Public Meetings - Albemarle County, Virginia

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors met on April 3, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium for a regular first meeting of the month. The meeting included proclamations, consent agenda approval, a claim denial, work sessions on the VDOT Secondary Six-Year Plan and AC44 community facilities goals, a closed meeting, public hearings, and a board discussion on permitted recreational activities at Ragged Mountain Natural Area. Key outcomes included unanimous approvals of two special use permits for Service Dogs of Virginia and a landscaping buffer amendment, and a 4-2 vote to direct staff to provide a presentation on the legal and policy options regarding Ragged Mountain. Consent Calendar - Unanimously adopted the consent agenda, which included: approval of minutes, FY2024 appropriations, scheduling a public hearing for Transient Occupancy Tax amendment, Albemarle County Office of Housing Administrative Plan, resolution of intent to amend the Rio29 Form Based Code, resolution ending the local emergency for March 2024 wildfires, proclamation recognizing Arab American Heritage Month, and a resolution canceling the April 10 budget work session. - Noted items for information: quarterly building activity and certificate of occupancy reports, transportation planning and VDOT quarterly reports, and the Board to Board school board report. Public Comments & Testimony First Session (1:00 PM) – Matters from the Public: - Carlos Armengol (Samuel Miller district) urged the board to allow running and mountain biking at Ragged Mountain Reservoir, citing health benefits for youth and his experience as a pediatrician. - Mark Lorenzoni (Jack Jouett district) supported shared use, proposing a committee of stakeholders to manage the area. - Gracie Agnew (Samuel Miller district) spoke on behalf of the mountain bike community, emphasizing accessibility and tourism potential. - Sue Friedman (Charlottesville Area Alliance) supported maintaining the current ordinance, urging age-friendly considerations. - Neil Williamson (Free Enterprise Forum) suggested adding 15 words to the AC44 community facilities chapter to direct infrastructure studies for potential development area expansion. - Rob McGuinness (Piedmont Environmental Council) raised contradictions in solar siting objectives, recommending mitigation for forest loss and prime soils. Second Session (6:00 PM) – Matters from the Public (10 speakers allowed): - Several speakers supported allowing biking and running at Ragged Mountain: Aaron and Demory Bernard (city residents), Jack Holbrook (Scottsville district, mountain bike team captain), Colleen Little (Scottsville district, youth coach), Dave Stackhouse (Cambic board), Bobby Castine (White Hall district, Cambic board), John Lewis (Jack Jouett district, Cambic), Kim O'Brien (Samuel Miller district), and Tom Olivier (Samuel Miller district) opposed, citing biodiversity and the precautionary principle. - Rick Randolph (Scottsville district) opposed, noting the county's commitment to Biscuit Run for biking and citing past threats. - Len Wallowick argued that Ragged Mountain is one of only two hiking-only natural areas, and biking would eliminate that. Public Hearings: - Service Dogs of VA: Speakers included Megan Weeks (PTSD veteran, supported), Marty Silverman (volunteer, supported), and Danny Graham (opposed, citing zoning changes and tax impacts). No speakers opposed the private school permit. - Kenridge Landscaping Amendment: Paul Sullivan (Kenridge HOA president) supported the amendment, noting the need for a flexible buffer. Discussion Items 9. S.L. Williamson Claim (Action Item) - County Attorney Steve Rosenberg presented the claim for $238,207.29 related to the Ivy Road Sidewalk Improvements Project. The board unanimously voted to deny the claim. 10. VDOT/Albemarle County FY25-30 Draft Secondary Six-Year Plan - Planner Alberic Karina-Plun presented the draft plan, including a list of seven roads prioritized for paving under the Rural Rustic program. Three roads have enough signatures; Blair Park Road and Starlight Road need one more; Burton Road and Burton Lane need more. Stony Point Pass has a request for a 0.2-mile extension, which could be funded if other projects lack signatures. Discussion included concerns about Decca Lane (not qualifying), the two-thirds signature rule, and the need to consider non-vehicular users (runners, bikers) in paving decisions. The board will hold a public hearing on May 15. 11. AC44 Work Session: Draft Goals and Objectives for Community Facilities - Principal Planner Ben Holt reviewed the four primary goals (public facilities, renewable energy, communications/utilities, community resilience) and proposed expansion criteria for future development area expansion. Two key questions were posed: (1) Should the plan recommend public water and sewer for legacy zoning areas adjacent to development areas? (2) Should the plan include policy to guide potential future development area expansion? Board members expressed varied opinions. Supervisor Galloway and Pruitt supported having the conversation and developing criteria; Supervisors Mallek and LaPisto-Kirtley opposed expansion at this time, favoring higher density infill. Supervisor McKeel raised concerns about failing septic systems and affordable housing preservation. The discussion also covered stormwater management, solar siting, data centers, and police facilities. Staff will return with detailed action steps in spring/summer. 19.2. Permitted Recreational Activities at Ragged Mountain Natural Area - After extensive public comment, Chair Jim Andrews moved to direct staff to present on the litigation results, settlement terms, the county's authority, and possible options for allowing additional activities. The motion passed 4-2 with Supervisors Andrews, Galloway, Pruitt, and LaPisto-Kirtley in favor; Supervisors Mallek and McKeel opposed. Staff will prepare a presentation for a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Claim Denial: Unanimously denied S.L. Williamson's claim for $238,207.29. - Special Use Permits for Service Dogs of VA: Unanimously approved SP202300011 (private school) and SP202300013 (commercial kennel) with conditions including soundproofing, height limits, and development consistent with the concept plan. - Kenridge Landscaping Amendment: Unanimously approved SP202300012, allowing flexible landscaping buffers using native species instead of the original monoculture hedge. - Ragged Mountain Natural Area: Approved (4-2) a motion for staff to provide a future presentation on legal authority and potential policy options; no immediate change to current restrictions. - Public Comment Limit: The board maintained the 10-speaker limit for the evening session but allowed written comments to be entered into the record; a broader policy review was discussed for later. - Meeting Schedule: The next regular meeting is April 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium.

