Amherst County public meetings in 2024

General

The Amherst County Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee will hold a discussion on the Deck the Corridor judging process. It will also discuss plans for a daffodil planting. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Deck the Corridor Judging – discussion
• Daffodil Planting – discussion

The committee announced winners of the Deck the Corridor contest and scheduled award presentations for December 23, 2024. It also approved purchasing t-shirts for members, postponed daffodil planting to 2025, and discussed cancelling a mini-grant request from S&J Pita due to its closure.

• Approved agenda as submitted (8-0)
• Approved November 26, 2024 minutes (7-0, Martin abstained)
• Announced Deck the Corridor winners: 1st Specialty Exterminating, 2nd Andersons Market II, 3rd Cascio & Sons Construction
• Scheduled award presentations for Dec. 23 at 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, and 2:30 pm
• Postponed daffodil planting to 2025
• Discussed cancelling S&J Pita mini-grant request due to closure
• Approved purchase of one black Guilded t-shirt per member (9-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding Ordinance 2024-6. The body will also review a subdivision plat and site plan updates.

• Public hearing for Ordinance 2024-6 Flood Hazard Overlay District
• Resolution 2024-11 (Timothy Waldren)
• Subdivision plat approval for River Run Phase 1 Townhouses
• Site plan updates review
• Establishment of 2025 meeting dates

The Amherst County Planning Commission voted 4-1 to deny Resolution 2024-11, which sought to revoke Special Exception 2020-380 for a trucking business, allowing the exception to continue with staff's recommended conditions. The commission also recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-6 to update flood hazard regulations, approved a 93-lot townhouse subdivision plat, and set 2025 meeting dates.

• Denied Resolution 2024-11 to revoke Special Exception 2020-380 (4-1)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-6 Flood Hazard Overlay District update (5-0)
• Approved River Run Phase 1 townhouse subdivision plat with conditions (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Planning Commission meeting dates (5-0)
• Approved November 21, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

General

The Amherst County Emergency Services Council will approve the November 13, 2024 meeting minutes. It will review old‑business items including SOG formatting, the Command Board/ICS structure, and the Honor Guard. New business and any matters raised from the floor will also be considered.

• Approval of November 13, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion of SOG Formatting
• Discussion of Command Board/ICS
• Discussion of Honor Guard
• Matters from the floor

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will hold a walking tour of the Amherst County High School construction and renovation project. The meeting also includes standard items such as call to order, agenda approval, and adjournment. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Walking tour of Amherst County High School construction and renovation project

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors convened for a walking tour of the Amherst County High School construction and renovation project. The board approved the meeting agenda and adjourned without taking any substantive votes or decisions. No formal actions were taken during the tour.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0, Martin absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:37 PM (4-0, Martin absent)

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will conduct a public hearing on Special Exception 2024-608 for Mark & Andrea Hamm and Special Exception 2024-620 for Arcola Towers 2, LP. The meeting will also consider the consent agenda, including approval of the December 3, 2024 minutes, and discuss a FY 2025 Library E‑rate grant. Additional reports include the Treasurer's quarterly report and updates from the County Administrator and Attorney.

• Public hearing on Special Exception 2024-608 (Mark & Andrea Hamm)
• Public hearing on Special Exception 2024-620 (Arcola Towers 2, LP)
• Consent agenda: approval of minutes from December 3, 2024
• New business: consideration of FY 2025 Library E‑rate grant
• Treasurer's quarterly report as of September 30, 2024

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors approved two special exceptions: one allowing a photography and special events venue at 154 Buffalo Springs Turnpike, and another for a 199-foot communications tower at 299 Toytown Road. Both were approved unanimously with conditions. The board also appropriated $9,565.07 in E-rate grant revenue to the library budget and made several reappointments to county boards.

• Approved Special Exception 2024-608 for wedding/events venue at 154 Buffalo Springs Turnpike (5-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-620 for 199-ft communications tower at 299 Toytown Road (5-0)
• Appropriated $9,565.07 E-rate grant into FY 2025 Library operating budget (5-0)
• Reappointed Tyler Price, Craig Maddox, Lisa Powell to Agriculture Committee (5-0)
• Reappointed Bailey Angus to Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including December 3, 2024 minutes (5-0)

General

The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will meet to approve minutes and reports, discuss updates on AARP grant projects and pickleball courts, and consider trash can and dog station installations at Seminole Park.

• Approval of December meeting minutes
• Review of AARP grant and Bosse Ball Court update
• Update on Pickleball Courts at Amherst Middle School
• Discussion on Seminole Park trash cans and dog stations
• Department monthly expense and revenue report

Service Authority Board

The Amherst County Service Authority Board will meet to review the FY 2024 financial audit and discuss retirement investment plans. The board will also consider the inclusion of the CVPDC Hazard Mitigation Plan.

• FY 2024 Financial Audit presentation
• Mission Square Retirement Investments / Plans
• CVPDC Hazard Mitigation Plan Inclusion

The Board authorized the Executive Director to include the Service Authority as a Special District in the CVPDC Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Board also received a clean, unmodified financial audit for Fiscal Year 2024.

• Approved December 3, 2024 meeting agenda (4-0)
• Authorized inclusion of ACSA as a Special District in the CVPDC Hazard Mitigation Plan (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including October 1, 2024 minutes and financial reports (4-0)
• Scheduled Special Board Meeting for January 21, 2025 at 5:00pm (Unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will discuss a Safety Action Plan and recognize Temperance Elementary. New business includes a potential service district for Victoria Drive and an appropriation for public‑works truck repair. A closed session will address legal matters concerning the Winton property.

• Potential Service District (Victoria Drive)
• Appropriation for Public Works Truck Repair
• Safety Action Plan Presentation
• Temperance Elementary Recognition
• Closed session on legal matters for Winton property

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 3, 2024, was informational. Staff presented the Safe System Approach for a regional safety action plan, including crash data and next steps, and the Department of Social Services gave a profile report. No formal decisions or votes were recorded.

General

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee will review its budget, consider mini‑grant applications, discuss a charter modification, and evaluate the top five potential Route 29 projects. The meeting will also address yard sign design, deck‑the‑corridor applications, and a planting date discussion. Additional items include old/new business such as printed merchandise and a presentation date for an award to the Monacan Indian Nation.

• Budget Review (attachment)
• Mini‑Grant Application and fund disbursement
• Revised Charter modification
• Top Five Potential Route 29 BBC Projects discussion
• Deck the Corridor applications from Elite Realty and Amherst Auto and Tire LLC

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved several items, including issuing a mini-grant check to T&C Properties, approving revised mini-grant applications, and creating five A+ Improvement and five Mini-Grant signs. They also approved a $50 Facebook boost for the Deck the Corridor contest and a $300 donation to the ACHS Student Art Program. The committee set a December 1 deadline for the contest and scheduled a December 15 judging event.

• Approved agenda (10-0)
• Approved October 22, 2024 minutes (8-0)
• Approved revised mini-grant applications (10-0)
• Approved issuing mini-grant check to T&C Properties
• Approved making five A+ Improvement and five Mini-Grant signs (10-0)
• Approved $50 Facebook boost for Deck the Corridor (10-0)
• Approved $300 donation to ACHS Student Art Program (10-0)
• Set Deck the Corridor deadline for December 1, 2024

Planning Commission

The Amherst County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on two special exception applications: 2024-608 submitted by Mark & Andrea Hamm and 2024-620 submitted by Arcola Towers 2, LP. The commission will also conduct a non‑public hearing on Resolution 2024‑11, consider a potential code change to subdivision platting requirements, and review a site plan. These items are scheduled for the November 21, 2024 meeting.

• Public hearing – Special Exception 2024-608 (Mark & Andrea Hamm)
• Public hearing – Special Exception 2024-620 (Arcola Towers 2, LP)
• Non‑public hearing – Resolution 2024-11
• Potential code change – Subdivision platting requirements
• Site plan review

The Amherst County Planning Commission recommended approval of two special exceptions: a photography venue and special events space at 154 Buffalo Springs Turnpike, and a 199-foot communications tower at 299 Toytown Road. Both recommendations passed 6-0 and will go to the Board of Supervisors. The commission also tabled Resolution 2024-11 and directed staff to draft an ordinance for electronic subdivision plat submission.

• Recommended approval of Special Exception 2024-608 for a photography venue and special events space at 154 Buffalo Springs Turnpike (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Exception 2024-620 for a 199' monopole communications tower at Tax Map No. 83-1-2 (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2024-11 (6-0)
• Directed staff to draft an ordinance for electronic subdivision plat submission and schedule a public hearing (6-0)
• Approved the October 24, 2024 meeting minutes as submitted (6-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will hear two special exception requests—2024-557 from Landon J. Coffey and 2024-561 from Thomas G. Hunt and Amber S. Powers. The meeting will also approve a consent agenda that includes minutes, appropriations for leave payouts, revenue for the Sheriff's Office, budget transfers, and funding for public schools. Additional reports from the County Administrator, County Attorney, and various committees will be presented. Citizen comment and other routine business will follow.

• Public hearing on Special Exception 2024-557 (Landon J. Coffey)
• Public hearing on Special Exception 2024-561 (Thomas G. Hunt & Amber S. Powers)
• Consent agenda: Appropriation for Leave Payout
• FY 25 Appropriation of Revenue – Sheriff's Office
• FY 2024 Appropriations and Budget Transfers

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors approved two special exceptions: one allowing an auction house at 1404 N. Amherst Highway and another allowing a photography venue at 1452 Patrick Henry Highway. Both approvals were unanimous (3-0) with two members absent. The board also approved the consent agenda, including appropriations and carryforwards, and appointed a member to the Agriculture Committee.

