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2020-03-25 MinutesBOARD OF SUPERVISORS MINUTES March 25, 2020 Dr. Joseph P. Casey County Administrator Ms. Haley called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. 1. INVOCATION The Honorable Leslie Haley, Chair, gave the invocation. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Matt Harris, Deputy County Administrator, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. 3. REQUESTS TO POSTPONE AGENDA ITEMS AND ADDITIONS, DELETIONS OR CHANGES IN THE ORDER OF PRESENTATION On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board replaced Item 7.A.8., Emergency Adoption of an Ordinance to add Section 9-160 to Chapter 9, Article 11, of the Code of the County of Chesterfield Relating to Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Unpaid Transient Occupancy Taxes During a Declared Emergency and, to Amend Section 18-29 Relating to the Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Unpaid Utility Bills During a Declared Emergency; added Item 7.A.9., Continuity of County Government Ordinance; and added Item 7.A.10., Appointment of Emergency Management Coordinator, and approved the agenda, as amended. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 4. REPORTS 4.A. DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT FUNDS (DIF) MONTHLY REPORT The Board accepted the Monthly Report on District improvement Funds. 20-173 3/25/2020 Supervisors in Attendance: Ms. Leslie A. T. Haley, Chair Mr. Mr. Kevin P. James A. Carroll, Vice Chair Ingle, Jr. Mr. Christopher M. Winslow Mr. James M. Holland Dr. Joseph P. Casey County Administrator Ms. Haley called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. 1. INVOCATION The Honorable Leslie Haley, Chair, gave the invocation. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Matt Harris, Deputy County Administrator, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. 3. REQUESTS TO POSTPONE AGENDA ITEMS AND ADDITIONS, DELETIONS OR CHANGES IN THE ORDER OF PRESENTATION On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board replaced Item 7.A.8., Emergency Adoption of an Ordinance to add Section 9-160 to Chapter 9, Article 11, of the Code of the County of Chesterfield Relating to Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Unpaid Transient Occupancy Taxes During a Declared Emergency and, to Amend Section 18-29 Relating to the Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Unpaid Utility Bills During a Declared Emergency; added Item 7.A.9., Continuity of County Government Ordinance; and added Item 7.A.10., Appointment of Emergency Management Coordinator, and approved the agenda, as amended. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 4. REPORTS 4.A. DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT FUNDS (DIF) MONTHLY REPORT The Board accepted the Monthly Report on District improvement Funds. 20-173 3/25/2020 5. COUNTY ADMINISTRATION UPDATE S.A. CORONAVIRUS UPDATE • Dr. Casey introduced Dr. Alexander Samuel, Director of the Chesterfield Health District; Chief Loy Senter, Chief of Fire and EMS and Commander of the Emergency Operations Center; and Mr. Matt Harris, Deputy County Administrator, to provide the Board with an update on their respective operations during the COVID-19 pandemic and the looming J economic crisis. • Dr. Samuel provided the Board with an update on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (SARS-COV-2), or COVID-19. He discussed the concept of "flattening the curve", which is the implementation of protective measures to prevent overwhelming the healthcare system capacity and to spread the number of ill over time. He reviewed community mitigation strategies such as social distancing which is facilitated by closing schools; implementing telework and e -learning; limiting the size of gatherings; discouraging non-essential travel; instituting rigorous infection control practices in hospitals and nursing homes; and limiting access to public and private spaces. He provided the Board with statistics on confirmed cases as well as the timeline of cases occurring in Chesterfield. He discussed the current status of testing, noting that testing capacity is improving, and more physician practices are testing, but testing supplies are very limited. He further stated one of the most encouraging things he has encountered is the regional approach to handle this pandemic. He reviewed prevention practices everyone can do such as adhering to social distancing practices; remaining home if you are in a vulnerable population (those who are 65 years old or older or those with a chronic medical condition); staying home if you are sick; and practicing personal protective measures. He provided COVID-19 Call Center Resources as well as reliable Internet resources. In response to Mr. Winslow's questions relative to the timeline for seasonal spread of the virus and whether the virus might mutate, Dr. Samuel stated it is too early to offer any definitive answers. In response to Mr. Winslow's question relative to tracing the origin of infection in specific patients, Dr. Samuel stated most cases fit into the category of community spread, which means transmission cannot be traced to a source. In response to Mr. Ingle's question relative to identifying where infected persons have have been without identifying the person, Dr. Samuel stated the challenge is protecting the person's confidentiality. 20-174 3/25/2020 Board members thanked Dr. Samuel and his staff for all their hard work. Discussion ensued relative to turnaround time for test results and the types of tests used. • Chesterfield Fire and EMS Chief Loy Senter reviewed the efforts of county departments, employees, and volunteers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He discussed the Emergency Operations Center's five priorities of Public Safety, Human Services, Infrastructure, Finance and Administration, and Continuity of Operations. He shared examples of ways county employees and departments are responding to the need for social distancing such as teleworking; virtual meetings; creation of plans for continued operations; redeployment of staff; expanded use of social media for communicating with citizens; and many others. He stated citizens who have questions or need information can visit www.chesterfield.gov or facebook.com/chesterfieldVA or call (804) 751-2362. He reviewed two agenda items on the Board's consent agenda pertaining to the county's COVID-19 response. He introduced Ms. Jess Robison, the county's new Emergency Management Coordinator. Board members welcomed Ms. Robison and commended her for her hard work. Ms. Robinson stated it is an honor to be the Emergency Management Coordinator. She thanked the Board for its support and expressed her appreciation to county departments and staff for their tireless dedication. Mr. Harris provided the Board with an update on the dramatic financial and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated the Facebook Live town hall meetings over the last two weeks experienced a wide reach. He further stated the ultimate budget proposal will be much different than the one presented to the Board on March 11, 2020. He stated staff hopes to publish a revised budget which will be available to the public on April 1, 2020. He further stated the public can utilize online feedback tools up until budget adoption. He reviewed unprecedented employment statistics, noting the data is unrecognizable and unemployment claims are projected to be the highest in history. He provided statistics of consumer activity which is grinding to a halt. He discussed the preliminary impact on county revenue. He stated the county is implementing day-by-day proactive spending constraints. He estimated the revised proposed budget to be approximately $720,388,300 which is down from the FY2020 adopted budget of $733,256,200. In response to Ms. Haley's question relative to the revisec proposed budget, Mr. Harris confirmed the Board will receive a detailed revenue breakdown, spending reductions, 20-175 3/25/2020 and all the relevant components of the original proposed budget. He stated the revised proposed budget is scheduled to post April 1, 2020, to give the community time to review and provide feedback. • Dr. Casey discussed the business sector's compliance with the governor's restrictions. He provided details of Economic Development initiatives to work with and support businesses. He stated one such initiative is the creation of a webpage, www.ChesterfieldBusiness.com\eats, to encourage citizens to patronize county restaurants. He discussed the Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster assistance program. He stated many businesses in the county are designated as essential. He further stated Virginia Career Works - Capital Region is a valuable resource for job seekers. He stated the county has pivoted to online, phone, email, curbside, and appointment -based services in order to comply with the governor's restrictions. He further stated county parks are open with restricted access to areas where people tend to congregate such as basketball courts. He stated there are many examples of people helping people, especially in the faith -based community. He provided examples of collaboration between county departments to provide services to county residents. He stated the juveniles in the Juvenile Detention Center are writing letters to seniors each and every day. He further stated the goal of the county workforce is to stay busy. He stated there are ordinance amendments on the consent agenda that deal with waiving penalties and interest for lodging tax and utilities bills. He further stated county hotels are open and have occupancy. He closed by assuring \ the Board the county will get through this by making hard but wise and compassionate choices. 6. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS Ms. Haley mentioned an opinion/ editorial article she and Dr. Casey submitted to the Richmond newspaper as well as a video she prepared, both of which represent the efforts of the Board to balance citizens' needs for services against the economic impact during the coronavirus pandemic. She encouraged citizens to take advantage of the online form at blueprint. chesterfield. gov to provide any additional input on the proposed budget up to the date of adoption. She stated the Board respects and values public engagement, knowing the proposed budget will undoubtedly need revisions, and knowing tough decisions lie ahead. She encouraged citizens to contact Board members by phone, email, or the Blueprint online form. She also encouraged citizens to stay informed. She noted the Board and county departments are committed to ensuring information is readily available. She commended the innovation that is occurring among all sectors of the community and region, including local government. She stated we will get through this crisis together. 20-176 3/25/2020 Mr. Winslow thanked the citizens for abiding by the precautions of health professionals. He also thanked first responders and personnel in the Emergency Operations Center; schoolteachers and Schools personnel; county staff; healthcare workers; and citizens engaging in the budget process. He stated he will post links to information and topics of interest his Facebook page. He encouraged citizens to share and respond to needs and check on their neighbors, especially the elderly. Mr. Holland expressed appreciation to Sheriff Karl Leonard for returning Chesterfield inmates from Riverside Regional Jail to the Chesterfield Jail. He thanked citizens for their patience while the county does everything possible to ensure all citizens are safe and well. He called the faith -based community to prayer and citizens to follow the directions of medical leaders. Mr. Carroll echoed the comments of fellow Board members and expressed his appreciation to the community as the Board makes the best decisions moving forward. He also thanked public safety personnel and healthcare workers who are being exposed to the coronavirus. He stated he is encouraged that the number of confirmed cases in the county remains relatively low. Mr. Ingle expressed appreciation to Mr. Harris and the Budget and Management staff. He stated due to his concerns about economic volatility and the ability to truly predict the budget, he may request to push budget adoption to the April 22, 2020 meeting. 7. NEW BUSINESS 7.A. CONSENT ITEMS Mr. Jeff Mincks, County Attorney, provided the Board with an overview of agenda items 7.A.8. relative to Confirmation and Consent to the Declaration of a Local Emergency in Chesterfield County as a Result of the Threat Posed by the COVID-19 Virus and 7.A.9. relative to the Continuity of County Government Ordinance. He stated item 7.A.8. will take care of part of how the county addresses the emergency. He further stated item 7.A.9. provides the authority to continue the operation of the government in the middle of a viral pandemic. He stated the General Assembly granted authority to localities to deal with disasters such as this in a way that allows for modification of operations, policies, or procedures which no longer work in this kind of an emergency. He further stated an example of such a modification is conducting the upcoming Board meeting electronically which will still allow the public to witness the proceedings and participate to the greatest extent practicable. He stated the ordinance will allow modifications as they become necessary. He clarified the ordinance does not change anything, but rather it grants authority to make modifications to address challenges. He stated the ordinance has a maximum duration of six months and the Board can repeal it earlier if the Board finds conditions have changed. He further stated the Attorney General has affirmed ordinances of this kind as a way for 20-177 3/25/2020 localities to ensure continuity of government during this particular emergency. 