HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-03-16A
March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
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An adjourned meeting of the Board of Supervisors of Albemarle County, Virginia, was held on
March 16, 2005, beginning at 1:00 p.m. in Room 235, County Office Building, McIntire Road, Charlottesville,
Virginia. This meeting was adjourned from March 14, 2005.
PRESENT: Mr. David P. Bowerman, Mr. Kenneth C. Boyd, Mr. Lindsay G. Dorrier, Jr., Mr. Dennis
S. Rooker, Ms. Sally H. Thomas and Mr. David C. Wyant.
ABSENT: None.
OFFICERS PRESENT: County Executive, Robert W. Tucker, Jr., County Attorney, Larry W. Davis,
Senior Deputy Clerk, Debi Moyers, Assistant County Executive, Tom Foley, Assistant County Executive,
Roxanne White, Director of Office of Management and Budget, Melvin Breeden, Budget Analyst, Laura
Vinzant, and Budget Analyst, Chris Bever.
Agenda Item No. 1. The meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. by the Chairman, Mr. Rooker.
Work Session: FY 2005-06 COUNTY BUDGET:
Mr. Tucker explained that the school division operational budget would be the first item on the
agenda, to be followed by local government CIP budgets.
Mr. Wyant commented that he has spoken with his constituents throughout the county, many of
whom have expressed concern about how the budget is built and noting a lack of efficiency. He mentioned
that the budget is growing much faster than inflation and growth.
Mr. Rooker agreed that every efficiency should be looked at, and said that any Board member at
any time can recommend a cut in any particular item through the budget process. So that is open to Mr.
Wyant and every Board member. He added that the Board has representatives on the budget committee
who should provide input at that level also. Mr. Rooker cited the fact that he had raised concerns at their
last meeting about IT personnel. He does not think in the next three weeks the Board can reform or
substantially change any department. He added that if there is an issue with a specific department, that
should be looked into more thoroughly, but he does not know if the Board can get anywhere by talking in
generalities. It comes down to looking at line items in the budget and making a determination of whether or
not the county is being inefficient and how that can be improved.
Mr. Wyant said that when he worked with government and they had cuts, staff was asked to make
decisions about what to trim.
Mr. Rooker commented that the best comparison for Albemarle would be other localities, noting
that there is not a county of our size or even close to our size in the state operating on a tax rate of 66 cents.
He added that that is probably the best kind of general look you can get at whether or not you’re being
efficient.
Mr. Wyant reiterated that people have expressed concern about what they are paying in property
taxes. He said that many people are on fixed incomes, and cannot afford the tax increases.
Mr. Bowerman said that staff should make their presentation, and then Board members can
discuss what can be cut.
Ms. Thomas stated that often the public does make their comments near the end of the budgeting
process, when it is too late to make changes. She said that she has worked with VaCo to ensure that the
state picks up their portion of the tab as there are several million dollars in this budget that are due explicitly
to the unfunded mandates that the county has from the federal and state governments.
Mr. Boyd said the Board should consider the fundamental question of whether or not it wants to
build this whole budget from this point on, based on a nine percent increase, or whether it wants to look at
maybe reducing it some and going back to the drawing board.
Mr. Dorrier added that he thinks it is appropriate that the Board consider it and talk about it before
the Capital Improvements Budget, which is one of the big ticket items.
Mr. Rooker said that on April 6th, the Board would decide on a proposed budget and tax rate, and
that goes to final hearing two weeks later. The Board is not locked into anything right now; they have not
made a recommendation right now. He added that there is room for a little over a two-cent tax cut in the
current budget. Mr. Rooker emphasized that it comes down to making decisions on services, citing the goal
of 1.5 police officers per thousand as being one item that added expenditures to the budget. If the Board is
going to effectively cut the budget, it cannot be adding everything that everybody brings before them.
Mr. Boyd noted that Mr. Wyant’s point was not to cut the budget, but to reduce the amount of
increase in it. Mr. Boyd added that there are people who cannot keep absorbing large increases in their
property tax.
Mr. Rooker expressed concern that the state is not paying their share for many services such as
Social Services, the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and Sheriff’s Department. If the county could get out from
under that, he is sure the Board could find an easy way to cut the budget and the tax rate.
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March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
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School Board Budget
Mr. Gordon Walker, Chairman of the School Board, presented the 2005-06 budget request to the
Board of Supervisors. He also introduced School Board Vice-Chair Sue Friedman. He reported that a
survey conducted by the county last year indicates that a large majority of the population believe the
schools are doing a good job with education.
Mr. Walker explained the School Board budgeting process as: (1) needs are identified and a
budget is proposed. Through the process of identifying needs, parents are engaged in that process as well
as the general public, and grandparents and other community members are also involved; (2) the School
Board goes through an objective review process, and then votes; the School Board unanimously agreed to
put forward the budget as presented today; (3) the Board of Supervisors reviews the budget and allocates
revenue; and (4) the School Board takes the revenue made available and approves a balanced budget.
Mr. Walker said that during this process, School Board members consider (1) the resources
available – both monetary and human resources; (2) what is necessary to meet School Board priorities; and
(3) what can be done to improve the student learning experience. He reported that their achievements
have been strong, with all schools fully accredited; students are college ready based on their placement
test performance; Albemarle’s three high schools place in the top 500 in the country, and SAT scores are
above state average as well as national.
Mr. Walker said that in order to improve, “heightened attention to closing the achievement gap” is
needed; students need to earn the credits necessary in K-12 to enable them to graduate; teachers need to
be compensated fairly and competitively, as well as be given the proper technical assistance and training
they need. He presented a graph that shows that all students are gaining, although a gap remains and that
has been a focus of the School Board’s strategic planning process. Mr. Walker said that the highest priority
in the school’s funding request is directed towards recruitment, retention, and increasing teacher
competence. He thanked the Board for their support in accomplishing this. Mr. Walker emphasized that a
good support staff is equally important.
Mr. Walker presented comparative data on school staff, noting that Albemarle needs to hire more
minority teachers as well as more ESL teachers to meet changing demographics and special education
teachers. He presented information on the impact of aging baby boomers on the school’s budget, pointing
out that 135 teachers over the next three years – 10 percent of the teacher workforce – will be qualified for
full VRS benefits. Mr. Walker said that more than half of the teacher workforce has at least partial
retirement benefits available to them. They need to go out and hire younger teachers and need to do a
better job in retaining them.
He explained that of approximately 130 new teachers hired on an annual basis, two-thirds of those
are to replace teachers with less than five years experience. Mr. Walker said that through mentoring
programs with U.Va., that turnover rate should be able to be reduced. He added that teacher vacancies in
Virginia indicate the profession’s competitive environment, and offering better salaries, competency skills
and mentoring can help attract and retain good teachers.
