Claremont public meetings in 2025

General

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Ordinance Amendment 2025-02, which proposes changes to permitted, conditional, and accessory uses, site development standards, and application requirements for the Emerging Technologies District. The meeting will also address the Comprehensive Plan Update and adopt the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Ordinance Amendment 2025-02: revisions to the Emerging Technologies District (Article III, 3-1100) permitting uses and standards
• Comprehensive Plan Update (old business)
• Adoption of meeting agenda
• Disposition of October 27, 2025 minutes

General

The Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss a real estate tax rebate resolution. The agenda also includes resolutions honoring two residents and a presentation from the Crater District Area Agency on Aging.

• Real Estate Tax Rebate Resolution
• Resolution honoring Mrs. Joyce Henderson of the Economic Development Authority
• Resolution honoring Mrs. Ruby E. Price
• Presentation by Crater District Area Agency on Aging
• November FOIA Request Summary and Building Official's Office report

The Board accepted the meeting agenda unanimously. It approved two honor resolutions for Mrs. Joyce Henderson and Mrs. Ruby E. Price. The Board adopted Resolution 2025-21 to provide a one‑time real estate tax rebate. It also approved an appropriation of $640,000 from the fund balance to fund the rebate.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous approval)
• Honor resolutions for Joyce Henderson and Ruby E. Price approved (no nay votes)
• Real Estate Tax Rebate Resolution 2025-21 approved (5‑0 vote)
• Appropriation of $640,000 from fund balance approved (5‑0 vote)

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board accepted the November minutes and canvas materials after a motion and second, with all members in favor. The board then adjourned the meeting at 10:23 a.m. by unanimous motion.

• Approved November minutes and canvas materials (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:23 a.m. (unanimous)

General

The Surry County Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on November 17, 2025. The only substantive item on the agenda is an update to the Emerging Technologies Zoning District Ordinance. Other items are procedural, including adoption of the agenda and consent items.

• Emerging Technologies Zoning District Ordinance Update (discussion/action)

The commission voted 9‑0 to adopt the meeting agenda. No consent items or old business were acted upon. The commission discussed proposed amendments to the Emerging Technologies Zoning District Ordinance, but no action was taken. A motion to adjourn the meeting until the December 15 session was carried.

• Adopted meeting agenda (9‑0)
• Adjourned meeting until Dec. 15 (motion carried)

Economic Development Authority

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific items, contracts, or proposals are listed for decision or discussion.

Electoral Board

The Surry County Electoral Board released the certified vote totals for the November 4, 2025 general election. Results were provided for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, the 82nd District House of Delegates, and special elections for the Board of Supervisors and School Board in each precinct. No policy actions or other decisions were taken by the board.

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold three public hearings: an amendment to allow returning surplus real/personal property revenues; a conditional use permit for Tree of Life Church on White Marsh Road; and a budget amendment adding short-term financing proceeds for the YMCA Building Project. Consent items include budget amendments for the Clerk of Circuit Court ($5,300) and School Division carryover ($166,568 plus $94,356 state grant), plus a resolution supporting membership in the South-Central Transportation Authority.

• Public hearing on surplus revenue ordinance to authorize method for returning surplus real/personal property revenues
• Public hearing on Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-02 for Tree of Life Church on White Marsh Road (2 acres, A-R zoning)
• Public hearing on FY26 budget amendment adding proceeds from short-term financing for YMCA Building Project (exceeds 1% of adopted budget)
• Resolution supporting membership in the South-Central Transportation Authority
• Budget amendments: Clerk of Circuit Court $5,300; School Division $166,568 carryover and $94,356 state grant

The Board accepted the meeting agenda and all consent items unanimously. It approved the Surplus Revenue Ordinance, a conditional use permit for Tree of Life Church, and a FY26 budget amendment adding $5 million interim financing for the YMCA project. The Board also appropriated $93,917 from reserve funds to cover the first debt service payment on that financing. All votes were 4‑0 with Supervisor Bell absent.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent items (unanimous)
• Approved Surplus Revenue Ordinance (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-02 for Tree of Life Church (4-0)
• Approved FY26 Budget Amendment – $5.0 M interim financing for YMCA project (4-0)
• Approved $93,917 one‑time reserve appropriation for debt service (4-0)

Electoral Board

In the November 4, 2025 general election, Republican Winsome Earle‑Sears won the Governor race with 451 votes over Democrat Abigail D. Spanberger’s 323 votes. Republican John J. Reid, II secured the Lieutenant Governor seat with 473 votes, and Republican Jason S. Miyares won Attorney General with 478 votes. Republican Kim A. Taylor was elected to the House of Delegates (82nd District) with 472 votes, and Cameran Amir Drew won the special Dendron Board of Supervisors seat with 345 votes. Both Wayne D. Gholston Sr. and Anthony A. Washington, Sr. received 200 votes in the special Claremont School Board election.

