Bradshaw Visit Natural highlights ‘most Tunnel State troublesome’ Park and COUNTY mandates... Scott County CONNECTIONS Page 2 ... Page 5 The New federal The Newsletter of the President’s funding Association of Counties Message... package Page 3 (Medicaid and K-12)... August 15, 2010 Page 7 2010 Annual VACo’s summer meeting: Conference update Lt. Governor talks jobs and steering committees initiate work

Photo courtesy of Craig Carper, WCVE-Richmond

The agenda for VACo’s 2010 Annual Conference is taking shape. Major issues to receive attention will be the economy, jobs, the social media, energy, aggressive new initiatives By Mike Edwards undertaken by EPA to improve water [email protected] quality, redistricting, taxation, transportation, and more. During VACo’s summer meeting on recommendations including efforts to To enhance this year’s focus on Aug. 6 in Henrico County, Lt. promote “emerging technology sectors” transportation, Sean Connaughton, Governor William T. “Bill” Bolling such as biomedical research. Bolling Virginia’s Secretary of Transportation spoke to the Board of Directors about discussed a range of associated (and former Chair of Prince William the ongoing work of the Governor’s Commission issues: Commission County’s Board of Supervisors) has Economic Development and Jobs membership (excluding local leaders); accepted VACo’s invitation to partici- Creation Commission, and the steering Interim recommendations impacting pate actively in meetings and sessions committees initiated the development of local business taxes (specific that will be part of this year’s event. the 2011 legislative program. workgroups are targeting the Machinery With formula allocations for Additionally, the Board adopted a and Tools and BPOL taxes for repeal); Virginia’s secondary roads being 2011 change to the existing steering and Transportation funding. The Lt. virtually decimated in recent years, and committee structure by establishing a Governor said repealing or changing VDOT’s revenue sharing program new one. local taxes and revenues requires “an providing only a fraction of the Bolling co-chairs the Commission offset.” He also said finding a assistance for counties it provided only in his capacity as Gov. Robert F. politically consensual and long term a few years ago, it will be essential for McDonnell’s Chief Jobs Creation transportation funding solution may this year’s conference to feature frank Officer. McDonnell created the prove elusive, despite the McDonnell and honest discussions over transporta- Commission and announced Bolling’s Administration’s ongoing and near term tion along with many other issues. appointment in Executive Order #1. goals to buttress spending, including In addition to Secretary VACo’s eight steering committees privatizing the sale of liquor. The Connaughton and Speaker of the completed the first of their two Commission is charged with completing House William Howell, we fully expect scheduled meetings. its recommendations in mid-October. The Lt. Governor reviewed several CONFERENCE of the Commission’s interim MEETING Continued on page 8 Continued on page 9 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010 Bradshaw highlights ‘most troublesome’ mandates

Ted McCormack million reduction in FY 2011). and localities based on the number of [email protected] employees potentially eligible to receive VACo President Phillip Bradshaw Comprehensive Services Act benefits under the program. VACo opposes spoke to the Aug. 4 meeting of the The Commonwealth has increased the shift in program funding. Local Intergovernmental Relations Committee of mandatory local participation percentages governments did not support the creation of the Governor's Reform Commission on the for the provision of services funded through this state benefit and now should not be state mandates of most concern to counties. the Comprehensive Services Act. Mandates required to pay for it. VML and the School Board increasing local rates for residential and Association also presented their lists of foster care related services should be Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act troublesome mandates to the committee at abolished and returned to the FY 2006 level. Local governments east of I-95 subject that meeting. Local match rates should not differentiate to the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act are President Bradshaw’s presentation between service types. required to devote staff resources to monitor began by reiterating VACo's long-standing Additionally, the CSA mandate the five-year septic tank pump out provision policy statement on mandates from the 2010 requiring local governments to match federal of the Act. This should be the job of the Legislative Program. He then went on to list Medicaid funds should be eliminated. Department of Health since it currently has some of the most of problematic state Lastly, the State Executive Council the records and personnel already in place mandates impacting local governments. should be required to follow the to monitor this requirement. Among those were: Administrative Process Act in the review In addition, the Act mandates that and approval of new CSA provisions. localities review soil and water runoff Aid to Localities Currently, the Council has final say. control and water quality assessments VACo supports abolishing the current prepared by all agricultural operations biennial Aid to Localities reductions. The Equal Tax and Bond Authority within their jurisdiction, and to take ATL reversion of $60 million in FY 2011 VACo supports granting counties the enforcement action when necessary. This and $60 million again in FY 2012 creates a authority cities and towns retain to enact function necessitates additional staff and hardship for localities and appears local excise taxes including the cigarette tax, costs and should appropriately be the unnecessary in light of an FY 2010 $220 admissions tax, transient occupancy tax and responsibility of either the Department of million state surplus. meals tax. VACo also supports granting Conservation and Recreation or the Virginia Political subdivisions reverted $50 counties the authority cities and towns Department of Agriculture. million in ATL reductions in both FY 2009 retain to approve general obligation debt. and FY 2010. These cuts are in addition to VACo recognizes that the equalization of Courthouse Construction all other local reductions. It is important to bonding authority will require a State law requires localities to assume repeat that $50 million of the $220 million constitutional amendment. the mandated cost to construct and main- FY 2010 surplus came directly from these tain court facilities. If, in the sole opinion of reimbursements. Constitutional Officers the local circuit court, localities do not meet VACo urges the Commonwealth to those requirements, the court can order to Public Education Funding meet its full funding obligations for build a new courthouse without regard to Localities are holding the K-12 public mandated constitutional officers. A JLARC the fiscal condition of the local government. education system together to meet the study of funding and staffing of In most instances, such an order Standards of Accreditation and the constitutional officers and other state involves spending millions of dollars on new Standards of Learning. They are spending mandated positions should be conducted. A facilities - new facilities that may not be $3 billion or 82 percent more a year than full fiscal and program analysis should included in the local CIP. Additionally, the required by the state. The $3 billion is 22 determine state and local responsibilities and state has not established incentives for court percent of total K-12 spending. whether state funding responsibilities are officials to foster regional facilities. While While the $3 billion is not technically sufficient. Additionally, the study should this mandate has been temporarily and statutorily mandated, localities are examine jail issues including staffing, suspended by the General Assembly it responding to actual needs and costs the funding, construction, per diems, remains a threat of significant unplanned state is failing to recognize. operational costs, and benefits. expenditures to all cities and counties. • Recent state K-12 reductions: FY 2010 state distributions were nearly Line of Duty Act Elections $300 million lower than actual FY 2009 The 2010 General Assembly included Federal and state laws govern elections appropriations. budget language transitioning the Line of and voter registration processes, but local Compared to FY 2009 funding levels, Duty benefit in FY 2012 from a fully state governments assume most of the costs. the new state budget reduces state support funded program to one paid by local President Bradshaw also repeated some for administrative school positions by governments and state agencies. New of his remarks to Gov. McDonnell at the one-third each year of the biennium (a $376 premiums will be charged to state agencies Town Hall held in Norfolk on Aug. 9. 2 COUNTY August 15, 2010 CONNECTIONS The President’s Message Dear Members,

