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2008-04-02 MinutesBOARD OF SUPERVISORS MINUTES April 2, 2008 Supervisors in Attendance: Mr. Arthur S. Warren, Chairman Mr. Daniel A. Gecker, Vice Chrm. Ms. Dorothy Jaeckle Mr. James "Jim" Holland Ms. Marleen K. Durfee Mr. James J. L. Stegmaier County Administrator Staff in Attendance: Ms. Janice Blakley, Clerk to the Board Mr. Mike Bacile, Dir., Purchasing Mr. George Braunstein, Exec. Dir., Community Services Board Mr. Kevin Bruny, Dean, Chesterfield University Mr. Joe Campbell, Dir., Juvenile Detention Mr. Allan Carmody, Dir., Budget and Management Ms. Jana Carter, Dir., Juvenile Services Ms. Marilyn Cole, Asst. County Administrator Mr. Barry Condrey, Chief Information Officer Mr. Roy Covington, Dir., Utilities Ms. Mary Ann Curtin, Dir., Intergovtl. Relations Mr. William W. Davenport, Commonwealth's Attorney Mr. Jonathan Davis, Dir., Real Estate Assessments Mr. Will Davis, Dir., Economic Development Mr. William Dupler, Building Official Colonel Thierry Dupuis, Police Department Mr. Robert Eanes, Asst. to the County Administrator Mr. Michael Golden, Dir., Parks and Recreation Mr. John W. Harmon, Real Property Manager Mr. Russell Harris, Mgr. of Community Development Services Mr. Thomas E. Jacobson, Dir., Revitalization Mr. William E. Johnson, Deputy County Admin., Management Services Mr. Donald Kappel, Dir., Public Affairs Mr. Rob Key, Director, General Services Mr. Louis Lassiter, Dir., Internal Audit 08-193 04/02/08 Ms. Debbie Leidheiser, Senior Advocate, Human Services Mr. Michael Likins, Coop. Extension Director Ms. Mary Lou Lyle, Dir., Accounting Mr. Mike Mabe, Director, Libraries Chief Paul Mauger, Fire Department Mr. R. John McCracken, Dir., Transportation Mr. Richard M. McElfish, Dir., Env. Engineering Mr. Steven L. Micas, County Attorney Dr. William Nelson, Dir., Health Dept. Mr. Jay Payne, Asst to Dep. County Administrator Mr. Glen Peterson, Dir., Community Correction Services Sheriff Dennis Proffitt, Sheriff's Department Ms. Karen F. Russell, Risk Manager Mr. M. D. Stith, Jr., Deputy County Admin., Community Development Mr. Thomas Taylor, Dir., Block Grant Office Mr. Kirk Turner, Dir., Planning Mr. Miller called the regularly scheduled meeting to order at 3:09 p.m. 1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR MARCH 10 AND MARCH 12, 2008 On motion of Ms. Durfee, seconded by Mr. Warren, the Board approved the minutes of March 10, 2008, as submitted, and March 12, 2008, as amended. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 2. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR'S COMMENTS There were none at this time. 3. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS Mr. Holland stated the Budget and Audit Committee minutes are now available for the Board members to review. He thanked the Budget staff for all of their hard work and dedication. ..~~ 08-194 04/02/08 Mr. Gecker stated the revenue projections for the next year are less than originally projected; therefore, the Board needs to be mindful of how money is being spent. Mr. Warren stated the Board needed to be mindful when going through the budget process of the fact that house sales data is showing sales below assessed values. 4. REQUESTS TO POSTPONE AGENDA ITEMS AND ADDITIONS, DELETIONS OR CHANGES IN THE ORDER OF PRESENTATION On motion of Mr. Holland, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board moved Item 8.B.10., Acceptance of a Bid to Purchase Chesterfield County General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2008 for Various Capital Improvement Projects, to follow Item 5., Resolutions. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 5. RESOLUTIONS There were no resolutions at this time. 8.B.10. ACCEPTANCE OF A BID TO PURCHASE CHESTERFIELD COUNTY GENERAL OBLIGATION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT BONDS, SERIES 2008 FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Mr. Carmody stated approximately $76 million in Chesterfield County General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds were sold earlier today and the proceeds from the sale will finance various capital improvement projects approved in the November 2004 bond referendum. He further stated, as part of the bond sale, the county's AAA bond rating was reaffirmed by all three bond rating agencies, indicating that the county is still one of less than 30 counties in the nation to be rated AAA by all three bond rating agencies. He stated a total of 14 bids were received, and the lowest responsible bidder was UBS Securities, LLC at a true interest cost of 4.19 percent. He further stated the sale of bonds last year had a true interest cost of 4.01 percent. He stated staff is requesting that the Board accept the bid of UBS Securities to purchase the bonds so the necessary agreements can be executed. Discussions ensued relative to the cost savings to the county for obtaining AAA bond rating. On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a bid to purchase $74,480,000 principal amount of General Obligation Public Improvement Bonds, Series 2008, resized in accordance with provisions of the bidding documents. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 08-195 04/02/08 6. WORK SESSIONS 6.A. THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR'S FY2009-FY2010 PROPOSED BUDGET INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING PRESENTATIONS: 6.A.1. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Mr. Stith presented an overview of Community Development's FY2009 proposed budget. He stated the Community Development division is dedicated to managing changes in Chesterfield County; promoting economic prosperity; and providing a high quality of life for present and future generations. He reviewed expenditures and revenues and stated the FY2009 General Fund cost to support Community Development is approximately $11 million. He stated the Revitalization Office is working on various projects including the Cloverleaf Mall Redevelopment, the Ettrick community, the Jefferson Davis Highway Corridor and a countywide blight prevention program. He reviewed the Building Inspection's 2007 Customer Survey results. He provided details of assistance provided by Building Inspection to the region. He reviewed the proposed increase in Building Inspection fees to cover the cost of inspection services and provided a regional comparison. He stated jobs in Chesterfield increased to 121,596 as of June 2007 and businesses increased to 7,227. He stated Economic Development successes for 2007 included $54 million in new announced investment; 12 new announced facilities; 7 announced existing industry project expansions; and the announcement of 516 new jobs. He reviewed 2006 Economic Development highlights, including the "Business Starts Here" branding campaign, the Watkins Centre groundbreaking, the Northrop Grumman grand opening at Meadowville Technology Park, and existing business outreach programs enhanced. He discussed initiatives and provided details of Environmental Engineering efforts, including the Chesterfield County On-line Mapping Program (CHOMP); Chesterfield and the Department of Environmental Quality conducting educational outreach programs; and performing perennial flow determination investigations for property owners in the county. He provided results for the Chesterfield County Site Plan Review Team Survey. He reviewed 2007 accomplishments in Transportation, including the Route 360 Widening Project; Halloway Avenue Sidewalk Project; Reams Road at Adkins Road Project; and safety improvements at various locations. He stated the Utilities Department is one of only three water and sewer utilities in the nation to have the highest bond ratings from all three rating agencies. He provided details of the proposed increase for user fees. He further provided comparisons of the cost of water and wastewater service and wastewater connection fees for various localities in the region. He thanked the Board for its continued support. Mr. Warren thanked Mr. Stith for the informative presentation. In response to Mr. Gecker's questions, Mr. Stith stated the fee structure currently supports growth and is reviewed periodically for necessary increases. He further stated a study is currently underway to build an offsite water storage facility to ensure capacity for our citizens in the future. He stated a measure for Economic Development's progress is the low employment rates in the county. He further stated 08-196 04/02/08 Economic Development will bring back to the Board a report to show their successes on a quarterly basis. Mr. Gecker suggested creating benchmarks for Economic Development. He stated the county needs to focus on job creation within the county to assist with shifting the tax burden from residential to commercial. Mr. Holland stated performance measures are warranted in the area of Economic Development. In response to Mr. Holland's questions, Mr. Stith provided a brief explanation of the different types of reviews available to businesses within the site plan process in the county. He stated there is a minority and small business wing in Economic Development and they work with the Purchasing Department to ensure the bid documents reflect the desire to bring women and minority business owners into the county. He further stated it is difficult to put a number on the cost to bring a company to the county. Mr. Holland requested a report relative to the county's return on investment in regards to Economic Development. Mr. Warren suggested reviewing the Greater Richmond Partnership's benchmarks and incorporate some of those into the county to measure how well the county is doing versus the adjacent localities. Ms. Durfee recognized Mr. Covington for his national recognition, the Utility Department's Strategic Business Plan, and the sources of water for the county. Mr. Covington provided additional information relative to the county's water sources; the output capabilities; the Utilities Department's business plan; and the Fuller Award presented by the American Water Works Association. In response to Ms. Jaeckle's question, Mr. Stith stated the Jefferson Davis Streetscape Improvement Project was not funded in the Community Development budget this year since there are monies left over from last year that need to be used. 6.A.2. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT Mr. Taylor presented an overview of the FY2008-2009 budget for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership Fund and American Dream Downpayment Initiative. He reviewed the uses for grants received and the statutory goals, broad national objectives and local priorities of the programs. He stated FY2006-2007 successes included completion of 36 housing projects and provision of public service activities to more than 19,251 county residents. He reviewed expenditures and housing activities by magisterial district and allocations from FY2006-FY2007. He further reviewed current multi-year non-housing projects to include Coghill Road Sidewalk Installation; Ettrick Walking Trail; Winchester Greens Infrastructure Improvements; BizWorks Enterprise Center and proactive Code Compliance. He provided FY2008 proposed budget totals for CDBG, HOME Investment Partnership Fund, and the American Dream 08-197 04/02/08 Downpayment Initiative. He reviewed FY2008 CDBG funding requests and recommendations in the categories of Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities and Improvements, Public Service, and Planning and Administration. Mr. Warren thanked Mr. Taylor for the informative presentation. In response to Ms. Jaeckle's question, Mr. Taylor stated there was no further attempt to meet with the Committee once the notice of funds had been received. Mr. Stith stated the Committee is an advisory committee and makes a recommendation to the County Administrator on the allocation of funding. In response to Mr. Holland's question, Mr. Taylor provided an explanation of the process for awarding money to a non-profit organization for the rationale of having money left unspent. In response to Ms. Jaeckle's question, Mr. Taylor explained the administrative portion of the budget is to run the Community Development Block Grant office. Ms. Jaeckle requested a breakdown of administrative costs for the Community Development Block Grant office. Mr. Stith stated they are still in communications relative to the JDA Executive Director and the options available. Mr. Warren complimented the Community Development Block Grant office for the work they do in the county. In response to Mr. Warren's question, Mr. Taylor stated the programs of the Community Development Block Grant office assist all of the districts in the county. 