• Winsome Earle‑Sears (Republican) elected Governor (451 votes)
• John J. Reid, II (Republican) elected Lieutenant Governor (473 votes)
• Jason S. Miyares (Republican) elected Attorney General (478 votes)
• Kim A. Taylor (Republican) elected House of Delegates (82nd District) (472 votes)
• Cameran Amir Drew (Republican) elected Dendron Board of Supervisors (special) (345 votes)
• Wayne D. Gholston Sr. (Republican) received 200 votes in Claremont School Board (special)
• Anthony A. Washington, Sr. (Democratic) received 200 votes in Claremont School Board (special)

General

The Surry County Planning Commission will discuss and potentially adopt a draft Route 31 Corridor Opportunities Report and receive a presentation from consultants on the Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comments.

• Route 31 Corridor Opportunities Report (draft) — new business
• Comprehensive Plan Update presentation and discussion by Summit Design & Engineering Services
• Approval of minutes from September 22, 2025

The Surry County Planning Commission unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and approved the September 22, 2025 minutes. No other motions were voted on. The commission discussed a draft Route 31 Corridor Opportunities Report, public comments on traffic and bike lanes, and subdivision ordinance ideas, but no decisions were recorded.

• Adopted agenda (8‑0)
• Approved September 22, 2025 minutes (8‑0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority of Surry County will receive an update on a loan from Claremont, consider the 2025-2026 Small Business Grant Program, and elect a new Secretary. The meeting also includes review of previous minutes, a Treasurer's report, and public comments. No dollar amounts or binding decisions are specified in the agenda.

• Update from Claremont regarding a loan
• Discussion of the Small Business Grant Program 2025-2026
• Election of a new Secretary
• Adoption of minutes from May 29, 2025 and June 16, 2025 work session
• Treasurer's report on account status

The board unanimously elected Ms. Doreatha Pierce as Secretary of the Economic Development Authority. They also approved a work session on November 10, 2025 to discuss the Small Business Grant Program. All routine items—including the agenda, prior minutes, and the Treasurer's report—were adopted without dissent, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Adopted May 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted June 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report showing $142,663.81 balance (unanimous)
• Scheduled Small Business Grant Program work session for Nov 10, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Elected Doreatha Pierce as Secretary to the Authority (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 p.m. (unanimous)

Electoral Board

This agenda includes only standard procedural sections such as call to order, consent items, public hearing, new business, and adjournment. No specific substantive items are listed for discussion or decision.

The board accepted the August 26 minutes after corrections. It approved the final list of election officers for the November 4 election. A training day for officers was scheduled for October 18 at 10:00 AM, and the next board meeting was set for November 5, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 1:48 PM with all members in favor.

• Accepted August 26 minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved final list of election officers as presented (motion passed)
• Scheduled officer training for Oct 18 at 10:00 AM
• Set next Electoral Board meeting for Nov 5, 2025
• Adjourned meeting at 1:48 PM (all in favor)

Board of Supervisors

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will meet on October 2, 2025, to consider a consent agenda including a tax software agreement and a proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. New business features the Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. Presentations include a VACO award for a 55+ initiative and a VDOT quarterly transportation update.

• Approval of minutes from September 11, 2025 meeting
• Resolution-Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, October 2025
• AVENITY TAX SOFTWARE AGREEMENT
• Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates - FYE 6.30.24 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• VDOT Quarterly Transportation Update

The Board accepted the meeting agenda unanimously. All consent items, including the draft minutes and a domestic‑violence proclamation, were approved 5‑0. The Board voted 5‑0 to accept the Fiscal Year ending June 30 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous approval)
• Consent items approved (5-0)
• FY 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report accepted (5-0)

General

The Surry County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a religious assembly. The commission will also review the 2025 meeting schedule and previous minutes.

• Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-02 for Tree of Life Church on a 2-acre parcel at White Marsh Road (SR 617)

The commission adopted the meeting agenda unanimously. It approved the July 28 minutes with a 9‑0 vote. Commissioners also voted 9‑0 to change the November 24 planning commission meeting to November 17.

