OCTOBER 14, 2014 WORKSHOP MINUTES CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH
"COMMUNITY FOR A LIFETIME"
CITY COUNCIL o`, :'O'F- 'nom
MAYOR WILLIAM 1).SESSOMS,JR.,At-Large �`
VICE MAYOR LOUIS R.JONES,Bayside-District 4 4- ?-7-""--
ROBERT
e,7.ROBERT M.DYER,Centerville-District 1
BARBARA M.HENLEY,Princess Anne District 7
SHANNON DS KANE,Rose Hall-District 3 ° "W°�s
BRAD MARTIN,At-Large
JOHN D.MOSS,At-Large
AMELIA N.ROSS-HAMMOND,Kenipsville-District 2
JOHN E.UHRIN,Beach-District 6
ROSEMARY WILSON,At-Large
JAMES L. WOOD,Lvnnhaven-District 5 CITY HALL BUILDING
2401 COURTHOUSE DRIVE
CITY COUNCIL APPOINTEES VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA 23456-8005
CITY MANAGER-JAMES K.SPORE PHONE:(757)385-4303
CITY ATTORNEY- MARK D.STILES FAX(757)385-56(J
CITY ASSESSOR-JERALD D.BANAGAN E-MAIL:ciycncl@vbgov.com
CITY AUDITOR- LYNDON S.REMIAS
CITY CLERK- RUTH HODGES FRASER,MMC
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP AGENDA
14 OCTOBER 2014
MAYOR WILLIAM D. SESSOMS,JR.
PRESIDING
I. CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS - Conference Room- 4:00PM
A. PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT (PACT)
Dannette Smith, Director—Human Services
Aileen Smith, Deputy Director- Community Services
B. CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
Melissa Zibutis,Neighborhood Services Coordinator - Volunteer Resources
Sergeant William Zelms, Crime Prevention Office—Police Department
C. COMMUNITY LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
Robert Matthias, Assistant to the City Manager
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VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
Virginia Beach, Virginia
October 14, 2014
Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr., called to order the CITY COUNCIL'S WORKSHOP in the City Council
Conference Room, Tuesday, October 14, 2014, at 4:00 P.M.
Council Members Present:
Robert M. Dyer, Barbara M Henley, Vice Mayor Louis R. Jones,
Shannon DS Kane, Brad Martin, John D. Moss, Amelia N. Ross-
Hammond, Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr., John E. Uhrin, Rosemary
Wilson and James L. Wood
Council Members Absent:
None
-2-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
4:00 P.M.
Mayor Sessoms welcomed Senator Frank Wagner. Senator Wagner stated the State felt IT necessary to
increase the Crisis Intervention Team's Budget and creating the new "PACT" teams to assist in dealing
with those that have severe mental health issues. Senator Wagner encouraged everyone to take a tour of
the Virginia Beach Jail and see where a large population of individuals suffering with mental health
illnesses are housed as the jail has become the "defacto" mental health last resort facility. This is an
attempt to overhaul how the emergency cases of mental health patients are treated and that is why the
State funded the PACT Team with three additional teams this fiscal year. The Department of Behavioral
Health requested the City of Virginia Beach consider having a PACT Team since the City is the largest
municipality in the State. The Team will be significantly subsidized by the State as well as Medicaid
funding added to the overall budget. This is a preventive program to help assist with the mental health
population. Senator Wagner assures as long as he is in the Senate the financial commitment will
continue:
*NB
Human
Services
t 1€1=`.' _:F' °. '.'t-'., i alta 'ct.
October tq,zm4 Human Ser ices Department Dannette R.Smith,Director
] K.9pole,Ciry Manage,
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vm I K C'd A Curtis,tkpury(11 Manager
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Mayor Sessoms welcomed Dannette Smith, Director-Human Services and Aileen Smith, Deputy Director-
Community Service Board (CSB). Ms. Smith thanked Senator Wagner and the CSB Board Members for
their support of this program.
October 14, 2014
-3-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
Ms. Smith advised PACT will add value to the City's Community-Based Service System for individuals
with the most serious mental illness:
* PACT is a well-researched,
clinically and cost effective
Assertive intervention for:
Community
Treatment 4'Reducing hospitalization
y Reducing crises in our community
PACT is a community solution
that will benefit the client and
also the community by:
t Increasing public safety
n T lrnprot ing public health
y Reducing costs related to emergency
response and enforcement
inter\entions.
In FY2015, the State funded one (1) PACT Team. The State contacted the City and requested that we
consider adding the Team:
Ne
�; r eE€ F.
" GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVED NEW STATE
2.4611astSas11111�' are FUNDING FOR ONE PACT TEAM IN FY15.AND THREE al
, IN FY16.
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services;,
(DBHDS)requested that VBDHS consider adding a PACT Team in FY15.
Reasons for the request:
Virginia Beach is the largest city in the state
Virginia Beach has a corresponding high rate of
hospitalization
FY14 Data:...
2,295 Emergency Services evaluations
2•Tem,urari Detention.Order's I Os)were issued
October 14, 2014
II
-4-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
PACT is an evidence-based, recovery-oriented service delivery model that provides comprehensive,
locally based treatment to those with the most serious and persistent mental illnesses. The primary goal
of PACT is to reduce hospitalization, incarceration, homelessness and crisis episodes while working
toward safe and functional integration into our community. This promotes wellness for the individual and
public safety for communities:
• Serves clients with severe mental health
Merits of PACT and behavioral challenges
Model • w Needs are not met by traditional
services
Acute symptoms&elevated risk factors
4 /III High levels of hospitalization,
incarceration and homelessness
Recovery movement&state facility
downsizing=increased need for PACT
• Intensive wrap-around services increase
wellbeing,reduce cost and improve
community safety.
• 24/7 program offered 365 days a year
k�t�h
ikig;
Below are the services offered by PACT:
17' Se rkices
Multi-disciplinary team
Psychiatry •Case Management
•Nursing •Peer Support
-Clinicians -Substance Abuse Specialist
•Vocational Specialist
Assertive treatment approach
•High frequene:,on-demand communiii based services
•Medication delivery and monitoring
•Crisis intervention
•Assistance with meet*daily needs,such as food,clothing,
attending'medical appointments.etc.-
•Customized training to improi e .d: living skill:;
•Substance abuse education t4 del elopment of recovery plan
•Assistance with employment readiness
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as ,��s�._
October 14, 2014
-5-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
Below are the Admission Criteria:
Priority categories:
• Individuals with serious mental illness who are
currently residing in state hospitals,have histories of
frequent use of state or local psychiatric inpatient
services,or are homeless.
• Individuals diagnosed with severe and persistent
mental illness that impairs their functioning and
ability to maintain community living.
71,44tV -ter 'w `014
Currently, VBDHS currently serves approximately 130 clients that meet the criteria for PACT level of
care:
ff- `�
IVa _- 7 11
�w r s .,, �+S�aH lam*,�...,3�;T.,.�' o. ;i� .�, �-.�`y :ki= .a 'tori
gram
e o- 22 have recently been homeless or
uiannit Assertiv
living in a Virginia Beach motel
Treatment 23 have had state hospitalization
49 have been hospitalized at least
once this year
'z 66 have required crisis stabilization
services this year
51 have transient housing histories
and have high risk for homelessness
w,31 have arrest and incarceration
histories
sr
October 14, 2014
-6-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
The below data,provided by DBHDS for the four(4)PACT teams indicate that, on average:
PACT Team
Outcomes
^7111!13 6/30/14 a Low-No
table lio itahzattn s; No
Hot :'.+ � �N�liG on.. ,iArrests'.,?
Arlin on 89.47% 90.53% 92.63%
gine Rid,e ti 96.63% 87.64% 96.63%
mat, ake if 1 91.67% 80.95% 94.05%
NOZIOnt. 93.14% 86.27% 87.25%
Below is the information for the return on investment:
Hospital Bed Day Reduction
Annual reduction of approximately 32 state hospital
bed days per PACT client
Average annual savings of$21,792 per PACT client
A team of 8o clients could anticipate a reduction of
2,56o bed days with an estimated annual savings of
$1,743,360.
Virginia at large has seen a reduction in 243,152 bed
days for PACT clients with an estimated savings of
$165,586,512
.Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Ser iees Datat f
4 rx�s,L"SW t!.P
sir. 07'21. „,„„„ 1
October 14, 2014
11
-7-
C TY MANAGER'S
BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TRE—
TMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
Staffing.
ty
Belowis the necessa
ffing
Be
sill
.
on
Position
Position
Team
Leader
1 7 Nursemnnager(Real 1)
(Supervisor
1Psychiatrist
Coordinator
1 Administrative 2 RN
ipeer Specialist4 Clinician III
•i,.ia'a,,,,L,-", ,,',
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the -,iii)111
program:
t 111,
data regarding
tal da
the financial
. & I
Below is
_
00-
.....n,..0,0
amount of"n
. allotmenthour of 50%(40)
state funding in the Permix
rate of$153 payer
Annual minimum
reimbursementil require aFl-IS Medicaidw '"46 850000
tl,Sustainabilityid clients.ObIt Cod.
medic° 85°°°° 1 31 94.,
R.. ...4,... 898 73: I 6°7:8
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October 14, 2014
-8-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
Next Steps
:Dau UsentfAction T4s
October 17.2014 present new service information to lual
Human Rights Committee for approval
October 2014 Request Cil}'Councils pptovel
October/November2ot4 Receive initial state funding allotment Use initial funds toassist with start-
uPMenses(auch.oupam
renovation/equipment...
