Northumberland County public meetings in 2023

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is meeting to review the solar energy facility ordinance based on recommendations from the Rural Solar Development Coalition, and to consider whether commercial tent camping should have a minimum acreage requirement. No public hearings are scheduled, and the agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Review of solar energy facility ordinance per BOS memo of 09-26-23
• Consideration of minimum acreage for commercial tent camping

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on December 14, 2023, approving minutes, resolutions, and multiple supplemental appropriations. Key actions included funding for schools, sheriff's department, infrastructure projects, and a $25,000 transfer for public restrooms in Callao. The board also discussed a Planning Commission proposal on boat canopies and authorized advertising for forensic auditing services.

• Supplemental appropriation of $273,368 to Northumberland County Schools for All in Tutoring
• Transfer of $25,000 to Callao Hometown Community Association for public restrooms at Hometown Community Park
• Approved $78,450 for manhole rehabilitation with Prism Contractors and Engineers using ARPA funds
• Approved $62,747 for generator replacement at Omega pump station with Paul A. Ryan
• Approved supplemental appropriations for Sheriff's Department totaling $12,262.64

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to plan for the upcoming March 5 Presidential Primary, including setting a training date for election officers, discussing early voting logistics, and reviewing the FY2024-2025 budget. They also addressed election officer vacancies and confirmed polling place procedures. The meeting was routine administrative planning with no public comment.

• Election officer training set for February 20, 2024, at 2 PM at the Sheriff's Office
• Early voting begins January 19, 2024, at the General Registrar's office; ballots ordered at 100 per style for absentee and ~70% of registered voters per precinct
• Absentee ballot pre-processing scheduled for February 27 and March 2
• FY2024-2025 budget: Election Officer compensation line item to be re-aligned from salary to variable expense; budget due to County Administrator by January 31, 2024
• Election officer vacancies in Precincts 1 and 2 need replacements for the March 5 primary

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board met on December 12, 2023, and approved two shoreline construction permits, each for a three-year term. The board also voted to table a third application until its January 9, 2024 meeting. All actions were unanimous.

• Approved 35 linear feet of armor stone revetment at 299 Judith Sound Road (Application 23-2521)
• Approved 100 linear feet of riprap sill and 115 linear feet of riprap revetment at 755 Twin Harbor Road (Application 23-2490)
• Tabled Northern Neck Land Conservancy application (VMRC #23-2312) until January 9, 2024

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors and the School Board held a joint meeting to discuss budget updates. The session included information regarding the school budget, the county budget, and the Joint Finance Committee scope of work.

• School Budget Work Session/Budget 101 Update
• County Budget 101 Update
• Joint Finance Committee Scope of Work

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on November 30, 2023, and voted unanimously to convene into a closed meeting to discuss the acquisition or disposition of real property, as permitted by Virginia law. After the closed session, the board reconvened in open session and certified that only lawful matters were discussed. The meeting then adjourned.

• Closed meeting authorized under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(A)(3) for real property acquisition/disposition
• Unanimous vote to enter closed session (5-0)
• Unanimous vote to reconvene into open session (5-0)
• Certification that closed session complied with FOIA exemptions
• Meeting adjourned after certification

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is holding a work session to discuss potential solar energy facilities, review the solar facility ordinance, consider minimum acreage for commercial tent camping, and investigate adding boat canopies to the boathouse zoning ordinance. No public hearings are scheduled, and the meeting is procedural in nature.

• Discussion of solar energy facility ordinance based on recommendations from Rural Solar Development Coalition
• Review of commercial tent camping and possible minimum acreage requirement
• Investigation of adding boat canopies to boathouse zoning ordinance
• Presentation by Northern Neck Electric Co-Operative on future solar energy facilities

Economic Development Commission

The Commission is meeting to initiate an analysis for updating the Northumberland County Economic Development Plan. The process includes reviewing achievements from the current plan and conducting a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) through February 2024.

• Review of the 2015–2021 Economic Development Plan
• Analysis of county strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
• Review of Northern Neck Planning Commission strategic plan actions
• Assessment of current EDC mission and objectives

Economic Development Commission

The commission will discuss the status of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) tourism funding projects and review meeting notes from last month.

• Review of ARPA Tourism Funds Projects

Electoral Board

The board is preparing for the 2024 Presidential Primary, including early voting starting January 19. Members are also coordinating routine maintenance for voting machines and reviewing election officer training processes.

• Planning for March 5 Presidential Primary and June Federal Primary
• Early voting commencement on January 19
• Candidate filing deadline of December 14 for the Presidential Primary
• Requested maintenance for Hart InterCivic scanners and touch writers

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board met and approved minutes, tabled a community pier application for more details, approved a riprap installation along Dividing Creek, and extended a VMRC permit. The board also tabled another permit request until January.