The Board of Supervisors held Work Session 5 on the FY2025 Operating and Capital Budget on March 27, 2024. The primary actions were to finalize tax rates for advertising and approve the proposed FY2025 budget for public hearing. Staff presented a balanced revenue and expenditure package for the general fund, incorporating board direction from prior sessions. The board voted unanimously on the advertised tax rates and the proposed budget. Discussion Items - Revenue Options & General Fund Package: Staff presented a summary of revenue options discussed on March 25, including a 1% increase in the transient occupancy tax (from 8% to 9%), an increase of $0.54 per $100 in personal property and machinery/tools tax rates, and non-shared revenues from the Hart team and Department of Human and Social Services. Total additional general fund revenue estimated at $5.4 million, allocated to capital/debt ($0.5M), public schools ($2.9M), and county government ($1.9M). - Expenditure Package: The $1.9M for county government was detailed: funding for 24/7 ambulance staffing at North Garden and Berkmar (16 FTEs), expansion of the Hart team (3 FTEs), one additional FTE for the sheriff (TDO-related), one additional police officer, ongoing service reductions/efficiencies ($250K in FY25, $500K in FY26), and a one-time reserve contingency ($831K). County Executive Jeffrey Richardson emphasized that the service reduction line item is better understood as a modernization and efficiency effort, not a cut. - Sheriff's TDO Position: Supervisor Pruitt expressed continued opposition, stating he believes the position is not fully necessary given no current interruptions in court services and that the funds could be better used elsewhere. Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley and Supervisor Mallek supported including one FTE as a compromise (the sheriff had requested 4.5 FTEs), noting the lengthy hiring process and the ability to reassess after the Hart team expansion. The board consensus was to include the position in the proposed budget. - Berkmar Ambulance Contingency: Staff clarified that if the FEMA SAFER grant is not received, Berkmar ambulance would be reduced to weekday daytime coverage mid-year, but the proposed budget assumes full 24/7 coverage for both North Garden and Berkmar in FY26 if the grant is awarded. - School Fund Gap: Staff updated that the school board’s initial funding gap of $13.3 million could be reduced to approximately $5.6 million pending state revenue updates and the county’s revenue package, though the $4.8 million state portion is not included in the proposed budget until May 1st. - Capital Budget & CIP: Technical updates included accelerating Earliesville and Seminole Trail volunteer fire stations from year three to year one. Staff recommended deferring consideration of additional CIP funding pending the outcome of the sales tax referendum. - Tax Rate Discussion: Supervisor Mallek and others noted the possibility of exploring separate treatment of machinery and tools tax rates, particularly for solar, in future budget cycles, but did not change the advertised rates. Key Outcomes - Motion to Advertise Tax Rates: The board voted unanimously to advertise the following rates for public hearing (effective for tax year 2024): - Real estate, public service property, manufactured homes: $0.854 per $100 assessed value. - Tangible personal property, machinery and tools, and other business personal property: $3.96 per $100 assessed value. - Motion by Supervisor Mallek, seconded by Supervisor McKeel. Vote: 5 ayes (LaPisto-Kirtley, Mallek, McKeel, Pruitt, Andrews). Supervisor Gallaway was absent. - Motion to Advertise Proposed FY2025 Budget: The board voted unanimously to authorize staff to advertise the FY2025 proposed budget, which incorporates the county executive’s recommended budget, staff technical adjustments, and board amendments from the work sessions. Motion by Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley, seconded by Supervisor Mallek. Vote: 5 ayes (LaPisto-Kirtley, Mallek, McKeel, Pruitt, Andrews). - Future Actions: The board will hold a public hearing on the tax rates and budget on April 24, with final adoption on May 1. The April 10 work session may be canceled pending board resolution on the April 3 consent agenda. - Transparency: Staff committed to posting updated budget documents on the county website and issuing a newsletter by the morning of March 28.