• Adopt agenda (9-0-0)
• Approve July 28 minutes (9-0-0)
• Reschedule November 24 meeting to November 17 (9-0-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit and a siting agreement for a 89-megawatt battery energy storage system proposed by Bear Island Battery Storage LLC on a 416-acre parcel in the Bacon's Castle District. Consent items include approval of minutes, an opioid settlement resolution, and a PSAP grant application. New business includes a school complex sidewalk/crosswalk project.

• Conditional Use Permit for Bear Island Battery Storage LLC (89-MW battery system on 32.5 acres, parcel 54-1)
• Facility Siting Agreement for the Bear Island battery storage system (mitigation and compensation terms)
• Resolution – Eight Manufacturers Combined Opioid Settlement
• FY26 PSAP Grant Application
• School Complex Sidewalk/Crosswalk Project

The Board voted 5‑0 to approve Conditional Use Permit No. 2025‑01 for an 89‑megawatt battery energy storage system on Parcel 54‑1. It also approved the accompanying Facility Siting Agreement for the same project by the same vote. A separate 5‑0 vote authorized an $82,950 transfer from the fund balance to fund a school sidewalk/crosswalk project.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-01 for 89‑MW battery storage (5-0)
• Approved Facility Siting Agreement for Bear Island Battery Storage LLC (5-0)
• Approved $82,950 fund‑balance transfer for school sidewalk/crosswalk project (5-0)
• Approved consent items including draft minutes and opioid settlement resolution (5-0)
• Approved agenda adoption (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes for 7/31/2025 (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes for 8/14/2025 (unanimous)

General

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will receive updates on several local infrastructure projects, including the School Crosswalk/Sidewalk Project, VDOT road issues, and ditch improvements. New business items include discussion of grants, school concerns, and flood sensors for public highways. The meeting includes adoption of minutes from June 11, 2025, and setting future meeting dates.

• Update on School Crosswalk/Sidewalk Project
• Update on White Marsh Road VDOT ride-along
• Update on Goodrich For Road/Sexton Road ditch improvements
• Discussion of flood sensors for public highways
• Speed limit consideration for Bank Street (Town of Surry)

Electoral Board

The board approved the July 14 meeting minutes unanimously. It adopted a statement confirming all polling places are ADA compliant. The Annual Voting Systems Security Plan was reviewed and approved with no changes. The meeting was adjourned at 3:20 p.m. after a unanimous motion.

• Approved July 14 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Adopted ADA compliance statement for polling places (all in favor)
• Approved Annual Voting Systems Security Plan with no changes (all in favor)
• Scheduled Land A for September 5 (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:20 p.m. (all in favor)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will conduct a public hearing regarding the authorization and documentation for a YMCA lease of county property. The board is also considering the appointment of an interim supervisor for the Dendron District and an opioid agreement for a Mobile Overdose Response Unit.

• Public hearing: YMCA authorization for lease of County Property
• Appointment of Interim Supervisor for Dendron District
• Opioid Agreement for Mobile Overdose Response Unit
• Resolution regarding Sackler Opioid Settlement
• Approval of May and June 2025 accounts payables

The Board adopted Resolution 2025‑14, authorizing lease‑financing documents for a YMCA project on Enos Farm Drive. It also appointed Kenneth Bell as the interim Dendron District Supervisor. Additionally, the Board approved the Cooperative Agreement for a Mobile Overdose Response Unit. All three actions were approved by unanimous vote.

• Approved Resolution 2025‑14 authorizing YMCA lease‑financing (4‑0 vote, Nays: Calhoun)
• Appointed Kenneth Bell as interim Dendron District Supervisor (4‑0 vote)
• Approved Opioid Agreement for Mobile Overdose Response Unit (4‑0 vote)
• Approved consent items including draft minutes and resolutions (unanimous vote)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous vote)

Board of Supervisors

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will consider resolutions for a payroll bonus and a designated agent for development plans. The meeting will also include the announcement of applicants for a district vacancy and updates on the annual financial report and YMCA project.

• Resolution: Bonus to Payroll Coordinator for ERP Implementation
• Resolution: Designating Horace Wade as Designated Agent for Plats
• Announcement of applicants for Dendron District vacancy
• Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Update
• YMCA Project (Next Steps/Public Notice)

The Board adopted its agenda unanimously. It approved two consent resolutions— a payroll bonus and the designation of Horace Wade— with all four supervisors voting aye. A closed session was authorized 4‑0 to interview interim supervisor applicants, and the session was later certified by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned to August 14 by unanimous approval.

