Today the Virginia Beach City Council held a one day Goal Setting Workshop. The 6 1/2 hour meeting was in the Department of Economic Development (DED) Board Room at Town Center.
TOPICS FOR DISCUSSION
Each Councilperson had a prior telephone interview with Facilitator Lyle Sumek. The following issues were brought up in those interviews by at least two Councilpersons:
1. SPSA and Landfill
2. Schools and Funding
3. Process Improvement
4. Pleasure House Point
5. Revenues: Direction for FY 2013
6. Use of Sponsorships
7. State Revenues to the City: Direction
8. Outsourcing: Recreation Centers, Others
9. Dredging/Spoils
10. SGA: Direction
11. Form-Based Code
12. TMDL
13. Williams Center
14. Convention Center Headquarters Hotel
15. Dome site
16. Sand/Beach Replenishment
17. Gambling/Video Gaming
18. City Redistricting
19. Legislative Agenda: Topics
20. Work Session: Discussion Time
21. Confidentiality of Closed Sessions
22. Burton Station
23. Bike/Trail Plan
24. TOD: Direction
STRATEGIC GROWTH AREAS (SGAs)
Things restarted after the lunch break with SGA Office Manager Barry Frankenfield giving a status report on our SGAs. He covered the planned identity for each SGA, the proposed infrastructure projects in them, schedules for upcoming plans, etc.
The Rosemont SGA plan is due to be approved by Council September 13. The final three are scheduled for 2012: Lynnhaven (March), Hilltop (June), and Centerville (December).
For those screaming that this is an attempt to totally redo the city, City Manager Jim Spore pointed out that the SGAs comprise less than 2% of Virginia Beach's land area. 98% would remain as is.
Implementation strategy was questioned. Policy has been to slowly work each SGA that has a plan, as we don't know where a potential private investor may want to redevelop. Louis Jones has long wanted to target 2-3 with our finite resources, and he was joined by Prescott Sherrod.
In addition, consensus now wants to designate Princess Anne Commons a SGA. That is to target resources to the area, hoping we can have quality spinoff development from the new Sentara Princess Anne Hospital.
FY 2013
Fiscal policy is always a discussion point, especially in this recession. It is projected that property assessments will be down 5% in 2012. That would mean a loss of $20 million in Property Tax revenue for the City, on top of the already-expected Budget shortfall for FY 2013 of $50 million. (Big, but we've had worse in recent memory.)
Vice Mayor Louis Jones cautioned against slash and burn, warning we could induce our own local economic problems, and he was echoed by Councilman Glenn Davis. Bob Dyer took the middle ground, stating we'd have to tweak and reprioritize. It was pointed out that bond houses base our rating not only on debt load, but what we're doing on economic development in order that we have future debt service capacity. Jim Spore noted Property Tax revenue has been down about $190 million over the past few years, but we've weathered the storm - in part - due to revenue from investments made in the recent past.
Foreclosures have accounted for 27% of home sales in Virginia Beach during the past year.
THE MR. BILL SHOW
Give Councilman Bill DeSteph enough time to talk and he'll say something stupid. Today was no exception.
First, under discussion of our City debt situation, he started citing statistics from our Federal debt standing. As if Council was responsible for Federal debt. (Hey, he thinks we do New York City land use....)
Second, he not only wants to revoke the May increase of our City's self-imposed debt ceiling, but wants to lower it below the previous figure.
Third, Mayor Will Sessoms spoke of how road construction can be good for the local economy. We not only get new roads out of it, but it creates jobs for locals. DeSteph retorted there was no latter benefit if the international students who come to work here build the roads. Councilman John Uhrin pointed out he'd never heard of the students building roads here.
Fourth, DeSteph wants to cut economic development initiatives based on the recession. I was incredulous: DeSteph's position boils down to the notion that we're so bad off economically that we should stop trying to create new jobs!
Fifth, he brought up City debt again under Governance, which was out of order. He said he was going to keep talking about it even if no one on Council backed him on it. (Yeah, the other ten all know he's out there.)
CITY REDISTRICTING
The Council Liaisons on the issue (Glenn Davis & Louis Jones) claimed that they had a plan (presumably 2C) that would make everyone who has spoken happy.
When I got home, I had to e-mail my good NAACP friends ASAP to let them know what a bunch of happy campers we're suppose to be. First, 2C makes Centerville District minority-majority, while NAACP1 makes Rose Hall District minority-majority. Second, anyone who knows both the Census numbers and civil rights law grasps that Council offering 2C as a reasonable alternative to NAACP1 is disingenuous at best. Third, NAACP1 has two additional districts that are influence districts.
It's disgusting, but the Virginia Beach City Council rejecting inclusion was virtually a foregone conclusion. I plan a post sometime August 10-18 to cover the process more in depth. (That's why I refrained from covering Redistricting in Random Thoughts August 4, 2011, as I already had the post in the pipes.)
VBTA
Things wouldn't be fun unless I threw out a couple nuggets for my favorite whipping boys, the extremist VBTA, to choke on.
First, the percentage of income that the average citizen pays to local government in taxes and fees today is at the same level as 1958.
I can hear the knuckle-draggers yelling, "Where did that come from?!?" MoveOn? Organizing for America? No, it's actually from a report by the conservative Heritage Foundation.
Second, City of Virginia Beach revenue in 2011 is at 2007 levels, with a dip (see: Assessments) expected in 2012. Next time they claim we're on a spending binge....
OTHER
1. Council decided not to include video poker authorization in the 2012 Community Legislative Package. It was noted that what gambling bills that passed the General Assembly in 2011 were all about raising the penalties for illegal gambling, so video poker legislation wouldn't have a snowball's chance in Richmond.
