JANUARY 22, 2000 MINUTESJanuary 22, 2000
L yle Sumek, Facilitator, called to order the COMMUNITY CONVERSA TION 2000, at 9.'00 A.M. Saturday,
January 22, 2000, in the Cafetorium of the Salem Middle School
Council Members Present:
Linwood O. Branch, IIL Margaret L. Eure, William W. Harrison, Jr.
Barbara M. Henley, Reba S. McClanan, Mayor Meyera E. Oberndorf
Nancy K. Parker, Vice Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr. and A. M. "Don"
Weeks
Council Members Absent:
John A. Baum and Louis R.. Jones
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
-2-
Lyle Sumek has facilitated for the City Council for a number of years and the Virginia Beach School Board
this past year. Mr. Sumek advised he had recently been involved with two cities in California relative the
impact upon the Naval Air Stations there. These cities are still attempting to develop a water system to
support their new citizens.
Mr. Sumek referenced the eight large posters in the corridor of the Salem Middle School, entitled: Best
Citizens, Best Leaders, Best Community; If You Understand, You Will Succeed"; Knowledge is Power,
Positive Attitude is Everything; Think Before You Act, Believe In Yourself, Have A Can-Do Attitude,
Excellence Starts With You. These elements are the foundation for this Community Conversation. The
process today will be examining where Virginia Beach is and where it is going over the next few years. ,,Is
the attendees leave, it is hopeful that everyone will have a better understanding of Virginia Beach today.
Each individual has their own view on the community and where it is going.
Understanding Virginia Beach Today
Our Goals for2000, Our Accomplishments, Our Assets and Who
We are; How Our Community is Changing
Dialogue on Virginia Beach 2010
Our Vision, Our Goal - Defining What it Means to be a
Successful City
Focus Ideas on an Action Agenda 2000 -2001 for the City of Virginia
Beach
Issues that Need to be Addressed, Services to be Enhanced,
Projects to be Initiated or Completed
Strengthen Partnership
Between Citizens and their City Government, Particularly the
Elected Leaders.
Mr. Sumek advised he will discuss the agenda, and commence with a Quiz consisting often questions. The
Community Conversation will consist of three rounds:
III Round I: Virginia Beach Today
QUESTIONI: During the past five years, what were the major
accomplishments of the City of Virginia Beach and the
impacts on our community?
QUESTION2: What are our major assets as a City that are worth
preserving in the future?
IV Round H: Virginia Beach 2010:.4 Successful City- Our Vision, Our Goals
QUESTION 1: Success for Virginia Beach in 2010 means - What are
the five key elements?
QUESTION 2: For each key element -
A. What does it mean to our citizens?
B. What are the major challenges and opportunities as
we look to the future?
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
-3-
V. Round III: Virginia Beach 2000 - 2001.
Our ,4genda for ,4 ction
QUESTION 1:
QUESTION 2:
What are the critical issues that need to be addressed by
the City of Virginia Beach during the next two years?
(What are the top five of importance?)
On two major issues, what are your thoughts on what
are the problems, and what are the desired outcomes
and what should be the direction?
`4. Town Center
B. Open Space
VI. Community Conversation 2000: Summary
Virginia Beach Today - Major Themes
Virginia Beach 2010: Our Vision, Our Goals - Major Themes
Virginia Beach 2000 - 2001: Our ,4genda for ,4ction
VII. Open Messages to Mayor and City Council
VIII. Leading Virginia Beach into the New Millennium
Each group will not report their responses, but the Facilitators at each table will post the results on the wall
for all to review. The first two rounds should be culminated by 11:00 A.M. and then the Community
Conversation Group will focus on Round III referencing the critical issues which need to be addressed,
focusing on two issues: Town Center and Open Space. At the end with the utilization of 3 x 5 cards, all
attendees will write open messages to City Council - "no holds barred". Those present may choose whether
or not to sign their name. The Community Conversation really focuses on leadership. Mr. Sumek has a
simple definition which he has utilized with both the City Council and Virginia Beach School Board. A leader
is a path definer (thinking that we can shape our future). Today the Community Conversation will consider
"What type of future do you wish to create in Virginia Beach?" It is much easier to criticize than to say:
"Here is my Vision." The individual may be risking rejection.
A Leader is a team builder
A Leader develops partners by setting a positive tone
A Leader is' a conductor (setting the direction, but inspiring others
to act, and holding individuals accountable to achieve that
direction)
Partnership is a key part of today (partnering between the City and citizens). An effective partnership means
one has goals, which are the unifying purpose that tie us together. In communities, many individual
neighborhoods will look at "us" rather than the "we "in the overall community. A partnership has individual
contributions. Teams need to execute (produce results). The attitude should encompass a co-operative spirit.
When all is going well, a key factor in communities today and the challenge is how to sustain this into the
future and really be a true champion. Trust means when commitments must become actions.
Effective Partnerships Keys
Goals
Role
Execute
Attitude
Trust
Mr. Sumek referenced the Ground Rules. In response to his question, there was one gentleman under the age
of 35. His age was 32 (Bill,). Mr. Sumek teased him with the technical question "What is a Church Key"?
(A "church key" is a bottle opener.) This was a key part of our life, on key chains -- in our glove
compartments. "Who is over the age of 657" There were quite a few. "What is a bomb?" This is a water
pipe - a piece of drug paraphernalia. The key today is understanding all have differences and out of
differences will come strength. Today, we want to understand the different views of those in the room. Focus
on the future, not on the past. The past cannot be recreated. Focus on problems and issues ~ explore options.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
-4-
As an example, Mr. Sumek referenced his attendance at a similar session in Venice, Florida. The average age
in this City is seventy-four (74) years old. The attendees referenced the need for a youth center, which was
built. The first night opening was celebrated with a dance. There were more chaperones than youth in
attendance. Once, the group spoke with the youth, they informed them they preferred a skate board park.
The City built a skate board park and it is being utilized. Today, try not to start with solutions, focus on
issues, problems and outcome. The best community focuses beyond what is desired individually, as a
neighborhood or even our own special interests, as there is a limited number of resources. What is going to
make Virginia Beach the best community? Mr. Sumek referenced other points concerning the Community
Conversation. During discussions there will be conflicts over information, goals, methods and values.
Values may be recorded, but will not be resolved. Information, goals, and methods might be resolved through
discussion. Every idea is valid. The Facilitators at each table have been instructed to record every idea. The
items which are the most important will be starred.
