Chincoteague Reports

Video of the renovation of the Museum of Chincoteague Island

You can see a new video of the renovation of
the Museum of Chincoteague Island here. The Museum
will reopen in April:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WirYUvRP2VI

Town of Chincoteague has updated its web page: http://www.chincoteague-va.gov/

The town of Chincoteague has updated its web page:

http://www.chincoteague-va.gov/

January 19, 2011 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

January 19, 2011 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE
Present: D. Hart (Chair) L. Gordy. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray,  S. Mears, G. Chessor.
County Attendees: Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department, Stewart Hall, and Tom Brockenborough
Audience: 50+ members.

Chair D. Hart called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.
Opening Comments: Mr. Hart thanked audience for attending.  Mr. Hart discussed agenda. 

AGENDA
Approved

PUBLIC COMMENT
Jodi Bagwell from Bloxom:  He represents the volunteer fire department and wants to discuss future plan to hire paramedics for county.  He approves adopting option four.  This option considers staffing of fire department during a 24 hour period.  He is concerned about response time.  He would like to see fees come from increase in property taxes as described in option four.

Wesley Edwards from Bellehaven:  He would like to see more transparency in county government.  He would like to see better handling of tax dollar.  He would like to see a payable report.  He also discussed freedom of information act.

Addition by Mr. Hart:  Announced Robert Crockett is new supervisor, and noted former supervisors in audience.

DISPOSITION OF MARY N. SMITH SCHOOL
Mr. Kevin Pettit discussed disposition and other concerns.  He is member of school’s alumni.  Alumni considered possibilities for paying for costs of operation.  He does not want community disrupted due to housing at school.  He wants school to be community center for local area for after school programs.

Mr. Mark Taylor discussed agenda packets about the disposition of school, and in particular its relationship as county property.  He recommends a closed session for discussing the procurement of county property.
Closed session was the consensus of board.  Motion was made and approved to move to closed session to discuss disposition of school.  Board goes to closed session.

Meeting called back to order.  Mr. Gray wants to make three motions: 1. County takes title from school board.  Motion made and approve.  2. Decline offer to make housing available at school.  Mr. Crockett indicated that concept by builder was reasonable.  He was concern about level of public interaction involving offer.  Motion made to decline offer, approved.  3. Authorize county administrator to donate school to Mary N. Smith alumni association for use of school property.  Motion is made.  Board of Supervisors (BOS) compliments the alumni for their action on this matter. Motion is approved.

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION
Mr. Miner discussed recognition for Central Accounting Department.  Accomack County received award for county presentation of finance plan.  Finance department was given award, and it has received award last four years.

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
BOS modified agenda and approved.  One consideration removed was Quinby Harbor Phase II.

Quinby Harbor Redevelopment Project: Mr. Hart allowed Mr. Farloe to discuss project.  Mr. Farloe commented on project and the potential shortfall of $115K.  If no movement on project, bulkheads and ramp may fail.  This could affect the business for the local commercial fishermen which are estimated to be $7M yearly.  BOS listened to alternatives to funding.  Mr. Hart would like to make motion to fund Quinby Harbor project.  Mr. Wolff noted concerns about Greenbackville harbor and bulkheads.  Ms. Thornton commented that these harbors should be placed in capital improvements.  Motion defeated 5 to 4; there is no immediate funding.  It was motioned to request bid to be extended from bidder for improving Quinby Harbor bulkheads.  Approved.

Consider Real Property Assessment Bill (HB 1588):  Mr. Taylor explained bill would shift the burden of proof from taxpayer to county assessor based on property value.  He commented this will probably add costs to county for proving their assessments.  VACO (Virginia Association of Counties) opposes bill based on potential costs to counties.  Motion was made to reject request. Motion was defeated 5 to 4.  Motion was made to accept VACO request to reject HB 1588.  Approved 5 to 4.  

Note Mr. Gray left early due to medical events next day.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Presentation of the FY-2010 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report:  Mr. Mason introduced Mr. Foley.  David Foley of Robinson, Farmer, and Cox Associates discussed independent auditing report.  Mr. Foley indicated there were no major problems with audit and financials seemed to be reported correctly. 

PUBLIC HEARING
Joynes Neck Agricultural and Forestal District:  It is four year review of district.  It will be recommended after Public Hearing to continue the provisions of district with indicated modifications.  Public Hearing is opened.  No speakers.  Hearing is closed.  Motion made to accept recommendations.  Approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS (CONT’D)
Agricultural and Natural Resources:  Mr. William Shockley discusses annual report.  He commented on Johnson Grass program.  He is in process of hiring new staff member for this.  He stated that travel budget is now emptied.  He is requesting a $1700 addition to the budget. Mr. Chessor asked about kudzu issue and Mr. Shockley indicated they are monitoring this issue.  Motion for addition to budget.  Approved.

Eastern Shore Community College: Linda Thomas-Glover, President, commented on the college.  She discussed the demographics of students which is similar to the population of Accomack County.  She noted the overall financial aid given to students.  She wanted to thank BOS for their support. 

Eastern Shore Regional Library: Carol Vincent, Director, introduced several library board members. She discussed the size of library and indicated it was too small.  Ms. Vincent is in process of trying to build a new library in area of 30K square feet in range of $6M to $8M.  She wanted to inform BOS of this direction.

VA Regional Transport/STAR Transit: Mark McGregor discussed system. Operational analysis was completed and implemented.  The ridership is higher with fewer routes.  It is up 36%.  Financials have been stabilized due to outside funding.  They are researching expanding routes to accommodate other residents in northern part of county.  Ms. Thornton and Mr. Chessor would like to see routes in northern part of county as soon as reasonable. 

OLD BUSINESS
Consider Appointments
Airport Commission: Deferred.
Agricultural and Forestry: Mr. Chessor will be on.  Approved.
TDC: Mr. Crockett now on board.  Approved.
Harborton Public Facilities: Mr. Hart indicated there should be no vacancy.  Nominate Rodney Smith; approved.
Parks and Recreation: Ms. Gordy will accept ex-officio position.
Quinby Boat Harbor: Deferred.
Solid Waste: Mr. Crockett was nominated.  Approved.

Mr. McCaleb needs to leave for medical procedure next day.

Planning Commission: Indicated positions filled.
Workforce Investment Board: Indicated position filled.

NEW BUSINESS
Policy for Operations at Convenience Centers: Ms. Thornton discussed issues with bad weather that may impact operations.  Mr. Hall discussed changes that should handle any ice or snow conditions including cooperation with VDOT.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Nothing

COUNTY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Mr. Taylor distributed information on state assembly’s actions.  He also noted governor’s plan for transportation.  He commented on police report on stolen laptop; information is now available and currently there is no indication of fraudulent use of data on computer.

BOS COMMENT PERIOD
Mr. Chessor thanked Mr. Crockett for accepting position and welcomed him on board.
Ms. Gordy discussed BOS policies need to be followed and commented on Mr. Hart.
Ms. Thornton commented on Scott Rigell (new Congressional Representative) visiting Wallops Research Park.  The land swap for federal land was discussed.  Mr. Miner added comments on situation.
Mr. Crockett thanked Mr. Mallette for his hard work and assistance on transition.
Mr. Hart thanked Mr. Crockett.

BUDGET ITEMS
Mr. Mason commented on one item.  Transfer for public safety building was considered.  The Quinby budget items needed to be short tracked if necessary.  He also discussed some building repair items.  Mr. Crockett made motion to transfer funds in capital budget.  Approved.  Remaining budget items were approved.

PAYABLES
Approved

Closed meeting is not necessary.

Adjournment approximately 8:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

Second Public Scoping Letter from Town of Chincoteague/Chincoteague NWR

January 14, 2011

Louis Hinds, Refuge Manager
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 62
Chincoteague Island, Virginia  23336

Thomas Bonetti, Refuge Planner
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 5
300 Westgate Center Drive
Hadley, MA  01035-9589

RE: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
 Comprehensive Conservation Plan
 Public Scoping Comments #2

Dear Mr. Hinds and Mr. Bonetti:

On behalf of the Town of Chincoteague, I am submitting for the public record the following additional comments in conformance with the Federal Register notice dated September 17, 2010.  The issues, concerns and ideas that are contained in this letter have been considered by the Town’s appointed Chincoteague to Assateague Beach Access Committee and are intended to supplement, not replace, the letter submitted previously. 

It is understood and appreciated that the Federal Register notice for Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge describes more than the core mission of migratory bird and wildlife conservation for this unique location.  Joint management of the Seashore resource with the National Park Service supports secondary recreational uses that are vital to the tourism economy in the Town of Chincoteague and Accomack County.  Recently approved CCP documents for other refuges include the consideration of these uses as a significant part of the scope of the Conservation Plan.

Public Scoping Comments

1. Hazard Mitigation - Planning for adaptation to potential increased storm intensity, persistent high tides and sea level rise of approximately 6 inches over the next 15 years is important to the Town of Chincoteague and will be addressed in the required update to our Hazard Mitigation Plan in 2011. 

The new CCP and GMP will affect the integrity of Assateague Island, protection of Toms Cove and width of Chincoteague Channel Inlet and their ability to reduce base flood elevation within the Town of Chincoteague by up to 5 feet (see attached Accomack County online GIS – Flood Hazard Area Map).  Approved land uses and actions such as beach nourishment, management of sand dunes, storm damage restoration, and management/study of barrier island migration processes that are unique to the vicinity of Chincoteague Island must be included in the scope of the CCP.

Declared policies of the NPS and the USFWS regarding natural barrier island dynamics seem to conflict with the FEMA mandate for community hazard mitigation planning.

2. Permitted Land Uses - The unique history and location of Chincoteague NWR has allowed a full range of permitted secondary and compatible uses under the current conservation management plan, in addition to the Big 6 wildlife dependent recreation uses.

The Town of Chincoteague supports the renewal of all permitted land uses listed in the USFWS Compatibility Memorandum dated 2/7/94, the approved compatibility determinations in 2004 without further restriction, and in particular the following Big 4 secondary uses:
• Beach Use – Swimming, sunbathing and other related beach activities (approved as a ‘categorical exclusion’ September 2004)
• National Park Service Activities including the Memorandum of Understanding (approved as a ‘categorical exclusion’ September 2004)
• Agricultural – Grazing of Chincoteague Ponies with continuation of the grazing permit (approved as a ‘categorical exclusion’ September 2004)
• Off road vehicle use within the NPS assigned area of Chincoteague NWR (approved as a ‘categorical exclusion’ September 2004)

3. Proposed Changes – Support for the existing conservation management plan includes several suggested revisions for the next 15 year period:
• National Park Service MOU – amended to permit maintenance of existing facilities and restoration if lost to natural causes, delete reference to shuttle use.
• Beach and Dune management actions listed above to be added
• Optional relocation of recreational beach area and facilities to a more sustainable area with increased site improvements and expanded use area to compensate for loss of unique high value characteristics of Toms Cove.
• Fee structure/reserve funds for recreational beach facility maintenance/restoration that accrue beyond one fiscal year
• Remove public transit from the preferred alternative plan.

Thank you for your consideration of these important issues for both the Town of Chincoteague and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge/Assateague National Seashore.

Sincerely,

John H. Tarr
Mayor

cc. Chincoteague Beach Access Committee
 Elected Representatives
 National Park Service
 

Town of Chincoteague Beach Access News

Town of Chincoteague

Beach Access News

December 2010

http://www.chincoteague-va.gov/pdf/2%20Beach%20Access%20News%20December%202010.pdf

January 3 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting (Beacon coverage)

Chincoteague Beacon
January 6, 2011
Measures approved to keep trolleys running

Chincoteague council votes to seek grants for replacement
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The Pony Express, the trolley system used on the island, received a vote of support Monday night as the Chincoteague Town Council held its first meeting of the new year.

The council unanimously passed three measures that would, if successful, keep the trolleys rolling into 2013. Vice Mayor Ellen Richardson and councilman John N. Jester were absent from the meeting.

Before the votes were taken, Transportation Director Jack VanDame gave the council a brief description of the measures that would keep the service running through grant application.

VanDame said the town's share of running the trolley service for the 2010 season was only around $3,400.

He said that two trolleys would need to be replaced in the near future. "They are a nightmare," he said. "It's just one problem after another."

Councilman John Henry Howard said, "The shuttle is one of the biggest complaints I get."

Mayor Jack Tarr said the trolleys were needed to help with the island's history tour that had been well-attended by the public.

The cost to purchase two replacement trolleys would be $320,000. The town's share would be $32,000 and the resale of the existing trolleys could be applied to the town's contribution under the terms of the capital grant. It was estimated the two trolleys would bring between $20,000 and $28,000 if resold.

VanDame also told the council of a demonstration grant to study using the trolleys for trips to the Onley area during the offseason. VanDame said he had a "big concern" about using the trolleys off the island. He said there was a need to discuss the play with local business owners. There could also be talks with Star Transit to see if there could be a link for trips to the hospital or other points south from Onley.

The demonstration grant would be for $5,000 with the town's share being just $250.

The council voted unanimously to approve applications for the operating funds grant and the demonstration grant. Also unanimously approved was the capital grant application for the two trolleys.

In other news from Monday's meeting:

Tarr announced the winners of the town's annual Christmas Decorations Contest. The Judges Choice Award went to Lisa and Scott Chesson on Oak Drive. The Most Festive Award went to Bill and Ginger Birch on Bunting Road. The Most Themed Award went to Alfred "Dino" Johnson on Ridge Road and the Most Traditional Award with the Russell and Joan Fish on Main Street. Each of the four prizes winners received a $100 savings bond.

Honorable mention awards went to Arlene and Dill Wilgus of Ridge Road, Nancy and Ray Rosenberger of Sunset Drive, Charlene Bloxom of Anderton Avenue and Chuck and Tama Ward of Main Street.

The council voted unanimously to award a $113,408 contract to Shorerite Congtrils of Princess Anne, Md. for the design and installation of a potable water SCADA system. The system would allow town employees to remotely control the water supply system to the island, according to Public Works Director Harvey Spurlock.

The council unanimously voted to reappoint Ernest Dale Holston to the Building Code of Appeals for a five-year term.

Members unanimously voted to reappoint Ernest Bowden to the Curtis Merritt Harbor Committee for a team of two years.

The council voted for Laurie Walton to fill the unexpired term of Bill Fallon on the Chincoteague Recreation and Convention Center Authority for a term of one year.

Police Chief Eddie Lewis told the council that crime was down in 2010. Only domestic and drug arrests were up.

Town Planner William Neville told the council a group of town officials had met with U.S. Representive-elect Scott Rigell and told the new legislator about their concerns with beach access.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

Chincoteague Mayor Jack Tarr's December 7 letter on Assateague Beach Access Issues

[No attachments here. They can be found at:

http://www.chincoteague-va.gov/announcements/Chincoteague%20Scoping%20Comments%2012.10%20Final.pdf ]

Town of Chincoteague, Inc.
Office of the Mayor
December 7, 2010

Louis Hinds, Refuge Manager
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 62
Chincoteague Island, Virginia 23336

Thomas Bonetti, Refuge Planner
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 5
300 Westgate Center Drive
Hadley, MA 01035-9589

RE: Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Public Scoping Comments

Dear Mr. Hinds and Mr. Bonetti:

On behalf of the Town of Chincoteague, I am submitting for the public record the following comments in conformance with the Federal Register notice dated September 17, 2010. The issues, concerns and ideas that are contained in this letter have been considered by the Town’s appointed Chincoteague to
Assateague Beach Access Committee and have been approved by the Town Council at its regular meeting on December 6, 2010.

In addition to this letter, a Town of Chincoteague Questionnaire has produced 1,281 comments in response to the refuge planning issues that you presented at several public meetings this year. These comments are attached as unfiltered data and will also be forwarded to you by email for consolidation into common issues. We hope you will recognize that each comment represents an average family/group size of 6 persons identified in a current year survey of over 13,000 visitors from across the country.

Support for the Refuge

It is understood and appreciated that the Federal Register notice for Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge describes more than the core mission of migratory bird and wildlife conservation for this unique location. Joint management of the Seashore resource with the National Park Service supports recreational use in addition to wildlife dependent recreation that is vital to the tourism economy in the Town of Chincoteague and Accomack County.

Our community of residents, business owners and seasonal visitors has expressed concern over potential changes to the Refuge CCP. At the same time, the Town Questionnaire has documented strong support for the Refuge and Seashore under current operational plans. We appreciate the opportunity to participate in this planning process, and hope that all of the unique characteristics of this Refuge continue to be supported by the CCP.

Public Scoping Comments

1. Maintain and Restore the existing recreational beach access at Tom’s Cove, with 961 direct access automobile parking spaces, as a community resource that honors over 40 years of negotiated management decisions. The ‘no-action’ alternative should be considered as a viable and mandated option. 961 spaces should be provided in all alternatives.

2. Manage the recreational beach area as a significant cultural and economic resource that is closely connected to the Town’s economy.Take immediate/short term actions to protect public investment at the beach (see issue paper #1). Include techniques such as beach replenishment, construction and maintenance of medium sized dunes, and installation of snow fence to protect the beach and parking areas from storm damage. This alternative would propose to update and enhance the current management plan as the baseline with new projects and goals.

3. A ‘shoreline management’ alternative is requested to include a deliberate review of the coastal change of Assateague Island and the cumulative effects of beach nourishment plans to the north in Delaware and Maryland, and to the south at Wallops Island/NASA and Virginia Beach. The impact of a policy to allow barrier island migration should be compared to recreational beach replenishment thru expansion of the Wallops Island and/or Ocean City Inlet Project.

4. Include a viable option for long term reserve areas to relocate the recreational beach and direct access parking for 961 spaces to the north approximately 1 mile with access from the ‘Wildlife Loop’. Any acceptable alternative to relocate the recreational beach use and private vehicle parking must include direct beach access for a minimum of 961 parking spaces.

5. Do not limit or reduce the grazing permit for up to 150 Chincoteague Ponies. Include public viewing as a priority along with other management considerations.

6. An Emergency Plan for the short term management of public beach access during a poststorm restoration period is necessary, including options for interim use of Refuge land areas for parking. Large remote parking areas within Town limits are not a reasonable or cost effective solution and are not recommended.

7. Use of transit (trolley/bus/shuttle systems) to access the beach is not a decision that supports the family values of, or meets the needs of, visitors to the Refuge. This does not seem to be a financially responsible option. The Alternative Transportation Study prepared by the Volpe Center has not been accepted or approved by the Town of Chincoteague and should not be used to guide the CCP process.

8. All alternatives must be evaluated for their socio-economic impact on the local economy, cultural heritage and regional tourism with recommendations to minimize or mitigate impacts to the human environment.

9. Continue the current OSV/ORV access to Tom’s Cove Hook. Access has already been restricted in the past from March 15th to September 1st which has had an economic impact to the Town. Further reduction is not necessary based on the success of this shared use plan.

10. The Town of Chincoteague Questionnaire has provided useful information about visitors to the Refuge and the recreational beach area. The exceptional value placed on the current balance of wildlife/natural land management and recreational beach use is documented in the attached comments.

These comments are largely provided in response to CNWR presentations in 2010 (4/6, 5/24, 8/25, 9/21) and summarize the ideas described in more detail on the attached issue papers #1 through #10. Additional thought and suggestions have been taking shape within the Beach Access Committee which will likely result in further support for the successful management objectives of the 1992 EIS, and comments on any other scoping information that is shared by the USFWS staff.

Thank you for your consideration of these important issues for both the Town of Chincoteague and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

Sincerely,
John H. Tarr
Mayor

cc. Chincoteague Beach Access Committee
Elected Representatives
National Park Service

Lynwood Lewis Forum December 20, 2010 Captain’s Cove Marina

Lynwood Lewis Forum December 20, 2010
Captain’s Cove Marina, Greenbackville, VA

Meeting started 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE:
 Presenter: Lynwood Lewis, Virginia Delegate to State Assembly, 100th District
Guests: Ron Wolff, Board of Supervisor, Accomack County
Audience: 15 members

Opening Comments:  Ron Wolff discussed items for county.  This was followed by Lynwood Lewis discussing the various committees he is involved with the state assembly.  He commented on the state’s current budget situation which was in dire straits last year, but this year it appears to have stabilized. 

The state’s unemployment is about 2% to 3% less than national average.  Virginia still enjoys an AAA bond rating.  There is an upcoming session were they will tweak the state budget on the odd numbered years and on even number years the budget is written.  Even though the revenues are trending upward, they are below what were predicted for the two year period.

Some action items to be considered were the privatization of ABC stores, and although it had some initial approval there is concern that projected revenues were not as much as predicted.  Due to economics this action may not go through. 

The Virginia retirement system may be changed with state employees contributing 5% to fund.  One difficulty was the contribution to system by the state was not done; this was about $650M in non-contributable funds.  Monies will be returned in 2013 with interest it is anticipated.

Census will be used for redistricting in Virginia.  It is anticipated that the 100th district needs to pick up 1700 people for redistricting purposes.  Everyone has to agree with the repartitioning by the bipartisan groups involved.  One consideration is to have non-partisan redistricting and several other states use this method for this purpose.

The spaceport has been supported by the current governor, Mr. McDonnell.  Mr. Lewis discussed the Wallops Research Park, and getting training in place at the Community College to develop the local workforce. 

Another discussion element is the Chesapeake Bay and trying to coordinate inter-state policies to this body of water.  This could impact local agriculture.  Locally we need to be aware of changes and other factors down the road.

Audience member (AM) asked about state employees’ contribution to retirement system.  The 5% payin by state occurred several years ago and now this may be eliminated to get budget in line for this fund.  The plan is to have a pay increase for employees.  AM noted she was a federal employee and she is sensitive to pay and net pay cuts for all government workers.

AM asked about a meeting between Tyson and Perdue where they are looking for additional chicken houses to keep their operations going locally.  They need 300 more houses.

AM thanked Mr. Lewis for his effort on the water utilities issue that Captain’s Cove had over the past year.  Mr. Lewis commented that once the issue percolated upward, state agencies worked as they should together to resolve the issue.  He noted the State Corporation Commission (SCC) is a good agency to have on board on utilities issues like this

Mr. Wolff commented that Mr. Lewis is always available for questions and is a tremendous asset to Accomack County.

Mr. Lewis discussed local aerospace business and the importance it has.  This is something that needs to be promoted to emerging industries in area.

The audience thanked Mr. Lewis and Mr. Wolff for their presentations.

Meeting ended 7:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

 

Virginia Delegate Lynwood Lewis will be holding a pre-assembly town hall meeting at Captain’s Cove Marina

Virginia Delegate Lynwood Lewis will be holding a pre-assembly town hall meeting at Captain’s Cove Marina located in Greenbackville, VA on Monday December 20 at 7 PM.  Citizens of surrounding areas are encouraged to attend to give their opinions and concerns and also learn what the 2011 General Assembly session will involve. Public invited.  The Marina restaurant will be opened before and after the meeting for attendees convenience.

December 15, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

December 15, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (BOS)
Present: L. Gordy (Chair) D. Hart. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray, S. Mears. G. Chessor.

County Attendees:  Steve Miner, County Administrator, Mark Taylor, County Attorney
Audience: 40 members

Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Comments:  Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to agenda.  Mr. Miner commented that public hearings will be held first.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

School Carryover Funds: Public hearing opened. No speakers.   Mr. Bull, Superintendant of Schools, will entertain questions in regards to needed repaired to schools. Public hearing closed Motion to follow recommendations.  Approved.

Ordinance to Return Public Funds to Claimant:  Public hearing opened.   Mr. McCaleb asked Mr. Taylor about funds.  Mr. Miner indicated these funds were leftover monies and division of principal and interest were lumped together.  The amount of accrued interest was indicated to be approximately $120 by different speaker.  Public hearing closed.  Motion to approve recommendations.  Approved.

Ordinance Pertaining to Bonuses for Public Employees:  Public hearing is opened.  Ms. Parker discussed monies for social services.  The amount paid by county was 15% and the rest paid by state and federal.  Costs to county were approximately $9000.  Mr. McCaleb asked about retirements.  Excess monies were generated by senior workers retiring.  There was one position that still needed to be filled.  This is a one time bonus for workers which is 3%.  Public hearing closed.  Mr. Miner clarified the possible adoption of ordinance.  It allows county to give bonuses; this ability is not currently available.  Motion made to approve ordinance.  Mr. Chessor and Ms. Thornton have concerns of approach to just give bonuses and not merit bonuses.  Approved 6 to 3.

AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Kay Lewis of Lemont: She discussed the bonus issue.  She compared increases to potential increases in tax rate.  She commented on Social Services and how it may arrange bonuses.  She is concerned about increased taxes.

Lois Cooper of Puncoteague: She commented on Mr. McGowan’s departure from Planning Department.  She approved of his effort to retool zoning rules.  She wants to hire new director as soon as reasonable to continue Mr. McGowan’s effort.

Wesley Edwards:  He commented on Mary Smith School.  He noted that building will generate significant funds after 5 years.  He recommends setting aside funds in a trust from the rents to be raised from school.  He also discussed compensation time that is being drawn by those not entitled.  He recommends new policy so everyone is aware of issue.

Mr. Naylor:  He discussed seniors in area.  He is concerned about cessation of bus service in northern end of county including Chincoteague Island.

Vince Miller:  He discussed bus needs in county.  He would like Board of Supervisors (BOS) to consider restart of buses.  He is currently missing school due to lack of buses. 