7. DEFERRED ITEMS 7.A. AWARD OF ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS CONTRACTS FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES Mr. Rob Key stated staff requested approval of annual requirements contracts for architectural services with Ballou Justice Upton Architects, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates, HVC Chenault Architectural Corporation, Moseley Architects and Wiley and Wilson, Incorporated. Mr. Holland made a motion to authorize the County Administrator to execute five requirements contracts with Ballou Justice Upton Architects, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates; HVC Chenault Architectural Corporation; Wiley and Wilson, Incorporated; and Moseley Architects, for architectural services as needed for county projects Mr. Holland's motion died for lack of a second. Mr. Gecker stated the Budget and Audit Committee was presented with a volume of information regarding Moseley Architects and he requested additional time to review the information prior to making a decision. 08-198 i~ 04/02/08 Mr. Gecker then made a motion, seconded by Mr. Holland, to authorize the County Administrator to execute four requirements contracts with Ballou Justice Upton Architects, Crabtree, Rohrbaugh and Associates; HVC Chenault Architectural Corporation; and Wiley and Wilson, Incorporated, for architectural services as needed for county projects and defer consideration of the award of the annual requirements contract with Moseley Architects for architectural services until May 28, 2008. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8.A. APPOINTMENTS On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board suspended its rules to allow simultaneous nomination/ appointment/reappointment of members to serve on various committees. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.A.1. PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board simultaneously nominated/appointed/reappointed the following members to serve on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, whose terms are effective immediately and expire December 31, 2011: Name Tai G1-ri rt~ Ms. Annette Schanz Matoaca Mr. Earl Gee Matoaca Ms. Sandy Cassis Dale Mr. Robert Terrell Dale Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.A.2. RICHMOND METROPOLITAN STADIUM OPERATING COMMITTEE On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board simultaneously nominated/appointed Mr. James Holland and Mr. M.D. "Pete" Stith to serve on the Richmond Metropolitan Stadium Operating Committee, whose terms are at the pleasure of the Board. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.A.3. RIVERSIDE REGIONAL JAIL AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board simultaneously nominated/appointed Mr. William Johnson to serve on the Riverside Regional Jail Authority Board of 08-199 04/02/08 Directors, whose term is effective immediately and expires June 30, 2010. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B. CONSENT ITEMS 8.B.1. SET DATE FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REAL ESTATE PURCHASE CONTRACT TO SELL APPROXIMATELY FORTY-NINE ACRES LOCATED ON WHITEPINE ROAD TO CHARLES R. PRIMM On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board set the date of April 23, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. for a public hearing for the Board to consider a real estate purchase contract to sell approximately forty-nine acres located on Whitepine Road to Charles R. Primm. Ayes: .Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.2. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING APRIL 13-19, 2008, AS "NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATIONS WEEK" IN CHESTERFIELD COUNTY On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board adopted the following resolution: WHEREAS, emergency communications officers daily serve the public in countless ways without regard for recognition received for services rendered; and WHEREAS, emergency communications officers are more than a calm and reassuring voice, but are knowledgeable and highly trained individuals who work closely with other police, fire, medical, animal control and sheriff personnel in the management of vital government communications and other services that affect the health and safety of our citizens; and WHEREAS, the work of these "first responders" is invaluable in emergency situations, and our citizens' health, safety, and well-being are often dependent on the commitment and devotion of emergency communications officers; and WHEREAS, emergency communications officers of the Chesterfield Emergency Communications Center work to improve the emergency response capabilities through their leadership and participation in training and other activities; and WHEREAS, each emergency communications officer has exhibited compassion, understanding and professionalism during the performance of their job in the past year. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors recognizes the week of April 13- 19, 2008, as "National Public Safety Telecommunications Week" in Chesterfield County, in honor of the men and women whose diligence and professionalism keep our county and citizens safe . Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 08-200 ~ rr 04/02/08 8.B.3. REQUESTS FOR PERMITS TO STAGE FIREWORKS DISPLAYS 8.B.3.a. AT THE SUNDAY PARK PENINSULA OF BRANDERMILL ON JULY 4, 2008 On motion of Mr. Decker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a permit to stage a fireworks display at The Sunday Park Peninsula of Brandermill on July 4, 2008, with a rain date of July 5, 2008. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.3.b. AT 70 BELLONA ARSENAL ON MAY 30,2008 On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a permit to stage a fireworks display at 70 Bellona Arsenal on May 30, 2008, with a rain date of August 29, 30 or 31, 2008. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.3.c. AT 70 BELLONA ARSENAL ON JULY 4, 2008 On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a permit to stage a fireworks display at 70 Bellona Arsenal on July 4, 2008, with a rain date of July 5 or 6, 2008. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.4. REQUEST FOR A MUSIC/ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL PERMIT FOR CHESTERFIELD BERRY FARM'S MUSIC FESTIVAL SERIES ON SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS FROM APRIL 26, 2008 THROUGH MAY 25, 2008 On motion of Mr. Decker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a request for a music/entertainment festival permit for Chesterfield Berry Farm's Music Festival Series on Saturdays and Sundays from April 26, 2008 through May 25, 2008. Ayes: Warren, Decker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.5. APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF A PARCEL OF LAND ON THE APPOMATTOX RIVER FROM JOHN J. RADCLIFFE AND PEGGY B. RADCLIFFE AND JAMES OWNLEY AND HOPE B. OWNLEY In response to Mr. Decker's question, Mr. Golden stated the landowner had commissioned an appraisal in 2006 and is selling the land below the appraised value. On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved the purchase of 80 acres, more or less, of land from John J. Radcliffe and Peggy B. Radcliffe and James Ownley and Hope B. Ownley, and authorized the County Administrator to execute the sales contract and deed. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Decker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 08-201 04/02/08 8.B.6. REQUESTS FOR PERMISSION 8.B.6.a. FROM JUN ZHOU AND XIAOJING WANG FOR A PROPOSED FENCE TO ENCROACH WITHIN A SIXTEEN-FOOT EASEMENT AND A THIRTY-FOOT DRAINAGE AND SEWER EASEMENT ACROSS LOT 57, STEWART VILLAGE SECTION A AT CHARTER COLONY On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a request from Jun Zhou and Xiaojing Wang for permission for a proposed fence to encroach within a 16-foot easement and a 30-foot drainage and sewer easement across Lot 57, Stewart Village Section A at Charter Colony. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.6.b. FROM SONJA Y. CLANTON FOR A PROPOSED FENCE TO ENCROACH WITHIN A SIXTEEN-FOOT DRAINAGE EASEMENT ACROSS LOT 11, OAK FOREST ESTATES On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a request from Sonja Y. Clanton for permission for a proposed fence to encroach within a 16-foot drainage easement across Lot 11, Oak Forest Estates. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.6.c. FROM THE MACERICH PARTNERSHIP L.P. FOR CONCRETE SIDEWALKS AND LANDSCAPING TO ENCROACH WITHIN A SIXTEEN-FOOT WATER EASEMENT AT CHESTERFIELD TOWNE CENTER On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a request from the Macerich Partnership L.P. for permission for concrete sidewalks and landscaping to encroach within a 16-foot water easement at Chesterfield Towne Center. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.6.d. FROM WILLIAM T. WHITE AND CHRISTINE D. WHITE FOR LANDSCAPING TO ENCROACH WITHIN A SIXTEEN-FOOT DRAINAGE EASEMENT AND AN EIGHT-FOOT EASEMENT ACROSS LOT 61, HARTLEY VILLAGE AT CHARTER COLONY On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved a request from William T. White and Christine D. White for permission for landscaping to encroach within a 16- foot drainage easement and an 8-foot easement across Lot 61, Hartley Village at Charter Colony. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 08-202 04/02/08 8.B.7. APPROVAL OF UTILITY CONTRACT FOR REEDY BRANCH TRUNK SEWER LINE ~r+ On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board approved the following utility contract for Reedy Branch Trunk Sewer Line, Contract Number 06-0271, and authorized the County Administrator to execute any necessary documents: Developer: Windermere Development Co., LLC Contractor: Excalibur Construction Company Contract Amount: Estimated County Cost for Off-Site $46,555.00 Estimated County Cost for Oversizing $37,082.40 Estimated Developer Cost $237,849.60 Estimated Total $321,487.00 Code: (Refunds thru Connections - Off-Site) 5N-572V0-E4D (Refunds thru Connections - Oversizing) 5N-572V0-E4C District: Bermuda (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of the Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.8. REQUEST TO QUITCLAIM A PORTION OF A SIXTEEN-FOOT DRAINAGE EASEMENT ACROSS THE PROPERTY OF CENTEX HOMES On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board authorized the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors and the County Administrator to execute a quitclaim deed to vacate a portion of a 16-foot drainage easement across the property of Centex Homes. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 8.B.9. CONVEYANCE OF EASEMENT TO VIRGINIA ELECTRIC AND POWER COMPANY FOR UNDERGROUND CABLE TO PROVIDE SERVICE TO THE NEW GENITO HIGH SCHOOL On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board authorized the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors and the County Administrator to execute an easement agreement with Virginia Electric and Power Company for underground cable to provide service to the new Genito High School. (It is noted a copy of the plat is filed with the papers of this Board.) II Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 08-203 04/02/08 9. REPORTS 9.A. REPORT ON DEVELOPER WATER AND SEWER CONTRACTS 9.B. REPORT ON STATUS OF GENERAL FUND BALANCE, RESERVE FOR FUTURE CAPITAL PROJECTS, DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT FUNDS AND LEASE PURCHASES On motion of Mr. Gecker, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board accepted the following reports: a Report on Developer Water and Sewer Contracts and a Report on Status of General Fund Balance, Reserve for Future Capital Projects, District Improvement Funds and Lease Purchases. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. 10. FIFTEEN-MINUTE CITIZEN COMMENT PERIOD ON UNSCHEDULED MATTERS There were no speakers at this time. 11. DINNER On motion of Ms. Durfee, seconded by Mr. Gecker, the Board recessed to the Lane B. Ramsey Administration Building, Room 502, for dinner. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. Reconvening: Mr. Stegmaier provided the Board with information relating to the webstreaming now available to the citizens. He stated citizens can now watch the Board meetings live via the Internet and the meetings will be archived for future viewing. 12. INVOCATION Reverend Dr. Margaret Kutz, Senior Pastor, Chester United Methodist Church gave the invocation. 13. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Chief Paul Mauger, Chesterfield Fire and EMS, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. 14. RESOLUTIONS There were no resolutions at this time. 08-204 i~ 04/02/08 15. FIFTEEN-MINUTE CITIZEN COMMENT PERIOD ON UNSCHEDULED MATTERS Mr. Warren Wakeland, Director of Government Affairs for the Homebuilders Association, addressed the Board regarding the proposed increase in Planning Department fees and voiced the Association's opposition to such a large increase. He also presented the Board with a Resolution the Board of Directors of the Homebuilders' Association recently adopted, requesting that the Board of Supervisors review and amend its policy of requiring the county's Planning Department to recover 80 percent of its operating costs from fees charged to developers and builders. Mr. George Beadles informed the Board that on March 30, there was a Veterans' Homecoming at McGuire Hospital with a great turnout. 16. PUBLIC HEARINGS Mr. Warren stated the scheduled public hearings is a time for the Board to listen to the citizens' concerns. He further stated the Board would not be making any decisions on the public hearings at this meeting. Mr. Carmody presented summaries of the total FY2009 proposed budget; proposed 2008 budget tax rates; the FY2009 general fund revenues and expenditures; the proposed fee changes for FY2009; the FY2009 proposed Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Programs; the proposed Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for FY2009-FY2014; and proposed fee changes for FY2008 and FY2009. 16.A. TO CONSIDER A PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT RELATING TO FEES FOR SEWER CONNECTION AND MONTHLY WATER AND SEWER CAPACITY COST CHARGES Mr. Warren called for public comment. Mr. George Beadles, a resident of the Clover Hill Magisterial District, stated he agrees with increasing the utilities fee. He further stated increases should be made annually. Mr. Roy Bray expressed concerns relative to the increase in property taxes and the amount of county vehicles being driven. Mr. Bill Johnson expressed concerns relative to the increase in property assessments and the hardship created for the elderly citizens living on a fixed income. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted the ordinance amendment will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) 08-205 04/02/08 16.B. TO CONSIDER A PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT RELATING TO BUILDING PERMIT FEES Mr. Warren called for public comment. Mr. George Beadles, a resident of the Clover Hill District, spoke in support of the increase for building permit fees. Mr. Gregory Bergeret, a resident of the Bermuda District, expressed concerns relative to the increase of building permit fees. He stated the fees need to stay as minimal as possible because ultimately the citizens bear the burden of the new fees. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted the ordinance amendment will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) 16.C. TO CONSIDER PROPOSED 2008 TAX RATES Mr. Warren called for public comment. Mr. Fred deMay expressed concerns relative to property assessments increasing by 11 percent. He urged the Board to vote for a 5 cent reduction on the tax rate. Mr. Bob Herndon, a resident of the Matoaca District, requested that the Board consider reducing the current real estate tax rate. He provided alternatives for making up the reduction in revenue from reducing the real estate tax. Mr. John Kmec, a resident of the Dale District, requested that the Board reduce the tax rate to 75 cents. He stated the tax rate of 75 cents does include what is required to offset population growth and inflation. Mr. George Beadles, a resident of the Clover Hill District, requested the Board raise the tax rate for exotic animals. He stated the School Board budget needs to be reduced. Ms. Stella Edwards, Vice President for Chesterfield County Council of PTA, requested the Board approve the proposed School Board budget. She stated the money in the budget is needed to assist in hiring and keeping qualified teachers. Ms. Lois Stanton, President of Chesterfield Education Association, requested that the Board maintain the current tax rate and fully fund the budget the Superintendent of Chesterfield's Public Schools has presented to the Board. She stated this budget is critical to provide education employees in Chesterfield with salaries that are competitive within the local market. Mr. Bill Alexander expressed concerns related to the substantial increases in property taxes. He presented the Board with information to consider to mitigate the impact of increased assessments on citizens. Ms. Kimberly Sanchez urged the Board to do the right thing and reduce the tax rate for 2008. ~..