Mr. Sumek referenced the questionnaire entitled, "Virginia Beach Trivia - Community Conversation 2000".
For the sake of time, the questions shall be responded to in groups, not individually. A five minute timeframe
will be allotted and only questions 1, 2, 4 5 6, and 10 will require a response..
!. Total Acres of Parkland?
(Group 2 had the most accurate answer)
2. How much does the City receive annually
in revenue from economic development
in vestment projects ?
(Group 3 had the closest answer)
3. Number of students attending classes at the
New Higher Education Center?
4. Number of jobs created through the retention
and expansion of Oceana?
(Groups 2,5, 8 and 10) had the closest answer)
5. How many citizens actively volunteer to staff
City services and what is the value of that service?
Value of Service
6. How many miles of scenic waterways exist in
Virginia Beach
(None of the Groups were close)
7. How many traffic lights are there in the City?
8. Where would you rank the Hampton Roads Region
on household and business lnternet usage?
9. What is the median age of people in the City?
10. How many acres of farmland exist in the City?
(Group 8 had the closest answer).
13,164
$ 7. I-MILLION
3,218
5,200
11,635
$19. 6-MILLION or
9.8 cents on the real estate tax.
79
32O
10tn in the Country
29
33,825
Mr. Sumek advised Group 8 appeared to have won and distributed coloring books, hats and key rings as
prizes.
,lames Spore, City Manager, expressed appreciation to all in attendance. Mr. Spore referenced the agenda.
They wish to concentrate on where the City has been, where are we today, the major issues and the principle
goals of the City. In response to the City Manager's question: "How many are natives of Virginia Beach? ",
eleven (11,) responded. A large portion of the audience responded they had lived in the city 20years or more.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
-8-
Sara Hensley, Director of Parks and Recreation, presented a brief background of the Virginia Beach Outdoor
Plan. In 1998, Council had the vision to adopt a resolution to review open space and its meaning. In
December, a report was given by a committee composed of citizens, City Council members, Planning
Commission members. This was given to City Staff to review and develop an Open Space Program. The staff
is looking at each area of the City and basically doing a current inventory of what is there ins regard to open
space. Then, a needs assessment will be developed As no snowflake is alike, no fingerprint is alike, no
community is alike in terms of open space or how one views open space. It can be public beach access, a park
or a golf course. It is a perception. Therefore, the staff is basically going to be looking at public involvement
through: telephone survey;focus group type survey, and eight (8) public meetings (7 in the districts and 1
general meeting). At these times, the staff will gain the information, suggestions and knowledge from the
citizens. The Staff needs to examine:
What is Open Space?
What do people perceive as Open Space?
Discuss economic analysis and the fiscal impact
Cost of development versus cost avoidance by
purchasing land for open space
Preservation of Open Space
Ms. Hensley displayed a map of the City divided into planning areas and the districts, denoting existing Parks
and Recreation area, open space and needs areas. Public input will be the staff's number one goal.
Mr. Sumek requested the participants focus for the next twenty minutes:
OPEN SPA CE
1. What are the major issues - problems and concerns - that need to be
addressed?
2. In the northern area of our City, what do you want for the future? What
do you not want to see in the future?
Mr. Sumek cited an example. He grew up in San Diego, which had an open space plan in the 1960's. Mission
Valley was to be a Greenway. The residents voted to dispose of this open space plan and install shopping
centers and hotels. However, this Valley was right in the middle of the Floodway; therefore, the City expended
over $3-BILLION dollars trying to channel groundwater. Mr. Sumek reminded the participants to complete
the 3 x 5 cards on each table to the Mayor and City Council with their particular message. Mr. Sumek
requested all sign the roster at their particular table. Mr. Sumek will provide his summarization of the major
responses.
Mayor Oberndorf expressed appreciation to each and every person who took valuable time out of their private
lives to be here this morning. This has not turned into an exercise in futility. The City Council was able to
address some issues and determine from the participants, where it is you want to go and what it is you hope
to accomplish. The things we all learn is there is more than one side to every question. For the total context
of the city and what must be done to survive as a municipal organization for the good of the citizens, these
other issues have to be involved. Mayor Oberndorf thanked all of the professional staff and mentioned the
Professor of Urban Studies from Regent University, who had to leave. He whispered in her ear that he has
never been in any City that has heard from the citizens in the manner Virginia Beach has with its Community
Conversation.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
-9-
He will be recommending this to many cities, where he personally consults, and which are "trying to get off
their knees and onto their feet" Mayor Oberndorf extended a special thank you to Lyle Sumek and a lovely
lady participant, Marilyn Rivera, who brings children from the private school system to the Mayor's Council.
She works very hard to include not only the adults, but sees to it the Mayor has the children's voices for all
of the city. We want Virginia Beach to continue to be a Community for a Lifetime, which the City Council will
be able to do with the citizen's guidance, advice and partnership. There are more partnerships than just
public/private: City-School partnerships, City-College partnerships, City-State-Federal Government
Partnerships, City-Private/Non-Profit partnerships.
The Meeting ADJOURNED at 12:10 P.M.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION 000
January ~, ~000
Table 8
Please Print.
Name Address Telephone
Number
Rosemary Wilson 310 53ra Street 422-0733
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Margaret Eure 5400 Compton Circle 420-6745
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Wally Erb 1209 Quarter Way 671-6324
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Jo-Ann Clegg 649 Astor Lane 424-5609
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Mona G. Saferstein 748 Virginia Dare Drive 422-0401
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
i
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION 2000
January 22, 2000
Table 9
Please Print.
NRme
William J. Brunke
John C. Brewington
A1 Strazzullo
Bettye Sterzing
Don Weeks
Address
1428 Ashburnham Arch
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
1001 Cannonbury Common
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
3120 Sand Pine Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
4313 Lookout Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
250 Fair Meadows Road, #2
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Telephone
Number
467-0423
340-0907
481-0024
363-8646
497-4 195
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION 2000
January 22, 2000
Table 10
Please Print.
Name
Debby Sue Vandevender
Reid Greenmum
Fred Pierson
Barbara Henley
Address
3076 Silver Maple Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23452-6772
2621 Sandpiper Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
1750 Tomcat Boulevard
NAS Oceana Code 006
Virginia Beach, VA 23460
3513 Charity Neck Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Telephone
Number
431-1017
426-5589
reidg~norfolk.infi.
net
433-3158
mraicuz~nasocean
a.navy.mil
426-7501
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION 2000
January 22, 2000
Table 11
Please Print.