• Adopt agenda (4 ayes)
• Approve payroll bonus resolution (4 ayes)
• Approve designation of Horace Wade (4 ayes)
• Authorize closed session to interview interim supervisor candidates (4‑0)
• Certify closed session compliance (4‑0)
• Adjourn meeting to August 14 (4 ayes)

General

The Planning Commission will consider a preliminary plat for the Spratley Mill Subdivision, a 32-lot development by Emerson Ventures LLC. They will also discuss a motion to bring forth an ordinance amending the Subdivision and Zoning Ordinances regarding property subdivision. The meeting includes approval of prior meeting minutes and public comments.

• Spratley Mill Subdivision Preliminary Plat - 32 lots by Emerson Ventures LLC
• Motion to amend Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Ordinance on subdividing property
• Approval of June 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comments period

The commission adopted its agenda, approving the removal of an old‑business item (9‑0). It accepted the June 23 minutes with needed corrections (9‑0). It then approved a motion to bring forward an amendment to the subdivision and zoning ordinances, directing staff to begin the review and draft process (9‑0). The amendment will be developed by the Subdivision Subcommittee and later presented for a public hearing.

• Adopt agenda minus old‑business item (9‑0)
• Approve June 23 minutes with corrections (9‑0)
• Approve motion to bring forth subdivision and zoning ordinance amendment (9‑0)

Electoral Board

The board held a closed session to review the registrar's annual performance. A motion to close the meeting at 12:00 was approved by Lynita Mason and Bill Etchison. The board scheduled the next meeting for September 8 at 10:00 a.m. and set election‑officer training for October 18 at 10:00 a.m. No action was taken on the registrar’s ADA concerns at the polling location.

• Motion to close meeting at 12:00 approved (Lynita AYE, Bill AYE)
• Next Electoral Board meeting scheduled for September 8, 10:00 a.m.
• Election‑officer training scheduled for October 18, 10:00 a.m.
• No action taken on ADA concerns at the Claremont polling location

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet for a special called session to discuss a vacancy in the Dendron District.

• Discussion of Vacancy in Dendron District

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will consider amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding pumping stations and a code change to allow employee bonuses. The meeting also includes discussions on YMCA building project financing and FY 26 bonuses.

• Ordinance Amendment 2025-03: Permitting sewer and water pumping stations in multiple zoning districts
• Ordinance Amendment 2025-04: Granting authority to provide bonuses to officers and employees
• Tax-Exempt Lease Revenue Interim Financing for the YMCA Building Project
• FY 26 bonuses for Electoral Board, DSS, Constitutional Officers, and other employees
• Resolution recognizing Skyla Gurganus for her poem

The Board approved a $5 million interim loan from Huntington Bank to finance the new YMCA Recreation Center, noting it will not require any tax increase. It also adopted two zoning ordinance amendments (2025‑03 and 2025‑04) and approved a resolution to award FY 26 employee bonuses using the contingency fund. Additionally, the Board accepted the consent items, including a resolution honoring Skyla Gurganus and appointments to the Highway Transportation Safety Commission, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent items: draft minutes, Skyla Gurganus resolution, student rep appointments (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance Amendment 2025-03 (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance Amendment 2025-04 (4-0)
• Approved $5 M YMCA interim financing resolution (3-1)
• Approved FY 26 employee bonuses resolution (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting to Aug 14 2025 (4-0)

General

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a battery energy storage system. The body will also determine if the project aligns with the Surry County Comprehensive Plan.

• Conditional Use Permit No. 2025-01 for an 89-megawatt battery energy storage system and utility switchyard on 32.5 acres of a 416-acre parcel on White Marsh Road (SR 617)
• Substantial Accord Determination 2025-01 for the Bear Island Battery Storage LLC project
• Spratley Mill Subdivision Preliminary Plat by Emerson Ventures LLC for a 32 lot subdivision on 97.34 acres

Electoral Board

The Surry County Electoral Board recessed on June 20, then reconvened and entered a closed session to review a provisional ballot. The board approved the single provisional ballot for the Bacons Castle precinct. It also certified that only public business exempt was discussed, set the next meeting for July 14, and noted discussions on polling‑location opposition and district consolidation before adjourning.

