Kourtney B. Brown

The board meeting featured a presentation on regional transportation projects and funding from the Central Virginia Transportation Authority. A public hearing was held concerning zoning text amendments related to lodging facilities and short-term rentals, which were subsequently approved. Additionally, a public hearing regarding the expansion of a surface mining operation was deferred for further review. Other business included the approval of public hearing advertisements for road abandonment, acceptance of various grants and donations for local food pantry and scholarship programs, and an update on departmental environmental quality projects and community events.

The Board of Supervisors meeting covered several key topics including a review of the April monthly report from VDOT, covering work orders, road repairs, and trash collection efforts. Discussions also addressed community concerns regarding road conditions, specifically on Wilcox Neck Road and The Glebe Lane, and public access to the Route 106 Bridge area. The Board reviewed the proposed FY2023 budget, covering revenue projections, agency contributions, and capital improvement projects such as court space and public safety equipment. Additionally, the Board conducted a public hearing for revised election district boundaries, authorized the appointment of a new County Attorney, approved a budget transfer for the Economic Development Authority project, and awarded a contract for an organizational-wide compensation study.

The Board of Supervisors discussed various administrative and community topics. Presentations included a VDOT monthly report on road maintenance and a proposal for the fiscal year 2023 school budget. Updates were provided on the county's redistricting efforts based on the 2020 census and the ongoing review of the Flood Zone Ordinance. The meeting also included special presentations recognizing the Commissioner of Revenue and the Fire Chief. Public hearings were held regarding applications to rezone properties for business use, which resulted in the denial of the applications. Additionally, the Board authorized the transition to a lump sum funding method for the Charles City Public Schools, received an update on CARES Act spending, and discussed the Vision 2040 strategic planning framework.

The board reviewed reports from VDOT regarding ongoing maintenance, mowing, and traffic intersection safety. Presentations were provided by the departments of Public Works and Parks and Recreation, highlighting various infrastructure projects and a new grant-funded work experience coordinator position. Key actions included the approval of an application for the Virginia Telecommunications Initiative grant to build fiber infrastructure, a memorandum of understanding for public school long-term obligations, and the construction contract for a new fire station. Additionally, the board received updates on notices of violations from the Department of Environmental Quality, progress on the Vision 2040 strategic plan, and the acquisition of a school resource officer. The meeting concluded with public comments on county website issues, infrastructure, and upcoming community events, followed by an executive session regarding personnel.

The Board discussed the virtual participation policy for meetings and approved its amendment. The VDOT representative provided a monthly maintenance report, noting completed work orders and ditching operations. The Recreation Advisory Board was proposed for reinstatement, and a presentation was given regarding a new county mobile application. A public hearing was held for a surface mining operation, which the Board ultimately voted to deny due to concerns regarding land use compatibility, traffic impacts, and the preservation of historical resources. Additionally, the Board approved the state-granted holiday schedule for the year, updated COVID-19 isolation and quarantine practices, authorized an agreement for septic tank pump-out mapping, and approved construction contracts for a social center emergency generator and a new food pantry.