MADISON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS' MEETING Date: 6:00 PM Tuesday, February 25, 2025 Location: Admin. Building Auditorium, 414 N. Main Street MEETING #07-- February 25th At ai regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, February 25th at 6:00 PM in the Admin. Building Auditorium: PRESENT: R. Clay Jackson, Chairman Carty Yowell, Vice-Chairman Jud Buchanan, Member Dustin Dawson, Member James Jewett, Member Jonathon Weakley, County Administrator Brian Gordon, Deputy County Administrator Hannon Wright, County Attorney Kimberly Turner, Deputy Clerk ABSENT: None. CALL TO ORDER, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & MOMENT OF SILENCE Chairman Jackson called the Board to order. Chairman Jackson stated he would like to start with the Pledge of Allegiance and follow with a moment of silence. DETERMINE PRESENCE OF A QUORUMIADOFTION OF AGENDA Chairman Jackson advised that a quorum was present. Supervisor Dawson made a motion to approve the agenda as presented, seconded by Supervisor Buchanan. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). PUBLIC COMMENT Chairman Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Eleanor Montgomery: Ms. Eleanor Montgomery, Malvern resident, expressed concerns about the proposed development along Fishback Road, emphasizing the need to protect the welfare of Madison County residents. Ms. Eleanor Montgomery highlighted potential issues with high- density housing, including increased traffic, law enforcement costs, and strain on infrastructure like water and sewage systems. Ms. Eleanor Montgomery suggested that the County should be proactive rather than reactive in approving developments. Ms. Eleanor Montgomery questioned who will pay for new infrastructure if the current infrastructure cannot handle the new developments. Yvonne Beatty: Ms. Yvonne Beatty, Oak Park Road resident, expressed concerns about the lack oft tax relief for elderly residents in Madison County. Ms. Yvonne Beatty shared her personal experience of struggling to afford taxes on a fixed income and emphasized the need for tax relief for elderly senior citizens. Mitch Bernstein: Mr. Mitch Bernstein, Graves Mill resident, discussed the proposed consolidation of the Graves Mill Voting Precinct and the Wolftown Voting Precincts. Mr. Mitch Bernstein emphasized that the historical value ofthe Graves Mill Precinct should be considered, citing a previous unanimous decision to maintain it. Mr. Mitch Bernstein mentioned the lack of recommendation from the Electoral Board for the consolidation. Mr. Mitch Bernstein suggested that the County should maintain the status quo until a fiscal issue arises. Kevin McHanev: Mr. Kevin McHaney, Criglersville resident, reiterated the need for tax relief for elderly residents and expressed concerns with the current tax deferment program. Mr. Kevin McHaney pointed out the recent tax assessment increases and stated he trusted the Board to make fair decisions on tax rates. Clint Hyde: Mr. Clint Hyde, Twymans Mill Road resident, expressed concerns about the significant increases in property valuations and the potential impact on tax rates. Mr. Clint Hyde suggested that the tax rate should be adjusted to mitigate the increased valuations and prevent taxpayers from being priced out of their homes. With there being no further public comment being brought forward, the public comment opportunity was closed. CONSENT AGENDA 1. Supplemental Appropriation #17 - Use of Fund Balance, Opioid Funds 2. Supplemental Appropriation #18 = Animal Shelter, Use ofl Donation Funds & Contingency for Veterinarian Expenses 3. Supplemental Appropriation #19 - Additional FY24 Capital Rollover for EMS Station Vice-Chairman Yowell made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented, seconded by Supervisor Dawson. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). SPECIAL APPEARANCES 4. Reassessment Update - Commissioner of Revenue The Commissioner of Revenue was present and gave an update on the reassessment process and addressed the public concerns that were expressed during public comment. Provided an overview of the reassessment process conducted by Wingate Appraisal Services. Explained the increase in real estate value from $2.7 billion to $4 billion over a six-year period. Mentioned the appeals process and the importance of understanding the reassessment values. Reviewed the process for equalizing the tax rate. Chairman Jackson mentioned that the six-year gap for the general reassessment was the maximum allowed by the State Code. The Commissioner of Revenue agreed and discussed the cost for conducting a general reassessment. Vice-Chairman Yowell stated the prior general reassessment was currently on