On March 25, 2024, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors held a work session to discuss the FY 2025 operating and capital budget. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM in Room 241 of the County Office Building. Key topics included the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), debt management, and scenarios for the proposed budget and tax rates. The board reached consensus on several expenditure priorities and revenue options to be refined for the March 27 work session. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, which included scheduling a public hearing to consider an ordinance modifying real estate tax relief for elderly and disabled persons. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received during this work session. Discussion Items Capital Improvement Program (CIP) – County Government Projects - Staff presented the recommended CIP for FY25-29, totaling approximately $129 million, with about $34 million allocated for FY25. Key projects included: - Courts Facilities Renovation: Additional $6 million needed in FY25 for the second phase. - Transportation Leveraging: $30 million over three years for high-priority transportation projects. - Northern Convenience Center: $500,000 for design in FY25, construction in FY27 (moved from FY26 to align with other facility openings). - Central Library: Design funding in FY27 ($860,000) and construction in FY29 ($9.6 million), contingent on city funding and library partnerships. - Biscuit Run Park: $9.2 million in FY25-26 for entrance, trails, athletic fields, and a maintenance facility. - Darden Towe Athletic Fields: Phased rebuild over four years, with city cost share at 31%. - Urban Park (Pocket Park): $150,000 for design, $1.5 million for construction, pending site selection. - Woolen Mills Trailhead: ADA compliance improvements funded in FY25. - Fire Rescue Station 11 Renovations: Funded in FY25 to support additional personnel from FEMA Safer grant. - Workplace and Facility Renovations: Continued space utilization studies for county buildings. - Core Systems Modernization: Funding for IT system upgrades. - Community Nonprofit Projects: - Bennett's Village: $65,000 for an adaptive playground at Penn Park, with city contributing land. - Blue Ridge Area Food Bank: Originally requested $165,000, but secured other funding; staff recommended removing from CIP. - Earliesville Volunteer Fire Company: $800,000 for station improvements. - Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Company: $230,000 for station improvements. - Board consensus: Staff recommended moving Earliesville and Seminole Trail projects from FY27 to FY25 (year three to year one). Supervisors Galloway, Malik, Lapisto-Kirtley, McKeel, and Pruitt expressed support for accelerating both projects due to inflation concerns and local fundraising. The board also agreed to remove the Blue Ridge Food Bank project. - Supervisor Lapisto-Kirtley requested exploring acceleration of the Northern Convenience Center from FY27 to FY26. Staff noted operational cost concerns but indicated design may be completed early; board deferred decision pending further analysis. Debt Management - Staff reviewed debt service as a percentage of general fund and school fund revenues, with a target of 10%. Current projections show the rate below 8% through FY29, providing capacity for about $60 million in additional bonds if needed. The board expressed comfort with staying under 8% to maintain flexibility. Expenditure Scenarios for FY25 - Staff presented three major expenditure options: 1. Fire Rescue Staffing: 16 FTEs for 24/7 coverage at North Garden and a second ambulance at Burkmar (Station 18). Cost: $665,000 in FY25 (half-year), with FEMA Safer grant offsetting $275,000. If grant not awarded, Burkmar would revert to daylight-only service. 2. Heart Team Expansion: Second response team with 3 FTEs (human services, firefighter/paramedic, police officer). Cost: $1.154 million in FY25, with state revenue offsets. 3. Sheriff's Office: One additional deputy for teen-year transports (original request was 4.5). Cost: approx. $110,000 per deputy. - Additional items raised by board members: - Supervisor Pruitt advocated for increased funding for eviction prevention (currently $40,000 requested), citing high eviction rates. - Supervisor McKeel noted a $1 million grant from McKenzie Scott to Virginia Poverty Law Center for evictions. - Supervisor Galloway and others supported adding one police officer FTE. - Consensus: Majority supported the three main options plus one police officer FTE, totaling approximately $1.4 million in FY25 ongoing costs (FY26 estimated at $2.0 million). Revenue Options for FY25 - Staff presented funding sources: 1. Capital Advancing Strategic Priorities Reserve: $1.9 million available for one-time costs (e.g., from Jaunt return of $250,000). 2. Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): Increase from 8% to 9% (matching Charlottesville) to generate $900,000 annually split among capital, schools, and county operations. 3. Personal Property and Machinery & Tools Tax: Increase by 54 cents (from 342 to 396) to generate $4.5 million, based on the peak revenue in FY22. This would fund the expenditure package without a real estate tax increase. 4. Service Reductions: Staff proposed $500,000 in operational efficiencies (e.g., vacancy freezes, reduced services). 5. Real Estate Tax: A one-cent increase would generate $2.9 million, but the board expressed no interest in advertising this option. - Board feedback: - Supervisors Galloway, Malik, Lapisto-Kirtley, and Pruitt supported advertising the TOT increase and the 54-cent personal property increase. - Supervisor Pruitt suggested delinking machinery & tools from personal property to maximize solar revenue. - Supervisor McKeel preferred not to include real estate tax increase. - Supervisor Galloway noted that service reductions should be considered but may be more appropriate for FY26. - No consensus on directing specific service reductions; staff will present options on March 27. Key Outcomes - The board directed staff to prepare a proposed budget and tax rates for advertisement on March 27, incorporating: - Expenditures: Fire rescue staffing (North Garden and Burkmar), heart team expansion, one sheriff deputy, and one police officer. - Revenue: TOT increase to 9%, personal property tax increase of 54 cents, and use of one-time funds from reserves. Excluded real estate tax increase and specific service reductions for now. - The board agreed to schedule a public hearing for the TOT ordinance amendment on April 24, with a consent agenda item on April 3 to initiate the process. - Staff will present detailed fiscal year 2026 impacts and options for service reductions on March 27. - The next work session is scheduled for March 27, 2024, at 3:00 PM in Room 241.

