Bedford County

The Board of Supervisors meeting included the approval of an amended agenda and the issuance of proclamations recognizing Peach Month and the retirement of the County Registrar. The Board also reviewed and adopted an ordinance to update the fee schedule for the Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Program, approved the reappropriation of funds for a school employee bonus, and considered a request for the replacement of computer hardware for the local Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various items on their consent agenda, including land use permits, the adoption of a secondary six-year plan, and a grant application to support a community health worker initiative. A primary topic of the meeting was a public hearing regarding a rezoning application for a proposed 26-lot residential subdivision. Concerns were raised by citizens regarding traffic, the impact of new well drilling on existing water supplies, and the compatibility of the development with the surrounding rural agricultural area. The Board deliberated on the developer's request to rezone a portion of the property to match the existing zoning to ensure project uniformity.

The Board of Supervisors discussed several key projects and administrative matters. These included a resolution for a grant for the Bedford Family Recovery Court Program, and authorization for janitorial services and on-demand contracts for mechanical, electrical, and welding services. The board considered an ordinance to increase private pay daily rates for the Bedford County Nursing Home. Additionally, the meeting included a detailed presentation on potential road improvement projects under the state's Smart Scale program, focusing on Route 122, the Route 460 and Me Road intersection, and Route 221 in Forest, with public commentary regarding safety and property access concerns associated with the proposed designs.

The Board of Supervisors discussed safety concerns regarding restricted R-cuts along the 460 corridor and the need for further traffic analysis and potentially less invasive solutions than physical barriers. The board considered and adopted ordinances for rezoning applications on behalf of JCM Property Group and Mariners Landing Devco LLC to eliminate split zoning. Additionally, the board approved a tax-exempt status for the Bedford Community Christmas Station, recognizing its year-round food pantry and community assistance programs.

This document outlines the strategic priorities for the County of Bedford for the period of 2022-2024. The plan is structured around six key goal areas: ensuring accountable and responsive government, fostering a safe and prepared community, promoting education and workforce development, protecting natural resources and agriculture, cultivating a robust business climate, and optimizing infrastructure. Each goal area is supported by multiple objectives and initiatives, with progress being tracked through quarterly updates from County staff. The overarching aim is to meet community needs, enhance well-being, and support economic growth and environmental stewardship.