As noted in today’s lead story (VACo’s summer meeting: Lt. Governor talks jobs and steering committees initiate work) and during its Aug. 6 meeting in Henrico, the VACo Board of Directors adopted a 2011 change to the existing steering committee structure. We established a new committee to oversee compensation and public safety issues namely Compensation Board, compensation and retirement, line of duty and other public safety issues. The change recognizes the emergence of these policy issues and demonstrates VACo’s commitment to serving all 95 counties. As you know, state Compensation Board and public safety funding continue to decline and VRS issues continue to emerge. By harnessing the members’ collective experiences and expertise, the new committee will strengthen VACo’s internal and external legislative efforts. In addition to establishing the new committee, the recommendation moves the issues currently assigned to the Telecommunications and Public Utilities Steering Committee to the Administration of Government Steering Committee. While eliminating the stand-alone Telecommunications and Public Utilities Steering Committee, the Administration of Government Steering Committee will welcome the inclusion of VACo members interested in these issues. On Aug. 6, I met with the members of the Telecommunications and Public Utilities Steering Committee to discuss the change. Transferring their vital topics to the Administration of Government Steering Committee will allow more members to develop our telecommunications and public utility policies. For example, a significant number of local leaders are interested in ways to expand the deployment of broadband access. This change represents yet another way the VACo Board recognizes and responds to your concerns. Please remember to register for the 2010 annual conference, Nov. 7-9 in Bath County. The registration form is now available.... As you know, the conference allows local leaders to learn best practices, speak with statewide leaders and interact with colleagues. This year’s theme, “Resilience: Serving Counties in Trying Times,” acknowledges the importance of your leadership during these unique economic times. I hope to see you in Bath County! Leadership for Effective Governance in the 21st Century Friday, Sept. 10 Saturday, Nov. 6 Cost: $350 per person, Albemarle County The Homestead, Bath County includes books, 9:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. materials, lunch