Mr. Walker said that the considerations in their budgeting process included the impact of No Child
Left Behind and Special Education legislation or “unfunded mandates,” noting that an additional $800,000
must be generated in order to meet these requirements alone.
Mr. Boyd commented that the School Board has decided that that amount is what’s necessary to
meet those requirements, and some school systems may not spend as much money. Mr. Walker
responded that they may not do as well. Mr. Boyd said that the $800,000 is a subjective number.
Dr. Castner stated that it is not subjective. Next year they have to add all of their testing to grade
four, grade five, and grade six. Therefore, if they have to increase the amount of testing, they are going to
need people to administrate those tests, and a lot of those logistical things – the scoring, etc., – is why they
have that bubble. He added that what was happening in Virginia with the SOL’s got changed with No Child
Left Behind.
Mr. Boyd noted that there may be school systems that spend less. Mr. Walker noted that there
may be school systems that spend more.
Mr. Walker emphasized that the federal mandates for Special Education are also costly, and any
new funding for New Child Left Behind is basically being “taken out of one pot and put into another.”
Dr. Castner explained that the schools have itemized what adds up to $800,000 in the first page of
their budget book.
Mr. Walker reported that there have been some increases in revenue at the state level over the
past several years in order to do SOL testing, but that still falls short of the Standards of Quality
requirements that the state provides, but there is a gain there and it should be recognized. He said that
locally, the School Board is aware of competing priorities in county government, but they need to advocate
for what is necessary to meet goals and receive 60 percent of operating revenue. Mr. Walker said that they
recognize that there are revenue limits, and their request does not recognize all the needs or desires that
staff put forward, but just what is essential and necessary to do what the general public wants them to do in
the schools.
March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
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Mr. Walker explained that the budget reflects focus in three areas: (1) competitive compensation to
attract, retain and motivate a highly qualified workforce; (2) meet the expectations that exceed SOLs; and
(3) continued focus on meeting the No Child Left Behind target. He added that the schools have set higher
standards, and Albemarle County schools are among the top performing in the state, and the key to this
has been quality curriculum and instruction.
Mr. Walker noted that testing helps to identify students that need additional help, and will enable
schools to provide individual instruction to ensure that kids do graduate and prepare to go into the workforce
or further education.
Mr. Walker said that the schools are requesting $9.3 million in additional revenue, with $2.3 in state
dollars and the remaining being local revenue and money in the fund balance.
Ms. Thomas asked if the General Assembly budget came up with the same figure. Dr. Castner
replied that their funds were within $15,000 of the $2.3 million figure.
Mr. Walker noted that health insurance is increasing by 12 percent; bringing up teacher pay will
increase that by 9 percent; No Child Left Behind requirements, replacement of textbooks and computers,
as well as additional bus fuel costs ($250,000) are also driving expenses up. He said that one assumption
the School Board has made is no reduction in current services.
Mr. Bowerman noted that Albemarle is #3 in their competitive market for salaries.
Mr. Jackson Zimmerman addressed the Board and presented comparative data among 28
localities, using size, population, and expenses from 2002-03 as the benchmarks. He pointed out that
Albemarle ranks 6 out of 28 in per pupil spending in the competitive market, and noted that tax dollar
spending comparisons for K-12 schools are not totally accurate.
Dr. Castner pointed out that Albemarle is second only to Loudoun County in test scores, and
Albemarle is more “demographically complex.”
Ms. Thomas asked if localities were still penalized for their “ability to pay” because of tax rates. Mr.
Zimmerman said that he did not believe that the tax rate itself is a component of that; it is based on income
and property values along with population. Using Madison County as an example, he said that they get 50
percent more from the state on a per-pupil basis.
Mr. Boyd asked how Albemarle ranks in teacher pay compared to other schools. Mr. Rooker
responded that he believes Albemarle was 14th, and the goal this year is to get that number up to 7th. Mr.
Zimmerman said that it may not be “apples to apples” if total salaries versus individual salaries were used,
because there may be instruction offered in Albemarle that are not offered elsewhere.
Mr. Wyant noted that the transportation per pupil costs were high. Mr. Zimmerman replied that
because Albemarle is the 5th largest county in the state in square mileage, those costs tend to be higher.
Mr. Rooker said that transportation costs were discussed at the joint Board and School Board
meeting, and picking children up in more central locations was one option discussed.
Dr. Castner reported that there have to be lower teacher-student ratios because of ESL and
Special Education students, and those costs have increased. He added that Albemarle’s reputation for
having strong services – such as the autism class – have encouraged parents to move to the county.
Mr. Walker presented information on revenues, showing that two-thirds is local support. He
showed the distribution of expenditures, noting that 75 percent goes to classroom instruction. Mr. Walker
pointed out that there is a $1.16 million difference in available revenue versus the school budget request.
The School Board believes that this request is built on their successes to date, and a vote of confidence in
their capacity to be able to prepare students for the future. He emphasized the School Board’s five goals:
(1) to establish high standards and expectations of students and staff; (2) to provide an infrastructure that’s
supportive of core values that have been established; (3) consistency across the district; (4) to raise staff
competency to ensure a high level of learning in core subjects as well as electives; and (5) outreach to the
community at large.
Mr. Rooker commented on the thorough report, and noted the schools’ excellent performance.
Mr. Dorrier said that at one point, the Board of Supervisors was planning to discuss the formula for
funding.
Mr. Rooker stated that through a meeting with the Chairs and Vice-Chairs of both boards, it was
agreed that there would be work sessions held before fall to discuss the approach to the allocation of
operating revenues, and developing the CIP. He said that it is something both boards need to revisit
periodically as funding priorities change.
Ms. Thomas commented that her emails to constituents address the impact of an urbanizing
county, noting that rural counties spend a larger percentage on education, and more urban communities
spend a smaller percentage. It is going to be increasingly hard to have as high of percentage of the
county’s budget going to the school system.
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Mr. Wyant asked which school had the largest enrollment. Mr. Walker replied that Albemarle High
School has 1,782, and Yancey Elementary has 130 students. He noted that supporting the school budget
does support rural communities.
Mr. Rooker said that a school with a low population is more costly than a larger school.
Mr. Boyd asked why the Stanford Nine tests were chosen, as he though schools were moving away
from that testing structure. Dr. Castner responded that Stanford Nine compares as a standard across the
country, and is a more rigorous standard than the SOLs. He noted that the SAT structure would be
changing this year.
Mr. Wyant asked how the “ability to pay” was derived. Mr. Zimmerman responded that that index is
calculated bi-annually by the Department of Education, based on population, overall assessed value of real
estate, income, and population – relative to the rest of the state. Ms. Thomas said that Albemarle is second
only to Loudoun using that measure.