The Board of Supervisors met on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, starting at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, adoption of a consent agenda, action items on transportation partnerships and property licenses, a work session on the AC44 comprehensive plan update (rural and development areas), a closed meeting, a county executive report on multiple brush fires prompting a local emergency declaration, additional public comments, a central sewer system request for Old Ivy Residences, and three spot blight public hearings for properties on Rolling Road. The board also received updates on strategic initiatives, microtransit ridership, and employee recognition. Consent Calendar - Approved Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations (24-191). - Approved Rivanna Solid Waste Authority Ivy Materials Utilization Center FY25 fees (24-196). - Approved Rivanna Futures land use applications (24-184). - Approved proposed abandonment, additions, and corrections of portions of Rio Mills Road (Route 643) (24-192). - Accepted VDOT Monthly Report for March 2024 for information (24-204). - All consent items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - First session (item 7): Eleven speakers addressed the board on matters related to the AC44 comprehensive plan update. Speakers included representatives from the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC), Albemarle County Farm Bureau, Free Enterprise Forum, Community Climate Collaborative (C3), and individual residents. Key positions: - Speakers urged protection of rural areas, support for agriculture and forestry, and robust growth management, citing decades of community surveys prioritizing environment and smart growth. - Concerns were raised about proposed expansion of development areas, potential loss of land preservation programs, and the need for a standalone rural areas chapter. - Some speakers advocated for increased density in development areas, more affordable housing, and climate-resilient infrastructure. - Comments also addressed solar siting policies, crossroad communities, and the importance of preserving scenic viewsheds and working farms. - Second session (item 15): Three speakers addressed matters including comprehensive plan critiques, a congratulatory note on a sewer plan redesign, and questions about sewer pipe boring under an on-ramp at Old Ivy Residences. Discussion Items - Public-Private Transportation Act (PPTA) Guidelines (24-183): Lance Stewart presented guidelines to enable public-private partnerships for transportation projects. The board discussed solicited and unsolicited proposals, transparency, and timelines. An amendment added four words to page 12 regarding risk apportionment. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - Brookhill License Agreements (24-188): Frank Pohl presented three license agreements for improvements on county property (grading/road, stormwater, landscaping) to facilitate the Archer Avenue connector. The board approved the resolution authorizing the county executive to sign the licenses. - AC44 Work Session: Rural Area Land Use and Transportation: The board discussed draft goals and objectives. Key questions included allowing small-scale community-serving uses by special use permit, the crossroad communities concept, transportation prioritization, and resilience hubs. The board provided direction: support for carefully defined small-scale uses, cautious approach to crossroad communities (focus on community-driven planning and existing structures), and emphasis on realistic transportation funding (rural rustic roads, safety improvements, not full transit). Multiple supervisors stressed the need to update agricultural data and clarify measurable objectives. - AC44 Work Session: Development Areas Land Use and Transportation: The board discussed gross vs. net density calculations, building height (up to eight stories in destination centers), parking reforms, and infrastructure alignment. Board members requested more information on gross vs. net density impacts; leaned toward net density but wanted further analysis. Generally supported recommended height increases and parking incentives, but emphasized infrastructure catch-up and tree cover preservation challenges. - Old Ivy Residences – Central Sewerage System (24-190): Frank Pohl presented a gravity sewer system for 184 connections. The board approved the resolution with conditions (construction to public standards, maintenance by HOA). Concerns about private maintenance were noted but deemed acceptable given gravity system reliability. Key Outcomes - Adoption of PPTA Guidelines: Approved unanimously with amendment. - Approval of Brookhill License Agreements: Approved unanimously. - Direction on AC44 Rural Area: Board directed staff to refine goals based on discussion; specific support for limited small-scale uses by SUP, continued exploration of crossroad communities via small-area plans, and focused transportation funding on safety and rural rustic roads. - Direction on AC44 Development Areas: Board requested additional analysis on gross vs. net density; expressed support for building height up to eight stories in destination centers and incentivizing structured parking/green infrastructure; asked for better alignment of infrastructure and development. - Declaration of Local Emergency: Unanimously adopted a resolution declaring a local emergency due to multiple brush fires (approximately 10 active fires, three outbuildings involved) with red flag conditions. The declaration enables access to state resources. An evacuation alert was issued for Taylor’s Gap Road area. - Old Ivy Residences Central Sewer: Approved with a maximum of 184 connections. - Spot Blight Declarations: Three public hearings held; ordinances adopted deeming properties at 2941, 3239, and 3247 Rolling Road as blighted. Board selected funding Option 3 to abate all three concurrently (estimated total $26,000) using contingency funds, with reimbursement via tax liens. - Upcoming Meeting: Adjourned to March 25, 2024, at 3:00 PM in Room 241.