2. The new animal shelter is ahead of schedule. Due to open in January, it may be ready in December.
3. The number of applications for services from the Department of Human Services has doubled in the past five years.
4. The City will look at outsourcing our recreation centers, as it did with municipal golf courses and Sportsplex. However, a couple Councilmen had reservations about the idea.
5. The proposed bike trail in the periphery of the Norfolk Southern Right-Of-Way has been on hold pending completion of the Alternatives Analysis of the Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study. The issue is that LRT and BRT require different widths, so it can't be engineered as such until a transit mode is chosen.
Rather than the initial talk of acquiring additional land where the ROW is too narrow, the preferred option now is to look at diverting the bikes to parallel neighborhood streets in such areas.
6. Michael Jenkins' option on redeveloping the Dome site expires September 30. He either needs everything square by then, or to request another extension from the Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA).
7. The Virginia Aquarium Area Plan is scheduled to go to Council on November 8.
8. Two additional Councilmen expressed opposition to the proposed tent city for the homeless.
9. The best joke of the day was by Jim Wood. When Council discussed selling tasteful sponsorships for City facilities and events, Wood suggested "Kellam High School, brought to you by Towne Bank".
Showing posts with label Virginia state government. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Virginia state government. Show all posts
Friday, August 5, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
You're Not Expecting Many
In our latest poll, I asked how large you expected the voter turnout percentage to be in Virginia Beach for this November's election. 37% voted each for 15%-19% and 20%-24%, while 26% voted for 25%-29%. No one voted for 30%-34% and 35%-39%.
Why I think this number is so important: John Moss' only chances of winning a Council seat are turnout being under 20%, and no mainstream Republican with name recognition getting in the race.
The new poll question: what is your opinion of interracial marriages?
Why I think this number is so important: John Moss' only chances of winning a Council seat are turnout being under 20%, and no mainstream Republican with name recognition getting in the race.
The new poll question: what is your opinion of interracial marriages?
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Want To Have Some Ballot Fun?
The Virginia Beach Hotel/Motel Association (VBHMA) has endorsed video poker for the Resort Area. It would take an act of the General Assembly to allow legal gambling. Some in our delegation have even suggested putting the issue to referendum to gauge community support.
That inspired my diabolical idea: we hold a binding referendum on video poker on the November, 2013 ballot. That's the ballot that will have the statewide offices (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General)), and all 100 House of Delegates seats. Legalizing gambling will have social conservatives flocking to the polls to kill it, ensuring Republican wins. Any Democratic House challenges would be doomed.
That inspired my diabolical idea: we hold a binding referendum on video poker on the November, 2013 ballot. That's the ballot that will have the statewide offices (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General)), and all 100 House of Delegates seats. Legalizing gambling will have social conservatives flocking to the polls to kill it, ensuring Republican wins. Any Democratic House challenges would be doomed.
I-264 Closures
As part of work for the ongoing London Bridge Road ramps project (the new ramps off of I-264), Interstate 264 will need to be closed between the First Colonial Road intersection and the Lynnhaven Parkway intersection for two nights. It is scheduled for August 3 and August 9, both nights from 8 P.M. until 5 A.M. the following morning.
Traffic will be detoured via Virginia Beach Boulevard.
Traffic will be detoured via Virginia Beach Boulevard.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
We Want Substance, Rosemary
62% believe that Rosemary Wilson speaks with the least substance of any Virginia Beach City Councilman, with 37% giving Bill DeSteph that tag.
I agree. I've said half-jokingly before that Rosemary couldn't give you three substantive minutes on an issue if staff wrote it for her. In comparison, John Uhrin was pretty much two-note (Resort Area and Norfolk Southern Corridor) when he first came on Council, but within a couple years was articulate on most everything.
The new poll question: what do you estimate voter turnout will be this November in Virginia Beach? The only announced General Assembly challenge is Adrianne Bennett against Ron Villanueva in the 21st House of Delegates District, plus there's the City Council special election for the remaining three years on Rita Sweet Bellitto's term.
I agree. I've said half-jokingly before that Rosemary couldn't give you three substantive minutes on an issue if staff wrote it for her. In comparison, John Uhrin was pretty much two-note (Resort Area and Norfolk Southern Corridor) when he first came on Council, but within a couple years was articulate on most everything.
The new poll question: what do you estimate voter turnout will be this November in Virginia Beach? The only announced General Assembly challenge is Adrianne Bennett against Ron Villanueva in the 21st House of Delegates District, plus there's the City Council special election for the remaining three years on Rita Sweet Bellitto's term.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Which Way, Demonrats?
Someone moves into the 6th Senate District to challenge the one-term incumbent state Senator. Which way do the Demonrats want it?
In 2003, it was fine and dandy with them when Andy Protogyrou did it.
In 2011, they're trying to make an issue out of Ben Loyola doing it.
They can't have it both ways.
In 2003, it was fine and dandy with them when Andy Protogyrou did it.
In 2011, they're trying to make an issue out of Ben Loyola doing it.
They can't have it both ways.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
TPO June 16, 2011
The Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), Hampton Roads' Federally-mandated transportation board, met on Thursday.
A representative from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) briefed the TPO on the ongoing study to expand the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT). Even under the "aggressive" schedule, the final Environmental Impact Study (EIS) won't be completed until Spring, 2014.
The HRBT issue triggered a discussion about tolls and the economic impact of imposing tolls. Tolls should be on the Midtown and Downtown Tunnels within a year, in the prelude to the PPTA that includes a second tube at the Midtown. What would be the impact on already-troubled Portsmouth? How will tolls change traffic patterns, as some motorists go by different routes to avoid the tolls?