Mr. Rooker commented that Albemarle spends $7,000 of the total $10,000 per pupil costs. He
noted that even with a $300,000 home, the tax rate only provides a small portion of what it costs to educate
a child in the county, not to mention all of the other services provided.
Mr. Tucker stated that $10 million of the ability to pay monies go to revenue-sharing, and another
$10 million goes to land-use tax.
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Capital Improvements Plan Budget
Mr. Bever began with an overview of the CIP budget, noting that the total of $152,723,000 includes
the $10 million reserve balance as both a revenue and expenditure.
Board members indicated that they did not understand the $10 million issue. Mr. Breeden
explained that the $10 million is a “negative off of revenues,” so it is included as a revenue and an
expenditure. Mr. Tucker clarified that even though it is a reserve, it is allocated somewhere as if it is an
allocation.
Mr. Boyd asked how much the Board was putting into the reserve this year. Mr. Breeden
responded that he is not sure. Ms. White stated that there is a policy that additional revenues that come in
are put into the CIP at the end of the year, and that immediately goes into the reserve. She noted that they
try to keep $1.5 to $2 million in the reserve, and there is not a set amount that goes into the reserve each
year.
Mr. Boyd noted that it might be possible to offer tax relief from the CIP.
Ms. Thomas commented that historically, the fund has been used “when things got tight.” She also
said that using the CIP is irresponsible because the more that is taken out of it, the more it is likely the
county will incur debt for things they cannot pay for as they go. Anything that the Board can do as a “pay as
you go” is saving the taxpayer money over anything that we’d have to borrow.
Ms. White mentioned that the policy has been that at least three percent of general fund revenues
into the capital program each year.
Mr. Rooker noted that that is important as far as AAA bond rating goes.
Ms. Thomas said that it is laborious work to build the CIP fund back up after it is depleted.
Mr. Bever pointed out that the biggest expenditure shown would be for schools, at 40 percent. He
stated that the discussion to follow on individual expenditures would go by functional area concentrating on
the period from 2005-06 to 2009-10.
Ms. Thomas noted that the budget could be affected by delaying the onset of some CIP projects.
Mr. Bever explained that the court renovations – Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, Levy
Building, and Court Square renovations – are the first priority projects.
Ms. Thomas asked if the sally-port project could be postponed. Mr. Foley responded that it has
been moved up to try to coordinate with the other renovations. Mr. Rooker said that the funding for the
facility renovations is to be coordinated with the city. Mr. Foley stated that the sally-port is 100 percent
funded by the county, but Albemarle is coordinating with the city on the Juvenile Court project.
Mr. Bever presented information on the Public Safety area and illustrated which projects are new:
Station 11 technology projects – security system upgrade that includes a station alerting system and a fiber-
optic connection at the station ($161,000 in 05-06). He noted that those issues have been corrected for
Stations 12, 13, and 14, so that expense will not recur. Mr. Bever said that there is also money for a
$20,000 study to combine the fire and rescue stations on Seminole Trail.
Mr. Foley pointed out that they have been replacing equipment, and those costs will even out over
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time, although there will be some fluctuation.
Mr. Rooker noted that over time, the figures presented do show greatly varying amounts from year
to year.
Mr. Dan Eggleston pointed out that several vehicles may come up for replacement in the same
year, which causes a spike in the budget.
Mr. Breeden noted that if an existing fleet is replaced at one time, it is very likely to come up for
replacement again at the same time.
Ms. Thomas asked about the money in the revolving loan program for these items. Mr. Breeden
replied that the balance in the program was mostly wiped out, with the remainder ($150,000 approximately)
going into the CIP.
Mr. Rooker suggested that Mr. Tucker run through the process by which the budget is determined.
Mr. Tucker explained that the department or agency heads involved in having capital needs make
requests in early fall for a five and ten year period, and develop the timing for the programming to take
place or when the needs may occur. He said that those recommendations go to the CIP Technical
Committee – comprised mainly of staff from the schools, Office of Management and Budget, and Board of
Supervisors members. That committee makes recommendations to Mr. Tucker, who then shares it with the
Board of Supervisors.
Mr. Rooker pointed out that a number of projects on the list were approved in prior years, and are
on the list because they are just now coming on-line. Mr. Breeden said that the CIP is updated every two
years, with the off years being used to consider project updates or emergency projects.
Mr. Tucker stated that the Board actually adopts the 2005-06 Capital Budget, or some projects may
be moved out to later years to free up revenue for other items.
Mr. Rooker asked if there was a list of new projects. Mr. Breeden stated that they are listed as they
go along. Mr. Rooker commented that it would be helpful to have a list of “new” items proposed to be
added to the CIP.
Mr. Boyd asked about the new fire station funding, and asked if it was driven by population. Mr.
Foley responded that they have placed the locations to best meet response standards in the development
areas, citing the fact that the northern station has no coverage in that development area within the five-
minute response standard.
Mr. Boyd asked if the county was ahead or behind in building stations. Mr. Tucker responded that
the county is always behind.
Mr. Bowerman asked if the Pantops proposal includes any city participation. Mr. Foley responded
that it is assumed the city will pay half of the construction cost, but the county is delaying the project while
that is being determined. He noted that the northern station is in the design phase, and the county is
moving forward now with that one.
Mr. Rooker said that building fire stations is an example of capital expenditures that have future
operating costs associated with them. If the Board does not want to provide some of these services, the
time to make the decisions is before we start putting the footers in the ground for the buildings, because the
operating expense follows from that decision to make the capital investment.
Mr. Foley mentioned that this plan was put together on the premise that the city contract would
phase out in 2010.
Mr. Boyd wondered if the tax revenue brought by the additional housing that is generating the need
for additional fire stations would actually offset the cost of the new stations. Mr. Rooker responded that it
would not because it is residential, and because of the school situation.
Mr. Bever continued with his report, noting that the SPCA contribution is $50,000 annually to the
shelter, with one more year beyond this to complete the county’s five-year commitment. He said that there
is no funding for the police firing range in FY 05-06, but that would pick back up in FY 06-07, based on
feasible timelines for completion for each phase of that project. He added that some police video cameras
and mobile data computers are also funded in the CIP. Mr. Bever said that future projects in FY 09-10
include Station 14, the Ivy fire substation.
Mr. Bever explained the Public Works functional area CIP needs, noting that new projects include
the COB-McIntire renovations, which has two phases including Lane Auditorium, and the main county
building renovations to take place in FY 07. He noted that ongoing projects include the Ivy Landfill
remediation at $640,000 in FY-06, which reflects decrease costs in the operating budget and increased
costs to capital contributions.
Mr. Wyant asked what was planned for the Old Crozet School. Mr. Foley responded that there is
no plan at this time, as they are waiting for discussions about the library in Crozet to take place.