7.A.1. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS 7.A.l.a. RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING MS. DARLA W. ORR, ZONING AND SPECIAL PROJECTS MANAGER, PLANNING DEPARTMENT, UPON HER RETIREMENT On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted the following resolution: WHEREAS, Ms. Darla W. Orr retires from the Chesterfield Planning Department on April 1, 2020 after twenty-three years of dedicated service; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr began her career in government service with the Martin County Economic Development Commission and Building Inspectors Office in North Carolina in 1987; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr began her service with Chesterfield County in 1991 as a Planning Technician, then Planner, assisting with residential building permit and subdivision plan reviews, and guiding the community development processes; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr accepted an opportunity in 1996 as Brunswick County's Director of Planning, Zoning Administrator, E-911 Coordinator, and Erosion and Sediment Control Program Administrator, managing all activities of these departments; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr returned to Chesterfield County in 2001 J as a Senior Planner, and through her hard work and dedication, rose to serve in the positions of Principal Planner then Planning Administrator for Zoning and Special Projects, during which time the County grew from 260,000 to 349,000 persons; and WHEREAS, during her tenure, Ms. Orr's primary responsibility was the management of zoning proposals requiring active participation in approximately 444 Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors public hearings, and an untold number of community meetings during which she helped negotiate development proposals in the best interest of all; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr participated in the management of cases presented to the Board of Zoning Appeals, as well as ordinance amendments, substantial accord determinations for public facilities and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, during her career, Ms. Orr assisted with the implementation of numerous improvements to the zoning process, to include the Community Development Information System (CDIS), permitting the web -based filing, distribution and review of zoning applications, which won the 2014 National Association of Counties (NACO) Achievement Award; and 20-178 3/25/2020 WHEREAS, Ms. Orr forged effective working relationships with the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors, Board of Zoning Appeals, citizen groups and the development community; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr enjoyed membership in two professional planning organizations being a Certified Zoning Administrator with the Virginia Association of Zoning Officials (VAZO) and serving as a board member since 1997 with the Rural Planning Caucus (RPC); and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr worked tirelessly coordinating team review of zoning cases by 18 different county departments and state agencies; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr continuously exerted a positive attitude and provided exemplary customer service; and WHEREAS, Ms. Orr worked diligently to make Chesterfield County a better place for all citizens, today and in the future. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors publicly recognizes Darla W. Orr and extends on behalf of its members and the residents of Chesterfield County appreciation for her service to the county, congratulations upon her retirement, and best wishes for a long and happy retirement. AND, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be presented to Ms. Orr and that this resolution be permanently recorded among the papers of this Board of Supervisors of Chesterfield County, Virginia. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.2. REAL PROPERTY REQUESTS 7.A.2.a. ACCEPTANCE OF PARCELS OF LAND 7.A.2.a.1. ACCEPTANCE OF PARCELS OF LAND ADJACENT TO IRON BRIDGE ROAD FROM AUSTIN WOODS DEVELOPMENT, CO. On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board accepted the conveyance of two parcels of land containing a total of 4.062 acres adjacent to Iron Bridge Road from Austin Woods Development, Co. and authorized the County Administrator to execute the deed. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None, 20-179 3/25/2020 7.A.2.a.2. ACCEPTANCE OF A PARCEL OF LAND FOR THE EXTENSION OF MAGNOLIA GREEN PARKWAY FROM 6801 WOOLRIDGE ROAD- MOSELEY. LP. PRODUCTS USA, LLC On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board accepted the conveyance of a parcel of land containing 7.438 acres for the extension of Magnolia Green Parkway from 6801 Woolridge Road -Moseley, LP and authorized the County Administrator to execute the deed. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. 1j Nays: None. 7.A.2.a.3. ACCEPTANCE OF A PARCEL OF LAND FOR THE EXTENSION OF WOOLRIDGE ROAD FROM 6801 WOOLRIDGE ROAD-MOSELEY, LP On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board accepted the conveyance of a parcel of land containing 4.770 acres for the extension of Woolridge Road from 6801 Woolridge Road -Moseley, LP and authorized the County Administrator to execute the deed. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.2.a.4. ACCEPTANCE OF A PARCEL OF LAND FOR CITORY WAY AND HALLOWELL RIDGE FROM RREF-II TFC GREENWICH. LLC On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board accepted the conveyance of a parcel of land containing 1.272 acres for Citory Way and Hallowell Ridge from RREF-II TFC GREENWICH, LLC and authorized the County Administrator to execute the deed. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.3. 2020 BUILDING BRIDGES GRANT - CHESTERFIELD COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board approved the grant agreement with Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IRR). Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. j 20-180 3/25/2020 7.A.4. APPROVAL OF A FIXED TAX RATE AND WATER AND WASTEWATER CAPACITY AND SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH PEANUT LLC On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board approved a tax rate and water and wastewater capacity and service agreement with Peanut LLC. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7. A.5. WINFREE'S STORE VOTING I naurTVrm On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board set the date of April 22, 2020, for a public hearing to consider amendments to County Code Section 7-3 moving the polling places for Five Forks Voting Precinct, Winfree's Store Voting Precinct, and Crestwood Voting Precinct. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.6. ASSIGNMENT OF AIRPORT HANGAR LEASE FROM INNOVATION HANGAR, INC. TO SG AIR LLC On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board authorized the assignment of the existing land lease for North Ramp Pad Site 4 held by Innovation Hangar, Inc. to 5G Air LLC. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 20-181 3/25/2020 7.A.7. CONFIRMATION AND CONSENT TO THE DECLARATION OF A LOCAL EMERGENCY IN CHESTERFIELD COUNTY AS A RESULT OF THE THREAT POSED BY THE COVID-19 VIRUS On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted the following resolution confirming and consenting to the declaration of a local emergency in Chesterfield County due to the threat posed by the COVID-19 virus: WHEREAS, the World Health Organization declared on January 30, 2020 the coronavirus (COVID-19), a communicable disease, to be a "public health emergency of international concern" and characterized its spread internationally as a pandemic on March 11, 2020; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority granted by § 44- 146.21(A) of the Code of Virginia, Joseph P. Casey, County Administrator, as Director of Emergency Management for the County of Chesterfield, Virginia, declared the existence of a local emergency at 10:00 a.m. on March 13, 2020 in order to 20-181 3/25/2020 provide preparedness, response, recovery and other activities to protect life, property, and operations threatened by the effects of COVID-19; and WHEREAS, COVID-19 may create significant impacts on the County, including reduced public safety services, healthcare services, and county resources; and WHEREAS, the County of Chesterfield faces an imminent public health threat posed by and resulting from COVID-19; and WHEREAS, the anticipated effects of COVID-19 constitute a disaster as described in § 44-146.16 of the Code of Virginia (Code); and WHEREAS, in accordance with the local emergency declaration and § 44-146.21 of the Code of Virginia, the County's Emergency Operations Plan is activated and all furnishing of aid and assistance thereunder is authorized, and the County Administrator, as the Director of Emergency Management, is authorized by this Board to undertake all necessary actions authorized by § 44-146.21(C) of the Code of Virginia. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors this 25th day of March 2020, 1) that the act of the County Administrator, as the Director of Emergency Management, in declaring a local emergency is hereby consented to and confirmed, as are all actions set forth above which are taken pursuant to that declaration; Ij 2) that all actions, powers, functions, and duties of the Director of Emergency Management and the emergency management organization have been and shall be those prescribed by State law and the ordinances, resolutions, and approved plans of the County of Chesterfield so as to mitigate the effects of said emergency; and 3) that once all emergency actions pursuant to the declaration of a local emergency have been taken, as determined by the Director of Emergency Management, the declared emergency shall be ended without further action of this Board of Supervisors. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.8. EMERGENCY ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE 1) TO ADD SECTION 9-160 TO CHAPTER 9, ARTICLE XI, OF THE CODE OF THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD RELATING TO WAIVER OF PENALTIES AND INTEREST ON UNPAID TRANSIENT OCCUPANCY TAXES DURING A DECLARED EMERGENCY AND 2) TO AMEND SECTION 18-29 RELATING TO THE WAIVER OF PENALTIES AND INTEREST ON UNPAID UTILITY BILLS DURING A DECLARED EMERGENCY 20-182 3/25/2020 On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted on an emergency basis the following ordinance: BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Chesterfield County: (1) That Section 9-160 of the Code of the County of Chesterfield, 1997, as amended, shall be added to Chapter 9, Article XI of the County Code to read as follows: Sec. 9-160. - Waiver of Penalties and Interest on Transient Occupancy Taxes During Declared Emergency. During an emergency declared by the County for 30 days after the end of the declared emergency, the penalty and interest provisions of County Code Section 9-157(a) shall be waived. (2) That Section 18-29 of the Code of the County of Chesterfield, 1997, as amended, shall be amended and re-enacted to read as follows: Sec. 18-29. - Late payment of bills; penalty and interest charges. The county shall apply a delinquent charge of $1.50 or five percent of the unpaid bill, whichever is greater, to all utility bills that are not paid within 25 days after the date of the bill. Additionally, interest shall accrue on all bills that are not paid within 25 days of the date of the bill at the rate of one percent per month. For purposes of this section, a bill is paid when payment is received by the treasurer. The penalties and interest described in this section shall be waived during an emergency declared by the County and for 30 days after the conclusion of the declared emergency. (3) That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon adoption. