Vivian Renee Seay

The board reviewed the calendar and preparations for the upcoming Virginia Statewide Primary Election, including schedules for Logic and Accuracy testing, early voting, and deadlines for voter registration and absentee ballot applications. Discussions included planning for Officer of Election training, ballot pre-processing, post-election activities, and legislative implementation regarding absentee ballots. The board also addressed national and statewide concerns related to the United States Postal Service and absentee ballot delivery, reviewed updated voter registration qualifications concerning felony prohibited changes, and received updates on the Locality Election Security System certification and an American with Disabilities Act compliance survey. Additionally, the board addressed upcoming staffing changes for the office.

The board discussed cybersecurity awareness regarding malicious emails impersonating the Federal Voting Assistance Program. New business included reviewing legislative changes for upcoming elections, planning for the statewide primary election including Logic and Accuracy testing, and setting hours for early in-person voting. The board also authorized the General Registrar to determine the number of ballots to order for the primary election and reviewed preparations for Officer of Election training. Additionally, the board noted legislative mandates regarding ballot scanning procedures for post-election processing.

The Planning Commission reviewed draft amendments and revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, specifically discussing pending legislation regarding Accessory Dwelling Units, manufactured housing, solar facilities, data centers, and battery energy storage systems. The commission agreed to divide the ordinance into smaller sections for review, starting with Articles 1 through 3. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding the logistics and necessity of updating the official County zoning map, with staff indicating they would attempt to complete the update in-house. Staff also provided a report on a recent BZA administrative appeal, and members shared comments regarding community events.

The meeting included the welcoming of a newly appointed member to the commission. Revisions were approved for the 2026 meeting schedule to avoid conflicts with Election Day. The commission also adopted revisions to its By-Laws concerning meeting dates and public hearing advertisement requirements. Additionally, updates were provided regarding ongoing zoning text amendments, a change in state regulations for site plan reviews, the status of various county projects including a fire station and airport expansion, and the status of solar and data center legislation.

The meeting included a presentation from Habitat for Humanity regarding potential mixed-income housing developments. The Treasurer's report was reviewed, and two previously authorized checks were ratified. Updates were provided by the School Division regarding upcoming graduations, promotional activities, and transportation challenges, and by the County Administrator on budget timelines, the school project, and EMS station plans. Community programming updates highlighted the success of recent garden tours and upcoming fair preparations. The board discussed the progress of the Member Marketplace, entrepreneur classes, and property marketing plans. New business included increasing the check signing authority for the treasurer, planning for the next EDA budget, and hosting a future regional meeting. Finally, the Director of Economic Development shared updates on recent summits, strategic planning attendance, and upcoming conferences.