the project site watershed from the point where it meets the South River. Ground topography will be based on publicly available topographic data (VGIN, USGS, LiDAR, etc.) supported by field survey data at culvert, roadways, and defined channels.

5. The intersection of Colters Place Drive and Stuarts Draft Highway (Route 340) will support at least 1,657 vehicles per day. If there are changes to the assumptions used in the Traffic Study (titled ‘Turn Lane Analysis and Signal Warrant Analysis for Foschini Property’ with a date of January 26, 2015), additional transportation improvements may be needed subject to proposed uses. (She noted that the traffic study was done on the basis of 129 multi-family units and 9.3 acres of mini-warehouses). Therefore, if changes are proposed at the time of submission of a site plan for any new construction on any portion of this property, the developer shall submit to Augusta County and VDOT for review and approval an amended Traffic Study. The Traffic Study will project the additional vehicle trips to be generated by the proposed development and take into consideration any remaining undeveloped portions of the property along Colters Place Drive, as well as a proposed church at the end of Colters Place Drive (on 75- 52D). Prior to issuance of building permits for any additional development on subject property, the Applicant, or his successors or assigns, shall construct or bond road improvements, as required by the findings of the approved Traffic Study, commensurate with the extent of the proposed development for which building permits are requested.

6. Prohibited uses of this property will include:

 Adult businesses  Cemeteries  Vehicle sales lots  Recreational attractions and public amusement businesses  Carnivals, circuses, and fairs  Business support businesses  Transportation related businesses  Wood processing businesses 7. Development of the multi-family portion of the project will not utilize VHDA tax credits or government subsidies or similar measures to finance/refinance construction of the units. This proffer shall not apply to the financing of any individual unit by a third party property owner.

8. Building height shall not exceed 3 stories in the Multi-Family zoned portion of the property. If developed as townhouse style units, there shall be no more than 8 units per structure.

9. For the multi-family portion of the project, the exterior appearance of each building with more than 3 units shall include varying facades, varying setbacks from the street, a mix of masonry and siding, contrasting trim and multiple roof lines.

10. For the business portion of the project, the building height of any building within 50’ of Colters Place Drive shall be no more than 35’. The exterior of any building adjacent to Colters Place Drive shall have a mix of masonry and siding on the sides adjacent to Colters Place Drive. No overhead doors shall face towards Colters Place Drive along the first row of structures. If the building(s) front on Colters Place Drive and there is parking in the front of the building, then a 25’ landscape strip shall be installed and maintained along Colters Place Drive which will include an evergreen hedge at least 3’ in height and planted on 5’ centers between Colters Place Drive and any parking facilities. Additionally, street trees shall be installed and maintained on 50’ centers along the street frontage.

11. Within 30 days of the rezoning, a plat will be recorded (displayed on screen) creating the 20.059 acre tract. The plat will include the easement as represented on Rezoning Exhibit ‘A’.

Ms. Earhart stated that the property is currently zoned General Agriculture and located in an Urban Service Area and slated for mixed use development. Public water and sewer are available to serve the property.

Chris Foschini, Applicant, reported that he has worked closely with staff to address concerns. He believes the project is in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and should be allowed to move forward. He understood that this request is only for a portion of the potentially larger developmental area; however, he felt that the proposed zoning changes are in line and based on the Comprehensive Plan. He knows that it could be many years before the larger tract is developed, but stated that this property has been on and off of the market for many years. “We are willing to take the first step in developing this property while still honoring the Comprehensive Plan and will take into consideration connectivity, putting the road in, stormwater management, and appropriate uses.” He felt it was time to move forward in developing this property, even if it is in smaller tracts and not the entire property. He noted that there is already a diversity of businesses and residences on Route 340. “We truly have a mixed community in Stuarts Draft already. There are homes, gyms, strip centers, industry and all sorts in-between.” He understood the concerns as to the proposed use of some of the businesses. He said that it is not his intention to have just one business use on this property. The plans are to develop one to two and one-half acres at a time with mini-storage warehouses and determine what happens in the development around Sheetz. He noted that there could be many different future business uses on that portion of property as other development occurs. It is in his best interest to make sure that any storage facility blends in with the appropriate natural buffers to ensure aesthetic appeal of the multi-family portion, not to mention the compatibility of use. He opined self-storage is a very low-impact type of business. He felt it would be a good transition buffer between the existing business on Route 340 and the proposed multi-family. As a member of the Planning Commission, he recused himself from any discussion pertaining to this request. The Planning Commission, without Staff recommendation, unanimously approved the request. He was available to answer any questions that the Board may have. Due to the fact that he was not given Staff recommendation until today, he wanted to hear discussion tonight but asked that this request be tabled for 30 days in order for him to address any concerns mentioned tonight.

