Mathews County public meetings in 2024

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings on tax exemptions and sewage disposal system amendments. The meeting includes presentations on an energy investment audit and a draft audit report.

• Ordinance No. 24-13: Tax exemption for Canine Companions for Independence
• Ordinance No. 24-14: Sewage disposal amendments and General Permit for 384 Old Ferry Rd
• Supplemental Appropriations: $1,500 library donation and $2,000 Royce Publications donation
• Broadband Advisory Board Renewal Resolution
• Public hearing scheduling for solar farm requests (Garrett and Gayle) and a text amendment to Ordinance 175-23.4

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will meet in a special session on December 19, 2024. The agenda includes a closed meeting to discuss legal advice, employee performance and contracts, ongoing litigation, and cybersecurity safety plans. Items to be considered include the property at 384 Old Ferry Road and the case Hole in the Wall, LLC v. Mathews County. The board will return to an open meeting after the closed session.

• Closed session: legal consultation regarding 384 Old Ferry Road, Mathews
• Review of performance, salaries, and possible discipline of three public employees, one county appointee, and the County Attorney contract
• Briefing on litigation: Hole in the Wall, LLC v. Mathews County (and related BZA decision)
• Discussion of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and public‑safety plans for county facilities

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding two conditional use permits for solar gardens and a zoning text amendment for telecommunications structures. The body will also discuss scheduling a public hearing to amend the Major Utility Ordinance.

• Application #11-CUP-24: Solar garden/farm request at 8444 Buckley Hall Road
• Application #12-CUP-24: Solar garden/farm request on Church St
• Application #3-ZA-24: Text amendment to allow telecommunications structures in Residential-2 District (R-2)
• Proposed public hearing to amend Major Utility Ordinance §175-23.2(28)
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair

The Mathews County Planning Commission denied two conditional use permits for solar farms: Application #11-CUP-24 (Buckley Hall Road) and #12-CUP-24 (Church St), both by 6-0 and 5-0-1 votes respectively. The commission also approved a zoning text amendment allowing telecommunications structures in R-2 districts, tabled a public hearing on the Major Utility Ordinance, and elected Billy Cook as Chair and Harry Meeks as Vice Chair for 2025.

• Denied Application #11-CUP-24 for solar farm at 8444 Buckley Hall Road (6-0)
• Denied Application #12-CUP-24 for solar farm on Church St (5-0-1, Minor abstained)
• Approved Application #3-ZA-24 to add R-2 district to telecommunications facility zoning (6-0)
• Tabled public hearing to amend Major Utility Ordinance §175-23.2(28) (6-0)
• Elected Billy Cook as 2025 Chair (5-1)
• Elected Harry Meeks as 2025 Vice Chair (5-1)

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetlands Board will hold public hearings for three requests to install shoreline protections and structures. The board will also consider an extension request for a previous project.

• Request by William L. & Melinda A. Montgomery (588 North End Estates) for a 100’x6’ sand-filled DredgeSox
• Request by Rick & Betsy Nietsch (Brighton Lane) for a 100’x8’ granite stone marsh toe sill
• Request by Queens Creek Landing, LLC (391 Walnut Acres Lane) for a 110 lf vinyl bulkhead, walkway redecking, marsh toe living shoreline, and rock veneer
• Extension request for Whit Stolz (VMRC #23-1296)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting to conduct closed sessions. These sessions include legal consultations and discussions regarding real property acquisition.

• Legal consultation regarding 384 Old Ferry Road
• Discussion of a maintenance contract with the Mathews County School Board
• Consideration of real property acquisition for a fire station
• Discussion of the contract and compensation of the County Attorney

Board of Supervisors

The Board will consider several new business items, including amending the FY 25 budget calendar and authorizing the County Administrator to sign a Phase II agreement for the Mains Street Project. They will also schedule a public hearing on a tax‑exemption request for Canine Companions and review an easement agreement with the Volunteer Rescue Squad. A special presentation on a Verizon fiber‑to‑the‑home proposal and a discussion of the Williams Wharf Landing will also be given.

• Authorize County Administrator to sign agreement with VHB for Mains Street Project, Phase II
• Amend FY25 Budget Calendar
• Schedule public hearing Dec 19, 2024 for Canine Companions Tax Exemption Request
• Easement agreement between Mathews County and Mathews County Volunteer Rescue Squad
• Special presentation: Verizon Wireless proposal for fiber to homes of unserved and underserved citizens

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a presentation on tiny homes and discuss the development of the FY26-30 Capital Improvement Plan. The body will also review Board of Supervisors actions regarding AirBnB.

• Tiny Home Presentation
• FY26-30 Capital Improvement Plan Development
• Nominating Committee for 2025 Chair and Vice-Chair
• Review of Board of Supervisors actions regarding AirBnB

The Mathews County Planning Commission approved advertising a December public hearing on a text amendment to the R-2 zoning rules to allow telecommunication towers. It also approved the September 10, 2024 minutes and heard updates on tiny homes, the FY26-30 Capital Improvement Plan, and the comprehensive plan. Two previously withdrawn solar applications were noted as resubmitted for the December meeting. No final decision was made on tiny homes or the capital plan.

• Approved advertising a December public hearing on an R-2 zoning text amendment to allow telecommunication towers (7-0-0)
• Approved the September 10, 2024 minutes as presented (7-0-0)
• Assigned Harry Meeks and Frances Minor to the nominating committee for 2025 Chair and Vice-Chair
• Adjourned (7-0-0)

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetlands Board will hold public hearings on two shoreline projects: a 65‑foot riprap revetment requested by Thomas & Susan Chamberlin at 134 Shore Drive, and a 120‑foot armor‑stone breakwater with two 50‑lb spurs requested by Terri Edwards at 130 Dutchmans Point. The meeting will also include a review of the board's public hearing procedures and address routine agenda items such as violations and administrative matters.

