general assembly completes 2015 session€¦ · march 4, 2015 the newsletter of the virginia...

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March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties CONNECTIONS COUNTY The General Assembly completed its work a day ahead of schedule, adjourning sine die on February 27. County governments fared well in the final outcome, including the elimination of the Local Aid to State reversion ($30 million) in the introduced budget. However, a couple of stumbling blocks addressing administrative implementation will have to be addressed at the reconvened session on April 15. Most notably, the formula for a real property tax exemption for the surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces killed in action (HB 1721) needs to be modified to account for counties that do not have zoning. Also, adjustments to the local fines and fees budget language should be addressed because additional counties will now be impacted with a combined cost of over $700,000 statewide. VACo will work with Governor Terry McAuliffe and legislators to address these issues. The Conference Report altered the governor’s introduced budget to reflect many of VACo’s high priority budget requests. The 2015 Assembly finished their work by adopting a bipartisan modification of the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act (HB 2070)/(SB 1424). VACo will publish a 2015 Session Summary in the coming weeks, which will include a state budget analysis, legislation analysis and a detailed review of modifications to the State and Local Conflict of Interests Act. VACo Contact: Dean Lynch, CAE General Assembly Completes 2015 Session Appomattox appoints Adams to top job... Page 3 VACo members take county priorities to Congress... Page 2 Enter the 2015 VACo Achievement Awards... Page 9 Visit Fairfax County and Great Falls National Park... Page 5

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Page 1: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

March 4, 2015

The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties

ConneCtionsCounty

The General Assembly completed its work a day ahead of schedule, adjourning sine die on February 27. County governments fared well in the final outcome, including the elimination of the Local Aid to State reversion ($30 million) in the introduced budget.

However, a couple of stumbling blocks addressing administrative implementation will have to be addressed at the reconvened session on April 15. Most notably, the formula for a real property tax exemption for the surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces killed in action (HB 1721) needs to be modified to account for counties that do not have zoning. Also, adjustments to the local fines and fees budget language should be addressed because additional counties will now be impacted with a combined cost of over $700,000 statewide. VACo will work with Governor Terry McAuliffe and legislators to address these issues.

The Conference Report altered the governor’s introduced budget to reflect many of VACo’s high priority budget requests. The 2015 Assembly finished their work by adopting a bipartisan modification of the State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act (HB 2070)/(SB 1424).

VACo will publish a 2015 Session Summary in the coming weeks, which will include a state budget analysis, legislation analysis and a detailed review of modifications to the State and Local Conflict of Interests Act.

VACo Contact: Dean Lynch, CAE

General Assembly Completes 2015 Session

Appomattox appoints Adams to top job... Page 3

VACo members take county priorities to Congress... Page 2

Enter the 2015 VACo Achievement Awards... Page 9

Visit Fairfax County and Great Falls National Park... Page 5

Page 2: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

March 4, 2015

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ConneCtionsCounty

Virginia county leaders joined more than 1,500 colleagues from across the country in Washington, D.C. on February 21-24 to meet with members of the Obama Administration and Congress on key issues like transportation, municipal bonds, unfunded mandates and economic development policies.

VACo President Penny Gross, Fairfax County Supervisor, led a delegation of county board members in Congressional meetings during the National Association of Counties’ (NACo) Legislative Conference.

On February 24, the Virginia delegation met with Senator Mark Warner and Senator Tim Kaine, who were receptive to VACo priority issues.

President Gross also presented Representative Rob Wittman and Representative Gerry Connolly with NACo’s County Alumni Award on February 24. The award recognizes members of Congress for their continued commitment to the nation’s counties and their previous service as county officials. Wittman served as a supervisor and board chair in Westmoreland County and Connolly served as a supervisor and board chair in Fairfax County.

VACo Contact: Jim Campbell, CAE

VACo members take county priorities to Congress

VACo members presented NACo’s County Alumni Award to U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (left photo) and U.S. Representative Rob Wittman (right photo holding award). Congressman Connolly is pictured with VACo President Penny Gross.

Page 3: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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A Charlotte County administrator will serve as the new county administrator in Appomattox after a unanimous vote at a specially-called Board of Supervisors meeting on February 24. Susan Marston Adams, 52, of Red House, was selected for the position Monday and once the negotiations were finalized, signed her contract in open session Tuesday. “I’m very humbled,” Adams said, passing the contract back to Supervisor Chairman William Craft. “I’m just happy to be here.” She said she is looking forward to serving the community, managing the county’s daily operations, overseeing its finances and working with the school and county boards and employees. Adams is the deputy county administrator and economic development associate in Charlotte County, a position she has held for eight years. She has 25 years of experience in local or state government, including 18 with Charlotte County. She received a bachelors of science in information technology system with a minor in administrative leadership from Old Dominion University in 2011. “I think it’s going to be a good fit,” Falling River District Supervisor Ronald Spiggle said. Charlotte County has a population of more than 12,300, about 2,700 less than Appomattox County. Adams is set to begin on March 18 and will work alongside the current county administrator, Aileen Ferguson, until Ferguson retires June 30 to spend more time with her family.