(lclob,. Nmember2ot4 -Submit information
-Submit inf rmation to DBHDS
Licensing Office
December t-December3t.2114 -Estimated data for lrerenng tovisit
site and appmvepmgrem
-Begin staff training
January-Mareh__cu tutu,to ciientsforthe first quaoere. Add O.LIc soiidiltb olprectices,
(Tentative based on hiring required initial staffing permits build staff skills,develop schedules,
medical staff.) curriculum and medication protocols
Approval of PACT Team for VBDHS to include:
a:a 12 additional City Full Time Positions
Funding: FY i6$375,485
October 14, 2014
II
-9-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
PROPOSAL FOR PROGRAM OF
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT
(PACT)
(Continue)
rite,.
Mayor Sessoms expressed appreciation to Ms. Smith and the entire Team for their work on this program.
October 14, 2014
-10-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
4:32 P.M.
Mayor Sessoms welcomed Melissa Zibutis, Office of Volunteer Resources, and Sergeant Billy Zelms,
Crime Prevention Office — Police Department. Ms. Zibutis and Sergeant Zelms expressed their
appreciation to City Council for their support in this project:
Nextdoor
Connecting Neighbors,
Strengthening Neighborhoods,
Building Community
Melissa Zibutis Sgt.Billy Zelms
Office of Volunteer Resources Crime Prevention Office
City Manager's Office Police Department
As everyone knows, the late Mary Russo had a huge dream of getting "neighbors to help neighbors"and
decided to start a program to achieve just that. Unfortunately, in the current world, neighbors just do not
know each other and, therefore, are hesitant to reach out and help. Sergeant Zelms added when he first
transferred to the Crime Prevention Unit, he began looking at ways to connect the community and build
upon the current programs the City has in place:
In the Beginning. . .
The Office of Volunteer Resources had the
desire for Neighbors to Help Neighbors through
volunteerism
The Police Department had the desire to
make the Neighborhood Watch model more
effective and efficient
October 14, 2014
-11-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
Social networks have become ubiquitous and mainstream with enormous user bases. As of last August,
over 65%of adults were users of social networking sites. The only thing missing from social networks is
the part of identities that has to do with where we citizens live, where kids go to school, local communities
and neighborhoods. It turns out that the neighborhood is one of the original social networks:
We rely on social networks for many
important parts of our lives
A
p ash
Unfortunately, most have lost touch with the neighborhood; and, in fact, 29%of Americans know only a
few of their neighbors and 28%do not know a single neighbor by name. While there are plenty of online
services that can connect people far and wide, there does not seem to be anything that will connect the
people right outside the front door:
But we seem to have lost touch
with the neighborhood
29', of Americans know only
a few of thee neighbors and
28% know none
of their neighbors
by name.
•
October 14, 2014
-12-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
Nextdoor is the free, private social
network designed specifically
for your neighbors, neighborhoods
and the city
qilij t
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Below is a screen-shot of how this program looks:
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r e
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•
October 14, 2014
-13-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
This also has a mapping application to make it user-friendly:
a? za 4 4°
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Lorrm
Z
rew
1"fir:' -
This will help bring back a sense of"community"to the neighborhood and, ultimately, improve the
quality of life within neighborhoods:
Nextdoor helps bring back a sense of
community to the neighborhood
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October 14, 2014
-14-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
As a community increases, crime decreases:
The power of community
Most important yet most forgotten infrastructure:
Community Health Test scores Crime
Below are some of the benefits of this social networking tool:
Benefits
To Citizens To Local Government
• Know neighbors • Builds stronger and safer
• Stay informed neighborhoods
• Feel connected • Easy communication to
• Develop pride neighborhoods
•
• Become involved and Lowers crime
engaged • Increases test scores
• Get and give help • Increases property values
• Moves customers to
citizens
October 14, 2014
-15-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
As of today, approximately 17,000 Citizens are actively using this tool:
Growth of Nextdoor CVB
Nextdoor Statistics
NOV 2012
MAY 2013
AUG 2013
NOV 2013
MAY 2014
AUG 2014
OCT 2014
City-Wide Message can cover the entire City or messages can be sent to a specific group:
Targeting Your Message
• City-Wide Messaging
• Groups of ,«..
Neighborhoods --� 04 �
• Specific �` � �
Neighborhoods �t
• Neighborhood Leads
October 14, 2014
-16-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT NEXTDOOR
(Continued)
This is just one more tool to help the City achieve the 2040 Vision
Drverse
CommunityEnv1,•onmenf
Learning Active
ommum Ty , i 1 lifestyle
C
\�IST04;
Most Livable
Conmeenect -� Coastal Community thriving
Commm zy in the World -- Econany
�Dllhlt '10118
Nextdoor and 2040 Vision
Questions?
Melissa Zibutis Sgt.Billy Zelms
Office of Volunteer Resources VBPD-Crime Prevention
757-385-4748 I 757-385-1067)
Mayor Sessoms thanked Ms. Zibutus and Sergeant Zelms for all of their work on this wonderful program.
October 14, 2014
-17-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
COMMUNITY LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
5:05 P.M.
Mayor Sessoms welcomed Bob Matthias, Assistant to the City Manager. Mr. Matthias expressed his
appreciation to City Council for their continued support in preparing the 2015 Legislative Agenda. . A
copy of the Draft Version of the Legislative Agenda for the 2015 General Assembly Session, dated
October 10, 2014, is attached to and made part of this record.
Mr. Matthias advised Mr. Spore wanted to give City Council Members an opportunity to discuss any
concerns prior to the Vote.
Councilman Wood has received calls regarding Item 11 — "Requiring The Reporting Of Lost Or Stolen
Firearms". He and Chief Cervera attended a meeting recently and received no less than 100%negative
reaction; however, there is no criminal penalty assigned and it opens the dialogue with the General
Assembly.
Council Lady Henley has found Item 23— "Ban The Release Of More Than Ten (10)Balloons"to be very
interesting. In fact, she advised she never knew there was so much to be known about balloons.
Currently, the State Code allows the release of up to forty-nine (49) balloons. Balloons are a tremendous
problem as it can take up to twelve (12) months for them to completely degrade in salt water. As you can
imagine, this creates a big problem for marine life. In fact, she is hearing that even ten (10) balloons may
be too much. She suggests the City be the leader as this issue causes problems in waterways and
environment. Balloons are also an issue for Dominion Power as they end up in transmission lines and
cause outages.
Also, Item 25 — "An Act To Exclude The Little Creek Watershed From The James River Basin For
Purposes Of The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan". She feels there is some
misconception of what is trying to be accomplished.
Mr. Matthias advised he wrote the letter incorrect and is in the process of getting a revised letter sent out.
October 14, 2014
-18-
CITY MANAGER'S BRIEFINGS
COMMUNITY LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
(Continued)
Lastly, Item 26 — "Require The State Water Control Board To Establish Regulations For Innovative
Stormwater Treatment Protocols For Localities". Council Lady Henley advised she has met with the
Chesapeake Bay Foundation and,from the response from DEQ, there may still be additional issues. She
asked Clay Bernick to explain this a bit more.
Mr. Bernick advised this proposal came forward thru the Clean Water Task Force and the Green Ribbon
Committee. Originally, letters were submitted to DEQ in June 2013 as the TMDL effort got underway.
The City has until 2017 to reach a significant proportion of the target, specifically 65%. DEQ just
provided a definitive response last week,fifteen (15) months after the initial correspondence.
Mayor Sessoms advised Item 22 — "Citizen Comment At Hampton Roads Transportation Accountability
Commission Meetings"public comment is five (5) minutes at the beginning of the meeting. He feels the
only down-side is: should be something "added"to the Agenda. Citizens should be given the opportunity
to speak on items "added"to the Agenda as well.
Councilman Moss advised Citizens have the right to speak on each and every item, should they so desire,
for three (3)minutes. He feels Citizens have a right to speak and focus on each item.
October 14, 2014
o``o� ,
City of Virginia Beach
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S OF OUR NAT10t
VBgov.com
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER MUNICIPAL CENTER
(757)-385-4242 BUILDING 1,ROOM 234
FAX(757)427-5626 2401 COURTHOUSE DRIVE
VIRGINIA BEACH,VA 23456-9001
October 10, 2014
The Honorable William D. Sessoms, Jr., Mayor
Members of City Council
Subject: 2015 Legislative Agenda
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
Please find attached the latest draft of the community Legislative Agenda for the 2015
session of the General Assembly. We have set aside time at your meeting next week,
October 14, to discuss this package.