• Public hearing on Chamberlin request to install 65 lf of riprap revetment at 134 Shore Drive (VMRC #24‑1760, Tax Map #40A‑1‑46)
• Public hearing on Edwards request to install 120 lf of armor stone breakwater and two 50 lb armor stone spurs at 130 Dutchmans Point (VMRC #24‑1981, TM #43‑A‑8B & 10)
• Review of public hearing procedures by the chairperson

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals is meeting for a special training session. Attorney Ann Cosby will provide a presentation on land use and zoning for board members.

• Board member training presentation by attorney Ann Cosby

Board of Supervisors

The Board will hold a closed session to discuss appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals. It will also review the County Attorney’s contract and compensation. The Board will receive legal briefings on a July 12, 2023 zoning appeal decision and the Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill case. Finally, staff will brief the Board on legal matters concerning 384 Old Ferry Road and a proposed memorandum of understanding with the County School Board for facilities maintenance.

• Discussion of appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals
• Review of County Attorney contract and compensation
• Legal briefing on July 12, 2023 Board of Zoning Appeals decision (CL23000196) and Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill case
• Consultation on legal matters for 384 Old Ferry Road
• Proposed MOU with Mathews County School Board for facilities maintenance

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings on three ordinances: a text amendment to the zoning ordinance for short‑term vacation rentals, a new no‑wake zone on PUT‑IN‑CREEK, and changes to the building and planning fee schedule. The board will also consider supplemental appropriations and other updates. All items are presented for discussion and possible adoption.

• Ordinance No. 24-11: Text amendment to Zoning Ordinance §175-15.28 (B) for short‑term vacation rentals
• Ordinance No. 24-12: Adds a “no wake” zone on PUT‑IN‑CREEK (coordinates 37°24'57.4848" N, 76°20'15.1584" W)
• Ordinance No. 24-13: Amends County fee schedule, adding a zoning verification fee
• Supplemental Appropriations: Heat Grant Funds FY24‑FY25, Bay Consortium Funding, Victim Witness Budget Adjustment, MCSO DMV Grant, Library C4K Pass‑thru Grant
• Radio Project Update and Funding Request presented by Bob Brown (MVRS)

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved Ordinance 24-11, a text amendment to the zoning ordinance for short-term vacation rentals, and Ordinance 24-12, adding a no-wake zone on Put-in-Creek. The board also approved a $131,916.42 appropriation for radio equipment, a rural rustic resolution for White Point Lane, and a resolution regarding the Gwynns Island highway marker (3-2). The fee schedule ordinance (24-13) was tabled for more information.

• Approved Ordinance 24-11, short-term vacation rental text amendment (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 24-12, no-wake zone on Put-in-Creek (4-0-1, Bowen absent)
• Tabled Ordinance 24-13, building and planning fee schedule changes
• Approved $131,916.42 for MVRS radio equipment (5-0)
• Approved Rural Rustic Resolution 24-22 for White Point Lane (5-0)
• Approved resolution on Gwynns Island highway marker (3-2)
• Approved consent agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved moving forward with Administrative IT Investigation (5-0)

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetlands Board will hold public hearings on four requests to install riprap, concrete sills, and breakwaters along the Chesapeake Bay and Mobjack Bay shorelines. The board will also consider a request to extend an existing permit by one year.

• Public hearing for Thomas & Susan Chamberlin to install 65 lf of riprap revetment
• Public hearing for Joan W. Close & Lydia F. Wetterling to install 173.5 lf of concrete sill
• Public hearing for Gary Goerss to remove concrete slabs and install 100 lf of riprap revetment
• Public hearing for Terri Edwards to install 120 lf of armor stone breakwater
• Consideration to extend permit for Steven Foster for one year

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will convene a closed meeting to obtain legal advice on a specific matter at 384 Old Ferry Road. The session will also cover discussions about prospective candidates, appointments, promotions, salaries, and disciplinary actions for the Library Board of Trustees, MPPDC, and the Regional Radio Policy Team. Additionally, staff will brief the board on ongoing litigation related to a July 12, 2023 zoning appeal decision (CL23000196) and the case Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill, LLC v. Board of Supervisors (CL23000-282-003).

• Closed‑session consultation with the County Attorney regarding a legal matter at 384 Old Ferry Road
• Discussion of prospective candidates, appointments, promotions, salaries, and discipline for the Library Board of Trustees, MPPDC, and the Regional Radio Policy Team
• Briefing on litigation concerning the July 12 2023 Board of Zoning Appeals decision (CL23000196) and Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill, LLC v. Board of Supervisors (CL23000-282-003)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a business at 15967 John Clayton Memorial Highway. Members will also review supplemental appropriations for the library and school system, as well as budget amendments and contract extensions.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for portable toilet rental business at 15967 John Clayton Memorial Highway
• Supplemental appropriation of $157,148.19 for MCPS School Safety & Security Grant Funds
• Supplemental appropriation of $216,280.51 for MCPS ALL In Tutoring Funds
• Supplemental appropriation of $3,000.00 for Mathews Memorial Library C4K Leadership Grant
• Authorization for County Administrator to sign Verizon Lease Agreement for Rescue Squad Tower

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved a conditional use permit allowing a resident to operate a portable toilet rental business from their property. The board also approved several other items, including a budget amendment, a Verizon lease agreement, and a contract extension for broadband services. A public hearing was scheduled for a proposed no-wake zone at Put In Creek.