Bob Gresham of Accomac: He mentioned item that was not on agenda, and that being issue of laptop computer that was stolen.  He is concern about this issue ballooning after 90 day fraud alert.  He also commented on lobbyist.  He is concerned about preferential treatment of special interest that may be involved.  Taxpayer monies should be protected.

CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Motion to approve.  Approved.

CONSENT AGENDA
Modified, and discussed.  Mr. Chessor has concerns about item B in regard to beach parking at Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge.  He is concerned about sand fences.  Ms. Thornton noted that Refuge manager approved the fences.  Mr. Mallette commented that he agrees with Mr. Chessor’s concerns due to the unique geology of the area.  He would like Refuge manager to make decision independently.  Motion to accept A, C, and D.  Approved.  Motion to accept item B.  Approved 5 to 4.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Planning Commission:  Mr. Hickman discussed upcoming agenda.  He would like positions to Planning Commission reinstated as soon as reasonable.  Many items are coming up in the near future.

OLD BUSINESS
Mr. Miner discussed the ad hoc committee on lobbying.  He would like to convert this to a standing committee.  This would hopefully make it more efficient in process.  Mr. Hart asked for the purpose of the standing committee.  For first six months, the BOS may want to be directly involved.  Mr. McCaleb stated that BOS must calibrate their six top needs and focus on them.  Mr. Taylor discussed the possibility of lobbyist aid in setting priorities so that achievable goals can be optimized.  Motion made to authorize a two person committee to facilitate lobbying effort. Approved 8 to 1.

APPOINTMENTS
Accomack County Airport Commission:  Nominated Lee Johnson.  Approved.  Reappoint Mr. Talbert.  Approved.  Reappoint Mr. Tucker.  Approved.  Dave Lumgair
Accomack County Building and Fire Board of Appeals: deferred
Eastern Shore Resource Conservation and Development Council (RCD): Jack van Deed.  Approved.
Harborton Public Facilities: deferred
Planning Commission: Mr. Hickman nominated.  Approved.  Toni Trappenier nominated.  Approved 8 to 1.  Mr. Silverman nominated.  Approved.  Dave Lumgair Approved.
Workforce Investment: Reappoint Mr. Pettit.  Approved.

RCD council: Mr. Vaughn approved.

NEW BUSINESS
IT Position:  Mr. Chessor made point that one person in county is currently managing IT equipment.  He would like to see duplicity of job position.  Suggestion to find independent contractor for IT work.  It was recommended to have a job description for position.  General view is to leave issue to Mr. Miner.
Consider Discussion on Bonus Payments:  A list of FAQ in regard to granting bonuses to employees for review by BOS.  Mr. Wolff is concerned about capping these funds.  Motion to give bonus at 3% with cap of $500.  Mr. Chessor would like review of health benefits cuts.   Approved 5 to 4.

COMMENTS OF COUNTY ATTORNEY
Mr. Taylor commented that the general assembly is about to begin and attempt to coordinate information

COMMENTS OF BOS
Mr. Hart asked about computers and status. 
Ms. Thornton asked about putting security on computers.  Mr. Miner is looking at advance technology with current staff.
BOS members wish everyone Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

BUDGET ITEMS
Approved

PAYABLES
Approved.

VOTE
A vote to approve renewing Mr. Miner’s contract for upcoming years.  Approved

SPECIAL NOTICE
Mr. Mallette notified the BOS that he is resigning as BOS member in January due to family needs.  He plans to speak to each BOS member separately over the next few days.

Mr. Gray discussed his schedule for January and verified meeting dates due to medical circumstances.

Adjournment approximately 7:30PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts. 

Ron Wolff County Forum December 13, 2010

 
Ron Wolff County Forum December 13, 2010
Wolff Sandwich Shoppe, Atlantic, VA
 
Meeting started 7:05 PM
 
ATTENDANCE:
 Presenter: Ron Wolff, County District Representative
Guest Speaker: Tim Hearn, Hearn Burkley, Captain’s Cove
Audience: 15 members
 
Opening Comments:  Mr. Wolff discussed items in county.  The county hired a lobbyist to work with politicians in Washington in assisting in obtaining federal programs for Accomack County.  One issue for the lobbyist is the beach on Assateague and getting aid for the beach.  Another issue is Tangier Island and issue of rising water levels and possibly stabilizing island.  One continuing project is dredging in the area and maintaining navigational waterways; some waterways are becoming very swallow to the point the Coast Guard are not upkeeping navigational buoys.  The lobbyist will be on payroll for six months at a fee of approximately $6K per month to the county.  The cost benefits will depend on the amount incoming grants and funds and evaluating if they outweigh the lobbyist costs.  Mr. Wolff noted the convenience center in southern part of county is about to open. 
 
Mr. Wolff discussed possible new ordinance on pets particularly for cats.  There is no ordinance but there was a concern about rabies that may infect cats.  An effort will be made to get citizens groups together to handle this potential problem.  There are animal rights groups that can aid with this effort.
 
He mentioned that Mr. McGowan has resigned his Planning Department position.  A replacement is needed as soon as reasonable.
 
There is planned a public hearing on December 15 to discuss social services and the employee pay and situation with respect to state.  The social services personnel were asking for an increase in salaries, but it is not clear if they are state or county employees.  It seems the majority of salaries are state generated so the state should consider raise.  Issue should be clarified.
 
One item upcoming is redistricting in county from census information.  There may be population redistribution.
 
Guest Speaker Tim Hearn: [Ed. Note: Mr. Hearn is the CEO of Hearn Burkley.  Mr. Hearn’s company was involved in supplying investment capital to sustain the Captain’s Cove Utilities Company (CCUC) which operated the water utilities in Captain’s Cove.  CCUC in the spring of 2010 was in an adverse revenue situation and was at the point of declaring cessation of water utilizes to the Captain’s Cove development].  Mr. Hearn discussed his plans for area and in particular for Captain’s Cove.  His first involvement was in the spring of 2010 due to water utilities issues in Captain’s Cove.  Currently, there is about $25K shortfall each month with respect to water utilities.  His view was that the utilities should never have arrived at a crisis situation.  With funding and expertise, it was considered that water utilities could be a viable venture.  One issue is the current bankruptcy that the developer had that complicated situation.  Section 363 of bankruptcy discharge could be offset by 80% of holdings, and the major debt holder was PNC bank.  As creditors begin to be paid, other new creditors begin to appear wanting owed monies.  Previous owners have a personal stake in bankruptcy process, and this portion seems to be remedied.  Another issue is that PNC bank was pledged collateral for the utilities company and that issue is in process of being resolved.  Currently signatures are in place and now the SCC (State Corporation Commission) needs to approve the plan and status.  The critical points are getting bankruptcy judge and SCC on board with plan. 
 
For upcoming year, Mr. Hearn wants to proceed with business plan and remove the “drama”.   It was viewed that two things have depressed values in Captain’s Cove: one was current economy and second was the drama which involved uncertainty, no clear funding pathway, and lack of viable business plan.  It is hoped that in 2011 the land values are planned to be increasing with improving economy and removing the drama.  His plan is to remove complications so that  builders will be involved in the Captain’s Cove community. 
 
Mr. Hearn is looking at the local community with Wallops Research Park (WRP) and other businesses to aid in local economy.  Some other items considered are rental homes to help families in area. 
 
With respect to water utilities, he believes personnel are in placed to move utilities along.  He would like a professional engineer involved with utilities to improve system; he is interviewing prospective candidates.  These engineers need to develop the plans and the proposal for meters as well as inspect current water utilities infrastructure such as the sewer vaults.  Lift stations need to be rebuilt and possibly moved.  Plans and permits are required for these fixes.  Mr. Hearn would like to remove the chlorination purification process and go to an ultraviolet (UV) filtering system.
 
It is expected that the 2011 rate structures to increase but everything cannot be completed in first year.  More focus will be placed on planning and getting plans in place ready to go.  He discussed the general accounting and management of water utilities and it is hoped that this improves immediately. 
 
It is expected from a regulatory point of view, the plans should be feasible.  Currently only 15% sewer capacity is being utilized.  At this moment, the plans do not seem to cause problems with the area environment.  It takes about $5K plumbing per acre to do spray application; this is a local consideration that may involve nearby farm land.
 
Mr. Hearn is looking also at commercial development with respect to WRP and other companies.  He is not looking to do retail businesses in the area and would like to leave that to the Captain’s Cove Homeowners Association (HOA) and local businesses. 
 
For consumers at Captain’s Cove of the water utilities increases are expected to increase a factor of four. 
 
Mr. Hearn hopes that end of week there will be no need to talk to PNC bank and other creditors.  The original plan was to carve out the Marina facility from the debt with PNC bank, but the bank required the complete debt to be handed over.
 
Audience member (AM) discussed the expected costs and Mr. Hearn explained the percentages each year and payout for each consumer for water and then for sewer.  Revenue is expected to be over $1M for the water utilities and therefore more regulation and accounting at the state level will occur to maintain check and balances.
 
AM asked about the billing process for water utilities and quarterly billing process.  The billing date was change to aid in allowing timely payment.  AM asked about the cost of putting in meters over a period of time and payment, and Mr. Hearn indicated this will proceed.   One issue is to estimate the costs for commercial buildings such as the Marina or real estate offices. 
 
AM asked spray application on golf course and Mr. Hearn indicated that this could be a possibility but there is an issue of retrofitting course with spray irrigation, and this may not be cost effective compared to neighboring farms.
 
AM asked about foreclosing on properties on Captain’s Cove and Mr. Hearn discussed issue and would like the HOA to move forward with process. 
 
AM asked about financing loan for Marina building and cost for each individual lot owner’s portion for any prospective purchase.  The loan is expected to be over an extended time frame. 
 
AM asked about roads in Captain’s Cove and Mr. Wolff responded that the roads may not meet state standards for the state to maintain.  AM asked about golf carts and the issue it is a private community and they can set their own standards.
 
AM asked about status of Marina building and it seems to be a complicated issue with the HOA and PNC Bank since a portion of the land is originally owned by the HOA.  Mr. Hearn pointed out that provisions exist whereupon the developer may reclaim ownership of HOA property.  AM asked if this was a separate contract the original developer had with the HOA, or was it in the covenants and restrictions.  Mr. Hearn indicated it was part of the covenants and restrictions.   Other issues stem from previous developer who set up Marina as collateral and PNC Bank’s understanding of ownership of Marina.
 
Mr. Wolff and audience thanked Mr. Hearn for his presentation.   
 
Meeting ended 8:45 PM
 

Notes by Tim Getek

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.
 

December 6 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting (Beacon coverage)

Chincoteague Beacon
December 9, 2010

Council stays focused on beach access

By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The subject of beach access drew the attention of the Chincoteague Town Council at Monday's monthly meeting, much as it has for most of the year.

Town Planner William Neville presented the council with a proposed letter to send to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with a goal of keeping automobile traffic moving to Assateague Island, including both the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the Assateague Island National Seashore.

The council unanimously approved the letter with just some minor revisions.

Town Attorney Jon Poulson suggested the letter put greater emphasis on the state's investment in the new bridge that connects Route 175 with the road to the beach.

"The state didn't spend all that money to have Assateague closed," said Poulson.

In other council news:

The council unanimously reappointed Steve Potts and Lynn Ballerini to the Chincoteague Recreational and Civic Authority.

Mayor Jack Tarr announced the town's annual Christmas Home Judging Contest will take place Dec. 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Residents who want to have their homes judged should call the town office and be put on the list.

The council unanimously voted to created a new division to the Town Code, Chapter 62, Division 5 concerning water conservation.

VDOT's Tom Rakowski sent a report to the council detailing the progress of the new bridge complex. In the report, Rakowski writes: "Demolition of Black Narrows Bridge is almost complete." He wrote that the Marsh Island spur is now complete, but will not be opened to the public until work is completed on the old bulkhead.

Rakowski wrote the "project's present scheduled completion date is now April 2011."

Lori Walton spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting and stated electrical boxes had been installed within 10 feet of her condo on Marsh Island. Mayor Tarr instructed town officials to help her contact VDOT for possible solutions.

It was announced at the meeting that Chincoteague Police Chief Eddie Lewis was recently presented with a Jefferson Award, for all the community service the police department perform. Those in attendance gave Lewis a big ovation.

The council ended the public portion of the meeting and went into executive session to discuss the evaluation of Chief Lewis and Town Manager Robert Ritter.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

 

November 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

November 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (BOS)
Present: L. Gordy (Chair) D. Hart. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray, S. Mears. Absent: G. Chessor.

County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department,.

Audience: 30 members

Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Comments:  Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to agenda.  She mentioned email from James McGowan.  Mr. Miner commented additional item for new business.

AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

Ms. Gordy commented she did not limit the time of a speaker from previous month’s public comment.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Ed Kish from Melfa: He addressed the issue of ID theft that occurred in county from laptop stolen from county employer.  He suggested that one should review items on internet for ID theft, and if you feel that you are a victim of ID theft you go to the sheriff department and submit a form with case number. Apparently as of today you cannot do this at sheriff department.

Bob Gresham:  He discussed the breach of ID security due to theft of laptop computer. He is concern that this is a serious issue, and an outside group should evaluate county procedures.

Wesley Edwards:  He commented on stolen laptop.  Laptops were procured so they could leave the office.  He made point that to have enhanced procedures would require additional personnel and costs to handle situation. 
 
Toni Trapanier from Hallwood: She agreed with Wes Edwards and his views and she is concerned why county has citizens’ social security numbers in a database.

Ed Kish (second presentation):  He is not concerned that data will be used for ID theft.  He is reasonably certain that data will be erased from stolen county laptop.  He would like just more info about theft issue.

PRESENTATIONS
Employee Recognition of EMS Personnel:  Three new paramedics were introduced by Supervisor Pruitt
Resolution from Mr. Allen: deferred.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Eastern Shore Rural Health:  Ms. Stern updated the BOS on recent events.  They just added 30 jobs at clinic.  Many new clients at center are uninsured.  A preparedness drill was held in Olney at cost of clinic.  Approximately $8M has been brought into Accomack County via grants and funding.  They will offer dental services to uninsured patients in northern part of county.  Clinic also handles patient needs off the Eastern Shore through the bridge-tunnel tolls.  Clinic gives corporate services to employers such as Wal Mart. She would like to purchase land in northern part of county for future health clinic.
Shore Health Services: Mr. Zager will give a status update to BOS.  He discussed the various costs of diseases through country.  The key element is making therapies outpatient in nature to help reduce costs attributed to lengthy stays in hospitals. 
Update Mary Smith School: Mr. Annis discussed funding strategy for school. The main source of funding will be federal low income grants.  School will be turned into 28 apartments with most of them one bedroom.  Some other apartment buildings will be built which will give a total of 88 units.  Mr. Hart asked if alumni were on board with project and Mr. Annis indicated they were.  Mr. Wolff pointed out the school is a historical site and there may be funding in this direction.
Parks and Recreation: Mr. Burton discussed status.  He noted challenges of running recreations during these economic times.

AD HOC COMMITTEE ON LOBBYIST FOR COUNTY
Mr. Miner discussed the proposal to employ a lobbying company for the county.  Members from proposed lobbying company were made available for questions.  Mr. Catron discussed lobbying company and background.  From previous ad hoc committee meetings, Mr. Catron discussed taxiway funding and possible methods for funding.  He also commented on possible unfunded mandates from the EPA that may impact county.  His firm works by monthly retainer and on specified projects as discussed with BOS and county administrator.  Motion made to hire lobbying firm for six month period.  Cost for lobbying firm is $6500 per month.  Approved seven to one.

Social Services: Ms Parker discussed social services and needs.  Case load has increased dramatically. She would like BOS to consider a bonus for staff within the budget for social services workers.  This is a onetime bonus from funds that are already available.  Motion made to have public hearing to discuss bonus. Approved.

OLD BUSINESS
Printing Services: Ms.Burton discussed award of IFB 631 to Waterford Printing for services.  There is an issue of bids for award.  One bid was incorrect.  Paper People were the actual low bidders.  Motion was made to rebid printing award.  Motion was withdrawn due to state circumstances and preferences.  Another motion was made later in BOS meeting.

Wind Energy: Mr. Silverman discussed status.  He noted a case study of Bethany, NY.  Committee of 7 developed into a referendum which resulted in disallowing wind farms.  There seems to be a widely based opposition to wind farms due to scenery masking. There is also economic opposition due to competition.   

PUBLIC HEARING
Modest Town Agricultural and Forestal District: Public Hearing is opened.  No speakers.  Hearing is closed.
Planning Commission member discussed issue.  Motion made to continue district with recommended changes.  Approved.

OLD BUSINESS (CONT’D)
Amend County Ordinance on Animals, Article III.  Mr. Wolff discussed proposal for acquiring licenses for cats and other companion animals. The major concern is rabies which can be more prevalent in feral cats.  After considerations, Mr. Wolff would like to remove consideration of this license; however, he would like to solicit the help of citizens in minimizing the potential of rabies via cats. Motion to make citizen committee.  Approved.

APPOINTMENTS
Accomack County Building and Fire Code: Deferred
Wetlands Board: Motion to appoint J. Wayne Taylor.  Approved as alternate.
Workforce Investment Board: Mr. Hart may consider position.  Motion made to allow Mr. Hart investigate position.  Approved.
Planning Commission District 9: Mr. McCaleb would like to nominate Dr. Bacardi as re-appointment.  Mr. McCaleb would like him to go through process.  Motion made and approved.
Quimby Boat Harbor:  Need replacement and put on agenda next month.

NEW BUSINESS
Redistricting: Mr. Mallette wants to bring up topic and timeline for setting new redistricting.   Several BOS members would like to consider staggered terms. 
Creation of New IT Position: Deferred.
Judgeships: Motion to find judgeship (this will be a vacated position not a new position): Approved.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Mr. Miner discussed laptop issue.  Several recommendations were made.  One is have a virtual desktop to a central server.  Single contact point for any potential fraud due to stolen laptop is the county attorney’s office.  School board voted school property back to county.  Mr. Hart wants to make sure building is winterized.   Mr. Hart would like the alternative of making it poignant in the newspaper that some companies owe county taxes.  Motion to make clear notice in newspaper about taxes.  Approved.

Public hearing next month to amend budget for schools, and second hearing scheduled at 5:30 PM next month.  Motion made and approved.

Set hearing date for wind energy on February 23. 

Encryption of BOS computers will begin. There is a question of usefulness of coding BOS computers as pointed out by some BOS members due to the age of computers. 

COUNTY ATTORNEY REPORT
Mr. Taylor discusses the bid on printing services.  This discussion was previously initiated earlier in the meeting.  Principally the preference discussed by the state is only allowed for large businesses vs. small businesses; this is a situation between two designated small businesses.  With this new information, motion was made to rebid printing award.  Approved.

Mr. Taylor discussed laptop issue.  The comments made in county’s letter to residents are essentially correct.

Mr. Taylor gave lobbying agent information about property replacement for Wallops Research Park.

BOS COMMENTS
Ms. Thornton would like to put on January agenda that all county employees will have random drug test.

BUDGET ITEMS
Approved

PAYABLES
Mr. McCaleb asked about limit on some equipment.  It was noted that this was a previous award.  Another issue was budget for north landfill items; this issue was answered
Approved.

MEETING MOVED TO CLOSED SESSION
 
Adjournment approximately 8:45PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.  

Ron Wolff County Forum November 15, 2010

Ron Wolff County Forum November 15, 2010
Wolff Sandwich Shoppe, Atlantic, VA

Meeting started 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE:
 Presenter: Ron Wolff, County District Representative
Audience: 15 members and Mark Taylor, County Attorney

Opening Comments:  Mr. Wolff discussed events in county.  He mentioned that election was completed, and noted that the Meals Tax was defeated as a referendum in the county.  He discussed a potential ordinance that may license cats in the county.  This issue was linked to rabies in the county.  Audience member (AM) noted that firehouses would have veterinarians to do rabies shot for dogs and cats, but this has not occurred recently in this part of county.  Mr. Wolff mentioned that this is something that should be looked into.  Another AM discussed other diseases for cats including feline leukemia that should have vaccinations.

Update on BaySys, Mr. Wolff mentioned that they are moving forward but the work force has been reduced.  Mr. Walton of BaySys is optimistic about completion of current planes and expecting a decision of a future contract.  The county has not made the decision on the taxiway for BaySys area.  The county is moving forward on some other infrastructure issues Wallops Research Park (WRP).

Mr. Wolff discussed Northrop Grumman moving to Princess Anne.  Northrop Grumman will be working in Accomack County, but the offices will be in Maryland.

Mr. Taylor discussed the land in WRP and the need the county to do a reallocation of land to compensate federal government for land, and this is an issue due the cost of the land and this needs to be resolved with the Department of the Interior. 

AM commented about the seafood market and its utility.  It is not clear the targeted group of fishermen this market will service.  Mr. Taylor noted recent concerns about maintaining refrigeration of catch and this may have been the state’s incentive for establishing market.

Mr. Wolff reflected on laptop issue which was stolen during a visit by a county employee during a vacation.  Currently there does not appear to be any individual security breach from this theft.  If you did not receive a notice via mail from county, then your name was not on list of people on laptop. 

Captain’s Cove was discussed and developments seem to be moving in a positive direction.  It appears that in February 2011, Verizon may open up additional DSL slots in this area.

Meeting ended 8:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

October 21 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting (Beacon coverage)

Chincoteague Beacon
October 28, 2010
Council discusses theft of laptop
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- Accomack County's stolen laptop controversy was front and center at the Chincoteague Town Council's workshop meeting Oct. 21.

Accomack County Supervisor Wanda Thornton addressed the council and apologized on behalf of the county for a stolen laptop that contained about 35,000 people's personal information, including Social Security numbers and addresses.

Thornton said she feels the county will do everything within its power to make things as right as possible. She said the county has already mailed out official notifications to the affected people and businesses in an effort to stave off possible identify theft.

The notifications have been mailed to former citizens that have moved out of the area, as well as deceased citizens, some dead up to 20 years.

The laptop was stolen from an Accomack County employee while the employee was vacationing in Las Vegas. According to the county, the laptop was stolen from a hotel room.

Thornton requested and received support among members of the council to have town employees help local residents who need assistance with the problem.

Thornton advised the council that Accomack County would reimburse the town for the town employees' time and publications help.

The letter sent to most residents of Accomack County advised people to access their credit reports via www.freecredit report.com. This, however, is not a free site, and monthly charges do apply.

Residents are advised that there is a free site at www.annualcreditreport.com, which can be accessed once a year for a report by the three credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

Other business

In other council news from the workshop:

The council unanimously approved a motion to hire a lobby firm at $5,000 per month plus expenses up to $100 per month. The lobby firm would help get grants and support the council's call on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to keep public parking on Assateague Island. The vote for the lobby firm was unanimous.

The council voted unanimously to transfer ownership of the old bridge fender to the town from the Virginia Department of Transportation. The town plans to use grants to fashion an observation deck at the site.

The council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution for the Mobile Data Terminal for the town's Police Department. The measure would accept a $50,000 grant to place the computer units in police cars.

The council voted unanimously to have a proclamation naming the week of Nov. 8-13 as Cemetery Cleanup Week within the town.

The council voted unanimously to adopt the Broadband Network Build-Out with the Eastern Shore of Virginia Broadband Authority. The town will place an amount of $100,000 in a certificate of deposit in order to secure an $800,000 grant for the broadband work on the island.

Council discussed directional signs for the island but made no decision on the matter. Most council members felt the signs would not be a good idea and that a map with local landmarks and businesses might be a better idea.

The council went into an executive session to talk with five candidates for the town's Planning Commission. The council voted unanimously to talk in closed session with the five who seek to be on the commission. No decision was announced when the council reconvened in public session.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

October 21 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

October 21 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

The October 21, 2010 Town Council meeting addressed these matters: Aid to citizens re loss of county laptop; cemetery week; transfer of ownership of bridge fender; mobile data terminals for police cars; adoption of broadband resolution; hiring of Washington lobby firm to represent the town; discussion of directional signage; new bridge ceremony.

The agenda, backup materials and an audio recording of this meeting are available on the Town website:
www.chincoteague-va.gov

Attendance

Present: Mayor Jack Tarr and Council members Nancy Conklin, John Henry Howard, Terry Howard, John Nelson Jester, Tripp Muth, and Ellen Richardson.

About 10 citizens were in attendance.

Loss of county laptop with confidential information

Supervisor Wanda Thornton updated Council on the stolen county laptop issue. "It's been very, very hard." The county needs to take steps of ensure that the interests of citizens are protected. The county will help citizens establish fraud alerts on their confidential information. Mrs. Thornton asked the Council to support having town staff help Chincoteague citizens do this in the town office. The county will pay for the staff time. The Council agreed to do this. The importance of letting citizens know of this service was emphasized.

Cemetery Week

November 8-13 will be cemetery cleanup week.

Transfer of Bridge Fender.

The town will take ownership of the bridge fender of the old bridge in order to use it as a fishing pier.

Mobile Police Data Terminals

The town is funding, with grant assistance help, the acquisition of data terminals for police vehicles so that tags and finger prints can be checked from the vehicles.

Broadband

Council approved a resolution on the broadband network buildout. This will lead to a $800,000 grant for the initial installation of broadband on the island. Mr. Jester said that citizen enthusiasm  and knowledge about broadband needs to be rekindled.

