HomeMy Public PortalAbout2000_10_30
COUNCIL WORKSESSION October 30, 2000
Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, 7:00 p.m. Mayor Webb presiding.
Councilmembers Present: George Atwell, Mervin Jackson, Leonard McDonald, David
Schmidt, Kristen Umstattd, Robert Zoldos, and Mayor Webb.
Staff Present: Robert Noe, Town Manager, William Donnelly, Town Attorney, Phillip
Rodenberg, Deputy Town Manager, Director of Engineering and Public Works Tom Mason,
Director of Planning, Zoning and Development Michael E. Tompkins, Deputy Town Manager
for Economic Development John Henry King, Director of Personnel Nancy Fixx, Director of
Finance Paul York, Director of Parks and Recreation Kaj Dentler, Chief Purchasing Officer
Kathy Elgin, Zoning Administrator Brian Boucher, Chief of Current Planning Lee Phillips and
Clerk of Council Judy Ahalt.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Agenda for Council Meeting of Tuesday, October 31, 2000
a. Awarding a contract to Hendricks and Associates to perform a
comprehensive pay and classification study.
Mr. Robert Noe discussed salary issues and recent indicators during the hiring
process showing we are not current with the market. He proposed an immediate
salary survey so that some corrections can be made with a mid-year budget
adjustment.
Nancy Fixx introduced Mr. Hendricks with Hendricks and Associates. Mr.
Hendricks outlined the firms experience and clients they have served in the last ten
years. He stated that they have a ninety percent track record of getting new pay
plans implemented.
Mr. Hedricks stated he would strive for fair and competitive pay in order to recruit
people and retain current employees. An important element is pay for performance.
He plans to interview a large number of employees and have numerous meetings
with the steering committee.
Mr. Hendricks stated they have access to current information as they did a recent
survey for Loudoun County which, included information from four jurisdictions to the
east. Also they will compile information from the private sector.
Mayor Webb verified this study would be completed by March 1, 2001 at the
latest; but January/February more likely.
b. Special Exception - SE-2000-07 - Royal Self Storage Public Hearing
Lee Phillips outlined this application and pointed out the site for mini-storage on
Fort Evans Road. He added the Planning Commission had compatibility issues with
this use and has recommended approval with conditions.
Mayor Webb asked if buffer yard issues have been resolved with an adjoining
property owner to Parcel 27
COUNCIL WORKSESSION October 30, 2000
Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, 7:00 p.m. Mayor Webb presiding.
Councilmembers Present: George Atwell, Mervin Jackson, Leonard McDonald, David
Schmidt, Kristen Umstattd, Robert Zoldos, and Mayor Webb.
Staff Present: Robert Noe, Town Manager, William Donnelly, Town Attorney, Phillip
Rodenberg, Deputy Town Manager, Director of Engineering and Public Works Tom Mason,
Director of Planning, Zoning and Development Michael E. Tompkins, Deputy Town Manager
for Economic Development John Henry King, Director of Personnel Nancy Fixx, Director of
Finance Paul York, Director of Parks and Recreation Kaj Dentler, Chief Purchasing Officer
Kathy Elgin, Zoning Administrator Brian Boucher, Chief of Current Planning Lee Phillips and
Clerk of Council Judy Ahalt.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. Agenda for Council Meeting of Tuesday, October 31, 2000
a. Awarding a contract to Hendricks and Associates to perform a
comprehensive pay and classification study.
Mr. Robert Noe discussed salary issues and recent indicators during the hiring
process showing we are not current with the market. He proposed an immediate
salary survey so that some corrections can be made with a mid-year budget
adjustment.
Nancy Fixx introduced Mr. Hendricks with Hendricks and Associates. Mr.
Hendricks outlined the firms experience and clients they have served in the last ten
years. He stated that they have a ninety percent track record of getting new pay
plans implemented.
Mr. Hedricks stated he would strive for fair and competitive pay in order to recruit
people and retain current employees. An important element is pay for performance.
He plans to interview a large number of employees and have numerous meetings
with the steering committee.
Mr. Hendricks stated they have access to current information as they did a recent
survey for Loudoun County which, included information from four jurisdictions to the
east. Also they will compile information from the private sector.
Mayor Webb verified this study would be completed by March 1, 2001 at the
latest; but January/February more likely.
b. Special Exception - SE-2000-07 - Royal Self Storage Public Hearing
Lee Phillips outlined this application and pointed out the site for mini-storage on
Fort Evans Road. He added the Planning Commission had compatibility issues with
this use and has recommended approval with conditions.