Mr. Rooker said that the renovation of the main county building is not pressing, except for perhaps
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the auditorium.
Ms. Thomas suggested postponing the first phase of the county building renovations, and other
Board members agreed.
Mr. Tucker noted that combining the Community Development office with other departments is the
primary purpose for the main building renovations, as well as the need for auditorium improvements.
Mr. Foley added that a decision on the auditorium renovation would be the most timely, as project
architects would begin the process soon. He also said that they are in the process of a renovation that
involves the Community Development department moving into the police station.
Mr. Dorrier asked what a year’s delay would do, and asked if it would cost more money. Mr.
Breeden said that you might incur some inflationary costs for construction.
Mr. Boyd asked about the possibility of incorporating the tax rate reduction into the calculations. Mr.
Tucker responded that it would be best for the Board to decide what they would like the tax rate to be, and
he can work up a budget that meets the revenue.
Mr. Rooker commented that there is a general government project subtotal of $11,935,000, and if
$2 million were taken out, what would be saved. Ms. White responded that some of it is debt service, and
some of it is one-time monies. The only way you are going to save money in the operating budget is to take
out the recurring revenues and change that allocation formula of how much money actually goes into it
every year. To get ongoing revenues, you would be reducing that formula.
Mr. Rooker said that the savings would be realized not for delaying projects, but for deciding not to
do them.
Mr. Bever presented information on future projects, including three recycling centers for FY 2007-
08 at $250,000 each for the northern, southern, and eastern areas of the county.
Mr. Bever said that for the Community and Neighborhood Development functional area, there is
$2.5 for the revenue-sharing road program, $3.9 for local and regional transportation improvements, and
$1.1 for Meadow Creek Parkway and Route 22/250 Intersection projects; the last two are offset 100 percent
by revenues. He explained that there is a total of $7.5 million in FY 06-10 for transportation projects.
Mr. Bever said that Neighborhood Plan implementation is cited at $2.6 million, with sidewalk
construction to total $2.7 million, and $1.2 in roadway landscaping.
Mr. Foley noted that the roadways are public roads VDOT is building, and the county is having to
pay for the landscaping, whereas landscaping along private roads is paid for by developers.
Mr. Bever said that in the Human Development area, there is one project – a $40,100 annual
contribution to PVCC. He noted that as of August 2004, PVCC has indicated the project is on schedule and
would begin in 2005-06 with occupancy in 2007.
Mr. Bever reported that the Parks, Recreation, and Culture function area includes several new
projects, noting that that department did some reconfiguration of projects to keep the bottom line the same
in 2005-06. He explained that some of the new projects include the Patricia Byrom forest, park
enhancements that reflect a shift in funding from the county athletic area based on a survey done by Parks
and Recreation to show what county needs were; Mint Springs fishing accessibility will take place in 2006-
07, and the Office of Management and Budget will be working on a grant to help offset some of the costs; in
2008-09 the Crozet growth area facilities would be added.
Mr. Boyd asked why funding for Patricia Byrom forest came ahead of funding for Preddy Creek.
Mr. Tucker replied that some of it is related to a donation the county received for the forest to accept the
land. He noted that Preddy Creek had been slated for a reservoir years ago.
Mr. Bever said that it was determined that there was still a need for a park near the proposed
Southern Elementary, but that project has been postponed because building the school was delayed.
Ms. Thomas expressed concern about the increasing cost of land in that area. Mr. Tucker noted
that he has heard there may be larger projects in that area, and the county may be able to get a proffer for
a park in that area. Mr. Breeden said that he would need to keep it in the planning, though.
Mr. Boyd asked what the genesis for the park plan was. Mr. Tucker responded that based on
standards for park needs, the population is in need of some type of recreation in that area. He emphasized
that the plan is for a large park of 15 acres or so, not just a playground.
Mr. Dorrier suggested looking at land near Monticello High School and Tandem. Mr. Tucker said
that when the land for Monticello was purchased, there was discussion about having shared fields, etc.
Mr. Dorrier asked Al Reaser, of Building Services, to shed some light on the use of the school
property. Mr. Reaser responded that all the fields at Monticello High School are irrigated and used for
football, soccer, etc. This is an additional need.
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Mr. Rooker pointed out that in the past, parks were primarily school facilities, and in the Jouett
district there is no park separate from the school. Mr. Tucker said that the Monticello fields are available at
any time.
Ms. Thomas commented that the Neighborhood Model depends on urban areas having amenities
and attractive aspects to them that make them a place people want to live, and parks are part of that.
Mr. Tucker said that the county is also hoping to provide a facility jointly with the YMCA that would
include swimming, etc.
Mr. Rooker informed attendees that the YMCA had wanted the county to partner with them in a $30
million recreational facility, but the county indicated they could not afford it, so the county is considering
donating land in the Monticello school area for the YMCA to place a facility.
Mr. Bever presented information on ongoing Parks and Recreation CIP contributions, including the
Paramount Theatre, the Greenway Program, river and lake access improvements, and maintenance of
projects. He said that funding exists in the 2006-07 for possible land acquisition for a new park and perhaps
meeting needs that the YMCA would not include.
Mr. Bever said that the county has committed $424,000 for the Crozet library in FY 05-06, with a
total project cost of $5.9 million; the county has already committed $427,000. Mr. Breeden clarified that
that commitment includes acquisition and design planning for the library.
Ms. White added that the library may serve as a focal point for the Crozet urban area, as
designated in that town’s master plan. Mr. Foley mentioned that there is a group in the community working
on that downtown plan currently.
Mr. Rooker noted that the library would have an ongoing operating expense. He asked if the Board
wanted to go forward with all of these library projects.
Ms. Thomas pointed out that the Northside Library and Crozet Library are replacements, whereas
the 29 North Corridor Library is brand new.
Ms. White mentioned that a lot of the library projects have been moved into the “out” years, which
are very flexible as to what projects are done when.
Mr. Rooker noted that North Pointe has proposed proffering a library site.
Mr. Wyant said that it would be helpful to acquire property if possible.
Mr. Breeden noted that there is some time before those decisions need to be made.
Mr. Foley mentioned that the CIP Technical Committee suggested merging the two northern
libraries into one facility.
Mr. Wyant asked if the internet had reduced library usage at all. Ms. Thomas responded that it had
not, as people still enjoy reading books. Ms. White added that circulation numbers continue to increase.
Mr. Bever reported that the City-View internet access at $100,000 is a new project, and will also
include an additional $10,000 already accounted for in the operating budget. He said that ongoing projects
include upgrades to the GIS and business key systems, as well as the county computer upgrade. Mr. Bever
pointed out that this is different than what is in the operating budget, and covers hardware, wiring, etc. to
support the networks.
