Blacksburg Town Council Work Session - May 15, 2024

This work session of the Blacksburg Town Council was held on May 15, 2024 (note: the provided agenda and minutes indicate the meeting took place on May 7, 2024). The meeting occurred at Blacksburg Motor Company, 400 S. Main St., from 11:00 a.m. to 12:51 p.m. Council discussed three main agenda items: a presentation on the Toms Creek Basin Planning Study, proposed changes to Blacksburg Transit's substance abuse policy, and a draft ordinance authorizing photo speed monitoring devices in school crossing zones. Additionally, Council and staff exchanged information on priority projects.

Toms Creek Basin Planning Study Presentation

Consultants Matt Wetl and Justin Carney of Development Strategies, Inc. presented the planning process and framework for the Toms Creek Basin study. They have begun initial analysis and data collection, and have held initial meetings with owners of large properties and a town-appointed stakeholders committee. A community engagement process is planned to solicit feedback from Blacksburg residents. Once data collection is complete, work will develop land use, environmental, infrastructure, and housing policies to balance preservation of rural character with new housing development. Final recommendations are expected in early 2025.

Blacksburg Transit Substance Abuse Policy

Blacksburg Transit Director Brian Booth reviewed proposed changes to the transit agency's substance abuse policy. Council will review the policy and take formal action at the next regular meeting.

Ordinance 2056: Photo Speed Monitoring Devices in School Crossing Zones

Town Attorney Lawrence Spencer distributed a draft ordinance (Ordinance 2056) that would add new Section 12-114 to the Town Code to authorize the use of photo speed monitoring devices in school crossing zones. During discussion, Council suggested that funds generated from the speed enforcement could be used for public safety in the community.

Council/Staff Exchange

Town Manager Marc Verniel updated Council on various priority projects, including the Zoning Ordinance review and the proposed Small Lots and Downtown Northwest district zoning amendments. Additionally, Council requested clarification on the use of Town logos in communications.

Key Outcomes

No formal votes were taken during this work session. Next steps include: Council will consider the Blacksburg Transit substance abuse policy at the next regular meeting; the Toms Creek Basin study will proceed with community engagement and a final report expected in early 2025; and the speed monitoring ordinance will be further deliberated, with potential earmarking of funds for public safety.