Bedford public meetings in 2021

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting with a public hearing and votes on amending the FY2021-2022 budget with supplemental appropriations. They will also receive a VDOT update on a turning lane at Longwood and Independence, and may enter closed session to discuss real property acquisition or disposition.

• Public hearing and ordinance to amend FY2021-2022 budget with supplemental appropriation (items 1-FIN-2-41-12-14 and 3-FIN-2-41-12-14)
• VDOT update on turning lane at Longwood and Independence (item 2-ST-7-1-12-14)
• Closed session for real property acquisition or disposition under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(a)(3)
• Service awards presentation

The Town Council unanimously approved an ordinance amending the FY 2021-2022 budget to appropriate $3,422,249 in federal Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The council also held a public hearing on the amendment, with no public comments, and entered closed session to discuss filling a council vacancy. Additionally, the council recognized retiring Assistant Town Manager Sonia Jammes and honored former Mayor Steve Rush with a resolution.

• Approved Ordinance 21-08 amending FY 2021-2022 budget with $3,422,249 supplemental appropriation (6-0)
• Held public hearing on budget amendment; no public comments
• Entered closed session to discuss filling council vacancy and real property acquisition
• Adopted resolution honoring former Mayor Steve Rush
• Presented service awards to 12 employees

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is holding its annual meeting to elect officers and approve minutes. They will hear a hotel study presentation, discuss the Community Business Launch Grant and The Gauntlet, and consider incentive requests for 620 Railroad Development and Tharp Funeral Home. A closed session is scheduled to discuss real property acquisition or disposition.

• Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary
• Hotel Study Presentation by David Parker, DPC Hospitality
• Community Business Launch Grant and The Gauntlet with Annette Patterson
• Incentive Requests for 620 Railroad Development and Tharp Funeral Home
• Closed session for real property acquisition/disposition discussion

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved two real property improvement incentives: $5,000 to 620 Railroad, LLC for roof work at 620 Railroad Avenue and $10,000 to Tharp Funeral Home, Inc. for improvements at 320 North Bridge Street. Both votes were 6-0. The board also elected officers, heard a hotel feasibility study presentation, and entered closed session to discuss property acquisition.

• Approved $5,000 incentive to 620 Railroad, LLC (6-0)
• Approved $10,000 incentive to Tharp Funeral Home, Inc. (6-0)
• Elected Jonathan Buttram as Chairman (6-0)
• Elected David Sensenig as Vice-Chairman (6-0)
• Elected future Finance Director as Treasurer (6-0)
• Elected Cathy Johnson as Secretary (6-0)
• Approved November 12, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Entered closed session for property acquisition discussion (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council is reviewing a resolution to authorize the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the Bedford Regional Water Authority. The proposed agreement would provide up to $4,500,000 for the construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of water and sewer facilities.

• Resolution authorizing a Grant Subrecipient Agreement with Bedford Regional Water Authority
• Allocation of up to $4,500,000 in ARPA funds for water and sewer infrastructure
• Proposed award of employee bonuses (item 2-CC-15-1-11-23)
• Closed session regarding the acquisition or disposition of real property

The Town Council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution authorizing the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for water and sewer projects with the Bedford Regional Water Authority (BRWA), as captured in the proposed Grant Subrecipient Agreement. The Council also voted unanimously to award a $500 bonus to each full-time and part-time Town employee, funded entirely by salary lapse from ten open positions. The Council entered two closed sessions, one for real property acquisition/disposition and one for contract award discussion, and certified both sessions as lawful.

• Adopted resolution authorizing ARPA funds for BRWA water/sewer projects (7-0).
• Awarded $500 bonus to each full-time and part-time employee, excluding temporary staff (7-0).
• Entered closed session for real property acquisition/disposition (7-0).
• Certified the closed session as lawful (7-0).
• Entered closed session for contract award discussion (7-0).
• Certified the closed session as lawful (7-0).

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is meeting to approve minutes, hear staff and attorney reports, and discuss new business. Key items include an incentive request from Sycamore Development and a letter of support for a CRISI grant for the Bedford Rail Station by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.

• Incentive request discussion – Sycamore Development
• Letter of support for Bedford Rail Station CRISI Grant by Virginia Passenger Rail Authority
• Approval of October 15, 2021 and November 3, 2021 minutes

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved the October 15 and November 3, 2021 minutes (both 5-0), with the latter corrected to remove a closed-session code reference. Members discussed the Sycamore Development incentive request, agreeing to require receipts and have the developer submit a formal application for roof reimbursement. They also reviewed a letter supporting a new passenger rail station in Bedford, which was to be sent to the Secretary of Transportation. No formal votes were taken on these discussion items.

• Approved October 15, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Approved November 3, 2021 minutes as corrected (5-0)
• Discussed Sycamore Development incentive request; agreed to require receipts and formal application for roof reimbursement
• Reviewed and planned to send letter of support for new passenger rail station in Bedford

Town Council

The Town Council will review the FY2021 Audit Report presented by Brown Edwards and Company. The Council will also consider a resolution to cancel the second scheduled council meeting on December 28, 2021.