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.9. CONTINUITY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT ORDINANCE On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted on an emergency basis the following ordinance: BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Chesterfield County: (1) That the following is hereby is enacted: CONTINUITY OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT (a) Declaration of policy. Because of the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 (the "virus") in the County, 20-183 3/25/2020 and pursuant to the declarations of national, state and local emergency and disaster pertaining to the virus, the Board of Supervisors desires to ensure the continuation of effective, legally constituted governance of the County during this disaster, to ensure the continuation of essential government functions and responsibilities, and to facilitate the early resumption of functions temporarily suspended, eliminated, or modified. In accordance with these declarations, and pursuant to the authority granted to the County by the General Assembly in Va. Code Section 15.2-1413 (providing for continuity of government during a disaster), as well as the authority granted by Section 3.5 of the County's Charter to preserve public peace and good order and to adopt ordinances necessary for the general welfare of the County, the Board enacts this ordinance. (b) Provisions. During the duration of this emergency and disaster, but not to exceed six months from adoption of this ordinance unless the ordinance is readopted by the Board, the following provisions are in effect. (i) The County Administrator is authorized to restrict County staff and the public from entering or congregating around County -owned buildings, facilities, and real property as necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public and staff and is authorized to regulate the use of such buildings, facilities, and real property for the public health, safety, and welfare. (ii) Meetings of the Board of Supervisors, the Planning Commission, and other Chesterfield County governmental entities of any kind (including, without limitation and the greatest extent legally permissible, boards, committees, authorities, commissions, agencies, and other entities) are authorized to be held through electronic communication means, without a quorum of members physically present in a single location, provided that notice of such meetings is provided in accordance with applicable laws to the extent practicable. Such meetings may be held without permitting the public to be physically present in a central location, or in the same physical location as members of the Board or other County bodies, so long as alternative arrangements for public access to such meetings are made. Such alternative public access may include, without limitation, access by electronic, social media, internet, audio, telephonic, or video broadcast means. (iii) Public hearings that are usually required by law to be held before the Board, Planning Commission, or other County entities may be modified to ensure the continuity of government. The County Administrator is authorized to adopt procedures that will allow participation by the public that is consistent with the need to protect the public health, safety and welfare with respect to the virus. Such procedures may include, among 20-184 3/25/2020 other things, solicitation of public comment by written, internet, email, electronic or telephonic means prior to a vote. All such comments will be provided to Board members and made a part of the record of such meeting. (iv) The Board and the County Administrator are each authorized to modify, limit, or suspend County programs, functions, or services as needed to ensure the effective continuity of government. (v) Any policy, rule, or regulation adopted by the Board, the Planning Commission, or any other County body that is inconsistent with this ordinance, or inconsistent with any policies or procedures adopted by the Board or the County Administrator pursuant to this ordinance, is suspended to the extent of the inconsistency during the duration of this ordinance. (vi) Consistent with the requirements of the United States and Virginia Constitutions, the Board of Supervisors and the County Administrator are each authorized to adopt and implement such policies, rules, and procedures that are deemed reasonably necessary to ensure the continuity of County government, the provision of County services to citizens, and the protection of the health, safety, and general welfare of County citizens, officials, and staff during the time that this ordinance is in effect. (vii) References to the County Administrator shall include a designee authorized by the County Administrator. C. Limited duration. This ordinance shall be in effect Le until repealed by the Board, or until six months from the date of adoption, whichever comes first. The ordinance may be readopted if the Board deems it necessary. Upon repeal or expiration of the ordinance, governmental activity shall resume as normal and in accordance with customary procedures to the extent, and as soon as, practicable (2) That this ordinance shall become effective immediately upon adoption. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 7.A.10. APPOINTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board appointed Ms. Jessica Robison as Coordinator of Emergency Management for Chesterfield County effective March 7, 2020. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. 20-185 3/25/2020 8. FIFTEEN -MINUTE CITIZEN COMMENT PERIOD ON UNSCHEDULED MATTERS There were no requests to speak at this time. 9. DEFERRED ITEMS There were no Deferred Items at this time. j 10. PUBLIC HEARINGS Ms. Haley reviewed the topics of each public hearing and stated each speaker will be limited to three minutes. She stated she has confirmed that each Board member has read the comments submitted through the county's Blueprint website, and the Board is committed to reading comments received in the future. 10.A. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS RELATING TO DEPARTMENT OF UTILITIES FEE CHANGES Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider a proposed amendment to the County Code relating to utilities user charges and cost recovery for treatment of industrial waste. In response to Mr. Carroll's question, Mr. Harris confirmed the Board is not required to increase Utilities fees. Ms. Haley called for public comment. There being no one to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes; citizens may continue to submit comments through the online Budget Feedback Form; and the ordinance amendment may be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 8, 2020.) 10.8. PROPOSED 2020 TAX RATES Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider proposed 2020 tax rates. He stated the tax rate was advertised at $0.95 which is the current rate for tax year 2019. He further stated the average bill for a single- family home will increase by approximately 3.8 percent due to increases in assessment values. Ms. Haley called for public comment. Ij There being no one to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. 20-186 3/25/2020 (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes; citizens may continue to submit comments through the online Budget Feedback Form; and the ordinance amendment may be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 8, 2020.) 10.C. FY2021 PROPOSED BUDGET Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider the FY2021 proposed budget. He further stated the current proposed budget is $773 million, and staff will bring modifications to the Board in April. Ms. Haley called for public comment. Ms. Sonia Smith addressed the Board relative to making the right decisions for educators in the county. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes; citizens may continue to submit comments through the online Budget Feedback Form; and the proposed budget may be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 8, 2020.) 10.D. FY2021-2025 PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider the proposed FY2021-FY2025 proposed Capital Improvement Program as it currently exists. He further stated revisions will be forthcoming. Ms. Haley called for public comment. Mr. Holland expressed his appreciation to Mr. Harris and his Budget and Management team. He suggested Dr. Casey and Mr. Harris stay in contact with the Budget Advisory Group. There being no one to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes; citizens may continue to submit comments through the online Budget Feedback Form; and the proposed Capital CW Improvement Program may be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 8, 2020.) 20-187 3/25/2020 10.E. FY2021 PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP ANNUAL PLAN Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider the FY2021 proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the HOME Investment Partnership Annual Plan. Ms. Haley called for public comment. There being no one to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes; citizens may continue to submit comments through the online Budget Feedback Form; and the proposed Community Development Block Grant and the HOME Investment Partnership Annual Plan may be considered at the regularly scheduled Board meeting on April 8, 2020.) 10.F. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO SECTION 9-25 OF THE CODE OF THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD RELATED TO THE TAX RELIEF PROGRAM Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider a proposed amendment to the County Code relating to the Tax Relief Program. Ms. Haley called for public comment. Ms. Judy Stoneman expressed concerns relative to the number of citizens who were disqualified for tax relief and need J assistance with their real estate taxes. There being no one else to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD, 1997, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING AND RE-ENACTING SECTION 9-25 RELATING TO REAL ESTATE TAX EXEMPTION FOR THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Supervisors of Chesterfield County: (1) That Section 9-25 of the Code of the County of Chesterfield, 1997, as amended, is amended and re-enacted to read as follows: Sec. 9-25 - Schedule of exemptions permitted. Ij 20-188 3/25/2020 The amount of exemption from real estate taxation under this section shall be determined in accordance with the following schedule: Income Categories Percentage of Exemption) (i) $0.00 through $28,000.00 100 (ii) $28,001.00 through $39,000.00 ? 60 (iii) $39,001.00 through $52,000.00 35 _ J (2) That this ordinance shall be effective as of January 1, 2020. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes.) F[4[em FXCi]y l PUBLIC SCHOOL AUTHORITY FOR CRESTWOOD AND MAGNOLIA GREEN AREA Mr. Harris stated this date and time has been advertised for the Board to consider adoption of a resolution granting authorization for the issuance and delivery of Virginia Public School Authority (VPSA) School Financing Bonds not to exceed $40,750,000 for Crestwood and Magnolia Green Elementary Schools. He further stated both projects were previously approved as a part of the Capital Improvement Program, and this public hearing is for the associated financing of those projects. Ms. Haley called for public comment. There being no one to address the issue, the public hearing was closed. On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adopted the following resolution authorizing the issuance and delivery of VPSA School Financing Bonds not to exceed $40,750,000 for Crestwood and Magnolia Green Elementary Schools: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF A SERIES OF GENERAL OBLIGATION SCHOOL BONDS OF THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD, VIRGINIA, IN A PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $40,750,000 TO BE SOLD TO THE VIRGINIA PUBLIC SCHOOL AUTHORITY, AND PROVIDING FOR THE FORM AND DETAILS THEREOF WHEREAS, the Chesterfield County School Board (the "School Board") has, by resolution adopted on February 25, 2020, requested the Board of Supervisors (the "County Board") of the 20-189 3/25/2020 County of Chesterfield, Virginia (the "County"), to authorize the issuance of general obligation school bonds and consented to the issuance of such bonds; WHEREAS, the County Board held a public hearing, duly noticed, on March 25, 2020, on the issuance of its general obligation school bonds in the estimated maximum principal amount of $40,750,000 in accordance with the requirements of Section 15.2-2606 of the Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended (the "Virginia Code"); WHEREAS, the County Board has determined that it is necessary and expedient to issue a series of general obligation school bonds in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $40,750,000 (as further described herein, the "Local Bond") and use the proceeds thereof to finance various capital improvements for the County's public schools, including but not limited to the design, acquisition, installation, construction and equipping of Crestwood Elementary School and Magnolia Green Elementary School (collectively, the "Project"); WHEREAS, the Virginia Public School Authority ("VPSA") has offered to purchase the Local Bond with a portion of the proceeds of certain bonds to be issued by VPSA in the spring of 2020 (the "VPSA Bonds"), in accordance with the terms of a Bond Sale Agreement (the "Bond Sale Agreement"), between VPSA and the County, the form of which has been presented to this meeting of the County Board; WHEREAS, the Bond Sale Agreement shall indicate that $38,338,000 is the amount of proceeds requested (the "Proceeds Requested") from VPSA in connection with the sale of the Local Bond; WHEREAS, VPSA's objective is to pay the County a purchase price for the Local Bond that, in VPSA's judgment, reflects the market value of the Local Bond (the "VPSA Purchase Price Objective"), taking into consideration such factors as the amortization schedule the County has requested for the Local Bond relative to the amortization schedules requested by other localities, the purchase price to be received by VPSA for the VPSA Bonds and other market conditions relating to the sale of the VPSA Bonds; and WHEREAS, such factors may result in the Local Bond having a purchase price other than par and consequently (i) the County may have to issue the Local Bond in a principal amount that is greater than or less than the Proceeds Requested in order to receive an amount of proceeds that is substantially equal to the Proceeds Requested or (ii) if the maximum authorized principal amount of the Local Bond set forth in Section 1 below does not exceed the Proceeds Requested by at least the amount of any discount, the purchase price to be paid to the County, ` given the VPSA Purchase Price Objective and market conditions, will be less than the Proceeds Requested; 20-190 3/25/2020 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF CHESTERFIELD, VIRGINIA: 1. Authorization of Local Bond and Use of Proceeds. The County Board hereby determines that it is advisable and in the best interests of the County and its citizens to contract a debt and issue and sell a general obligation school bond in a principal amount not to exceed $40,750,000 (the "Local Bond") for the purpose of financing the Project. The County Board hereby authorizes the issuance and sale of the Local Bond in the form and upon the terms established pursuant to this Resolution. 