Christie Lawson

The Board of Supervisors discussed various operational reports including maintenance activities and project updates from the Virginia Department of Transportation, Economic Development Authority projects, updates from the Department of Social Services regarding potential Medicaid expansion impacts, safety initiatives within the Warren County Public Schools, and progress on infrastructure and utility projects by the Town of Front Royal. Key approvals included the use of stone from the Robert McKay House site for a memorial by the Blue Ridge Heritage Project and an amendment to the Voluntary Settlement Agreement between the County and the Town of Front Royal regarding tax collections and land use in the designated corridor.

The Board discussed and took action on several key matters, including the ongoing update of the County's Comprehensive Plan and necessary maintenance and repairs at the Warren County Transfer Station, the Fire Department's ladder truck, and various revenue-sharing transportation projects. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved financial appropriations and transfers, affirmed the status of the Lake Front Royal Sanitary District, and held public hearings regarding a conditional use permit for a guesthouse and the 2018-2019 budget and tax rate for the Wildcat Drive Sanitary District.

The Board of Supervisors meeting addressed several key business items, including public presentations regarding local infrastructure and healthcare. The Board received a budget award, discussed various departmental updates including school facility projects and road maintenance, and approved several appropriations and transfers. Significant public hearings were held concerning the creation of the Wildcat Drive Sanitary District, the continuation or revocation of a conditional use permit for a commercial kennel, and the adoption of the FY 2018-2019 Capital Improvement Plan. The Board voted to revoke the kennel's conditional use permit and adopted the FY 2018-2019 budget, which included a modest tax increase to support public safety and school resources.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various topics including VDOT maintenance and project reports, board member activity updates, and delinquent tax collection data. Key actions included the approval of the Rivermont Fire and Rescue replacement station construction contract and authorization to apply for a SAFER grant to fund fifteen full-time firefighter positions. Additionally, the Board appointed two members to the Osprey Lane Sanitary District Advisory Committee following an executive session.

The Board discussed capital improvement projects, including financing options for the Ressie Jeffries Elementary School, the Health and Human Services Complex, and the Rivermont Fire Station. Public presentations addressed concerns regarding building permits, property assessments, and transparency. Reports were provided on departmental activities, youth advisory boards, VDOT projects, and the status of commercial projects. Public hearings were held regarding a conditional use permit for a telecommunications tower, the establishment of the Osprey Lane Sanitary District, and proposed amendments to the County Code regarding public comment periods. The Board also reviewed coyote bounty thresholds and resolutions supporting or opposing various state legislative bills.