HomeMy Public PortalAbout2009_tcwsmin1123Council Work Session
November 23, 2009
Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, 7:30 p. m. Mayor Umstattd presiding.
Council Members Present: David S. Butler, Thomas Dunn, II, Katie Sheldon
Hammier, Marty Martinez, Kenneth ~~Ken" Reid, Kevin Wright and Mayor Kristen
Umstattd
Council Members Absent: Council Member Dunn arrived at 8:30 p.m.
Staff Present: Town Manager )ohn Wells, Deputy Town Attorney Barbara Notar,
Deputy Town Manager Kaj Dentler, Chief of Police Joe Price, Director of Finance
Norm Butts, Director of Planning and Zoning Susan Berry-Hill, Director of Public
Works Tom Mason, Director of Utilities Randy Shoemaker, Deputy Director of
Planning and Zoning Brian Boucher, Zoning Administrator Chris Murphy, Deputy
Zoning Administrator Wade Burkholder, Lieutenant Jeff Dube, Lieutenant Vanessa
Grigsby, lieutenant Carl Maupin, Comprehensive Planner David Fuller, and Business
Retention Coordinator Debi Parry
1. Work Session Items for Discussion:
a. FY 2011 Budget Update
John Wells stated the Town's budget situation continues to slightly improve as
the gap in project expenditures and costs continues to decrease with the
initiatives implemented by Council including the cancellation of the lease at 507
Wirt Street and the early retirement program. He stated staff continues to look
at maintain the current tax rate and if the real estate assessment numbers are
as projected this will result in a constant or slightly reduced tax bill for the
average homeowner. He stated the next update will be provided to Council in
January.
Norm Butts stated outlined the preliminary assessed values stating the
current assessment is $5.6 billion and staff anticipates that number will increase
to $5.7 billion primarily because the real estate assessments are expected to be
flat, while the new commercial development in Town will increase the
commercial assessment number by 5 percent. He provided the history of the
Town's tax rate stating the effective tax rate would be 20 cents; however, we
plan to maintain our current rate of 19.5 cents. He stated because the real
estate assessments are expected to be flat and the tax rate to remain constant
there should be no change in the tax bill to the average homeowner.
Council Member Martinez stated it is important to remember that the
information provided applies only to the Town's tax rate and is not an indicator
of the County tax rate.
Mr, Butts outlined the various revenue accounts for the Town stating real
estate tax is the largest revenue source for the Town accounting for
approximately 25 percent of revenue.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 2
Vice Mayor Hammier asked if an increase in the meals tax revenue has been
considered in the information provided to account for the opening of Wegmans
and other development projects in Town.
Mr. Wells stated the Wegmans meals tax projections have not been added in
specifically; however, provision was made for a general increase in the meals
tax. He stated staff is working on projections for meals tax and BPOL revenue
for the new larger businesses.
Mr. Butts stated local tax revenue is projected to be approximately $22.4
million.
Council Member Butler verified staff attributes the decline in cigarette tax
revenue to a decline in sales.
Mr. Butts stated the number two revenue source is recreation services at $4.8
million. Further, he outlined sales and use taxes, PPTRA reimbursement from the
state, highway maintenance, communications taxes and law enforcement 599
funding.
Council Member Reid verified the State has not cut the law enforcement 599
funding further this fiscal year.
Mr. Butts stated the total funding received from the State is approximately
$13 million. He stated there is concern over potential reductions in state
funding given their current budget situation. He outlined expenditures stating
personnel accounts for 64 percent of the Town's expenditures. He stated the
Virginia Retirement System (VRS) has indicated there will be an increase in the
Town's contribution of 12 percent. He stated health insurance is budgeted at a
six percent increase; however, the exact number will not be known until the
contract is awarded. Further, he outlined the Town's operating expenses and
debt service.
Vice Mayor Hammier verified the interest rate on the new debt issued and
refinancing was approximately 3.48 percent.
Mr. Butts stated the current estimated difference in revenue and
expenditures for fiscal year 2011 is $861,959. Further, he discussed the
undesignated fund balance and reserves.
There was further Council discussion regarding carryover funds.
Vice Mayor Hammier commented on the need to look at a reduction in
expenditures to reduce the need for carryover funds.