Leadership for Effective Governance in the 21st Century will be the next course in the VACo and Virginia Tech sponsored Certified County Supervisor Program. Between the two classroom sessions, each class member will complete a series of lessons based on assigned readings. The focus of the Leadership for Effective Governance in the 21st Century course will be to help elected county officials become more effective leaders in such areas as leadership, community planning, finance and other areas of responsibility. To meet this educational objective the course, participants will examine and discuss public sector models as well as private sector approaches. Persons interested in taking the course must complete a registration form, which is also posted at www.vaco.org/Calendar.html. Please note that individuals may enroll in the Certified County Supervisor Program at anytime. There is a rolling admission rather than a set admission time. Questions regarding the certification program can be directed to Larry Land at VACo or Mike Chandler at 804.794.6236. Be a part of the action by registering for the class. Click here for the registration form. 3 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010 Snead named Chesterfield deputy county administrator for human services Chesterfield County Administrator James J.L. Stegmaier is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah C. Snead as deputy county administrator for human services. Snead, formerly the director of the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services, has served in an interim capacity as deputy administrator since June 2009. "Sarah has done an outstanding job juggling the responsibilities of two critical positions for the county this past year," Stegmaier said. "Her leadership abilities and absolute commit- ment to serving the public have demonstrated clearly that she is the right person for the job." Snead has served as director of social services since 1995. She previously was director of the King George County Department of Social Services and has a master's degree in social work administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. "I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to serve as the deputy county administrator for human services," Snead said. "Not only do I care deeply for Chesterfield County, but I am particularly passionate about human services. I look forward to this new role and am excited about working with the residents of Chesterfield County." As a deputy county administrator, Snead will oversee the operations of many departments, including Community Corrections Services, Court Services, Extension Services, Health Department, Juvenile Detention Home, Libraries, Lucy Corr Nursing Home, Mental Health Support Services, Parks and Recreation, Senior Advocate, Social Services, Youth Group Home and Youth Planning and Development, as well as other responsibilities. Snead is a member and past president of the Virginia League of Social Services Executives and a member and past board member and officer of the Blue Ridge Institute for Southern Community Service Executives. She also serves on various boards and committees of both the Virginia Department of Social Services and Chesterfield County. Beacher selected as transportation director for Loudoun County Andrew G. Beacher has been a civil engineer officer. During his time selected to serve as the new Loudoun in the Air Force, he served as Base County director of transportation Community Planner and Chief of the services, County Administrator Tim Simplified Acquisition of Base Engineer Hemstreet announced recently. Requirements office at Andrews Air Beacher has served as acting Force Base in Maryland. director of the Office of Transportation Beacher earned a Bachelor's degree Services (OTS) since May. He joined in Civil Engineering from Clarkson the Loudoun County Government in University and a Master's degree in 2006 when he was hired as assistant Civil Engineering from the University of director of OTS. Virginia. "After a fully competitive The Loudoun County recruitment process that included a Transportation Director oversees national search, Andy emerged as the matters relating to the county's top candidate for the position," transportation system, including road arrival of Metrorail service in the Hemstreet said. "He has done an development, pedestrian and bicycle county. outstanding job since becoming Acting accommodations, implementation of "I am very excited about this Director. He juggled the adoption of a traffic improvements and the opportunity and look forward to major transportation project - the planning/management of county transit working with the Board of Supervisors Countywide Transportation Plan - operations and commuter services. and county staff to help plan and while managing the department in his The recently adopted Countywide implement a quality transportation role as acting department head." Transportation Plan includes, among system for the residents and businesses Before coming to Loudoun County, other features, a new transit plan for of Loudoun County," Beacher said. Beacher worked as a transportation services, routes, infrastructure, and analyst for a consulting firm. He also various funding alternatives to serve served in the Air Force as Loudoun residents prior to and after Photo by Nancy McCormick

4 COUNTY August 15, 2010 CONNECTIONS

Visit Natural Tunnel State Park and Scott County

Natural Tunnel State Park, centered around the Natural Tunnel, a massive naturally-formed cave that is used as a railroad tunnel. It is located in the Appalachian Mountains near Duffield in Scott County. The Natural Tunnel, which spans to 200 feet (61 meters) wide and 80 feet (24 meters) high, began to form more than a million years ago when groundwater bearing carbonic acid percolated through crevices and slowly dissolved limestone and dolomite bedrock. A small river, which is now called Stock Creek, was diverted underground and it continued to erode the tunnel over many millennia. The walls of the tunnel show evidence of prehistoric life. Many fossils have been found in the creek bed and in the tunnel walls. Although Natural Tunnel State Park was established in 1967 and opened to the public in 1971, Natural Tunnel has been a tourist attraction for more than a century; Daniel Boone is believed to have been the first European to see it in the 18th century. The 41st U.S. Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan dubbed it the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” A railroad was constructed through the natural tunnel in 1893. The first train, operated by the Virginia & Southwestern Railway Company, passed through the following year. In 1899, the Natural tunnel was purchased by the Tennessee & Carolina & Iron and Steel Company. The railway originally carried passenger trains; today, the line is still open but is only used to transport coal. There is a 1,600 foot (500 metres) boardwalk that allows disabled visitors to gain access to the natural tunnel. Park visitors can also camp, swim, picnic and hike. There is a visitors center and naturally-formed amphitheaters that are up to 600 feet (180 meters) high. Photos and information from Wikipedia and www.virginia.org.

5 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010 Mark Your Calendars Making your FOIA life easier with better records management

Wednesday, Sept. 15 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Library of Virginia Lecture Hall Register 2010 Virginia Rural Summit SPONSORED BY The Virginia Coalition for Open Government Sept. 13-14 The 2010 Virginia Rural Summit will IN PARTNERSHIP WITH focus in three areas: The Library of Virginia The Virginia Association of Counties • Economic Development/Job Creation The Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council - Economic Growth through current job The Virginia Municipal League retention and new job creation PANELISTS INCLUDE • Education - How does rural upgrade Maria Everett (Director of the Virginia FOIA Council) past workforce skills to meet 21st Craig Fifer (E-government manager for the City of Alexandria) Century job needs? Frankie Giles (Virginia Department of Transportation, Policy Division) Jeff Snyder (Library of Virginia, Records Management Division) • Regional Policies and Services - Advancing rural regions through Click here for registration form. innovative programs and policies

Registration for the 2010 Virginia Rural Summit is in partnership with the Virginia Association of Counties.