Name Address Telephone
Number
Mary Anne Nixon 607 16t~ Street 428-4277
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Bill Harrison 115A 52na Street 628-5565
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Mary R. Guthrie 5353 Sir Barton Drive 497-7359
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Captain Skip Zobel 805 Oceana Boulevard 491-9689'
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Mike Arsuaga 1704 Woodcliff Circle 721-7841
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Beth Lantz 1344 Baycliff Drive 481-9529
Virginia Beach, VA
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
000
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEA CH, VIRGINL4
JANUARY 22, 2000
OUTCOME
Understanding Virginia Beach Today-
Our Goals for 2000, Our Accomplishments, Our Assets and '~X~o We Are; How Our Community is
Changing
Dialogue on kTr,4inia Beach 2010 -
Our Vision, Our Goal - Detining LV'.:~,.: it N[eans to be a Successfi, tl City
Focus hleas on att .4ction .-t.genda 2000 - 2001 for the Cit3, qt' I~?rghffa Beach -
Issues that Need to be Addressed, Services ro be Enhanced, Projects to be Initiated or Completed
Strengthen Partnership -
Between Citizens and ff~eir City Government, Particularly the Elected Leaders
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION
2000
CITY OF PTRGIIVIA B£A CH, I/IRGI~VL4
JANUARY 22, 2000
AGENDA
Welcome
Community Conversation 2000:
Learn t¥om the Past, Live for tl~e Future
·
·
·
Desired Outcomes
Agenda Review
Conversation Process
Ground Rules tbr Our Cea,, v:' :v, tion
lit. Virginia Beach: Understanding Our City' Today
·
·
Virginia Beach: lO Questions (what are the l;'acts)
Profile et'Virginia Beach - Who We Were. Who We Are
Goals for 2000: Our Direction from the Pas~
Iii[. Round I: Virginia Beach Today
Question 1
During the past five .,.'ears. what are the major accomplishments of the City of'v'irainia
Beach and the impacts on our community? -
Question 2 What are our major assets :ts :: city that are worth preserving it,. tt~e furore?
IV. Round II: Virginia Beach 2010: A Successful City - Our Vision, (2)ur Goals
Question I
Question 2
Success for Virginia Beach in 20[0 means...
What are the five key elements'?
For each key element -
A. What does it mean to our citizens?
B. What are the major challenges and opportunities as v/e look to the future?
V. Round III' Virginia Beach 2000 - 2001 Our Agenda for Action
Question 1
Question 2
XVhat are the critical issues that need to be addressed by the City of Virginia Beach
during the next two years? (\Vhich are the top five of importance?)
On two major issues, what are .,,'our thoughts on what are the problems, xvhat are the
desired outcomes and what should be the direction?
A. Town Center
(3)
2 )
4)
What are the major issues - problems and concerns - that need to be addressed'?
in Town Center, what do you want tbr the future? What do you not ;,,'ant to see in the future?
Desired Outcomes " ' ·
} Avotd Becoming
t ....................... .J L ....................... ~
What are the benefits to the city' overall and to individual citizens'?
B. Open Space
What are the major issues - problems and concerns ~ that need to be addressed'?
In the northern areas of our city', what do ,.'out want tbr the future? \X,-nat do you not want to see
in the A~ture'?
~ Desired Outcomes
in thc southern areas of our city', what do you want tbr the future?
in the future?
Avoid Becomina
\Vhat do you not want to see
·
Destred Outcomes
'What :ti',: thc benefits to the city ovcralt
. ·
.-\void Becoming
VI. Community Conversation 2000: Summary
Virginia Beach Today' - Major Themes
Virginia Beach 2010: Our Vision, Our Goals - Major Themes
Virginia Beach 2000 - 200 l: Our Agenda t'br Action
VII. Open Messages to Mayor and City Council
VIII.
Leading Virginia Beach into the Nexv Millenium
ROUND I Virginia Beach Today
Question 1
During the past five years, what are the major accomplishments of the City of Virginia Beach
and the impacts on our community?
Stars indicate "Top $."
Table 1
Lake Gaston - water source
* School Facilities
School Technology
Kemps Landing Magnet School
Old Donation Center - Full Time
IB Program at Princess Anne High
Math and Science at Ocean Lakes
*Use of volunteers - real community involvement
Increased diversity
*Comprehensive Plan - Lake Gaston
Agriculture Reserve Program (ARP)
Maintaining Oceana - retention and expansion
Broaden resort facilities - golf, arts center, Va Marine Science Museum
Protecting residential neighborhoods at resort
*Community policing - lower crime rate
Completed target neighborhood projects
Neighborhood institute
Citizen police academy
Retention and addition of new businesses
Higher Education center
Advanced Technology Center (ATC) funding
Table 2
Sportsplex
Amphitheater
ODU/NSU Higher Education
Oceanfront area
New Boys/Girls Club
Seatack Recreation Center
New Library - in conjunction with Boys/Girls Club
Lake Gaston
Better road system
TPC Golf Course
Agriculture Reserve Program
Schools - plan for renovation
Communily Conversation 2000 Round I Page I
Renovations at Trashmore
Va Marine Science Museum expansion
Bow Creek Motel demolition
Table 3
*Lake Gaston water supply
*Renovation expansion of school system
*Retention expansion of Oceana
Virginia Beach Higher Education Center
Academic Village (ATC, VBHEC, HS2001)
Preservation of farm land
Focusing on technological infrastructure
Recruitment of businesses to city- GEICO, Coastal
*More emphasis on planning/development (i.e. education, bUsiness, recreation, land management)
Dynamically trained Police force/Fire/EMS (more effective, efficient)
Increased Oceanfront activities
Occupancy Permit Program for rental profit
*Bond rating increases (2!)
