City of Buena Vista

The Central Shenandoah Hazard Mitigation Plan (CSHMP) identifies natural and other hazards, including Flooding/Dam Failure, Drought, Hurricanes, and Severe Winter Weather, impacting the five counties, five cities, and eleven towns within the Central Shenandoah Region. The plan aims to increase community resilience by analyzing risks and vulnerabilities, and outlining mitigation goals and strategies across four categories: Local Plans and Regulations, Structure and Infrastructure Projects, Natural Systems Protection, and Education and Awareness Programs.

The primary focus of the meeting was a Public Hearing regarding a Zoning Map Amendment for a Zoning Text Amendment to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). During the hearing, robust discussion occurred regarding the proposed expansion of Blue Ridge Abbey, covering concerns about increased guest traffic, parking impact on a nearby church, neighborhood safety due to transient guests, and whether rezoning constituted illegal spot zoning. The Commission also discussed Old Business concerning the Zoning Text Amendment for Section 705 Home Occupations, where they recommended approval of the draft text to City Council after discussion on enforcement and complaints. New Business included the nomination of a member to serve on the Mountain Gateway Community College Vista Links building committee to review RFP submissions for the city-owned former MGCC building. The Secretary's Report noted the approval of a Right-of-Way abandonment for SVU and the postponement of a Conditional Use Permit consideration.

This Downtown Revitalization Strategy for Buena Vista aims to create a forward-looking plan for the City's Downtown Business District by identifying revitalization needs and priorities and developing a community vision. It focuses on three main pillars: promoting local identity and opportunity, economic restructuring, and physical improvements. Key areas of focus include enhancing connectivity, improving gateways and wayfinding, strengthening the Main Street initiative, developing public spaces, and fostering beautification and placemaking. The overarching goal is to rebuild and revitalize Downtown Buena Vista, creating a vibrant and accessible urban core.

The meeting included a call to order and a review of the Uniform & Overseas Citizen Absentee Voting Act. The board approved the canvass of five Mail In Absentee ballots.

The meeting included the annual performance evaluation of the General Registrar, the appointment of the General Registrar for a four-year term, and an update on no-excuse voting. Dates for the upcoming election, certification, and training were also discussed, along with equipment testing and certification.