Rockbridge County public meetings in 2021

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is holding a meeting that includes training on the Web EOC system. The agenda is brief, with no other substantive items listed.

• Training on Web EOC
• Next meeting scheduled for January 11, 2022 at Fire and Rescue Administration Building

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) held a training session on December 14, 2021, led by VDEM Region VI officer Jonathan Simmons, focusing on WebEOC crisis management software. Volunteers received access to training and operations servers and practiced entering sample data. No regular business meeting was held, and no formal decisions were made.

• Training provided on WebEOC crisis management software by VDEM officer Jonathan Simmons
• Volunteers given access to WebEOC training and operations servers for sample data entry
• No regular business meeting held; no decisions made

Public Service Authority

The meeting includes reviews of monthly financial reports and bills for December. The board will also address a customer credit request under new business.

• Monthly Financial Reports
• Customer Credit Request

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority approved a budget increase to not exceed $75,000 for the sliplining project along Rt 11 near Burger King, after initial quotes came in at more than double the budgeted amount. The board also approved the December bills totaling $448,044.64, plus customer deposits and credit refunds, and voted to begin the bid process for a new trailer. No action was taken on a customer's request for additional assistance with a plumber bill.

• Approved December bills totaling $448,044.64, customer deposits of $155.17, and credit refunds of $236.23 (unanimous)
• Approved budget increase to not exceed $75,000 for Rt 11 sliplining project (unanimous)
• Voted to begin bid process for a new trailer (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Took no action on customer credit request for plumber bill assistance

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional rezoning of 28.45 acres from A-2 and A-T to R-2 for a mixed-use development including single-family homes, duplexes, assisted living, and multi-family units. They also recommended approval of special exception permits for a primitive campground, a bed and breakfast homestay, a continuing care retirement community, and a country store, each with specific conditions. The commission approved a zoning text amendment to define wood yards and continued discussions on other amendments. Chairperson Lee McLaughlin Jr. announced his resignation, and staff changes were noted.

• Recommended approval of 28.45-acre rezoning to R-2 for mixed-use development (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of primitive campground special exception with conditions (6 vehicles, 12 people, 50-ft setbacks) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of bed and breakfast homestay special exception with no conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of continuing care retirement community special exception with vegetative buffer (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of country store special exception with vegetative buffer (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of zoning text amendment to define wood yards (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 10, 2021 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to schedule public hearing for Cultural/Music Centers amendment

LEPC

The Rockbridge County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) met virtually to hear updates on winter weather preparedness, COVID-19 vaccination progress, and local emergency response. VDOT reported equipment and salt supplies for snow removal, while health officials shared vaccination rates and clinic plans. Law enforcement and fire/EMS agencies provided status reports, and the meeting concluded with routine administrative items.

• VDOT: 7,253 tons of salt on hand, 153 pieces of equipment, pre-treatment 24 hours before storms
• VDH: 70% of 65+ vaccinated, 60% of 18+ vaccinated, 20% of 5-11 year-olds vaccinated
• Peebles vaccination site administered 2,088 vaccines since Nov. 1; will close in 2022
• Virginia State Police: 9 trooper shortage in Rockbridge, 75 accidents and 450 summons in four days
• Lexington City Fire/EMS: record 324 calls in October

The Rockbridge County LEPC approved the previous meeting's minutes. The meeting featured updates from VDOT on winter weather preparations, VDH on vaccination progress, and various local agencies on COVID-19, public safety, and emergency preparedness. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved the previous meeting minutes (motion by COL Jay Williams, seconded by Susan Bedell).

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority is considering the formation of a steering committee to develop a new strategic economic development plan for the county. The committee aims to include twelve individuals from various local organizations and businesses, with a goal to complete the plan by April 30, 2022.

• Formation of Strategic Economic Development Plan Steering Committee
• Request for two EDA volunteers to join the new steering committee
• Financial report review including a balance of $82,642.41 as of September 30, 2021
• Review of October 20, 2021 meeting minutes

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority approved the October 20, 2021 meeting minutes with a grammatical correction and unanimously approved the financial report. The EDA voted unanimously to appoint David Hawkins and Boyd Brown to a steering committee to develop a strategic economic development plan, with a target completion date of April 2022. The board also discussed workforce issues with Dynovis and the potential for investing in electric vehicle charging stations.

• Approved October 20, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Appointed David Hawkins and Boyd Brown to strategic economic development plan steering committee (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider several land-use applications, including two rezonings from Residential General (R-1) to Agricultural and General Uses (A-2), two special exception permits for special events venues, and a commercial site plan review. The commission will also discuss proposed zoning text amendments for art and music cultural centers and wood yards. The meeting will be held electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Rezoning applications for properties at 529 Wesley Chapel Road, 255 Poplar Hill Road, and 163 Poplar Hill Road from R-1 to A-2
• Special exception permit for special events venue at 340 Ecco Adesso Lane (Ecco Adesso)
• Special exception permit for special events venue at 2920 South Buffalo Road (Hank Leech)
• Commercial site plan review for Randy Hostetter Excavating at 296 Greenhouse Road
• Discussion of proposed zoning text amendments for Art and Music Cultural Centers and Wood Yard ordinances

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission approved a special exception permit for a special events venue at Ecco Adesso Winery, a rezoning of 100.895 acres from R-1 to A-2 for Devin Voss & Gail Milam, a rezoning of 30.307 acres from R-1 to A-2 for James M. Baker Jr., and a special exception permit for a special events venue for Hank Leech. The commission also approved a commercial site plan for Randy Hostetter Excavating and directed staff to prepare a wood yard ordinance for public hearing. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved special exception permit for Ecco Adesso Winery special events venue (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 100.895 acres from R-1 to A-2 for Devin Voss & Gail Milam (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 30.307 acres from R-1 to A-2 for James M. Baker Jr. (unanimous)
• Approved special exception permit for Hank Leech special events venue with modified conditions (unanimous)
• Approved commercial site plan for Randy Hostetter Excavating, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare wood yard ordinance for public hearing (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is holding its monthly meeting to discuss training schedules, organizational updates, and grant funding. The agenda includes approving previous minutes, reviewing training modules, and discussing volunteer levels and qualification tracking.

• Monthly training: November Disaster Medical Module, December Stop the Bleed, January TBD
• Discussion of basic training and after-action reports
• Organizational document update on volunteer levels
• Community Foundation Grant Award under grant funding
• Upcoming emergency preparedness classes on November 11 and at RCHS (TBD)

The Rockbridge County CERT team approved the October 2021 minutes, ordered white polo shirts for active volunteers, and reported approval of a Community Foundation grant (amount unknown, awards on Nov 12). They also discussed FEMA's updated CERT training curriculum and scheduled upcoming preparedness events.

• Approved October 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Ordered white polo shirts for active volunteers
• Reported grant approval from Community Foundation (amount pending)

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily covering routine items like minutes, bills, and financial reports. The board will also discuss a capacity study under unfinished business and consider customer credit and adjustment requests. The meeting will be held electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited in-person attendance.

• Capacity Study discussion
• Customer Credit and Adjustment Requests
• Approval of October 12, 2021 minutes
• November bills and monthly financial reports

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the November bills list totaling $90,440.87, along with customer deposits of $440.64 and credit refunds of $273.45. The board also approved the October meeting minutes. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were informational reports and discussions.

• Approved October 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November bills list for $90,440.87, customer deposits $440.64, credit refunds $273.45 (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority is reviewing a performance agreement for an incentive package for White’s Travel Center, LLC. The package includes grants totaling $53,663 to support a project at 2440 Raphine Rd. involving an $8,000,000 capital investment.

• Performance agreement for White’s Travel Center, LLC
• $49,613 Building Permit Fee Grant
• $2,550 Business Personal Property Tax Grant
• $1,500 Employment Grant
• Project target of $8,000,000 in capital investment and 5 new jobs

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority unanimously approved a performance agreement providing $53,663 in incentives to White's Travel Center, LLC for an $8 million expansion at 2440 Raphine Road, creating at least five new full-time jobs. The board also approved the September 20, 2021 meeting minutes, the financial report, and a motion to support a regional housing study.