• Motion to recess the canvas meeting passed
• Board entered closed session under VA CODE 2.2-3711 (3 Ayes)
• Certified discussion limited to public business exempt (3 Ayes)
• Approved one provisional ballot for Bacons Castle precinct
• Scheduled next electoral meeting for July 14 at 12:00
• Noted review of town of Claremont's opposition to polling location change
• Discussed possible consolidation of Claremont and Spring Grove districts
• Motion to close the meeting passed

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board recessed the June 18 canvas meeting and reconvened on June 20. The board entered a closed session under Va. Code 2.2‑3711 to review a provisional ballot from the Bacons Castle precinct and approved the ballot unanimously. The board also certified that only public business exempt was discussed, scheduled the next meeting for July 14 at 12:00, and noted discussions on polling‑location opposition and possible district consolidation.

• Recessed canvas meeting to resume June 20 (motion passed unanimously)
• Entered closed session under Va. Code 2.2‑3711 to review provisional ballot (Lynita Mason/AYE, Cheryl Varner/AYE, Bill Etchison/AYE)
• Approved one provisional ballot for Bacons Castle precinct (approved)
• Certified that only public business exempt was discussed (Lynita Mason/AYE, Bill Etchison/AYE, Cheryl Varner/AYE)
• Scheduled next electoral meeting for July 14 at 12:00 (motion passed)
• Motion to close meeting at 2:24 passed unanimously

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority is holding a work session to discuss priorities and peer activities. The body will focus on strategic planning to determine how EDA funds are allocated.

• Strategic planning for allocation of EDA funds
• Discussion of EDA priorities
• Review of EDA peer activities

The Surry County Economic Development Authority unanimously approved a motion allowing Joyce Henderson to attend the meeting electronically. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned at 6:45 p.m. No other project, funding, or policy decisions were made.

• Motion to allow Joyce Henderson electronic attendance carried unanimously (moved by Ernest Blount, seconded by Trenton Howell)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m. carried unanimously (moved by Janet Monahan, seconded by Trenton Howell)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet to discuss a YMCA development and operations agreement and a resolution regarding stipends for Social Services Board members. The body will also review May 2025 accounts payable and building official reports.

• May 2025 Accounts Payable: $399,048.94
• Resolution for YMCA Development and Operations Agreement
• Resolution for change in stipend for Social Services Board members
• Approval of Comprehensive Plan Update work
• Building Official Monthly Reports for April and May 2025

The Board approved the YMCA Development and Operations Agreement, authorizing funds for future contracts. It also approved a resolution to increase stipends for Social Services Board members and adopted a $47,304 Records Preservation Grant. Additional routine items such as draft minutes, accounts payable, and a resolution recognizing Skylar Gurganus were also approved.

• Accepted Records Preservation Grant $47,304 (consent) – vote 4-0
• Approved change in stipend for Social Services Board members – vote 3-0 (Hardy abstained)
• Approved YMCA Development and Operations Agreement – vote 3-1
• Approved resolution recognizing Skylar Gurganus – vote 4-0
• Approved minutes of April 23, 2025 work session – vote 4-0
• Approved multiple draft minutes (4/3, 4/10, 5/01, 5/08, 5/19) – vote 4-0
• Approved May 2025 Accounts Payable $399,048.94 – vote 4-0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 4-0

Economic Development Authority

The Surry County Economic Development Authority will consider parameters for a small business grant program and receive an update on a loan from the town of Claremont. The board will also review financial reports and approve previous meeting minutes. No specific dollar amounts or project names are listed in the agenda.

• Discussion of Small Business Grant Parameters
• Update from Claremont regarding a loan
• Adoption of January 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report on account status
• Closed session (likely for legal matters)

The Economic Development Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the prior minutes, and the Treasurer’s report. The board decided to hold a work session on Monday, June 16 at 5 p.m. to determine the timing of the next Small Business Grant award cycle. A closed session was convened and later reconvened by unanimous vote, and the meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• January 30 minutes adopted (unanimous)
• Treasurer’s report accepted (unanimous)
• Work session scheduled for June 16 5 p.m. to discuss Small Business Grant cycle
• Closed session convened (unanimous)
• Closed session returned to open session (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will hold a work session to discuss state resources for the Town of Surry. The meeting will be held in the Auxiliary Conference Room and broadcast virtually.

• Discussion of state resources for the Town of Surry
• Work session held in Auxiliary Conference Room
• Broadcast virtually for public viewing

The Surry County Board of Supervisors held a work session on May 19, 2025 to discuss collaborative economic development initiatives with Surry Town, including the Virginia Main Street Program and potential grant opportunities. Presentations highlighted regional grant programs and community‑led revitalization strategies. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and approved unanimously. No other actions were taken.

• Adjourned work session – approved (unanimous vote)

Electoral Board

The Electoral Board will meet to discuss the merger of Spring Grove and Claremont. The body will also review officer of election training and the Registrar Office budget.

