Caryl Allen

The meeting involved a closed session to discuss protected matters, the review of authorized service reports, and an analysis of financial reports comparing current expenditures to the previous year. The team assessed CSA service statistics, including updates on new and closed cases. Strategic planning discussions focused on Standards and Best Practices and Early Intervention initiatives. Staff training activities and upcoming conferences were outlined. Additionally, the team evaluated potential impacts of FY27 budget proposals, including changes to private day service rate caps and reductions in state match rates for community-based services.

The meeting commenced with the call to order and recognition of guests, including the introduction of the new Program Support Specialist for CSA. Key agenda items included the review and approval of the current agenda, and the approval of the December 2025 minutes. The team conducted a closed session permitted under Virginia Code 2.2-3711, (A) (4) for the protection of privacy, which was certified upon returning to open session. The team approved the Authorized Service reports. Financial reports showed that expenditures were $432,769.32 higher than the previous year, despite serving twenty-five more children. Case updates included one new prevention service case opened, and six cases closed for various reasons. Regarding the Strategic Plan, updates were received on the foster home partnership, noting thirty-one current homes and planning for a new training session in March or April. Information was shared regarding the Giles CSU office transitioning to part-time staffing starting February 1, 2026, and the postponement of Medicaid Redesign until January 2027. Members were also reminded about the due date for Statement of Economic Interest forms.

The board received detailed reports from the Virginia Department of Transportation regarding road maintenance, sinkhole remediation, and budgetary constraints, alongside an update from the School Board covering budget status, construction progress, and recent student achievements. The board addressed public concerns regarding property tax assessments and discussed new initiatives, including the purchase of a van for OAA programs, potential improvements at Treasure Island, and the surplus of unused telephone poles to the Narrows Recreation Department. Key business included the approval of fee increases for the Castle Rock Golf Course, the designation of March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the adoption of a resolution opposing HB 1374, and the payment of warrants.

The meeting focused heavily on the county-wide property reassessment being conducted by Wampler Eanes Appraisal Group. Key discussion points included the required reassessment cycle, associated costs, and preliminary valuation increases across residential (approximately 64%), commercial (approximately 29%), apartment (approximately 32%), and agricultural (approximately 60%) properties, referencing substantial increases seen in neighboring counties. The assessor detailed the valuation methodology, including neighborhood segmentation, use of 2025 sales data, verification procedures for property characteristics, and the timeline for issuing assessment notices in early March. Clarification was provided on the subsequent appeal process via the reassessment office and the independent Board of Equalization. The Board emphasized its intent to set a net-zero revenue tax rate, despite property value increases, clarifying that individual tax bills will vary unevenly. Other business included the approval of warrants totaling $1,541,807.04, appropriations for the March 2026 School Board ($3,378,000.00) and Social Services ($440,000.00), budget supplements of $625,443.63, several reappointments and one new appointment to various boards, and an executive session concerning legal counsel and contracts. Old Business covered a report on the new meeting room construction project, which is slated to be advertised for bids shortly.

The agenda for this meeting included the review and approval of the agenda, a training informational session covering CPMT/FAPT Roles & Responsibilities, and a Closed Session. Key action items involved the approval of Authorized Service Reports from the FAP Team. Informational items included a review of Financial Reports, CSA Service Numbers, the Strategic Plan, and Utilization Management.