2. Sale of Local Bond. It is determined to be in the best interests of the County to accept the offer of VPSA to purchase from the County, and to sell to VPSA, the Local Bond at a price determined by VPSA to be fair and accepted by the Chairman or Vice Chairman of the County Board or the County Administrator, any of whom may act, that is substantially equal to the Proceeds Requested; except that the Local Bond may not be sold for a purchase price lower than 958 of the Proceeds Requested. The Chairman or Vice Chairman of the County Board, the County Administrator and such officer or officers of the County as any of them may designate, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized and directed to enter into the Bond Sale Agreement with VPSA, providing for the sale of the Local Bond to VPSA. The Bond Sale Agreement shall be in substantially the form submitted to the County Board at this meeting, which form is hereby approved, with such completions, omissions, insertions and changes not inconsistent with this Resolution as may be approved by the officer executing the Bond Sale Agreement, his or her execution to constitute conclusive evidence of the approval of any such completions, omissions, insertions and changes. 3. Details of Local Bond. The Local Bond shall (a) be issued in fully registered form, dated 16 days prior to the date of its issuance and delivery or such other date designated by VPSA, (b) be designated "General Obligation School Bond, Series 2020" or such other designation as the County Administrator shall determine, (c) bear interest from its dated date payable semi-annually on each January 15 and July 15, beginning January 15, 2021 (each an "Interest Payment Date"), at the rates established in accordance with Section 4 of this Resolution, and (d) mature in installments on July 15 in the years (each a "Principal Payment Date") and in the amounts to be approved by the County Administrator and attached to the form of the Local Bond attached hereto as Exhibit A (the "Principal Installments"), subject to the provisions of Section 4 of this Resolution. 4. Interest Rates and Principal Installments. The County Administrator is hereby authorized and directed to accept the interest rates on the Local Bond established by VPSA, provided that each interest rate shall be five one -hundredths of one percent (0.058) over the interest rate to be paid by VPSA for the corresponding principal payment date of the VPSA Bonds, a 20-191 3/25/2020 portion of the proceeds of which will be used to purchase the Local Bond, and provided further that the true interest cost of the Local Bond does not exceed five and fifty one -hundredths percent (5.50%) per annum. The Interest Payment Dates and the Principal Installments are subject to change at the request of VPSA. The County Administrator is hereby authorized and directed to accept changes in the Interest Payment Dates and the Principal Installments at the request of VPSA based on the final term to maturity of the VPSA Bonds, requirements imposed on VPSA by the nationally -recognized rating agencies and the final principal amount of the Local Bond; provided that the principal amount of the Local Bond shall not exceed the maximum amount authorized by this Resolution and provided further that the final maturity of the Local Bond occurs no later than December 31, 2041. The execution and delivery of the Local Bond as described in Section 8 hereof shall conclusively evidence the approval and acceptance of all of such terms of the Local Bond by the County Administrator as authorized by this Resolution. 5. Form of the Local Bond. The Local Bond shall be initially in the form of a single, temporary typewritten bond substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A. 6. Payment; Paying Agent and Bond Registrar. The following provisions shall apply to the Local Bond: a. For as long as VPSA is the registered owner of the Local Bond, all payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on the Local Bond shall be made in immediately available funds to VPSA at or before 11:00 a.m. on the applicable Interest Payment Date, Principal Payment Date or date fixed for prepayment or redemption, or if such date is not a business day for banks in the Commonwealth of Virginia or for the Commonwealth of Virginia, then at or before 11:00 a.m. on the business day next succeeding such Interest Payment Date, Principal Payment Date or date fixed for prepayment or redemption. b. All overdue payments of principal and, to the extent permitted by law, interest shall bear interest at the applicable interest rate or rates on the Local Bond. C. U.S. Bank National Association is designated as bond registrar and paying agent for the Local Bond (the "Bond Registrar"). The County may, in its sole discretion, replace at any time the Bond Registrar with another qualified bank or trust company as successor Bond Registrar. The County shall give prompt written notice to VPSA of the appointment of any successor Bond Registrar. 7. Prepayment or Redemption. Unless otherwise directed by VPSA, the Principal Installments of the Local Bond held by VPSA coming due on or before July 15, 2030, and the definitive bond(s) for which the Local Bond held by VPSA may be exchanged that mature on or before July 15, 2030, are not subject to prepayment or redemption prior to their stated maturities. The 20-192 3/25/2020 Principal Installments of the Local Bond held by VPSA coming due on or after July 15, 2031, and the definitive bond(s) for which the Local Bond held by VPSA may be exchanged that mature on or after July 15, 2031, are subject to prepayment or redemption at the option of the County prior to their stated maturities in whole or in part, on any date on or after July 15, 2030, upon payment of the prepayment or redemption prices (expressed as percentages of Principal Installments to be prepaid or the principal amount of the Local Bond to be redeemed) set forth below plus accrued interest to the date set for prepayment or redemption: Dates Prices July 15, 2030, through July 14, 2031 101% July 15, 2031, through July 14, 2032 100% July 15, 2032, and thereafter 100 provided, however, that the Principal Installments of the Local Bond shall not be subject to prepayment or redemption prior to their stated maturities as described above without first obtaining the written consent of VPSA or any other registered owner of the Local Bond. Notice of any such prepayment or redemption shall be given by the Bond Registrar to VPSA or any other registered owner by registered mail not more than ninety (90) days and not less than sixty (60) days before the date fixed for prepayment or redemption. If VPSA refunds the VPSA Bonds in the future and such refunding causes the Local Bond to be deemed refunded, the prepayment or redemption of the Local Bond by the County will be subject to VPSA approval and subject to similar prepayment or redemption provisions as set forth above that correspond to the call period of the VPSA bonds issued in part to refund the Local Bond. 8. Execution of the Local Bond. The Chairman or Vice Chairman of the County Board, either of whom may act, and the Clerk or any Deputy or Assistant Clerk of the County Board, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver the Local Bond and to affix the seal of the County thereto. 9. Pledge of Full Faith and Credit. For the prompt payment of the principal of and premium, if any, and interest on the Local Bond as the same shall become due, the full faith and credit of the County are hereby irrevocably pledged, and in each year while any portion of the Local Bond shall be outstanding there shall be levied and collected in accordance with law, at the same time and in the same manner as other taxes of the County are assessed, levied and collected, an annual ad valorem tax upon all taxable property within the County, over and above all other taxes, authorized or limited by law and without limitation as to rate or amount, sufficient to pay when due the principal of and premium, if any, and interest on the Local Bond as such principal, premium, if any, and interest shall become due to the extent other funds of the County are not lawfully available and appropriated for such purpose. 20-193 3/25/2020 10. Use of Proceeds Certificate and Tax Compliance Agreement. The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the County Board, the County Administrator and such other officer or officers of the County as either may designate, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver a Use of Proceeds Certificate and Tax Compliance Agreement (the "Tax Compliance Agreement") setting forth the expected use and investment of the proceeds of the Local Bond and containing such covenants as may be necessary in order to show compliance with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended low (the "Tax Code"), and applicable regulations relating to the exclusion from gross income of interest on the VPSA Bonds. The County Board covenants on behalf of the County that (a) the proceeds from the issuance and sale of the Local Bond will be invested and expended as set forth in the Tax Compliance Agreement and that the County shall comply with the other covenants and representations contained therein and (b) the County shall comply with the provisions of the Tax Code so that interest on the VPSA Bonds will remain excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes. 11. SNAP Investment Authorization; Proceeds Agreement. The County Board has heretofore received and reviewed the Information Statement describing the State Non -Arbitrage Program of the Commonwealth of Virginia ("SNAP") and the Contract Creating the State Non -Arbitrage Program Pool (the "Contract"), and the County Board has determined to authorize the County Treasurer to use SNAP in connection with the investment of the proceeds of the Local Bond if the County Administrator, in consultation with the County Treasurer, determines that the utilization of SNAP is in the best interests of the County. The County Board acknowledges the Treasury Board of the Commonwealth of Virginia is not, and shall not be, in any way liable to the County in connection with SNAP, except as otherwise provided in the Contract. The County Administrator and such officer or officers of the County as he may designate, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver a Proceeds Agreement with respect to the deposit and investment of proceeds of the Local Bond by and among the County, the other participants in the sale of the VPSA Bonds, VPSA, the investment manager and the depository, in such form as may be approved by the officer executing such Proceeds Agreement, such execution to constitute conclusive evidence of such officer's approval of any such completions, omissions, insertions and changes. 12. Continuing Disclosure Agreement. The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the County Board, the County Administrator and such other officer or officers of the County as any of them may designate, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized and directed to execute a Continuing Disclosure Agreement, substantially in the form attached as Appendix D to the Bond ` Sale Agreement, setting forth the reports and notices to be 'V/j filed by the County and containing such covenants as may be necessary in order to show compliance with the provisions of Rule 15c2-12 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange 20-194 3/25/2020 Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are hereby directed to make all filings required by Section 4 of the Bond Sale Agreement should the County be determined by VPSA to be a "material obligated person" for purposes of the VPSA Bonds. 13. Refunding. The County Board hereby acknowledges that VPSA may issue refunding bonds to refund any bonds previously issued by VPSA, including the VPSA Bonds issued to purchase the Local Bond, and that the purpose of such refunding bonds would be to enable VPSA to pass on annual debt service savings to the local issuers, including the County. The Chairman or Vice Chairman of the County Board, the County Administrator and such officer or officers of the County as any of them may designate, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized to execute and deliver to VPSA, from time to time, such allonges to the Local Bond, revised debt service schedules, IRS Forms 8038-G or such other documents reasonably deemed by VPSA and VPSA's bond counsel to be necessary to reflect and facilitate the refunding of the Local Bond and the allocation of annual debt service savings to the County by VPSA. The Clerk and any Deputy or Assistant Clerk of the County Board, any of whom may act, are hereby authorized to execute and deliver such documents and to affix the seal of the County thereto. 14. Filing of Resolution. The appropriate officers or agents of the County are hereby authorized and directed to cause a certified copy of this Resolution to be filed with the Circuit Court of the County. 