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Stafford finalizes transportation bond referendum language and answers questions from the public on the upcoming election-day issue. Date published: 10/17/2008
by Jonas Beals Stafford voters get to make four separate decisions on the Nov. 4 ballot. None hit closer to home than the transportation bond referendum. If passed, the referendum authorizes the county to issue bonds worth up to $70 million. Effectively, the county will take on debt in order to pay for a number of specific road projects. Transportation continues to be a major issue in Stafford. Population growth has led to congested roadways, and safety is a concern in some areas. At the same time, the slumping economy has dimmed the county's short-term financial outlook, and the Virginia Department of Transportation plans to reduce service across the state after losing billions of dollars in funding. Voters will determine whether this is the time to improve Stafford's transportation infrastructure, as well as decide on national contests. A transportation referendum failed in 2006. Politicians take care of their own publicity ahead of an election, but referendums can't exactly shake hands and kiss babies. County staff is responsible for getting the word out to make sure residents are able to make an informed decision. That would be done via a mailer, newspaper advertising and informational meetings. The first of three meetings was held last night. Prior to the information session, supervisors convened to finalize language used in the mailer and brochure. There was some concern surrounding the explanation of how the debt service on the bonds would be paid. In the end, the board adopted language proposed by Supervisor Harry Crisp that lists the revenue streams available to pay the debt service on the bond. It also allows that money from the general fund may be needed if revenue streams are insufficient. "We want to put the list of projects in front of the voters and let them make their decision based on good, clear information," Crisp said. Supervisors Bob Woodson and Paul Milde voted against the language, wanting a more explicit reference to a possible tax rate increase. "Referring to a tax increase would be speculative and misleading," Supervisor Cord Sterling said. Supervisor Joe Brito agreed, adding that there are a number of ways for the county to cover shortfalls without raising taxes. Only four Stafford residents attended last night's meeting, and most questions centered on the shaky economy and subsequent potential for funding shortfalls and tax increases. County Administrator Anthony Romanello, Transportation Administrator Fulton DeLamorton and three supervisors were on hand to answer those questions. Brito, Sterling and Crisp agreed that while the timing of the referendum isn't perfect, it might be the best chance for the county to address transportation infrastructure problems. There are two more information meetings scheduled: Oct. 22 at Park Ridge Elementary and Oct. 28 at Berea Fire and Rescue Station. Both meetings start at 7:00 p.m. To reach Jonas Beals: 540/368-5036
Date published: 10/17/2008
I believe we need better roads in Stafford but I would like to see some thought put into designing the infrastructure here. 610 is insane! There needs to be more parallel roads and alternate route that are not residential. It seems like Stafford is more concerned about getting the businesses/residents in then fixing the problems after the fact.
When proposed, the bond have would leveraged VDOT funds to help with the projects. But after yesterdays VDOT amputations are those funds still there? If not how many of these projects could be completed? To suggest that a tax increase would not be necessary for roads and other expenses next year is an outright shell game.. The county and schools need nore than $20M next year just to break even and cover uncontrollable outside cost drivers such as insurance, pensions etc. See next weeks BOS agenda.
Something is not right when BOS start skirting around with hints that no taxes will be increased to pay for their folly. Future BOS regimes may very well raise taxes to fund this stupidity. Transportation is a Commonwealth responsibility - make Richmond fund the necessary improvements!
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