Doug Blount

The meeting resumed its evening session following an afternoon open session, work session, and closed session where discussions were limited to matters permitted under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Key actions included the adoption of a certification resolution. A significant portion of the meeting involved a public hearing and subsequent adoption of maximum tax rates for Calendar Year 2023 for Real Estate, Personal Property, and Machinery and Tools taxes, which members noted was a procedural step pending final budget deliberations. There was also a motion passed directing the Roanoke County Planning Commission to study and recommend amendments to the industrial use types defined in the county code, referencing economic changes since the provisions were adopted in the early 1990s. Board members also provided updates on the Roanoke County 200 plan community meetings, noting strong citizen participation, and discussed ongoing I-81 corridor study efforts.

The recap covers discussions from the December 16th board supervisors meeting, which included two sessions. The afternoon session commenced with recognition for an award received for the therapeutic recreation's nightclub event. Briefings included updates from Roanoke County Public Schools regarding their 'Campaign for Excellence' for the new career and technology center, a gas utility update on replacing first-generation plastic pipes (with construction starting in Hunting Hills in March 2026), and details on the 2026 real estate reassessments, showing a 6.99% increase for residential and 4.64% for commercial assessments. New business involved the approval of audited year-end financial results and the reallocation of excess revenue, as well as adopting a resolution supporting funding for repairs and implementation of the Blige Parkway Foundation's strategic plan. The board also approved the first reading of an ordinance to appropriate approximately $107 million of available year-end funds to the 2025-2026 school budget. On the consent agenda, the Vitten Hotel amendment was discussed separately before final approval. The evening session included a public hearing and subsequent approval of two rezoning petitions related to a technology development area for town home construction and an amendment to the master plan for the Vitten business center.

The meeting began with recognition of Deputy Joe Mullins as the Yovviso Officer of the Year, who serves as a school resource officer and works with the Virginia Speak Out About Traffic Safety program. The consent agenda and subsequent reports were approved without discussion. A board member highlighted the current debt report as reflecting support for county schools, renovations, and the new career and technology center. Key actions during the 6 p.m. session included adopting a resolution to amend the Roanoke County 200 plan to incorporate the West Reno River Greenway feasibility study, which explored routes between Greenhill Park and Montgomery County. Following a public hearing, the board addressed a petition to rezone several acres in Kiki Village from high-intensity commercial to high-density multi-family residential to allow for apartment construction, which was approved after discussion. Board member reports covered topics such as the president-elect of the Virginia Association of Counties, ongoing projects with the town of Vinton, transportation series updates, recommended legislative positions of the VEO Education Committee, and revenue sharing between the county and public schools. The board also recognized Deputy County Administrator Rebecca Owens upon her retirement.

The meeting commenced with opening ceremonies and a moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Key items discussed included a briefing on lot drainage for single-family homes, where staff recommended a work session to review challenges and improvement options. The Board also addressed the Roanoke Public Schools (RCPS) budget for fiscal year 2024-2025, which reflected an increase in funding primarily due to state revenue adjustments, including a 3% teacher raise, offset partially by a real estate tax rate reduction. Finally, the Board considered and approved a resolution for Roanoke County's participation in the proposed nationwide settlement with Kroger regarding opioid-related claims. Following this, the Board proceeded with the first reading of an ordinance to appropriate funds for the RCPS budget.

The meeting commenced with opening ceremonies and roll call, noting that the meeting was held on a Wednesday instead of the usual Tuesday. Key discussion items included the issuance of a proclamation commemorating the 30th anniversary of Dominion Metallurgical and expressing appreciation to its owner, Paul Huffman, for 30 years of service to the community. The Board also introduced Jim Blanton as the new Director of Library Services, detailing his extensive background in community engagement and technology. Furthermore, the Board addressed a resolution adopting legislative priorities for the 2023 session of the Virginia General Assembly, which involved petitioning for favorable consideration of these priorities.