As mentioned in previous correspondence, our General Assembly Delegation wants a
package to be one that best reflects the needs of the City, first and foremost. Tackling
issues of Commonwealth significance are a lower priority for the Delegation.
The package is scheduled for adoption at your October 21 meeting and there will likely
be public comment received at that time.
Please call if I can provide you with anything further.
With Pride in Our City,
i
ilit
s K. Spore
anager
JKS/RRM/sep
c Robert R. Matthias, Assistant to the City Manager
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LEGISLATIVE AGENDA DRAFT
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
SESSION 2015
OCTOBER 14, 2014
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PREFACE
The 2015 session of the General Assembly will be quickly upon the citizens and General Assembly
members.
The General Assembly in the past several years has had many notable successes. This includes
addressing the unfunded liability for the Virginia Retirement System (VRS). The General Assembly has
pledged to fully fund the actuarially recommended amount over the next several years. The General
Assembly is also paying back the $600 million "loan" taken from the VRS fund during the Great
Recession.
The General Assembly also, during the 2014 session, had an outstanding success for the Hampton Roads
and the Northern Virginia regions through the creation of the Hampton Roads Transportation
Accountability Commission (HRTAC) and a similar commission in Northern Virginia. The HRTAC,
which is made up of the elected officials from the fourteen localities in Hampton Roads and five
members of the General Assembly, is currently in the process of forming. The next task will be
assessing and prioritizing the projects to be funded through HRTAC funds, and then sequencing and
working with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Federal Highway
Administration(FHWA) to move those projects along to construction. In fact, through the good work of
VDOT and the FHWA, the first phase of improvements to I-64 on the peninsula will begin about the
time the General Assembly convenes in January. This is a long overdue improvement that is partially
funded and moving forward because of HRTAC funds. Planning for phases 2 and 3 are also underway
and is expected that those will be completed over the next 8 years or so.
The Commonwealth Transportation Board and the local VDOT office are also to be congratulated for
the great effort expended on repairing and resurfacing Interstate 64 and Interstate 264 in Norfolk and
Virginia Beach. Again, these long overdue repairs are being accomplished through a multiyear process
and expenditure of$80 million. This will greatly improve the motoring experience for Hampton Roads
residents and visitors and business alike.
2015 will also be the last year that the City will be receiving funds for our Base Realignment and
Closure (BRAC) Response Program. Again, this is a tremendous accomplishment of partnering
between the City and the Commonwealth. By the time we expend the City and State funds appropriated
from the program's inception through 2015, over $135 million worth of properties will have been
purchased. As recognized by the Department of Defense, we have the best program in the nation for
encroachment control and rollback. The City of Chesapeake is also partnering with the Commonwealth
now, which adds to the success of this great program.
However, there is a cloud on the horizon, and that is the economy. State revenues have declined and are
expected to decline even more. When the joint monies committees met in August, they received a
dismal report that there would be an estimated $2.2 billion shortfall for the 2014/2016 biennium. This
has forced the state to reforecast its general fund revenues, which will likely include further reduced
payroll withholding growth expectations.
Much of this loss in revenue to the Commonwealth is due to the decrease of federal spending through
cutbacks around sequestration. Between 2000 and 2010, federal spending in Virginia grew 107%,
versus 60% in the states total gross product. However, in federal fiscal year 2013, federal spending only
grew 7/10 of 1% with military spending declining 7.2%. With the Commonwealth staring down a
substantial budget shortfall, Virginia Beach and all of the localities request that efforts be made to not
decrease funding to local governments. In fact, state K-12 funding is still well below the FY2009 peak
without adjustment. When these figures are adjusted for inflation and school membership rise, there is
an even larger decline. Localities, like Virginia Beach, are making up for this decrease in state funding
for K-12. Virginia Beach is funding education at an amount of$219 million over that required by the
standards of quality. This equates to 44 cents on the real estate tax rate (each penny on the tax rate
produces $4.9 million of revenue to the City).
Although Virginia Beach's revenues are showing some signs of growth, the decrease in federal spending
in the Hampton Roads region weighs heavily on our expectations. Approximately 43% of the economy
in Hampton Roads is related to federal spending, primarily from Department of Defense (DOD). The
decrease in federal funding will directly affect local governments, perhaps more directly than it does
state government.
The Council of the City of Virginia Beach is committed to continuing its partnership with the General
Assembly on matters of mutual interest and also we believe we are doing our part to create a stronger
economy in Virginia Beach,which will benefit Hampton Roads and the Commonwealth as a whole.
City Council wishes the General Assembly members a very productive 2015 general session of the
oldest continuous legislative body in the Western Hemisphere.
iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii
Preface ii
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH— CITY COUNCIL vii
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH— GENERAL ASSEMBLY DELEGATION vii
SECTION 1.1 — CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH LONG TERM POLICY POSITION viii
1. POST LABOR DAY OPENING FOR SCHOOLS 2
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council
2. EXPANSION OF THE VIRGINIA HUMAN RIGHTS ACT 3
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council via Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission
3. MORATORIUM ON URANIUM MINING 4
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council
4. MEDICAID EXPANSION POSITION 5
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council
5. CONTINUED FUNDING FOR BASE REALIGNMENT AND CLOSURE(BRAC)EFFORT 8
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council
6. INCREASED FUNDING FOR MENTAL HEALTHCARE 9
Sponsored by the Virginia Beach City Council
SECTION 1.2 — CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH NEW POLICY INITIATIVES 10
7. COMMONWEALTH TRANSPORTATION BOARD APPOINTMENTS 11
Sponsored by Mayor William D. Sessoms,Jr.
8. JOINT LEGISLATIVE AUDIT AND REVIEW COMMISSION (JLARC) REVIEW OF THE EQUITY
OF TRANSPORTATION FUNDING 14
Sponsored by Mayor William D. Sessoms,Jr.
9. HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTABILITY COMMISSION(HRTAC)VOTING 15
Sponsored by Mayor William D. Sessoms,Jr.
V
10. HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTABILITY COMMISSION (HRTAC) USE OF
WELDON COOPER POPULATION INFORMATION 16
Sponsored by Mayor Williams D. Sessoms,Jr.
11. REQUIRING THE REPORTING OF LOST OR STOLEN FIREARMS 17
Sponsored by Council Member,Jim Wood
12. EXAMINATION OF THOSE UNDER A TEMPORARY DETENTION ORDER(TDO) 18
Sponsored by Council Member,Amelia N. Ross-Hammond
13. TEMPORARY DETENTION ORDER(TDO)EVALUATION REQUIRED WITHIN 24 HOURS 19
Sponsored by Council Member,Amelia N. Ross-Hammond
14. PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE REQUIREMENT 20
Sponsored by Vice Mayor,Louis R.Jones
15. PROCUREMENT PROCESS EXEMPTION FOR INVESTMENT ADVISORS 21
Sponsored by Council Member,John D. Moss
16. REMOVE THE PRE-QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENT FOR THE BOND WAIVER PROGRAM FOR
NON-TRANSPORTATION CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS UNDER$500,000 22
Sponsored by Council Member,Bob Dyer
17. EXPEDITED PAYMENT OF JOB-RELATED PENSION PAYMENTS 23
Sponsored by Council Member,John D. Moss
18. BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF ANY POOLED TRUST FOR POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS MAY
SERVE AS LOCAL FINANCE BOARD 24
Sponsored by Council Member,John D.Moss
19. ENFORCEMENT OF PROMPT PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS 25
Sponsored by Council Member,Bob Dyer
20. MICRO BUSINESS PROCUREMENT PROGRAM 26
Sponsored by Council Member,Bob Dyer
21. FOLLOWING BIKES TOO CLOSELY 28
Sponsored by Council Member,Rosemary A. Wilson
22. CITIZEN COMMENT AT HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTABILITY
COMMISSION MEETINGS 29
Sponsored by Council Member,John D. Moss
23. BAN THE RELEASE OF MORE THAN TEN(10)BALLOONS 30
Sponsored by Council Member,Barbara M.Henley
24. ESTABLISHMENT OF COASTAL VIRGINIA STANDARDS FOR DAM SAFETY REGULATIONS 31
Sponsored by Council Member,Barbara M.Henley
25. AN ACT TO EXCLUDE THE LITTLE CREEK WATERSHED FROM THE JAMES RIVER BASIN
FOR PURPOSES OF THE CHESAPEAKE BAY WATERSHED IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 32
Sponsored by Council Member,Barbara M.Henley
vi
26. REQUIRE THE STATE WATER CONTROL BOARD TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR
INNOVATIVE STORMWATER TREATMENT PROTOCOLS FOR LOCALITIES 33
Sponsored by Council Member,Barbara M. Henley
vii
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH- CITY COUNCIL
Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr.
