Bedford public meetings in 2025

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority will elect officers, review financial and legal reports, and consider two incentive requests for 825 Summit Street. The council will take action on a FY2026 budget amendment and discuss legal counsel for the EDA. The meeting will also set the date for the next session.

• Election of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer, and Secretary
• Incentive request: real property improvement at 825 Summit Street
• Incentive request: downtown façade work at 825 Summit Street
• FY2026 budget amendment – action item
• Discussion of EDA counsel

The board elected Jonathan Buttram as Chairman, David Sensenig as Vice‑Chair, Anne Cantrell as Treasurer and Cathy Johnson as Secretary, each by a 6‑0 vote. The October 10, 2025 minutes were approved unanimously. Two incentive grants were awarded for improvements at 825 Summit Street: $3,327.17 for interior work and $5,000 for façade work, both passing 6‑0. The Authority also voted to continue legal services with Caskie & Frost as its Attorney of Record.

• Elected Jonathan Buttram as Chairman (6-0)
• Elected David Sensenig as Vice‑Chair (6-0)
• Elected Anne Cantrell as Treasurer (6-0)
• Elected Cathy Johnson as Secretary (6-0)
• Approved October 10, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Granted $3,327.17 incentive for real‑property improvement at 825 Summit Street (6-0)
• Granted $5,000 incentive for downtown façade improvement at 825 Summit Street (6-0)
• Continued legal service with Caskie & Frost as Attorney of Record (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a Town-initiated request to rezone several properties from Manufacturing (M-1) to Medium Density Residential (R-2). This change would allow for the replacement of a home destroyed by fire and legalize other existing residential uses in the area.

• Rezoning of tax parcels 195-5-1-1T, 195-5-1-2T, 195-5-1-3T, 195-5-1-5T, 195-5-1-6T, and 195-5-1-7T from M-1 to R-2
• Budget Amendment for VRSA Safety Grant
• Budget Amendment for Comprehensive Plan Budget Rollover
• Request for information regarding a Municipal Solid Waste Transfer Station franchise
• Intent to award a contract for Municipal Building Renovations

The Town Council approved an ordinance changing the zoning of six parcels on Quarles and F Streets from Manufacturing (M‑1) to Medium‑Density Residential (R‑2). The council also approved a $4,000 VRSA safety‑grant budget amendment for computer and VPN upgrades, rolled over $35,066 of Comprehensive Plan funds, and authorized the release of a Request for Information for a solid‑waste transfer‑station franchise. Minutes from the November 18 meeting were accepted as submitted.

• Rezoned parcels 195-5-1-5T, 195-5-1-6T, 195-5-1-7T (combined), 195-5-1-1T, 195-5-1-2T, 195-5-1-3T from M‑1 to R‑2 (6 aye)
• Approved VRSA safety‑grant budget amendment $4,000 for computers and VPN (6 aye)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan budget rollover $35,066 for future planning (6 aye)
• Authorized release and publication of RFI for solid‑waste transfer‑station franchise (6 aye)
• Approved minutes of the November 18, 2025 regular council meeting (as submitted)

Planning Commission

The Bedford Planning Commission will adopt a resolution establishing an inclement weather and hazardous condition policy for 2026. The commission will also continue discussion of a use‑text amendment for a rehabilitation facility in the R‑3 High‑Density Residential district. Staff reports on the Comprehensive Plan will be presented, and minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting will be approved. The meeting follows standard procedural items and adjourns.

• Adoption of Resolution for Inclement Weather or Hazardous Condition Policy (2026)
• Continued discussion of “Rehabilitation Facility” use‑text amendment in R‑3 High‑Density Residential district
• Staff reports on the Comprehensive Plan (EPR, PR)
• Approval of minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting
• Standard procedural items (call to order, quorum, remarks)

The Bedford Planning Commission approved a request from Walmart to modify signage regulations, allowing an increase in building-mounted signage to approximately 485 square feet at 1126 East Lynchburg Salem Turnpike, with a 6-1 vote (one abstention). The Commission also adopted the 2026 Inclement Weather or Hazardous Condition Policy by a 7-0 vote. No action was taken on the residential substance abuse treatment facility proposal, as the Commission reiterated its prior vote not to recommend it.

• Approved Walmart sign modification request (6-1, one abstention)
• Adopted 2026 Inclement Weather or Hazardous Condition Policy (7-0)
• Reaffirmed prior vote not to recommend residential substance abuse treatment facility at 1202 Roundtree Drive
• Continued comprehensive plan discussion; chapters delayed to January 7, 2026

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held an adjourned work session to present the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30. The independent auditor issued a clean (unmodified) opinion and walked the council through the report's key sections. No formal actions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Independent auditor’s clean opinion on the financial statements
• Net pension liability reported at approximately $7.4 million
• Net other post‑employment benefits liability of about $400,000
• Liquidity ratio of 3.5, indicating strong current assets
• Unrestricted net position for business‑type activities about $7.2 million

The council heard a presentation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The independent auditors issued an unmodified (clean) opinion on the town's financial statements. No votes, approvals, or other actions were taken during this meeting.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider several budget amendments, including a $426,758 appropriation for electric capital projects funded by renewable energy credit revenue. Additional items include a $207,782 FY25 electric fund rollover, a $6,341 emergency protective measures grant, a $20,989 electric department grant, and a $6,278 amendment to fund the recent council retreat. The council will also review ordinance changes related to parking tickets and overtime parking penalties.

• FY25 Capital Rollover – Electric Fund: $207,782 appropriation for finance/billing software, speed increaser replacement, and hydro infrastructure improvements
• VDEM/FEMA Emergency Protective Measures Grant: $6,341 budget amendment to record federal and state reimbursements
• VDEM/FEMA Electric Department Grant: $20,989 budget amendment for reimbursement of storm‑related expenses
• Renewable Energy Credits appropriation: $426,758 revenue increase and matching expenditure for transformers, poles, supplies, training, and equipment
• Budget amendment for Council Retreat: $6,278 reallocation from contingency to miscellaneous expense

The Town Council approved several budget amendments, including a $426,758 FY26 electric capital appropriation, a $207,782 FY25 electric fund rollover, and grant reimbursements of $6,341 and $20,989. All motions were made by Councilmember Hailey (with various co‑sponsors) and passed unanimously with six ayes.

• Approved FY26 Quarter 1 Recoveries electric capital budget amendment ($426,758) – vote 6 ayes
• Approved FY25 electric fund rollover budget amendment ($207,782) – vote 6 ayes
• Approved VDEM/FEMA Town Emergency Protective Measures grant reimbursement budget amendment ($6,341) – vote 6 ayes
• Approved VDEM/FEMA Electric Department grant reimbursement budget amendment ($20,989) – vote 6 ayes

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a proposed rehabilitation facility and a town-initiated zoning change. The body will discuss whether to allow rehabilitation facilities via conditional use permits in the R-3 district and a specific request for 1202 Roundtree Drive. They will also consider rezoning parcels on Quarles Street and F Street from Manufacturing to Medium Density Residential.

• Proposed zoning text amendment to allow 'Rehabilitation Facility' by conditional use permit in R-3 district (Applicant: BBR 002 LLC)
• Conditional use permit request for a rehabilitation facility at 1202 Roundtree Drive (Applicant: BBR 002 LLC)
• Town-initiated rezoning of parcels on Quarles Street and F Street from Manufacturing (M-1) to Medium Density Residential (R-2)

The commission approved the October 2, 2025 minutes as amended with a 5‑0 vote. It then voted 4‑1 to not recommend a zoning‑text amendment that would allow a “Rehabilitation Facility” as a conditional use in the R‑3 district. Finally, it voted 3‑0 (two abstentions, two absences) to not recommend a conditional use permit for a rehabilitation facility at 1202 Roundtree Drive to Town Council.

• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes as amended (5‑0)
• Did not recommend zoning text amendment for rehabilitation facility in R‑3 (4‑1)
• Did not recommend conditional use permit for rehabilitation facility at 1202 Roundtree Drive (3‑0)

Town Council

The Town Council met for a work session on October 28, 2025. Finance Director Anne Cantrell provided a presentation, but no specific decisions or actions were recorded in the document.

• Presentation by Finance Director Anne Cantrell

The Bedford Town Council met on Oct. 28, 2025 for a work session at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Room. Finance Director Anne Cantrell gave a presentation. The meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Town Council

Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a request to rezone a 0.549-acre parcel from Medium Density Residential (R-2) to General Business (B-2). The Planning Commission previously recommended denial of the request in a 7-0 vote, citing concerns over spot zoning and residential encroachment.

• Public hearing and ordinance for zoning map change at 1333 Longwood Avenue (Tax Map 156-A-10T) from R-2 to B-2
• Reappointment of Jonathan Buttram and Michelle Crumpacker to the Economic Development Authority
• FY26 Quarter 1 Recoveries Budget Amendment
• Resolution for the donation of surplus equipment
• Amendment of Section 2-27 of Town Code

The Town Council approved closing East Main Street for the Bedford Vietnam Veterans Memorial dedication ceremony on November 22, 2025. Council members also reappointed Jonathan Buttram and Michelle Crumpacker to the Economic Development Authority and voted to table the amendment to Section 2.27 of the Town Code. A motion to keep the council meeting schedule unchanged was also approved.

• Approved closure of East Main Street for Vietnam Veterans Memorial dedication (7 aye, 0 nay)
• Reappointed Jonathan Buttram and Michelle Crumpacker to Economic Development Authority (7 aye, 0 nay)
• Tabled amendment to Section 2.27 of the Town Code (7 aye, 0 nay)
• Approved not to change the date, frequency, or time of Town Council meetings (7 aye, 0 nay)
• Approved minutes of the October 14, 2025 meeting as submitted (unanimous)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider several budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2026, including grant rollovers and capital improvements, and will vote on closing streets for the Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting event. The meeting will also include a public hearing on a budget amendment.

• FY26 Grant Rollover and Appropriations (up to $9,191,514)
• FY26 Budget Amendment for General Fund Capital Improvement Items (up to $1,203,024)
• Request to close streets for Bedford Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Event
• Amendment of Section 2-27 of Town Code to change meeting time
• Appointment of member to Redevelopment and Housing Authority

The Town Council voted to close a list of streets for the Bedford Christmas Parade on December 6, 2025 and the accompanying Tree Lighting Event in Centertown, with all eight members voting aye. The Council also reappointed Ann Duncan to the Redevelopment and Housing Authority for a term ending October 13, 2029, with seven members voting aye. The September 23, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously, and a request to add street closures for the U.S.A. Semiquincentennial kickoff parade was placed on the consent agenda.

• Approved street closures for Bedford Christmas Parade (Dec 6, 2025) and Centertown Tree Lighting (8 aye)
• Reappointed Ann Duncan to Redevelopment and Housing Authority (term to 10/13/2029) (7 aye)
• Approved September 23, 2025 council minutes (unanimous)
• Added request to close streets for U.S.A. Semiquincentennial kickoff parade to consent agenda

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will review several incentive applications for real‑property improvements, including projects at 233‑235 West Depot Street, 305 North Bridge Street, and 825 Summit Street. It will consider a lender assignment for the performance agreement of the Hampton Inn and Suites hotel. The board will also address the lease agreement for the warehouse at 1 Abrasive Avenue. Routine reports and approval of prior minutes are included.

• Incentive request for real‑property improvement at 233‑235 West Depot Street
• Incentive request for Bower Center for the Arts at 305 North Bridge Street (Request 2)
• Incentive request for real‑property improvement at 825 Summit Street
• Lender assignment for performance agreement of the Hampton Inn and Suites hotel (action)
• Lease agreement for the warehouse at 1 Abrasive Avenue (old business)

The board approved the September 12, 2025 minutes (5‑0). It authorized the Chair or Vice Chair to sign a Collateral Assignment of the Performance Agreement for the DDay Omstay hotel project (5‑0). The board granted a $1,500.10 incentive for improvements at 233‑235 West Depot Street (4‑0‑1) and a $1,668.23 incentive for improvements at 305 North Bridge Street (5‑0). Members agreed to approve the Bison Printing lease once the final draft is completed.

• Approved September 12, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Authorized Chair/Vice Chair to sign Collateral Assignment for DDay Omstay hotel (5‑0)
• Granted $1,500.10 incentive for 233‑235 West Depot Street improvements (4‑0‑1)
• Granted $1,668.23 incentive for 305 North Bridge Street improvements (5‑0)
• Agreed to approve Bison Printing lease pending finalization (no vote recorded)

Planning Commission

The Bedford Planning Commission will meet on October 2, 2025. The agenda includes approval of the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes, staff and committee reports, and discussion of the Comprehensive Plan as unfinished business. The commission will also consider any new business items.

• Approve minutes from September 4, 2025 meeting
• Staff and committee reports
• Unfinished business – discussion of the Comprehensive Plan
• New business (unspecified)

The commission approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous 6‑aye vote. Staff reported zoning change requests for F Street and Quarles Street and a conditional use permit for a substance‑abuse treatment facility. Commissioners discussed language for the comprehensive plan and agreed to use both “downtown” and “centertown.” They also tentatively scheduled the next regular meeting for January 7, 2026.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Adopted use of both “downtown” and “centertown” in comprehensive plan
• Set tentative regular meeting date for January 7, 2026

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council meeting on September 23, 2025 will consider a budget amendment to re‑appropriate up to $876,308.43 from outstanding FY 2025 purchase orders for FY 2026. The council will also consider a reimbursement resolution for the municipal building and a discussion on renaming the town. Two closed‑session items will address the possible acquisition of forest land in the Peaks Magisterial District and the award of a public contract whose terms are confidential. A public hearing on the budget amendment will be held at Council Hall, 215 E. Main Street.

• Re‑appropriation of $876,308.43 from outstanding FY 25 purchase orders (budget amendment)
• Resolution 3‑FIN‑2‑44‑23 for reimbursement of the municipal building
• Discussion 4‑CC‑15‑1‑9‑23 regarding renaming the town
• Closed session to discuss acquisition of forest property outside town limits in Peaks Magisterial District
• Closed session to discuss award and terms of a public contract

The Town Council unanimously rejected a proposal to rename Bedford. It approved the closure of several streets for the Bedford Area Family YMCA’s Annual Peaks Otter Christmas Classic Foot Race on December 6, 2025. The council also approved a budget amendment to re‑appropriate $876,308.43 for outstanding FY25 purchase orders. All motions passed with every member voting aye.

• Rejected town renaming to Liberty (7 aye)
• Approved street closures for YMCA race on Dec 6, 2025 (7 aye)
• Approved budget amendment to re‑appropriate $876,308.43 FY25 purchase orders (7 aye)
• Approved Zoom participation for Councilman Todd Foreman (7 aye)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will consider authorizing the Chairman to sign an agreement for a Business Development Center consultant. The body will also discuss potential tenants for 1 Abrasive Avenue and a business survey regarding natural gas needs.

• Authorization for Chairman to sign Business Development Center consultant agreement
• Discussion of warehouse and exterior parking tenants at 1 Abrasive Avenue
• Business survey regarding natural gas needs
• Update on Hampton Inn and Suites

The Economic Development Authority adopted the FY2026 budget amendment that re‑allocates $40,000 to the Tobacco Revitalization Grant (4‑0). It also authorized the Chair to sign the $40,000 feasibility‑study agreement, approved formal lease agreements with Bison Printing and Pross Construction, and voted to support the town’s natural‑gas survey effort (each 4‑0). The board approved the July 11, 2025 minutes and agreed to hold an open‑house at the Winoa facility on October 1.

