AGENDA DATE: 5/18/2022
TITLE:
Title
COVID-19 Reconstitution Update
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Receive an update on the COVID-19 pandemic and discuss elements of Reconstitution
ITEM TYPE: Regular Information Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Herrick, Walker, Henry, Burton, Kilroy
PRESENTER(S): Trevor Henry, Emily Kilroy
LEGAL REVIEW: Not Required
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, and the disease it causes, commonly referred to as COVID-19, a pandemic. On March 12, 2020, the County Executive, acting as the Director of Emergency Management, declared a local emergency because of the COVID-19 pandemic pursuant to Virginia Code 44-146.21, and this declaration was confirmed by the Board of Supervisors on March 17, 2020. Beginning on April 1, 2020, all public meetings have been held virtually, pursuant to and in compliance with Ordinance No. 20-A(16), An Ordinance to Ensure the Continuity of Government During the COVID-19 Disaster.
On March 30, 2020, Albemarle County closed its office buildings to the public and transitioned to virtual service delivery, with key exceptions in public safety, inspections, and maintenance. Throughout the pandemic, adjustments have been made to County operations in-line with guidance and best practices from federal and state public health and safety agencies.
At its March 2, 2022 work session, the Board provided direction to begin meetings of the Board, Planning Commission, and School Board in April 2022 and for staff to return to the Board to receive an update on COVID-19’s impacts on County operations and to consider moving forward with meetings for other Boards and Commissions.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Mission - To enhance the well-being and quality of life for all community members through the provision of the highest level of public service consistent with the prudent use of public funds.
DISCUSSION: As part of this work session, staff will present an update on COVID-19 metrics, report on hybrid meeting observations, and propose a timeline to beginning “virtual access” meetings for “Tier 2” public bodies - Architectural Review Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Board of Equalization, Broadband Authority, and Economic Development Authority. A proposed timeline for Tier 3 public bodies (all remaining) will be shared in the work session.
BUDGET IMPACT: There is no budget impact associated with this work session.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Board receive the update and discuss timely elements of Reconstitution.
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