Jacob Yeager

The Council discussed the scheduling of a special meeting for budget adoption and public hearing, as well as an upcoming meet the manager event. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the 2027 budget, including revenue projections, capital expenditures, and technical adjustments related to sewer and collection fees. Additionally, the Council deliberated on the participation in a town crosswalk pedestrian safety project, discussing the grant requirements, matching funds, and the need for further public input.

The meeting included reports on account balances, public transportation updates regarding STAR Transit ridership statistics, operations, and the 2016 budget submission. Discussion topics also included a state audit, updates on rail operations and carload statistics, and a resolution in support of the Bay Coast Railroad Rail Preservation Application. Additionally, the railroad announced upcoming personnel changes regarding management transitions and retirements.

The commission reviewed public outreach initiatives regarding the use of public transit for literacy programs, received account balance updates, and examined a detailed STAR Transit management report covering ridership statistics, human resources, marketing outreach, safety training, and infrastructure repairs. Additionally, updates were provided on the new Virginia Breeze service, rail industrial access programs, the State Rail Plan, and various capital investment projects. The meeting also included status updates regarding the Melfa Airport, Wallops, railroad car counts, and ongoing planning and building projects.

The commission reviewed account balances, received a public transportation management report detailing ridership, human resources, and capital projects, and heard updates from the state, airport, and railroad authorities. The board conducted the annual election of officers, appointed a representative for the Canonie Atlantic Co. annual meeting, provided instructions for said representative, and adopted a resolution as a member of the Eastern Shore Rail Trail Foundation. Additionally, the commission approved a salary adjustment for the Assistant Secretary-Treasurer.

The board discussed the Treasurer's report, including potential interest-earning investments for available funds. Old business included updates on the AG facility property sale, ongoing deed plat issues for NKM Properties, the Virginia Business Ready Site application, the status of the Jack Tarr building, and incubator property agreements. The board also reviewed the progress of a VT grant, communication with the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, and the status of the Blue Barn site. New business focused on the recruitment of an administrative assistant, which was further discussed during a closed session regarding personnel matters.