• Approved $53,663 incentive agreement with White's Travel Center (unanimous)
• Approved September 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report showing $82,631.88 balance (unanimous)
• Approved motion to support regional housing study (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will hold a special meeting on October 20, 2021, at 8:30 AM in the Extension Office Conference Room. The agenda contains only the meeting notice and location; no specific items are listed.

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) canceled its Basic Training classes scheduled for late October and early November due to low enrollment, with only one person signing up. The team will attempt to hold Basic Training again in spring 2022. The September 2021 minutes were approved, and a toy distribution event is planned for December 13-17.

• Approved September 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Canceled Basic Training classes for late October/early November
• Scheduled Basic Training attempt for spring 2022
• Planned toy distribution event for December 13-17

Planning Commission

The Commission reviewed several land use applications, including a rezoning for Hidden Valley Farm Inc. and special exception permits for lodging and a bed and breakfast. Members also discussed proposed text amendments regarding wood yard and solar energy ordinances.

• Rezoning of 9.75 acres from I-1 to A-2 at 345 Spring Meadow Lane
• Special exception permit for a bed and breakfast homestay at 76 Red Hill Road
• Special exception permit for a lodge at 1475 Thornhill Road
• Discussion of proposed Wood Yard Ordinance text amendment
• Discussion of proposed Solar Energy Ordinance text amendment

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission approved a special exception for a fourth short-term rental unit at Autumn Ridge Cottages, approved proffer amendments for JBLN Investments and AKB Developments, and tabled a special events venue application for Ecco Adesso Vineyard until the next meeting. The commission also discussed the solar ordinance and a wood yard zoning text amendment, directing staff to research other localities' ordinances.

• Approved special exception for lodge/short-term rental at 126 Autumn Ridge Lane (unanimous)
• Approved proffer amendment for JBLN Investments, increasing lots from 25 to 27 (unanimous)
• Approved removal of proffers for AKB Developments on 4.35-acre parcel (unanimous)
• Tabled special events venue application for Ecco Adesso Vineyard until next meeting (unanimous)
• Directed staff to research other localities' wood yard ordinances and setback/buffer requirements
• Approved September 8, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Public Service Authority

The Board will review September meeting minutes, monthly and quarterly financial reports, and bills for September. The agenda also includes discussions regarding customer credit requests and an agreement with the City of Lexington.

• Customer Credit and Adjustment Requests
• City of Lexington Agreement

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the October bills list totaling $600,466.45 and a $29.77 customer deposit refund. The board took no action on three customer credit/adjustment requests, including one for a second penalty removal. The board also discussed a water main extension for Riverbend Subdivision and a potential agreement negotiation with the City of Lexington, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Approved October bills totaling $600,466.45 (unanimous)
• Approved customer deposit refund of $29.77 (unanimous)
• Took no action on customer credit/adjustment requests (including Mr. Poulsen's penalty removal request)

Tourism Corridor Overlay Board

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board will review exterior improvement plans for Dottie's Country Store and a preliminary site plan for a new Beyond Bedrock Car Wash. The board will also consider minutes from its June 2, 2021 meeting and receive updates on prior projects.

• Dottie's Country Store: 25-foot front patio covering and parapet repaint at 5765 North Lee Highway, Fairfield
• Beyond Bedrock Car Wash: proposed new location off Borden's School Lane, Lexington, replacing existing carwash at 28 Rocklawn Lane
• Car wash site: 2.09 acres in General Business (B-1) district, fiberglass rock/mineshaft facade
• Minutes of June 2, 2021 meeting to be approved
• Updates on Fancy Hill gas station, Devil's Backbone deck, and Dynamic Energy solar farm

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will hold its regular meeting in person at the Virginia Horse Center. The board will approve minutes from August 16, 2021, and the financial report, and receive an update on the VATI broadband grant application. The meeting will also include citizen comments and board comments, and will adjourn to a REDI meeting at 5:30 p.m.

• VATI Broadband Application Update
• Approval of August 16, 2021 minutes
• Financial report: balance $82,621.69 as of August 31, 2021
• Activities report covering August 6 – September 3, 2021
• Citizen comments accepted in person, by email, mail, or dropbox

The Rockbridge County EDA approved the August 16, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections and the financial report for August 2021, both by unanimous votes. The board received an update on the VATI grant application, noting the EDA's role in facilitating a performance agreement with BARC and RANA, a verbal 45% match requirement, and that awards are expected in December. The meeting was continued to a joint regional session with other local boards and councils, which included a REDI grant presentation and a Rockbridge Outdoors strategic plan update.

• Approved August 16, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (motion by Hawkins, second by Powell)
• Approved financial report for August 2021 unanimously (motion by Brown, second by Powell)
• Continued meeting to joint REDI grant presentation at 5:30 pm (motion by Herring, second by Powell, unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on Ronald W. Snider's application for a variance to reduce the acreage of a non-conforming lot in the A-2 zoning district. The board will also consider an appeal by Jonathan P. Tarris of the Zoning Administrator's determination that his bed and breakfast homestay at 1006 Shenandoah Road violates his special exception permit. The meeting will be held electronically due to COVID-19.

• Public hearing on variance request by Ronald W. Snider (South Lee Highway) to reduce acreage of non-conforming lot in A-2 district
• Appeal by Jonathan P. Tarris of zoning violation for bed and breakfast homestay at 1006 Shenandoah Road
• Zoning Administrator found Tarris out of compliance for renting entire dwelling, not owner-occupied, and primary use not residential
• Tarris argues he meets definition of owner-occupied and has taken corrective measures
• Meeting held via Zoom due to COVID-19; public comments accepted by email, mail, drop box, or webinar

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of the August minutes, September bills, and monthly financial reports, along with the director's report and public comments. The meeting will be held electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited in-person attendance.

• Approval of minutes from August 10, 2021 meeting
• Approval of bills for September
• Review of monthly financial reports
• Director's report
• Public comments accepted via email

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the September bills list totaling $128,350.17 and refunds of customer deposits and overpayments of $729.24. The board also approved the minutes from the August 10, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and updates.

• Approved minutes from August 10, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved September bills list for $128,350.17 (unanimous)
• Approved refund of customer deposits and overpayments for $729.24 (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is meeting to approve minutes, review training schedules, and discuss organizational updates. They will also hear from Larry and Amanda Bird about a potential partnership with the ERR Program.

• Active Shooter Training Video
• October CPR Recertification and November Stop the Bleed training
• Basic Training starts October 19th, Tuesdays and Thursdays until November 11th
• Discussion of FEMA approval for the organization
• Potential partnership with ERR Program

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) approved the July 10, 2021 minutes with no changes. They discussed a potential partnership for an Emergency Responder Rehab Program (ERRP) based on a guest presentation about Augusta County's First Responder Care program. CERT Basic Training is planned for late October and early November, with in-person training preferred but a hybrid option possible depending on COVID. The team also noted FEMA's approval of the unit and will discuss and vote on updating volunteer levels at the December meeting.

• Approved the July 10, 2021 minutes with no changes.
• Agreed to discuss potential partnerships for the Emergency Responder Rehab Program (ERRP) at a future meeting.
• Planned CERT Basic Training for Tuesdays and Thursdays in the last two weeks of October and first two weeks of November, with in-person preferred but hybrid possible.
• Encouraged volunteers to watch the Active Shooter video individually via the Commonwealth of Virginia Learning Center link.
• Noted FEMA/Citizen Corps approved the unit and updated contact info on the FEMA/CERT website.
• Will discuss and vote on updating volunteer levels at the December meeting, with proposed levels distributed in advance.
• Scheduled a CPR Update for October 12th instead of the monthly meeting.
• Scheduled Stop the Bleed training for all volunteers in November.