The TPO passed both its FY 2012 Budget and the FY 2012-15 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).
There was a briefing by the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) on passenger rail. The good news is that the process is already underway for replacing CSX's Appomattox River Bridge, which would allow three daily Amtrak trains to Norfolk sooner.
A representative from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) briefed the TPO on the ongoing study to expand the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT). Even under the "aggressive" schedule, the final Environmental Impact Study (EIS) won't be completed until Spring, 2014.
The HRBT issue triggered a discussion about tolls and the economic impact of imposing tolls. Tolls should be on the Midtown and Downtown Tunnels within a year, in the prelude to the PPTA that includes a second tube at the Midtown. What would be the impact on already-troubled Portsmouth? How will tolls change traffic patterns, as some motorists go by different routes to avoid the tolls?
The TPO passed both its FY 2012 Budget and the FY 2012-15 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP).
There was a briefing by the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) on passenger rail. The good news is that the process is already underway for replacing CSX's Appomattox River Bridge, which would allow three daily Amtrak trains to Norfolk sooner.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The CCO Goes Multimodal
Last night the Council of Civic Organizations (CCO), Virginia Beach's civic league federation, had a program on High Speed Rail and light rail. There were two presenters. First, Thelma Drake, Director of Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). Second, Marie Arnt of Hampton Roads Transit (HRT). Marie is public outreach person for the Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study.
DRAKE
Conventional rail Amtrak service to Norfolk will begin in 2013 with one train each day. That should be boosted to three trains per day once the Appomattox River Bridge is upgraded. On the CSX line outside Petersburg, it is a single track railroad bridge. Virginia may assist in upgrading to two tracks. 90% of the funds for the Norfolk service are in the bank, with the track upgrades on the Norfolk Southern line to Petersburg already begun.
Two new mass transit agencies have begun service in Virginia in 2011, with two other localities studying implementing transit. When businesses look at an area for a potential relocation, one of the first things they'll ask is "How would employees get to work?" That spawns transit service.
The Federal government may cutoff our region's Federal highway dollars, based on air quality, if we do not adequately do mass transit to try to mitigate the impact. Given that air quality here is in the yellow zone of Federal requirements, that's a serious issue.
The #1 issue employers in Hampton Roads raise with Drake: parking. That's not a problem if your employees take mass transit to work.
There are two major new initiatives by DRPT in 2011:
1. A motor coach service being launched from Roanoke to Lynchburg to feed into Amtrak trains there. Some want trains extended to Roanoke, with this being a precursor to see if the market's there. Lynchburg's Amtrak service is carrying three times the projected passengers.
2. A partnership with the Army for moving soldiers. Each week 1,000 go from Fort A.P. Hill to Fort Lee on Monday, and return on Thursday. The Army had been using motor coaches, making for a horde of buses on the road. They're now making the trip on Virginia Railway Express (VRE) trains.
ARNT
There was little to report on the timed-out Virginia Beach study, so Marie spent most her time talking about Norfolk's Starter Line. At HRT "everyone is working their butts off" towards revenue service launch. Most likely trains would run on a Saturday and Sunday with no fare required, before a revenue launch on a Monday morning.
Arnt worked her way down the line west to east, noting features at each stop. She also touched on feeder bus service and the light rail safety program.
The golden nugget: the final hours of operation at launch were agreed to at a Tuesday evening meeting. It will be Monday - Thursday 6 A.M. - 11 P.M., Friday & Saturday 6 A.M. - Midnight, and Sunday 11 A.M. - 9 P.M.
I'm elated: I can go to a weeknight Admirals game, and that extra hour of service means I can catch the train out afterwards.
DRAKE
Conventional rail Amtrak service to Norfolk will begin in 2013 with one train each day. That should be boosted to three trains per day once the Appomattox River Bridge is upgraded. On the CSX line outside Petersburg, it is a single track railroad bridge. Virginia may assist in upgrading to two tracks. 90% of the funds for the Norfolk service are in the bank, with the track upgrades on the Norfolk Southern line to Petersburg already begun.
Two new mass transit agencies have begun service in Virginia in 2011, with two other localities studying implementing transit. When businesses look at an area for a potential relocation, one of the first things they'll ask is "How would employees get to work?" That spawns transit service.
The Federal government may cutoff our region's Federal highway dollars, based on air quality, if we do not adequately do mass transit to try to mitigate the impact. Given that air quality here is in the yellow zone of Federal requirements, that's a serious issue.
The #1 issue employers in Hampton Roads raise with Drake: parking. That's not a problem if your employees take mass transit to work.
There are two major new initiatives by DRPT in 2011:
1. A motor coach service being launched from Roanoke to Lynchburg to feed into Amtrak trains there. Some want trains extended to Roanoke, with this being a precursor to see if the market's there. Lynchburg's Amtrak service is carrying three times the projected passengers.
2. A partnership with the Army for moving soldiers. Each week 1,000 go from Fort A.P. Hill to Fort Lee on Monday, and return on Thursday. The Army had been using motor coaches, making for a horde of buses on the road. They're now making the trip on Virginia Railway Express (VRE) trains.
ARNT
There was little to report on the timed-out Virginia Beach study, so Marie spent most her time talking about Norfolk's Starter Line. At HRT "everyone is working their butts off" towards revenue service launch. Most likely trains would run on a Saturday and Sunday with no fare required, before a revenue launch on a Monday morning.
Arnt worked her way down the line west to east, noting features at each stop. She also touched on feeder bus service and the light rail safety program.
The golden nugget: the final hours of operation at launch were agreed to at a Tuesday evening meeting. It will be Monday - Thursday 6 A.M. - 11 P.M., Friday & Saturday 6 A.M. - Midnight, and Sunday 11 A.M. - 9 P.M.
