Maria Ward

The board recognized a retiring school superintendent for their years of service. New business included the adoption of resolutions supporting Smart Scale transportation applications and limited access control changes for an Interstate 81 widening project. Additionally, the board approved ordinances related to the reorganization of the Roanoke Valley Greenway Commission and the transition of its operations to the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission. The board also handled appointments and reviewed reports.

The board approved a construction services agreement for the Holland Library renovation. Key budget actions included adopting the fiscal year 2026-27 budget, the 10-year capital improvement program, and the fee compendium, along with appropriating funds for operating and capital budgets. The board also authorized the temporary relocation of a polling place during library renovations. Furthermore, the board approved amendments to zoning ordinances regarding solar energy systems and residential design standards, and a resolution to amend the county plan to incorporate a pedestrian road safety assessment. Finally, a petition to rezone property on Bandy Road from low-density residential to agricultural residential was approved.

The board meeting included a resolution congratulating a local high school student for athletic achievements and recognized library staff for their work on the teen drama club program. New business items involved the approval of the Roanoke Regional Cable Television budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Two public hearings were conducted regarding a six-year improvement plan for secondary roads and the proposed operating budget and capital improvement program. Multiple ordinance items were addressed, covering funding appropriations, employee bonuses, the temporary relocation of a polling place, updates to taxation and delinquency fees, and revisions to county zoning ordinances regarding solar energy systems and residential design standards. The board also handled various appointments and consented to department reports.

The Board of Supervisors session covered multiple agenda items, including a briefing on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget for the public schools, which involves a $13.7 million increase. The board approved an interim agreement for pre-construction services related to the Hollands Fire Station. A public hearing was held regarding the operating budget and capital improvement program. Legislative actions included the first reading of an ordinance for disaster and emergency management, the approval of the sale of county-owned real estate, and the transfer of lots to the Economic Development Authority. Additionally, the board approved three rezoning and special use permit petitions regarding residential and commercial properties.

The board heard budget presentations from the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority and the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission, both of which were subsequently approved. A resolution was adopted setting the personal property tax relief percentage at 44.89% for eligible vehicles. Additionally, the board authorized economic development incentive agreements involving county entities and a private partner. A public hearing was conducted regarding tax rates for real estate, personal property, and machinery and tools, followed by the formal adoption of these rates. The session concluded with supervisor reports covering transportation applications, property tax discussions, and recent infrastructure funding improvements.