See "TC Highlights" for information from Christiansburg's council meeting on February 17th on the Albert Land rezoning request, curbside recycling, and a adoption of a resolution supporting federal funds being provided to benefit "fast rail freight" and Norfolk-Southern.
Other matters before Town Council included:
A presentation by the Christiansburg Police Department regarding internet crimes against children, with Chief Mark Sisson introducing Phillip Townley and Derreck Altizer who developed and manage the program. Supported primarily with federal funding and in conjunction with what is commonly known as Blue Ridge Thunder, it was reported that over 80 cases had been worked on since the program was instituted in July 2008. This unit also works with the local Department of Social Services, Bureau of Missing & Exploited Children, and on general credit card fraud issues. Key to protecting children from online exploitation or predators, which now includes instant messaging portals and online game sites, is for parents to remain vigilant of their youngster's computer use.
Council unanimously approved a rezoning request for approximately 171 acres located adjacent to Buffalo Drive and Mud Pike, applying either the town's mixed use or agricultural zoning definitions. This land recently shifted from the county into the town, and proffers made to the county are to be honored and enforced. Residential developments for two phases are currently underway, with a third phase expected in 2011 or 2012 which will provide sidewalks along Buffalo Drive adjacent to the Christiansburg Middle School.
Jeremy Hart of Valley Curbside Recycling introduced himself to council, and thanked the town for its support of this new business. He explained current services and price structures, as well as phased expansion plans. A key feature to build awareness was the "Street Leader" system, with individuals signing up neighbors in exchange for credits for their own curbside recycling service. Citizen Lisa Lucas Gardner also addressed council on this matter, stating she supported this business and had signed up as a Street Leader and was looking forward to the service.
Citizen Cord Hall addressed council, asking whether residents of Sage Lane had any legal standing for petitioning to remove right-of-way access and was informed they do not.
A lot in the Christiansburg Industrial Park had come back onto the market, as the previous buyer had found another property and identified another party interested in purchasing this lot. Council unanimously approved selling this last lot, again, for $25,000.
Council member Ernie Wade provided an update on a visit to Richmond for meetings with local legislators, in conjunction with members from Blacksburg's town council and county board of supervisors. While the general message was "doom and gloom" relative to all revenue sources seeing a downward trend, there was some hope because of expectations around the federal stimulus package. He suggested the town immediately start on reviewing the town's own budget, identifying areas to cut costs in response to lower sales tax receipts and continuing downward construction trends. It should be noted that in the current budget year, all town Building & Zoning permit and fee revenues were $175,200 (down from $211,538 in FY 2007-08). These amounts probably do not cover the town's actual costs for providing inspections, plat, site plan or subdivision review services or personnel costs.
A Public Hearing to allow residential apartments in a Business B-3 zoning at 500 Roanoke Street was scheduled for March 17th. The Mayor indicated the Aquatic Center Advisory Board would hold its first meeting on March 11th and the Finance Committee will discuss creating financial director/assistant director roles on Feb. 19 (see www.christiansburg.org for public meeting notices, or visit the town hall to read the public notice boards).
Council's next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at 7:30 pm.