Table 4
*Quality of Education - impact: will dictate what city is, keep talent here, jobs
Atlantic Avenue Improvements - impact: enhanced tourism
*Oceana Expansion - impact: bringing people, jobs, income does have a downside
Hold "Green Line", maintain farmland ARP - impact: diversity, not suburb, tax impact on owner
*Beginning of Academic Village (Higher Education Center, Advance Tech Center) - impact:
keeps our students here and allows to flourish
Coastal Video Expansion- impact: more jobs, diversity, revenue to city
*Low Tax Rate (real estate) - impact: more disposable income, better standard of living
Tolls off expressway - impact: traffic flows more smoothly
Beach Replenishment - impact: preserve beach
Infi'astructure - Princess Anne Commons - impact: market jobs city
Table 5
Lake Gaston
Oceanfront/Atlantic Avenue
Family-oriented environment
Beautification oceanfront - trees, sign removal
Transportation improvement - Oceana area
*Economic Development - new jobs
*Technology infrastructure improvements
Attracting environment - friendly businesses
Retention/expansion Oceana
Recreational opportunities - golf, parks, amphitheater, beach
*School Facility Improvements - enables technology improvements
Community Conversation 2000 Round I Page 2
Impacts for Table 5
Attracts new residents/tourists
Established positive sense of identity for Va Beach
Greater number of tourists = revenue for City - but no negative environmental problems (i.e. no
smoke stacks
Integrated infrastructure
Attractions for residents not just tourists - Va Marine Science Museum
Volunteers save city $19 million--one of best programs in country
Lower paying jobs are negatively affecting per capita income (i.e. Officer Corps reduced, service
sector-low paying, private sector-downsizing
Table 8
Seawall/Resort Area Beautification
Advanced Tech/Higher Education/School Modernization/High School 2001
Recreation Centers; TRT/Parks and Rec partnering to pick up kids for Rec Centers/Formation of
Youth Council
Amphitheater
Agricultural Preservation Program
Intrinsic value of safety
Bond upgrade; financial integrity; financial condition (some say costs still too high)
Clean City - good collection/volunteers/Clean the Bay
Volunteers - add value - saves money positive interaction with community
*Economic engine--investment in education/youth
Table 9
*Completion Lake Gaston
*Managing growth of City (ARP)
Proactive in Economic Development
Maintaining position with Navy
*School modernization and construction
Safe City - investments in Public Safety real contribution quality of life
Parks and Recreation facilities
Libraries
Agriculture Reserve Program
Green Line
Improve roadways
*Improvements at Oceanfront, boardwalk, Atlantic Avenue
Neighborhood improvements, strengthening neighborhoods, paving, walkways, etc.
*Volunteer program - best in nation
Council Meetings - open, on cable, workshops, aired
Good access to local government
Community Conversation 2000
Roundl
Page 3
Table 10
*Retention and expansion of Oceana, participation in BRAC - impact: transportation costs and
$1.5 billion economic impact annually
Agriculture Reserve Program - impact: better managed growth and preserving agriculture
Additional schools, educational improvements
Corporate Landing - Park impact: GEICO, major corps
Continued road improvements
*Lake Gaston pipeline
Light Rail referendum
Higher Education Center
Shore Drive Improvement
Oceana expansion -: noise impact; positive economic impact
Participation in regionalism
*Amenities for Table 10
Hurricane Protection Project
Sportsplex
TCP Golf Course
Amphitheater
Ninth Street Parking Garage
Trolley Lanes - Atlantic Avenue
CBD
Table 11
*Oceana Retention
Cessation of annual tax increases
Dedicated trolley lanes
*Princess Anne Park development - (TPC, Princess Anne Corridor, Soccer, Amphitheater, High
School, Higher Education, Tech Center, Farmers Market)
Traffic Light Coordination
Safe City
Storm Water Management
Communication with citizens and Police Citizen Advisory Commission/Oceana citizens
Boardwalk
*Sea Wall
Hurricane Protection
*City Communication with citizens--Oceana, school, police, communities, community
conversation
Community Conversation 2000
Round I Page 4
*Question 2
What are our major assets as a city that are worth preserving in the future?
Table 1
Clean and Green City
*Maintain and improve the mix of residential diversity, commercial and open space - Housing
Stock
Maintain and improve recreation - beaches, lakes
Tourism Industry - broaden to include Eeo-tourism
Agricultural Base - renewing and innovation
*Education System - K-12 and higher education
*Public Infrastructure, roads, bridges, water and sewer
*Housing Stock
Low tax rate and Quality Services
Services
*Small town feeling in big city, diversity
*Community Involvement
Table 2
Open space/Wetlands
Waterways
**Quality of Life
*Neighborhoods
*Schools/Education System
*Keep a safe city - keep crime rate low
Human Services/Social Services
Tourism Industry
Oceana - Military
Agriculture
Economic Development (balanced approach)
Table 3
Farm Land
*Education System (lifelong learning)
*Tourism
*Military Presence
Quality Air and Water/Natural Resources
Parks and Inland Waters
Healthy Lifestyle
*Safe Place to live
Healthy Neighborhoods
Economic Renewal Opportunities - i.e. no dead areas, abandoned buildings, eyesores, etc.
*Bond Ratings - let's keep it
Communi.tv Conversation 2000 Round I Page 5
Table 4
*Oceanfi'ont/Bayfi'ont
*School System
Parks/Recreation
Agriculture
*Natural Environment - trees, wetlands, open spaces
Historical Preservation (Old Courthouse, etc,)
Va Marine Science Museum
Arts Center
Table 5
*Tourism Infrastructure
* Waterfront/Natural Environment - access, limited development, environmental quality air, water
Agriculture
Open Space
*Historical Assets - older homes/original Princess Anne courthouse
*Cutting Edge School Facilities
*Positive relationship with military
Quality education system - K-12 and higher education, vocational and tech
Table 8
*Quality Resort Area
Quality housing for all economic groups - diversity, special needs more controls on builders for
quality
Neighborhoods
*Schools, Libraries
Trees - save at least some (most treed city in Virginia)
Preserve Waterways
Agriculture
*Open Space
Table 9
Natural Resources
Educational System
Neighborhoods
Quality of Life - feel safe, ocean, rec centers, low taxes, ability to move around
Health Facilities - ex. Community Services Board
Low Tax Structure
Financial Viability of City - low taxes, high bond rating
Keep good firms here - Economic expansion
Cultural Activities - include regional
Open Space
Beautification of City
Community Conversation 2000 Round I Page 6
Table 10
*Undeveloped land
Resort Community
Military facilities, (Oceana, Pendleton, etc.)
Lynnhaven Mall
*Shoreline
* Scenic waterways
Reforestation
Suburban lifestyle
Public School System
Competent work force
Volunteerism
Financial strength (good bond rating)\
Mayor Oberndorf
Health Care
Good place to retire
City's image (low crime, family oriented, fun)
*Quality of Life
Table 11
*Schools - Higher Education/Public etc.