Please fax this completed registration form to: (804) 788-0083. 2010 AASHTO National Civil Rights Symposium Or mail to: VACo, 1207 E. Main Street, Sept. 12-15 Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23219. Marriott Norfolk Waterside Make checks payable to: Virginia Norfolk Association of Counties. Title VI Forum for State and Local Governments Flyer Click here for registration form. Register for the event Click here for preliminary agenda. Virginia is hosting the 2010 AASHTO National Civil Rights Symposium in Norfolk from Sept. 12–15.

Click here for more information regarding the symposium.

Of particular interest is the opportunity for you and your staff to take advantage of Rural Planning Caucus of VA a one day Title VI Forum to be held on Sept. 15. This forum is focused on state and local governments and has a one day conference fee of only $99. 2010 Annual Conference “Planning Pathways: Trails, Trials, More information is available on the flyer. Tributaries” Oct. 20-22 Registration is available here. Mountain Lake Resort in Giles County www.rpcva.org 6 COUNTY August 15, 2010 CONNECTIONS New federal funding package (Medicaid and K-12) By Mike Edwards and Dean Lynch [email protected] and [email protected] President Barack Obama signed approximately $175 million must be into law on Aug. 11 a new emergency used to restore state funding for measure appropriating to the states Medicaid eligibility reductions. The Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance remainder - $118 million - will be avail- Percentage (FMAP) and K-12 funds. able to restore a portion of the addition- Congress adopted the measure over the al $242 million in Medicaid reductions course of the past two weeks. VACo in the 2010-2012 biennial budget. understands Virginia is targeted to receive $293 million for Medicaid K-12 necessary to retain existing employees, FMAP and $246 million for K-12. The Virginia Department of Education to recall or rehire former employees, Nationwide, the legislation provides provided the following information and to hire new employees. Funds may $16.1 billion to extend increased about the new federal K-12 funding: not be used for general administrative Medicaid FMAP funding for six • States must apply to the U.S. expenses or for other support services. months beyond the current stimulus Department of Education within 30 • A state maintenance of effort deadline of Dec. 31, 2010, and $10 days of enactment and funds must be (MOE) for education requirement billion for an Education Jobs Fund to awarded to states with approved appli- applies. Verification that Virginia meets provide additional emergency support cations within 45 days of enactment. this requirement is pending. to local school districts. The education • Funding must be distributed to dollars are intended to prevent school districts on the basis of the Offsets impending layoffs. "primary elementary and secondary Congress pays for the measure by formula" or the districts' relative shares closing a foreign tax credit, ending the FMAP of funds under the Title I-A program advanced refund ability of earned The increased federal funding for the most recent fiscal year. At this income tax credits and rescinding funds provides state savings by reducing their time, the specific Virginia distribution from several existing programs (see match rates for qualifying Medicaid formula has not been determined. below: Transportation offset). expenditures. Note: The adopted FY 2011 However, Virginia's share - the $293 Virginia allocation for previous federal Transportation offset million - is $124 million less than stimulus education dollars: "The One of the federal offsets includes a original estimates. You will recall that allocations shall be based on the $2.2 billion rescission in unobligated the adopted 2010-12 state budget proportion that each school division state highway contract authority. The includes Medicaid reductions totaling represents to the statewide total of Basic Federal Highway Administration $417 million. The state budget also Aid amount …" released a chart estimating the anticipated additional federal FMAP • In order to provide early state-by-state cuts. Virginia's rescission funding to support Medicaid provider childhood, elementary, or secondary or cut totals more than $56 million. rates, services, and eligibility totaling educational and related services, funds In closing, VACo understands Gov. the same $417 million. may be used by school districts only for Bob McDonnell retains sufficient Of the $293 million that the compensation and benefits and other administrative authority to accept and Commonwealth will receive, expenses, such as support services, appropriate the new federal funds. Sign Up for Go Green! Thirteen counties have now registered to participate in the Green Government Challenge! They are the counties of Albemarle, Augusta, Bototourt, Charlotte, Fairfax, Hanover, Henrico, Isle of Wight, James City, King William, Nelson, New Kent and Roanoke. Last year was VACo's first in participating with the Virginia Municipal League as partner in the Go Green Program. In 2009, 10 counties compiled the