• Presentation of FY2021 Audit Report by Brown Edwards and Company
• Resolution to cancel the December 28, 2021, Town Council meeting
• Presentation regarding Law Enforcement Building, Parking Garage and Farmer’s Market

The Town Council voted unanimously to cancel its December 28, 2021 meeting due to the Christmas holiday. Council also heard presentations on a proposed police station, parking garage, and farmers' market improvements, with cost estimates of $9-10 million for the police building and $3.75 million for the parking structure, but took no action. Discussion on staff Christmas bonuses was deferred until the next meeting pending cost figures.

• Approved resolution canceling Dec. 28, 2021 Council meeting (7-0)
• Heard FY2021 audit report: clean opinion, no issues
• Heard police building presentation: $9-10M estimated cost, no action
• Heard parking garage presentation: $3.75M estimated cost, no action
• Heard farmers' market improvement estimates: $50K-$200K, no action
• Deferred staff Christmas bonus discussion to next meeting

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority convened a special meeting on November 3, 2021. The agenda focused on a closed session to discuss the acquisition or disposition of real property and a prospective industry.

• Closed session regarding real property acquisition or disposition
• Closed session regarding a prospective industry

The Bedford Economic Development Authority held a called meeting and entered closed session to discuss acquiring or disposing of real property. After reconvening, the board voted 7-0 to authorize the Chair or Vice-Chair to execute a purchase agreement once all referenced attachments are received and insurance is included. No other substantive decisions were made; other business was deferred to the regular meeting on November 12, 2021.

• Entered closed session under Va. Code 2.2-3711(a)(3) for real property discussion (7-0)
• Exited closed session (7-0)
• Certified closed session compliance (7-0)
• Authorized Chair or Vice-Chair to execute purchase agreement upon receipt of attachments and insurance (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing and consider several budget amendments, including rolling over $1,197,546.99 in unspent FY2021 funds and re-appropriating $1,046,771.61 in outstanding purchase orders into the FY2022 budget. The council will also vote on appropriations for a transformer replacement, housing authority funding, and a resolution for the Hilltop housing grant.

• Rollover of $1,197,546.99 for incomplete projects as of June 30, 2021
• Re-appropriation of $1,046,771.61 in outstanding FY2021 purchase orders
• Increase Centerville transformer replacement budget from $150,000 to $320,000
• Appropriate $50,000 to Redevelopment and Housing Authority
• Adopt resolution for Hilltop Community Revitalization Project housing grant ($921,983)

The Bedford Town Council approved the rollover of $1,197,546.99 in unspent FY2021 funds and the re-appropriation of $1,046,771.61 in outstanding purchase orders into the FY2022 budget, both by unanimous votes. Council also increased funding for the Centerville transformer replacement from $150,000 to $320,000, appropriated $43,115.19 to the Housing Authority, and approved documents for the Hilltop Community Revitalization Project grant. Two new police officers were sworn in.

• Approved $1,197,546.99 FY2021 fund rollover and re-appropriation (7-0)
• Approved $1,046,771.61 re-appropriation of outstanding purchase orders (7-0)
• Increased Centerville transformer replacement budget from $150,000 to $320,000 (7-0)
• Appropriated $43,115.19 to the Bedford Housing Authority (7-0)
• Approved resolution for Hilltop Community Revitalization Project grant documents (7-0)
• Swore in new police officers William Heath and Travis Thomas

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is holding its regular monthly meeting, rescheduled from October 8. The board will approve the September minutes, hear reports from staff and the attorney, and discuss a new business item involving an incentive request. The meeting will also include a closed session to discuss real property acquisition or disposition and a prospective industry that has not yet been publicly announced.

• Approval of September 10, 2021 minutes
• Incentive request discussion
• Closed session for real property acquisition/disposition
• Closed session for prospective industry discussion
• Next meeting scheduled for November 12, 2021

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved the September 10, 2021 minutes with a correction to read "Letter of Intent" (4-0). The board heard public comments from Kenneth Parker of the Bedford Boys Tribute Center and an update from Bedford County Economic Development Director Pam Bailey. The board entered closed session under Virginia code sections for real property acquisition and prospective industry discussion, then certified the session. No incentive request was voted on; it was moved to the November 12 meeting, and a special meeting was set for November 3, 2021.

• Approved September 10, 2021 minutes with correction (4-0)
• Entered closed session under Va. Code 2.2-3711(a)(3) and (a)(5) (4-0)
• Certified closed session complied with Va. Code 2.2-3712 (4-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for November 3, 2021 at 1:00 pm
• Moved incentive request discussion to November 12, 2021 meeting

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider a request to close South Bridge Street on December 4, 2021, from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting in Centertown. The event, hosted by Jonathan Hayden, will include live music, vendors, food, and kids' activities. The council will also receive updates from the Central Virginia Planning District Commission and an introduction of the Bedford County Public Schools superintendent.

• Request to close South Bridge Street for Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 4, 2021, 1:30-6:00 p.m.
• Update on activities from Central Virginia Planning District Commission
• Introduction of Superintendent of Bedford County Public Schools

The Bedford Town Council approved a request to close South Bridge Street from Washington Street to Main Street on December 4, 2021, from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting in Centertown. The motion carried unanimously with six members voting aye. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included reports and presentations from the CVPDC and the new school superintendent.