GIS on the website. Vice-Chairman Yowell stated the value has been the same since 2019 and the tax rate had not changed in five years. Vice-Chairman Yowell inquired if the value listed on the statements that were received, for those who have land in "land use, was the fair market value or the land use value. The Commissioner of Revenue clarified that the fair market value is calculated, not the land use value, and provided information on how to access property cards for more details. Supervisor Jewett reiterated the difference in the assessment going up versus the tax rate. Supervisor Jewett stated under state law; this Board will have to set a new tax rate which will be lower than the current one to attempt to equalize the amount people pay. Supervisor Jewett discussed the personal property rate in the last few years to attempt to equalize the rate. Supervisor Jewett stated the assessment company overall has done their due diligence. Supervisor Jewett encouraged the public to attend the Budget Worksession, which begin on Thursday. The County Administrator reviewed the County's website where the public could find various general reassessment information such as the recent press release, the value changes from 2018 to present, as well as Wingate Appraisal Services' appeal schedule. The County Administrator reviewed the Assessors' appeal process as well as the Board of Equalization's appeal process. The County Administrator stated it is required by law for the Board to equalize the tax rate and the public hearing will be on April gth The County Administrator stated the Budget Worksessions will begin on Thursday and the Board plans to hold their public hearing on the budget on April 22nd Kevin McHanev: Mr. Kevin McHaney inquired where the general public could find the Board of Equalization information. The County Administrator informed the public that they have not advertised that yet, but they will per state requirements. The County Administrator reviewed the "NotifyMe" feature on the website that will allow the public to receive county information. PUBLIC HEARING 5. School Zone Speed Camera Enforcement County Administrator The County Administrator introduced the topic of school zone cameras and stated the request for their implementation was from Sheriff Weaver. The County Administrator explained the proposal is to install speed cameras along Route 29 in the school zone. The County Administrator mentioned Mr. Randy Campbell from Blue Line Solutions was present to review the School Zone Speed Camera Enforcement Program further. The County Administrator mentioned the draft bills that are related to this. Supervisor Jewett inquired about the effectiveness once it is installed. Mr. Randy Campbell, from Blue Line Solutions, provided data on the effectiveness of school zone cameras and assured the Board that there would be no cost to the county. Mr. Randy Campbell Highlighted the following: In 2024 all jurisdictions they partner with in Virginia had a 92.8% decrease in speed violations in those school zones. Emphasized the importance of educating people before enforcing a new program. Reviewed a speed study data conducted in Madison. General Assembly gives a 9 MPH tolerance when entering an active school zone. The County Attorney inquired about what would be the cost of the county for this program. Mr. Randy Campbell reviewed the process of enforcing the program. Mr. Randy Campbell clarified that the county will not incur any costs and will receive a portion of the fines collected. There was further discussion regarding the cost and maintenance responsibilities of the equipment as well as the staff" S required time commitment. The was further discussion regarding how the School Zone Speed Camera Enforcement Program would operate. Chairman Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Gracie Hart-Brooks: Ms. Gracie Hart-Brooks, the Rapidan Register reporter, inquired about the localities where Blue Line Solutions currently served. Mr. Randy Campbell responded that they had twenty-three partnerships and listed a few in Virginia. Chuck Jackson: Mr. Chuck Jackson, The Piedmont Journal Recorder reporter, inquired if the school were on a two-hour delay, would the lights be on at the right time. Mr. Randy Campbell reviewed how a school could reset the time the lights come on. Kevin McHanev: Mr. Kevin McHaney expressed concerns about the potential revenue generation and the impact on taxpayers. Mr. Kevin McHaney questioned the need for the cameras, the impact on local drivers, and the potential for alternative solutions. Supervisor Buchanan inquired if Blue Line Solutions knew where the people who were speeding were from. Mr. Randy Campbell stated they did not. Mr. Randy