number of points necessary on the Go Green Scorecard to achieve certification, and were recognized last year at VACo's Annual Conference. To participate in the Go Green Government Challenge and obtain a copy of the scorecard, counties need to register online at www.GoGreenVA.org. The Web site is structured to make the process as easy for applicants as possible. This year, we want counties of all sizes and from all regions to achieve certification. The Go Green Initiative was first created by VML three years ago for the purpose of promoting sustainability and improving energy efficiency for all local governments. A new feature of this year's Go Green Challenge is the Green Buddy Program that will serve as a platform for networking and the exchange of information among all participating local governments. More information about the Green Buddy Program is available by contacting Joe Lerch, at 804-523-8530, or by e-mail at [email protected]. 7 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010 Virginia counties recognized for model programs The Virginia Association of • York County: "Bats, Balls and a Counties (VACo) is pleased to BMP-An Intergovernmental announce the recipients of the 2010 Project Produces Regional Achievement Awards recognizing Benefits" (Regional Collaboration) model local government programs. VACo received 60 entries for The winning counties, program the statewide contest. Lane titles and categories are: Ramsey, former Chesterfield • Campbell County: "Performance County administrator; Tedd Improvement Teams-Employee Driven Povar, associate director of the Long-Term Planning" (Organizational Virginia Institute of Government; Development) and Marilyn Blake, former Hanover types of models come and go. But this • Chesterfield County: "Whoa Baby" County assistant administrator, served program has endured and that is a testa- (Health/Human Services) as judges for this year's statewide ment to its strength and productivity." • Hanover County: "Dominion awards program. This was the sixth consecutive year Resources Greentech Incubator" "After a record 72 entries last year, Povar has served as judge. "I want to (Community/Economic Development) we didn't see a dramatic decline in commend those who submitted to the • Henrico County: "The Fitness and submissions as we received the Achievement Awards program," Povar Wellness Certification" (Organizational second-most in the program's eight-year said. "I was most impressed with all the Development) history," said James Campbell, VACo applicants, who seemed undaunted by • Isle of Wight County: "Isle Be executive director. "This tells me that the economy and their budget situa- Green-Plastic Bag Recycling Program" Virginia continues to adapt to the tions. The leadership in Virginia's 95 (Environmental) economic environment by developing counties is strong. These projects reflect • Loudoun County: "Homeless Services innovative programs to affect positive that sentiment." Center" (Health/Human Services) change in our communities. The quality Blake, who recently retired, also • Louisa County: "Homebuyer of the entries, many of which can be raved about the quality of the entries. "I Assistance Program" replicated throughout the state, was was pleased to see that so many small- (Community/Economic Development) very impressive." and medium-sized counties • Montgomery County: "New River Also for the first time in the participated," Blake said. "I learned a Valley Regional Training Program" program's history, judges selected one lot from being a judge and reviewing (Regional Collaboration) submission as the "Best Achievement." the entries. I learned that we have many • Pittsylvania County: "Danville- The winner of this year's distinction is talented and skilled county employees Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Campbell County. Here's what Ramsey in every region of the Commonwealth." Authority" (Regional Collaboration) had to say about Campbell County's The VACo Achievement Awards is • Prince William County: "Design- entry titled "Performance Improvement a competitive program open to local Build Process" (Transportation) Teams-Employee Driven Long-Term government members of the associa- • Prince William County: "Revenue Planning." tion. A Web site (www.vaco.org/ Forecasting Process (Organizational "It is admirable for a county achievementawards.html) has been Development) Campbell's size to create a created with all the entries posted. • Roanoke County: "Green Ridge comprehensive high-performance Representatives from each of the Recreation Center-An Innovative model, one that is transferable to small award-winning counties will receive a Public/Private Partnership and large counties alike," said Ramsey, certificate at an official ceremony (Community/Economic Development) who retired in 2007 after 20 years as during VACo's 2010 Annual • Stafford County: "The Opening of Chesterfield County administrator. Conference in November. Also, VACo Fire Station No. 14" (Criminal "Campbell County's program has been will present several awards at Board of Justice/Public Safety) in place since 1999, and usually these Supervisors meetings.