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will meet electronically on September 8, 2021, to conduct public hearings on several land-use applications, including a rezoning, three special exception permits, and a zoning text amendment. The commission will also review a site plan for Modine Manufacturing and receive notification of a variance request. The meeting is held remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Modine Manufacturing Co. – Site plan review for a 10,563 sq ft building at 360 Collierstown Road
• Hidden Valley Farm Inc. – Rezoning from I-1 to A-2 at 345 Spring Meadow Lane (Thornhill Road)
• Joseph S. Bahhur – Special exception for bed and breakfast homestay at 76 Red Hill Road
• Sunset Farm, LLC – Special exception for lodge at 1491 Thornhill Road
• Zoning text amendment defining 'wood yard' and adding as special exception in A-1 and A-2 districts; Crown Hardwood Co. application contingent on it

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission approved a commercial site plan for Modine Manufacturing's expansion at 360 Collierstown Rd, Lexington, VA, to facilitate a research and development testing facility. The commission also approved a rezoning for Hidden Valley Farm Inc., a special exception for a bed and breakfast homestay, a special exception for a lodge, and a zoning text amendment for wood yards. The commission postponed a decision on Crown Hardwood's wood yard special exception permit until the next meeting, requiring a flood mitigation plan from a qualified professional.

• Approved the August 11, 2021 meeting minutes as submitted.
• Approved the Modine Manufacturing site plan for a research and development testing facility expansion.
• Approved the rezoning of a 9.75-acre parcel for Hidden Valley Farm Inc. from General Industrial (I-1) to Agricultural and General Uses (A-2) with no conditions.
• Approved a special exception permit for Joseph Bahhur to operate a bed and breakfast homestay at 76 Red Hill Road, Fairfield, VA.
• Approved a special exception permit for Kelly Mangione of Sunset Farms, LLC, to operate a lodge at 1475 Thornhill Road, Lexington, VA, with conditions including parking signs.
• Approved a zoning text amendment to define 'Wood Yards' and allow them as a special exception use in the A-1 and A-2 Zoning Districts.
• Postponed the special exception permit application for Crown Hardwood's wood yard until the next meeting, pending a flood mitigation plan from a qualified professional.
• Noted a variance application to the Board of Zoning Appeals regarding a driveway encroachment.

LEPC

The Rockbridge County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is holding its regular quarterly meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes approval of June 2021 minutes, COVID-19 vaccine process updates from VDH, VDEM, Carilion, and Rockbridge Area Health Center, and reports from various emergency management and public safety entities. The meeting is primarily informational with routine reports and public comments.

• COVID-19 Vaccine Process/Updates: VDH, VDEM, Carilion & Rockbridge Area Health Center
• Northwest Region Healthcare Coalition report
• Emergency Management – Task Force Report
• CSJH/Carilion Emergency Management
• Approval of minutes from June, 2021

The Rockbridge County LEPC met virtually and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The meeting consisted primarily of updates from various agencies on the COVID-19 pandemic, including rising case counts due to the Delta variant, vaccination rates, and hospitalizations. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved the previous LEPC meeting minutes.

Local Board of Building Code Appeals

The Rockbridge County Local Board of Building Code Appeals met on August 19, 2021, to conduct routine administrative tasks. The agenda included the election of a Chair and Co-Chair and the approval of minutes from the 2020 annual meeting. No specific building appeals, code violations, or new business items were listed on the agenda.

• Election of Chair and Co-Chair
• Approval of minutes from the 2020 annual meeting

Local Board of Building Code Appeals

The provided notice only contains procedural information regarding the time and location of the meeting. There are no specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions listed in the document.

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) voted to reject recent attorney RFQs and appoint County Attorney Vickie Huffman as EDA attorney. The board also discussed a memorandum of understanding for broadband service buildout and reviewed updates on the Route 60 project.

• Voted to appoint Ms. Huffman as EDA attorney
• Expressed support for a broadband MOU involving RANA, BARC Connects, and Dominion Power
• Appointed Mr. Boyd Brown to the hiring committee for the Economic Development Director position
• Reviewed Route 60 project construction completion and minor warranty work
• Discussed potential funding for a regional housing study

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority voted unanimously to recommend a $53,663 county-funded incentive package for a 26,000-square-foot expansion at White's Travel Center, to be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors. The EDA also approved a memorandum of understanding for a broadband project aimed at providing fiber to unserved areas, and approved the July 19, 2021 meeting minutes and the financial report. The Route 60 Project was reported complete.

• Approved July 19, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Approved broadband MOU with Dominion, BARC, and EDA (unanimous)
• Recommended $53,663 incentive package for White's Travel Center to Board of Supervisors (unanimous)
• Set up county email addresses for EDA members (consensus)

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission reviewed applications for a new dog grooming business, modifications to an existing solar project's fencing, and a proposed private school. The Commission also heard a presentation regarding a site plan review for a truck wash.

• Approved special exception permit for a dog grooming business at 32 Wet Bear Lane
• Approved amendments to landscaping and fencing plans for a 2.5 MW solar project on Walkers Creek Road
• Site plan review for Blue Beacon Truck Wash at 2440 Raphine Road
• Presentation of a special exception permit application for a private school on 34 acres of BJB Properties LLC land

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission held a work session to develop a solar energy ordinance, discussing setbacks, fencing, signage, and other requirements, but took no formal action. At the regular meeting, the Commission approved a special exception permit for a primitive tent campground at 170 Rocking Star Lane, Natural Bridge, with conditions including a 22-vehicle and 45-person limit, a 10-day maximum stay, and trash disposal requirements. The Commission also approved a commercial site plan for a second truck wash at White's Truck Stop and voted to add a public hearing on allowing log lay down yards as a special exception in agricultural districts.

• Approved special exception permit for primitive tent campground at 170 Rocking Star Lane (unanimous)
• Approved commercial site plan for second truck wash at White's Truck Stop (unanimous)
• Added public hearing for log lay down yards as special exception in A-1 and A-2 districts (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss the development of a Solar Energy Ordinance. The discussion focuses on how large-scale solar projects are currently classified as public utilities and potential new regulations for these projects.

• Review of Solar Energy Ordinance development
• Discussion of solar project placement in various zoning districts
• Review of solar ordinance options including setbacks, landscaping, and decommissioning plans

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission held a work session to develop a solar energy ordinance, discussing setbacks, buffers, and other requirements but taking no formal action. At the regular meeting, the Commission approved a special exception permit for a primitive tent campground at 170 Rocking Star Lane, Natural Bridge, and approved a commercial site plan for a second truck wash at White's Truck Stop. The Commission also voted to add a public hearing for a zoning text amendment to allow log lay down yards as a special exception in A-1 and A-2 districts.

• Approved special exception permit for primitive tent campground at 170 Rocking Star Lane (unanimous)
• Approved commercial site plan for second truck wash at White's Truck Stop (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to add public hearing on log lay down yards as special exception in A-1/A-2 districts (unanimous)
• Discussed solar energy ordinance; no formal action taken

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County CERT team approved the July minutes, planned its August 28 Community Festival exhibit featuring the ERRP and 72-hour kits, and scheduled basic CERT classes for October-November. They also agreed to purchase polo shirts for active volunteers, and volunteers stepped up to help with phone calls during a power outage affecting 2,800 people.

• Approved July 13, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Planned Community Festival exhibit with ERRP demonstrations and 72-hour kit sales
• Scheduled basic CERT classes for Tuesdays/Thursdays, last two weeks of October and first two weeks of November
• Agreed to purchase one white polo shirt per volunteer for those active in unit activities
• Volunteers Brandy and Greg to handle transferred phone calls during power outage

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority board will hold its regular monthly meeting on August 10, 2021, covering routine items such as approving the July minutes, paying August bills, and reviewing monthly financial reports. The meeting will be held electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited in-person capacity and options for written public comments.

• Approval of minutes from the July 13, 2021 meeting
• Payment of bills for August
• Review of monthly financial reports
• Director's report and unfinished business
• Public comments accepted via email to [email protected]

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority approved the August bills list totaling $108,0416.51 and customer deposit/overpayment refunds of $1,441.74. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the July 20, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved August bills list for $108,0416.51 (unanimous)
• Approved refund of customer deposits and overpayments for $1,441.74 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 20, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on Johnathan Tarris's appeal of a zoning violation letter regarding his bed and breakfast at 1006 Shenandoah Road. The board will also review minutes from the March 17, 2021 meeting. The meeting will be held electronically and in person due to COVID-19 precautions.