Appomattox appoints Adams as County AdministratorBy Katrina Koerting

Lynchburg News & Advance

“I can’t imagine a better set up for you to work with Aileen,” Piney Mountain District Supervisor Sara Carter told Adams during the meeting. “I can’t think of a better person to take you under their wing.” Ferguson announced her retirement in September, saying she hopes to spend more time with her family. Ferguson has been county administrator for 17 years and has worked in the county for 36. She began as a secretary in the building inspector’s office in 1974, working her way up to administrator in 1993. She took a break as administrator from 2000 to 2004. The supervisors began fine-tuning the position in October, approved the posting in December and planned to hire a new administrator in February with a mid-March start date. The atmosphere was light as supervisors took turns expressing a desire to work with Adams, as well as acknowledging what Ferguson has done over the years. “Ms. Adams, I’m looking forward to hooting and hollering with you,” Courthouse District Supervisor Samuel Carter said with a laugh, a reference to the supervisors’ request the county administrator be open to dialogue, something they value in Ferguson.Adams was selected from a pool of about 45 applicants. Five were interviewed with Adams emerging as the top choice, Ferguson said. “I think her knowledge of small local government helped, as well as her familiarity with Appomattox,” Ferguson said. “She’s done business here and has friends here. It will be an easy transition for her and for the staff.” After the meeting, Adams said she applied because she was drawn to the progressiveness of the county and because she feels a connection with it. Living in the

southern part of Charlotte County, she and her family have traveled to Appomattox County often. “I feel that I have achieved much in my current work and have been instrumental in Charlotte County’s growth and development and now it is time to turn it up a notch and be a player in the future successes and progressive growth and development of Appomattox County,” Adams said in a prepared statement. Adams is a life-long resident of Red House, except for two years when she lived in Evergreen in Appomattox County. She expects to be a full-time resident of Appomattox County soon, but will start as a renter while looking for a place to live.Her husband, Jimmy Adams, works at Areva in Lynchburg and her two sons live in Lynchburg and Red House with their families. Her salary will be $100,000. “I hope to be here until I retire,” Adams said. Click here to read story at News & Advance.

Photo Credit: Lynchburg News & Advance

VACORP invites you to attend a live webinar covering the topics of Sexual Harassment and Discrimination.

The webinar will be held on Tuesday, March 10 from 2-3 p.m.

It is intentionally geared towards frontline personnel as well as management, so we encourage employees at every level to attend. There will be a question and answer session immediately following the presentation should attendees wish to remain with us for some additional information. We hope you will join us!

Click here for information flyer.

Join VACORP for a live webinar

Page 4: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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After 32 ½ years in local government, Franklin County Administrator Richard Huff has announced that he is leaving to enter private sector employment on July 1, 2015. “Franklin County has been an extremely good place for my family as all 3 of our children graduated from Franklin County High School with honors. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving this wonderful community as 24 years of my career have been spent here working with many great Board members and a hard working and dedicated staff,” said Huff. “I believe that Franklin County has developed a great reputation among local governments in the state and it will be an attractive position for other experienced Administrators.” Huff served as Assistant County Administrator from 1983-1985, and County Administrator from 1985-1991 and from 1999-2015. “Rick has been a great leader,” said Board Chairman Cline Brubaker. “He has helped to put the County’s finances on a very solid footing during the recent recession, and he also has a strong knowledge of local government service.” “There have been many noteworthy accomplishments during my 24 years in Franklin County, all of which began with vision and foresight by the Board and diligence every step of the way by hard working County staff,” added Huff. “To list a few would have to include the following:

• Regional Partnerships that have benefitted the County in more ways than can be mentioned including the Regional Jail, Economic Development, Tourism, Juvenile Detention and Smith Mountain Lake Planning.

• Utility Development through the initial partnership with Bedford County to bring water to Franklin County and now through a subsequent partnership with the Western Virginia Water Authority has made it possible to have water service available to Burnt Chimney, Westlake and the 220N corridor. Recent agreements with the Town of Rocky Mount will now make it possible for the County to extend water and sewer in any direction from Rocky Mount as needed for Economic Development purposes. All of this has been set into motion without the County having to establish its own Utilities Department, utility maintenance function, or operational subsidies.

• The Franklin Center for Advanced Learning & Enterprise has provided much needed workforce and educational services to a broad cross section of the community including new business support, existing business assistance and training opportunities for adults of all ages.

• The establishment of Franklin County as a financially sound and stable local government in the eyes of the global rating agencies has brought the County from an unrated status to a rating of AA+, the second highest rating possible.”

“The County is in good shape and the Board of Supervisors has a clear vision of what it wants to accomplish moving forward. It’s a good time to pursue an attractive offer I have been presented to step outside of local government and watch tremendous things continue to happen as a resident of the community. I wish the Board and the staff much success,” Huff concluded. The Board will meet soon to decide how they will move forward in the selection of a new County Administrator.

