Douglas A. Goodman

The Town of Ashland Comprehensive Plan serves as a guiding resource for the future development of Ashland, fostering continuity among government, citizens, and the business community. It is built upon six guiding principles: preserving small-town character, protecting unique features, managing green spaces, encouraging variety, promoting economic vitality, and providing high-level government services. The plan details strategies across key areas including community character and design, land use, housing and neighborhoods, economy, transportation, environment, parks and recreation, and community facilities. The overarching goal is to ensure economic vitality, maintain Ashland's valuable character, preserve its history, engage all community members, stimulate growth, shape development, and measure progress towards its objectives.

The town council meeting included a tribute to former Vice Mayor John Hodgeges, recognition of Pam Novak's retirement as visitor center manager, and police awards presented by Chief Aaron Halt. Senator Luther Ciphers addressed the council regarding the legislative agenda, and Kelly Frankie presented new marketing initiatives. A public hearing was held on cost recovery for delinquent taxes, and a new arts and culture incentive program was presented. The council also discussed an inattentive driving ordinance and provided updates on the Fall Line Trail.

The meeting included a presentation from Mr. Dontrese Brown from Randolph-Macon College and an economic development update for the Town of Ashland from Mr. Topham. The agenda was adopted, and the minutes from the previous meeting were approved.

The meeting included discussions and action items related to the approval of minutes from a previous meeting, a loan forgiveness for Bank Street Advisors (BetterMed Ashland), a hotel incentives policy, and a hotel incentive program application for KM Hotels Group. Additionally, the agenda featured discussion items such as the Treasurer's Report and an Economic Development Update. The meeting also included Council Summaries and a Planning Summary.

The meeting included discussions on a conditional use permit request for a hotel, presented by Sharon McKenna, who proposed converting the upstairs of the old Hughes drug store into a hotel with antique furnishings. A public hearing was held for ORD 2014-04, an ordinance to amend the town code by adding 'artist studio' as a permitted use in the Central Business District B-1. The Planning Commission also received reports from the Town Council, the Ashland Main Street Association, and the Economic Development Authority of Ashland, Virginia.