15. Election to Proceed under Public Finance Act. In accordance with Section 15.2-2601 of the Virginia Code, the County Board elects to issue the Local Bond pursuant to the provisions of the Public Finance Act of 1991, Chapter 26, Title 15.2 of the Virginia Code. 16. Further Actions. The members of the County Board and all officers, employees and agents of the County are hereby authorized to take such actions as they or any one of them may consider necessary or desirable in connection with the issuance and sale of the Local Bond, and any such actions previously taken are hereby ratified and confirmed. 17. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Winslow and Holland. Nays: None. (It is noted that citizen comments received via the online Budget Feedback Form are attached as Attachment A to these minutes.) 20-195 3/25/2020 11. FIFTEEN -MINUTE CITIZEN COMMENT PERIOD ON UNSCHEDULED MATTERS There were no requests to speak at this time. 12. ADJOURNMENT On motion of Mr. Winslow, seconded by Mr. Holland, the Board adjourned at 7:44 p.m. until April 8, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. for a meeting in the Public Meeting Room or at such other place or using such other means of communication as may be selected. Ayes: Haley, Carroll, Ingle, Nays: None. Winslow and Holland. + /1I1 L sl:e A. T. Haley -Chairman 20-196 3/25/2020 1J J Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Thi estamo First Name Last Name Distinct Public Hearing Comments 3/26/2020 Ashley Hall Community Good evening. my name is Ashley Hall and l am 10:52 Development the Executive Director for Commun@ies In Block Grant Schools of Chesterfield. I'm happy to (virtually) and HOME speak in favor of the Community Development annual plan Block Grant and funding specifically for CIS. We've been grateful this year to have CDBG funding at 5 of our high poverty schools (Bellwood, Chalkley, and Ettrick Elementary; Falling Creek Middle; and Meadowbrook High School). This has allowed us to provide additional resources and wrap-around support to kids who, statistically-speaking, start school behind their peers and often are dealing with multiple traumatic experiences and day-to-day insecurities (housing, food, poverty, parental incarceration, etc). To share a few of the things we've funded this year: • School supplies for kids In need. Many of our families are struggling to provide basic needs like food, shelter, warm clothes that includes challenges In paying for basic foundational tools for school. " Books and other engagement learning tools for students to utilize during the current pandemic school closures and for summer to build literacy and help decrease the common "slide' where kids, especially from low-income families, lose skills and progress they've made throughout the school year. ' Supplies for mentoring programs. This year, we have 300 students matched with a mentor. Our incredibly dedicated mentors spend quality time every week with our students - as lunch buddies, reading mentors, career coaches, or simply caring adults who let kids know someone is rooting for them. ' A part-time Graduation Coach supporting students on the path to high school completion. ' In the first half of this school year, there were 346 hours of Ter One programming serving all students and over 1200 parents/guardians. This included school supply distributions, attendance monitoring, Terrific Kid celebrations, holiday support, and literacy interventions. In addition, numerous basic need resources were provided including cold weather items such as coats, hats, and gloves to all students in need. These are lust a few of the many ways CDBG funding is instrumental in serving our most vulnerable students and schools. We will continue to provide our services to our kids as we navigate the remainder of the school year under new circumstances. Thank you for your support of Communities In Schools and ensuring that every child in Chesterfield has the tools to succeed. 3/26/2020 Bobert Innes Bermuda Community Good evening, my no me is Bob In nes, l am 10:58 Development Chesterfield County resident and have the Block Gram privilege of being the Board Chair for and HOME Communities In Schools of Chesterfield.I nual plan appreciate the opportunity to virtually speak In favor of the Community Development Block Grant and specifically in the inclusion of CIS Chesterfield as part of the grant proposal. Communities In Schools provides critical support to more than 9,000 Chesterfield County Public Schools students with effective dropout prevention efforts dedicated to keeping kids in school and helping them succeed In life. This year we were able to expand to two more 20-197 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Terminations First Name East Name District Public Hearing Comments schools, and our Site Coordinators are now working across 9 high poverty schools to provide students and families with support in scadem Its, mental health, mentoring, socialemotional learning, career readiness, and more. These services will continue, and are even more as we finish this school year under dltial, f/erent circumstances. The results from last school year are dramatic - 89%of our case managed students improved attendance, 93%improved behavior, 80% improved academics, and 97% were promoted or graduated It Is support like CDBG that allows us to have this impact. On behalf of the CIS of Chesterfield Board, we thank the county for Including CIS In the CDBG grant proposal and appreciate the Board of Supervisors support. Thank You 3/24/2020 Yvonne Monstello Community Gateway Homes is grateful for any time and 1347 Development consideration given to our request for assistance Block Grant with our long-term/permanent home project. and HOME This project will largely be fundedthrough annual plan private philanthropy. Project Summary: Permanent Home for People Diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness Gateway Homes is building a single-family home on our Chesterfield County property, which will serve as nal dwelling for eight individuals with severe mental illness, that fall below the Federal Poverty Level. This home will be for those individuals who require long-term, or permanent support who would otherwise be unable to live Independently and/or safely within the community. This will be the first permanent supportive living home of its kind In the Commonwealth of Virginia, backed by our non-profit organizations highly esteemed and much sought-after level of service that has resulted In a close partnership with Virginias Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services OBHDSI. Our Mission Gateway Homes mission is to support individuals living with severe mental illness along their path of recovery with an emphasis placed on facilitating their successful transition back to school, work, and Independent living within the community. The Projects Demonstrated Need Gateway is the only nonprofit organization in Virginia to provide this type of treatment for Individuals that: may have failed in other treatment programs, often have been involved In the criminal justice system or experienced long-term hospilalbation, and lack the financial ability to pursue other treatment options. Gateways program is cost-effective in that even our most resource -intensive program Is less than a third of the cost of comparable programs in other states, a fourth of the cost of care in a state hospital, and an eighth of the cost of treatment within a private psychiatric hospital. The benefit to the Chesterfield Community Funding for this project would provide increased opportunity for residents of Chesterfield who are economically disadvantaged and success is often inhibited, in some part, by the symptoms of their mental illness. Additionally, the project 20-198 3/25/2020 J J J Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timesuamp First Name Last Name Dlshlct Public Hearing Comments wHit result in the sustained benefit of additional employment opportunities available to residents in the Chesterfield area; Gateway Homes already boasts 45 staff members employed at our Chesterfield campus. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration dedicated to supporting the permanent home project. 3/24/2020 lane Ferrara Community With over 24,000 Chesterfield residents living in 1617 Development poverty In 2018, there is a need for resources Block Grant that support family financial stability, According and HOME to United Ways 2019 Indicators of Community annual plan Strength, 18.1% of households in Chestemold County are considered asset poor. The asset poverty indicator measures the percentage of households without sufficient net worth to provide for basic needs and live above the poverty level for three months in the absence of income. These households may only be a job loss or health crisis away from experiencing severe financial hardship. Promoting healthy and self-sufficient families is one of the goals of the proposed FY2021-FY2021 CDBG and HOME program priorities, which are based on the Countys Strategic and Comprehensive plans. These goals and objectives align with LISCS National Best Practices Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) model; most pointedly, the objective that states support a coordinated public and private network of community services that fosters stability and maximizes financial independence for individuals and families. LISC FOC services comprehensively address the connections between areas negatively affecting an Individual or a families ability to build assets and become financially resilient. FOCs provide residents with tools to improve credit, Increase income through career advancements, and grow net worth. CDBG funding will enable LISCs FOCs to support low to moderate income individuals with services through its existing network. With the 2019 addition of the Southside FOC (with bilingual coaches(, and the 2020 addition of free mall business coaching, we have extended our reach by serving Chesterfields Latino population and entrepreneurs, thereby empowering more individuals and families to achieve financial stability and pursue financial resilience. Integrating a small business coach is even more essential in our current economic environment. LISC's current FOCs are all located in underserved communities, where a majority of residents are considered lowmoderateincome. The new Southside FOC is located in an area that Is accessible to Chesterfield residents, specifically those earning less than 80% of the area median income. USCs FOC model aligns with two of the main goals outlined in the County's Strategic Plan: Promote healthy, active lifestyle while fostering self-sufficiency and quality of life; Support a range of learning opportunities that sustains quality of life, employment 3/22/2020 Katherine Smith Bermuda Proposed FY21 My position as a full time Assistant TRA was 1917 Budget phased out and l was not given any prior notice, r was I offered to apply for the full time STEAM position that is replacing the technology teacher position. I was then told by HP that I was not allowed to attend the virtual career fair as I have not (yet) taken my Praxis exam. I only make $14 an hour 20-199 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timestamp Fint Name last Name District Public Hearing Comment; so I have been saving for the exam costs. If I had been told that my position was temporary, I would have been able to take the test earlier on my credit card. How is this an acceptable way to treat an employee? 3/22/2020 Melissa Mckee Bermuda Proposed FY21 As we have seen with this virus, our Teachers, 19:23 Budget Teachers Aids, and other school staff are put in harms way of every virus, bacteria and other illnesses, yet the proposed budget does not address pay raised for already underpaid staff. Yet, Chesterfield still claims to be one of the best places for teachers to work. Isn't is about time our teachers, Teachers aids were paid for the incredible jobs they preform everyday for the children in Chesterfield county. 3/22/2020 Heather Hiner Midlothian Proposed FY21 I am embarrassed to live in Chesterfield County 1953 Budget because of the way the teachers are treated here. I live in Chesterfield County but I work in HQNiCo County because there is no way I would ever work for Chesterfield because of the way they treat their teachers. Why would any of the teachers stay in the county when counties all around them are paying them far more to do the same lob. It makes no sense that you're not warding the great teachers that we have in our county for their service. Pay them more or else they are going to leave. If all the good teachers leave that means the schools will not be as good as they are, which means families like mine will move out of this county and where the better schools are. Do better. They deserve more. 3/23/2020 Chance Harding Matoace Proposed FY21 FUNDOUR TEACHERS111" They go above and 8:22 Budget beyond each day and have made a HUGE impact over the last 2 weeks keeping normalcy for so many students and families throughout the district, while at the same time being asked to make N-5 classes online. They are HEROs and need to be compensated as such. 3/23/2020 Colleen grezel Midlothian Proposed FY21 We are wiling on you and depending on you to 8:26 Budget fully fund our schools. Our communities depend on it, our children deserve teachers who are paid for their hard work and we need to make this a priority before teachers leave our county for a higher paying job. Please do the right thing. 