Erin Knight

The board meeting covered several significant items. Discussions included a closed session regarding legal consultation, updates on COVID-19 statistics and vaccination progress, and the implementation of CARES Act funding for infrastructure and public health. The board conducted public hearings regarding the proposed budget for FY 2021-2022, the Capital Improvement Plan, and 2021 tax rates. Key approvals included the adoption of tax rates and personal property tax relief resolutions. Additionally, the board addressed road planning matters, specifically the Six Year Plan, and received updates regarding county infrastructure projects such as the new EMS station.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various administrative and planning matters. A closed session was held to address employment candidates and legal counsel regarding real property. In open session, the board adopted an agenda including a public hearing for budget amendments and a contract addendum. The Board heard a public hearing request for a special use permit for multi-family dwellings, which was subsequently approved with specific conditions regarding road construction and uniform building character. Additionally, the board considered a Virginia Byway designation for routes 810 and 230, ultimately supporting the request to the Commonwealth Transportation Board. The board also extended the interim county administrator's employment agreement and deferred discussions on the strategic plan.

The Planning Commission discussed two zoning ordinance revisions. The first revision concerning mini-storage units in the B-2 district was recommended for approval with the requirement of a special use permit. The second revision regarding tourist lodging in the R-1 district was also recommended for approval with the requirement of a special use permit. Additionally, a public work session was held regarding the Ruckersville Area Plan, covering goals, public outreach strategies, and future public hearing preparations. Updates were also provided regarding the Town of Stanardsville's streetscape project and hazard mitigation planning.

The board conducted a public hearing on the proposed FY 2019 budget, covering tax rates, service fees, and funding for education, law enforcement, and public services. Public comments addressed staffing for the sheriff's office and operational practices at the solid waste facility. Formal actions included the approval of tax levies, the adoption of a Personal Property Tax Relief Act resolution, and the authorization of an updated Emergency Operations Plan. The board also reviewed upcoming project schedules and requests for departmental reports.

The board conducted a closed session to discuss personnel and industry expansion. The Emergency Medical Services Department provided a quarterly update on call volumes, COVID-19 impacts, and new operational protocols. The Ruckersville Advisory Committee discussed beautification efforts for the Route 29 corridor and zoning concepts. The legislative program update covered redistricting efforts and state-level budget projections. The JABA organization presented an overview of services provided to senior citizens and the impact of COVID-19 on their operations. Finally, the board conducted public hearings regarding tourist lodging, resulting in the denial of a specific special use permit and the approval of an ordinance revision to remove tourist lodging as an allowable use in R-1 residential zoning districts.