Steven M. Hawley

The board discussed several items, including the amendment and approval of the meeting agenda and consent agenda. A public hearing was conducted regarding the proposed real property tax increase and the setting of personal property tax rates. Furthermore, the board presented a proclamation to the Family YMCA of Emporia Greensville in recognition of its 25th anniversary. Lastly, a presentation was given by the executive director of the South Central Transportation Authority regarding the benefits of regional transportation authority formation and dedicated funding sources for infrastructure projects.

The board discussed and conditionally accepted proposals for tank maintenance services with Southern Corrosion, Inc. and general environmental services with LaBella Associates, D.P.C., P.C. Additionally, the board reviewed a request regarding a water line installation project for Little Shiloh Baptist Church, which was deferred for further negotiation regarding costs and regulatory requirements.

The board discussed several items including the approval of an amended agenda, public hearing regarding a special use permit for the Jacob & Mary Turner Family, Inc., and a presentation on the FY25 Audit Report. Updates were provided on the 2026 General Property Reassessment and recent Virginia Department of Transportation road maintenance activities. Citizens presented concerns regarding the non-renewal of the Washington Park Center lease, property appraisal increases, and proposed redistricting. The board approved the disposition of Zion Elementary, recognized Family Services Specialist Appreciation Month, adopted holiday schedules for county facilities, and made a reappointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

The board convened to conduct an election canvass for the purpose of determining the official results of a special election. Activities included the manual hand-counting of seven provisional ballots and a post-canvass review of vote-by-mail absentee ballots. Following the verification of all paperwork, the board prepared and finalized the abstract of votes, election result certification checklists, and other necessary documentation for submission to the Department of Elections.

The meeting addressed organizational matters and mandatory training. The board reviewed and completed the annual Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Confirmation for all polling places. Additionally, officials conducted mandatory training for Election Officers regarding voting machine operations, the use of Poll Pad Checklists, and the distribution of Election Day materials for the upcoming special election.