3/23/2@G Amanda Perri Proposed FY21 The funding allocated to schools in this budget is 1100 Budget not enough. It is clear, now more than ever, how crucial our school system is to the community and county. You should not in good conscience accept a budget that is almost half of the one proposed and does not give students or teachers what they need to learn and feel safe. The Chesterfield community deserves better than this. 3/23/2020 Barbara Ring Clover Hill Proposed FY21 Dear Representative: 12:03 Budget Please consider approving the school budget as proposed by our superintendent. As a teacher of English language learners, we need the additional leachers, and resources proposed to teach these students to bring them and their families into full membership in our communities. These children are our future. Please give us the opportunity to help us help them' Thank you, Barbara Bing ESI -teacher Reams Road Elementary School 20-200 3/25/2020 J J J Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of supervisors Public Hearings Timestamp First Name Fast Name District Public Hearing Comments 3/23/2020 Lisa St. Plan Matoaca Proposed FY21 I have lived in Chesterfield County for 25 years, l 1305 Budget am a parent of children In CCPS, and a CCPS School Counselor. I am deeply concerned about the growth of our county, as new housing developments and apartment villages continue to be approved and built without taking our schools into account. I have been a School Counselor for 17 years, yet my pay Is only about $5,000 more than that of a starting teacher/coumvil with no experience. How is this okay? I know that $100,000 is being spent for a study, but please help me understand, what more do you need to know? Also, at the elementary level, we are in DIRE need of humans in our buildings. I am the only school counselor in a Title I building with very high needs. My school had the highest number of substantive Threat Assessments completed last year, low test scares, and other high mental health needs. When are we going to start pouring resources into our youngest citizens and help them while they still have a chance to stay out of the school to prison pipeline? When will our elementary schools be given a TEAM of full time mental health specialists (social worker, psychologist, more than one counselor, behavior specialist, etc.)? PLEASE fund our schools. Our counts's future depends on it 3/23/2020 Mario Gonzalez del Midlothian Proposed FY21 lam concerned thatthe Board historically has 13:14 Solar Budget not provided adequate funding for Chester0eld County Schools. I will have been a Chesterfield resident for 30 years this year. My grown children all graduated from Chesterfield schools. But during our time in Chesterfield, underfunded schools has been a constant reality. During my time in Chesterfield, I have heard repeated crowing by both citizens and elected officials about the County's success in keeping property taxes low. While low taxes obviously benefit the individual homeowner --myself 'included --they present the County government with the need every year to figure out how to cut this or that service or scrimp on another. It is time for our elected officials to demonstrate leadership and RAISE PROPERTY TAXES IN CHESTERFIELD. Only by assuring adequate revenue can we address the woeful'madequacy of our School Budget. 3/23/2020 Jessie Davis l.ee Clover Hill Proposed FY21 The news that the proposed annual budget for 15:15 Budget 20/21 would ONLY include a 2% raise was infuriating and disappointing to say the least I am a speech therapist and am considering taking on a second job EVEN THGODGH I WENT TO SCHOOL FOR 3 years to obtain my degree. The fact that we are only able to make ends meet and not live an enjoyable, satistying and comfortable life is the reason why many teachers are depleted and depressed. There is 0 other field that comes to mind where employees make so little after so much schooling. I'm sure you all have heard every excuse and explanation from teachers about why our salaries are inadequate but l hope you would consider my voice as well as others when making important decisions about our livllhoods and wellbeing. 3/23/2020 Debbi Minta Midlothian Proposed FY21 I cannot say strongly enough how important it is 1606 Budget to me to support the schools and teachers. Our county teachers have been paid less than the 20-201 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Tmestamp First Name East Name District Public Hearing Comments original step plan since the recession In 2008 and its time to rectify that. Our property values will be negatively impacted If the steady stream of teachers leaving our classrooms for other school systems that pay better or other careers isn't addressed While our schools still score well currently, I fear that will change rapidly If we continue to expect our teachers to do more for less pay. How can we continue to expect our schools to rank better than the surrounding counties when our tax rate is lower. Maybe It's time to think outside the box when It comes to the tax rate so that we can raise the funds we need to support the schools without negatively imparting our citizens who are on a fixed income. 3/24/2020 Greg Beasley Matoaca Proposed FY21 My name is Greg Beasley and l am the President 5'.33 Budget of the Chesterfield Professional Firefighters Association, I have come before the Board of Supervisors to speak on the proposed County Budget every year since about 2006 to represent the professional Firefighters of Chesterfield County. Tonight, l would like to start off a little differently than I have in the past. I would like to say thank You for making the Fire and EMS funding a true priority. This budget addresses several key issues that I have been coming before the Board and asking to be addressed just about every year since 2006. This year you are addressing several key areas of concern with this budget but most importantly you are truly starting to address our staffing issues and completing the funding of our career development plan. Both of Mese Issues will have comprehensive reviews completed by third party vendors; which will be finalized this year. I am confident that these stud les will demonstrate that there is more work that needs to be done on these issues, but you are already moving in the right direction with the recom endations in this year's proposed budget. Also included in the budget is money needed to finalize the opening of Station 25 and move forwa of with the Ladder Truck for Station 5. All of these issues will only help us better serve the citizens of Chesterfield and hopefully retain our highly skilled workforce. It has been mentioned by County staff at the few meetings held on the proposed budget how patient the Firefighters have been on all the issues I have addressed, and I completely agree with those statements. With that being said, I realize that we are facing a much different future due to Coval -19. Unfortunately, none of us know what the future holds and how long this pandemic will affect our health, economy and community as a whole. It's In times like these we truly learn what Is essential to our community. Your Firefighters are at work every day to respond to the citizens of Chesterfield to ensure we have a safe and secure community. In closing I could not be prouder of all the embers of Chesterfield Fire and EMS from top to bottom and how they conduct business. Whether it is the uncertainty of a pandemic like Covid-19, responding to the array of calls we deal with or normal day to day business, your Firefighters always display the highest level of professionalism. you should be proud of too; and ensure we have the funding to do our job safely and effectively. 20-202 3/25/2020 J J 4 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timesnmp tint Name Inst Name District Public Rearing Comments 3/24/2020 laclyn Thorsson Midlothian Proposed M1 It is extremely Important for us to fund the 755 Budget schools with the requested funding so that we can continue to have an attractive and effective school system. If we allow our schools to falter, it will not only effect the kids but will effect the entire community. Businesses will lose revenue, property values will decline and much more if we don't continue to properly fund our schools and strive for a premier public school system. 3/24/2020 Robert Lohr Midlothian Proposed H21 I come before You tonight to give my vision of 10:05 Budget the state of Chesterfield County, Virginia, l hope each of you on the BOIS will read this before you take any vote on the Budged have lived In this county for 79 years with my wife who has lived here76 years. My wife, 4 kids and I are graduates of the public schools. They went on to college graduation and were gainfully employed because of the education they received in Chesterfield and college. My father- in-law served on the BOS. I worked closely with the school administration, principals, teachers.for 5 years with a contract to provide school accident insurance. They were very professional. The school board during this time were appointed by the BOS. They were professional business people. They served without political adjendas. Then it happened. The school board members were to be elected. Since then, every year the Budget Is proposed it becomes a political event. The school board and superintendent go to the media if the 805 doesn't meet their "wants'. I wish they could conduct these meetings to discuss their "wants' without going to the media and campaigning. The needs should be easy to decide on between the school board, superintendent and the BOS. The school board and superintendent by to use emotions, peer pressure and media to address any problems in their operations. They abdicate their authority.. Examples not redistricting attendance zone;not hiring professional people in transportation management. Example promoting from within instead of a transportation expert and not having a professional facilities manager that knows preventative maintenance and upkeep. As evidenced by he neglect for last decades. I hope the BOS will support the county manager in his statement to the school system that It is nothing wrong with having two jobs. I had to hold two lobs for 15 years to support my family. I would like to remind everyone that the teachers have a nine month job and every county employee is free to choose another occupation.i hope the 905 continues to advocate for all citizens when considering the budget as a lot of us are on fixed incomes without COIR or yearly raises. 3/24/2020 Caplan Phelps Clover Hill Proposed FY21 Now more than ever it is evident what teachers 11:23 Budget do for our students and communities. You have the money, now allocate it to the hard working teachers who always go above and beyond for their students. This should be a priority for you all. You will lose a lot of incredibly smart and hardworking people to other professions if you do not pay teachers more; and the students will be the ones that suffer the most. We deserve not to struggle to pay bills, having to picking up second and third jobs to make it each month. 3/24/2020 Cheryl Lafferty Midlothian Proposed FY21 I am a parent oftwo high school students.I 11A6 Budget became involved in a deeper way when my son began to show difficulties in reading. I also spent a year working as a substitute In many of the middle and high schools. I've seen education from the perspective of a parent, from that of a special education aduml.te and as a substitute. 20-203 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings T retinal First Name Last Name District Public Hearing Comments Classroom sizes are beyond Ineffective. Many students fail to learn. Class sizes of 30-35 do NOT make for good learning environments. We have student populations that require additional vestment and skill and in my experience with Special Education, they currently fall way short of providing a Free and Appropriate Education. We had to pull our son from public school. Because of his progress at a private school, we would have liked to have had him continue attending that school, but the tuition is unaffordable at$3000O/year. As a tax payer, our schools should be able to educate our children. This Is unconscionable. If you look solely on this Issue of literacy, the schools need the funding as requested. Please for one minute recognize that a 20% literacy fail rate In Chesterfield County is over 11,000 readers that are not proficient. And I don't even need to mention the ripple effect from there. Their options to contribute to society and earn a living a re reduced drastically. We cannot afford illiteracy. At risk children must be Identified and addressed early or the costs will continue to escalate in additional IEP and Special Ed instruction well Into secondary schooling, not to mention the cost to society when a student hasn't achieved the basic skill of reading. Additionally our Guidance Counselors are barely available to counsel. They are burden with lots of other administrative tasks. Our Exceptional Education teachers need training beyond what they are currently offered so that they can identify learning difficulties early. The CCPS Literary curriculum Is In desperate need of an overhaul so that it can align with the science of reading. None of this can be addressed lithe school district does not gel the proper funding. My request is simple. Please put aside any preconceived ideas of what the schools are facing and what your gut says should be a fix to the low wages and embarrassing per pupil expenditure of CCPS. Please listen to us the residents, teachers, students, and families. We are trying to tell you something important. 3/24/2020 Alyssa Pifer Midlothian Proposed FY21 Schools have already started planning for new 12:27 Budget positions based on the verbal agreement of funding. Please approve the budget so students can have all of the teacher resources needed to be 21st century learners. This includes the STEAM teacher position and other support staff for English Language Learners. Bon Air Elementary was approved these aforementioned positions, conducted interviews, and hired teachers for these roles. Now, the positions are up in the air due to the budge[ Please do what Is best for students. 