Washington Lobby Firm

The Alcalde & Fay lobby firm had earlier made a presentation to Council about the services they could render to the town to help secure federal attention and funding for town needs. The beach parking issue is first and foremost but other issues such as possible expensive future projects related to drainage, water, and sewage will also be of interest. Council members pointed out the very important stake that the town has in sustaining beach parking on Assateague. The cost of putting the lobby firm on retainer will be $5000 a month plus expenses (estimated to be $100 a month). Council approved going forward with this for eight months.

Directional Signage

The Planning Commission and the Council have been considering placing directional signs around the island to help visitors locate businesses that are off Main Street and Maddox. Concern was expressed about avoiding the proliferation of signs and the difficulty of deciding what goes on the signs. The consensus was that maps of business locations may be a better way to inform visitors. There will be further consideration of this matter.

New Bridge Ceremony

Council members were please with the ceremony that took place October 16 to commemorate the new bridge. The town will seek to obtain more plaques with remnants of the old bridge for citizens who were not able to pick up plaques on Saturday.

Closed Session

The Council had a closed session to interview prospective candidates for the vacancy on the Planning Commission and for several other matters.

Notes prepared by  David Johnson

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith, is presented as accurately as possible, is thought to be a complete account of the proceedings. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

October 4 Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
October 7, 2010
Home business sign ordinance discussed
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The Chincoteague Town Council held a busy Monday meeting that included a pair of public hearings, a joint meeting with the town's Planning Commission, committee updates and action on the town's water supply, stormwater plan and network agreement for broadband.

The joint meeting and public hearing with the Planning Commission was held to consider the draft Home Occupation Ordinance, limiting the number and size of signs used in home businesses. Under consideration is a requirement to limit each home business to one sign with a limit of four square feet in R-1 and R-2 areas and 16 square feet in R-3 area.

At the joint hearing, only Peggy Thomas spoke and her comments dealt with the period of time a business had to be grandfathered.

No one spoke about the proposed ordinance.

Councilman Terry Howard urged his colleagues to be "careful" when trying to balance homeowners' rights and keeping the character of the residential areas of the town.

Discussion ranged from the size of the signs for home businesses to the required parking spaces in the R-3 area.

"We want to get back to residential property being residential again," said Councilman John Henry Howard. "It's not fair that some people are running a business and other folks are doing the same thing out of their house."

Town Planner William Neville presented the ordinance and tried to explain how the Planning Commission had arrived at the proposed ordinance.

"I guess I expect this from government, but I don't expect if from our government," said John Henry Howard when commenting on the bureaucratic aspects of the proposed ordinance.

In the end no new ordinance was adopted by council and the proposal was sent back to the Planning Commission for more work.

In other action from the council at Monday's meeting:

The council unanimously passed a water supply plan with one exception. The town was under a Nov. 2 deadline to pass the plan that goes until 2050 to anticipate water supply problems.

The plan is required by the Department of Environmental Quality and Tammy Stephenson made her second visit to the council to help explain the procedure. The plan anticipates a population growth on Chincoteague to 6,267 by the year 2050. That's almost double the current population and some on council questioned the growth since the population has remained steady since the late 1950s.

The plan gives the town options to prepare for future water needs and includes drilling three new wells on NASA property and a plan to establish a desalination center on the island. The plan can be changed as future needs are addressed.

The council received an audit report from Aaron Hawkins of the Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates. Hawkins gave the town a clean bill of health. "There are no problems that we need to report," said Hawkins.

The council voted to pay $58,815 on phase I of the Stormwater Master Plan to Clark Nexsen for mapping, identifying minor improvements to help the town's drainage issues. Councilman John Henry Howard voted against the measure.

The council discussed the part-time director of transportation position, but took no action on it. At Councilman John Jester's request, the position was tabled so the entire position with work flow could be discussed at a later time.

Town Attorney Jon Poulson informed the town that VDOT had changed the speed limits along Route 175 approaching the new bridge on Aug. 2, but had not yet changed the signs. He suggested the town draft a letter to VDOT requesting the new speed limits be posted.

A moment of silence was held at the beginning of the meeting for former Councilman Donald Leonard and town employee and firefighter Hal Clark.

Vice Mayor Ellen Richardson missed the council meeting to be with her ill husband.

Town Manager Robert Ritter told the council the dedication of the new bridge would be held on Oct. 16 at 11 a.m.

Police Chief Eddie Lewis told the council he has received a grant of $52,500 to put computers in police vehicles. He reported the Police Department raised $27,000 at the annual Poker Run last month. He also requested to reserve the Robert Reed Downtown Park next year on Sept. 10 for the next event.

Town Planner William Neville said he hoped the town's Welcome Sign would be in place by Oct. 16 date of the new bridge dedication.

Town Manager Robert Ritter reported the town's sales tax revenue rose in September from $26,089 in 2009 to $30,632 this year.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

Large crowd discusses future at refuge

Eastern Shore News
September 25, 2010
Large crowd discusses future at refuge
By Greg Merritt

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted the second in a series of scoping meeting Tuesday night at the Chincoteague Center to give the public information and an opportunity to comment on the developing Comprehensive Conservation Plan.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Manager Lou Hinds and Thomas Bonetti, refuge planner, addressed the well-attended meeting and asked for the public's help in putting the plan together.

"We need to keep the dialog going," said Hinds. "We can work together. It's not wildlife vs. people."

Although the alternative parking plans advanced by the Volpe Group were much on the minds of those who attended the meeting, parking on the beach was just one of the topics on the CCP.

Although Hinds touched on several of the topics, he was concerned that a rumor going around that had him and the wildlife served trying to get rid of the ponies on Assateague.

"Nothing could be further from the truth," said Hinds. "That's a lie."

Hinds promised to work with the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, owners of the herd, to take care of the ponies.

"We're going to make a management plan for the ponies," said Hinds.

After opening remarks by Hinds everyone was invited into another room to view some displays set up by wildlife and park service employees. The displays contained pictures of Assateague and some of the beach erosion that has been taking place there.

"Sea level will continue to rise," said Hinds. "We're planning on just over three feet over the next 100 years."

Those in attendance could write their opinions on paper on tables next to the displays and could talk with wildlife employees, who were at the displays.

The event was held in two sessions, one in late afternoon and the other in the early evening. Present at the evening session was former Virginia Gov. Linwood Holton, along with State Sen. Ralph Northam and Delegate Lynwood Lewis.

Holton, Northam and Lewis received warm welcomes from the assembled crowd.

Accomack County Supervisors Wanda Thronton and Jack Gray, along with Chincoteague Mayor Jack Tarr, attended the event.

The scoping meetings are the first step in a two-year period that the wildlife refuge will need to write the CCP.

September 16, 2010 Town Council Meeting/Workshop

September 16, 2010 Town Council Meeting/Workshop

The September 16, 2010 Town Council/workshop addressed these matters: Stormwater drainage master plan; anchoring of fuel tanks; potential hiring of lobbyist to represent the town; town welcome sign at the new bridge; beach access issues; Christmas decorations; Welcome Center exhibit.

The agenda, backup materials and an audio recording of this meeting are available on the Town website:
www.chincoteague-va.gov

Attendance

Present Mayor Jack Tarr and Council members:  Nancy Conklin, John Henry Howard, Terry Howard, John Nelson Jester, Tripp Muth. (Ellen Richardson absent due to illness of her husband)

About 6 citizens were in attendance.

Presentation on proposed stormwater drainage master plan study

Consultant Clark Nexsen of the Clark Nexsen firm in Norfolk presented a plan for studying the town's stormwater drainage problems and making recommendations for improvements. Mr. Nexsen was the city engineer for Virginia Beach for 14 years. The town has had significant problems with stormwater drainage both from storms and tides. The study, if funded by the town, would identify major watersheds and prioritize known flooding issues. Potential improvements and costs would be identified. Possible grant opportunities and funding sources would be recommended. Public awareness and participation would be encouraged. At a later stage if the study is approved  a field survey would be conducted. The possibility of a storm water utility fee was discussed. One possible measure might be to enlarge a water holding area on Fowling Gut. Various types of flood gates were discussed. In order to obtain grants one needs a level of documentation that this study would provide. Health, safety and welfare issues are at stake. There are also water quality concerns. Enhanced federal and state regulations will be coming in the future and this study and its implementation will help Chincoteague prepare for the future. The Council will consider funding the study at its October meeting.

Possible change in the flood ordinance, sec 30-19 anchoring fuel tanks

The Council voted to postponed the deadline for anchoring oil and propane tanks from November 4, 2010 to November 5, 2012. The Council had previously approved anchoring as a safety measure in case of
severe storms to prevent tanks from being dislodged. But many citizens are not aware of the requirement and its cost and implementation. There are about 2490 fuel customers on Chincoteague but only a few hundred tanks have been anchored. While propane companies have tried to inform their customers oil companies have not. Town government will try to be sure that citizens are informed in the future, including about the FEMA guidelines for anchoring. New tanks do need to be anchored now.

Discussion of potential consultant/lobbyist to represent the town

Mayor Tarr explained that this idea came up originally in response to the beach parking issue. The mayor and supervisor Wanda Thornton have met with the northern Virginia firm Alcalde & Fay. This lobbying company has had great success in helping towns in Virginia and elsewhere get access to federal grants for diverse projects. Council members discussed how things are done in Washington with staff, Congress, and federal agencies and the need for Chincoteague to take a more active role in seeking solutions for sustaining beach parking and likely future needs re wastewater and sewage. We need to develop a list of what we want. Mr. Jester observed that as millions of lost tourist dollars are at stake this kind of action by the town is clearly needed. The town will proceed with this matter. There will need to be the proper RFP procedure.

Welcome sign at the new bridge

A new welcome sign at Main and Maddox has been designed. Council approved $950 to prepare and install the "Welcome to Chincoteague Island Virginia" sign. The east facing side of the sign will read "Visit Our Historic Downtown <<<<<<<<<<." There was discussion of the need for landscaping improvements at this location. There may be another welcome sign at the other end of the new bridge later.

Assateague Beach Access Committee press release

Council approved the press release with the results of the town's beach access questionnaire. There were over 2000 responses, primarily by visitors to Chincoteague this summer. 80% of Chincoteague visitors make Assateague beach their top priority. If transit from a remote parking lot to the beach was provided, 82% would not return for another visit.

Mayor Tarr said the beach access committee was working on recommendations to bring to the council. The town will seek to insure that citizens are informed about the beach parking issue. The importance of attendance at the September 21 meeting at the Community Center with Refuge staff was stressed. This meeting will address the Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Mayor Tarr noted the importance of public input during the 180 day public comment period.

Christmas decorations

There are plans for enhanced Christmas decorations downtown and on Maddox.

Exhibit at the Eastern shore welcome center at the bridge-tunnel

Council approved $850 for a Chincoteague exhibit at the welcome center.

Notes prepared by  David Johnson

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith, is presented as accurately as possible, is thought to be a complete account of the proceedings. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

Town of Chincoteague Assateague Beach Access Committee

Town of Chincoteague
Assateague Beach Access Committee
September 17, 2010

Thank you to all who helped to complete the 2010 Beach Access Questionnaire!  Since July 4th, the Town of Chincoteague has collected over 2,000 responses that represent over 10,000 people.  The questionnaire was widely distributed through emails, our business community, civic organizations and online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/beachaccessquestionnaire. 

A clear message was heard, not just from Town residents, but from all across America.  The questions built on a previous visitor survey from 1998 and allowed our peak-season community to respond to ideas presented by NationalSeashore and Wildlife Refuge staff. 

The following conclusions will provide us with valuable direction in long range planning efforts currently underway at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

 80% of Chincoteague visitors make Assateague Beach their top destination
 Current Refuge management plans that restore direct beach access and automobile parking for 961 spaces after a storm is supported by 97%
 91% believe that beach access from a bus or trolley does not make sense and that direct beach parking is important to their family vacation experience
 If transit from a remote parking lot to the beach was provided, 82% would not return for another visit.

The unique experience of recreational seashore, wildlife refuge and #1 beach town in America (AOL Travel 2010) must be protected. 

Notice:  Public scoping meeting for Refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan - September 21st  3-8pm
Written comments should be sent to Chincotague National Wildlife Refuge, ATTN:  CCP Coordinator, P.O. Box 62, Chincoteague, VA 23336; or, electronically via e-mail addressed to northeastplanning@fws.gov. Please put "Chincoteague" in the subject line. 

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Seeks Public Input

News Release
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 62
Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: September 10, 2010
Contact: Lou Hinds, Refuge Manager Phone: 757-336-6122

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Seeks Public Input

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public input on developing its Comprehensive
Conservation Plan (CCP) for the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The CCP is required of all
National Wildlife Refuges by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (PL 105-
57). The CCP is a 15-year plan designed to provide strategic management direction that best achieves
the Refuge’s purposes; attains the vision and goals developed for the Refuge; contributes to the National
Wildlife Refuge System mission; addresses key challenges, issues and relevant mandates; and, is
consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management.

After a year of preplanning, Refuge staff are initiating the next stage of the planning process by hosting public scoping meetings. Public scoping meetings are open to everyone and provide an opportunity for the public to speak directly with Refuge staff and comment on what they see as the issues, concerns, and challenges for the refuge over the next 15 years. Each meeting will be conducted in an informal Open House format. Refuge staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Written comments are also welcome and should be sent to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, ATTN:
CCP Coordinator, P.O. Box 62, Chincoteague, VA 23336; or, electronically via e-mail addressed to
northeastplanning@fws.gov. Please put "Chincoteague" in the subject line.

The next public scoping meeting is scheduled for:
Tuesday, September 21st – 3:00 – 5:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:00 PM
(Refuge presentations will occur at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM
to explain the CCP process, followed immediately by brief
remarks from the Refuge Manager)
Location - Chincoteague Community Center
6155 Community Drive
Chincoteague, VA 23336
Phone: (757)-336-0614
(Please call for directions)

The Refuge planning team will review all the information, data, and comments gathered during these
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service public meetings before developing a draft plan. Involving the local community, our partners and other stakeholders throughout the planning process is vital to the ultimate success of the plan. In particular, we hope to engage local residents and community leaders in discussing ways the Refuge could become a more integral part of the community. If you are interested in helping us plan this refuge’s future, we encourage you to participate. You can contact us at any time. We will also schedule other public meetings at various stages of the planning process to facilitate your input. For additional information regarding the CCP process or to learn more about upcoming public scoping meetings, please contact Lou Hinds at 757-336-6122; or visit www.fws.gov/northeast/chinco

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is located primarily on Assateague Island. It is more than
14,000 acres of beach, dunes, fresh water swales, maritime forest, salt marsh and tidal mud flats. The Refuge was originally established in 1943 to provide habitat for migratory birds with an emphasis on greater snow geese. Today it continues to provide quality habitat for migratory birds but the emphasis has shifted to include a greater variety birds including: wading birds, shorebirds, neotropical migrants as well as other species of wildlife and plants.

The refuge's location along the Atlantic Flyway makes it a vital resting and feeding spot for a large number and diversity of birds. Within a workday's access to millions of people, Chincoteague Refuge is one of the most visited refuges in the United States, providing visitors with outstanding opportunities to learn about and enjoy wildlands and wildlife.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
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September 15, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

September 15, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (BOS)
Present: L. Gordy (Chair) D. Hart. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray,  S. Mears, G. Chessor.

County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department,.

Audience: 30 members

Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Comments:  Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to agenda. 

AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Toni Trapanier: She requested that letters of support should be deferred until tax issues are fully understood.

Wesley Edwards:  He discussed budget adjustment for schools.  He is concerned about taxes raised for schools after additional funds were found for schools.  He wanted BOS to consider this issue.

Ms. Thornton asked how school districts plan to spend money, and a motion was made to have school board report on spending of funds.  Mr. Chessor asked for additional information on spending of tax funds, and how they may be used to increase teachers’ salaries.  Mr. Gray would like to see majority of funds to increase teachers’ pay.  Motion approved.

CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Approved.

CONSENT AGENDA
Modified, and discussed.  Mr. Hart made comment for bidding out advertisements to local newspapers.  He would like cheapest price for placing ads for the county.  Mr. Miner discussed ad issue and the renewal for newspapers.   Motion to approve one year extension was made.  Approved 7 to 1 with one abstention.
Mr. McCaleb would like Item B (Professional Engineering Requests) from Consent Agenda to be removed or clarified by staff.  Mr. Miner discussed procurement of professional engineering assistance on projects; he noted necessary timelines.  Motion to approve initial steps to get professional engineering assistance was made.  Mr. Chessor commented that Steve Walton (BaySys) needs information on financing to determine what steps county would need on taxiway project.  Ms. Thornton clarified professional engineering includes other infrastructure (water and sewer) for Wallops Research Park (WRP) and she believes this action is not completely tied to taxiway item.  Motion was approved 7 to 2.

Mr. Mallette wanted to edit congratulations letter to clarify exact title and definition of award for nursery and need to optimize water consumption.  Motion made, approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Virginia Forestry:  Mr. Lewis discussed forests and fire season.  It is the annual report on forest projects and proper management.   He discussed fire suppression, and working with local fire departments.  He noted Smokey the Bear made it to all the local schools; his daughter assisted in these activities.  Ms. Mears thanked the efforts of Mr. Lewis and all the volunteers in the height of the summer heat. 

Office of 911:  A gentleman (name not clearly indicated)  discussed radio communications in northern Accomack county.  Three additional receivers have been installed at Wallops Flight Facility (WFF); this has improved overall communications.  Also, WFF causes issue with all the radio frequencies, and this concern is being optimized with using specific frequencies or alternate frequencies.  Ms. Thornton asked about mandate that narrow band frequencies will need to be altered.  He noted timeline is in 2013 for this change.  Grant money is being requested by Northampton county and following their paperwork; however, grant is written for both counties.

Community Center and Stable Housing:  Mr. McGowan discussed local community acts that were developed by the US Senate.  He discussed the grants and funding for developing local communities to include local transportation and developing incentives for developers to preserve current environment.  Ms. Thornton was concerned with wording of financials of acts.  She asked for some legal assistance on interpretation of wording of US Senate bill.  Mr. Taylor initial thoughts are that it may need some future clarification once bill is approved by US Senate.  Ms. Thornton ascertained that the only group that can reduce the taxes is the local government and the bill may be making claims that are not reasonable.  Ms. Thornton would like to defer vote on this request.  Motion was made to defer until further clarification.  Approved.

Mr. McGowan asked if any BOS member would like to listen on conference call with US Senators office.  BOS would like Mr. Taylor to listen to conference calls.

Financing Issues with Tipping Fees:  Mike Mason discussed tipping fee items.  He commented on tipping fees associated with towns and the various options available. Ms. Thornton noted county ordinances and how they may be enacted.  Mr. Mallette made motion to table issue.  Approved 8 to 1.

Resolution for WRP: Mr. Mason discussed resolution for purposes of reimbursement for expenses incurred on any improvements at WRP.  This is a typical resolution for many counties.  Ms. Thornton asked what obligations may be incurred.  Motion made to adopt resolution.  Approved.  To be sure, a roll call vote was taken.  Approved.

Summary Financial Report: Mr. Mason gave presentation on report.  He noted some changes to report with respect to five year estimates over time.   Real estate tax revenue is on target; personal property tax is slightly behind.  He mentioned rainy day fund and current surplus; county is in better shape than last year in terms of funds available. The goal for rainy day funds is 8%..  He discussed future of landfills and funds needed to close them.  In future, it may be necessary to increase tipping fees.  Ms. Thornton asked about green box waste and how to save funds.  Mr. Hart discussed needs in southern end of county.  Motion to have appointments made for committee dealing with finances.  Approved.

Community Housing Plan:  Mr. Hall discussed housing and various watersheds.  He commented on contract negotiations and timelines for grants.  Request was made to BOS to execute action that will enable grant funding.  Motion to follow request.  Approved.

Presentation on Delinquent Taxes:  Ms. Bundick discussed list for delinquencies.  She discussed houses on Cedar Island that appear to be uninhabitable due to beach erosion.  Mr. McCaleb asked how non-revenue parcels be removed from tax books.  This needs attorney advice. 

Stormwater Issues and Ordinances: Mr. Mallette commented on need for stormwater issues.  Motion made to have public hearing on stormwater matters.  Ms. Thornton noted that EPA may have specific mandates for stormwater drainage that the county may need to incorporate in their plans.  Mr. McGowan verified that county was covering most of the stormwater needs and points, but some other points need clarification and confirmation.  Motion approved 6 to 3.

CONSIDER APPOINTMENTS
Accomack County Building & Fire: Deferred
Workforce Investment Board: Reappoint Mr. Petite. Approved.

NEW BUSINESS
Navy Land Use Request; Mr. Miner noted that it will be a federally funded project.  Mr. Miner would like approval to apply for grant.  There could be a 10% match for a $135K project.  County exposure will be minimal.  Ms. Thornton wants to know if any strings may be attached to this grant.  Mr. Miner recommends forwarding application and collects more information on requirements.  Motion made to proceed with application.  Approved.

PUBLIC HEARING
DUI and Related  Incident Fines. Hearing Opened.  No Speakers.
Hearing Closed.
Ms. Thornton asked Mr. Taylor about specifics of ordinance and how fines may be assessed. Mr. Gray wanted details of the final repose of fines and which department receives them.  Ms. Thornton asked about modifying ordinance just for DUI.  Motion to defer ordinance until more information on fines destination can be researched.  Approved.

Proposed Amendment for School Funds Appropriations.  Motion to defer.  Public Hearing Opened,  Mr. McCaleb noted that several million dollars may be involved, and noted county should receive reimbursement.  Public Hearing Closed. 

COUNTY ATTORNEY REPORT
Mr. Taylor discussed Wallops Overlay Corridor and the movement of payloads on roads from WFF to launch facility.  Funds are now available to bury utilities.  Planning Commission will take this to public hearing.  Motion was made to take item to public hearing  Approved.

Item on referendum on meal tax was discussed by Mr. Taylor.   The referendum would only authorize the BOS to approve a meal tax; referendum will not by itself approve the meal tax.  Motion to begin referendum by advertizing in newspapers.  Approved.

COMMENT FROM BOS MEMBERS
Mr. Chessor wants to congratulate Mr. Savage on award.
Mr. Wolff noted that Mr. Savage was asked about distillation
Mr. McCaleb commented on wind power information to be presented in future.
Ms. Thornton noted that visitation is down at Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge this year.  She also noted a glitch in aids of navigation buoy; an issue of potential power line pole to  Chincoteague Island could be in jeopardy.
Mr. Mallette commends county staff on reports.  He is concerned about staff not appearing at meetings and would like to see critical staff at BOS meetings.  He noted positive aspects of youth football league by Parks and Recreation.
Ms. Gordy attended party on Saturday with Mr. Miner for Bill Allen.

BUDGET ITEMS
Approved

PAYABLES
Approved.

CLOSED SESSION

Adjournment approximately 8:30PM

N.B. Notes by Tim Getek
These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

September 7 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
September 9, 2010
CHINCOTEAGUE: Town council will refund taxes paid by dentist for 20 years - because no other doctors paid them
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE ­ The almost 20-year ordeal of Chincoteague dentist Dr. William Baczek, who paid his required town fees when no others did, came to an end at Tuesday’s Chincoteague Town Council meeting.

Baczek had sought council’s approval to refund his business license fees, paid over the last 19 years. Council voted unanimously on June 29 to refund the license fees, with 5 percent interest, on a motion by former councilman Jim Frese, who championed the effort.

Baczek had been the only doctor to pay a business license to the town. After the council action, he was owed $10,400.

Other dentists and doctors who had served the town had not been charged the fee. So at the June 29 meeting council had voted to refund Baczek.

“It was the right thing to do,” said Frese.

However, Baczek had not received the refund and twice the council had put a possible motion to rescind the action on council’s agenda ­ including Tuesday, when the dentist alleged town attorney Jon Poulson wasn’t paying required fees, either.

Baczek spoke to council during the public participation portion of the meeting.

“This has been going on for too long,” he told the council. “If you want to open up a can of worms, we’re opening it.”

Baczek said he had been in Chincoteague for 20 years and had given town employees a 20 percent discount on his services.

Baczek read a portion of the town’s code that said someone living elsewhere, but working in the town limits, would have to pay a town license. He contended that Poulson, who was at the meeting but has his office in Accomac, had to pay a town license fee to do so.

“Our town attorney, who is being paid to work here, does not have a business license,” said Baczek.

“I don’t need one, doctor,” Poulson replied from the back of the room.

“If you are doing business while you are here,” said Baczek.

“I don’t need one, doctor,” Poulson said again.

“Then you have to show me,” said Baczek.

"I don’t have to show you anything, doctor,” Poulson interrupted.

“That’s what this whole thing is all about,” said Baczek. “Nobody wants to show me a darn thing.”

Baczek said he had spent hundreds of thousands of dollars building the island’s first true dentist office.

“Six months ago I met with the mayor in my office,” said Baczek. “We discussed a credit. I could use up that credit as the years went by. I paid my town license fee because I was told everyone paid it.”

Later in the meeting the council went into executive session to discuss the matter with Poulson and to discuss “probable litigation” on another matter. The executive session lasted about 90 minutes in the hot chamber with the air conditioning unit not working.

When the council returned to open session, Mayor Jack Tarr asked if there was any motion. Although the possible motion to rescind the motion made on June 29 was on the agenda, no council member made a motion.

“Dr. Baczek, in the interest of fairness, council is going to let your motion stand as it was at the June 29 meeting,” said Mayor Tarr. “There is some evidence that the doctors were exempted in the past.”