• Approved South Bridge Street closure for Christmas tree lighting (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a conditional use permit for an open-air market at 980 Orange Street (Wrays Body Shop). The consent agenda includes appointments to the Redevelopment and Housing Authority and Economic Development Authority, plus requests to close streets for the YMCA's Peaks Otter Christmas Classic foot race and a Chamber of Commerce event. The meeting also includes routine administrative items such as minutes approval and reports.

• Conditional use permit for open-air market at 980 Orange Street (Wrays Body Shop) – public hearing and roll-call vote
• Appointment to Redevelopment and Housing Authority
• Appointment to Economic Development Authority
• Street closure request for YMCA's Peaks Otter Christmas Classic foot race
• Street closure request for Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce

The Bedford Town Council approved allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for infrastructure projects, including water line extension, sewer improvements, a water tank replacement, and broadband upgrades. The council also granted a conditional use permit for an open-air market at 980 Orange Street, with conditions including operation only on Saturdays and Sundays. Several street closures for community events were approved, and two board reappointments were made.

• Approved ARPA fund allocation: up to $500K for Belltown/Draper water line, $2M for Town & Country sewer, $2M for Helm Street water tank, $100K for broadband (7-0)
• Granted conditional use permit for Open Air Market at 980 Orange Street, operating Saturdays and Sundays only, April-October, 8am-2pm, max 38 vendors (7-0)
• Approved street closures for YMCA Peaks Otter Christmas Classic Foot Race on Dec 4, 2021, 7:30am-11am (7-0)
• Approved amended street closure for Chamber of Commerce history walk on Oct 29, 2021, 6pm-8pm, N. Bridge Street from Main to public parking lot (6-1)
• Reappointed Ann Duncan to Redevelopment and Housing Authority, term to Oct 13, 2025 (7-0)
• Reappointed Jonathan Buttram to Economic Development Authority, term to Nov 30, 2025 (7-0)

Town Council

The meeting includes a work session regarding American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. The agenda also contains standard administrative items, public hearings, and consent agenda matters.

• Work Session – ARPA Funding

The Town Council held a work session to discuss ARPA funding for water and sewer projects. Consensus was reached to commit funds to the Helm Street tank, Town and Country, and Belltown Road projects, with a formal vote to be added to the next regular meeting. The Booster Station project was deferred pending potential County participation, and no formal decisions were made during this work session.

• Consensus to commit ARPA funds to Helm Street, Town and Country, and Belltown Road projects (vote to be added to next regular meeting)
• Deferred Booster Station project pending County funding discussion
• Discussed potential $500,000 contribution to Booster Station, contingent on County match
• Noted $100,000 discussed for broadband expansion with Shentel

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is meeting to consider several action items, including two street closure requests for community events, the installation of Phase II gateway signs, and a memorial designation at Liberty Lake Park. The agenda also includes routine administrative items such as approval of minutes and committee reports.

• Street closure for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade on Oct 14, 2021, on College, Peaks, Bridge, and Main Streets
• Street closure for Box Car Derby on Oct 1, 2022, on South Bridge Street from Centertown Clock to Bedford County School Board office
• Phase II Gateway Sign installation at secondary entrances on Routes 122, 221, and 43, estimated $1,600 per sign plus $2,500 for brick bases
• Designation of press box at Liberty Lake Park as 'Ed Wennerstrom Memorial Press Box'
• Adjournment for Conflict of Interest training on Sept 21, 2021

The Bedford Town Council approved the installation of Phase II gateway signs at secondary entrances, with a mix of brick and post bases, at an estimated cost of $20,000 from existing funds. It also approved street closures for the Liberty High School Homecoming Parade and a Box Car Derby, and designated the press box at Liberty Lake Park as the 'Ed Wennerstrom Memorial Press Box.' All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved Phase II gateway sign installation (7-0)
• Approved street closures for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade (7-0)
• Approved street closures for Box Car Derby on Oct 1, 2022 (7-0)
• Designated press box as 'Ed Wennerstrom Memorial Press Box' (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting with administrative items, public hearings, and a consent agenda. They will vote on closing streets for the Liberty High School Homecoming Parade and the Box Car Derby, and consider installing a Phase II Gateway Sign and a memorial to Ed Wennerstrom at Liberty Lake Park. The meeting will adjourn early for conflict of interest training on September 21.

• Request to close streets for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade
• Request to close street for Box Car Derby
• Phase II Gateway Sign installation (roll call vote)
• Memorial to Ed Wennerstrom at Liberty Lake Park (roll call vote)

The Bedford Town Council approved three items: the installation of Phase II Gateway Signs at specific locations with pole or brick bases, street closures for Liberty High School's Homecoming Parade on October 14, 2021, and a Box Car Derby on October 1, 2022. The Council also designated the press box at Liberty Lake Park as the 'Ed Wennerstrom Memorial Press Box.' All motions passed unanimously with seven aye votes.

• Approved Phase II Gateway Sign installation at specific locations with pole or brick bases (7-0)
• Approved street closures for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade on Oct 14, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved street closure for Box Car Derby on Oct 1, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (7-0)
• Designated press box at Liberty Lake Park as 'Ed Wennerstrom Memorial Press Box' (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is holding its regular meeting with a routine agenda: approving minutes, hearing reports, and discussing new and unfinished business. The most notable item is a closed session to discuss real property acquisition/disposition and a prospective industry, which are exempt from open meeting requirements.