He introduced Ray Burkholder, with Balzer Associates, to complete his presentation.

Mr. Pyles asked, if this was tabled, was there supposed to be any discussion tonight.

Mr. Karaffa felt it important to have discussion tonight.

Patrick J. Morgan, County Attorney, understood from Mr. Foschini that he wishes to have the public hearing tonight and have discussion but does not want a decision made tonight.

Mr. Foschini said that was correct. He would like to have time to address any concerns that the Board and staff may have.

Mr. Burkholder stated that stormwater is an existing issue in this area. Noting that there is flooding on Wayne Avenue and the ballfields, he would like to provide a study. “We are willing to take that first step and evaluate what needs to happen there. This isn’t a Beiler Farm drainage issue; this is a much larger drainage issue. There is going to have to be participation from many parties moving forward in how that gets resolved. With stormwater, there are new guidelines. I have heard some concerns about stormwater on site. We are held to very strict standards with water quality and water quantity. Just like Sheetz, they are going to have an underground system at their facility. We are going to have to have facilities on our property as well. That is going to have to happen in phases as things are developed.” He noted that large systems are being discouraged and that the State Code is suggesting smaller systems. He was available to answer other questions.

The Chairman declared the public hearing open.

There being no one present to speak for or against, the chairman declared the public hearing closed.

Mr. Karaffa felt this to be a good project. He has spoken with Messrs. Foschini and Beiler and learned what their plans were in terms of buffers and aesthetics and how they were going to try to respect what could be developed around and connecting to it, such as, proffering a public road that would connect Colters Place Drive to the road that would eventually be developed by Sheetz. Looking at the quality of development, Multi- Family and Self-Storage, they have mentioned buffers such as it being gated and secured. He added that, with Sheetz moving in, there would be opportunities for additional businesses behind it. “This isn’t road frontage development that we’re talking about. We have the Clayton Homes property, which is 340 road frontage and on Colters, we’re talking about what would look like a small strip building with a business on the front of it facing the Multi-family. I do understand that there are still some concerns by not only staff but, maybe, some Supervisors. I would make the motion that we table this. However, I would appreciate it if the Board would give their comments so that the applicant and staff can work to address those concerns.” Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Ms. Bragg, that the Board table this item.

Mr. Pyles questioned if there could be any discussion once there was a motion to table.

Mr. Karaffa withdrew his first motion and asked for discussion.

Mr. Wills expressed concerns of this being piece-mill type of zoning. He felt that something would be created that would not be compatible in the future. He stated that a Master Plan was needed and that roads needed to be recognized that come to Route 340; they needed to plan for interior roads. In regards to business, he expressed concerns of businesses being placed (such as McDonald’s) that would have high traffic flow and noted that Colters Place would not be able to handle that type of traffic. He did not feel that enough information was available at this time to do a proper rezoning and build for the future in this particular area.

Mr. Moore noted that it is in the designated area for growth, from the County standpoint.

It is property that sits on Route 340 that needs development. He would like to receive information as to how traffic in that area will be handled and he felt that 30 days was appropriate time to address those issues.