Campbell provided additional information on the program's operation and the importance ofpublic education and enforcement. Joe Sansone: Mr. Joe Sansone inquired how many fatalities and accidents have happened in the school zone location. Mr. Randy Campbell stated he did not have those stats and emphasized the proactive nature of the program. Chairman Jackson mentioned they would reach out to VDOT for this answer. Jennifer Campbell: Ms. Jennifer Campbell inquired how the county could get out of the contract should the need arise. Mike Sharman: Mr. Mike Sharman inquired about data privacy and the potential for criminal or insurance ramifications. Mr. Mike Sharman mentioned a fatality he remembered at this location. Carl Kerby: Mr. Carl Kerby expressed his concerns about the program and stated he remembered VDOT stating the school zone was not required on Route 29. Chairman Jackson stated they would check on it. Mr. Randy Campbell mentioned they have never reached the point where there is such a high degree of compliance that there was no need for the speed cameras, but should Madison reach that he is sure things would be resolved. Mr. Randy Campbell stated they are vetted through the National Law Enforcement Telecommunication System, which has heavily protected encrypted data. Mr. Randy Campbell informed the Board and the public that the penalty for these violations is a civil penalty for a $100 fine. There are no points assessed to an operator's license and nothing reported to the insurance company. Mike Sharman: Mr. Mike Sharman inquired if someone did not pay, would it be considered contempt which is jailable. Mr. Randy Campbell stated the Madison County Sheriff's s Office can follow up on payment of that fine. Mr. Randy Campbell referenced the Virginia State Code, section 46.2-873, and stated it would answer the concern regarding the flashing beacon lights. The County Administrator had a VDOT dashboard brought onto the projector screen that showed crash/fatality data. The County Administrator noted that VDOT and Virginia State Police data are tied together. With there being no further public comment, the public comment section was closed. OLD BUSINESS 6. Hoover Ridge Barn Update - County Administrator The County Administrator provided an update on the Hoover Ridge barn, where the roof collapsed due to heavy snow. The Board authorized demolition, and they are waiting for a check from insurance to proceed. Chairman Jackson inquired about the transformer's relocation, which is ongoing due to its proximity to the building. The County Administrator responded it has not been done yet. Chairman Jackson stated demolition is expected to be the cheapest option. Chairman Jackson stated for clarification that the Board was waiting for the check, the transformer relocation, and the fence removal before proceeding. 7. EMS Renovation Project Update - County Administrator The County Administrator reported that the EMS building has temporary occupancy in the newly renovated building and the EMS team was running calls from said building. The upper bays are being wired up, and the carport structures will be relocated soon. Minor patching and wall repairs are being done at the lease station, and an open house is planned for late May or early June. Chairman Jackson inquired ifi they were collecting damages from the contractor based on being over-date of the contract. The County Administrator agreed and reviewed the process. 8. Industrial Revitalization Fund/Criglersvlle Elementary School - County Administrator The County Administrator discussed the Industrial Revitalization Project for the Criglersville Elementary School. The Board is considering a grant from DHCD, Department ofI Housing Community Development, which would be administered as an economic development loan. A meeting with staff, stakeholders, Mr. Shapiro, and the IDA's Treasurer was scheduled for the next day. Chairman Jackson clarified that the grant funds are not from Madison County's budget but are for economic development purposes. The County Administrator stated this Industrial Revitalization Fund would be available each year for any economic development projects. The County Administrator reviewed the Industrial Revitalization loan process further. Vice-Chairman Yowell asked the County Administrator to ask at the meeting what would happen if Mr. Shapiro failed to make his payments. The County Administrator agreed and encouraged the Board to share any additional questions they may have. 9. Meadows Lane VDOT Abandonment - County Administrator The County Administrator reminded the Board ofthe request from Mr. Joe Beddow to abandon a segment of Meadows Lane. Since the last meeting, the neighbors agreed to a Private