December 2, 2002 Work Session
358
A W orksession of the Frederick County Board of Supervisors was held on December 2,
2002, at 9:00 AM., in the Board of Supervisors' Meeting Room, County Administration Building,
107 North Kent Street, Winchester, Virginia.
PRESENT
Chairman Richard C. Shickle; Vice Chairman W. Harrington Smith, Ir.; Margaret B.
Douglas; Sidney A Reyes; Gina A Forrester; and Lynda I. Tyler.
ABSENT
Supervisor Robert M. Sager - (prior commitment out of town).
OTHERS PRESENT Administrator Riley and Assistant Tierney; Department Heads;
Members of the County Planning Commission; Social Services Board and county residents.
Maria I. K. Everett, Executive Director, of Freedom ofInformation Advisory Council.
Director Everett advised that the Council that oversees implementation of the Virginia
Freedom ofInformation Act plans to ask the General Assembly to exempt contract negotiation from
the law. She fielded questions from many of those present and advised them, as proposed, the
exemption would be allowed as long as an open meeting would not adversely affect either party in
the negotiations. The proposal calls for creation of a new exemption that would allow discussions
with bidders in closed session. This would allow documents to be withheld until a public body made
a decision whether to award the contract. The proposal would broaden confidentiality provisions
already included in the state Public Procurement Act.
Director Everett stressed the importance of government always standing in favor of openness.
She explained, "It's the people's business, and it should be done in public."
Supervisor Tyler, who suggested this session, stated she was disappointed that more people
could not attend the session as she felt it was extremely valuable. She felt everyone present learned
something, and perhaps this could be held annually to assist new Board and Planning Commission
Members.
Chairman Shickle and Supervisor Forrester felt the session was very informative and helpful
to all of those in attendance.
THIS CONCLUDES THIS WORKSESSION.
Minute Book Number 28
Board of Supervisors Freedom of Information (FOIA) Worksession of 12/02/02
359
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Richard C. Shickle
Chairman, Board of Supervisors
Minutes Prepared By: tbJ/:./.J] --r-:- \?l::L, 1 ~ "'" AJ )
Carol T. Bayliss .
Deputy Clerk, Board of Supervisors
Minute Book Number 28
Board of Supervisors Freedom of Information (FOIA) Worksession of 12/02/02