Vice Mayor Louis R. Jones - Bayside
Shannon DS Kane—Rose Hall
Brad Martin—At Large
Amelia N. Ross-Hammond- Kempsville
Bob Dyer- Centerville
Barbara M. Henley - Princess Anne
John D. Moss -At Large
John E. E. Uhrin- Beach
Rosemary Wilson- At Large
James L. Wood - Lynnhaven
CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH- GENERAL ASSEMBLY DELEGATION
Senator Lynwood W. Lewis, Jr.—Senate District 6
Senator Frank W. Wagner—Senate District 7
Senator Jeffrey L. McWaters— Senate District 8
Senator John A. Cosgrove, Jr. — Senate District 14
Delegate Ronald A. Villaneuva—House District 21
Delegate Barry D. Knight—House District 81
Delegate William R. DeSteph, Jr. —House District 82
Delegate Christopher P. Stolle—House District 83
Delegate Glenn R. Davis—House District 84
Delegate Scott W. Taylor—House District 85
Delegate-Elect Joseph C. Lindsey —House District 90
SECTION 1.1 - CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH LONG
TERM POLICY POSITION
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Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 12
1. POST LABOR DAY OPENING FOR SCHOOLS
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
Background Information:
The total spending from the tourism industry in Virginia Beach for 2013 was $1.284 billion, stimulating
12,025 jobs. Starting schools in Virginia Beach and other localities in the Commonwealth prior to
Labor Day would have significant financial consequences on the tourism industry in the long term.
Beginning schools prior to Labor Day would effectively reduce the available vacation time in August by
two weeks, which is prime family vacation time that cannot be replaced. If the Virginia Beach school
system begins before Labor Day and other localities follow our lead, it will have a negative effect on the
economic impact of the tourism industry. To a lesser extent, this will also have an impact on this
industry by affecting the labor pool available prior to Labor Day.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to maintain the existing legislation concerning post Labor Day
opening of schools. This allows all schools to open after Labor Day except those given exemptions by
the State Board of Education.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 13
2. EXPANSION OF THE VIRGINIA HUMAN RIGHTS ACT
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL VIA VIRGINIA BEACH HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Background Information:
The Virginia Human Rights Act (Va. Code § 2.2-3900 et seq.) currently prohibits discrimination based
on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age,
marital status, or disability. The City of Virginia Beach has prohibited the aforementioned since 1994.
Request:
The City requests that the General Assembly amend the Virginia Human Rights Act to also prohibit
discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 I 4
3. MORATORIUM ON URANIUM MINING
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
Background Information:
Virginia has had a moratorium on uranium mining since the 1980s. A large deposit of mineable ore has
been found in Pittsylvania County. This deposit is upstream of the John H. Kerr Reservoir, which
provides 93% of the inflow to Lake Gaston, which provides water directly to Virginia Beach, and
indirectly to most of southside Hampton Roads. A study prepared by the National Academy of Sciences
(NAS) indicates that uranium tailings disposal cells represent long-term risks for contamination, that
limited data exist to confirm the long-term effectiveness of those disposal cells, and that extreme natural
events combined with human errors have the potential to lead to the release of contaminants. The NAS
study concludes that Virginia has no experience with uranium mining, that the federal government has
little or no experience with wet climates and extreme precipitation events, and that there are gaps in
legal and regulatory coverage for uranium mining and steep hurdles to be overcome before mining could
be established in Virginia within a regulatory framework that is protective of health, safety, and the
environment.
The City contracted with nationally prominent experts to prepare a study of the downstream water
quality impacts that would occur from a hypothetical, catastrophic breach of an above-grade, uranium
mine tailings disposal cell. The study indicates that in the aftermath of an assumed catastrophe,
radioactivity in the main body of Lake Gaston would remain above state and federal regulatory levels
for up to two months during wet years and six to sixteen months during dry years. The only practical
response during this time would be to shut down the Lake Gaston project. Depending upon the weather,
this could have significant consequences to all of southside Hampton Roads, but particularly,
Chesapeake,Norfolk, and Virginia Beach.
The Cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and the Hampton Roads Planning District
Commission have all passed resolutions opposing uranium mining in Virginia and lifting the legislative
moratorium on uranium mining.
Request:
The General Assembly of Virginia is requested to maintain the existing moratorium on uranium mining
in Virginia.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 15
4. MEDICAID EXPANSION POSITION
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
***Please find attached a resolution adopted by City Council***
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 16
Resolution Page 1
1 A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE GENERAL
2 ASSEMBLY AND GOVERNOR ACCEPT AND IMPLEMENT
3 THE FULL EXPANSION OF MEDICAID AS PROVIDED BY
4 THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
5
6 WHEREAS, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act ("Affordable Care
7 Act") is a 2010 federal law which, among other things, expands the availability of health
8 care through an expansion of Medicaid;
- 9
10 WHEREAS, as a result of the United States Supreme Court's decision in a case
11 in which it upheld the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, states now have the
12 option to chose whether to accept and implement the Act's Medicaid expansion;
13
14 WHEREAS, the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion establishes a new
15 income eligibility criterion of 133% of the federal poverty level and provides 100%
16 federal funding for the expansion in the first three years, after which time the federal
17 funding will be reduced to no less than 90%of the cost;
18
19 WHEREAS, the projected cost to Virginia is dwarfed by the billions of federal
20 dollars which will flow into the state, and Medicaid expansion will not only provide
21 citizens with greater access to health care but will also support the state's health care
22 industry, employment,and Virginia's overall economy;
23
24 WHEREAS, although 47,775 Virginia Beach residents currently receive Medicaid
25 benefits, 51,730 additional adult City residents who are under the age of 65 remain
26 uninsured;
27
28 WHEREAS, an estimated additional 14,650 Virginia Beach residents will be
29 eligible for Medicaid expansion under the federal law, including a significant number of
30 single persons and couples with incomes between $15,415 and $20,879, as well as
31 certain families(depending on family size)with incomes up to$53,668;
32
33 WHEREAS, a significant number of uninsured Virginia Beach residents who
34 suffer from mental health or substance abuse disorders will be eligible for health care
35 coverage through Medicaid expansion; and
36
37 WHEREAS, the expansion of Medicaid will increase local employment in medical
38 services and other supportive health care industries(especially technology);
39
40 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
41 VIRGINIA BEACH,VIRGINIA:
42
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 17
Resolution Page 2
43 That the City Council requests that the Governor and the General Assembly take
44 the steps necessary to accept and implement in the Commonwealth of Virginia the full
45 Medicaid expansion as provided by the Affordable Care Act.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Virginia Beach, Virginia, on this 11 th
day of December , 2012.
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: APPROVED AS TO LEGAL
SUFFICIENCY:
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Legislative Agenda
g
General Assembly Session 2015 18
5. CONTINUED FUNDING FOR BASE REALIGNMENT AND
CLOSURE (BRAC) EFFORT
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
Background Information:
Since January, 2007, the City of Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth of Virginia have been
partnering to address the concerns that were raised by the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC)
Commission in 2005. This partnership has involved the cost sharing of$15 million annually to purchase
properties in the APZ-1 and Clear Zone areas around Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana and in the
Interfacility Traffic Area (ITA) between Oceana and the Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress. The
City has established a policy of spending $7.5 million per year to comply with the BRAC Order, with
the expectation that the Commonwealth will provide matching funds for expenses associated with the
acquisition of land in the APZ-1 and Clear Zone areas around Oceana and in the ITA.
The City has kept its commitment to the military by continuing its policy of matching dollar for dollar
the state appropriation to protect NAS Oceana.
Request:
The City wants to thank the General Assembly for its tremendous cooperation protecting this national
asset and huge economic boom for South Eastern Virginia. As agreed to, several years ago, by the then
US Fleet Forces Commander, John Harvey (now Secretary of Veterans Affair and Homeland Security),
the City will not seek funds for the BRAC program from the Commonwealth after the 2015 fiscal year
budget. The City Council has committed to provide $1 million a year in City's funds going forward to
purchase priority properties as they become available. This partnership between the Commonwealth and
the City is something for all Virginians to be proud of and is recognized as a model nationwide.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 I 9
6. INCREASED FUNDING FOR MENTAL HEALTHCARE
SPONSORED BY THE VIRGINIA BEACH CITY COUNCIL
Background Information:
People with serious mental illness, as well as their loved ones, face a crisis when it comes to accessing
services they need. From FY 2009 to FY 2013, Virginia cut an overall total of$37.7 million, or 8.9%,
from mental healthcare funding, and approved reductions in Medicaid rates for certain critical
behavioral health services. Decades of neglect to the mental health system, plus an increased need from
people who are uninsured, underinsured, or facing economic hardship, have exacerbated the problem.
Additionally, an epidemic of post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues plagues our
returning combat veterans, leading to an unprecedented increase in service member suicides. An
estimated one-third of homeless men in the United States are military veterans, including wounded
warriors of current and previous conflicts, and a substantial number of those homeless vets are in need
of mental health services. According to the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Development
Services, nearly 4,500 Virginians are waiting to receive community-based services for mental health.