Ms. Bragg said that she has viewed the property again and is still concerned about the usage and compatibility at the entrance of a potential housing area. Storage units are 24 hours a day, seven days a week. She did not think this was appropriate at the entrance of a potential development. She also expressed concerns of what is going to happen in the future and felt that this needs to be carefully planned, not piece-mill development. She stated this is the beginning of development from Stuarts Draft to Waynesboro and we need to look at 5-10 years down the road, not just now. Road concerns were also expressed and she was unsure of the access in the back for new businesses. She reiterated her concerns of compatibility to the neighborhood, overall planning for Stuarts Draft of the entire 200 acres; and the connectivity of the roads.

Mr. Pyles expressed his concern regarding the entire rezoning process. “This is the second month in a row where we have had issues, I think, with the Planning Commission. We had a Planning Commissioner worried about her chickens and trying to deny the rights of others and she was very vocal about that. Now, we have a Planning Commissioner who wants to get a rezoning done and the Supervisor from that District is all for it, who appointed him. Our staff was muzzled. Who looks after the citizens? Who looks after the people from the Beverley Manor District? I haven’t heard anything. The issues have been brought up. We asked staff and have found a number of issues. The issues from Ms. Bragg, who lives over there, and who passes by it every day. She is concerned about the general community in Stuarts Draft. She has great issues and was not part of the process.” He did not feel that the process made the citizens feel comfortable to it being “open and above-board”. He stated that, even though the Planning Commissioner exempted himself from discussion, there was nobody present to speak for Beverley Manor residents. He had raised the question of Staff not having a recommendation and was disappointed that the Chairman of the Planning Commission did not ask for that recommendation. “The whole process has a little taint to me. I don’t like it the way it rolled out.” He added that this County has progressed well because of having long-range plans. “We look in advance. We want to do things right in the beginning instead of making things right later on. That’s what we’ve done as a County and it disappoints me that our Planning Commissioner would not want to have a long-range plan in place. It’s not the standard of Augusta County.” As far as rezoning, Mr. Pyles stated, “Rezoning is a privilege, not a right. If you want to do something different, you need to convince us that it is worthwhile to change it. This is prime property. We have the most capacity in schools over there; we have great capacity of water and sewer; we have good roads over there. This is where we would like to have housing. This is where we would like to have better business. Mini- storage probably has the least value on prime property of anything that you could possibly put there.” He felt there was a better use for that property, than mini-storage, that would have greater community value. He did not feel that mini-storage next to a school complex “was a smart thing”. “We have invested to make that property worth more. We would like to see the most brought out of it instead of the least.” In reference to Staff’s comments, drainage, traffic, planning, he felt that there were things that should have been done long ago, not something now. He felt that the 30-day (or longer) delay to make it better “to fall in line with the vision that this Board has for that property and what Ms. Bragg has for that property” was a good idea. He suggested that Ms. Bragg should be included in any discussion they may have.

Dr. Pattie expressed concern over the fact that the two supervisors closest to the property are split over this request and he was happy with the delay. He encouraged them to address the issues with staff and both supervisors.

Mr. Karaffa added the following comment:

There is currently a mini-storage in Stuarts Draft that is behind Stump Elementary School. It is pretty close if you look at the proximity and compare the proximity of where this may go to Stuarts Draft School. We’re looking at that, and as far as I know, we haven’t had any incidents from the Heritage Mini-Storage Complex. I think the owner is here that could speak to whether or not any mischief has come about because of her mini-storage in relation to the Stump Elementary School.

Ms. Bragg said the mini-storage was not near Stump Elementary. She noted that there was a park and quite a bit of land between the school and the mini-storage planned for this property.

Mr. Karaffa said there was 200 acres between the School Complex and the location of the mini-storage, and added:

I’m just saying, if we’re looking at proximity, let’s compare some apples to apples. There are some questions about the process. The process for anybody who has a conflict of interest was followed. That person stepped aside, did not involve themselves in any way shape or form. Now, if we want to make a practice where, in that case, we ask somebody to step in to represent that district on the Planning Commission, I would be willing to entertain that, but I would say that would need to be applied uniformly, especially, as it relates to another member of the Planning Commission. I’m talking about Mr. Shipplett. I believe there are some conflicts with things that come up with the Planning Commission and his representation. Ms. Bragg, along with the rest of this Board, received the information in the same manner as we always would. I, being the representative of Beverley Manor, received the preliminary staff report just like everybody else does for things that are happening in their district. I took the opportunity to sit with Mr. Foschini and learned more about the project. I looked at it in terms of what we have talked about for development of this piece of land in terms of our Comprehensive Plan.