• Public hearing on appeal of zoning violation for bed and breakfast at 1006 Shenandoah Road
• Review of minutes from March 17, 2021 meeting
• Meeting held electronically and in person per Continuity of Government Resolution

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals voted unanimously to affirm the Zoning Administrator's May 26, 2021 decision that Jonathan Tarris's bed and breakfast homestay at 1006 Shenandoah Road is in violation of his special exception permit. The Board found the property is not owner-occupied and that renting the entire house does not comply with the permitted use. The appeal was denied.

• Affirmed the Zoning Administrator's May 26, 2021 zoning violation determination against Jonathan Tarris.
• Found the property at 1006 Shenandoah Road is not owner-occupied and the owner is not present during rental activity.
• Determined the rental of the entire property does not comply with the authorized bed and breakfast homestay use.
• Denied Jonathan Tarris's appeal of the zoning violation.
• Approved the minutes from the March 17, 2021 meeting.
• Agreed to place discussion of BZA bylaws, electronic meeting policy, and site visit practices on the next agenda.

Public Service Authority

The meeting includes reviews of monthly financial reports and bills for July. The board will also receive a progress update on the Rt. 60 Sewer Project.

• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress update

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority approved July bills totaling $530,209.03 and a refund of customer deposits and overpayments of $2,877.54. The board also authorized the director and business manager to sign refund checks from the customer deposit account, with a summary report to be provided in the board packet. Other items discussed included a possible water extension to Natural Bridge State Park, a capacity study, a new fire hydrant, and a manhole repair, but no formal decisions were made on those.

• Approved the June 8, 2021 meeting minutes as presented.
• Approved the final bills list for $530,209.03 and refunds of $2,877.54.
• Authorized the director and business manager to sign refund and overpayment checks from the customer deposit account, with a summary report to the board.

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will meet electronically on July 19, 2021, to consider a broadband Memorandum of Understanding and a recommendation from its Legal Services Committee. The board will also approve minutes from April and July meetings, review financial and activities reports, and discuss economic development with the Board of Supervisors retreat.

• Consideration of Broadband Memorandum of Understanding
• Consideration of Legal Services Committee Recommendation
• Approval of minutes from April 19 and July 8, 2021 meetings
• Financial report for May-June
• Discussion on Economic Development and Board of Supervisors retreat

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority voted unanimously to reject all attorney RFQs and appoint County Attorney Vickie Huffman to represent the EDA on non-conflicting matters. The board also approved the April 19 and July 8 meeting minutes and the financial report. Members expressed support for a broadband buildout MOU and voted to appoint Boyd Brown to the economic development director hiring committee.

• Approved April 19 and July 8, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously
• Approved financial report showing $80,800.99 checking balance as of June 30, 2021
• Rejected all attorney RFQs and appointed Vickie Huffman as EDA attorney
• Voted to work with legal services committee to reformat an RFQ for future needs
• Appointed Boyd Brown to the economic development director hiring committee
• Expressed support for broadband buildout MOU with RANA, BARC, and Dominion Power

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission is meeting electronically to hold public hearings on four special exception permit applications: a dog grooming business, a solar facility fencing modification, a private boys school, and a special events venue. The commission will also review the solar ordinance and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Carrie Hite: special exception for dog grooming business at 32 Wet Bear Ln, Fairfield (A-2 district)
• Holocene Clean Energy: modify fencing/landscaping plan for approved solar special exception at Walkers Creek Rd
• Buffalo Creek Foundation: private boys school at 31 Steeles Fort Loop (A-T district)
• Karen and John Siegfried: special events venue at 55 Kennedy-Wades Mill Loop (A-2 district)
• Solar Ordinance Review discussion

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission approved four special exception permits: a pet grooming business, an amendment to a solar farm's landscaping and fencing plan, a private school, and a special events venue. The solar amendment was approved with a condition to keep the original chain-link fence, passing 3-2. The commission also discussed a potential zoning text amendment for log yards and continued work on a solar energy ordinance.

• Approved special exception permit for pet grooming business at 32 Wet Bear Lane (unanimous)
• Approved solar farm landscaping/fencing amendment with chain-link fence condition (3-2)
• Approved private school special exception permit at 31 Steeles Fort Loop (unanimous)
• Approved special events venue permit at Wade's Mill (unanimous)
• Approved June 9, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed potential zoning text amendment for log yards in A-2 district
• Continued discussion on solar energy ordinance; work session scheduled

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) held its regular monthly meeting on July 13, 2021. Members unanimously approved the June 8, 2021 minutes and elected officers for FY2022, with Brandy Flint as President/Team Leader, Greg Dreelin as Vice President/Operations Chief, and Jutta Hopkins as Secretary/Admin-Finance Chief. The team also discussed training, after-action reports, and upcoming events, but no substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved June 8, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Brandy Flint as President/Team Leader for FY2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Greg Dreelin as Vice President/Operations Chief for FY2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Jutta Hopkins as Secretary/Admin-Finance Chief for FY2022 (unanimous)
• Decided Dean will liaison with VMI Emergency Management, but VMI will not be an official part of the CERT unit

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority is holding a special meeting to consider approving performance agreements tied to Modine Manufacturing Company's conversion of its local warehouse into a manufacturing facility. The project involves $7,025,000 in capital investment and 60 new jobs, supported by $388,000 in combined state and local incentives. The board will receive a staff briefing and may adopt a resolution approving the agreements.

• Modine Manufacturing Company performance agreements for warehouse-to-manufacturing conversion
• $7,025,000 total capitalized investment: $1,100,000 building, $5,775,000 machinery & tools, $150,000 furniture/fixtures/equipment
• 60 net new jobs from 2021-2025 with average salary of $47,117
• $388,000 total incentives: $194,000 state COF grant and $194,000 county match (machinery/tools tax grant $63,533, job creation grant $92,000, building permit fee grant $8,467, gas infrastructure grant $30,000)
• Agreements were not jointly reviewed with Board of Supervisors due to scheduling delay

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority unanimously approved two performance agreements for Modine Manufacturing Company, authorizing a $194,000 state grant and a $194,000 local match. The agreements require Modine to invest at least $7,025,000 and create 60 new jobs. The EDA also gave consensus to review a memorandum of understanding for countywide broadband expansion.

• Approved the Commonwealth's Development Opportunity Fund Performance Agreement with Modine for a $194,000 grant.
• Approved the Local Grant Match Performance Agreement with Modine for a $194,000 local match.
• Authorized the Chairman or Vice-Chairman to execute the performance agreements.
• Gave consensus to review a memorandum of understanding for broadband expansion.

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority is holding a special electronic meeting on July 8, 2021, due to COVID-19. The sole substantive item is consideration of performance agreements with Modine Manufacturing Company. Public attendance is limited in person, with remote participation available via Zoom.

• Special meeting held electronically under Continuity of Government Ordinance (April 20, 2020)
• Modine Manufacturing Company performance agreements on agenda
• In-person attendance capped at 10 people due to social distancing
• Zoom webinar available for public participation
• Meeting at 2 p.m. in Board of Supervisors meeting room, 150 S. Main Street, Lexington

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority unanimously approved two performance agreements for Modine Manufacturing Company. The agreements cover a $194,000 Commonwealth's Development Opportunity Fund grant and a $194,000 local match, tied to a $7,025,000 capital investment and creation of at least 60 new jobs. The EDA also gave consensus to review a memorandum of understanding regarding countywide broadband expansion.

• Approved the Commonwealth's Development Opportunity Fund Performance Agreement with Modine Manufacturing Company for a $194,000 grant.
• Approved the Local Grant Match Performance Agreement with Modine Manufacturing Company for a $194,000 local match.
• Authorized the Chairman or Vice-Chairman to execute the performance agreements.
• Gave consensus to review a memorandum of understanding on broadband expansion in the county.

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is holding a joint meeting with the Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors. The agenda contains only the notice of the meeting, with no listed agenda items, so it is procedural in nature.

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission unanimously approved a rezoning of 24.972 acres from R-1 to A-2 for Alexander Tallman and Paige Gance, and approved a site plan for a staffed solid waste collection center in Glasgow. The commission also approved the May 12, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed a solar energy ordinance, with plans to form a subcommittee for drafting recommendations.