on the agenda for VACo’s Annual meeting on the final day of the CONFERENCE Conference will be the development of conference. Continued from page 1 VACo’s legislative action plan for 2011. Important! Registration forms for other key state officials to be active VACo’s steering committees are VACo’s 2010 Annual Conference are participants in this year’s conference. scheduled to hold their final round of being mailed to all counties this week. We will have more news about this at a meetings on Sunday, November 7, then Be on the lookout for them. later date. the full membership will vote on the The registration form will also be One of the most important items legislative program during the business available online. 8 COUNTY August 15, 2010 CONNECTIONS

special committee’s recommendations: MEETING “The Education and Finance Continued from page 1 Steering committees shall work cooper- The steering committees annually atively to develop and advocate for an develop their respective sections and enhanced legislative statement and priority statements to VACo’s annual action plan calling on the membership legislative program. to gain increased state funding for pub- During the annual conference, the lic education including new dedicated membership adopts the new program funding for school construction.” on Tuesday. The steering committees • Environment and Agriculture are charged with completing their work engaged in detailed discussions about on Sunday. anticipated major revisions to the state’s The new priority statements are stormwater regulations and impacts • Telecommunications and Public communicated to the governor and resulting from the Environmental Utilities received a presentation from members of the General Assembly. The Protection Agency’s aggressive new the McDonnell Administration about annual conference is scheduled for program to limit nutrient and sediment ongoing federal and state efforts to Sunday, Nov. 7 through Tuesday, Nov. 9 pollution in the Chesapeake Bay. expand broadband access. in Bath County. In response, the committee adopted The committee also heard from a a policy statement urging increased representative of Del. Joe T. May’s Aug. 6 steering committee highlights financial and technical support for local (Loudoun) office about his ongoing • Administration of Government government stormwater management legislative efforts encouraging power affirmed its 2010 position statement programs and opposing federal companies to bury transmission lines regarding immigration. The statement initiatives penalizing local governments underground. calls on the federal government to enact by withdrawing needed federal program • Transportation expressed its comprehensive immigration reform. funds. collective outrage over the continued The committee also asked staff to • Finance received Jim Regimbal’s and dramatic decline in state highway draft language opposing mandatory presentation regarding state budget and system funding. collective bargaining for local employ- revenue trends. In anticipation of Especially troubling is the ees, and endorsed the City of Stanton’s enhancing VACo’s policy statements elimination of funding for secondary request supporting legislation capping protecting local taxes and revenues, the roads and structural changes to the rev- interest rates on consumer credit. committee also reviewed the work of enue sharing program. The Committee • Community Development and the governor’s Government Reform and also agreed that VDOT should improve Planning endorsed its 2010 legislative Restructuring and Economic its communications with local leaders. priorities and positions including Development and Jobs Creations protecting and expanding local land use Commissions. During its quarterly meeting on authorities. The committee also is • Health and Human Resources Aug. 6, the board adopted a 2011 exploring a statement supporting state learned more about national health care change to the existing steering funding for regional tourism initiatives. reform from William A. Hazel Jr., MD, committee structure. • Education received Jim Gov. McDonnell’s Secretary of Health The board created a new committee Regimbal’s presentation regarding “The and Human Resources. The Secretary to oversee compensation and public Outlook of State Education Funding.” discussed the administration’s efforts to safety issues namely Compensation Regimbal is VACo’s economic establish a Health Reform Advisory Board, compensation and retirement, consultant. The presentation and Commission. line of duty and other public safety committee discussion focused on The Commission will make issues. declining state funding for schools. The recommendations concerning health To accommodate the new committee also heard the insurance regulations, health insurance committee, the issues currently assigned recommendations of VACo’s Special exchanges, service delivery and to the Telecommunications and Public Public Education Funding Committee. payment, capacity and workforce and Utilities Steering Committee will move VACo President Phillip A. IT technology. to the Administration of Government Bradshaw (Isle of Wight) established The committee also discussed the Steering Committee. the committee last session after the status of CSA and social services fund- While the change eliminates the Board voted to support the institution ing. Presentations were provided by rep- stand-alone Telecommunications and of the newly calculated 2010-2012 resentatives of the Virginia League of Public Utilities Steering Committee, the composite indexes. (Gov. Kaine had Social Services Executives (service and Administration of Government Steering proposed freezing the 2008-10 compos- benefit program issues) and Virginia Committee will welcome the inclusion ite indexes through the next biennium.) Association of Local Human Services of VACo members interested in these Later in the day, the Board endorsed the Officials (juvenile justice funding). important issues. 9 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010 Sharing the roads in Arlington

About Sharrows Sharrows were federally approved and adopted after research by the U.S. Department of Story and photos courtesy Transportation revealed of BikeArlington that sharrows significantly You may notice new markings increase the passing space on some Arlington streets, such the between motor vehicles one on Walter Reed Drive. These and bicyclists and reduce markings - along with new "Bikes improper bicycle behavior, such as part of pavement marking review, may use full lane" signs - remind riding on the sidewalk or riding the and this year is installing a number drivers that bicyclists have the right wrong way on a street. of new sharrows in conjunction to ride on all traffic lanes. Sharrows are expected to be with paving projects. The pavement markings, called officially adopted in Virginia by the The newest sharrows can be "shared-lane markings" or "shar- end of 2010. Arlington however is found on Walter Reed Drive rows," are intended to help following the lead of neighboring between South Glebe Road and motorists and cyclists safely share Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, Columbia Pike. and navigate streets. The sharrows and other bike-friendly cities such as The addition of sharrows is part show cyclists where to be in the Portland, Seattle, San Francisco and of Arlington's ongoing commitment road (aligned with the middle of the . to make the County a bike-friendly chevron markings), and they remind The County is placing sharrows community where cycling is a safe, drivers that the presence of in locations that are popular with convenient and enjoyable form of bicyclists is to be expected. bicyclists and where streets form transportation and recreation. Sharrows are different from bike part of the bicycle network promot- Visit www.bikearlington.com to lanes, which are reserved exclusively ed on the County's official bike map. learn more about Arlington for bicyclists and are marked by a The County's Traffic County's 2010 Bicycle Initiative. solid white line and a bicycle Engineering & Operations Bureau Click here for frequently asked symbol. evaluates the need for sharrows as questions.

Online Survey-Aug. 24 Beginning August 24, the Commonwealth’s Office of Telework Promotion and Broadband Assistance in cooperation with the Center for Innovative Technology will be conducting an assessment of businesses “connectedness” to determine “how” businesses are connecting to, and using broadband technologies (services and applications).

Results from the assessment will be integrated into the Commonwealth’s comprehensive broadband mapping initiative that is currently underway in the Commonwealth and will provide the basis for future broadband policy and training initiatives.