• Approved conditional use permit 10-CUP-24 for portable toilet rental business (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including supplemental appropriations and K9 fund (5-0)
• Approved Budget Amendment #2 (4-1)
• Authorized County Administrator to sign Verizon lease for Rescue Squad Tower (5-0)
• Extended broadband telecom contract for 6 months (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for no-wake zone at Put In Creek (4-0-1)
• Approved moving forward with Energy Investment Grade Audit (5-0)
• Appointed Tom Bowen to MPPDC, MaryAnn Carr to Library Board, Wilson and Brown to Regional Radio Policy Team (5-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings regarding two requests for zoning variances. Both applicants are seeking permission to deviate from standard setback or buffer requirements for residential construction.

• Variance request 3-V-24 for 514 Cherry Point Road to reduce setbacks for a new detached garage
• Variance request 5-5-V-24 for 4545 New Point Comfort Highway to reduce RPA buffer for an addition, garage, driveway, and shed

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding three conditional use permits and one zoning ordinance text amendment. The body will also receive a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) update.

• Application #8-CUP-24: Small-scale solar facility at 8444 Buckley Hall Road
• Application #9-CUP-24: Small-scale solar facility off Church Street
• Application #10-CUP-24: Portable toilet rental business at 15967 and 15987 John Clayton Memorial Highway
• Application 2-ZA-24: Text amendment to Special Regulations for Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• CIP Update

The Mathews County Planning Commission approved a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance for short-term vacation rentals (Application 2-ZA-24) by a 4-3 vote, after a motion to table it failed 3-4. The commission also approved a conditional use permit for a portable toilet rental business with amendments (7-0) and noted two solar facility applications were withdrawn by the applicants. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved text amendment for short-term vacation rentals §175-15(B) (4-3)
• Motion to table short-term rental amendment failed (3-4)
• Approved CUP #10-CUP-24 for portable toilet rental business with amendments (7-0)
• Application #8-CUP-24 for solar facility withdrawn by applicant
• Application #9-CUP-24 for solar facility withdrawn by applicant

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will convene a special meeting on August 22, 2024 at the Historic Courthouse. The agenda consists of standard procedural items, a special presentation, and two citizen comment sessions. No specific policy decisions or contracts are listed for this meeting.

• Special presentation (topic not specified)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Mathews County Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request (3-V-24) to reduce required setbacks for a new detached garage on 514 Cherry Point Road. The board will also review its public hearing procedures and discuss a planning director memo and report. Additional items include training for board members.

• Variance request (3-V-24) to reduce 50‑ft right‑of‑way setback to 3 ft and 5‑ft side yard setback to 1 ft for a garage at 514 Cherry Point Road (Tax Map Parcel 11A2-6-107 & 11A2-6-116, Residential‑1 R‑1)
• Public hearings and review of public hearing procedure
• Training for Board of Zoning Appeals members
• Planning Director's memo to the board
• Planning Director's report

The Mathews County Board of Zoning Appeals voted 5-0 to table a variance request by Debra Caplinger to build a detached garage at 514 Cherry Point Road with reduced setbacks, citing insufficient information due to staffing shortages. The board also voted 5-0 to table approval of the June 19, 2024 minutes until the next meeting, pending a motion to reconsider text. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Tabled variance application 3-V-24 for garage at 514 Cherry Point Road (5-0)
• Tabled approval of June 19, 2024 minutes (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will convene a special closed meeting. The closed session will be used for consultation with legal counsel regarding litigation, specifically the July 12, 2023 Board of Zoning Appeals decision (CL23000196) and the case Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill, LLC v. Board of Supervisors (CL23000-282-00). The session will also cover legal advice concerning 384 Old Ferry Road. No other agenda items are listed.

• Closed session under § 2.2-3711(A)(7) to discuss litigation related to CL23000196 and Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill, LLC case
• Closed session under § 2.2-3711(A)(8) to obtain legal advice on 384 Old Ferry Road

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors held a special called closed meeting to consult with legal counsel on two matters: litigation involving the Board of Zoning Appeals and Hole in the Wall Waterfront Grill, and a legal matter regarding 384 Old Ferry Road. After reconvening, the board voted 4-0-1 to disband the current subcommittee for the Hole in the Wall restaurant and move the subcommittee to the County Attorney, citing progress on septic and building repairs. No other substantive decisions were made; the agenda was approved and the meeting adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Entered closed meeting for legal consultations (5-0)
• Certified closed meeting and reconvened in open meeting (5-0)
• Disbanded Hole in the Wall subcommittee and moved it to County Attorney (4-0-1)

Board of Supervisors

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors will review several updates, including energy audit and grant information from Schneider Electric and VHB. Unfinished business includes the abandoned boat ordinance and the county's financial policy and guidelines. New business items feature a zoning verification application with a fee and an update on closed‑meeting procedures. Additional reports cover broadband advisory board activities, VDOT projects, the comprehensive plan, and a FEMA grant for a fire‑station generator.

• Zoning Verification Application and Fee (new business)
• Abandoned Boat Ordinance (unfinished business)
• Financial Policy and Guidelines (unfinished business)
• FEMA-4512-DR-VA-0023 Grant for Generator at Fire Station 1 Update
• CUP Permits (consent agenda)

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted an abandoned boat ordinance and approved a financial policy. They also approved CUP permits for submission to the Planning Commission, scheduled a public hearing on zoning verification fees, and voted 3-2 to end mandatory joint public hearings with the planning commission. The board received updates on grants, including a $115,000 FEMA generator grant and a $1.3 million dredge reimbursement.