Mr. Wells reminded Council that the information provided is preliminary and
we seem to be headed in a positive direction; however, the final assessment
information will not be released by the Council until January. He stated we need
to begin looking at creative uses for some of the fund balance money and
reminded Council of the suggestion to establish a Capital Replacement Fund to
be funded by the fund balance money and cash payments to reduce debt.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 3
Council Member Wright stated the advantage of the way we have reduced the
carryover and the tax rate is that we have avoided having a tax rate that moves
up and down from year to year. He stated the Capital Replacement fund will
allow Council to plan for larger capital expenditures rather than having to
increase the tax rate.
Council Member Reid asked that information be provided regarding
percentage of commercial and industrial in our overall assessed value and the
number of households in Town that are part of a home owners association
(HOA). He asked the purpose of the equalized tax rate calculation.
Mr. Wells stated the equalized tax rate calculation allows Council to see that
there is a reduction in the average homeowner's tax bill in years where the tax
rate is less than the equalized rate.
Council Member Reid stated when discussing the projected increase in
commercial revenue Mr. Butts cited the Village at Leesburg development;
however, it seems the real reason for the increase is that commercial
assessments increased for this fiscal year and Council raised the tax rate.
Mr. Butts for FY 2010 the estimate is that current assessments will drop;
however, the new growth will offset that decline.
Council Member Reid stated he would like to see the revenue received from
commercial real estate taxes in FY 2009.
There was further discussion regarding the Uran Fund balance.
Council Member Reid verified after funds are provided for the ROCK program
for FY 2011 there will be no remaining funds in the Uran Fund for non-profit
donations.
Council Member Wright stated that is in accordance with the plan adopted by
Council.
Council Member Reid stated four non-profits were funded this fiscal year
thanks to the leadership of Council Member Butler and he feels that is the best
use for the Uran Fund.
Council Member Reid expressed support for establishing a capital replacement
fund. He expressed further concern with the amount of money in the
undesignated fund balance. He stated he appreciates the Vice Mayor's
comments that reducing expenditures is important; however, that means
making priorities, cutting programs and also cutting staff as that is the best way
to reduce the size of Town government. He stated these reserves are the tax
payers money and it is a good thing to have cushion; however, the best time to
reevaluate this is in difficult times.
Mr. Butts stated the current undesignated fund balance allows the Town to
operate with no revenue for 120 days.
Council Member Butler stated he appreciates the reserve and feels it is short
sighted to °dip into" that as it has helped to increase our bond rating. He stated
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 4
four years in a row we have lowered the average tax bill and he has every
intention of making this five years in a row.
Vice Mayor Hammler verified the subsidy from the Federal Government for
the Build American Bonds is expected to cover the life of the bond but is subject
to Congressional budget approval.
Council Member Martinez concurred with Council Member Butler's comments.
He stated he is proud of what we have accomplished over his time on Council
with the Town's improved fiscal situation. Further, he stated he does not feel
that Council should micromanage budgetary items such as leaf pick up and
rather focus on the big picture.
Mayor Umstattd stated it is a good idea to have 120 days of operating funds.
She stated back in the 1980's the County had to borrow money to keep the
government operational while they decided on a tax rate and she would not
want to see the Town in that situation,
Council Member Reid stated he supports the need for a reserve; however, his
way of approaching this is by setting priorities and he does not believe this
micromanaging; rather it is setting policy, He stated he believes what our
citizens want the most is public safety, good recreation and transportation.
b. Sewer Rate Policy and Misc. Utility Fees
Randy Shoemaker following the adoption of the new utility rates in September
there was some concern raised by both Council Members and citizens regarding
the methodology recommended by the consultants for calculating the sewer
portion of the water and sewer bill. He stated since 1995 the sewer bill has
been calculated based on the winter quarter readings; however, the consultants
have now recommended that the Town calculate the sewer bill based on 100
percent of the water meter reading. He stated the reason for this is that we are
losing revenue on the sewer side as people use more water in the summertime.
He stated Council adopted the code section addressing this and requested that it
not be enacted until they had further opportunity to review it. Further, he
outlined information regarding the impact on various sewer bills and stated on
an annual average sewer bill there will be an increase of approximately 24
percent for in-town accounts, 17 percent for elderly accounts and 15 percent for
out-of-town accounts; however, if we do not have this we will be forced to
increase our rates to account for this shortfall.