• Approved rezoning of 24.972 acres from R-1 to A-2 for Tallman and Gance (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for staffed solid waste collection center in Glasgow (unanimous)
• Approved May 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will meet to approve minutes, nominate officers for the July election, and discuss training and reports. The agenda includes hurricane preparedness training, an after-action report on an emergency responder rehab exhibit, and updates on FEMA qualifications and organizational documents. The meeting is in person only.

• Nominations for officer elections: Team Leader Brandy Flint, Operations Chief Greg Dreelin, Administrative/Finance Chief Jutta Hopkins
• Monthly training on Hurricane Preparedness
• After Action Report on Emergency Responder Rehab Exhibit in Goshen
• FEMA Qualifications Update and organizational document update
• Upcoming events: National Night Out on August 3rd and Community Festival on August 28th

The Rockbridge County CERT meeting on June 8, 2021, was largely procedural. Officer elections were deferred to July because of low attendance. The April minutes were approved, and the group discussed hurricane preparedness, a recent community event, and supply purchasing processes. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred officer elections to July meeting

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority will hold a public hearing and then consider adopting the FY 2022 rates, fees, and charges, as well as the FY 2022 budget. The board will also review the progress of the Rt. 60 Sewer Project and approve write-offs for FY 2021. The meeting will be held electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with limited in-person attendance.

• Public hearing on FY 2022 rates, fees and charges
• Adopt FY 2022 rates, fees and charges
• Adopt FY 2022 budget
• Write-offs for FY 2021
• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the fiscal year 2022 rates, fees, and charges as advertised, and adopted the FY2022 budget, which includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for employees. The board also approved June bills totaling $542,487.04, refunds of $1,306.29, and write-offs of $3,156.57. The meeting included a public hearing on rates with no opposition, and updates on staff changes, equipment sales, and software transition issues.

• Approved FY2022 rates, fees, and charges as advertised (unanimous)
• Adopted FY2022 budget with 3% cost-of-living increase (unanimous)
• Approved June bills totaling $542,487.04 (unanimous)
• Approved refund of customer deposits and overpayments totaling $1,306.29 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2021 write-offs totaling $3,156.57 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 11, 2021 meeting as revised (unanimous)

LEPC

The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will hold a meeting via Zoom to discuss various emergency management and public health updates. The agenda includes a presentation from the National Weather Service and updates regarding COVID-19 vaccine processes.

• Presentation from Phil Hysell of the National Weather Service
• COVID-19 Vaccine Process/Updates from VDH, VDEM, Carilion & Rockbridge Area Health Center
• Northwest Region Healthcare Coalition report
• Emergency Management Task Force Report
• Approval of March 2021 meeting minutes

The Local Emergency Planning Committee met virtually and received updates on COVID-19 vaccination efforts, including plans to close the Peebles vaccination site by end of June and transition to weekly clinics at the Health Department starting July 6. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting consisted of informational reports from various agencies and organizations.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded
• Peebles vaccination site to close at end of June, transitioning to weekly Health Department clinics
• Health Department to distribute all three vaccine options weekly starting July 6
• Rockbridge Area Health Center to continue mobile vaccination clinics and on-site vaccines Thursdays and Fridays

Tourism Corridor Overlay Board

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board will meet on June 2, 2021, to review exterior improvement plans for a satellite brewery and tasting room at 6387 S Lee Highway. The board will also consider citizen comments, approve minutes from the May 5 meeting, and handle updates and administrative approvals.

• Plan review for Chaos Mountain Brewing LLC at 6387 S Lee Highway (Route 11), including a cooler building, wall signage, lighting, and trim color changes
• Special exception for beverage manufacturing approved by Board of Supervisors on May 24, 2021, contingent on TCO Board approval
• Parking plan shows 33 spaces, allowing approximately 120 seats inside and outside
• Lighting plan for parking lot to be submitted at a later date
• Meeting room capacity limited to 30 attendees due to social distancing

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Review Board unanimously approved the site plan for Chaos Mountain Brewery's satellite location at 6387 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, after modifying the paint scheme to white trim, red siding, and burnt orange sign, and adding planters around the container. The parking lot plan was left for staff approval with the Board's consent. The Board also approved the minutes of the May 5, 2021 meeting and received updates on other projects.

• Approved Chaos Mountain Brewery satellite plan with revised colors (white trim, red siding, burnt orange sign) and planters (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 5, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Delegated parking lot plan approval to staff with Board consent

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will not hold its regularly scheduled meeting on May 17, 2021 at 8:30 AM. This notice is a cancellation of the meeting, so no business will be conducted.

• Meeting cancelled

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will hold public hearings and continued reviews on several special exception permits, including a Dominion Energy substation expansion, a 5-MW solar project, a brewery, and a campground rezoning. The meeting will also include a discussion on a utility-scale solar facility ordinance. The agenda is substantive, with multiple land-use decisions and public hearings scheduled.

• Dominion Energy (Glasgow Highway) – Special Exception Permit for Balcony Fall Substation expansion (continued review)
• Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC (N Lee Highway) – Special Exception Permit for 5-MW (AC) solar project (continued review)
• Chaos Mountain Brewing LLC (S Lee Highway) – Public hearing for beverage manufacturing in B-1 district
• Thunder BRidge Campground LLC (Arnolds Valley Road) – Public hearing for rezoning from C-1 to A-T and special exception for campground
• Utility-scale Solar Facility Ordinance Discussion

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission voted 3-1 to recommend approval of a special exception permit for a 5 MW solar project on approximately 40 acres of the Alexander Farm, subject to a revised landscaping plan. The Commission also unanimously recommended approval of a special exception for Dominion Energy to expand the Balcony Falls Substation, a satellite brewery and tasting room for Chaos Mountain Brewing, and a rezoning and campground for ThunderBRidge Campground. The meeting included citizen comments on the solar facility in Fairfield and a discussion on solar utilities.

• Recommended approval of Dynamic Energy solar project on Alexander Farm (3-1)
• Recommended approval of Balcony Falls Substation expansion for Dominion Energy (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Chaos Mountain Brewing satellite brewery and tasting room (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ThunderBRidge Campground rezoning from C-1 to A-T (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ThunderBRidge Campground special exception permit (unanimous)
• Approved April 13, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is holding a routine monthly meeting. They will approve the previous meeting's minutes, discuss training and reports, including a possible emergency responder rehab exercise on May 22, and handle old and new business items such as t-shirt disbursement, brochures, and organizational updates.

• Discussion of Emergency Responder Rehab Exercise for May 22, 2021
• Approval of April 13, 2021 meeting minutes
• T-shirt disbursement
• Brochures update
• Organizational document update

The Rockbridge County CERT voted to eliminate the Animal Response Team, deciding that requests for animal-related assistance will be handled as part of general CERT support. The group also approved the April 13 minutes with a correction, and discussed training and upcoming events, including the Goshen Essential Responders Day on May 22.

• Eliminated Animal Response Team (unanimous)
• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes with correction (unanimous)

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily covering routine items such as minutes, bills, financial reports, and the director's report. Under unfinished business, the board will receive an update on the Rt. 60 Sewer Project. The meeting will be held electronically due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance.

• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress update
• Approval of April 13, 2021 minutes
• Payment of May bills
• Monthly financial reports
• Public comments accepted via email

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the May bills list totaling $338,879.58 and refunds of customer deposits and overpayments of $1,067.94. The board also approved the April 13, 2021 minutes as revised. The director reported that a Ford Ranger was auctioned for $6,502, and the Rt. 60 Sewer Project is in its close-out phase. No public comments were received, and the meeting adjourned to June 8, 2021.

• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes as revised (unanimous)
• Approved May bills list for $338,879.58 (unanimous)
• Approved refund of customer deposits and overpayments for $1,067.94 (unanimous)

Tourism Corridor Overlay Board

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board will meet on May 5, 2021, to continue reviewing a proposed 5 MW solar project and to review a drive-thru addition for Lexington Coffee Roasters. The board will also consider minutes from the April 7 meeting and hear citizen comments.