• Adopted abandoned boat ordinance (5-0)
• Approved financial policy and guidelines (5-0)
• Approved CUP permits for submission to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for September 19, 2024 on zoning verification application and fee schedule (5-0)
• Approved ending mandatory joint public hearings with planning commission unless approved by both chairs or majority vote (3-2)

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetland Board will hold public hearings regarding two shoreline projects. The board will consider requests for riprap and rock sill installations along the Chesapeake Bay and Oakland Creek.

• Public hearing for Jill and Robert Jones (198 Rigby Lane) to repair 440 lf of riprap revetment and install 510 lf of armor stone sill
• Public hearing for Hugh Bryan III (305 Marina Rd) to repair 50 lf of rock sill and install 40 lf of rock sill

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings on two proposed ordinances. The meeting also includes a review of preliminary audit results and a supplemental appropriation for the fire program.

• Public hearing on Proposed Ordinance 24-06, Abandoned Vessel Ordinance
• Public hearing on Proposed Ordinance 24-07, Amendment to the Park Ordinance
• Supplemental appropriation of $1,919.00 for FY24 Fire Program
• Discussion of preliminary audit results
• Closed session regarding 384 Old Ferry Road

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved Ordinance 24-07 amending the park ordinance and tabled the proposed abandoned vessel ordinance (24-06) for 60 days. They also approved a conditional use permit application (7-CUP-24), a special called meeting for August 22, 2024, and a request from the Mathews Museum to loan the Campeachy Chair. The board entered closed session and approved the appointment of Timothy Berkoff to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

• Approved Ordinance 24-07, park ordinance amendment (5-0)
• Tabled Ordinance 24-06, abandoned vessel ordinance, for 60 days (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit 7-CUP-24 (5-0)
• Approved special called meeting on Aug 22, 2024 for interim financing (5-0)
• Approved loan of Campeachy Chair to Mathews Museum (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Timothy Berkoff to Board of Zoning Appeals (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including June 20 minutes and $1,919 FY24 Fire Program appropriation (5-0)

Joint Board of Supervisors / Planning Commission

The Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission are holding public hearings regarding a conditional use permit and a zoning ordinance amendment. The Planning Commission will also review minutes and the Comprehensive Plan.

• Application #7-CUP-24: Request by Alexander Benitez for a retail store at 1510 Bethel Beach Road
• Application 2-ZA-24: Text amendment to §175-15.28 (B) Special Regulations for Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Comprehensive Plan Review

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold a special called closed meeting to discuss the annual performance evaluation of a specific employee and the performance of the County Administrator. This session is pursuant to Virginia Code section 2.2-3711(A)(1).

• Performance evaluation of a specific employee
• Performance evaluation of the County Administrator

The Board of Supervisors voted to remove the county burn ban and fire watch. The board also entered a closed session to discuss the performance of the County Administrator.

• Approved removing the Burn Ban and Fire Watch for the County (5-0-0)
• Approved the Agenda as Amended (5-0-0)
• Entered closed session to discuss County Administrator performance (5-0-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will consider Budget Amendment #1 and supplemental appropriations. The agenda includes a request for a public hearing to update the Park Ordinance and an alcohol permit for Zoll Vinements at Market Days. Additionally, the board will receive updates on Davenport Investments and VDOT Smart Scale 2026.

• Budget Amendment #1 Appropriation Resolution
• Supplemental Appropriations of $5,707.16 and $17,003.68
• Public hearing request to update Park Ordinance
• Alcohol permit for Zoll Vineyards at Market Days
• Agreement with Virginia Masonry regarding Historic Green Buildings

The Board of Supervisors approved Budget Amendment #1 and a resolution for VDOT Smart Scale 2026. The Board also authorized the hiring of an Emergency Service Coordinator and appointed members to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Social Services Board.

• Approved Budget Amendment #1 Appropriation Resolution (5-0-0)
• Approved Resolution 2024-18 for VDOT Smart Scale 2026 (5-0-0)
• Approved hiring David Dixon as Emergency Service Coordinator (5-0-0)
• Approved Mark Lenz and Timothy Berkoff to Board of Zoning Appeals (5-0-0)
• Approved reappointment of Jean Howard and Desmond Smith to Social Services Board (5-0-0)
• Approved alcohol permit for Zoll Vineyards at Market Days with two-drink limit (5-0-0)
• Approved expanding parking at Haven Beach (5-0-0)
• Approved agreement with Virginia Masonry for Historic Green Buildings (5-0-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will review two variance applications. One request seeks a reduced setback for a detached garage at 84 Lanes Creek Road, and another proposes reducing a resource protection area buffer at 1050 Elm Grove Lane.

• Application #2-V-24: Detached garage setback reduction at 84 Lanes Creek Road
• Application #1-V-24: Resource protection area buffer reduction at 1050 Elm Grove Lane

The Mathews County Board of Zoning Appeals approved two variance applications. Application 2-V-24 lets Heath and Trish Gathright build a 16x24 ft detached garage at 84 Lanes Creek Road with a one-foot setback from the right-of-way line where 50 feet is normally required, with conditions; member Sue Thomas, who served as the applicants' agent, abstained. Application 1-V-24 lets Kathy and Noel Harris reduce the resource protection area buffer from 100 feet to 43 feet at 1050 Elm Grove Lane for a home addition, with conditions. The board also discussed a prior Motion to Reconsider on conditions for 10-V-23 (Spencer Francis) and took no new action on it.