• Approval of July 9, 2021 minutes
• Closed session under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(a)(3) for real property acquisition/disposition
• Closed session under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(a)(5) for prospective industry discussion
• Discussion of next meeting date (staff out October 8, 2021)

The Bedford Economic Development Authority met on September 10, 2021, and approved the August minutes. They heard a presentation from DPC Hospitality about a proposed hotel study, which is required by the Tobacco Commission. The board entered closed session to discuss real property acquisition and a prospective industry, then voted unanimously to authorize the chairman or vice chairman to sign a Letter of Intent related to the closed-session matter. The next meeting was rescheduled to October 15, 2021.

• Approved August 13, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Entered closed session for real property and prospective industry discussions (7-0)
• Exited closed session (7-0)
• Certified closed session complied with Virginia law (7-0)
• Authorized Chairman or Vice Chairman to sign Letter of Intent (7-0)
• Rescheduled next meeting to October 15, 2021

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider a conditional use permit for a multifamily and single-family residential development. The meeting also includes a resolution regarding the Hilltop Community Revitalization Project housing grant.

• Conditional Use Permit for multifamily and R-3 single-family development in a PRD Zoning District
• Resolution for CDBG 'Hilltop Community Revitalization Project' Housing Grant
• Appointment of member to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals

The Bedford Town Council denied a conditional use permit for the Governor's Hill multifamily residential development after motions to approve it with either two access roads or one road plus emergency access failed. The council also approved a resolution accepting a $921,983 CDBG housing grant for the Hilltop Community Revitalization Project, which includes rehabilitating 11 houses and adopting required policies. Additionally, the council appointed Matt Holmstrom to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals and discussed a request for a Liberty High School homecoming parade, deferring formal approval to the next meeting.

• Denied CUP for Governor's Hill multifamily development (4-3)
• Approved CDBG housing grant resolution for Hilltop project (7-0)
• Appointed Matt Holmstrom to Local Board of Building Code Appeals (7-0)
• Tabled Governor's Hill CUP item, then withdrew previous motion
• Deferred Liberty High School parade approval to next meeting

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting, which includes public hearings, a consent agenda, and a closed session. The main actionable items are requests to close streets for two upcoming community events. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• Request to close streets for the 39th Annual Bedford Centerfest
• Request to close streets for the Bedford Christmas Parade
• Closed session for real property acquisition or disposition
• Appearances before Council and committee reports

The Bedford Town Council approved street closures for the 39th Annual Bedford Centerfest on September 18, 2021, and the Bedford Christmas Parade on December 4, 2021, both by unanimous 7-0 votes. The Council also permitted Boys With A Dream to hold a wreath dedication event at the park on Bridge and Main Streets on September 25, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports, comments, and a closed session for real property discussion.

• Approved street closures for Bedford Centerfest on Sept. 18, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved street closures for Bedford Christmas Parade on Dec. 4, 2021 (7-0)
• Permitted Boys With A Dream wreath dedication event at Bridge and Main Streets park (voice vote)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting with administrative items, public hearings, and consent agenda. Two roll-call actions are scheduled: appointing a Town Attorney and adopting an Equal Opportunity Employer Statement. The agenda is otherwise standard procedural business.

• Appointment of Town Attorney (roll call)
• Adoption of Town of Bedford Equal Opportunity Employer Statement (roll call)
• Public hearings and consent agenda items listed
• Live stream available via town website

The Bedford Town Council unanimously appointed Michael Lockaby as the new Town Attorney and approved an updated Equal Opportunity Employer Statement. The meeting also included reports on ongoing infrastructure projects, recognition of police officers for an arrest, and a proclamation for National Night Out. No public hearings or other substantive decisions were held.

• Appointed Michael Lockaby as Town Attorney (7-0)
• Approved updated Equal Opportunity Employer Statement (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular July 13, 2021 meeting, covering routine administrative items, public hearings, and a closed session to discuss personnel matters. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items detailed in the public agenda text.

• Approval of minutes
• Town manager report
• Public hearings
• Closed session under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(a)(1) for personnel matters

The Bedford Town Council met on July 13, 2021, and approved the minutes from June 8 and June 22. The only substantive action was entering a closed session to discuss personnel matters, which was approved unanimously and lasted from 7:03 p.m. to 9:07 p.m. After reconvening, the Council unanimously adopted a resolution certifying the closed session complied with Virginia law. No other business was conducted.

• Approved minutes of June 8 and June 22, 2021 meetings
• Unanimously voted to enter closed session for personnel matters
• Unanimously adopted resolution certifying closed session compliance

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear staff and attorney reports, and consider electric infrastructure incentives and incentive requests. The board will also enter a closed session to discuss real property acquisition or disposition and a prospective industry, per Virginia code. The next joint meeting with the County EDA is scheduled for July 15.