Huff to leave Franklin County Administrator post

GASB has issued separate “Preliminary Views” documents for state and local governments on financial reporting for leases and reporting for activities for which they have a fiduciary responsibility. The lease document includes proposals addressing accounting and financial reporting for lessees and lessors and is based on the principal that all leases are financing the right to use an underlying asset. GASB proposes that for leases longer than 12 months, lessee governments should report:

• An intangible asset representing the government’s right to use the leased asset• A corresponding liability for lease payments• Amortization expense related to the leased asset, recognizing the asset amount as an expense over the term of the lease• Interest expense related to the lease liability

Under the proposal, government lessors for leases longer than 12 months would report:• A receivable for the right to receive payments• A corresponding deferred inflow of resources to reflect resources related to future periods• Lease revenue (and a corresponding reduction in the deferred inflow) systematically over the term of the lease• Interest revenue related to the receivable

The Financial Reporting for Fiduciary Responsibilities document relates to governments that act as a trustee or custodian in controlling assets that belong to others. GASB is seeking to enhance the consistency and comparability of when and how governments report their fiduciary activities in their financial statements. If approved, the fiduciary proposal would:

• Define when a government has a fiduciary responsibility and is required to present fiduciary fund financial statements• Clarify financial reporting requirements for fiduciary responsibilities, including a requirement for business-type activities that

serve in a fiduciary capacity• Introduce the use of a financial statement that reports the inflows and outflows for all fiduciary types

VACo Contact: Vicky Steinruck

Financial Facts

Page 5: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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Great Falls National ParkExplore the beautiful Great Falls National Park, which is located about 20 minutes away from Washington DC in McLean, VA. This 800-acre park borders the Potomac River. Some of the unique features here include the historic Patowmack Canal, the beautiful waterfall, and the fall line geology with its cliffs and rock formations.

Get in touch with nature and history at Great Falls National Park, where you can learn how George Washington’s interest in the Potomac changed America as we know it. Choose from three overlooks to view the Great Falls, located just a short walk from the Visitor Center.

The Great Falls National Park also offers 15 miles of trails for hiking and biking in the forest and woods. Other outdoor activities include the River Trail that follows the clifftops, giving hikers beautiful views of the Potomac, and is considered the park’s most challenging trail. Rock climbing, biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating and kayaking are popular sports year round. If you are coming to the park for a picnic, picnic tables and grills are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Take a guided hike tour with one of the park rangers. At Great Falls, programs are available throughout the year; make sure to check their website for program schedules. You are also invited to stop by the Visitor Center, which has trail information, a bookstore, interactive exhibits, a slideshow on the park’s history, and a children’s room.

The park is located at the intersection of Georgetown Pike and Old Dominion Drive in McLean, VA. From I-495, take exit 44 to Georgetown Pike, going west. The entrance to the park will be on the right at the first traffic light. During your visit, please remember that swimming and wading are prohibited due to dangerous currents in the Potomac River. The park does not offer equipment rentals or classes. Pets are welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Photo and Information provided by Fairfax County, VA at www.fxva.com.

Visit Fairfax County and Great Falls National Park

Page 6: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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Mark Your CalendarsConneCtionsCounty

Agritourism in the Creative EconomyTuesday, March 10 to Wednesday, March 11 | Stonewall Jackson Hotel | Staunton, Virginia

Two-days filled with fresh ideas on . . . event planning, marketing, zoning and conservation, food safety and experience-based tips and tricks to make your agritourism business a success in the evolving creative econ omy. Visit http://ext.vt.edu/topics/agriculture/agritourism/files/program.pdf to re view the conference program Special Guests include

The Honorable Maurice Jones, Secretary of Commerce and Trade | The Honorable Todd Haymore, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry | Ms. Mary Rae Carter, Special Advisor for Rural Partnerships | Dr. Ed Jones, Director of Virginia Cooperative Extension

1—Register online by visiting http://tinyurl.com/AgritourismConference2015 and completing the registration form. You may register for one day ($95) or both days ($135). 2—Mail your check made payable to Treasurer, Virginia Tech for the $135 registration fee (both days) or $95 (one day) and the completed Registration Sheet located at http://ext.vt.edu/topics/agriculture/agritourism/files/registration.pdf to Dr. Martha A. Walker, Virginia Cooperative Extension; 150 B Slayton Ave.; Danville, VA 24540.

Conference registration deadline is Thursday, February 26. (No refunds after this date). Virginia Cooperative Extension is unable to accept payment by credit card.

84th Virginia Certified Planning

Commissioner Program

Opening Session: April 20-21

Meeting Location: Harrisonburg Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Closing Session: June 29-30 Cost: $500 per person Registration Deadline: April 1

Registration information/form available care of www.planvirginia.com. Contact: Michael Chandler, Director of Education, Land Use Education Program, Virginia Tech, 804.794.6236 or [email protected].