+ 08-206 04/02/08 Mr. John Easter, representing the Chesterfield Business Council, stated the Council had a Budget Committee that reviewed the county's budget and was impressed with the sound financial decisions made by the county. He further stated the Council knows it is a difficult year for the budget and urged the Board not to reduce the tax rate . He then stated the Council supports the application of BPOL revenue above the current cap to assist with the Meadowville Interchange. Lastly, he stated the Council feels it is important to work on the countywide comprehensive plan and hire an outside consultant to assist with the task. Mr. Lovell Flinn requested that the Board reduce the tax rate to 87 cents. He stated the increase in social security has been 6 percent, while the real estate taxes have increased by 11 percent. Mr. Walt Manz requested that the Board reduce the tax rate to 91 cents. He stated the real estate boom has passed and the Board needs to lower the increase. Mr. Gregory Bergeret requested that the Board remember that the citizen is at the top of Chesterfield's organizational chart. He stated the county budget should be reduced by 30 percent. He further stated the essential services of police, fire and schools would not have to be reduced. Mr. Kevin Carroll, President of Chesterfield Fraternal Order of Police, requested the Board retain the 97-cent tax rate to help retain qualified police officers. He stated a large number of police and sheriff deputies are considering leaving Chesterfield for other localities. Mr. Bob Vogt, a resident of Smoketree Subdivision, requested that the Board reduce the tax rates. Ms. Jennifer Hellrung, a resident of the Dale District, spoke in support of a reduction of the tax rate. She stated to find funds to support the reduction, start with the schools and reduce their budget. Mr. Ron Hall, a resident of the Clover Hill District, expressed concerns relative to the business practices of the county. He stated the salaries of teachers and police officers need to be increased to keep them in the county. Mr. Larry Miller, a resident of the Dale District, expressed concerns relative to the need to keep current police officers in the county. He stated if the tax rate remained unchanged the surplus revenue needs to be put toward the Police Department. Mr. Jerry Morton, a resident of the Matoaca District, stated the police officers needed more than a merit increase. He further stated each police recruit costs approximately $122,000 to train. Mr. Bryan Sasser urged the Board to reduce the tax rate to help citizens in the county. Ms. Norma Bliley, a resident of the Dale District, addressed the Board regarding the financial compensation for the Police 08-207 04/02/08 Department. She urged the Board to provide a pay increase for all police officers. Mr. Gecker clarified there is no money allocated in the budget for red light cameras. Mr. Bill Hastings spoke in support of additional funding for the Police Department. He urged the Board to look to the future when funding the Police Department. Dr. Robert W. Floyd, a retired army chaplain, urged the Board to provide additional funding for the Police Department. He stated the county's Police Department is one of the finest he has worked with. Mr. Anthony Green, a resident of the Board to reduce the tax rate cents to 92 cents. He stated available to assess real estate. unfortunate that the county built the 97-cent tax rate. the Matoaca District, urged from the current rate of 97 there are other formulas He further stated it is the proposed budget around There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted the ordinance amendment will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) 16.D. TO CONSIDER THE FY2009 PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP ANNUAL PLAN Mr. Warren called for public comment. Mr. George Beadles addressed the Board regarding citizens paying for code enforcement. Mr. Moring Gravitt, a member of the Camp Baker Management Board, thanked the Board for their support of Camp Baker in 2007. He urged the Board to support the County Administrator's recommendation to assist with funding of a collaborative regional building for work training for area citizens. Ms. Leisha LaRiviere, the Executive Director for Richmond Habitat for Humanity, stated 56 new houses have been added to Chesterfield County, adding over $6 million dollars to the tax base. She further stated Habitat for Humanity currently has a project containing 7 new homes near the Cloverleaf project. She requested CDBG funding so that Habitat for Humanity can continue to serve low and very-low income families, strengthening the county's commitment that all of its citizens have access to affordable housing. Ms. Margaret Davis, a member of the Jefferson Davis Association Redevelopment Committee, requested the Board support their request for funding for the streetscape project along Jefferson Davis Highway to help eliminate blight. Ms. Renee Eldred, a member of the Bensley Community Association, stated the Committee's recommendations and the County Administration's recommendations are not similar. She 08-208 I~ 04/02/08 further stated the Dundas Road Drainage Project funding should come from the general fund budget and not the CDBG budget. Ms. Jaeckle stated the Committee and Administration are working on a remedy for the differences in their recommendations. Mr. Scott Rogers, a member of the Jefferson Davis Association Board of Directors, urged the Board to take a closer look at the streetscape project that the JDA has been working on. He stated this area of the county is seen by travelers using Interstate 95, so revitalization is needed. Ms. Jaeckle stated the streetscape project is being revisited to review the discrepancies. Ms. Ree Hart, a member of the Jefferson Davis Association, explained there are two grants for the JDA Streetscape Project that have been waiting due to extenuating circumstances. She stated there is a completed plan of how they want the streetscape to look and the organization received some private money to help with expenses. She urged the Board to support funding for the Executive Director position request for the Association to assist with the numerous projects the JDA has ongoing. She suggested having the Committee meet quarterly with the Block Grant office. Mr. Holland thanked Ms. Hart for her recommendation. Ms. Ruth Chappel, a representative of Colonial Heights Food Pantry, requested that the Board consider providing funding for the food pantry. Mr. Roy Bray stated the Police Department needs additional funding to offset their daily dangers. He suggested the county cut back on the driving of county vehicles. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted the issue will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) 16.E. TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED FY2009-FY2010 BIENNIAL FINANCIAL PLAN Mr. Warren called for public comment. Mr. James McClelland, a member of the Community Block Grant Committee, stated members of the Committee sometimes feel as though their recommendations are not considered. He further stated the members would like to meet with someone once the recommendations have been made to receive an explanation on the variations. Ms. Courtney Lewis McGrath, a Coordinator for Resources for Independent Living, thanked the Board for their continued support. Ms. Beverly Mayo, a consumer of Resources for Independent Living, informed the Board of some of the services she has 08-209 04/02/08 received through Resources for Independent Living. She stated she is now working with local teenagers to help keep them out of trouble. Ms. Darlene Kutz, a lifelong resident of Chesterfield County and Chairman of the Plans and Programs Committee of the Chesterfield Senior Center, addressed the importance for seniors to remain active. She informed the Board of the various activities available to senior citizens through the Senior Center. She invited the Board members to the Grand Opening of the Senior Center on April 21. Ms. Ann Duffer, a 45-year resident of Chesterfield County, urged the Board to consider funding for the Senior Center. She stated the county has a deficiency in the amount of square footage available for use as a senior center. Ms. Edith Smith invited the Board members to visit the Senior Center, and she urged the Board to consider additional funding for the Senior Center. She stated the Senior Center helps her grow physically and mentally. Ms. DeeDee Foerster, the Director of Volunteer Services with Bon Secours Saint Frances Medical Center, urged the Board to provide funding for the Chesterfield Senior Center. She stated financial support from the county will add stability to the programs and services and allow them to reach out to more citizens. Mr. Jeff Davoud, Chairman of the Board for the Chesterfield Senior Center, spoke in support of the funding for the Senior Center. He informed the Board of the numerous accomplishments of the Senior Center including hosting 70 events a month. Mr. Fred deMey stated the Board should demand the School Board to stop overspending. He further stated 66 percent of tax paying households do not have school-aged children. Ms. Kathy Geranious, President of Friends of the Chesterfield Public Libraries, urged the Board to increase funding for the Public Libraries. Ms. Monica Hughes, the Executive Director of the Lifelong Learning Institute, thanked the Board for their past support. She provided the Board with some benefits of the Lifelong Learning Institute for county citizens. She requested that the Board continue to support the Lifelong Learning Institute. She stated the money will assist in keeping membership fees low and within reach for our seniors. Mr. Bill Good, a member of the Lifelong Learning Institute, provided the Board with a few of the activities he has participated in the past. He requested that the Board continue supporting the Lifelong Learning Institute. Ms. Patty Moyer, a member of the Lifelong Learning Institute, provided the Board with some of the opportunities afforded to her through the Lifelong Learning Institute. She thanked the Board for their support in the past and requested their continued support. 08-210 Iii I~ 04/02/08 Mr. George Beadles, a resident of the Clover Hill District, stated he supported the education of senior citizens. He further stated if adjusting the tax rate affects the county's AAA bond rating then do not adjust it. Ms. Mildred Bell, Chair of Meals on Wheels, spoke on behalf of 500 county volunteers and 175 county recipients. She stated in the past 5 years, Meals on Wheels has served nearly 120,000 meals to county citizens. She thanked Mr. Warren for delivering meals on Mayor's Day, March 19. She further thanked the Board for their continued support of Meals on Wheels. Mr. Warren stated it was a rewarding experience to deliver meals to county citizens. Ms. Cathy Stevens, a resident of the Dale District and member of CCHASM, stated it was formed in 1988 and contains 110 members. She further stated CCHASM provides a "hand-up" not a "hand-out" and career training for the residents in need. She thanked the Board for their past support and urged the Board to consider their $57,933 funding request. Mr. Robert Cassada, Chairman of the Board of CCHASM, stated their volunteer organization looks to the future and are in need of securing a full-time employee to oversee their day to day financial and food intake processes. He further stated CCHASM is in need of their own space to operate, which would allow them to expand services. He thanked the Board for their support of CCHASM in the past and stated the continued support would show that the Board has faith and confidence in CCHASM. Ms. Jenny Stevens, Assistant Director for CCHASM, thanked the Board for the hard work on the budget. She stated due to the recent events with the economy, additional burdens have been placed on our county residents, which has increased the numbers of the financial requests to CCHASM. She provided the Board with a break down of the increases, per district, for requests for service. She requested that the Board continue their support of CCHASM. Ms. Jane Carlson, the Executive Director for the Chesterfield Public Education Foundation, stated educational opportunities increase jobs, strengthen the economy, decrease crime and foster an engaged citizenry. She urged the Board to continue to place education at the top of the priorities. Mr. Jason Young, the Executive Director for Community Futures Foundation, which operates the Mill House, stated the Mill House is an innovative community club house program for citizens who are survivors of brain injury. He stated survivors of brain injury have few resources to go to throughout the Commonwealth. He further stated since opening in 1999, the Mill House has served over 275 survivors of brain injury. He stated the General Assembly declared club house facilities, such as the Mill House, as one of the three core services needed in every locality. He further stated Chesterfield County currently has over 6,000 citizens suffering from brain injury. He requested that the Board consider the funding request from the Mill House. 