"That’s fair enough,” said Baczek.

Then council unanimously approved a measure that exemptions from the license fees could only be authorized by the council.

In other news from Tuesday’s meeting:

n Council voted unanimously to award a contract to Branscome Eastern Shore not to exceed $327,285 for the resurfacing of Maddox Boulevard from Main Street to Deep Hole Road, 200 yards of road on Main Street by the new bridge and Cropper Street. The work is to begin in late October.

n Council unanimously adopted a resolution making September National Preparedness Month.

n Council unanimously voted to approve Town Planner William Neville as the Chincoteague representative on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Interdisciplinary Planning team.

n Council did not make an appointment to fill the unexpired term of Councilman Tripp Muth on the town’s Planning Commission. The council voted twice on the nominations of Michael J. Dendler, Helen Merritt, Nancy Lane, S. G. Papadopoulos and Andrew Jorgensen, with no nominee getting a majority vote of council. Council will ask all five to meet with them to discuss the nominations.

n Tammy Stevenson of Roanoke gave a presentation of the Department of Environmental Quality’s Local Water Supply Plan.

n Susan Christa of VIP Island Rentals Partnership told council she was opposed to the new regulations at the Convenience Center on Deep Hole Road. She did respond favorably when she learned the town would pick up refuse twice a week in the approved containers.

n Mark Couburn of Assateague Explorers spoke to council about the East Side boat ramp that his business uses to launch kayak tours. He said he wanted to work with the town to solve any problems that arose at the site.

n Council voted unanimously to extend the period from seven to eight days in advance for folks who want to purchase a business license for Pony Penning sales.

August 18, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

AUGUST 18, 2010 ACCOMACK COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING

August 21, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting, Accomack Board Chambers, Accomack, Virginia

Agenda Materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Present: L. Gordy (chair) D. Hart, Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S McCaleb, J. Gray, S. Mears, G. Chessor.

County Attendees:  Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator, Mark Taylor, County Attorney.

Audience: Reviewed remotely via audio

Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 pm.

Opening comments: Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to the agenda.

AGENDA
Approved with modifications

PUBLIC COMMENT
Maria Pasceretti  made comments about Ron Wolff meeting and that she made notes and stated that she came away with a new outlook on the Research Park.  She believes BaySys will be an asset to the county.

 Tony Trapanea   Commented on the Ron Wolff  meeting and said it was productive and supported the board on their decision.

Billy Custis gave a report on the Vol. fire company and that she feels the same as her report last month.

Tom Gresham said he wanted to give a report on the board that he appreciated what they had done at the last board meeting and the way 4 of the board members wanted to preserve the tax money of the county.

The May and June minutes were approved as distributed.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS

Karen Rideout, Enviromental Health Specialist,  gave a report on rabies in Accomack County.   She said that fox and raccoon were the leaders in cases of rabies.  She said there would be several clinics for rabies shots for dogs and cats in the county.  She said that 1 otter and a few groundhogs had had rabies.

OLD BUSINESS

Michael Mason gave a status update on the Billing and Valuation Software Project.  He stated that one of the main reasons for the software was that the property tax bills go out on time.  He said the new software would cut the cost of maintenance by $30,000, the bills would go out on time, and the project will come in under budget.

It was moved and passed that the board support the town of Melfa after they apply for a grant for a crossing in the town.

Jason Loftus gave a report on the NOAA weather radio at the Mappsville tower.  He said that the current building would not handle the equipment.  He said for an investment of $4200 it would alter the fence and supply a pad for the building that would upgrade to house equipment and backup generators.  The motion was made second and passed to approve the funding for the project.

AUGUST APPOINTMENTS

A motion was made, seconded, and passed to appoint Dr. D. Nelson Fitch to a 4 year term at the Eastern Shore Community College.

NEW BUSINESS

Bill Shockley gave a report to encourage the board to adopt the county as a crop disaster designation.  He said that it takes a 35% reduction in one crop to be declared a disaster.  Since Accomack County was the no. 1 corn producing county in the state, we would use corn as the crop.  He said there was some acres that would never be harvested.  He estimated a 65% reduction in non irrigated acres.  The motion was made, seconded and passed to recommend to the governor that the county be declared a disaster.  He also said that the county ag position should be filled by the first of the year.  The board made a motion, seconded and passed to send a letter of appreciation to Mr. Shockley for his work for the county.

A motion was made seconded and passed to adopt the 4 resolutions related to the Metompkin CDBG project.

Jim Loftus updated the board on the activities at the fire training center and what is needed for the 10 year project plan.  A motion was made, seconded and passed to fund the 10 year capital spending plan for the Fire Training Center.

A motion was made seconded and passed for Mr. Minor to write a letter of support for the accreditation of the Virginia Eastern Shore Land Trust.

A motion was made seconded and passed to table the request to Senators Warner and Webb to support the Livable Communities Act until they receive more information on what the bill is about and what it would potential cost the county.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATORS REPORT

Mr. Minor reported that the ad had been place for the advertising of the county ag agent and should have filled by the first of the year.

COUNTY ATTORNEY REPORT

Mr., Taylor said that he had on public report.

COMMENT FROM BOS MEMBERS
Ms. Thornton wants the board to support on Sept. 14, protect the groundwater day.  A motion was made, seconded and passed to support the National Ground Water Association in making Sept. 14, Protect the Groundwater Day.
Mr. Mallette ask the board what plan B would be for the Lease space for public works.
Mr. Wolff commented on his visit to the Governor along with several others in Richmond.

Budget items approved
Payables approved.
Closed Session

Adjournment approximately 7:30PM

Notes by Garey Cropper

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

August 19 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
August 26, 2010
Council votes to tighten sign regulations
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- Home businesses on Chincoteague Island will have smaller signs under a new ordinance passed by the Town Council last week.

Meeting in a workshop setting in the Town Council chamber, a majority of the council voted to downsize signs in the three residential classifications, R-1, R-2 and R-3.

The new regulations permit signs for home businesses to eight square feet and just one sign per home business.

A joint public hearing with the town's Planning Commission will be held on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. to discuss the new ordinances and the banner issue for businesses.

Ironically at the same workshop meeting, the council discussed a plan to place several directional signs throughout the town. Town Planner William Neville presented options to the town to place directional, color-coded signs that would assist visitors locating places on the island.

Discussion featured talk about moving the "Welcome" sign on Bridge Street to the new bridge site while waiting for new signs to be made and erected. The "Welcome" sign is owned by the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce and they would have to approve any move of the current sign.

In other news from the workshop,

Representatives from the Assateague Explorer kayak services appeared before the council to explain that they were not conducting lessons at the Eastside Boat Ramp, owned by the town. The company received a letter from the town about signs allowed at the site, but representative Mary Ester Montresor said the group had no signs. "The letter was hand-delivered by the police," Montresor stated.

"You are a secondary use there," explained Mayor Jack Tarr. "You cannot monopolize the boat ramp."

The council pointed out that a special aluminum ramp was installed at the Eastside Boat Ramp especially for kayakers. The ramp, however, was deemed not safe by kayakers.

Mayor Tarr requested that representatives from the kayak owners meet with Town Manager Robert Ritter to iron out what can be done to make the ramp safe for the public who use the facility to launch their kayaks.

Councilman John Henry Howard said the council had received several complaints about the kayaks at the boat ramp, in particular the Assateague Explorer kayaks. "We just didn't pick on you out of the clear blue sky," said Howard.

Mayor Tarr stressed working together the town and kayak business could remedy the situation without additional council action.

The workshop ended with council members going into executive session for the expressed purpose of consideration of the acquisition of real property.
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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

Ron Wolff County Forum August 16, 2010

Ron Wolff County Forum August 16, 2010
Wolff Sandwich Shoppe, Atlantic, VA

Meeting started 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE:
 Presenter: Ron Wolff, County District Representative
Guest: Steve Walton, BaySys Owner
Audience: 70 members

Opening Comments:  Mr. Wolff thanked everyone for attending.  He noted that BaySys is key issue in county.  The county Board of Supervisors (BOS) voted on taxiway for BaySys at Wallops Research Park (WRP).  It was a 4 to 4 tie, and Mr. Hart then voted on new vote and the bond issue for taxiway was approved 5 to 4 with some caveats.  Mr. Wolff commented he does not believe that BOS always do a good job on communicating to county residents.  He discussed the history of WRP.  Plan for WRP had to consider county, marine consortium and NASA concerns.  The county knew that WRP needed infrastructure.  One key business was BaySys coming to WRP, and having access to runway to land planes and allow to come off runway to a particular side runway (taxiway).  A key element was to allow businesses to land plane and walk to their office.  The taxiway will not only be used by BaySys but other companies.  With the bond issue, once developed by BOS, the next key step is by BaySys.  Financing for new BaySys hangars is in area of $30M.  It was not made clear that no county funds will be utilized until BaySys has secured financing.  Mr. Wolff considered his vote as an initial go ahead with investigating financing which is to be done by BaySys and its potential financier and not the county.  Again, Mr. Wolff commented that the BOS and county has not done a good job of clearly describing the financing issue with respect to BaySys and this have caused concern with some local residents.  He discussed his meeting with the governor of Virginia and Steve Walton of BaySys, and issues on the Eastern Shore.  Mr. Wolff clarified the situation with WRP and what it means to the state of Virginia in terms of revenues.  The governor was keen on job creation with respect to WRP, and like the idea of promoting businesses at WRP for job creation.  The governor indicated he would look into getting funds for taxiway and other ways to create jobs at WRP.

Guest Speaker: Steve Walton of BaySys thanked Mr. Wolff the opportunity to speak this evening.  He asked if anyone was members of Accomack Taxpayer Association.  No one in room raised their hand, but everyone indicated that they were taxpayers.  He described BaySys and his personal history and background.  The company was founded 14 years ago, and Mr. Walton wanted to have an avionics business.  In 2006, he started work at BaySys full time.  BaySys signed the Space Act agreement at this time, and it included the concept of putting a hangar at WRP.  In 2009, Lynwood Lewis put forth a bill HB 1926 that established the ability of companies to perform their work at WRP.  This bill laid down the foundation for the capability of putting down a taxiway.  BaySys grew exponentially since 2006 going from a $3M to a $50M business.  He discussed the first plane developed by BaySys that was done in 200 days.  He noted the current business of BaySys of customizing planes for foreign dignitaries.  This is money coming back to the USA from outside countries.  He commented on the new Boeing 747-8 which is twice the size of a Boeing 777.  Few companies are qualified to work with the new Boeing 747-8 and BaySys is one of them.  BaySys is a unique business, and the Boeing 747-8 needs to be in a new hangar due to size and current lease.  Mr. Walton needs two things from county:  a new lease and a taxiway.  The new lease has taken more time than expected to obtain.  Mr. Wolff interjected that attempts have been made to obtain new lease, it was placed in the approved bill, but it was not funded.  A commitment was needed from county for taxiway so that BaySys can verify with customers that BaySys will have new hangar and taxiway.  BaySys cannot obtain financing of $30M for new hangar until there is a commitment for new taxiway.  There was a time limit of August 1 for county to make a decision on these issues, otherwise there is a potential for BaySys being relocated to Maryland to utilize airport near Salisbury.

Mr. Walton discussed concerns for long time business matters with BaySys.  Plan is in place for other executives at BaySys to maintain business and agreements in place.  The taxiway is about a $5M effort.  The funding being discussed is actually $9M which included some land acquisition issues that the county needs to consider.  Mr. Wolff described the land issue and how it plays into the $9M funding number.  Mr. Wolff noted that when land is designated for a specific purpose, other land is needed to replace land that is no longer available, and this represents about $1M of the $9M funding number which does not exactly involve the taxiway.

Mr. Walton indicated it is not a $9M issue but closer to a $5M issue for the taxiway, and he discussed the impact of potential moving of BaySys to Maryland.  He discussed the job creation at BaySys and impact on local economy and county.  He noted that 285 jobs associated with BaySys and the interplay of a county $9M commitment versus budget cuts in county that impact teachers and education.  He clarified that the taxiway will bring business to county and this will aid county in future financial needs. 

Mr. Walton commented on concerns from local residents.  One concern was the closed meeting with respect to taxiway.  He commented that only a portion of meeting was closed; there was public comment on taxiway.  Mr. Walton noted that some financials were removed from reports given to county.  That was correct due to the sensitivity of financials and how it may impact investment ratings and contract negotiations.  Mr. Walton noted the approximate $1M land transference issue and the attempts to mitigate this impact.   Mr. Wolff commented on bond issue, and whether county could pay off bond issue.  Mr. Wolff noted that bond issue would not affect county with respect to other payables.  Mr. Walton pointed out that this was not an issue that occurred in one month but has been an ongoing issue for two years.

Mr. Walton commented to audience that their views should be expressed to county officials and they should consider contacting them.

Audience Q&A: Audience member (AM) asked about hangar financing and how facility is to be handled.  Mr. Wolff commented that he was not sure how performance bonds could be instituted for this building.  AM asked Mr. Wolff if NASA could change their mind on runway.  Mr. Wolff commented it was a 90 year lease.  AM wanted to know if runway is long enough; yes it is according to Mr. Walton.   AM asked about net gain in jobs by building new hangar.   Mr. Walton indicated that about 100 new jobs are expected at BaySys with new hangar. 

Mr. Walton commented that he would increase effort to communicate to public about BaySys and its potential positive impact on community. 

Meeting ended 8:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

August 2 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
August 5, 2010
Bridge dedication ceremony is now planned for October
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The planned Chincoteague Bridge dedication and ribbon cutting took a detour Monday as the Town Council listened to another version of the ceremony by VDOT's Lauren Hansen.

Instead of the Sept. 25 date set at a previous meeting, now VDOT wants the dedication to take place on Oct. 16 at the site of the old bridge downtown. The new dedication coincides with the town's 11th annual Chili Chowder Cookoff.

The 30-minute program will begin at 10 a.m. and feature remarks by Mayor Jack Tarr, an official of VDOT, an official of the contractor American Bridge, the town manager and perhaps others, before the official ribbon cutting by all the distinguished guests.
There will be no half-marathon run as discussed with Joe Lowrey at a previous meeting. According to Hansen, Lowrey was a consultant working for VDOT, who is no longer employed in that capacity. "Mr. Lowrey is not with us anymore," said Hansen. "We scaled back the event."

Under questioning by Councilman John Jester, Hansen left open the possibility of a town picture on the old swing bridge. Jester called it a "farewell picture" of as many Chincoteague people as possible on the bridge.

Hansen said she would check with VDOT engineers to make sure such a large group of people could safely be on the structure.

"It's the people's bridge," said Councilman Terry Howard. He also stated he felt Lowrey should have contacted the council personally.

"We've been through too much frustration with VDOT," said Jester.

In other news from Monday's council meeting:

•Former Councilman Jim Frese was presented a Certificate of Appreciation by Mayor Tarr for his two years of service to the community. Frese filled the vacancy left on the council by the resignation of Anita Spidell. Frese served for two years and never missed a meeting during his tenure.

•During the public comment portion of the meeting, Ken Webb commended the town and town employees for their outstanding work during the recent Pony Penning celebration, especially the shuttle operation.

•Donna Mason voiced her opposition to the town giving Accomack County the power to control the convenience center located on Deep Hole Road. She commented on the weekend problem with the center when the trash was not picked up on schedule.

Mason said there would be more Dumpsters on the island as a result of the town's decision. "It's a health hazzard," she stated. "Imagine the number of flies. A lot of things were not considered."

•Town Manager Robert Ritter reported the town's meals tax was up $4,000 over last year and sales tax up $500 over last year.

•Town Planner William Neville reported that over 1,000 beach transportation survey forms have been returned. He expects to have everything tabulated at the next council meeting.

•Although Monday's meeting lasted about two hours, 24 minutes, only about 45 minutes was in open session. The council went into executive session with Town Attorney Jon Poulson to discuss consideration of the acquisition of real property, legal representation on the tax rebate and a road right of way.

•No action was taken at Monday's meeting on any of the three executive session items.

•Council members Nancy Conklin and Tripp Muth were not present at Monday's meeting.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

July 21, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

July 21, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (BOS)
Present: L. Gordy (Chair) D. Hart. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray,  S. Mears, G. Chessor.

County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department,.

Audience: 50 members

Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Comments:  Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to agenda. 

AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Maria Pasceretti from Atlantic: She discussed parking restoration and situation on Assateague.   She pointed out that Chincoteague beach was recently highly rated in travel surveys.  It was noted the advantages of having the beach and its key need in the surrounding community.

Wesley Edwards:  He discussed leadership within county.  He noted some examples of inaction which included hospitals, the world café and the needs in county discussed at café, infrastructure such as water and sewer.  He stated that leadership will help fix the problems in the county.

Billy Dee Custis of Olney:  She discussed building a county building built on non-county land.  She commented on the opening of Wal Mart and other businesses near Olney and the moving of emergency response personnel away from the Olney area.  She wants emergency operations near Accomac.

Shirley Zamora of Onancock:  She commented on two projects in county.  She supports the Navy use of county airport.  It is an opportunity to bring income to county.  She also supports the taxiway for BaySys at Wallops.  She supports the increased business that companies bring such as BaySys.  She added a mention of Whispering Pines.

RESOLUTION OF COMMENDATION
Commendation for staff from Arcadia HS: Mr. Gray presented commendation to student, Daniel Boswell, valedictorian.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
VMRC Regulations on Oystering:  Jack Travelsted discussed the background to new VMRC regulations on oystering.  He discussed the potential for pathogens in oysters.  This is an issue for raw oysters, and several deaths have occurred recently from raw oyster’s intake.  The VMRC has concerns for human health.  He noted that Virginia often receives high marks for shell fishing oversight from agencies such as the FDA.  The key aspect of new regulations is the temperature of oysters and the need to cool them within a distinct time frame.  Temperature is dependent on the time of day to harvest oysters.  He commented on some oystermen using GPS units to demonstrate that oysters are harvested within 5 hours.  This GPS consideration was added to the regulations.  He noted that if two cases of pathogens occur, then FDA can step in and possibly shut down all shell fishing in areas.  Mr. Wolff asked about pathogens is not a yearly problem but a lifetime problem for two or more cases, and then shut down can occur/  It was noted that Virginia has had one case already.  Mr. McCaleb asked about timing of time limits for oystering.  Ms. Thornton commented on lack of info distributed on the oystering issue, and the exception for the James River area that allows icing of oysters.  It was verified that heating oyster will destroy pathogens.  Ms Mears asked where did all the FDA criteria originate and asked for some details on time limits and icing of oysters on eastern shore.  Other BOS members commended the regulations for protecting the health of citizens.  The VMRS GPS regulations only apply in warm months (May through September). 

Update on Onley Medical Center:  Nancy Stern discussed the center which is a $5.5M project.  Center will open Monday.  The function is to have increased access for medical care.  August 11 is ribbon cutting day with Ralph Northam in attendance.  She discussed commendation of county on health wellness initiative.  BOS member asked about relationship with national healthcare issues, and Ms. Stern that a certain number of physicians were contributed by national healthcare plan. 

Tourism Plan:  Bob Lentz, Tourism Commissioner, discussed new Highway 13 landscaping plan.  He noted the welcome center is running near bridge/tunnel.  The goal is to attract tourists and enhance the scenic and natural beauty.  The plan is to gather business partnerships to fund and assist on effort.   He also discussed signage.  Ms. Mears asked about Accomack county signage, and Mr. Miner that was not done due to matching funds was not approved. 

Treasurer Office: Dana Bundick discussed letter of understanding.  She commented on Accounts Payable holds for companies who have not paid their taxes in full. 

Request on Tipping Fees from Saxis: Charles Tull discussed the fees for Saxis.  He pointed out that precedents have been set whereby charging tipping fees to towns were illegal.  Because Saxis does not have a consumer utility tax, then there can be no tipping fees. Mr. Taylor was asked why tipping fees are being charged to Saxis.  He stated amendment was approved via county code for allowing tipping fees.  Mr. Taylor stated that once waste is comingled with commercial haulers then there is no distinction between town versus commercial hauler waste.   Ms. Thornton suggested using population to estimate town waste.  

Parks and Recreation:  Barbara Boggs discussed some concerns and progress in parks and recreation.  One concern is declining budget for program.  Cuts in area of $125K over years.  She discussed the partners in local areas.   She noted the positive influences that programs have on young people.  The coordinator for nutrition program discussed nutrition programs; the number of meals were in area of several thousand with costs at about $44K.   Member of advisory committee discussed the situation currently and future.   One program is the coordination with healthcare programs for better nutrition and health. 

Council of Chincoteague Township:  John Jester discussed the parking arrangements at Chincoteague beach.  He is concerned about using shuttles to get to beach.  He would like assistance in directing the future plans for Chincoteague beach when it comes to parking or shuttle to beach.    Motion made to support the Chincoteague town council to the extent that is possible on this issue.  Approved.

CONSIDER APPOINTMENTS
Accomack County Building & Fire: Deferred
Captain’s Cove/Greenbackville Mosquito Control: Return two positions.  Approved.
Eastern Shore Community College: Deferred
Economic Development Authority: Mr. Watson nominated and approved.
Wetlands Board: Deferred.
Workforce Investment Board: Deferred.

NEW BUSINESS
Wachasprague Inlet:  Mr. Hart discussed issue of inlet not being opened as much as they should.  It is considered a safe harbor, yet according to Mr. Hart the Coast Guard is having difficulty negotiating the inlet.  Motion is made to make agencies aware of the situation with the inlet.  Ms. Thornton discussed the Virginia Inside Passage (VIP) and ways to get constructive discussion with all pertinent agencies.  The issue may be funding, but special funding may be available.  Mr. Chessor suggested adding Saxis, and also Tangiers to discussion and making agencies aware of dredging issues.  Approved.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Mr. Miner discussed the progress in county about businesses and economic development, in particular BaySys.  He commented on a grant for NOAA to construct a weather announcing tower.  Some funding requests may be needed in future to build suitable infrastructure.  

COUNTY ATTORNEY REPORT
Mr. Taylor discussed several items.  The first was that Whispering Pines is being reviewed and the problem of maintaining property.  Ms. Thornton wanted to know if property can be condemned.  Mr. Taylor responded that property could be condemned, but there is security at property with lighting so it may be not be optimal to take that path at this time.  Mr. Thornton wanted to know if taxes on property are up to date.   The second item is a note from a lot owner in MLG business (Corbin Hall, Olde Mill Pointe) and concerns that properties may have transferred to a new owner.  However there has been a building permit granted to lot in Corbin Hall.

COMMENT FROM BOS MEMBERS
Ms. Mears commented that drivers license may be difficult without birth certificate.  It took four years to get license
Mr. Wolff thanked president of Eastern Shore Community College for attending his forum last Monday.
Mr. Mallette thanked effort on Whispering Pines.  He wanted to put on agenda the town of Melfa
what to be done with this and crossing item.  He noted that Parks and Recreation has been doing a good job, and he wants information to be better publicized.  He noted issue of drag racing near Farmers Market and wanted issue discussed on next agenda. 
Ms. Thornton thanked BOS for support on Chincoteague beach. 
Mr. McCaleb commented that BOS need to get to going on future projects in county
Mr. Hart noted the drag racing problem.
Ms. Thornton that Whispering Pines has over $7K in delinquent taxes and  it could be put up for sale.
Ms. Gordy commented on new plane for the practice touches at airport.

BUDGET ITEMS
Approved

PAYABLES
Approved.

CLOSED SESSION

Adjournment approximately 8:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

July 13 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Eastern Shore News
July 17, 2010
Residents mad about signs, solid waste
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The Chincoteague Council faced an angry public Tuesday night as many local business owners spoke against some of council's recent ordinances and decisions.

The public forum, held at the start of every council meeting, attracted 11 speakers and took more than an hour as most vented their anger at council's recent decisions.

Richard Conklin said he was "more than a little upset" over the council's decision last month to relinquish control of the solid-waste convenience center to Accomack County.

The center, that was open seven days a week under the town's control, is now open six days a week. It is closed on Wednesdays. Mayor Jack Tarr said the hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Conklin was unswayed by Tarr. "It was still disappointing," said Conklin. "Why not do something to help small business? Every day it's something. People around here are struggling."

Conklin complained that businesses could no longer use the convenience center and that was creating a hardship for the very businesses that were generating tax dollars to the town.

Tarr explained county rules always applied, but the town allowed local businesses to use the site.

The town saved $30,000 by letting the county take control of the facility. Conklin stated there were better ways to save $30,000.

"You are not doing anything to help business," Conklin told the council.

"When you're sitting around, try to figure out how we can treat everyone the same," said Councilman John Henry Howard.

"I don't sit around," replied Conklin. "I'm hauling trash."

Charles Gorsuch, who operates Surfside Golf, told council he had just purchased some new banners for the golf course, but had received a letter from the town that the flags are in violation of the town ordinance against banners.

'I think we should be allowed to have more banners," said Gorsuch.

Gorsuch said more banners could result in more business and more tax revenue for the town.

"We can make a killing together," Gorsuch stated.

Robert Watson Sr. told the council that a business is using the Eastside boat ramp for his own business activity. "The man is running a business on town property," said Watson.

Watson contended the business is taking up parking space at the facility that should be used by vehicles towing boats.

Watson also cited the town's neglect of the boardwalks at three boat ramps and the absence of trash cans at the Eastside boat ramp. "Beer bottles are all over the docks," said Watson.

Joe Justice of Uncle Joe's Cabins complained the town was not helping him with his property flooding nor with his trash disposal problems.