Managing While Leading: Understanding Your Powers, Duties, and Responsibilities

Friday, May 15 and Friday, July 17

Are leadership, management, and governance symbiotic or separate? Boards of Supervisors are elected to serve specific roles and guide county functions as defined by the Code of Virginia.

This course reviews the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the local Supervisor in addition to identifying the skill set needed to establish a governance policy body that is consequential. Avoiding poor performance and learning how to blend leadership with strategic thinking is a course outcome.

Register Today! The deadline is May 5.

Registration Form Register OnlineProgram Webpage

Join us for the next Supervisor Certification Course

Page 7: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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THE FEEDING FRENZY FOR INFORMATIONThinking critically about the business of codifying local laws, it strikes me that there is a high interest in technology, but infrequently does anyone ask about the substantive side of codifying ordinances.

It seems technology has created a feeding frenzy for information; the faster (e-mail), more easily researched (search engine), more readily accessible (Internet) information is; the more we salivate to be first to get it. However, this frenzy has little nutritional value; we are consuming the informational equivalent of a diet soda (that contains zero calories and tons of additives). The missing ingredient is revealed in the question: “What about the substance of the information?” Do the words say what we want them to say? Do they describe what we really do? Are they consistent with state law? Court cases? The Charter? Is any of the language too vague? Does it improperly delegate authority?

As Chairman of Municode, I believe our customers have the privilege of determining what’s important, but to redefine our product so that its salient features are attributes of delivery instead of content, is in my opinion a mistake. Ask any codifier and they will tell you they started with a focus on helping local governments make sure their ordinances were substantively consistent, free of conflicts and reflective of the intent of the governing body. Printing pages or posting content online was necessary, but secondary. Technology has helped make processing and delivering the information more efficient, but it cannot replace the judgment of an experienced attorney or editor who is critically reviewing the ordinances for conflicts.

As the role of Information Technology in local government grows, the idea of “common sense” must also grow. I have observed a deferral by experienced staff to IT people when facing the question of purchasing and implementing software. Balancing an understanding of human nature, priorities, skills and experiences against technical “efficiencies” promised by a more powerful computer or new software should be a discussion won by common sense.

There is a concept emerging among technology firms called “Civic Technology.” Essentially firms are striving for “data access and transparency,” “data utility” and “resident feedback.” Proponents of Civic Tech believe that the best way to engage the public is to make maximum use of technology. My belief is that the public is comprised of all manner of people: technologically astute, technological neophytes, young people, old people, highly educated, less educated, public servants, capitalists and everything in between. The point is that no one method of engagement is best; all methods must be embraced in order for the substance of our government and laws to accurately reflect the will of the elected and electorate.

A. Lawton Langford Chairman/CEO

Municipal Code Corporation

news from ourassociate members

Page 8: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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Henry D. Parker, Jr.Prince George County Board Member and Former Chairman

December 21,1938 – February 16, 2015

On January 8, 1980, Henry D. Parker, Jr. entered public service as an elected member of the Prince George County Board of Supervisors. Ever since taking his seat for the first time, Mr. Parker was a tireless advocate for the less advantaged citizens in our area and a champion of progressive community growth. For over 35 years, Mr. Parker served the citizens of Prince George County, the Commonwealth of Virginia and our great nation with a gentleman’s hand and a common sense approach. Mr. Parker was a businessman in Prince George County, operating Parker’s Grocery for over 50 years at 14001 James River Drive. During the Cuban missile crisis, he served for two years in the U.S. Army. An avid baseball enthusiast, Mr. Parker was a board member of the Babe Ruth Museum in Baltimore, MD since December 1992. In the early years, Mr. Parker was a leader and voice of reason for a countywide housing and rehabilitation program that provided indoor plumbing and new housing for low- to moderate-income residents. The expansion of water and sewer lines throughout the county mirrored the first cable television franchise to the area. A county parks and recreation department had just been created and Mr. Parker began financial and food contributions to support programs, volunteer coaches and projects for various activities, along with numerous anonymous donations. To this day, a Parker’s Grocery sponsor sign hangs on ball field dugouts at the JEJ Moore Sports Complex. In the 1980’s, Petersburg and Hopewell began an annexation process in Prince George County. Mr. Parker was a vocal opponent of the land seizure and worked with the Board of Supervisors to block future land acquisitions from neighboring municipalities. This particular case helped establish Commonwealth law which exists today to prevent future annexations. Mr. Parker was an honorary member of the Burrowsville Volunteer Fire Department, Company 4, and consistent supporter of fire and emergency crew volunteers. He was a founding sponsor of the Hopewell – Prince George Crime Solvers organization. During his service on the Prince George County Board of Supervisors, Mr. Parker championed the following capital projects: a new elementary school required for the BRAC expansion at Fort Lee, a new Prince George Library, a new Animal Services and Adoption Center, a new JEJ Moore Middle School, a renovated police headquarters, a new Courts building, a renovated Health and Human Services building and a new County Administration building. Always finding the financing, Mr. Parker helped guide the county through continued improvement and growth, even in the economic lean years. Mr. Parker was a leader and continued force for economic development in the county. His vision for land development helped bring about the Southpoint Business Park and Crosspointe Centre. Today, companies such as ACE Hardware, Goya Foods, Perdue, Rolls-Royce and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing conduct business in easily accessible, well maintained areas. The decision to purchase this land has led to thousands of jobs and millions in private investment. Mr. Parker’s foresight stopped the advancement of an alternative use for this property – a county landfill. Through the years, Mr. Parker represented the County by serving on the Crater Regional Planning Commission, Prince George County Tri-Centennial Celebration Commission, Metropolitan Planning Organization, Prince George County Farm Bureau and Hopewell - Prince George County Chamber of Commerce. Though never a member, in 2013, the Burrowsville Ruritan club appointed Mr. Parker a lifetime member for his decades of service to the club. Ticket sales, food contributions and in-kind services continuously flowed from Parker’s Grocery for community development projects. On July 1, 2013, Parker’s Grocery celebrated 50 years of operation in Prince George County. As a central hub for information and life’s essentials, the general store model has survived in this community due to Mr. Parker’s presence and attention to detail. It is that type of service which he displayed in each facet of his professional and public service life. On behalf of Mr. William A. Robertson, Jr., Chairman, and the Prince George County Board of Supervisors, Mr. Percy C. Ashcraft, County Administrator, and decades of County staff and volunteers, we publically thank Mr. Henry D. Parker, Jr. for his years of service, dedication and admiration for Prince George County, Virginia.