Mr. Boyd asked if the City-View package was up and running. Mr. Foley responded that the core
package is in place, and this is a module to add to it.
Mr. Boyd said that he has not heard positive feedback on the system. Mr. Foley explained that it is
a brand new package, and there are issues with it, as well as a “learning curve.” He added that when the
county gets past that, it is going to have a lot of efficiencies that we’ll realize, but this has been difficult.
Ms. Thomas said that she had received a complex email intended for Susan Thomas, and she
forwarded it to Bill Fritz, who said City-View would enable him to answer it quickly.
Mr. Tucker commented that staff can use if quite readily and eventually the public will be able to
use it also.
Mr. Foley pointed out that this system will be able to answer more data-oriented and administrative
questions, such as how long an applicant has been in the system, turn around on site plan reviews, etc.
Mr. Bever reported that ACE is being funded $350,000 with tourism funds from FY 06-10, and said
that Mr. Foley would present slides on ACE later in the meeting. Mr. Bever said that the CIP calls for
$450,000 for stormwater control measures in FY 05-06, with approximately $3.6 million in the first five
years. He explained that these control facilities include collection and conveyance structures, such as
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ponds, basins, underground pipes, and above-ground channels and ditches. This is for the capital
component of the stormwater program.
Mr. Rooker noted that over a 10-year period, $14 million is budgeted for stormwater control, as a
result of state and federal regulations.
Mr. Foley mentioned that that cost reflects expanded programs that the Board has indicated they
want to do county-wide.
Mr. Foley presented information on transportation, specifically public transportation from a regional
and local approach. He commented that it needs to be discussed whether to use CIP to begin using local
dollars to fund construction of roads, which would be a new approach for the county. He said that both the
CIP and the transportation program establish separate regional and local programs, to try to address work
on different levels of road construction. Mr. Foley indicated that the funding at this point primarily includes
study and design funding.
Mr. Foley reported that the CIP does fully fund the revenue-sharing program, which has not been
the case in the past, putting $500,000 in local money to pull down an equal match from VDOT for roads the
county wants to use it for. He added that the General Assembly has doubled that amount, so that $1
million could be available, but cautioned that each year localities must apply for that funding. Mr. Foley
asked the Board to consider whether they want to use local funding in the CIP to accelerate road
construction, and whether they want to do that on regional projects or local also.
Mr. Foley presented slides on the county’s top 21 road projects, as approved by the Board, and
grouped them into categories. Regional projects – Mr. Foley said that of the 21 projects, Meadow Creek,
the Southern Parkway, Hillsdale Drive, and some of the 29/250 projects are considered regional by the
study group, according to Wayne Cilimberg. Mr. Foley said that there are some projects not on that list –
such as a new interchange related to Meadow Creek that needs further study and an Eastern Connector
that is not currently in the plans right now. He showed the second grouping as being projects under or
nearing construction – Airport Road, Jarman’s Gap Road; and the third grouping is projects dependent on
development and preliminary projects in the rural areas.
Mr. Rooker said that he has been working with the Metropolitan Planning Organization to help fund
some of the projects of regional significance, and the General Assembly has said they will “help
communities that are helping themselves.” He mentioned that the county has put in $2.5 million already for
the Meadow Creek Parkway, which was estimated to cost $10 million in 2000 and is now estimated to cost
$20 million. Mr. Rooker said that a new interchange would qualify for federal funds because it is on Route
250, and that is one of the only ways the MPO sees that might get that project funded and built with the
Meadow Creek Parkway. He added that projects like the Southern Parkway and Eastern Connector might
qualify as revenue-sharing projects because they may be joint projects with the city.
Mr. Rooker emphasized that the inflation factor for road-building is a lot higher than current interest
rates, and pointed out that the $2.5 million of secondary road funds allocated in 1985 would only build
$450,000 of roads. He indicated that creating a bondable stream of revenue to build some of these
projects will put the county ahead of the game.
Mr. Bowerman commented that Mr. Rooker has explained that several times before.
Mr. Rooker asked Mr. Davis if the county creates a local service district, could any revenue-sharing
qualified projects get a commitment from the state that would allow the county to build some of these
projects.
Mr. Davis responded that the legal mechanism to allow for revenue bonds to be generated would
be the creation of a transportation district, which could possibly be created solely in the county. He added
that the basis for revenue bonds generated by a transportation district would have to be either an
independent revenue source or a contractual source of revenue that could be either a contract with the city,
county, or VDOT to pull in a revenue stream. The county and VDOT obligation would be subject to non-
appropriation, which creates a little bit more of a risk with that type of revenue bond.
Mr. Bowerman said he thought the Board could also create a revenue district. Mr. Davis responded
that a service district could be created, and while it cannot issue bonds, it can establish a property tax to
generate dedicated revenue. You could create a transportation district and an overlapping service district to
generate revenue for a transportation district, and that money could be used as a revenue source for the
transportation district to issue bonds.
Mr. Rooker said that regardless of the mechanism, it is going to be a burden on county revenues.
Mr. Bowerman commented that bonds are the only way to go.
Mr. Tucker said that the central question is whether the Board wants to consider using some of the
CIP reserve in dedicating it to transportation construction for the first time.
Mr. Rooker pointed out that it is important to use the proffer system to help build roads also.
Mr. Dorrier noted that if the county starts using local funds for secondary roads or primary roads,
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the state is definitely not going to put any money back into it. He thinks the county should put pressure on
the state to try to get the state funding.
Mr. Rooker replied that the state is saying now that they will provide better funding to areas that will
put some of their money in to match their own needs.
Ms. Thomas said that she agrees with Mr. Dorrier, adding that citizens need to pressure their state
legislators to find revenue for roads, if they do not want their real estate taxes to pay for roads.
Mr. Bowerman commented that in the absence of any state aid, the only way the county is going to
build any roads is with the scenarios that Mr. Rooker has laid out. That is just the reality; it is cheaper to
finance them than it is to wait to build them.
Mr. Foley presented information on projects that would be significantly impacted by local money:
Georgetown Road ($724,000 more needed to be allocated); Proffitt Road, Ivy Road, Eastern Avenue
Bridge in Crozet, and future critical connections in the master plans.
Mr. Foley explained that the county wants to: continue to push for additional VDOT funding;
maximize leverage state revenue-sharing dollars; utilize local funds for preliminary studies and
transportation design; rely on proffers for some road improvements (if related to rezoning); and pursue
regional solutions for important regional projects.
Mr. Foley reiterated his question of whether local monies should be used for regional projects, local
projects, both, or none. He added that a secondary question is how projects should be accomplished if
local funds are used – a pay as you go basis or through bond financing. Mr. Foley mentioned that the
Industrial Development Authority or establishment of a transportation district could provide necessary
funding.