• Approval of May 14, 2021 minutes
• Electric Infrastructure Incentives presentation by John Wagner, Electric Dept. Director
• Incentive requests under new business
• Closed session under Va. Code 2.2-3711(a)(3) for real property acquisition/disposition and (a)(5) for prospective industry
• Joint meeting with County EDA on July 15 at County Administration Building, 122 E Main Street

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved two incentive payments to Compari, Inc. for improvements to the Magic Ice Cream property at 345 East Main Street: $2,658.46 for a facade and signage incentive (50% of $5,316.91 in eligible costs) and $2,735.15 for a real property incentive (10% of $27,351.52 in eligible costs). Both motions passed 7-0. The board also entered closed session to discuss real property acquisition and a prospective industry, and certified the session afterward.

• Approved $2,658.46 facade and signage incentive to Compari, Inc. for Magic Ice Cream (7-0).
• Approved $2,735.15 real property incentive to Compari, Inc. for Magic Ice Cream (7-0).
• Approved minutes of the July 9, 2021 meeting as presented (7-0).
• Entered closed session under Virginia Code sections 2.2-3711(a)(3) and (a)(5) (7-0).
• Certified the closed session as compliant with Virginia Code section 2.2-3712 (7-0).
• Agreed to include the electric rate benefit in the Strategic Plan after discussion with Electric Department Director John Wagner.
• Decided to ask Ryan Kirkpatrick to join the Revolving Loan Fund Committee, pending his conflict-of-interest review.
• Noted a joint Town-County EDA meeting scheduled for July 15, 2021, to discuss a business-class hotel.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting with public hearings and votes on three land-use items: two conditional use permits (an office/parking area and a multifamily residential development) and proposed zoning ordinance changes. The agenda also includes routine administrative items like minutes approval and council comments.

• Public hearing: Conditional use permit for office and parking area in PRD/TNO zoning district
• Public hearing: Conditional use permit for multifamily residential and R-3 single-family standards in PRD district
• Public hearing: Proposed zoning ordinance changes
• Roll-call resolution on office/parking conditional use permit
• Roll-call resolution on multifamily residential conditional use permit

Town Council tabled a conditional use permit request for a 213-unit mixed residential development at Crest Ridge Drive and Emerald View Court after extensive public comment and discussion, voting 4-3 to postpone action. Council approved a conditional use permit for an office building and parking at 706 Burks Hill Road (7-0) and adopted Ordinance 21-7 amending zoning regulations for open air markets, amphitheaters, mini-storage, and other uses (7-0).

• Tabled CUP for 213-unit multifamily/single-family development at Crest Ridge Drive (4-3)
• Approved CUP for office building and parking at 706 Burks Hill Road (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 21-7 amending zoning regulations for open air markets, amphitheaters, mini-storage, and site plans (7-0)
• Entered closed session for personnel matter and certified compliance (7-0)
• Honored retiring Town Attorney William W. Berry IV with a resolution

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with administrative items, a public hearing, and a consent agenda. Key items include appointing a member to the Planning Commission and discussing improvements to the Forks intersection. The meeting will also enter a closed session for personnel matters.

• Appointment of member to Planning Commission
• Discussion of Forks Intersection Improvements
• Closed session for personnel matters per Virginia code

The Town Council approved the appointment of Brock Malcolm to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission with a term expiring March 31, 2025. The council also discussed the possibility of pursuing a roundabout at the Forks intersection through VDOT's SMARTSCALE program, with a decision expected by August 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a closed session for personnel matters.

• Appointed Brock Malcolm to Planning Commission, term to expire March 31, 2025 (6-0)
• Discussed Forks intersection improvements, including roundabout option, with no formal action taken
• Entered closed session for personnel matters (6-0)
• Adopted certification resolution for closed session (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting to consider the proposed budget for fiscal year 2021-2022, including a proposed tax increase. The council will also vote on ordinances setting real estate and personal property tax rates, a resolution on tax relief, and the adoption and appropriation of the budget. Additionally, the council will consider authorizing the sale of property on South Street.

• Proposed budget for FY 2021-2022
• Proposed tax increase for FY 2021-2022
• Ordinance establishing real estate tax rate for FY 2021-2022
• Ordinance establishing personal property tax rate for calendar year 2021
• Authorizing sale of property on South Street

The Bedford Town Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budget, including a $250,000 payment toward the electric department's debt, by a 6-1 vote. The Council also approved the real estate tax rate of $0.31 per $100 of assessed valuation, the personal property tax rate of $1.06 per $100, and a resolution providing 100% personal property tax relief on qualifying vehicles valued up to $20,000. Additionally, the Council authorized the sale of two town-owned parcels on South Street and discussed but did not vote on revisions to the procurement policy.

• Adopted FY2021-22 budget with $250K electric debt payment (6-1)
• Adopted real estate tax rate of $0.31 per $100 assessed valuation (7-0)
• Adopted personal property tax rate of $1.06 per $100 assessed value (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 100% PPTRA relief on vehicles up to $20,000 (7-0)
• Appropriated funds per FY2021-22 budget (6-0, 1 absent)
• Authorized sale of Tax Parcels 214 A 132 T and 214 A 133 T on South Street (6-0, 1 absent)

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is meeting to discuss and potentially act on several economic development items, including real property improvement incentives, infrastructure incentives, and the revolving loan fund. They will also consider adopting the strategic plan and may enter a closed session to discuss real property acquisition and a prospective industry.