Council Member Wright stated if we do nothing the 100 percent sewer billing
begins in the second quarter of 2010. He stated given this information it seems
the sewer rates would need to be increased by $1.35 or $1.40 per quarter if
Council reverts back to the winter consumption calculation. He stated the other
item that was discussed was that Loudoun Water has a sewer calculation for
their residential customers takes the winter quarter usage and adds 3,000
gallons. He stated perhaps something along the same lines as the Loudoun
Water system may provide a middle ground.
Vice Mayor Hammler stated the Loudoun Water calculation seems arbitrary.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 5
Mr. Shoemaker stated Loudoun Water assesses a sewer charge based on
actual quarterly consumption for established customers with a 5/8 inch meter or
the winter quarterly consumption plus 3,000 gallons, whichever is less.
Mayor Umstattd asked the logic behind the number 3,000 and whether that is
the average number of gallons used in peak season.
Mr. Shoemaker stated he is not aware of where that calculation came from.
Vice Mayor Hammier asked why a meter cannot be placed on the sewer lines.
Mr. Shoemaker stated to his knowledge the industry has not developed a way
to place a meter on a normal four inch sewer line.
Council Member Butler suggested a calculation dividing the total winter
sewage use plus the total summer sewage use by the total number of
customers.
Mr. Shoemaker stated sewer is based on consumption since the main expense
is in treating the water, which is a more expensive process in the summer.
Council Member Wright stated he has spoken with people in warmer climate
areas and their sewer is based on consumption because they do not have a
winter quarter to work from.
Council Member Butler stated it seems that with the sewer impact most of the
customers will see a small increase in their sewer charge; however, there will be
some customers that will see a very large increase. He stated some are people
who water their lawn; however, there are others that seem to have gotten a
break in the past based on how our calculations are made. Further, he stated
the largest impact will be on individuals who have a pool.
Mr. Shoemaker confirmed Council Member Butler's statement. He stated
there are approximately 27 pool accounts, which are primarily owned by home
owners associations.
Council Member Butler expressed concern that these enormous increases may
have a tremendous impact on these customers. He stated he supports Council
Member Wright's suggestion for an alternative calculation.
Council Member Wright stated some of the home owner association owned
pools are filled by tanker trucks; however, much of the usage in the associated
club houses are individuals taking showers which does run into the sewer.
Vice Mayor Hammier stated because we are not measuring the actually usage
at some level the charge is arbitrary as we are coming up with some strange
benchmarking to determine what the sewer reading is. She stated maybe the
charge should not be based on water usage, rather there may be a way to base
it on another factor such as size of dwelling or yard or even a fixed fee based
on the real cost of treating the water.
Mr. Shoemaker stated the best information we have is the water meter
reading as a basis for how much water has gone through the meter. He stated if
Town Council Work Session of November 23, 2009 Page 6
we used a percentage of the reading then we could be accused of being
arbitrary.
There was further discussion regarding the best method for calculating sewer
usage.
Council Member Reid verified Council will receive a report on the Utilities
Management Audit at the December meeting. He stated that report may
provide alternatives. He stated looking at ~oudoun Water's model is not bad;
however, he would like this to be more directed at identifying ways to reduce
costs. He stated this is why he opposed the current rate structure. He asked if
this sewer charge would be in addition to the higher utility rates adopted by
Council in September.
Mr. Wells stated the sewer rates adopted in September were based on this
calculation. He stated based on the uncertainty of who would be impacted by
this rate structure, Council decided to review any possible alternatives.
Council Member Reid asked how many commercial accounts will receive a 379
percent increase.
Mr. Shoemaker stated that was the one maximum example.
Council Member Reid stated some businesses could see a 20 percent increase.
Mr. Wells stated the average increase 13 percent.
Council Member Butler stated half of the accounts will see an increase of five
percent or less.
Council Member Reid stated according to the information provided a resident
who uses 36,000 gallons per quarter would pay $163.80 for sewer; however, if
they lived in the County they would pay $76.00. He stated it seems we are
gouging our residents and the out-of-town residents. He stated for the high end
users the sewer charge is similar for both in and out-of-town users.
Council Member Martinez verified the companies who fill their trucks with the
Town's water are charged $3.75 per 1,000 gallons versus the $3.40 per 1,000
gallons paid by the Town's residents.
