Alleghany County

The board discussed a public hearing regarding amendments to the County Operating Budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year related to grant revenue and Children's Services Act expenditures. Other agenda items included receiving a VDOT update, considering resolutions of respect for two individuals, and reviewing requests for fee waivers regarding school building renovations. The board also addressed contract awards for waste tire disposal and HVAC replacement, as well as multiple reappointments and new appointments to various regional boards and commissions. A closed meeting was scheduled to discuss property acquisition and disposition.

The agenda for the meeting included the recognition of retirees for 2025 and the presentation of appreciation resolutions. Key discussion points involved three public hearings: considering amendments to Chapter 58 regarding real estate tax exemptions for elderly and disabled persons effective for the 2026 tax year; considering an amendment to the County Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 related to opioid abatement grant funds; and considering an ordinance authorizing employee bonuses for exceptional performance. New business included discussing an amendment to the Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Services Agreement and considering reappointment for members of the Alleghany Highlands Community Services Board and the TAP Board of Directors. The Board planned to enter a closed meeting to discuss a personnel matter concerning the former County Administrator, followed by potential action, including consideration of a bonus for that individual.

The meeting included a public hearing to discuss amendments to the County Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, focusing on school system athletic facility improvements, a Virginia 9-1-1 Services Board grant, and insurance proceeds. The board also received an update from VDOT on various maintenance and upcoming work activities. An audit presentation for the year ending June 30, 2024, was given, along with a discussion and approval of the FY26/27 performance contract with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Resolutions were approved in relation to opioid settlements, and the Personal Property Tax Relief rate for the tax year 2025 was approved. Additionally, a resolution authorizing the execution of the Virginia Water and Wastewater Agency Response Network (VAWARN) Mutual Aid Agreement was approved, as well as a resolution for Hospital to Home, LLC to provide medical transport services in the county. The County Administrator provided a report on various items, including housing development, telecommunications initiatives, and public works projects.

The meeting included a public hearing and approval regarding an amendment to the county code concerning transient occupancy tax, aligning with state legislation for accommodations intermediaries. An update was provided by VDOT on maintenance activities and road repairs. The board approved a resolution of respect for Mr. William "Lance" Carson, the late Mayor of Covington. They also approved a request from the Department of Public Safety for enhanced hazardous duty retirement benefits for qualifying full-time firefighters and emergency medical technicians. The County Administrator reported on the Alleghany Highlands Housing Summit, a VATI project for broadband access, and repairs to the Intervale wastewater pump station. Board members discussed housing, workforce development, medical care, job opportunities, and education. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss investment of public funds and contractual matters.

The board approved revisions to the County Classification Pay Plan regarding cost of living increases. Sewer rates for the Town of Clifton Forge and Town of Iron Gate for Fiscal Year 2026 were adopted. Amendments to the County Code concerning water, sewer, and sewage disposal rates were approved, along with the tax rate for the tax year 2025. The FY 2025-26 County Operating Budget was approved and Mr. Kenneth McFadyen was appointed to various boards and commissions.