• Real Property Improvement Incentive discussion
• Infrastructure Incentives discussion
• Revolving Loan Fund Committee
• Consideration of Adoption of the Strategic Plan
• Closed session for real property acquisition and prospective industry

The Economic Development Authority approved a $5,000 real property improvement incentive to The Ridge Bedford LLC for renovations at 590 Blue Ridge Avenue, totaling over $2 million. The Authority also adopted the Strategic Plan as written, discussed infrastructure incentives for the Town Electric Department, and entered closed session for real property and prospective industry discussions. All votes were 4-0.

• Approved $5,000 incentive to The Ridge Bedford LLC for 590 Blue Ridge Ave improvements (4-0)
• Adopted Strategic Plan as written (4-0)
• Approved April 9, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Entered closed session for real property and prospective industry discussions (4-0)
• Certified closed session as lawful (4-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with administrative items, public hearings, and a consent agenda. The main new business items are three roll-call votes: a resolution for Business Appreciation Month, an ordinance readopting traffic laws, and a change to the ordinance on hunting within town limits with bows and arrows or crossbows.

• Resolution – Business Appreciation Month (roll call)
• Ordinance - Readopting and Reenacting Code Provisions Dealing with Traffic Laws (roll call)
• Change in Ordinance – Hunting within Town limits with Bows and Arrows or Crossbows (roll call)

The Bedford Town Council adopted three ordinances and made several appointments. The most substantive action was re-enacting the town's bow and arrow hunting ordinance (No. 21-3) to align with state regulations, including new urban archery season rules and permit requirements. Council also readopted traffic law provisions (No. 21-2), declared May as Business Appreciation Month, approved a temporary road closure for a Liberty High School parade, and appointed two members to the Economic Development Authority. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Adopted Ordinance 21-3 restricting bow/crossbow use and establishing urban archery deer management program (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 21-2 readopting state traffic laws into town code (7-0)
• Adopted resolution declaring May 2021 as Business Appreciation Month (7-0)
• Granted temporary road closure permit for Liberty High School Parade of Grads on May 27, 2021 (7-0)
• Appointed Michelle Crumpacker to Economic Development Authority through Nov 30, 2025 (7-0)
• Appointed Elizabeth Melton Brown to Economic Development Authority through Nov 30, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved minutes from April 17 and April 27, 2021 meetings
• Authorized flags at half-mast May 21-31, 2021 for PFC Bobbie Ray Daniels

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will review a resolution regarding a conditional use permit for private utility solar panels. The meeting also includes budget discussions and reports from the Town Manager.

• Conditional Use Permit for solar panels by Old Yellow LLC

The Bedford Town Council approved a Conditional Use Permit for Old Yellow LLC to install rooftop solar panels on the former Bedford Middle School at 503 Longwood Avenue, despite prior tabling. The council also approved a $5.00 increase in residential solid waste rates, funded several outside agencies, and discussed budget items including a Chamber of Commerce lease and gateway signage.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for rooftop solar panels at 503 Longwood Avenue (7-0)
• Approved $5.00 increase in residential solid waste rates (7-0)
• Approved $3,000 to Bedford Boys Tribute Center, $3,000 to Bedford Museum, $9,000 to Bower Center, $3,000 to Wharton Garden (7-0)
• Discontinued use of Hill Studio for gateway signs (7-0)
• Consensus to continue month-to-month Chamber of Commerce lease until December, with new lease starting January 1, 2022
• Consensus to engage firms under contract for Liberty Lake Park design and engineering
• Consensus to hold strategic planning meetings in June for Phase II boundary adjustment
• Consensus to have Town Manager approach County about joint dog park project

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held public hearings and voted on several land-use items. It tabled a decision on a conditional use permit for rooftop solar panels at the former Bedford Middle School (503 Longwood Avenue) until a glare analysis is completed. The Council also approved a rezoning of a vacant lot on Railroad Avenue from M-1 to CNW to support a mixed-use redevelopment project, and considered conditional use permits for residential use on street levels at 625, 620, and 694 Railroad Avenue.

• Tabled conditional use permit for rooftop solar array at 503 Longwood Avenue (Old Yellow, LLC) pending glare analysis
• Approved Ordinance 21-1 rezoning Tax Parcel 195-5-1-10-T (Railroad Avenue at F Street) from M-1 to CNW
• Public hearing for conditional use permit for residential use at 625 Railroad Avenue (625 Railroad, LLC)
• Public hearing for conditional use permit for residential use at 620 and 694 Railroad Avenue (620 Railroad LLC)
• Public hearing for RFP submissions for new parking deck, police station, and farmers' market

The Town Council approved a rezoning of a vacant lot on Railroad Avenue from M-1 to CNW, and granted conditional use permits for front street level residential use at 625, 620, and 694 Railroad Avenue, all as part of a mixed-use redevelopment plan. The Council tabled a decision on a rooftop solar array permit for 503 Longwood Avenue until a glare analysis is completed. The Council also approved a contract with Wiley/Wilson for assessments and concept designs for a parking deck, police station, and farmers' market, and authorized the purchase of a 7.0-acre tract on Orange Street for $50,000.