Mayor Webb asked if buffer yard issues have been resolved with an adjoining
property owner to Parcel 2?
Town Council Worksession Minutes for October 30,2000
Page 2
Mr. Phillips stated there is a 25 ft buffer, which is split with 12.5 feet on either
lot. He added that the applicant has agreed to give a 20 ft buffer with the side
adjoining Wolford and Chen.
Mayor Webb asked for more information regarding the buffer yard issue for the
Tuesday Council meeting.
Mayor Webb questioned whether a storage facility is a good just settling.
Mr. Phillips pointed out that compatibility was a major issue for the PC but
believes that since the applicant has increased the buffer yards on the west and east
sides it will be compatible use.
Councilmember Atwell said if we are buffering this particular use, then this
particular site should provide the entire 25 ft. buffer.
Councilmember Umstattd stated that the PC had primary concerns whether
this is a compatible use under our infill policies. She suggested we look at what we
intended in the comprehensive plan with regards to infill.
She added the applicant has agreed to a number of conditions such as BAR
color approval and masonry walls. Also the applicant has assured the Planning
Commission that the massive length of one of the buildings will not be visible from
the bypass. Council member stated she continues to have concerns with storage
facilities inside the bypass because we are trying to raise the aesthetic quality of
Leesburg inside the bypass.
Councilmember Zoldos verified the property is zoned B-2 and that mini-
storage is permitted by special exception. Mr. Phillips said that it does meet the
special exception criteria one of which says that you look at the Town Plan policies
set up for infill. One of the infill policies is compatibility with surrounding issues.
Council member McDonald questioned whether this is a compatible use with
the proposed office and hotel on surrounding lots.
There was further discussion with reference to the buffer requirements.
Brian Boucher, Zoning Administrator, clarified the buffer regulations.
Mayor Webb asked for clarification to be provided at tomorrow's nights
meeting a to whether the 25 ft. buffer would be required for a compatible use.
Brian Boucher stated that mini-storage in B-2 is acceptable. It is up to
Council to decide whether it is a compatible use.
Mr. Donnelly stated that since this is a special exception use the Council has
the power to impose reasonable conditions, perhaps a larger buffer.
c. ZM-2000-04 - 24 Church Street Public Hearina
Delane Parks outlined this rezoning application to rezone 24 Church Street from
RHD to B-1. Specifically to convert 2400 square from residential to office.
Town Council Worksession Minutes for October 30,2000
Page 3
Mr. Parks stated the Planning Commission recommended approval with the
following conditions: (1) brick sidewalks along the property frontage on Cornwall
Street upon issuance of the zoning permit for improvements, (2) offsite
transportation improvements at the issuance of the first zoning permit on the
property, (3) a sight distance easement, and (4) onsite traffic flow that enters the
site from Church Street and exits the site onto Cornwall.
Mayor Webb asked for clarification as to whether the applicant is planning
rehabilitation of existing structures or new construction. Mr. Parks stated that at
this time the applicant is planning to rehabilitate just the existing structure, but is
asking to rezone the entire lot. Mr. Parks added the applicant has offered to limit
the permitted uses on the property to office, home occupations, single-family
detached and duplex uses in order to keep future development consistent with the
property in the vicinity.
Mayor Webb questioned whether this rezoning is in the best interest of one of the
most historic neighborhoods in town.
Councilmember Jackson expressed concern with the applicant's intent for the rest
of the property and whether a development plan will be required for future
construction.
Councilmember Zoldos concurred and expressed concern with the timing of the
off-site transportation improvements.
Mr. Mason stated that the Town Plan recommends contributions for regional
projects for each rezoning. The dollar contribution is based on a formula in the
Town Plan for off-site improvements.
Councilmember Umstattd asked that a side-by-side comparison of permitted uses
with and without the proffer limitations be provided for tomorrow night's meeting.
Mayor Webb also asked for minutes from the Planning Commission meeting
reflecting citizen comments.
d. Cable Franchise Aareement and Ordinance
Mr. Del Hanley was present representing Adelphia.
Mayor Webb thanked Richard Herndon and the Cable Commission for their hard
work on the franchise agreement and ordinance.
Phil Rodenberg provided a chronology of the franchise.
