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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-6-11Tentative BOARD OF SUPERVISORS T E N T A T I V E JUNE 11, 2014 COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING 3:30 p.m. – Room 241 1. Call to Order. 2. 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Joint Meeting with School Board. 3. a. Medical and Dental Insurance Programs. Lorna Gerome, Director of Human Resources. b. Planning for Joint meetings of Board of Supervisors and School Board: 1. Retreat. 2. Legislative Representatives to discuss introduction of legislation. 4. Recess. 4a. 4:30 p.m. – Closed Meeting. 5:00 p.m. – Lane Auditorium 4b. Certify Closed Meeting. 5. 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. - Work Session: CPA-2013-01. Comprehensive Plan Update/ Amendment, to begin with public comments and possible Board direction. Elaine Echols, Principal Planner. 6. 7:00 p.m. - Call to Order Night Meeting. 7. Pledge of Allegiance. 8. Moment of Silence. 9. Adoption of Final Agenda. 9a. Recognition: Proclamation recognizing June 2014 as Business Appreciation Month. 10. Brief Announcements by Board Members. 11. From the Public: Matters Not Listed for Public Hearing on the Agenda. 12. Consent Agenda (on next sheet). Public Hearings: 13. Resolution to Appropriate FY 15 On-going Funding of Multi-Year Capital Projects, Lori Allshouse, Director of the Office of Management and Budget. 14. PROJECT: SP-2014-00004. Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops - Drive-Thru. MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Rivanna. TAX MAP/PARCEL: 07800-00-00-073A2. LOCATION: 2005 Abbey Road, on the south side of Route 250 in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center. PROPOSAL: Request for a special use permit to establish a drive-thru window associated with a fast food restaurant on .75 acres under Section (s) 22.2.2 (10) Commercial, 23.2.2 (5) Commercial Office, and 24.2.2(12) Highway Commercial, Permitted Uses, by Special Use Permit of Zoning Ordinance. ZONING: PD-MC Planned Development Mixed Commercial which allows large-scale commercial uses and residential by special use permit at a density of 15 units/acre. ENTRANCE CORRIDOR: Yes. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Urban Mixed Use – retail, commercial services, office, and a mix of residential types (6.01 – 34 units/acre) in DA – Neighborhood 3 – Pantops. Claudette Grant, file:////coba-webapp01/BOSForms/Agenda/2014Files/0611/0.0_Agenda.htm (1 of 3) [10/6/2020 12:44:11 PM] Tentative Principal Planner. 15. Six Year Secondary Road Plan. To receive comments on the proposed Secondary Six-Year Plan for Fiscal Years 2014/15 through 2019/20 in Albemarle County, and on the Secondary System Construction Budget for Fiscal Year 2014/15. David Benish, Chief of Planning. Action Items: 16. Appeal of ARB Decision: ARB-2014-024. New Hope Church, Margaret Maliszewski, Principal Planner. 17. Business Assistance Program During Road Construction. Lee Catlin, Assistant to the County Executive for Community and Business Partnerships 18. From the Board: Committee Reports and Matters Not Listed on the Agenda. 19. From the County Executive: Report on Matters Not Listed on the Agenda. 20. Adjourn. CONSENT AGENDA FOR APPROVAL: 12.1 Approval of Minutes: August 14, October 2 and December 12, 2013; February 5, March 27 and April 10, 2014. 12.2 Northside Library Lease Extension. 12.3 FY 2014 Budget Amendment and Appropriations. 12.4 Resolution to Support Application by Buckingham Branch Railroad Company for Grant Funds. 12.5 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) – Letter of Support. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TO SPEAK AT PUBLIC HEARINGS ONLY Return to Top of Agenda file:////coba-webapp01/BOSForms/Agenda/2014Files/0611/0.0_Agenda.htm (2 of 3) [10/6/2020 12:44:11 PM] Tentative Return to Board of Supervisors Home Page Return to County Home Page file:////coba-webapp01/BOSForms/Agenda/2014Files/0611/0.0_Agenda.htm (3 of 3) [10/6/2020 12:44:11 PM] COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Medical and Dental Insurance Programs SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Request approval of the proposed 2014-2015 health and dental contracts, coverage and proposed rate structure STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Letteri, Davis, Gerome PRESENTER (S): Lorna Gerome LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: In November 2000, the Board of Supervisors and School Board (Boards) approved a Total Compensation Strategy to target employee salaries at 100% of an adopted market median and benefits slightly above market levels. Medical insurance and the Virginia Retirement System are the largest components of the benefits piece of that strategy. The information provided in the attached Memorandum from the Health Care Executive Committee (HCEC) to the County Executive and Superintendent (Attachment A) details the analysis of the medical and dental programs and prior actions taken to meet the benefits target. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 7. Promote a valued and responsive County workforce that ensures excellent customer s ervice DISCUSSION: Each year the HCEC, with the assistance of a health care consultant, evaluates the Health Insurance plan’s claims experience, trends in health care costs, policy design issues, market conditions as related to insurance benefits and insurance regulations or policy mandates imposed by State or Federal law. The mandates in the Affordable Care Act have particular relevance to this and future years of the plan. The attached Memorandum outlines the HCEC’s recommendations for the County’s Medical and Dental Insurance program based on the following objectives:  offer affordable options that meet varying needs of employees and their families;  maintain reserves at approximately 25% of claims;  ensure plans are in compliance with the Affordable Care Act; and  maintain the Boards’ competitive position for benefits (slightly above market). Based on this year’s evaluation process, the HCEC has recommended a number of plan design changes as well as premium adjustments to ensure continued solvency and sustainability of the County’s health care reserve fund and compliance with Federal and State mandates. Some of these changes, particularly those involving premium adjustments and the possibility of deductables, were foreshadowed last year during board work sessions, and the anticipation of these changes was communicated to employees. Additional plan design changes and additional premium adjustments are also recommended to be effective in plan year 2016, which staff believes should be carefully evaluated over the next few months in preparation for work sessions with the Boards in late Summer or early Fall. The additional time will also allow staff to communicate and engage employees in advance of implementing any approved additional changes. At this time, staff recommends that the Boards approve the implementation of an 8% increase in the County’s contribution for health care and an 8% increase in employee contributions as discussed in the joint meeting of the Boards in October 2013 and included in the proposed budget. Staff also recommends that we phase in the implementation of deductables. Specifically, staff recommends the implementation of a $250 deductable, effective January of 2015, to bring the plan into alignment with market and allow additional time for employee communications regarding the change. Staff also recommends that the Boards direct staff to evaluate additional policy modifications, AGENDA TITLE: Medical and Dental Insurance Programs June 11, 2014 Page 2 including out of pocket m aximums, co-pays, deductibles and premium adjustments as proposed by the HCEC and as may be necessary or advisable to maintain a competitive and sustainable health insurance program. Other modifications may also be necessary to avoid the “Cadillac Tax” (effective January 2018) as required by the Affordable Care Act, which is based on total plan cost for individual coverage. The plan, for example, may need to have changes made to its subsidies for the dependent portion, including the subsidy formula, the rate for children and spouses, and the subsidy provided to part-time employees and retirees. The HCEC will develop these recommendations in the late summer/early fall time frame in preparation for a joint board presentation and discussion in October. Delaying the implementation of all of these proposed changes would reduce the County’s reserve balance to below target levels in the short term, but would restore the reserves within a two-year period. BUDGET IMPACT: The 8% increase in the County’s (employer’s) contribution was included in the County Executive’s and Superintendent’s proposed FY15 budget. Future budgetary impacts will be dependent upon future plan changes as may be approved by the Boards in the Fall. RECOMMENDATION: Medical Plan: 1. Continue to offer the Basic and Plus plans through Coventry. a. Both plans are Point-Of-Service Plans with the same benefit coverage. 2. Increase the Board contribution by 8% for the new plan-year beginning on October 1, 2014. 3. Set full-time employee premiums (8% increase) at the rates shown in Attachment A. 4. Implement a $250 deductable effective January 1, 2015. 5. Retain a self-insured medical plan with Specific-Claim-Stop-Loss insurance to limit the County’s liability against any single large claim . Dental Plan: 1. Continue the contract with United Concordia. 2. Continue to offer the Basic and High Options with no change in benefit design. 3. Reduce the current rates for the new plan year beginning on October 1, 2014. 4. Approve the employee premiums as shown in Attachment A. 5. Continue the dental rate holiday (which began in February 2014) through September 2014 for all dental enrollees for this period, regardless of hire date. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A: HCEC Memorandum to County Executive and Superintendent Attachment B: Health and Dental Premium Recommendations Return to agenda Attachment A MEMORANDUM To: Tom Foley, County Executive Pam Moran, Superintendent From: Health Care Executive Committee RE: 2014-2015 Medical and Dental Insurance Programs Date: April 2014 The Health Care Executive Committee (HCEC), the members of which represent several departments in the School Division and Local Government, as well as other affiliated organizations who participate in our health and dental plans, develops recommendations for our medical and dental plans based on the following objectives:  offer affordable options that meet varying needs of employees and their families  maintain reserves at approximately 25% of claims  ensure plans are in compliance with Health Care Reform  maintain our competitive position for benefits (slightly above market ) Plan Review Process The HCEC works routinely with KSPH Employee Benefit Management, to review our health care plan. This includes:  Detailed reviews of claims utilization with Coventry/Aetna’s medical director  Analysis of market information on plan design and employee/employer premiums. o Plan design includes: inpatient/outpatient coinsurance, co-payments, annual deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, emergency room co-payments, prescription drug co-payments  Employee Feedback- input from employees via focus groups and surveys  Review and projections of reserve balance. Health Care Reserve Fund As our medical plan is self-insured, the County is responsible for all claims. Reserve funds serve to cover any difference between claims paid, but not covered by the revenues (employee premiums collected & Board contributions). If claims exceed our revenue collections, the difference is paid from our reserves; if revenue exceeds claims, the difference is added to our reserves. Ideally, a reserve balance of at least 25% of total claims should be maintained. To protect the plan against potentially devastating single large claim(s), the County continues to purchase reinsurance, referred to as Specific Stop Loss reinsurance. This type of coverage limits our liability for a single claim to $200,000 (Specific Stop Loss). Background: Medical Scoring Analysis The adopted benefits strategy is to target benefits slightly above market (105th percentile). The benefits package is reviewed comprehensively and the medical plan is the cornerstone of that strategy. In order to evaluate the plan design and premium costs to employees and Board contributions, staff worked with Tom Mackay, our benefits consultant with KSPH Employee Benefit Management, to develop a model quantifying those elements. Based on this model, last year we were slightly above our target. FY12-13 Plan Year (Plan year is October through September) Three plans with varying co-pays and premiums had been offered for several years. A review of national survey data of government employer-sponsored health plans indicated that we were above market in terms of our high option plan design. The high option health plan was also well above market in regard to employee cost-sharing. In order to maintain comparability with other Attachment A health plans and for cost savings, the HCEC recognized that we could not continue to offer the high plan without significantly increasing the monthly premium rates to the point where they would not remain affordable for our employees. Accordingly, we moved to a two plan option structure and the following plan changes were made effective October 1, 2012:  Plan names were changed to Plus Plan (former Middle Plan) and Basic Plan  Enhanced women’s preventive and contraceptive coverage added (in accordance with Health Care Reform)  The changes from the former High option plan to the new Plus plan were as follows: o Change in coinsurance from 95% to 90% (in-network) for inpatient admissions, specialty diagnostic services (CAT scans, MRIs, etc.), and outpatient surgeries o Change in out of pocket maximums from $1500/$3000 to $2000/$4000 (individual/family) o Employees on the High plan at employee only and employee + child continued to pay the High plan premium with the move to the Plus plan; those at employee + spouse/children or family levels saw reduced premium rates with the move to the Plus plan. This was done to keep our premiums at each level in line with our market.  No changes to the low plan design/premiums. As we had communicated earlier in the year that premium rates would not change for the upcoming plan year, we temporarily allowed those currently on the Middle plan at employee only and employee + child tiers to continue paying the same premiums. The balance of the premium cost was supplemented for one year by funds from the health care reserve. FY13-14 Current Plan Year Two plans (Basic and Plus) plans are offered through Coventry with the same benefit coverage, but differ in cost sharing (co-pays, co-insurance, out-of-pocket maximums, deductibles) and employee premium requirements. Both the employee and Board contributions were increased by 7% this year. Because of the significant plan design changes implemented in the past two years and in light of the premium increase, no plan design changes were made for this year. Claims The following chart illustrates our medical and prescription drug claims trend. * Eliminated high plan. $595 $637 $622 $701 $726 $701 $725 11% 7% -2% 13% 4% -3% 3% -6% -4% -2% 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% $0 $100 $200 $300 $400 $500 $600 $700 $800 $900 $1,000 10/07 10/08 10/09 10/10 10/11 10/12 * 10/13-1/14 (4 months) Claims Per Employee Per Month After Removing Claims Over Stop Loss Claims Attachment A Claims Increase/Decrease Average last six years 3% Average last five years 3% Average last four years 4% Average last three years 1% Average last two years 0% Market Competitiveness Offering a competitive medical plan that balances the benefit design against the cost to fund the program is a major consideration each year. The benchmark data, while not an exclusive comparison with our adopted market is used by the HCEC is developing recommendations consistent with our strategy. Plan Design I 77% 83% 63% 49% 0% 0% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Percent with Annual Deductibles $500 $400 $664 $696 $0 $0 $1,000 $900 $1,516 $1,650 $0 $0 $0 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 $1,600 $1,800 $2,000 Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Average Annual Deductible Single Family Attachment A Total Cost- Employee Premiums and Board Contribution Amounts Our employee contributions to single coverage remain above market. $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,500 $4,000 $4,000 $4,000 $5,000 $0 $1,000 $2,000 $3,000 $4,000 $5,000 $6,000 $7,000 Mercer Survey (2012 & 2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 & 2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Out-of-Pocket Maximum Single Family $20 $25 $24 $15 $25 $40 $30 $38 $40 $40 $0 $10 $20 $30 $40 $50 $60 Mercer Survey (2012 & 2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Physician Copayments PCP Specialist $100 $89 $76 $90 $43 $11 $0 $50 $100 $150 Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Average Monthly Employee Contribution for Single Coverage Attachment A Our employee contributions as a dollar amount to family overage remain above market, while as a percentage paid by employer is comparable. Adopted Market Data The benchmark data collected from our adopted market indicated that the total premiums (Plus plan) compare as follows: Survey Average Cost for Individual Premium: $6,705.75 Survey Average Cost for Family Premium: $17,388.21 Albemarle Cost for Individual Premium: $7,733.16 Albemarle Cost for Family Premium: $10,673.16 Our average cost for individuals in slightly above our adopted market, while our average cost for family premiums is significantly below market. 83% 85% 84% 82% 93% 98% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Average Monthly Employer Contribution for Single Coverage as Percent of Premium $328 $334 $358 $373 $288 $186 $0 $100 $200 $300 $400 Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Average Monthly Employee Contribution for Family Coverage 78% 75% 72% 69% 68% 76% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Mercer Survey (2012 data) Govt 500+ Mercer Survey (2013 data) Govt 500+ Kaiser Survey (2012 data) 200+ Ees Kaiser Survey (2013 data) 200+ Ees Albemarle Plus Plan (10/13) Albemarle Basic Plan (10/13) Average Monthly Employer Contribution for Family Coverage as Percent of Premium Attachment A Considerations for FY14-15: Although we have made plan design changes resulting in cost shifting to employees, we have only had one employee premium increase since 2008. The HCEC is sensitive to the impact that out-of-pocket costs have on our covered members. Due to good performance within our self- insured pool, we are able to maintain high value plan for a low total cost to employees and the Board. We are particularly fortunate in both these circumstances, given the recent increases many employers have been faced with implementing. However, this year, we are faced with increased costs. To manage our overall health care costs and prepare for provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the HCEC evaluated plan design changes to include increasing co-pays, out-of-pocket costs, implementing deductibles, increasing prescription co-pays. The HCEC also evaluated different premium structures. Upcoming fees required by ACA include:  Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) fee- this funds the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute, which is intended to assist patients, clinicians and policymakers in making informed health decisions through evidenced based medicine. This fee is based on covered members and is due July 2014. Our PCORI fee is $14,075.  Reinsurance fee-a transitional reinsurance feel must be established in every state to help stabilize premiums for coverage in the individual market from 2014 through 2016. This program will provide payments to insurers that cover higher-risk populations to more evenly spread the financial risk. This fee is based on covered lives and is due after January 2015. Our reinsurance fee is $328,138. Two options were presented: Option 1 Option 2 Plan Design Changes Per ACA, pharmacy copays must be included in the out of pocket maximum. Therefore, OOP threshold needs to be increased. Increase out of pocket $500/$1000 to include Rx Add 20% to self-administered injectables Increase out of pocket $500/$1000 to include Rx Add 20% to self-administered injectables Add $250 Deductible to High and $500 deductible to Basic Add $500 Deductible to High and $500 deductible to Basic Dollar Change to Employee Premium Increases per month Option 1 Plus Basic Option 2 Plus Basic Employee $12 $1 $3 $1 Employee + Child $26 $3 $7 $3 Employee +Children or Spouse $62 $11 $17 $11 Family $82 $15 $23 $15 The HCEC recommends Option 2. Over the next several months, the HCEC will meet to evaluate contribution strategies for the future. The Cadillac tax (effective January 2018) is based on total plan cost for individual coverage. We may need to change strategy and subsidize the dependent portion and consider the subsidy formula, the rate for children and spouses, the subsidy provided to part-time employees and retirees. The HCEC will present recommendations in the fall. Attachment A Dental Insurance FY12-13 Plan Year There were no changes to our current dental plan premiums from that of the previous year. The coverage of both the High and Basic plan options was enhanced by: increases to the amount the plans pay annually, an increase to the amount covered for orthodontia (which is covered under the High plan only), and an increased amount covered for major services, like crowns. FY 13-14 Current Plan Year Two plans (Basic and High) are offered through United Concordia. As our dental reserve balance was favorably above the target, a dental premium holiday was given from March 2013 until September 2013 for all dental enrollees and from February 2014- September 2014. FY14-15 Plan Year Continue to offer two plans with no coverage changes and decrease current premiums by 5%. Recommendations: The HCEC considered a number of options in continuing to offer medical and dental plans that balance the needs of employees with the fiscal realities of funding the plans, particularly given the continuing escalation in costs for medical care. The recommendations: Medical Plan: 1. Continue to offer the Basic and Plus plans through Coventry/Aetna a. Both plans are Point-Of-Service Plans with the same benefit coverage b. There are differences in cost sharing (co-pays, co-insurance, out-of-pocket maximums, deductibles) and employee premium requirements 2. Increase the Board contribution by 8% for the new plan-year starting October 1st 3. Retain a self-insured medical plan with Specific-Claim-Stop-Loss insurance to limit our liability against any single large claim Dental Plan: 1. Continue the contract with United Concordia 2. Continue to offer the Basic and High Options with no change in benefit design 3. Reduce the current rates by 5% for the new plan year starting October 1st Attachment B Plan Option Plus Option Basic Option Employee $55 $14 Employee + Child $118 $55 Employee + Children $280 $176 Employee + Spouse $280 $176 Employee + Family $373 $241 Plan Option High Option Low Option Employee $17 $4 Employee + Child $40 $16 Employee + Spouse $40 $16 Employee + Family $78 $47 Board contributions are prorated to reflect the employee's part-time percentage. The employee then pays the remainder of the Board contribution, plus the full-time monthly premium. Visit the online calculator at www.albemarle.org/upload/images/webapps/insurance/default.asp for assistance with estimating part-time monthly premiums. Premium rates will be greater than the amounts listed above in relation to hire date, reflecting thenumber of paychecks remaining before June 30th. Contact HR Benefits Office with questions. **Employees beginning coverage on or after Sept. 2014: Upon completion of school year & issue of June paycheck, July-Sept. premiums will have been prepaid. The Board contributes $25.30/month ($253 yearly) toward dental insurance per full-time employee. * Part-time Employees: Effective October 1, 2014 Southern Health VirginiaCare POS United Concordia Advantage Plus ALBEMARLE COUNTY 2014-2015 MEDICAL & DENTAL INSURANCE RATES Full-time* Employee Monthly Premiums, 10-Month Rates (for employees receiving 10 paychecks per year The Board contributes $779.44/month ($7,794 yearly) toward medical insurance per full-time employee. AND beginning coverage BEFORE Sept. 2014**) Plan Option Plus Option Basic Option Employee $46 $12 Employee + Child $98 $46 Employee + Children $233 $147 Employee + Spouse $233 $147 Employee + Family $311 $201 Plan Option High Option Low Option Employee $14.00 Employee + Child $33.00 Employee + Spouse $33.00 Employee + Family $65.00 Board contributions are prorated to reflect the employee's part-time percentage. The employee then pays the remainder of the Board contribution, plus the full-time monthly premium. Visit the online calculator at www.albemarle.org/upload/images/webapps/insurance/default.asp for assistance with estimating part-time monthly premiums. 2014-2015 MEDICAL & DENTAL INSURANCE RATES ALBEMARLE COUNTY * Part-time Employees: Effective October 1, 2014 (for employees receiving 12 paychecks per year) Full-time* Employee Monthly Premiums, 12-Month Rates Southern Health VirginiaCare POS United Concordia Advantage Plus The Board contributes $649.54/month ($7,794 yearly) toward medical insurance per full-time employee. The Board contributes $21.06/month ($253 yearly) toward dental insurance per full-time employee. $3.00 $13.00 $13.00 $39.00 Plan Option Plus Option Basic Option Employee $695.76 $661.10 Employee + Child $747.77 $695.76 Employee + Children $882.97 $796.30 Employee + Spouse $882.97 $796.30 Employee + Family $960.40 $850.61 Plan Option High Option Low Option Employee $35.31 $23.91 Employee + Child $54.31 $34.36 Employee + Spouse $54.31 $34.36 Employee + Family $85.66 $60.01 Effective October 1, 2014 RETIREE / CAREER LEAVE / L.O.A. RATES Southern Health VirginiaCare POS United Concordia Advantage Plus ALBEMARLE COUNTY 2014-2015 MEDICAL & DENTAL INSURANCE RATES RETIREES Plan Option Plus Option Basic Option Employee $695.76 $661.10 Employee + Child $747.77 $695.76 Employee + Children $882.97 $796.30 Employee + Spouse $882.97 $796.30 Employee + Family $960.40 $850.61 Plan Option Employee Employee + Child Employee + Spouse Employee + Family Plan Option Plus Option Basic Option Employee $709.68 $674.32 Employee + Child $762.72 $709.68 Employee + Children $900.63 $812.23 Employee + Spouse $900.63 $812.23 Employee + Family $979.60 $867.63 Plan Option Employee Employee + Child Employee + Spouse Employee + Family ALBEMARLE COUNTY 2014-2015 MEDICAL & DENTAL INSURANCE RATES COBRA -- RETIREES -- CAREER LEAVE/L.O.A. RETIREE / CAREER LEAVE / L.O.A. RATES $54.31 Southern Health VirginiaCare POS $23.91 $34.36 Effective October 1, 2014 United Concordia Advantage Plus High Option $35.31 $54.31 Low Option $34.36 $55.40 $35.05 $87.37 $61.21 $85.66 $36.02 $24.39 $55.40 $35.05 High Option Low Option COBRA RATES Southern Health VirginiaCare POS United Concordia Advantage Plus $60.01 ALBEMARLE COUNTY 2014-2015 MEDICAL & DENTAL INSURANCE RATES COBRA -- RETIREES -- CAREER LEAVE/L.O.A. RETIREE / CAREER LEAVE / L.O.A. RATES Southern Health VirginiaCare POS Effective October 1, 2014 United Concordia Advantage Plus COBRA RATES Southern Health VirginiaCare POS United Concordia Advantage Plus BOS – CPA 2013-01 Page 1 of 2 COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: CPA-2013-01 Comprehensive Plan Update/Amendment SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources STAFF CONTACT(S): Cilimberg, Echols PRESENTER (S): Elaine Echols LEGAL REVIEW: No AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: No REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The Planning Commission’s recommended Comprehensive Plan has been provided in the draft dated January 23, 2014 and previously provided to the Board of Supervisors. The Comprehensive Plan may be found online here: http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/Forms_Center/Departments/Community_Development/Forms/Comp_Plan_2013/ Comp_Plan_Round_3/Table_of_Contents_Final_1-23-14.pdf. Recommendations regarding focused topics and information since the Commission’s actions have also been identified for the Board’s consideration. This work session is the fourth in the series of detailed Comprehensive Plan chapter reviews based on the Board’s agreed upon review schedule which can be found here: http://www.albemarle.org/department.asp?department=cdd&relpage=17151. The Board’s direction to date has been recorded in Action Memos from Board meetings at which the topic was discussed. STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission: To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all citizens through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds. DISCUSSION: At this worksession, the Board will review Chapter 5: Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources. This Chapter may be found here: http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/Forms_Center/Departments/Community_Development/Forms/Comp_Plan_2 013/Comp_Plan_Round_3/05_Chapter_Hist_Cultural_Scenic_final_1-23-14.pdf The Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources chapter provides information on  The definition of a historic resource (page 5.3)  The location of historic landmarks and districts in Albemarle County that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places (page 5.5) In addition, the chapter identifies the importance of  Identification and recognition of important historic resources (pages 5.7 – 5.8)  Pursuing additional protection measures (pages 5.8 – 5.9)  Providing educational programs about historic resource preservation (pages 5.9 – 5.10)  Promoting regional cooperation in preserving and promoting the overall community’s historic resources (pages 5.10 – 5.11)  Enhancing scenic resources for residents and visitors (pages 5.11 – 5.13)  Maintaining the visual quality of the County’s roadways (pages 5.13 – 5.14)  Maintaining the visual integrity of the Entrance Corridor (pages 5.14 – 5.18  Protecting the scenic quality of the County’s streams (pages 5.18 0 5.19)  Preserving important views for tourism and recreation (pages 5.19 – 5.20)  Protecting the dark sky (pages 5.20 – 5.21) AGENDA TITLE: CPA-2013-01 Comprehensive Plan Update/Amendment May 14, 2014 BOS – CPA 2013-01 Page 2 of 2 The Goals, Objectives, Strategies, Implementation Priorities, Measures of Success, and list of Appendices and Reference Documents are found in a single document – Attachment A. The Appendix, found here - http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/forms_center/departments/community_development/forms/ARB_Application s/Historic_Preservation_Plan.pdf, contains the current Historic Preservation Plan adopted in 2000. Much of the detail needed to implement the different strategies for historic preservation is part of that Plan. A table comparing the existing and recommended Comprehensive Plan regarding Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources is provided as Attachment B. Only one topic has been identified by staff for particular focus – the Monticello Viewshed (see page 5.11). The Planning Commission spent considerable time on this recommendation and it represents a change from existing policy. Staff comment: The Commission reviewed the existing Comprehensive Plan recommendations for the Monticello Viewshed, recommendations from the Historic Preservation Committee, specific requests from the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF), and comments from several groups in the community. Attachment C provides information on the TJF request and the Commission’s discussion and response. BUDGET IMPACT: Recommendations in the Comprehensive Plan Draft include recommendations for future capital improvements and operations. RECOMMENDATIONS: The Board is asked to identify any substantive changes to the recommendations herein presented and concur on those changes, focusing on content rather than wordsmithing. Staff will then make any necessary changes and bring them back to the Board for its approval prior to its public hearing. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A: Goals, Objectives, Strategies Goals, Objectives, Strategies, Priorities, and Indicators of Progress, Appendices, and Reference Documents Attachment B: Comparison of Goal, Objectives, and Strategies for Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Preservation Attachment C: Background Information on Planning Commission Recommendations for Monticello Viewshed Return to agenda Vision Historic, Cultural,and Scenic Resources Goals, Objectives, Strategies, Appendices, Reference Documents, Priorities, and Indicators of Progress *priority ** very high priority as recommended by Planning Commission on June 3, 2014 GOAL: Albemarle’s historic, cultural, and scenic resources will be preserved. Attractive entrance corridors will welcome visitors and residents to and within the County. Objective 1: Continue to identify and recognize the value of buildings, structures, landscapes, sites and districts which have historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural significance. **Strategy 1a: Maintain a permanent Historic Preservation Committee and re-establish the full- time Historic Preservation Planner position to assist in implementation of the Preservation Plan. Strategy 1b: Compile and maintain a current and comprehensive information base on Albemarle County’s prehistoric, historic, and cultural resources for use by all County departments and the public. *Strategy 1c: Document as fully as possible all historic resources prior to demolition and retain historic records. Complete documentation with the assistance of County staff, the Historic Preservation Committee, local preservation groups, applicants and property owners. Objective 2: Pursue additional protection measures and incentives to preserve Albemarle’s historic and archaeological resources in order to foster pride in the County and maintain the County’s character. *Strategy 2a: Encourage landowners to pursue voluntary methods of preservation and conservation, including requesting landmark and district designations, conservation easements, and tax and other financial incentive programs, as outlined in the adopted 2000 Historic Preservation Plan and its updates. Pursue historic district designations in cooperation with the surrounding neighborhoods and in partnership with the City of Charlottesville, where applicable. **Strategy 2b: Consider adopting regulatory measures for preservation and conservation such as those outlined in the adopted 2000 Historic Preservation Plan and its updates. Strategy 2c: Continue to practice good stewardship of the historic resources under County control by using recognized practices for the preservation of historic resources. Objective 3: Provide educational programs in the community about historic resources and preservation. Strategy 3a: Develop and engage in heritage education programs that foster community pride, good citizenship, a strong school curriculum, and stewardship of the County’s historic resources. **Strategy 3b: Use a variety of tools (brochures, video, workshops, lectures, the internet, oral histories, a comprehensive database) to educate and provide guidance to County residents, property owners, County boards and committees, and County staff about the County’s historic resources and its preservation policies. *Strategy 3c: Partner with the City of Charlottesville to prepare and maintain coordinated information on requirements, responsibilities and support programs for historic resources that are designated, eligible to be designated, or otherwise historically significant to the community. Objective 4: Promote regional cooperation in preservation and conservation efforts, including the promotion of heritage tourism. **Strategy 4a: Create and strengthen partnerships among all interest groups, including but not limited to the City of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, County and State officials, nearby Counties, local businesses, historic sites (like Ashlawn-Highland and Monticello) and community organizations to collaborate on and forward the cause of historic preservation and to promote heritage tourism throughout the County and the region. *Strategy 4b: Prepare and maintain a single map of formally designated City and County historic resources and make it available as a layer on both City and County data systems. *Strategy 4c: Provide information on Monticello vistas as a layer in the County’s Geographic Information Service (GIS) application, which is provided at the County website. Objective 5: Continue to protect and enhance scenic resources for residents and tourists. *Strategy 5a: Continue to promote voluntary measures of protection for scenic resources. *Strategy 5b: Support enabling legislation for Albemarle County to provide for a scenic protection and tourist enhancement overlay district. *Strategy 5c: Work with the City of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, and other regional bodies to more consistently enhance the visual quality and multi-modal experiences along scenic corridors. Focus on Entrance Corridors, shared boundaries, the creation of distinctive destinations, urban area walkability, and consistent signage. Objective 6: Maintain or improve the visual quality of all of Albemarle’s roadways. *Strategy 6a: Pursue additional scenic road designations to promote tourism and to maintain the visual quality of the County’s scenic roads. *Strategy 6b: Take an active role in the design of Virginia Department of Transportation road improvements and bridges on scenic roads. Objective 7: Maintain the visual integrity of Albemarle’s Entrance Corridors. *Strategy 7a: Taking into consideration the former Scenic Highway regulations, review the EC guidelines for effectiveness in protecting the integrity of exceptionally scenic EC road corridors, such as Route 250 East, Route 250 West, and Route 22/231. Strategy 7b: Continue to use the Entrance Corridor design guidelines to help maintain the integrity of Entrance Corridors in Albemarle County. **Strategy 7c: Update EC Design Guidelines to better reflect expectations of the Neighborhood Model for the Development Areas, including but not limited to recommendations on ways to provide for relegated parking without buildings turning their backs to the Entrance Corridor, and on coordinating landscaping requirements with utility corridors. **Strategy 7d: Develop corridor-specific guidelines for all Entrance Corridors to reflect the unique character of each corridor. *Strategy 7e: Use recommendations from Development Area Master Plans for frontage treatments of ECs to guide decision-making. *Strategy 7f: Consider additional EC designations as appropriate, or as road classifications change, for roads such as the John Warner Parkway, Route 614 (Sugar Hollow Road), Route 692/712 (Plank Road), and Route 810 (Brown’s Gap Turnpike). Objective 8: Protect the scenic quality of Albemarle’s streams. *Strategy 8a: Pursue Virginia Scenic River designations for rivers meeting State criteria. *Strategy 8b: Review the effectiveness of County Scenic Streams regulations and update them for consistency with the Water Protection Ordinance. Objective 9: Preserve important views as they relate to tourism and recreational assets. *Strategy 9a: Study ways to protect scenic views of and from the Blue Ridge Mountains (Appalachian Trail and Skyline Drive), US Route 250, and Shenandoah National Park. Objective 10: Protect the dark sky of Albemarle County as one of the many natural, scenic, scientific and cultural resources, for the benefit of residents, visitors, and the larger scientific community. *Strategy 10a: Continue to pursue measures to reduce light pollution in the County caused by uplighting, excessive lighting, glare, light trespass, and inconsistent light, including but not limited to the development of guidelines to address these issues for street lights in the Development Areas. Such guidelines should focus on providing a safe and secure pedestrian environment. Strategy 10b: Protect the McCormick and Fan Mountain Observatories through Dark Sky initiatives in the interest of scientific research, public education, and future economic development opportunities. *Strategy 10c: In cooperation with the University of Virginia and other interested parties, develop a community-based educational program on the value of the Dark Sky and on technical lighting topics. Target individuals in the building materials, electrical contracting, design, construction, and associated industries, as well as individual homeowners. **Strategy 10d: Take a leadership role in protecting the Dark Skies by designing lighting in public building projects, including playing fields and parking lots, to serve as models of appropriate and efficient lighting; by adopting a resolution asking power companies to cease promotion of unshielded and inefficient outdoor lighting; and by exploring the feasibility of participating in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Green Lights Program to promote energy efficiency in building design and maintenance. Priorities are indicated with * Top 3 Priorities are indicated with ** Indicators of Progress: 1. Increase in state and national register designations for historic properties. 2. Reduction in the number of historic structures that are demolished annually. Appendices Historic Resources Plan Reference Documents There are no reference documents associated with this Chapter. Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 1 of 10 Comparison of Goals, Objectives and Strategies, and other Key Information Chapter 5 Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources January 23, 2014 Draft The goal, objectives, and strategies for the Proposed 2013 Plan are shown on the right in this table. Goals, objectives, and strategies shown on the left are taken from different sections of the existing Comprehensive Plan. The source of information from the existing Plan is shown by existing goal, objective, or strategy number or by page number in the existing Plan. Existing Comprehensive Plan Adopted March 3, 1999, as part of Chapter 2 - Natural Resources and Cultural Assets) Historic Preservation Plan (HPP) Adopted as part of Comprehensive Plan (under separate cover) September 6, 2000 Amended September 6, 2001 CPA 00-04 Proposed Comprehensive Plan Update Recommended by the Planning Commission to the Board of Supervisors July 30, 3013 GOAL: Protect the County’s natural, scenic, and historic resources in the Rural Areas and Development Areas. (HPP Page 1) GOAL: Protect the County’s historic and cultural resources (Page 155) GOAL: Albemarle’s historic, cultural, and scenic resources will be preserved. Attractive entrance corridors will welcome visitors and residents to and within the County. (Page 5.1) OBJECTIVE: Continue to identify and recognize the value of buildings, structures, landscapes, sites and districts which have historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural significance. (Page 155, also HPP Page 1) Objective 1: Continue to identify and recognize the value of buildings, structures, landscapes, sites, and districts which have historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural significance. (Page 5.7) Strategy: Create a permanent Historic Preservation Committee to provide assistance and advice concerning the County’s historic preservation program. (HPP Page 1) Strategy for Preservation Plan Implementation: Create a full time Review Board staff position to assist in implementation of the Preservation Plan. (HPP Page 3) Strategy1a: Maintain a permanent Historic Preservation Committee and re-establish the full-time Historic Preservation Planner position to assist in implementation of the Preservation Plan. (Page 5.7) Strategy: Make all Virginia Department of Historic Resources historic survey inventory data on Albemarle County resources accessible at the County Office Building, either by maintaining paper copies or by providing access to VDHR's Integrated Preservation Software (IPS) database. (HPP Page 3) Strategy1b: Compile and maintain a current and comprehensive information base on Albemarle County’s prehistoric, historic and cultural resources for use by all County departments and the public. (Page 5.7) Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 2 of 10 Strategy: Compile and maintain a current and comprehensive information base for Albemarle County’s historic resources. Implement a system using the County computers and existing computer programs (to the greatest extent possible) to facilitate identification of historic properties by all County departments. Identify all sites by tax map and parcel number. (HPP Page 3) Strategy: Provide for the identification of historic resources and the integration of pertinent historic resource information in the County’s GIS system, which is currently being implemented. Maintain archivally stable photographic records of the County’s historic and archaeological resources. Utilize the digital photographic records produced by other County departments for reference on historic and archaeological resources. (HPP Page 3) Strategy: Until an ordinance is adopted which requires documentation of proposed demolitions, all historic resources to be demolished should be first documented by County staff as fully as possible. (HPP Page 3) Strategy1c: Document as fully as possible all historic resources prior to demolition and retain historic records. Complete documentation with the assistance of County staff, the Historic Preservation Committee, local preservation groups, applicants and property owners. (Page 5.8) OBJECTIVE: Pursue additional protection measures and incentives to preserve Albemarle’s historic and archaeological resources in order to foster pride in the County and maintain the County’s character. (Page 155, also HPP Page 1) Objective 2: Pursue additional protection measures and incentives to preserve Albemarle’s historic and archaeological resources in order to foster pride in the County and maintain the County’s character. (Page 5.8) Strategy: Promote voluntary measures and techniques such as historic and conservation easements which serve to protect historic resources and their settings. (Page 162) Strategy: Encourage owners of historic properties to seek designation on the Virginia and National registers, thereby attaining eligibility for financial incentives. Provide basic information to help initiate the designation Strategy2a: Encourage landowners to pursue voluntary methods of preservation and conservation, including requesting landmark and district designations, conservation easements, and tax and other financial incentive programs, as outlined in the adopted 2000 Historic Preservation Plan and its updates. Pursue historic district designations in cooperation with the surrounding neighborhoods and in Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 3 of 10 process and tax credit applications. Seek and coordinate the work of interns and volunteers to assist in the completion of documentation required for nomination. (HPP Page 4) Strategy: The County should encourage or actively seek designation on the Virginia and National Registers of all potentially eligible villages (Advance Mills, Crozet, White Hall, and Yancey Mills) as identified in the Historic Architectural Survey of Albemarle County Villages. (HPP Page 4) Strategy: Initiate studies similar to the Southwest Mountains historic district study in other areas of the County that include numerous register properties and potentially eligible properties. (HPP Page 4) Strategy: Promote historic and conservation easements and other voluntary measures. (HPP Page 4) Strategy: Promote preservation by making available information regarding tax incentives and designation procedures. (HPP Page 4) partnership with the City of Charlottesville, where applicable. (Page 5.7) Strategy: Adopt a Historic Overlay District ordinance to recognize and protect historic and archaeological resources, including individual sites and districts, on the local level. (Page 162) Supporting Strategy: The Board of Supervisors should request enabling legislation which would allow Albemarle County to impose a meaningful civil penalty for inappropriate demolition, razing or moving of any designated historic resource. This enabling legislation should also authorize the County to use the civil penalties collected to fund components of the County’s historic preservation program. ( HPP Page 8) Strategy2b: Consider adopting regulatory measures for preservation and conservation such as those outlined in the adopted 2000 Historic Preservation Plan and its updates. (Page 5.8) Strategy: The County should continue to be a good steward of the historic resources under its control.(HPP Page 7) Strategy2c: Continue to practice good stewardship of the historic resources under County control by using recognized practices for the preservation of historic resources. Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 4 of 10 (Page 5.9) Strategy: Educate all components of the community about historic resources and preservation. (HPP Page 5) Objective 3: Provide educational programs in the community about historic resources and preservation. (Page 5.9) Strategy: Encourage community and neighborhood programs and events that celebrate the County's historic resources. (HPP Page 5) Strategy: Make local history a stronger and more integral component of the County's school curriculum, beginning with the elementary grades. (HPP Page 5) Strategy: Foster community pride, good citizenship, and stewardship of the County’s historic resources through heritage education programs. (HPP Page 5) Strategy: Using existing resources, including the staff at Monticello, Ash-Lawn, the Albemarle County Historical Society, and the UVA Library Department of Special Collections, develop field trips to a wide range of historic sites throughout the County. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Create a traveling exhibit on local history and preservation, supplemented with books related to the exhibition topic, to be viewed at the Virginia Discovery Museum, the Albemarle County Historical Society, and local school and branch libraries. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Institute programs that encourage students to practice historic preservation in the community. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Use the Albemarle Resource Center as a depository for all types of information (printed and website bibliographies, videos, workbooks, field trip information, local history references, speaker's bureau listings, etc.) on Strategy3a: Develop and engage in heritage education programs that foster community pride, good citizenship, a strong school curriculum, and stewardship of the County’s historic resources. (Page 5.9) Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 5 of 10 preservation and heritage education. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Utilize technical resources provided by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the National Park Service, the Center for Understanding the Built Environment (CUBE), and other established organizations to support County heritage education activities. (HPP Page 6) Supporting Strategy: Rather than make a mandatory regulatory requirement for maintenance, educate the owners of historic properties about the importance of voluntarily maintaining historic structures against decay, deterioration, and structural damage to avoid possible loss of historic resources. (HPP Page 8) Strategy: Enlist the media to publicize community events and to promote preservation in the County. (HPP Page 5) Strategy: Create a notification program to educate owners of historic properties, especially new owners, about the significance of their property and to suggest ways they might protect those resources. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Seek citizen participation in County studies and other preservation activities. (HPP Page 5) Strategy: Make available to residents, property owners, developers, builders, realtors, educators, and students an informative database on Albemarle County’s historic resources. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Enlist the assistance and support of existing citizen groups to organize and promote adult education programs in historic preservation. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Use a variety of tools (brochures, video, workshops, lectures) to educate residents Strategy3b: Use a variety of tools (brochures, videos, workshops, lectures, the internet, oral histories, a comprehensive database) to educate and provide guidance to County residents, property owners, County boards and committees, and County staff about the County’s historic resources and its preservation policies. (Page 5.9) Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 6 of 10 about the County’s historic resources and its preservation policy. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: Capitalize on the popularity of the Internet to educate the community about the County’s historic resources. (HPP Page 6) Strategy3c: Partner with the City of Charlottesville to prepare and maintain coordinated information on requirements, responsibilities and support programs for historic resources that are designated, eligible to be designated, or otherwise historically significant to the community. (Page 5.10) Objective 4: Promote regional cooperation in preservation and conservation efforts, including the promotion of heritage tourism. (Page 5.10) Strategy: Support the concept of heritage tourism, which requires regional partnerships and cooperation among the City of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, County and State officials, local businesses, and community organizations. (HPP Page 6) Strategy: The Historic Preservation Committee should investigate creating a Heritage Area such as the Jefferson, Monroe and Madison corridor (in cooperation with Orange County), or the Rivanna River corridor (in cooperation with the City of Charlottesville and Fluvanna County). (HPP Page 7) Strategy: The Historic Preservation Committee should investigate community events for Albemarle that recognize our historic resources, to be coordinated with other statewide Heritage Tourism activities. (HPP Page 7) Strategy4a: Create and strengthen partnerships among all interest groups, including but not limited to the City of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, County and State officials, nearby counties, local businesses, historic sites (such as Ashlawn-Highland and Monticello) and community organizations to collaborate on and forward the cause of historic preservation and to promote heritage tourism throughout the County and the region. (Page 5.10) Strategy4b: Prepare and maintain a single map of formally designated City and County historic resources and make it available as a layer on both City and County data systems. (Page 5.10) Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 7 of 10 Strategy: To help protect the Monticello viewshed, the Department of Planning and Community Development should: (1) Use current technology to precisely delineate the Monticello viewshed. Make this information available for use in development review. (2) Enforce careful application of existing land use regulations. (3) Adopt a more formalized procedure that which begins early in the planning process to encourage cooperation between the Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation (TJMF) and developers of property within the viewshed. (HPP Page 8) Strategy 4c: Provide information on Monticello vistas as a layer in the County’s Geographic Information Service (GIS) application, which is provided at the County website. (Page 5.11) GOAL: Preserve the County’s scenic resources as being essential to the County’s character, economic vitality and quality of life. (Page 141) Objective 5: Continue to protect and enhance scenic resources for residents and tourists. (Page 5.11) (Text on Page 142) Strategy 5a: Continue to promote voluntary measures of protection for scenic resources. (Page 5.12) Strategy: Pursue wider enabling legislation for regulating aesthetics in specified areas of importance. (Page 142) Strategy 5b: Support enabling legislation for Albemarle County to provide for a scenic protection and tourist enhancement overlay district. (Page 5.12) Strategy 5c: Work with the City of Charlottesville, the University of Virginia, and other regional bodies to more consistently enhance the visual quality and multi-modal experiences along scenic corridors. Focus on Entrance Corridors, shared boundaries, the creation of distinctive destinations, urban area walkability, and consistent signage. (Page 5.12-5.13) OBJECTIVE: Maintain the visual integrity of all of Albemarle’s roadways. (Page 143) Objective 6: Maintain or improve the visual quality of all of Albemarle’s roadways. (Page 5.13) Strategy: Pursue additional Virginia Byway designations for roads meeting State criteria:  Route 53 (Thomas Jefferson Parkway), Strategy 6a: Pursue additional scenic road designations to promote tourism and to maintain the visual quality of the County’s scenic roads. (Page 5.13) Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 8 of 10  Route 692/712 (Plank Road), and  Route 29 South (Monacan Trail Road). (Page 146) Strategy 6b: Take an active role in the design of Virginia Department of Transportation road improvements and bridges on scenic roads. (Page 5.14) Strategy: Use design standards to help maintain the integrity of all roadways in Albemarle County. (Page 146, also used in Strategy 7B) Objective 7: Maintain the visual integrity of Albemarle’s Entrance Corridors. (Page 5.14) Strategy: Review the EC guidelines for effectiveness in protecting the integrity of exceptionally scenic EC road corridors, such as Route 250 West. (Page 146) Strategy: Analyze two Entrance Corridors (250 West and 29 North) by typical sections, such as a village, farmland, and urban commercial. Develop specific guidelines for each typical section, and use guidelines as a model for other Entrance Corridors, and to further protect exceptional EC roads. (Page 146) Strategy 7a: Taking into consideration the former Scenic Highway regulations, review the EC guidelines for effectiveness in protecting the integrity of exceptionally scenic EC road corridors, such as Route 250 East, Route 250 West, and Route 22/231. (Page 5.17) Strategy: Use design standards to help maintain the integrity of all roadways in Albemarle County. (Page 146, also used in Obj. 7) Strategy 7b: Continue to use the Entrance Corridor design guidelines to help maintain the integrity of Entrance Corridors in Albemarle County. (Page 5.17) Strategy 7c: Update EC Design Guidelines to better reflect expectations of the Neighborhood Model for the Development Areas, including but not limited to recommendations on ways to provide for relegated parking without buildings turning their backs to the Entrance Corridor, and on coordinating landscaping requirements with utility corridors. (Page 5.17) Strategy 7d: Develop corridor-specific guidelines for all Entrance Corridors to reflect the unique character of each corridor. (Page 5.18) Strategy 7e: Use recommendations from Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 9 of 10 Development Area Master Plans for frontage treatments of ECs to guide decision-making. (Page 5.18) Strategy: Pursue additional EC designations as appropriate, or as road classifications change (Meadowcreek Parkway, Airport Road, Rio Road). (Page 146) Strategy 7f: Consider additional EC designations as appropriate, or as road classifications change, for roads such as the John Warner Parkway, Route 614 (Sugar Hollow Road), Route 692/712 (Plank Road), and Route 810 (Brown’s Gap Turnpike). (Page 5.18) OBJECTIVE: Protect the scenic quality of Albemarle’s streams. (Page 147) Objective 8: Protect the scenic quality of Albemarle’s streams. (Page 5.18) Strategy: Pursue Virginia Scenic River designations for rivers meeting state criteria. (Page 148) Strategy 8a: Pursue Virginia Scenic River designations for rivers meeting State criteria. (Page 5.19) Strategy: Using revised County Scenic Streams criteria (Appendix 5, Open Space and Critical Resources Plan), pursue local designation of qualifying streams, including designated Virginia Scenic Rivers. ( Page 147) Strategy: Review the effectiveness of County Scenic Streams regulations. Coordinate regulations with the Coordinated Water Resources Ordinance. (Page 147) Strategy 8b: Review the effectiveness of County Scenic Stream regulations and update them for consistency with the Water Protection Ordinance. (Page 5.19) Objective 9: Preserve important views as they relate to tourism and recreational assets. (Page 5.19) Strategy 9a: Study ways to protect scenic views of and from the Blue Ridge Mountains (Appalachian Trail and Skyline Drive), US Route 250, and Shenandoah National Park. (Page 5.20) GOAL: Protect the dark sky of Albemarle County as one of our many natural, scenic, scientific and cultural resources, for the benefit of residents, visitors, and the larger scientific community, now and in the future. (Page 121) Objective 10: Protect the dark sky of Albemarle County as one of the many natural, scenic, scientific and cultural resources, for the benefit of residents, visitors, and the larger scientific community. (Page 5.20) OBJECTIVE: Reduce light pollution caused by Strategy 10a: Continue to pursue measures Attachment B BOS 6-11-14 Page 10 of 10 uplighting, excessive lighting, glare and light trespass. (Page 123) OBJECTIVE: Provide a safe and secure developed environment, through quality lighting design which minimizes glare and avoids creating dark areas near well-lit areas. (Page 124) to reduce light pollution in the County caused by uplighting, excessive lighting, glare, light trespass, and inconsistent light, including but not limited to the development of guidelines to address these issues for street lights in the Development Areas. Such guidelines should focus on providing a safe and secure pedestrian environment. (Page 5.20) OBJECTIVE: Protect the McCormick and Fan Mountain Observatories through Dark Sky initiatives, in the interest of scientific research, public education, and future economic development opportunities. ( Page 124) Strategy 10b: Protect the McCormick and Fan Mountain Observatories through Dark Sky initiatives in the interest of scientific research, public education, and future economic development opportunities. (Page 5.20) Strategy: Develop a community-based educational program: • Initiate public information and education programs about dark sky and lighting topics in cooperation with the University of Virginia McCormick and Fan Mountain Observatories and other interested parties; • Develop workshops on technical lighting topics, for individuals in the building materials, electrical contracting, design, construction, and associated industries, and individual homeowners. (Page 124) Strategy 10c: In cooperation with the University of Virginia and other interested parties, develop a community-based educational program on the value of the Dark Sky and on technical lighting topics. Target individuals in the building materials, electrical contracting, design, construction, and associated industries, as well as individual homeowners. (Page 5.21) Strategy: The Board of Supervisors should adopt a resolution asking power companies to cease promoting unshielded and inefficient outdoor lighting in the County. ( Page 125) Strategy: Explore the feasibility of Albemarle County participating in the Green Lights Program established by the Environmental Protection Agency to promote energy efficiency in building design and maintenance. ( Page 125) Strategy: Albemarle County should take a leadership role in developing exemplary lighting in its public building projects, including playing fields and parking lots. ( Page 125) Strategy 10d: Take a leadership role in protecting the Dark Skies by designing lighting in public building projects, including playing fields and parking lots, to serve as models of appropriate and efficient lighting; by adopting a resolution asking power companies to cease promotion of unshielded and inefficient outdoor lighting; and by exploring the feasibility of participating in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Green Lights Program to promote energy efficiency in building design and maintenance. (Page 5.21) 1 of x Attachment C BOS 6-4-14 ATTACHMENT C Background on Planning Commission Recommendations for Historic, Cultural, and Scenic Resources The existing Comprehensive Plan, the Historic Preservation Plan, and two of the County’s Master Plans speak to the importance of preserving scenic views from Monticello. The Historic Resources section of the Natural Resources chapter of the existing Comprehensive Plan provides this recommendation: Strategy: Defining the Monticello viewshed as all property visible from the Monticello mountaintop, protect Monticello’s setting and viewshed as follows:  Notify the TJMF of proposed developments in the designated viewshed area so that they are afforded opportunity to provide comment during the approval process;  Strongly encourage the developer to consult with the TJMF about the visual impact of the project;  Strictly enforce existing regulations;  Carefully review by-right development plans with suggestions for voluntary protection measures;  Require protection measures as appropriate on discretionary land use proposals, and  Consider the impact of proposed land use regulations and decisions on Monticello’s viewshed. As part of the Comprehensive Plan update process, the Historic Preservation Committee endorsed these existing strategies and also asked that more up-to-date mapping of the Monticello viewshed be provided in the County’s GIS Web mapping. During review of the Comprehensive Plan draft by the Planning Commission, the Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF) wanted recommendations for greater protection to be included in the County’s Plan. They asked that the County require viewshed protection for all properties visible from Montalto as well as Monticello. TJF asked that the County adopt the TJF viewshed map into the Comprehensive Plan. Prepared by the Piedmont Environmental Council for TJF, this new map showed a much more extensive area than previously identified as Monticello’s viewshed. The request by TJF met with resistance by some groups in the County. This item was the focus of several Planning Commission work sessions and the staff report and minutes of the meetings can be found here: http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/forms_center/departments/community_development/forms/Com prehensive_Plan_Update/Staff_Report_Monticello.pdf http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/Forms_Center/Departments/Community_Development/Forms/P C_Minutes/2013/FINAL_PC_02_12_2013_minutes.pdf http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/forms_center/departments/community_development/forms/PC_ Reports/CPA_13_1_April_16,2013_PC_Worksession.pdf http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/Forms_Center/Departments/Community_Development/Forms/P C_Minutes/2013/FINAL_PC_04_30_2013_minutes.pdf 2 of x Attachment C BOS 6-4-14 http://www.albemarle.org/upload/images/Forms_Center/Departments/Community_Development/Forms/P C_Minutes/2013/FINAL_PC_05_07_2013_minutes.pdf After much discussion on the County’s role in helping Monticello achieve viewshed protection, the Commission ultimately recommended that the Plan:  Advise that information related to a property’s potential inclusion in the viewshed area be provided in the required legal description for development proposals.  Advise that both applicants and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation be informed of a proposed development potentially in the viewshed,  Recommend that the viewshed map be placed on the County’s GIS website; however the area covered by the viewshed should include Monticello and not Montalto,  Advise that applicants/developers contact Monticello Foundation about their proposal or that the Foundation may contact them.  Advise that applicants be provided with link to the Thomas Jefferson Foundation’s website and tell applicants/developers this is how they can find out more about the Monticello design guidelines.  Describe this procedure in the Plan but, also provide a value statement on why Monticello is important to the County. Business Appreciation Month WHEREAS, Governor Terry McAuliffe has recognized June 2014 as Business Appreciation Month in the Commonwealth of Virginia; and WHEREAS, Virginia is currently home to more than 30 Fortune 1,000 firms and more than 70 firms with annual revenues in excess of $l billion; and WHEREAS, Virginia ranks among the top ten states best prepared—in knowledge, innovation and internet technology—to navigate the demands of an increasingly globalized economy; and WHEREAS, economic vitality is a stated goal of Albemarle County’s Strategic Plan and an important component of our Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, Albemarle County businesses play a pivotal role in strengthening our County by embracing job creation, innovative technologies, and employing a diverse workforce to preserve the economic well-being of all our citizens; and Albemarle County businesses play a pivotal role in strengthening our County by embracing job creation, innovative technologies, and employing a diverse workforce to preserve the economic well-being of all our citizens; and WHEREAS, Albemarle County applauds the success of local businesses that provide economic opportunity while supporting the County’s goals and values of resource protection and an attractive, vibrant, and livable community; and WHEREAS, Albemarle County appreciates community partners including the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development, the Economic Development Authority, and the Charlottesville Business Innovation Council. Together, these organizations work collaboratively to support the many faces of the Albemarle business community; and WHEREAS, this year Albemarle County became one of the 1.5% of counties nationwide to have received triple AAA bond rating (including Fitch, Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s) which reflects the positive contributions of our business in creating a stable and diverse economy; and WHEREAS, preliminary data shows the FY 13/14 sales tax revenue will be about 19% above the Great Recession bottom level, which occurred in FY 09/10, and will surpass pre-recession levels of FY 06/07, as an indicator of our economic vitality; and WHEREAS, Albemarle County recognizes the environmental stewardship of our local businesses, as evidenced by the Better Business Challenge, first created in 2011 as a friendly competition among local businesses to increase efficiency and sustainability in daily operations (energy, water, waste, transportation and purchasing) which is now celebrating the achievements of 184 competition participants. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, we, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors, do hereby recognize June 2014 as BUSINESS APPRECIATION MONTH in the County of Albemarle, and express our appreciation to our local, regional and state business partners for their valuable contribution to our community. Signed and sealed this 11th day of June, 2014. ___________________________________ Jane D. Dittmar, Chair Albemarle Board of County Supervisors COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Northside Library Lease Extension SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Approve Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Letteri, Kamptner, Herrick and Henry PRESENTER (S): N/A LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: X INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The County currently leases 15,572 square feet of space from Rio Associates Limited Partnership at 300 Albemarle Square for use as the Northside Library. The original 1991 lease was extended by a First Lease Modification and Extension Agreement entered into on November 1, 2004, and by a Second Lease Modification and Extension Agreement entered into on October 1, 2009. The current lease term expires October 31, 2014. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 2. Provide community facilities that meet existing and future needs. DISCUSSION: The new Northside Library and Storage Facility is currently under construction at 705 Rio Road (former Phillips Building Supply building) and will provide a permanent location for the library. The County is planning on substantial completion and occupancy of the new library in mid-January, 2015. Because the new library will not be ready for occupancy by October 31, 2014 when the current library lease at the Albemarle Square location expires, a lease extension through January 31, 2014 at the current location is necessary. The landlord, Rio Associates Limited Partnership, has agreed to a 3-month extension, from November 1, 2014 to January 31, 2015, at the current monthly rental amount of $25,953.33, subject to the same terms and conditions as set forth in the previously modified and extended lease. The County Attorney’s office has prepared a “Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement” (Attachment A) to extend the lease for 3 months, which has been executed by the landlord. BUDGET IMPACT: The County share of the extended rent payments for 3 months would be 83.6% of $77,860, or $65,091. This amount is proposed to be funded from the Northside Library and Storage Facility project budget, the majority of which would come from a $50,000 credit from the construction contractor for the County providing him more time to complete the project, as well as a $17,500 cost-avoidance in storage space rent. A transfer of project funds to cover the costs is expected in the new Fiscal Year (FY15). RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment B) authorizing the County Executive to sign, in a form approved by the County Attorney, the Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement between the County of Albemarle and Rio Associates Limited Partnership to extend the Northside Library lease through January 31, 2015 ATTACHMENTS: A – Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement B – Resolution Approving the Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement Return to consent agenda Return to regular agenda RESOLUTION APPROVING THE THIRD LEASE MODIFICATION AND EXTENSION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE AND RIO ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP FOR THE NORTHSIDE LIBRARY WHEREAS, the County of Albemarle leases from Rio Associates Limited Partnership 15,572 square feet located at 300 Albemarle Square for use as the Northside Library; and WHEREAS, the original lease for the Northside Library was first dated January 31, 1991, and was extended by a First Lease Modification and Extension Agreement entered into on November 1, 2004, and by a Second Lease Modification and Extension Agreement entered into on October 1, 2009; and WHEREAS, the current lease term expires October 31, 2014; and WHEREAS, the attached Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement extends the lease of the Northside Library through January 31, 2015. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors hereby authorizes the County Executive to sign, in a form approved by the County Attorney, the Third Lease Modification and Extension Agreement between the County of Albemarle and Rio Associates Limited Partnership to extend the Northside Library lease through January 31, 2015. I, Ella W. Jordan, do hereby certify that the foregoing writing is a true and correct copy of a Resolution duly adopted by the Board of Supervisors of Albemarle County by a vote of _______ to _______, as recorded below, at a meeting held on ______________________. _________________________________ Clerk, Board of County Supervisors Aye Nay Mr. Boyd ____ ____ Ms. Dittmar ____ ____ Ms. Mallek ____ ____ Ms. McKeel ____ ____ Ms. Palmer ____ ____ Mr. Sheffield ____ ____ COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: FY 2014 Budget Amendment and Appropriations SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Approval of Budget Amendment and Appropriations #2014103, #2014104, #2014105, #2014106, #2014107, and #2014108 for general government and school division programs. STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Letteri, Walker, Kamptner, and Allshouse, L. PRESENTER (S): N/A LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: X INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: Virginia Code § 15.2-2507 provides that any locality may amend its budget to adjust the aggregate amount to be appropriated during the fiscal year as shown in the currently adopted budget; provided, however, any such amendment which exceeds one percent of the total expenditures shown in the currently adopted budget must be accomplished by first publishing a notice of a meeting and holding a public hearing before amending the budget. The Code section applies to all County funds, i.e., General Fund, Capital Funds, E911, School Self-Sustaining, etc. The total increase to the FY 14 budget due to the appropriation itemized below is $67,694.00. A budget amendment public hearing is not required because the amount of the cumulative appropriations does not exceed one percent of the currently adopted budget. STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission: To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all citizens through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds. DISCUSSION: This request involves the approval of six (6) appropriations as follows:  One (1) appropriation (#2014103) for $(16,411.00) to reconcile the various sources of revenue of the Office of Facilities Development Internal Service fund;  One appropriation (#2014104) to appropriate $25,000.00 from the Reserve for Contingencies to the Department of Parks and Recreation and to adjust the budgeted amounts for the County’s share of the services for the Albemarle Charlottesville Regional Jail and Blue Ridge Juvenile Detention Center. This appropriation will not increase the total budget;  One appropriation (#2014105) to allocate salary lapse between department budgets. This appropriation will not increase the total budget;  One appropriation (#2014106) to appropriate $2,506.00 for the Individual Student Alternative Education Plan grant;  One appropriation (#2014107) to appropriate $7,647.00 in funding associated with a Strategic Prevention Framework – State Incentive Grant (SPF-SIG); and  One appropriation (#2014108) to appropriate $73,952.00 for an Emergency Communications Center maintenance agreement. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of appropriations #2014103, #2014104, #2014105, #2014106, #2014107, and #2014108 for general government and school division programs as described in Attachment A. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A – Appropriation Descriptions Return to consent agenda Return to regular agenda Appropriation #2014103 ($16,411.00) Source: Reserve for Contingencies $ 16,411.00 Use of Fund Balance – Stormwater $ 9,339.00 Use of Fund Balance – School CIP $ (25,751.00) The Office of Facilities Development (OFD) provides project management support for School and General Government capital projects and the office staff also provide services for General Government projects that fall outside of the Capital budget such as their staff work on the Belvedere and Lewis and Clark projects or other administrative and non-designated CIP activities. An internal service fund was established for OFD in FY 13, and OFD charges hourly-based project management (PM) fees for their work on individual projects in order to capture the true full project costs. At the beginning of each fiscal year, an estimate is made regarding how OFD’s project management activities will be budgeted and at the end of the year a reconciliation is prepared to properly account for and capture actual project costs. This request is to reconcile OFD’s FY 14 sources of revenues with the expenses incurred in FY 14. This request is to (a) appropriate $16,411.00 from the County’s Reserve for Contingencies to the General Fund’s Project Management Services for the project management efforts on Belvedere and Lewis and Clark and other administrative costs. This portion of the appropriation does not increase the County Budget; (b) appropriate $9,339.00 in the use of Stormwater CIP Fund fund balance monies for Stormwater Project Management Services incurred in FY 14, and (c) reduce the appropriated use of Sc hool CIP Fund fund balance by $25,751.00 for a reduction in required School Project Management Services in FY 14. Appropriation #2014104 $0.00 This appropriation will not increase the County Budget. Source: Blue Ridge Juvenile Detention Center $ 140,308.00 Reserve for Contingencies $ 25,000.00 This request is to appropriate the following:  $140,308.00 from the County’s budgeted Blue Ridge Juvenile Detention Center contribution to the Albemarle Charlottesville Regional Jail to fund the County’s projected share of costs based on the funding formula established by each entity’s regional agreement.  $25,000.00 from the County’s Reserve for Contingencies to the Department of Parks and Recreation to fund expenditures for utilities and equipment repairs, both of which exceeded the historical numbers (used to develop the FY 14 budget) due to an unusually cold winter season and significant equipment repairs. Appropriation #2014105 $0.00 This appropriation will not increase the County Budget. Source: Existing Budgeted Salary Lapse $ 122,690.00 At the beginning of each fiscal year, a budget estimate is made regarding which departments salary lapse is expected to occur and at the end of the year a reconciliation is prepared to properly account for actual salary lapse. This request is to allocate salary lapse between department budgets to reflect where the actual salary lapse occurred. This request will not increase the total County Budget. Appropriation #2014106 $2,506.00 Source: State Revenue $ 2,506.00 This request is to appropriate the following School Division request approved by the School Board on May 8, 2014:  The appropriation of $2,506.00 for the Individual Student Alternative Education Plan (ISAEP) grant. The purpose of the ISAEP grant is to supplement existing General Equivalency Diploma (GED) services by developing specialized occupational training and employment necessary for students to become productive and contributing citizens in support of the School Division’s strategic plan. The Virginia Department of Education increased state funding for FY 14 by $2,506.00 from the original budget amount of $23,576.00. These funds will be used to purchase GED Testing Service Official GED Practice Test and computers. Appropriation #2014107 $7,647.00 Source: Federal Revenue $ 7,647.00 This request is to appropriate $7,647.00 of an $273,550.00 Strategic Prevention Framework – State Incentive Grant (SPF-SIG) for the time period of June 1, 2014 through June 30, 2014. The remainder of the grant will be appropriated in FY 15 for the time period of July 1, 2014 through May 31, 2015. The purpose of the grant is to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes involving alco hol-impaired drivers between the ages of 15 and 24 and to decrease the amount of binge drinking frequencies (4 or more drinks within a couple of hours) by 5% among college students . The County will work with the University of Virginia regarding the initiative associated with college students. The SPF-SIG grant funds are received from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention through Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). VCU, as the Prime Awardee, provides these federal grant funds to the County as its Subcontractor. The County, in its previous capacity as fiscal agent for the Commission on Children and Families (CCF), received the first SPF-SIG Project grant for the time period of February 1, 2012 through January 31, 2013 in the fall of 2011. CCF was dissolved in December 2012, so the second SPF-SIG Project Grant was awarded directly to the County for the time period of February 1, 2013 through May 31, 2014 . Appropriation #2014108 $73,952.00 Source: ECC Fund Balance $ 73,952.00 The Emergency Communications Center (ECC) requests that the County, acting as fiscal agent for the ECC, appropriate funding in the amount of $73,952.00 from the ECC’s fund balance for a maintenance agreement related to hardware and equipment for the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system for the time period of January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014. This request has been approved by the ECC Management Board. COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Resolution to Support Application by Buckingham Branch Railroad Company for Grant Funds SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Buckingham Branch Railroad Company requests support of its application for grant funds from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Rail Preservation Fund STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Letteri, Kamptner, and Henry PRESENTER (S): N/A LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: X INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The Buckingham Branch Railroad Company (BBR) has requested a resolution of support from the Board for the company’s application for grant funds from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Rail Preservation Fund. A description of the projects and improvements to be undertaken with the requested funds is provided in Attachment A. BBR is not requesting any financial support from the County for this work. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 3. Encourage a diverse and vibrant local economy. DISCUSSION: The Buckingham Branch Railroad Company leases approximately 200 miles of track from CSX between Clifton Forge and Richmond, including the CSX rail line located in Albemarle County. BBR commenced operation on this line in December 2004. BBR needs to make improvements to this track in order to reduce future maintenance requirements and to improve the riding quality of the rails/surfacing, and is pursuing Rail Preservation Funds to help cover the cost of this work. Applicants for Rail Preservation Funds are required to obtain support from each locality where work will take place. The only impact to Albemarle County citizens would be the potential for temporary traffic/access interruptions while rail improvements are made at any at-grade road crossings. Based on a review of the County mapping, there are approximately twelve (12) state route and ten (10) private road/private drive at-grade crossings of the Buckingham Branch rails in Albemarle County. The BBR coordinates with VDOT on any work at state route crossings. County staff will assist VDOT with issuing news releases to notify citizens of any potential traffic impacts. According to the BBR project manager, BBR will provide advance notice to the private crossing users and will coordinate its work so that it does not coincide with the morning and evening commutes. County staff will also work with BBR to assist with issuing news releases to inform citizens of any potential traffic impacts. A Resolution of Support is attached (Attachment B) for the Board’s consideration. BUDGET IMPACT: There will be no budget impact to the County of Albemarle related to the adoption of the attached Resolution. BBR will provide all local matching funds for the grant. Neither the Buckingham Branch Railroad Company nor the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation is expecting financial assistance from the County for these projects. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution of support (Attachment B). ATTACHMENTS: A. Letter dated 4/17/14 from the Buckingham Branch Railroad Company Requesting Support B. Resolution of Support Return to consent agenda Return to regular agenda BB BUCK'NGHAM BRANC'I RATLROAD COMPANY P.O. Box 336 - 1063 Main Street - Dillwyn, VA 23936 Phone 434-983-3300 (ext. 228) Fax 434-983-3270 Apil 17,2014 Albemarle County County Administrator's Offi ce 401 Mclntyre Road Charlottesville, V A 22902 Dear County Adm inistrator, Buckingham Branch Railroad company is a family-owned short line,railroad that operates 275 miles of- railroaiin Central Virginia. Buckingham Branch was founded in 1988 by Robert and Annie Bryant and ran its first train on March 6, 1989. Since then it has grown from a 17 mile line with two employees to its current size today of275 miles with approximately 95 employees' Buckingham Branch leased 200 miles oftrack from csx and commenced operations ofthe Richmond and Alteghiny Division on December 20, 2004. This operating l€ase was for track from clifton Forge, vA to niat"rnorri, Va, including 9.9 miles known as the drange Branch. Since that time rve haYe leased 58 miles oit a"t to,n No.fok So-uthem Railroad and now operie our Virginia Southem Division which has tracks fiom Burkeville to Clarksville. Virginia. We ar€ r€questing a resolution fiom Albemale County supporting Buckingham Branch lailroad Co.p*y;'r uppliiution for grant funds fron te Virginia pePdtncrrto{ Rail and Public Transport*ion nuif it il"uho" fund. Bu&ingham erarch R.ilroad win provide 8ll local maiching funds for lhe garts' Attached is a summary ofthe applications and estimated project costs that may impact your locality Th€re .uy U" .o." tt an one proiect apptlcation that affects your locality' Applications may be for projects that arsdistributed over more than one county or municipality' The work outlined in the identified projects will help us to betttr s€rve you and all ofthe present and future industries located in the cities, towns and cormties on the lines that we operat€' some projects are multi-year projects. The resolution amount requ€sted reflects total estimated costs for all of the identified projects. A sample resolution and a map showing the location ofour operations, are included with this letter. A copy oftfr" lpprouaO ."rolution should be se-nt .o Mr. Claud€ Morris at mailing address shown in the letterhead' If you have questions or commenr' please feel free to contact me at ow Dillw)'n office Additional iniormation about ow company and operations may be found at our web site: wrvw.buckinghambranch.com We sincerely appreciate all ofyour past support' We look forward ttt many morc )/ears of serving you. "o-*r,niii".. Please do not hesitat€ to contact me if I can be of assistance' Sincercly, km*,(* I'-'ai€{rt l\ranager 5A FE 7-/ :.5 E C U RI T Y : -S E R v7C E Albemarle County: Buckingham Branch Railroad Resolution Request tor Rail Preservation Proiects Installation of Switch Heaters on the l{orth Mountain Subdivision is a one year project that will install approximately 23 new switch heaters between MP 160 (Gordonsville) and MP 276 (Clifton Forge). The new heaters will be more efficient and more reliable than the present gas fired switch heaters. The new heaters may be remotely controlled by the railroad's Rail Traffic Control Center. Total Estimated Cost of Project is S437,m0.00. Surface lmprovements on the Richmond and Alleghany is a three year project that will focus on improving the railroad surface between MP 85.5 (Richmond) and MP 275.5 (Clifiton Forge) and will also include the Oran8e Branch, MP 0 - MP 9 (Gordonsville to The Town of Orange). The project will include adding ballast, surfacing, welding railjoints, crosstie replacement and replacing rail as needed in order to reduce the maintenance requirements and improve the ride quality for Amtrak, CSX and Buckingham Branch trains. Total Estimated Cost of Project is $s,rm,qD.oo. Rail lmprovements to the t{orth Mountain Subdivision is a four year project to replace up to 12,OOO linear feet of curve worn rail. The project will include replacing rail and welding railjoints in selected areas in most need of replacement between MP 160 (Gordonsville) and MP 276.5 (Clifton Forge), Total estimated cost of the project is s8m,00o.m Total Cost of Projects Requested to be Included in Resolution of Support: 96637,0(x).fl) Attachment B RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT APPLICATION BY BUCKINGHAM BRANCH RAILROAD COMPANY FOR FUNDING FROM RAIL PRESERVATION FUND WHEREAS, the Buckingham Branch Railroad desires to file an application with the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transp ortation for funding assistance for its projects; and WHEREAS, Buckingham Branch Railroad has identified projects that are estimated to cost $6,637,000.00; and WHEREAS, the General Assembly, through enactment of the Rail Preservation Program, provides for funding for certain improvements and procurement of railways in the Commonwealth of Virginia; and WHEREAS, the Buckingham Branch Railroad is an important element of the County of Albemarle transportation system; and WHEREAS, the Buckingham Branch Railroad is instrumental in the economic development of the area, and provides relief to the highway system by transporting freight, and provides an alternate means of transportation of commodities; and WHEREAS, the County of Albemarle supports the projec t and the retention of the rail service; and WHEREAS, the Commonwealth Transportation Board has established procedures for all allocation and distribution of the funds provided. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors does hereby request the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation to give priority consideration to the projects proposed by the Buckingham Branch Railroad. I, Ella W. Jordan, do hereby certify that the foregoing writing is a true, cor rect copy of a Resolution duly adopted by the Board of Supervisors of Albemarle County, Virginia, by a vote of _____ to _____, as recorded below, at a regular meeting held on ______________________. ______________________________ Clerk, Board of County Supervisors Aye Nay Mr. Boyd ___ ___ Ms. Dittmar ___ ___ Ms. Mallek ___ ___ Ms. McKeel ___ ___ Ms. Palmer ___ ___ Mr. Sheffield ___ ___ Kenneth C. Boyd COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE Diantha H. McKeel Rivanna Office of Board of Supervisors Jack Jouett 401 McIntire Road Jane D. Dittmar Charlottesville, Virginia 22902-4596 Liz A. Palmer Scottsville (434) 296-5843 FAX (434) 296-5800 Samuel Miller Ann H. Mallek Brad L. Sheffield White Hall Rio June 11, 2014 The Honorable Mark R. Warner 475 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Tim Kaine B40C Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 The Honorable Robert Hurt 1516 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Senators Warner and Kaine, and Representative Hurt : On behalf of the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors and a member of the National Association of Counties (NACo), we write to ask you to support passage of the bipartisan, bicameral legislation, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity, H.R. 803 (as amended). This legislation would reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998. WIA is long overdue for reauthorization, as it expired in 2003. A strong streamlined workforce system will increase investments and resources for quality training and help to ensure that localities and states can continue to meet the needs of jobseekers and employers. The bipartisan WIOA bill provides the needed framework for a modernized workforce de velopment system by maintaining the local role in system, which Albemarle County supports, since there have been attempts to undermine the local role. The bill also provides added flexibility for local workforce boards by reducing the overall size and allowing more training funds to be used for incumbent workers. This will help local boards build and enhance relationships with businesses and help localities meet the training needs of jobseekers and businesses. The bill would also standardize performanc e goals for adults and youth to determine workforce program success, which will simplify the current varied and complex measures. In Albemarle County, WIA is making a real difference for both jobseekers and employers. Per the most recent quarterly report, WIA operations exceeded their performance goals in 10 out of 12 categories and met the goals for the remaining two metrics. In terms of the number of people assisted by WIA this reached 9,698 by December of 2013 and the placement rate for the Adult Worker program was at 83%. WIA employer services in 2013 and 2013 included several new large -scale enterprises The Honorable Mark R. Warner The Honorable Tim Kaine The Honorable Robert Hurt June 11, 2014 Page 2 such as HomeGoods, Trader Joe’s, Hyatt Place hotel, Fresh Market, and Burton’s Grill, as well as existing enterprises such as Lowe’s, CustomInk, Frontline Test Equipment, NIITEK, LUMI juice, Northrop Grumman, and JC Penny. Without WIA resources, HomeGoods and Burton’s Grill were at risk of missing their grand opening schedules due to a lack of appropriate workforce talent. Albemarle County urges you to support the passage of WIOA by voting yes on H.R. 803 (as amended). WIOA will enhance localities’ ability to address workforce challenges in their communities and meet the training needs of workers and businesses. We hope that the County of Albemarle can count on your support of this important legislation. Sincerely, Jane D. Dittmar, Chair JDD/ewj cc: Daria Daniel, National Association of Counties Albemarle County Board of Supervisors Return to consent agenda Return to regular agenda COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Resolution to Appropriate FY 15 On-going Funding of Multi-Year Capital Projects SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Approval of Budget Amendment and Appropriation #2015001 STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Letteri, Davis, Allshouse, and Burrell PRESENTER (S): Lori Allshouse LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The County’s Special Revenue and Capital Project Budgets most often affect multiple fiscal years, thus requiring a re- appropriation of the remaining funds from one fiscal year to the succeeding fiscal year. Virginia Code § 15.2-2507 provides that any locality may amend its budget to adjust the aggregate amount to be appropriated during the fiscal year as shown in the currently adopted budget; provided, however, any such amendment which exceeds one percent of the total expenditures shown in the currently adopted budget must be accomplished by first publishing a notice of a meeting and holding a public hearing before amending the budget. The Code section applies to all County funds, i.e., General Fund, Capital Funds, E911, School Self-Sustaining, etc. The cumulative total of the FY 15 appropriations included in the comprehensive resolution itemized below is $36,902,072.63. Because the cumulative amount of the appropriations exceeds one percent of the currently adopted budget, a budget amendment public hearing is required in order to re-appropriate unspent and unencumbered Capital Improvement Projects and Special Revenue funds. STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission: To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all citizens through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds. DISCUSSION: The proposed FY 15 Budget Amendment and the comprehensive resolution funds and appropriates the remaining balance of $36,902,072.63 for encumbered purchase orders and contracts and the unencumbered special revenue projects and capital projects in a single resolution. The estimated expenses and revenues included in the proposed amendment are shown below: ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES Capital Improvements Funds $ 35,860,452.17 Special Revenue Funds $ 1,041,620.46 TOTAL ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES – All Funds $ 36,902,072.63 ESTIMATED REVENUES Local Revenue $ 1,244,560.61 State Revenue $ 1,772,668.00 Federal Revenue $ 520,062.00 Bond Proceeds $ 3,830,516.61 Other Fund Balances $ 29,534,265.41 TOTAL ESTIMATED REVENUES – All Funds $ 36,902,072.63 RECOMMENDATIONS: After the public hearing, staff recommends approval of the $36,902,072.63 Budget Amendment for FY 15 and adoption of the Resolution to Appropriate FY 15 On-going Funding of Multi-Year Capital Projects Appropriation #2015001 (Attachment A) that appropriates a total of $36,902,072.63 to various capital improvement projects and special revenue projects that were funded in FY 14 but are on-going in FY 15. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A – FY 15 Resolution of Continuing Multi-Year Capital Project Appropriation #2015-001 Return to agenda Page 1 Attachment A Resolution to Appropriate FY 15 On-going Funding of Multi-Year Capital Projects For the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2015 Appropriation # 2015001 Whereas, purchase orders and contracts encumbered at the end of the fiscal year must be carried o ver into the next year for payments; and Whereas, capital and special revenue projects are not completed within one fiscal year, necessitating the budgeting and appropriation of the remaining balance of project funds from one fiscal year to the succeeding fiscal year; Whereas, the encumbrances are estimated at $13,576,961.74 as of June 30, 2014, and approval of an estimated remaining balance of $23,325,110.89 for unencumbered capital project balances and special revenue project balances will give the responsible departments and agencies continuous access to project funding; and Whereas, the total amount of estimated encumbrances and unencumbered capital project balances and special revenue project balances is $36,902,072.63, set forth as follows: Total School Division Capital Improvement Fund (9000): School Division Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations Agnor Hurt E S Renovation/Addition $ 99,898.29 School CIP Maintenance 1,314,228.67 Telecommunications Network Upgrade 818,614.69 Total School Division Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations $ 2,232,741.65 School Division Capital Improvement Fund Sources Loan Proceeds $ 1,625,991.00 Use of Fund Balance 606,750.65 Total School Division Capital Improvement Fund Sources $ 2,232,741.65 Total General Government Capital Improvement Fund (9010): General Government Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations ACE Program $ 751,454.60 County View Project 8,339.12 GIS Project 376,719.36 Ivy Landfill Remediation 820,461.45 Pantops Master Plan 108,731.45 Places 29 Master Plan 1,170,921.12 Records Management 161,308.37 Rivanna Master Plan 50,000.00 Street Lights 35,231.74 ECC Emergency Telephone System 1,343,208.00 ECC Integrated Public Safety Technology Project CAD 150,000.00 Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal 263,909.24 Tax/Rev System Replacement 290,424.35 Apparatus Replacement Program - Deputy Chief Command Vehicle 75,035.16 Apparatus Replacement Program - CARS AMBULANCE 142 288,750.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - CARS AMBULANCE 143 288,750.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - CARS COMMAND 131 75,600.00 Page 2 General Government Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations Continued Apparatus Replacement Program - CARS SQUAD 134 819,000.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - E. RIVANNA ENGINE 21 28,562.20 Apparatus Replacement Program - EARLYSVILLE AMB - MEDIC 4 288,185.17 Apparatus Replacement Program - EAST RIVANNA COMMAND 20 75,600.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - Ivy Ambulance Medic 15 32,416.78 Apparatus Replacement Program - Monticello Ambulance 14,290.91 Apparatus Replacement Program - Monticello Ambulance 112 21,051.41 Apparatus Replacement Program - SCOTTSV-AMB 707 & EQUIP 26,250.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - SCOTTSVILLE - AMB 705 26,250.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - SCOTTSVILLE-AMB 706 43,420.86 Apparatus Replacement Program - SEMINOLE COMMAND 80 29,848.51 Apparatus Replacement Program - SYSTEM AMBULANCE 11,435.43 Apparatus Replacement Program - WARS - AMB 501 288,750.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - WARS AMBULANCE 502 26,250.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - WARS AMBULANCE 503 26,250.00 Apparatus Replacement Program - WARS COMMAND 507 45,522.35 Fire Rescue Lifepacks 16,187.04 Fire Rescue Mobile Data Computers Replacement 3,572.43 County Library Facilities Repair/Maintenance 22,105.60 Court Square Maintenance/Replacement Program 375,488.69 Keene Landfill 40,000.00 Old Jail Facility Maintenance 21,000.00 Public Works Facility Maintenance-General 451,069.36 Public Works Facility Maintenance-Old Crozet School 73,469.00 Roadway Landscaping 65,413.30 Sheriff's Office Maintenance/Replacement 7,006.50 County Server Infrastructure Upgrade 274,554.59 Microsoft Upgrade 42,018.36 City-County Branch Library Repair/Maintenance 365,108.27 Crozet Library 64,888.95 Crozet Streetscape Phase II 2,145,144.11 Health Department Maintenance/Replacement 46,200.00 Ivy Fire Station 829,255.61 J & DR Court Maintenance/Replacement 28,000.00 Public Works Facility Maintenance-Preston Morris Building 36,720.00 Public Works Facility Maintenance-Wheeler Building 31,750.00 Transportation Revenue Sharing Program (FY14-15 Match) 2,019,439.61 Rio Property-Northside Library & Storage 8,078,595.76 Seminole Trail VFD Renovation/Addition 2,188,174.41 Sidewalk, Avon Street 70,992.22 Sidewalk, Crozet Avenue North 818,889.71 Sidewalk, Fontaine Avenue 87,524.66 Sidewalk, Hollymead-Powell Creek Drive 187,699.24 Sidewalk, Hydraulic & Barracks Rd 780,246.00 Sidewalk, South Pantops Dr/State Farm Blvd 814,998.50 Page 3 General Government Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations Continued Sunridge Road 6,696.42 Transportation Improvements - Local (Brocks Mill Rd plat) 8,050.16 Cory Farm Greenway Connector 50,000.00 Greenway Program 27,211.11 Parks Maintenance 283,771.26 Preddy Creek Park Phase II 86,250.00 YMCA Recreation Facility Contribution 2,030,000.00 Police Technology Upgrade 489,174.27 Voting Machine Replacements 301,258.18 Total General Government Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations $31,329,850.90 General Government Capital Improvement Fund Sources Revenue from Local Sources (Other Transfers) $ 1,942,324.21 Revenue from Other Local Sources 556,760.00 Revenue from the Commonwealth 1,772,668.00 Revenue from the Federal Government 520,062.00 Bond Proceeds 1,516,725.00 Use of Fund Balance 25,021,311.69 Total General Government Capital Improvement Fund Sources $31,329,850.90 Total Regional Firearms Training Center Capital Improvement Fund (9010): Regional Firearms Training Center Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations Regional Firearms Training Center $ 1,375,601.22 Total Regional Firearms Training Center Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations $ 1,375,601.22 Regional Firearms Training Center Capital Improvement Fund Sources Revenue from Other Local Sources $ 687,800.61 Bond Proceeds $ 687,800.61 Total Regional Firearms Training Center Capital Improvement Fund Sources $ 1,375,601.22 Total Stormwater Capital Improvement Fund (9100): Stormwater Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations Stormwater Management Program $ 28,252.86 Stormwater TMDL Study 214,300.00 Church Road Basin 342,149.40 Stormwater Multi-facility Maintenance 291,418.71 WAHS Stormwater Improvement 46,137.43 Total Stormwater Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations $ 922,258.40 Stormwater Capital Improvement Fund Sources Use of Fund Balance $ 922,258.40 Total Stormwater Capital Improvement Fund Sources $ 922,258.40 Page 4 Special Revenue Fund Appropriations UVA Research Park (Fund 8525) $ 117.72 Hollymead Area C Proffer (Fund 8527) 62,264.79 Hollymead Area D Proffer (Fund 8528) 31,146.37 Avon Park Proffer (Fund 8534) 64,596.33 Wickham Pond Proffer (Fund 8540) 104,303.05 Westhall 1.2 Proffer (Fund 8542) 23,925.91 Westhall 1.1 Proffer (Fund 8541) 53,728.70 Liberty Hall Proffer (Fund 8544) 22,530.49 Hollymead Town Center A1 Proffer (Fund 8545) 31,056.42 North Pointe Proffer (Fund 8538) 8,451.43 Stonefield Proffer (Fund 8547) 1,170,700.00 MJH @ Peter Jefferson Place Proffer (8529) 369,503.00 Total Special Revenue Capital Improvement Fund Appropriations $ 1,942,324.21 Special Revenue Capital Improvement Fund Sources Use of Fund Balance $ 1,942,324.21 Total Special Revenue Capital Improvement Fund Sources $ 1,942,324.21 Total Belvedere Bond Default Project Fund (9011): Belvedere Bond Default Project Fund Appropriations Belvedere Bond Default Project $ 1,041,620.46 Total Belvedere Bond Default Project Fund Appropriation $ 1,041,620.46 Belvedere Bond Default Project Fund Sources Belvedere Bond Default Project $ 1,041,620.46 Total Belvedere Bond Default Project Fund Sources $ 1,041,620.46 Whereas, approval of an estimated remaining balance amount at the beginning of the fiscal year facilitates the payment of outstanding bills and ensures continuity of ongoing projects; and Whereas, a properly advertised public hearing was held on June 4, 2014 on the proposed amendment to the FY 15 budget and all interested citizens were heard; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors: 1. Does hereby budget and appropriate the remaining balance of $36,902,072.63 for encumbered purchase orders and contracts and the unencumbered capital and special revenue project balances of June 30, 2014, as set forth above; 2. Does hereby authorize the County Executive to adjust this amount downward, if necessary, to accurately reflect the actual encumbered amounts and actual unencumbered capital and special revenue project amounts at the end of FY 14; and 3. Does hereby authorize the County Executive to close out a Capital project and transfer any unencumbered residual funds to the Capital Improvement Fund fund balance. This resolution shall become effective on July first, two thousand and fourteen. Page 5 I, Ella W. Jordan, do hereby certify that the foregoing writing is a true and correct copy of a Resolution duly adopted by the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors by a vote of ______ to ______, as recorded below, at a meeting held on June 11, 2014. ________________________________________ Clerk, Albemarle County Board of Supervisors Aye Nay Mr. Boyd Ms. Dittmar Ms. Mallek Ms. McKeel Ms. Palmer Mr. Sheffield ZMA 201400004 BOS June 11, 2014 Executive Summary Page 1 COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: SP201400004, Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Window SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Request for a special use permit to establish a drive- thru window associated with a fast food restaurant. STAFF: Cilimberg, Benish, Grant PRESENTER(S): Grant LEGAL REVIEW: No AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes BACKGROUND: On May 6, 2014, the Planning Commission held a public hearing for the Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Window special use permit request (ZMA201400004). The Commission, by a vote of 7:0, recommended approval of the special use permit with the conditions recommended by staff. DISCUSSION: Two revisions have been completed to the plans since the Planning Commission public hearing, as recommended by staff. 1) On the original cover sheet, the applicant requested a parking waiver for one parking space. Staff determined that enough parking was provided and a parking waiver request was not needed since the applicant is providing 2 additional parking spaces than the number of parking required. The cover sheet is now revised to show this clarification in the parking analysi s. 2) On the original plan Sheet 4 of 4, has been revised to eliminate the arrows and reference to one way in the middle of the two way travel isle. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends approval of Special Use Permit 201400004/Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops–Drive-Thru Window with the following conditions: 1. Development and use shall be in general accord with the following revised plans prepared by Shimp Engineering, P.C. Sheet(s) 1 of 4 (cover sheet) and 4 of 4 (Conceptual site layout), dated February 18, 2014, revised 4/14/14 (hereafter “Layout Plan”), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord with the specified plans, development and use shall reflect the following major elements as shown on the plans: – Building location, orientation and mass – Relationship of drive-thru lanes to the building and the parking lot – Location and general character of landscaping Minor modifications to the plan that do not otherwise conflict with the elements listed above, m ay be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. 2. The applicant is responsible for installation and maintenance of control devices including but not limited to signage and pavement markings at the entrance and exit points of the drive -thru lanes, subject to county engineer approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns. 3. The use shall not commence prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the ZMA 201400004 BOS June 11, 2014 Executive Summary Page 2 Architectural Review Board. 4. The use shall commence on or before June 11, 2016 or the permit shall expire and be of no effect. 5. The northern most travelway located on the property parallel to U.S. Route 250 shall be a two -way travelway for the entire portion of the property. ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A: Application Plan, dated February 18, 2014 (Revised 05-14-2014) View PC actions and staff report Return to agenda COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE Department of Community Development 401 McIntire Road, North Wing Charlottesville, Virginia 22902-4596 Phone (434) 296-5832 Fax (434) 972-4126 May 23, 2014 Justin Shimp,P.E./Shimp Engineering 201 E. Main Street Charlottesville, VA. 22902 RE: SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru TAX MAP PARCEL: 078000000073A2 Dear Mr. Shimp: The Albemarle County Planning Commission, at its meeting on May 6, 2014, by a vote of 7:0 recommended approval of the above-noted petition to the Board of Supervisors. Please note that this recommendation is subject to the following conditions: 1. Development and use shall be in general accord with the following revised plans prepared by Shimp Engineering, P.C. Sheet(s) 1 of 4 (cover sheet) and 4 of 4 (Conceptual site layout), dated February 18, 2014, revised 4/14/14 (hereafter “Layout Plan”), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord with the specified plans, development and use shall reflect the following major elements as shown on the plans: – Building location, orientation and mass – Relationship of drive-thru lanes to the building and the parking lot – Location and general character of landscaping Minor modifications to the plan that do not otherwise conflict with the elements listed above, may be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. 2. The applicant is responsible for installation and maintenance of control devices including but not limited to signage and pavement markings at the entrance and exit points of the drive-thru lanes, subject to county engineer approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns. 3. The use shall not commence prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Architectural Review Board. 4. The use shall commence on or before [date two years from Board approval] or the permit shall expire and be of no effect. 5. The northern most travelway located on the property parallel to U.S. Route 250 shall be a two-way travelway for the entire portion of the property. Within 30 days of the date of this letter, please do one of the following: (1) Resubmit in response to Planning Commission recommendations (2) Request indefinite deferral (3) Request that your Board of Supervisors public hearing date be set (4) Withdraw your application View staff report and attachments View PC minutes Return to executive summary If you should have any questions or comments regarding the above noted action, please do not hesitate to contact me at (434) 296-5832. Sincerely, Claudette Grant Senior Planner Planning Division cc: Wilgo Bo Pantops LLC 703 E. Jefferson St. Charlottesville, VA. 22902 Rivana Ridge Charlottesville LLC 1385 Hancock St. Quincy, MA. 02169 SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 1 ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING STAFF REPORT SUMMARY Project Name: SP2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops, request for Drive-thru Window Staff: Claudette Grant, Senior Planner Planning Commission Public Hearing: May 6, 2014 Board of Supervisors Hearing: To be determined. Owner(s): Rivanna Ridge Charlottesville, LLC Applicant(s): Wilgo Bo Pantops, LLC Acreage: .75 acres Special Use Permit for: Drive -Thru window permitted under Section (s) 22.2.2 (10) Commercial, 23.2.2 (5) Commercial Office, and 24.2.2(12) Highway Commercial, by Special Use Permit TMP: 07800-00-00-073A2 Location: 2005 Abbey Road, on the south side of Route 250 in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center (See Attachments A and B) By-right use: PD-MC, allows large-scale commercial uses and residential by special use permit at a density of 15 units/acre. Magisterial District: Rivanna Proffers/Conditions: Yes Requested # of Dwelling Units/Lots: Not Applicable DA (Development Area): Neighborhood 3 - Pantops Proposal: Request for a special use permit to establish a drive-thru window associated with a fast food restaurant. (Attachment C) Comp. Plan Designation: Urban mixed use – retail, commercial services, office, and a mix of residential types (6.01 – 34 units/acre) Character of Property: The subject property is an undeveloped pad located between Applebee’s Restaurant and First Citizens Bank in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center. Use of Surrounding Properties: The area is characterized by a mix of commercial and residential development. Factors Favorable: 1. The ARB has completed a preliminary review of this proposal and had no objection to the proposed drive-thru use. 2. There is no conflict anticipated between vehicles stacked in the drive-thru lanes and vehicles in the parking lot or off-site traffic. Factors Unfavorable: 1. No Unfavorable factors Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of SP 2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops for Drive-thru window with conditions. SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 2 STAFF CONTACT: Claudette Grant, Senior Planner PLANNING COMMISSION: May 6, 2014 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: TBD PETITION: PROJECT: SP201400004/Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops - Drive-Thru MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Rivanna TAX MAP/PARCEL: 07800-00-00-073A2 LOCATION: 2005 Abbey Road, on the south side of Route 250 in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center PROPOSAL: Request for a special use permit to establish a drive-thru window associated with a fast food restaurant on .75 acres under Section (s) 22.2.2 (10) Commercial, 23.2.2 (5) Commercial Office, and 24.2.2(12) Highway Commercial, Permitted Uses, by Special Use Permit of Zoning Ordinance. ZONING: PD-MC Planned Development Mixed Commercial which allows large-scale commercial uses and residential by special use permit at a density of 15 units/acre. ENTRANCE CORRIDOR: Yes COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Urban Mixed Use – retail, commercial services, office, and a mix of residential types (6.01 – 34 units/acre) in DA – Neighborhood 3 – Pantops. CHARACTER OF THE AREA: The property contains three pad sites, two developed and one undeveloped. This proposal is located on the undeveloped middle pad site. First Citizens Bank is located just to the east of the subject site and Applebee’s Restaurant is located to the west. This property is located in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center. The surrounding area (See Attachment A) is characterized by a mix of commercial and residential development. The Mountain Top Montessori School is located across U.S. Route 250 (Richmond Road) to the north/northeast. SunTrust Bank is located to the west and the Giant supermarket along with a mix of other commercial and retail uses are located within the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center to the south. A variety of uses inclusive of drive-thru windows are located in the surrounding area. PLANNING AND ZONING HISTORY: This property is a portion of the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center and also fronts on an Entrance Corridor (Rt. 250). A variety of site plans and Architectural Review Board (ARB) reviews have been approved for the shopping center and this property in particular. SDP2003-00052 was a final site plan that was approved for a restaurant, fast food restaurant and bank. SP200200070 was approved for a bank drive- thru window and SP200200076 was approved for a different fast food restaurant drive-thru window in the same location as this subject request, which has since expired. This special use permit request (SP2014- 00004) is a revised request for the expired SP. More recently SDP200700070 was approved on August 16, 2007 for the adjacent First Citizens Bank. DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes to build a Bojangles fast food restaurant with a drive-thru window and associated drive-thru lane. The proposed restaurant is a by-right use in the PD-MC zoning district. Only the installation of the drive-thru requires the Special Use Permit. The applicant proposes to convert forty- four (44) existing perpendicular parking spaces into twenty-two (22) angled parking spaces and 12 stacking spaces for the drive-thru window. Vehicles enter the drive-thru system from the travel aisle located on the west side of the building. Vehicles line up in the order lane. After placing orders at the drive-thru menu board located on the west side of the building, vehicles continue in a single lane, proceeding to the drive-thru pick up window located on the east side of the building. After pick-up, vehicles can either return to the parking lot or exit out of the property. The proposed drive-thru layout provides for a bypass lane and also meets the minimum vehicle stacking requirement. (See Attachment C-proposed site layout) SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 3 ANALYSIS OF THE SPECIAL USE PERMIT REQUEST Section 33.8 of the Zoning Ordinance states that the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors shall reasonably consider the following factors when reviewing and acting upon an application for a special use permit: No substantial detriment. The proposed special use will not be a substantial detriment to adjacent lots. There are two existing travelways at the northern and southern portions of this property that provide connections internally and externally for the shopping center. The proposed on-site layout is expected to accommodate all stacking movements on site. Due to the location of the drive-thru lanes, circulation is such that drive-thru traffic is not expected to delay off-site traffic and, therefore, is not expected to negatively impact adjacent property. Character of district unchanged. The character of the district will not be changed by the proposed special use. The drive-thru use is well-established in the immediate area. Drive-thru windows and lanes are found at the Rite-Aid pharmacy, UVA Community Credit Union, Guaranty Bank, Department of Motor Vehicles, and adjacent First Citizens Bank. This proposed drive-thru does not appear to be any different than other drive-thru’s for similar uses. The ARB has completed a preliminary review of the proposal and determined that the location of the drive-thru lane is sufficiently mitigated by the proposed landscaping, the treatment of the topography, and the building design. (See Attachment C) With a design meeting the Entrance Corridor design guidelines, and consistent with the design already reviewed by the ARB, the character of the district is not expected to change with the proposed use. Harmony. The proposed special use will be in harmony with the purpose and intent of this chapter, The PD-MC zoning district is established to permit large-scale commercial uses and residential by special use permit at a density of 15 units/acre. A fast food restaurant with a drive-thru window is an appropriate use in the PD-MC district and would be of service to the Pantops community. …with the uses permitted by right in the district Eating establishments, fast food restaurants, and financial institutions are among the uses permitted by right in the PD-MC zoning district. Drive-thru windows are common with these uses and are present throughout the district. A drive-thru window at this site is expected to be in harmony with other by-right uses in the district. …with the regulations provided in section 5 as applicable, There are no supplemental regulations in section 5 applicable to this use. …and with the public health, safety and general welfare. Drive-thru windows require a special use permit due to concerns regarding access, circulation, and traffic volumes. Zoning Ordinance section 4.12.17.c.2(a) allows the county engineer to require a bypass lane when necessary based on travelway length, nature of the land use, and internal traffic circulation. The applicant shows a one way travelway heading west on the northern side of the property parallel to U.S. Route 250. This small portion of the one way travelway has two way traffic SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 4 on the same road at the west and east side of the travelway. Staff finds this confusing for traffic flowing through this area of the site and does not believe this was the original intent for this section of travelway in the shopping center. The applicant feels this section needs to be one-way for additional back up queuing space. He believes it is easier to direct the adjacent traffic for Applebee’s and the bank to the southern section of the site if the vehicle needs to access one of the adjacent businesses and believes with the angled parking for the Bojangle’s site, it is important to direct traffic in a counter-clockwise circulation around the entire site. The applicant has indicated he will work with staff during the site plan stage to resolve the circulation issue. A condition is included to address this concern and ensure the two way travelway remain for all three businesses. Zoning Ordinance section 4.12.17.c.2 states the minimum travelway width for one-way access aisles shall be twelve (12) feet with exceptions…..The applicant is proposing a drive-thru aisle width of eleven (11) feet, which would require a waiver of the Zoning Ordinance requirement for a twelve (12) foot aisle width. The County engineer is supportive of the applicant requesting this waiver, which will be processed as part of the site development phase review. Consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. The use will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan designates this property for Urban Mixed Use, which encourages a mix of retail, commercial services, office and a variety of residential types. The Pantops Master Plan includes this site in the Rivanna Ridge mixed use neighborhood, which it identifies as an area for Neighborhood Services. There are opportunities in this neighborhood for future infill and enhanced pocket parks to capture scenic views. Due to the topography and visibility in the Monticello viewshed, care is needed with any infill or redevelopment of the neighborhood. The plan calls for establishing blocks with the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center to help create a street grid and better distribute traffic on the south side of Route 250. The proposed Bojangles building is oriented perpendicular to Rt. 250 with traffic circulating around the building. Sidewalks are proposed to be located around the interior and exterior of the site. With the proposal as shown on the plan, the use is considered consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. SUMMARY: Staff has identified factors which are favorable to this proposal and has identified no unfavorable factors: Factors favorable to this request include: 1. The ARB staff has completed a preliminary review of this proposal and had no objection to the proposed drive-thru use. 2. There is no conflict anticipated between vehicles stacked in the drive-thru lanes and vehicles in the parking lot or off-site traffic. Factors unfavorable to this request include: 1. No unfavorable factors. RECOMMENDED ACTION: Based on the findings contained in this staff report, staff recommends approval of SP 2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops for Drive-thru window with the following conditions (The conditions for SP2002-076 are shown for reference with strikethroughs : 1. The drive through lanes shall be designed in general accord with the improvements that are shown on the preliminary site plan, entitled “ Preliminary Site Development Plans for Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center”, last revised on January 13, 2003; Development and use shall be in general accord with the following revised plans prepared by Shimp Engineering, P.C. Sheet(s) 1 of 4 (cover sheet) and 4 of 4 (Conceptual site layout), dated February 18, 2014, revised 4/14/14 (hereafter SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 5 “Layout Plan”), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord with the specified plans, development and use shall reflect the following major elements as shown on the plans:  Building location, orientation and mass  Relationship of drive-thru lanes to the building and the parking lot  Location and general character of landscaping Minor modifications to the plan that do not otherwise conflict with the elements listed above, may be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. 2. The drive-through shall be limited to a single lane that follows through to the pick -up window and the bypass lane extending to the southern parking lot; 3. Signage and pavement markings shall be provided at the entrance and both exit points of the drive- through lane, subject to Engineering Department approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns; The applicant is responsible for installation and maintenance of control devices including but not limited to signage and pavement markings at the entrance and exit points of the drive-thru lanes, subject to county engineer approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns. 4. The menu board shall be installed at the south end of the fast food restaurant, and not on the main travelway of the drive-through, which extends between the northern and southern portions of the parking lot; 5. This site shall be subject to the Architetural Review Board’s issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness; The use shall not commence prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Architectural Review Board. 6. Awnings, canopies, signs, lights and other elements associated with the drive-through use shall be coordinated with the appearance of the building and shall not be the focus of the design, as determined by the ARB. The use shall commence on or before [date two years from Board approval] or the permit shall expire and be of no effect. 7. The planting strip located to the east of the drive-through lane shall be plated with evergreen screening trees; and 8. The planting strip located to west of the drive-through lane shall be plated with evergreen screening trees and/or shade trees and evergreen shrubs. 