• Rezoned Tax Parcel 195-5-1-10-T from M-1 to CNW (7-0)
• Granted conditional use permit for front street level residential at 625 Railroad Avenue (7-0)
• Granted conditional use permit for front street level residential at 620 and 694 Railroad Avenue (7-0)
• Tabled solar array conditional use permit for 503 Longwood Avenue pending glare analysis (7-0)
• Approved Project Advisory Committee selection of Wiley/Wilson for parking deck, police station, and farmers' market assessments (7-0)
• Authorized purchase of 7.0-acre Orange Street tract for $50,000 (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is meeting to approve minutes, hear staff and attorney reports, and discuss a draft strategic plan. The board will also enter closed sessions to discuss real property acquisition or disposition and a prospective industry, both permitted under Virginia law. The next meeting is scheduled for May 14, 2021.

• Approval of March 12, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of draft strategic plan
• Closed session for real property acquisition or disposition (VA Code 2.2-3711(a)(3))
• Closed session for prospective industry discussion (VA Code 2.2-3711(a)(5))

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved a $5,000 incentive to Central Virginia Manufacturing (NZO, LLC) for purchasing and installing new machinery, with no performance agreement attached. The board also approved the March 12, 2021 minutes and entered closed session to discuss real property acquisition and a prospective industry. No other substantive decisions were made; the Strategic Plan discussion was continued to the next meeting.

• Approved $5,000 incentive to Central Virginia Manufacturing (4-0)
• Approved March 12, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Entered closed session for real property and prospective industry discussions (4-0)
• Certified closed session as lawful (4-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with administrative items, a public hearing, and a consent agenda. The main substantive action is a resolution to adopt the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan update, presented as new business. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• Resolution – Adoption of Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan (roll call)
• Presentation – Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Appointment of Members – Local Board of Building Code Appeals (LBBCA)
• Public Hearings
• Consent Agenda (roll call)

The Town Council adopted the Central Virginia Planning District Commission Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2020 Update, a five-year plan to reduce risks from natural disasters, and approved a resolution to amend the Section 125 Flexible Benefits Plan for employees, effective July 1, 2021. The council also reappointed two members and appointed one new member to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals, and entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

• Adopted the Central Virginia Planning District Commission Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2020 Update.
• Adopted the Section 125 Flexible Benefits Plan resolution, amending the plan effective July 1, 2021.
• Reappointed Jonathan Buttram and Wesley Crowder to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals for 2-year terms expiring April 20, 2023.
• Appointed Jeffrey Witt to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals for a 2-year term expiring April 20, 2023.
• Approved the minutes of the March 9, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Added two items to the agenda: the Section 125 resolution and a closed session on personnel matters.
• Entered closed session to discuss personnel matters and certified the closed session as lawful.
• Scheduled the budget retreat for April 17, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. in Council Hall.

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes, staff and attorney reports, and new business on incentives requests, plus unfinished business on a draft strategic plan discussion. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Approval of February 19, 2021 minutes
• Incentives requests under new business
• Draft strategic plan discussion under unfinished business
• Next meeting scheduled for April 9, 2021

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved a $3,000 Downtown Façade and Signage incentive for Stan Bennett's property at 105-107 South Bridge Street, and approved up to $5,000 in matching funds for street trees at 212 E. Washington Street. The board also discussed potential incentives for the Westgate Shopping Center and entered closed session for real estate and prospective industry discussions.

• Approved $3,000 facade/signage incentive for 105-107 South Bridge Street (4-0)
• Approved up to $5,000 matching funds for street trees at 212 E. Washington Street (4-0)
• Approved February 19, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Entered closed session for real property, prospective industry, and legal consultation (4-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will review and consider a resolution regarding Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. The meeting also includes a public hearing related to these funds.

• Public hearing for DHCD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds
• Resolution regarding DHCD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds

The Town Council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution authorizing the submission of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development for $921,983. The grant will fund a two-year targeted housing rehabilitation and replacement project in the Hilltop Community, with a local match of $42,000 ($25,000 from the Town and $17,000 from the Housing Authority). The project aims to benefit 26 low-to-moderate-income persons in 11 households. The Council also entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters and certified the session's legality.

• Approved the minutes of the February 23, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Added a closed session to the agenda regarding personnel, passed by voice vote.
• Adopted the resolution authorizing the CDBG application for $921,983 and committing a $25,000 local match, with a roll call vote of 7 ayes.
• Entered closed session at 7:22 p.m. to discuss personnel, with a roll call vote of 7 ayes.
• Adopted the certification resolution for the closed session, with a roll call vote of 7 ayes.
• Adjourned the meeting until March 20, 2021, for a Budget Retreat.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding a regular meeting with administrative items, public hearings, and a consent agenda. Key actions include requests to block streets for Centerfest 2021, waive fees for certain events, and a resolution on Project Advisory Committee delegation. The meeting is open for public viewing via live stream.

• Request to block streets for Centerfest 2021 by Central Virginia Business Coalition
• Request to waive fees for certain events by Jonathan Hayden
• Resolution on Project Advisory Committee delegation (roll call)

The Town Council approved a resolution authorizing the Project Advisory Committee to interview, negotiate, and recommend firms for the RFP covering a police station, parking garage, and/or farmers' market. The Council also approved a temporary road closure for Centerfest 2021 and agreed to waive the $100 fee for the Christmas tree lighting event, contingent on proper paperwork. The Council entered closed session to discuss property acquisition and certified the session afterward.