Council Member Butler stated it will be interesting to hear what will happen
with Loudoun Water's rates once their contract with Fairfax is over. He stated
this decision was delayed four months to provide warning to residents and it will
be interesting to see if anyone changes their lifestyle habits based on the new
rate structure. He stated he appreciates Council Member Reid's mention of the
management study as life will be easier if the study could identify $1.6 million
that could be cut. Further, he stated if the study reveals no additional
expenditure reductions then we have to find a way to spread the $1.6 million
among all of our users and no matter what some people will get a better deal as
there is no way to make it totally fair.
c. Community Commander/Traffic Enforcement Follow-up
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 7
Joe Price presented to Council a video produced by the Leesburg Police
Department (LPD) on You Tube regarding the agency's efforts to partner with
the community. He stated about 13 months ago the Leesburg Police
Department initiated the Community Commander program and introduced
Lieutenant Vanessa Grigsby and Lieutenant Carl Maupin to provide an update.
Lieutenant Grigsby stated the purpose of the program is to ensure efficient
and timely response to community requests and establish a partnership with the
community.
Lieutenant Maupin provided an update regarding crime statistics for the Town
as well as an overview of District One on behalf of Community Commander
Lieutenant Rourke. He stated District One consists of the northern portion of the
Town including the Historic Downtown. He stated some of the business issues
include alarms, fraud, shoplifting and gas station drive-offs. He stated the
residential issues include quality of life issues, domestic assaults, vehicle
tampering, residential alarms and vandalism.
Vice Mayor Hammler stated an email was circulated to the Exeter
Neighborhood to be on the watch for vandalism, which is on the rise.
Lieutenant Maupin stated the HOA is pursuing additional lighting in the
neighborhood as well.
Vice Mayor Hammler asked if more could be done from a policing perspective.
Lieutenant Maupin stated he could have Lieutenant Rourke respond when he
returns to the office.
Lieutenant Grigsby outlined the crime statistics for District Two. She stated
her district includes a broad mix of commercial and residential uses including the
East Market Street corridor and the apartment complexes along Plaza Street and
Edwards Ferry Road, She stated some of the business issues in the district
include alarms, shoplifting and larcenies. She stated the majority of residential
issues are related to quality of life such as noise, domestic assaults and
residential alarms.
Lieutenant Maupin outlined the crime statistics for District Three. He stated
his district is primarily the southwest quadrant of Town and the southeast
quadrant beyond Battlefield Parkway. He stated the business trends include
mainly shoplifting and larcenies. He stated there has also been support
provided for the Village at Leesburg including Wegmans and the upcoming shops
and offices. He stated the residential trends include quality of life issues such as
noise, loitering, barments and trespassing as well as vehicle tampering and
parking complaints.
Mayor Umstattd asked Lieutenant Maupin to describe the barment process.
Lieutenant Maupin stated a property who wants to participate in the barment
program will sign a limited power of attorney to the LPD stating they wish the
police to issue barments on their behalf. He stated this is mainly used for
apartments and rental property.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 8
There was further Council discussion of the barment process.
Council Member Reid stated it seems the Lieutenants are doing a great job
and thanked them for their briefing.
Council Member Butler echoed Council Member Reid's comments.
Council Member Wright thanked the lieutenants for their efforts with this
program and the community meetings. He stated having the District
Commander program has helped him as a Council Member in knowing who to
contact regarding citizen questions and complaints.
Vice Mayor Hammier thanked the Lieutenants for their report and stated it is
important that Council receive these reports regularly. She verified Command
Control paid for the production of the LPD's You Tube video. She suggested that
social media tools may provide a faster and easier connection with the residents
to update them in certain cases such as the recent hostage situation.
Council Member Martinez asked if the LPD has been working with the citizens
in the area of the Edwards Ferry Road intersection with the Route 7/15 Bypass
to educate them about the dangers of trying to walk across the Bypass.
Chief Price stated they have been working with the residents as much as they
can. He stated the officers have been proactive in handling the situation from
an educational aspect as well as a necessary enforcement aspect.
Council Member Martinez stated the Route 7/15 Bypass corridor is unique and
these efforts are very important. He asked that the LPD remain proactive
regarding the impending transportation issues related to the opening of
Tuscarora High School.
Mayor Umstattd thanked the lieutenants and Chief Price for their
presentation.