Road Maintenance Agreement. The County Attorney: mentioned he looked at the agreement and stated it was still missing a few key terms. The County Attorney stated the Private Road Maintenance Agreement needed signatures from all affected property owners. After further discussion about the required amendments to the agreement, the Board agreed to have a public hearing at the second meeting in March contingent upon legal review and recording in the Clerk's office. Vice-Chairman Yowell made a motion to approve the Private Road Maintenance Agreement for Mr. Beddow and the Dixons on tax map parcel 21-43b to convey the joint use of private road to the owner of tax map 29-91, contingent upon the County Attorney's review and possible amendments signed by all effective property owners, and recording in the clerk's office, as well as requesting VDOT to abandon the road, seconded by Supervisor Buchanan. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). 10. Parks & Recreation Authority Committee Appointment - County Administrator Chairman Jackson discussed the amendment oft the Parks and Recreation Authority Bylaws to include nine members. The Board' S recommendation is to appoint Mr. Brian Gordon to the Parks and Recreation Authority. Vice-Chairman Yowell made a motion to approve Brian Gordon's appointment to the Parks & Recreation Authority, seconded by Supervisor Dawson. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). NEW BUSINESS 11. Proclamation Recognizing March as American Red Cross Month = County Administrator Chairman Jackson introduced a Proclamation recognizing March 2025 as American Red Cross month. The proclamation aims to raise awareness and does not involve county funding. Supervisor Jewett made a motion to approve the Proclamation Recognizing March as American Red Cross Month, seconded by Vice-Chairman Yowell. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). DISCUSSION 12. Rural Rustic Road Program - County Administrator The County Administrator discussed the Rural Rustic Program and the cost escalation. The County Administrator requested VDOT provide a table oft the existing Secondary Six-Year Road Plan and the differences between various pavement options for each road. The County Administrator asked for Board direction on what the Board wanted to use sO VDOT could prepare the draft Secondary Six Year Road Plan. After discussion it was decided to have VDOT provide recommendations for the Secondary Six- Year Road Plan to stretch the budget further. Vice-Chairman Yowell inquired about the Rural Rustic rules changing to allow for general improvements of gravel roads. The County Administrator mentioned at one point that the General Assembly was considering legislation to use Secondary Six Year funds for road improvement rather than just paving, but he was not sure ift that passed. Chairman Jackson suggested VDOT review the bump on Parish Road. There was discussion regarding potential roads to add to the Secondary Six-Year Road Plan. Supervisor Jewett mentioned a concern that was brought to him regarding a blind, sharp curve on Twymans Mill and potentially considering a lower speed limit. Supervisor Jewett recommended speaking to the Sheriff about it. The County Administrator stated he would speak to the Sheriff as well as see if there were existing Chevrons that indicate curves and changes. The County Administrator stated he would follow up with VDOT on specific funding and program questions. INFORMATION/CORRESPONDENCE 13. Joint Comprehensive Plan Review Meeting County Administrator The County Administrator stated the Board would discuss two cases and the Comprehensive Plan at the March 5th Joint Meeting. 14. Upcoming Budget Meetings County Administrator Chairman Jackson stated Thursday at 3:00 pm-6:00 pm would be the first Budget Worksession meeting. The County Administrator reviewed the items on the agenda for the Budget Worksession meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT Chairman Jackson opened the floor for public comment. Carl Kerby: Mr. Carl Kerby suggested that the Sheriff's Office and the Emergency Services use social media to post updates on road closures and accidents. Mr. Carl Kerby also raised concerns about the lack ofinformation on adjustment factors for the reassessment. With there being no further public comment, the public comment section was closed. CLOSED SESSION None. ADJOURN With there being no further business to conduct, Supervisor Jewett made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Supervisor Dawson. Aye: Jackson, Yowell, Buchanan, Dawson, Jewett. Nay: (0) Abstain: (0) Absent: (0). R. Clay Jackson, Chairman Madison County Board ofs Supervisors Jonathon Weakley, Clerk Adopted on: March 11, 2025.