• Continued review of Dynamic Energy Solutions 5 MW solar project on N Lee Highway (Route 11), near Fairfield, with new photo simulations
• Review of Lexington Coffee Roasting Company's drive-thru addition at 2345 N Lee Highway, including signage and landscaping
• Approval of minutes from April 7, 2021 meeting
• Citizen comments (3 min max)

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Review Board approved the schematic plans for a 5 MW solar field by Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC, contingent on Board of Supervisors approval of the special exception permit, with modifications to utility line locations. The board also unanimously approved exterior improvements, including a drive-thru, for Lexington Coffee Roasters. The meeting was continued from May 5 to May 19, 2021, to allow for revised landscaping plans.

• Approved Lexington Coffee Roasters exterior improvements including drive-thru (unanimous)
• Approved Dynamic Energy Solutions solar field schematic plans with utility line modifications (unanimous, contingent on Board of Supervisors)
• Approved April 7, 2021 TCO meeting minutes with minor correction (unanimous)
• Continued May 5 meeting to May 19 for solar field landscaping plan review

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority meeting includes discussions regarding the impact of COVID-19 and a summary of business programs. The agenda also contains items for a financial report, an audit, and a Business Appreciation Month resolution.

• Business Appreciation Month (BAM) Resolution
• Financial Report
• Audit
• COVID-19 Impact Discussion
• Business Program Summary

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority voted unanimously to close its COVID-19 grant checking accounts and transfer the funds to the regular checking account, following a suggestion that the American Rescue Plan provides new small business funding. The EDA also approved the February and March meeting minutes, the financial report, the 2019 and 2020 audits, and adopted a resolution recognizing May as Business Appreciation Month. A legal services committee was formed to review RFQs for attorney services.

• Closed COVID-19 grant checking accounts and moved funds to regular checking (unanimous)
• Approved February 2021 minutes as presented and March 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved financial report as presented (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recognizing May 2021 as Business Appreciation Month (unanimous)
• Set legal services committee to review RFQs (unanimous)
• Approved 2019 and 2020 audits as presented (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider special exception permits for three utility projects: BARC Electric Cooperative's temporary laydown yard, Dominion Energy's Balcony Falls Substation expansion, and a continued hearing for Dynamic Energy Solutions' 5-MW solar project. The commission will also review a commercial site plan for the Seventh Day Adventist Church. The meeting is held electronically due to COVID-19, with public comment options via email, mail, drop box, or Zoom.

• BARC Electric Cooperative: temporary special exception for laydown yard at 1972 Big Spring Drive (15.24 acres, tax map 47-A-50) for broadband/fiber project; revised plan adds vegetative screening
• Dominion Energy: special exception to expand Balcony Falls Substation on Glasgow Highway (Route 501), tax map 115A-A-1, from 124'x134' to 150'x270'
• Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC: continued public hearing for 5-MW (AC) solar project on N Lee Highway (Route 11), tax map 38-10-A
• Seventh Day Adventist Church: commercial site plan review at Bares Woods Lane
• Meeting held electronically due to COVID-19; public comments accepted via email, mail, drop box, or Zoom

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission voted unanimously (with one abstention) to recommend approval of a temporary special exception permit for BARC Electric Cooperative's laydown yard at 1972 Big Spring Drive, subject to conditions including VDOT and stormwater approvals. The Commission also approved a commercial site plan for the Seventh Day Adventist Church contingent on VDOT, erosion control, and lighting plan approvals. Decisions on Dominion Energy's substation expansion and Dynamic Energy's solar project were tabled to the May 12, 2021 meeting.

• Recommended approval of BARC temporary special exception permit for laydown yard (unanimous, Hines abstained)
• Approved Seventh Day Adventist Church commercial site plan contingent on VDOT, E&S, and lighting plan (unanimous)
• Tabled Dominion Energy substation expansion decision to May 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Tabled Dynamic Energy solar project decision to May 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is meeting to approve minutes, discuss training and reports, and address old and new business. Key items include a refresher on emergency responder rehab, team objectives and goals, after-action reports from COVID clinics, and updates on outreach, t-shirts, brochures, and organizational documents.

• Emergency Responder Rehab Refresher training with Marianna
• Discussion of team lists with objectives and goals
• After Action Reports on COVID Clinics
• Operation Reach Out update
• T-shirt disbursement and brochure updates

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) approved draft objectives and goals for the Emergency Responder Rehabilitation Program (ERRP), which will be added to CERT policies and procedures. The team also approved the March 9, 2021 minutes and noted $800 in county funding for the new fiscal year. No other formal decisions were made; several items were deferred to the May meeting.

• Approved ERRP team objectives and goals (all in favor)
• Approved March 9, 2021 minutes (all in favor)

Public Service Authority

The Board will review financial reports, bills for April, and updates on two infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a new rate resolution.

• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress update
• Long Hollow Project progress update
• Rate Resolution discussion

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved a rate resolution increasing water and sewer rates by about 2% for bi-monthly fees, with water usage up $0.42 and sewer up $0.55 per 1,000 gallons, and set a public hearing for June 8, 2021. The board also approved $568,573.06 in March bills and refunds, declared surplus items for auction, and approved a $143,126.89 reduction in the Rt. 60 Sewer Project contract. The FY2022 budget was discussed but not approved, with final approval expected in June.

• Approved rate resolution with 2% increases to bi-monthly fees, water usage +$0.42, sewer +$0.55 (unanimous)
• Approved $568,573.06 in March bills and refunds of deposits/overpayments (unanimous)
• Approved $143,126.89 reduction in Rt. 60 Sewer Project contract (unanimous)
• Declared surplus list of items for sale on GovDeals.com (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 9, 2021 as revised (unanimous)
• Discussed FY2022 budget; approval deferred to June meeting
• Noted trailer purchase: smaller 6-ton trailer to be bought within budget; larger trailer in next fiscal year

Tourism Corridor Overlay Board

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board will meet to continue its review of a proposed 5 MW solar project by Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC along N Lee Highway (Route 11) near Fairfield. The board will also consider minutes from previous meetings and receive updates. The meeting is open to the public with a 30-person capacity limit due to COVID-19.

• Continued review of 5 MW (AC) solar project on N Lee Highway (Route 11), tax map 38-10-A
• Applicant increased landscaping between Route 11 and solar field; additional photo simulations requested
• Planning Commission public hearing continued to April 14, 2021
• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2020 and March 3, 2021 meetings
• Citizen comments limited to 3 minutes

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Review Board continued its review of a proposed 5 MW solar field south of Fairfield, requesting the applicant explore relocating or adding landscaping along Route 11 for better screening. The board agreed to continue the meeting to April 28, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. to allow the applicant to develop a revised plan and discuss it with the landowner. The board also unanimously approved the October 7, 2020, and March 3, 2021, meeting minutes.

• Approved the October 7, 2020, and March 3, 2021, TCO meeting minutes unanimously.
• Continued the solar field plan review to April 28, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. to allow the applicant to explore additional landscaping options along Route 11.

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority is holding a joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors to receive a presentation from Leslie Schaller on the Rural Economic Development Incentive (REDI) grant report. The meeting is being held electronically due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance. The agenda includes only this presentation and adjournment.

• Presentation by Leslie Schaller on REDI grant report
• Joint meeting with Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors
• Meeting held electronically due to COVID-19
• Public participation via Zoom webinar or YouTube live stream

The Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors approved a consultant agreement for the regional Department of Social Services site selection, limited to a 3-mile radius of the I-81/US-60 interchange, with costs shared equally among the county and the cities of Lexington and Buena Vista. The board also approved two farmers market applications, a special exception for a ViaSat satellite internet facility, a rezoning and special exception for a private school, and a pet grooming special exception. Additionally, the board adopted a resolution for the spring VPSA pool bond sale for school HVAC projects and approved the school appropriation resolution.

