Joshua Simmons

The agenda for this session included items for action, discussion, review, or information, specifically addressing a polystyrene exemption request made by Atlee Miller, and discussions regarding the Deer Management Assistance Program and the reporting of Wildlife accidents in the county. Old Business focused on Modular Buildings and County office Space. New Business items included consideration of a UTV/ATV Ordinance and a Transient Occupancy Tax Ordinance.

The meeting agenda included the annual organization of the Board, such as electing the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, adopting rules of procedure for 2026, and establishing the meeting schedule. Key discussion items included a public hearing regarding Peck's Lanes end state maintenance, the Highland County Public Schools third quarter appropriation request, and updates on the FY 2025 and FY 2026 finances. New business focused on considering virtual meetings and adopting several county policies, including attendance, anti-discrimination, leave, reimbursement, drug-free workplace, grievance procedure, social media and technology, and sexual harassment policies. The consent agenda covered accounts payable for December 2025 and adopting appropriations for January 2026. The Board also planned for potential closed meetings regarding personnel, property, prospective business, and legal matters.

The regular meeting covered several key operational and financial matters. A public hearing was held for the Highland County Fair Association regarding a requested waiver for the ban on polystyrene food service containers, resulting in an approved waiver for vendors through August 30, 2025, citing economic hardship. Action was taken to update Highland County Solid Waste Tire disposal fees to mitigate a financial shortfall. New business included authorizing the purchase of a new mower for the Enterprise Fund and approving computer upgrades to support Windows 11, not to exceed $19,000. The Board also began the review process for the Comprehensive Plan update scheduled for 2026. Finally, the Board convened in closed session to discuss personnel matters.

The work session included Freedom of Information Act training provided by the County Attorney. A Public Hearing was held for the Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance, which the Board subsequently approved. The new Superintendent of Highland County Public Schools, Dr. James "Nick" Nycum, was introduced. The Board approved appointments for the Tourism Council for a four-year term. Discussions included the upcoming Virginia Association of Counties Annual Conference. In Old Business, an update on the fiscal year 2025 end-of-year financial matters was provided by the Treasurer. New Business involved a request to transfer excess funds to Highland County Public Schools' capital accounts, which was tabled until the October regular meeting. The Board adopted resolutions concerning the National Opioid Settlements, authorizing a change in the authorized signatory from Ms. Dowd to Commonwealth's Attorney Megan Yelen, and resolutions to participate in the Sackler family Opioid claims. Board members provided updates on community matters, including the condition of Route 250. The consent agenda motion to pay August warrants and set September appropriations passed. The Sheriff reported receiving a grant for 12 AED units and provided positive feedback received regarding the fair. The session concluded with a closed meeting to consult with legal counsel.

The meeting agenda included several public hearings and appearances, specifically a presentation from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth regarding the 'Share the Air' initiative, and public hearings concerning the Budget Close out and the polling precinct closing at Wilson's Mill. The Board was scheduled to address items for action, discussion, review, or information, including a Holiday Bonus. Old business involved County Office Space. New business featured financial updates for FY 25 and FY 26 from the County Treasurer. The consent agenda included Accounts Payable warrants for November 2025 and a resolution to set appropriations for December 2025.