• Approved Special Exception 2024-557 for auction house at 1404 N. Amherst Highway (3-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-561 for photography venue at 1452 Patrick Henry Highway (3-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, appropriations, and carryforwards (3-0)
• Appointed member to Agriculture Committee (3-0)

General

The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will review the county's parks and trail guide brochure. The board will also receive updates on bocce ball court construction and monthly program participation.

• Review and update of the Amherst County Parks and Trail Guide Brochure
• Construction update for the Bocce Ball Court
• Monthly program participation, revenue, and expenditure reports

General

The Amherst County Emergency Services Council will consider approving the minutes from its September 11, 2024 meeting. It will also discuss several old‑business items, including SOG development responses, departmental SOG ideas, accountability board examples, and SOG formatting. No new business items are listed. The meeting will end with a motion to adjourn.

• Approval of September 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• SOG Development (CO Responses)
• SOGs ideas from each department
• Accountably Board and IC Work Board examples
• Formatting for SOG

Agricultural Committee

The Agriculture Committee will meet to discuss committee membership and the upcoming annual report to the Board of Supervisors. The meeting also includes a review of County Fair committee meetings.

• County Fair committee meetings
• Agriculture Committee membership discussion
• Annual report to Board of Supervisors scheduled for November 19, 2024

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding special exceptions for Landon J Coffey and Thomas G Hunt & Amber S Powers. The body will also discuss an Energy Storage Ordinance and changes to the Route 29 Business Beautification Committee.

• Public hearing for special exception 2024-557 (Landon J Coffey)
• Public hearing for special exception 2024-561 (Thomas G Hunt & Amber S Powers)
• Discussion of Energy Storage Ordinance
• Route 29 Business Beautification Committee charter and staff changes
• Resolution 2024-11

The Amherst County Planning Commission recommended approval of two special exceptions: an auction house at 1404 N. Amherst Highway and a photography venue at 1452 Patrick Henry Highway, both with conditions. It tabled Resolution 2024-11 to revoke a trucking business's special exception, citing the owner's good-faith compliance efforts. The commission also approved charter changes and membership updates for the Route 29 Business Beautification Committee, including revoking Virginia Myers' membership for absenteeism.

• Recommended approval of Special Exception 2024-557 for auction house at 1404 N. Amherst Highway (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Exception 2024-561 for photography venue at 1452 Patrick Henry Highway (6-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2024-11 to revoke trucking special exception 2020-380 (6-0)
• Approved Route 29 Business Beautification Committee charter change expanding membership to 11 (6-0)
• Approved Stacey Stinnett and Deputy S.W. Martin as new committee voting members (6-0)
• Revoked Virginia Myers' committee membership for absenteeism, appointed Aaron Ferro as successor (6-0)
• Approved September 19, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, Martineau abstained)
• Approved September 19, 2024 training meeting minutes (5-0, Martineau abstained)

General

The committee is meeting to review its budget and discuss changes to its charter and mini-grant applications for trees. Members will also determine the fourth quarter A+ Improvement Award winner and plan for November daffodil planting.

• Budget review
• Charter change
• Mini-grant application changes for trees
• Removal of committee member
• A+ Improvement Award for Fourth Quarter

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved several recommendations, including revoking Virginia Myers' membership and recommending Aaron Ferron as a new voting member. They also selected the Monacan Indian Nation for the A+ Improvement Award, approved a $50 social media spend, and set daffodil planting dates.

• Approved September 24, 2024 minutes (7-0)
• Approved Monacan Indian Nation as 4th quarter A+ Improvement Award winner (7-0)
• Approved purchase of one A+ Improvement Award yard sign (7-0)
• Approved leaving charter open-ended for staff members with Route 29 corridor duties (7-0)
• Approved adding link to County landscaping ordinance in mini-grant application (7-0)
• Recommended revocation of Virginia Myers' committee membership to Planning Commission (7-0)
• Approved up to $50 for social media posts (7-0)
• Recommended Aaron Ferron to Planning Commission as voting member (7-0)

General

The Amherst County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will meet on Oct. 21, 2024 at the Monroe Community Center. The board will discuss the ongoing Parks and Recreation Masterplan, a Halloween Spooktacular event, and will set a new date for the November Advisory Board meeting. Administrative reports on program participation, revenue, and a professional certification exam will also be presented.

• Review of the Amherst County Parks and Recreation Masterplan
• Discussion of the Halloween Spooktacular event
• Rescheduling of the November Advisory Board meeting
• Administrator's Monthly Program Participation Report
• Administrator's Monthly Revenue Report

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will convene at 5:00 PM at 101 High Street to approve the agenda and hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for Seminole Park.

• Seminole Park ribbon cutting ceremony
• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Meeting at 101 High Street, Madison Heights

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct a public hearing on a special exception request (2024-504) and a rezoning/conditional zoning request for the Amherst County Economic Development Authority (2024-351). The consent agenda includes approval of the October 1, 2024 minutes and appropriation of Amherst Life Saving Crew funds. New business includes a report from the Lynchburg Regional Airport Authority Board, and a closed session will address legal counsel matters on public safety operations.

• 2024-504 Jessica Maria Jimenez – Special Exception (public hearing)
• 2024-351 EDA of Amherst County – Rezoning/Conditional Zoning (public hearing)
• Consent agenda: approval of October 1, 2024 minutes
• Appropriation of Amherst Life Saving Crew Funds
• New Business: Lynchburg Regional Airport Authority Board Report

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors approved a rezoning of approximately 52 acres from R-2 General Residential to M-1 Industrial for a pad-ready industrial site, including an amendment to the Future Land Use Map. They also approved a special exception for a family day home serving up to 12 children, with conditions. The board approved the consent agenda, including appropriating $500,000 for Amherst Life Saving Crew renovations, and made several appointments.

• Approved rezoning 2024-351 for 52 acres to M-1 Industrial with FLUM amendment (4-0)
• Approved special exception 2024-504 for family day home at 213 Clearview Road (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $500,000 appropriation for ALSC renovations (4-0)
• Reappointed Kevin Peterson to Building Appeals Board (4-0)
• Appointed Jeremy Bryant as VACo voting representative (4-0)
• Appointed Leslie Sprouse to Community Policy & Management Team (4-0)

Service Authority Board

The Amherst County Service Authority Board will consider renewing its VWP permit. It will also approve the consent agenda items, including the draft minutes and the draft monthly financial report for September 3, 2024. The meeting includes time for citizen comments, an informational report, and other board matters.

• Amherst County Service Authority VWP Permit Renewal
• Draft Meeting Minutes for the September 3, 2024 Board meeting
• Draft Monthly Financial Report – September 3, 2024
• Citizen Comment period
• Informational Report – October 1, 2024

The Amherst County Service Authority Board approved the agenda and consent agenda, including September minutes and the August financial report. The board authorized the Executive Director to sign an engineering agreement with Hurt & Proffitt to assist with the VWP Individual Water Withdrawal Permit renewal application, due to DEQ by January 2, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made; the remaining items were informational.

• Approved agenda for October 1, 2024 meeting (4-0, Perrow absent)
• Approved consent agenda including September minutes and August financial report (3-0, Woods abstained, Perrow absent)
• Authorized Executive Director to execute engineering agreement with Hurt & Proffitt for VWP permit renewal (4-0, Perrow absent)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet to review the FY 25 appropriation of revenue for the Sheriff's Office and a 2024 Rules of Procedure amendment. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss the disposition of public real property in District 3 and the Winton property.

• FY 25 Appropriation of Revenue - Sheriff's Office
• 2024 Rules of Procedure Amendment
• VACO Achievement Awards for Amherst County Fire Training Facility
• Closed session regarding real property in District 3
• Closed session regarding the Winton property

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors met on October 1, 2024, and approved the agenda and consent agenda, which included adopting the September 17 minutes and appropriating FY 25 funds for the Sheriff's Office. The Board readopted its Rules of Procedure with revisions regarding electronic meeting procedures. It also entered closed session to discuss real property disposition and legal matters related to the Winton property, with Supervisor Adams recusing from one item. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these routine approvals.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including September 17 minutes and FY 25 Sheriff's Office appropriation (5-0)
• Readopted Rules of Procedure with electronic meeting revisions (5-0)
• Certified closed session compliance (5-0)

General

The Amherst County Business Beautification Committee will discuss several items, including the top five projects, a landscaping initiative application, the county fair signup schedule, and a holiday decorating contest. The meeting also includes a budget review for the committee's activities. Routine items such as agenda approval, minutes approval, and old business will be addressed.

• Discussion of Top Five Projects
• Landscaping Initiative Application
• County Fair signup schedule
• Holiday Decorating Contest discussion and entry form
• Budget Review

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved expanding its membership from 10 to 11 voting members to include a staff person from emergency services, and recommended Deputy SW Martin to the Planning Commission as an at-large member. The committee also approved spending up to $100 to decorate the Madison Heights Community Sign for fall, changed the mini-grant application to include public works services, and directed staff to write a letter to member Virginia Myers about her removal due to lack of attendance.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved transferring staff voting position to Stacey Stinnett (8-0)
• Approved expanding membership from 10 to 11 voting members and recommending Deputy SW Martin to Planning Commission (8-0)
• Approved August 27, 2024 minutes (7-0, Young abstained)
• Approved spending up to $100 to decorate Madison Heights Community Sign for fall (8-0)
• Approved changing mini-grant application to include public works services (8-0)
• Directed staff to write removal letter to Virginia Myers (8-0)
• Approved ordering 4000 daffodil bulbs for $1800 (8-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to conduct training with County Attorney Mark Popovich. No other substantive business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Training with County Attorney Mark Popovich

The Amherst County Planning Commission met on September 19, 2024, and approved its agenda and adjourned, both by 5-0 votes. The only substantive item was a training session led by County Attorney Mark Popovich on meeting rules and terms. No other decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as submitted (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:00 pm (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a rezoning request by the EDA of Amherst County and a special exception request from Jessica Maria Jimenez. The body will also review Resolution 2024-11 and conduct a site plan review.