3/24/2020 Pamela Crandol Matoaca Proposed FY21 To the Members of the Board, 14:27 Budget My name Is Pam Crandol, I live in the Matoaca district and I am a retired Chesterfield County Public School Employee. I am here to ask the Board to continue to support the Shepherd Center of Chesterfield I have been a volunteer for the Shepherd Center since 2004. Our mission to keep seniors healthy and in their homes as long as possible a critical at this time. We currently have a female client that Is 91. She is a cancer patient. We are taking her to her 20-204 3/25/2020 9 j j Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timestamp Rest Name east Name District Public Hearing Comments chemotherapy treatments and to the grocery stare. Also, we are working with County Enhancement to help bring her home up to County code so that she won't be forced to leave her home. We have found a church that will do some of the work. This is a lady that falls through the cracks and would get no public assistance. She will be living on the street if we aren't able to get this done. This is just one of our many needs at this time. Pleasebeas generous as possible. I know there is so much demand, but these are the vulnerable chores that deserve our help. Thank you. 3/24/2020 Todd Gasparello Bermuda Proposed FY21 Here are some facts about our CCPS middle 14:34 Budget school from this school year: -6licensed teachers quit the profession this year-these positions went unfilled or were replaced by long term substitutes who then quit -1 administrator quit the position this year-for 2 months, this position went unfilled -A long term substitutes started in classrooms this year -For several months this year, a significant portion of our 8th grade student population had 3 out of 4 of their core content classes-math, science, english, history taught by long term substitutes; a parent brought this up at a school board budget meeting in January -Students from a class had a licensed teacher quit the profession In December these classes were split up into other classes of teachers that not had quit-increasing their class sizes, having them teaching multiple levels within the same class with no additional compensation or help -Due to the lack of teachers and substitutes, on a weekly basis we have students from other classes (different subjects) put into our regular classes -Due to the lack of teachers and substitutes, on a weekly basis (and multiple times within a week), we have to cover other classes during our planning period -Some days, we have students from different contents split up into our regular classes and then we have to cover other classes during our planning period (the previous two points combined In one day) -I could make a list just Ike this regarding our building from last year where we went months without a counselor, months without an administrator, and the whole year with a large tuber of long term substitutes and unfilled teaching positions. We do not have the human resources to safely and successfully educate children, There simply are not enough trained adults in our building. Our principal and associate principal are doing verything in their power to minimize the damage of all these unfilled or untrained and filled positions, but they are fighting a battle that no one can win. If none of this is believable, come talk to some of our 8th grade students who have never had a licensed math teacher for a whole middle school year...or who have long term substitutes far math, english, and science. 20-205 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timestamp First Name last Name District Public Hearing Comments Hearing their pleas and hearing their cries for actual teachers will be enough for you to understand the gravity of our situation. This is choice whether or not to endanger the lives and upbringings of those who are most valuable in our ciety--children. 3/24/2020 Lora Williams Clover Hill Proposed FY21 I have heard much talk about there not being 15:18 Budget money in the budget to allocate the full amount of funding ($99M) requested by the CCPS superintendent. I understand that a salary survey has been commissioned (at the cost of $LOOK) to determine where CCPS falls in terms of compensation (and I'm hoping employee retention is also investigated) compared to similar school districts. I have no doubt that the results of this survey will show that CCPS educators are in fact being payed below the state average and our per pupil expenditures fall far below what SOQs would demand All that being said, if we don't have the money this year, will we have the money next year? I feel that this situation is being put off only to be pushed off again next year. This isn't a new problem. Not having the additional money t0 fully fund and support our school district isn't a new wrinkle. How is putting it off another year actually going to fix the problem? If the survey finds that the salaries and per pupil expenditures need to be increased, ca the board of supervisors commit to making that happen? In FY22?? If not now, I want to know WHEN the school budget will be fully funded Our students and our educators deserve it. 2/24/2020 letterer Hughes Proposed FY21 Madam Chair, Members of the Board, Or Casey Budget I would like to thank you for amending the County's real estate tax relief program for seniors and disabled citizens, by increasing the income level at which citizens receive 100% relief from S27,100 to $28,000, Your action protects some of the most vulnerable citizens'm the County. Over the last two years, my office has seen an Increase of around 25 seniors and disabled citizens, whose income has pushed them Into the 60% tax relief level, due to modest increases in tial security payments. For these citizens, Social Security is their primary and often only source of income. As a result, they are receiving an average tax bill of $660 per year, for an income re of significantly less. These citizens are already making difficult decisions to budget for basic expenses like food, utilities and medication. All of these seniors have contributed to our community all their lives and many of them are veterans. Your action to adjust the income level to restore these citizens to a 10% tax relief level will significantly reduce their stress levels and Improve their quality of life. My office has been keeping track of seniors, who will benefit from this ordinance change, so we can adjust the tax relief they will receive by the annual billing planned for mid April. We will also contact each taxpayer to let them know of the change, as part of our regular engagement with taxpayers, subject to any changes in operations due to the current state of emergency. Again, many thanks for caring about tM1e senior citizens in the Cou my. Kind regards. 20-206 3/25/2020 1J 1J Iq Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timestemp First Name last Name District Public Hearing Comments 3/23/2020 Jason young Proposed H21 On behalfofthe Home Building Association of Budget Richmond, l would like to first express our sincere gratitude for the work that the Board of Supervisors, the County Administratoes Office, and county staff has done to mitigate the impact of the COVI D-19 outbreak an Chesterfield County residents and businesses. These are unprecedented times and we are grateful for your commitment and dedication to the community. Our members interface with numerous local departments on a daily basis, including the Building Department, Planning Department, Public Utilities, Stormwaler Department, and others. In the midst of an extremely challenging time, the Directors and staff of these departments have been extremely helpful in helping our members navigate the various challenges and issues. We are sincerely grateful and stand ready to assist you in any way possible. The Home Building Association of Richmond (H BAR) understands the need to make vestments in utility infrastructure and the need to ensure that those investments are able to meet the growing population of the County in a cost-effective manner. However, the residential land development and construction industry is concerned that the proposed increase will create yet another impediment to ensuring that we are creating communities with a diversity of housing stock at all price paints. The Inability for the housing industry to meet the growing demand of for sale and rental housing options has been long documented. As noted in the 2019 State of the Nation's Housing report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, "Just as the recent housing downturn was longer and deeper than any other since the Great Depression, the residential construction rebound has been slower. Since reaching bottom in 2011 at lust 633," new units, additions to the housing stock have grown at an average annual rate of just 10 percent. Despite these steady gains, completions and placements totaled only 1.2 million units last year—the lowest annual production, excluding 2008-2018, going back to 1982." Although the industry has slowly recovered since the historic economic downturn of 2008, there remains growing concerns around the Commonwealth that stagnant wages and the rising price of land, labor and materials will continue to exacerbate the gap between housing supply and demand, resulting in the continued rise of home prices and rents. Although the Board of Supervisors Is limited in its ability to address the cost of land, labor, and materials, the Board of Supervisors is in a position to mitigate and minimize the various costs that are Imposed during the land entitlement and construction process. As documented by experts at the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the Urban Land Institute, and various privatesectorand non- profit housing advocates, local elected officials and local government staff can help address the shortage of available housing by implementing measures to "bend the cost curve" for new development and redevelopment projects by reducing economic and financial barriers to entry that exist In local zoning, subdivision, and other ordinances and requirements established at the local level. As the County continues to grow in the coming 20-207 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timeclmp First Name Cast Name District Public Hearing Comments years, we must dlligently pursue all means to ensure that our community is one that provides housing options for Individuals and families across the income spectrum. Local land -use, zoning, and utility ordinances, regulations, and policies play an important tole in ensuring orderly and harmonious development — and they are a critical component of creating long - lashing, sustainable communities. However, these policies must also consider the need for continued economic growth, including the need for a diverse array of housing options. We would be happy to provide you any additional Information regarding the housing affordability challenges in Chesterfield County, the Greater Richmond Region, and the Commonwealth, if requested. Furthermore, we respectfully request that the Board of Supervisors vote to reject any increases in local fees that would place additional Impediments on the Industry's ability to provide a diversity of housing stock to the market. 3/25/2020 Deborah Mullaney Midlothian Proposed H21 Please fully fund our public schools. The 11:18 Budget coronavirus will only Increase the strain on the public ,hool system. We need competitive teacher salary in order to recruit and retain experienced, competent teachers. The best way to achieve this goal Is by working to de compressthe teacher salary scale. Strong public schools is one of the main reasons that Chesterfield Is a desirable community to purchase a home in. Please keep the schools strong in order to keep home prices strong. 3/25/2020 Richard Mullaney Midlothian Proposed FY21 The Board of Supervisors needs to fully fund 1120 Budget Chesterfield County Public Schools. CCPS has not been adequately funded for years. We can see the evidence of this lack of adequate Ponding in high teacher turnover, large class sizes, poor maintenance of buildings, pupil transportation problems, and many other areas. The fad that the Board of Supervisors can only comm It to funding a tittle more than half of what the Superintendent of Schools says the school system needs is sad. I have lived in Chesterfield County since 2005, and I'm tired of seeing the same attitude of "well, the schools have to to more with less," or, "we just don't have the funding at this time,' year in, year out. If the Board of Supervisors doesn't have the money to adequately fund the schools (or, for that matter, the police department and other vital services(, then the Board needs to raise property taxes to pay for the county's needs. Chesterfield taxpayers do not currently pay a high tare rate. It's time for the Board of Supervisors to stop placating the small government advocates and take a bold move to address the needs of the people of this county. 