• Approved the Social Services Agreement to retain a consultant for DSS site selection, with the county as RFP issuing agent and costs shared equally among the three localities.
• Adopted the VPSA Spring Pool Bond Sale 2021 Authorizing Resolution for the Fairfield and Central Elementary HVAC projects.
• Approved the Fairfield Farmers Market application for David Renalds at 5613 North Lee Hwy, Fairfield, open first and third Saturdays, May through October.
• Approved the Seasons' Yield Farmers Market application for Danial Shear at 165 Oakland Circle, Raphine, contingent on VDOT approvals, open second and fourth Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Adopted the ordinance for ViaSat Inc.'s special exception permit for a satellite-based high-speed internet facility on Bares Woods Lane.
• Adopted the ordinance for Singleton Investment Properties' rezoning from B-1 to A-T zoning district for a private school at 3111 N Lee Highway.
• Adopted the ordinance for Singleton Investment Properties' special exception permit for a private school (boys ages 10-14, up to 30 students) in the A-T district.
• Adopted the ordinance for Sarah Reynolds' special exception permit for pet grooming (kennel) at 3537 Forge Road, Glasgow, with conditions limiting to grooming only.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request by William L. Harris III to encroach 11 feet 4 inches into the required 35-foot rear setback in the A-2 zoning district, allowing construction of a kitchen addition to the west of the existing dwelling at 50 Red Mill Road. The vote was unanimous among the four members present, with Samuel L. Vest absent. The board also adopted the minutes from the February 17, 2021 meeting. No other business was discussed.

• Approved the minutes from the February 17, 2021 meeting as presented.
• Approved the rear setback variance request for William L. Harris III, allowing an 11'4" encroachment into the required 35' rear setback to construct a kitchen addition.

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on five applications: a 5-MW solar project, a satellite internet facility, a rezoning, a private school, and a pet grooming kennel. The meeting will be held electronically due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance.

• Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC: Special exception for 5-MW solar project on N. Lee Highway (A-2 district)
• ViaSat Inc.: Special exception for satellite internet facility on Bares Woods Lane (B-1 district)
• Singleton Investment Properties LLC: Rezoning from B-1 to A-T on N. Lee Highway
• Singleton Investment Properties LLC: Special exception for private school in B-1 district
• Sarah Reynolds: Special exception for pet grooming (kennel) on Forge Road (A-2 district)

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission held public hearings and voted to recommend several items to the Board of Supervisors. They recommended approval of a special exception permit for ViaSat's satellite internet facility, a rezoning of the Maple Hall property, a special exception for a private school, and a pet grooming business. A public hearing for a 5-MW solar project was continued to the April meeting.

• Approved minutes of February 10, 2021 meeting with corrections (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ViaSat satellite internet facility special exception permit (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezoning of Maple Hall from B-1 to A-T (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of private school special exception permit for Maple Hall Boys School (unanimous, McLaughlin abstained)
• Recommended approval of pet grooming business special exception permit (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing for Dynamic Energy Solutions 5-MW solar project to April 14, 2021

Community Emergency Response Team

The Community Emergency Response Team is meeting to conduct training and review after-action reports. The group will discuss team objectives and goals as well as organizational updates.

• Emergency Responder Rehab Refresher training with Marianna
• Crisis Track Training for EOC Team update
• After Action Reports for ERRP (Feb 21), Carilion COVID Vaccine Clinic, and VDH COVID Vaccine Clinic
• Operation Reach Out
• T-shirt disbursement and brochure updates

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team approved making the Emergency Responder Rehabilitation Program (ERRP) a separate team rather than part of medical operations. The team also approved the February 9, 2021 minutes and agreed to inventory and replace perishable supplies at least quarterly. Training on ERRP and Crisis Track was postponed due to login issues and a scheduling conflict.

• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes
• Approved making ERRP a separate team from medical operations
• Agreed to inventory supplies and replace perishables at least quarterly
• Agreed Alan will inventory and recharge radios
• Agreed to reschedule ERRP training for next month
• Agreed to discuss team leads next month

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting, primarily covering routine items such as approving minutes, paying bills, and reviewing financial reports. The board will also receive updates on the Rt. 60 Sewer Project and Long Hollow Project progress. The meeting will be held electronically due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance.

• Minutes of February 9, 2021 meeting
• Bills for March
• Monthly financial reports
• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress update
• Long Hollow Project progress update

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously approved the March bills list totaling $396,902.27 and customer overpayment refunds of $415.63. The board also approved the February meeting minutes as revised. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were informational reports on projects and operations.

• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes as revised (unanimous)
• Approved March bills totaling $396,902.27 (unanimous)
• Approved customer overpayment refunds of $415.63 (unanimous)

LEPC

The Rockbridge County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is meeting via Zoom to approve prior minutes and receive updates on COVID-19 vaccine distribution from health agencies, along with reports from emergency management, law enforcement, fire/EMS, and other partners. The agenda is largely routine, consisting of standard reports and administrative items.

• COVID-19 vaccine process/updates from VDH, VDEM, Carilion, and Rockbridge Area Health Center
• Northwest Region Healthcare Coalition report
• Emergency Management Task Force report
• Reports from law enforcement, fire/EMS, and public safety
• Next regular meeting scheduled for June 3, 2021

The Rockbridge County LEPC met virtually and received updates on COVID-19 vaccine distribution from VDH, Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital, and Rockbridge Area Health Center. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with reports on vaccine progress, volunteer needs, and local COVID-19 case updates.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded at the meeting
• Vaccine updates provided: >25,000 doses administered in CSHD, 2,268 at CRBH, 1,350 at RAHC
• Volunteer needs for vaccine events discussed, with LEPC members to be contacted by email
• J&J vaccine to be introduced next week as a one-time allotment
• Burn ban in effect in Rockbridge County; fire season approaching
• VMI reported 10 cadets in isolation, 44 in quarantine
• W&L reported 31 active cases, 67 students in quarantine
• Lexington City Schools reported no active cases, 90% of staff vaccinated

Tourism Corridor Overlay Board

The Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board will review plans for a 5 MW solar project on N Lee Highway and exterior improvements for the Natural Bridge Food Mart. The board will also adopt its 2021 meeting schedule and elect new officers.

• Dynamic Energy Solutions LLC - 5 MW (AC) Solar Project on N Lee Highway
• Fancy Hill Convenience Store - exterior improvements at 4800 S Lee Highway
• Adoption of the 2021 TCO Review Board Meeting Schedule
• Election of Board Officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary)

The Rockbridge County Tourism Corridor Review Board unanimously approved its 2021 meeting schedule and elected Chuck Barger as Chair, Tim Welsh as Vice-Chair, and Chris Slaydon as Secretary. The board reviewed two proposed projects: a 5 MW solar field near Fairfield and renovations to a former convenience store at 4800 S Lee Highway, but took no formal action on either. The minutes from the October 7, 2020 meeting were not available and will be presented at the next meeting.

• Approved the 2021 Tourism Corridor Overlay Review Board Meeting Schedule unanimously.
• Elected Chuck Barger as Chair, Tim Welsh as Vice-Chair, and Chris Slaydon as Secretary unanimously.
• Deferred approval of the October 7, 2020 meeting minutes until the next meeting.
• Reviewed the solar field plan but took no action; discussion included landscaping, fencing, and photo simulations.
• Reviewed the convenience store renovation plan but took no action; discussion included parapet wall details and color schemes.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals is meeting to handle administrative matters, including electing officers, adopting the 2021 meeting schedule, and approving minutes from August 19, 2020. The board will also consider an electronic meeting policy and a continuity of government resolution. No zoning cases or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Election of officers
• Adoption of 2021 meeting schedule
• Approval of minutes from August 19, 2020
• Consideration of electronic meeting policy
• Consideration of continuity of government resolution

The Rockbridge County Board of Zoning Appeals held a routine meeting and unanimously approved several administrative items: re-appointed Jeff Pufahl as Chair, Lynn Wells as Vice-Chair, and Chris Slaydon as Secretary; adopted the 2021 meeting schedule; approved the minutes from August 19, 2020; adopted a Continuity of Government Resolution; and adopted an Electronic Meeting Policy. No zoning appeals or substantive land-use decisions were made.