Mr. Rooker asked which means would be better.
Mr. Davis responded that a transportation district has a different structure, but does not have any
real advantage over the IDA option.
Ms. Thomas pointed out that regardless of which option is chosen, it forces the county to add a
great burden onto the real estate tax basis.
Mr. Boyd said that he favors a general obligation bond to elicit public feedback.
Ms. Thomas said the only way the Board is going to deal with the tax crisis is to stop putting new
obligations on our real estate tax. She thinks transportation ought to be a burden put on the people who are
using facilities, and the easiest way to do that is a gas tax.
Mr. Rooker stated that if the county had enabling authority, he would be in favor of the gas tax, but
they do not have that authority.
Mr. Dorrier said that he doesn’t understand why everyone’s giving up on the state.
Mr. Rooker responded that VDOT is funding less and less construction projects, and is focusing
more on maintenance.
Ms. Thomas added that the state will not be able to pull down federal monies as less funds are
allocated to road construction.
Mr. Dorrier mentioned that in the 1920’s and 1930’s, there were local roads, and Senator Byrd
helped create the state road system.
Mr. Rooker said that other localities have begun to use local funds for roads.
Mr. Foley clarified that in the local transportation program, the Board set aside $1.5 million in case
they decided to allocate that for road construction.
Mr. Rooker requested staff to come back with concrete suggestions about a bond program, and
create a placeholder in the CIP, setting aside $1 million for revenue-sharing.
Mr. Bowerman suggested that the county start funding Georgetown and other “isolated fixes” while
continuing to work as strongly as possible with the state legislature to either give Albemarle the authority to
give a local gas user tax to put the burden “on the people who use the roads.”
Mr. Dorrier asked if Hampton or Northern Virginia had a referendum on that. Ms. Thomas replied
that there were concerns about where the money would go in those situations, and a lack of trust emerged.
Mr. Rooker said that if the state decided to impose another 5-cent gas tax, that money would go to
the state, and some of it might come back to localities based on an allocation formula. He added that
currently, Albemarle doesn’t get nearly what is put in locally in the current 18-cent tax.
Urban Infrastructure – Mr. Foley reported that the level of funding has not been increased for this in
the CIP, and this is supposed to cover Neighborhood Plan implementation, sidewalks, street lights, and
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roadway landscaping. He added that there is money set aside for future master plans that has not been
used yet.
Mr. Rooker suggested that the Board have a CIP work session prior to the joint meeting with the
School Board.
Mr. Foley stated that the county has committed to 100 percent of basic fire and rescue operating
costs, 100 percent of emergency vehicle replacement, 100 percent forgiveness of previous debt, 100
percent of volunteer insurance coverage, turnout gear replacement, training, and a few other small items.
He explained that the county wants the stations to focus on responding to emergency calls, maintaining a
level of training, and fundraising just for buildings instead of operations.
Mr. Bowerman commented that there have been tremendous strides in the county’s fire protection
services.
Mr. Foley asked if the Board wanted to assume responsibility for building repair of fire stations also,
noting that Stony Point had requested help. He mentioned that the Seminole Trail building may need total
replacement, but replacing roofs and driveways has been left to the stations.
Ms. Thomas asked how much more the agreements have cost the county versus a few years ago.
Mr. Foley replied that that information would be available on Monday. In response to Mr. Boyd’s
question, Mr. Foley explained that the county had agreed to consider all requests for replacement on a
case-by-case basis.
Mr. Bowerman asked Stony Point Fire Chief Ted Armentrout if he had difficulty raising funds at his
station compared to other stations. Mr. Armentrout responded that the service area is 57 square miles,
mostly rural, with a population of 4,500 people, and said that they raise about $25,000 each year.
Mr. Bowerman said that the county has funded stations’ requests in the past, as each has a
different ability to raise funds.
Mr. Tucker suggested adding this item to the list for discussion at the next work session.
Mr. Foley presented information on the ACE program, noting that in the past $350,000 has been
put towards it with the Board’s target being $1 million. He said that $650,000 of end of year general fund
monies has been added to reach that target. He asked the Board to consider whether they want to use
one-time monies or ongoing revenues to continue reaching that $1 million goal. Mr. Foley added that the
General Assembly has appropriated $10 million to the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation, and there is
$2.5 million available in matching funds, although that program is competitive and may only yield $250,000
or so.
Mr. Foley noted that there have been 7 or 8 applications for easements submitted just this week,
and each one is considered individually.
Ms. Thomas said she would like to keep the $1 million local funding, noting that inflation is a factor
in this program also.
Mr. Boyd asked about carry-over monies that go into the program.
Mr. Foley replied that he can furnish that information, but said it is also available on the website.
Mr. Breeden pointed out that since the program’s inception in 2001, the county has contributed $1
million every year except 2003 when $800,000 was committed.
In response to Mr. Boyd’s question about what had been spent, Mr. Breeden informed him that
there are projects that will take those funds once they are finalized.
Mr. Rooker said the process takes quite a while. The problem is, if you cut back the allocation it
may not affect what you could do this year, it may affect what you can do in two years, and as Ms. Thomas
pointed out, the cost of property is accelerating.
Mr. Dorrier stated that they should apply for grants.
Mr. Tucker replied that they have applied for available grants, but does not expect to get them all
as it is a competitive process.
Mr. Bowerman asked about the $10 million appropriated for the grants, when only $2.5 is being
given out.
Mr. Foley responded that non-ACE state conservation programs would use the rest of those funds.
School Capital Funds - Ms. White presented information on what the schools have requested in
capital projects for the next five years, and what county staff is recommending. She noted that her office
looked at what the schools had planned previously for CIP funds, and added 7 percent because that is the
rate of revenue growth in the CIP. Ms. White explained that each year, the transfer to CIP increases each
year by a certain amount based on revenue growth in schools and local government.
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Ms. White explained that because of debt service obligations and school enrollment figures, the
county did not feel it could fund the schools’ entire CIP request, especially in year five. She mentioned that
the county is trying to stay below the average for AAA localities in expenditures, and the schools’ request
put them “above that line.” Ms. White added that they have to reduce that debt service from the school
division.
Ms. White reported that she saw very little enrollment growth over the five years that really justified
expansions for new schools; the FY 05 enrollment to the FY 10 enrollment is only about four students.
There is capacity at the end of that ten-year period for the school-projected growth. She added that there is
capacity in elementary, middle and high school, although there are issues with particular schools.
