Nelson County

The meeting included a significant update on the Nelson County Sister City Initiative, presented by committee members. The discussion involved researching and prioritizing potential sister city candidates, which included locations in Southern France, Northern Argentina, and Southern Spain (Baza Granada). A key aspect of the evaluation involved comparing community values, economic bases, and language barriers, leading to a preference for county-wide representation over the localized town of Lovingston. The presenters sought and received authorization from the Board of Supervisors to initiate preliminary outreach communications with these international candidates, which is documented in a letter of authorization. The board also discussed the need for subsequent review before any formal agreements are made.

The meeting included an evening session starting with public comments, where no individuals were signed up to speak. The primary focus was an information session and public hearing regarding the proposed Bond financing for high school renovations, pursuant to Virginia state code. The discussion detailed the proposed Resolution R2-25-18, authorizing the issuance of up to $25 million in general obligation school bonds to be sold to the Virginia Public School Authority (VPSA) for financing design improvements, renovation, construction, and equipping of public school facilities at Nelson County High School. Specifics of the bond issuance, including projected amounts, payment schedules, interest rates, and redemption terms, were presented. The board also discussed participation in the State Non-Arbitrage Program (SNAP) and the designation of US Bank Trust Company NA as the paying registrar and transfer agent. Following the public hearing, the Board approved Resolution R2-25-18, and subsequently, the meeting was continued to March 18th to address any other business.

The Board of Supervisors meeting agenda covered various items. The consent agenda included the approval of minutes (though specific minutes approved were from prior dates), a Fiscal Year 26 Budget Amendment resolution, and a proclamation for National Wreaths Across America Day. Recognition was scheduled for a North District Supervisor and a retiring Registrar. Presentations included reports from VDOT, the Central Virginia Land Conservancy, and an update on the Wild Rose Solar Project. New and unfinished business involved applications for GO Virginia Region 9 recognition, a fire department truck order request, consolidation of part-time Sheriff's positions, real estate tax exemption applications, and discussion regarding Piney River Water and Sewer Rates. During the preceding meeting on October 14, 2025, key discussions focused on public comments regarding GIS information privacy, Piney River water/sewer costs, and concerns over the dissolution of the Social Services Board. Further, presentations included detailed VDOT reports on road projects and maintenance issues, as well as a comprehensive evaluation of water source alternatives (Dillard Creek and well drilling) for future supply, including extensive discussion on permitting, environmental risks, and preliminary cost estimates. A utilization report on the Nelson County Jail was also presented, detailing trends in inmate demographics, booking charges, and recidivism rates. Finally, students presented their recommendation for a sister city partnership for Nelson County, suggesting several international locations.

The meeting agenda covered a regular session convening at 2:00 p.m. and an evening session at 7:00 p.m. Key discussions included the FY24 Audit Report, VDOT reports concerning the Secondary Six Year Road Plan and a Rural Rustic Design Standard, and plans for the Social Services Building Final Design and Authorization to Bid. New business included an update on the Move Safely Blue Ridge Comprehensive Safety Action Plan and authorization for a public hearing on Flood Plain Ordinance Updates. The board also addressed several reports, including a request for use of Opioid Abatement Authority funds for an inmate medication pilot program and updates on various facility maintenance projects. Significant time was spent analyzing the feasibility of implementing through truck restrictions on Route 151 based on VDOT criteria, concluding that staff would not recommend proceeding with the request at that time due to low probability of meeting requirements for reasonable alternate routing and roadway classification. The board also considered a resolution regarding the Montebello Volunteer Fire Department's interest-free loan request for new airpacs, and discussed options for adopting local authority to reduce 25 MPH speed limits in business or resident districts.

The meeting commenced with public comments covering support for Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) programs, an update on the Nelson County High School Sister Cities initiative, concerns regarding the condition of Ryan Apartments for seniors, and a request for $5,000 in recurring funding for the 2026 Juneteenth celebration. The Board addressed the Consent Agenda, approving budget amendments. Presentations included updates on the Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development (CVPED) regional economic activity, highlighting major developments like the AstraZeneca project and regional data center growth, and talent initiatives like livingcentralva.org. The Thomas Jefferson Planning District (TJPDC) 2026 Legislative Program was approved, focusing on education funding, local revenue authority, and land use. The MAPP2Health 2.0 report detailed efforts to improve community health outcomes, focusing on chronic conditions, healthcare access, and social drivers of health. New Business centered on Ordinance O2025-09 regarding Piney River Water and Sewer rates; after discussion on affordability, the Board directed staff to revise the proposal to implement a flat annual percentage increase beginning July 1, 2026, while approving proposed connection and grinder pump fees to be effective at that time. Reports included updates on Board elections, the DSS Building Project, Christmas light installation logistics (noting cost concerns for Lovingston and Shipman), and the formation of the Central Virginia Tourism Region. Supervisors shared insights from the VACo conference, including discussions on AI, workforce development, and childcare as an economic strategy. Appointments to the Nelson County Library Advisory Committee were approved, while Social Services Advisory Board and Board of Equalization appointments were continued until December. Correspondence led to direction to proceed with modifications for an ADA-accessible door at the Commonwealth Attorney's office, and a resolution to honor former Supervisor Thomas D. Harvey was directed for December.