Lieutenant Jeff Dube presented information related to the Traffic Management
Unit. He stated two units have been added in the last 12 months to provide
continual coverage through the morning and evening rush hours and
overlapping coverage in the midday for occurrences such as special events and
funeral details. He outlined the duties and responsibilities of the unit.
Vice Mayor Hammier stated the unmarked police vehicle posted on North King
Street has made a difference in the speeding problem for that area.
Lieutenant Dube stated the Community Speed Watch Program was launched
in mid September and the first class was held two weeks ago with 4 participants.
He stated the officers are looking at the complaints of the four participants as
well as previous enforcement in the area and once completed the participants
will be given a radar gun to assist the police department in that area, Further,
he provided an update on traffic incidents during the past week to demonstrate
how to use the crimereports.com website.
Vice Mayor Hammier asked if it is possible to isolate whether non-Leesburg
based individuals are causing the vehicular accidents.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 9
Lieutenant Dube stated he has the information; however, it is not information
that is available to the public through this tool.
Chief Price stated that is not something that the department tracks; however,
the majority of the offenses occur on the arterial roadways.
Lieutenant Dube provided a map showing incidents per district.
Council Member Dunn asked what type of traffic issues occur downtown.
Lieutenant Dube stated there are a number of issues such as left turn
violations, minor accidents and DUI offenses.
Council Member Reid asked that the speed watch brochures be provided to
the Standing Residential Traffic Committee members as they are often the first
to receive speeding complaints. He stated he was happy to hear that this
program is helping to show residents that their perceptions of speeding may be
wrong. He stated during a recent Iegisiative meeting, Senator Herring had asked
whether the Town would appreciate him asking the State Police to help with
patrol and asked if that would be welcomed.
Chief Price stated the LPD has a very good working relationship with the State
Police and he can contact them for assistance if their resources are needed.
Council Member Reid asked where the majority of State Police resources are
utilized within the County.
Chief Price stated there are a number of troopers who are stationed along the
Greenway as well as a number who are assigned to Loudoun County and patrol
the major roadways such as Route 7 and Route 15.
Council thanked Lieutenant Dube for his report,
Mayor Umstattd stated another reason to drive within the speed limit is that if
you are convicted of speeding that information is available on the Internet.
d. Comprehensive Sign Review
Wade Burkholder stated the last comprehensive review of the sign ordinance
was conducted in 1990. He stated staff recommends that a comprehensive
review of the sign ordinance be conducted and outlined several reasons for this
review. He stated staff has provided a resolution for Council consideration to
begin the comprehensive sign review. Further, he stated staff is recommending
the establishment of a nine member ad-hoc committee to review the ordinance
representing various interest groups.
Council Member Dunn stated although he appreciates community
involvement; however, he would not support the establishment of an ad-hoc
committee. He stated he would rather move forward on this as soon as possible
with review by the Planning Commission.
Council Member Reid verified this would include review of the
recommendations provided by the H-2 Committee. He stated he would also not
support the establishment of an ad-hoc committee; however, he would like to
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 10
see a timeline established for this review and suggested that the Planning
Commission public hearing take place by their first meeting in March. Further,
he expressed support for Ms. Berry-Hill's recommendation to hold a community
input session. He asked if the proposed timeline would be reasonable.
Mr. Burkholder stated he would request a little more time; however, he feels
the review could be concluded by May.
Council Member Reid stated perhaps then the review should be broken into
sections. He stated he would like to see a stakeholder meeting established by
February with Economic Development Commission(EDC) participation and a
public hearing by the Planning Commission in April or May.
Council Member Butler stated he supports the resolution as proposed.
Council Member Wright concurred with Council Member Butler's comments.
He stated he also would not support the establishment of a committee as
Council has had trouble finding individuals to serve on committees and dedicate
themselves to the sign review. He expressed support for holding the
stakeholder meetings and stated there are also a number of good resources
available internally. He stated the Planning Commission is also very good at
interacting with the EDC and other groups as needed. Further, he stated he does
not want the review process to be open-ended; however, Council needs to be
mindful of the impact to the department's work program.
Council Member Reid asked if Council Member Wright would support a public
hearing deadline of May 1.
Council Member Wright stated he would support a timeline based on an
understanding of the impact to the department's work program.
There was further Council discussion regarding the review process and
timeline.