Ms. White explained that they looked at what would be an “equitable funding mechanism” with the
goals of maintaining debt within the AAA guidelines, allow local government debt to increase because there
are increasing county unaddressed infrastructure needs, and fund debt service within approved capital
funding allocation formula. She added that they also recognize the need to fund the maintenance for
school facilities, and have spent a lot of money to improve them over the last few years. Ms. White added
that the county will provide for enrollment growth as it’s needed.
Ms. White presented information on total county-obligated debt, emphasizing the importance of
balancing local government and school needs. They have to look at debt capacity and debt service,
because those are the major factors that limit what the county can do. The bottom line number of projects
is not as important as taking a look at debt service capability. She reported that the county currently has
$118 million in obligated debt, and it is increasing at a fairly gradual rate.
Ms. White said that currently, the schools have 72 percent of the obligated debt, and local
government has only 28 percent. If the Board proceeds with the recommendation, that gap begins to
narrow, and in the end of the five-year period of the CIP in FY 2010, that gap is slightly narrowed down to
60/40, and then it increasingly narrows as you go out five years.
Mr. Rooker asked what projects have been taken out. Ms. White said that what has been
recommended for the CIP is not specific projects, and it is reduced by percentage, not by project.
Mr. Breeden emphasized that county staff has developed a strategy, not a specific formula.
Mr. Rooker stated that a formula would be the wrong way to go, and the funding should be based
on specific needs. Mr. Breeden responded that they are not at the point of recommending a formula, and
probably a 7 percent increase can be absorbed, and they left it to the schools to decide which projects to
fund. Ms. White said that “this is a target” as a way to begin to reduce that ratio.
Mr. Bowerman commented that this is basically holding the schools to a “constant level” while
recognizing that there are more unfunded needs in general government, approximately $35 million now.
Ms. White pointed out that the school’s obligated debt would stay the same, and the 7 percent is
not yearly growth.
Mr. Breeden said that using an example of $1 million for school projects would be added onto
$7,000 each year, and that additional amount is not compounded.
Mr. Boyd said that he does not believe the formula doesn’t need to be split between county
government and schools, as those needs fluctuate. He would rather see is a formula that is going to
allocate to the CIP. Mr. Breeden commented that they already have that formula. Mr. Boyd replied that
that formula is based on property taxes though, not necessarily based on growth in population and school
enrollment.
Mr. Bowerman said that what it does illustrate, though, is the fact that the county has in effect
underfunded the capital needs of general government because school needs have been met
disproportionately.
Ms. White said that schools are able to maintain their total obligated debt because of the lack of
enrollment increase and the retirement of some of that existing debt.
Mr. Boyd asked what the debt service is on $1 million. Mr. Breeden replied that the rule of thumb is
5 percent.
Ms. White reported that currently the schools have 85 percent of the debt service, with local
government at 15 percent, and following staff’s recommendations would reduce that gap to 62 percent/38
percent within five years, and to 54 percent/44 percent in 10 years. She emphasized that this would allow
the county to keep its AAA bond rating.
Ms. White explained that they have met with school officials and staff to discuss recommendations
to help meet their needs with specific school projects within the debt service levels. She pointed out that
two projects that have been removed from the CIP are Southern Elementary and Western Elementary,
which remove $13 million and $14 million respectively from the first five years out in the CIP. Ms. White
said that the $1.6 million already available to the schools would allow them to build to capacity at Cale
Elementary, and $25,000 has been put into the land acquisition fund for elementary schools in FY 10. She
March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
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clarified that that amount is probably for planning.
Mr. Rooker commented that the more you can buy and control school sites now, the better off the
county is in the long run.
Ms. White said that the funding in the CIP will increase from $7 to $10 million, and Albemarle High
School could use that additional money for expansion.
Mr. Reaser noted that two high schools will have declining enrollment, and one is increasing, so
they are anticipating a redistricting. He added that not expanding Albemarle would limit redistricting.
Mr. Rooker asked why there would be redistricting to add more students to Albemarle. Mr. Reaser
replied that if they do not redistrict or add on to Western Albemarle, that school’s enrollment will be 1200
which is 200 over capacity over five years.
Mr. Rooker said that five years from now, the figures show less enrollment at the high school level
than there is today. Mr. Reaser said that Western Albemarle is currently over capacity, and they could meet
an immediate need, but in 8 or 9 years, the long-term will see more students because of potential growth.
Currently they have 300 more 9th grade students than 3rd grade students. As that bubble moves through
the high school, you’ll see that decline in year five, and then you’ll have the enrollment increasing per grade
in grades K-2.
Mr. Rooker stated that he thinks they need to look hard at building capacity in the face of projected
declines in enrollment.
Mr. Boyd mentioned that several years ago, live births did not generate the expected enrollment in
Kindergarten, and wondered if that might happen again. Mr. Reaser agreed that the Kindergarten
enrollment was lower, partly because of private schools, but those students are coming back to the county
in grades 2 through 12. He added that it is a real challenge now because of such diverse numbers, and
they are trying to avoid a trailer park at Albemarle High School.
Mr. Rooker commented that if enrollment stays steady or declines, it would enable the county to
fulfill other needs.
Ms. Diane Behrens said that the capacity addition to Albemarle would allow them to get rid of the
eight trailers that are there now.
Mr. Reaser stated that there will be 20 fewer students five years from now overall, but the system
will gain 221 elementary students.
Ms. White pointed out that the revised agreed-upon funding for the schools is $60.9 million,
representing an $814,000 difference that has a minimal impact on debt service.
Ms. White concluded her presentation. She said the committee feels that with the agreement with
the schools, they have worked out a CIP program that works, increasing debt service levels and ability to
borrow, and funds all the other projects in their CIP.
Mr. Boyd asked for justification of the $2 million increase from $7 million to $9 million. Mr. Reaser
responded that the major difference in the request for the increase is the schools did not change their CIP
two years ago, and that came forward at the same dollar value last year. There have been tremendous
construction cost increases that have driven up project costs.
Mr. Breeden said that there have been 15 to 20 percent increases in construction project costs over
the last few years. He added that the capability of contractors to meet the demand is having a huge impact
on that also.
Ms. Thomas mentioned that she gets monthly updates on University construction projects, and
there are a huge number of projects locally simultaneously occurring.
(At 4:30 p.m., the Board took a recess, and reconvened at 4:50 p.m.)
__________
General Government Budget Issues (continued from prior work session)
Ms. Vinzant presented information on the Parks, Recreation and Culture functional area, with
libraries representing almost half that budget. She explained that there is a 12.7 percent increase in
operating and capital, with 3.88 percent of it being operations increases, and the remainder being capital
costs. Ms. Vinzant said that the changes that happened in the Parks and Recreation department include a
full-year of the salary reclassification implementation, and provides $71,400 in new trail development and
maintenance equipment and supplies, based on community survey results. She added that much of that is
a one-time cost.