08-211 04/02/08 Ms. Gloria Stumm spoke on behalf of her son, who is a 25-year survivor of a brain injury. She stated the Mill House must follow a strict set of guidelines and provides their clients with a purpose to their day. She requested that the Board consider funding for the Mill House. Mr. Greg Beasley, President of the Chesterfield Professional Firefighters Association, representing nearly 400 members, stated the Fire Department is facing funding issues relating to salaries. He urged the Board to make increasing salaries of public safety workers a top priority. He stated making public safety a priority makes the community a safer place to work and live. Mr. John Kmec, a resident of Dale District, stated the county's spending is out of control. He further stated the county budget should not increase more than what is required to offset inflation plus population growth. Mr. Elton Beverly, a volunteer with Shepherd's Center of Chesterfield, thanked the Board for support of the Shepherd's Center and requested continued support. Ms. Donna Link, representing the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Christmas Mother Program, thanked the Board for their support in the past and requested continued support. Ms. Margaret Davis, requested that the parcel of land for F Park. She stated parking and would building. a member of Bensley Civic Association, Board consider purchasing the adjacent >arks and Recreation to expand the Bensley the land could be used for additional allow for expansion of the existing Mr. Scott Williams, representing the Midlothian YMCA, thanked the Board for their support of the YMCA Programs. He requested that the Board support the expansion projects, which will allow the Midlothian YMCA to provide services to more citizens in Chesterfield. Ms. Andrea Epps stated she did not envy the Board members and the job they have to do with the budget. She expressed that teacher and public safety compensation should be above average because there is nothing average about Chesterfield County. Mr. Gregory Bergeret stated to assist with supporting a core mission of the county, the Police Department needed additional funding. Ms. Renee Eldred, a member of the Bensley Civic Association, urged the Board the consider purchasing the property adjacent to the Bensley Park. She commended the Board for the webstreaming project and requested the website search engine be updated to perform better. Mr. Kevin Carroll, President of Chesterfield Fraternal Order of Police, stated in 1986 the Police Department had 700 applicants for a total of 21 open positions. He further stated the number of applicants for Police Department positions have dramatically declined. He stated additional funding for the Police Department will assist with keeping Chesterfield County a safe place to live and work. ..+~ i~ 08-212 04/02/08 There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. ~, (It is noted the budget will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) Mr. Warren requested a five-minute recess. Reconvening: 16.F. TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED FY2009-FY2014 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Mr. Warren called for public comment. Ms. Betty Matthews, a 31-year resident of Chesterfield County and Chairman for Chesterfield Center for the Arts Foundation, stated their vision is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens through the arts. She requested that the Board support their request for funding. Mr. Robert Wagenknecht, a member of the Chesterfield Center for the Arts Foundation, provided the Board with a brief history of the foundation. He thanked the Board for their continued support of the foundation and stated with the continued support of the Board, work on the Arts Center could start in the near future. Mr. Dave Hammond, Vice President of Chesterfield Professional Firefighters Association, addressed the Board relative to the Capital Improvement Program for the Fire Department. He thanked the Board for the funding allocated to the Fire Department last year. He stated some of the major areas needing funding is for apparatus replacement, equipment replacement and facilities repairs. He further stated it is important to have a comprehensive spending plan to set aside funding for these needs. Ms. Durfee thanked Mr. Hammond for meeting with the Board members to enlighten them on the seriousness of the situation with the Fire Department. Mr. Holland concurred with Mr. Hammond on the need for a comprehensive spending plan. Mr. George Emerson addressed the Board regarding the investment in the Chester Arts Center. He stated the Chester Arts Center will help generate money for the county by improving the quality of life and in turn drawing more businesses to move to Chesterfield. He further stated the Chester Arts Center could be built for approximately $7 million. He urged the Board to consider funding the Chester Arts Center. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted the CIP will be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 9, 2008.) 08-213 04/02/08 17. FIFTEEN-MINUTE CITIZEN COMMENT PERIOD ON UNSCHEDULED MATTERS There were no speakers at this time. 18. ADJOURNMENT On motion of Mr. Holland, seconded by Ms. Durfee, the Board adjourned at 11:03 p.m. until April 23, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. Ayes: Warren, Gecker, Jaeckle, Holland and Durfee. Nays: None. i i~ mes Stegm er ount Administrator Arthur S. Warren Chairman 08-214 04/02/08