Amy Blake-Lewis

The board conducted its organizational meeting, which included the election of a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for the year. Key actions taken included the establishment of the regular board meeting schedule for the upcoming year, the adoption of the board's bylaws, and the approval of the budget process calendar for the next fiscal year. Additionally, the board set the date for an annual planning session and received an informational briefing regarding the results of the general real estate reassessment and its implications for future tax rate deliberations.

The Board of Supervisors meeting covered several items, including the adoption of proclamations recognizing Ruitton Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The Board received a monthly report on delinquent tax collection efforts and approved several financial matters, including additional appropriations for the Circuit Court Clerk's office, the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority Grant, the sheriff's office for vehicle repairs, and school projects. Additionally, contracts were awarded for the removal of unsafe structures, and categorical transfers were approved for school system upgrades. The Board also discussed a potential new ordinance regarding the outdoor storage of tires and considered next steps for its implementation.

The Board meeting included discussions on various proclamations and resolutions, such as recognizing National Peace Officers Memorial Week, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and anniversaries of local organizations. Financial matters were addressed, including additional appropriations for the Sheriff's Office, school construction and renovation projects, and the removal of unsafe structures. Public hearings were conducted regarding rezoning applications and the setting of tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The Board also reviewed monthly reports on delinquent tax collection efforts and discussed closed meeting items, including appointments to various boards and the acquisition or disposal of real estate.

The commission conducted a public hearing regarding a rezoning application for property located on Crestridge Road. The applicant requested to rezone three lots from Suburban Residential to Agricultural to allow for the construction of a house and an accessory garage that would exceed the front setback of the main dwelling. The discussion involved clarifying allowed land uses under agricultural zoning, addressing neighborhood concerns regarding potential commercial activities, property values, and the impact of the proposed garage placement. The Planning Commission ultimately voted to recommend that the Board of Supervisors approve the requested zoning change.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various administrative and financial items, including the approval of an employee handbook, multiple grant appropriations for the Sheriff's Office, and funding for new electronic poll books. They also approved an appropriation for the Villa Heights Housing Project and an economic development grant for a sewer line project. Additionally, the Board awarded a sole-source contract for 911 center call-handling equipment, received monthly reports on delinquent tax collections and economic development activities, and reviewed updates regarding broadband installation, parks and recreation, and the animal services shelter. A resolution honoring an outgoing Electoral Board member was passed, and an interim Treasurer was sworn in. The meeting concluded with a closed session for discussions on legal, real estate, and personnel matters.