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Altavista to examine skate park for youth
By MARK THOMAS/Altavista Journal Editor
Wednesday, June 11, 2008 9:31 AM EDT
Altavista Town Council expressed interest Tuesday night in pursuing a skate park for youth.
Council, after hearing from Mitch and Debbie Bernard, referred the issue to the Recreation Committee for more study.
The Bernards had petitions signed by 427 people interested in a skate park. Mitch Bernard said he and his wife had been working with skaters about designs for a park.
"I think the Recreation Committee would be very interested in that," Councilman Mike Mattox said. "Send it to us."
Councilwoman Rayetta Webb said skate parks are around the area, including in Lynchburg and Roanoke.
"Every day you see the kids out doing this. They need a good safe place," Councilman Bill Ferguson said.
The Bernards said they'd identified a possible location near the restrooms in English Park. Mitch Bernard said the area is fenced and paved.
In another matter, no one from the public spoke about Altavista's proposed budget for 2008-09.
"It is an exhaustive process and maybe our citizens understand it," said Councilwoman Beverley Dalton, noting the work by the committees, council and town staff in crafting the budget.
The budget, totaling almost $7.9 million, includes no increases in tax rates or fees. Under the proposal, the real estate tax rate will stay at 16.5 cents and the personal property levy will remain at $2, both based on $100 of assessed value.
"We're very fortunate to be able to balance out," Mayor Rudy Burgess said.
Council will meet June 24 to adopt the new fiscal year's budget and approve a capital improvement program. The new fiscal year starts July 1.
Also, council approved a special use permit for Mike Mattox for a garden retail center, greenhouse, and shrubbery and tree display on Lynch Mill Road. Mattox, a member of council, didn't take part in the discussion or the vote.
The garden center won't open until next spring.
Council also approved a special use permit for Central Virginia Community Services to continue operation of an adult group home for handicapped individuals on Avoca Lane.
Both special use permit requests had been recommended by the Altavista Planning Commission.
Council endorsed a policy regarding trapping on town property. The policy says trapping won't be allowed on town property without written permission from the town manager. All traps must be marked.
The town is still looking at trapping on private property.
The issue arose after a black Labrador died in January after being caught in a trap near the pump station on the Staunton River.
Council praised the Altavista Volunteer Fire Company for its work in organizing last weekend's 59th annual Uncle Billy's Day.
"Those guys did a great job," Mattox said.
Proceeds from the event went to the fire company. A preliminary estimate from Chief John Tucker put proceeds at $15,000-$20,000.
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