9. The northern most travelway located on the property parallel to U.S. Route 250 shall be a two-way travelway for the entire portion of the property. The following are the clean proposed conditions without strikethroughs: 1. Development and use shall be in general accord with the following revised plans prepared by Shimp Engineering, P.C. Sheet(s) 1 of 4 (cover sheet) and 4 of 4 (Conceptual site layout), dated February 18, 2014, revised 4/14/14 (hereafter “Layout Plan”), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord with the specified plans, development and use shall reflect the following major elements as shown on the plans:  Building location, orientation and mass  Relationship of drive-thru lanes to the building and the parking lot  Location and general character of landscaping Minor modifications to the plan that do not otherwise conflict with the elements listed above, may be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. 2. The applicant is responsible for installation and maintenance of control devices including but not limited to signage and pavement markings at the entrance and exit points of the drive-thru lanes, subject to county engineer approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns. 3. The use shall not commence prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Architectural Review Board. 4. The use shall commence on or before [date two years from Board approval] or the permit shall expire and be of no effect. SP201400004 – Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops Drive-thru Window Planning Commission: May 6, 2014 Page 6 5. The northern most travelway located on the property parallel to U.S. Route 250 shall be a two- way travelway for the entire portion of the property. Motions: Special Use Permit A. Should the Planning Commission choose to recommend approval of this special use permit: I move to recommend approval of SP 201400004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops for Drive-thru window with the conditions outlined in the staff report. B. Should the Planning Commission choose to recommend denial of this special use permit: I move to recommend denial of SP 201400004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops for Drive- thru window with reasons for denial. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A – Location Map Attachment B – Tax Map Attachment C – Application Plan Return to PC actions letter STONYPOINTRDSOUTH P A N T OPSD R RICHMO N D R D }ÿ53 §¨¦64 RoadsStreamsWater BodyParcels Parcel of Interest Prepared by Albem ar le CountyDivison of Inform ati on Ser vicesMap created by Elise Hackett, April 2014. Note: The m ap elem ents depicted are graphic representations and are not to be constr ued or used as a legal description.This map is for display pur poses only. Aerial Imagery 2013 C omm onw ealth of Virginia Parcels shown reflect pl ats and deeds recorded through December 31, 2013 ± 0 1,000 2,000500Feet SP 2014-004Bojangles Restaurant at PantopsDrive-Thru Window 78-73A2 City ofCharlottesville Pad Site ABBEY RD RICHMOND RD ROLKIN R D H A N S ENRD£¤250 4' ContoursRoadsStreamsWater Body BuildingsDrivewaysParcels Parcel of Interest Prepared by Albem ar le CountyDivison of Inform ati on Ser vicesMap created by Elise Hackett, April 2014. Note: The m ap elem ents depicted are graphic representations and are not to be constr ued or used as a legal description.This map is for display pur poses only. Aerial Imagery 2013 C omm onw ealth of Virginia Parcels shown reflect pl ats and deeds recorded through December 31, 2013 ± 0 100 20050Feet SP 2014-004Bojangles Restaurant at PantopsDrive-Thru Window 78-73A2 ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION –MAY 6, 2014 DRAFT PARTIAL MINUTES SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Submit to BOS 1 Albemarle County Planning Commission May 6, 2014 The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at 6:00 p.m., at the County Office Building, Lane Auditorium, Second Floor, 401 McIntire Road, Charlottesville, Virginia. Members attending were Cal Morris, Chair; Karen Firehock, Richard Randolph, Thomas Loach, Bruce Dotson, Mark Keller, and Mac Lafferty, Vice Chair. Julia Monteith, AICP, Senior Land Use Planner for the University of Virginia was present. Other officials present were Claudette Grant, Senior Planner; David Benish, Chief of Planning; Elaine Echols, Principal Planner; Glenn Brooks, County Engineer; Wayne Cilimberg, Director of Planning; Sharon Taylor, Clerk to Planning Commission; Greg Kamptner, Deputy County Attorney and Joel DeNunzio, VDOT representative, was present. Call to Order Mr. Morris, Chair, called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and established a quorum. Public Hearing Items a. SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops - Drive-Thru PROPOSAL: Request for a special use permit to establish a drive -thru window associated with a fast food restaurant on .75 acres under Section (s) 22.2.2 (10) Commercial, 23.2.2 (5) Commercial Office, and 24.2.2(12) Highway Commercial, Permitted Uses, by Special Use Permit of Zoning Ordinance. ZONING: PD-MC Planned Development Mixed Commercial which allows large -scale commercial uses and residential by special use permit at a density of 15 units/acre. ENTRANCE CORRIDOR: Yes COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Urban Mixed Use – retail, commercial services, office, and a mix of residential types (6.01 – 34 units/acre) in DA – Neighborhood 3 – Pantops. LOCATION: 2005 Abbey Road, on the south side of Route 250 in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center TAX MAP/PARCEL: 07800-00-00-073A2 Magisterial District: Rivanna (Claudette Grant) Staff Presentation: Ms. Grant summarized the staff report for SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops- Drive Thru in a PowerPoint presentation, noting the applicant requests to amend approved SP-2002-00076 to establish a drive-thru window associated with a fast food Bojangles Restaurant. ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION –MAY 6, 2014 DRAFT PARTIAL MINUTES SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Submit to BOS 2 Staff reviewed the concept layout plan noting the following two (2) issues that will be resolved: 1. The first issue has to do with one -way circulation in the middle of the two-way travelway. Staff finds this a bit confusing and unsafe. A condition is provided to address this issue. 2. The second issue has to do with the minimum travelway width for one -way access isle being 12 feet. The applicant proposes a width of 11 feet, which will need to be addressed with a waiver request during the site development phase. Factors Favorable: • The ARB staff has completed a preliminary review of this proposal and had no objection to the proposed drive-thru use. • There is no conflict anticipated between vehicles stacked in the drive -thru lanes and vehicles in the parking lot or off-site traffic. Factors Unfavorable: • None Staff’s Recommendation Based on the findings contained in the staff report, staff recommends approval of SP- 2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops for Drive -thru window with the recommended conditions listed in the staff report. Mr. Morris invited questions for staff. Mr. Randolph asked if there was another case in the county where they have a similar type of restaurant with a drive-thru where there is a connecting road that has two-way traffic at either end and one-way traffic for the restaurant in the middle. Ms. Grant replied she was not aware of any other example like that. Ms. Firehock asked if condition (#8) concerning the planting strip to the west being removed was because there not being enough space for a planting strip or if it impaired the visibility. Ms. Grant replied that condition (#8) was an old condition in the previous approved special use permit, which is shown as a comparison to show the differences. Mr. Dotson questioned condition (#5) of the new version, which says the use shall not commence prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Appropriateness by the Architectural Review Board. If they are saying the “use” it appears the building is fully constructed and everything is ready to go . However, he questioned if that would be too late for the ARB to take action. He would have expected the condition to say building ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION –MAY 6, 2014 DRAFT PARTIAL MINUTES SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Submit to BOS 3 construction shall not commence prior to the issuance of the Certificate of Appropriateness by the ARB. He asked if this is the way they usually phrase it. Ms. Grant replied it was the standard language used previously. Mr. Benish pointed out the use in this case was the drive-thru. Mr. Dotson acknowledged this was a narrow consideration. Mr. Morris opened the public hearing and invited the applicant to address the Commission. Justin Shimp, project engineer, said they don’t actually ha ve any particular items to address. However, he would clarify the item Ms. Grant mentioned about the confusion of the traffic circulation as something that there is a condition to address that, which they have agreed to. They have discussed and worked that issue out with staff and with the county engineer as appropriate to get the signage and striping right during the site plan stage. Otherwise, they have no particular comments. He would be happy to answer any questions. Mr. Morris invited public comment. There being none, the public hearing was closed and the matter before the Planning Commission for discussion and action. Mr. Randolph noted despite Mr. Shimp’s explanation he remains concerned about having the throughway whereby traffic move s two ways on either side of the property, but in the center of the property it is a one-way street. It just seems like a very odd configuration. He keeps looking at the design and trying to understand why in fact it could not be reversed the other way so the traffic is moving in a counter clockwise direction. It would seem to make more sense if the traffic would move in a clockwise direction and therefore as it came out of one drive-thru window it would be going into a lane of traffic that is quite appropriately moving in the same direction. It would not interfere with the operation of the two-way street at all. This configuration automatically creates this hybrid whereby they have a two-way street at either end and then a one - way street in the middle going against the traffic flow. Mr. Morris invited the county engineer to address this issue. Glenn Brooks, county engineer, said they don’t disagree because they place it in context. Generally they have a rule that they don’t want the site circulation to be on a public thoroughfare, the roadway. In this case they did not judge those to be roadways. They judged those to be internal travelways to the shopping center. If it would have been on Hansen Road, Abbey Road or Vulcan Road they would have said no go and they don’t want to do that. However, in this case they thought it was internal to the commercial strip on the outside of Giant and the impact is relatively small. Those concerns are still there, but just smaller in context. ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION –MAY 6, 2014 DRAFT PARTIAL MINUTES SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Submit to BOS 4 Mr. Keller requested an explanation from the developer. Mr. Morris invited Mr. Shimp to address the question. Mr. Shimp said he was trying to understand the question. He thinks he is saying that as the cars are queued up in the back of the building that they are adjacent to traffic moving in the opposite direction. He asked if that is correct. Mr. Randolph noted if he looked at the diagram he has the traffic moving counter clockwise, which means the exiting car goes into what for the vehicles coming from the left would be their lane. Then he has created a one-way street where that traffic can no longer go to proceed down that street. He is using street in a generic sense. He knows it is within a parking area. So if they reverse that and have the traffic moving in a clockwise direction it is moving with the actual normal flow of traffic. He is concerned because it creates a situation where the logic of the motorist suddenly is arrested, they have to stop, and are going to have signs there that say one-way do not enter. Mr. Shimp replied that is correct. Mr. Randolph said understanding at night and with fog, etc, people may not see the signage and may proceed with the assumption, which is reasonable for the motorist, that is a two-way “street” and proceed right into the traffic. Whereas, he thinks if they reverse the direction they would not have a problem. Mr. Shimp said that it was not exactly because it seemed if the vehicles went clockwise it would put the wrong side of the car in the drive-thru. Mr. Randolph suggested that he might have to reverse the building. They could just turn the building around 180 degrees and he would have solved the problem. Mr. Shimp said that he did not know if that was quite right . He did not quite understand what the issue is. This is probably not the best forum to debate it honestly. They looked at this site and met with county staff on several occasions about how this layout was best accommodated on this parcel. It was already set up for a drive -thru restaurant. This was a layout he thinks is better versus having two-way circulation on the travelway because then they would have people potentially going against the flow of the drive-thru stacks. That seems to be a very awkward drive -thru if it was that way. On the sides that parallel the building traffic is moving in the same direction and people backing in and out of parking spaces only have to worry about traffic in one direction rather than two. They felt like it is a very reasonable layout in that respect. Mr. Benish explained with the travelway going in the direction on the right or west side of the building it allows for that lane to be a bypass lane. When people are queuing in and the line is too long and they want to queue out then they can move out of the drive- thru lane and go out of the site. That is one of the reasons why that counter clockwise motion kind of works as long as the building is facing this way. He thinks the way the ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION –MAY 6, 2014 DRAFT PARTIAL MINUTES SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive-Thru Submit to BOS 5 building is facing here puts the windows and the place where they take the orders behind the building, which is where the ARB prefers. This is sort of the typical setup for the building to put the windows and the menu board to the back of the building away from the Entrance Corridor. So that is one of the rationales for that counter clockwise movement. Mr. Randolph said he understands the logic behind the drive -thru window. However, he is just a little concerned here about the traffic flow and just raising questions about it. Mr. Morris asked staff and the applicant to look at this prior to the request coming before the Board of Supervisors regardless of the Commission’s recommendation. Motion: Mr. Loach moved and Mr. Lafferty seconded to recommend approval of SP- 2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive Thru with the conditions outlined in the staff report. 1. Development and use shall be in general accord with the following revised plans prepared by Shimp Engineering, P.C. Sheet(s) 1 of 4 (cover sheet) and 4 of 4 (Conceptual site layout), dated February 18, 2014, revised 4/14/14 (hereaf ter “Layout Plan”), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord with the specified plans, development and use shall reflect the following major elements as shown on the plans: – Building location, orientation and mass – Relationship of drive-thru lanes to the building and the parking lot – Location and general character of landscaping Minor modifications to the plan that do not otherwise conflict with the elements listed above, may be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance. 2. The applicant is responsible for installation and maintenance of control devices including but not limited to signage and pavement markings at the entrance and exit points of the drive-thru lanes, subject to county engineer approval to ensure appropriate and safe travel patterns. 3. The use shall not commence prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness by the Architectural Review Board. 4. The use shall commence on or before [date two years from Board approval] or the permit shall expire and be of no effect. 5. The northern most travelway located on the property parallel to U.S. Route 250 shall be a two-way travelway for the entire portion of the property. The motion passed by a vote of 7:0. Mr. Morris noted that SP-2014-00004 Bojangles Restaurant @ Pantops – Drive Thru would be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors with a recommendation for approval on a date to be determined. COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: VDOT Secondary Six-Year Plan FY15-20 SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Public hearing - VDOT FY 15-20 Secondary Six Year Program STAFF CONTACT(S): Walker, Davis, Cilimberg, Benish PRESENTER (S): David Benish LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The purpose of this public hearing is to receive input on the proposed Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Secondary Six Year Program (SSYP), FY 15-20 (Attachment A). The SSYP is the funding program for the construction of secondary road projects based on the County’s Priority List and reflects available State road funding allocated to the County. The Board held a work session on the SSYP and the County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements on May 14, 2014 (Attachment A – Executive Summary). Due to limited available funding for this SSYP, staff recommended and the Board agreed to no changes to the County’s Priority List for this year (Attachment B). It was agreed that a more complete update of the County’s priority list would be undertaken next year when it is expected the updated Comprehensive Plan and the MPO’s regional Long Range Transportation Plan will have been adopted. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 2. Provide community facilities that meet existing and future needs. Goal 5. Ensure the health and safety of the community. DISCUSSION: VDOT staff has provided a draft of the FY 15-20 SSYP (Attachment C) that is based on the priority list agreed to by the Board at its May 14th work session. Projected funding allocations for this SSYP were provided to the Board in the May work session’s Executive Summary (Attachment A). Since then, VDOT has revised these allocations slightly downward, but with no impact on the projects that can be funded. As indicated last month, all available funding for the FY 15-20 SSYP will be used to complete projects previously listed in the FY 14-19 SSYP:  Dry Bridge Road (Rt. 708) bridge replacement (under construction)  Black Cat Road (Rt. 616) bridge replacement  Broomley Road (Rt. 677) bridge replacement  Dick Woods Road (Rt. 637) bridge replacement  Dickerson Road (Rt. 606) bridge replacement over the N. Fork Rivanna River  Pocket Lane (Rt. 703), from Rt. 715 to end state maintenance – paving project (RRR project)  Midway Road (Rt. 688), from Rt. 824 to Rt. 635 – paving project (RRR project)  Keswick Drive (Rt. 731), from Rt. 744 to Rt. 22 – paving project (RRR project)  Rio Mills Road (Rt. 643), from paved section to US 29 – paving project (non-RRR paving project)  Doctors Crossing (Rt. 784), from Rt. 600 to Rt. 640 – paving project (RRR project) BUDGET IMPACT: The Six Year Secondary Road process establishes the County’s priorities for the expenditure of State/VDOT secondary road construction funds and does not impact County’ funding. RECOMMENDATIONS: After the public hearing, adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment D) approving the FY15-20 SSYP and authorize the County Executive to sign the SSYP. AGENDA TITLE: Review of County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and the VDOT SSYP June 11, 2014 Page 2 ATTACHMENTS: A – May 7, 2014 Executive Summary B – County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements C – VDOT Secondary Six Year Program (FY15-20) D – Resolution approving the VDOT FY 15-20 Secondary Six Year Plan and the FY14 Construction Program Return to agenda COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Review of County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and the VDOT Secondary Six-Year Plan SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Work session to review the County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and the VDOT Secondary Six-Year Plan Funding Expectations STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Walker, Davis, Cilimberg, Benish PRESENTER: David Benish LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: May 7, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements establishes the priorities for County road improvements in the State’s Secondary Road system (roads with a route number of 600 or higher). The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Secondary Six-Year Plan (SSYP) is the funding program for the construction of secondary road projects based on the County’s Priority List and reflects available state road funding allocated to the County. A separate program exists for the Primary and Interstate road systems. The County’s Priority List and the VDOT SSYP are typically reviewed annually. Based on Board direction regarding projects to be funded, VDOT will draft a revised SSYP. Attachment A is the current County Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and Attachment B is the current VDOT Six Year Secondary Road Construction Program, both approved by the Board on June 12, 2013. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 2. Provide community facilities that meet existing and future needs. Goal 5. Ensure the health and safety of the community. DISCUSSION: This work session is focused on receiving Board input regarding the County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements. Staff will then prepare a revised County Priority List that reflects the Board’s input and VDOT will update the SSYP, both of which will be the subject of a Board public hearing planned for June 11, 2014. VDOT Secondary Six Year Improvement Program (SSYP) VDOT has provided the following projected funding allocations for Albemarle County for the FY15-20 SSYP: FISCAL YEAR SECONDARY UNPAVED ROAD FUND1 CTB UNPAVED ROAD FUND 2 REG. STATE FUNDS3 (Telefee Funds) SECONDARY FORMULA FUNDS3 TOTAL FUNDS 2014-15 $0 $208,838 $298,065 $0 $506,903 2015-16 $0 $390,726 $298,065 $0 $688,791 2016-17 $0 $571,125 $298,065 $0 $869,190 2017-18 $0 $578,873 $298,065 $0 $876,938 2018-19 $0 $622,461 $298,065 $0 $920,526 2019-20 $0 $602,355 $298,065 $0 $900,420 Totals $0 $2,974,378 $1,788,390 $0 $4,762,768 Notes: 1- Roads must carry 50 vehicle per day (VPD) or greater. 2- Roads must carry 50 vehicle per day (VPD) or greater. This is a change from the previous 200 VPD requirement. 3- Funds can be used a broad range of secondary road improvement project (construction, paving, etc.) AGENDA TITLE: Review of County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and the VDOT SSYP May 7, 2014 Page 2 Funding for the next six years of the SSYP is projected to be significantly lower than anticipated at the time of the adoption of last year’s SSYP because state revenues used to fund the transportation program are lower than what had been projected at that time. Staff provides the following observations and comments:  For the five (5) common years of last year’s SSYP and this year’s SSYP (FY2014-15 through FY2018-19) the following funding changes are anticipated: o The estimated total funds have fallen from $8,220,496 to $3,862,348. o The estimated total funds for unpaved road projects have fallen from $4,970,393 to $2,372,023.  Last year, two categories of unpaved road funds were created: 1) Secondary Unpaved Road Funds, and 2) the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) Formula Unpaved Road Funds . No funding is now anticipated for the Secondary Unpaved Road Fund ($512,376 was anticipated in last year‘s SSYP), leaving the CTB Formula Unpaved Road Funds as the sole source of unpaved road funding.  The $900,420 in the “new” sixth year of the SSYP (FY2019-20) will need to be totally devoted to projects already included in the SSYP to offset the reduction in fund allocations for those projects in the first five years. Due to the limited available funding, staff proposes that no additional projects be added the SSYP and that available SSYP funding be used to complete the projects currently identified in the SSYP. (Please note that bridge projects included in the SSYP also utilize federal bridge funds.) The projects included in the current SSYP are:  Dry Bridge Road (Rt. 708) bridge replacement (under construction)  Black Cat Road (Rt. 616) bridge replacement  Broomley Road (Rt. 677) bridge replacement  Dick Woods Road (Rt. 637) bridge replacement  Dickerson Road (Rt. 606) bridge replacement over the N. Fork Rivanna River  Pocket Lane (Rt. 703), from Rt. 715 to end state maintenance – paving project  Midway Road (Rt. 688), from Rt. 824 to Rt. 635 – paving project  Keswick Drive (Rt. 731), from Rt. 744 to Rt. 22 – paving project  Rio Mills Road (Rt. 643), from paved section to US 29 – paving project  Doctors Crossing (Rt. 784), from Rt. 600 to Rt. 640 – paving project Two paving projects in the current SSYP (and on the County’s Priority List) have now been completed: 1) Gillums Ridge Road (Rt. 787), from Rt. 682 to Rt. 708, and 2) Blufton Road (Rt. 672), from Rt. 810 to the end of state maintenance. These projects will be removed from both documents. County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements (Priority List) Many of the transportation projects on the County’s Priority List are derived from the recommendations of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). The Comprehensive Plan and the LRTP are currently in the process of being reviewed and updated by the Board of Supervisors and the MPO, respectively; therefore staff does not propose any changes be made to the Priority List this year. In consideration of the anticipated completion of these plan updates in the next year as well as the current status of funding for the SSYP, staff suggests a more comprehensive review of this Priority List and other transportation priorities should be undertaken next year. VDOT staff has reviewed the Priority List’s Regular Road Paving Project list to determine if any of the listed projects are now eligible for the Rural Rustic Road Program (RRRP). Because RRRP paving is of a lower scale than Regular Road paving and does not involve right-of-way donation, those projects cost less and more of those projects can be undertaken with available funds. VDOT staff has found that 11 of the 29 listed Regular Road Paving projects are now eligible for RRR paving (and staff has noted those projects on page B-2 of Attachment A). However, because available SSYP funds are already completely obligated as noted above, none of th ose projects can be undertaken in the FY15-20 SSYP. Therefore, staff proposes that all RRR eligible projects be moved to the RRR Paving Project List in conjunction with the comprehensive review of the County’ Priority List next year. AGENDA TITLE: Review of County’s Priority List of Secondary Road Improvements and the VDOT SSYP May 7, 2014 Page 3 Public Requests Staff has received two (2) requests for new road construction improvements. Other requests received over the year have been for roads already listed on the County’s Priority List of Road Improvements or were associated with primary roads. The public requests are:  Midway Road (Rt. 688) — To pave the section of road from Burches Creek Road to Patterson Mill Road, which carries 160 VPD. The section of Midway Road from Millers School Road to Burches Creek Road (310 VPD) is currently in the VDOT SSYP and scheduled for paving this year . It was first listed in the County priority list in 2001 based on citizen requests. Staff notes that complaints have been received in the past about speeding along this road. It is not uncommon for speeding issues to increase once a gravel road is paved. Should the Board decide to pave this new section of Midway Road, both sections should be paved at the same time.  Ed Jones Road (Rt.728) — To pave the section of road from Rolling Road (Rt. 620) to Buck Island Road (Rt.729) due to damage caused by weather and logging operations. The most recent (2012) VDOT traffic count for this road is 20 VPD, which would make it ineligible for paving. However, it should be noted that VDOT recently made some repairs to this road. BUDGET IMPACT: The Six Year Secondary Road process establishes the County’s priorities for the expenditure of State/VDOT secondary road construction funds and does not impact County funding. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff requests that the Board: 1) confirm the County’s Priority List for Secondary Road Improvements (Attachment A) for public hearing, and 2) schedule a public hearing on this Priority List and VDOT’s FY15-20 SSYP on June 11, 2014. ATTACHMENTS A – Albemarle County Priority List for Secondary Road Improvements B – VDOT Six Year Secondary Construction Program (FY14 to FY19) STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR ALBEMARLE COUNTY PRIORITY LIST FOR SECONDARY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS Recommended June 11, 2014 Strategic Priorities (Projects 1-21) VDOT's Secondary Program County's Proposed Ranking Route Number and Name Location From - To Estimated Advertisement Date Estimated Cost Description/Comments Justification for project/Source of Request Year Project was placed on Priority List Most Current Traffic County and year of Count Y 0 County wide County wide N/A varies County services/improvements: signs,pipe,plant mix projects, raised median, crosswalks, restripe, lighting, etc safety, maintain function/staff, public req. Y 0 County wide Traffic mgmt. Program N/A varies Designated for traffic calming projects through out the County that meet requirements and sidewalk improvements. Safety/Public Request, studies-plans Y (Urban Program) 1 Hillsdale Drive Greenbrier Dr. to Seminole Sq. designed, constr. not funded $9,800,000 Connector Rd., Greenbrier Dr to Hydraulic Rd; constr. w/ urban system funds; $15.5 M. donated ROW expected Places29 Master Plan; UnJAM 2035 N/A 2 Berkmar Dr Ext. & Bridge End of Berkmar Dr to HTC $38,000,000 New parallel road in Rt. 29 Corridor; Bridge location design first phase; ROW cost variable w/ development approvals Places29 Master Plan; UnJAM 2035 2006 N/A 3 649 Proffit Road Rt 29 to 1.6 miles east $10,000,000 improve alignment, urban x-section with bikelanes/sidewalk and multi-use path Capacity, safety/Land Use Plan 5,00-2010 4 781 Sunset Avenue Fontaine/Sunset Connector Improvements to Sunset Ave. and Fontaine/Sunset Ave. Connector Area B Study,Capacity/ LU Plan 2007 4,600-2006 5 631 Old Lynchburg Rd 1.35 MI. S. I-64 to Rt 708 Spot improvements at various locations to serve development in Southern DA/County Capacity/Land Use Plan 4,600-2006 Y 6 Bridge Improvement Projects Various locations (See Att. A) Improve/replace low sufficiency rated bridges based on County and VDOT priority varies 7 726 James River Road Rt 795 to Rt 1302 Spot improvement to improve sight distance Safety/Scottsville 1,900-2006 8 601 Old Ivy Road Ivy Rd to 250/29 Byp Widen, improve alignment , coordinate with UVA Gateway project Capacity/Land Use Plan 5,500-2010 9 Southern Parkway Avon St to Fifth St Extend to 5th St., with pedestrian/bike facility, and Neighborhood street design/speed Capacity/Southern City Study N/A 10 795 Blenheim Road Intersection of Rt 790 Intersection improvement. Safety/Scottsville Request 1500-2010 11 Eastern Avenue Rt 240 to Rt 250 Interconnect future neighborhood streets, includes RR underpass and bridge over Lickinghole Crk Capacity/Crozet Master Plan N/A 12 631 Rio Road MCP to Agnese Street Improve substandard intersection, add bikelanes and sidewalks Safety/pedestrian 22,000-2010 13 643 Polo Grounds Road Rt 29 to Rt 649 Improvement alignment, spot improvements. Safety/Public Request 2,400-2009 14 Main Street Crozet Ave to Eastern Ave New road as recommended in the Crozet Master Plan, to be built with development of site Capacity/Crozet Master Plan 2003 N/A 15 743 Hydraulic Road Intersection with Rt 29 (29H250) Improvements recommended from 29H250 Phase 2 Study Capacity,safety/29H250 Study 2003 18,000-2007 16 866 Greenbrier Drive Intersection with Rt 29 (29H250) Improvements recommended from 29H250 Phase 2 Study Capacity,safety/29H250 Study 2003 8,200-2006 17 Eastern Connector Rt 250 to Rt 29 Initial study of new road concept completed. Further study of alignment on hold Capacity/CHART 2006 N/A 18 702 Reservoir Road Fontaine Ave. Ext to Dead end Paving and spot improvements, to be done as part of the reservoir reconstruction project Safety/Public Request 2003 430-2009 19 606 Dickerson Road N. of Rt 850 to just S. of Rt 1030 Paving of unpaved road segments--no state unpaved road funds available for the foreseeable future UnJam 2030; DA location; Rt 29 alternate route 2008 480-2009 Y 20 Brocks Mill Road, Rural Addition Rural addition projects to be funded upt the available $250 ,000 in VDOT Six Year Secondary Road Construction Program Public Request 2011 N/A Y 21 Unpaved road Projects Various locations -- see attached lists Bold-- Projects in Development Area Italics -- New Projects Page 1 ALBEMARLE COUNTY PRIORITY LIST FOR SECONDARY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS Recommended June 11, 2014 [Some projects may not be completed as prioritized due to project complexity and/or available funding] Bridge Priorities - In Priority Order VDOT's Secondary Plan Route Number, Road Name Location From-To Sufficiency Rating** Traffic Count Description/Comments Estimated cost/funding source Y Route 708, Dry Bridge Road Buckingham Branch Railroad 26 950 suff rating, high traffic count -- Advertisement Date (EAD) 5/14/13 $3,399,237 / federal bridge funds Y Route 616, Black Cat Road Buckingham Branch 54.4 800 suff rating, high traffic count -- EAD 3/30/14 $3,755,171 / federal bridge funds and secondary road funds Y Route 677, Broomley Road Buckingham Branch 42.2 750 suff rating, high traffic count -- EAD 12/30/14 $4,677,092 / federal bridge funds Y Route 637, Dick Woods Road Ivy Creek 36.1 1100 suff rating, high traffic count -- EAD 12/30/14 $2,458,161 / federal bridge funds Route 795, Presidents Road Hardware River 19.4 200 low sufficiency rating Route 745, Wheeler/Arrowhead Valley Rd. Norfolk Southern Railroad 20.9 90 RR to reconstruct bridge in 2012 & dedicate to State/VDOT (low sufficiency rating) Route 641, Frays Mills Road Marsh Run 49.6 510 low sufficiency rating Route 649, Proffit Road Norfolk Southern Railroad 35.2 3800 upgraded in Summer 2007, has high traffic count Y Route 606, Dickerson Road North Fork of Rivanna River 480 low suff. Rating; in Devel. Area; parallel road to Rt. 29 $5,075,557 / Federal bridge funds * Programmed into future allocations of federal bridge funds in Culpeper District. **Sufficiency Rating is utilitzed by VDOT to rate bridge structure.A ALBEMARLE COUNTY PRIORITY LIST FOR SECONDARY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, PAVING PROJECTS Recommended June 11, 2014 [Some projects may not be completed as prioritized due to project complexity and/or available funding] RURAL RUSTIC ROAD PAVING PROJECTS IN PRIORITY ORDER (HIGH TO LOW) VDOT makes the determination on whether a road is eligible for RRR paving. All projects are placed on the regular paving list until the determination is made by VDOT. Route Number, Road Name,County Priority Location From - To Funding Status Estimated Cost Regular/RRR Most Current Traffic County and Year of Count Description/Comments Year Project placed on Priority List Estimated Advertisement Date 703 Pocket Lane Rt 715 to Dead End in VDOT SSYP $322,964 110-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2005 no date 784 Doctors Crossing Rt 600 to Rt 640 in VDOT SSYP $933,109 130-2006 School Request in 2007, public request as well no date 688 Midway Road Rt 635 to Rt 824 in VDOT SSYP $195,191 310-2009 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.no date 731 Keswick Road Rt 744 to Rt 22 in VDOT SSYP $402,113 230-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2005 no date 637 Dick Woods Road Rt 691 to Rt 758 Not Funded $754,377 110-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2005 no date 747 Preddy Creek Road Rt 600 to Rt 640 Not Funded 110-2006 School request. At current ranking due to traffic count.no date 600 Stony Point Pass 2.5 miles east to Rt. 231 Not Funded 100-2009 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.no date 769 Beam Road Rt 1484 to Dead End Not Funded 60-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.no date 629/624 Browns Gap TP/Headqrters Lane Rt 810 to end of Rt 624 Not Funded 80/40-2009 Public request. ranking due to traffic count/new project 2010. 2010 no date 824 Patterson Mill Lane Rt. 688 to unpaved section (abt. 1.04 mi) Not Funded 200-2006 Public request. Ranking due to traffic count/new project in 2011.2011 no date 760 Red Hill School Road Rt. 29 to Rt. 712 Not Funded 70-2006 Public request. Ranking due to traffic count/new project in 2011 2011 no date Italics -- new projects to this list (moved from Regular Paving Projects list) Staff and VDOT will further evaluate the cost closer to construction, which may decrease or increase. B1 ALBEMARLE COUNTY PRIORITY LIST FOR SECONDARY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, PAVING PROJECTS Recommended June 11, 2014 [Some projects may not be completed as prioritized due to project complexity and/or available funding] REGULAR PAVING PROJECTS IN PRIORITY ORDER (HIGH TO LOW) Route Number, Road Name,County Priority Location From - To Funding Status Estimated Cost Regular/RRR Most Current Traffic County and Year of Count Description/Comments Year Project placed on Priority List RRR FEASIBLE 643 Rio Mills Road Rt 29 to Rt 743 in VDOT SSYP $3,932,301 620-2003 Staff request. At current ranking due to traffic count. 2003 N/A 689 Burch's Creek Road Rt 250 to Rt 635 Not Funded 140-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count. (previously Pounding Creek Rd) NO 671 Ballards Mill Road Rt 609 to Rt 674 Not Funded 260-2006 School transportation request 2007 NO 685 Bunker Hill Road Rt 616 to Dead End Not Funded 230-2009 Public request. No longer qualifies for RRR due to align- ment and utility problems, will have to be reg. paving project. YES 720 Harris Creek Road Rt 20 to Dead End Not Funded 170-2006 Public request 2007 YES 736 White Mountain Road Rt 636 to Dead End Not Funded (sect. btwn Rt 635 & 636 doesn't meet VDOT requirements) 230-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES 683 Shelton Mill Road Rt 751 to Dead End Not Funded 70-2009 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2007 NO 712 North Garden Lane Rt 692 to Rt 29 Not Funded 350-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES 712 Coles Rolling Road Rt 713 to Rt 795 Not Funded 220-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES 712 North Garden Lane Rt 29 to Rt 760 Not Funded 220-2006 This project will be paved as part Rt. 712 -btwn Rt. 713 to Rt. 795 YES 671 Wesley Chapel Road Rt 609 to Rt 601 Not Funded 100-2006 School transportation request 2007 NO 829 Horseshoe Bend Road Rt 601 to Dead End Not Funded 210-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2004 NO 645 Magnolia Road Rt 608 to Orange County Line Not Funded 190-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES 637 Dick Woods Road Rt 691 to Rt 635 Not Funded 140-2009 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2006 YES 674 Sugar Ridge Road Rt 614 to Rt 673 Not Funded 180-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.NO 761 Briery Creek Road Rt 622 to County Line Not Funded 160-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2005 NO 682 Broad Axe Road Rt 637 to to current paved sections Not Funded 160-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.NO 678 Decca Lane Rt 676 to Rt 614 Not Funded 160-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.NO 640 Gilbert Station Road Ashleigh Way Dr to paved section Not Funded $1,500,000 120-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.NO 856 Burton Lane Rt. 711 to Dead End Not Funded 120-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2007 YES 605 Durrett Ridge Road Rt 743 to Swift Run (including bridge) Not Funded 140-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.no date 723 Sharon Road Route 6 to Route 722 Not Funded 130-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES *NOTE: Projects highlighted in yellow are eligible for RRR paving Staff and VDOT will further evaluate the cost closer to construction, which may decrease or increase. B2 ALBEMARLE COUNTY PRIORITY LIST FOR SECONDARY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, PAVING PROJECTS Recommended June 11, 2014 [Some projects may not be completed as prioritized due to project complexity and/or available funding] REGULAR PAVING PROJECTS IN PRIORITY ORDER (HIGH TO LOW) Route Number, Road Name,County Priority Location From - To Funding Status Estimated Cost Regular/RRR Most Current Traffic County and Year of Count Description/Comments Year Project placed on Priority List RRR FEASIBLE *NOTE: Projects highlighted in yellow are eligible for RRR paving 633 Cove Garden Rt 29 to Rt 712 Not Funded 130-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2004 YES 707 Blair Park Road Rt 691 to Dead End Not Funded 130-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.YES 698 Hungrytown Road Rt 633 to Dead End Not Funded 90-2006 School transportation request 2006 NO 813 Starlight Road Rt 712 to Dead End Not Funded 80-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2004 YES 600 Stony Point Pass 2.5 miles west to Rt 20 Not Funded 80-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.TBD 634 Spring Valley Road Rt 633 to Rt 635 Not Funded 80-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2007 NO 637 Dick Woods Road Rt 151 to Nelson County Line Not Funded 70-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2007 NO 721 Old Dominion Road Rt 6 to Rt 630 Not Funded 70-2006 Public request. At current ranking due to traffic count.2006 YES Staff and VDOT will further evaluate the cost closer to construction, which may decrease or increase. B3 ATTACHMENT D RESOLUTION WHEREAS, Virginia Code § 33.1-23.4 provides the opportunity for each county to work with the Virginia Department of Transportation in developing a Secondary System Six-Year Construction Program; and WHEREAS, the Board has previously agreed to assist in the preparation of this Program, in accordance with the Virginia Department of Transportation policies and procedures, and participated in a public hearing on the proposed Program (FY 15-20) as well as the 2014 Construction Priority List for Albemarle County on June 11, 2014, after duly advertised so that all citizens of the County had the opportunity to participate in said hearing and to make comments and recommendati ons concerning the proposed Program and Priority List; and WHEREAS, Joel Denunzio, the Resident Administrator of the Virginia Department of Transportation, appeared before the Board and recommended approval of the Secondary System Six- Year Construction Program (FY15-20) and the 2014 Construction Priority List for the County of Albemarle; and WHEREAS, the Secondary System Six Year Construction Program (FY15-20) and the 2014 Construction Priority List, as presented at the June 11, 2014 public hearing, are in the best interest of the County and of the citizens of the County. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board hereby approves the Secondary System Six-Year Construction Program (FY15-20) and the 2014 Construction Priority List as presented at the June 11, 2014 public hearing, and authorizes the County Executive to sign the Plan. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the clerk of the Board shall forward a certified copy of this resolution to the District Administrator of the Virginia Department of Transportation. I, Ella W. Jordan, do hereby certify that the foregoing writing is a true and c orrect copy of a Resolution duly adopted by the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors by a vote of _____ to _____, as recorded below, at a meeting held on _________________________. ________________________________ Clerk, Board of County Supervisors Aye Nay Mr. Boyd ____ ____ Mr. Dittmar ____ ____ Ms. Mallek ____ ____ Mr. McKeel ____ ____ Mr. Palmer ____ ____ Mr. Shefield ____ ____ COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: New Hope Church – ARB Appeal SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Appeal of the Architectural Review Board’s issuance of certificate of appropriateness for New Hope Church STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Walker, Kamptner, Graham, Maliszewski, Yaniglos PRESENTER(S): Margaret Maliszewski LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: An overlay district is a zoning district in which the requirements of the overlay district must be complied with, as well as the requirements of the underlying “base” zoning district; thus, one district overlays another. The entrance corridor overlay district (ECOD) is one of seven County overlay districts. County Code § 18-30.6.1 provides that the ECOD is intended to implement the comprehensive plan’s goal to preserve the County’s scenic resources because those resources are essential to the County’s character, economic vitality and quality of life. An objective of this goal is to maintain the visual integrity of the County’s roadways by using design guidelines. New construction and site improvements (new development) within the ECOD are reviewed by the County’s architectural review board (ARB) to ensure that they are consistent with the design guidelines promulgated by the ARB and ratified by the Board of Supervisors. The sole issue before the ARB in its review is whether the application is consistent with the applicable design guidelines (County Code § 18-30.6.7(g)). The ARB’s decision that new development is consistent with the applicable design guidelines is called a “certificate of appropriateness.” The ARB’s decision may be appealed to the Board of Supervisors. On an appeal to the Board, the issue is the same as it was before the ARB – whether the new development is consistent with the applicable design guidelines. The Board may affirm, reverse, or modify in whole or in part, the decision of the ARB (County Code § 18-30.6.8(c)). In considering an appeal, the Board is directed to “give due consideration to the recommendations of the [ARB] together with any other information it deems necessary for a proper review of the appeal” (County Code § 18-30.6.8(c)). On April 7, 2014, the ARB issued a certificate of appropriateness, with conditions, for site improvements related to the final site plan for New Hope Church (Church) by a vote of 4-0, with one member abstaining (See Attachments E (action letter) and F (minutes)). Because only a small portion of the Church site is within the ECOD (See Attachment J), the certificate of appropriateness pertains only to proposed landscaping around the base of the Church’s entrance drive at its intersection with Dickerson Lane, and along a portion of the entrance drive itself (the Church’s entrance). The only applicable design guidelines are Design Guidelines 7, 8 and 33 (See Attachment D, pages 3 and 4). Charles M. Boldt, an adjacent landowner, appealed the ARB’s decision (See Attachment A). STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 3. Encourage a diverse and vibrant local economy. DISCUSSION: The appellant identified seven grounds for appeal. However, the legal scope of review for a certificate of appropriateness is limited to the specific issue of whether the site improvements are consistent with the applicable design guidelines. The scope of review is further limited in this case because only a small portion of the Church site – the portion where the Church entrance is located – is within the ECOD. The three design guidelines applicable to this appeal are set forth in Attachment D. They pertain to the proposed landscaping of the Church’s entrance. Staff analyzed (Attachment D, pages 3 and 5) and the ARB approved the certificate of appropriateness on April 7, 2014, based on staff’s recommendations, with conditions (Attachment E). The following table summarizes Guidelines 7, 8 and 33, the staff analysis of the application under the Guidelines and approved by the ARB, and staff’s response to the appellant’s challenge to the ARB decision. Staff’s in-depth response to the appellant’s challenges are on page 4 of Attachment G. AGENDA TITLE: New Hope Church – ARB Appeal June 11, 2014 Page 2 Design Guideline Analysis Appellant’s Ground for Appeal Response to Appellant’s Ground for Appeal 7. Landscaping should promote visual order within the Entrance Corridor and help to integrate buildings into the existing environment of the corridor. The plan shows 2 ½ inches caliper trees that are common to the area spaced 40 feet on center along the entrance drive. The plan achieves a good mix of trees and shrubs that fills the slopes adjacent to the drive without an overly artificial appearance. The planting compensates for the trees removed from the immediate area and it is expected to blend into the surrounding landscape for an appropriate appearance from the Entrance Corridor. The landscaping does not promote visual order nor harmonize the appearance of the development and does not blend into the surrounding landscape nor fill in the slopes without an overly artificial appearance. The dominant species visible are evergreens and the proposed landscaping would use commercial, non-evergreen plants that provide no visual buffer to the site. Staff’s analysis considered that the proposed plants are natives and/or included on the County’s recommended species list; the landscaped portion lies approximately 350 feet from the Entrance Corridor street, on which vehicle speed is fast and there are no sidewalks; the available view is limited to approximately 70 feet in width across Dickerson Lane. Plant choice is a balancing of several factors, including local conditions, the availability of plant material and sizes, required maintenance and standard site plan and ARB requirements. Staff’s recommendation for a natural appearance was intended to increase the quantity of plants to mitigate the engineered appearance of the slopes and to de-emphasize the regular spacing of trees that would be found in a more urban setting. The goal was a more substantial planting than the minimum required by the Guidelines, and that goal was met with the proposed plan approved by the ARB, with conditions. 8. Continuity within the Entrance Corridor should be obtained by planting different types of plant materials that share similar characteristics. Such common elements allow for more flexibility in the design of structures because common landscape features will help to harmonize the appearance of development as seen from the street upon which the Corridor is centered. 33. Landscaping along interior roads: Large trees should be planted parallel to all interior roads, at least 2½ inches caliper, spaced 40 feet on center. The other grounds raised by the appellant are beyond the scope of ARB review and this appeal. Nonetheless, staff has responded to all of the grounds raised by the appellant in Attachment G. BUDGET IMPACT: No changes to the Community Development Department’s appropriated budget are anticipated as a result of this appeal. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board affirm the ARB’s decision. ATTACHMENTS: A – Appeal of ARB Approval B - May 8, 2013 Executive Summary, Appeal of ARB approval of Initial Site Plan C - May 8, 2013 Excerpt from Board Minutes, Appeal of ARB Approval of Initial Site Plan D - ARB Staff report for the New Hope Church final site plan E – ARB April 7 2014 action letter F – April 7, 2014 ARB meeting minutes G – Staff Analysis of Grounds for Appeal H – New Hope Final Site Plan – grading plan I – New Hope Final Site Plan – landscape plan J – Vicinity maps showing the New Hope Church site and the Entrance Corridor Return to agenda COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Appeal of Architectural Review Board Decision on New Hope Church SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Appeal of ARB-2013-10: New Hope Church Initial Site Plan STAFF CONTACT(S): Messrs. Foley, Davis, Kamptner, Graham, and Cilimberg, and Ms. Maliszewski PRESENTER (S): Margaret Maliszewski LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: May 8, 2013 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: On March 18, 2013 the Architectural Review Board (ARB) reviewed an initial site plan (ARB-2013-10) for the New Hope Church at the intersection of Dickerson Road and Dickerson Lane. The proposal is to construct a church with associated site improvements, including an entrance off of Dickerson Road. The New Hope Church parcel is located approximately 350 feet west of the Route 29 North entrance corridor. Therefore, only the easternmost 150 feet of the parcel, a strip at the southeast corner of the site parallel to Dickerson Road and Route 29 North, is within the EC Overlay District. The entrance drive to the church will be located within this area. The visibility of the site from the Route 29 North EC is limited. A map showing the New Hope Church parcel in relation to the EC Overlay District is included as Attachment D. A photograph taken from the Route 29 North EC and showing the site is included as Attachment E. Under the County’s new site plan regulations, the ARB’s review of New Hope Church’s initial site plan was governed by County Code § 18-32.4.2.2(b), which limited the ARB’s review at this stage of the site plan process for consistency with the applicable design guidelines to the following: (i) the size, location and configuration of structures; (ii) the location and configuration of parking areas and the location of landscaped areas; and (iii) identifying existing trees, wooded areas and natural features that should be preserved. After consideration of the matter, including the staff report that provided staff’s recommendations on the proposal (Attachment A) and comments by the New Hope Church representatives and the appellant, the ARB voted to transmit its recommendations on the initial site plan to the agent, as provided in County Code § 18-32.4.2.2(b)(3). The ARB will review the New Hope plan again at the final site plan stage because a Certificate of Appropriateness is required prior to final site plan approval. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 3. Encourage a diverse and vibrant local economy. DISCUSSION: ARB Review of the Plan During the March 18, 2013 review, the ARB discussed the proposed entrance location, the character of the existing trees that are proposed to be removed, the steepness of the slope along the entrance drive relative to the amount of trees to be removed, and the degree to which a natural appearance would be achieved with re-planting slopes of varying degrees. The ARB considered in its discussion sensitivity to the existing natural landscape and the need to blend into the surrounding landscape, as provided by Guideline #6, and maintaining visual order within the EC, as provided by Guideline #7 (Attachment F). The ARB concluded that no requirements were needed to satisfy the guidelines at the initial site plan stage of review. The ARB agreed with staff’s recommendation that planting along the entrance drive and re-planting the graded slope with a mix of trees to re-integrate the development into the surroundings to meet Guideline #7 would be required to be shown on the final site plan stage. The ARB did not require that the details of that planting be provided with the initial site plan (See Attachment G for the minutes of this item at the March 18, 2013 ARB meeting). AGENDA TITLE: Appeal of Architectural Review Board Decision on New Hope Church May 8, 2013 Page 2 Information regarding the grounds for appeal In a letter of appeal, the appellant identified four grounds for appeal (Attachment H). The grounds are listed below in italics. Staff’s response to each item follows in standard text. 1. The appellant states that no requirements were imposed to satisfy the design guidelines under County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(2), Size and arrangement of structures; County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(3), Location and configuration of parking areas and landscaping; and County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(5), Preservation of existing vegetation and natural features. a. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(2) does not apply in this case because the proposed structures are located outside of the EC overlay district. b. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(3) applies, and the ARB determined that trees would be required along the entrance drive and on the slope adjacent to the drive. However, sufficient area was shown on the plan for the required planting, and the ARB did not require that the details of the planting be provided with the initial site plan. Consequently, no requirement was necessary with the initial site plan, but the ARB made these requirements of the final site plan. c. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(5) applies; however, the ARB did not find the trees in question to be significant, so their preservation was not made a requirement of the initial plan. 2. The appellant states that the entrance is not in keeping with the rural character of the area. There is no EC guideline specific to entrances and rural character. The guideline that most closely relates to this statement is Guideline #6, which reads in part: “Site development should be sensitive to the existing natural landscape and should contribute to the creation of an organized development plan. This may be accomplished, to the extent practical, by preserving the trees and rolling terrain typical of the area; planting new trees along streets and pedestrian ways and choosing species that reflect native forest elements…” The ARB did not find the trees that were proposed to be removed for the entrance drive to be significant, nor did the ARB find it practical to retain those trees. The ARB found that planting trees along the entrance drive and adding trees to the graded slope would be sufficient to re-integrate the site into the surrounding environment. This planting was made a requirement of the final site plan. 3. The appellant states that alternate entrance locations were not considered. The applicant and the appellant both informed the ARB of alternate entrance locations that had been considered or attempted, or that might be available. The ARB discussed these alternate locations in detail, noting that shifting the location within the relatively small area available wouldn’t change the view considerably, but that it wasn’t really possible to review an entrance location not drawn on the plan. The ARB also noted that the goal of the ARB’s review was to determine whether the proposal meets the guidelines, not to determine all possible options. Because no guidelines were identified as being deficient with the entrance location that was proposed, the ARB did not require an alternate location. 4. The appellant states that continuity of the Entrance Corridor is not being preserved by the ARB’s action. The EC guideline that most closely relates to this statement is Guideline #7, which reads: “Landscaping should promote visual order within the Entrance Corridor and help to integrate buildings into the existing environment of the corridor.” The ARB did not find that the trees to be removed for the entrance drive were significant. Instead, the ARB found that trees along the entrance drive and trees added to the graded slope would be required to re-integrate the site into the surrounding environment. Continuity would be maintained with the planting of those trees, and this planting was made a requirement of the final site plan. BUDGET IMPACT: This item has no budget impact. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board affirm the ARB’s decision. ATTACHMENTS: A – Staff memo to the ARB B – ARB action letter C – New Hope Initial Site Development Plan sheets 2 and 3 D – Vicinity maps showing the New Hope Church site and the Entrance Corridor E – Photo of the New Hope Church site taken from the Entrance Corridor F – Text of applicable Entrance Corridor Design Guidelines G – March 18, 2013 ARB meeting minutes H – Letter requesting appeal Attachment C Excerpt May 8, 2013 Board Minutes Consideration of ARB Appeal Agenda Item No. 9. Appeal: ARB-2013-10. New Hope Church Initial Plan. The following executive summary was forwarded to Board members: On March 18, 2013 the Architectural Review Board (ARB) reviewed an initial site plan (ARB -2013- 10) for the New Hope Church at the intersection of Dickerson Road and Dickerson Lane. The proposal is to construct a church with associated site improvements, including an entrance off of Dickerson Road. The New Hope Church parcel is located approximately 350 feet west of the Route 29 North entrance corridor. Therefore, only the easternmost 150 feet of the parcel, a strip at the southeast corner of the site parallel to Dickerson Road and Route 29 North, is within the EC Overlay District. The entrance drive to the church will be located within this area. The visibility of the site from the Route 29 North EC is limited. A map showing the New Hope Church parcel in relation to the EC Overlay District is included as Attachment D. A photograph taken from the Route 29 North EC and showing the site is included as Attachment E. Under the County’s new site plan regulations, the ARB’s review of New Hope Church’s initial si te plan was governed by County Code § 18-32.4.2.2(b), which limited the ARB’s review at this stage of the site plan process for consistency with the applicable design guidelines to the following: (i) the size, location and configuration of structures; (ii) the location and configuration of parking areas and the location of landscaped areas; and (iii) identifying existing trees, wooded areas and natural features that should be preserved. After consideration of the matter, including the staff report that provided staff’s recommendations on the proposal (Attachment A) and comments by the New Hope Church representatives and the appellant, the ARB voted to transmit its recommendations on the initial site plan to the agent, as provided in County Code § 18-32.4.2.2(b)(3). The ARB will review the New Hope plan again at the final site plan stage because a Certificate of Appropriateness is required prior to final site plan approval. ARB Review of the Plan During the March 18, 2013 review, the ARB discussed the proposed entrance location, the character of the existing trees that are proposed to be removed, the steepness of the slope along the entrance drive relative to the amount of trees to be removed, and the degree to which a natural appearance would be achieved with re-planting slopes of varying degrees. The ARB considered in its discussion sensitivity to the existing natural landscape and the need to blend into the surrounding landscape, as provided by Guideline #6, and maintaining visual order within the EC, as provided by Guideline #7 (Attachment F). The ARB concluded that no requirements were needed to satisfy the guidelines at the initial site plan stage of review. The ARB agreed with staff’s recomm endation that planting along the entrance drive and re-planting the graded slope with a mix of trees to re-integrate the development into the surroundings to meet Guideline #7 would be required to be shown on the final site plan stage. The ARB did not require that the details of that planting be provided with the initial site plan (See Attachment G for the minutes of this item at the March 18, 2013 ARB meeting). Information regarding the grounds for appeal In a letter of appeal, the appellant identified four grounds for appeal (Attachment H). The grounds are listed below in italics. Staff’s response to each item follows in standard text. 1. The appellant states that no requirements were imposed to satisfy the design guidelines under County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(2), Size and arrangement of structures; County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(3), Location and configuration of parking areas and landscaping; and County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(5), Preservation of existing vegetation and natural features. a. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(2) does not apply in this case because the proposed structures are located outside of the EC overlay district. b. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(3) applies, and the ARB determined that trees would Attachment C be required along the entrance drive and on the slope adjacent to the drive. However, sufficient area was shown on the plan for the required planting, and the ARB did not require that the details of the planting be provided with the initial site plan. Consequently, no requirement was necessary with the initial site pl an, but the ARB made these requirements of the final site plan. c. County Code § 18-30.6.4(c)(5) applies; however, the ARB did not find the trees in question to be significant, so their preservation was not made a requirement of the initial plan. 2. The appellant states that the entrance is not in keeping with the rural character of the area. There is no EC guideline specific to entrances and rural character. The guideline that most closely relates to this statement is Guideline #6, which reads in part: “Site development should be sensitive to the existing natural landscape and should contribute to the creation of an organized development plan. This may be accomplished, to the extent practical, by preserving the trees and rolling terrain typical of the area; plant ing new trees along streets and pedestrian ways and choosing species that reflect native forest elements…” The ARB did not find the trees that were proposed to be removed for the entrance drive to be significant, nor did the ARB find it practical to retain those trees. The ARB found that planting trees along the entrance drive and adding trees to the graded slope would be sufficient to re-integrate the site into the surrounding environment. This planting was made a requirement of the final site plan. 3. The appellant states that alternate entrance locations were not considered. The applicant and the appellant both informed the ARB of alternate entrance locations that had been considered or attempted, or that might be available. The ARB discussed these alternate locations in detail, noting that shifting the location within the relatively small area available wouldn’t change the view considerably, but that it wasn’t really possible to review an entrance location not drawn on the plan. The ARB also noted that the goal of the ARB’s review was to determine whether the proposal meets the guidelines, not to determine all possible options. Because no guidelines were identified as being deficient with the entrance location that was proposed, the ARB did not require an alternate location. 4. The appellant states that continuity of the Entrance Corridor is not being preserved by the ARB’s action. The EC guideline that most closely relates to this statement is Guideline #7, which reads: “Landscaping should promote visual order within the Entrance Corridor and help to integrate buildings into the existing environment of the corridor.” The ARB did not find that the trees to be removed for the entrance drive were significant. Instead, the ARB found that trees along the entrance drive and trees added to the graded slope would be required to re-integrate the site into the surrounding environment. Continuity would be maintained with the planting of those trees, and this planting was made a requirement of the final site plan. This item has no budget impact. Staff recommends that the Board affirm the ARB’s decision. _____ Ms. Margaret Maliszewski, Principal Planner, addressed the Board, stating that on March 18 the Architectural Review Board (ARB) reviewed an application by the New Hope Church to construct a new church with associated site improvements, and the ARB’s action was to forward comments on the plan as recommended by staff to the agent. Ms. Maliszewski stated that the action has been appe aled by an adjacent owner, and the parcel in question is located approximately 350 feet west of Route 29, between Dickerson Road and Piney Mountain Road. Because the parcel is not adjacent to the Entrance Corridor, she said only the portion that falls within 500 feet of the right of way of the EC is included in the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. She presented an image showing the position 500 feet from the Route 29 Entrance Corridor, and the ARB reviews only that portion of the development to the rig ht of the red line. Ms. Maliszewski noted the location of everything on the parcel that is not subject to ARB review. Attachment C Ms. Maliszewski presented an image of the grading plan from the initial New Hope site plan proposal, and mentioned that it includes part of the entrance drive to the church. Ms. Maliszewski also presented a photo of the parcel taken from Route 29, noting that the visibility of the site is limited by the width of Dickerson Road and the 350-foot distance from the highway. She explained that, as a result of new regulations that went into effect in January, the ARB reviewed the proposal as an initial site plan. She mentioned that the ordinance limits the review to three specific items: the size and arrangement of structures, the location and configuration of parking and landscaping, and the identification and preservation of trees and other natural features. Ms. Maliszewski reported that, in the order of appeal, there were four particular items identified as grounds for appeal. She said that the first item stated that the ARB “imposed no requirements to satisfy the guidelines as per the relevant zoning ordinance sections,” and the first of those sections relates to the size and arrangement of structures which doesn’t apply here because none of the proposed structures are located inside the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. She said that the other sections do apply and are related to landscaping and existing natural features, but the ARB did not find that existing trees were significant so there was no need to require preservation of those trees. Ms. Maliszewski stated that the ARB did determine that new trees would be required along the proposed entrance drive and along the slope adjacent to the drive, and there was sufficient area shown on the plan for that planting and, therefore, there was nothing additional required at the initial site plan stage. Ms. Maliszewski said that the second grounds for appeal stated that alternate entrance locations were not considered, but they were discussed at length at the ARB meeting. However, she said, the ARB did not find any guidelines to be deficient relative to the entrance location that was proposed, so no additional requirements were needed. She stated that the last two grounds for appeal rel ate to the entrance drive and rural character, and to continuity within the Entrance Corridor. She said the same issues apply here as in the first grounds for appeal, with the ARB finding that the trees were not significant so no preservation was required; new trees would be required along the drive and along the slope adjacent to the drive, and those trees would be sufficient to reintegrate the site into the surrounding environment. Ms. Maliszewski stated that several other issues have been discussed in recent weeks related to the overall church proposal, and many of those issues are not relevant to the ARB review or to the action that is the subject of the review at this meeting. She said the ARB’s action is based on ordinance requirements for ARB review of the initial site plan and on the Entrance Corridor design guidelines, and so the recommendation for tonight is to affirm the ARB’s decision. Ms. Mallek asked how there was a “dramatic change in the plan” from what the Board saw in July when it was approved and what’s now in process does not affect ARB deliberations. She said the Board had lots of discussion in the public hearing about the pines at the corner, whic h do not belong to the church. She said the trees actually belong to VDOT, and VDOT told the Board that they could all be cut down tomorrow, which wipes out the viewshed protection for the corner that Ms. Maliszewski alluded to as being the property. She expressed concern that that was significant to the Board’s decision, and would open up the visibility and she was having trouble reconciling those. Mr. Rooker said it seems Ms. Mallek is raising a legal issue, and asked how the County can require VDOT to maintain trees in the right of way. Ms. Mallek responded that the trees are not in the right of way, they’re on a separate property, outside 16 feet from the center line. Mr. Davis clarified that there is no condition that requires the preservation of these trees, as it was part of the approved special use permit. He said it may have been discussed, but there was no condition to that effect. Ms. Mallek stated that this issue was talked about it in the public hearing and it was very important in the adoption of the vote, and the Board was told it would be taken care of at the site plan stage, and now that this project is at that stage, the people doing the site plan say “well you didn’t write it Attachment C down, so we’re not going to bother.” Ms. Mallek stated that is the way the rules are operating right now, which is why we’re here today and added that it is all related. Mr. Rooker responded that Ms. Mallek’s comments are getting overly general about the way the Board operates. He said that he remembers the project coming forward with the primary issue being whether they were going to put in a soccer field, and that came off the table shortly before it came before the Board. Mr. Rooker stated that he didn’t remember it being contentious, nor did he recall anything about the trees in this spot other than discussion that it had to get ARB approval. He said that they are limited by the scope of the review of their decision, and asked Mr. Davis on what areas the Board might be able to second guess the ARB as well as the standards for doing that. Mr. Davis replied that the review before the Board is very limited because the review by the ARB is a very limited review at this point. He said that this is the review by the ARB of the preliminary plan, which is limited to a general finding by them on the design guidelines that ma y be impacted by the project. He said that is the only thing that is before the Board today and, while the Board has the authority to affirm, reverse or modify the ARB’s decision, they are bound by the same rules and procedures which is a very limited review. He said the Board cannot revisit the special use permit as part of this process and cannot require them to move the features on the site plan unless they’re in conflict with ARB guidelines. Ms. Mallek said the ARB is also supposed to take the critical slopes into account, as they have changed dramatically from what the Board approved. Mr. Davis stated that it may be a site plan issue if there are critical slopes waivers required, as the applicant will have to comply with site plan requirements to get final site plan approval – but the fact that there are critical slopes there doesn’t put any additional requirements other than those required by the County’s ordinances on the site plan. He said that there were no special use permit conditions attached to critical slopes, and the County’s ordinance regulates critical slopes and relies on those regulations to address critical slopes issues. Mr. Rooker asked if there was a critical slopes waiver sought as part of the init ial approval. Ms. Mallek said that there was, and noted two places that were represented during the special use permit process as “site plan #1.” Mr. Rooker stated that, if they come back with a final site plan that disturbs different critical slopes, they would have to come back with a waiver for the areas of critical slopes that was not approved in the first waiver. He added that the Board does not have that issue before it today. Mr. Davis confirmed that it was not an issue that was before the ARB, because it wasn’t part of their review. Ms. Meghan Yaniglos, Senior Planner, addressed the Board, stating that she reviewed the initial site plan and indicated that the critical slopes waiver they may need might be exempt for access ways per the ordinance so it might not come before the Board. Mr. Rooker asked if the entrance way had moved from the proposal the Board saw. Ms. Mallek said that the difficulty was that the identification of critical slopes was changed because they did a field topo instead of relying on the County’s computer model. She said there’s an enormous difference in the critical slopes. She added that the Board looked at a tiny piece of acreage during the hearing, and recalled that Mr. Benish did talk about that extensively. Ms. Yaniglos responded that that portion may come back, but engineering hasn’t reviewed the request yet as it would be part of the condition of the final site plan. She said that the engineers have provided staff with the new information, it just hasn’t been reviewed yet. Mr. Rooker said staff would normally review that at the time of the final site plan, and the ARB doesn’t really have anything to do with the critical slopes. He said that is what the Board is looking at Attachment C today, which is the ARB’s approval, and is based upon the criteria that are in their guidelines and the ordinances. Mr. Davis stated that it also pertains to a very limited portion of the site, which is just the site within 500 feet of Route 29 – which only captures a very small corner. He said where the buildings are and this other disturbance is outside of the ARB review entirely and reiterated that what is before the Board tonight is very limited and just addresses those general guidelines for that preliminary review. He stated that the issues the Board may have with the site plan are not before it tonight, and that will be taken up in the site plan review process, which has not been completed. Ms. Mallek asked if the Board could still call a site plan up. Mr. Davis responded that they could not. Mr. Rooker said that, even if the Board were able to call up a site plan, under the old ordinance, there would still be a difference between administrative and a discretionary decisions. He stated that the decision regarding the site plan is an administrative determination as to whether or not an applicant satisfies all the objective criteria – and the same holds true with critical slope waivers, which are based upon the criteria set out in the ordinance. Ms. Mallek stated that she wanted to hear comment from the public as well as the applicant. Mr. Ed Blackwell of Blackwell Engineering addressed the Board as a representative for the church, stating that the entrance shown on the plans now is the entrance that was brought to the Planning Commission, Board and ARB the previous year, and was also the same entrance on which the initial site plan review was done. Mr. Blackwell stated that they have looked at numerous entrance locations and found one that was acceptable, and he met with VDOT onsite several times and entrance #4 was the one he got VDOT’s blessing on through the staff review process. He said that the church is more than willing to replant trees, and his understanding is they need to go back to the ARB with their landscape plan. Mr. Blackwell stated that some of the verbiage in their special conditions was that the replanting must be spaced and located to achieve a natural appearance. He said he is certain that they will be held to a very tight standard on that, and does not object to replanting heavily. Mr. Blackwell said that the trees there now are bull pines, and they would plant whate ver level and style of trees that is acceptable to the neighborhood and to ARB staff. He stated that they feel the entrance location is the most cost efficient for the church, and it’s been reviewed by numerous bodies, so they’d like to move forward with it. Mr. Rooker said he didn’t think the Board was here to make a decision about where the entrance should be tonight. Mr. Davis responded that is the case unless it conflicts with an ARB guideline, and the finding of the ARB and the staff was that it did not. Ms. Miriam Pitts addressed the Board, stating that the process for the church has been lengthy, costing time and energy, very frustrating, and confusing to say the least. Ms. Pitts said that the process has been fraught with multiple layers of deceptive misinformation that requires minute attention to detail and translation from “legalese and engineer speak” to lay language. She stated that the major culprits are the lack of transparency and seemingly reluctance of the County staff and ARB to regulate the design of development within the County’s Entrance Corridors and adjacent rural land. Ms. Pitts said that the Entrance Corridor is quickly moving further north and closing in on Ruckersville, and neighborhood concerns are real and directly related to current changes taking place. She stated that the County and the ARB seem to be suffering from paralysis caused by incompetence, inability and improper application of guidelines and rules that are in place to protect our County’s land. Ms. Pitts said that citizens feel as if they didn’t get the in-depth expertise they needed from County employees, and she never imagined that the County’s lack of careful scrutiny for approval of the church’s initial plans would ever make them feel as helpless, vulnerable, and unprotected as landowners. Ms. Joyce Walker addressed the Board, stating that recently her neighbors Chuck Boldt and Greg Quinn filed an appeal requesting denial of the ARB’s certificate of appropriateness for New Hope Church – and she stands firmly behind them in full support of this request. Ms. Walker stated that they do not Attachment C agree that the proposal meets the intent of the special use permit with regard to critical slopes and extent of woods now being removed. She said that, when turning off of Route 29 North onto Dickerson Road, upon rounding the bend on the right is a forest of Virginia pine trees – the foothills of Piney Mountain. Ms. Walker stated that she has traveled the road for 35 years, and when she se es the stand of pines she gets a sense of peace and harmony with nature and knows she’s nearing home. She said she cannot imagine rounding that bend and not seeing those woodlands. She pointed out that Mr. Boldt has worked tirelessly in suggesting options and seeking solutions and suggested now is the time to accept some of his assistance. She requested the Board think carefully about reconsidering this matter and make the right decision. Mr. Greg Quinn addressed the Board, stating that he would like for the Board to consider revoking the certificate of appropriateness for the New Hope Church site plan and reject it as it stands now. Mr. Quinn said that the church should be allowed to build under the Establishment Clause, but there should be equal protection for the neighbors under the 14th Amendment. He stated that, when the church comes in and builds their building and parking lot, it’s a big commercial thing. He said he is not against the church, but just downsize it because the church’s parking lot would provide clandestine access to his property and, in turn, a safety issue for him. Mr. Quinn added that he thinks gospel’s a good idea, but he’d like to see a good neighbor downsize this project, make it more rural, and think about the considerations and safety. He mentioned that he attends one of the other three churches in the area and they are small and low-profile – but this church is just like a big old commercial project on a little piece of property. Mr. Chuck Boldt addressed the Board, stating that he’s extremely frustrated by what he’s heard, adding that it seems they are doubling down and waiting for the final plans before doing anything and, at that point, the church has an investment. He stated that the ARB didn’t want to consider a separate entrance because only one entrance was proposed, and staff refused to allow other options. He said the Board can consider other things, it is not limited. Mr. Boldt said that it’s sad that after every turn they’re getting rules and regulations thrown in their face that say they don’t know what they’re talking about. He stated that he doesn’t disagree that the church should be there, but they were not given an opportunity to speak when the Board voted on the special use permit and the conditions on that SP are no longer valid. He said this entrance is larger than what was approved adding that the ARB admitted it wasn’t the best entrance, but they said it was the ‘only entrance,’ and that is a false statement. He said that Ms. Mallek has worked with neighbors to try to find something different but has been rebuffed by the staff at every turn. Mr. Boldt stated that he’s spoken about this five times in the last three months, and the “before and after” he sent them via email should give them pause. He encouraged the Board to vote against the certificate of appropriateness, adding that the church does not control the land between Dickerson and Route 29 – Tax Map 2115. Mr. Boldt said that, if the trees go away with an approved use, the entire site will be visible from 29 and that is not the impression you get when you look at that picture that Margaret showed you. There being no further public comment, the Chair placed the matter before the Board. Ms. Mallek said that there were four questions sent that relate very directly to the ARB question about the fact there’s no obligation to replace the trees that’s written down anywhere. She asked how they can require the site to remain buffered, and said she would like to have a record established that deals with this. Mr. Thomas said that he understood the applicant to state that he would replace all the trees once they were taken out. Mr. Rooker responded that Ms. Mallek’s concern is that the trees be of a size and type that would restore the visual aspects of the property. Mr. Boyd stated that that’s not the issue before them and that should have been dealt with at the special use permit stage as a condition of approval. Attachment C Ms. Mallek said that they thought they had discussed it, but it never got written down and so now it doesn’t exist. Mr. Boyd replied that he doesn’t recall that being discussed. Mr. Rooker said there is a bifurcated ARB process now, and this is the first part of the process – which is a very limited review to only the things specified when the Board amended the ordinance. He stated that the idea was to have the ARB weigh in early with things like the location of the buildings onsite, and then, at a later stage make certain that landscaping and other features under their control will be dealt with. He said the landscaping will come back to the ARB, as he understands it so it would seem to him, if this Board expresses a strong interest in seeing heavy landscaping in that area where trees are being removed, that is a factor the ARB can take into consideration when this comes back for their final approval. Mr. Rooker added that the neighbors can attend the ARB meeting and speak, and said that the Board should make it clear in this meeting that they support the applicant’s offer to plant in any way he’s directed to plant in order to restore the visual aspects of the property. He stated that they could even take a vote to send a letter to the ARB about the conversation at this meeting on that issue. Mr. Davis clarified that the guidance on landscaping th e ARB has given is outlined in the third bullet and, if that’s not acceptable to address the Comp Plan guideline, the Board could amend that statement but staff’s position is that the statement is adequate to compensate for t he lost wooded area at this point in the plan. He said that this would be subject to a detailed plan coming in as part of the final site plan that would show exactly the type of trees and where they would