Ms. Vinzant reported that the Parks and Recreation budget does absorb $59,000 in anticipated
costs anticipated costs resulting from CIP projects, including river and lake access projects; and because of
the inmate workforce, they are able to use their current budget for that without adding it as a new
expenditure.
March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
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Mr. Boyd mentioned that the schools are adding a $41,000 position for someone to coordinate
using the inmate workforce. Mr. Breeden said that that is totally unrelated to the program Ms. Vinzant
mentioned.
Ms. Vinzant stated that there are several new library positions – a Central Library outreach
manager, a part-time Technical Support Specialist, and part-time Assistant to help with outreach to nursing
homes and assisted living facilities. She added that other agencies in this functional area were given 3
percent increases; two were not recommended for funding – First Night Virginia and the U.Va. Museum for
Art – because $443,000 in tourism funds was used for these agencies.
Ms. Thomas asked how the tourism funds are allocated. Mr. Breeden explained that those funds
are separated into their own fund, with 3 cents into tourism and 2 cents to general operations under the
ordinance the county adopted; $350,000 of the tourism portion funds the ACE programs that qualify, as well
as the items Ms. Vinzant mentioned totaling $443,000.
Mr. Dorrier said that Richard Herskowitz of the Virginia Film Festival had mentioned to him the
increase from $10,000 to $15,000, which he had requested so that a national publicity campaign could be
done to bring in more tourists nationally.
Ms. White noted that that was part of their application. Mr. Dorrier said that at least half of the film
festival budget comes from the University. Mr. Rooker commented that it is difficult to go into the charitable
agency requests.
Ms. White explained that the festival should generate some revenues, so staff did not recommend
the increase.
Mr. Wyant pointed out that the libraries received $150,000 additional last year.
Ms White commented that their full budget was funded last year, and they have had significant
increases in their operating costs, including health insurance.
Board members asked if other localities were coming up with their portion in the cost-sharing
formula for the libraries. Ms. White noted that it is based on circulation. Mr. Breeden stated that the city is
recommending fully funding their portion of the library’s total request from them.
Community Development - Mr. Bever reported that $359,000 for stormwater control mandates was
moved to General Services. He said that the same trends hold true for salaries and benefits increases.
Mr. Boyd asked if reclassification happened in every department. Mr. Foley replied that several
areas were done, and Community Development was done because of the restructuring in the department
and personnel responsibilities.
Mr. Bever noted that overtime wages were also increased, adding $50,000 for peak demand
periods. He said that the salary increases are due to the reclassification and 4.4 percent merit increase.
Mr. Bever said that $20,000 was added for groundwater monitoring of wells, which is new for this year, and
$10,000 was added for City View enhancement. He mentioned that there is $10,800 in operating costs
associated with other CIP projects, and this money might be moved to General Services because it deals
with maintenance on urban infrastructure projects.
Mr. Rooker suggested having information on the justification for baseline salary increases. Mr.
Tucker and Mr. Foley agreed to provide that information.
Mr. Wyant asked what the $20,000 was for in groundwater monitoring. Mr. Tucker responded that
that is in conjunction with the ordinance, and will provide money for groundwater data collection and actual
drilling of wells. Mr. Mark Graham explained that there would be some long-term monitoring wells,
especially in light of new developments.
Mr. Wyant commented that using individual existing wells would provide a better overall picture of
water quality. Mr. Rooker responded that the Board has wanted to do both, and there need to be county-
monitored wells and staff to gather data from the wells of landowners participating in any monitoring
programs.
Mr. Graham said that the county wants to add two wells a year, in conjunction with development
projects in development areas. He said that staff has been performing well monitoring since February.
Mr. Rooker mentioned that he uses “etest.com” for his own personal well each year, costing
$125.00.
Mr. Graham said that they are using GIS information for 76 sites in the county, and are working to
capture any permits that come in.
Mr. Wyant commented that the county does not know where all the wells are in relationship to
drainfields.
March 16, 2005 (Adjourned Meeting from March 14, 2005)
(Page 14)
Mr. Bowerman asked how well levels could be checked without pulling up pipes, etc. Mr. Graham
responded that there are electronic sensors that can do it, or put a stopper in the old fashioned way.
Office of Housing – Mr. Bever reported that the Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinator was not
approved by HUD, which results in a decrease of one full-time position and an overall decrease in salary
expenditures. He said that the county continues to place $250,000 in the Albemarle Housing Trust Fund,
$50,000 of which was transferred from the PHA budget.
Mr. Bever said that there is a 94.5 percent increase in the Charlottesville Transit Service to
$228,000.
Mr. Rooker commented that the county should give the city an increase based on usage. Mr. Foley
said that there is additional information available on this item presented Monday.
Mr. Bever reported that soil and water has a 10.4 percent increase, because of a reclassification
and merit pool increase for the one position the county funds, and a 3 percent departmental operating
increase. He said that the Thomas Jefferson Planning District gets a 12.6 percent increase due to per
capita rate increases to 54 cents – the first jump in 18 years.
Mr. Foley mentioned that stormwater related expenses in the operating budget – the ENS program,
the stormwater plan review, the water resources manager, etc. – will all be part of the new stormwater
program. He noted that that will give the program $881,000 in general operating costs, in addition to capital
costs of $450,000. It is a lot more focused program then the county has ever had before.
Mr. Foley asked if the Board wanted to fund it this way, or set up a utility district or county-wide
stormwater district. He said that annual operating costs for this would likely increase $400,000 total over
the next five years, representing increases in existing and mandated program costs. A big part of that would
be the expanded program for desired water quality improvement projects, including streambank repairs.
Mr. Foley said that capital expenditures for stormwater management would increase $650,000 over that
five-year period for new stormwater facilities, stream buffer and erosion projects, and watershed study and
improvement projects.
Mr. Foley said that there are two funding alternatives – incorporating into operating and capital
budgets the cost of this program or setting up a stormwater management district that uses one penny or
more of the tax rate to fund it, with the tax bills mentioning this allocation. He added that another option
would be setting up an equivalent residential unit fee that would generate money by each house or dwelling
unit. It creates a fee source of revenue rather than doing it based on the property tax.
Mr. Bowerman asked Mr. Graham who was taking a look at the drainage between Hillsdale Drive
and Branchlands Drive to keep that clear. Mr. Graham responded that General Services (formerly Public
Works) is inspecting that now, adding that some of the smaller drainage had not been looked at up to now.
At this time the Board concluded its discussions and Mr. Tucker commented that the Board would
continue its discussions on March 21 with other unfunded initiatives.
_______________
Agenda Item No. 5. Adjourn. There being no further business to come before the Board, the
meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.
________________________________________
Chairman
Approved by the Board
of County Supervisors
Date: 06/08/2005
Initials: DBM