• Approved Application 2-V-24 (4-0-1, Sue Thomas abstained): 16x24 ft detached garage at 84 Lanes Creek Road with a 1-foot setback from the right-of-way line instead of the required 50 feet, conditioned on a site survey of the garage and porch, a Plan of Development if disturbance exceeds 2,500 sq. ft., and an Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Permit
• Approved Application 1-V-24 (5-0-0): reduce the resource protection area buffer from 100 feet to 43 feet at 1050 Elm Grove Lane for a home addition and accessory features, conditioned on a Plan of Development if disturbance exceeds 2,500 sq. ft., an Agreement in Lieu of Erosion and Sediment Permit, a Memorandum of Agreement for mitigation plantings, and other listed conditions
• Approved the agenda with corrections (5-0-0)
• Adjourned (5-0-0)
• No action taken on the Motion to Reconsider for 10-V-23 (Spencer Francis); the chair reported for the record that the BZA attorney said the earlier 4-0 reconsideration vote was proper

Planning Commission

The Mathews County Planning Commission will discuss a text amendment to the zoning ordinance regarding short-term vacation rental regulations. The commission will also continue working edits on the Comprehensive Plan review.

• Text amendment to Zoning Ordinance §175-15.28 (B) for short-term vacation rentals
• Review of working edits for the Comprehensive Plan
• Approval of minutes from the May 14, 2024, Joint Public Hearing

The Mathews County Planning Commission voted 3-4 to deny Application 2-ZA-24, a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance on short-term vacation rentals. A separate motion to approve a comment on the application passed 6-1. The Commission also voted 7-0 to move the July meeting to July 16, 2024 at 7:00 pm in the Historic Courthouse. Chairperson Cook asked members to review the Comprehensive Plan over the next 30 days for finalizing at the next meeting.

• Denied Application 2-ZA-24, short-term vacation rental zoning text amendment (3-4)
• Approved a comment on Application 2-ZA-24 (6-1)
• Approved moving the July meeting to July 16, 2024 at 7:00 pm in the Historic Courthouse (7-0)
• Approved May 14, 2024 joint public hearing minutes with minor corrections (7-0)
• Adjourned (7-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board will consider a resolution to authorize an agreement with DJG for the design of the New Fire Station. The agenda also includes discussion regarding the FY25 Operating and CIP Budget Amendment #1 and the July 5th office closure.

• Agreement with DJG for New Fire Station design
• FY25 Operating and CIP Budget Amendment #1
• July 5th office closure
• Discussion regarding 384 Old Ferry Road

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved Resolution 2024-16 authorizing the County Administrator to execute an agreement with DJG for design of the new fire station, and approved FY25 Operating and CIP Budget Amendment #1. The Board also approved an additional holiday on July 5, 2024 for all county employees. All votes were 5-0-0. The Board entered closed session to discuss a specific employee's performance and legal counsel regarding 384 Old Ferry Road, then returned to open meeting and certified; no action on closed matters was recorded.

• Approved Resolution 2024-16 authorizing County Administrator to execute agreement with DJG for new fire station design (5-0-0)
• Approved FY25 Operating and CIP Budget Amendment #1 as presented (5-0-0)
• Approved additional holiday on July 5, 2024 for all county employees (5-0-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0-0)
• Entered closed session pursuant to Va. Code § 2.2-3711(A)(1) for employee performance and § 2.2-3711(A)(8) for legal counsel re: 384 Old Ferry Road (5-0-0)
• Returned to open meeting and certified (3-0-0)
• Adjourned (5-0-0)

Wetlands Zoning Board

The board will review several requests for shoreline modifications, including the installation of rock sills and riprap. These proposals affect various locations along Billups Creek, Queens Creek, North River, and East River.

• Request to install a 160’ rock sill and 28’ riprap outfall at Billups Creek
• Request for 65’ of riprap against a timber bulkhead at Queens Creek
• Request for a 95’ marsh toe sill with plantings at North River
• Request to replace a 25’ boat ramp with concrete slabs at East River
• Request for riprap revetment and a stone marsh sill at East River

Board of Supervisors

The Board will consider several public hearings regarding the wetlands code, sand dunes, and a property transfer to the Volunteer Fire Department. Additionally, the agenda includes discussions on conditional use permits for Canine Companions for Independence and updates on the FY25 operating budget.

• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 24–02 regarding Mathews County Wetlands Code
• Proposed property transfer to Mathews County Volunteer Fire Department
• Conditional Use Permit request from Canine Companions for Independence for club/office and event venue use
• Supplemental appropriation of $507 for Department of Social Services Family Partnership Meetings
• Supplemental appropriation of $4,543.26 for MIFI program through E-Rate

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution for the FY25 Operating and CIP Budget but did not appropriate any funds, scheduling a special meeting on June 6, 2024, to decide allocations. The board also approved a letter of intent to start an energy audit with Schneider Electric, two zoning text amendments, a property transfer to the Volunteer Fire Department, and conditional use permits for Canine Companions for Independence. Several items were tabled, including updated boards and committees procedures and a short-term rental text amendment. All votes recorded were 5-0-0.

• Approved sending a Letter of Intent to Schneider Electric for an Energy Audit project (5-0-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 24-02 amending Wetlands Code notice requirements for public hearings (5-0-0)
• Approved text amendment to Chapter 122 Sand Dunes (5-0-0)
• Approved property transfer to Mathews County Volunteer Fire Department for New Point Station 5 parking and access (5-0-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, supplemental appropriations, and fund items (5-0-0)
• Approved Application 3-CUP-24 for a country club use by Canine Companions for Independence (5-0-0)
• Approved Application 4-CUP-24 for an event venue by Canine Companions for Independence (5-0-0)
• Tabled Dedication to Excellence updated boards and committees procedures until next meeting (5-0-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to review a variance request regarding resource protection area buffers. The board will also review approved conditions for a previous case.