That is what it is—you look at the adjoining businesses. I was told the Staff Recommendation was not included, not because the Planning Commission said they couldn’t do it, but because the Attorney advised that it would be ‘inappropriate’. What I find to be very interesting is that in one, or two days time, that inappropriateness changed. My question is what has changed? It wasn’t appropriate at first; why is it appropriate, now? Not that I’m saying that it is or isn’t, but what changed? I did encourage Mr. Foschini to sit down with Ms. Bragg. He did do that. Took her out to the property; showed it to her; and answered her questions; he took the time.

Mr. Karaffa moved, seconded by Ms. Bragg, that the Board table this item.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Karaffa, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None Motion carried.

Mr. Wills noted that there is no timetable on that motion to bring it before the Board; it can be brought back within the year that the application had been made.

MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE PUBLIC

James Wright, a professor of Health and Physical Education at Blue Ridge Community College, a Health and Safety instructor, a clinical exercise physiologist, a health promotion professional, and an avid cyclist for forty-six years and proponent of cycling for fitness with current and/or previous affiliations with 5 or more cycling clubs, and a passionate proponent of health lifestyles, stated that he uses his bike for commuting in every way possible as a substitute for motor travel. He expressed concern of the lack of law enforcement addressing the “Sharing the Road in Virginia law,” (the three-foot buffer from cyclists). He told of an incident that occurred involving him and felt that it was a dangerous and illegal act of aggression. He asked that the Board and Law Enforcement support the State law regarding bicycle safety and supporting the right of cyclists.

Mr. Moore suggested that an article be placed in the newspapers regarding cyclists’ safety. As weather warms up, there will be more cyclists on the road.

Mr. Wills added that there are several cycling events in Augusta County. He felt that articles relating to bicycle safety and making citizens aware of the 3-foot rule was important.

Ms. Bragg said that a group from Canada comes every year to Stuarts Draft and felt this to be timely.

Mr. Wright added, “This is God’s Country and a great cycling place to entertain people.”

BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE – UPDATE

The Board received a presentation by Blue Ridge Community College President regarding College activities.

Dr. John Downey, President of Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC), expressed his appreciation of the Board for its ongoing support and dedication over the years for the funding and the Augusta County representatives provided for the Blue Ridge Community College Board (Dr. Bruce Bowman and Lynn Diveley). A packet of information with statistics about the impact BRCC has on Augusta County residents was provided to the Board. As President of BRCC, Dr. Downey tries to concentrate on the role BRCC plays with economic development. He said it is a pleasure to work with Amanda Glover, Economic Development Director, as well as with the Shenandoah Valley Partnership (SVP). “Working together, we make a big difference in terms of the plants, locally, who decides to expand and having business relocate to the County because the number one thing that they look for is the effectiveness of the workforce.” He mentioned the transfer function where students can participate at BRCC for two years and then, if they do well, they are guaranteed admission in almost every four-year college or university in the Commonwealth. He also expressed emphasis on the Career and Technical Education Programs offered. “When you look at the jobs in this County and the Region, 16% of employment in our region is still in the manufacturing sector, and in the Health Care sector, another 12%. Our program has to reflect the community that we serve.” A manufacturing summit was recently held. BRCC also has non-credit workforce training: Welding and Machining. One of the Strategic Plan of the Virginia Community College System going into the future will be to triple the number of certifications offered throughout the Community College System. He believes that Blue Ridge will be a leader in that effort. BRCC also offers a wide range of personal enrichment courses and emphasize community service with their students. Another service of the Board of Supervisors is the responsibility to pay for the site work around new buildings. He expressed appreciation of the Board for its commitment to that effort. A number of new facilities are being built: Health Student Services Center (houses all of the Student Services offices and Business offices – built in 1970) – in the process of building a 20,000 sf addition to the front and back of the building. In addition, they have been approved to build a parking deck which will house approximately 300 cars. Dr. Downey said they have been approved to begin the drawing phase of the Bio-Science Building, which will be important for economic development. He also expressed the appreciation of the work that Dr. Eric Bond, Augusta County Schools Superintendent, has provided to make sure that “we are serving their needs.