• Spring Grove/Claremont merger
• Officer of election training
• June primary discussion
• Registrar Office budget

The board approved the meeting agenda and the April minutes. It passed motions allowing online‑trained officers to serve, permitting party chairs to observe training, and authorizing the registrar to assign officers with board approval. Kenneth Bell was appointed as an officer of election for 2025‑2026, and the meeting was adjourned at 6:43 p.m.

• Approved agenda (motion by Lynita Mason, seconded by Cheryl Varner)
• Approved minutes of April meeting (motion by Lynita Mason, seconded by Cheryl Varner)
• Approved officers of election completing online training to serve for June primary (2‑1 vote)
• Approved party chairperson observation of in‑person officer training (unanimous)
• Approved registrar Sharna White to delegate and reorganize officers of election with board approval (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Kenneth Bell as officer of election for 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:43 p.m. (unanimous)

General

The Surry County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on an ordinance amendment to allow sewer and water pumping stations as permitted uses in multiple zoning districts. The commission will also consider a preliminary plat for a 32-lot subdivision on 97.34 acres, hold a work session on a battery energy storage system, and discuss an ordinance for historic district procedures.

• Public hearing on PC Ordinance Amendment 2025-01 to allow pumping stations in A-L, A-R, RVC, R-1, R-2, B-1, B-2, M-1, and M-2 districts
• Spratley Mill Subdivision preliminary plat by Emerson Ventures LLC – 32 lots on 97.34 acres
• Work session with Bear Island Battery Storage LLC for a battery energy storage system
• Motion to bring forth an ordinance for designation or amendment of a historic district

The commission unanimously adopted the meeting agenda (10‑0) and approved the February 24, 2025 minutes (10‑0). No vote was taken on the Spratley Mill Subdivision preliminary plat; commissioners indicated they need more information and will revisit the matter. The discussion highlighted lot‑size, wetland, and access‑management concerns.

• Adopted agenda (10‑0)
• Approved February 24, 2025 minutes (10‑0)

General

The Board of Supervisors will consider adopting the FY 2025-26 budget, setting remaining tax rates, and establishing planning-related fees. A budget transmittal and draft resolutions are included as part of the action item. This decision determines county spending and tax obligations for the next fiscal year.

• Consider action on FY 2025-26 Budget adoption
• Set remaining tax rates
• Set planning related fees
• Review budget transmittal and draft resolutions

The Surry County Board of Supervisors approved Resolution 2025‑06, fixing the 2025 real‑estate tax at $0.71 per $100 assessed value and the personal‑property tax at $3.75 per $100 (a $0.25 reduction). The board also adopted Resolution 2025‑07, accepting the FY 2025‑26 operating and capital budget totaling $62,140,087. Both actions were approved by vote, with one supervisor absent.

• Approved Resolution 2025-06 establishing 2025 tax rates (4-1)
• Approved Resolution 2025-07 adopting FY 2025-26 budget of $62,140,087 (3-1)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed budget for fiscal year 2025-26. The body will also review road improvement plans and a service contract.

• Public hearing on FY 25-26 Proposed Budget
• Accounts Payable for April 2025 totaling 1,203,450.19
• Sussex Service Authority FY 25-26 Contract
• VDOT Six Year Secondary Road Improvement Plan (FY26-31)
• Presentation from Smithfield Riverside Hospital

The Surry County Board of Supervisors approved the VDOT Six‑Year Secondary Road Improvement Plan for FY 26‑31, authorizing $116,509 in allocations (4‑0). The Board also approved flying County flags at half‑staff on May 2 to honor the late Ms. Laura Ruffin (4‑0). Consent items—including the Sussex Service Authority contract and $1,203,450.19 in accounts payable—were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned to May 8 (4‑0).

• Approved consent items (Sussex Service Authority contract; $1,203,450.19 accounts payable) (4‑0)
• Approved VDOT Six‑Year Secondary Road Improvement Plan FY 26‑31, authorizing $116,509 (4‑0)
• Approved flying County flags at half‑staff on May 2 to honor Ms. Laura Ruffin (4‑0)
• Approved motion to accept agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting to May 8 (4‑0)

Electoral Board

The board adopted a motion to enter a closed session for a security assessment. It then moved to reopen the meeting in open session. The board certified that only exempt matters were discussed and directed the registrar to complete the ELECT submission before the May 1 deadline. The meeting was adjourned at 3:05 p.m.