• Adopt FY2026 budget amendment correcting Tobacco Revitalization Grant (4‑0)
• Authorize Chair to sign and execute $40,000 feasibility‑study agreement (4‑0)
• Authorize attorney to draft formal lease with Bison Printing (4‑0)
• Authorize Chair to negotiate $1,800‑per‑month lease with Pross Construction (4‑0)
• Approve Authority support for natural‑gas infrastructure survey (4‑0)
• Approve July 11, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Agree to hold Winoa open‑house on Oct 1 (consensus)
• Discuss LED light repair estimate $7,400 (no vote recorded)

Town Council

The Town Council heard a presentation of the draft Downtown Strategy from Jen Gregory and Jeremy Murdoch. Council members discussed the plan's recommendations but did not vote on or adopt any measures. The next step is for the planning staff and the core implementation team to begin the implementation phase. The work session adjourned without any formal decisions.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will consider authorizing the Town Manager to sign a Letter of Intent to participate in the Middle James River Regional Water Supply Plan, committing a $4,000 local match. The meeting also includes a proclamation honoring Ms. Frances Coles, a discussion on changing the council meeting date, and continuation of a work session on the Downtown Strategic Plan.

• Proclamation honoring Ms. Frances Coles
• Authorization for Town Manager to sign Letter of Intent for Middle James River Regional Water Supply Plan with $4,000 match
• Discussion of change in council meeting date
• Continuation of work session on Downtown Strategic Plan
• Roll‑call participation in Regional Water Supply Plan

The council approved the August 26, 2025 meeting minutes as submitted. It voted to authorize the Town Manager to execute a Letter of Intent for the Middle James River Regional Water Supply Plan, committing a $4,000 local match. Council members also agreed to have the manager research the process and cost of renaming the town, with a report due in December. A discussion on changing the council meeting schedule was tabled for future consideration.

• Approved August 26, 2025 minutes as submitted
• Authorized Town Manager to execute Letter of Intent for Middle James River Regional Water Supply Plan (7 ayes)
• Authorized Town Manager to research town‑renaming process and cost; report due December
• Honored Frances Coles with proclamation for service
• Discussion on changing council meeting date tabled

Planning Commission

The Bedford Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone a property at 1333 Longwood Avenue from Medium Density Residential (R-2) to General Business (B-2). The commission will discuss and potentially act on this zoning map amendment during the meeting.

• Zoning map amendment from R-2 to B-2 for 1333 Longwood Avenue (Tax Parcel 156 A 10T)
• Public hearing and discussion/action on the zoning change request

The commission held a public hearing on a zoning map amendment request by Hope Metzger to change the property at 1333 Longwood Avenue from Medium Density Residential (R-2) to General Business (B-2). After discussion, the commissioners voted unanimously (7-0) to not recommend approval of the amendment and will forward that recommendation to the Town Council. No other substantive actions were taken; updates on the comprehensive plan and subdivision ordinance were discussed but no decisions were made on those items.

• Not recommend approval of zoning map amendment to B-2 for 1333 Longwood Ave (7-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a proposed ordinance to revise the electric rate tariff for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes changes to energy and purchased power cost recovery charges. The Council will also consider closing streets for the Liberty High School Homecoming Parade and discuss the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

• Public hearing and vote on Electric Rate Tariff for FY26
• Request to close streets for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade
• Discussion on Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Closed session regarding forest property acquisition
• Approval of minutes and reports

The Town Council unanimously approved the request to close College, Peaks, Bridge, and Main Streets for the Liberty High School Homecoming Parade on October 8, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. The motion was made by Councilman Evans, seconded by Councilman Updike, and carried with all seven members voting aye. The council also unanimously moved the street‑closure item ahead on the agenda and added a brief discussion of upcoming municipal building repairs. Minutes of the August 12, 2025 meeting were approved as submitted.

• Approved street closures for Liberty High School Homecoming Parade (7 ayes)
• Moved street‑closure consent agenda item ahead and added building‑repair discussion (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 12, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

The Bedford Redevelopment & Housing Authority met to discuss maintenance issues in Phase 1 completed homes and potential funding sources. The Authority heard about an air conditioning compressor failure at 408 South Street and cracked floor tiles at 413 East King Street, with estimated repair costs of $1,000 and $500 respectively. Since Phase I funds are closed out, the Authority is exploring whether Phase 2 funds can legally cover these repairs.

• $1,000 labor cost for AC compressor replacement at 408 South Street
• Estimated $500 repair for cracked floor tiles at 413 East King Street
• Discussion on reallocating Phase 2 budget funds for Phase I repairs
• Potential emergency meeting to address urgent AC issue before September
• Proclamation for Ms. Frances Coles scheduled for September 9

The board postponed decisions on two Phase 1 maintenance issues until more information is received. It will research whether Phase 2 funds can be used for those repairs. Mr. Granger was tasked with negotiating the HVAC labor cost and obtaining a flooring repair estimate, while Ms. Bique will consult the program manager on funding options. An emergency meeting may be called if needed, with a 72‑hour notice.

• Postponed decisions on two Phase 1 maintenance issues pending additional information
• Agreed to research legality of using Phase 2 funds for Phase 1 home repairs
• Assigned Mr. Granger to negotiate $1,000 HVAC labor cost and obtain flooring repair estimate
• Assigned Ms. Bique to consult Program Manager Joanne Peerman about funding options
• Planned to call an emergency meeting if needed, with 72‑hour notice requirement

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a conditional use permit for a homestay at 628 Baltimore Avenue and consider a $1.87M budget amendment for federal rail grants. The meeting will also include routine approvals, committee reports, and council comments.

• Conditional use permit for homestay at 628 Baltimore Avenue (Tax Map 195-2-2T)
• Resolution to accept $1,865,000 CRISI and WWII Heritage Cities grants for intercity passenger rail stop
• FY26 budget amendment for $1,865,000 rail and heritage grants
• Appointment of Jeremy G. Marquis as Building and Maintenance Official

The Town Council voted unanimously (5‑aye) to appoint Jeremy G. Marquis as the Building Official and Code Enforcement Officer. The Council also voted unanimously (5‑aye) to grant a conditional use permit for a “Homestay” at 628 Baltimore Avenue in the R‑1 district. Both actions were recorded as motions and carried by roll‑call vote.

• Appointed Jeremy G. Marquis as Building Official and Code Enforcement Officer (5‑aye)
• Approved conditional use permit for a “Homestay” at 628 Baltimore Avenue, Tax Parcel 195-2-2T (5‑aye)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the Subdivision Ordinance and the definition of 'Rehabilitation Facility' use. The body will also review a tentative date for a Comprehensive Plan public engagement meeting.

• Proposed 'Rehabilitation Facility' use text definition
• Draft changes to the Subdivision Ordinance
• Tentative August 27 public engagement meeting for the Comprehensive Plan
• Bylaws amendment regarding the Secretary role

The commission approved the July 2, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. It also adopted a bylaw amendment that eliminates the yearly election of a Secretary and designates the Director of Planning and Community Development or their designee to serve in that role. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved July 2, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adopted bylaw amendment removing annual Secretary election (5-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on designating property owned by Bedrock Community Church as tax exempt. The body will also consider street closures for National Night Out and a budget amendment for police expenditures.