I'm elated: I can go to a weeknight Admirals game, and that extra hour of service means I can catch the train out afterwards.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Top 10 Reasons I'm Glad The Rapture Didn't Happen
Protestant preacher of heresy Harold Camping claimed The Rapture would happen at 6 P.M. this evening, but it didn't. While I was waiting for the hour to come, I drafted my Top 10 list of why I'm glad it didn't happen:
10. I want to see Zoe Saldana in Colombiana.
9. I don't want the world to come to an end having never married. (I still hope to meet a good African-American woman out on the buses.)
8. I want to see what challenges the Demonrats mount for General Assembly seats in Virginia Beach in 2011.
7. I want to hear the warped "logic" the Virginia Beach City Council espouses in defending the obscene at-large voting system. (I don't know whether I'll laugh or scoff more.)
6. I want to see an agreement for building an entertainment venue at the Dome site and read its details.
5. I didn't want the world to come to an end with the UFL's Virginia Destroyers having never played a game.
4. I want to see the tantrums VBTAers throw when John Moss isn't appointed to Rita Sweet Bellitto's vacant City Council seat.
3. I want to find out exactly which Virginia Beach City Councilman Virginia News Source is accusing of sexual misconduct.
2. I'm having too much fun laughing at the joke that is Protestantism. After this red herring, maybe more people will see it for what it is.
1. I want to ride Norfolk's light rail starter line before the world comes to an end.
10. I want to see Zoe Saldana in Colombiana.
9. I don't want the world to come to an end having never married. (I still hope to meet a good African-American woman out on the buses.)
8. I want to see what challenges the Demonrats mount for General Assembly seats in Virginia Beach in 2011.
7. I want to hear the warped "logic" the Virginia Beach City Council espouses in defending the obscene at-large voting system. (I don't know whether I'll laugh or scoff more.)
6. I want to see an agreement for building an entertainment venue at the Dome site and read its details.
5. I didn't want the world to come to an end with the UFL's Virginia Destroyers having never played a game.
4. I want to see the tantrums VBTAers throw when John Moss isn't appointed to Rita Sweet Bellitto's vacant City Council seat.
3. I want to find out exactly which Virginia Beach City Councilman Virginia News Source is accusing of sexual misconduct.
2. I'm having too much fun laughing at the joke that is Protestantism. After this red herring, maybe more people will see it for what it is.
1. I want to ride Norfolk's light rail starter line before the world comes to an end.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Morality Wins!
61% want traditional marriage only, with 39% supporting gay marriage. 0% wanted civil unions.
Of course, it's a moot point in Virginia. Our state Constitution defines marriage as between one man and one woman, prohibiting any alternatives. I worked the polls to do my small part in getting the amendment passed.
The new question: which company goes bankrupt first, Blockbuster or Sears Kmart? It's from a water cooler discussion I had at work.
Of course, it's a moot point in Virginia. Our state Constitution defines marriage as between one man and one woman, prohibiting any alternatives. I worked the polls to do my small part in getting the amendment passed.
The new question: which company goes bankrupt first, Blockbuster or Sears Kmart? It's from a water cooler discussion I had at work.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Howell Or Rorschach?
Yesterday the Republican Party of Virginia sent this out as a Facebook status update. (Yes, I saw it on Facebook Mobile while on the Suffolk trip.) Virginia now has a great new game to play, Howell Or Rorschach? Can you tell the difference between a state Senate district gerrymandered by Senator Janet Howell and an ink blot?
Have a try at www.howellorrorschach.com
Have a try at www.howellorrorschach.com
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Random Thoughts March 31, 2011
1. Am I the only one who thinks the fuss about the City Manager's proposed Budget for Virginia Beach in FY 2012 is bad theater? Given that the Budget had been trimmed and savings dipped into the past two years, tax and/or fee hikes were a given this year unless the economy improved markedly. It didn't.
2. The Democrats' plan for redistricting the state Senate is farcical at points. However, when I looked at the proposed 13th District, know what I thought? After 75 year old Fred Quayle, Senator Bob Dyer?
3. In the Republican House redistricting plan, Virginia Beach's Central Business District goes from the 83rd to the 85th District. Quite fitting for Bob Tata, whose bill jump-started the Beach light rail process.
4. Advertised for today was a Sea Level Rise Listening Session from 1-4 P.M. It was moved to 9 A.M. - Noon with no word I heard. So do they really want to listen?
5. Are you all having fun watching Norfolk being dragged into glasnost by Andy Protogyrou and Tommy Smigiel?
6. Under the Republican House redistricting plan, I go from the 83rd District (Chris Stolle) to the 90th (Algie Howell). Hey, I was considering looking for a new barber.... More seriously, Algie strikes me as a nice guy.
7. Why does it scare me on one level when I agree with the TEA Party? Not enough spending cuts in what's being considered by Congress.
8. The Laskin Gateway Project may spur what's hoped for in the Resort Area Strategic Action Plan. However, the knuckle-draggers are still refighting the 31st Street referendum battle. Pathetic.
9. Please note that light rail opponents have yet to offer a comprehensive alternative plan that is both constructive and realistic. Until then, they shouldn't be taken seriously. Do they think they can complain often and loud enough that people don't grasp they have nothing to offer?
10. Hang on, UFL: you might get your dream cancelled NFL season.
2. The Democrats' plan for redistricting the state Senate is farcical at points. However, when I looked at the proposed 13th District, know what I thought? After 75 year old Fred Quayle, Senator Bob Dyer?