We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity. To participate in the online survey, please visit www.wired.virginia.gov. Should you prefer to complete a phone or “paper” survey, please contact Caroline Stolle at the Center for Innovative Technology – [email protected] or 804-692-2558. 10 COUNTY August 15, 2010 CONNECTIONS Employment Opportunities

Employment ads are edited due to of the techniques of public information include a bachelor’s degree in public or space considerations. and education. Will develop environ- business administration or related field mental education and public informa- required with a master’s degree highly To view the full versions, visit tion materials and promotional items, desirable. A substantial amount of pub- www.vaco.org and click on the perform related administrative duties, lic sector management experience as a employment link on the top left corner. facilitate regional committees, develop manager, deputy or assistant in a com- and staff exhibits, maintain committee parably sized or larger city or county is Planner II/City of Lynchburg websites and social media, and perform also required, with more experience Starting salary $36,524–$58,448 research and technical studies. A posi- preferred. The salary for the position is DOQ/DOE. Responsible for the tion description is available at negotiable within a range of $165,000 administration of the City’s Historic www.hrpdcva.gov. Resumes should be to $190,000 based on the candidate’s Preservation efforts, review of subdivi- sent to Hampton Roads Planning qualifications and experience and is sion plats, and serves as the City’s in- District Commission, ATTN: Ms. Kelli supplemented by an excellent benefits house expert on housing. The successful Peterson, Human Resources Manager package. Please submit a letter of appli- candidate must have the ability to serve 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA cation, detailed resume with salary his- as a champion for good development 23320 or by e-mail to kpeterson@hrpdc- tory and five (5) work related references and influence decisions that will affect va.gov by 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27. to: John A. Anzivino, Senior Vice the long term character and livability of President, Springsted Incorporated, the City. Requires related Bachelor's Environmental Scientist-Engineer 1564 East Parham Road, Richmond, degree with two to four years experi- Water Resources/Hampton Roads VA 23228; Fax 804-726-9752 or e-mail ence in City Planning, Historic Planning District Commission [email protected] by Sept. 5. Preservation or Architecture or equiva- Starting salary range: $41,000–$52,000, For a complete community/position lent combination of education and DOQ. Applicants must possess strong profile related to the position, please experience. Knowledge of housing communications, research, writing, ana- visit www.springsted.com. The City of financing helpful. Apply online at lytical and computer skills. Requires a Charlottesville is an EOE www.lynchburgva.gov or contact us at BS/BA in Environmental Science, (434) 455-4200 no later than Oct. 26. Biology, Hydrology, Engineering, or County Administrator/Bland County related field, and minimum of four The Board of Supervisors of Bland Principal Regional Planner/Hampton years experience. MS/MA preferred. A County seeks a dynamic person with Roads Planning District Commission position description is available at strong leadership skills for the position Starting salary range: $73,500–$85,000, www.hrpdcva.gov. Resumes should be of County Administrator. Salary- DOQ DOQ. The Hampton Roads Planning sent to Hampton Roads Planning Please submit current resume, state District Commission, a regional plan- District Commission, ATTN: Ms. Kelli application (VA), and professional refer- ning agency, representing the interests Peterson, Human Resources Manager ences to the Bland County Board of of the 1.7 million residents in the ten 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, Supervisors, P.O. Box 510; Bland, VA, cities and six counties of Hampton Virginia 23320 or by email to: kpeter- 24315. Applications will be accepted Roads is seeking candidates to fill the [email protected] by 4:30 p.m., Aug. until position is filled. EOE/ADA. For position of Principal Regional Planner. 27. more information, please visit our Web A position description is available at site at www.bland.org. www.hrpdcva.gov. Resumes should be Planner I or II/Gloucester County sent to Hampton Roads Planning Seeking a highly motivated & skilled Director of Community District Commission, ATTN: Ms. Kelli Planner to be part of a dynamic team Development/Bedford County Peterson, Human Resources Manager working on subdivision plat and devel- The Director of Community 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA opment plan reviews and assisting with Development provides leadership and 23320 or by e-mail to: kpeterson@hrpd- code amendments, ordinance updates, directs the operations and activities of cva.gov by 4:30 p.m., Aug. 27. and various local and regional planning the Department. This includes short initiatives. Local government and GIS and long range planning and communi- Senior Environmental Education experience a plus. Interested candidates ty development activities. The Director Planner/Hampton Roads Planning should visit us online at: www.glouces- is expected to function under broad pol- District Commission terva.jobs for further information. (804) icy guidance as well as exercise inde- Starting salary range: $60,000–$75,000, 693-5690. pendent judgment and initiative. DOQ. Planner/Environmental Supervision is exercised over the work Education. Candidates should have a City Manager/City of Charlottesville thorough background in and knowledge Minimum requirements for the position EMPLOYMENT Continued on page 12 11 COUNTY CONNECTIONS August 15, 2010