• Public hearing and ordinance to exempt 403 Otey Street (Parcel ID 80503085) from real estate taxes; annual tax impact is $890.68
• Request to close Washington Street between Center Street and South Bridge Street on August 5, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for National Night Out
• Budget amendment for HB599 funding for police expenditures
• Resolution to approve an agreement with the Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the July 8, 2025 meeting. A public hearing on the Bedrock Community Church tax‑exemption request was held with no comments. The council voted 7‑0 to adopt an ordinance designating the church’s property as exempt from town real‑estate tax. The council also voted 7‑0 to close Washington Street and surrounding intersections for National Night Out on August 5, 2025.

• Approved July 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Public hearing on Bedrock Church tax exemption held; no comments offered
• Approved tax exemption ordinance for Bedrock Community Church property (7 ayes)
• Approved street closures for National Night Out on Aug 5, 2025 (7 ayes)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will meet to review financial reports and staff updates. The primary agenda item is a final presentation on the Metal Workforce Training Center Master Plan by Penny Whiteheart of Creative Economic Development Consulting.

• Final presentation of the Metal Workforce Training Center Master Plan

The board unanimously approved the June 13, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0). The board discussed the Metal Workforce Center feasibility plan but took no formal action on funding. The board agreed to host an open house in August to gauge interest and tasked Ms. Zirkle with coordinating the public launch. The board also agreed to pursue an engineering analysis to determine realistic project costs.

• Approved June 13, 2025 minutes (6-0 vote)
• Agreed to hold an open house in August for the Metal Workforce Center
• Tasked Ms. Zirkle with coordinating the public launch of the project
• Agreed to seek an engineering analysis to determine project costs

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

The Redevelopment & Housing Authority will meet to adopt the FY2026 budget. The body will also review financial reports and approve minutes from May and June 2025.

• FY2026 Budget Adoption

The Authority approved the May 8, 2025 meeting minutes by a 4‑0 vote. It approved the June 12, 2025 minutes by a 3‑0 vote with one member abstaining. The FY 2026 budget, including $27,000 in grants, was adopted by a 4‑0 vote. No other motions were decided.

• Approved May 8, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted FY 2026 Redevelopment & Housing Authority budget (4-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss several resolutions and a preliminary plat action. A primary item is a request to close multiple downtown streets for the Bedford Centerfest event on September 20, 2025.

• Request to close multiple streets, including West Main, Center, and Washington Streets, for Bedford Centerfest on September 20, 2025
• Resolution for the acceptance of the WWII Heritage Cities Grant 2025
• Resolution for the "Bedford Otter Bus" Phase 4 Department of Rail and Public Transportation Demo Grant
• Preliminary Plat Action for Harmony Development
• Town of Bedford Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The Town Council voted 7‑aye to close multiple streets for Bedford Centerfest on September 20, 2025. The Council also adopted a resolution to accept a $9,000 World War II Heritage Cities grant, also by a 7‑aye vote. Earlier, the minutes of the June 10, 2025 meeting were approved and two council members were permitted to join via Zoom unanimously.

• Approved street closures for Bedford Centerfest on Sep 20, 2025 (7 aye)
• Adopted resolution to accept $9,000 WWII Heritage Cities grant (7 aye)
• Approved minutes of the June 10, 2025 meeting as submitted
• Allowed Councilman Todd Foreman to join via Zoom (unanimous)
• Allowed Councilman Dwight Evans to join via Zoom (unanimous)

Town Council

The meeting agenda is procedural boilerplate and does not list specific items for decision or discussion.

The Bedford Town Council voted to sell the Helm Street, Orange Street at Haines Street, Grove at Orange Street, and Reynolds Park parcels. It decided to retain Burks Hill, the ball‑field portion of the East Main/Gold Street property, and the buffer lots at 804 Greenwood Street. The council also kept the Macon Street site for possible solar use and will explore interest in selling Bill Walters Park after contacting any related families.

• Approved sale of Helm Street property
• Approved sale of Orange Street at Haines Street property
• Approved sale of Grove at Orange Street property
• Approved sale of Reynolds Park adjacent wooded area
• Decided to keep Burks Hill property (no sale)
• Decided to keep ball‑field portion of East Main/Gold Street property and subdivide remainder for sale
• Kept Macon Street property for potential solar development
• Will explore sale of Bill Walters Park after contacting interested families

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use request for a homestay. The body will also review a preliminary plat and proposed changes to the Subdivision Ordinance.

• Conditional use request by Bedford Bungalow, LLC for a 'Homestay' at 628 Baltimore Avenue
• Preliminary Plat review for Harmony in Bedford
• Draft changes to the Subdivision Ordinance
• Comprehensive Plan Goals Foundations Document and Future Land Use discussion

The commission voted 5‑0 to recommend that the Town Council approve a conditional use permit for a homestay at 628 Baltimore Avenue with no conditions. It also voted 5‑0 to recommend conditional approval of the preliminary subdivision plat for the Harmony mixed‑use development, except for proffer #8. The May 1, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Homestay conditional use permit at 628 Baltimore Ave (5-0)
• Recommended conditional approval of Harmony subdivision plat, except proffer #8 (5-0)
• Agreed to review proposed subdivision ordinance changes before next meeting
• Decided to replace “affordable housing” with “diverse housing options” in draft plan language

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will meet to adopt the FY2026 budget. The body will also review a grant application for a childcare provider and a draft master plan for a workforce training center.

• FY2026 Budget Adoption
• Childcare Provider Grant application for Free State Academy at 511 East Main Street
• Metal Workforce Training Center Master Plan draft

The board approved the May 9, 2025 meeting minutes by a 6‑0 vote. It then adopted the FY2026 Economic Development Authority budget, also by a 6‑0 roll‑call vote. Finally, the board granted a $15,000 Childcare Provider Incentive to Free State Academy at 511 East Main Street, with the motion passing 6‑0.

• Approved May 9, 2025 minutes (6‑0)
• Adopted FY2026 Economic Development Authority budget (6‑0 roll‑call)
• Granted $15,000 childcare incentive to Free State Academy (6‑0)

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

The Redevelopment and Housing Authority was unable to vote on action items, including the fiscal year 2026 budget, due to a lack of quorum. Members received financial updates and status reports on property sales.

• Reported $20,000 revenue from a property sale to Habitat for Humanity
• Reported $10,000 expense for a Mission Serves grant incentive for materials
• Status update on South Street property sale settlement and deed recording
• Notification of Habitat for Humanity 'blitz build' on June 28 and 29 using lot Tax Map 214-A-133T
• Invitation to the Central Virginia Regional Housing Summit on June 25

The Redevelopment and Housing Authority lacked a quorum, so no action items were decided. The May 8, 2025 minutes were not approved and will be placed on the next agenda. The FY 2026 budget adoption was not acted upon. The financial report noted $20,000 revenue from a property sale and $10,000 expense for a grant incentive.

Town Council

The Town Council held a work session to review an Electric Utility Rate Study presented by Raftelis. The presentation detailed projected revenue requirements and proposed rate increases to address rising power supply costs.

• Proposed across-the-board rate increases: 17.2% for FY 2026, 10.8% for FY 2027, 7.0% for FY 2028, 4.6% for FY 2029, and 4.2% for FY 2030
• Proposed residential rate structure change resulting in a 20.05% increase for FY 2026
• Plan to fund the 5-year CIP with cash via reserve funds or PAYGO
• Discussion of alternative power options including natural gas and solar farms
• Decision to hold Public Hearings to present power increases and proposed rates

The Town Council reviewed the electric utility rate study presented by Bart Kreps. Members discussed the rising cost of power and possible options such as natural gas and solar farms. The Council agreed to hold public hearings to present the proposed rate increases, with the hearings to be coordinated by Finance Director Anne Cantrell.

• Public hearings on electric rate increase scheduled (decision agreed)

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to fill vacancies on two appointed bodies. The council is also scheduled to hold a closed session regarding the acquisition or disposition of real property related to the Reservoir.