3. In the Republican House redistricting plan, Virginia Beach's Central Business District goes from the 83rd to the 85th District. Quite fitting for Bob Tata, whose bill jump-started the Beach light rail process.
4. Advertised for today was a Sea Level Rise Listening Session from 1-4 P.M. It was moved to 9 A.M. - Noon with no word I heard. So do they really want to listen?
5. Are you all having fun watching Norfolk being dragged into glasnost by Andy Protogyrou and Tommy Smigiel?
6. Under the Republican House redistricting plan, I go from the 83rd District (Chris Stolle) to the 90th (Algie Howell). Hey, I was considering looking for a new barber.... More seriously, Algie strikes me as a nice guy.
7. Why does it scare me on one level when I agree with the TEA Party? Not enough spending cuts in what's being considered by Congress.
8. The Laskin Gateway Project may spur what's hoped for in the Resort Area Strategic Action Plan. However, the knuckle-draggers are still refighting the 31st Street referendum battle. Pathetic.
9. Please note that light rail opponents have yet to offer a comprehensive alternative plan that is both constructive and realistic. Until then, they shouldn't be taken seriously. Do they think they can complain often and loud enough that people don't grasp they have nothing to offer?
10. Hang on, UFL: you might get your dream cancelled NFL season.
Friday, March 25, 2011
TDCHR March 24, 2011
The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads (TDCHR) held a long meeting on Thursday. Normally the governing board of Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) meets for about an hour, but this meeting went about 105 minutes.
The big item was an overview of the efficiencies report. First some general information was given, then numbers for each individual city. The TDCHR vote will now be in May, not the previously-slated April. Any changes would be implemented with the January, 2012 service board change.
What I found disappointing was the lack of detail. Which routes are being cut? None were specifically named. The Top 18 routes will be boosted, but the only singling out were route lines on crude maps on the PowerPoint. (I could figure out most Southside, but was guessing on the Peninsula.) Granted, HRT has only spoken to 2 of 7 cities so far (Hampton and Virginia Beach), but to get bus riders buy-in you need to get information to them ASAP.
There was a Presentation on Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan, with the TDCHR unanimously voting to endorse.
The high drama of the day was over the Vehicle Advertising Services contract. Staff recommended a new contractor, even thought the existing contractor had tendered a better bid. In addition, attorney Bill Bischoff alleged procedural issues in acting on the bids. When HRT President Phillip Shucet could not get clear answers to the questions raised, the TDCHR voted to defer the awarding of the contract.
HRT is $1.858 million under Budget for FY 2011. Acting CFO David Sullivan warned the TDCHR that Budget numbers will get wacky at the end of the fiscal year, as neither light rail revenues nor expenditures will be made in May and June.
A new light rail revenue service launch date will probably be announced sometime in May.
Senior Vice President of Operations Homer Carter will retire April 4. Temporarily, Bus Operations Director Bill Law will report directly to Chief of Staff David Sullivan. (I'll miss Homer.)
It is planned to have a Retreat recommendation for the TDCHR at their next meeting, April 21 In Hampton.
The big item was an overview of the efficiencies report. First some general information was given, then numbers for each individual city. The TDCHR vote will now be in May, not the previously-slated April. Any changes would be implemented with the January, 2012 service board change.
What I found disappointing was the lack of detail. Which routes are being cut? None were specifically named. The Top 18 routes will be boosted, but the only singling out were route lines on crude maps on the PowerPoint. (I could figure out most Southside, but was guessing on the Peninsula.) Granted, HRT has only spoken to 2 of 7 cities so far (Hampton and Virginia Beach), but to get bus riders buy-in you need to get information to them ASAP.
There was a Presentation on Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan, with the TDCHR unanimously voting to endorse.
The high drama of the day was over the Vehicle Advertising Services contract. Staff recommended a new contractor, even thought the existing contractor had tendered a better bid. In addition, attorney Bill Bischoff alleged procedural issues in acting on the bids. When HRT President Phillip Shucet could not get clear answers to the questions raised, the TDCHR voted to defer the awarding of the contract.
HRT is $1.858 million under Budget for FY 2011. Acting CFO David Sullivan warned the TDCHR that Budget numbers will get wacky at the end of the fiscal year, as neither light rail revenues nor expenditures will be made in May and June.
A new light rail revenue service launch date will probably be announced sometime in May.
Senior Vice President of Operations Homer Carter will retire April 4. Temporarily, Bus Operations Director Bill Law will report directly to Chief of Staff David Sullivan. (I'll miss Homer.)
It is planned to have a Retreat recommendation for the TDCHR at their next meeting, April 21 In Hampton.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Portsmouth Question
(I don't like doing back-to-back transit posts, as I don't want this to exclusively be a transit blog. However, I'm probably going to have three consecutive here. Sorry.)
The question remains: exactly how do we connect Portsmouth into a regional light rail network? For the most fiscally stressed city in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it could reap a load of benefits by being connected into such a system in the midterm. Complete the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to Naval Station Norfolk via downtown Norfolk line, then start trying to get light rail across the river to P-town.
You start to grasp the scale of the problem when you read Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan. It puts a streetcar in Portsmouth, to maybe later be extended to the Harbor Park multimodal station. There's a proposed corridor from Harbor Park to Harbour View via downtown Portsmouth "BRT, maybe LRT". However, even those partial measures rest on one huge if: a multimodal expansion of the Downtown Tunnel, with dedicated mass transit lanes.
That's not a report, but rather a death sentence for Portsmouth. I raised the issue during a Public Comment session at the TPO, and have talked about it with regional leaders. Failure to secure Portsmouth into our regional light rail network in the midterm risks having it become a sinkhole in 30-40 years that could take down the rest of South Hampton Roads with it. Portsmouth needs to be online, where it can reap the benefits of such a system.