• Re-appointed Pufahl as Chair, Wells as Vice-Chair, Slaydon as Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 BZA meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from August 19, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted Continuity of Government Resolution (unanimous)
• Adopted Electronic Meeting Policy (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will meet electronically to review routine reports, including the Virginia Horse Center annual report and a request for funding to support the Route 60 Project revenue bond payment. The board will also continue its monthly discussion on COVID-19 impacts and recovery efforts. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Route 60 Project revenue bond payment request
• Virginia Horse Center annual report
• Financial report: checking $9,483.10, COVID relief funds $73,394.38 and $26.71, CD $51,891.38, escrow $176,498.90
• Monthly discussion on COVID-19 impacts and recovery
• Citizen comments via email, mail, dropbox, or Zoom

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority approved a $52,680.70 funding request for the Route 60 Sewer Project Revenue Bond payment, with the balance in the restricted account dropping to $123,920.35. The board also unanimously approved the Virginia Horse Center report, recommended to the Board of Supervisors, and voted to advertise for a new EDA attorney following Lee Taylor's resignation. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved $52,680.70 Route 60 Sewer Project Revenue Bond payment (unanimous)
• Recommended Virginia Horse Center report to Board of Supervisors (unanimous, Hawkins abstained)
• Approved January 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to advertise for new EDA attorney (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will meet electronically to hold a public hearing on BARC Electric Cooperative's request for a temporary special exception permit for a lay down yard (public utility) in the Agricultural and General Uses (A-2) zoning district at Big Spring Drive. The commission will also review a commercial site plan for a building addition at Whites Travel Center on Raphine Road. The meeting includes citizen comments, approval of January 13, 2021 minutes, and board reports.

• Public hearing: BARC Electric Cooperative temporary special exception permit for lay down yard (public utility) in A-2 district, Big Spring Drive
• Commercial site plan review: Whites Travel Center building addition, Raphine Road
• Citizen comments accepted via email, mail, drop box, or Zoom
• Meeting held electronically due to COVID-19; limited in-person attendance

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission voted unanimously to postpone action on BARC Electric Cooperative's request for a two-year temporary special exception permit for a laydown yard, moving the decision to the March 10 meeting. The commission also unanimously approved the White's Travel Center site plan for a building addition and approved the January 13, 2021 meeting minutes with minor corrections. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Postponed BARC Electric Cooperative temporary special exception permit decision to March 10 (unanimous, Hines abstained)
• Approved White's Travel Center site plan for building addition (unanimous)
• Approved January 13, 2021 meeting minutes with minor corrections (unanimous)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss training and team objectives, and review FEMA qualification tracking. Old business includes Operation Reach Out, t-shirt disbursement, brochures, and an organizational document update. New business covers a recommendation for training.

• Approval of January 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Emergency Responder Rehab Refresher training
• Crisis Track Training for EOC Team
• FEMA qualification tracking and available training
• Operation Reach Out update

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority met on February 9, 2021, and approved the January minutes, February bills totaling $553,169.90, and a $3,843.03 customer overpayment refund. The board also approved using $30,000 in savings for additional sewer slip lining, approved the FY 2020 audit, and authorized the executive director to negotiate a property swap for easements. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved January 12, 2021 minutes as revised (unanimous)
• Approved February bills list for $553,169.90 and customer overpayment refund of $3,843.03 (unanimous)
• Approved using $30,000 in mini excavator savings for additional sewer slip lining (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2020 audit as presented (unanimous)
• Authorized executive director to negotiate with Mr. Swenson on a tank parcel swap for easements (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Rockbridge County Economic Development Authority will hold its January 19, 2021 meeting electronically due to COVID-19. The board will elect officers, approve minutes and financial reports, and discuss COVID-19 impacts and recovery efforts. Members will also set economic development priorities for the year, including affordable housing, workforce, and site development.

• Election of officers
• Financial report: regular checking $9,483.10, COVID-19 relief funds $73,394.38 (Round 1) and $26.71 (Round 2), CD $51,839.65, restricted escrow $176,498.90
• Virginia Horse Center report delayed to February
• Financial disclosure forms due February 1
• Discussion on COVID-19 impacts and economic development priorities

Planning Commission

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission will meet electronically on January 13, 2021, to hold public hearings on four applications: amendments to existing special exception permits for a kennel and a propane storage facility, a new special exception for a private landing strip, and an amendment to proffers for a conditional rezoning. The commission will also adopt the 2021 meeting schedule, elect officers, and review the October 14, 2020 minutes. The meeting is held remotely due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance.

• Public hearing: Douglas and Jo Anna Harris (Alphin Lane) – amendment to existing Special Exception Permit for a kennel in Agricultural Transitional (A-T) district
• Public hearing: Rockbridge Farmers Cooperative Inc. (Yellow Rail Lane) – amendment to existing Special Exception Permit for propane storage in General Business (B-1) district
• Public hearing: David Rabern (Old Chapel Road) – Special Exception Permit for private noncommercial landing strip in Agricultural and General Uses (A-2) district
• Public hearing: JBLN Investments LLC (Thoroughbred Circle) – amendment to proffers for conditional rezoning in Residential Mixed (R-2) district
• Cluster subdivision review for JBLN Investments LLC (Thoroughbred Circle)

The Rockbridge County Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 13, 2021, and voted unanimously to recommend approval of four special exception permit amendments and one new permit to the Board of Supervisors. These include a kennel expansion, propane storage tanks, a private landing strip, and a proffer amendment for single-family dwellings. The commission also re-elected officers, adopted the 2021 meeting schedule, and approved the October 2020 minutes.

• Re-elected current officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary) unanimously
• Approved 2021 meeting schedule (second Wednesday, 7:00 pm) unanimously
• Approved October 14, 2020 meeting minutes unanimously
• Recommended approval of amended kennel special exception permit for Harris property (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of amended propane storage special exception permit for Rockbridge Farmers Cooperative (unanimous, Whitmore abstained)
• Recommended approval of private noncommercial landing strip special exception permit for Rabern property (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of proffer amendment for JBLN Investments LLC (unanimous, Hennis abstained)

Community Emergency Response Team

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will meet to elect officers and approve minutes from March 10, 2020. The body will review new training guidelines, 2021 goals, and discuss 'Operation Reach Out'.

• Election of Officers
• Review of new training guidelines and requirements
• Discussion of apparel and ID badges
• Discussion of Operation Reach Out

The Rockbridge County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) held its January 12, 2021 meeting, electing officers for the coming term. Brandy Flint was elected Team Leader, Greg Dreelin as Operations Chief, and Jutta Hopkins as Administrative/Finance Chief. The March 2020 minutes were approved. The team reviewed 2020 activities, which were quiet due to COVID-19, and discussed plans for 2021, including resuming monthly meetings and training.

• Elected Brandy Flint as Team Leader
• Elected Greg Dreelin as Operations Chief
• Elected Jutta Hopkins as Administrative/Finance Chief
• Approved March 2020 minutes

Public Service Authority

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority will hold its January meeting electronically due to COVID-19, with limited in-person attendance. The board will elect officers, approve minutes and bills, review financial reports, and hear the director's report. They will also discuss progress on the Rt. 60 and Long Hollow sewer projects and consider the Fiscal Year 2020 audit.

• Election of officers
• Rt. 60 Sewer Project progress update
• Long Hollow Project progress update
• Fiscal Year 2020 Audit discussion
• Meeting held electronically due to COVID-19

The Rockbridge County Public Service Authority unanimously re-elected its officers: Dr. Mullen as Chair, Mr. Melvin as Treasurer, Mr. Mast as Vice-Chair, and Mrs. Alexander as Secretary. The board approved the December 8, 2020 minutes as revised and approved the January bills list totaling $638,984.09, plus refunds of customer deposits ($879.10) and overpayments ($199.99). The board also discussed the Rt. 60 Sewer Project, including a contractor's request for a 30-day extension and a $100,000 deduction for duplicate pipe quantities, and noted the COVID relief fund deadline extension to December 31, 2021.

• Re-elected Dr. Mullen as Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Mr. Melvin as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Elected Mr. Mast as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Mrs. Alexander as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved December 8, 2020 minutes as revised (unanimous)
• Approved January bills totaling $638,984.09 (unanimous)
• Approved refund of customer deposits ($879.10) and overpayments ($199.99) (unanimous)