Mr. Rodenberg outlined the five items to be considered by Council: (1) approval
of the new cable television regulations, (2) receiving and opening any bids from any
other cable provider, (3) new franchise ordinance, (4) memorandum of
understanding within the franchise, (5) transfer from Adelphia to Century Cable
Holding d.b.a. as Adelphia.
Mr. Rodenberg discussed the transfer item condition, which says it has to be
owned, managed or controlled by Mr. Regis or a member of his family. He added
there are two options the word "wholly" owned, managed or controlled or a version
that strikes any reference to the Regis family and puts in Adelphia Communication.
Town Council Worksession Minutes for October 30,2000
Page 4
Councilmember Zoldos stated that he prefers the language, which refers to
"wholly" owned.
Councilmember McDonald stated he is pleased with the proposed language. He
thanked everyone who has been involved in this process.
Councilmember Atwell thanked Richard Herndon for his time and effort on the
renewal and Cable Commission.
Mayor Webb asked if the memorandum of understanding has the same level of
enforceability in terms of enforcement as the franchise?
Mr. Donnelly stated that it does not have the same level, but is he will review and
report to Council at tomorrow's meeting.
Mayor Webb expressed concern with when we will see a general manager locally.
Mr. Hanley commented that he is in the process of screening applicants now.
Mr. Rodenberg reminded Council that Leesburg's cable franchise does expire on
October 31, 2000.
e. Adopting a 2001 Legislative Program
Phil Rodenberg discussed the 2001 Legislative program. He updated Council on
the Virginia Municipal League's legislative priorities. They have designated education
funding, tax restructuring, and intergovernmental revenue.
He stated our legislative should also include Historic District Preservation/
Beautification, VDOT Street Standards, Revenue Sharing with Towns possibly the
50/40/10 formula, Authority of Towns not being restricted, State Tax Relief for
Seniors, and Income Tax Credits for Business Activities in Historic Districts.
Mayor Webb asked that the Revenue Sharing legislation include a paragraph
stating that revenue sharing doesn't replace the car tax revenues.
Mr. Rodenberg stated there is a deadline of December 18th to submit bills to the
legislative services.
Councilmember Umstattd asked that land use be included in the Authority of
Towns legislation. Council agreed with this addition.
Councilmember Schmidt asked that we specify what the income and asset levels
would be for senior tax relief.
Mayor Webb suggested that we contact Delegate May's office as to what would
be a reasonable number for the senior tax relief.
Also Mr. Rodenberg was asked to add the 50/40/10 formula to the legislation.
f. Vision Statement, Vision Principles and Operating Guidelines
Town Council Worksession Minutes for October 30,2000
Page 5
Phil Rodenberg presented the vision statement and principles as worked on at the
retreat.
Councilmember Schmidt and Atwell had a few grammatical changes that needed
to be incorporated into the final document for adoption at tomorrow night's meeting.
2. Free ParkinQ in the Historic District
Mr. Noe commented that parking is becoming more difficult issue and spaces are at a
premium. At some point Council may want to consider the programs that are in existence
now, such as two hour free parking in the garage.
Councilmember McDonald commented that Council is going to deal with the issue of
whether we can continue to have free parking on weekdays.
Councilmember Zoldos agreed suggesting that perhaps free parking passes may be
used during the holiday season to encourage shopping in downtown.
Councilmember Schmidt stated that the Economic Development Commission has
discussed this issue does not support free parking passes.
Councilmember Zoldos encouraged business owners and town employees to use the
top levels of the parking garage.
Mayor Webb commented on business employees taking advantage of the two hour
parking by moving their vehicles during the day. She is not willing to offer free parking
during the day.
Councilmember Zoldos suggested the eliminated of the two-hour free parking.
Paul York verified there are approximately 150 paid parking spaces in the garage and
a significant waiting list.
It was decided to look at this issue again at the mid-year budget process.
Mr. King was asked to return a report to the November 13th meeting from the
Economic Development Commission as to the Downtown Committee's suggestions for
downtown parking.
Lisa Speet addressed Council stating that free passes should be considered for
tourists only and possibly 30 minute parking for town business. She also commented on
the oversized vehicles in the garage.
3. Council Work Session Process
Mayor Webb discussed the issue of a public hearing and legislation on the same
evening. Routine items could probably be voted on the same night as a public hearing,
however, she never wants to see legislation on an item that has a joint public hearing on
the same night.
She stated that she continues to have issues with the efficiency issue on the part of
the management staff. If the Thursday deadline cannot be met, tell the Council that the
department head cannot get their work done.