This work session, held on March 13, 2024, from 3:00 PM to approximately 6:05 PM, focused on the FY 2025 operating and capital budget. Discussions covered the Sheriff's Office request for temporary detention order (TDO) staffing, tax relief for the elderly and disabled, fire rescue system needs, and the capital improvement program (CIP). The board also approved a small funding allocation for a transit art initiative. Sheriff's Office TDO Staffing Request - Sheriff Bryant presented data showing TDO transports have increased, with 88% affecting operational staff, each transport taking 4–8 hours on average, and costing $3,000–$6,000 per month in mileage and deputy costs. A heat map showed transports to facilities across the state, some as far as Russell County. - The request for 4.5 FTEs (one-time cost $918,000 including vehicles) was not included in the county executive’s recommended budget due to timing and an expectation that alternative programs (HARP, Allied Universal pilot, CTAC expansion, 988 call center) may reduce TDO demand over the next 18–24 months. - Board members expressed concern and indicated this should be a legislative priority. Supervisor McKinney noted a recent JLARC study on community service boards (underfunded, underpaid, under-trained). - No action taken; placed in the "parking lot" for further budget consideration. Tax Relief for the Elderly and Disabled - Staff presented three options (A, B, C) based on December 13, 2023, board consensus. Option A: continue program without a property-specific cap, increase net worth threshold from $250,000 to $305,000 (inflation-adjusted from 2007). Expected increase in relief: $120,000 from expanded criteria, plus 8% growth ($140,000), total program $2.1 million. - Option B: institute a high property-specific cap (no impact on current recipients). Option C: cap at average tax bill ($3,869) with net worth increase to $350,000, affecting 45 current recipients (combined $35,000 reduction in relief). - Board members leaned toward Option A (simplicity, minimal disruption), with Supervisor Pruitt favoring Option C for equity. Staff directed to prepare a draft ordinance for Option A, with a public hearing scheduled for April 17, 2024, to allow inclusion in May tax bills. Fire Rescue System - Deputy Chief David Puckett reviewed two unfunded requests: a second 24-hour ambulance for the Seminole Trail area (9 FTEs, $1.2 million total, not eligible for FEMA SAFER grant) and 24/7 career staffing for North Garden (7 FTEs, eligible for SAFER grant, with anticipated $100,000 one-time cost in FY25 if grant awarded). - Seminole Trail: 5,000 calls in 2023 (29% of county total); primary ambulance unavailable for 35% of calls, causing ripple effects. Response times have increased from 10 to 11 minutes since 2019. - North Garden: Volunteer force declining, with 63% of responses from members over 60. Two members with serious medical conditions previously caused a 3-minute increase in response times. Adding 24/7 staffing could improve response by up to 8 minutes. - Board discussed trade-offs, requested staff to prepare options for March 25, including SAFER grant application (deadline April 12, 2024). Consensus to proceed with SAFER application for North Garden. Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - Staff presented a five-year CIP totaling $335 million, with 62% for public schools. Key projects: Southern feeder elementary school ($500 capacity, third–fifth grade, opening FY2028), Northern feeder pattern (design FY2028, construction FY2029), and $14 million for system-wide renovations at Albemarle and Western Albemarle high schools. - Discussion of potential 1% sales tax referendum (if approved by governor and voters, could generate $24–25 million annually for school construction). Earliest revenue would flow in June 2025 if all steps completed. - Board asked for clarification on school capacity (no reduction) and cost increases. Staff will continue CIP discussion on March 25. Key Outcomes - Sheriff’s Office TDO request: No decision; placed in parking lot for further budget scenario analysis. - Tax Relief for Elderly/Disabled: Direction to proceed with Option A (net worth increase to $305,000, no property cap). Staff to prepare draft ordinance for March 25 consent agenda, leading to public hearing April 17. - Fire Rescue: Board directed staff to apply for SAFER grant for North Garden (7 FTEs). Staff will bring options for both Seminole Trail and North Garden to March 25 work session, including potential tax rate implications or reprioritization of other items. - Transit Art Initiative: Board reached consensus to allocate $4,000 annually from the community development transportation budget to support bus stop art (matching contributions from CAT and City of Charlottesville). First installation planned at Stonefield. - Next Steps: Budget work session 4 on March 25, 2024, 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium; action to propose budget and tax rates on March 27, 2024.

On March 11, 2024, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors held the second budget work session on the County Executive’s Fiscal Year 2025 Recommended Budget. The session focused on hearing the Albemarle County Public Schools (ACPS) operating request and continued discussion of the general fund expenditures, covering health and welfare, parks and recreation, community development, and other areas. The meeting took place at 3 p.m. in Room 241, with both boards in attendance. School Board Presentation and Q&A - The School Board presented a needs-based funding request totaling $272,900,085, with a current funding gap of $13.3 million. The gap is primarily due to a decrease in state funding of more than $8 million (11.2% drop) because the state’s Local Composite Index (LCI) increased, shifting more education costs to the county. - The request includes five proposals: a 3% compensation increase ($5.7M), additional staffing for English learners (5 FTEs, $500K), special education (5 FTEs, $500K), social-emotional learning coaches ($2.7M to maintain and expand the program), and intervention services ($1M to retain reading and math interventionists). - School Board Chair Judy Lee and Vice Chair Kate Acuff emphasized that the funding is needed to maintain current service levels and support growing student populations: 30.4% economically disadvantaged, 11.9% English learners, and 13% special education. - Board members asked detailed questions about new hires, class sizes (elementary 18:1, middle 20:1, high school 20.4:1), SEL coach effectiveness, and mitigation strategies for the funding gap. Staff noted that the state budget forecast may improve by $4–5 million, and they have options such as using one-time revenues, reducing operating expenses, or freezing positions. - Supervisor discussions highlighted the challenge of balancing the school needs with county resources, given that the county executive brings a balanced budget that already excludes some initiatives. Health and Welfare - The Health and Welfare section of the general fund is budgeted at $30.1 million. Key items include a $400,000 increase in CSA (Comprehensive Services Act) transfers due to case complexity, a new CSA coordinator position, and continued funding for the Emergency Assistance Fund at level funding. - The Housing Fund will receive a $2 million transfer from FY24 fund balance to support one-time housing initiatives, with an estimated $4.7 million remaining in the fund’s reserve. A housing program coordinator position was moved to the general fund for permanent funding. - The Agency Budget Review Team (ABRT) process