"Why should we buy a business license if you're not going to help us?" said Justice. "You're supposed to be the brains."

Lisa Smith of Aj's on the Creek Restaurant and Helen Merritt of Pony Penning Enterprises Inc. also spoke against the town's banner ordinance at the meeting.

Debbie Ritter complained that a trailer near her home had no running water, no sewage and no electricity.

She said she had the run-around between Zoning Administrator Kenny Lewis and the Accomack County Health Department.

"I've been back and forth," said Ritter. "Kenny says the property is grandfathered but there is no record of when it was grandfathered," said Ritter.

She said she filled out a town survey recently. "I wrote a very insulting comment about the police department," she stated. "I never heard a response. If I don't hear a response, you don't give two cents."

Ritter complained that there was no accountability with the town with no response to her phone calls.

"We took it on the chin tonight," said Councilman Terry Holland.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Eastern Shore News.

Accomack County Utilities Strategic Planning July 14, 2010

Accomack County Utilities Strategic Planning July 14, 2010

Location: Northrop Grumman Corp., Wallops, VA

Organizer: Steven Miner, Accomack County Administrator, Moderator: Barbara Schwenk, Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission

Attendees: 30 including members of County Board of Supervisors and County Staff

Stated Objectives:
•  Following up on the previous Wastewater Summit, determine if there is support for and political will to develop a utilities strategic plan for water and sewer service for areas in the County of Accomack needing utility services.
• If consensus is reached to commit to development of such a plan, discuss what the next steps will be. 
• A shared and clear understanding of next steps needed towards the development of a unified plan that citizens and political subdivisions want in regard to water and sewer service development.

Introduction:  Steve Miner discussed background to meeting.  He mentioned that Northampton County is moving ahead with unified sewer and water plan.  One point of focus is the northern part of Accomack County and the expansion of Wallops Research Park (WRP).  The issue is if this is the appropriate time to discuss infrastructure issues in county, and the attempt to have various groups work together in developing a comprehensive plan. 

Mr. Miner introduced several attendees at meeting.  Attendees from Olney, Chincoteague, and Atlantic were in attendance. 

Discussion: Barbara Schwenk introduced presenters for brief discussions.

Chris Thompson started discussion on wastewater issues in county, and the eastern shore in general.  He mentioned possible funding available from state for wastewater studies.  He asked if a serious study should be made to start consideration of a comprehensive plan. 

Richard Gill discussed funding in Virginia.  His group located in Richmond administers various grants and funding from state and federal agencies.  The goal for Mr. Gill’s agency is clean water and public health.  They are not into population growth or development. 

Updates:
Accomack County:  Mr. Miner discussed governance structure, and the small system located in county for wastewater and water.  Most work being done by Stewart Hall, county staff.  County is considering benefits of working with Onancock with sewer and water in the central part of county.  Question from attendee (AT) asked about priorities for county, and Mr. Miner stated those have not been clearly established for various areas in county.   Mr. Miner discussed there is a strategic plan for economic growth and infrastructure, but critical point is monies involved in initiating projects.  AT asked about authority to run infrastructure services, and Mr. Miner indicated no action has been taken on final decision on governance by an authority.  He noted county Board of Supervisors (BOS) were in favor of having meeting today.

Atlantic Town Center: Chris Carbaugh of Atlantic Group discussed the Atlantic Town Center project.  Project includes residential and business areas.  Inclusive will be the need for wastewater disposal for project.  It is expected that 700K gallons per day system is needed at full capacity.  He is hopeful that project design will be submitted in a few weeks.  AT asked if it will be land application, and a photo of a project in Delaware was displayed that is similar to one proposed for county; design is low impact and designed to blend into community structures.  AT asked about initial use, and Mr. Carbaugh indicated it will be 50 to 100K per day and initial costs for Atlantic Town Center system will be $2M to $3M.  AT asked about the capacity and population criteria to start system versus just pump out system initially.  Mr. Carbaugh stated the major challenge is finding enough suitable land for rapid infiltration process.  AT asked about future plans to turn over system to county when it reaches near full capacity.  AT asked if DEQ has approved any previous rapid infiltration systems, and Mr. Carbaugh stated that the rapid infiltration system is principally for storage and further treatment will be done.  Mr. Carbaugh discussed CDA (Community Development Authority) for funding; only those in region would pay for system if desired.  CDA is related to service district.  AT discussed that rapid infiltration system is the future since it recharges surface water and overboard dumping (direct flow into waterways of effluent) will not be allowed for new systems.  AT asked about forced effluent pipe through Atlantic town from Wallops Island to WRP wastewater facility, and Mr. Carbaugh stated it exists but cannot be tapped into.

Town of Chincoteague:  Robert Ritter discussed the history of wastewater disposal on Chincoteague Island (CI).  A study has been approved to look at issue.  Principally the areas for disposal would be the commercial areas on Main Street and Maddux Blvd.  He is researching along with Bill Neville the Southern Rivers funding possibilities for the project. AT asked about gallons of waste that would be generated, and CI reps stated that is something that needed to be review since CI is a seasonal population.  AT asked about mandatory hookup, and CI reps stated that is something for CI town council to decide.

Captain’s Cove:  Lance Stitcher discussed the sewer and water issue in Captain’s Cove (CC).  He talked about the recent history of the possible shutdown of water utilities and that it has stabilized for the moment.  He mentioned the new investor (Hearn/Burkley) is assisting on the funding of the water utilities.  He noted that the CC HOA (Homeowners Association) at one point was looking at owning the water utilities, but that situation has changed completely.  He mentioned that there may be some additional capacity at CC to serve neighboring areas, but that is a decision to be made by water utilities owners.  AT asked about alternative septic systems at CC, and Mr. Stitcher mentioned that has not been an issue so far based on population of CC.  AT asked about mandatory hookup, and Mr. Stitcher said it was mandatory.  AT asked if it would be proper to contact the new investor at this time, and Mr. Stitcher volunteered if need be questions could be directed to him and they will be relayed to appropriate persons. Situation and future has not completely gelled due to the nature of the current negotiations and ongoing bankruptcy status of the developer of CC.

Onancock: Kris LeMontagne discussed the status of system in Onancock.  He mentioned that capacity exist to have new customers.  He pointed out that facilities and businesses do have potential for hooking up to Onancock system in central part of county.   AT asked about rates to those outside of town of Onancock, and Mr. LeMontagne stated that rates are variable and it depends on business growth and the need for economic development.  AT asked about capacity and it is 750K gallons per day; currently it is below capacity. 

Developmental Steps for Plan:
Tim Baldwin started discussion.  He pointed out is that it is not just the engineering aspects, but a step process to consider the possibilities, and more importantly the unified objectives.  AT asked how to get infrastructure project moving, and Mr. Baldwin that the effects of “no actions” need to be considered closely since this does not mean maintaining the status quo but possibility a negative change over the years of doing nothing.  AT noted that one problem with sewer and water is that there does not seem to be one person who is a focal point for assimilating information on infrastructure.  It was suggested that Stewart Hall would be an ideal person for this, but there was concern about his work load.  AT pointed out that leadership is needed on any project that needs to be moved forward.  AT stated the critical issue is monies, and not burdening citizens with assessments that do not directly benefit them.  Mr. Baldwin pointed that this is a valid point, however, this also may limit needed expansion in the future and put the major part of costs on current users to expand.

Conclusion:
It was discussed and decided to have a work session for the Accomack County Board of Supervisors (BOS) to focus on this issue. The consensus at meeting is that forming a new authority at this time would not be optimal, and that the decision process to move forward, or not, should come from the authorities already in place such as the BOS.

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

 

June 29 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
July 8, 2010
Council refunds fees to dentist
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE --It is an unusual occurrence when any government refunds fees to anyone, but that's exactly what the Chincoteague Town Council did at its meeting on June 29.

The council voted unanimously to refund business license fees collected from Dr. William Beczek.

The motion to refund the fees was made by Councilman Jim Frese during his last meeting as a councilman.

Frese has been a champion of limited government and reduced taxes on the public.

Frese proposed refunding the license fees with 5 percent interest.

When given the opportunity to reply, Dr. Beczek said, "I have 19 years worth of receipts."

The council voted to refund all his past license fees, plus five percent interest.

The council was not so unanimous in debating a convenient Center Memo-randum of Understand-ing with Accomack County.

By a split vote, decided with the vote of Mayor Jack Tarr, the council voted to turn over control of the convenience center to Accomack County.

The move will save the town about $30,000, but will impact some of the small businesses that use the facility.

Under the county system the center will be open six days a week, not seven days as the town has done in the past.

The center may also have some limits on commercial use that could impact the Chincoteague business community.

Voting for the county taking over the facility were council members Ellen Richardson, John Henry Howard and John N. Jester, along with Mayor Tarr.

Voting against were Terry Howard, Jim Frese and Nancy Conklin.

In other council news:

Councilman Frese did not get a second on his proposal to refund zoning inspection fees to 23 residents and a motion to reduce several fees in the new budget did not pass as well.

The council debated the placing of a volleyball court on the baseball field at Veterans Memorial Park. No council action was taken, but the mayor requested Town Manger Robert Ritter to keep council advised of work at the park.

Present during the discussion of the park was Donna Mason. Her father, Lee Savage, donated the land at Memorial Park for the recreational benefit of the community.

The council agreed that volleyball needed to be at the park, but some did not like the location of the court in the left field of the baseball facility.

The council approved a questionaire to be distributed by the Beach Access Committee during the July 4 weekend.

The next meeting will be July 13 at 7 p.m. when the council will welcome its newest member, Tripp Muth.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

June 17 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
June 24, 2010
Town Council approves $6.3 million budget
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The Chincoteague Town Council passed a $6,328,640 budget for fiscal year 2011 Thursday night.

Some provisions of the budget, however, may be changed at a council meeting later in the month as a result of a request by Councilman Jim Frese to put forth to council a plan to adjust some of the town's fees.

The vote to pass the new budget was 4-1 with council members Ellen Richardson, Nancy Conklin, Jim Frese and Terry Howard voting for the budget and Councilman John Henry Howard voting against the budget. Councilman John N. Jester was absent from the vote.

"I just don't like the way the town is being run," said John Henry Howard in explaining his negative vote. He had announced at the June 6 council meeting his intentions to vote against the budget and followed through with his vote Thursday night.

The budget as passed includes a real estate tax rate of six cents per $100 of assessed value, a tangible property tax rate of 85 cents per $100, a tangible property tax relief of 63 cents per $100, a meals tax of five percent and transient occupancy tax rate of three percent, including general government, harbor and water fee schedules and appropriate the funds for disbursement.

The fee schedules were of concern to Councilman Jim Frese, who voted for the budget with the understanding that council would revisit the fee schedules before the end of the month. Mayor Jack Tarr stated the council would meet on June 28, 29 or 30.

Two items on the June 17 agenda proposed by Frese were postponed because of the absence of Councilman Jester. Councilwoman Nancy Conklin stated she thought it would not be fair to vote on the two measures without a full council.

The first item postponed dealt with the construction of a volleyball court on the baseball field at Veterans Memorial Park. The second item dealt with a request to return taxes and fees.

Frese wrote a letter of objection that was included in the agenda concerning the volleyball court. "As a member of council, I register my objection to these arbitrary and capricious actions and the intentional withholding of the information from council," wrote Frese in the letter.

The council was advised of the volleyball court by Councilwoman Ellen Richardson at the June 7 meeting.

In other council action from the Thursday meeting:

The council voted to hold the Chincoteague Challenge Half-Marathon race in conjunction with the new bridge celebration.

There will be a bridge opening ceremony on Sept. 25. The Chincoteague Challenge could be run the day before the ceremony or on the day of the ceremony. Plans were not finalized at Thursday's meeting.

The half-marathon run (13.1 miles) was proposed by Joe Lowrey of PASS Marketing Communications, who gave a presentation to the council at Thursday's meeting.

Lowrey presented three options to the council concerning the bridge dedication and accompanying Chincoteague Challenge Half-Marathon. The third option contained plans for a nationally-sanctioned half-marathon that would start and finish on or around the new bridge.

"This can be a very cool thing," Lowery told the council. "It can be a very attractive event."

Mayor Tarr said, "It looks like a great opportunity."

Lowery stated the whole package that included the dedication ceremony and the Chincoteague Challenge would have price tag of from $40,000 to $45,000. All money would be raised by sponsorships and entry fees and no public funds would be used for the event.

"Looks like a win-win situation," said Tarr.

The council voted unanimously to approve the Chincoteague Challenge with Councilman Jester absent.

The council voted unanimously to approve the composition of the town's Beach Access Committee. The committee will be composed of the mayor and one council member, the Accomack County Supervisor from Chincoteague, the president of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, one member of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, the chairperson of the Chincoteague Island Downtown Merchants Association and the director of the Eastern Shore Tourism Commission. The committee would have a host of non-voting advisors from various parts of the community.

A separate committee of citizens is being set up by Donna Mason of the Waterside Inn.

The Council voted unanimously to adopt the State Motor Vehicle Code.

Resident Nancy Lane of the Garden Club thanked Public Works Director Harvey Spurlock for all his help during the garden tour.

Town Manager Robert Ritter thanked the council for their work on the budget.

The meeting lasted just 55 minutes, not including the prayer and pledge of allegiance.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

June 16, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

June 16, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE
Present: L. Gordy (Chair) D. Hart. Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray,  S. Mears, G. Chessor.
County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department, Stewart Hall, and Tom Brockenborough
Audience: Uncertain; notes transcribed from electronic audio.
Chair L. Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.
Opening Comments: Ms. Gordy discussed public meeting on issues involving town of Atlantic was canceled.  Ms. Gordy discussed modifications to agenda. 

AGENDA
Approved

PUBLIC COMMENT
Bob Gresham from Accomac:  He wants to discuss county taxes.  He commented on assessed property values and how collected funds were spent.  He would like more info on how county funds were spent and how they were distributed.  He also commented on personal property taxes and possible decrease in taxes due to removal of car decals.  He noted that minimal assessed amounts on taxes should be mentioned in paperwork.  He asked if Code of Virginia allows for minimal assessed values.

CONSENT AGENDA
Several modifications were noted by individual districts.  Approved.  Mr. Mallette asked Stewart Hall on details of drainage in Temperanceville area.  Ms. Mears recused herself from one issue.  Changes approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Joe Lowrey, Consultant VDOT:  He discussed opening of new Chincoteague bridge and possible ribbon cutting.  He proposed the possibility of an annual event centered on bridge opening date.  Ribbon cutting will be funded by sponsors and advertisers.  Family attractions such as a fun run were considered.  The preferred idea is a half marathon that could be an annual event which will include a health and fitness expo.  It is predicted that 1000 runners may registered for this event.  It is planned for September.  Motion was made to defer to Chincoteague Town Council on event.  Approved.

Sean Milner of VJCCA: He discussed juvenile issues and the possibility of transferring funds that were not utilized due to cost saving measures.  He commented on detention of juveniles and alternatives to incarceration.  His agency tries to keep juveniles in a local environment and with their family and community.  The juveniles also are given the opportunity to perform community service.  Due to cost saving efforts several thousands of dollars were not utilized, and to return monies to county.   However, due to cuts at state levels, more local funds are needed to maintain effort.  Locally funds are one third from Northampton county and two thirds from Accomack county.  Ms. Mears would like to continue with program.  Mr. Gray commented on electronic monitoring compared to detention centers.  Mr. Milner discussed procedures for ankle bracelet for monitoring.  Mr. Gray asked about juveniles who may adversely impact schools.  Mr. Milner discussed details of attendance at schools for juveniles in trouble.  Mr. Mallette asked about disposition of unused funds in previous years.  Mr. Mike Mason commented on the finances and transfer of funds.  Mr. Steve Miner discussed budget process.  Motion made to transfer funds, and friendly amendment made to track funds that were returned.  Approved.

Steve Miner:  He commented on budget process and managing of grants for remediation of houses due to disasters such as floodings.  The review of this work is being done by David Fluehart.  Mr. Fluehart commented on grants and how state and federal funds were spent and applied.  When grants are distributed, the Board of Supervisors (BOS) need to approve them.  Mr. Wolff commented on extent the portion the homeowner may be responsible with respect to cost.  Ms. Mears asked if this granting is time critical, and Mr. Fluehart would like to move forward with other county officials.  Mr. Mallette wanted information on administrative costs of the program for altering habitats.   Mr. Chessor commented that due to circumstances throughout the nation, this may not be the best action for the county.  Ms. Thornton commented that some homeowners are not in a position to help themselves and the grants should be approved.  Motion was made to move ahead with program.  Approved 8 to 1.   Mr. Fluehart commented on streamlining permitting process for repair and construction.  He would like to refund clerk staffing in his office.  Mr. McCaleb requested information on billing for permitting office.  Mr. Mason indicated it was in range of $300K per year.  Mr. Mallette commented on office clerk who assists in the permitting process and saves time and expenses of higher salaried staff making the restaffing cost effective.  Motion was made to restaff clerk.  Approved 8 to 1.  Motion made to utilize carryover funds for portion of salary.  Approved.

OLD BUSINESS
James Loftus:  He discussed the funding for a mass notification process such as reverse 911.  He researched the school notification process and if it could be piggybacked onto the school system.  He discussed the costs for adding to phone system.  Mr. Loftus would prefer a cellular phone notification as well as the potential for text messaging.  Costs range from $11K to $25K per year.  He wants feedback from BOS on utility of system for county.  Motion was made to table funding.  Approved.

Mike Mason:  He discussed financial situation.  The analysis of local funding for open positions was reviewed.  He commented on positions that are in process for refunding.  Mr. Shockley added comments to refunding process.  Ms. Thornton asks if appropriations for positions were already made and is there a surplus for these positions.  Mr. Mason discussed shortfall Commissioner of Revenue position.  Mr. Mallette suggested that Commissioner of Revenue position should be funded as a primary concern.   Mr. McCaleb noted that agriculture is important to Eastern Shore and the position for this purpose should be supported.  Mr. Wolff questioned the priority of positions and budgeting outside of county.  Motion was made to refund Commissioner of Revenue position.  Approved. 

Mr. Mallette asked about the agricultural intern position.  Mr. Shockley commented that position would be available for complete year with assurances from county that local funding is available.  Motion made to fund intern position.  Approved.

Mr. Mason discussed financial reports.  Some county revenue streams are trending upward and some are less than predicted.  Better description will be available after receipt of personal property taxes late in June.  Mr. Mason is concerned on expenditures at landfill and the transport of leachate from site.  He noted tipping fees receipts were greater than previous year for same month. Ms. Thornton asked about consumer utility tax and it was on target.

Meeting ceased for break between 7 pm to 7:30 pm.

PUBLIC HEARING
Amendment to proposed 2010-2011 budget based to carryover school funds for fiscal year.
Hearing is opened.  No speakers. Hearing is closed. 
Amendment is approved.

Other public hearings scheduled were canceled.

OLD BUSINESS (CONT’D)
James McGowan: He discussed issue of Agricultural and Forestry District.  He discussed recommendations to extend terms from 4 years to 10 years to reduce costs and other items. A 5 year terms was recommended on final form.  Ms. Thornton questioned benefits of changes, and she wanted to know from county attorney if ordinance can be passed to handle special conditions of eminent domain. Mr. Mark Taylor responded noting that many counties have made resolutions with respect to eminent domain.  Ms. Mears commented that these were recommendations of planning commission and should be considered as recommended.  Motion was made to vote to keep regulations “as is” with no changes.  Approved 6 to 3.

Stewart Hall: He discussed the operations of the county’s convenience center for rubbish.  A statement was prepared to have all centers operate in alike manner.  He commented on cost of operation for convenience center in Chincoteague, and the need to increase budgeted amount.  Mr. Mallette stated that all centers should operate as equal entities throughout county; he thought MOU was appropriate to handle budget adjustment.  Ms. Thornton commented that town of Chincoteague did handle the preparation of land area for center.  Mr. Hall stated that Chincoteague will retain land property for center.  Motion made to follow recommendations.  Approved.

Wanda Thornton:  She initiated discussion on food and beverage referendum.  Mr. Mallette asked for information on exclusions from referendum and clarity on incorporated towns and prepared foods.  Mr. Wolff questioned the definition of any prepared foods.   Mr. Taylor explained some definitions were quite extended in state code and referendum was written using state code definitions that may or may not be clear to potential voters on referendum. Mr. Wolff wanted clarity for voters on this issue.  Ms. Mears asked if this issue was time critical.  Ms. Thornton informed BOS that town of Chincoteague was planning to raise their meals tax.   Ms. Thornton wanted to clarify that meals tax for county is designated for schools.  Mr. Hart was pessimistic that referendum will pass due to nature of approving referendums for tax levy by public.  Motion was made to put referendum for vote in November.  Mr. Wolff would like to see public informed about referendum so a clear decision can be made.  Motion was approved.

Steve Miner: He wants discussion on economic development postponed.

JUNE APPOINTMENTS
Fire Board: None
Greenbackville and Captain’s Cove Mosquito Control: On hold.
Eastern Shore Community College: None.
Community Services Board (CSB):  Mr. Fitch was recommended by Ms. Thornton and Ms. Gordy.  Approved.
Eastern Shore Ground Water Committee: Mr. Jeffreys was nominated by Ms. Thornton.  Approved.
Eastern Shore Public Library: Motion to reappoint Ms. Lucas.  Approved.
Economic Development Authority: Deferred.
Park and Recreations Commission: Motion to reappoint Ms. Lewis.  Approved.
Quinby Boat Harbor:  Motion to reappoint current three members.  Approved.
Social Service Board: Motion to appoint Ms. Woods.  Approved.
Social Service Board:  Motion to reappoint Ms. Gordy to board.  Approved.
Wetlands Board: Motion to reappoint Mr. Ward.  Approved.
Workforce Enforcement Board:  Motion to reappoint the two positions.  Approved.

Mr. Miner noted that there were some applications for community college and these will be available soon.  Reappointment to Community Services Board was approved for Ms. White.

NEW BUSINESS
Jeff Flournoy:  He discussed 911 Commission and education for responders in this area.  He commented on FCC rules for radios and the need to replace them in future.  He suggested that part of cell towers being built in county should have a public safety component.   He discussed report that researched the needs for county in regard to communications, dispatching and other 911 issues. A video was shown that reviews 911 needs and mandates.  

Mr. McCaleb asked who will have oversight on the 911 needs and mandates. 

Stewart Hall: He discussed plastic pesticide containers for recycling and need for rinsing prior to recycling.  The BOS was asked to have memorandum to allow county to move forward with project.  Mr. Mallette was concerned with costs and noted that manufacturers should handle expense.  Ms. Thornton wanted staff time to be monitored to evaluate cost benefits.  Motion for memorandum was approved.

Steve Miner:  He discussed lifting of hiring freeze.  He commented on current economic situation and that it may be possible to establish new hires.  He noted that replacement was approved for Mr. Fluehart’s office.  Mr. Miner would like to remove hiring freeze.  Ms. Thornton would like hiring restrictions kept in place and would like to consider each hire on case by case basis.  Motion was made to hire specified position for planning secretary.  Approved.  Ms. Thornton recommends continuation of hiring freeze for new positions.  Motion was made.  Approved. 

Mike Mason:  He discussed retirement disability plan for county employees and possible resolution.  He reviewed changes by state on plan.  A two tier system will be developed for current employees and for new county employees.  Mr. McCaleb considered the state of pension systems in the country, and he wants to opt for least expensive program.  Motion was made to continue paying the same for the two tier system.  Approved 6 to 2 with abstention from Ms. Mears. 

Wanda Thornton:  She asked for a representative to discuss VMRC regulations on private oyster grounds. She noted that on private oyster grounds a GPS is required, and she believes this regulation is not appropriate.  She also noted unique rules for maintain temperature of oysters.  She noted regulations are already in effect, and many rules are considered a hindrance to oystermen.  Mr. Miner will attempt to have VMRC representative for next meeting.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Mr. Miner discussed the appointment for agricultural consultant and the need to have immediate funds for this position as discussed previously by Mr. Shockley.  He also discussed funding for projects in county.  He would like BOS representation on various commissions such as the Parks and Recreation Commission.  Mr. Gray volunteered for the meetings for this commission. He discussed a planning meeting for water and sewer in northern area of county and seeking common interest in this area.  He noted Captain’s Cove issue with water and sewer, and the utilities operating on a shoestring.  At this time, there is a shellfish closure near Captain’s Cove marina to Swan Gut as a precautionary step.  Mr. Miner made it clear there is a lack of fiscal resources from county for this matter. He commented on electrical power issue with the water utilities at Captain’s Cove. He noted that the Board of Directors at Captain’s Cove is trying to resolve this issue on their own accord. 

ATTORNEY REPORT
Mr. Taylor noted he is monitoring Captain’s Cove issue with water and sewer.

BOS COMMENT PERIOD
Ms. Mears discussed.
Ms. Gordy wanted consideration on work session.  She commented on woman’s club in county and their request to put deposit on bottles in county.
Mr. Mallette pointed out recommendations for Parks and Recommendation board and increased
communications and organization.
Ms. Thornton discussed Tangiers Island graduation class.  She wanted to know if policy of substitute teachers pay is still in effect.  She commented that Code of Virginia does not allow for minimal rates to be changed on personal property taxes, she wants perception that county is doing things correctly

PAYABLES
Approved.

Closed Meeting is in effect.  No action is anticipated.