• Closed‑session motion adopted
• Open‑session motion adopted
• Certification of exempt matters adopted
• Registrar submission to ELECT before May 1 adopted
• Adjournment motion adopted

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will hold a meeting with a presentation by a financial adviser. No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting includes call to order and adjournment.

• Presentation by financial adviser

The Board of Supervisors voted to authorize Davenport & Company to proceed with the interim financing phase of the YMCA project, a $10 million credit facility. Supervisor Pierce made the motion, Supervisor Hardy seconded, and the motion passed with four ayes and no opposition. County staff will schedule a public information session before the required public hearing on the lease agreement.

• Authorized Davenport & Co. to proceed with interim $10 M financing for YMCA (4‑aye)

Electoral Board

The Surry County Electoral Board meets on April 14, 2025, to discuss several election-related matters, including a possible merger of Spring Grove and Claremont precincts, election training and dates, and the status of voter registration. The board will also consider the budget of the registrar office and any additional matters. Public comment and a closed session are on the agenda.

• Discussion of possible Spring Grove/Claremont merger
• Electoral board meeting time and election training/dates
• Status of voter registration
• Budget of registrar office
• Add or change officer of election

The board voted to hold the May 19 meeting at 6:00 p.m. after a motion and objection. A motion to review the registrar’s budget for the past and current year was adopted. The board entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters only, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Moved to hold May 19 meeting at 6:00 p.m.; motion carried
• Adopted motion to review registrar’s budget for past year and current year
• Entered closed session to discuss personnel matters only
• Certified that closed‑session discussion was limited to personnel
• Adopted agenda as written
• Adopted minutes from March 12 meeting
• Adopted presentation of officers of elections
• Adjourned meeting at 11:33 a.m.

General

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will hold a work session to discuss the budget. The meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Auxiliary Conference Room.

• Budget discussion
• Surry County Government Center location

The Board of Supervisors talked about lowering the personal property tax rate by $0.25. No vote or formal action was taken on the proposal. The discussion was part of the upcoming budget planning. The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.

General

The Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing on a proposed real estate tax rate increase and the setting of the personal property tax rate. The board will also receive a presentation on the FY 2025-26 Proposed Operating and Capital Improvement Budget. No other substantive actions are scheduled.

• Public hearing on proposed real estate tax rate increase
• Presentation of FY 2025-26 Proposed Operating and Capital Improvement Budget
• Setting of proposed personal property tax rate

The Board accepted the agenda unanimously. A motion to postpone the real‑estate tax rate decision failed for lack of a second. The Board approved a personal property tax rate of $3.75 and a real‑estate tax rate of $0.71 by a 3‑1 vote. The meeting was adjourned to May 1 at 6:00 p.m. by a 4‑0 vote.

• Agenda accepted (unanimous approval)
• Motion to postpone real‑estate tax rate decision failed (no second)
• Approved personal property tax rate $3.75 and real‑estate tax rate $0.71 (3‑1)
• Adjourned meeting to May 1, 6:00 p.m. (4‑0)

General

The Board will hold a public hearing on an ordinance amendment to allow Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in certain zoning districts. Other items include approval of minutes, accounts payable, proclamations, an MOU with schools, and health insurance renewal. A limited scope reassessment update and short-term rental update are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-02 to amend zoning definitions and requirements for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as accessory or conditional use in Agricultural-Rural, M-1, and M-2 districts
• Approval of consent items including minutes from four meetings, accounts payable for February and March 2025
• Resolutions proclaiming National Crime Victims' Rights Week and April as Surry County Clean-Up Month
• MOU Shared Services Agreement and Budget Amendment with Surry County Public Schools
• Employee Health Insurance Renewal for FY 2025-2026

The Surry County Board of Supervisors approved an amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow battery energy storage systems as accessory or conditional uses in Agricultural‑Rural, M‑1 and M‑2 districts, voting 4‑0. The Board also approved a motion directing staff to use the short‑term rental recommendations in drafting a new ordinance. All consent items were approved unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned to a work session on April 10.

• Adopted agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent items including draft minutes, accounts payable, proclamations, MOU and health insurance renewal (unanimous)
• Approved short‑term rental recommendation motion (4‑0)
• Approved Ordinance Amendment 2025‑02 for battery storage systems (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting to April 10 work session (4‑0)

Electoral Board

The Claremont Electoral Board will meet to discuss election administration matters. Key items include a review of the registered voters list, upcoming elections, and a proposal to consolidate the Spring Grove and Claremont precincts. Public comments will be accepted.