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ENTER THE 2015 VACo ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Dear VACo Members,

It’s time for the 2015 Achievement Awards Program. Any county department is eligible to compete so ENTER NOW!

Award plaques will be presented at VACo’s Annual Conference on November 8-10 in Bath County. VACo representatives also will visit Board of Supervisors meetings to present the winners their certificates.

The winning entries will be recognized on VACo’s Achievement Awards website page, in a news release sent to statewide media and in an Achievement Awards booklet.

Submissions must be received by June 1.

All entries are required to be submitted in electronic form. No paper copy submissions are necessary. The electronic copy should be a PDF or WORD file. E-mail entries to Gage Harter at [email protected].

The judges for the 2015 event will be announced soon. Last year’s judges were Tedd Povar, Associate Director of the Virginia Institute of Government; William Quarles, for-mer Goochland County Supervisor; and Linda Lumpkin, retired Essex County Deputy County Administrator.

VACo received more than 300 entries over the past six competitions. Last year’s “Best Achievement” winner was Loudoun County for its “You Belong @ Your Library” pro-gram.

VACo encourages all counties, big and small, to enter the 2015 Achievement Awards Program. Please contact [email protected] with questions or for more information.

Click here for registration form

Click here for Achievement Awards website

Click here to browse all of the 2014 entries

Click here to view past Achievement Award winners

Page 10: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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• Board approves ConnectArlington policy, license agreement, rate structure• Increased dark fiber capacity to offer higher quality technology services. • Security for Arlington businesses, institutions, and federal agencies • Key economic development tool• Available in coming months

The Arlington County Board today took a key step as it moves into the homestretch of creating a technology infrastructure that is unparalleled in the region. Guided by an adopted policy statement, license agreement and rate structure, the County is poised to begin using ConnectArlington as an economic development tool within the next six months. The Board voted 5-0 to approve the policy statement which will guide the next phase of ConnectArlington as it brings high-speed “dark fiber” to the County’s commercial corridors as well as a standard license agreement that should expedite business access at reasonable rates. The County will own and maintain the 10-miles of dark fiber – the so-called “middle mile” – and will license its use to interested parties, who will be responsible for connecting fiber to offices, businesses and apartments in Arlington. The route traverses the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor, Glebe Road, Columbia Pike and Crystal City. A key requirement of the policy is that the “middle mile” must connect to businesses located in Arlington.

View a Map of ConnectArlington

“This is an exciting step forward in Arlington’s plan to be a technological hub in our region,” said Arlington County Board Chair Mary Hynes. “Arlington’s strategic investments are building a technology infrastructure second to none, that will help us attract the businesses of the 21st century. Just as Arlington had the foresight to insist that Metro be built under the heart of our commercial corridors, it had the foresight, when building ConnectArlington, to build in additional capacity to meet future needs – for our businesses and County government.”