• Appointment of Roy Monk to the Redevelopment and Housing Authority (term expires October 13, 2027)
• Appointment of Georgiann Watts to the Planning Commission (term expires March 31, 2028)
• Closed session regarding real property bargaining positions for the Reservoir

The Town Council accepted a $4,000 Virginia Risk Sharing Association safety grant and approved a budget amendment to fund playground mulch. Council also appointed Roy Monk to the Redevelopment and Housing Authority and Georgiann Watts to the Planning Commission. All motions passed with unanimous 7‑aye votes.

• Accepted VRSA Safety Grant and approved $4,000 budget amendment (7‑aye)
• Appointed Roy Monk to Redevelopment and Housing Authority, term to Oct 13, 2027 (7‑aye)
• Appointed Georgiann Watts to Planning Commission, term to Mar 31, 2028 (7‑aye)
• Entered closed session at 7:22 p.m. (7‑aye)
• Adopted closed‑session certification resolution (7‑aye)
• Cancelled regular Council meeting scheduled for June 24, 2025 (7‑aye)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a preliminary plat for Harmony in Bedford to provide a recommendation to the Council. The body will also discuss draft changes to the Subdivision Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan Goals Foundations Document.

• Preliminary Plat review for Harmony in Bedford
• Draft changes to the Subdivision Ordinance
• Comprehensive Plan Goals Foundations Document

Town Council

The Town Council is meeting to adopt the budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 and approve an amendment to the FY2025 budget. The body will also consider replacing the 1996 electric utility terms and conditions with updated service procedures.

• Adoption of FY 2025-2026 Budget totaling $40,306,498
• FY2025 Budget amendment involving $226,067 in transfers
• Resolution to repeal 1996 Terms and Conditions of Service and adopt new Utility Service Procedures
• General Fund appropriation of $11,794,108
• Electric Fund appropriation of $26,697,247

The council approved the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting. It unanimously added two items—Bedford Middle School construction time limits and electrical capital improvement projects—to the agenda. The council adopted the FY 2025-2026 budget and the accompanying appropriation ordinance, and approved a budget amendment to transfer funds to specific accounts. Finally, it repealed the old Terms and Conditions of Service and adopted new Utility Service Procedures and Terms.

• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Added agenda items: Bedford Middle School construction limits and electrical capital projects (unanimous)
• Adopted FY 2025-2026 budget and appropriation ordinance (7 aye)
• Approved budget amendment transferring funds per Attachment 1 (7 aye)
• Repealed old Terms and Conditions of Service and adopted new Utility Service Procedures (7 aye)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held a work session to review proposed updates to the Bedford Electric Utility Service Procedures and Terms and Conditions of Service, which have not been revised since 1996. The updates cover areas including meter reading adjustments, account transfers, payment assistance, service connection fees, solar, and dispute hearings. No final decisions were made; the item was presented for discussion.

• Review of updated Electric Utility Service Procedures and Terms and Conditions of Service
• Adjustment process for errors in meter readings
• Service connection fees
• Customers needing payment assistance
• Solar-related provisions

The council heard a presentation from Finance Director Anne Cantrell on updates to the Bedford Electric Utility Service Procedures and Terms and Conditions, which have not been changed since 1996. No votes or formal actions were recorded on the updates.

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit for a bed and breakfast at 808 Longwood Avenue and a tax exemption for the Bedford Pregnancy Center. Under new business, the council will discuss the proposed FY2025-2026 budget and vote on ordinances setting the Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) tax rate for 2026 and readopting traffic laws. A consent agenda includes approval of the Bedford Town Carnival at Liberty Lake Park and a short film.

• Proposed FY2025-2026 general fund budget of $11,794,108 with public hearing scheduled for May 22
• Ordinance setting BPOL tax at up to $0.10 per $100 gross receipts for businesses over $250,000 and up to $0.15 per $100 for over $2 million
• Ordinance to designate property at 813 East Main Street (Bedford Pregnancy Center) as tax exempt (assessed value $363,300, annual tax $508.62)
• Conditional use permit for bed and breakfast at 808 Longwood Avenue (Tax Parcel 175-A-54T) in R-1 district
• Approval of Bedford Town Carnival at Liberty Lake Park on August 22-24, 2025

The council approved the minutes from the April 22 meeting. It also approved the Bedford Town Carnival and the Boys of Bedford Short Film, both to be held at Liberty Lake Park. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved April 22 minutes (as submitted)
• Approved Bedford Town Carnival, Aug 22‑24, 2025 at Liberty Lake Park (6 ayes, 1 absent)
• Approved Boys of Bedford Short Film, Aug 1‑2, 2025 at Liberty Lake Park (6 ayes, 1 absent)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to review grant applications for real property, facades, and signage in the downtown area. The body will also consider childcare provider grants and a budget amendment for Waukeshaw Development.

• Real Property Grants for 307 West Main Street and 511 East Main Street
• Façade and Signage Grants for 307 West Main Street and 511 East Main Street
• Childcare Provider Grants for Bedford Area Family YMCA and Free State Academy
• FY2025 Budget Amendment for Waukeshaw Development – Electric Construction

The Economic Development Authority approved a $47,000 budget amendment to fund electric construction for Waukeshaw Development. It also approved several incentive grants, including $10,000 each to Wright Rental, LLC and Free State Academy for real‑property improvements, $5,000 and $870.39 for facade and signage projects, and a $15,000 childcare grant to the Bedford Area YMCA. The board tabled a pending childcare incentive until the Free State Academy receives its religious exemption certification. All grant and amendment votes passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved $10,000 incentive to Wright Rental, LLC for real‑property improvement at 307 West Main Street (5‑0)
• Approved $10,000 incentive to Free State Academy, Inc. for real‑property improvement at 511 East Main Street (5‑0)
• Approved $5,000 incentive to Wright Rental, LLC for facade and signage at 307 West Main Street (5‑0)
• Approved $870.39 incentive to Free State Academy, Inc. for facade and signage at 511 East Main Street (5‑0)
• Approved $15,000 childcare incentive grant to Bedford Area YMCA at 1102 Turnpike Road (5‑0)
• Tabled decision on next childcare incentive pending Religious Exemption certification (by acclamation)
• Approved $47,000 budget amendment granting funds to Waukeshaw Development for electric construction (5‑0)

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

The Bedford Redevelopment & Housing Authority will hold its regular meeting on May 8, 2025. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a financial report, and an information item about the Central Virginia Regional Housing Summit. The board will enter closed session to discuss the disposition of publicly held real property. Action items include a rehabilitation project at 513 Otey Street for grant funds and Mission Serves Material Funds.

• Approval of March 13, 2025 minutes
• Financial report on consent agenda
• Central Virginia Regional Housing Summit on June 25, 2025
• Closed session to discuss disposition of publicly held real property
• Rehabilitation Project for Grant Funds at 513 Otey Street (Jerome Chatman, Jr.)

The Authority voted 4‑0 to accept Habitat for Humanity’s $20,000 offer for the vacant South Street lot (tax map 214‑A‑133T) and to let the Chair sign the purchase agreement. It also approved $9,840 for emergency repairs at 513 Otey Street and $10,000 for material donations to Mission Serves. The board postponed the RFP for the adjacent lot until at least mid‑October.

• Approved $20,000 Habitat purchase of tax map 214‑A‑133T lot on South Street (4‑0)
• Authorized Chair to sign the Habitat purchase agreement and closing documents (4‑0)
• Granted $9,840 for water, sewer, plumbing, and electrical repairs at 513 Otey Street (4‑0)
• Allocated $10,000 to Mission Serves for construction‑material donations (4‑0)
• Postponed the Request for Proposals for lot 214‑A‑132T until at least mid‑October (acclamation)
• Approved the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes (4‑0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting with largely procedural items, including approval of minutes from April 3, 2025. The main substantive item is unfinished business: a presentation on the State of the Town and Trends Report for the Comprehensive Plan, involving EPR and the Planning Commission via Zoom. No new business or decisions are listed.