Vice Mayor Hammier stated she agrees with the sentiment of the balance
between the cumbersome processes of setting up a committee versus the need
to take enough time to get valuable feedback in the process. She recommended
that staff take the initiative to make sure we do enough research and bring in
experts opinions including The Urban Land Institute. Further, she asked that
staff reach out to the stakeholders and conduct surveys to gather information
and that the review involve the Economic Development Commission.
Council Member Martinez concurred with Council Member Dunn's comments
stating he would like to see this completed as early as possible in 2010.
Further, he stated if there are priority conflicts then staff should bring that
information forward for Council to evaluate reestablishing priorities.
Mayor Umstattd concurred with Council Member Wright's comments.
Council Member Dunn stated it is also important to consider the priorities of
the business owners especially considering the current economy.
Town Council Work Session of November 23, 2009 Page 11
Mr. Wells stated staff will review the current work plan and bring the list of
priorities to Council for review tomorrow night.
There was further discussion by Council regarding work plan priorities.
Council Member Dunn stated we seem to have a number of governmental
traffic signs cluttering Town and questioned how many of those are needed. He
stated there are other communities that do not have as many signs yet traffic
flows just fine.
Council Member Butler stated the larger the scope the longer the review will
take.
Mayor Umstattd stated we need to deal fairly with all of our prospective
businesses and treat them all fairly.
Council Member Wright left the meeting at 10:00 p.m.
e. Fort Evans Road Small Area Plan
David Fuller stated a couple of months ago Council approved the rezoning of
134 Fort Evans Road from residential to office following the Planning
Commission's recommendation of approval. He stated this rezoning was a two
phase project with the first phase using the existing structure and the second
phase constructing an office building and associated parking. He stated the
Planning Commission recognized that was one of four properties situated on Fort
Evans Road and that it might be a good idea to look those properties together to
see if there might be a better way to develop the properties coordinating access
to Fort Evans Road and stormwater management needs. He stated staff has
prepared a draft resolution for Council consideration to look at all four of the
properties that might result in a Town Plan amendment specifically addressing
redevelopment.
Mayor Umstattd asked if the four property owners had been notified.
Mr. Fuller stated staff was waiting for the initiation of the amendment before
notifying the property owners.
Council Member Reid verified this was not initiated by the property owners
and asked why it is being pursued.
Mr. Fuller stated it is felt that this amendment would result in better
development of those properties resulting in a common plan.
Council Member Reid stated this is just time consuming. He stated we were
just talking about putting items on the Planning Commission's agenda and this
item is not even being requested. He stated we have businesses coming to the
Town such as the Hampton Suites complaining for over a year to the EDC that
patrons cannot find their hotel and we've done nothing. He stated he does not
see why this should be added to the work agenda as it can be done during a
Town Plan amendment. He stated there are a number of more important Town
Plan amendments such as dealing with the traffic situation at the Cornwall
expansion which he asked about three years ago and has received a nod of
approval from INOVA.
Town Council Work Session of November 23 2009 Page 12
Mr. Wells stated this came up as part of the discussion from the Planning
Commission, not as a staff recommendation.
Council Member Reid stated if the property owners want to pursue this they
can bring that forward to the Town.
Council Member Butler expressed support for the Planning Commission taking
this review on themselves without asking Council because they do not have to.
He stated he does not have a problem with this proposal.
Vice Mayor Hammier spoke on behalf of Council Member Wright, stating "what
is the rush".
Mayor Umstattd stated a number of years ago there were a couple of
commercial property owners on Loudoun Street that wanted to rezone the single
family homes on Royal Street as office. She stated the homeowners were
concerned when they learned that the commercial rezoning would cause their
taxes to increase. She stated that is her concern in this situation as the
homeowners have not requested this initiation.
Council Member Dunn stated it was his understanding in first reading staff's
report that someone was requesting this rezoning, but not it seems that is not
the case. He asked if the veterinary hospital needs this rezoning in order
proceed with their planned expansion.
Mr. Fuller stated yes, this came up during the discussion of the veterinary
hospital's discussions with the Planning Commission regarding their recent
rezoning of a residential property to be used first as record storage space and
then to be redeveloped as office. He stated the timing of this initiation is to get
approval before they begin investment in the plans for their second phase as
there is a better way to develop their property as well as the adjacent
properties. He stated staff also recognizes there are other priorities on the work
program that take precedence.