We’re the provider of choice for dual-enrollment courses, which, I think, really benefits our students in our region and gives them a head-start in college. Also, with the Governor School, we offer a number of dual-enrollment courses.” Mr. Pyles appreciated the inclusion of Dennis Burnett in the BRCC brochure. Dr. Downey stated, “He was a significant influence at the college. He, in particular, had a real impact in this region. He is a model of what our alumni can become.” Mr. Karaffa left the meeting at 7:45 p.m.

EDA COMPENSATION POLICY

The Board considered EDA Compensation Policy.

Amanda Glover, Economic Development Authority Director, reminded the Board that the EDA is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, consisting of seven members who are appointed by District. EDA has its own treasury and currently has six meetings per year. Each EDA member receives $50 per meeting as well as mileage.

They also receive mileage for other events. All of this is allowed by the Virginia State Code. EDA members are seeking additional compensation for their time and effort and approval is required by the Board of Supervisors. She noted that they spend an equal number of time in formal meetings as they do at events in the community. She added that the Chairman and Vice-Chairman were unable to attend tonight’s meeting.

Mr. Wills said that this had been discussed at Monday’s Staff Briefing and been reviewed and modified based on comments submitted to EDA.

Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Mr. Moore that the Board approve the request.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
ACSA – BERRY FARM

The Board considered request from ACSA regarding potential well site on Berry Farm.

Patrick J. Coffield, County Administrator, advised that this had been discussed at Monday’s Staff Briefing. He reminded the Board that the request be granted at no cost.

Mr. Pyles pointed out that if this is successful, it will be able to support the Industrial Park and potentially reduce the County’s future demands to the City of Staunton.

Mr. Pyles moved, seconded by Dr. Pattie, that the Board approve the request.

Ms. Bragg clarified that it was only the 5.6 acres that was discussed at the Staff Briefing.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
TODD LAKE DAM
The Board considered funding for preliminary engineering.

Funding Source: Flood Control Dams Account #80000-8151 $100,000 Timmy Fitzgerald, Director of Community Development, reported that this had been discussed at Monday’s Staff Briefing. Before the Board tonight is a request to consider funding for preliminary engineering up to $100,000, with the Federal match of 65%.

Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Dr. Pattie, that the Board authorizing funding for preliminary engineering with the assurance that the State will assist the County with 35% portion.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
ATLANTIC COAST PIPELINE

The Board considered scope of work and cost for ACSA Water Study – Groundwater Risk Assessment.

Funding Source: BOS Reports Account #1010-3125 $7,910 Mr. Fitzgerald advised that this had been discussed at Monday’s Staff Briefing. He mentioned that the Sullivan Report, which had been provided by the Service Authority, had been distributed to the Board at that meeting.

Dr. Pattie expressed concern of the relocation of the path of the pipeline and asked at what point is the study deployed. Mr. Moore said that it has been pointed out that there can be changes. Mr. Pyles agreed, “But the vast amount of this information is not changed by the pipeline. The idea that there is 273,251 million gallons per year of water. That’s a big number! It’s a huge amount! But when you talk about the sensitivity areas, you talk about the total amount of water we have, the general problems with karst and blasting and all the things that are in here, I think it is well worth it.” It was the consensus of the Board to provide the Study to FERC when a public hearing is held in Augusta County sometime in March. He felt that this report would show FERC how Augusta County is different. He hoped that a presentation will be given to show: 1) what are the things that are different about Augusta County; 2) the vulnerability; 3) things that can go wrong; and 4) If something goes wrong, who will be responsible to correct the problem? He suggested that staff should provide recommendations at the next meeting as to what needs to be presented to FERC.

Mr. Pyles moved, seconded by Ms. Bragg, that the Board approve the scope of work and cost for ACSA Water Study – Groundwater Risk Assessment.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
LADD ELEMENTARY
The Board considered contract amendments as proposed by developers.