The well-being of families and our community is seriously threatened by the failure of those in need to
receive timely and effective mental healthcare.
Request:
The City requests that the General Assembly provide additional increases to funding for mental
healthcare services and housing beyond that provided in 2014. The City supports the Virginia
Association of Community Services Board (VACSB) budget priorities for 2015-16 and requests funding
to include, but not limited to the following:
• The Mental Health and Emergency Services Councils are requesting funding to transform and
greatly enhance the CSB/BHA Code Mandated Crisis continuum that currently exists in
Virginia. —Approximately $18.4 million is needed statewide
• Increase sustainable housing for individuals with serious mental illness. — Approximately $3.2
million
• Emergency Crisis Response Services for children—Approximately $14.3 million
SECTION 1 .2 - CITY OF VIRGINIA BEACH NEW
POLICY INITIATIVES
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 I 11
7. COMMONWEALTH TRANSPORTATION BOARD APPOINTMENTS
SPONSORED BY MAYOR WILLIAM D. SESSOMS,JR.
Background Information:
Currently, the Commonwealth Transportation Board is primarily composed of members from the
construction districts across the Commonwealth. Hampton Roads is a district; Richmond and other
areas are also districts. In the late 1920s, the construction districts were formulated and do not accurately
represent the current population. As presently designated, these districts reflect areas where VDOT once
had centralized operations plus the northern Virginia District. Since that time, the Commonwealth's
population has coalesced along the I-95/I-64 corridor and the 1-66/I-81 corridor. The construction
districts and the representation on the Commonwealth Transportation Board do not correlate with where
the majority of the people in the Commonwealth live.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia to have the Commonwealth
Transportation Board primarily selected by one representative from each Congressional District and
retain the current At-Large members. For instance, in Hampton Roads, this would include four
members representing the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Congressional Districts plus At-Large members residing
in that region. Congressman Bobby Scott represents the 3rd District, which consists of the I-64 Corridor
and southeast Virginia. Congressman Rob Wittman represents the 1st District, which is the I-64
Corridor and Route 17 through to Fredericksburg. Congressman Scott Rigell represents the 2nd District,
which includes the Eastern Shore, all of Virginia Beach, and parts of Norfolk and Hampton.
Congressman Randy Forbes represents the 4th District, which consists of Chesapeake, the Route 58 and
the Route 460 Corridor. Having the representation aligned with the Commonwealth's population is the
most equitable way for Commonwealth Transportation Board to prioritize funds and programs for the
Commonwealth.
' T
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 112
Map 1
Commonwealth Transportation Board
Appointments
Congressional Districts - 2010
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\ P`'1 Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 113
Map 2
Commonwealth Transportation Board
Appointments
VDOT Construction Districts
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Legislativeenda Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 11 4
8. JOINT LEGISLATIVE AUDIT AND REVIEW COMMISSION
(JLARC) REVIEW OF THE EQUITY OF TRANSPORTATION
FUNDING
SPONSORED BY MAYOR WILLIAM D. SESSOMS,JR.
Background Information:
Currently, the General Assembly gives the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) power to
allocate funds for transportation construction after maintenance and other subtractions are taken from
total revenues available. The first $500 million goes into bridge and interstate maintenance, etc. By
2017, the growth in funding under HB2313 will allow allocations to again be made to the urban,
secondary, and primary systems. The basis for the distribution wherein 40% of the funding goes to
primary roadway allocation and 30% goes to each of the secondary and urban allocation is based on
work done by JLARC in 1984. At that time, JLARC did a rigorous investigation of the needs from the
various systems and recommended that the General Assembly distribute a 1/3 portion of funds to each
system. This recommendation was based on a "rigorous and objective analysis of the need for
construction dollars, which are the direct result of known deficiencies in the existing highway system
through the year 2005." Instead, in 1984, the General Assembly changed the funding to 40-30-30 that
exists to this day.
This distribution formula based on data from the early 1980s is representative of the need for JLARC to
engage in a new study to examine the adequacy of funding for transportation and especially how new
funds to be provided through HB2313 should be most appropriately spent.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to direct JLARC to undertake a study as was completed in 1984
(JLARC Study#64—The Equity of Current Provision for Allocating Highway and Transportation Funds
in Virginia). This study could also look at the funding breakouts for other modes such as public
transportation, ports, and airports. Also, the adequacy of roadway maintenance funding provided to
localities should be included in the analysis. It may be necessary for this work, because of the
complexity to be completed over a two-year period. Nevertheless, the report should be provided in time
for the 2016 General Assembly Session to consider the study's findings.
(1),,
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 1 15
9. HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTABILITY
COMMISSION (HRTAC) VOTING
SPONSORED BY MAYOR WILLIAM D. SESSOMS,JR.
Background Information:
Currently the legislation established by the Hampton Roads Transportation Accountability Commission
(HRTAC) requires that the Chief Elected Officer (CEO) of the governing body of each of the fourteen
counties and cities, embraced by the commission, shall be the voting member.
The Acts of Assembly state that decisions by the commission shall be by: 1) a quorum constituting a
majority of the elected officials of the Commission, 2) the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the voting
Members present and voting, and 3) two-thirds of the chief elected Officers of the counties and cities
embraced by Planning District 23 who are present and voting and whose counties and cities include at
least two-thirds of the population embraced by the Commission.
Since most of the chief elected Officers (i.e. mayors, chairs of the board of supervisors) also have
careers that require their attention, their elected positions are held part-time. Thus, it is reasonable that
full-time employment requirements may occasionally take priority over attendance at a HRTAC
meeting. Furthermore, a mayor or chair could be incapacitated for many months, and that jurisdiction
would, therefore, not be represented at a HRTAC meeting and to a real extent be disenfranchised.
Therefore, it is requested that the HRTAC enabling legislation be amended to allow the mayor or chair
of the board of supervisors to designate another member of his council or board to cast a vote for the
chief elected official on behalf of the locality at HRTAC meetings.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend chapter 678 of the Acts of Assembly 2014 session to allow
the Chief Elected Officer of a governing body of any of the fourteen counties and cities embraced by the
commission, if he or she is unable to attend a meeting, to designate another council or board member to
represent him or her. This designation shall be made to the chair of the Hampton Roads Transportation
Accountability Commission (HRTAC) at least 48 hours before the meeting for which an alternate will
be voting and such notification to the chair shall be made through writing or electronically. Such
appointment of alternate shall be for only the upcoming meeting, which the Chief Elected Official is
unable to attend.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 1 16
10. HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNTABILITY
COMMISSION (HRTAC) USE OF WELDON COOPER
POPULATION INFORMATION
SPONSORED BY MAYOR WILLIAMS D. SESSOMS,JR.
Background Information:
Currently the enabling legislation of the Hampton Roads Transportation Accountability Commission,
Chapter 678 of the Virginia Act of the 2014 session, stipulates that the population of the counties and
cities embraced by the commission shall be the population that is determined by the most recently
preceding decennial census, except that on July 1St of the 5th year following the census,the population of
each county and city shall be adjusted based on population projections made by the Weldon Coopers
Center for Population Services of the University of Virginia. Several localities in Hampton Roads,
including Virginia Beach have great concern over the Weldon Cooper population projections. These
concerns have been made to the Weldon Cooper Center, but at this time, the population projection
process has not been amended. Virginia Beach, according to the Weldon Cooper population estimates,
had a population of 449,628 on January 27, 2014. Yet,the same Weldon Cooper Center projects that in
2020 the population will be 438,114. The Weldon Cooper population projections are also extended in
the future, showing a population for Virginia Beach of 430,495 in 2030 and 419,103 in 2040.
Virginia Beach disagrees with these population projections based on the growth of the city since the last
census, according to both the US Census Bureau estimates and the Weldon Cooper Center population
estimates. Also, Virginia Beach's desire to create transit oriented development in its strategic growth
areas has the potential for Virginia Beach to continue to grow well beyond the Weldon Cooper
projections.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend Chapter 678 of the Virginia Act of the 2014 session to
utilize the population estimates made by the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service of the University
of Virginia. This would mean that the decennial census numbers would be utilized during the year of
the census. Each year, thereafter, the population estimates developed by Weldon Cooper would be
utilized rather than only the mid-decennial projections.
This would likely have little change in the results of voting in the near term, but over the long term,
could have unintended consequences if the population projections proved flawed. Population estimates
of the Weldon Cooper Center are utilized as currently laid out in code for other purposes.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 1 17
11. REQUIRING THE REPORTING OF LOST OR STOLEN FIREARMS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,JIM WOOD
Background Information:
Every year, in Virginia Beach, many guns are lost or stolen and used for criminal purposes by those that
come into possession of them. Nationally, an estimated 269,000 gun-owning household experienced a
theft of one or more firearms during 1994. The current total is likely to be considerably higher than that.