*Oceanfront
*Oceana
*Cultural/Entertainment Parks, Golf Courses, Recreation Centers, Museums, Open Space
Libraries
Roads
Community Conversation 2000 Round I Page 7
ROUND II Virginia Beach 2010: A Successful City - Our Vision, Our Goals
Table 1
Quality Education
What does it mean to our citizens?
Best possible public education for everybody (middle group)
Teacher Pay
Physical Plant
Lifetime Learning
Retraining for new careers
Challenges
Private School Credits - vouchers
Full use of'technology
CommuniW Involvement
What does it mean to our citizens?
Citizen Participation
More of a sense of"we"
Voting
Informed Electorate
Citizens more a part of what's going on
Challenges
Turnover of population
Expand the "core" group of those involved
Regionalism - Transportation
What does it mean to our citizens?
Virginia Beach as a leader
Regional Water Authority
Need a plan and way to get there
Serve the needs of people
Transit
Financial Stability
What does it mean to our citizens?
Keep tax rate reasonable
Let people know what they get for their money
Reallocate and rethink the money
Move towards 70-30
Reduce Debt Service
Communi.tv Conversation 2000 Round H Page 8
Physical Environment
What does it mean to our citizens?
Maintain Quality of Physical Infrastructure
Maintain Open Space
Increase Open Space
Define - What do we want the city to look like - Updates and revisions to Comp Plan
Table 2
Safe Community (Plan ahead--look forward)
What does it mean to our citizens?
Low crime - no gang violence
Drug-free community
Safe schools
Safe neighborhoods
No homeless
No rowdy behavior (oceanfront/shore drive)
military presence
Challenges
Tougher penalties--crime
Well paid, well educated emergency personnel
Education
What does it mean to our citizens?
#1 in quality - keep high standards
Lifelong learning opportunities
Attract top notch educators
Challenges
Funding
Retention
Community Amenities
What does it mean to our citizens?
Culture-Cultural Opportunities
Recreation
University (VBU)
Sports Franchise/s
Medical Facilities
Retirement Homes/Opportunities
Community Conversation 2000 Round II Page 9
Be Financially Sound/Fiscally Sound
What does it mean to our citizens?
Triple A Bond Rating
Stable or declining taxes
Attract Quality Jobs - Retain Quality Jobs/Employment Opportunities
Affordable Housing
Challenge
Triple A Bond Rating
Quality Physical Environment
What does it mean to our citizens?
A good transportation system
Natural areas preserved, clean air, clean water
Maintain Infrastructure in quality form throughout city
Adequate facilities (space)
High quality business
Challenge
Funding
Table 3
State-of-the-art Educational System
What does it mean to our citizens?
Lifelong Learning
Retention of Quality Teachers
Higher Pay for Teachers
Strong Library System
Partnerships between education and businesses
Technological innovation
Application of Technology_
What does it mean to our citizens?
Viable technology infrastructures
Hardware/S otSware/Training
Businesses to Government to Education to Citizens (multiple connections)
Stron~er Neighborhoods
What does it mean to our citizens?
Commitment to a sense of community
Safe Communities
Clean Communities
Code Enforcement
Community Policing
Quality Parks/Recreation opportunities
Community Conversation 2000 Round I! Page 10
Transportation Strategy_
What does it mean to our citizens?
Roads construction and/or improvements
Multi-modal transportation system
Regional
Economic Development
What does it mean to our citizens?
Sustainable Economic Development
Creation, Recruitment, Retention of Quality Jobs
"Career Ladder Jobs"
Improved Government Efficiency
Retain/Improve Bond Rating
Table 4
Quality_ Education
What does it mean to our citizens?
Higher percent of high school graduates
Meets diverse needs
More citizens with college degrees
Surpass state and national goals, rank in the top across the nation
Technology instruction must
Representation on SOL Board
Citizens are self sufficient, useful skills
Challenges
Financing
Teacher pay
Parental involvement
Retaining people here (students and teachers, etc.)
Motivating students
Quality_ Natural Environment
What does it mean to our citizens?
Open Space
"0" pollution
Maintenance
Quality development - preserve trees, wetlands
No Litter
Beautification
Challenges
Controlled growth
Preserve open space
Redevelopment
Not rezoning Stumpy Lake
Community Conversation 2000
Round H
Page
Il
Keeping private property in the mix, not just publicly owned
Balance between preserving land and progress
"Condemnation"
Quality Job and Career Opportunities (Youth have reason to stay in Virginia Beach and
can prosper)
Corporate Headquarters
Public/Private Partnerships
High-Tech, Non-polluting industries
Transportation System that Supports
Challenges
Making it Happen!
Transportation
Workforce Development
Marketing
Compromising - Open Space (1 person/1 car
Incentives to businesses current and future
Re2ional Transportation/Efficient
What does it mean to our citizens?
Timely
Efficient modes
Networking modes
Connecting routes
City Cooperation
Affordable
Challenges
Virginia Beach cooperating with region
Cooperation of employers
Funding
Marketing to public - changing public perception
Table 5
Economic Development
What does it mean to our citizens?
Home owners do not bear as much cost for running government services
Brings increased revenue
Brings higher per capita income
Brings better schools
Better paying jobs
Children can return to area to live after completing education
Second careers for military
Challen2e
Population growth control
Community Conversation 2000 Round H Page 12
Regionalism
What does it mean to our citizens?
Cities learn best practices from each other - benefits all
Discussion/success together in some areas like transportation leads to discussion of other
common interests/areas
Could mean a change in our identity
Challenges
Not all differences can be resolved regionally
Infrastructure differences
Different City Needs
History
The Newspaper - focus Norfolk
Cities have different identities
Other cities spend $ on issues that our citizens feel are unimportant
Open Space/Recreational Quality
What does it mean to our citizens?
Maintaining quality while enhancing economic vitality
Quality of Life
Preservation of farm land and agricultural way of life i.e., Agricultural Reserve Program
Balance with the type of businesses recruited to move here
Lots of recreational options - golf courses, parks, etc variety
Challenges
Requires great thought to balance this with development - best uses
Costs - How to pay for it
QualiW Education/Lifelong Learnine
What does it mean to our citizens?
Leads to increased income
Table 8
Open Space
What does it mean to our citizens?
More improvements as we continue to develop
Fair and equitable way (process) to determine what should be open space
Ties to Comprehensive Plan
Partnerships with Commonwealth to Fund these needs
Make clear assignment (open space) (already)
Community Conversation 2000
Round H
Page 13
Economic Vitali~
What does it mean to our citizens?