Adjournment approximately 9:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

  

Ron Wolff County Forum June 14, 2010

Ron Wolff County Forum June 14, 2010
 
Wolff’s Sandwich Shoppe, Atlantic, VA

Meeting began at 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE
Presenter: Ron Wolff, Accomack County District Representative
Audience: About 13 members.

There is no agenda or audio recorded for this meeting.  There is no guest speaker scheduled for this forum.

Opening Remarks: Mr. Wolff opening comments discussed Wallops and the developments at Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS).  Building is ongoing for concrete structures and other infrastructure.   Launch pad will be off the ground by several feet, and a large water tank is being started that can release several hundreds of thousand gallons of water per minute.  This water is used to cool the rocket pad, and once water is released on pad it is contained and tested for any potential contaminants. 

He discussed the truck trailer test to move rocket.  It was a dry run from Wilmington DE to Wallops Island to the launch site.  The test succeeded but mock up was not fully sized.  The plan is still to bury wires (electric and phone and other utilities) so truck and rocket can move under the wires. 

Rocket motors are planned to arrive in August from Ukraine.  Live fire test is planned for near future.

He commented on taxi way at Wallops.  He discussed BaySys and a couple of other businesses that plan to build offices at Wallops Research Park (WRP).  BaySys wants to build two hangers.  The taxi way needs some upgrading at a level of $8M.  County portion may be $2M.  A study is needed to calculate costs vs cost benefits for this project for the county.  Hopefully the study may be completed by mid-July.

Leasing of Accomack County airport to Navy for touch and go tests on landing was considered.  The Navy indicated it liked the facility, but if county does not want it they will find another facility.  It was not clear what the monetary advantage would be to Accomack county.  The Navy was planning to coat a part of the runway at county airport to minimize impact to landing strip.  This will simulate landing on carrier and most of touch and go landings will be at night.  The Navy is looking at a 5 to 7 year lease.  The planes are propeller type of the E2 (radar command control planes).

Captain’s Cove water utility was having their electricity shut off by ANEC according to county attorney during call to Mr. Wolff.  However, issue was temporarily resolved since a 60 day notice is required before shutting off power to water utility at Captain’s Cove water utility.  Note that Captain’s Cove water utility is a separate entity from the Home Owners Association at Captain’s Cove Golf and Yacht Club.

Mr. Wolff discussed development in the town of Atlantic and current status of 8 lots in town.  The developer has asked for a rezoning of area and asked for a change in minimal square footage for habitats.  Recommendation by Planning Commission was not to change the square footage requirement.  An issue was brought by county attorney on the one lot that was sold.  It was recommended to postpone final decision to see if further negotiation can be considered.  There was discussion of some sort of health facility at center.  Mr. Wolff indicated there has been no discussion about this health facility. 

It is planned for next month on July 19 to have president of Eastern Shore Community College as a guest speaker at county forum.

Mr. Wolff discussed dog ordinances in county.  There is no leash law in county; there are only leash laws for incorporated towns.  The issue is the concept of “control” of animal through physical control or verbal control.   

Another concern is code enforcement in county.  Certain codes such as non-grass cutting or junk in yard can be discussed with Mr. Fluehart in county.

Audience member (AM) commented on polling at recent elections.  There are 20 to 22 polling places and very few people voted.  There seems to be very few people voting and there should be a consideration of costs. 

AM questioned consolidation of schools in county and wants to calculate cost per student as a fiscal consideration.  Mr. Wolff indicated that this may a difficulty in getting schools combined due to historic differences.

Meeting ended at 8:45 PM
   
Notes by Tim Getek

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

June 7 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
June 10, 2010Volleyball court placement meets opposition
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- Near the end of a three-hour meeting Monday night, the Chincoteague Town Council debated the new volleyball court placed on the baseball field at Veterans Memorial Park.

Councilwoman Ellen Richardson brought up the issue during the announcement portion of the meeting that follows more substantive issues on the council's agenda.

Richardson had issues with the new volleyball court since it interfered with both the Chincoteague Middle School baseball team and the U.S. Coast Guard use of the facility.

"The middle school can't practice there anymore," said Richardson. "The Coast Guard can't use it anymore. Put it back the way it was."

Included in the council's 109-page agenda was a report of the town's Recreation and Community Enhancement Committee meeting on May 11.

Within the report was a short reference to the volleyball court: "Memorial Park, the volleyball court was installed without approval by the Town Council or recommendation by the RCEC Committee. Complaints have been made about the large pole holding the net in the outfield and someone that may run into it."

Richardson noted that the fence in the left field area had been removed so that the volleyball court was open in the area and next to the picnic pavilion. "Who wants sand kicked up when you're having a picnic," Richardson asked.

Mayor Jack Tarr noted that many years ago Memorial Park had two volleyball courts and that he was one of the players who used the facility.

The outfield had previously been compromised by the addition of a skate park a few years ago and Town Manager Robert Ritter noted the volleyball court had been kept in line with the skate park that occupies center field and is fenced off from the baseball field.

Councilman John N. Jester thought that the operation of the park should be left up to the staff. "From the standpoint of managing the town, we empower the staff to do things," said Jester.

Jester said the island had many baseball fields with the high school and the Little League complex. "We need more parking," said Jester.

"Council learns about this after the fact," said Councilman Jim Frese. "Don't think that's right."

Mayor Tarr said, "Whoever put it in did a good job. Wrong place, but great job."

Richardson said she had spoken with a Coast Guard official and the middle school baseball coach and she wanted action on the matter.

The council members were requested to give their ideas to Town Manager Ritter so he could formulate a plan.

In other council news from Monday's meeting:

Three citizens of Chincoteague were honored for their many years of service to the community. Ernestine Helen Hall, Mable Louise Liscum and Sadie J. Ayres were presented Certificates of Recognition by the town. All three are 96 years old and through their many years of service to their churches and civic groups, they have demonstrated their dedication to the welfare of others. All three ladies are lifelong residents of Chincoteague. They were not present at the council meeting, but the town will deliver their certificates to them.

The council had a public hearing on the fiscal 2011 budget. Karen Hipple presented a breakdown of the $5.8 million budget to council. The council will vote on the budget at the next meeting on June 17.

The council held a public hearing on the real estate tax rate and the meals tax rate. At Councilman Jim Frese's urging the council voted unanimously to cut the copy charge from 50 cents a page to 10 cents a page. The meals tax rate is proposed to go from four to five percent.

A public hearing on the lot line vacation proposed by Carlton Mason was tabled at the request of Bob Turner, who represented Mason at the meeting. Turner said some unexpected opposition to the vacation had surfaced and Mason wanted more time to meet with those who opposed the move.

The council unanimously approved a mutual aid agreement with the Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. This allows the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the Town of Chincoteague to help each other when it is needed and requested.

Council members unanimously approved a resolution to apply for VDOT revenue sharing.

The council postponed voting on the town engineering service agreement and agreement of network buildout concerning the broadband program.

Dr. William Baczek told the council that to his knowledge he is the only doctor on the island who is paying for a business license. "I feel like I'm being discriminated against," said Beczek. "It's a miscarriage of justice." The mayor directed the town manager to research the problem.

Bob Conklin appeared before council and supported the construction of a platform at Curtis Merritt Harbor. He said it would help the public view rocket launches from Wallops Island, among other uses. "I request that the town undertake this at some time in the future," said Conklin.

Nancy Rosenberger appeared before council and said that on two occasions, Mother Earth Day and the Blessing of the Fleet, she had observed dogs at the Robert Reed Downtown Park.

Joe Justice told the council it had been 10 months since his property had been flooded out and nothing had been done. "I'm getting tired of it now," said Justice.

Town Planner William Neville told the council he was working on plans for directional signs for the downtown area near the new bridge.

Public Works Director Harvey Spurlock noted that "VDOT agrees there is a problem" with the junction of the new bridge, Main Street and Maddox Boulevard. Councilman John Henry Howard noted, "Whoever engineered that one should lose his degree."

Spurlock noted that work on Pension Street should be completed by June 18.

Major Randy Mills, representing Police Chief Edward Lewis, said the police department had raised more than $45,000 this past year.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

May 20 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
May 27, 2010
Council OK's employee health funding
By Greg Merritt

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The Chincoteague Town Council put in a busy Thursday. The council held two meetings, one in the morning and another in the evening, during which it voted on funding for the town employees' health plan for the coming fiscal year.

The morning session was a fact-finding mission for council members as they listened to and questioned representatives from USI Health Insurance Brokers concerning the various health plans available to town employees.

At the evening session the council members listened again to Lisa R. Buswell, a vice president of USI Health Insurance Brokers.

After a question and answer session with Buswell, council voted unanimously to fund Plan F with Mutual of Omaha for retirees over the age of 65. The town would fund the premium for Plan F that would go in conjunction with Medicare.

Participants in the program could voluntarily pick up a dental and vision plan that would be paid by the participants.

The council voted unanimously to go with the Keystone 1527 plan for employees under 65 years of age. The town would pay approximately $267,000 for the employee health plan and that is in line with what Accomack County pays for its employees' health coverage.

While the health packages took much of the day's work for council members, it was the commercial use authorization to conduct business on public property that drew the most public comment at the evening meeting.

The policy questions arose from two Ocean City kayak businesses that wanted to use as their place of business the town boat ramp on East Side.

Because of this the town sent out letters to several charter businesses on the island that they had to cease and decease business operations on public areas around the boat ramps.

The commercial use authorization applied to charter boats that did not lease dock space from the town and required business to have liability insurance in the amount of $1 million.

"It I was in that business, I'd get out," said Councilman Jim Frese. "We have to start being business friendly. This is not business friendly."

Frese recommended that the ordinance just apply to kayaks and not to other business operations.

Councilman John Henry Howard indicated some business license applications were granted to post office boxes.

"This doesn't make any sense," said Capt. Ray Davis. He contended his business license should be enough and the commercial authorization should not apply to those who legally hold business license here.

Capt. Forrest (Mac) McDowell said, "It's totally out of control."

Ernie Bowden reminded that the Merritt Harbor Committee make the rules for the harbor and all council had to do was go by the ordinances already on the books. "We need to stay within our own rules," said Bowden.

In the end council did not pass a new commercial authorization ordinance but decided to let things stay as they were.

In other council news:

The council unanimously approved a resolution or application of up to $5,000 though the Virginia Department of Transportation Revenue Sharing Program.

On a split vote, the council reset the meeting start time for 7 p.m. Voting for the new time were Ellen Richardson, Terry Howard, Jim Frese and John N. Jester. Voting against the change were John Henry Howard and Nancy Conklin.

The council voted unanimously to waive the fee for replacing a sign that has been damaged or destroyed.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

May 3 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
May 6, 2010
After 5 months of tussle, zoning change OK'd
By Greg Merritt • Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- After five months of back and forth wrangling with the Planning Comm-ission, the Chincoteague Town Council finally gave the rezoning answer Phillip Ettinger wanted.

Ettinger owns a parcel of land adjacent to the Oyster Bay II development. The 4.5-acre parcel was zoned R-1, the same as the Oyster Bay II property, of which Ettinger is a significant owner. He wanted to change the zoning to R-2 so he could build duplex housing, up to nine on the parcel.

Ettinger, who appeared before council Monday night, had to convince a majority of the Town Council to disregard a recommendation from the town's Planning Commission that recommended Ettinger's request be denied.

A public hearing on the matter was held at the April meeting of the council and Ettinger was unable to attend because of illness. The council decided to let Ettinger speak at the May meeting before they voted on the matter.

Ettinger, from Alexandria, told the council he began coming to Chincoteague 34 years ago. "I fell in love with the place," Ettinger said.

The parcel of land in question lies between Oyster Bay II, that is zoned R-1 and property owned by Eddie Tull that is zoned R-3.

Ettinger described his parcel as being a "buffer" between the two zones and said it was entirely in agreement with the town's Comprehensive Plan.

Town attorney Jon Poulson told the council the proposed change or no change was within the power of the governing body.

After about an hour of questioning by the council, Ettinger said he was ready to abide by council's decision.

The council voted 4-1 to approve Ettinger's request. Council members Ellen Richardson, Jim Frese, Nancy Conklin and Terry Howard voted for the measure, while John Jester voted against the request.

Councilman John Henry Howard abstained from the vote.

Ettinger thanked the council for listening to his request. He called it "a win-win for everybody."

In other council news from Monday's meeting:

The council set June 7 to hold a public hearing for the town's fiscal 2011 budget and fee and rate schedules. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. but the budget part of the meeting will not start before 7 p.m. There will also be a public hearing on the real estate tax rate and the meals tax rate at the June 7 meeting. The council voted unanimously for the hearings date.

The council voted unanimously to proclaim Safe Boating Week the week of May 22-28.

The council voted unanimously to proclaim May 8-14 Spring Clean Up, Paint Up, Fix Up week. This will be held in conjunction with Mother Earth Day on May 8 at the Robert Reed Downtown Park.

Council members voted unanimously to proclaim May 23-29 as Hurricane Preparedness Week.

The council voted unanimously to reestablish a Beach Access Committee.

This committee will be composed of two members from the Town of Chincoteague, two members from Accomack County, two members from the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, one member of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, one member of the Chincoteague Downtown Merchant's Association and one member from the Eastern Shore Tourism Commission.

Council members voted unanimously to award a bid from Bransome Eastern Shore for the paving work on Pension Street. The winning bid was for $176, 496.80.

During the Open Forum, Public Participation portion of the meeting, Greg Savage complained that the town's police department had overstepped its bounds by placing an officer who observes him when he picks up his grandchild from school. "This has been done without any investigation at all," said Savage. "My wife and I are treated like common criminals."

Savage went on to say, "I believe that Chief (Eddie) Lewis is guilty of at least police harassment, if not malfeasance in office."

Later in the meeting Chief Lewis said his department will respond when requested by a citizen. "By law we have to," Lewis stated.

Monday was Student Government Day for the students at Chincoteague Combined School.

Mayor Hillary Chesson spoke to the council and introduced her fellow students, who filled positions on the Town Council, as well as police chief, town manager and public works director.

Other members of the student government were Elizabeth Cathey, Liz Hipple, Robby Lang, Samantha Cinelo, Mary Besecker, Mary Hudgins, Charles Schnellings, Chase Haugh and Logan Wright.

The council ended the evening by going into executive session for consideration of the investment of public funds and to speak with the town attorney about "possible litigation."

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

April 21, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

April 21, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
http://www.co.accomack.va.us/Board%20of%20Supervisors/Board_Meetings.shtml

ATTENDANCE
Present: D. Hart (Acting Chair), Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray,  S. Mears, G. Chessor. Absent: L. Gordy
County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department, Stewart Hall, and Tom Brockenborough
Audience: 40 members
Chair D. Hart called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.
Opening Comments: Mr. Hart discussed modifications to agenda. 

AGENDA
Approved

PUBLIC COMMENT
Sandra Heney from Onancock:  She discussed the Accomack County airport and its operation.  There is discussion that Navy is considering renting airport for turboprop planes and practicing landings and takeoffs.  She does not believe these Navy planes will be compatible with the area.  She suggested that public hearings should occur to inform citizens about possible rental. 

Thomas Clark from Wallops Island:  He discussed the hearing on the leachate system for landfill.  He commented on the $300K spent on the spray irrigation system.  As a taxpayer, he wants a guarantee that the system will work for purposes intended.  He wants Board of Supervisors (BOS) to scrutinize the system and make sure it works.

Bob Gresham:  He concurs with Ms Heney comments on airport, and to get more public input on the proposed rental of airport.

CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Approved with corrections.

PROCLAMATIONS
National Safe Boating week May 22-29.  Approved

Commendation for Pauline Milburn.  Resolution noted by Mr. Hart for recognition of her work for county.

US Coast Guard Auxiliary (Chincoteague and Painter flotillas).  Presentation by Mr. Wolff to announce National Safe Boating Week and commendations to both flotillas.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved.

HIGHWAY MATTERS
Mr. Idsell updated activities including drainage work in county.  VDOT is gearing up for mowing this year.  He noted Tangiers maintenance will begin early in May. VDOT will not be attending future BOS meetings.  A liaison will be set up to communicate with BOS. Mr. Hart discussed the six year plans that VDOT performs and how they will inform BOS in future.  New liaison is Steve Roan.  Mr. Wolff asked about local offices and contact persons and Mr. Idsell indicated that inquiries will go through district office in Suffolk.  Reductions principally due to state budget decreased revenues.  Ms. Thornton wants letter of commendation for VDOT representatives and their effort, and to send letter to VDOT head to discussed concerns.  Motion was made to send letter; approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Dana Burdick, Treasurer:  She discussed memorandum of understaning with treasurer’s office, and status of DMV stops on unpaid citizens’ fees..  She also discussed wage garnishments, and this has collected $18K.  Other collection activities have gathered $85K, and state employees will have their tax statements reviewed.  Real estate parcels and taxes have collected about $128K in back taxes.  Total delinquent taxes collected were over $270K. 

Stewart Hall discussed leachate treatment project.  The leachate system at landfill was not adequate for needs.  He discussed the improvements needed to be performed and the status of performing these improvements.  Mr. Thornton commented on spray irrigation and relation to water table.  Costs vs costs benefits were noted by Mr. Mallette with hauling leachate outside of county costing taxpayers each month at a sizeable amount.

Stewart Hall commented on central water and sewer.  Some more work is needed on plan by Onancock before presentation before BOS.  Ms.Thornton asked that other systems should be compared for service rates.

OLD BUSINESS
Mike Mason commented on Tax Valuation and Billing Software.  Delinquent taxes are estimated at $800K and about $300K has been collected.  The software is to use a single system for simpler tracking of real estate.  The personal property tax bills will be delayed until June 30.  New personal property tax on cars will be based on VIN numbers and not just model and type of auto.  The posting of bills via mail will be contracted to company in Lynchburg. 

Steve Miner discussed reauthorization of Utility Strategic Planning for parts of the county.  He commented on reviewing needs of this area and developing plans.  In particular the areas of interest are Chincoteague, Parksley, and Captain’s Cove.  This planning was deferred due to recent budget discussions.  Now that budget is completed, he wants to put this back on the agenda.  Motion was made to have Mr. Miner to proceed with reauthorization.  Mr. McCaleb stated that county needs to move on this issue, and it has been deferred for two years in his view.  Some BOS members are concerned about staffing and staff time.  Mr. Miner does not see any major county time consumption for initial meetings.  Reauthorization approved.

Mr. Hart discussed the update for proposal for emergency preparedness.  Discussion was led by Mr. Jason Loftus.  Mr. McCaleb asked what funding is required.  There is need to have position filled for this center.  Motion was made to begin position at the cost no more than $27K.  Mr. Mallette discussed the possibility of obtaining grants.  Motion approved with one abstention by Mr. Hart.

Office Space for Emergency Operations Center from Onancock Volunteer Fire Department.  Chief Mike Truitt discussed the proposal.  He commented on the mutual benefits and cost savings for use of office space.  Jason Loftus added his comments to proposal and advantages of having extra space.   BOS members asked about sustainability of building during high wind and high water emergencies.   Motion was made to gather more details on costs and building construction.  Ms. Thornton made friendly amendment to postpone this motion.  On motion to postpone, it was not approved by 7 to 1.  On motion to gather more information, motion was approved. 

APRIL APPOINTMENTS
Fire Board: None
Community Services Board (CSB):  None.  Mr. Mallette asked about any changes in Northampton view on CSB.  Me. Miner indicated that there was no issue with NH view.
Economic Development Authority (EDA): None
Harborton Public Facilities Committee: Appointment was made and approved.
Wetlands Board: None

NEW BUSINESS
Consideration of Census:  There may be problems and those people not receiving census should contact them at 866-872-6868.  It is important for county to be counted completely.

Jim McGowan discussed draft amendment for fees for planned unit developments.  He stated that fees proposed are similar to other counties.  Motion was made to accept amendment under emergency ordinance.  Approved.

Mr. Miner discussed resolution seeking congresssional support for the administration’s low earth orbit privatization efforts.  Motion made to adopt a resolution for state and federal review on this matter.  Mr. Mallette suggested teaming with Fairfax county in order to enhance resolution.  Motion approved.

Ms. Thornton discussed ground water committee and regulatory panel.  Effort was made to streamline regulatory issues, and motion was made to have local legislators voice their concerns to appropriate agencies so that permits are expedited.  Approved

PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Six Year Plan for Roads and VDOT.  Mr. Idsell discussed the priorities of county. 
Public Hearing closed.  Motion to adopt resolution.  Approved.
Proposed Amendment to Enterprise Zone.  Mr. Bill Nevell is the new town planner to discuss EZ.  He noted town is in support of changes to EZ.  Tom Brockenbrough  discussed the overall designated EZ.  EZ areas were optimized and approximately 100 acres is available to add to EZ in future. 
Public Hearing closed.  Motion made, and approved.
Ordinance to amend general provisions of applications and permits of the County Code.  Mr. McGowan discussed amendment that will require permit or variance requesters to have no delinquent fees or taxes on their property.  Planning commission voted 6 to 3 to recommend ordinance.  Mr. Taylor noted that there is question of effective date.  Motion made to accept recommendations.  Approved.

NEW BUSINESS (cont’d)
Mr. Mallette discussed economic development in county.  He commented on a comprehensive plan either in house or through EDA to bring in businesses and development to county.   Several BOS members discussed the advantages and disadvantages of having EDA involved.
 
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Mr. Miner discussed that Navy has contacted airport administrator for possible leasing.

ATTORNEY REPORT
Mr. Taylor discussed item from MARS (Mid-Atlantic Space Flight Facility) and VDOT.  There are concerns for rightaways and power lines with respect to space vehicles being moved on roads.  Motion was made to begin to consider ordinance to allow for transport of higher than normal vehicles.  Motion approved.

BOS COMMENT PERIOD
Mr. Chessor commented on road conditions and the bleak conditions with future VDOT assistance. 
Ms. Thornton suggested a letter of recognition for Tom Brockenbrough for his work on EZ.  She believes that they need to get more info on why businesses are not coming to county.
Mr. Mallette discussed stormwater concerns.  He noted Church road condition and the need to consider all factors for controlling stormwater. 
Ms. Mears wanted more info on census concerns and Mr. Miner will respond to questions.
Mr. Wolff discussed his forum at Captain’s Cove and thanked the state legislators for attending.  He mentioned the utilities issue and hopefully it will get resolved.  He pointed out comments in regard to trying to enhance county’s space flight business which revolves around education and jobs.
Mr. McCaleb discussed float barge matter.  He noted concerns on maintenance standards.  He also noted the amount of armor stone needed by Wallops and this may be business lost by Virginia if barge is not operational.

PAYABLES
Approved.
Adjournment approximately 8:40 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

Ron Wolff County Forum April 19, 2010

Ron Wolff County Forum April 19, 2010
Captain’s Cove Marina, Greenbackville, VA

Meeting started 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE:
 Presenter: Ron Wolff, County District Representative
Guests: Lynwood Lewis, State Delegate: Ralph Northam, State Senator, Mark Taylor, County Attorney
Audience: 120 members

Opening Comments:  Ron Wolff discussed increases in taxes portion for county school debts, and some portions for other needs in county.  About $3.5M was cut by state budget actions and the county had to compensate for part of this shortfall.

 He discussed the presidential comments on NASA about commercial entities taking over for manned flights to space.  He commented on Orbital Sciences and their work at Wallops.   He noted other companies dealing with space flight are working for entries into Wallops area. 

Guest Speakers:  Mr. Lynwood Lewis commented on the General Assembly.  Mr. Lewis noted the unparalleled situations in Virginia and the major deficit this year.  The shortfall was in the area of $4B.  The outgoing governor balanced the budget with across the board cuts and doing away with car taxes which contributed to the county budgets.  That concept never made the assembly’s consideration.  Mr. Lewis stated that eight weeks were used to debate the budget and how to get it balanced as required by state law. 

In regard to public education, state assembly raised fees to supplement educational shortfall.  Some changes included state employees’ retirement plan.   A $600M IOU was made to state retirement fund by assembly. 

He also noted the MARS (Mid-Atlantic Space Flight Facility) is adding significantly to local revenue by new companies.  The governor is expected to fund recommendations to MARS in the $1.2M range to assist businesses in the area.

Mr. Lewis then turned it over to Mr. Northam.  Mr. Northam echoed the difficult budget decisions taken place this year.  Funding problems involved education, healthcare, and law enforcement.  He commended Governor McDonnell on his effort not to raise taxes.  He discussed issues with fishing licenses and federal requirements.  He also discussed boating licenses for group vs. individuals on boats.  He commented on ethics issue with state legislators and Dominion Power.  He noted new rules for transparency on these issues. 

Mr. Wolff noted issue of utilities in Captain’s Cove [Ed. Note: Background information for issue of utilities is that the owner of Captain’s Cove Utilities Company (CCUC) is short in revenues and may shut down utilities impacting the water and sewer to several hundred residents in Captain’s Cove.  CCUC is not part of the Captain’s Cove Home Owners Association (HOA) but is an independent company that is owned by the developer].  Audience member (AM) asked about state and county influence on quantity and quality of drinking water in Captain’s Cove.  Mr. Wolff stated that the county does not regulate the water utility.  Mr. Lewis commented on state requirements for water utilities.  He wanted to set up meetings earlier on this issue but it did not gel.  He pointed out that the community needs to come to a consensus on the solution to water utilities future.  There are three ways to come to a finding: 2/3 of the community asks for finding to proceed, SCC (State Corporation Commission) initiates action on their own, or the health department request for initiation.  A finding may lead to a receivership situation.  Mr. Lewis has talked to SCC staff, and noted that there is no exact precedent to the Captain’s Cove situation.  He discussed the original permit with First Charter Corporation (first developer at Captain’s Cove), and then the issue of the variance on the new water wells and its status.  Health department is planning to issue a temporary permit to utilities to operate a year; this is much like a consent order.  He noted that health department has expertise and some funding to maintain water flow if worst case scenario occurs; but funds are limited.  The operator (owner) of utilities must ask the SCC to abandon their utilities before turning off system.  That has only happened three times in Virginia.