• Public hearing: 2024-351 EDA of Amherst County (Rezoning/Conditional Zoning)
• Public hearing: 2024-504 Jessica Maria Jimenez (Special Exception)
• Public hearing: Resolution 2024-11 (Waldren)
• Site Plan Review

The Amherst County Planning Commission recommended approval of a rezoning of approximately 52 acres from R-2 to M-1 for a pad-ready industrial site, and recommended approval of a special exception for a family day home. They also tabled a resolution to revoke a special exception for a trucking business due to VDOT delays, and rescheduled the October meeting to October 24th.

• Recommended approval of Rezoning 2024-351 (52 acres, R-2 to M-1) with FLUM amendment (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Exception 2024-504 for family day home (up to 12 children) with conditions (5-0)
• Tabled Resolution 2024-11 to revoke Special Exception 2020-380 (trucking business) (5-0)
• Rescheduled October Planning Commission meeting from Oct 17 to Oct 24 (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Accepted Beyla Cunningham and Emerson Bryant as youth representatives (5-0)
• Approved minutes for August 15, 2024 (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings regarding a solar siting agreement and three land-use requests. The meeting also includes several appropriation requests and the FY 2026 budget calendar.

• Public hearing: 2024-374 Solar Siting Agreement
• Public hearing: 2024-393 Jennifer Lloyd Fisher Special Exception
• Public hearing: 2024-402 Arcola Towers I, LP Special Exception
• Public hearing: 2024-406 Jonathan Scruggs Rezoning
• FY 2026 Budget Calendar

The Board of Supervisors meeting included a presentation from the Library Board of Trustees highlighting a 25% increase in circulation for two consecutive years (FY22-FY24), the addition of 6,314 new items, 167 events with 3,686 attendees, and over 70,000 library visits. The board also recognized former Library Board member Edward Kryspin for 8 years of service. No formal decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Recognized Edward Kryspin for 8 years of service on the Library Board

Agricultural Committee

The Amherst County Agriculture Committee will meet on September 16, 2024 at the Administration Building, 153 Washington Street. The committee will approve the minutes from its August 12, 2024 meeting, consider matters related to the County Fair, and discuss a 2024 Drought Resolution. No contracts, funding, or ordinance items are listed on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from August 12, 2024 meeting
• Discuss County Fair
• Discuss 2024 Drought Resolution

General

The Emergency Services Council is meeting to review standard operating guidelines and capital budget development. The body will also discuss an Incident Command/Accountability Board.

• SOG development for Brush Fires, Hazmat, and MVA
• Capital Budget Development
• Incident Command/Accountability Board
• Honor Guard

General

The Amherst County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will meet on September 9, 2024 at the Monroe Community Center. The board will hear reports on program participation, department revenue and expenditures, the status of Mill Creek Lake and swimming, Seminole Park construction, and the department masterplan. New business includes a report on upcoming programs, activities and events, and an update to the Special Event Permit and County Code. No specific motions or votes are listed in the agenda.

• Report on new and upcoming programs, activities and events
• Update to the Special Event Permit and County Code
• Status report of Mill Creek Lake and Swimming
• Status report of Seminole Park Construction
• Update on the Department Masterplan

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Service Authority Board will meet on September 3, 2024 at the Administration Building, 153 Washington Street. The meeting includes approval of the agenda, review of draft minutes from the August 6, 2024 board meeting, and a draft August 2024 financial report. An action item is the consideration of a USGS Stream Gage Funding Agreement. An informational report will also be presented.

• Review and approve draft minutes from the August 6, 2024 ACSA Board meeting
• Review and approve the draft August 2024 monthly financial report
• Consider the USGS Stream Gage Funding Agreement
• Receive an informational report dated September 3, 2024

The Amherst County Service Authority Board approved the agenda and consent agenda, including meeting minutes and financial reports. The board authorized the executive director to sign a funding agreement with the US Geological Survey for stream gage monitoring. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational.

• Approved September 3, 2024 agenda (4-0, Woods absent)
• Approved consent agenda including August 6 minutes and May/June financial reports (4-0, Woods absent)
• Authorized executive director to execute USGS stream gage funding agreement (4-0, Woods absent)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will consider a resolution regarding a disaster area and a carryforward appropriation for Public Works. The meeting includes a special presentation on a school construction grant and a report on project statuses.

• Resolution 2024-10-R Disaster Area
• Carryforward Appropriation for Public Works
• Special Presentation: School Construction Grant
• Closed session regarding real property in Districts 1 and 2
• Closed session regarding public safety operations

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors accepted a $6.7 million School Construction Grant for the Amherst County High School Project, as recommended by the School Board. The board also approved the consent agenda, including a $9,200 carryforward appropriation for Public Works bonuses, and cancelled the November 5, 2024 meeting. No public comment was made, and the board held a closed session on real property and legal matters.

• Accepted $6.7M School Construction Grant for high school project (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, Resolution 2024-10-R, and $9,200 carryforward for Public Works bonuses (5-0)
• Cancelled November 5, 2024 meeting (5-0)
• Held closed session on real property disposition and legal consultation (5-0)

General

The committee will discuss candidates for the A+ Improvement Award, including Andersons Country Market II. They will consider a bulb planting initiative and review the top five projects such as a landscaping initiative, gateway sign updates, and banner samples. The meeting also includes discussion of the Rt. 29 Business Christmas decorating contest and a review of the budget.

• A+ Improvement Award candidates (Andersons Country Market II)
• Bulb planting discussion
• Landscaping Initiative Application
• Updating Gateway Amherst signs within the corridor
• Rt. 29 Business Christmas decorating contest

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved Andersons Country Market II as the winner of the 2024 third quarter A+ Improvement Award. They also approved paying McBride Sign Company for a 'Do Not Litter' sign and purchasing a folding table for events. Discussions included bulb planting, gateway sign updates, and a holiday decorating contest, but no final decisions were made on those items.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved July 23, 2024 minutes (7-0, Young abstained)
• Approved Andersons Country Market II for A+ Improvement Award (9-0)
• Approved payment to McBride Sign Company for 'Do Not Litter' sign (8-0)
• Approved purchase of folding table for events (8-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings regarding procurement and confined livestock facilities ordinances, as well as specific rezoning and special exception requests. The meeting also includes a discussion on a Monument Committee recommendation and a closed session regarding public real property in District 2.

• Ordinance 2024-4 regarding Procurement
• Ordinance 2024-5 regarding Confined Livestock Facilities
• Special Exception 2024-222 for Shimp Engineering Campground
• Rezoning 2024-338 for Accupoint Surveying & Design
• Special Exception 2024-343 for Ebenezer Road Solar 1, LLC

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors denied a special exception for a campground at 295 Burford Farm Road, despite the Planning Commission's 5-0 recommendation with conditions. The Board approved a rezoning for self-storage units at 4416 S. Amherst Highway and a utility-scale solar energy system at 719 Ebenezer Road. Two ordinances were adopted: one changing the Purchasing Director title to Procurement and Contracts Division Manager, and another updating confined livestock facility regulations. The Board also approved the consent agenda, reappointed two Planning Commission members, and approved the Purchasing Manual changes.

• Denied Special Exception 2024-222 for campground at 295 Burford Farm Road (5-0)
• Approved Rezoning 2024-338 for self-storage at 4416 S. Amherst Highway (5-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-343 for solar energy system at 719 Ebenezer Road (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-4 changing Purchasing Director title (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-5 updating confined livestock facility regulations (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $6,700 carryforward for Gateway sign replacement (5-0)
• Reappointed Derin Foor to Planning Commission (4-0, Tucker absent)
• Reappointed Jim Thompson to Planning Commission (4-0, Tucker absent)

Planning Commission

The Amherst County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on three special exception applications (Partridge Creek Solar LLC, Jennifer Lloyd Fisher, Arcola Towers I, LP) and consider a rezoning request from Jonathan Scruggs. The commission will also review a site plan and discuss battery storage. Standard agenda items such as calls, comments, and approval of minutes are also included.

• 2024-375 Partridge Creek Solar LLC – Special Exception
• 2024-393 Jennifer Lloyd Fisher – Special Exception
• 2024-402 Arcola Towers I, LP – Special Exception
• 2024-406 Jonathan Scruggs – Rezoning
• Battery Storage discussion (old/new business)

The Amherst County Planning Commission recommended approval of a special exception for Jennifer Lloyd Fisher to allow short-term tourist rental, event venue, and public entertainment at 229 Dancing Creek Road, with conditions including a limit of 14 bedrooms (28 adult guests) for short-term rental. The commission also recommended approval of a communications tower special exception for Arcola Towers I, LP, and a rezoning for Jonathan Scruggs to allow a recreational facility. All votes were 6-0. The commission also directed staff to draft a battery storage zoning amendment.

• Recommended approval of special exception 2024-393 Jennifer Lloyd Fisher (6-0), with condition #5 amended to limit short-term rental to 14 bedrooms (28 adult guests)
• Recommended approval of special exception 2024-402 Arcola Towers I, LP for a 199' monopole communications tower (6-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning 2024-406 Jonathan Scruggs from M-1 to B-2, including FLUM amendment from manufacturing to commercial (6-0)
• Removed 2024-375 Partridge Creek Solar LLC from the agenda due to state legislation extending approval to July 1, 2025 (6-0)
• Directed staff to draft a battery storage zoning amendment into ordinance form (6-0)
• Approved the July 18, 2024 meeting minutes as submitted (6-0)

General

The Amherst County Emergency Services Council will meet to discuss strategic planning and five-year capital improvement purchases. The body will also review a draft commercial fire alarm list and discuss standard operating guidelines for mutual aid.