County will own, maintain main corridor of fiber Under the licensing agreement, the County will own and maintain the “middle mile” and licensees will be responsible for final connections, also known as the “last mile” of fiber, to individual buildings and businesses. Interested businesses will work directly with licensees to connect to the high-speed fiber. Dark fiber has the capacity to offer the highest levels of speed, redundancy, security and affordability for the overall telecommunications infrastructure in the County’s commercial corridors. Based on market research, the presence of this tool at an affordable rate is expected to enhance Arlington’s desirability as a location for the most technologically advanced businesses and entrepreneurs. As the number of businesses expand, the County’s investment in ConnectArlington is expected to lead to additional tax revenues from businesses that choose to locate or remain in Arlington because of this infrastructure. The County has begun installation of the 864 strands of dark fiber for ConnectArlington and work is expected to be completed by autumn 2015. The expansion of ConnectArlington is expected to cost $4.1 million. Of that amount, $1.6 million was funded in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 adopted budget, and $2.5 million will be part of the FY 2016 PAYG (“pay as you go”) proposed budget. Operating expenses are estimated to be $700,000-$800,000 annually. Based on conservative estimates, over the life of the project, revenues will pay back these investments and operating costs.

About ConnectArlington Arlington County Government originally developed ConnectArlington to connect all of the County’s facilities and the public school system with high-speed broad band technology delivered through underground dark (dedicated) fiber. Currently, ConnectArlington fiber is used solely for government purposes, including the Intelligent Transportation System – a project to replace the copper wire-connected traffic signals with fiber optics to enhance traffic management and Public Safety Radio Ring, a project using underground fiber for transmission of public safety emergency dispatch in response to 911 calls. While working on these other projects, Arlington had the foresight to install additional underground capacity to meet future needs. This capacity will be made available under the new form license agreements. Arlington Va., is a world-class residential, business and tourist location that was originally part of the “10 miles square” parcel of land surveyed in 1791 to be the Nation’s Capital. Slightly smaller than 26 square miles, it is the geographically smallest self-governing county in the United States, and one of only a handful with the prized Aaa/AAA/AAA bond rating. Arlington maintains a rich variety of stable neighborhoods and quality schools and has received numerous awards for Smart Growth and transit-oriented development. Home to some of the most influential organizations in the world — including the Pentagon — Arlington stands out as one of America’s preeminent places to live, visit and do business.

Arlington to License ConnectArlington in Commercial Corridors

Page 11: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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County Supervisors - Here’s an opportunity to share your pride in your district through a video project. Produce your own 45-second video that showcases the beauty of your district or the folks in your community.

Here’s how...

• Find that special place in your district that represents your pride in your community - whether it’s a landmark, landscape, event or just a bunch of your friends and constituents together

• Use a phone with video capabilities

• On camera, introduce yourself, your district, your county, the place in the video and perhaps some history or facts of the location

Here’s a sample script...

FADE IN

CAMERA frames the SUPERVISOR, who introduces himself/herself.

SUPERVISORHi. I’m John Jones. Welcome to Wake County’s Sixth District and our beautiful waterfall at Moss Creek Park!

The waterfalls stretches 200 feet in the air and its water is warm enough to swim. Come visit us!

CAMERA pans the area to show the landscape and waterfalls.

FADE OUT

VACo will create a Supervisors Video Wall on www.vaco.org where the 45-second videos will be posted individually as they are received. We hope the video wall will grow to represent all of Virginia’s supervisor districts.

As a reminder - each video should contain the following:

• Limit to 45 seconds in duration (the time limit allows you to email or text the clip)• Supervisors must identify themselves • Supervisors must identify their county and district• Videos must be done in one take | No editing

Supervisors are encouraged to use their phones and email or text their clip to [email protected]. Please contact [email protected] to confirm delivery of your clip.

Page 12: General Assembly Completes 2015 Session€¦ · March 4, 2015 The Newsletter of the Virginia Association of Counties ConneCtions County The General Assembly completed its work a day

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March 4, 2015

Employment Opportunities

ConneCtionsCounty

Employment ads are edited due to space considerations. Visit www.vaco.org to view the full versions. Click on the County Employment link on the menu bar.

UTILITY SUPERINTENDENT | Hanover CountyWe are seeking an experienced Utility Superintendent with strong management, technical and team building skills. The Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent is a supervisory, professional position responsible for managing utility supervisors, utility operators and technicians. Hiring range $52,362 - $70,679 plus excellent benefits. For more information and to apply, please visit our career site at www.hanovercountyjobs.com. 804.365.6489, (TDD #365.6140).

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TECHNICIAN | Botetourt CountyStarting Salary: $27,914 - $30,000 DOQ. This is a full-time position with an excellent benefits package including state retirement. Experience related to building, GIS, land development and application of results and regulations. Knowledge of and ability to apply the administrative provisions of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code and Botetourt County Code. Go to www.botetourtva.gov for application and complete job description. Application, cover letter, and resume can be submitted to: Botetourt County Human Resources, 5 West Main St, Suite 200, Fincastle, VA 24090 or e-mail to [email protected]. (Reference Community Development Technician in the subject line). A completed application form is required to be considered for the position. Open until filled.