• Approved the temporary road closure for Centerfest 2021 on September 18, 2021, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Approved waiving the $100 fee for the Christmas tree lighting event, with the requirement that paperwork be completed.
• Approved a resolution authorizing the Project Advisory Committee to conduct interviews, negotiations, and make recommendations for the RFP for a police station, parking garage, and/or farmers' market.
• Approved entering closed session to discuss the acquisition of real property.
• Adopted a resolution certifying that the closed session complied with Virginia law.

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is meeting after a weather cancellation. The board will approve January minutes, hear staff and attorney reports, and consider authorizing a subordination agreement for Old Yellow, LLC (Waukeshaw Development). A closed session is scheduled to discuss a prospective industry that has not been publicly announced.

• Subordination Agreement – Authorize Execution for 'Old Yellow, LLC' (Waukeshaw Development)
• Closed Session under VA Code 2.2-3711(a)(5) for prospective industry discussion
• Approval of January 8, 2021 minutes
• Next meeting set for March 12, 2021

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved a motion to authorize the Chair or Vice Chair to execute a Subordination Agreement with Old Yellow, LLC (Waukeshaw Development, Inc.) for the Old Yellow Middle School project. The board also approved the January 8, 2021 minutes and entered a closed session to discuss real property acquisition or disposition. No other substantive decisions were made; updates were provided on the Rubatex property, GO-Virginia deferral, and Wells Fargo closure.

• Approved January 8, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Authorized Chair or Vice Chair to execute Subordination Agreement with Old Yellow, LLC (5-0)
• Entered closed session for real property discussion (5-0)
• Certified closed session as compliant with Virginia code (5-0)

Town Council

The Town Council voted on a motion to approve the Planned Residential District (PRD) for the proposed development next to Governor's Hill. The motion failed with five members voting nay and two voting aye, effectively denying the conditional use permit. Council members expressed concerns about traffic, cul-de-sac access, and flooding, while also noting the town's need for growth.

• Motion to approve PRD for Governor's Hill development failed (5-2)
• Councilman Hartwick voted aye
• Vice Mayor Rush voted aye
• Councilman Hailey voted nay
• Councilman Johannessen voted nay
• Councilman Shoen voted nay
• Councilman Stanley voted nay
• Mayor Black voted nay

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold public hearings and vote on two conditional use permits: one for Governor's Hill Section 3 and one for an automotive, bus, and truck mechanical and body repair garage. The council will also discuss funding for outside agencies and a proposed 1% employee pay increase. The agenda includes standard administrative items such as minutes approval and committee reports.

• Public hearing and resolution on Governor's Hill Section 3 conditional use permit
• Public hearing and resolution on automotive, bus, and truck mechanical and body repair garage conditional use permit
• Discussion on funding outside agencies
• Discussion on employee 1% pay increase

The Town Council voted unanimously to table the decision on the Governor's Hill Section 3 conditional use permit for a 232-unit patio home development until February 2, 2021. The Council also approved a conditional use permit for an automotive repair garage at 914 Blue Ridge Ave, funded outside agencies at $18,000, and appropriated a 1% COLA for town employees.

• Tabled Governor's Hill Section 3 CUP decision to Feb. 2 (7-0)
• Approved CUP for TO Tow auto repair garage at 914 Blue Ridge Ave (7-0)
• Funded outside agencies at $18,000 (6-1)
• Appropriated 1% COLA for town employees (7-0)
• Authorized Mayor to sign Bedford Middle School closing documents (7-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding its regular meeting with administrative items, including approval of minutes and a report from the Town Manager. The main actions are appointments to the Planning Commission and the Bedford Regional Water Authority, which will be decided by roll call vote. The meeting is open for public viewing via live stream.

• Appointment of members to the Planning Commission
• Appointment of a member to the Bedford Regional Water Authority
• Approval of minutes
• Report of Town Manager
• Public hearings (listed on agenda)

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority is holding its annual meeting to elect officers, approve minutes, and hear reports from staff and the attorney. New business includes incentive requests and letters of support for grant applications, while unfinished business covers a draft strategic plan. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or project names listed.

• Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, and Secretary
• Approval of December 11, 2020 minutes
• Incentive requests under new business
• Consideration of letters of support for grant applications
• Draft strategic plan under unfinished business

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council is holding an organizational meeting to swear in newly elected members, elect a mayor and vice mayor, and administer oaths. The agenda is primarily procedural, with no substantive policy items listed for discussion or decision.

• Administration of oath for new elected members
• Election of Mayor
• Election of Vice Mayor
• Public Hearings (none specified)
• Consent Agenda and Old/New Business (none specified)

The Town Council held an organizational meeting where newly elected members received certificates and took the oath of office. Councilman Tim Black was unanimously elected Mayor and Councilman Steve Rush was unanimously elected Vice Mayor for 2021-2022. The council also discussed potential future topics, including employee bonuses and a possible charter change to elect the Mayor by popular vote, but no decisions were made on these items.

• Administered Oath of Office to newly elected Council members Tim Black, Stacey Hailey, Bruce Hartwick, and Bruce Johannessen
• Elected Tim Black as Mayor for 2021-2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Steve Rush as Vice Mayor for 2021-2022 (unanimous)