• Review of registered voters list
• Upcoming Elections (no specific elections named)
• Consolidation of Spring Grove and Claremont Precincts

Board of Supervisors

This is a work session of the Surry County Board of Supervisors with the sole substantive item being a budget discussion. The agenda contains no specific proposals, dollar amounts, or public hearings, only procedural items.

• Budget discussion (no further details provided)

General

The Board of Supervisors will receive a presentation on the proposed FY 2025-2026 School System Budget from Superintendent Dr. Monroe. The body will also consider fee changes for medical transport services and a resolution supporting the renovation of Surry Village I.

• FY 2025-2026 Proposed School System Budget presentation
• Proposed fee changes for Medical Transport Services
• Resolution in support of the renovation of Surry Village I
• CSA Vendor Contract 2026-2028
• Grant Application - RSAF

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet for a work session to discuss the budget. The meeting is scheduled for February 27, 2025, at the Emergency Operation Center.

• Budget discussion

Board of Supervisors

The Surry County Board of Supervisors will hold a work session to discuss the budget. The meeting will take place at the Emergency Operations Center and be broadcast virtually.

• Budget discussion
• Work session
• Virtual broadcast

General

The Surry County Planning Commission will meet to adopt bylaws and review a zoning ordinance amendment. The commission intends to take action on regulations for Battery Energy Storage Systems.

• Adoption of bylaws
• PC Ordinance Amendment 2024-04 regarding Battery Energy Storage Systems
• Proposed conditional use permits for Battery Energy Storage Systems in Agricultural-Rural, M-1, and M-2 General Industrial districts

Electoral Board

The Surry County Electoral Board will meet to address problematic issues, transparency, and training. The agenda also includes a closed session.

• Clarification of problematic issues
• Transparency
• Training
• Closed session

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will consider adopting amendments to the Solar Energy Ordinance and a conditional use permit for a 240-megawatt solar project by Sycamore Cross Solar, LLC. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, accounts payable, and updates on battery energy storage and opioid settlement funds.

• Solar Energy Ordinance Amendment 2025-01
• Conditional Use Permit No. 2024-01 for Sycamore Cross Solar
• Proposed Siting Agreement with Sycamore Cross Solar
• Update on proposed Battery Energy Storage Ordinance Amendment
• Authorization to apply for grant for a Regional Mobile Overdose Response Unit

Electoral Board

The Surry County Electoral Board is meeting to handle reorganization, appoint an Officer of Election, and conduct a closed session for a security assessment due March 1, 2025. The agenda also includes routine approval of minutes and public comments.

• Reorganization of the board
• Appointment of Officer of Election
• Closed session for Less Security Assessment (due by March 1, 2025)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will meet to elect officers and adopt the 2025 meeting schedule. The body will also receive updates on a Claremont loan, an education retreat, and business improvement grants.

• Election of officers
• Adoption of 2025 meeting calendar
• Update regarding Claremont loan
• Business Improvement Grant update
• EDA Education Retreat update

General

The Planning Commission will discuss and potentially adopt an ordinance amendment to allow Battery Energy Storage Systems by conditional use permit in certain districts. The board will also consider new business items including an Emerging Technologies Zoning District Amendment and exceptions to lot size requirements.

• PC Ordinance Amendment 2024-04: Battery Energy Storage Systems definitions, use types, district requirements, and performance standards by conditional use permit in Agricultural-Rural, M-1, M-2 districts
• Emerging Technologies Zoning District Amendment (motion to bring forth ordinance)
• Exceptions to Lot Size Requirements of Utility Service/Minor Amendment (motion to bring forth ordinance)
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Adoption of 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Schedule

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors will meet to receive updates on property reassessments and emergency radio systems. The body will also discuss economic development support and the Sycamore Cross project.

• 2025 Limited Reassessment update
• Emergency Services Radio Communication System update
• Regional Agency Support for Economic Development
• Sycamore Cross staff update
• Budgetary discussion

Board of Supervisors

This is a procedural reorganization meeting where the Board of Supervisors will elect a chair and vice-chair, adopt bylaws, and set the 2025 meeting schedule. No substantive policy decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Adoption of Bylaws
• 2025 Board of Supervisors Meeting Schedule

General

The commission will review updates on road safety projects and VDOT reports. The body will also discuss grants and general public highway concerns.

• Cavalier Solar update
• School Crosswalk Project update
• School Bus Stop Ahead review on White Marsh Road
• Speed limit signs near Rolfe Highway and Colonial Trail West
• Hollybush Road (St. Rt. 626) bridge repair/maintenance