• Discussion and presentation of Comprehensive Plan State of the Town and Trends Report

The commission approved the April 3, 2025 meeting minutes with six members voting aye. The members agreed to delay electing a new Secretary until the next meeting. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved April 3, 2025 minutes (6 ayes)
• Postponed election of a Secretary until next meeting

Town Council

The Town Council held a work session to discuss town-owned vacant properties as of April 18, 2025. Topics included potential sale of Stoney Creek properties to the Bedford Regional Water Authority and other outside buyers, as well as possible development and maintenance needs at Liberty Lake Park including restroom repairs and pond dredging. No formal decisions were made; the session was for input and discussion.

• Presentation on town-owned vacant properties list
• Bedford Regional Water Authority interested in purchasing Stoney Creek property covering Port of the Reservoir
• Outside interest in purchasing remaining Stoney Creek lots
• Discussion of Liberty Lake Park: development costs, restroom repairs, and pond dredging needs

The Town Council heard a presentation on town‑owned vacant properties and considered possible uses, including interest from the Bedford Regional Water Authority in the Stoney Creek parcel. Council members also talked about the park adjacent to Liberty Lake, noting needs for pond dredging, restroom repairs, and equipment. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded; the discussion was informational only.

Town Council

The Town Council will hear a presentation on the proposed FY26 budget, which includes no changes to real estate or personal property tax rates, a 2% COLA for employees, and a power cost adjustment (PCA) that would increase the typical residential bill by $4.98. Council will also consider appointing Chief Jim Moore to the Central Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program Policy Board and issue a Stroke Smart proclamation.

• Proposed FY26 budget totals $39.47 million in net transfers, with no tax rate changes and a 2% COLA
• Power cost adjustment (PCA) of 0.03306 would increase typical residential bill by $4.98 (3.34%)
• Appointment of Chief Jim Moore to the CASAP Policy Board for a three-year term
• Proclamation declaring April 22, 2025 as Stroke Smart town
• Three vacant Public Works positions frozen; BPOL gross receipts tax tiers adjusted

The Town Council approved the minutes from the April 8, 2025 meeting. Council members voted to appoint Chief Jim Moore to the Central Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program Policy Board for a three‑year term. Mayor Stanley also proclaimed Bedford a Stroke Smart town.

• Approved April 8, 2025 meeting minutes (all members voted aye)
• Appointed Chief Jim Moore to Central Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program Policy Board for three‑year term (7 aye, 0 nay)
• Proclaimed Bedford a Stroke Smart town (Mayor proclamation)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will consider approving a FY2025 budget amendment related to Waukeshaw Development and Electric Construction, and decide on several incentive applications. These include real property and façade grants for properties at 307 West Main and 511 East Main, as well as childcare provider grants for the Bedford Area Family YMCA and Free State Academy. Some grant requests are marked as pending with separate supporting documents.

• FY2025 Budget Amendment – Waukeshaw Development – Electric Construction (Action)
• Real Property Grant: 307 West Main Street – Wright Choice Construction
• Real Property Grant: 511 East Main Street – Free State Academy (pending)
• Façade and Signage Grant: 307 West Main Street – Wright Choice Construction
• Childcare Provider Grant: Bedford Area Family YMCA – 1102 Turnpike Road

Town Council

The Town Council held a work session to discuss managing the Electric Fund, the Solid Waste Fund, and the General Fund. Members reached a consensus to propose a 50-50 split of the capacity charge for a final budget vote in May. The council also considered eliminating commercial solid waste collection to reduce liabilities.

• Proposed 50-50 split of electric capacity charge using prior year reserves and Power Cost Adjustment
• Projected approximately 22% increase for electric customers
• Proposal to eliminate Commercial Solid Waste Collection to remove approximately $400,000 in liabilities
• Discussion of a five-point plan for the General Fund to address a $750,000 gap
• Report of four vacant linemen positions in the Electric Department

The Town Council heard presentations on the Electric Fund, proposing a 50‑50 split of the capacity charge, and on the Solid Waste Fund, proposing elimination of commercial solid waste collection. Council members discussed staffing shortages, budget impacts, and potential private waste collection options, but no formal votes or approvals were recorded.

Town Council

The Town Council will consider ordinances to set the real estate tax rate at $0.28 and the personal property tax rate at $1.06 per $100 of assessed value. The meeting includes public hearings for several residential rezoning and conditional use permit requests.

• Real estate tax rate for FY 2025-2026 proposed at $0.28 per $100 assessed valuation
• Personal property tax rate for 2025 proposed at $1.06 per $100 assessed valuation
• Rezoning of parcels 251-A-1T and 251-A-2T from R-1 to R-3 for single-family and townhouse development
• Conditional use permits for townhouses at parcel 146B-1-1T (Burks Hill Road) and 'Homestay' uses at 926 Lake Drive and 1135 Lakeview Lane
• Budget amendment for Electric Capital Expenditures

The Bedford Town Council approved the minutes of the March 25, 2025 meeting as submitted. No votes were taken on tax rates or the residential development proposals; the public hearings were closed after comment periods. The council also noted the recent swearing‑in of Police Chief Jim Moore and thanked community participants.

• Approved March 25, 2025 meeting minutes

Town Council

This work session was nominally for the Bedford Electric Utility 2026 budget year, but the bulk of the meeting was a presentation and discussion on Town Park properties. Council members debated maintenance costs, the potential sale or decommissioning of parks to redirect funds, and other improvements like a dog park and pond aeration.

• Presentation of Bedford Town Park properties: Greenwood, Reynolds, Poplar, Beulah Payne Memorial, Liberty Lake, and Orange Street
• Discussion of selling or decommissioning parks to prioritize funds elsewhere
• Consideration of converting park space to a dog park
• Aeration of Liberty Lake Pond
• Discussion on meeting minimum green space requirements

The Town Council held a work session to review Bedford town park properties and discuss maintenance costs, volunteer or inmate work options, possible dog‑park conversion, new structures, pond aeration, green‑space requirements, and potential sale or decommissioning of parks. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a $1,725,016 budget amendment for fire apparatus replacement using prior year reserves, and a $409,245 amendment for additional VDOT paving and stormwater funding. Other action items include a street closure request for the Bedford Boys Tribute Center wreath-laying ceremony, a proclamation for National Crime Victims' Rights Week, and a third extension of the performance agreement for the Hampton Inn hotel. The council will also consider electric cost-to-serve funding assistance for the hotel and a commercial solid waste collection proposal, then convene in closed session for personnel matters.

• Budget amendment appropriating $1,725,016 from prior year reserves for fire apparatus (Ladder 1 and Engine 1) replacement
• Budget amendment appropriating $409,245 in additional VDOT funding for street paving and stormwater projects
• Request to close N. Bridge Street (red light east to South Street) on June 6, 2025, for the Bedford Boys Tribute Center wreath-laying ceremony
• Third extension of performance agreement for D-Day Omstay LLC / Hampton Inn, extending footer deadline to Sept. 30, 2025 and final completion to Dec. 31, 2026
• Request for electric cost-to-serve funding assistance for the Hampton Inn hotel (roll call vote)

The Town Council voted to appropriate $1,725,016 from prior‑year reserves for fire apparatus replacement, approving the related budget amendment. It also approved an additional $409,245 VDOT funding allocation, a street‑closure for a wreath‑laying ceremony, and a third amendment to the performance agreement with D‑Day Omstay LLC. All motions carried with unanimous aye votes.