• Five-Year Capital Improvement Purchases (CIP)
• Draft Commercial Fire Alarm List for Truck-1
• SOG Development for Mutual/Automatic Aid and Nature Codes
• Discussion on MVA, Brush Fires, and Hazmat Incidents
• Background check review

General

The board is meeting to review monthly program and financial reports. Members will discuss updates on park construction and facility maintenance. The meeting also includes planning for the Halloween Spooktacular Trunk or Treat and fair volunteers.

• Coolwell Park Bocce Ball Court update
• Seminole Park construction update
• Mill Creek Lake Park swimming closure status
• Coolwell Park women's bathroom sinks update
• Halloween Spooktacular Trunk or Treat planning

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will conduct a first reading of Ordinance 2024-4 on procurement and Ordinance 2024-5 on confined livestock facilities. The meeting also includes consent agenda items such as the FY 2024 appropriation for the Sheriff's Office and the 2024 Personal Property Tax Relief Act. Additional business will cover taser policy for the Sheriff's Office and an ARPA subrecipient agreement.

• Ordinance 2024-4 – Procurement (first read)
• Ordinance 2024-5 – Confined Livestock Facilities (first read)
• FY 24 Appropriation of Revenue – Sheriff's Office
• 2024 Personal Property Tax Relief Act
• Tasers – Sheriff's Office

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors directed staff to begin proceedings to revoke Special Use Permit 2023-380 after finding a Route 29 truck stop out of compliance. The board also approved the FY23 audit, authorized taser purchases for the Sheriff's Office, and directed advertising for two ordinances. One item, the Compensation Board FY25 revenue appropriation, was tabled to August 20, 2024.

• Directed staff to start revocation proceedings for Special Use Permit 2023-380 (4-0, Pugh absent)
• Approved use of Fine Revenue to purchase tasers for Sheriff's Office (5-0)
• Accepted FY23 audit as presented by Brown, Edwards, and Co PLLC (5-0)
• Directed advertising of Ordinance 2024-4 (Procurement title change) for Aug 20 hearing (5-0)
• Directed advertising of Ordinance 2024-5 (Confined Livestock Facilities) for Aug 20 hearing (4-1, Martin nay)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $4,483 Victim Witness grant and $3,500 CDBG income appropriations (5-0)
• Authorized County Administrator to execute ARPA Subrecipient Agreement (5-0)
• Tabled additional Compensation Board FY25 revenue appropriation until Aug 20

Service Authority Board

The Service Authority Board will review the Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Audit, approve investment of authority funds, and discuss Town Center Development. The meeting also includes approval of an engineering agreement for the Campbell Street Low Pressure Collection System and a resolution regarding VDOT land use surety.

• Approval of Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Audit
• Engineering Agreement for Campbell St. Low Pressure Collection System
• ACSA Resolution 2024-A-002-R regarding VDOT Land Use Surety
• ARPA Funding Grant Subrecipient Agreement
• Discussion of Town Center Development

The Amherst County Service Authority Board approved the ARPA Funding Grant Subrecipient Agreement, committing $2M to extend public sewer and the Gateway Sanitary Sewer project. The Board also approved the 'On-Call / Standby' policy with revisions removing dollar amounts, and ACSA Resolution 024-A-002-R for a VDOT Land Use Surety. The Board authorized the Executive Director to enter the Virginia Investment Pool. The meeting was otherwise routine, with no citizen comments.

• Approved ARPA Funding Grant Subrecipient Agreement (5-0)
• Approved 'On-Call / Standby' policy with revisions (5-0)
• Approved ACSA Resolution 024-A-002-R, VDOT Land Use Surety (5-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to enter Virginia Investment Pool (5-0)
• Approved revised consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 4, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Acknowledged actions from June 4, 2024 closed session (4-0, 1 abstention)

General

The committee is meeting to review five potential projects for Route 29 beautification. The agenda also includes discussions on colors, logos, and a budget review.

• Top five potential Route 29 BBC projects
• Budget review
• Colors and logos
• Whitten Monelison Chapel
• Sheriffs Night Out

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved a motion for Tony McBride to create billboard designs for an anti-litter campaign, to be voted on at the next meeting. They also discussed top potential projects, including landscaping initiatives and trash cleanup, and set a consensus to nominate Lori Saunders for sign design. The meeting was procedural with several approvals and discussions, but no major funding decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved June 25, 2024 minutes (6-0, McBride abstained)
• Approved motion for McBride Signs to create billboard designs (7-0)
• Consensus to nominate Lori Saunders for landscaping design for welcoming signs
• Discussed top five potential projects, including landscaping and trash cleanup
• Staff to contact landowner about overgrown vegetation on Daniels Drive
• Committee to bring up Christmas decoration contest parameters at later meeting
• Adjourned (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Amherst County Planning Commission will convene on July 18, 2024, to conduct a public hearing on three items: a rezoning request from Accupoint Surveying & Design, a solar project application from Ebenezer Road Solar 1, LLC, and a proposed ordinance regulating confined livestock facilities. The meeting will also include a non-public hearing special exception, site plan reviews, and discussions on planning commission rules and training.

• Rezoning request 2024-338 from Accupoint Surveying & Design
• Public hearing on Ebenezer Road Solar 1, LLC solar project
• Consideration of Ordinance 2024-5 on confined livestock facilities
• Special exception 2024-222 for Shimp Engineering (non-public hearing)
• Review of planning commission rules and training

The Amherst County Planning Commission recommended approval of a special exception permit for a three-cabin campground at 295 Burford Farm Road, despite significant community opposition. The commission also recommended approval of a rezoning for self-storage units, a utility-scale solar facility, and an ordinance updating confined livestock facility regulations. All recommendations will go to the Board of Supervisors for final decisions.

• Recommended approval of campground special exception 2024-222 with conditions (5-0, Bryant recused)
• Recommended approval of rezoning 2024-338 for self-storage at 4416 S. Amherst Highway (6-0)
• Recommended approval of solar facility special exception 2024-343 at 719 Ebenezer Road with conditions (5-0, Bryant recused)
• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-5 updating confined livestock facility setbacks (6-0)
• Directed staff to draft tie-vote procedure change (6-0)
• Approved May 16, 2024 minutes (4-0, Bryant & Martineau abstained)
• Approved June 20, 2024 minutes (5-0, Foor abstained)
• Elected Beverly Jones as Chair, Michael Bryant as Vice Chair, Tyler Creasy as Secretary

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing and vote on four land-use petitions, including rezonings and special exceptions for Silas E. McDaniel and Norman Walton, Perkins & Orrison Inc. The board will also consider budget items, a Kroger settlement, and a new overlay zoning district for the Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail.

• Rezoning 2024-287 Silas E. McDaniel
• Special Exception 2024-288 Silas E. McDaniel
• Conditional Rezoning 2024-225 Norman Walton, Perkins & Orrison Inc.
• Conditional Zoning Amendment 2024-226 Norman Walton, Perkins & Orrison Inc.
• Resolution 2024-8-R Kroger Settlement

The Board approved a conditional rezoning and special exception for multi-family dwellings and a clubhouse at 4673 S. Amherst Highway. A rezoning request for a towing business and storage lot was denied. The Board also authorized funding for local baseball teams and public works.

• Approved $2,000 donations to each Amherst County baseball team attending the World Series (4-0)
• Denied Rezoning 2024-287 for a towing business and storage lot (3-1)
• Approved Conditional Rezoning 2024-225 for multi-family dwellings and open space (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Zoning Amendment 2024-226 with submitted proffers (4-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-292 for four apartments, open space, and a clubhouse with pool (4-0)
• Appropriated $216,000 from Solid Waste fund balance to Construction fund for Transfer Station Project (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-8-R Kroger Settlement (4-0)
• Tabled FY24 fund carry forward for Monelison Rescue Squad

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting for a walking tour of the Amherst County High School construction and renovation project.

• Walking tour of Amherst County High School construction and renovation project

The Board of Supervisors conducted a walking tour of the Amherst County High School Construction and Renovation Project. No substantive policy or budgetary decisions were made during this special meeting.

• Approved the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Toured High School Construction and Renovation Project sites

Board of Zoning Appeals

This meeting agenda contains only procedural items. The board will elect officers and approve minutes from January 11, 2024. No specific zoning cases or public hearings are listed for this session.

• Election of officers
• Approval of January 11, 2024, minutes

The Board of Zoning Appeals elected its Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary. The board also approved the meeting minutes from January 11, 2024. No zoning cases were decided during the meeting.

• Elected Bill Wise as Chairman (4-0)
• Elected Michael Fitzgerald as Vice Chairman (4-0)
• Elected Tyler Creasy as Secretary (4-0)
• Approved January 11, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)

Agricultural Committee

The Amherst County Agriculture Committee will meet to discuss Ordinance 2024-5 and the County Fair. The agenda also includes a presentation and the approval of minutes from the June 10, 2024 meeting.

• Discussion of Ordinance 2024-5
• County Fair discussion
• Approval of June 10, 2024 meeting minutes

General

The Board will review monthly program participation and department revenue and expenditure reports. Members will also receive updates regarding Seminole Park construction, Mill Creek Lake, and the Masterplan.

• Seminole Park construction update
• Mill Creek Lake update
• Coolwell Park ballfield status
• Monelison Middle School ballfield maintenance
• Monthly revenue and expenditure report

General

The Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee will discuss candidates for the A+ Improvement Award and review project suggestions. The committee will also consider adding a completion deadline to mini-grant applications.

• Discussion of A+ Improvement Award candidates
• Proposed change to include a completion deadline on mini-grant applications
• Review of project suggestions
• Researching banner ideas
• Budget review

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved updates to the mini-grant application, including a new completion deadline. Members also nominated Whitten Monelison Chapel for the A+ Improvement Award and discussed future beautification projects and banner designs.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved May 28, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Nominated Whitten Monelison Chapel for A+ Improvement Award (8-0)
• Approved changes to mini-grant application (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is meeting to adopt the FY25 Operating Budget, Capital Improvement Plan, and Solid Waste Fund Budget. The County Administrator will also present a report on a COLA wage structure adjustment.