Schools
Transportation system must support economic vitality
Southeastern Expressway - emergency issues
Public transportation for a sprawling city
Value to citizens
Increase ratio of resident/non-resident assessed value
Sidewalks
Economic Development
Create, attract hi-tech pollutant free companies
Jobs - get/attract high quality/paying jobs
Virginia Beach as a year round destination
Conference/Convention
Improve City process for development (in process) use technology
Enviable Service Level
What does it mean to our citizens?
Value to taxpayers
Schools become Community Education Centers
Partnerships with neighboring cities/schools/courts to outsource common services where
applicable
All documents and forms on Internet to save taxpayer time, thoughts/ideas
Partnership with courts/schools/departments pooling resources
Focus on youth in trouble
Quality of Life
What does it mean to our citizens?
Feeling safe
Cultural events - Facility - Performing Arts
Sidewalks in neighborhoods - retrofitting
Promote families/sports
Marine Science Museum Phase 3
Rights of locals versus tourist - holiday weekend
Environmental issues - clean healthy issues
Aging neighborhoods and infrastructure
Aging population - how to house
Community Conversation 2000 Round H Page 14
Table 9
What does it mean to our citizens?
Education
What does it mean to our citizens?
Ability to compete on global level
Attract higher jobs and industry
Technology and ongoing funding stream to upgrade and keep moving forward
Help reduce crime, poverty
Children be able to stay here and not go elsewhere for jobs
Teachers pay, to attract the best
Close socio-economic gap through education and quality teachers
Challenges
Reduce Class Sizes
More higher education opportunities
More of a Virginia Beach identity
Prepare for Diversified Community_ Ali Ages/Cultures
What does it mean to our citizens?
Proactive local government (such as citizen input on-line, £eedback mechanism, input mechanism
before decisions)
Good housing
Continued good schools
Infrastructure
Equal employment
Provide opportunities, such as recreational for various groups (ages, cultural)
Citizen involvement - more - diverse input, example: advisory committees
Sensitivity to needs of others needs to be a mix of activities, etc.
Make sure we have information and right data to make decisions
More diverse input and participation
Challenges
Police force in tune
Remaining Financially Healthy
What does it mean to our citizens?
Address trends, per capita income, etc.
Wise use of scarce financial resources
Regional financial health, transportation, etc. - needs to be looked at regionaly
Funding for school strong
Quality of life (safety, beauty, etc.)
Relationship between locality and state in revenue generation
Live within means, make decisions, can't invest in every program, learning how to prioritize
Good job opportunities in public sector
Ability to continue to attract good paying jobs
Community Conversation 2000 Round II Page 15
Transportation
What does it mean to our citizens?
Prevent gridlock
Bring communities together to address it, different needs
Managed Growth
Reverse trend of lower paying jobs coming in and higher ones leaving
Provide adequate transportation for all economic levels
Table 10
What does it mean to our citizens?
Rettionalism
What does it mean to our citizens?
Retaining Navy megaport
Solutions for transportation
Leveraging our place in the global marketplace
Regional tourism
Challenges
Future rounds of BRAC
Virginia Beach interests are represented equally in the region
Retain our identity
Transportation
Financial Strength
What does it mean to our citizens?
Lower Taxes
Good Bond Ratings
Pay for Infrastructure improvements
Competitive Wages
Challenges
Tax incentives to business
Competition (for business)
Shift ratio from 82/18 to 70/30
Attracting high tech
Family-Friendly City_
What does it mean to our citizens?
Safe place to get a good education
Things to do
Low Crime Rate
Happy Citizens
Community Conversation 2000
Round lI
Page 16
Challenees
Child Care
Attracting higher education
Families take priority over business
Managed Growth
What does it mean to our citizens?
Quality of life (maintain suburban vs urban)
Transportation infrastructure (gridlock)
Affordable housing (need for all income levels
Preservation of open space
Redevelopment plan
Challenges
Need to get builders to build affordable housing
Zoning (getting past Dillon rule)
Transportation
Gainful Employment
What does it mean to our citizens?
Can't find job, must leave
Solid tax base
Controlled population leads to good planning
Improved per capita income
Actively recruiting industry
Challenges
Where to put all the people
Keeping up with infrastructure
Need diversity of jobs
Competing with other cities and regions
Making our city known
Table 11
What does it mean to our citizens?
Quality Physical Environment
Preserved Green Infrastructure - national environment
Improved Transportation (mass transit, trains)
Preserving Oceanfront
Boardwalk
Trolley service
Sand replenishment
Community Conversation 2000 Round 11 Page 17
Maintain Quality Infrastructure
Roads/highways - Public Works
Waste Management - Public Utilities
School Buildings - Recycling
Municipal Facilities
Managed Growth
Challenge
Funding
Great Schools
What does it mean to our citizens?
Well trained workforce
Higher - paying jobs
Attracts citizens
More opportunities for Lifelong Learning
Challenges and Opportunities
Keep taxes low (no free lunch)
How do we pay for all this?
Resource Management
Increase efficiency
O00ortunities
Public/private partnerships
Retention and Creation of Higher - Pa¥in~ jobs including the Military
What does it mean to our citizens?
Low taxes
Economic Development
Attracting higher levels of hotels, business
Diversified economy
Community for a Lifetime
Higher quality of life
Town Center
Challenges and Opportunities
Retention of high bond rating
Attracting higher levels of hotels; business, etc.
Balance
Create wealth not shifting of wealth
Communi~ Conversation 2000 Round II Page 18
Safe Community
Strong police force
Continued low crime rate
Fire, Emergency Medical Services
Support for National Defense
Good Criminal Justice Center
Neighborhood Watch/Community Involvement
Personal responsibility
After School Programs (before school too)
Maintaining Recreation Centers
Challenges and Opportunities
Citizen involvement
Community Conversation 2000
Round
Page 19
ROUND III Virginia Beach 2000 - 2001 Our A~enda for Action
Question 1
ti~hat are the critical issues that need to be addressed by the City of Virginia Beach during the
next two years? (I4Zhich are the top five of importance?)
Question 2
On two major issues what are your thoughts on what are the problems, what are the desired
outcomes and what should be the direction?
A. Town Center
Table 1
Issues & Concerns-Town Center
Why do we want to do this?
Do we need it?
Need to attract new industry
Move from 82-18 to 70-30
Reverse trend of' declining incomes
Traffic
Take jobs fi.om other cities?
In Town Center~ what do we want for the future?