• Approved FY25 fire apparatus budget amendment ($1,725,016) (7 ayes)
• Approved FY25 VDOT funding amendment ($409,245) (7 ayes)
• Approved street closure for Bedford Boys Tribute Center wreath ceremony (6 ayes)
• Approved third amendment to D‑Day Omstay LLC performance agreement (7 ayes)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will hold its annual meeting on March 14, 2025, taking action on the FY2025 budget amendment, a performance agreement extension for the Hampton Inn and Suites (Bedford D-Day Hotel), and electric construction for Waukeshaw Development. The board will also receive an update on the Bedford Metal Workforce Center from a consultant and may enter closed session.

• FY2025 Budget Amendment (Action)
• Performance Agreement Extension Request for Hampton Inn and Suites (Bedford D-Day Hotel) (Action)
• Waukeshaw Development – Electric Construction (Action)
• Bedford Metal Workforce Center update with Creative Economic Development Consulting – Penny Whiteheart
• Closed Session

The Bedford Economic Development Authority approved a $734,259 budget amendment for property purchase, granted a third extension to D-Day Omstay, LLC for the hotel project, and approved a $47,000 incentive to Waukeshaw Development for electrical costs. All votes were 7-0. The hotel extension is subject to Town Council approval.

• Approved FY2025 budget amendment of $734,259 for property purchase (7-0)
• Approved third Performance Agreement extension for D-Day Omstay, LLC hotel, subject to Town Council approval (7-0)
• Approved $47,000 economic development incentive to Waukeshaw Development for electrical meter costs (7-0)
• Approved January 10, 2025 minutes (7-0)

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

The Hilltop Community Revitalization Project Management Team will meet to review financials, project status, and the project timeline. The agenda consists of routine updates and a review of the next meeting date. Following this, the meeting will adjourn into a separate Housing Rehabilitation Oversight Board Meeting.

• Review of financials (no specific figures provided in agenda)
• Project status update for Hilltop Community Revitalization
• Review of project timeline
• Adjournment into Housing Rehabilitation Oversight Board Meeting

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

This is a regular meeting of the Bedford Redevelopment & Housing Authority. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the previous month, a consent agenda with financial reports, and standard administrative items. No specific projects, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of minutes from February 13, 2025
• Financial reports under consent agenda
• Citizen comment period
• Next meeting scheduled for April 10, 2025

The Bedford Redevelopment and Housing Authority discussed the future of its South Street lots, considering whether to build or sell them given market uncertainties. Staff will draft a proposal for selling the lots with a performance measure requiring affordable houses to be built, to be reviewed at the next meeting. No formal action was taken on this item.

• Approved February 13, 2025 minutes (4-0, Messier abstaining)
• Discussed selling South Street lots with affordable housing requirement; staff to draft proposal

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss several appointments to local boards and commissions. The body is also reviewing a request to close streets for a festival at Liberty Lake Park and the addition of utility billing software to the town's ERP system.

• Request to close streets for the Before the Works Festival at Liberty Lake Park on July 3, 2025
• Reappointment of Brock Malcolm, Philip Thompson, and Cynthia Gunnoe to the Planning Commission
• Reappointment of Jonathan Buttram, Jeff Witt, and Matt Holmstrom to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals
• Addition of utility billing software to the Town’s ERP software
• FY2025 DMV Selective Enforcement Alcohol Grant, Police Traffic Services Grant, and Local Law Enforcement (LOLE) Grant

The Bedford Town Council approved a contract with Tyler Technologies to add utility billing services to the town's existing ERP software, along with a $65,300 budget amendment. The council also approved several other budget amendments, including grants for police enforcement and a transfer to the EDA for the Middle School project. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved Tyler Technologies utility billing software contract and $65,300 budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved $8,000 DMV Selective Enforcement Alcohol Grant budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved $17,969 DMV Selective Enforcement Police Traffic Services Grant budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved $3,200 Local Law Enforcement (LOLE) Grant budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved Omnigo evidence management software contract and $14,819 budget amendment (7-0)
• Approved $47,000 budget amendment for Middle School Project transfer to EDA (7-0)
• Reappointed Planning Commission members Malcolm, Thompson, and Gunnoe (7-0)
• Reappointed LBBCA members Buttram, Witt, and Holmstrom (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a work session on the Comprehensive Plan public input update, then a regular meeting with five public hearings. The main item is a rezoning of two parcels (Governor’s Reserve) from R-1 to R-3 for single-family detached and townhouse development. Also up for votes are conditional use permits for a sales office/model home, a townhouse development off Burks Hill Road, and two ‘Homestay’ uses on Lake Drive and Lakeview Lane.

• Rezoning of parcels 251-A-1T & 251-A-2T (Governor’s Reserve, Crest Ridge Drive) from R-1 to R-3 for higher-density residential
• Conditional use permit for a sales office/model home with parking in the R-3 district on same parcels
• Conditional use permit for a townhouse development on parcel 146B-1-1T off Burks Hill Road (B-2 zoning)
• Conditional use permit for ‘Homestay’ use at 926 Lake Drive (Raintree Properties)
• Conditional use permit for ‘Homestay’ use at 1135 Lakeview Lane (Raintree Properties)

The Planning Commission voted 5-2 to recommend approval of a rezoning request from Ranbowellen LLC for parcels at Governor's Reserve, changing the zoning from Low Density Residential (R-1) to High Density Residential (R-3) for 149 single-family homes and approximately 97 townhouses. The recommendation is contingent on the developer providing written proffers before the Town Council meeting, including completing infrastructure before housing construction and securing property transfers. The Commission also voted 7-0 to recommend approval of two related conditional use permits for a sales office and a townhouse development, and two separate homestay permits for Raintree Properties.

• Recommended approval (5-2) of rezoning to R-3 for Governor's Reserve, contingent on written proffers for infrastructure, property transfers, and a secondary entrance.
• Recommended approval (7-0) of a conditional use permit for a sales office/model home with parking on Parcels 251-A-1T & 251-A-2T.
• Recommended approval (7-0) of a conditional use permit for a townhouse development on Parcel 146B-1-1T, conditioned on land transfer to Ranbowellen.
• Recommended approval (7-0) of a homestay conditional use permit for Gateway Cottage at 926 Lake Drive.
• Recommended approval (7-0) of a homestay conditional use permit for Tall Oaks Retreat at 1135 Lakeview Lane.
• Approved the February 6, 2025, meeting minutes as presented.

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and consider granting a competitive cable franchise to Comcast for a term of up to 10 years. Other business includes a budget amendment to purchase transformers for Eastlyn Crossing, adoption of an infrastructure bonding policy, endorsement of a WWII Heritage Cities Grant application, and a presentation from the Blue Ridge Power Agency.

• Public hearing and ordinance to grant Comcast a competitive cable franchise (10-year term)
• Budget amendment to purchase transformers for Eastlyn Crossing (roll-call vote)
• Resolution to adopt Town Infrastructure Bonding Policy
• Endorsement of application for WWII Heritage Cities Grant 2025
• Presentation by Alice Wolfe on behalf of Blue Ridge Power Agency

The Bedford Town Council awarded a 10-year non-exclusive cable television franchise to Comcast, adding a third provider option for residents. The council also approved a $183,000 budget amendment for transformers at Eastlyn Crossing, adopted an updated infrastructure bonding policy, and endorsed a $10,000 WWII Heritage Cities grant application. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Awarded cable franchise to Comcast (6-0)
• Approved $183,000 budget amendment for Eastlyn Crossing transformers (6-0)
• Adopted updated Town infrastructure bonding policy (6-0)
• Endorsed WWII Heritage Cities grant application with letter of support (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council held a budget work session to review the proposed FY2025-2026 budget, which keeps tax rates unchanged and includes a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for employees. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational, with discussion on potential withdrawal from commercial solid waste collection and use of fund balance for fire apparatus. The council directed staff to prepare proposals for further consideration.