• Adoption of FY25 Operating Budget
• Adoption of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Adoption of Solid Waste Fund Budget
• Report on COLA wage structure adjustment

At a special meeting on June 25, 2024, the Amherst County Board of Supervisors adopted resolutions 2024-6-R through 2024-7-R, covering the FY25 Operating Budget, Capital Improvement Plan, and Solid Waste Fund Budget. The vote was 4-0, with Chair Drew Wade absent for that item. The Board also directed staff to bring back more information on a County Administrator Change COLA Wage Structure Adjustment at its July 16, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved the agenda (4-0, Wade absent)
• Adopted FY25 Operating Budget, Capital Improvement Plan, and Solid Waste Fund Budget via resolutions 2024-6-R through 2024-7-R (4-0, Wade absent)
• Directed staff to return with additional information on the County Administrator Change COLA Wage Structure Adjustment at the July 16, 2024 meeting
• Adjourned at 3:16 pm (5-0)

Planning Commission

The commission will conduct public hearings for applications involving Silas E. McDaniel and Norman Walton, Perkins & Orrison Inc. The agenda also includes the approval of Fox Hall Estates subdivision lots and potential code changes for confined livestock facilities.

• Public hearings for cases 2024-287, 2024-288, 2024-225, 2024-226, and 2024-292
• Subdivision plat approval for Fox Hall Estates (Lots 1 - 13)
• Potential code changes for confined livestock facilities
• Review of Planning Commission rules of procedure

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a towing business and several multi-family dwelling projects. The board also moved to amend code requirements for confined livestock facility setbacks.

• Recommended approval of conditional rezoning for Silas McDaniel towing business (5-0)
• Recommended approval of special exception for Silas McDaniel towing business (5-0)
• Recommended approval of conditional rezoning for multi-family dwellings at 4673 S. Amherst Highway (5-0)
• Recommended approval of proffer and master development plan amendments for 4673 S. Amherst Highway (5-0)
• Recommended approval of special exception for apartments and clubhouse at 4673 S. Amherst Highway (5-0)
• Approved code change for confined livestock facility setbacks of 600ft from residential and 1000ft from town limits (5-0)
• Consensus to advertise Rules of Procedure code change for July public hearing
• Tabled May 16, 2024 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum

Board of Supervisors

The Board will hold public hearings regarding a campground special exception for Shimp Engineering and an ordinance for self-service mini-storage in the B-2 District. The agenda also includes a budget presentation and several revenue appropriations for local schools.

• Special Exception 2024-222 for Shimp Engineering Campground
• Ordinance 2024-3 regarding self-service mini-storage in B-2 District
• Budget presentation
• Revenue appropriations for Amherst County Public Schools and Child Nutrition Program
• Road naming for Madison Heights Town Center

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance 2024-3, moving self-service mini-storage and warehouse facilities in the B-2 District from a permitted use to a special exception. The Board removed Special Exception 2024-222 (Shimp Engineering campground) from the agenda and directed staff to send it back to the Planning Commission for a recommendation. The Board voted to convene on June 25, 2024 to consider approval of the FY25 O&M Budget and Capital Improvement Plan, and approved a consent agenda including school and Commonwealth's Attorney appropriations. The County Attorney reported that Kroger and its affiliates agreed to a nationwide opioid settlement and that Amherst County has until August 12, 2024 to decide whether to join.

• Approved agenda amendment removing Special Exception 2024-222 (Shimp Engineering campground) and sending it back to the Planning Commission (4-0, Adams absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-3 relocating self-service mini-storage and warehouse facilities in the B-2 District to a special exception (5-0)
• Voted to convene June 25, 2024 to consider approval of the FY25 O&M Budget and Capital Improvement Plan (5-0)
• Approved the June 18, 2024 Consent Agenda (5-0), including minutes of June 4, 2024 and Resolution 2024-5-R (VDOT)
• Appropriated $4,280.00 from the State Compensation Board to the Commonwealth's Attorney budget
• Appropriated $1,350,000.00 additional revenue to the 2023-2024 School Operational Budget
• Appropriated $479,540.09 additional revenue to the 2023-2024 Child Nutrition budget
• Appropriated $750,000 from Health Insurance Reserve to the FY 2023-2024 School Operational Budget and approved a $500,000 budget transfer

General

The council will review draft mission, vision, and value statements alongside volunteer recruitment strategies. Discussion is also planned for standard operating guidelines regarding PPE and mutual aid. The meeting includes items on five-year capital improvement purchases.

• Review of draft Mission, Vision, and Value Statement
• Discussion of SOG development including PPE and Mutual/Automatic Aid
• Strategic Planning and Five Year Capital Improvement Purchases (CIP)
• Volunteer recruitment strategies and online application process

General

The Board will review monthly program participation and department revenue and expenditures. The meeting also includes updates regarding the US DOT ATIIP Grant, Seminole Park, and Mill Creek Lake.

• US DOT ATIIP Grant update
• Seminole Park update
• Mill Creek Lake update
• Bedrock Church Youth Sports Camp
• Monthly revenue and expenditure report

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct a first reading of Ordinance 2024-3 regarding self-service mini-storage in the B-2 District. The agenda also includes discussions on a school construction grant and a reimbursement resolution for the Landfill Cell 2 Project. Additionally, the meeting features a recognition of the Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee.

• First reading of Ordinance 2024-3 regarding self-service mini-storage in B-2 District
• Reimbursement resolution for Landfill Cell 2 Project
• Discussion of School Construction Grant
• Recognition of Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee
• Cancellation of the July 2, 2024 meeting

The Board approved several budget appropriations and transfers for Social Services, the Sheriff's Office, and the Electoral Board. It also directed staff to advertise a proposed ordinance change regarding mini-storage facilities in the B-2 District for a public hearing.

• Directed staff to advertise Ordinance 2024-3 regarding B-2 District mini-storage for public hearing (3-0)
• Appropriated funds for Social Services and the Sheriff's Office (3-0)
• Approved $46,335 budget transfer from ALSC operating funds to Public Safety Operations (3-0)
• Approved $31,151 transfer from Capital Improvement Plan funds to Sheriff's budget for courthouse security (3-0)
• Appropriated $44,450 into the Electoral Board FY 2024 operating budget (3-0)
• Directed County Administrator to draft support letter for ATIIP Planning and Design grant with $25,000 match (3-0)
• Adopted Reimbursement Resolution 2024-4-R for Landfill Cell 2 Project (3-0)
• Canceled the July 2, 2024 meeting (3-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Service Authority Board is meeting to review the FY25 Annual Operating and Capital Improvement Budget and an Employee Recognition Policy. The agenda also includes a presentation regarding a Silver Award from the Virginia Department of Health.

• Approval of the FY25 Annual Operating and Capital Improvement Budget
• Employee Recognition Policy
• Presentation: Virginia Department of Health, Office of Drinking Water Silver Award
• Review of May 7, 2024, meeting minutes

The Board approved the FY25 Annual Operating & Capital Improvements Budget and a new employee recognition policy. The Board also entered a closed session to discuss the Executive Director's annual performance evaluation.

• Approved FY25 Annual Operating & Capital Improvements Budget (3-0)
• Approved Employee Recognition Policy (3-0)
• Approved May 7, 2024 meeting minutes and April 2024 financial report (3-0)
• Voted to enter closed session for Executive Director performance evaluation (3-0)

General

The Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee is meeting to review its budget and discuss Mulching Day and Employee Appreciation Day.

• Mulching Day discussion
• Employee Appreciation Day
• Budget review

The committee established a 12-month completion deadline for mini-grant projects. Members also approved the purchase of 10 replacement banners for the corridor. A proposal to change the water tower outline color was not adopted during the meeting.

• Approved April 23, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved requirement that mini-grant projects be completed within 12 months of approval or be voided (9-0)
• Approved ordering 10 new replacement banners (9-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board renamed the Public Safety department to Amherst County Fire & EMS and approved a special exception for a wedding venue at 219 Phyllis Lea Drive, removing a notification condition despite Planning Commission denial. They also approved a short-term rental exception, a $20,000 riverbank stabilization share, and a property reassessment contract.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-2 renaming Public Safety to Fire & EMS (4-0)
• Approved VDOT Rural Rustic Priority List FY25-FY30 (4-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-141 for short-term rental at 103 Nikonha Lane (4-0)
• Approved Special Exception 2024-154 for wedding venue at 219 Phyllis Lea Drive, removing notification condition (3-1)
• Approved up to $20,000 share for Riveredge Park retaining wall with James River Association (4-0)
• Authorized property reassessment contract with Pearson's Appraisal Service, LLC (4-0)
• Extended Monument Committee recommendation deadline to August 2024 (4-0)
• Approved FY2024 budget appropriations and Monelison Fire Station reimbursement (Consent Agenda)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to conduct a training workshop and a mock trial. No specific zoning appeals or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Training Workshop
• Mock Trial

Planning Commission

The commission recommended that self-service mini-storage and warehouse facilities in the B-2 District become special exception uses rather than permitted uses. A request for a campground special exception failed to receive a recommendation for denial. The commission also approved the April 18, 2024, meeting minutes.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance 2024-3 to make mini-storage/warehouses in B-2 District a special exception (4-0)
• Motion to recommend denial of special use permit for campground at 295 Burford Farm Road defeated (2-2)
• Approved April 18, 2024 meeting minutes with one correction (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

Agricultural Committee

The Amherst County Agriculture Committee will hold a public meeting on May 13, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes a presentation by Tyler Creasy, Director of Community Development, and discussions regarding the County Fair and the committee's Plan of Work. No specific dollar amounts, ordinances, or rezonings are listed in the provided text.