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Town Council W orksession Minutes for October 30, 2000
Page 6
Councilmember Atwell added that he is not impressed with the efficiency. He too
finds it difficult to accept items on the worksession agenda and again on the following day
for action. What is discussed on a Monday night, unless there is an emergency item, should
come forward at the meeting two weeks later.
He stated that he wants special exceptions to be special and would like the
opportunity to digest the public hearing information, adding when legislation is prepared it
tells the public that we don't care what they have to say.
Mayor Webb added that she would like to see public hearing items two weeks prior
for discussion at a work session.
Further any Council member can ask for legislation items to be removed from the
agenda.
Councilmember McDonald stated that he is not comfortable voting on any issue until
all public input is received be it at the public hearing or from citizens afterwards.
Councilmember Jackson stated he thinks we would benefit if we gave staff more
time.
Councilmember Umstattd said that under the old system she had more time to look
at issues that are important. She stated that the Council of the whole works rather well but
she prefers a week between a work session and a Council vote.
Mayor Webb suggested discussing this item again in two weeks.
Council member Zoldos suggested that we fine tune the process and put it in writing.
Mayor Webb suggested that Council members individually talk with the town
manager to offer suggestions.
4. Incentives for retail development in the historic district
John King reported to Council that he and the Economic Development Commission
are working on Council's request to find out how retail businesses in the downtown area can
be encouraged and retained. He questioned whether it is a zoning issue, a development
issue, or an issue of incentives. What tools and techniques will bring about the desired
resu Its?
Mr. King introduced Leesburg commercial real estate broker Rich Vaaler who
specializes in renting, managing, and selling commercial property. Mr. Vaaler explained
that a retail tenant looks at what he can pay related to the sales of that location. Many
things drive an office tenant sale. Many things, such as foot traffic, visibility and
accessibility, parking, hours of operation, the mix of product in the area, and the price
points of what's being sold affect a good retail mix. The problems is that the town does
not have control over what goes where, nor does the town have the ability to give
incentives in the form of rental abatements or things that a building owner or developer
may be able to give.
Mr. Vaaler added shopping trends have changed; it is more convenient to go to a
mall. Also, the Americans with Disabilities Act have created more competition for first floor
space with office tenants. Some solutions would be to give building owners incentives if
they lease a retail tenant or to the actual tenant, make more parking accessible, get an
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Town Council Worksession Minutes for October 30, 2000
Page 7
anchor tenant in the downtown area such as a cultural arts center. He added that if you
walk around town, there are a lot of retail tenants. Perhaps we are already close to a
desirable mix.
Mayor Webb asked how much office space should we build to take some of the
pressure off downtown? Mr. Vaaler stated that a recent office vacancy study show under 4-
5%.
Mayor Webb asked about the redevelopment opportunities within or adjacent to the
historic district-Loudoun Street to the bike trail; Catoctin Circle west, and the southern part
of the historic district?
Mr. Vaaler commented that the Paul Reimers project at Loudoun and Dry Mill Road is
a good mix of office and residential. He added that a few apartments on Liberty Street
have first floor office and they are rented the minute they are vacant. He suggested that
sites for redevelopment be identified on maps and focus people toward these sites. Mr.
Vaaler suggested that the Times-Mirror site is an ideal site for major redevelopment. It has
a huge potential for retail on the ground floor with office above. Possibly the cultural arts
center could be integrated into the site.
Mayor Webb thanked Mr. Vaaler for his help with this project.
Mr. King stated he would continue to bring Council information as it is discovered.
He is working on some solutions.
Council member Umstattd suggested extending the legislative authority to areas like
our historic district. Mr. King replied the legislature has "passed by indefinitely" on creating
a historic courthouse district enterprise zone.
Councilmember McDonald mentioned the City of Alexandria and the innovative things
they have done along their waterfront.
Mr. King replied there are wonderful redevelopment tools available. In places where
successes are currently occurring, the free market has played a big role. The government
did some redevelopment, created parking structures, government facilities; but the
marketplace drove a lot of the success you see in Old Towne Alexandria.
Councilmember Zoldos suggested we take a serious look at a redevelopment
authority and consider a public/private partnership as discussed at the Economic
Development Commission summit.
Councilmember Atwell referenced a New York Times article "Reviving Main Street or
Living in the Past." It is about Media, Pennsylvania. He asked that the article be copied
and distributed to Council.
Mayor Webb thanked Mr. King for the presentation and stated that she is looking
forward to continued progress.
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