• Variance request 1-V-24 for 1050 Elm Grove Lane to reduce resource protection area buffer from 100 feet to 43 feet
• Review of approved conditions for case 10-V-23 (Spencer Francis)

Joint Board of Supervisors / Planning Commission

The Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a zoning ordinance amendment and two conditional use permits. The meeting includes a review of regulations for short-term vacation rentals and requests for land use on specific parcels.

• Text amendment to Zoning Ordinance §175-15.28 (B) regarding Short-Term Vacation Rentals
• Conditional Use Permit #3-CUP-24 for Canine Companions for Independence to operate a club/office/training space on parcels 20-A-11, 20-A-12, and 20-A-13
• Conditional Use Permit #4-CUP-24 for Canine Companions for Independence to operate an event venue on parcels 20-A-11, 20-A-12, and 20-A-13

The Mathews County Planning Commission voted 7-0 to approve application 3-CUP-24, a conditional use permit for Canine Companions for Independence to operate a club/office/training space on parcels 20-A-11, 20-A-12 and 20-A-13 in the Residential (R-1) district. The Commission voted 6-1 to approve application 4-CUP-24, a conditional use permit for the same applicant to operate an event venue on the same parcels, with Byron Rauch voting no. The Commission voted 7-0 to table application 2-ZA-24, a text amendment to the short-term vacation rental regulations, for 30 days. The Board of Supervisors held public hearings on the three applications but the minutes record no Board action on them.

• Approved application 3-CUP-24, conditional use permit for Canine Companions club/office/training space (7-0)
• Approved application 4-CUP-24, conditional use permit for Canine Companions event venue (6-1, Byron Rauch nay)
• Tabled application 2-ZA-24, short-term vacation rental text amendment, for 30 days (7-0)
• Approved March and April meeting minutes as presented (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is holding a special called meeting to establish tax rates for the 2025 fiscal year. The body will also consider an appointment for an Interim Zoning Administrator.

• Setting of Tax Rates for Fiscal Year 2025
• Appointment of Interim Zoning Administrator

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting to approve the tax rates for Fiscal Year 2025 and appoint an interim zoning administrator. Both measures passed with unanimous 5-0 votes. No citizen comments were received during the meeting.

• Approved Agenda as Presented (5-0)
• Approved Uncodified Ordinance 24-03 setting Tax Rates for Fiscal Year 2025 (5-0)
• Appointed Ramona Wilson as Interim Zoning Administrator, retroactive to April 22, 2024 (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings regarding the proposed Fiscal Year 2024–2025 budget and amendments to the Wetlands Code notice requirements. The body will also consider supplemental appropriations and various lease and property transfers.

• Public hearing on proposed Fiscal Year 2024–2025 budget
• Public hearing on Ordinance No. 24–02 regarding Mathews County Wetlands Code Chapter § 166-6
• Supplemental appropriations: $2,293.80 for Port Fun Improvement and $1,539.11 for a totaled Sheriff's vehicle
• Maritime Museum Lease Renewal
• Budget Amendment #4

The Board of Supervisors approved an amended resolution reducing the concealed handgun permit fee from $50.00 to $15.00, and voted to make the Emergency Services Coordinator a full-time position starting July 1, 2024. The board also appointed Richard Marshall to the Wetlands Board and authorized moving forward with a broadband grant application. The FY2024-2025 budget was the subject of a public hearing but no adoption vote is recorded in these minutes.

• Approved amended Resolution 2024-11 reducing concealed handgun permit fee from $50.00 to $15.00 (5-0)
• Approved making Emergency Services Coordinator a full-time position, to advertise with July 1, 2024 start date (5-0)
• Appointed Richard Marshall to the Wetlands Board, term expiring April 30, 2029 (5-0)
• Authorized moving forward with Broadband Advisory Board grant application (5-0)
• Approved Budget Amendment #4 as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as amended, removing item K (Dedication to Excellence) (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to change closed session verbiage (5-0)
• Entered and certified closed session; no other action on closed matters recorded beyond appointments

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board will consider two requests to reduce resource protection area buffers. One request involves a detached garage at 448 Bendall Lane, and the other involves a pool installation at 135 Dutchmans Point.

• Variance for James & Lisa Bullerjohn: reduce buffer from 100 feet to 70 feet at 448 Bendall Lane
• Variance for Spencer Francis: reduce buffer from 100 feet to 52 feet at 135 Dutchmans Point

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and draft language for short-term vacation regulations. The body will also review draft by-laws for the commission.

• Review of 2030 Comprehensive Plan 5-year review edits
• Discussion of Short Term Vacation Regulations (STVR) language
• Review of 2024 draft PC By-Laws

The Planning Commission voted to amend short-term vacation regulations regarding occupancy limits. The commission also voted to update its by-laws to include an additional public comment period.

• Approved amendment to 175-15.28 (B) removing 'plus two persons' unless in the sanitation district (5-1-0)
• Approved adding a second public comment period to item 13 of the PC By-Laws (6-0-0)

Planning Commission

The commission will hold elections for Chair and Vice Chair. Members will discuss a proposed low impact park at 897 South Bay Haven and a 63-acre site near the Sheriff's Office for a future multi-use park.