AM asked if copy of temporary permit can be obtained.  Mr. Lewis indicated it was public record.  AM asked about devaluation of property due to water and sewer, and issue of tax assessment.  Mr. Taylor (county attorney) commented it was a time issue and the length of time; it depends on when assessment is made and when fees are collected on real estate properties.  AM asked about county district water system to service communities in northern part of county.  Mr. Wolff discussed the PSA and the potential for developing water districts in county. He talked about development in Wattsville and the possibility of having other developments hook into this system.  County administrator may ask for task group to proceed with evaluating situation in many parts of county.

AM discussed education in area and how improvements are needed to encourage local high school students to get involved in the space flight businesses.  AM outlined the needs and Mr. Wolff indicated it was a matter of funding that currently Accomack County does not have.  Mr. Wolff did agree there was a need to enhance local training in space flight to fill future job positions.

Several AM continued discussion on clarification what county and state could do with respect to utilities issue in Captain’s Cove.  Some AM members commented on petition effort to SCC.  Mr. Lewis discussed trigger points when the health department and SCC will step in, but he restated that a consensus view from utilities customers is needed so a plan can be presented to county and state.  He noted that various factions in Captain’s Cove need to consolidate their views together so a coherent plan can be presented, and he suggested a point person of contact is needed for information exchange between Captain’s Cove and government officials. 

Audience thanked Mr. Wolff, Mr. Lewis, Mr. Northam, and Mr. Taylor for their presentations.

Meeting ended 8:45 PM

Notes by Tim Getek
N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

Transportation study unveiled before a packed crowd of 500

Eastern Shore News
April 10, 2010
Transportation study unveiled before a packed crowd of 500
Four alternatives offered to ease transport issues at wildlife refuge
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- Interest in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Alternative Transportation Study proved to be high Tuesday night when unveiled to a large crowd at the Chincoteague Center.

The study was released to the public Tuesday night to a crowd estimated at about 500.

Refuge Manager Lou Hinds and Michael Dyer of Volpe National Transportation Systems Center, the organization that prepared the plan, unveiled the main options in it.

Hinds reminded those present that it was just a study. "No decisions are in this document," he said.

Dyer presented the options available in the study. It revolves around four main plans:

Alternative 1 --No action or status pro plus.

Alternative 2 --Retention of all parking capacity at the beach.

Alternative 3 --Partial relocation of beach parking capacity.

Alternative 4 --Elimination and relocation of all beach parking capacity.

Alternative 1 has no new transportation solutions, but does mention ongoing plans to develop a better bike path from the Assateague Channel Bridge to the traffic circle where the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce is located.

Alternative 2 involves the retention of all beach parking that presently exists, about 960 parking spaces. This option is a low-cost solution that lays the groundwork for large-scale investments in the future. But it assumes a high cost to maintain parking on the beach.

Alternative 3 reduces the number of beach parking spaces and incorporates a system to transport beach visitors from offsite parking to the beach area. It also incorporates a reconfiguration of the Assateague Channel Bridge from a two-lane structure to a three-lane structure and the addition of a bicycle-foot bridge.

Alternative 3 would extend the bike path all the way down Maddox Boulevard to Main Street. It would add sidewalks, crosswalks and pedestrian signals to the major roads on Chincoteague. This plan would expand equipment concessions at the beach, increase message boards and generally have high capital costs for some of the proposals.

Alternative 3 requires satellite parking lots, probably located on Chincoteague.

Alternative 4 has the complete elimination of parking on the beach. A new parking garage would be constructed, probably on Chinco-teague, and a shuttle system would take visitors to the beach area.

This option involves the purchase of a new fleet of "purpose-built" transit vehicles and have bicycle lanes on Route 175 and Maddox Boulevard. There would be no widening of the Assateague Channel Bridge with the alternative.

Of all the alternatives, Alternative 4 raised the most ire from the crowd. One member of the audience said, "Alternative 4 would be the death blow to Chincoteague." Most of the crowd applauded that statement.

Hinds, Dyer and Trish Kicklighter, superintendent of Assateague Island National Seashore, answered questions from the audience after the four plans had been described.

Hinds said the a new alternative parking plan must be adopted within the next two years.

"Please read the document in its entirety," Hinds implored. "I can't do this without you. Right now we don't have a plan of action."

Hinds told the crowd that sea level rise has had an impact on Assateague, and could have more of an impact in the future. He gave an example of a marker that he took a picture of on Assateague two years ago that was once 157 paces from the water line. Today the site of the marker is under water and about five feet of sand that used to be there is now gone.

Kicklighter stated that about $200,000 is reserved each year for beach parking and lifeguards out of the funds raised for entrance fees. However, she estimated that up to $600,000 has been spent on Assateague parking with all the storms that hit the island this winter.

The Volpe Team met with local people in a series of meetings last year to get their input into the study.

The whole study with appendices is available on the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Web site. There also is a place on the site to make a comment and Hinds urged everyone interested to make a comment, either on the site or in a letter.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Eastern Shore News.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Forum on Beach Parking Plans

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Forum on Beach Parking Plans
April 6, 2010
 
Chincoteague Community Center, Chincoteague, VA

Meeting began at 6:00 PM

ATTENDANCE
Presenter: Louis Hinds, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge (CNWR) Manager
Guest: Mr. Tarr, Mayor of Chincoteague, Mr. Volpe, Study Manager
Audience: About 160 members.

Initial Comments: Mr. Hinds stated that daily park pass will increase from $5 to $8; other fees will remain the same.

The discussion of forum will center around alternative transportation study (ATS) for the beach.  The ATS is to be review by all partners in the area. 

Mr. Hinds introduced Mr. Volpe, from the Volpe National Transportation System, which is funded by the National Transportation System.  The plans being developed are the Seashore General Management Plan (GMP) and the Refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP).  Currently, parking plans are just alternatives being considered.  Issues involve traffic safety, congestion, and parking.  Planning proposal began in January 2007 and was funded in October 2007.  Some management plans were altered after Nor’Ida in November 2009. 

The ATS has many components to them.  Information on ATS is on the CNWR website.  There are four (4) alternatives: 1) No action; maintain status quo plus.  2) Retention of all parking capacity at beach.  3) Partial relocation of beach parking capacity. 4) Elimination and relocation of all beach capacity.

Mr. Volpe commented that each alternative is inclusive of solutions from previous alternatives.  Scope and cost of transportation solutions increase for several alternatives.  There can be a phased approach to funding and implementation and currently there is no “preferred” alternative.  CNWR managers can pick and choose components from each alternative.

Goals of Alternatives:  Protection and conservation of natural resources along with historic and cultural resources.  Optimization of the transportation system’s operational efficiency. Sustainability of transportation to minimize congestion and pollution.  Improvement of the visitor experience.  Fostering and sustaining partnerships in area along with financial sustainability.

Alternative 1:  No new transportation solution.  Provide bicycle path between Assateague Channel Bridge to Traffic Circle.  ITS (Intellegent Traffic System) projects to inform visitors.  There is an existing trolley service.  There is vulnerability of beach parking lots.  Long term shore changes can be anticipated.  Other issues are emergency management and traffic and parking management which revolve around peak time problems.  Currently there is direct convenient access to beach.  The findings indicated that there were significant safety implications for users.  Significant question of financial sustainability with beach parking was mentioned.  Significant negative impacts on natural resources may occur.

Alternative 2:  Retain all parking capacity at beach.  This is a low cost and quickly implemented plan.  Transportation solutions include siren emergency notification for emergencies and incoming storms, safety improvements via signage, pavement marking and signed surfaces, pre- trip info, off site purchase of park pass and designated pass holder fee booth for quicker entry to park, and use of Pony Express pass.  The findings offered modest benefits for protection of resources, some improvement in traffic, and reduction in congestion.  They are some key safety improvements.  It also lays ground work for new and enhanced partnerships.  It will continue high operations and maintenance (O/M) costs, and beach visitors will continue to have direct access.

Alternative 3:  Reduce/relocate beach parking.  System to transport visitors between off site parking and CNWR was consideded.  The most long term solutions are infrastructure, parking and traffic fixes, ITS measures, and safety.  Parking management will involve reduce/relocate beach parking, off site parking, transit connection to CNWR, pilot car-free days (tests), and fee booth relocation and reconfiguration.  For safety there will be VDOT cameras, widened shoulders, and pull offs on causeway.  For bicycle and pedestrian access, extend bicycle trail down to Beach Road and add sidewalks and cross walks for pedestrians.  For ITS, there will be real time info along with full season transit to CNWR including beach.  Modifications of vehicles to accommodate bicycles and equipment were studied.  The findings indicated that there will be significant impact on reducing traffic and protecting resources along with safety improvements.  There will be high capital costs for some solutions.  There will be reduction in O/M costs for beach parking, and parking footprint will be reduced.  There will be need for strong partnerships as well as careful planning to optimize alternative 3.

Alternative 4: Eliminate Beach Parking.  Includes solutions in Alternative 3, as well as bicycle
lanes on route 175 causeway and Maddox boulevard.  A new off site parking garage is included.  The findings give incremental safety improvement.  O/M for beach is very low.  High capital costs for garage and associated environmental issues.  There will be no widening of Assateague channel bridge.  There will be initial cost of new transit vehicles to transport visitors.  Traffic will be minimized in park.

Some suggestions were not pursued: marine transportation, pony wagons, and other items.

The next steps is the balancing of diverse needs which include community economics, visitor experience, resource protection, safety and access.  This goes back to CCP and GMP.  A socio-economic study needs to be considered along with additional transportation data collection and future developments in transportation.

The transportation is completed as stated by Mr. Volpe.  It will be on CNWR website in near future.

Q&A Session (Mr. Volpe):  Audience Member (AM) concerned about going to alternative 4 and believes that the beach needs to protected from further sand erosion.  Mr. Volpe stated that ATS is concerned with transportation and not necessarily the beach erosion issue.   AM commented on alternative parking off wildlife loop that could relieve traffic at peak times.  Numerous AMs emphasized concerns with the consideration of not having direct access to beach and its impact on economics.  Several AMs stated that without direct access to beach it would push visitors away from Chincoteague to neighboring beaching and reduce revenues for the Chincoteague area.

Discussion by Mr. Hinds: He described the ATS is the initial study; no decisions have been made and it will be a two year process.  He discussed the eco tourism plan for the island.  The Assateague channel bridge was built in 1962 and this linked the CNWR to Chincoteague Island forever. 

Mr. Hinds is undertaking the CCP which is done every 15 years.  In this CCP, climate change must be included as mandated by Congress which includes sea level rise.  He used one meter rise in his calculations for sea level change.   He discussed SLAM model for sea rise and it is available on website.  He discussed the implications for the next 40 to 50 years with respect to potential sea level change.

The CNWR CCP begins tonight and comments are encouraged by all citizens and businesses.

Q&A Session (Mr. Hinds):  AM commented that there is potential that land mass may increase in 15 years.  Mr. Hinds did not disagree with that point; the sea rise level change is only a model and depends on many variables.  Mr. Hinds indicated that an alternative transportation is needed for emergencies such as hurricanes.  AM asked about sand saving methods.  Mr. Hinds commented on the sand starvation of areas south if sand “groins” were used.  AM asked about extension of beach to the north end.  Mr. Hinds considered that before Nor’Ida, but after storm it was seen as not a possibility due to severe wash out of this area.  The same problem exists there with beach washing out as in southern end.  Several AMs restated their concerns for the economics of the Chincoteague area if direct access to beach was not maintained and visitors’ revenues were reduced.

Meeting ended at approximately 8:45 PM.

   
Notes by Tim Getek, Bill Troxler, and Nancy Lane

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

April 5 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
April 8, 2010
Bridge traffic concerns and drainage woes discussed
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- Although not on the agenda Monday night at the monthly meeting of the Chincoteague Town Council, drainage and the new bridge were much on the minds of most council members.

The new bridge to Chincoteague opened Thursday, and already there are some problems with some traffic. Councilman John Henry Howard expressed concern that trucks and long vehicles cannot turn because of narrow lanes and the stop stripe is not placed far enough back from the intersection.

"Big trucks cannot turn onto Maddox," said Howard. "Something needs to be done."

Nancy Payne, who operates a business on the north corner of Maddox and Main told the council she was concerned with speeding motorists coming through the intersection. "I'm concerned with speeding,"said. "Send the police so you can observe what we observe."

She said she fears for the people on bicycles when the summer season comes and the increase in traffic in the area. "It's very scary," she stated.

Councilman Terry Howard was concerned about the Marsh Island spur, the part of the bridge that is still under construction by Amer-ican Bridge Inc.

The spur, when it is completed, is attached to the main bridge and motorists coming from Marsh Island will have to observe a stop sign. "I think this is an accident waiting to happen," said Howard. "People are being put at risk. We need to work on it. A stop sign does not make sense.

Councilwoman Ellen Richardson said the new bridge needed lights. "It's awfully dark out there," said Richardson.

Richardson also wondered about putting a sidewalk on the west side of the street, where the bridge property extends north.

Mayor Tarr suggested the council send a letter to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) with their concerns.

Another hot topic for council is the drainage situation on Chincoteague. Heavy rainfall and snow this winter has left drainage ditches filled and even moderate rains can force water into people's yards and homes.

Island resident Joe Justice, who has appeared at several meetings in the past, appeared again Monday night, but this time to thank the town workers for their drainage work.

A resident from Horseshoe Lane spoke to council about flooding on his street. The lane is a private road and that causes a problem for the council.

"We've got 26 miles of the same problem," said John Henry Howard. "We don't have the answer. If anyone does please let us know."

Mayor Tarr said, "We need to find out who owns all these roads."

Public Works Director Harvey Spurlock has been working on drainage issues since he joined the town earlier this year. "Drainage continues to be an issue," said Spurlock. He mentioned the work the town is doing on Pension Street and that some work cannot be started until the ground dries.

It appears that issues concerning the new bridge and drainage will continue to occupy the council's time and efforts in the coming weeks and months.

In other council news from Monday's meeting:

Commander John J. Keegan of the Navy's Surface Combat Systems Center on Wallops Island gave council an overview of the activities taking place there. He explained the mission of the center and the cutting edge technology employed by the Navy and the future operations that will keep the center busy until at least 2039.

The council unanimously approved a Census Bureau Proclamation as the town agrees to encourage all residents to fill out their census form.

Robbie Lewis of the Virginia Department of Forestry presented council with information about Tree City USA. So far only Onancock and Wallops have joined the Tree City USA program on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Tree City USA is a project of the National Arbor Day Foundation. The council took no action on the proposal.

The council unanimously approved a request to vacate a property line for Gene W. and Stephanie Taylor.

The council unanimously approved a request to vacate a property line for Shirley Lewis and Marvin and Florence Westpal. It was unclear if the action was required, according to Town Attorney Jon Poulson, but he admitted the action would not hurt anything.

A public hearing on the proposed rezoning from RI to R2 of the property of Phillip P. Ettinger was held, but no member of the public spoke. Town Planner Bill Neville did speak to answer the council's question about the proposal that the Planning Commission has recommended be denied.

Because of the illness of Ettinger, the council decided to take no action, but to wait until the next meeting to meet with Ettinger.

The council unanimously approved the appointment of Spiro Papadopoulos to a seat on the town's Building Code Board of Appeals, taking the position of Reginald Birch Jr., whose tern expired at the end of last year.

Council members unanimously approve the by-laws of the town's Planning Commission.
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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

Announcement for Wolff's Forum on April 19 at Captain's Cove

ANNOUNCEMENT
 
The Ron Wolff Monthly County Forum will be held on April 19 at 7 PM at the Captain’s Cove Marina located in Greenbackville, VA.  Public Invited.
 
Guest speakers scheduled are Lynwood Lewis, State Delegate, and Ralph Northam, State Senator.

March 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

March 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
Board of Supervisors Materials

ATTENDANCE
Present: Laura Gordy (Chair), Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray, D. Hart (Vice-Chair), S. Mears, G. Chessor.
County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator (absent) , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department.
Audience: Meeting transcribed remotely; number of attendees unknown.
Chair Laura Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Remarks: Ms. Gordy commented on some corrections in agenda.  Highway matters were removed since Mr. Idsell will not be present.

ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Bob Gresham from Accomac:  He wants to again encourage the Board of Supervisors (BOS) on developing the county budget for all citizens.  He commented on the part time status of BOS positions. 

CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Approved.

COMMENDATION FOR RON WOLFF
Plaque of appreciation for Wolff’s chairmanship several years back.

RESOLUTIONS FOR COMMENDATION
Recipients were not present.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved.

REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Mr. Dave Foley, Presentation of Financial Statements.  Mr. Mason discussed delayed in statements, but deadlines were met with extensions.  Mr. Foley discussed audit of county financials.  A management letter will be distributed to BOS along with a communications letter.  Mr. Foley stated that financial statements were in compliance with regulations.  In fiscal matters, some $1.4M was moved to appropriate accounts.  No questions were made by BOS members.

 
OLD BUSINESS
Mr. Miner:  He commented on consolidation feasibility with respect to school board and Mr. Bull, Superintendant of Schools.  Mr. Mallette wanted highlights of plan.  Mr. Chessor thought discussion of highlights was not necessary.  Motion was made to accept plan; approved 8 to 1. 

Mr. Miner discussed school renovation and other county services involved.  Ms. Mears made motion to put plan on back burner and postpone vote.  Mr. Hart asked what does that mean to process of budget and when will it be discussed again.  Mr. Mason noted that it would be a good time to invest in plan, but budget situation has limited funds for proceeding.  Mr. Miner discussed the long term benefits vs. short term benefits of plan.  Mr. Miner recommended waiting one year on plan.  Mr. Hart was concerned that $100K lease arrangement may be non-optimal for county budget.  Mr. Gray asked Mr. Miner about projected costs; Mr. Gray would like to see some more details on building.  Motion was approved.

Ms. Gordy initiated discussion on referendum on additional county beverage and food tax to support schools in county.  Ms. Thornton thought citizens would support it if it came to referendum.  This is a 4% tax for support of county education facilities only.  Mr. Mallette asked Mr. Taylor about timeline for referendum vote by citizens.  Mr. Taylor indicated that process should begin mid-summer at latest for vote in November.  Mr. Taylor commented on earmarking of funds for education; the word perpetual cannot be used with respect to future BOS.  Ms. Mears noted that instead of referendum, citizens can petition for vote.  Mr. Taylor stated that state rules may allow BOS to vote for this tax without referendum.  Mr. Wolff discussed issue as BOS member and a restaurateur.  He indicated that there may be some misconceptions that meals (beverage and food) tax is paid by local people and not visitors.   Mr. Wolff wants public is informed about the meals tax and its potential consequences.  Ms. Thornton commented that some citizens are already paying meals tax if they are in an incorporated town.  Mr. Gray noted that meals tax in incorporated towns do not go to education currently.  Mr. Gray suggested that Mr. Miner and Mr. Mason should review what other counties are doing in Virginia to defray costs.  Mr. Mallette would like to defer vote until more facts are available.  Motion was made to postpone vote until more information is available; approved.  Ms. Thornton asked Mr. Taylor about preparation of petition.  Motion was made by Ms. Thornton to initiate petition process.  Mr. Mallette asked if citizens would be available to distribute petition.  Development of petition was approved.

Ms. Gordy brought up discussions of railroad car float (barge) and future loan.  Mr. Taylor updated the status of issue.  Mr. McCaleb stated that there was no contact with participants since last update.  Motion was made if agreement is satisfactorily then it should be appropriate to continue with plan.  Mr. Taylor stated that appropriate language can be arranged to verify barge is maintain mechanically and financially.  Mr. McCaleb discussed future uses of barge.  Mr. Chessor is concerned with past practices that may cause future difficulties with barge system.  Ms. Thornton discussed issue as a business decision with risks and benefits.  Mr. Mallette commented on other usages that railroad corridor could be utilized.  Motion was made to adopt plan; approved with several no votes.

Consider Appointments
Accomack County Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals: None
Accomack Fire and Rescue Commission:  Mr. McCaleb indicated letter was submitted.  Mr. Custis was nominated and approved.
ES Community Services Board:  Mr. Taylor commented that no person is available that meet criteria, and it is not clear if current members meet criteria.
Economic Development Board: Ms. Thornton would like to see definition of roles for this board.   Mr. Mallette would like to see broader discussion with Economic Development Authority (EDA) on March 31.  Mr. McCaleb does not agree with having two similar factions.  Ms. Mears asked Mr. Mason about any funding to EDA; Mr. Mason indicated county staff is used by EDA.  Ms. Thornton wanted to defer vote until after budget.  Approved with several votes opposed.
Parks and Recreation: Mr. McCaleb nominated Lewis.  Approved
Wetlands Board:  Another alternate appointment was discussed.  Ms. Mears asked about number of appointments.  Deferred.

NEW BUSINESS
Broadband Information: Mr. Miner began the discussion with explanation of process of developing broadband and funding.  He noted that improvement to current system is needed to leverage future funding.  Patrick  Coady, executive director of broadband authority, discussed current funding for authority.  Fiber optics has been constructed in northern end and extended to toll plaza in south.  Mr. Coady discussed advantages towards education and courses for schools with broadband.  He commented that individual homes with broadband would not be available for some time.  He discussed 102 anchor institutions in county (schools, health care, emergency units).  Grant applications need to be sent out within ten days.  Mr. Coady is asking BOS for a cash match to obtain grant.  This is soft grant in that there is time in future to make final commitment from BOS, and a resolution is required to move forward.  Mr. Wolff asked if all fire houses will be involved.  Mr. Coady indicated that it is planned to put all fire houses on broadband; in particular Tangiers Island.  The other problematic locations are Saxis and Greenbackville and broadband representatives have discussed the mapping of broadband to the fire houses and nearby communities, and discussed issues with local representatives such as Captain’s Cove.  Mr. Coady discussed the cash match in more detail with Mr. Mallette. 

Mr. Miner discussed resolution letter for broadband.  Motion was made to move forward on resolution.  Approved.

COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
Ms. Mears asked for details in agenda for recess.  Mr. Miner will make sure future agenda show this time for recess.

COUNTY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Mr. Taylor reviewed county action for meeting technical point in county ordinance to require payment on property prior to any rezoning or permit requests.  Motion made to modify ordinance.  Approved.

Mr. Taylor did not have additional information on state budget.  Meals tax has been discussed.  Ms. Thornton wants possibilities to diversify revenue in Virginia counties to be encouraged.  Motion to encourage new methods to obtain county revenues was approved.

Mr. Taylor discussed deterioration of Whispering Pines housing; it needs review.

Mr. Wolff asked about the usage of inmates to maintain state highways.  Mr. Taylor will research item.

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS COMMENT PERIOD
Mr. Wolff discussed NASA meeting on shoreline restoration.  Most at meeting agreed with the new plans to maintain Wallops Island.
Mr. Chessor highlighted the NASA restoration plans.
Mr. Mallette commented on services that will no longer be available for county citizens due to budget cuts.  One needs to project these possible cuts and priorities.
Ms. Gordy asked Mr. Minor on details of cuts and future priorities.  Mr. Minor indicated there will be decreased in departments and services.
 Ms. Thornton would like a review of county employees hiring over the past three years.
Mr. McCaleb commented on Grissom’s rule on employment and expansion of hires.
Mr. Hart wants to encourage BOS to look to the future, and how budget may get worse next year.  The time is now to consider future cuts that may be needed.
Ms. Gordy thanked all for their comments.
Ms. Thornton would like a resolution for Mr. Coghlin on the EDA.

BUDGET ITEMS
Not Available

 PAYABLES
Approved

Ms. Gordy discussed potential for closed session for personnel discussion.  Mr. Chessor makes motion to go into closed suspension.  Approved with one opposed.

Closed Session.

Meeting is re-opened.  Approved and no votes made.

PUBLIC HEARING
Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 34, Elections, Article III, Precincts; Polling Places, to provide that the Central Absentee Ballot Precinct Place shall be used in all elections in Accomack County, excepting town election

Hearing is opened.  No speakers.
Hearing is closed.
Motion to accept amendments for polling places and absentee ballots.  Approved

Adjournment approximately 7:40 PM

Notes by Tim Getek

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

 

March 1 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
March 4, 2010
New bridge on track for April 2 opening
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE -- The new bridge to Chincoteague is on schedule for an April 2 opening if the weather cooperates. That was the message delivered to the Chincoteague Town Council Monday evening by Tom Rakowski of the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Despite all the adverse weather conditions encountered by the area so far this year, employees of American Bridge have been able to make headway on the new bridge and the April 2 date seems to be in reach.

"Depending on the weather we may be able to beat that target date," said Rakowski.

Rakowski said workers have been able to work on the new path to Chincoteague and the spur that leads to Marsh Island in recent weeks.

There remain, Rakowski stated, a few temperature sensitive jobs to be done, such as the road stripes on the new asphalt.