• Presentation by Tyler Creasy, Director of Community Development
• Discussion of the County Fair
• Review of the Plan of Work
• Approval of minutes from the April 8, 2024 meeting

General

The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will meet to review monthly participation, revenue, and expenditure reports. The board will discuss construction updates for Seminole Park and updates regarding Mill Creek Lake.

• Seminole Park construction update
• Mill Creek Lake updates
• US DOT ATIIP Grant
• Monthly revenue and expenditure reports

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will hold a first reading of a public safety ordinance, adopt FY 2025 tax rates and the county schools budget, and consider consent agenda items including appropriations for the Sheriff's Office and schools. The meeting also includes citizen comment periods and closed sessions to evaluate the county administrator and attorney.

• First reading of Ordinance 2024-2 on public safety
• Adoption of FY 2025 tax rates
• Adoption of Amherst County Schools FY 2025 budget
• Appropriation of revenue for Sheriff's Office
• Appropriation of revenue for Amherst County Public Schools

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors met on May 7, 2024, with all five members present. The Board approved Resolution 2024-2-R adopting FY 2025 tax rates and Resolution 2024-3-R adopting the Amherst County Schools FY 2025 budget, both by 5-0 votes. It also directed staff to advertise Ordinance 2024-2 for a May 21, 2024 public hearing with three amendments, and approved a consent agenda that included $284,000 in additional revenue for the 2023-2024 School Operational Budget. The Board held two closed sessions to evaluate the performance of the County Administrator and County Attorney, then certified that only exempted public business was discussed.

• Approved Resolution 2024-2-R adopting FY 2025 tax rates (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-3-R, the Amherst County Schools FY 2025 budget (5-0)
• Directed staff to advertise Ordinance 2024-2 for public hearing on May 21, 2024, with three amendments (5-0)
• Approved the May 7, 2024 consent agenda (5-0), including minutes of April 16 and April 30, a Sheriff's Office revenue appropriation, and $284,000 additional revenue to the 2023-2024 School Operational Budget
• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Entered and exited two closed sessions to evaluate the performance of the County Administrator and County Attorney (5-0 each)
• Certified by recorded vote that only exempted public business was discussed in closed session (5-0)
• Adjourned at 4:02 pm (5-0)

Service Authority Board

The Service Authority Board will review the fiscal year 2025 operating and capital budgets. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a Town Center Developer Agreement.

• FY25 Operating and Capital Budgets
• Town Center Developer Agreement
• Lyttleton Lane Water Storage Tank Maintenance Contract
• James River Streambank Stabilization Phase II Engineering Services Contract

The Board approved a consent agenda including water storage tank maintenance and streambank stabilization engineering services. No action was taken on a developer's request to waive connection fees, and the FY25 budget will be finalized in June.

• Approved Lyttleton Lane Water Storage Tank Maintenance Contract (3-0)
• Approved James River Streambank Stabilization Phase II Engineering Services Contract (3-0)
• No action taken on Town Center Developer Agreement request
• Tabled FY25 Operating and Capital Budgets for final approval in June

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is meeting for a budget workshop. The session includes public hearings regarding tax rates and the school budget.

• Public hearing on tax rates
• Public hearing on school budget

The Board of Supervisors held public hearings on tax rates and the school budget. No proponents or opponents spoke at either hearing. The Board directed staff to move both items forward for adoption at the May 7, 2024 meeting.

• Directed staff to move tax rates forward for adoption on May 7, 2024 (5-0)
• Directed staff to move Amherst County Schools FY 2025 budget forward for adoption on May 7, 2024 (5-0)

General

The committee is meeting to discuss a mini-grant for T&C Davis Properties LLC. The agenda also includes a budget review and updates on gateway signs and the county seal.

• Route 29 Business Beautification Mini-Grant for T&C Davis Properties LLC
• Budget review
• Gateway sign update
• Discussion of County Seal
• Discussion regarding donations

The committee approved a mini-grant for T&C Davis Properties LLC specifically for facade work. Members discussed the use of the county seal on a mural and the process for accepting future donations.

• Approved March 26, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved up to $5,000 mini-grant for T&C Davis Properties LLC facade improvements (9-0)

Planning Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings for two special exception requests. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding accessory dwelling units and several annual reports.

• Public Hearing: Special Exception 2024-141 (Charles Callaway)
• Public Hearing: Special Exception 2024-154 (Alexis Fisher)
• Accessory Dwelling Unit Discussion
• Hill Studios - Recreation Department Master Plan Update presentation
• Route 29 Business Beautification Committee 2023 Annual Report

The Planning Commission recommended approving a short-term tourist rental request with specific conditions. It recommended denying a request for a photography and special events venue. The commission also tabled discussions on accessory dwelling units.

• Recommended approval of short-term tourist rental at 103 Nikonha Lane (6-0)
• Recommended denial of photography and special events venue at 219 Phyllis Lea Drive (4-2)
• Tabled accessory dwelling unit ordinance discussion until further notice (6-0)
• Approved February 15, 2024, meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved March 19, 2024, meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved motion to revise 2023 Annual Report regarding staff (6-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will address tax abatement and conduct a discussion regarding private roads. The agenda also includes revenue appropriations for Public Schools and Social Services.

• Appropriation of Revenue - Amherst County Public Schools
• Appropriation of Revenue - Social Services
• Tax Abatement
• Discussion on Private Roads

The Board of Supervisors approved the appropriation of additional revenue for public schools and social services. Members also directed staff to explore a special tax district for private roads and requested the legal registration of the County seal and logo.

• Appropriated $319,101.50 of additional revenue to the 2023-2024 School Operational Budget (5-0)
• Appropriated funds into the Social Services budget (5-0)
• Directed staff to gauge public willingness for a special tax district to bring private roads into the state system
• Requested County Attorney to register or copyright the County seal and logo and staff to establish a usage policy (4-1)

General

The council is reviewing several action items from a previous Joint Board of Supervisors meeting. Discussion includes standard operating guidelines (SOG), volunteer recruitment strategies, and ordinance updates.

• SOG Development Items 1-4
• Volunteer Recruitment Strategies
• EMS Volunteer Volunteering with the County
• Ordinance Update

General

The Amherst County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board met on April 8, 2024, to review monthly program participation and financial reports. The agenda included an update on Seminole Park construction and discussions regarding future programming and an EMS training room. No specific dollar amounts or final decisions were listed in the provided text.

• Seminole Park Construction Update
• EMS Training Room discussion
• Future Programming Update
• Monthly Program Participation Report
• Department Expenditure and Revenue Reports

Agricultural Committee

The Agriculture Committee will meet to receive a presentation from 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent Debbie Lester. The body will also discuss the County Fair and the committee's plan of work.

• Presentation by Debbie Lester, 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent
• Discussion regarding the County Fair
• Discussion of the plan of work

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will vote on a consent agenda that includes appropriations for the Sheriff's Office, Public Schools, and Building Maintenance. The meeting also features a presentation on the Second Stage Annual Report and an update from the Emergency Services Council. New business includes a review of the VDOT Rural Rustic Six Year Road Plan and a discussion on tax abatement.

• Consent agenda: Appropriation of Revenue for Sheriff's Office
• Consent agenda: Appropriations for additional equipment for the Registrar's Office
• Consent agenda: Appropriation of Revenue for Amherst County Public Schools
• Consent agenda: Reallocation of Funds for Building Maintenance
• New Business: VDOT Rural Rustic Six Year Road Plan

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors approved the meeting agenda with amendments, adopted the consent agenda including various fund appropriations, and directed staff to advertise an ordinance for a public hearing and schedule a VDOT road plan public hearing. The board also received several reports and presentations, while tabling tax abatement and closed session items until April 16, 2024.

• Approved agenda with amendments to table Tax Abatement and Closed Session to April 16, 2024 (3-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including March 19, 2024 minutes, sheriff revenue appropriation, registrar equipment appropriations, public schools appropriation, and building maintenance fund reallocation (3-0)
• Directed staff to advertise Ordinance 2024-2 for public hearing (3-0)
• Directed staff to schedule the VDOT Rural Rustic Six Year Road Plan public hearing for May 21, 2024 (3-0)
• Tabled Tax Abatement item to April 16, 2024
• Tabled Closed Session regarding property located in District 3 until April 16, 2024

Service Authority Board

The Board will meet to discuss action items including the FY25 Budget and the Madison Heights Town Center. The meeting also includes a review of strategic planning and financial reports.

• FY25 Budget
• Madison Heights Town Center (Centre)
• Strategic Planning SOAR
• February 2024 Monthly Financial Report

The Board approved the agenda and consent agenda, including the February 2024 financial report. Members authorized the Executive Director to proceed with budget preparations for Fiscal Year 2025. The Board determined that the SOAR strategic plan target dates did not require formal approval.

• Approved meeting agenda (3-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to move forward with FY25 budget preparations (3-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda, including March 5 minutes and February 2024 Financial Report (3-0)

General

The Amherst County Emergency Services Council is holding a special meeting to address several operational items. The body will discuss volunteer recruitment, EMS volunteering, and the development of a mission and value statement.

• Fire Training Facility discussion
• SOG Development
• Volunteer Recruitment Strategies
• EMS Volunteer volunteering with the County
• Proposed name change

General

The committee is meeting to review landscaping for the Amherst County and Gateway signs. Members will also review the 2023 annual report and the current budget.

• Landscaping for Amherst County Sign and Gateway Sign
• Route 29 BBC Annual Report for 2023
• Budget review

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved funding for sign landscaping and adopted the previous meeting's minutes. Members discussed the 2023 annual report, budget, and potential mini-grant applications for local properties.