• Election for Chair
• Election for Vice Chair
• Discussion of low impact park at 897 South Bay Haven
• Discussion of 63 acres near Sheriff's Office for multi-use parks
• Update on Chesapeake Bay and Tributaries Water Access Sites

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetland Board will hold a public hearing regarding a pier project on the Milford Haven shoreline. The board will also consider a request for a stone marsh sill on the East River shoreline.

• Public hearing for Gwynn’s Island Condominium Unit (VMRC #23-2610) to remove an existing pier and rebuild a 365’x6’ open pile pier
• Review of Martha Gregory Trible Liv Trst (VMRC #24-0072) request to install a 330’ stone marsh sill on the East River shoreline

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings regarding golf cart operations on Gwynns Island and a property conveyance to the Mathews County Historical Society. The meeting also includes reviews of zoning permits, budget hearing scheduling, and several contract authorizations.

• Public hearing on authorizing golf carts on Cherry Point Road and intersecting side roads
• Proposed conveyance of 112 square feet of county property to Mathews County Historical Society
• Conditional Use Permit request for a powder coating business on parcel 20-A-67A
• Audit services agreement with Robinson, Farmer, Cox Consultants for $46,500.00
• Supplemental appropriations of $7,848.40 for Sheriff's Office and $944.00 for Library Community Foundation

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors approved a text amendment allowing golf carts on Cherry Point Road and side roads on Gwynns Island, and agreed to convey about 112 square feet of county property to the Mathews County Historical Society for the James Store. The board also approved a conditional use permit for a home powder coating business, a comprehensive plan amendment for a county-owned parcel, and several other items. Two motions died on 2-2 votes: dissolving the Court Square boundary line and a proclamation regarding Flights to Freedom.

• Approved text amendment to allow golf carts on Cherry Point Road and intersecting side roads on Gwynns Island (4-0-0)
• Approved conveying ~112 sq ft of county property to Mathews County Historical Society for James Store boundary relocation, with plat correction to 106A (4-0-0)
• Approved Application 2-CUP-24 for a home powder coating business on parcel 20-A-67A (4-0-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan amendment for low impact public access on county parcel acquired through Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (4-0-0)
• Approved $1,000 donation to American Legion Riders, Chapter 75 (3-1-0, Bowen nay)
• Approved scheduling public hearings for FY25 budget, tax rate, New Point Fire Station property, and tax relief for elderly for April 18, 2024 (4-0-0)
• Motion to dissolve Court Square boundary line died on 2-2 vote (Phillips, Bowen aye; Walls, Jones nay)
• Motion to approve Flights to Freedom proclamation died on 2-2 vote (Phillips, Bowen aye; Walls, Jones nay)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals is meeting to review a variance request regarding a resource protection area buffer. The board will also approve January meeting minutes and discuss the Nominating Committee.

• Variance request 10-V-23 for 135 Dutchmans Point to reduce resource protection area buffer from 100 feet to 52 feet for a pool installation

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold a work session to receive a presentation of the draft FY25 budget from the County Administrator. The body will discuss budget priorities and goals.

• Presentation of draft FY25 budget

The Board of Supervisors met for a work session to review the draft FY25 budget. No substantive policy or financial decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved the agenda (4-0-0)

Joint Board of Supervisors / Planning Commission

The Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land-use items. These include a comprehensive plan amendment for public access at Gwynn’s Island and two zoning requests. The body will also discuss the FY 25-29 Capital Improvement Program.

• Comprehensive Plan amendment for low impact public access on a County owned parcel at Gwynn’s Island
• Application 2-CUP-24: Conditional Use Permit for Kevin Bisson to operate a powder coating business on parcel 20-A-67A
• Application 1-ZA-24: Request from Mike Dershowitz to allow motels as a conditional use in Rural (RU) and Residential One (R-1) districts
• Discussion of FY 25-29 CIP
• Review of draft By-Laws language

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetland Board will meet to review a request from Roane Point, LLC regarding shoreline work on the Piankatank River. The board will also address minutes from the February 7th meeting.

• Public hearing for Roane Point, LLC (VMRC #24-0094) to rework 675’ of riprap revetment and install 150’ of coir log
• Proposed installation of two 150’x20’ breakwaters and application of 750 cubic yards of fill on the Piankatank River shoreline
• Reconfiguration of an existing 75’ riprap sill and 65’ breakwater

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors is holding a special meeting for training on the Conflict of Interest Act. The session will be led by County Attorney Andrea Erard, Esq.

• Conflict of Interest Act training conducted by Andrea Erard, Esq.

The Mathews County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on February 15, 2024, primarily for Conflict of Interest Act training presented by County Attorney Andrea Erard. The board approved the agenda 3-0-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 6:00 pm.

• Approved the agenda as presented (3-0-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will review several administrative contracts, including a broadband telecom agreement and a disposal service agreement with VPPSA. The meeting includes updates on the Hole In the Wall project and a draft Comprehensive Plan amendment for public access at South Bay Haven.

• Supplemental appropriations: $1,774.50 for Social Services and $1,650.00 donation for Sheriff's Office
• Authorization to execute a new Broadband Telecom contract agreement
• Resolution authorizing a County Disposal Service Agreement with VPPSA
• Davis Creek Service Agreement with MPPDC
• Draft Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Public Access at South Bay Haven

The Board of Supervisors reduced the concealed carry permit fee to $10.00 and approved the construction of four pickleball courts. Other actions included approving a broadband contract, a county energy audit, and several board appointments.