Drivers to and from Chincoteague in the coming weeks will see a new one-way path to Chincoteague as workers shift their attention from one side to the other.

"We need to shift the traffic one more time," said Rakowski. "The present detour road covers up part of the ramp."

The plan is to switch the detour to the north side and finish paving on the south side of the detour. "When we finish the south side and we take that detour sign down the bridge will be open for traffic," said Rakowski. "That will probably be the last two weeks in March."

Rakowski said the drawbridge has been undergoing "testing procedures" the past few weeks and everything seems to be going smoothly.

"Everything is functional on primary and backup power," he said. "And the span should be fully operational by the end of this week."

The new traffic signal will be state-of-the-art with an override feature that allows ambulance drivers to activate a green light while on emergency calls over the bridge.

"We've learned that there is a freight train of modular homes waiting for the bridge to open," said Rakowski. "We did our best to expedite that because some them are so big and wide they just can't get through that 'S' turn."

Rakowski said that some of council's ideas have been incorporated into the new bridge, including placing crape myrtles instead of loblolly pines near the entrance.

The main bridge is planned to be open by April 2 and the spur to Marsh Island should be completed by Aug. 26. Rakowski said the demolition of the old span should be complete by Dec. 13.

Rakowski and representatives from American Bridge and VDOT will meet next week for an informational meeting on how to proceed.

He said there will be time to have an "open house" for the new bridge and the old bridge before the demolition.

Rakowski said he had one request from a 92-year-old lady who as a child used to jump off the old bridge. She wants to be among the first to cross the new span.

In other council news from Monday's meeting:

The council voted unanimously to spend $5,000 to obtain a matching grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts for the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance. The CCA has an busy schedule planned this year for movies and concerts at the Robert Reed Downtown Park and many other activities throughout the year. CCA president Bob Behr requested the matching grant.

The council voted 5-1 for a new Wind Energy Ordinance that would regulate wind turbine use. Councilman Jim Frese voted against the ordinance. Frese had made a motion to make the wind energy use a special use that would have saved applicants money and time, but the motion did not get a second. On a separate vote council voted unanimously to set the application fee at $450 instead of the $1,500 in the original proposal.

The council voted unanimously to apply for a USDA Community Facilities Grant for five mobile data, laptop computers for the island's police department. The town's portion of the purchase is $17,500. The grant will be for $52,500 or 75 percent of the purchase.

Councilwoman Ellen Richardson reported that there will be a cemetery cleanup on March 13 at the Taylor Cemetery on School Street. Everyone is invited to participate. A rain date of March 20 has been set.

Richardson also announced that March 20-27 has been set as Island Cemetery Clean-Up Week.

Bryan Rush, chairman of the town's Health Insurance Committee, gave a lively presentation about the town employees' health insurance problems. Faced with having to acquire a new health plan the committee has presented council with a plan, but council took no action on the plan at Monday's meeting.

The long and winding road of Phillip P. Ettinger's request to rezone a plat of land on North Main Street from R-1 to R-2 got a bit longer Monday night. The council voted unanimously to give the Planning Commission 30 more days to present a recommendation to council.

Town planner William Neville reported to the council on the Enterprise Zone update. The town has until April 1 to decide what to do with the zone and will make a decision at a later meeting.

The council decided to let Town Attorney Jon Poulson look at the proposed Sign Ordinance on political signs before making any decision on the measure.

An interesting exchange took place when council members discussed the shortage of doctors on the island and the lack of 24-hour a day coverage. "Stocks fell and Dr. Amrien died," said Councilman John Henry Howard. "We won't remember the stocks, but we'll never forget Dr. Amrien."

A proposed change in the Home Occupation Regulations Ordinance was not acted upon by the council. The council sent the measure to the Planning Commission for more examination and a recommendation.

The council voted unanimously to go into executive session to confer with Poulson on a legal matter and to discuss a prospective business.

The Town Council had an executive meeting at the end of the Feb. 1 meeting where members returned to open session and voted unanimously to hire Springstead to do a financial audit to review all the town's revenues and expenditures. Councilwoman Nancy Conklin was absent from that meeting.

During the Open Forum at the beginning of the meeting, resident Peggy Thomas complained to the council about the move to start council meetings at 6 p.m. When asked for a show of hands, the majority of those present at Monday's meeting supported a 7 p.m. start time.

Resident Helen Birch added her voice to the many who have questioned real estate assessments on the island.

Resident Helen Merritt voiced her concern about the lack of doctors on the island.

Resident Joe Justice appeared before the council to ask if anything has been done to help the drainage situation near his property on Chicken City Road.

Capt. Robby Fisher reported that the Chincoteague Police Department has been approved for a grant for some bulletproof vests for its officers. The department has begun to aid Jay Lewis in his battle for transplants with a dinner planned. The department also is planning a Bike Rodeo on May 8.

Town Manager Robert Ritter said that auto decals would go on sale at the town office on the 15th of this month. He also stated that the town's transient occupancy tax revenues were up, but that sales tax revenues were down.

Bryan Rush said that Emergency Management would hold a public safety forum on March 17 at 6 p.m.
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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

February 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting

February 17, 2010 Accomack County Board of Supervisors Regular Monthly Meeting
 
Accomac Board Chambers, Accomac, Virginia
Agenda materials and audio recording of this meeting may be found through this link:
Board of Supervisors Materials

ATTENDANCE
Present: Laura Gordy (Chair), Wanda Thornton, Ron Wolff, Steve Mallette, S. McCaleb, J. Gray, D. Hart (Vice-Chair), S. Mears, G. Chessor.
County Attendees: Jim McGowan, Director of Planning, Steve Miner, County Administrator (absent) , Mark Taylor, County Attorney, Mike Mason, Finance Department.
Audience: Meeting transcribed remotely; number of attendees unknown.
Chair Laura Gordy called the regular session to order at 5:00 PM.

Opening Remarks: Ms. Gordy discussed amendment on adoption of agenda.  In particular, the amendments for Wal-mart which is currently being built.  Also, the STAR transit issue will be discussed. 

ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Approved with modifications.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Shirley Zamora from Onancock:  She commented on the budget and the seriousness of expenses and income for the county.  She is supportive of educators and police officials, but other government officials appear to get benefits beyond what they are contributing.  She discussed the overpriced sewer and water in Onancock and what the county is also doing in this area.  She pointed out that cuts are needed and not new taxes; especially in these economic times.

Bob Gresham from Accomac:  He wants to encourage the Board of Supervisors (BOS) not to be intimidated by people who are only looking out for themselves with respect to budget.  He commented on the tough job of the BOS. 

Mr. Earman from Comfort Inn:  He discussed the business end of hotels locally.  He commented on sewer rates.  His accountants indicated they were the highest rates they reviewed.  He would like to have county’s aid in getting these rates under control.  He noted that in some cases the electric bill is lower than the sewer bill. 

CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES
Approved with corrections.

CONSENT AGENDA
Approved with amendments.  Ms. Thornton asked for details on resolution for enterprise zone with Northampton County.  Mr. Brockenbrough noted because it is a joint resolution both counties need to approve zone; issue needs to be confirmed.

HIGHWAY MATTERS
Mr. Isdell (VDOT Rep) discussed snow conditions and removal for three weekends straight.  He mentioned road patching and potholes from storms.  Work is slowed due to inability to get machines into certain areas due to wetness.  He noted six year plan that is being developed with priorities and funds.  Routes 602 and 609 will become federal roads to aid in maintenance.  Mr. Hart asked if other roads may qualify as federal roads.  Mr. Isdell indicated there are no other roads.  Mr. Hart asked about road ditch near Melfa; he noted it needs attention and it may involve VDOT and county.  Mr. Hart asked about railroad issue as well.  Mr. Wolff wanted to commend highway department on handling drainage issues.  Mr. Chessor commended VDOT efforts on snow removal as well as several other BOS members.  Mr. Gray asked about federal aid on roads from Wallops to Wallops Island.  Mr. Idsell commented there is some assistance in this area.
 
REPORT OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS
Mr. Bull, Superintendant Schools:   He discussed school budget.  He noted it was the third year in a row for budget reductions.  Even with fiscal help from county, school position and programs needed to be cut.  The amount of funds from state and federal budgets for 2010 will be $2.7M less than last year.  Mr. Bull indicated there will be no raise for teachers for three years; currently local teachers’ salaries average $10K less than other areas. There are no requests for updating text books or other teaching technologies.  Mr. Bull commented on Future of Accomack County meeting and the comments by county citizens on improving education.  He stated that school board is aware of economic times and the difficult choices that need to be made. He requested that BOS does not reduce the school budget.  Mr. Wolff commented on state budget on education and the decline of revenues as well as modifying the composite index for various counties in Virginia, particularly those in northern Virginia.  Mr. Bull commented on composite index and the extent funds are distributed to individual Virginia county schools.  Several BOS members discussed the politics of current state budget in regard to schools.   Mr. Taylor was asked to comment on composite index; he stated it seems to be reasonably even with respect to composite index.  Mr. Hart thanked Mr. Bull and the county teachers for their effort.  Mr. Hart stated that Virginia keeps approving unfunded mandates for schools; he was very vocal about his concerns on this issue and how state of Virginia is doing unfunded schemes on budget and taxes supporting K-12 schools. 

OLD BUSINESS
Tom Brockenbrough:  He discussed new software coming on line for AccoMap.  Some features will make it more user friendly.  New software is not on line yet. 

Mr. Brockenbrough discussed Enterprise Zones (EZ) for county.  He attended meeting in Richmond to correct any discrepancies.  The state considers those areas approved by county to be correct.  He stated that county maps are not fully documented with text information.  Those areas that have supported information are considered correct.  Each EZ area needs to be review so that supportive information is correct and up to date.  County needs to have EZ compliant to state regulations.  Three areas can be designated as EZ in county and county needs to optimize the extent of EZ.  Those areas approved in 2005 and added appropriately are considered by state as EZ.  A second public hearing is needed to approve areas for EZ.  Mr. Mallette wanted review of those businesses in EZ so that no business is disenfranchised.

Dana Burdick, Treasurer:  She discussed DMV stops and collections.  She commented on liens from county and turning over property.  She discussed in acquiring assistance on bankruptcies.  She posted letters on promptly paying county bills and consequences to all county citizens. 

Mike Mason, Finance Department:  He discussed the amount of funds on DMV stops and it was $165K that was delinquent.

Consider Appointments
Accomack County Building and Fire Code Board of Appeals: None
ES Community Services Board:  Mr. Taylor met with county attorney for Northampton in regard to this board.  There are six Accomack appointees and three Northampton appointees.   It was confirmed that two vacancies exist currently.  On basis of qualification criteria for serving on board, few members serving on services board currently meet criteria.  Ms. Thornton nominates Ms. Crockett for position.  Approved.  One vacancy remains according to Mr. Taylor.  The next member on services board must meet criteria for qualifications.  Mr. Taylor will research issue.
Economic Development: Deferred to close session.
Parks and Recreation: None.
Wetlands Board:  Another alternate appointment was deferred for Wetlands Board.

NEW BUSINESS
STAR Transit: Ms. Thornton was concerned that service may stop after county approved funding for a longer period.  Ms. Thornton wants motion made to have service continue until end of funding period by county (July 1).  Mr. Mallette commented on cost of running transit per user.  It was not viable along with poor scheduling.  He noted there were massive problems that need remediation along with developing more ridership.  Mr. Wolff reviewed the number of students needing transit to a special school.  Currently, four students use STAR transit for this special school.  Mr. Wolff is following the recommendations of the state regional transit authority.  Ms. Thornton is concerned that the transit services are not reaching those that need it.  Ms. Thornton restated motion to continue funding until July 1.  The motion was defeated; unapproved. (Ed. Note: it was not clear from audio the number of votes for or against this motion)

Mr. Taylor: Election Absentee Process:  He reviewed counting absentee ballots in each town since equipment is not available that could categorize all towns in county.  Absentee ballots will be counted in each individual town.  This process will be amended.  Motion was made to accept recommendations.  Approved.

COUNTY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Mr. Taylor reviewed current proposed state bills that could impact budget of county.   One bill will increase fines for building code violations.  Bill is proposed that will allow locality to increase tobacco tax.  Mr. Taylor noted bill that will shift tax assessments on the assessor and not the homeowner; this could be impact the county in regard to funding assessments reviews.  He discussed also meals tax bill currently in State House Finance Committee.  Mr. Taylor was not advocating any particular bill, but wants BOS members to be aware of bills and proceed with their concerns.

FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Ms. Gordy asked Mike Mason about scheduling of budget discussion.  Date was set for February 22; however, information is needed for public advertisement by March 3.  Concerns were expressed in regard to not having a clear budget funding from state of Virginia.  Placing a succinct ad in newspaper may be difficult to achieve.

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS COMMENT PERIOD
Mr. Chessor wanted to make note that STAR transit should be going well in near future.
Ms. Mears expressed same concerns about STAR transit that Mr. Chessor stated.
Mr. Mallette discussed funding for EMS that could gobble up tax dollar.
Ms. Thornton discussed capital improvement plan.  She is concerned that this may be misleading to the public in that county may actually be funding it.  This is not the case in these economic times.
Mr. McCaleb asked about budget but that is coming up in near future.
Ms. Gordy indicated that things are getting a bit more running in sync.

BUDGET ITEMS
Mr. McCaleb asked about the amount of funds used for transporting leachate from landfill site.  He asked about the salary of Amy Bull.  Mike Mason will come back with more information.  Budget Items were approved.

 PAYABLES
Approved

No Executive Session this evening.

Adjournment approximately 7:50 PM

Notes by Tim Getek

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

Ron Wolff County Forum February 15, 2010

Ron Wolff County Forum February 15, 2010
 
Wolff’s Sandwich Shoppe, Atlantic, VA

Meeting began at 7:00 PM

ATTENDANCE
Presenter: Ron Wolff, Accomack County District Representative
Guest in Audience: Patricia Knight, Census Board, Eastern Shore
Audience: About 10 members.

There is no agenda or audio recorded for this meeting.

Opening Remarks: Mr. Wolff discussed county issues.  He commented on the budget.  There appears to be about a $700K deficit.  A balanced budget was not presented due to the uncertainty in the state budget.  An example of one cutback is in the education funds.  There may be a preference to northern Virginia in regard to a $130M lost for this area with respect to education funds.  Accomack County is looking at a $3M loss in education funds.  These budget issues do not consider potential cuts in other areas such as sheriff department.   The other cuts may involve constitutional officers which may up to 50% for some departments. 

Last Wednesday there was a county budget meeting which lasted two hours in closed sessions.  Programs and personnel were considered in budget discussion.   Other points mentioned were school tax and rainy day funds that could be used to mitigate somewhat budget cuts.  

The EMS program asked for 2 cent increase to handle 24/7 coverage in county and in effect hire 8 people for county.   

Mr. Wolff discussed the educational system in county and state and some issues that could be done to improve education. 

Guest Speaker: Patricia Knight discussed the Census for 2010.  It is mandated every 10 years.  The census should arrive in mail on March 15, and they should be mailed back on April 1.  It comes down to funds for locality (money) and representation for area (power).  Approximately $400B of federal funds per year is proportioned based on population (census).  Census board is recruiting for jobs in the local areas.  Job pays $13 per hour.  Census workers are paid for training and transportation.  Nationwide it was a 67% response, versus 72% for state of Virginia during the last census.  First census was in 1790 and it was directed by Thomas Jefferson and population of USA was 3.8 million. 

Two types of counting will be group core counting which include military personnel, and service core counting which includes homeless and those who use social services routinely.

The census form has ten questions on it.  No questions about social security numbers and no questions about citizenship are on form.  The census considers your locality the place where you sleep most often. 

Questions and Answers: Audience Member (AM) asked about military service personnel and how they are counted.  They will be counted depending if they receive census form.  AM asked if they did not receive form, what to do.  Ms. Knight indicated there will be census sites to get forms and information.

Ending Comments:  Mr. Wolff mentioned that Orbital Sciences has decided to move large rockets by road instead of barge from the water.  Several power lines along road route will need to be buried in order to allow transportation.  Cost of buried lines will be carried by Orbital Sciences.  In April, the County Forum will be held at Captain’s Cove Marina building.  Finally, Wallops has been funded for building two wind turbines and wind surveys are in the process of finishing but it appears to be viable.

Meeting ended at 8:30 PM
   
Notes by Tim Getek

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

February 1 Chincoteague Town Council Meeting

Chincoteague Beacon
February 2, 2010
CHINCOTEAGUE: Weather postpones completion of new bridge until April
By Greg Merritt
Staff Writer

CHINCOTEAGUE ­ The Chincoteague Town Council dealt with a wide range of measures Monday night at its regular monthly meeting, ranging from the delayed opening of the bridge under construction to garbage containers.

Mayor Jack Tarr gave the bad news about the island's new bridge near the opening of the meeting. The Virginia Department of Transportation’s Tom Rakowski was slated to address the council, but scheduling conflicts kept him away from the meeting.

In a news release, presented to the council, VDOT announced the completion of the main line bridge would be delayed until April 1.

"This delay is due to abnormally cold and wet weather in the area and the need to ensure the planned settlement of the supporting soil under the new roadway on the western approach has reached an acceptable level," stated the release.

The spur bridge to Marsh Island and the demolition of the old swing bridge should be completed by December of this year.

"I think this is a more realistic time frame," said Councilman Terry Howard. American Bridge, the contractor for the construction, has had different finish dates ­ August, November and last month.

Record precipitation has cost time for project, that since last fall has had just one lane of traffic on and off Chincoteague.

Councilman John N. Jester said the new date would allow plans for island residents to take a walk of bike over the old bridge, before it is destroyed.

"It's nicer in April than it is in January," said Jester.

"I hope it is finished a day before April 1 or a day after," said Mayor Tarr. "I don't want the bridge to open on April Fool's Day."

The weather pays a huge part in the construction project.

“Temperatures must remain above 50 degrees over a consistent period of time for quality asphalt placement,” said Bud Morgan, Area Construction Engineer in the VDOT release, “or the pavement could fail causing additional expense and motorist delays.”

The release also stated the bridge project is currently within budget.

In other council news:

n Chincoteague Supervisor Wanda Thornton gave council an update on the workings of the Accomack County Board of Supervisors. Thornton lamented the fact that county real estate assessments have gone up, even in the recession that has gripped the nation. As an example she gave the Maddox Family Campground, whose assessment increased about $3 million.

"It just isn't fair," said Thornton, who said other areas of Accomack County did not rise.
Residents have only until Feb. 12 to start appeals.

"Chincoteague is paying its unfair share of taxes," said Thornton, and the council agreed.

Councilman John Henry Howard said in his lifetime he has seen discrimination based on race, discrimination of the sexes, but this "is discrimination of Chincoteague."

n Council authorized the purchase of a 2005 AVS RC85 skid steer loader (Bobcat) for the Public Works Department. The price is $21,750 for the Bobcat and $2,500 for the trailer.

Public Works Director Harvey Spurlock said the vehicle could be used for a variety of purposes, including snow removal.

n On a motion by Councilman John Howard, council acted to get out of the trash container business. As a convenience Council has been selling trash containers compatible with trash removal equipment operated by Davis Disposal. The containers sell for $58.

The vote was 3-2 to stop selling the trash containers with John Howard, Jim Frese and John Jester voting to stop the sale and council members Ellen Richardson and Terry Howard voting against the measure. Councilwoman Nancy Conklin was absent from the meeting.

n Cat Edwards updated council on the progress of the broadband coming to Chincoteague. She said it was important for the town to track the jobs created during the process and do all the required paperwork. The town has to provide funds to help the Eastern Shore Broadband Authority secure loans for the construction.

n Council authorized funds to hire Clark Nexsen to start the planning phase for Smith Street, Horseshoe Lane and Wayne Road. Residents of these areas have been flooded out for much of the past several months. Clark Nexsen provides plans and the work will be performed by the town's Public Works Department.

n Council voted to update the town's nuisances ordinance, upon the recommendation of Town Attorney Jon Poulson.

• Amber Parker, Director of the Marine Science Consortium on Wallops Island, gave council an update on the activities of her organization. New construction is ongoing on the Wallops Island site with expected completion date of August with a dedication planned for September.

n Jeff Potts was named as the new Planning Commission member.

n Seven citizens spoke during the Public Participation part of the meeting. Ron Mason said he was disappointed in the town's snow removal efforts. Public Works Director Spurlock stated, "We were not up to the task at hand." Spurlock said the island had 10 inches of snow and did not have the working equipment to deal with it.

n Joe Justice wanted to know if the town had contacted the Army Corps of Engineers about the flooding around his property on Chicken City Road. Justice has been before council before about the problem.

n Jane Wolffe appeared before council in support of broadband for the island and urged council to move forward with the project.

Donna Mason spoke to council in support of broadband. "Some say we don't need it, but we sure do," said Mason.

n Nancy Payne said she had an issue with health care on the island. She pointed to a lady who sustained a broken nose last summer on a Sunday and could not find a local doctor. Mayor Tarr said that the Kiwanis Club was working with rural health to help bring another doctor to Chincoteague in the near future.

n Leonard Jester said the lack of snow removal was a problem for the whole island. "I've never seen it so bad in all my life," said Jester. He urged the town to consider placing a drain near Chicken City Road and Maddox Boulevard.

n Helen Merritt praised the work of the town's Public Works Department. She said the damage done to her property when installing new water lines was fixed promptly.

Mayor Tarr surprised Merritt by telling her the town would be happy to display a plaque presented by Accomack County, honoring her late husband Paul B. Merritt.

n Police Chief Eddie Lewis announced the department's Bike Rodeo is scheduled for May 1. In other news, Lewis said he is working on a grant to purchase new bullet-resistent vests for police officers.

n In the past month the police department responded to 362 calls for assistance that resulted in 19 arrests.

n Council ended a busy night by going into executive session to discuss the award of a public contract.

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This article is redistributed by permission of the Chincoteague Beacon.

January 26, 2010 Future of Accomack County Conversation

January 26, 2010 Future of Accomack County Conversation
Eastern Shore Community College, Virginia
Meeting materials and other documentation will be uploaded; see Accomack County website for details in near future.

ATTENDANCE
Moderator: Jennifer Hicks  County Organizer: Steve Miner, County Administrator
Attending: Laura Gordy (Chair, Accomack County Board of Supervisor (BOS)) and other members of BOS and numerous county officials.
Total Attendees: Approximately 200; citizens of county as well as invited guests.

Opening Remarks: Ms. Hicks thanked everyone for their attendance and discussed the format of the meeting.  It was noted that the format will model the World Café Process.

FORMAT OF CONVERSATION
There were approximately 40 tables with 5 persons at each table.  One person was designated as Table Host.  There were a series of three questions.  After each question, four of the five persons at each table would move to a different table.  The Table Host will remain at the same table and document the discussion for comment at end of meeting.

QUESTIONS FOR CONVERSATION
The questions posed were:
1. What is it about Accomack County that brought you here and keeps you here?
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of living and working in Accomack County?
3. How do we make Accomack County a place of prosperity?

COMMENTS AND FINDINGS
In general, the advantages of living in county were the scenic and relative pristine nature of the environment.  It was stated on several occasions it was a quiet lifestyle and a good place to raise a family.  Several disadvantages were availability of jobs and the length of drive time it took to get to places in county.

The major concerns mentioned numerous times were 1) education of young people in county and Eastern Shore, 2) jobs and maintaining the environment and this included building and acquiring suitable infrastructure that will enable planned economic growth while protecting the environment, 3) having suitable health care for all age groups in county.

Some specific comments were:
The county needed some dependable means to transport people to job sites, health centers, and educational centers so they can individually improved their lifestyle.

There should be a designated person that would promote the business aspects of the county and actively seek businesses to come into the county.
Looking at the jobs and types of economic strata in the county, it appears that the county lacks a large “middle class” of people that would support ancillary businesses and bolster the county revenues.
It was commented that modern technology could be used to enhance the fishing/shellfish industries as well as develop broadband technology in more areas of county to assist large and small newly developed businesses.
Due to the unique undeveloped aspect of the county when compared to other counties near metropolitan areas, an individual citizen with an idea can make a more substantial impact in Accomack County compared to other areas.   It was commented that the county is “moldable” by the local citizens.  For this reason, many entry high tech businesses may prefer moving to county.
Someone commented that when looking at the natural beauty in county one feels closer to God.

END OF CONVERSATION
Ms. Hicks thanked all the participants and noted it ran over the time limit.  On reviewing some of the early comments she noted the meeting was “powerful”.   One thought was for the next planned meeting is to have more young people attending as well as those on the lower economic rung of the county.   She noted that information on meeting will be posted on Accomack County website and the URL is www.co.accomack.va.us/conversation (ed. note: At this writing this URL is unavailable)

Meeting ended 9:30 PM

Notes by Tim Getek and Barbara Thackray

N.B. These notes do not constitute the public record of this meeting. The information contained herein is offered in good faith and is presented as accurately as possible. These notes are intended to be a public service devoid of political commentary for those who are interested in following the civic affairs of Chincoteague Island and Accomack County. Notes of the meeting are recorded, transcribed and distributed by volunteers who receive no financial compensation for their efforts.

January 25, 2010 Letter from the Board of Supervisors Regarding Budget Shortfall

Click on the Link below to read the January 25, 2010 letter from Laura Belle Gordy, Chairperson, Accomack County Board of Supervisors, regarding the budget shortfall.

Download AC_BOS_BUDGET_CONCERNS_2010