• Reviewed FY26 budget proposal with no tax rate changes (no vote)
• Discussed proposed 2% COLA for employees (no vote)
• Discussed potential withdrawal from commercial solid waste collection (no vote)
• Discussed using $892,000 fund balance for fire apparatus (no vote)
• Heard proposal to increase zoning use permit fee from $30 to $50 (no vote)

Town Council

This is a called Council meeting with standard agenda sections (Administrative, Public Hearings, Consent Agenda, Old Business, New Business, Budget Retreat, FOIA Training) but no specific items, ordinances, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda. The meeting is procedural with no substantive decisions identified.

• Agenda includes Administrative, Public Hearings, Consent Agenda, Old Business, New Business, Budget Retreat, and FOIA Training sections
• No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances detailed

The Town Council held a budget work session for FY 2025-2026, reviewing a balanced $11.7 million general fund proposal with no changes to tax rates, a 2% COLA, and no use of reserves. The council discussed a proposal to exit the commercial solid waste collection business and directed the town manager to prepare options for formal consideration. No formal votes were taken; the session was informational.

• Reviewed FY26 budget proposal with no tax rate changes (no vote)
• Discussed proposal to exit commercial solid waste collection (no vote)
• Directed Town Manager to prepare options for commercial trash service exit (no vote)
• Noted zoning use permit fee proposed to increase from $30 to $50 (no vote)

Redevelopment & Housing Authority

This is an organizational meeting of the Bedford Redevelopment & Housing Authority. The board will elect officers, approve prior minutes, and consider financial reports. No major decisions or specific projects are on the agenda.

• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2024
• Financial reports on consent agenda

Town Council

The Town of Bedford's regular Town Council meeting scheduled for February 11, 2025, has been cancelled for good cause. The next regular meeting will be held on February 25, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

• Meeting cancelled with no business conducted
• Next meeting scheduled for February 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to take action on the 2024 Annual Report to Town Council. The body will also discuss a survey update regarding the Comprehensive Plan.

• 2024 Annual Report to Town Council
• Comprehensive Plan – Survey Update

The Bedford Planning Commission approved its 2024 Annual Report for submission to Town Council, with a 6-0 vote. The commission also discussed updates to the Comprehensive Plan survey, including color consistency, word cloud explanations, and separating the appendix. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved December 5, 2024 minutes as amended (6-0)
• Recommended 2024 Annual Report to Town Council (6-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a budget amendment to roll over American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for water and sewer projects. The body will also consider several electric infrastructure upgrades and the write-off of 2019 taxes and utility bills.

• Budget amendment for $3,195,432 ARPA rollover for Bedford Regional Water Authority
• Budget amendment for Eastlyn Crossing switch gear totaling $64,070
• Budget amendments for substation breaker replacements at Centerville and Colton Mill Stations ($125,092 each for 2025)
• Write-off of 2019 personal property taxes ($506.10) and 2019 utility bills ($22,112.56)
• Letter of support for Bedford Otter Bus Demonstration Grant Phase 4 estimated at $193,964

The Bedford Town Council approved a $3,195,432 budget amendment to roll over unspent ARPA funds for water and sewer projects with the Bedford Regional Water Authority. It also approved three electric infrastructure budget amendments totaling $276,000 for switch gear and breakers, plus write-offs for uncollectible 2019 taxes and utility bills. A letter of support was approved for the Otter Bus Phase 4 grant application.

• Approved $3,195,432 ARPA rollover for water/sewer projects (6-0)
• Approved $64,070 budget amendment for Eastlyn Crossing switch gear (6-0)
• Approved $92,000 budget amendment for 12kV breaker at Centerville (6-0)
• Approved $92,000 budget amendment for 23kV breaker at Colton Mill (6-0)
• Approved write-off of $506.10 in 2019 personal property taxes (6-0)
• Approved write-off of $22,112.56 in 2019 utility bills (6-0)
• Approved letter of support for Otter Bus Phase 4 grant (6-0)

Town Council

The Bedford Town Council held a work session to review the components of the Monthly Financial Report and the December 31, 2024 Financial Report. Finance Director Anne Cantrell gave an instructional presentation on the report components and walked through the December 2024 review. The session also included conflict of interest training presented by Woody G. Watts. This was a work session, not a voting meeting, and no decisions were made.

• Review of December 31, 2024 financial report
• Instructional presentation on Monthly Financial Report components
• Conflict of Interest Training presented by Woody G. Watts

The Town Council held a work session to review the components of the Monthly Financial Report and the December 31, 2024 Financial Report. Finance Director Anne Cantrell presented an instructional overview, and the session concluded with conflict of interest training. No formal decisions were made.

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit for a gymnasium at Bedford Primary School and proposed zoning text changes for homestays, digital signs, and other sections. The Council will also consider a resolution to approve the conditional use permit, an ordinance for the zoning changes, and the appointment of a fire chief. A closed session is scheduled for legal consultation regarding the County Scale House.

• Conditional use permit for a gymnasium at Bedford Primary School (807 College Street, tax parcel 173-A-11T)
• Proposed zoning text amendments covering homestays, digital signs, and various town-wide sections
• Appointment of a new Fire Chief (roll call vote)
• Resolution to approve the conditional use permit for school expansion with a condition on conformance with submitted plans
• Closed session with legal counsel regarding the County Scale House

Economic Development Authority

The Bedford Economic Development Authority held its annual organizational meeting, electing Jonathan Buttram as Chairman, David Sensenig as Vice-Chair, Anne Cantrell as Treasurer, and Cathy Johnson as Secretary. The board approved a $5,000 Enterprise Zone Real Property Improvement Grant for Boddie-Noell Enterprises at 895 Blue Ridge Avenue for a new Hardee's drive-thru restaurant. They discussed a year-to-date budget deficit of $360,000 due to a land purchase, and received updates on the Workforce Development Center cleanup and a proposed child care provider incentive program with a $15,000 per application cap. The budget amendment was deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved $5,000 Enterprise Zone grant for Hardee's at 895 Blue Ridge Avenue
• Elected officers: Chairman Buttram, Vice-Chair Sensenig, Treasurer Cantrell, Secretary Johnson
• Cash balance $449,093.22; year-to-date deficit $360,000 from land purchase
• Discussed $14,000 roof repair quote at Workforce Development Center (Winoa)
• Reviewed draft child care incentive policy with $15,000 cap per application

The Bedford Economic Development Authority held its annual organization meeting, electing Jonathan Buttram as Chairman, David Sensenig as Vice-Chair, Anne Cantrell as Treasurer, and Cathy Johnson as Secretary, all by 6-0 votes. The board approved a $5,000 Enterprise Zone Real Property Improvement Grant to Boddie-Noell Enterprises for the Hardee's at 895 Blue Ridge Avenue. A budget amendment related to a property purchase was deferred to the next meeting.

• Elected Jonathan Buttram as Chairman (6-0)
• Elected David Sensenig as Vice-Chair (6-0)
• Elected Anne Cantrell as Treasurer (6-0)
• Elected Cathy Johnson as Secretary (6-0)
• Approved October 11, 2024 minutes by acclamation
• Awarded $5,000 Real Property Investment Grant to Boddie-Noell Enterprises (6-0)
• Deferred 2025 Budget Amendment to next meeting

Town Council

The Town Council is holding a called meeting to administer oaths to newly elected members and elect a mayor and vice mayor for the new term. The agenda also includes public hearings, consent agenda, and old/new business, but no specific items are listed.

• Administration of oath for new elected members
• Election of mayor and administration of oath
• Election of vice mayor and administration of oath