The question remains: exactly how do we connect Portsmouth into a regional light rail network? For the most fiscally stressed city in the Commonwealth of Virginia, it could reap a load of benefits by being connected into such a system in the midterm. Complete the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to Naval Station Norfolk via downtown Norfolk line, then start trying to get light rail across the river to P-town.
You start to grasp the scale of the problem when you read Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan. It puts a streetcar in Portsmouth, to maybe later be extended to the Harbor Park multimodal station. There's a proposed corridor from Harbor Park to Harbour View via downtown Portsmouth "BRT, maybe LRT". However, even those partial measures rest on one huge if: a multimodal expansion of the Downtown Tunnel, with dedicated mass transit lanes.
That's not a report, but rather a death sentence for Portsmouth. I raised the issue during a Public Comment session at the TPO, and have talked about it with regional leaders. Failure to secure Portsmouth into our regional light rail network in the midterm risks having it become a sinkhole in 30-40 years that could take down the rest of South Hampton Roads with it. Portsmouth needs to be online, where it can reap the benefits of such a system.
69% Favor A Midtown Tunnel Routing
69% prefer taking light rail to Portsmouth via the Midtown Tunnel, with 31% favoring the Downtown Tunnel. Here's the problem: Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan eliminates the Midtown routing, leaving a possible Downtown Tunnel routing.
The new question: how do you rate Mayor Will Sessoms' performance in office? He's been there now over 26 months.
The new question: how do you rate Mayor Will Sessoms' performance in office? He's been there now over 26 months.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
TPO March 17, 2011
The Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) held a quite substantial meeting today.
Thelma Drake, Director of Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), was present and gave an "informative" (Yvonne Miller) briefing on High Speed Rail. The TPO voted to work with DRPT, and try to scope out the next phase of their own work.
The TPO voted final approval of the project prioritization list, with an in-depth discussion of the projects slated for April. The impetus of today's vote was to allow the Virginia Department Of Transportation (VDOT) to being air conformity work on the list.
There was a presentation on Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan, with the TPO voting afterwards to endorse.
There was a proposed list approved for allocating CMAQ and RSTP funds through FY 2017, including $5.5 million ($3.5 million RSTP, $2.0 million CMAQ) for Norfolk light rail. (Take that, tea baggers!)
Finally, a Resolution was presented from the Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee (CTAC). It endorsed the prioritization process, with the caveat that new funds be found for "additional lane-miles across the Hampton Roads Harbor."
Thelma Drake, Director of Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), was present and gave an "informative" (Yvonne Miller) briefing on High Speed Rail. The TPO voted to work with DRPT, and try to scope out the next phase of their own work.
The TPO voted final approval of the project prioritization list, with an in-depth discussion of the projects slated for April. The impetus of today's vote was to allow the Virginia Department Of Transportation (VDOT) to being air conformity work on the list.
There was a presentation on Phase II of the Regional Transit Vision Plan, with the TPO voting afterwards to endorse.
There was a proposed list approved for allocating CMAQ and RSTP funds through FY 2017, including $5.5 million ($3.5 million RSTP, $2.0 million CMAQ) for Norfolk light rail. (Take that, tea baggers!)
Finally, a Resolution was presented from the Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee (CTAC). It endorsed the prioritization process, with the caveat that new funds be found for "additional lane-miles across the Hampton Roads Harbor."
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
My Tax Refom Idea
With the General Assembly having just passed a Budget, and the City Budget season soon upon us, I thought I'd float on here an idea for tax reform that I've expressed elsewhere before. I'd abolish both the BPOL and Car Tax, in turn giving localities the authority to levy a local piggyback income tax.
The BPOL was first imposed to pay for Virginia's share of The War of 1812. That war was over long ago, but we're still paying the tax for it. Also, compliance with it is very labor-intensive for businesses.
Yes, Virginia, the Car Tax has not been totally eliminated from the books. In fact, our cash-strapped Commonwealth is sending millions in reimbursements to the localities. Eliminate it, and the financial shell game that's going on.
Putting more financial control at home would help stop localities from finger-pointing at Richmond, as they'd be responsible for their own revenue to a larger extent. As a check, you could require localities to seek state approval to change the piggyback rate. (That's the case in my native Maryland.)
I toss it out there for discussion. It may not be perfect, but it starts to unravel some of the craziness in the Virginia tax code.
The BPOL was first imposed to pay for Virginia's share of The War of 1812. That war was over long ago, but we're still paying the tax for it. Also, compliance with it is very labor-intensive for businesses.
Yes, Virginia, the Car Tax has not been totally eliminated from the books. In fact, our cash-strapped Commonwealth is sending millions in reimbursements to the localities. Eliminate it, and the financial shell game that's going on.
Putting more financial control at home would help stop localities from finger-pointing at Richmond, as they'd be responsible for their own revenue to a larger extent. As a check, you could require localities to seek state approval to change the piggyback rate. (That's the case in my native Maryland.)
I toss it out there for discussion. It may not be perfect, but it starts to unravel some of the craziness in the Virginia tax code.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Random Thoughts February 22, 2011
1. What, if any, challenges do the Democrats mount for General Assembly seats in Virginia Beach this year?
2. If the new tourism tax rebate mechanism becomes law and is used for financing Dome site redevelopment, does The Virginian-Pravda Editorial Board oppose the project on those grounds?
3. Will the Virginia Destroyers actually play this season? If so, how long before the team realizes Sportsplex was a poor choice for home field?
4. How will this year's redistricting of the General Assembly, with additional seats going to Northern Virginia, change the transportation debate in the 2012 session?