• Lowered Concealed Carry Permit Fee to $10.00 (4-1-0)
• Approved construction of four pickleball courts (5-0-0)
• Denied postponement of Board of Zoning Appeals hearing (2-2-1)
• Approved Broadband Telecom contract agreement (5-0-0)
• Approved county-wide Energy Audit including School Board properties (5-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Brian Russell to Board of Zoning Appeals (5-0-0)
• Approved appointment of Desmond Smith to Social Services Board (3-2-0)
• Approved Davis Creek Service Agreement and VPPSA Disposal Service Agreement (5-0-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is discussing the working copy of the FY 25-29 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The body is also reviewing draft language for South Bay Haven.

• FY 25-29 Capital Improvement Plan items including library HVAC, pickleball courts, and piers
• Draft language for South Bay Haven
• Fire department boat and fire station capital project requests
• 2023 Annual Report

Wetlands Zoning Board

The Mathews County Wetland Board is meeting to consider several requests for shoreline installations. These include bulkheads, riprap revetments, and a stone marsh sill across various local waterways.

• Sonya Dixon: 22’ vinyl bulkhead on Kibble Creek shoreline
• Saul Fox: 109’ riprap revetment on Hills Bay shoreline
• Martha Gregory Trible Liv Trst: 330’ stone marsh sill on East River shoreline
• Jerry & Theresa Ferrell: 50’ riprap revetment on Piankatank River shoreline
• Richard Elder: 225’ riprap revetment on Chesapeake Bay shoreline

The Wetlands Board approved five requests for bulkhead and riprap installations on various shorelines. One request for a stone marsh sill was tabled to allow for project revisions. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved 22’ vinyl bulkhead for Sonya Dixon (4-0-0)
• Approved 109’ riprap revetment for Saul Fox (4-0-0)
• Tabled stone marsh sill for Martha Gregory Trible Liv Trst (4-0-0)
• Approved 50’ riprap revetment for Jerry & Theresa Ferrell (4-0-0)
• Approved 225’ riprap revetment for Richard Elder (4-0-0)
• Approved 245’ riprap revetment reconstruction for Monica Robbins (4-0-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will receive a presentation on the FY22-23 audit and discuss new budget guidelines. The meeting includes reports on the Comprehensive Plan update and requests for funding from the Sheriff's Office.

• Supplemental appropriation of $760.50 for Department of Social Services Family Partnership Funds
• FY22-23 Audit presentation by Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates
• State of the Office funding request from Sheriff April Edwards
• Discussion on an amended dredging resolution to remove the Memorandum of Understanding requirement
• Rollover resolution request from Mathews County Public Schools Superintendent David S. Daniel

The Board approved funding for two additional Sheriff's Department deputies as requested by Sheriff April Edwards, and approved the county's budget guidelines after a motion to postpone them failed 2-3. The Board also approved a resolution supporting a grant writing team, a rollover resolution for the public schools, and filming of the movie 'James' with no summer weekend filming and proof of insurance. In closed session matters, the Board voted 4-0-1 to have the county attorney added as co-counsel and then file a motion to nonsuit or dismiss litigation involving Mr. Jamie Wilks, with Supervisor Tim Doss abstaining.

• Approved amended agenda adding 10-minute presentation by Mac Casale (3-2, Walls and Jones nay)
• Approved supplemental appropriations including $760.50 for Social Services Family Partnership Funds (5-0)
• Authorized Planning Director James Knighton to start discussions with Planning Commission on Comprehensive Plan (5-0)
• Approved board and commission appointments as presented (5-0)
• Approved Bylaws as amended (5-0)
• Approved Amended Budget Schedule as presented (5-0)
• Approved Resolution of Support for Grant Writing Team (5-0)
• Motion to postpone Budget Guidelines failed (2-3, Doss and Jones aye; Walls, Phillips, Bowen nay); then approved Budget Guidelines as presented (5-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to review a variance request for a residential property. The board will also review the 2023 annual report.

• Variance request 10-V-23 for Spencer Francis at 135 Dutchmans Point to reduce resource protection area buffer from 100 feet to 52 feet for a pool installation
• Review of 2023 Annual Report

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will elect a new chairperson and vice-chair, adopt the Code of Ethics and Bylaws, and discuss organizational matters including the FY24-25 budget calendar.

• Nomination and election of Chairperson and Vice-Chair
• Adoption of Code of Ethics and Bylaws
• Appointment of Clerk and Deputy Clerk to the Board
• FY24-25 Budget Calendar discussion

At its annual organizational meeting on January 3, 2024, the Mathews County Board of Supervisors elected Janice Phillips as Chairperson and Tim Doss as Vice-Chair, both by 5-0 votes. The Board voted 5-0 to abolish the Hole in the Wall subcommittee established in 2022 and directed the County Attorney to manage outside counsel. It also approved a code of ethics amendment, tabled bylaw changes, set the 2024 regular meeting schedule for the third Thursday of each month, and approved the FY24-25 budget calendar. A motion to add two extra state holidays for county staff was defeated 2-3.

• Elected Janice Phillips as 2024 Chairperson (5-0)
• Elected Tim Doss as 2024 Vice-Chair (5-0)
• Approved Resolution of Appreciation for David Jones (4-0-1, Jones abstained)
• Approved Code of Ethics amendment adding professional and courteous conduct language (5-0)
• Tabled approval of proposed bylaws changes until next meeting (5-0)
• Appointed Ramona Wilson as Clerk and Judi Green as Deputy Clerk to the Board (5-0)
• Approved 2024 regular meeting schedule for the third Thursday of each month (5-0)
• Approved FY24-25 Budget Calendar (5-0)