OFFICE ASSISTANT | Valley Alcohol Safety Action ProgramApplicant must have knowledge of standard office practices, procedures, equipment, office assistance techniques, and ability to establish and maintain working relationships with associates and clients. This position will be required to perform drug screenings. This position is a full- time position with benefits. To apply please submit and Augusta County application which can be picked up at the Personnel Office located at the Augusta County Government Center in Verona, VA or on the county website at www.co.augusta.va.us. Applications need to be returned to the Augusta County Personnel Office by, Friday March 6 by 5pm.

HOUSING INSPECTOR | James City County$17,563 or higher, DOQ; Office of Housing and Community Development seeking an individual to perform work inspecting housing units, compiling inspection reports, communicating with landlords, tenants, homeowners, contractors, and others. Essential job functions include conducting initial, annual, follow-up, and special inspections for Section 8 rental units; obtaining and compiling rent comparison information and conducting rent reasonableness determinations; maintaining quality inspection logs. Accepting applications until position is filled. To apply, submit an online application on the James City County Career Center website at https://jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov.

INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN | James City County$37,769 or higher, DOQ + Benefits; James City Service Authority (JCSA) seeking individual to work in the maintenance and repair of control system equipment such as electrical, electronic, microprocessor and variable frequency drives, electro-mechanical, power generation, and SCADA components. Responsibilities include designing, maintaining, repairing, and installing electrical/mechanical equipment and systems; performing control and instrumentation work on power generation equipment. Accepting applications until position is filled. To apply, submit an online application on the James City County Career Center website at https://jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov.

ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR | James City County$54,287 or higher, DOQ; Accounting Division seeking individual to perform advanced professional work planning, coordinating, and supervising the accounting operations for the County and its fiscal agencies. Primary duties include: supervision of assigned division staff; overseeing preparation and reviewing of reports for payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, grants, fixed assets, and general ledger; conducting complex schedules, research, and account analysis for preparation of annual financial reports, financial statements, ledgers, and taxes; attending and presenting financial Accepting applications until midnight on March 9. To apply, submit an online application on the James City County Career Center website at https://jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov.

SAFETY COORDINATOR | James City County$43,667 or higher, DOQ + benefits; full-time regular position; Financial and Management Services seeking individual to perform responsible professional work ensuring compliance with all state and federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Accepting applications until position is filled. To apply, submit an online application on the James City County Career Center website at https://jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov.

COUNTY ATTORNEY | Louisa CountyThe Louisa County Attorney is the Chief Legal Officer and Counsel to the County of Louisa. The Louisa County Attorney reports directly to and is responsible to the Louisa County Board of Supervisors. The Louisa County Attorney represents the County by providing timely legal services and advice to the Board of Supervisors, Constitutional Officers and Department Heads. The Louisa County Attorney also provides legal advice and consultation to all of the various Boards, Authorities and commissions in and for Louisa County. The Louisa County Attorney performs complex legal work including the management and trial of complex civil litigation; works with insurance counsel and outside counsel, reviews and prepares legal documents including ordinances, legal opinions and contracts.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT OPERATIONS COORDINATOR | Virginia’s Region 2000 PartnershipPay Grade: 111. FLSA Status: ExemptThe Workforce Development Operations Coordinator works to implement the vision and strategic plan of the Region 2000 Workforce Development Board by establishing and maintaining effective service procurement, contract management and monitoring systems to ensure Board, contractor and operator compliance with applicable Federal, State, and Local standards and regulations, Board policies and procedures, and contractual specifications. Experience developing or maintaining websites and social media campaigns is preferred. Required application and more information can be found at www.region2000.org/jobs. Forward required application and cover letter to [email protected], or

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March 4, 2015 ConneCtionsCounty

Region 2000 LGC, 828 Main Street, 12th floor, Lynchburg, VA 24504. Review of applications begin 3/9/15. Position open until filled.

CODE INSPECTOR I - FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS | City of AlexandriaA New Construction Code Inspector will conduct technical code inspection work on new and existing construction and renovation projects in residential and commercial buildings. An employee in this class inspects and approves technical work and enforces compliance with the Alexandria City Code, the Code of Virginia, Internal policies and procedures, and the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code as well as any referenced codes or standards to protect the public against hazards caused by defective materials and workmanship in building construction. Employees work in the field, as assigned. Salary: $41,562-$66,780 annually DOQ. For more information and to submit your application, please visit our website at www.alexandriava.gov/jobs or call 703.746.3780, Reference Job #2015-00407 Position closes on March 18 at 5 p.m.

BUILDING OFFICIAL/DIVISION DIRECTOR BUILDING PLAN REVIEW & INSPECTIONS | Fairfax CountyJob Announcement # 15-00289. $87,068 - $145,114. Directs the daily operations of the Building Plan Review and Inspections Division. Establishes measurable goals and objectives for each organization and tracks attainment of same. Ensures that permit applications and designs for projects as well as residential multi-family, and commercial projects under construction comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC). SELECTION PROCEDURE: Panel interview. Apply online at agency.governmentjobs.com/fairfaxcounty by 5 p.m. on March 13.

DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | Chesterfield CountyChesterfield County, Virginia (Richmond-Metro Area), a recognized leader and award winning local government, is seeking an individual with strong leadership qualities and extensive development management experience to oversee the county’s economic development program, which encompasses a healthy balance of commercial, industrial, residential and retail growth. This recruitment will remain

open until March 13 at 5 p.m. Interested applicants should submit a confidential resume with cover letter and must include salary history and salary requirements to:Mary Martin Selby, Director of HR ServicesChesterfield County Human Resource Management, P.O. Box 40, Chesterfield, VA 23832. [email protected]. 804.748.1551.

CONVENIENCE CENTER ATTENDANT | James City County$9.45/hour; On-Call; Solid Waste Division seeking individual to perform responsible service maintenance work operating one or more of the County’s Convenience Centers for disposal of residential refuse and recyclables on an as needed basis. Accepting applications until the position is filled. Only online applications will be accepted. To apply for this position, please visit the James City County Career Center at jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov.

PLANNER | City of Lynchburg$33,238 to $60,340. Interested in joining a great team of planning professionals working to make the City of Lynchburg the best place to live, work, play and visit? The Department of Community Development is looking for a dynamic entry level planner to assist with all phases of development projects, from concept design and initial review to approval and inspection of plans, plats and infrastructure projects. The successful applicant will also serve as staff support for a variety of elected and appointed bodies and assist with the development of studies, analyses and recommendations consistent with the physical, social and economic development of the City. SENIOR TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT SPECIALIST | New Kent CountyThe Senior Technology Support Specialist performs difficult technical work planning, organizing, developing, implementing and maintaining the County’s electronic information systems. The position requires the application of knowledge to new, unusual, and highly technical situations. The ability to develop relationships with all levels of staff and management is critical to success in this position. For complete information please review job posting on our website: www.co.new-kent.va.us.Human Resource, PO Box 150, New Kent, VA 23124.

BUYER I | Albemarle CountyNon-Exempt, Pay Grade 12. The Buyer performs responsible technical and

professional work in coordinating the County’s and School Division’s procurement system in accordance with Virginia Procurement Act and Albemarle County Purchasing Manual Codes and regulations, and purchasing best practices. Responsible for procurement of goods/services for the Purchasing Division and processing expenditures thereto, including the use and reconciliation of the PCard. $17.35 - $20.82/per hour based on experience, education and internal equity. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60 and internal equity considerations. Open until filled.

PAYROLL SPECIALIST | Albemarle CountyNon-Exempt, Pay Grade 12. The Payroll Specialist performs complex and specialized technical work in the areas of finance involving the preparation and maintenance of payroll system; does related work as required. Work is performed with a considerable degree of individual responsibility and independent judgment. $17.35 - $20.82 /per hour equivalent based on experience, education, and internal equity. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60. Open until filled

COUNTY ATTORNEY | Sussex CountySussex County is seeking a candidate to perform advanced professional and supervisory work while serving as chief legal adviser to the County government in all matters affecting the legal interests of the County. Application deadline: 4 p.m., March 6. To apply, submit Commonwealth of Virginia application, cover letter, resume and salary requirements to: Deborah A. Davis, County Administrator, Post Office 1397, Sussex VA 23884; if delivering in person, deliver to Sussex County Administration Building, 20135 Princeton Road, Sussex VA; email to: [email protected]. Please seal the envelope and mark it “CONFIDENTIAL.” No faxes or phone calls please.

CHIEF OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT | Albemarle CountyExempt, Paygrade 22. The Chief of Financial Management oversees the financial operations in compliance with state and federal laws and in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). $72,958 - $119,090/annual equivalent based on experience and education. Open until filled

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Executive Committee President: Penelope A. Gross, Fairfax County President-Elect: David V. Hutchins, Carroll County 1st Vice President: Judy S. Lyttle, Surry County 2nd Vice President: Mary W. Biggs, Montgomery County Secretary Treasurer: Donald L. Hart, Jr., Accomack County Immediate Past President: Harrison A. Moody, Dinwiddie County

Staff Executive Director: James D. Campbell, CAE Deputy Executive Director: Dean A. Lynch, CAE General Counsel: Phyllis A. Errico, Esq., CAE Director of Administration: Vicky D. Steinruck, CPA Director of Communications: Gage Harter Director of Government Affairs: Erik C. Johnston, CAE Director of Intergovernmental Affairs: Beau Blevins Director of Member Services: Carol I. Cameron Director of Policy Development: Larry J. Land, CAE Director of Technical Services: John N. Kandris, A+, ACT, CCA Operations and Support Coordinator: Amy Elizabeth Vealey VACo Risk Management Programs: Chris Carey, Administrator, 888.822.6772

VACo exists to support county officials and to effectively

represent, promote and protect the interests of counties to better serve

the people of Virginia.

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County Connections is a semimonthly publication.

Editor: Gage Harter804.343.2502

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