• Approved up to $2,000 for landscaping of the Amherst County Sign (8-0)
• Approved February 27, 2024, meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved the meeting agenda (8-0)

Planning Commission

The Amherst County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on two specific items: a rezoning request for the Economic Development Authority of Amherst County and the Solar Ordinance 2024-1 along with the Amherst County Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting includes standard procedural steps such as citizen comments and approval of the agenda. No other substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda.

• Public Hearing: Rezoning No. 2024-092 for the Economic Development Authority of Amherst County
• Public Hearing: Solar Ordinance 2024-1 and Amherst County Comprehensive Plan Update

The Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission approved a 93-acre rezoning for industrial use and updated the solar generation ordinance and Comprehensive Plan. The Board also approved the school budget and revised standards for Mixed-Use/Traditional Neighborhood access roads.

• Approved rezoning of ~93 acres (Tax Map 161-A-146) from P-1 Public Lands to M-1 Industrial (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2024-1 and Comprehensive Plan update for utility-scale solar with noted changes (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2023-11 regarding MU-TND District access road standards (5-0)
• Approved school budget as presented (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including March 5 minutes and reallocation of leftover Public Safety CIP funds (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings regarding a solar ordinance, a comprehensive plan update, and specific rezoning requests. The meeting also includes a school budget presentation and a briefing on landfill fees.

• Public hearing on Rezoning 2024-092 Economic Development of Amherst County
• Public hearing on Solar Ordinance 2024-1 and Comprehensive Plan Update
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2023-11 regarding MU-TND District and Access Roads
• School Budget Presentation
• Landfill Fees Briefing

The Board of Supervisors reviewed the FY 2024-2025 budget presentations for Amherst County Public Schools and the county government. Staff presented two budget options for the county, recommending Option 2 which funds supplemental recurring costs pending SRO grants. The Board directed staff to prepare the budget using a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for staff and to fund the medic unit from the Future Fund.

• Directed staff to prepare FY2025 budget with 3% COLA
• Directed staff to fund medic unit from Future Fund
• Recommended Option 2: Fund supplemental recurring costs pending SRO grants
• Reviewed ACPS request for $16,402,089 in level funding
• Reviewed FY2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $15,536,176

Agricultural Committee

The Amherst County Agricultural Committee will meet to review presentations from two wrestling organizations. The committee will also discuss the County Fair.

• Presentation by Bruiser Wrestling Federation
• Presentation by Strong Style Pro Wrestling
• Discussion regarding the County Fair
• Approval of February 12, 2024 meeting minutes

General

The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board will review an update from Hill Studios regarding the department's Master Plan. The board will also discuss construction at Seminole Park and the Easter Eggstravaganza.

• Hill Studios update on County Parks and Recreation Department Master Plan
• Construction update for Seminole Park
• Amherst County Schools Volunteer Day at Seminole Park
• Easter Eggstravaganza discussion

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors is holding a budget workshop to discuss revenue projections and the proposed budget. This is a discussion item, not a final decision, and the agenda contains no other business.

• Discussion of revenue projections
• Discussion of proposed budget

The Board reviewed proposed FY 2025 revenue projections of $57,205,440 and an operating budget of $56,217,893. The County Administrator recommended no tax increases and the use of excess revenue and the Unobligated General Fund Balance to fund specific personnel and capital projects. No final votes were recorded; the Board is scheduled to finalize the budget on March 26, 2024.

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct first readings for three ordinances and discuss new business including a purchase contract for Ambler Farm. The meeting includes a presentation from Horizon Behavioral Health and a request for Sheriff fleet vehicle funding.

• First read of Ordinance 2023-11 (MU-TND District and Access Roads), Ordinance 2024-1 (Solar), and Ordinance 2024-2 (Public Safety)
• Purchase contract for Ambler Farm
• FY2025 Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Renewal
• Gateway Entrance Sign Replacement
• Sheriff Appropriation Request for Fleet Vehicle Funding

The Board of Supervisors approved the purchase of Ambler Farm and appropriated funds for sheriff fleet vehicles and a county entry sign. They also scheduled public hearings for solar and zoning ordinances while tabling a public safety ordinance.

• Approved $300,000 purchase of Ambler Farm (5-0)
• Appropriated $200,000 for Sheriff's fleet vehicle purchases (5-0)
• Appropriated $6,700 to replace Route 151 entry sign (5-0)
• Directed staff to advertise MU-TND District and Access Roads ordinance for March 19 hearing (5-0)
• Directed staff to advertise solar ordinance and Comprehensive Plan revisions for March 19 hearing (5-0)
• Tabled public safety ordinance until April 2, 2024 (5-0)
• Directed staff to contract with Delta Dental and Anthem Vision for FY2025 insurance (5-0)
• Recommended appointment of Dr. Michael Fitzgerald to Board of Zoning Appeals (5-0)

Service Authority Board

The Amherst County Service Authority Board will meet to review financial reports and take action on two infrastructure projects. The meeting includes discussions on water and sewer infrastructure and streambank stabilization.

• James River Streambank Stabilization Phase II
• CVTC Water and Sewer Infrastructure

The Amherst County Service Authority Board authorized its Executive Director to continue negotiations to acquire CVTC's water and sewer infrastructure at no cost to the Authority. It also authorized the Executive Director to perform engineering survey, permitting, and design services for a future Phase II James River Streambank Stabilization project. The Board approved its agenda and consent agenda, and heard an informational report covering a dam safety award, the Madison Heights Town Center fire protection detector check, and the Williams Run streambank stabilization project.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to perform engineering survey, permitting, and design services for future Phase II James River Streambank Stabilization project (5-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to continue discussions/negotiations to acquire CVTC's water and sewer infrastructure at no cost to the Authority (5-0)

General

The committee is meeting to discuss beautification grants and community signage. The agenda includes a budget review and the replacement of a maintenance position.

• Route 29 Beautification Mini-Grant for Andersons Country Market
• Discussion of Madison Heights Community Sign
• Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns Grant Program
• Rt 29 BBC Maintenance Position Replacement
• Budget Review

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee selected a design for the Madison Heights community sign and granted an improvement award to a local business. A mini-grant application for a mural was tabled pending further information on trademarks and logo use.

• Approved Design 2 for the Madison Heights gateway sign (9-0)
• Awarded 1st Choice Motors with the A+ Improvement Award (9-0)
• Tabled Anderson's Country Market mini-grant application for more information (9-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (8-0)
• Approved January 30, 2024 meeting minutes (8-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings regarding several special exceptions and conditional rezonings. The meeting includes a comprehensive plan review for Piney River Solar LLC and a vendor selection for FY2025 employee medical insurance.

• Comprehensive Plan Review: Piney River Solar LLC
• Special Exception 2023-369: Piney River Solar LLC
• Utility Scale Solar Siting Agreement - 2024-041
• Conditional Rezoning requests from South Amherst Investments LLC and Russell Nixon
• FY2025 Employee Medical Insurance Vendor Selection

The provided text is a presentation attachment regarding a proposed 50-megawatt solar project on a brownfield site. The document outlines project specifications, tax revenue estimates, and viewshed mitigation plans, but does not record any board decisions, votes, or official actions.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request from Alexis Fisher. The body will also discuss code changes for solar installations and accessory dwelling units.

• Public hearing: 2024-032 Alexis Fisher
• Accessory Dwelling Unit code change
• Solar code change

The Planning Commission denied a special exception request for a photography venue, wedding venue, and short-term rental. The commission also voted to amend the Solar Ordinance regarding special exceptions in the Agricultural District.

• Denied special exception request #2024-032 for photography venue, wedding venue, and short-term rental at 219 Phyllis Lea Drive (6-0)
• Approved amendment to Solar Ordinance to consider solar farms as a special exception in the Agricultural District with a maximum of 50 acres or a 10 megawatt site (6-0)
• Approved January 18, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

General

The board will discuss the status of Seminole Park construction and review the Facility/Field use policy. The meeting also includes reports on program participation, expenditures, and revenue.

• Status of Seminole Park Construction
• Review of Facility/Field use policy
• Suspension of basketball participants
• Program Expenditure and Revenue Report

Agricultural Committee

The Agricultural Committee will meet to discuss the vision, goals, and planning for the 2024 Amherst County Fair. The body will also review a fair budget proposal and discuss committee vacancies.

• 2024 County Fair planning
• Fair Budget Proposal
• Committee Vacancies

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting to review a study of the county's Fire and EMS services. The review covers organizational structure, training, budget, and service delivery, with potential revisions to the county ordinance and a possible name change. The board will discuss next steps after the review.

• Review of Amherst County Fire & EMS Study
• Potential revision to County Ordinance (Public Safety Section)
• Discussion of name change for Fire & EMS
• Development of SOG sub-group for training standards
• Discussion of annual audits and budget submissions

The Board discussed the Amherst County Fire & EMS Study and established next steps for the Emergency Services Council. The County Attorney was tasked with drafting revisions to County Code language.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Directed County Attorney to draft revision to County Code Language
• Directed Emergency Services Council to hire a consultant for Mission, Vision & Value Statement
• Directed Emergency Services Council to develop county-wide SOGs and Standards for Board adoption within six months

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is meeting for a budget workshop. The session focuses on prioritization and the evaluation of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) final draft.

• Outside Agency/Non-Profit Prioritization
• Supplemental Prioritization
• CIP Evaluation for Final Draft

The Board reached a consensus to include the External Providers sheet for outside organization funding requests in the Fiscal Year 2025 O&M Budget. Decisions on supplemental prioritization and the CIP evaluation were deferred until after the presentation of revenues and the operating budget.

• Accepted External Providers sheet for FY2025 O&M Budget (consensus)
• Deferred decision on FY2025 Supplemental Budget Request Worksheet (consensus)
• Deferred decision on CIP Evaluation for Final Draft (consensus)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet to review several revenue appropriations and a deed of gift for Ambler Farm. The meeting includes a closed session to receive legal advice regarding solar energy projects.