3/25/2020 Debbie Lewis Clover Hill Proposed FY21 Thank you so much for conducting the 12:02 Budget community feedback sessions, and given the unprecented times we are in, for pivoting to an online option that allowed us to hear the material and interact through the use of the online forms. Well done I appreciate the remarks I have heard from the Bos that you have heard the voices who are asking that our schools be fully funded And I understand you are already taking steps in that direction. I have a request. First, the backstory_. In 2012, e opted to move to Chesterfield county largely based on the strength of the schools, and we trusted that the appropriate funds were being 20-208 3/25/2020 J J J Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings morainal Fink NameInst NameDistrict Public Hexing Comments garnered from all of the development, in order that the schools would remain strong. Therefore, we felt blindsided to learn that, at present, Chesterfield is unable to fully fund our schools. While I support community growth and development, if the developers are not contributing their share to grow our Imastructure appropriately, then I believe we are being short-sighted. Specifically, I ask that the BOS revisit the cash proffer amount, Since decreasing the proffers by 50% in September 2016, it seems we have experienced rapid growth while realizing economic shortfalls (as pointed out In the proposed budget from the school system). Perhaps this is already something you are planning to pursue. In summary, I ask that we take the steps necessary to fully fund our schools, including addressing and Increasing the cash proffer amount for developers. Thank you for your time and consideration - and for serving our community in th is Important capacity. Respectfully, Debbie Lewis 3/25/2020 Fred deMey Matoaca Proposed FY21 County Budget 2020 13:20 Budget According to County Administrator Dr. Casey, in the Chesterfield Observer (3/30/2020), almost 70% of Chesterfield households don't have children in the school system, and Chesterfield residents and taxpayers without children in the schools have for many years, been paying the highest county taxes in central Virginia to support our public schools in their funding requirements. This year, with increasing real estate assessments, according to Dr. Casey, we will see an estimated $28 Million tax Increase on Chesterfield taxpayers, and that combined with higher much taxes from the state, will not only increase Chesterfield revenue further, but also greatly Increase the tax burden on Chesterfield taxpayer, as well as all Virginians. Dr. Cases and his budget staff, have over the last several years done good job of trying to budget not only as accurately as possible, but also with a conservative bias towards revenue and spending projections, and that has kept the county budget from growing beyond the means of yearly increases in property values and revenue gains from a larger business and residential tax base, as well as other revenue streams. That careful, considered budgeting allowed for a tax rate cut from 96 cents, to 95 cents In 2018, good lob. This kind of budget mismanagement by CCPS and the previous school board required substantial expenditures of taxpayer money by the last Board of Supervisors clear up, and it can't be allowed to continue. The Chesterfield School Board approved an operating budget of $727 Million, a year over year Increase of $55 Million, which represents about an 8% increase in school spending. The inflation rate for 2019, as well as the projected inflation rate for 2020 is 2.3%, that gives us a school budget running at about 3.5 times the rate of inflation, pretty high. Chesterfield school spending has risen faster than the rate of inflation for several years, and previous Boards of Supervisors, despite a lot of 20-209 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timectamp Fimt Flame last Name District Public Hearing Comments misinformation, have historically supported school spending substantially above inflation since the recession of 2008-2009. Again this Year we have a budget that is growing far above the inflation rate, and one school board member, Ann Coker, an accountant by trade, even stated in the Chesterfield Observer (3/5/2020), that: From my professional and business experience, I know there has to be $30 million In there that we can find, and I believe that Is a Conservative estimate. 3/25/2020 From Dilday Clover Hill Proposed FY21 Good evening - 17A9 Budget It is my hope that in adopting the budget for Fiscal year 2021, you will continue to keep consumer -based services a priority. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic disruption that is sure to follow, having quality and accessible community services available is necessary. I encourage you to focus on education. As the current school year has come to an abrupt halt, you have surely heard stories of teachers and educators around the county going above and beyond to reach out, provide meaningful learning opportunities, and be a source of comfort to students and families during this uncertain time. This Is because it was already happening everyday in every school across the county. Now, with a major loss of instructional time, it is now, more than ever, that investment Is needed in order to maintain accreditation and quality of service. While It has been made clear, that the rainy day fund is not Intended for normal budget operations, it would now seem as though it will be raining. Please be transparent in explicitly sharing what is available to our community In dollar amounts of previous years' savings to help us In this current situation. While a triple AAA bond rating allows us to borrow more easily and can be stated In touting Chesterfield as a "First Choice' Community, other neighboring counties also have earned this rating while also increasing education funding specifically to teacher salaries in recent years. As you know, we must be able to compete for, acquire, and retain quality educators. Again, this should continue to be priority. I hope your public statements, votes, and actions indicate as such. Tha nk you. 3/24/2020 Mary Parsons Midlothian Proposed tax The county has raised our property value 28.6% 1647 rales for 2020 since 2914, which results in mortgage increases to cover the tax shortage. Since 2014, the Inflation rate has gone up 9.38%, this combined with property value increases results in 32.98% Increase In our cost of living. Teachers have received a 2% to 3% raise each year for a total of 17% increase over time, wh lch is a net lost of 20,98% to our standard of living. Is the Board willing to consider expanding the criteria of real estate tax exemption to include head of house holds, who make 52, GOD or less and have less Nan 350,000 in total assets, and not stipulate an age requirement. Given that teachers in Chesterfield County make considerably less than the surrounding counties and Chesterfield Is the largest county and has the highest real estate tax, providing real estate tax relief would help off -set the rising cost of living. 3/25/2020 Fred deMey Matoace Proposed tax County Tax Rate 2020 13:13 rates for 2020 The Democrats takeover of the General Assembly, has greatly changed the tax environment of Virginia, and of Chesterfield 20-210 3/25/2020 J V I, J M Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Teaddemp First Name Ust Name District Public Hearing comments County. While you, the Board of Supervisors, had little, if any ability to influence many of the decisions that resulted in the large tax increases that were made this legislative session, we will all have to live with them, and recognize that the lax environment, going into the near future, will be much higher at the state than has previously has been the case. An example would be the $600 Million increase in the Virginia income tax because the Newly elected General Assembly failed to align the state standard deduction to federal deduction, and that will have an adverse effect on Chesterfield taxpayers. There have been preliminary discussions of a $400 to $600 Million band referendum, of which the proceeds would be spent on county and school funding, mostly for new school facilities. In order to finance new school spending, and payments on the bonds, a meals tax has been proposed, similar to the meals tax currently in Henrico county, and thank you Mrs. Haley for committing to holding a referendum on a meals tax, even when the General Assembly has removed that requirement with new law (CO2/S/2020). While Henrico has a meals tax of 4%, which generates about $30 Million for schools (Observer 3/5/20), they also have substantially lower tax rates for vehicles, 10 cents per $100 lower than Chesterfield, reals estate lax rates, at 8 cents lower than Chesterfield's, and a motor vehicle license tax that is 50% LESS than ours here in Chesterfield While I am firmly against adding more taxes on the already overburdened Chesterfield taxpayers, any discussion of a planned meals tax should include efforts to reduce taxes on real estate, vehicle taxes and other taxes to help offset the tax increases at the state level, as well as here at the county level with a meals tax. In addition, in the Chesterfield Observer (3/10/20) Dr. Casey made several very good points about the fad that almost 70% of people residing in Chesterfield don't have children in the school system, and many are on fixed income, and will be adversely effected by the large tax increases at the state level, and now, the as yet unquantifiable effects of the Corona virus crisis on the citizens of Chesterfield. I would strongly urge you to consider include tax rate cuts in any meals tax referendum proposal put to the public for a vote In Chesterfield. 3/24/2020 Danna Markland Utilities Fee On behalf of the Home Building Association of Changes Richmond, I would like to first express our sincere gratitude for the work that the Board of Supervisors, the County Administrator's Office, and county staff has done to mitigate the impact of the COVI0.19 outbreak on Chesterfield County residents and businesses. These are unprecedented times and we are grateful for your commitment and dedication to the community. Our members Interface with numerous local departments on a daily basis, including the Building Department, Planning Department, Public Utilities, Stormwater Department, and others. In the midst of an extremely challenging time, the Directors and staff of these departments have been extremely helpful in helping our members navigate the various challenges and issues. We are sincerely grateful and stand ready to assist you in any way possible. The Home Building Association of Richmond (H BAR) understands the need to make 20-211 3/25/2020 Attachment A Citizen Comments on the March 25 Board of Supervisors Public Hearings Timestamp First Name last Name District Public Hearing Comments Investments In YI sty Infrastructure and the need to ensure that those investments are able to meet the growing population of the County in a Cost-effective manner. However, the residential land development and construction industry is concerned that the proposed increase will create yet another Impediment to ensuring that we are creating communities with a diversity of housing stock at all price points. The inability for the housing industry to meet the growing demand of for -sale and rental housing options has been long documented. As noted In the 2019 State of the Nation's Housing report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, "Just as the recent housing downturn was longer and deeper than any other since the Great Depression, the residential construction rebound has been slower. Since reaching bottom in 2011 at just 633,1100 new units, additions to the housing stock have grown at an average annual rate of just 10 percent. Despite these steady gains, completions and placements totaled only 1.2 million units last year—the lowest annual production, excluding 2008-2018, going back to 1982." Although the industry has slowly recovered since the historic economic downturn of 2008, there remains growing concerns around the Commonwealth that stagnant wages and the rising price of land, labor and materials will continue to exacerbate the gap between housing supply and demand, resulting in the continued rise of home prices and rents. Although the Board of Supervisors is limited in its ability to address the cost of land, labor, and materials, the Board of Supervisors is in a position to mitigate and minimize the various costs that are imposed during the land entitlement and construction process. As documented by experts at the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, the Urban land Institute, and various privatesectorand non- profit housing advocates, local elected officials and local government staff can help address the shortage of available housing by implementing measures to "bend the cost curve" for new development and redevelopment projects by reducing economic and financial barriers to entry that exist in local zoning, subdivision, and other ordinances and requirements established at the local level. As the County continues to grow In the coming years, we must diligently pursue all means to ensure that our community is one that provides housing options for individuals and families across the income spectrum. Local land use, zoning, and ullllty ordinances, regulations, and policies play an important role in ensuring orderly and harmonious development -and they are a critical component of creating long- lasting, sustainable communities. However, these policies must also consider the need for continued economic growth, including the need for a diverse array of housing options. We would be happy to provide you any additional information regarding the housing affordability challenges In Chesterfield County, the Greater Richmond Region, and the Commonwealth, if requested. Furthermore, we respectfully request that the Board of Supervisors vote to reject any increases in local fees that would place additional impediments on the industry s ability to provide a diversity of housing stock to the market. 20-212 3/25/2020 J J J