5. Who else remembers Will Sessoms' original light rail position in his 2008 Mayoral campaign? He wanted to build it in two phases: Phase I from Newtown Road to Town Center, Phase II from Town Center to the Oceanfront. That was eclipsed by Bob Tata's bill, which bound the process together as a whole.
Should the Alternatives Analysis/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (AA/SDEIS) come back a mixed bag, do we find ourselves dusting off that position?
6. If the Virginia Beach City Council rejects electoral reform (as expected) during this year's City redistricting process, how does that impact the 2012 Council elections?
7. Who imagined that the Arab nations domino game going on would ever happen? Starting in Tunisia?
8. Does it later strike in Saudi Arabia? If so, what's the outcome?
9. How much kicking and screaming from bus riders will there be over the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) efficiencies report, due to be released at Thursday's TDCHR meeting? Will they remain quiet until it's too late?
10. Will HRT raise fares later in 2011 as a means of improving service further?
11. Will the extremist Virginia Beach Taxpayers Alliance (VBTA) grasp that light rail is their Moby Dick before it's too late?
12. With Tide launch delayed, what does Virginia Beach do with the saved mass transit funds from the postponement of service improvements on Routes 25 and 27?
13. What will it take to kick start Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in the Norfolk Southern Corridor? A Virginia Beach FFGA signing? Further down the line than that?
2. If the new tourism tax rebate mechanism becomes law and is used for financing Dome site redevelopment, does The Virginian-Pravda Editorial Board oppose the project on those grounds?
3. Will the Virginia Destroyers actually play this season? If so, how long before the team realizes Sportsplex was a poor choice for home field?
4. How will this year's redistricting of the General Assembly, with additional seats going to Northern Virginia, change the transportation debate in the 2012 session?
5. Who else remembers Will Sessoms' original light rail position in his 2008 Mayoral campaign? He wanted to build it in two phases: Phase I from Newtown Road to Town Center, Phase II from Town Center to the Oceanfront. That was eclipsed by Bob Tata's bill, which bound the process together as a whole.
Should the Alternatives Analysis/Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (AA/SDEIS) come back a mixed bag, do we find ourselves dusting off that position?
6. If the Virginia Beach City Council rejects electoral reform (as expected) during this year's City redistricting process, how does that impact the 2012 Council elections?
7. Who imagined that the Arab nations domino game going on would ever happen? Starting in Tunisia?
8. Does it later strike in Saudi Arabia? If so, what's the outcome?
9. How much kicking and screaming from bus riders will there be over the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) efficiencies report, due to be released at Thursday's TDCHR meeting? Will they remain quiet until it's too late?
10. Will HRT raise fares later in 2011 as a means of improving service further?
11. Will the extremist Virginia Beach Taxpayers Alliance (VBTA) grasp that light rail is their Moby Dick before it's too late?
12. With Tide launch delayed, what does Virginia Beach do with the saved mass transit funds from the postponement of service improvements on Routes 25 and 27?
13. What will it take to kick start Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in the Norfolk Southern Corridor? A Virginia Beach FFGA signing? Further down the line than that?
Thursday, February 17, 2011
TPO Retreat February 17, 2011
The Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) held it's annual Retreat today.
Most important was that the draft list from the project prioritization list was carried forward by consensus for the 2034 Long Range Plan (LRP). Some concern was raised that it didn't put additional lanes across the harbor. However, it was pointed out that the Patriots' Crossing coupled with excess capacity at the Monitor-Merrimac Bridge-Tunnel would provide additional ability. For the wingnuts (from both sides) who have attacked Governor Bob McDonnell's transportation initiative, let me point out 13 of the 17 Projects for Construction were only on the list due to anticipated funds from the GARVEE bond float. The TPO will act on the draft 2034 LRP list at it's March 17 meeting. A final list is required to be sent to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) by June, in order that VDOT can do the air conformity work on the list.
An analysis from Old Dominion University's Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center on harbor crossings was presented. 29 different accident scenarios were modeled, and in 90% of them the Patriots' Crossing provided more traffic relief than an expanded Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT). The only scenarios where an expanded HRBT scored higher was when the accident was on or in the periphery of the HRBT. Members of the Hampton Roads Caucus of the General Assembly had requested such a look. With only so many people crossing the harbor daily, they wanted to know which alternative provided better relief elsewhere in the region.
A Presentation on Value Pricing was made by Angela Jacobs. Ms. Jacobs is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) from the Federal Highway Administration. Value Pricing, also known as Congestion Pricing, puts variable levels of tolls on a road depending on time of the day. The idea is to make it cheaper to travel off-peak, while forcing drivers to pay a premium to drive a congested road at rush hour.
High Speed Rail was briefly covered. First, there will be a conference call on March 1 between TPO Staff, Staff from Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), and the Federal Railway Administration. The idea is to try to get everyone on the same page about High Speed Rail to Norfolk. Second, DRPT Director Thelma Drake will be at the March TPO meeting to discuss the issue with the TPO Board. Third, we're looking to apply for NEPA money for a Norfolk High Speed Rail alignment in May, 2012.
The Board looked towards budgeting for FY 2012.
Finally, Facilitator Jim Oliver opened a discussion on the TPO's Executive Committee. Oliver noted that two years ago it would have been unimaginable that the region could have come together on a projects list and High Speed Rail. He suggested working through the full Board, as it has helped form consensus. However, some looked towards a future when the TPO and HRPDC will have different Executive Directors and totally separated Staffs. At that time, the Executive Committee will be necessary to cover personnel matters.