Good integration with surrounding neighborhoods 'Higher paying jobs
Good and safe pedestrian traffic
High-end shopping
70-30 tax base
What do you not want to see in the future?
Big Box Retail
Fast Food
Table 2
Major issues/critical issues that need to be addressed by the City
Infrastructure
Access to area
Is Condemnation an issue? (lawsuits?)
Impact on areas near proposed development
Traffic
More education about Town Center - Citizens
Community Conversation 2000 Round III Page 20
Desired Outcomes-Town Center
Fortune 500 businesses
Mass transit station
Pedestrian friendly
Multiple use area
An area to "spend the entire day" Something for everyone
Positive revenue flow
Proper mix of amenities
Avoid
Do not let it become another "auto-dependent" area
No big box--single use
No hang out for gangs
Not necessarily bars in areas--specifically a bar only
Table 3.
Major Issues - 6 gl
Traffic
City-owned parking facility on private property
Specifics on Financing--City's obligation--needs to be explained
Perceived lack of competitive bids on public parking garage--needs to be clarified
Affect of Town Center on other economic development projects in City
Need to better communicate vision of'what own Center is, isn't. Issue of:
Historical negatives of"Downtown"
Difference between "downtown and Town Center" What are they?
Condemnation of private property
What do we want for future?
Flexibility (adaptability to future concerns)
Accessibility to/from Interstate/major roads
We want it to attract "career ladder" jobs
Attract corporate presence
Festive atmosphere/family friendly
We don't want
Blight
Displacement of' citizens/institutions
Traffic congestion
Crime
Community Conversation 2000
Round III
Page 21
Table 4
Town Center
Issues/Concerns to be addressed
Do we need a downtown?
"downtown"/urban problems
Is City Hall moving?, threat
Where will these high-tech businesses go if not here?
Privately owned and current zoning (if this deal doesn't happen, what will?)
Need for more movies, hotel?
How will effect other businesses, compete or complement?
Transportation
Parking-self supporting? (yes)
Feasibility study, potential leases, mix of companies? (yes)
What want to see?
Usage (so feel safe day and night, not "dead" at night)
Easy access
Security
Aesthetically pleasing architecture, blends with surroundings
Economic Vitality
Complementary Landscaping, Flowers
What not want to see
"Hangout" homeless, illegal activity
Gridlock
Flea markets, fast food restaurants
Construction tie-ups
City_ Overall
Economic Vitality
Tax Base
Place for our Youth to work
Encourages high quality businesses to come here
Enhances region
Individual Citizens
Keep tax rates lower
Availability of additional public spaces, shopping opportunities
Job opportunities
Additional funding for city services, programs
Community Conversation 2000 Round III Page 22
Table 5
Town Center
Who needs it--who is committed to control
Control of businesses in and around--no big boxes (i.e., Target)
Can developer fill with quality businesses?
Parking garage design unattractive
Is the goal of getting higher paying jobs in Town Center achievable?
Traffic situation must be addressed, i.e., already too crowded
Beautification of area for all (ambiance must attract all types of people), youth, adults
Connection to educational opportunities in facility (re: Internet)--connectivity to Higher
Education Center, TCC
What do you want to see for the future?
Higher education connection
Suitable ambience for all
Issues of concern addressed (especially transportation)
Safety--will police/fire presence be increased?
Don't want to see
Fast food
Do not want newer, fancier Pembroke Mall--must be a class act to be proud of
All concrete--must have nice landscaping, etc.
Low per capita income/paying companies
Discount merchants
Benefits--Town Center
Economic benefits (tax base expansion) better paying jobs
With success--more businesses move in (to City)
Attracts high quality business
Better jobs, closer at hand
Convenience of high quality shops in area
Will engender in citizens a personal interest in the area
Table 8
Issues/Problems/Concerns
Norfolk Airport needs to be a HUB to help attract quality jobs/companies
What is risk management plan if TIF insufficient?
What is limit for public investment? What are our limits? We need to set limits
How much growth do we really want to encourage?
Do government agencies need to be in Class A facilities
Electric car docking stations
Do we really need and is this the place?
Community Conversation 2000 Round IH Page 23
What do we want for the future in Town Center
Visually attractive
No fast food
Good hotdogs/kiosks
Upscaleddiversified shopping upscale
Attract high end/high salary/high tech jobs
Reduce sprawl by concentrating development
Art/Sculpture (liked oceanfront)
Pedestrian friendly
Landscape
Small amphitheater for bands--involve high schools
No pigeons
Spur better development in adjacent surrounding area
No Bill Boards
Avoid
No traffic jams
Improve ingress/egress to area
Supervised to avoid bad "things"
Table 9
Town Center Issues
Community Acceptance, Input on implementation
Educating Community
Reasonably paced process Input
Explanation of investment, etc.
City investment looks too high
Travel in that area--traffic
Implications of less than 100% successful
Town Center Desired Outcomes
Scale down project cost (city funding)
Potential City offices being there--access
Whatever scope-spark revitalization of Pembroke Area
Not to have negative impact on traffic
Type of cultural activities
Positive impact on negative income trends
Higher paying jobs
Avoid
No big box retail on that comer
No higher density housing
No new taxes to support
Community Conversation 2000 Round III Page 24
Table 10
Major Issues
Traffic
l/they build it, who will come?
Public forum for information
Introduction of urban environment in suburban setting
Public Information is needed
Concern with public-private partnerships
Mall needs upgrading
Air transportation for businesses
Displacing/over-income families
Necessary for financial survival
Trust because of fast-tracking of project (misinformation exists regarding this project)
Desired Outcomes
Higher paying jobs
Increased tax base
Filled office space
Successful (it works)
Restrict urbanization
Catalyst for other quality development
Reverse the decline of the Pembroke area
Avoid Becoming
Overly congested
Underutilized
Displacing low-income families in surrounding areas
First step toward urbanization of the City
Table 11
Critical Major Issues--Problems Concerns
Security-Video cameras, visible security, discourage homeless hangout
Increase in traffic--what is the plan
FBI investigation--? What does it mean--get it fixed.
What is the real return to the City on this investment
Desired Outcome
Place to shop, dine, play, work, walk, bank, live, one-stop center
Upscale, clean safe
Good attractive lighting
Signature Building--grand scale
No outside telephone
Unique opportunities
Live up to the projection
Icon for Virginia Beach
Upscale
Nice restaurants
Community Conversation 2000 Round III Page 25
Quality mix affordable/higher end
Arty places
Outside activities/social scene (town park)
Outside cafes)
Avoid Becomiw,
Fast food places
Strip mall
Homeless hangout
Barren--not used
r>irty
Crime ridden
Unsafe
Used only during work hours
B. Open Space
Table 1
In my neighborhood but not on my block
Beach Access
Protect first street surfing area
Open space and places for the public throughout the City
Both passive and active places
How do we pay for it? $$?