required. Open until filled. Application an online application. PLEASE NOTE: EMPLOYMENT review will begin on Aug. 13. All candi- In addition to the online application, a Continued from page 11 dates must provide a completed Va. hard copy resume is required and must of all community development person- State Application and resume to the be submitted to: Chesterfield County nel. Application, the recruitment pack- Carroll County Administrator’s Office Attorney’s Office, Attn: Michelle age, and job description are available on at 605-1 Pine Street, Hillsville, Va Heilman, P.O. Box 40, Chesterfield, VA our Web site: ww.bedfordcountyva.gov. 24343. An online position description is 23832. The resume must be received Applications will be reviewed until posi- available at www.carrollcountyva.org/ and the online application must be sub- tion is filled. Annual salary is competi- employment. mitted by 5 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 19. tive DOQ. Water, Sewer and Streets Bureau Accountant/Orange County This is a full-time position that reports Executive Director/Winchester- Chief/Arlington County Salary in the mid-to-upper $120,000’s to the Director of Finance. Incumbent Frederick County Convention and based on experience & qualifications. will assist Finance Director with Visitors Bureau Full-time position leading and directing For a full description of the position monthly and annual close of general the work of the Winchester-Frederick and the position’s requirements please ledger, produce and distribute revenue County Convention and Visitors Bureau visit: The Executive Search page of and expense reports, act as primary (WFCCVB). Any combination of edu- Springsted Incorporated: www.springst- point of contact for annual audit, assist cation and experience equivalent to a ed.com or the Arlington County Finance Director with budget develop- Bachelor’s Degree with major work in Human Resources Department at: ment and execution, oversee County tourism, hospitality, business manage- www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/Hu Fixed Asset recording and reporting ment, public relations, marketing or manResources/HumanResourcesMain. and act as Finance Director in his related field is required. A Master’s aspx. This is an open recruitment, but absence. Hiring Salary range is $40,454- Degree is preferred. Valid driver’s preference will be given to applications $52,590. The successful candidate must license is required. Starting salary: received before Aug. 25. To be consid- pass a criminal background check. $55,000/yr. plus benefits. Apply: ered, please submit a letter of interest, Interested applicants should call for or Administration Department, 15 N. complete resume, salary history and five pick up an application package from 8 Cameron St., Winchester, VA 22601. work related and personal references to: a.m.-5 p.m. at the County www.winchesterva.gov/employment. John A. Anzivino Administrator's Office, 112 W. Main Springsted Incorporated St., Orange, VA 22960; 540-672-3313 1564 East Parham Road or visit our Web site Emergency Services Director/Carroll Richmond, VA 23228 orangecountyva.gov. This position is County Qualified applicants must have knowl- Tel: 804.726.9750 open until filled. Please direct any ques- edge of developing, implementing and Fax: 804.726.9752 tions to Karen Gibson, at 540-672-3313 coordinating the County Emergency E-Mail: [email protected] and send the bill to: Operations. Applicants must be able to Applications accepted by e-mail, fax or Orange County Board of Supervisors work under pressure and be flexible. US mail. To learn more about PO Box 111 Open until filled. Application review Arlington County and its departments Orange, VA 22960 will begin on Aug. 12. All candidates please visit: www.arlingtonva.us 540-672-3313 must provide a completed Va. State FAX: 540-672-1679 Application and resume to the Carroll Deputy-Senior Assistant County County Administrator’s Office at 605-1 Attorney/Chesterfield County Director of Public Works-General Pine Street, Hillsville, Va 24343. An Chesterfield County, a nationally-recog- Services/City of Portsmouth online position description is available nized and award-winning local govern- Education/Experience: Bachelor’s at www.carrollcountyva.org/employ- ment, seeks an experienced attorney to Degree in Civil Engineering or a closely ment. provide legal counsel to County officials related field. Professional engineering and employees, to be responsible for a license preferred; 6 to 9 years of pro- variety of complex legal matters, and to gressively responsible experience in Human Resources Director/Carroll represent the County and its officials public works and general services oper- County Qualified applicants must have a thor- and employees in litigation, both as part ations, planning and managing ough knowledge of personnel adminis- of litigation teams and individually. resources. Open Until Filled. Hiring tration including experience in benefits Depending on knowledge, experience, Range: $71,996-$97,195. Please submit administration, and State and Federal writing skill and potential, the candidate a completed City of Portsmouth appli- employment laws. Applicants must be will be hired for the position of Deputy cation to the Department of Human able to work under pressure and have County Attorney or Senior Assistant Resource Management, 801 Crawford excellent interpersonal skills. Previous County Attorney. Salary negotiable. Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704. Visit experience in human resources is Visit careers.chesterfield.gov to submit www.portsmouthva.gov for info. 12

Richmond, VA 23219-3627 23219-3627 VA Richmond,

1207 East Main St., Suite 300 Suite St., Main East 1207

C ONNECTIONS

C OUNTY

Executive Committee President: Phillip A. Bradshaw, Isle of Wight County President-Elect: Robert R. Adkins, Wise County VACo exists to support county 1st Vice President: Barbara A. Favola, Arlington County officials and to effectively 2nd Vice President: Catherine M. Hudgins, Fairfax County represent, promote and protect the Secretary Treasurer: John D. Miller, Middlesex County interests of counties to better serve Immediate Past President: Donald L. Hart, Jr., Accomack County the people of Virginia.

Staff 1207 East Main Street Executive Director: James D. Campbell, CAE Suite 300 General Counsel: Phyllis A. Errico, Esq., CAE Richmond, VA 23219-3627 Deputy Director for Legislative Affairs: Michael L. Edwards (804) 788-6652 Director of Policy Development: Larry J. Land, CAE Fax: (804) 788-0083 Director of Intergovernmental Affairs: Dean A. Lynch, CAE www.vaco.org Director of Governmental Affairs: Ted McCormack, AICP Director of Administration: Vicky D. Steinruck, CPA County Connections is a Director of Technical Services: John N. Kandris, A+, ACT, CCA semimonthly publication. Director of Member Services: Carol I. Cameron Director of Communications: Gage Harter Editor: Gage Harter Administrative Assistant: Pricilla Wallace (804) 343-2502 VACo Risk Management Programs: Chris Carey, Administrator, (888) 822-6772