Most important was that the draft list from the project prioritization list was carried forward by consensus for the 2034 Long Range Plan (LRP). Some concern was raised that it didn't put additional lanes across the harbor. However, it was pointed out that the Patriots' Crossing coupled with excess capacity at the Monitor-Merrimac Bridge-Tunnel would provide additional ability. For the wingnuts (from both sides) who have attacked Governor Bob McDonnell's transportation initiative, let me point out 13 of the 17 Projects for Construction were only on the list due to anticipated funds from the GARVEE bond float. The TPO will act on the draft 2034 LRP list at it's March 17 meeting. A final list is required to be sent to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) by June, in order that VDOT can do the air conformity work on the list.
An analysis from Old Dominion University's Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center on harbor crossings was presented. 29 different accident scenarios were modeled, and in 90% of them the Patriots' Crossing provided more traffic relief than an expanded Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT). The only scenarios where an expanded HRBT scored higher was when the accident was on or in the periphery of the HRBT. Members of the Hampton Roads Caucus of the General Assembly had requested such a look. With only so many people crossing the harbor daily, they wanted to know which alternative provided better relief elsewhere in the region.
A Presentation on Value Pricing was made by Angela Jacobs. Ms. Jacobs is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) from the Federal Highway Administration. Value Pricing, also known as Congestion Pricing, puts variable levels of tolls on a road depending on time of the day. The idea is to make it cheaper to travel off-peak, while forcing drivers to pay a premium to drive a congested road at rush hour.
High Speed Rail was briefly covered. First, there will be a conference call on March 1 between TPO Staff, Staff from Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), and the Federal Railway Administration. The idea is to try to get everyone on the same page about High Speed Rail to Norfolk. Second, DRPT Director Thelma Drake will be at the March TPO meeting to discuss the issue with the TPO Board. Third, we're looking to apply for NEPA money for a Norfolk High Speed Rail alignment in May, 2012.
The Board looked towards budgeting for FY 2012.
Finally, Facilitator Jim Oliver opened a discussion on the TPO's Executive Committee. Oliver noted that two years ago it would have been unimaginable that the region could have come together on a projects list and High Speed Rail. He suggested working through the full Board, as it has helped form consensus. However, some looked towards a future when the TPO and HRPDC will have different Executive Directors and totally separated Staffs. At that time, the Executive Committee will be necessary to cover personnel matters.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
HB 2285
House Bill 2285's Senate Finance Committee substitute passed both the Senate and House of Delegates today in Richmond. The bill would allow certain tourism projects to be rebated 1% of the state Sales Tax generated, as well as 1% local Sales and Use Tax or it's equivalent, as a means of financing up to 20% of the project.
The newspaper story on the bill drew a myriad of negative comments on Pilotonline (including, of course, the VBTA Vice Chairman). Given the ire in some quarters over the bill, I wanted to blog on it.
First of all, the bill states specifically that the rebated revenues are from tax collections from sales on the premises of the new facility. Obviously without the new facility being built, there would be no revenue to rebate. Therefore, it's not taking money away from anything.
The Senate substitute lays out a clear procedure for obtaining such funds. First, the local governing body (in our case, the Virginia Beach City Council) must create a tourism zone, in which tax abatements are possible. Second, the locality must file a Tourism Plan with the Virginia Tourism Authority. The Plan must meet state requirements and include the project seeking funds. Third, the state Comptroller must certify that it is a qualifying project.
Quarterly the Commissioner of Revenue certifies the amount of taxes from said facility. He then transmits such to Richmond, where the state Comptroller then rebates the state share to the business.
Yes, the process is somewhat convoluted, and I never would have wrote a bill looking like that. However, the multiple participants (City Council, state government, and Commissioner of Revenue) should help alleviate concerns by some of government running amuck. There are checks in this process.
What does it mean for Virginia Beach? For starters, the Dome site entertainment venue probably becomes a reality. The holdup has been over covering the funding difference with financial markets tightened. This bill should close the gap. Given that Dome site redevelopment has been the #1 priority of the Resort Area business community since late 2005, there will be plenty of happy campers at the Oceanfront.
Granted, tourism tends to produce lower-paying jobs. However, trying to get out of The Great Recession, tourism is an easier segment to stimulate. Given some work or no work, most people will take the tourism job.
The newspaper story on the bill drew a myriad of negative comments on Pilotonline (including, of course, the VBTA Vice Chairman). Given the ire in some quarters over the bill, I wanted to blog on it.
First of all, the bill states specifically that the rebated revenues are from tax collections from sales on the premises of the new facility. Obviously without the new facility being built, there would be no revenue to rebate. Therefore, it's not taking money away from anything.
The Senate substitute lays out a clear procedure for obtaining such funds. First, the local governing body (in our case, the Virginia Beach City Council) must create a tourism zone, in which tax abatements are possible. Second, the locality must file a Tourism Plan with the Virginia Tourism Authority. The Plan must meet state requirements and include the project seeking funds. Third, the state Comptroller must certify that it is a qualifying project.
Quarterly the Commissioner of Revenue certifies the amount of taxes from said facility. He then transmits such to Richmond, where the state Comptroller then rebates the state share to the business.
Yes, the process is somewhat convoluted, and I never would have wrote a bill looking like that. However, the multiple participants (City Council, state government, and Commissioner of Revenue) should help alleviate concerns by some of government running amuck. There are checks in this process.
What does it mean for Virginia Beach? For starters, the Dome site entertainment venue probably becomes a reality. The holdup has been over covering the funding difference with financial markets tightened. This bill should close the gap. Given that Dome site redevelopment has been the #1 priority of the Resort Area business community since late 2005, there will be plenty of happy campers at the Oceanfront.
Granted, tourism tends to produce lower-paying jobs. However, trying to get out of The Great Recession, tourism is an easier segment to stimulate. Given some work or no work, most people will take the tourism job.
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