Thirty-two percent of surveyed felons had stolen their most recently acquired handguns. Undocumented
and stolen firearms have become a prime commodity on the streets of Virginia and of other
communities, to act as barter to further criminal enterprises. Seven states, includes Connecticut,
Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and the District of Columbia, currently
require the reporting of lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement.
The keeping of illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals is a high priority for all public safety
officials. In fact, a poll in 2009 of the National Rifle Association (NRA) and non-NRA gun owners
found support that advocated for sensible approach to gun laws that balanced personal freedoms with
measures to keep illegal guns out of the hands of criminals. We are requesting that the General
Assembly enact a law to assist in this matter.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia to require owners of firearms who
lose them or have them stolen, to report to their local law enforcement agency within 48 hours of
discovery that the item is missing.
It is further suggested that willfully failing to report the loss of a firearm through theft or otherwise shall
result in a civil penalty.
Legislative Agenda
g
General Assembly Session 2015 118
12. EXAMINATION OF THOSE UNDER A TEMPORARY DETENTION
ORDER (TDO)
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,AMELIA N. ROSS-HAMMOND
Background Information:
Currently a person can arrive at a Temporary Detention Facility under a Temporary Detention Order
(TDO), and a hearing can be legally held within a few hours. The code does not define "sufficient
period of time has passed to allow for complete examination required by 37.2-815." For example, a
consumer from the City's Community Service Board (CSB) was detained to a TDO facility, 60 miles
away, arriving at about 2am. The commitment hearing was to be held before noon the same day. The
individual was not demonstrating the level of dangerousness due to medication and drowsiness from the
stressful ordeal, hours prior. His case was dismissed and the CSB was not provided an opportunity to be
involved. Changing this law to require hospitalization for at least 24 hours prior to a hearing will allow
sufficient time to complete further psychiatric examination and allow the CSB to adequately prepare for
less restrictive and safe alternatives to the consumer when appropriate.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend section 37.2-814 of the code as follows:
The commitment hearing for involuntary admission shall be held not less than 24 hours from the
execution of the temporary detention order after a sufficient period of time has passed to allow for
completion of the examination required by § 37.2-815, preparation of the preadmission screening report
required by § 37.2-816, and initiation of mental health treatment to stabilize the person's psychiatric
condition to avoid involuntary commitment where possible, but shall be held within 72 hours of the
execution of the temporary detention order as provided for in § 37.2-809; however, if the 72-hour period
herein specified terminates on a Saturday, Sunday, legal holiday, or day on which the court is lawfully
closed, the person may be detained, as herein provided, until the close of business on the next day that is
not a Saturday, Sunday, legal holiday, or day on which the court is lawfully closed.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 119
13. TEMPORARY DETENTION ORDER (TDO) EVALUATION
REQUIRED WITHIN 24 HOURS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,AMELIA N.ROSS-HAMMOND
Background Information:
Community Service Board (CSB) clinicians are not capable of or equipped to take individuals into
"custody." The "duration of a Temporary Detention Order" as laid out in the code, could involve up to
24 hours from the time of issuance by a magistrate. This code places CSB in a high-risk situation as it
could require physical restraint to prevent a person from committing suicide or homicide. It is requested
that the code be amended to clarify that maintaining individuals in custody is the responsibility of law
enforcement.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the code of Virginia as follows, to require the designated
law enforcement agency to maintain control and custody of the individual.
B. A state facility may,following the notice in accordance with subsection A, conduct a search for an
alternative facility that is able and willing to provide temporary detention and appropriate care to the
individual, which may include another state facility if the state facility notified in accordance with
subsection A is unable to provide temporary detention and appropriate care for the individual. Under no
circumstances shall a state facility fail or refuse to admit an individual who meets the criteria for
temporary detention pursuant to§37.2-809 unless an alternative facility that is able to provide
temporary detention and appropriate care agrees to accept the individual for temporary detention. The
individual shall not during the duration of the temporary detention order, from issuance to execution, be
released from the custody of primary law enforcement or any other willing law enforcement agency that
has agreed to transport the individual to the state facility or alternative facility in accordance with the
provisions of§37.2-810. If an alternative facility is identified and agrees to accept the individual for
temporary detention, the state facility shall notes the community services board, and an employee or
designee of the community services board shall designate the alternative facility on the prescreening
report.
r Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 120
14. PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE REQUIREMENT
SPONSORED BY VICE MAYOR,LOUIS R.JONES
Background Information:
Currently there is a 30-day notice (public hearing requirement) of real estate assessments increases of
more than 1%. Prior to 2007, there was a seven-day window to notify the public of such increases. The
City requests this be changed to 14 days. This would be consistent with the 14 days required when the
General Appropriation Act did not occur, which is in the same code section.
We are required to have two public hearings each year for the budget. One of the public hearings is a
general public hearing. This public hearing is usually held first on a Thursday night at one of our local
high schools. We schedule our high school because the first public hearing usually has a large crowd
because it is considered the "budget" public hearing and high school auditoriums can accommodate the
crowds. It also provides a more central location away from the municipal center.
The other public hearing is required if real estate assessments increase 1% or greater, per section § 58.1-
3321. We have historically held this meeting the night of City Council's formal meeting. City Council
only has one night meeting during the budget process. Because Council has moved its formal meetings
to the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, we are left with unfavorable choices, which are not in the best
interest of the public. We believe the 30-day notice complicates scheduling public hearings with no
benefit. A two-week notice would provide ample opportunities for the public to be informed of real
estate tax increase.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend section § 58.1-3321 in section "B," and change notice of
the public hearing shall be given at least 14 days for the date of such hearing by publication of a notice
in: 1) at least one newspaper general circulation in such county and city...
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 121
15. PROCUREMENT PROCESS EXEMPTION FOR INVESTMENT
ADVISORS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,JOHN D.Moss
Background Information:
The City of Virginia Beach has a Deferred Compensation Board (the "Board"), as described in City
Code §§ 2-122 & 123. The Board includes City employees, an appointee from the City Council, a
member from the Sheriffs Office, and three members from Schools, including the Schools' chief
financial advisor and a member of the School Board. The Board reviews investments and administers
the deferred compensation investment policy, including the addition and deletion of funds from the
investment policy, for the deferred compensation plan.
The Board has two regularly contributing contractors. One contractor provides administrative services
including bookkeeping and communications with participants. The other contractor provides investment
advice and financial market information that assists in the Board's oversight of the deferred
compensation investment policy.
The Board also serves as the City's Local Finance Board for purposes of oversight of the Trust set up to
pay for Other Post-Employment Benefits (or OPEB). In its capacity as the Local Finance Board, the
Virginia Code provides an exemption from the Virginia Public Procurement Act ("VPPA") for the
selection of services related to "the management, purchase, or sale of authorized investments, including
but not limited to actuarial services." (Va. Code § 15.2-1548) The Virginia Code also authorizes an
exemption from the VPPA for the selection of services related to the management of investments by the
Virginia Retirement System (Va. Code § 51.1-124.32) and local retirement systems (Va. Code § 51.1-
803).
A 1986 opinion of the Virginia Attorney General (1985-86 Op. Att'y Gen. Va. 41) provides that a local
deferred compensation board must meet the requirements of the VPPA in the procurement of investment
services and administrative services. The requirement with regard to administrative services is
consistent with the required skills and the nature of the administrative relationship. The relationship
with the investment advisor is more complicated and requires a level of sophistication that is not as easy
to replace. Further, the existence of the exemption from the VPPA for the management of the OPEB
Trust and various other retirement systems suggests freedom from the VPPA's requirements for
investment services is sound public policy.
Request:
The City Council requests the General Assembly create an exemption from the requirements of the
Virginia Public Procurement Act for a local deferred compensation board for the selection of services
related to management and review of its investments and the Board's investment policy.
t: ? Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 122
16. REMOVE THE PRE-QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENT FOR THE
BOND WAIVER PROGRAM FOR NON-TRANSPORTATION
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS UNDER $500,000
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BOB DYER
Background Information:
Reducing barriers to entry in the procurement process will benefit the City by increasing competition in
City procurements and by avoiding the costs of obtaining bonds—costs that contractors pass onto the
City. In its 2011 Session, the General Assembly provided authority for a locality to waive bonding (bid,
performance, and payment bonds) on non-transportation construction contracts in excess of $100,000
but less than $500,000. This 2011 legislation required bond waiver procurements to include a
prequalification process.
The prequalification process is regulated by Virginia Code § 2.2-4317. This statute describes the
required process and outlines seven grounds upon which a prospective bidder may be denied
qualification. Any bidder denied prequalification has the opportunity to appeal such a decision
administratively, and subsequent to administrative review, to take a denial to circuit court for judicial
review.
Prequalification of contractors is generally a useful process for large construction projects wherein the
prequalification step removes potential bidders that do not have the required financial capacity or
relevant experience to complete the project. For these large projects, the time and effort required for
prequalification is worthwhile by saving the cost and effort of assembling a bid by an unqualified
bidder. There is an additional time savings in the City's review process because there are fewer bids
requiring full evaluation.