Opportunity Costs?
What is open space?--We must define for us
What do we want?
More open space
Beach access
Good useful open space--not what's left over
Agricultural preservation
What do we not want?
Open space that's not contributing to everybody
Community Conversation 2000
Round llI
Page 26
Table 2
Desired Outcome
Need good bike trail system--connectivity
Preservation of natural areas
More--attractive development
Equitable distribution of open space throughout the city
Build in the "enjoyment factor"--A plan that establishes places where people want to go/be.
Avoid
Single focus plan--needs to be varied
Table 3
Major Issues
What do we want to see in the future?
Shrinking open space
How do we obtain/maintain open space
How much do we need and where?
Environment impact
Northern Area-Want
Street development, wider landscaping buffers
Create and maintain more open space
Preservation of Stumpy Lake
Greater public access
Southern-Want
Coordinate with City of Chesapeake
Greater public access
Ecotourism
Don't want
Increased development in southern areas
Unbalanced development northern and southern area
Table 4
Issues
Need tree/vegetation for air &water quality & flood control
Preservation of lakes &waterways
31 st St Park without hotel
Needs of City at large versus individual citizens or interest groups
Balance between open space and development--land usage
How to pay for?
Communi.ty Conversation 2000 Round II! Page 27
Northern Area-North of Indian River Road
Neighborhood, parks to support neighborhoods
Redevelopment
Consider traffic impact in development
Sidewalks and trails "connect"
Not want to see
Office development not supported by roads
Empty buildings, property neglected, blight, deteriorated housing stock
Southern Area-South of Indian River Road)
Want to see
Preserve wetlands
Preserve farmland
Balance
Want not to see
Over development
Residential development
Benefits City overall
Brings balance in land use
Wildlife habitat
Enhances attractiveness of Virginia Beach to visitors--sense of openness
Less need for City services
Supports Virginia Beach as "family friendly"
Individual Citizen
Quality of life
FamilY-good place to raise family
Recreational opportunities
Table 5
Problems/concerns/issue
Money--how do we pay for it
Competing issue with economic development
Zoning issues---when communities want open space in areas zoned industrial
Perception of open space/building codes--Iow buildings lead to perception of open space
Citizen conflict/perceptions
Why are all resources directed to oceanfront/resort area/beachfront areas
Surfing and recreation opportunities for young people conflict with needs, values of
homeowners
Utilizing wetlands--what you do once you buy it
Community Conversation 2000 Round lII Page 28
Desired Outcome-Want to See
Parks dedicated to--outdoor activities, scenic beauty. Need to balance so there is something for
everyone, all types of parks/open space
More space for organized activities (i.e., Little Leagues, balance with other needs
Include pocket parks walking trails as well as large open spaces
Security/safety
Hold the line on the Green Line--Maintain rural environment
Don't Want to See
Commercial enterprises selling items (in parks), i.e., fast food
Too much commercial development
Suggestions
Adopt-A Park--Private sector/individuals/groups help assume task (costs) of maintaining parks
Table 8
Problems & Concerns
Maintaining adequate supply
Balance
Acquisition upon availability RFP
Are we willing to pay for it?
Set budget
Develop process up-front that is as open as possible, everyone understand
No condemnation--concern
Northern Area-What Do We Want
Keep Green Line
Learn fi'om our mistakes
Architectural review board?
Shore Drive is ugly--protect live oaks--(preserve what's lei't?)
As we redevelop, look at density, with idea of balance with open space
Take care of aging neighborhoods
Develop means to control poor by-right developments
Southern Areas, What Do You Want
Horse farms
No townhouses
Ask people who live there
Community Conversation 2000 Round III Page 29
Benefits
Clean air--trees
Recreation
Community Involvement
Beautification
People place
(Unit develop--save $)
Table 9
Issues/Concerns
Avoid building false expectations beyond control can happen. Set parameters first
Keep and maintain, acquire
Since it means so many different things, bringing diversity in
Input and community level--neighborhoods need open space too
Paying for it
May need to revisit zoning and building codes to provide adequate open space and building
Keep politics out of process
Avoid appearance of fast tracking
Desired Outcomes
Diverse recreational opportunities
Healthier community
Beautification
Access for everyone
Realistic financially consistent
Private sector open space
Promote Private Investment
Incentives for developers for open space
Reduce cost for citizens
Partner with community, private groups
Avoid
Creating open space which become gathering points for mischief
Trashy
Excessive expense
Things only available for certain groups, financial, or other limitations
Community Conversation 2000
Round III
Page
30
Table 10
Major Issues
Balancing environment
Preserving agriculture
Public beach access
Paying for the open space (purchasing and maintaining)
Maintain open space around Oceana
Misinformation re: ARP
Balancing fights of property owner with fights of developer
Old inappropriate zonings
Flooding if we don't preserve
Reduce stress
Family-friendly
Appeal of undeveloped areas
Compatibility with environment
Continued recreation areas
Set aside of open space by commercial businesses
Maintain open coastline free from high-rise development
More public beach for residents
Avoid Becomine
Windfall profit for landowners
Raising taxes by acquiring open space
Urbanized
Open space later being converted to developable land
Decisions re: acquiring open space being undone
Table 11
Problems/Concerns
Leave it the way it is
Purchasing land with city $
City to maintain stricter zoning requirements so more land becomes open space
City to purchase--in order to preserve as open space
We have higher priorities than open space
How to decide which pieces of land to purchase
How do we keep it open
How to control development
Where does the $ come from
City buys then property is offthe tax rolls--less income
Community Conversation 2000
Round III
Page 31
Desired Outcome
Low density--space used for other than (?)
Recreational waterways
Greenbelts (roads)
Beautiful Industrial parks
Private responsibility for a higher aesthetic level when development happens
"Feel good" close to nature
"Nature renews me"
Educational opportunities
Health benefits
Get public input
Avoid Becomin~
Don't want to do it at the expense of personal property rights
Hangout atmosphere--unsafe
Trashy--want it clean
Should be maintained
Inaccessible
Community Conversation 2000 Round lII Page 32