be located and , at that time, staff or the ARB could evaluate that as to whether the applicant has met the guidance that was given at this point in the process. Mr. Snow said the third bullet seems to address all of the things we’re talking about. Ms. Mallek said that 2” caliper trees at 40 feet apart would take a very, very long tim e to provide any actual screening. Mr. Rooker said that the ARB conditions for landscaping on the final site plan say “at a minimum,” so the Board just needs to make it clear that they’d like the ARB to take a very hard look to make certain that is not the minimum to be achieved here. Mr. Snow agreed and stated that 2”-caliber trees would never provide the privacy that the pines were giving, so the mixture of other trees worked in with the larger canopy makes the difference. He said it is the smaller trees that are going to create that visual barrier. He added that he thinks it’s appropriate to send a letter to the ARB to make sure they’re achieving what the Board is trying to do. Ms. Mallek asked if there was any agreement to address the focus of staff to investigate further the increases in critical slopes, because the detailed information was not presented to the Board last year. She said, if this map had been presented, the Board would not have had a discussion about how it was .03 of an acre, adding that quite a lot of the land is critical slopes which is going to be in jeopardy. She said that staff’s feedback has been “this is fine the way it is,” which means they didn’t really focus in on the changes between what the Board approved in July and what’s now being sent in. Mr. Rooker said, if a final site plan comes back and shows that there is disturbance of critical slopes and materially different than what was approved by the waiver, they would need to come back for a waiver with respect to the new disturbance. Mr. Davis clarified that any critical slopes beyond what are necessary for the entrance would be subject to a critical slopes waiver, which would have to be approved as a special exception by the Board under the current ordinance. He pointed out that any critical slopes that have not already been approved by a waiver is not an issue that [the ARB] can address. Mr. Rooker agreed that it’s not an ARB matter, adding that there were a few areas of critical slopes that were approved for a waiver and, if there’s a material difference, they would have to come back for another waiver. Attachment C Ms. Yaniglos explained that there were some small critical slopes waivers that were approved with the special use permit, but staff hasn’t done a comparison to see what has changed and to what extent. Mr. Davis stated that if it’s changed, any critical slopes waiver that wasn’t previously approved will be subject to a critical slopes waiver process which would likely come before the Board. He said that, under the existing ordinance, it would come before the Board with the entrance being exempt. Mr. Davis stated that it’s in the planning staff’s work plan to address the critical slopes requirements but, at this point, a special exception from the Board would be needed. Mr. Rooker stated that whenever they capsulate an ordinance and it no longer comes before them, they lose a little flexibility in how they shape plans. Ms. Mallek asked if there was interest among fellow Board members in showing any kind of concern that something more needs to be done in this circumstance. Mr. Rooker responded that he did join in Ms. Mallek’s concern, which is why there was discussion about beefing up the landscaping component of the project. He said Mr. Paul Wright of the ARB had talked about orienting the building toward the entrance corridor which was an important factor from the ARB’s perspective and that would also, in this case, take a lot of the pressure off the neighboring properties as opposed to having all the parking facing Piney Mountain Road instead of Rt. 29. Ms Mallek said she would like to figure out some way to deal with conditions that apply to other people’s property in the future so that the County does not fall into this trap again. She said the Board was relying on the pine trees to visually protect the entrance corridor from the very wide cut that is being made. She visited the property and was able to see how m uch is being proposed to be removed and felt that there was very little room to replant any kind of visual barrier on the property and that is the kind of dilemma the County has found itself in. Mr. Rooker agreed and stated he would like to beef up the landscaping requirements. He added that the County has ordinances in place, and the Board has to follow the ordinances and those are meant to be objectively applied. Ms. Mallek said that there have been some statements about this being the only entrance that would be allowed, which is not true because Joel DeNunzio of VDOT stood on the site and indicated he would approve the entrance wherever the County wanted it to be. She stated that she’d ask for the entrance to be 50 feet further from the stop sign to improve the traffic flow and also to remove the cut into the property from the view of the opening on Dickerson Road. Mr. Boyd asked Ms. Maliszewski if staff had looked at other entrances. Ms. Maliszewski responded that staff did not look at other entrance locations, but other entrance locations were discussed at the meeting. She said that the applicant went through a process to get to the fourth choice for an entrance, and there were no other entrances illustrated for review. Ms. Mallek said they controlled the information that was given. Mr. Boyd asked at which meeting the entrances were discussed. Ms. Maliszewski said that alternatives were discussed at the ARB meeting. Mr. Davis stated that there’s no requirement for the applicant to provide alternate entrances, as long as they provide an entrance that meets all the County requirements and the site plan ordinanc e, and is acceptable to VDOT. He said the County does not require people to do any more than that adding that it is a ministerial process and, if the applicant meets the ordinance requirements and the special use permit requirements – which staff has determined that they’ve met – then they are not obligated to change the location of their entrance. Attachment C Mr. Rooker said that is a legal matter, not a discretionary decision. Ms. Mallek stated that that’s because the County has essentially designed it that way. Ms. Mallek moved to uphold the appeal as presented and overturn the decision. Mr. Rooker said that he can’t support that because there’s no legal basis to do it. Mr. Snow reiterated that there is no legal basis for it. Ms. Mallek commented that it’s the history of what’s gone on. Mr. Boyd then moved to affirm the ARB’s decision. Mr. Snow seconded the decision. Mr. Rooker noted that the ARB only reviews certain very limited things at this point in a plan, and they have done that here, and he sees no legal basis for second guessing the limited review that the ARB performed at this stage of the process. He said that there’s not a legal requirement in the ordinance or in state law to allow the Board to come in and say “we think you should move your entrance,” nor does it allow the ARB to do that. Mr. Boyd agreed, and said that is why he made the motion. Mr. Rooker said there were a number of these issues that could have been addressed at the special use permit consideration stage but, once that’s granted, the Board is locked in by it and, after that, there’s a process for approval of a plan, which is mostly ministerial. He said that , if the critical slopes issue differs from what was approved by waiver, it would have to come back, and the Board has expressed an interest in making sure it did. Mr. Rooker added that they also expressed interest in making certain that the planting is such that it provides adequate and good screening to the extent feasible. Ms. Mallek asked if the site plan would have to be done before any clearing or grading permit is given because, if that’s not required, then all this effort is for nothing. Mr. Graham explained that, under the new process, typically one can get a grading permit after an initial site plan and, in this particular case, condition #4 with the ARB requires a tree conservation plan that would have to be reviewed and approved prior to the issuance of a grading permit. He said that in addition, if there are differences in the critical slopes from what are approved, staff would have to have that verified and, if a critical slopes waiver was required, that would have to be approved before issuing the grading permit. He pointed out that, once the initial site plan is approved, the only two things between a grading permit [are] the tree conservation plan and the verif ication on the critical slopes. Mr. Rooker mentioned that it doesn’t include the landscaping plan that ultimately gets imposed. Mr. Graham agreed, noting that it would be a requirement with a certificate of appropriateness and would be done as part of the final site plan. Mr. Rooker added that, whether we like it or not, there’s nothing under state law that prevents anybody from cutting trees down on their property; it’s only when they come forward with a plan that we actually can assert some control. Ms. Mallek pointed out that the legislation just changed last year that forestry rules do not apply once an application has been made to do something else, so they are under development rules now, therefore, he cannot just go and clear cut the property and pretend it is forestry regulations. Mr. Graham said that there are the special use permit conditions that apply. Attachment C Mr. Rooker agreed, but said it’s only the filing of a plan that puts them in a position where they do have control over what’s cut on the property. Mr. Boldt addressed the Board, stating that regarding the special use permit approval, he and his neighbors were not allowed to come to that meeting. He said they asked staff when it would be held, and they were never told. Mr. Boldt said staff stood up here and represented their interest without our approval. He said the Board does have a little more leeway, and it would be a shame to let the decisions regarding this application left up to staff. Mr. Boldt said that it is way more, and it’s been misrepresented and, if it cannot be stopped tonight, please give he and his neighbors something that gives them some hope that they will be heard. Roll was then called and the motion carried by the following recorded vote: AYES: Mr. Snow, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Boyd, Mr. Dumler and Mr. Rooker. NAYS: Ms. Mallek. Mr. Rooker clarified that, if there is a material difference in the critical slopes that were approved by waiver before and what ultimately turns out to be disturbed pursuant to the final site plan, it would still come back to the Board. Mr. Davis confirmed that there would have to be a critical slopes waiver granted for any additional disturbance that wasn’t already approved. Ms. Mallek asked what the definition of “significant” and “minor” and how they deviate from the plan the Board voted on last July. Mr. Davis responded that he didn’t have the conditions in front of him, but he recalled that it had to be “in general accord,” which means that the major features of the plan have to be consistent. He added that the zoning administrator would make the determination as to whether they are, and the determination has been that the preliminary site plan is in general accord with the special use permit approved by the Board. He said he thought that is a decision that’s already been made. Mr. Rooker asked if there was a determination made yet with respect to critical slope disturbance. Mr. Davis responded that there had not been, adding that it would be shown on the final site plan. He confirmed that the plan that was found to be “in general accord” would not preclude critical slopes waivers still being applied. Attachment D June 11, 2014 1 ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD STAFF REPORT Project #/Name ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan Review Type Final Site Plan Parcel Identification 021000000012C1 Location On the northwest side of the intersection of Dickerson Road (Route 606) and Dickerson Lane (Route 763), east of Piney Mountain Road, approximately 350’ west of the Route 29 Entrance Corridor Zoned Rural Areas (RA), Entrance Corridor (EC) Owner/Applicant New Hope Community Church/Michael Henderson, Pastor Magisterial District White Hall Proposal To construct a church with associated site improvements. Context The area around the subject parcel includes residences, wooded lots, and other churches. On the south side of Dickerson Lane is a substation of the Rappahannock Electric Company. To the east of the subject parcel is a partly wooded parcel with a billboard. An overhead utility line and its cut through the trees cross the southern end of the subject parcel. Visibility Only the easternmost 150’ of the subject parcel, a strip at the southeast corner of the site parallel to Dickerson Road and Route 29, is included within the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. Proposed in this strip is a portion of the entrance drive and the grading and tree removal required to construct the drive. None of the proposed buildings or parking areas is located within this strip. This area with the EC Overlay District has limited visibility from the Route 29 Entrance Corridor due to its distance from Route 29, and due to off-site trees that narrow the view to an approximate 70’ width across Dickerson Lane. ARB Meeting Date April 7, 2014 Staff Contact Margaret Maliszewski Attachment D June 11, 2014 2 PROJECT HISTORY DATE APPLICATION/REVIEW TYPE RESULT March 18, 2013 ARB-2013-10: Initial Site Plan The ARB reviewed and provided comments on the initial site plan. See Attachment A for the action letter. May 8, 2013 Appeal of the ARB’s March 18, 2013 decision to the Board of Supervisors The Board of Supervisors affirmed the ARB’s decision on the initial site plan. ANALYSIS REF GUIDELINE ISSUE RECOMMENDATION 1-5, 9-16 Structure design The proposed church building does not fall within the Entrance Corridor, so the building is not subject to ARB review. None. 17-21 Accessory structures and equipment There are no accessory structures or equipment to be located in the area of the site that is subject to ARB review. None. 22-31 Lighting There is no lighting proposed within the area of the site that is subject to ARB review. None. Landscaping 32 Landscaping along the frontage of Entrance Corridor streets should include the following: a. Large shade trees should be planted parallel to the Entrance Corridor Street. Such trees should be at least 3½ inches caliper (measured 6 inches above the ground) and should be of a plant species common to the area. Such trees should be located at least every 35 feet on center. b. Flowering ornamental trees of a species common to the area should be interspersed among the trees required by the preceding paragraph. The ornamental trees need not alternate one for one with the large shade trees. They may be planted among the large shade trees in a less The subject parcel has no EC frontage. None. Attachment D June 11, 2014 3 regular spacing pattern. c. In situations where appropriate, a three or four board fence or low stone wall, typical of the area, should align the frontage of the Entrance Corridor street. d. An area of sufficient width to accommodate the foregoing plantings and fencing should be reserved parallel to the Entrance Corridor street, and exclusive of road right-of-way and utility easements. 7 The requirements of the Guidelines regarding landscaping are intended to reflect the landscaping characteristic of many of the area’s significant historic sites which is characterized by large shade trees and lawns. Landscaping should promote visual order within the Entrance Corridor and help to integrate buildings into the existing environment of the corridor. The plan shows 2½” caliper shade trees that are common to the area (Red Maple, River Birch, Sweetgum and Willow Oak) spaced 40’ on center along the entrance drive. Smaller trees (Serviceberry, Redbud, Sweetbay Magnolia) are interspersed among the large trees and groups of evergreen and deciduous shrubs are proposed along both sides of the drive. The plan achieves a good mix of trees and shrubs that fills the slopes adjacent to the drive without an overly artificial appearance. The planting compensates for the trees removed from the immediate area and it is expected to blend into the surrounding landscape for an appropriate appearance from the EC. Four of the proposed trees are located in the VDOT right-of-way at the base of the entrance drive, and several shrubs are to be located over a gas line. Documentation from VDOT is needed to confirm that the planting in the right-of-way is acceptable. Confirmation that planting can be accomplished on top of the gas line is also needed (i.e., is the line deep enough for Provide documentation that VDOT has approved the planting in the right- of-way. Confirm that the plants proposed on top of the gas line can be planted in that location. If they can’t shift the plants to maintain plant quantities and to maintain an appropriate appearance from the EC. Revise the quantity of Little Bluestem in the plant list from 43 to 53. 8 Continuity within the Entrance Corridor should be obtained by planting different types of plant materials that share similar characteristics. Such common elements allow for more flexibility in the design of structures because common landscape features will help to harmonize the appearance of development as seen from the street upon which the Corridor is centered. 33 Landscaping along interior roads: a. Large trees should be planted parallel to all interior roads. Such trees should be at least 2½ inches caliper (measured six inches above the ground) and should be of a plant species common to the area. Such trees should be located at least every 40 feet on center. Attachment D June 11, 2014 4 planting above?). 53Little Bluestem are drawn on the plan but 43 are identified in the plant list. 34 Landscaping along interior pedestrian ways: a. Medium trees should be planted parallel to all interior pedestrian ways. Such trees should be at least 2½ inches caliper (measured six inches above the ground) and should be of a species common to the area. Such trees should be located at least every 25 feet on center. There are no interior pedestrian ways within the area of the site that is subject to ARB review. None. 35 Landscaping of parking areas: a. Large trees should align the perimeter of parking areas, located 40 feet on center. Trees should be planted in the interior of parking areas at the rate of one tree for every 10 parking spaces provided and should be evenly distributed throughout the interior of the parking area. b. Trees required by the preceding paragraph should measure 2½ inches caliper (measured six inches above the ground); should be evenly spaced; and should be of a species common to the area. Such trees should be planted in planters or medians sufficiently large to maintain the health of the tree and shall be protected by curbing. c. Shrubs should be provided as necessary to minimize the parking area’s impact on Entrance Corridor streets. Shrubs should measure 24 inches in height. There are no parking areas within the area of the site that is subject to ARB review. None. 36 Landscaping of buildings and other structures: a. Trees or other vegetation should be planted along the front of long buildings as necessary to soften the appearance of exterior walls. The spacing, size, and type of such trees or vegetation should be determined by the length, height, and blankness of such walls. b. Shrubs should be used to integrate the site, buildings, and other structures; dumpsters, accessory There are no buildings within the area of the site that is subject to ARB review. None. Attachment D June 11, 2014 5 buildings and structures; “drive thru” windows; service areas; and signs. Shrubs should measure at least 24 inches in height. 37 Plant species: a. Plant species required should be as approved by the Staff based upon but not limited to the Generic Landscape Plan Recommended Species List and Native Plants for Virginia Landscapes (Appendix D). The proposed plant species are acceptable for a central Virginia landscape. None. 38 Plant health: The following note should be added to the landscape plan: “All site plantings of trees and shrubs shall be allowed to reach, and be maintained at, mature height; the topping of trees is prohibited. Shrubs and trees shall be pruned minimally and only to support the overall health of the plant.” This note has been provided on Sheet L1.1. None. Development pattern 6 Site development should be sensitive to the existing natural landscape and should contribute to the creation of an organized development plan. This may be accomplished, to the extent practical, by preserving the trees and rolling terrain typical of the area; planting new trees along streets and pedestrian ways and choosing species that reflect native forest elements; insuring that any grading will blend into the surrounding topography thereby creating a continuous landscape; preserving, to the extent practical, existing significant river and stream valleys which may be located on the site and integrating these features into the design of surrounding development; and limiting the building mass and height to a scale that does not overpower the natural settings of the site, or the Entrance Corridor. The location of the entrance drive and the layout of the site were established with the initial site plan. None. 39 The relationship of buildings and other structures to the Entrance Corridor street and to other development within the corridor should be as follows: a. An organized pattern of roads, service lanes, bike Attachment D June 11, 2014 6 paths, and pedestrian walks should guide the layout of the site. b. In general, buildings fronting the Entrance Corridor street should be parallel to the street. Building groupings should be arranged to parallel the Entrance Corridor street. c. Provisions should be made for connections to adjacent pedestrian and vehicular circulation systems. d. Open spaces should be tied into surrounding areas to provide continuity within the Entrance Corridor. e. If significant natural features exist on the site (including creek valleys, steep slopes, significant trees or rock outcroppings), to the extent practical, then such natural features should be reflected in the site layout. If the provisions of Section 32.5.6.n of the Albemarle County Zoning Ordinance apply, then improvements required by that section should be located so as to maximize the use of existing features in screening such improvements from Entrance Corridor streets. f. The placement of structures on the site should respect existing views and vistas on and around the site. Site Grading 40 Site grading should maintain the basic relationship of the site to surrounding conditions by limiting the use of retaining walls and by shaping the terrain through the use of smooth, rounded land forms that blend with the existing terrain. Steep cut or fill sections are generally unacceptable. Proposed contours on the grading plan shall be rounded with a ten foot minimum radius where they meet the adjacent condition. Final grading should achieve a natural, rather than engineered, appearance. Retaining walls 6 feet in height and taller, when necessary, shall be terraced and planted to blend with the landscape. The width of the graded area at the entrance drive appears to be reduced from that shown in the initial plan by approximately 20’. This reduces the visibility from, and impact on, the Entrance Corridor. None. 41 No grading, trenching, or tunneling should occur Tree protection is shown on the plan and None. Attachment D June 11, 2014 7 within the drip line of any trees or other existing features designated for preservation in the final Certificate of Appropriateness. Adequate tree protection fencing should be shown on, and coordinated throughout, the grading, landscaping and erosion and sediment control plans. has been installed at the site. 42 Areas designated for preservation in the final Certificate of Appropriateness should be clearly delineated and protected on the site prior to any grading activity on the site. This protection should remain in place until completion of the development of the site. 43 Preservation areas should be protected from storage or movement of heavy equipment within this area. 44 Natural drainage patterns (or to the extent required, new drainage patterns) should be incorporated into the finished site to the extent possible. An underground detention facility is proposed under the entrance drive. A rip rap ditch, a paved ditch, and a drop inlet are located nearby. Given the size of these features, the distance from the EC, and the proposed landscaping, these features are not expected to have an impact on the appearance of the site from the EC. None. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Staff recommends the following as the primary points of discussion: 1. Proposed planting along the Entrance Drive: mix of plant types and species, quantity of plants, anticipated appearance from the EC Staff recommends approval with the following conditions: 1. Provide documentation that VDOT has approved the planting in the right-of-way. 2. Confirm that the plants proposed on top of the gas line can be planted in that location. If they can’t shift the plants to maintain plant quantities and to maintain an appropriate appearance from the EC. 3. Revise the quantity of Little Bluestem in the plant list from 43 to 53. Attachment D June 11, 2014 8 TABLE A This report is based on the following submittal items: Sheet # Drawing Name Drawing/Revision Date C1 Title Sheet 8-28-13 C2 Site Layout and Utility Plan 8-28-13 C3 Grading, ECS and Water Quality Plan 8-28-13 C4 Additional Notes and Details 8-28-13 C5 Additional Details and Profiles 8-28-13 L1 Landscape Plan L2 Landscape Details 2-21-14 A2.1 Elevations 6-24-13 Site Photos: EC looking north, EC looking west at Dickerson Lane, EC looking south, aerial view looking north - Attachment D June 11, 2014 9 ATTACHMENT A COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE Department of Community Development 401 McIntire Road, North Wing Charlottesville, Virginia 22902-4596 Phone (434) 296-5832 Fax (434) 972-4126 March 19, 2013 New Hope Church C/O Michael Henderson, Trustee and Pastor 3445 Seminole Trail, Suite 300 Charlottesville, Va 22911 RE: ARB-2013-010: New Hope Church 021000000012C1 Dear Mr. Henderson: At its meeting on Monday, March 18, 2013, the Albemarle County Architectural Review Board , by a vote of 3:0, voted to forward the following recommendations on the above-noted Initial Site Development Plan to the agent for the Site Review Committee:  Regarding requirements to satisfy the design guidelines as per 30.6.4(2), (3) and (5): None.  Regarding recommendations on the plan as it relates to the guidelines: None.  Regarding recommended conditions of initial site plan approval: ARB approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness is required prior to final site plan approval. The final site plan shall sho w 2½” caliper trees at 40’ on center (or the equivalent thereof), at a minimum, along the entrance drive; and a mix of additional trees, located and spaced to achieve a natural appearance, on the slope adjacent to the entrance drive to compensate for lost wooded area.  Regarding conditions to be satisfied prior to issuance of a grading permit: Provide a tree conservation plan. Show tree protection fencing along all tree lines to remain, in particular along the entrance drive. Add the installation of tree protection fencing to the sequence of grading and erosion control work. Attachment D June 11, 2014 10 You may submit your application for contin ued ARB review at your earliest convenience. Application forms, checklists and schedules are available on - line at www.albemarle.org/ARB. Please be certain that your ARB submittal addresses the above-noted issues. If you have any questions concerning any of the above, please feel free to call me. Sincerely, Margaret Maliszewski Principal Planner cc: Edmond H. Blackwell, P.E., Blackwell Engineering, PLC 566 East Market Street Harrisonburg, Va 22801 File Attachment E June 11, 2014 COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE Department of Community Development 401 McIntire Road, North Wing Charlottesville, Virginia 22902-4596 Phone (434) 296-5832 Fax (434) 972-4126 April 11, 2014 Michael Henderson, Pastor 3445 Seminole Trail, Ste. 300 Charlottesville, VA. 22911 RE: ARB201400024 – New Hope Church - Final TAX MAP PARCEL: 021000000012C1 Dear Mr. Henderson: The Albemarle County Architectural Review Board reviewed the above noted item at its meeting on Monday, April 7, 2014. The Board voted to grant approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness, pending staff administrative approval of the following conditions: 1. Revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak in the VDOT right of way. 2. Revise the quantity of Little Bluestem in the plant list from 43 to 53. Please provide: 1. Two full sets of revised drawings addressing each of these conditions. Include updated ARB revision dates on each drawing. 2. A memo including detailed responses indicating how each condition has been satisfied. If changes other than those requested have been made, identify those changes in the memo also. Highlighting the changes in the drawing with “c louding” or by other means will facilitate review and approval. 3. The attached “Revised Application Submittal” form. This form must be returned with your revisions to ensure proper tracking and distribution. When staff's review of this information indicates that all conditions of approval have been met, a Certificate of Appropriateness may be issued. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Margaret Maliszewski Principal Planner Attachment E June 11, 2014 COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE Department of Community Development REVISED APPLICATION SUBMITTAL This form must be returned with your revisions to ensure proper tracking and distribution. County staff has indicated below what they think will be required as a resubmission of revisions. If you need to submit additional information please explain on this form for the benefit of the intake staff. All plans must be collated and folded to fit into legal size files, in order to be accepted for submittal. TO: _Margaret Maliszewski_________________________________ DATE: ___________________ PROJECT NAME: ____ARB-2014-24 New Hope Church ________ Submittal Type Requiring Revisions ( ) indicates Submittal Code County Project Number # Copies Erosion & Sediment Control Plan (E&S) Mitigation Plan (MP) Waiver Request (WR) Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP) Road Plan (RP) Private Road Request, with private/public comparison (PRR) Private Road Request – Development Area (PRR-DA) Preliminary Site Plan (PSP) Final Site Plan (or amendment) (FSP) Final Plat (FP) Preliminary Plat (PP) Easement Plat (EP) Boundary Adjustment Plat (BAP) Rezoning Plan (REZ) Special Use Permit Concept Plan (SP-CP) Reduced Concept Plan (R-CP) Proffers (P) Bond Estimate Request (BER) Draft Groundwater Management Plan (D-GWMP) Final Groundwater Management Plan (F-GWMP) Aquifer Testing Work Plan (ATWP) Groundwater Assessment Report (GWAR) Architectural Review Board (ARB) ARB-2014-24 2 Other: Please explain: (For staff use only) Submittal Code # Copies Distribute To: Submittal Code # Copies Distribute To: ARB 2 M. Maliszewski ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 1 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MINUTES April 7, 2014 The Albemarle County Architectural Review Board met on Monday, April 7, 2014, 1:00 p.m., Room 241, Second Floor, County Office Building, Charlottesville, Virginia. Those members present were Charles T. Lebo, Vice Chair; John Quale, Marcia Joseph, Fred Missel, and Bruce Wardell, Chair. Mr. Missel arrived at 1:34 p.m. Mr. Lebo left at 3:28 p.m. Staff members present was Margaret Maliszewski and Sharon Taylor. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Wardell called the meeting to order at 1:03 p.m. and established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT Mr. Wardell invited public comment. There being none, the meeting proceeded. REGULAR REVIEW ITEMS Mr. Wardell noted the ARB would skip to ARB-2014-24 New Hope Church Final Site Plan since the applicant was not present for ARB-2014-21 Chick-fil-A Final Site Plan. ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan - Final Site Plan (TM/Parcel 021-12C1) Proposal: To construct a church with associated site improvements. Location: On the northwest side of the intersection of Dickerson Road (Route 606) and Dickerson Lane (Route 763), east of Piney Mountain Road, approximately 350’ west of the Route 29 Entrance Corridor Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski provided a brief overview of the proposed work and noted the location of the subject parcel, indicating that it is approximately 350’ from the Rt. 29 Entrance Corridor. She stated that the ARB previously reviewed the initial site plan in March, 2013 and the ARB’s action was appealed. On May 8, 2013 the Board of Supervisors affirmed the ARB’s decision on the initial site plan. Staff clarified that only the easternmost portion of the parcel, a 150’ strip of land at the southeast corner of the site parallel to Dickerson Road and Route 29, is included within the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. Proposed in that strip is a portion of the entrance drive and the grading and tree removal required to construct the drive. None of the proposed buildings or parking areas is located within this strip. The area within the EC Overlay District has limited visibility from the Route 29 Entrance Corridor due to its distance from Route 29, and due to off-site trees that narrow the view across Dickerson Lane. Consequently, ARB review at this time is limited primarily to landscaping along that entrance drive. At the initial review the ARB indicated that they wanted to see a mix of trees along the entrance drive, and the trees should be located and spaced to achieve a natural appearance on the slope to compensate for lost wooded area. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 2 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Staff stated that a mix of trees and shrubs has been proposed, and identified three issues with the landscape proposal. One minor issue was to correct the plant count. The applicant has agreed to that. A second issue was to confirm that plants can be planted on top of the gas line. The applicant has confirmed that the planting can take place due to the depth of the gas line. The third issue was to obtain confirmation from VDOT that VDOT is OK with the trees to be planted in the right-of-way. An adjustment needs to be made there. After the staff report was completed the applicant did get word from VDOT that either the Willow Oak or the Redbuds could be planted. The applicant can tell us more about that. With that change, we anticipate that the appearance from the EC will still be appropriate. Staff is recommending approval with the minor conditions listed in the staff report. You’ll want to amend the conditions to address the recent corrections. Mr. Wardell invited questions. Ms. Joseph asked staff what the basis of the appeal to the Board of Supervisors was. Ms. Maliszewski asked if there were other questions while she looked for the letter of appeal. Mr. Wardell noted at a previous hearing there was a member of the public that voiced some objections to the development. His recollection was the objections weren’t covered by the scope of the ARB’s review of the project. They were general objections to the project. Our review was in the Entrance Corridor and we only had jurisdiction over the entry because you can’t see the building. Ms. Joseph pointed out there was a line for ARB review drawn at 500’. Mr. Wardell agreed that the ARB’s jurisdiction was in front of that line. In response to Ms. Joseph’s question on the basis of appeal, Ms. Maliszewski read from the appellant’s letter stating, no requirements were imposed to satisfy the design guideline under County Code of 18- 30.6.4.c(2) size and arrangement of structures, location and configuration of parking areas and landscaping, and preservation of existing vegetation and natural features. Also, the appellant states the entrance is not in keeping with the rural character of the area. Also, the appellant states that alternate entrance locations were not considered and that continuity of the entrance corridor is not being preserved by the ARB’s action. Ms. Joseph noted the appellant appealed what the ARB had determined the last time. It went to the Board of Supervisors and the Board upheld what the ARB had discussed. It did not go any further. Ms. Maliszewski agreed. Mr. Wardell asked if there were other comments for staff. Mr. Quale recalled a previous informal discussion about access in that this may not be the only location where access could happen. He recalled the ARB was able to determine that there were really no other legitimate access points. He asked if that was correct. Ms. Maliszewski replied that there was discussion about that. However, the point with the ARB review was that it was not the ARB’s responsibility to find other access points, but to review what was presented. Applicant Presentation: ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 3 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mike Henderson, Pastor of New Hope Church, and Joan Albiston, landscape architect, represented the request. Mr. Henderson pointed out Joan Albiston did the landscape design plan and their engineer was on the way. Joan Albiston, landscape architect, said she worked on the planting plan for New Hope Church and was present to answer questions. Ms. Maliszewski asked Ms. Albiston to go over the VDOT tree issue. Ms. Albiston addressed staff’s comments. She stated that there was a typo on the plant list, and the plant counts on the plan rule. There are three (3) Redbuds and one (1) Willow Oak proposed to be planted within the VDOT right-of-way. That is to help balance out the plantings left and right at the entrance. That property appears to be part of the New Hope Church site, but it is actually VDOT right-of-way. Troy Austin, VDOT engineer, said he would allow the one (1) Willow Oak or the three (3) Redbuds, but not both. His concern is the proximity of the trees to the inlet and his fear of having it clogged. They can either remove the Willow Oak and put in the three (3) Redbuds or remove the three (3) Redbuds and put the Willow Oak where the Redbuds would be going. Mr. Wardell asked which option she would prefer. Ms. Albiston replied she would probably put in the Redbuds because that area has some woodland and the Redbuds are going to make a bigger impact immediately and over the future as they seed. Mr. Wardell invited public comment. Ann Mallek, White Hall District Board of Supervisors representative, said she had questions because the plants are different than were approved by the Board of Supervisors. That was part of the concern when it came to the ARB in the fall. She hoped the ARB had a chance to get the pictures sent to Ms. Maliszewski, which actually show today how much more of the existing woodland has been removed than was on any of the original plans and the much more dramatic exposure of the property to the public. She reviewed the photos with the ARB. In the view from 29, on the northern side of the driveway, it shows the matting on the bank. Everything directly behind that she understands is where the building is going to be. There was an “S” curve in the original drawing that was going to keep some of the woodland as a screen and that is all gone. The next photograph shows how few trees are left. Basically everything above the bulldozer has been removed that was going to be the screen between the highway and the building. Secondly, between the bulldozer and where the gas line is from the north (offscreen), is all completely denuded. There is a very wide swath from Dickerson Road where everything has been taken down. She knows the ARB is in a tangle with the process. However, this process has been in a tangle on this project from the very beginning because the Board of Supervisors was presented with one plan that showed a miniscule amount of critical slope and when it came back it was huge. She was not able to get the majority of the Board to be interested in a second bite of this because of that huge discrepancy from her perspective. They are trying to be watchful and make sure that as this goes forward an overabundance of screening, as Mr. Henderson had promised, would actually happen. She did not see any of that information on these plans, especially to the north. Mr. Wardell asked if she was saying the actual construction has not been done according to these drawings. Ms. Mallek replied that these drawings are different than what was approved by the Board of Supervisors two years ago, which is the discrepancy that she sees. When the critical slope information finally came forward, the original location of the building was in the critical slope and had to be changed. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 4 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Quale asked if the building was previously located further to the east. Ms. Mallek replied that she could not remember. However, there has been a dramatic increase in the amount of wood cutting at that site. She hopes the ARB will be able to help make sure the plantings that are needed to replace what has been taken down that was unanticipated will be put in writing somewhere. Mr. Lebo asked how much of this (referring to the photo) falls under the ARB’s purview from the bottom line down. Ms. Mallek replied nothing within the ARB’s very limited view, which is basically the upper photograph, is the only thing the ARB has jurisdiction about. Perhaps they are just up the creek. The buck is passed to the ARB by the site plan process. She understands the earlier review was the first bubble diagram and these details were not going to be required last fall. However, now they are here at the end. So they are really trying to make sure that somebody actually gets these things written down appropriately whether it be the ARB or the site plan staff. As she said it may be outside what the ARB can do. However, it will be in the ARB’s record as they move forward. Mr. Wardell noted that he made the assumption that what he was looking at was the same version the ARB had seen last fall. Ms. Mallek replied that is probably accurate as far as the location of the building. However, the change happened between the ARB’s review and the Board of Supervisors approval. Mr. Wardell asked if she was saying what the ARB actually looked at last fall was different than what the Board of Supervisors had approved. Ms. Mallek replied yes, because of the moving of the buildings and the recognition of the increased critical slope that was not in the original plan. She understands there is a very sketchy first drawing that is done. This was of great concern to begin with because of the hilly situation there. However, it is the process and so they have to live with it. Mr. Quale recalled the meeting, noting they actually did have a conversation about the critical slope and the location of the building. Mr. Wardell pointed out the plan the ARB discussed was different from the plan approved by the Board of Supervisors. Ms. Mallek noted that has been raised multiple times during the last couple of years. She knows this is last ditch, but did hope the ARB would bring whatever attention they can to make sure they get a replacement of the screening that was to be left. It may just be a recognition passed back to the site plan. Mr. Wardell invited public comment. Charles Boldt, resident at 5260 Piney Mountain Road, stated that he was the person who appealed the ARB’s last decision. He noted that the drawing being reviewed today has a 2:1 slope. When they talked last March the ARB was looking at a drawing without any critical slopes. The ARB thought they had the ability to pick any area which did not have critical slopes. Three weeks later a drawing was submitted with critical slopes. The ARB talked about 3:1 slope and was what they said should be approved, which is what the Board of Supervisors acted on. What they see now has a 2:1 slope and is not what the ARB approved. It is not consistent with what the special use permit has. He requested the ARB reject it so ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 5 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES they can go back and do what they said originally. The landscape is not evergreen and being low to the ground is inappropriate. He also thinks this will be seen from 29. The applicant is relying on the neighbor not doing anything on his property, which he cannot guarantee. There is lots of documentation and they could be here for hours. However, the gist of it is that what they are looking at is not what was approved. Mr. Lebo asked staff if the excavation began prior to this being approved. Ms. Maliszewski replied the grading can occur after the initial plan is approved. She added that it really was not the ARB’s job to determine whether this plan meets the special use permit plan or not. The ARB review is limited. If they want to compare this plan to the plan the ARB looked at last fall they can do that. Mr. Wardell asked if it was the same plan the ARB looked at last fall in terms of grading. Ms. Maliszewski replied no, there is a difference. Mr. Boldt stated that the most significant difference is the slope 3:1 vs. 2:1. There was a lot of discussion about the appropriateness of the 3:1. Mike Henderson, Pastor, pointed out if they go out to the site today there is a pin in the middle of the road which has been there for a couple of years. So that has not changed. He pointed out the 2:1 slope. We were trying to not take down as many trees. There are not a lot of trees in the small area and they would like to get permission to put more trees to fill it in. He explained they want to put in more trees to screen the entrance, but the county has to allow it. They would need to be told which trees to put in. They want to increase the trees because they want an attractive entrance to the property. They think it would be better if they have a little more of a buffer. Mr. Wardell noted that the new drawing shows less trees being taken out than the previous plan. The 3:1 has a gentler slope but takes out more trees. Ed Blackwood, site engineer with Blackwood Engineering, said they have a letter dated May, 2013 from the county with all the review comments, including the following comment: Reduce the slope grading and tree disturbance by using a maximum slope steepness of 2:1. That was to limit the tree cutting. Therefore, they incorporated that into the plan, which was part of the initial site approval about a year ago. They steepened the slope on the entrance drive to 2:1 and in some other places to keep the tree cutting to a bare minimum. That should have been reflected in the plan that came to the ARB last fall. The initial site plan approval had some comments and they addressed those. Ms. Maliszewski noted that was after the ARB review. Mr. Blackwood noted he was not sure of the time frame. The request was from the county to steepen those slopes in order to have less tree removal. Therefore, they incorporated that into the final site plan. Mr. Wardell said that is what the drawing shows, but he was having a hard time pinpointing what they are being asked to review in response to comments from a member of the Board of Supervisors saying that what was presented here does not conform to what they approved. The ARB does not have any information on the exact configuration of what the Board of Supervisors approved. He asked if that was correct. Ms. Maliszewski replied that she did not have the approved concept plan to look at. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 6 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Wardell said that would have been a special use permit plan. Ms. Maliszewski agreed. She reiterated that it was not really the ARB’s responsibility to do that comparison. If someone is to do that comparison again and find that the plan is not what it used to be and was something in the ARB’s area of review was to change, then staff would bring it back to the ARB. But, that has not happened. What the ARB has to review is what they have before them today. Mr. Wardell pointed out what they have before them today is a change from a 3:1 to 2:1 slope at least from what was said publicly. Not having actually seen a copy of the letter he asked staff to submit a copy. He asked if the review was in response to a request from a county planner. Megan Yaniglos, the site planner for the project, said staff requested that during the initial site plan review because the special use permit condition listed wooded areas to remain as much as possible. That was one of the areas. Engineering had recommended that they could go to a 2:1 slope in order to have more wooded areas in consult with the zoning reviewer. Mr. Wardell asked if she was the author of that letter, and Ms. Yaniglos replied yes. Mr. Wardell asked if her comment was in response to her interpretation of the Board of Supervisors’ requirements. Ms. Yaniglos replied that it was a zoning interpretation. Mr. Wardell noted it was a zoning interpretation from the Board of Supervisors’ approval of the conceptual site plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied that was correct for the special use permit. Mr. Wardell pointed out going to a 2:1 slope is consistent with reducing the amount of disturbance of trees since a 3:1 slope would take more trees out. So the ARB is looking at a plan that has a 2:1 slope in the area that the ARB has jurisdiction. The ARB reviewed the photos and discussed the area within the ARB’s jurisdiction. Ms. Joseph pointed out they don’t know exactly what the quality is interior to the wooded area and some of the trees may come down themselves when others are taken down. Mr. Quale agreed because the roots are impacted. Mr. Wardell said the ARB’s jurisdiction for review was the planting plan and the grading plan for the entrance and that is it. Mr. Lebo agreed that was correct. Ms. Joseph asked Ms. Yaniglos how the process works and if they got preliminary site plan approval and therefore they can get a grading permit with an erosion and sediment control plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied that was correct. They had to submit an early grading plan to engineering and they were able to clear and do some grading. Then they would submit the final Water Protection Ordinance (WPO) and Erosion and Sedimentation (E&S) plan during the final. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 7 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Ms. Joseph asked if they can do some grading before they have an E&S plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied no, they would have to do an E&S plan with the early grading plan. However, the final calculations and everything would be done during the final site plan. Ms. Joseph asked what kinds of things need to be done before the final site plan approval. Ms. Yaniglos replied they need ARB approval, planning approval and engineering final approval. In addition, they need VDOT and Health Department approval. They have Health Department approval. Mr. Wardell asked staff to characterize in what way the entrance design that was submitted differs from what the Board of Supervisors approved. Ms. Yaniglos replied that staff looked at that extensively with zoning. They actually did an overlay and zoning has found it matches the concept plan that was approved by the Board. Mr. Lebo pointed out he was ready to recommend approval on this. Mr. Wardell said he was trying to figure out if there was anything that was in the ARB’s jurisdiction that has changed since it would impact the validity of their vote. Mr. Quale added that if it is found in further review that there was something that needs to be brought back that it would be brought back. However, that would happen anyway. Mr. Joseph said if people think it is important to look at the rest of the site, then the ordinance needs to be changed so that the ARB can look at the rest of the site and not just at the 500 foot line. Mr. Missel arrived at 1:34 PM. Mr. Wardell invited applicant input. Mike Henderson said that he knows it is beyond the line and he pointed out the orange tree protection fence in the photo. He noted the thin area of trees there and that is what they would like to fill in to increase the buffer. However, they have to get approval from the county and that is down the road. From the outset their goal has been to retain as many trees as possible, which is why they see the 2:1 slope and the minimal cutting that has been done. Mr. Wardell closed the public discussion period to bring the matter before the ARB for discussion. Board Discussion Mr. Lebo said he was satisfied with what they are doing. Mr. Wardell asked for a motion. Mr. Lebo made a motion to approve the CofA for ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan with staff’s recommendations and adding one condition that there will be three (3) Redbuds planted in addition to what staff has recommended. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 8 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Ms. Maliszewski suggested the ARB revise condition #1 to say revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak. In addition condition #2 could be deleted because they resolved the issue about the planting over the gas line. Condition #3 would stay the same. Mr. Lebo revised his motion to state that on staff’s recommendations, item #1 has been revised to state “Revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak in the VDOT right of way” and to delete item #2, as follows: Motion: Mr. Lebo moved for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan with the conditions listed in the staff report, amended as follows: 1. Revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak in the VDOT right of way. 2. Revise the quantity of Little Bluestem in the plant list from 43 to 53. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 4:0:1. (Missel abstain) Mr. Wardell asked that a copy of the site review letter be placed in the file. ARB-2014-21: Chick-fil-A Final Site Plan - Final Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 078-55A2) Proposal: To construct a restaurant with drive-thru lanes and associated site improvements. Location: 1626 Richmond Road, on the north side of Route 250, across from State Farm Blvd., at the site of the former Aunt Sarah’s Pancake House Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski summarized the staff report, noting the following items as primary points for discussion: 1. Green screens: design, planting 2. Retaining walls: height, planting 3. Landscaping: at retaining wall, along entrance drive, general character 4. Building design: color/treatment of mechanical room and meter doors, frosted glass windows, detailing at the top of the walls The ARB reviewed this proposal in August of last year. At that time the ARB did a preliminary review of the site and architectural design and provided advisory comments on the special use permit request for the drive-thru. The special use permit for the drive-thru was approved by the Board of Supervisors in March, 2014. The Board also approved a waiver of the by-pass lane requirement. An initial site plan has been submitted to the county for review. Regarding the Initial Site Plan Staff recommends that the ARB forward the recommendations to the Agent for the Site Review Committee as listed in the staff report. Regarding the final review of the site and architectural design Staff recommends approval with the conditions listed in the staff report. Applicant Presentation: Representing the request were Gregory Dodd, Civil Engineer with Horton & Dodd, PC, and Corvin Flynn, property owner. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 9 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Dodd explained the changes to the plan regarding the following issues: · Lighting issue has been resolved · Treatment at the closed end of North Pantops Drive (off-site) · The green screens There being no public comment, the matter was before the ARB for discussion and action. BOARD DISCUSSION The ARB discussed the proposal with staff and the applicant regarding the following issues/concerns: · Design and location of green screens · Frosted windows · Electric panel color · Landscaping plan · Treatment of North Pantops Drive Regarding the Initial Site Plan Motion: Mr. Lebo made a motion to forward the following recommendations to the Agent for the Site Review Committee regarding ARB-2014-21, Chick-Fil-A Pantops. · Regarding requirements to satisfy the design guidelines as per § 18-30.6.4(2), (3) and (5): None. · Regarding recommendations on the plan as it relates to the guidelines: None. · Regarding recommended conditions of initial plan approval: A Certificate of Appropriateness is required prior to final site plan approval. · Regarding conditions to be satisfied prior to issuance of a grading permit: o Coordinate proposed grading and tree protection fencing to ensure the health of the three maple trees to remain in the right-of-way along the EC. o Provide evidence of grading and planting easements. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5:0. Regarding the final review of the site and architectural design Motion: Mr. Lebo moved for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for ARB-2014-21: Chick-fil- A Final Site Plan with the conditions listed in the staff report, as follows: 1. Provide VLT and VLR values for the window glass showing that visible light transmittance (VLT) shall not drop below 40% and visible light reflectance (VLR) shall not exceed 30%. 2. Revise the elevations to correctly identify north, south, east and west. Assume Rt. 250 runs east-west. 3. Indicate the type of glass proposed for the service yard door. 4. Provide the dumpster details on the site plan. 5. Indicate the height of the transformer located northeast of the building. Ensure that visibility of the transformer from the EC will be eliminated. 6. Add the mechanical equipment note to the site plan: “Visibility of all mechanical equipment from the Entrance Corridor shall be eliminated.” 7. Revise the photometric plan using a maintenance factor of 1.0 for all fixtures. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 10 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES 8. Revise the photometric plan so that spillover does not exceed .5 fc at the north, east and south property lines. 9. Revise the fixture schedule to specify “down light only” for the OL fixture. 10. Revise the photometric plan to reduce light levels under the canopy to 20 fc maximum. 11. Reduce light pole height to 20’ maximum, including bases. 12. Add the standard lighting note to the plan. “Each outdoor luminaire equipped with a lamp that emits 3,000 or more initial lumens shall be a full cutoff luminaire and shall be arranged or shielded to reflect light away from adjoining residential districts and away from adjacent roads. The spillover of lighting from luminaires onto public roads and property in residential or rural areas zoning districts shall not exceed one half footcandle.” 13. Coordinate the quantity of AXGK shown on the plan with the number listed in the schedule. 14. Revise the plan to show the proposed treatment for the area of N. Pantops Drive that is to be demolished. 15. Coordinate green screen locations and plants among all drawings. 16. Provide a detail for the wall-mounted green screens. 17. Clarify/coordinate the proposed planting with the gas line along the EC side of the property and the storm pipe northwest of the building. 18. Increase the size of the shrubs on the south and west sides of the building to 24” high at planting, minimum. 19. Provide evidence of grading and planting easements. 20. Increase the size of the Zelkovas at the interior of the parking lot to 2½” caliper minimum at planting. 21. Provide for review a sample of the block proposed for the retaining wall. 22. Add details to the plan to clearly show that the proposed planting can be accomplished with the proposed retaining wall block system. 23. Coordinate proposed grading and tree protection fencing to ensure the health of the three maple trees to remain in the right-of-way along the EC. Mr. Missel seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 5:0. Regarding condition #14, the ARB also clarified that the renderings show the accurate locations of the green screens. ARB-2014-25: Bojangles - Advisory Review of a Special Use Permit, Preliminary Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 078-73A2) Proposal: To construct a restaurant with drive-thru and associated site improvements. Location: 2013 Abbey Road, on the south side of Rt. 250 between the Applebee’s and the bank in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski summarized the staff report, summarizing the proposal, noting the location and anticipated visibility, and noting the following items as primary points for discussion: 1. The drive-thru window and lane location, design, appropriateness for the EC 2. The glass block windows 3. The awning color 4. The star signs 5. The overall building design ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 11 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES 6. Shrubs along the side elevations Regarding the request for the Special Use Permit: Staff recommends that the ARB forward the following recommendation to the Planning Commission: The ARB has no objection to the request for the SP based on the design of the drive-thru window and lane as illustrated in the February 17 and February 20, 2014 architectural elevations and the February 20, 2014 conceptual site layout. Regarding the preliminary design: Staff offers the comments on the preliminary design listed in the staff report. Applicant Presentation: Neil McCordant, representative for the area franchise, noted a previous meeting with Ms. Maliszewski and discussed the following primary issues: · Glass blocks – working on proportions relative to the store front windows · Brick added at the bottom of stucco · Star signs part of design Kelly Strickland, with Shimp Engineering, noted in the review of the special use permit for the drive-thru the county engineer has recommended they increase the drive-thru lane from 10 1/2’ width to a 12’ width. He pointed out to do that they will need to increase the one-way travel way from 26 ½’ to 28’. The only way they can do that is by taking away part of that landscaping between the bank and the proposed drive- thru. Therefore, they are asking for a waiver of that 12’ requirement. There being no public comment, the matter was before the ARB for discussion and action. BOARD DISCUSSION The ARB discussed the proposal with staff and the applicant regarding the following issues/concerns: · Supports waiver for 12’ travelway width requirement · Relative blankness and attention to scale · Brick detail and articulation · Architecture – height of pilasters, break down to more human scale for integrated architectural appearance · Integrate the glass block windows · Future work session on architecture · Entrance design · Maintain medallions Regarding the Request for the Special Use Permit: Motion: Mr. Lebo made a motion to forward the following recommendation to the Planning Commission regarding ARB-2014-25, Bojangles. The ARB has no objection to the request for the Special Use Permit (SP) based on the design of the drive-thru window and lane as illustrated in the February 17 and February 20, 2014 architectural elevations and the February 20, 2014 conceptual site layout. The ARB also expresses support for the waiver request for the travelway width, maintaining a 10.5’ width. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 12 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES The motion carried by a vote of 5:0. Regarding the preliminary design: The ARB offers the following comments on the preliminary design: 1. Consider revising the proportions of the glass block windows to coordinate with the architectural proportions and detail and/or material of the overall building. 2. Provide glass specs on the architectural drawings indicating that visible light transmittance (VLT) shall not drop below 40% and visible light reflectance (VLR) shall not exceed 30%. 3. Provide a dumpster screen detail on the plan. Screening materials should be coordinated with building materials. 4. Revise the plan to show the locations of all drive-thru related items. Provide screening to ensure an appropriate appearance from the EC. 5. Add the standard mechanical equipment note to both the site and architectural plans: “Visibility of all mechanical equipment from the Entrance Corridor shall be eliminated.” 6. Provide complete information on lighting for review. 7. Provide a sufficient quantity of EC frontage trees to meet the 35’ on center requirement. 8. Be sure the plans clearly show existing plants to remain and to be removed. 9. Provide a plant schedule for review. 10. Consider continuing the shrub planting along the two back bays of both side elevations. 11. Provide the standard planting note on the plan: “All site plantings of trees and shrubs shall be allowed to reach, and be maintained at, mature height; the topping of trees is prohibited. Shrubs and trees shall be pruned minimally and only to support the overall health of the plant.” 12. Provide a complete landscape plan for review. 13. Sign permits will be required for all wall signs. Note that red acrylic #2283, and its equivalents, is not approvable shades of red. 14. Eliminate the stars from the piers and pilasters. Maintain the medallions. 15. Consider revising the facades to provide a more human scale and integrated architectural appearance that breaks down the scale of the canopies, pilasters, façade and cornice. This could be done by providing additional detail or articulation in the stucco facades, and providing more detail in the brick. 16. Reinforce the design of the entrance to the building. This could be done by breaking up the composition of the canopy. The ARB recessed at 2:47 p.m. and the meeting reconvened at 2:55 p.m. Work Sessions ARB-2014-06: Out of Bounds - Initial Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 60/65) Mr. Lebo left meeting at 3:28 p.m. The ARB held a work session on ARB-2014-06: Out of Bounds to discuss the planned sequence of construction and the extent of review that will be required by the ARB for the various blocks of the residential development. Vito Cetta presented a PowerPoint presentation to explain the proposed development. Mark Keller, architect, was also present. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 13 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES The ARB directed the applicant to provide a site section or sections to clarify the visibility of the various parts of the development from the Entrance Corridor and encouraged the applicant to provide 3D illustrations, if possible. It was the consensus of the ARB that the buildings along Road D would not likely require ARB review due to the anticipated low level of visibility from the EC, but elevations would be needed for the buildings in Block 3. OTHER BUSINESS Green Screens at MedExpress building at Pantops: Ms. Joseph asked staff to check with the inspectors about the green screens on the MedExpress building at Pantops because it looks like the plants for the screens have not been planted. Approval of Minutes: Motion: Mr. Missel moved to approve the 3/17/2014, 2/22/11, 3/7/11, 4/4/11, 7/18/11, 9/6/11, 9/19/11, 10/17/11, 12/5/11 and 12/19/11 minutes. Ms. Joseph seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4:0. (Lebo absent) Next ARB Meeting: Monday, April 21, 2014 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3:35 p.m. to the next ARB meeting on Monday, April 21, 2014 in Room 241, Second Floor, County Office Building at 1:00 p.m. Bruce Wardell, Chair (Recorded and transcribed by Sharon C. Taylor, Clerk to Planning Commission & Planning Boards) Attachment G June 11, 2014 Summary of Appeal Grounds and Staff Response Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes Drawings submitted do not reflect the initial plan approval Entrance slope submitted was 2:1. Initial approval was for a slope of 3:1. BOS did not revise approval. Stormwater management has changed. Changes made to the plan between the initial review and the final review addressed the ARB’s comments. The change in slope and conformity with the concept plan and Initial Site Plan are beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal BOS approval to disturb critical slopes at entrance does not exist The Special Use Permit identified the critical slopes that could be disturbed. BOS has never acted to allow disturbance of critical slopes beyond the small amount in the Special use Permit approval of July 11, 2012. Approval is normally a separate action. Plans submitted to ARB for the April 7, 2014 meeting show extensive critical slopes which were not approved to be disturbed in the granting of the Initial Plan Approval because they were not shown on that submittal. Only the BOS can approve disturbance of critical slopes and by specific and documented action. Zoning and Planning staff had already determined that the Initial Site Plan was consistent with the approved concept plan. The determination of the consistency of site plans with approved concept plans is beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Staff Report was not made available before the meeting, was incomplete and did not adequately present the project The Staff report was not available before the meeting making comments difficult. ARB staff reports are always available on request. The Appellant did not request a copy of the staff report. Not Applicable to this Appeal When timing and workload allow, staff reports are linked to the on- line agendas. Staff reports for the April 7, 2014 ARB meeting were not linked to the on-line agenda. Staff report did not identify that the Initial Site Plan approved by ARB on March 18, 2013 The ARB generally does not approve Initial Site Plans and did not approve one on March 18, 2013. The March 18 action was to forward recommendations to the Agent for the Site Review Committee. Not Applicable to this Appeal and the BOS on May 8, 2013 was not what was being submitted for review. The Final Site Plan was the subject of the review, not the Initial Site Plan. Generally, in the ARB review process, it is anticipated that changes will be made to the Initial Site Plan for the Final Site Plan submittal. The ARB discussed the changes that were made to the slope during the meeting. Not Applicable to this Appeal Attachment G June 11, 2014 Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes Plan submitted was for a 2:1 slope entrance rather than an approved 3:1 slope. Staff did not have documentation of what was approved at the meeting for comparison. During the April 7, 2014 meeting, the ARB asked to see the plan from the initial ARB review. Staff pulled the plan from the file, the ARB looked at it and compared it to the plan currently under review. The concept plan approved with the Special Use Permit was not presented at the ARB meeting. Consistency between the Final Site Plan and the concept plan was not a subject of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Staff report did not indicate that Initial Approval was based on no critical slopes being disturbed. The Agent’s approval of the Initial Site Plan was based on many things. Basis of Initial Site Plan approval is not a required component of an ARB staff report. The content of the staff report was limited to the items that were subject to ARB review and the specific ARB comments made during the initial review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Plans submitted have a significant increase in critical slopes whose disturbance has not been approved. The May 8, 2013 BOS approval does not address critical slopes nor did the April 7, 2014 ARB vote. The determination of the consistency of site plans with approved concept plans is beyond the scope of ARB review. ARB actions are not required to specifically address critical slopes, but the ARB discussed the slope issue during the review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Staff report indicated that the area in the EC Overlay District had limited visibility from the Route 29 Corridor. The portion of the site included within the EC Overlay District does have limited visibility from the Rt. 29 Corridor. (See photo, below.) Visibility is described as limited because: 1) the site is located approximately 350’ from the EC, 2) the view is currently limited to an approximate 70’ width across Dickerson Lane, and 3) the typical mode of travel along this portion of the corridor does not support extended views of the project area. Generally, staff discourages determinations of visibility based only on the view of the driver of a vehicle speeding down the highway without passengers; however, the lack of sidewalks and the typical speed of travel along this portion of the corridor are factors for consideration. This statement is in error because the adjacent landowner is under no obligation to maintain the tree buffer the ARB relied on to determine the site was not visible. Since the church does not own the adjacent parcel, the ARB must review considering the fact that the entire property has the potential to be significantly, along its entire length, visible from Route 29. (Visibility) Standard ARB policy is to review only that portion of the site that falls within the EC Overlay District. For parcels that were not adjacent to the EC street at the time the overlay was adopted, including the subject parcel, only that portion of the parcel that falls within 500’ of the EC right-of-way is included in the Overlay District. If the trees on the adjacent parcel were to be removed, the site would be visible for a greater distance along Rt. 29. The ARB does sometimes disregard off-site screening when considering the appearance of a development. Typically, the ARB does not want to rely on off-site screening (including trees in the VDOT right-of-way) to mitigate on- site development. If a development needs screening, it should be accommodated on its own site, or an off-site easement should be provided. Using off-site screening to mitigate development is not the Attachment G June 11, 2014 Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes The adjacent parcel has a frontage of approximately 350’. Nevertheless, visibility would still be described as limited because of the distance from the corridor and the narrow area of work that falls within the overlay district (less than 150’ at its widest and 200’ at its longest). issue at New Hope Church. At New Hope, the off-site trees were identified as contributing to limited visibility. Removing the trees from the adjacent parcel would make the already limited area of work visible for a longer distance along Rt. 29; it would not make an objection-able feature suddenly visible. The lack of trees on the adjacent lot would not have changed staff’s recommendations, and would probably not have changed the ARB’s decision. Natural drainage patterns have been significantly altered. (Ref 44) The proposed rip rap ditch, paved ditch and drop inlet call attention to engineered structures that will be visible from the entrance corridor. The stormwater features are not expected to have a visual impact on the EC due to their size and the distance from the EC. Not Applicable to this Appeal The guidelines do allow for the consideration of natural drainage patterns: “Natural drainage patterns (or to the extent required, new drainage patterns) should be incorporated into the finished site to the extent possible.” However, the drainage proposal for the overall site was not reviewed because the overall site is not subject to ARB review. The drainage features that fall within the EC overlay are not expected to be noticed from the EC. The underground detention facility was not part of storm water plan proposed in the initial site plan. In the ARB review process, it is generally anticipated that there will be changes between the Initial Site Plan and the Final Site Plan. Not Applicable to this Appeal Staff is not correct that by reducing the width of the drive that the visibility from, and the impact on the entrance corridor is reduced. Rather, it has resulted in steep cuts which project an engineered appearance which call attention to what has been done because of those steep and unnatural slopes. A natural appearance is not being provided. (Ref 40) The ARB discussed the change in slope and tree removal at the entrance drive. The Board agreed that the steeper slope allowed for reduced tree removal, which meant an increase in natural appearance. The intent of the ARB’s comments on the Initial Site Plan was to use landscaping to mitigate the engineered appearance. Glenn Brooks letter of May 14, 2013 lacks BOS approval to change what is required Staff report did not include County Engineer letter of May 14, 2013 issued after the BOS meeting on May 8, 2013 which affirmed the March 13, 2013 ARB vote. There is no requirement that a County Engineer letter be included in an ARB staff report. Not Applicable to this Appeal The May 14, 2013 memo from Glenn Brooks to Megan Yaniglos stated, “1) Reduce the slope grading and tree disturbance by using a maximum slope steepness of 2:1 (2 ft horizontal for 1 ft vertical), or an equivalent amount using retaining walls, while maintaining appropriate entrance sight lines.” Attachment G June 11, 2014 Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes The letter of May 14, 2013 changes what was required by the BOS. The County Engineer does not have the authority to change what the BOS approved and the motivation for the letter is unclear since six days earlier the BOS provided specific direction. Further, only the BOS can approve the disturbance of critical slopes which, in affirming the ARB decision, the BOS did not do. Retaining walls called for in the letter are also not provided. Questions regarding the authority of the County Engineer are beyond the scope of ARB review. The Initial Site Plan was found in general accord with the Special Use Permit; any minor modification beyond that only requires compliance with the ministerial requirements of the ordinance. Not Applicable to this Appeal. The location of the entrance drive in the Special Use Permit was based on a site plan and staff assurance that no critical slopes were being disturbed. The determination of the consistency of site plans with approved concept plans is beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal The original ARB action specifically stated that the review was based on a plan with no critical slopes at the entrance. The March 2013 ARB action did not specifically reference critical slopes. (The action is copied below for reference.) Not Applicable to this Appeal When a revised plan was submitted on April 9, 2013 that showed extensive critical slope being disturbed, staff was remiss in not requiring that the church needed the BOS to approve the disturbance before proceeding. The BOS had determined what the entrance should look like and did not approve the disturbance of critical slopes. Proceeding without resolving the critical slope issue and scope of entrance with the BOS was in error. The determination of the consistency of site plans with approved concept plans is beyond the scope of ARB review. The Initial Site Plan was found in general accord with the Special Use Permit. Not Applicable to this Appeal Documentation of VDOT approval was not provided Documentation of VDOT approval should have been provided before action was taken. An updated plan reflecting VDOT approval was not provided. It is standard practice to require documentation from other agencies as a condition of ARB approval, rather than prior to action. It is standard practice for staff to recommend changes to the plan as a condition of ARB approval. Not Applicable to this Appeal No documentation was submitted to substantiate the VDOT position. The applicant’s representative reported on information obtained verbally from VDOT. The change to the plan that will meet VDOT’s requirement will have to be shown on the plan submitted for final approval. Not Applicable to this Appeal Subsequent to the meeting, information was received from VDOT confirming what the applicant said in the meeting – the Willow Oak was too close to the culvert. Special Use Permit conditions are not complied with Determinations regarding compliance with Special Use Permit conditions are beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Attachment G June 11, 2014 Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes The landscaping proposed does not promote visual order within the entrance corridor nor does it harmonize the appearance of the development as seen from the street (Ref 7 and Ref 8). The proposed plan does not blend into the surrounding landscape nor does it fill the slopes without an overly artificial appearance from the EC as staff claims. The dominate species visible are evergreens such as Virginia pine and cedar. The proposed landscaping calls attention to the entrance by virtue of the stark contrast between the proposed entrance plants and the evergreen wooded area that is adjacent to it. The entrance uses commercial, non-evergreen plants that provide no visual buffer to the site. Staff determined that the proposed mix of trees and shrubs would fill the slopes adjacent to the entrance drive, eliminating the engineered appearance of the slopes, that the planting would compensate for the trees removed from the immediate area, and that the planting would blend into the surrounding landscape sufficiently to establish an appropriate appearance from the Rt. 29 EC. This determination was made considering that the proposed plants are natives and/or included on the County’s recommended species list, that the area in question lies approximately 350’ from the EC street, that the available view is narrow, with an approximately 70’ width across Dickerson Lane, that the general speed of travel on Rt. 29 is relatively fast, and that there are no sidewalks along this segment of the Rt. 29 corridor. W ax myrtle, one of the shrubs proposed along the entrance drive, is typically considered an ever- green shrub. Plant choice is a balance of several factors, including local conditions, like deer resistance and durability on slopes, the availability of plant material and sizes, required maintenance, and standard site plan and ARB requirements (which tend toward immediate impact). The grasses can be deer resistant and are some of the plants that would grow back naturally after clearing the area. Pine and cedar would also grow back naturally, but the ARB did not require that the planting be limited to those species. Staff’s recommendation for a natural appearance was intended to increase the quantity of plants to mitigate the engineered appearance of the slopes and to de-emphasize the regular spacing of trees that would typically be found in more urban settings and that typically results from the most basic application of the design guidelines. (The goal was a more substantial planting than the minimum requirement of 2 ½” caliper trees, 40’ on center, along interior roads.) Those goals were met with the proposed plan. Further, the Special Use Permit required that extensive wooded areas would remain to visually buffer the site to which new landscaping would be added and compliment. The woods to remain have been removed and are not replaced which means the plan does not conform to the Special Use Permit. Taken together the site calls attention to itself when the intent of the Special Use Permit was the exact opposite. Determinations regarding compliance with Special Use Permit conditions are beyond the scope of ARB review. The Initial Site Plan was found in general accord with the Special Use Permit. Not Applicable to this Appeal Staff also did not point out to the ARB that the trees and other features designated for preservation in the Special Use Permit have in fact been removed and/or are impacted. (Ref 40, 42 and 43) Determinations regarding compliance with Special Use Permit conditions are beyond the scope of ARB review. At the time of the meeting, staff was not aware of any issues with preservation areas on site. At the meeting, the applicant stated In response to a complaint, Inspections staff found that a small area of trees was removed during the clearing process that should not have been. The removal appeared to be incidental and the area was strawed and seeded. Attachment G June 11, 2014 Appellant’s Grounds for Appeal Staff Response Notes willingness to add landscaping in the wooded area that now appears “thin” after clearing. Notice of meeting not given to adjacent property owners Written notices to adjacent property owners of the April 7, 2013 were not sent. Since the plan presented is significantly different, this oversight prevented all potential aggrieved parties from attending the meeting. There is no requirement for notifying adjacent property owners of ARB meetings. Not Applicable to this Appeal In reviewing the ARB decision the BOS can under 30.6.8(c) consider other factors such as: 1.How the full development of this site both inside and outside the EC impacts the site and rural character of the area. The section of the ordinance cited does not provide additional information regarding the extent of the development to be considered and it does not reference impacts “inside and outside the EC”. Not Applicable to this Appeal In granting the Special Use Permit adequate vegetative buffers were an important consideration in the approval. The determination of the consist- ency of site plans with approved concept plans is beyond the scope of ARB review. The Initial Site Plan was found in general accord with the Special Use Permit. Not Applicable to this Appeal In reviewing and approving the Initial Site Plan, the BOS affirmed the importance of the buffers and requested that the final site plan be brought back to the BOS for review before staff and the church proceeded to a Final Site Plan Approval. That request should be honored. Undocumented Partial Approvals should no longer be made. Scheduling site plans for BOS review is beyond the scope of the ARB. A request to bring the Final Site Plan before the Board was not part of the motion in affirming the ARB’s decision on the Initial Site Plan. During the meeting, staff noted and the ARB confirmed, that the site plan would return for additional ARB review if there was a need to modify the previously approved critical slopes waiver or if decisions regarding the consistency of plans were modified. That is not before the Board. The buffer to the adjacent properties currently shown is not consistent with what was previously shown and is inadequate. The vegetative buffer, “wooded area to remain”, has decrease to the point of being nonexistent. What the church has proposed is a “none of the above” solution based on its desires not what was required. The determination of the consistency of site plans with approved concept plans and SP conditions is beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal 2. Actions and representation that were used by the church at various stages in this project to get approval need to be looked at. They have not been accurate or followed through on. What they said they would do for some they have not and for others they have ignored completely. Assessing the actions and representations of the applicant is beyond the scope of ARB review. Not Applicable to this Appeal Attachment G June 11, 2014 Photo of the New Hope Church site as viewed from the Rt. 29 Entrance Corridor. The New Hope Church parcel (21-12C1) is not located adjacent to the Route 29 Entrance Corridor. Only that portion of the parcel that falls within 500’ of the Route 29 right-of-way is included in the Entrance Corridor overlay district. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 1 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD MINUTES April 7, 2014 The Albemarle County Architectural Review Board met on Monday, April 7, 2014, 1:00 p.m., Room 241, Second Floor, County Office Building, Charlottesville, Virginia. Those members present were Charles T. Lebo, Vice Chair; John Quale, Marcia Joseph, Fred Missel, and Bruce Wardell, Chair. Mr. Missel arrived at 1:34 p.m. Mr. Lebo left at 3:28 p.m. Staff members present was Margaret Maliszewski and Sharon Taylor. CALL TO ORDER Mr. Wardell called the meeting to order at 1:03 p.m. and established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT Mr. Wardell invited public comment. There being none, the meeting proceeded. REGULAR REVIEW ITEMS Mr. Wardell noted the ARB would skip to ARB-2014-24 New Hope Church Final Site Plan since the applicant was not present for ARB-2014-21 Chick-fil-A Final Site Plan. ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan - Final Site Plan (TM/Parcel 021-12C1) Proposal: To construct a church with associated site improvements. Location: On the northwest side of the intersection of Dickerson Road (Route 606) and Dickerson Lane (Route 763), east of Piney Mountain Road, approximately 350’ west of the Route 29 Entrance Corridor Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski provided a brief overview of the proposed work and noted the location of the subject parcel, indicating that it is approximately 350’ from the Rt. 29 Entrance Corridor. She stated that the ARB previously reviewed the initial site plan in March, 2013 and the ARB’s action was appealed. On May 8, 2013 the Board of Supervisors affirmed the ARB’s decision on the initial site plan. Staff clarified that only the easternmost portion of the parcel, a 150’ strip of land at the southeast corner of the site parallel to Dickerson Road and Route 29, is included within the Entrance Corridor Overlay District. Proposed in that strip is a portion of the entrance drive and the grading and tree removal required to construct the drive. None of the proposed buildings or parking areas is located within this strip. The area within the EC Overlay District has limited visibility from the Route 29 Entrance Corridor due to its distance from Route 29, and due to off-site trees that narrow the view across Dickerson Lane. Consequently, ARB review at this time is limited primarily to landscaping along that entrance drive. At the initial review the ARB indicated that they wanted to see a mix of trees along the entrance drive, and the trees should be located and spaced to achieve a natural appearance on the slope to compensate for lost wooded area. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 2 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Staff stated that a mix of trees and shrubs has been proposed, and identified three issues with the landscape proposal. One minor issue was to correct the plant count. The applicant has agreed to that. A second issue was to confirm that plants can be planted on top of the gas line. The applicant has confirmed that the planting can take place due to the depth of the gas line. The third issue was to obtain confirmation from VDOT that VDOT is OK with the trees to be planted in the right-of-way. An adjustment needs to be made there. After the staff report was completed the applicant did get word from VDOT that either the Willow Oak or the Redbuds could be planted. The applicant can tell us more about that. With that change, we anticipate that the appearance from the EC will still be appropriate. Staff is recommending approval with the minor conditions listed in the staff report. You’ll want to amend the conditions to address the recent corrections. Mr. Wardell invited questions. Ms. Joseph asked staff what the basis of the appeal to the Board of Supervisors was. Ms. Maliszewski asked if there were other questions while she looked for the letter of appeal. Mr. Wardell noted at a previous hearing there was a member of the public that voiced some objections to the development. His recollection was the objections weren’t covered by the scope of the ARB’s review of the project. They were general objections to the project. Our review was in the Entrance Corridor and we only had jurisdiction over the entry because you can’t see the building. Ms. Joseph pointed out there was a line for ARB review drawn at 500’. Mr. Wardell agreed that the ARB’s jurisdiction was in front of that line. In response to Ms. Joseph’s question on the basis of appeal, Ms. Maliszewski read from the appellant’s letter stating, no requirements were imposed to satisfy the design guideline under County Code of 18- 30.6.4.c(2) size and arrangement of structures, location and configuration of parking areas and landscaping, and preservation of existing vegetation and natural features. Also, the appellant states the entrance is not in keeping with the rural character of the area. Also, the appellant states that alternate entrance locations were not considered and that continuity of the entrance corridor is not being preserved by the ARB’s action. Ms. Joseph noted the appellant appealed what the ARB had determined the last time. It went to the Board of Supervisors and the Board upheld what the ARB had discussed. It did not go any further. Ms. Maliszewski agreed. Mr. Wardell asked if there were other comments for staff. Mr. Quale recalled a previous informal discussion about access in that this may not be the only location where access could happen. He recalled the ARB was able to determine that there were really no other legitimate access points. He asked if that was correct. Ms. Maliszewski replied that there was discussion about that. However, the point with the ARB review was that it was not the ARB’s responsibility to find other access points, but to review what was presented. Applicant Presentation: ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 3 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mike Henderson, Pastor of New Hope Church, and Joan Albiston, landscape architect, represented the request. Mr. Henderson pointed out Joan Albiston did the landscape design plan and their engineer was on the way. Joan Albiston, landscape architect, said she worked on the planting plan for New Hope Church and was present to answer questions. Ms. Maliszewski asked Ms. Albiston to go over the VDOT tree issue. Ms. Albiston addressed staff’s comments. She stated that there was a typo on the plant list, and the plant counts on the plan rule. There are three (3) Redbuds and one (1) Willow Oak proposed to be planted within the VDOT right-of-way. That is to help balance out the plantings left and right at the entrance. That property appears to be part of the New Hope Church site, but it is actually VDOT right -of-way. Troy Austin, VDOT engineer, said he would allow the one (1) Willow Oak or the three (3) Redbuds, but not both. His concern is the proximity of the trees to the inlet and his fear of having it clogged. They can either remove the Willow Oak and put in the three (3) Redbuds or remove the three (3) Redbuds and put the Willow Oak where the Redbuds would be going. Mr. Wardell asked which option she would prefer. Ms. Albiston replied she would probably put in the Redbuds because that area has some woodland and the Redbuds are going to make a bigger impact immediately and over the future as they seed. Mr. Wardell invited public comment. Ann Mallek, White Hall District Board of Supervisors representative, said she had questions because the plants are different than were approved by the Board of Supervisors. That was part of the concern when it came to the ARB in the fall. She hoped the ARB had a chance to get the pictures sent to Ms. Maliszewski, which actually show today how much more of the existing woodland has been removed than was on any of the original plans and the much more dramatic exposure of the property to the public. She reviewed the photos with the ARB. In the view from 29, on the northern side of the driveway, it shows the matting on the bank. Everything directly behind that she understands is where the building is going to be. There was an “S” curve in the original drawing that was going to keep some of the woodland as a screen and that is all gone. The next photograph shows how few trees are left. Basically everything above the bulldozer has been removed that was going to be the sc reen between the highway and the building. Secondly, between the bulldozer and where the gas line is from the north (offscreen), is all completely denuded. There is a very wide swath from Dickerson Road where everything has been taken down. She knows the ARB is in a tangle with the process. However, this process has been in a tangle on this project from the very beginning because the Board of Supervisors was presented with one plan that showed a miniscule amount of critical slope and when it came back it was huge. She was not able to get the majority of the Board to be interested in a second bite of this because of that huge discrepancy from her perspective. They are trying to be watchful and make sure that as this goes forward an overabundance of screening, as Mr. Henderson had promised, would actually happen. She did not see any of that information on these plans, especially to the north. Mr. Wardell asked if she was saying the actual construction has not been done according to these drawings. Ms. Mallek replied that these drawings are different than what was approved by the Board of Supervisors two years ago, which is the discrepancy that she sees. When the critical slope information finally came forward, the original location of the building was in the critical slope and had to be changed. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 4 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Quale asked if the building was previously located further to the east. Ms. Mallek replied that she could not remember. However, there has been a dramatic increase in the amount of wood cutting at that site. She hopes the ARB will be able to help make sure the plantings that are needed to replace what has been taken down that was unanticipated will be put in writing somewhere. Mr. Lebo asked how much of this (referring to the photo) falls under the ARB’s purview from the bottom line down. Ms. Mallek replied nothing within the ARB’s very limited view, which is basically the upper photograph , is the only thing the ARB has jurisdiction about. Perhaps they are just up the creek. The buck is passed to the ARB by the site plan process. She understands the earlier review was the first bubble diagram and these details were not going to be required last fall. However, now they are here at the end. So they are really trying to make sure that somebody actually gets these things written down appropriately whether it be the ARB or the site plan staff. As she said it may be outside what the ARB can do. However, it will be in the ARB’s record as they move forward. Mr. Wardell noted that he made the assumption that what he was looking at was the same version the ARB had seen last fall. Ms. Mallek replied that is probably accurate as far as the location of the building. However, the change happened between the ARB’s review and the Board of Supervisors approval. Mr. Wardell asked if she was saying what the ARB actually looked at last fall was different than what the Board of Supervisors had approved. Ms. Mallek replied yes, because of the moving of the buildings and the recognition of the increased critical slope that was not in the original plan. She understands there is a very sketchy first drawing that is done. This was of great concern to begin with because of the hilly situation there. However, it is the process and so they have to live with it. Mr. Quale recalled the meeting, noting they actually did have a conversation about the critical slope and the location of the building. Mr. Wardell pointed out the plan the ARB discussed was different from the plan approved by the Board of Supervisors. Ms. Mallek noted that has been raised multiple times during the last couple of years. She knows this is last ditch, but did hope the ARB would bring whatever attention they can to make sure they get a replacement of the screening that was to be left. It may just be a recognition passed back to the site plan. Mr. Wardell invited public comment. Charles Boldt, resident at 5260 Piney Mountain Road, stated that he was the person who appealed the ARB’s last decision. He noted that the drawing being reviewed today has a 2:1 slope. When they talked last March the ARB was looking at a drawing without any critical slopes. The ARB thought they had the ability to pick any area which did not have critical slopes. Three weeks later a drawing was submitted with critical slopes. The ARB talked about 3:1 slope and was what they said should be approved, which is what the Board of Supervisors acted on. What they see now has a 2:1 slope and is not what the ARB approved. It is not consistent with what the special use permit has. He requested the ARB reject it so ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 5 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES they can go back and do what they said originally. The landscape is not evergreen and being low to the ground is inappropriate. He also thinks this will be seen from 29. The applicant is relying on the neighbor not doing anything on his property, which he cannot guarantee. There is lots of documentation and they could be here for hours. However, the gist of it is that what they are looking at is not what was approved. Mr. Lebo asked staff if the excavation began prior to this being approved. Ms. Maliszewski replied the grading can occur after the initial plan is approved. She added that it really was not the ARB’s job to determine whether this plan meets the special use permit plan or not. The ARB review is limited. If they want to compare this plan to the plan the ARB looked at last fall they can do that. Mr. Wardell asked if it was the same plan the ARB looked at last fall in terms of grading. Ms. Maliszewski replied no, there is a difference. Mr. Boldt stated that the most significant difference is the slope 3:1 vs. 2:1. There was a lot of discussion about the appropriateness of the 3:1. Mike Henderson, Pastor, pointed out if they go out to the site today there is a pin in the middle of the road which has been there for a couple of years. So that has not changed. He pointed out the 2:1 slope. We were trying to not take down as many trees. There are not a lot of trees in the small area and they would like to get permission to put more trees to fill it in. He explained they want to put in more trees to screen the entrance, but the county has to allow it. They would need to be told which trees to put in. They want to increase the trees because they want an attractive entrance to the property. They think it would be better if they have a little more of a buffer. Mr. Wardell noted that the new drawing shows less trees being taken out than the previous plan. The 3:1 has a gentler slope but takes out more trees. Ed Blackwood, site engineer with Blackwood Engineering, said they have a letter dated May, 2013 from the county with all the review comments, including the following comment: Reduce the slope grading and tree disturbance by using a maximum slope steepness of 2:1. That was to limit the tree cutting. Therefore, they incorporated that into the plan, which was part of the initial site approval about a year ago. They steepened the slope on the entrance drive to 2:1 and in some other places to keep the tree cutting to a bare minimum. That should have been reflected in the plan that came to the ARB last fall. The initial site plan approval had some comments and they addressed those. Ms. Maliszewski noted that was after the ARB review. Mr. Blackwood noted he was not sure of the time frame. The request was from the county to steepen those slopes in order to have less tree removal. Therefore, they incorporated that into the final site plan. Mr. Wardell said that is what the drawing shows, but he was having a hard time pinpointing what they are being asked to review in response to comments from a member of the Board of Supervisors saying that what was presented here does not conform to what they approved. The ARB does not have any information on the exact configuration of what the Board of Supervisors approved. He asked if that was correct. Ms. Maliszewski replied that she did not have the approved concept plan to look at. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 6 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Wardell said that would have been a special use permit plan. Ms. Maliszewski agreed. She reiterated that it was not really the ARB’s responsibility to do that comparison. If someone is to do that comparison again and find that the plan is not what it used to be and was something in the ARB’s area of review was to change, then staff would bring it back to the ARB. But, that has not happened. What the ARB has to review is what they have before them today. Mr. Wardell pointed out what they have before them today is a change from a 3:1 to 2:1 slope at least from what was said publicly. Not having actually seen a copy of the letter he asked staff to submit a copy. He asked if the review was in response to a request from a county planner. Megan Yaniglos, the site planner for the project, said staff requested that during the initial site plan review because the special use permit condition listed wooded areas to remain as much as possible. That was one of the areas. Engineering had recommended that they could go to a 2:1 slope in order to have more wooded areas in consult with the zoning reviewer. Mr. Wardell asked if she was the author of that letter, and Ms. Yaniglos replied yes. Mr. Wardell asked if her comment was in response to her interpretation of the Board of Supervisor s’ requirements. Ms. Yaniglos replied that it was a zoning interpretation. Mr. Wardell noted it was a zoning interpretation from the Board of Supervisors’ approval of the conceptual site plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied that was correct for the special use permit. Mr. Wardell pointed out going to a 2:1 slope is consistent with reducing the amount of disturbance of trees since a 3:1 slope would take more trees out. So the ARB is looking at a plan that has a 2:1 slope in the area that the ARB has jurisdiction. The ARB reviewed the photos and discussed the area within the ARB’s jurisdiction. Ms. Joseph pointed out they don’t know exactly what the quality is interior to the wooded area and some of the trees may come down themselves when others are taken down. Mr. Quale agreed because the roots are impacted. Mr. Wardell said the ARB’s jurisdiction for review was the planting plan and the grading plan for the entrance and that is it. Mr. Lebo agreed that was correct. Ms. Joseph asked Ms. Yaniglos how the process works and if they got preliminary site plan approval and therefore they can get a grading permit with an erosion and sediment control plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied that was correct. They had to submit an early grading plan to engineering and they were able to clear and do some grading. Then they would submit the final Water Protection Ordinan ce (WPO) and Erosion and Sedimentation (E&S) plan during the final. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 7 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Ms. Joseph asked if they can do some grading before they have an E&S plan. Ms. Yaniglos replied no, they would have to do an E&S plan with the early grading plan. However, the final calculations and everything would be done during the final site plan. Ms. Joseph asked what kinds of things need to be done before the final site plan approval. Ms. Yaniglos replied they need ARB approval, planning approval and engineering final approval . In addition, they need VDOT and Health Department approval. They have Health Department approval. Mr. Wardell asked staff to characterize in what way the entrance design that was submitted differs from what the Board of Supervisors approved. Ms. Yaniglos replied that staff looked at that extensively with zoning. They actually did an overlay and zoning has found it matches the concept plan that was approved by the Board. Mr. Lebo pointed out he was ready to recommend approval on this. Mr. Wardell said he was trying to figure out if there was anything that was in the ARB’s jurisdiction that has changed since it would impact the validity of their vote. Mr. Quale added that if it is found in further review that there was something that needs to be brought back that it would be brought back. However, that would happen anyway. Mr. Joseph said if people think it is important to look at the rest of the site, then the ordinance needs to be changed so that the ARB can look at the rest of the site and not just at the 500 foot line. Mr. Missel arrived at 1:34 PM. Mr. Wardell invited applicant input. Mike Henderson said that he knows it is beyond the line and he pointed out the orange tree protection fence in the photo. He noted the thin area of trees there and that is what they would like to fill in to increase the buffer. However, they have to get approval from the county and that is down the road. From the outset their goal has been to retain as many trees as possible, which is why they see the 2:1 slope and the minimal cutting that has been done. Mr. Wardell closed the public discussion period to bring the matter before the ARB for discussion. Board Discussion Mr. Lebo said he was satisfied with what they are doing. Mr. Wardell asked for a motion. Mr. Lebo made a motion to approve the CofA for ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan with staff’s recommendations and adding one condition that there will be three (3) Redbuds planted in addition to what staff has recommended. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 8 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Ms. Maliszewski suggested the ARB revise condition #1 to say revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak. In addition condition #2 could be deleted because they resolved the issue about the planting over the gas line. Condition #3 would stay the same. Mr. Lebo revised his motion to state that on staff’s recommendations, item #1 has been revised to state “Revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak in the VDOT right of way” and to delete item #2, as follows: Motion: Mr. Lebo moved for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for ARB-2014-24: New Hope Church Final Site Plan with the conditions listed in the staff report, amended as follows: 1. Revise the plan to remove the Willow Oak in the VDOT right of way. 2. Revise the quantity of Little Bluestem in the plant list from 43 to 53. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 4:0:1. (Missel abstain) Mr. Wardell asked that a copy of the site review letter be placed in the file. ARB-2014-21: Chick-fil-A Final Site Plan - Final Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 078-55A2) Proposal: To construct a restaurant with drive-thru lanes and associated site improvements. Location: 1626 Richmond Road, on the north side of Route 250, across from State Farm Blvd., at the site of the former Aunt Sarah’s Pancake House Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski summarized the staff report, noting the following items as primary points for discussion: 1. Green screens: design, planting 2. Retaining walls: height, planting 3. Landscaping: at retaining wall, along entrance drive, general character 4. Building design: color/treatment of mechanical room and meter doors, frosted glass windows, detailing at the top of the walls The ARB reviewed this proposal in August of last year. At that time the ARB did a preliminary review of the site and architectural design and provided advisory comments on the special use permit request for the drive-thru. The special use permit for the drive-thru was approved by the Board of Supervisors in March, 2014. The Board also approved a waiver of the by-pass lane requirement. An initial site plan has been submitted to the county for review. Regarding the Initial Site Plan Staff recommends that the ARB forward the recommendations to the Agent for the Site Review Committee as listed in the staff report. Regarding the final review of the site and architectural design Staff recommends approval with the conditions listed in the staff report. Applicant Presentation: Representing the request were Gregory Dodd, Civil Engineer with Horton & Dodd, PC, and Corvin Flynn, property owner. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 9 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES Mr. Dodd explained the changes to the plan regarding the following issues:  Lighting issue has been resolved  Treatment at the closed end of North Pantops Drive (off-site)  The green screens There being no public comment, the matter was before the ARB for discussion and action. BOARD DISCUSSION The ARB discussed the proposal with staff and the applicant regarding the following issues/concerns:  Design and location of green screens  Frosted windows  Electric panel color  Landscaping plan  Treatment of North Pantops Drive Regarding the Initial Site Plan Motion: Mr. Lebo made a motion to forward the following recommendations to the Agent for the Site Review Committee regarding ARB-2014-21, Chick-Fil-A Pantops.  Regarding requirements to satisfy the design guidelines as per § 18-30.6.4(2), (3) and (5): None.  Regarding recommendations on the plan as it relates to the guidelines: None.  Regarding recommended conditions of initial plan approval: A Certificate of Appropriateness is required prior to final site plan approval.  Regarding conditions to be satisfied prior to issuance of a grading permit: o Coordinate proposed grading and tree protection fencing to ensure the health of the three maple trees to remain in the right-of-way along the EC. o Provide evidence of grading and planting easements. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5:0. Regarding the final review of the site and architectural design Motion: Mr. Lebo moved for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for ARB-2014-21: Chick-fil- A Final Site Plan with the conditions listed in the staff report, as follows: 1. Provide VLT and VLR values for the window glass showing that visible light transmittance (VLT) shall not drop below 40% and visible light reflectance (VLR) shall not exceed 30%. 2. Revise the elevations to correctly identify north, south, east and west. Assume Rt. 250 runs east-west. 3. Indicate the type of glass proposed for the service yard door. 4. Provide the dumpster details on the site plan. 5. Indicate the height of the transformer located northeast of the building. Ensure that visibility of the transformer from the EC will be eliminated. 6. Add the mechanical equipment note to the site plan: “Visibility of all mechanical equipment from the Entrance Corridor shall be eliminated.” 7. Revise the photometric plan using a maintenance factor of 1.0 for all fixtures. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 10 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES 8. Revise the photometric plan so that spillover does not exceed .5 fc at the north, east and south property lines. 9. Revise the fixture schedule to specify “down light only” for the OL fixture. 10. Revise the photometric plan to reduce light levels under the canopy to 20 fc maximum. 11. Reduce light pole height to 20’ maximum, including bases. 12. Add the standard lighting note to the plan. “Each outdoor luminaire equipped with a lamp that emits 3,000 or more initial lumens shall be a full cutoff luminaire and shall be arranged or shielded to reflect light away from adjoining residential districts and away from adjacent roads. The spillover of lighting from luminaires onto public roads and property in residential or rural areas zoning districts shall not exceed one half footcandle.” 13. Coordinate the quantity of AXGK shown on the plan with the number listed in the schedule. 14. Revise the plan to show the proposed treatment for the area of N. Pantops Drive that is to be demolished. 15. Coordinate green screen locations and plants among all drawings. 16. Provide a detail for the wall-mounted green screens. 17. Clarify/coordinate the proposed planting with the gas line along the EC side of the property and the storm pipe northwest of the building. 18. Increase the size of the shrubs on the south and west sides of the building to 24” high at planting, minimum. 19. Provide evidence of grading and planting easements. 20. Increase the size of the Zelkovas at the interior of the parking lot to 2½” caliper minimum at planting. 21. Provide for review a sample of the block proposed for the retaining wall. 22. Add details to the plan to clearly show that the proposed planting can be accomplished with the proposed retaining wall block system. 23. Coordinate proposed grading and tree protection fencing to ensure the health of the three maple trees to remain in the right-of-way along the EC. Mr. Missel seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 5:0. Regarding condition #14, the ARB also clarified that the renderings show the accurate locations of the green screens. ARB-2014-25: Bojangles - Advisory Review of a Special Use Permit, Preliminary Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 078-73A2) Proposal: To construct a restaurant with drive-thru and associated site improvements. Location: 2013 Abbey Road, on the south side of Rt. 250 between the Applebee’s and the bank in the Rivanna Ridge Shopping Center Staff Presentation: Margaret Maliszewski summarized the staff report, summarizing the proposal, noting the location and anticipated visibility, and noting the following items as primary points for discussion: 1. The drive-thru window and lane location, design, appropriateness for the EC 2. The glass block windows 3. The awning color 4. The star signs 5. The overall building design ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 11 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES 6. Shrubs along the side elevations Regarding the request for the Special Use Permit: Staff recommends that the ARB forward the following recommendation to the Planning Commission: The ARB has no objection to the request for the SP based on the design of the drive -thru window and lane as illustrated in the February 17 and February 20, 2014 architectural elevations and the February 20, 2014 conceptual site layout. Regarding the preliminary design: Staff offers the comments on the preliminary design listed in the staff report. Applicant Presentation: Neil McCordant, representative for the area franchise, noted a previous meeting with Ms. Maliszewski and discussed the following primary issues:  Glass blocks – working on proportions relative to the store front windows  Brick added at the bottom of stucco  Star signs part of design Kelly Strickland, with Shimp Engineering, noted in the review of the special use permit for the drive -thru the county engineer has recommended they increase the drive-thru lane from 10 1/2’ width to a 12’ width. He pointed out to do that they will need to increase the one-way travel way from 26 ½’ to 28’. The only way they can do that is by taking away part of that landscaping between the bank and the proposed drive- thru. Therefore, they are asking for a waiver of that 12’ requirement. There being no public comment, the matter was before the ARB for discussion and action. BOARD DISCUSSION The ARB discussed the proposal with staff and the applicant regarding the following issues/concerns:  Supports waiver for 12’ travelway width requirement  Relative blankness and attention to scale  Brick detail and articulation  Architecture – height of pilasters, break down to more human scale for integrated architectural appearance  Integrate the glass block windows  Future work session on architecture  Entrance design  Maintain medallions Regarding the Request for the Special Use Permit: Motion: Mr. Lebo made a motion to forward the following recommendation to the Planning Commission regarding ARB-2014-25, Bojangles. The ARB has no objection to the request for the Special Use Permit (SP) based on the design of the drive-thru window and lane as illustrated in the February 17 and February 20, 2014 architectural elevations and the February 20, 2014 conceptual site layout. The ARB also expresses support for the waiver request for the travelway width, maintaining a 10.5’ width. Mr. Quale seconded the motion. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 12 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES The motion carried by a vote of 5:0. Regarding the preliminary design: The ARB offers the following comments on the preliminary design: 1. Consider revising the proportions of the glass block windows to coordinate with the architectural proportions and detail and/or material of the overall building. 2. Provide glass specs on the architectural drawings indicating that visible light transmittance (VLT) shall not drop below 40% and visible light reflectance (VLR) shall not exceed 30%. 3. Provide a dumpster screen detail on the plan. Screening materials should be coordinated with building materials. 4. Revise the plan to show the locations of all drive-thru related items. Provide screening to ensure an appropriate appearance from the EC. 5. Add the standard mechanical equipment note to both the site and architectural plans: “Visibility of all mechanical equipment from the Entrance Corridor shall be eliminated.” 6. Provide complete information on lighting for review. 7. Provide a sufficient quantity of EC frontage trees to meet the 35’ on center requirement. 8. Be sure the plans clearly show existing plants to remain and to be removed. 9. Provide a plant schedule for review. 10. Consider continuing the shrub planting along the two back bays of both side elevations. 11. Provide the standard planting note on the plan: “All site plantings of trees and shrubs shall be allowed to reach, and be maintained at, mature height; the topping of trees is prohibited. Shrubs and trees shall be pruned minimally and only to support the overall health of the plant.” 12. Provide a complete landscape plan for review. 13. Sign permits will be required for all wall signs. Note that red acrylic #2283, and its equivalents, is not approvable shades of red. 14. Eliminate the stars from the piers and pilasters. Maintain the medallions. 15. Consider revising the facades to provide a more human scale and integrated architectural appearance that breaks down the scale of the canopies, pilasters, façade and cornice. This could be done by providing additional detail or articulation in the stucco facades, and providing more detail in t he brick. 16. Reinforce the design of the entrance to the building. This could be done by breaking up the composition of the canopy. The ARB recessed at 2:47 p.m. and the meeting reconvened at 2:55 p.m. Work Sessions ARB-2014-06: Out of Bounds - Initial Site Development Plan (TM/Parcel 60/65) Mr. Lebo left meeting at 3:28 p.m. The ARB held a work session on ARB-2014-06: Out of Bounds to discuss the planned sequence of construction and the extent of review that will be required by the ARB for the various b locks of the residential development. Vito Cetta presented a PowerPoint presentation to explain the proposed development. Mark Keller, architect, was also present. ALBEMARLE COUNTY ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD - PAGE 13 FINAL 04-07-2014 MINUTES The ARB directed the applicant to provide a site section or sections to clarify the visi bility of the various parts of the development from the Entrance Corridor and encouraged the applicant to provide 3D illustrations, if possible. It was the consensus of the ARB that the buildings along Road D would not likely require ARB review due to the anticipated low level of visibility from the EC, but elevations would be needed for the buildings in Block 3. OTHER BUSINESS Green Screens at MedExpress building at Pantops: Ms. Joseph asked staff to check with the inspectors about the green screens on the MedExpress building at Pantops because it looks like the plants for the screens have not been planted. Approval of Minutes: Motion: Mr. Missel moved to approve the 3/17/2014, 2/22/11, 3/7/11, 4/4/11, 7/18/11, 9/6/11, 9/19/11, 10/17/11, 12/5/11 and 12/19/11 minutes. Ms. Joseph seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4:0. (Lebo absent) Next ARB Meeting: Monday, April 21, 2014 ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3:35 p.m. to the next ARB meeting on Monday, April 21, 2014 in Ro om 241, Second Floor, County Office Building at 1:00 p.m. Bruce Wardell, Chair (Recorded and transcribed by Sharon C. Taylor, Clerk to Planning Commission & Planning Boards) COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AGENDA TITLE: Business Assistance During Road Construction SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Discussion about possible options to assist businesses during upcoming Route 29 improvements construction STAFF CONTACT(S): Foley, Davis, Kamptner, Catlin, Stimart PRESENTER (S): Lee Catlin, Susan Stimart LEGAL REVIEW: Yes AGENDA DATE: June 11, 2014 ACTION: X INFORMATION: CONSENT AGENDA: ACTION: INFORMATION: ATTACHMENTS: Yes REVIEWED BY: BACKGROUND: The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is developing a strategy to implement reasonable, cost-effective solutions to address the congestion in the Route 29 corridor in the Albemarle County/Charlottesville region. Improvements to relieve congestion in that area have been considered for many ye ars. Most recently, in February the Federal Highway Administration expressed concerns about the construction of the Route 29 Western Bypass. Given those concerns, VDOT is identifying reasonable alternatives to ensure the continued efficient movement of people and goods and the viability of this vital transportation corridor. An advisory panel representing communities along the Route 29 Corridor was created to a ssist in the development of alternatives to improve mobility in the Albemarle County/Charlottesville region. Former VDOT Commissioner Philip Shucet, who headed the panel, presented a solutions package at the Advisory Panel’s May 8 meeting. The Commonwealth Transportation Board and the Metropolitan Planning Organization must approve the plan before the work can begin. The MPO approved the recommendation on May 28, 2014. The CTB will consider the recommendation on June 18th. The recommended solutions package includes the following specific projects as well as non-project-specific recommendations including a continuing consideration of transit options in the Route 29 corridor and the resale of the right-of-way purchased for the Route 29 western bypass :  Best Buy Ramp Project (Route 29 and US 250 Interchange)  Hillsdale Drive Extended Project (extended to Holiday Drive)  Route 29 Widening Project (extended to Polo Grounds Road)  Adaptive Signal Time Improvements in the Route 29 Corridor)  Berkmar Drive Extended  Route 29/Rio Road Grade Separated Interchange  Route 29/Hydraulic Road grade separated Interchange (Preliminary Engineering Study only)  Additional Train AMTRAK Regional Service (Fund 25% Additional Trainset) Implementation of these strategies will involve disruption to businesses during construction. County staff desires to work proactively with VDOT and the business community to minimize negative impacts as much as possible and to develop positive solutions for maintaining successful operations during any Route 29 improvements. STRATEGIC PLAN: Goal 3. Encourage a diverse and vibrant local economy DISCUSSION: In considering potential options available to support businesses during Route 29 improvements, staff researched various communities in Virginia and across the country to see what types of assistance programs were use d in similar circumstances. These programs range from large-scale financial aid packages to assist businesses with ongoing operational expenses to smaller-scale grant programs focused on promotional and marketing support. It is important to note that in all cases programs were tailored specifically to meet the needs of the impacted community and the individual businesses involved, and that all programs had established criteria to determine eligibility. All programs focused on the reality that road/transportation construction can be hard on businesses in the short term and that the ultimate outcomes are good for businesses and communities. Staff believes that the following types of strategies should be further explored to develop a comprehensive business assistance program for consideration by the Board. AGENDA TITLE: Business Assistance During Road Construction June 11, 2014 Page 2 State and local partners, including VDOT, the Chamber of Commerce and the North 29 Business Council, should be engaged in the creation of a final program. Potential funding from VDOT for the following should also be explored. Before and during construction:  Strong communications/outreach program to keep businesses and customers informed before and during construction, including information on how to plan ahead and prepare as much as possible (i.e., publications like “Road Construction Survival Guide” by the City of Madison or “How to Thrive During Road Construction” by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Attachments A & B)).  Business assistance grant program for promotional support focused specifically on marketing, advertising, outreach, signage, and other support strategies. This would need to be coordinated with the Albemarle County Economic Development Authority (EDA) as the appropriate entity to administer grants.  Business counseling/technical assistance offered before and during construction to prepare for and respond to challenges as they occur – making resource expertise easily available to businesses. During construction:  Ensure a business-oriented approach to construction – coordinate schedule, pace and order of construction to minimize impact; focus on maintaining access; visible signage; impact mitigation; etc.  Aggressive “real time” communications effort that provides regular construction updates including “look aheads” and on-site opportunities for drop in visitors to get project information.  Support a “buy local” effort – identify impacted businesses in the County to channel work to during construction (i.e., sign makers, restaurants, and coffee shops) to support those businesses. Other possibilities to explore:  Rewards programs in the form of discounts (funding source to be determined) that incentivize customers to patronize affected businesses during construction.  Development of apps/social media strategies that keep motorists instantly aware of changing conditions in construction zones. Next Steps Close coordination with VDOT and the business community is necessary to develop a business assistance program that will provide meaningful support during any upcoming construction. As a first step, staff would move quickly to arrange a conversation with VDOT officials and business community representatives to establish goals and general agreement about how such a program would be developed and implemented, with an emphasis on ongoing communication and dialogue beginning at the earliest stage of the project. BUDGET IMPACT: Staff will determine the budget impact of the program once it is finalized and ready for the Board’s consideration. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends that the Board: 1) provide feedback regarding the potential business assistance strategies outlined above; and 2) direct staff to begin engaging with appropriate VDOT officials and the business community upon approval by the CTB regarding the development of a final program to be brought back to the Board for its consideration. ATTACHMENTS: A – Road Construction Survival Guide B – How to Thrive During Road Construction Return to agenda