For construction contracts between $100,000 and $500,000, the prequalification requirement introduces
a new barrier (prequalification process) in the place of the previous barrier (the required bonds).
Because relevant experience and financial capacity are not as critical for construction contracts below
$500,000, the prequalification requirement adds a bureaucratic process that is counterproductive to the
goals of the bond waiver program that ends up adding time to the procurement process, additional works
for bidders, and additional administrative effort.
Request:
The City of Virginia Beach urges the General Assembly to amend Virginia Code §§2.2-4336 & 4337 to
allow localities the ability to waive bonding for non-transportation construction project between
$100,000 and $500,000 without having to undertake a prequalification process.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 123
17. EXPEDITED PAYMENT OF JOB-RELATED PENSION PAYMENTS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,JOHN D. MOSS
Background Information:
When an individual sustains an on-the-job injury, and ultimately cannot go back to performing the job
for which he or she was hired, that individual, if vested, can apply for VRS disability benefits.
Typically, the injured worker will have previously applied for and received workers' compensation
benefits which provide for lifetime medical benefits and the potential for up to 500 weeks of wage loss
benefits.
In many cases, when an injured worker has received wage loss benefits due to a work-related injury, the
injured worker sufficiently recovers in order to return to the work place in a limited duty or transitional
duty capacity. By providing limited duty work to the injured worker, the City of Virginia Beach assists
the injured worker in returning to the work force. Because the injured worker who returns to the work
place in a limited duty capacity receives his or her regular wages, which are greater than or equal to the
workers' compensation wage indemnity, the open award for wage loss benefits under workers'
compensation closes. In the event that the injured worker ultimately is not able to return to the job for
which he or she was hired in a full duty capacity, the City will eventually separate the employee from
employment.
At the time of the separation, the employee often will have applied for and been granted job-related
disability retirement, but not be on an open workers compensation award. VRS takes the position that
injured workers should be required to petition to reopen their workers' compensation claim and begin
receiving benefits at the time of separation instead of VRS beginning to pay job-related disability
pension benefits, even though the Code of Virginia allows for the separated employee to begin receiving
job-related disability retirement benefits. In other words, VRS will delay payment, leaving the
employee with no source of income, and thereby forcing him or her to petition anew for workers'
compensation wage loss benefits.
Request:
In cases where the injured worker is no longer on an open wage loss award, not beginning VRS pension
benefits within a reasonable period of time imposes a substantial financial burden on the injured
employee and has the effect of requiring the employee to reopen his or her workers' compensation wage
loss claim even though state law does not affirmatively allow VRS to require the injured employee to
take such action. The City of Virginia Beach urges the General Assembly to require VRS to commence
payment of approved VRS disability retirement benefits to the injured worker within 30 days of VRS
approval of the job-related disability retirement request if the worker is not on an open workers'
compensation award.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 124
18. BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF ANY POOLED TRUST FOR
POSTEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS MAY SERVE AS LOCAL
FINANCE BOARD
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,JOHN D. MOSS
Background Information:
The governing body of any county, city, or town as well as any school board that establishes a
trust, trusts, or equivalent arrangements for postemployment benefits other than pensions must
also create a finance board to serve as trustee of such a trust, trusts, or equivalent arrangements
and to manage and invest the assets of that trust, trusts, or equivalent arrangements. Such a
finance board shall be composed of at least three members who shall include the chief financial
officer of the locality, the treasurer of the locality, and at least one other additional person who
shall be a citizen of the Commonwealth with proven integrity, business ability, and demonstrated
experience in cash management and in investments. The finance board shall meet at least four
times a year, and a majority of the members shall constitute a quorum. The local deferred
compensation board may serve as the local finance board.
The City of Virginia Beach and the Virginia Beach School Board have joined the VML/VaCo Pooled
Trust for Postemployment Benefits other than Pensions (retiree health care), and has a
representative that serves on the Board of Trustees for this entity. At this time, over$55 million in
assets are being managed on behalf of the City and Schools. Over $600 million in assets are
managed in total.
Currently the Virginia Beach Deferred Compensation Board serves as the local finance board for
retiree health care funds. The Deferred Compensation Board reviews the actions taken by the
Board of Trustees and reviews the performance of the VML/VaCo Pooled Trust. However, the
Deferred Compensation Board does not actively manage the assets in the Pooled Trust.
Request:
Amend Virginia Code Sec. 15.2-1547 to allow local governments participating in the VML/VaCo
Pooled Trust for Post-Employment Benefits to use the VML/VaCo Board of Trustees to fulfill the
requirement of a local finance board. The participating localities would receive quarterly reports
from the VML/VaCo Board of Trustees providing the information that would traditionally be made
available by a local finance board.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 I 25
19. ENFORCEMENT OF PROMPT PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BOB DYER
Background Information:
The City of Virginia Beach has undertaken many efforts to further equal opportunity and
nondiscrimination in City procurement. In 1995, the City Council created the region's first Minority
Business Council (the "MBC"). The MBC has identified "prompt payment" as a component of public
contracting in need of additional regulatory oversight.
The Virginia Public Procurement Act requires prime contractors to pay subcontractors within seven days
of receipt of payment by a state agency or a local government. (Va. Code § 2.2-4354). Alternatively,
the prime contractor may notify the subcontractor and agency of its intention to withhold payment (or
partial payment) and the reason for non-payment within seven days of receipt of payment by a state
agency or a local government. Failure to meet the prompt payment requirement subjects the prime
contractor to interest charges.
When issues arise regarding payment of subcontractors, the City is limited in its remedies. There is a
statute requiring the City to pay the prime contractor promptly. Further, the City's contractual
relationship is with the prime contractor not the subcontractor. A state agency or local government risks
interfering in the contractual relationship between the prime contractor and the subcontractor if it takes
too active a role in such a situation.
There is a need for a remedy in addition to the accrual of interest. Because public funds are a
component of the flow of payments from prime contractor to subcontractor, the Office of the Attorney
General may be an appropriate watchdog and enforcer of prompt payment requirements.
Request:
The City Council requests the General Assembly provide for an oversight function of prompt payment
requirements between prime contractors and subcontractors, by strengthening § 2.2-4354 (prompt
payment provision required in contracts); and § 2.2-4356 (report by state comptroller regarding prompt
payments).
Z% Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 126
20. MICRO BUSINESS PROCUREMENT PROGRAM
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BOB DYER
Background Information:
On July 22, 2014, The Governor signed Executive Order 20, "Advancing Equity for Small, Women, and
Minority Owned Businesses." This Executive Order establishes a program to further executive branch
agency spending to "micro businesses." For purposes of the Order, "micro businesses" are certified
small businesses that have no more than twenty-five employees and no more than $3 million in average
annual revenue over the three-year period prior to certification. The Order directs the Department of
Small Business and Supplier Diversity to implement the micro business designation by October 1, 2014.
The Order directs various state agencies to seek micro businesses where available and sets aside for
micro small businesses purchases under $10,000 when the micro business quotes a fair and reasonable
price.
The City of Virginia Beach has undertaken many efforts to further equal opportunity and
nondiscrimination in City procurement. In 1995, the City Council created the region's first Minority
Business Council (the "MBC"). The MBC has worked over the years to further programs and efforts to
reduce barriers in City procurement to include:
• The City Council establishing a goal of 10%minority participation in City Contracts;
• Debundling of City contracts to better enable small, woman-owned, and minority-owned
("SWaM")businesses to compete;
• Utilization of a comprehensive database of SWaM businesses and the types of goods or services
that each business provides;
• Enactment of a Small Business Enhancement Program requiring contractors to utilize at least
50% SWaM businesses in subcontracting plans;
• Implementation of a City Administrative Directive to require solicitations of SWaM, including
minority-owned and woman-owned, vendors for City contract of less than $50,000;
• Entry into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Virginia Department of Small Business
and Supplier Diversity (through its predecessor, Department of Minority Business Enterprise) to
develop a productive and mutually beneficial working relationship;
• City Council adoption of a bond waiver program to the extent authorized by the General
Assembly.
The opportunity to utilize a "micro business" designation would further the City's efforts to reduce
barriers and further opportunity in City procurements.
. u
i Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 127
Request:
The City Council requests the General Assembly define micro small business in § 2.2-4310 of the Code
of Virginia and to amend § 15.2-965.1 of the Code of Virginia to authorize a locality, by ordinance, to
enact a program for the enhancement of "micro business" participation that mirrors the authorization
provided in Executive Order 20.
(17‘" /1
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 128
21. FOLLOWING BIKES TOO CLOSELY
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,ROSEMARY A. WILSON
Background Information:
There has been much progress in recent years in making bicycling safer for both the bicyclist and
motorist. However, there is still work to be done. An effort was made during the 2014 session, House
Bill 82, that would delete the word "motor" from the sentence, "the driver of a motor vehicle shall not
follow another motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer more closely than is reasonable and prudent,
having due regard of the speed of both vehicles of traffic and the conditions of the highway at the time."