• Revenue appropriations for the Sheriff's Office and Social Services
• Appropriation for LiveScan purchase and FY 2023 per diem settle up at Blue Ridge Regional Jail
• Amherst Presbyterian Church parking
• Deed of Gift for Ambler Farm
• Legal consultation regarding solar energy projects

The Board of Supervisors approved several appropriations for the Blue Ridge Regional Jail and authorized the signing of a Deed of Gift for Ambler Farm. The Board also reappointed Ms. Hunt to the Economic Development Authority Board.

• Approved $14,415.02 for LiveScan system replacement at Blue Ridge Regional Jail
• Approved $47,608.00 for Blue Ridge Regional Jail FY 2023 per diem trueup
• Directed County Administrator to sign Ambler Farm Deed of Gift
• Reappointed Ms. Hunt to the Economic Development Authority Board for a four-year term
• Appointed Vice-Chair Claudia Tucker to the Medical Insurance RFP Evaluation Committee
• Authorized County Administrator to sign a letter regarding Amherst Presbyterian Church parking
• Approved appropriation of revenue for the Sheriff's Office and Social Services

Service Authority Board

The Board will discuss a survey and design proposal for the Gateway Project and a required discrimination grievance policy for EPA funding. Members will also consider a VDH planning grant for a unidirectional flushing program.

• Gateway Project Survey and Design Proposal
• Discrimination Grievance Policy for EPA funding
• VDH Planning Grant for Unidirectional Flushing Program
• ACSA Commemorative Resolution ACSA-2024-CR-1
• December 2023 Financial Report

The Board approved a professional engineering services proposal from Hurt & Proffitt for the Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project. Members also adopted a disability nondiscrimination policy to meet EPA funding requirements and authorized a grant application for a water flushing program.

• Approved engineering proposal from Hurt & Proffitt for Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project (4-0)
• Adopted amended Disability Nondiscrimination Plan and Policy (4-0)
• Authorized $38,000 VDH-ODW Planning Grant Application for Unidirectional Flushing Program (4-0)
• Approved Commemorative Resolution ACSA-2024-CR-1 honoring Francis L. Ford (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (4-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Rt. 29 Business Beautification Committee will meet to discuss available grant funding and review the budget. The committee is also reviewing a revised mini grant application and a Madison Heights community sign.

• Amended Mini Grant Application
• Madison Heights Community Sign
• Available Grant Funding discussion
• Budget Review

The Route 29 Business Beautification Committee approved its agenda and previous meeting minutes. The committee discussed the Madison Heights Community Sign design, reaching a consensus to review two mock designs at the next meeting. Staff reviewed budget items, including a pending mini-grant check, and discussed potential grant applications.

• Approved agenda (8-0)
• Approved January 3, 2024 minutes (6-0, Unrue and Brooks abstained)
• Approved October 24, 2023 minutes (7-0, McBride abstained)
• Consensus reached to review two mock designs for Madison Heights sign at next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (9-0)

Planning Commission

The Amherst County Planning Commission is meeting to consider proposed changes to the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) code and solar code, along with site plan updates. The meeting includes public comments and approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Change
• Solar Code Change
• Site Plan Review

The Planning Commission voted to have staff and the County Attorney refine proposed changes to the solar ordinance. The commission also reviewed staff recommendations for accessory dwelling unit code changes, which will be brought back for further review.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Directed staff to amend proposed solar ordinance and seek County Attorney review (6-0)
• Approved December 21, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors is holding a budget workshop to discuss and prioritize funding for outside agencies and non-profits, review supplemental prioritization, and evaluate the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for a final draft. No final decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion session.

• Discussion of outside agency and non-profit funding priorities
• Review of supplemental budget prioritization
• Evaluation of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for final draft

Board of Supervisors

The Amherst County Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings on Ordinance 2023-11 regarding SE Multifamily Dwellings and several special exceptions and conditional rezonings. The consent agenda includes the appropriation of revenue for the Sheriff's Office and Social Services, as well as the evaluation of a Medical Insurance RFP. The meeting also includes reports from the County Administrator and County Attorney.

• Public Hearing: Ordinance 2023-11 SE Multifamily Dwellings
• Public Hearing: Conditional Rezoning 2023-601 South Amherst Investments LLC
• Public Hearing: Conditional Rezoning 2023-559, 2023-561, and 2023-600 Russell Nixon
• Consent Agenda: Appropriation of Revenue - Sheriff's Office
• Consent Agenda: Appropriation of Revenue - Social Services

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Amherst County Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to discuss a potential code change for administrative variances and review training materials. The board will also set its 2024 meeting dates and approve minutes from a 2019 meeting. No public hearings or specific applications are listed.

• Discussion of code change for administrative variances
• Discussion on BZA training material
• Approval of 2024 meeting dates
• Approval of minutes for October 3, 2019

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved the 2024 meeting dates and the minutes from October 3, 2019. Members agreed to hold a special training meeting on May 9, 2024. No zoning variances or appeals were decided during the meeting.

• Approved 2024 meeting dates (3-0)
• Approved October 3, 2019 minutes (2-0)
• Consensus to hold special training meeting May 9, 2024

General

The Amherst County Emergency Services Council is meeting to elect 2024 officers, discuss a joint end-of-year banquet, and review progress on the fire training facility. The agenda includes approval of the October 2023 minutes and time for public comment.

• Election of 2024 officers
• Joint end-of-year banquet
• Fire training facility update
• Approval of October 11, 2023 meeting minutes

General

The Amherst County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Development Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear the administrator's report on participation and finances, and discuss updates on the department masterplan, a recreation specialist position, and Seminole Park construction. New business includes an open house, Easter Egg Hunt, and an athletic facility/fields use agreement.

• Department Masterplan Update
• Recreation Specialist Position Update
• Seminole Park Construction Update
• Athletic Facility/Fields Use Agreement
• Monthly Revenue and Expenditure report

Agricultural Committee

The committee will review minutes from the December 11, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes a report from the Fair Committee and a planning session regarding 2024 operations.

• Fair Committee Meeting
• 2024 Planning Session

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting to discuss a conservation easement. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Consideration of a conservation easement

The Board of Supervisors met for a special meeting and authorized the County Administrator to accept and sign a conservation easement. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Authorized County Administrator to accept and sign conservation easement (3-0)
• Amended agenda to include Citizen Comment (3-0)

General

The committee is meeting to discuss goals and new ideas for 2024. Members will review the budget and approve the meeting schedule for the upcoming year.

• Approval of 2024 meeting dates
• Budget review
• Discussion of 2024 goals and new ideas
• Review of most recent planting date

The committee approved the 2024 meeting schedule and the minutes from October 24, 2023. Members discussed planting methods, 2024 goals for mini-grant promotion, and the A+ Improvement Award process.

• Approved the meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved October 24, 2023 meeting minutes with one change (6-0)
• Approved 2024 meeting dates (7-0)

Service Authority Board

The Amherst County Service Authority Board is meeting for a planning session to discuss 2024 priorities, followed by a citizen comment period. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• 2024 ACSA Board Planning Session
• Citizen Concerns / Comments

The Board held a planning session to review the draft SOAR (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations-Results) plan. Members proposed additions to the plan regarding financial master planning and alignment with County growth objectives. No formal votes were taken on the plan; it will be presented for authorization at a future regular session.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Recommended adding 'Meet current and future demands, as they align with County objectives' to SOAR Aspirations
• Added Financial Master Planning to SOAR Results

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet for a budget workshop. The discussion will focus on the FY25 Supplemental Budget and the FY25 Capital Improvement Plan.

• FY25 Supplemental Budget Workshop
• FY25 Capital Improvement Plan

The provided document contains a detailed list of capital project requests and a funding summary for the FY 2025-2029 cycle. The records list estimated costs and justifications for various infrastructure, public safety, and maintenance projects. No votes or final approval decisions are recorded in the provided text.

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will elect officers, appoint liaisons, and adopt rules of procedure for 2024. The body will also consider a first reading of an ordinance regarding multifamily dwellings and discuss additional positions for the Sheriff's Office.

• Ordinance 2023-11 SE Multifamily Dwellings (First Read)
• Appropriation of additional library grant funds
• Sheriff's Office additional positions
• Election of officers and appointment of liaisons for 2024

The provided document is a set of Rules of Procedure for the Amherst County Board of Supervisors dated January 2024. It outlines the protocols for organizational meetings, regular and special sessions, citizen comments, and formal board actions. No specific meeting minutes or decisions from a January 2, 2024, session are recorded in this text.

Service Authority Board

The Board will elect a Chair and Vice-Chair, appoint a Treasurer, and set the 2024 meeting schedule. Members will also address action items regarding the Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project, LEAP funding, and the Strategic Plan.

• Election of 2024 Board Chair and Vice-Chair
• Appointment of 2024 Treasurer
• Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project
• LEAP Funding
• Strategic Plan

The Board re-elected its leadership, adopted a 2024 Strategic Plan, and approved the schedule for regular monthly meetings. The Board also authorized the Executive Director to pursue engineering for the Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project and accept VDH funding for a lead service line inventory.

• Re-elected Edgar J.T. Perrow, Jr. as Chair and Wesley Woods as Vice-Chair (4-0)
• Appointed the current Amherst County Treasurer as ACSA Treasurer
• Scheduled regular meetings for the first Tuesday of each month at 1:30 pm (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2024-A-001-R regarding Code of Ethics and Rules of Procedure (4-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to obtain engineering survey and design for Gateway Sanitary Sewer Project (4-0)
• Authorized Executive Director to accept VDH funding for Lead Service Line Inventory Project (4-0)
• Approved 2024 Strategic Plan (4-0)
• Approved December 5, 2023 minutes and November 2023 Financial Report (4-0)