Ashley Austin

The Board recognized the Department of Public Utilities and Public Works for the Virgil R. Hazelett Reservoir at Cobbs Creek Project receiving a project of the year award. Resolutions were passed to commend high school athletic teams, amend the annual fiscal plan, submit an amended consolidated plan, authorize real property exchanges, and approve various construction and water rehabilitation contracts. Additionally, the Board addressed condemnation for trail easements and signatory authority for project change orders and quitclaim deeds.

The board meeting included a presentation on J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, a review of operating and capital fiscal plans for the upcoming fiscal year, and the allocation of car tax relief. Additionally, the board addressed public hearing items such as condemnation for the Horsepen Branch Trunk Sewer project and the vacation of an alley in the Greenwood Heights subdivision. Other business included the issuance of multifamily housing revenue bonds, the award of contracts for a new Social Services building, architectural and engineering services for parks and recreation, the acquisition of real property for flood mitigation, and contracts for sewer replacement and trail construction.

This development plan outlines the transformation of the 'Best Products Re-Imagined' area in Henrico through the Mellan Parkway Extension and Garden City Pedestrian Bridge project. Key pillars include enhancing connectivity, fostering economic development, and improving quality of life, with an anticipated $1.4 billion economic impact and 8,000 jobs. The vision encompasses new housing, employment, and commercial uses, including the Level Green residential community with first residents expected in 2027, and expanded pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.

The Board of Supervisors meeting featured several presentations, including a proclamation celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Sigma Delta Zeta Henrico Chapter and a resolution commending the Varina Blue Devils football team. Key public hearings focused on a rezoning request by Elderhomes Corporation and the approval of a utility easement agreement with Virginia Electric and Power Company. Additionally, the Board received operating and capital budget estimates for FY 2026-27, initiated an ordinance to adjust water and sewer service charges, and authorized the acquisition of real property from the American Battlefield Trust.

The special meeting focused primarily on the Manager's Proposed Budget Overview for Fiscal Year 2026-27. The associated agenda for the subsequent regular meeting details several planned items. Key discussions included the presentation of the FY 2026-27 Operating and Capital Budget Estimates, with scheduled public hearings set for budget and proposed tax rates. An ordinance introduction related to changing utility charges for water and sewer services was also planned. Additionally, the agenda listed a public hearing for a rezoning case (REZ-2025-101722) concerning Elderhomes Corporation's request for residential zoning, which the Planning Commission recommended denying. The agenda also contained resolutions authorizing signatory authority for a Utility Easement Agreement with Virginia Electric and Power Company and for the Acquisition of Real Property from the American Battlefield Trust.