Since this language failed in the Senate, the suggestion is for a new section "B" to be added to 46.2-839
of the Code, to clearly state the intent to keep motor vehicles at a safe distance from other vehicles such
as bicycles, etc.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia, section 46.2-839 by adding a section
"B" that states, "a driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow a bicycle, an electric personal assistive
mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, moped, animal, or animal-drawn vehicle preceding in
the same direction more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard to the traffic and the
conditions of the highway at the time." Creating a separate section would make enforcement easier for
police officers and increase safety for all of those who use our highways and roads.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 129
22. CITIZEN COMMENT AT HAMPTON ROADS TRANSPORTATION
ACCOUNTABILITY COMMISSION MEETINGS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,JOHN D. Moss
Background Information:
During its 2014 session, the General Assembly adopted a bill that created the Hampton Roads
Transportation Accountability Commission ("HRTAC"), which was given the responsibility for
approval of projects and the priority of such projects pursuant to the Hampton Roads Transportation
Fund. The HRTAC adopted bylaws at their July 2014 organizational meeting. Although the bylaws
provide for public hearings and public comment, they do not authorize residents of the fourteen counties
and cities within the Planning District to speak on any agenda item, resolution or motion.
Request:
The City Council requests the General Assembly enact legislation which would require the HRTAC to
allow any resident living within the fourteen counties and cities within Planning District 23 to speak on
any agenda item, resolution or motion, for at least three minutes each.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 130
23. BAN THE RELEASE OF MORE THAN TEN (10) BALLOONS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER, BARBARA M. HENLEY
Background Information:
The Virginia Code currently allows the release of up to fifty (50) balloons an hour. However, balloons
are a substantial threat to waterfowl and the environment and allowing the release of 49 balloons seems
excessive. Balloons are a significant part of the litter collected from most waterways.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia as follows:
§ 29.1-556.1. Release of certain balloons prohibited; civil penalty
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly release or cause to be released into the atmosphere
within a one-hour period fifty ten (10) or more balloons which are (i) made of a nonbiodegradable or
nonphotodegradable material or any material which requires more than five minutes' contact with air or
water to degrade and (ii) inflated with a substance which is lighter than air. Any person who violates this
section shall be liable for a civil penalty not to exceed five dollars per balloon released above the
allowable limit, which shall be paid into the Lifetime Hunting and Fishing Endowment Fund established
pursuant to § 29.1-101.1.
B. The provisions of this section shall not apply to (i) balloons released by or on behalf of any agency of
the Commonwealth, or the United States or pursuant to a contract with the Commonwealth, the United
States, or any other state, territory or government for scientific or meteorological purposes or (ii) hot air
balloons that are recovered after launch.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 I 31
24. ESTABLISHMENT OF COASTAL VIRGINIA STANDARDS FOR
DAM SAFETY REGULATIONS
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BARBARA M. HENLEY
Background Information:
The Code and the Regulations do not have specific standards that apply to Coastal Virginia, as such,
every impounding structure must request special consideration. A change to the Regulations requiring
specific modification factors for Coastal Virginia would alleviate this time and expense.
This amendment would require the establishment of regulations that require specific modification
factors for Coastal Virginia.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia as follows:
§ 10.1-605. Promulgation of regulations by the Board; guidance document
A. The Board shall adopt regulations to ensure that impounding structures in the Commonwealth are
properly and safely constructed, maintained and operated. Dam safety regulations promulgated by the
State Water Control Board shall remain in full force until amended in accordance with applicable
procedures.
E. The Board's regulations shall establish a Coastal Virginia modification factor for both the Probable
Maximum Flood (PMF) and the Spillway Design Flood (SDF) in calculating the hazard of impounding
structures.
Legislative Agenda
General Assembly Session 2015 132
25. AN ACT TO EXCLUDE THE LITTLE CREEK WATERSHED FROM
THE JAMES RIVER BASIN FOR PURPOSES OF THE
CHESAPEAKE BAY WATERSHED IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BARBARA M.HENLEY
Background Information:
This amendment would remove the Little Creek watershed from the James River basin,just as the City
requested the Lynnhaven River be removed from the James River basin.
Request: •
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia as follows:
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. § 1. That no state agency shall consider or include the Little Creek watershed as part of the James
River Basin when developing or implementing the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan.
Legislative Agenda
` '� General Assembly Session 2015 133
26. REQUIRE THE STATE WATER CONTROL BOARD TO
ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR INNOVATIVE STORMWATER
TREATMENT PROTOCOLS FOR LOCALITIES
SPONSORED BY COUNCIL MEMBER,BARBARA M.HENLEY
Background Information:
The City has not been able to have certain innovative stormwater treatment protocols approved that it
believes would be less expensive and more effective than the protocols allowed, such as oyster reefs,
phragmites harvesting, etc.
The amendment would require the State Water Control Board to establish a regulatory framework to
have these innovative techniques evaluated.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to amend the Code of Virginia as follows:
§ 62.1-44.15:28. Development of regulations.
A. The Board is authorized to adopt regulations that specify minimum technical criteria and
administrative procedures for Virginia Stormwater Management Programs. The regulations shall:
16. Establish a regulatory framework, including timeline and appeals procedures for
localities to obtain approval for innovative stormwater treatment protocols to meet
Chesapeake Bay TMDLs and other stormwater quality TMDLs.
•
G114IA•B 4C4t�
F ' City of Virginia Beach
c.
op OUR NA110NS
VBgov.com
OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER MUNICIPAL CENTER
(757)385-4242 BUILDING 1,ROOM 234
FAX(757)427-5626 2401 COURTHOUSE DRIVE
VIRGINIA BEACH,VIRGINIA 23456-9001
October 8, 2014
The Honorable William D. Sessoms, Jr., Mayor
Members of City Council
Subject: 2015 Legislative Agenda —Veterans Treatment Center
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
Based on your discussion during the closed session yesterday regarding the Veterans
Treatment Center, I would like to offer that the attached item would be an addition to the
2015 Virginia Beach General Assembly Legislative Agenda.
The request would be for the General Assembly to fund a Veteran Treatment Center of
approximately 200 or more beds on a 15 to 25 acre site to be provided by the City. The
City would reserve the site and provide it at no charge to the Commonwealth pending
funding of the center for a period ending January 1, 2018.
Please contact me if you require anything further.
With Pride in Our City,
♦'�
J:mes . Spore
Ci k ager
JKS/RRM/sep
Attachment
c: Robert R. Matthias, Assistant to the City Manager
Mark Stiles, City Attorney
s 1
VETERANS TREATMENT CENTER
SPONSORED BY CITY COUNCIL
Background Information:
Delegate Chris Stolle recently proposed that the City partner with the Commonwealth to construct
a much needed Veterans Care Center. The General Assembly is interested in providing additional
centers across the Commonwealth. Centers are proposed for Hampton Roads and the Northern
Virginia areas. There are currently centers of approximately 200 beds in Richmond and another
of 240 beds in the Roanoke area.
These centers are a combination of skilled nursing care, Alzheimer's/dementia care and
domiciliary care in private and semi-private rooms. The population served is honorably
discharged veterans who are Virginia residents at time of admission or entry into the armed
services. These facilities provide the level of care that is needed by our veterans. Operating funds
come primarily from Medicaid, Medicare, private pay, and BA per diem. There is no state general
fund appropriation. The employees of the center are considered state employees and there is
approximately a one to one staff to patient ratio. The operating budget, again, which is paid with
non-state funds, is approximately$20 million per year.
Although the federal government could possibly participate in the construction of such a facility,
their current priorities are on rehabilitation of existing non-standard structures and it could be
multiple tens of years before a new Virginia Veterans Center would become a priority for funding.
Delegate Stolle's plan is that the Commonwealth would pay the entire $100 million cost, likely
through a bond issue supported by state funds. The expectation is that the City would provide, at
no cost to the Commonwealth, a 15 to 25 acre parcel of land that would provide for a one or two
story facility based on the size of the parcel and facilities design.
Request:
The General Assembly is requested to fund a new Veterans Care Center in the City of Virginia
Beach. This facility would be similar in design and operation to the Sitter and Barfoot Veterans
Care Center in Richmond. This would be a facility of approximately 240 beds and would provide
skilled nursing care, Alzheimer's/dementia, and other care to veterans of our armed service who
were Virginia residents at the time they joined the service or of their separation from the service.
The City of Virginia Beach will provide a parcel of land identified close to the Municipal Center.
This parcel would be available to the Commonwealth until January 1, 2018. If no substantive
action is taken by the Commonwealth to contract a facility by that time the offer to the
Commonwealth would be rescinded.
49-
ADJOURNMENT D the City Council Workshop ADJOURNED at 5:52 P.M.
Mayor William D. Sessoms,Jr., DECLARE
X11
,,IIII,1 ,�
Ag nda in ey-.ar•es, CMC
Chief Deputy City Clerk
R th Hodges
raser, MMC
City Clerk
City of Virginia Beach
October 14, 2014