Ms. Glover reminded the Board that the County is currently under contract with Kenneth H. Michael for the purchase of Ladd Elementary. The study period associated with the contract was set to expire in March. In going through the process, and working diligently with the City of Waynesboro, as well as VDOT, it has been determined that more time is needed. They have requested an extension until December 15, 2015. In exchange for the additional time, they plan to pay interest at 2.5% beginning May 15th (the date that they had originally planned to close) until date of closing. The Second Amendment to Purchase Agreement was attached to tonight’s agenda. Staff and the County Attorney have reviewed this document. Mr. Michael has executed the agreement.

Mr. Moore moved, seconded by Dr. Pattie that the Board accept the Second Amendment with the extension of the timeline to December 15, 2015.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
WAIVERS/VARIANCES – NONE
CONSENT AGENDA

Mr. Wills moved, seconded by Ms. Bragg, that the Board approve the consent agenda as follows:

MINUTES

Approved minutes of the following meetings:

 Special Meeting, Wednesday, February 4, 2015  Regular Meeting, Wednesday, February 11, 2015

RABIES CLINIC REQUEST

The Board considered request to hold rabies clinic for the purpose of rabies vaccination for cats and dogs at the Deerfield Community Center on Saturday, March 28, 2015.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Wills, Moore, Bragg and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY THE BOARD
The Board discussed the following issues:

Mr. Pyles: Election – Plans on “standing” (standing on his 20-years record) (not running from anything) for the next Election. He gave a 20-year recap of his years on the Board:

1. Hospital moving to Fishersville – closing of two City hospitals 2. Purchase of Government Center facility – changed nature of Augusta County.

3. Hiring of a “brilliant and confident” Administrator Remarkable accomplishments:

 “Mega Jail” – Regional – Rockingham, Augusta, Harrisonburg, Staunton and Waynesboro  Landfill – Regional  Fire and Rescue – from 14 to 90 career people  Schools – renovation of Fort, Buffalo Gap and Riverheads o Clymore and Stuarts Draft Elementary o Riverheads and Cassell most recent projects o Wonderful inventory of schools!

 Sheriff’s Department relocated  Animal Shelter – Regional  School Board Administration offices relocated  Regional contribution o Staunton – $250,000 to Black Friar Theater o Jail o Juvenile Detention Home o Landfill  Tax Rate: 58¢ in 1995 – 56¢ today – because of careful management and planning  Route 262/I-64, exit 91 – Good road management  Dam Rehabilitations In 1995, “We were behind the curve; in 2015, we’re ahead of the curve.

Sometimes, when you’re on this Board, you’ve got to be a tough guy to get things done in a fair way.” Mr. Moore:

1. Timmy Fitzgerald and he met with the Scott family in Waynesboro to discuss Royal Orchard growth potential and the Crozet Tunnel Trail being tied into the Park. Comprehensive Plan is being looked at. It is in a restrictive zoning and does not see any type of development in this area. A letter has been submitted to Mr. Fitzgerald for a future meeting. Mr. Pyles asked if Dominion was aware of this tunnel.

2. Election – will not be seeking re-election because of his employment responsibilities.

Chm. Shull: Will be seeking re-election. Has enjoyed his four years of service.

MATTERS TO BE PRESENTED BY STAFF

Staff discussed the following issues:

1. Winter Weather Report distributed to the Board.

2. Fire and Rescue: A) SAFER Grant submitted; B) Need for a new ladder truck (twenty years old). Mr. Moore stressed that it is very much needed due to the new development over the past 20 years.

3. General Assembly – Should be voting on budget tomorrow!

ADJOURNMENT

There being no other business to come before the Board, Mr. Pyles moved, seconded by Dr. Pattie, the Board adjourned subject to call of the Chairman.

Vote was as follows: Yeas: Pattie, Shull, Moore, Bragg, Wills and Pyles Nays: None

Absent: Karaffa
Motion carried.
Chairman County Administrator
h:2-25min.15