allocated $100,000 for community safety (contingent on partnership with UVA and Charlottesville), with applications for homelessness, adolescent mental health, and senior navigation deferred to the unfunded list. Existing ABRT agencies received level funding, with quarterly reporting for fair-rated agencies. Parks, Recreation, and Cultural - Parks and Recreation budget is $11.9 million, with $90,000 in increases for athletic field maintenance and operational costs for new fields from CIP projects (e.g., Darden Towe fields). The Urban Pocket Park and Biscuit Run Phase I are noted as ongoing CIP priorities. - The library contribution is level-funded, but the downtown library renovation is in the CIP. The Convention and Visitors Bureau contribution increased by $186,000 based on transient occupancy tax formula. Cultural arts agencies were re-evaluated with simplified eligibility criteria, improving consistency in funding tiers. Community Development - Community Development budget is $17.6 million. Core systems modernization continues, with a new community development system (permits, inspections, licenses) launching in FY25, featuring a 70% reduction in processes. - Economic development office highlights include updating Project Enable and ongoing work on the Rivanna Futures property ($700,000 from the Economic Development Fund). - Regional transit: Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) contribution increases by $599,000 (plus an additional $84,000 from final city budget adjustments). MicroCAT pilot second year requires $1.7 million (100% local funding). Regional Transit Partnership and JAUNT funding are stable. Key Outcomes - The School Board will adopt its final budget on April 20, 2024, pending updated state revenue numbers expected later in March. - The Board of Supervisors will continue budget work sessions on March 13, 2024, to discuss fire rescue and other general fund items, and on March 25, 2024, for additional deliberation before advertising the proposed tax rates and budget on March 27, 2024. - Staff will compile unanswered questions and provide written responses. The board directed staff to explore specific topics such as SEL coach performance metrics and the impact of collective bargaining on regional transit costs. - The board expressed appreciation for the school board’s presentation and the detailed budget documentation, acknowledging the need for discipline in balancing competing priorities.

Albemarle County Board of Supervisors met on March 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium. The meeting included proclamations, a budget work session, a claim presentation, a closed meeting, and three public hearings. Key decisions included approval of the consent agenda, appointments to boards and commissions, and approvals for three public hearing items. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from April 20, May 5, May 18, and May 25, 2022. - Approved a Memorandum of Agreement between the County and the Albemarle County Parks Foundation. - Approved a Special Exception for Afton Scientific Loading Space (SE202300035). - Received the Land Use and Environmental Planning Committee Semi-annual Report (July–December 2023) and the School Board quarterly report. Public Comments & Testimony - George Stevens (Chief, North Garden Volunteer Fire Company, Samuel Miller District) spoke during the first "From the Public" session. He expressed deep concern over critical staffing shortages at the North Garden Fire Station, which responds to over 800 calls per year. He noted that the county had denied their request for 24/7 career staffing. He formally requested the Board to: (1) determine the financial impact of the request, (2) ask ACRFR to evaluate redistributing resources, (3) inquire about a deployment plan without the staffing increase, and (4) consider reversing staffing recommendations and funding 24/7 staffing in the FY25 budget. Discussion Items - FY 2025 Operating and Capital Budget Work Session: Assistant CFO Andy Bowman presented an overview of the recommended budget. The total all-funds budget increases by $74 million (13%), driven largely by capital projects. General fund revenues and expenditures are balanced at $432 million, with real estate taxes remaining at 85.4 cents per $100 assessed value and personal property tax at $3.42. Key expenditure drivers include workforce stabilization (classification and compensation study, COLA), health fund contributions, and public safety investments. Staff noted 6.6 new FTEs (3.6 cost-neutral) and that revenue growth is slowing compared to recent years. The Board discussed fund balance policies, reserve levels, and potential adjustments. No action was taken; further work sessions are scheduled for March 11 and March 13. - S.L. Williamson Claim Presentation: Eric Lammers, attorney for S.L. Williamson, presented a claim for additional compensation under a paving contract for the Ivy Road Sidewalk Improvements Project. The claim consists of $91,000 for cost escalation due to project delays and $238,207 for corrective work ordered by the county after the original paving was completed. The contractor argued that the county’s directive to mill 1.5 inches full depth was unnecessary and that the work as performed met project requirements and improved drainage. The county refused payment. The Board later went into closed session to consult with legal counsel on this matter and other litigation. - Closed Meeting: The Board convened a closed meeting under Virginia Code § 2.2-3711(A) subsections (1), (7), and (8) to discuss appointments to boards and commissions, actual litigation (Ragged Mountain Natural Area case), probable litigation (S.L. Williamson claim), and legal advice related to that claim. Key Outcomes - Proclamations: Unanimously adopted proclamations recognizing March 2024 as Women’s History Month and March as Red Cross Month. Representatives from the Charlottesville National Organization of Women and the Red Cross Central Virginia Chapter accepted the proclamations. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously by recorded vote. - Closed Meeting Certification: The Board certified by recorded vote that only matters lawfully exempt from open meeting requirements were discussed. - Appointments: Approved appointments to the 5th & Avon Community Advisory Committee (Matthew Siebert), Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee (Jose Gomez, Peter Thompson), Crozet Community Advisory Committee (Costas Albertus), and Solid Waste Alternatives Advisory Committee (Christine Hirsch Putnam and Kaylee Renault). - Public Hearing – Arbor Life Professional Tree Care (SP202300006): Approved a special use permit for a landscape contractor on a 4.02-acre lot in the Rural Areas district at 163 Patterson Mill Lane, with four conditions addressing buffers, restroom facilities (composting toilet permitted), and a VSMP permit. Vote: unanimous. - Public Hearing – 4102 Dickerson Road Rezoning (ZMA202300011): Approved rezoning 2.22 acres from Rural Areas to Light Industrial, consistent with the Places29 Master Plan. The property will continue using well and septic; future water/sewer connection may require a separate special use permit. Vote: unanimous. - Public Hearing – Woodridge Solar Siting Agreement: Approved a solar siting agreement with Hexagon Energy LLC for the proposed Woodridge Solar project. The agreement ensures the county receives the greater of the machinery and tools tax or the solar revenue share, with supplemental payments to be used for permitted purposes (mitigation, CIP, fiscal budget, reserve funds, broadband). Vote: unanimous.

The Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the County Executive's FY2025 Recommended Budget on February 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM in Lane Auditorium. The meeting was called to order by Chair Jim Andrews (Samuel Miller District) with all supervisors present: Ann H. Mallek (White Hall), Diantha H. McKeel (Jack Jouett), Bea LaPisto-Kirtley (Rivanna), Mike Pruitt (Scottsville), Ned Gallaway (Rio), and Jim Andrews. County Executive Jeff Richardson presented the budget overview, highlighting a balanced budget on current tax rates, total budget of $629 million, and general fund of $432.2 million. The hearing included six public speakers and was followed by board reports and updates. Public Comments & Testimony - Heidi Farr (White Hall District) spoke on behalf of 4-H, thanking the board for current funding and requesting full funding of the Virginia Cooperative Extension 4-H budget request of $117,335 for FY2025. She shared stories of youth leadership and noted that 4-H served over 3,250 children last year, making the cost $36.10 per child annually. - Dan Rosenswag (President/CEO, Habitat for Humanity Greater Charlottesville) reported on the Southwood Mobile Home Park redevelopment, noting that 85% of families are staying in the first non-early-adopter phase (compared to 11% nationally), and that Habitat has outperformed the first performance agreement by delivering 215 affordable units versus 155 required. He requested continued support for phase two, noting that Habitat has spent over $3 million remediating a 12-acre parcel but faces extreme cash flow challenges that could delay the project. - Gustavo Espinovo (Tenant Organizer, Legal Aid Justice Center) thanked the board for the Albemarle County Emergency Rental Program (ASERP) but requested higher funding than the current $260,000, noting 1,330 eviction cases filed last year (four per day). He cited specific apartment complexes in each supervisor's district and argued that adequate rental assistance prevents homelessness and saves county money. - Roger Torres (Southwood resident, over 20 years) spoke through translator Mitch Estrada. He described receiving keys to his new Habitat home in December 2023, making Christmas warm and comfortable with no holes, leaks, or septic issues. He asked the board to continue supporting Habitat for hundreds of families and children. - Maria Teresa Jiménez (Southwood resident, over 20 years) spoke through translator. She described the financial burden of living in a trailer, paying nearly $400/month for heating (requiring cleaning four houses), and the need for constant repairs. She stated that without Habitat, her family would not have the opportunity to acquire an affordable and safe home, and asked the board to continue supporting the project. - Carlos Moreno (White Hall District, Habitat board member) shared his background as an immigrant, former prosecutor, and current criminal defense attorney. He described volunteering at Southwood and witnessing the transformation into a safe, clean environment with learning opportunities. He noted that over 80 families have not been displaced due to Habitat's efforts and urged continued support. - Bruce Eads (White Hall District, Vietnam veteran) spoke about the Dogwood Vietnam Memorial and the need for a pedestrian bridge and parking lot, estimated to cost $3 million. He noted that the city has placed $600,000 in its CIP, and he requested inclusion in the county's budget this year, citing 7,000 veterans in Albemarle County and 25 veteran suicides per day. Discussion Items - The board received the County Executive's presentation on the FY2025 Recommended Budget. Key points include: - The budget is balanced on current tax rates, with total budget $629 million (increase of $74.3 million from FY2024) and general fund revenues of $432.2 million. - New shared revenues formula: 10% for joint debt/capital, 54% for public school operations, 36% for local government operations. - Additional funding allocations: $10.1 million for public schools, $9.3 million for local government (customer service, compensation), $2.2 million for partner agencies, $2.1 million for public transit, $2.8 million for multi-year obligations, and $1.1 million for safety and well-being. - Capital Improvement Plan: $206.8 million for schools over five years, $128.9 million for local government over five years. - Federal ARPA funds are nearly exhausted, with only a small amount left in FY2024. - Chief Financial Officer Jacob Sumner outlined the budget calendar: work sessions on March 6, 11, and 13, followed by public hearings on the tax rate and budget in April, and adoption on May 1. - Supervisor Gallaway reported that the Fontaine Avenue intersection project passed the MPO unanimously (with one abstention from VOD) earlier that day. - Supervisor Mallek encouraged public input on the AC44 comprehensive plan draft chapters (growth area, rural area, community facilities) and noted the solar ordinance and wireless facility discussions. - Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley announced the formation of a Fire Rescue Foundation (501c3) to raise private funds for fire department amenities, similar to the existing Parks Foundation. She requested board awareness and support, but Chair Andrews noted that staff impact should be discussed before formal endorsement. County Executive Richardson advised that board endorsement would allow staff to support the effort. - Supervisor McKeel reported that the Regional Transit Partnership agreed to have city and county staff work over the next 90-120 days to develop the basics of a transit authority, which will be brought back to the board and city council. This follows the enabling authority in the Code of Virginia requiring the city and county to initiate. - Chair Andrews noted the Albemarle Broadband Authority meeting prior to the board meeting, reporting that VADI 2021 and BADI22 projects are on track for 2025 completion, and that the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is phasing out due to lack of federal funding. He noted 2,568 enrollees in ACP, and that the Regional Digital Equity Coalition (including BRHD, JAUNT, the library) is working to transition individuals to digital skills and alternative internet access. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the budget; the public hearing was closed. - The board will hold budget work sessions on March 6 (general fund, administration, judicial public safety, public works), March 11 (joint with School Board, general fund wrap-up), and March 13 (capital improvement program, debt service). - Public hearings on the tax rate and budget adoption will occur in April, with final adoption and appropriation on May 1, 2024. - The board acknowledged the speakers and encouraged continued public engagement through email, letters, and future hearings. - The board directed staff to provide information on the impact of supporting the Fire Rescue Foundation before formal endorsement. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 6, 2024 at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium.

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors met on February 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium to consider a full agenda including the County Executive's FY2024-25 recommended budget, action on affordable rental housing developer incentives, a discussion on the Fontaine Interchange improvements, a closed meeting on litigation, and public hearings on a Home Depot outdoor storage special use permit, the Montclair (White Gate Village) rezoning, and a related ACSA jurisdictional area amendment. The meeting ran into the evening. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from May 4, 2022 (item 24-171). - Approved a Resolution of Intent for a potential zoning text amendment to permit residential use in commercial zoning districts (item 24-153). - Received for information: FY24 Second Quarter Financial Report, AC44 Phase 2 Draft Goals and Objectives, and Facilities and Environmental Services Quarterly Report. Public Comments & Testimony - First Public Comment Session (1:00 PM): Marta Keene (CEO of JAJA, Rio District) highlighted the success of JAJA's aging services, including Part D counseling that saved residents $1.9 million. Lori Schweller (attorney, Williams Mullen) expressed concerns about the proposed affordable housing incentive program, requesting clarity on calculation methodology, timing, and the cash-in-lieu option, and urged more developer feedback before action. - Second Public Comment Session (6:00 PM): Matthew Helton (White Hall District) criticized the county for only building a playground at Western Park in 15 years and urged completion of the full master plan. - Public Hearing on Montclair (ZMA202000012): Over a dozen residents spoke in opposition, citing non-compliance with the Comprehensive Plan, severe infrastructure deficits in Crozet (estimated $100 million needed), dangerous intersections (e.g., 240/250/680 ranked 17th worst in VDOT's Culpeper District), overcrowded schools, environmental concerns about a buried stream, and the developer's past conduct. A petition with over 950 signatures was submitted. The applicant (Vito Chedda) and his team defended the project, noting its consistency with the Crozet Master Plan, provision of affordable housing, and that the problematic roundabout at 240/250/680 is already funded and scheduled for construction in 2025. Discussion Items - County Executive's FY2024-2025 Recommended Budget: County Executive Jeff Richardson presented a balanced budget of $629 million (all funds) with a general fund of $432.2 million, maintaining current tax rates. Key highlights: 44% of general fund to schools ($10.1M increase), $9.3M for workforce and customer service, $2.2M for partner agencies, $2.1M for transit (CAT and MicroCAT), $1M for safety and well-being (including new courts and firefighter staffing). Capital investments include $206.8M for schools (including High School Center Two and Elementary One) and $128.9M for local government (including Biscuit Run Park opening in FY25, broadband completion, and Ravenna Station expansion). The budget builds on the second year of the five-year strategic plan and emphasizes organizational adaptability, cross-departmental work, and data-driven analytics. - Housing Albemarle Developer Incentives (Action Item): Assistant Director of Housing Stacy Pethia and CFO Jacob Sumner presented a program to incentivize affordable rental housing. The program requires projects to provide at least 20% of units at 60% AMI for 30 years. The incentive is set at 15% of the development's real estate tax bill (amended from the originally proposed 10%) for the duration of the affordability period, with the incentive calculated on the full tax bill (not the increment). The program aims to fill the gap created by moving from the current standard of 15% at 80% AMI. Staff will track and iterate on the program. The board discussion included concerns about project timing, the need for clarity on