Council Member Dunn stated he asked the owners of the veterinary hospital if
they had spoken with the residents behind them and they had not at that time.
He stated he is concerned about this proposal now that he has a better idea of
it.
2. Additions to Future Council Meetings
Council Member Dunn stated he would like Council to move forward with
discussions of where we want to go with the H-2 District.
Council Member Butler stated he would like Council to discuss Potomac Crossing
Park. He stated he continues to get questions about speed limits and while residents
appreciate what we have done we need to do more. He stated he would like to
discuss Paul Van Zandt's suggestion of a "pay-as-you-go" trash pick-up service
during the negotiation of our next trash services contract. He stated the New York
town he used to live in had a "pay-as-you-go" trash pick-up program and the result
was higher recycling participation by the residents. Further, he stated he will bring
this suggestion to the Environmental Advisory Commission.
Town Council Work Session of November 23, 2009 Page 13
Vice Mayor Hammier stated it was her understanding that after Council's
discussion regarding overcrowding that information would be provided at this
meeting regarding a summary of action steps.
Mr. Wells stated that information will be provided in a memo to Council next
week.
Council Member Martinez there are a group of citizens led by Ann Robinson
circulating a petition with a minimum of 1,000 signatures requesting the construction
of a pedestrian bridge at Fort Evans Road and the Route 7/15 Bypass. He stated he
is very supportive of their effort and has informed them that the biggest obstacle is
VDOT. Further, he asked for an analysis of the traffic impact of Tuscarora High
School given students will be driving in from Lansdowne.
Mayor Umstattd stated the suggestion of "pay-as-you-go" trash pick-up has
come up before and she is interested in hearing Council Member Butler's perspective.
She expressed concern that such a policy change would result in increased trash
dumping around Town.
Council Member Martinez stated that would also require the Utility Department
to manage the program.
Mayor Umstattd stated she is not promoting this idea; however, she wanted to
inform Council that Mayor Bob Lazaro of Purcellville has sent a letter to the Loudoun
County Board of Supervisors that all Towns be represented on any committee looking
at redistricting at the County level after the 2010 census.
Council Member Reid the proposed resolution for tomorrow night regarding the
South King Street widening does not reference Council's previous resolution
regarding a left turn out of Linden Hill. He asked that Council support that
amendment.
Mayor Umstattd stated she would want to hear from Calvin Grow.
Council Member Reid commented on the potential burden on the residents,
Council Member Reid stated we did not add a request to our legislative agenda
requesting the same power the County has to adjust speed limits.
Mayor Umstattd stated Delegate May indicated he would have an easier time
intervening on the Town's behalf with VDOT on a case-by-case basis than trying to
get enabling legislation passed for the Town.
Council Member Reid stated he was discussing speed limits on divided roads
such as Battlefield Parkway and Mr. Tom Mason indicated there is no leeway in the
law.
Mr. Mason stated this is not a VDOT issue; it is a State Code issue.
Council Member Reid stated he would like follow-up information on the PMMI
decision and the restriping of Sycolin Road.
Tovan Council Work Session of hlovember 23 20Q9 Pages 4
Council Member Dunn asked that Counci! support allowing individuals who
7eceive parking tickets during the holiday season to .pay their fine by donating a koy
for the Toys For Tots campaign.
h1 r: 4'VeIIs recommended that iF Council is interested In making khe fine a
donation to charity thak they first identify the charity and then that a cash donation
be made to the charity from the fine payments received. He expressed with using
toys given the patential issue of value related to the penalty,
Council Member Gunn stated the toy is more personable .and is going to a direct
cause. Further,: he suggested that okher parameters could oe established to address
Mr. V~lells' concerns.
Gounc+I Member Martinez suggested that:any fines be given to the Sa4vation
Army to make it Iess cumbersome.
Counci{ Member Dunn stated he heard about this in another Town and felt that it
gives a more personal touch..
Mayar Umstattd expressed concern regarding staff reguiatlon of which toys are
appropriate,
GouncPl Member Dunn stated he v~aould leave file issue for the majority of Council
tci decide.
~. Adaournent
Can a motion by Council Member Martinez, seconded by Council Member Butler
the meeting was adjourned at 10;25 p:ip. ~ ~ ~ '
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