• Tabled Application No. 23-2312 (Northern Neck Land Conservancy) for a community pier/bridge at Ball Creek, 726 Ball Lane to 816 Ball Lane, until December 12, 2023
• Approved Application No. 23-2291 (Barbara Wellford) for 90 ft riprap sill and 150 ft riprap revetment along Dividing Creek, Lagrange Avenue, for three years
• Approved three-year extension of VMRC permit #20-1609 for Reginald B. Cheatham
• Tabled VMRC permit #23-1698 for Patrick Metcalf until January 9, 2024

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on November 9, 2023, taking action on multiple items including supplemental appropriations, a conditional use permit, and personnel matters. The board approved a $112,398.37 supplemental appropriation for a 2% salary increase and compensation board adjustment, and hired Ethan Harding as Assistant Chief of Emergency Services with a starting salary of $71,500.00. They also approved a conditional use permit for a vacation home rental at 85 Leming Avenue and several smaller appropriations for the Sheriff's Department and other funds.

• Approved $112,398.37 supplemental appropriation for 2% salary increase and compensation board adjustment effective Dec 1, 2023
• Hired Ethan Harding as Assistant Chief of Emergency Services with $71,500.00 starting salary and $42,377.39 supplemental appropriation for 6-month period
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for vacation home rental at 85 Leming Avenue (Tax Map Parcel # 45-B(3)20-6)
• Approved supplemental appropriations for Sheriff's Department: $987.00 (vehicle repairs), $568.75 and $1,627.50 (ball games), $8,117.27 (VACorp lightning damage)
• Approved $1,837.62 for FY24 Opioid Abatement Settlement funds and $5,766.00 for FY24 Litter Grant funds

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met over several days to canvass the November 7 General Election, reviewing absentee and provisional ballots, addressing precinct reporting issues, and certifying final results. The board certified 5,400 total votes cast (51.6% turnout) and submitted abstracts to the state. The meeting was largely procedural, with no public comment or policy decisions.

• Certified 5,400 votes cast, 51.6% turnout
• Reviewed 19 provisional ballots in closed session
• Precinct 103: SOR incomplete, officers instructed to sign by Nov 9
• Precinct 104: missing tapes and 9-ballot discrepancy noted
• Joe Schlatter elected as new Chair after Ed Johnson's resignation

Joint Finance Committee

The committee will conduct a budget overview involving presentations from the School Board and the County. The meeting also includes defining initial scope and identifying gaps related to that scope.

• School Board budget presentation/overview
• County budget presentation/overview
• Identification of gaps related to defined scope

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission will hold a work session to review the solar energy facility ordinance based on recommendations from the Rural Solar Development Coalition, consider whether commercial tent camping should have a minimum acreage requirement, investigate adding boat canopies to the boathouse zoning ordinance, and review all zoning uses to determine if they should be allowed by right, conditional use, or not at all. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Review solar energy facility ordinance per BOS memo
• Consider minimum acreage for commercial tent camping
• Investigate boat canopies in boathouse zoning ordinance
• Review all zoning uses across all districts
• No public hearings scheduled

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on October 12, 2023, approving multiple actions including a conditional use permit for a communications tower, a fee schedule increase, and several personnel decisions. The board also authorized a forensic examination RFP and entered a closed meeting for personnel matters. Two public hearing items were tabled to the next month's meeting.

• Approved conditional use permit for 197-foot communications tower on Newmans Neck Road (Tax Map Parcel #18-(1)-6)
• Approved fee schedule increases for building and land use permits, effective January 1, 2024
• Hired Carl Hayden as IT Technician at $45,000.00 and Michael Plante as Building Official at $67,100.00
• Approved $2,343.60 contract with One Step for GPS trackers on 14 county vehicles using ARPA funds
• Tabled conditional use permits for abattoir on Fruit Plain Road and residential solar at 1530 Mundy Point Road to November 9, 2023

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to discuss preparations for the November 7 election, including absentee ballot preprocessing and provisional ballot canvassing. They also reviewed voting machine maintenance and potential state audit readiness. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no public attendees.

• Absentee ballot preprocessing scheduled for Oct 31 and Nov 4
• Provisional ballot canvas and SOR submission due by Nov 13
• Election Officer Training set for Oct 12
• cMos battery replacement planned for Verity Scanners and Touch Writers before 2024 election
• Risk Mitigating Audit preparation discussed

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved two applications for shoreline erosion control and tabled a third. The board unanimously approved a three-year permit for an armor stone revetment on Rogers Creek and a three-year permit for a riprap revetment on Henrys Creek. A dredging and breakwater improvement project on Taskmaker Creek was tabled until the November 14, 2023 meeting.

• Approved 82 linear feet of armor stone revetment at 383 Rogers Creek Road (Potomac View Cottage, LLC)
• Approved 117 linear feet of riprap revetment at 146 Creek Bed Lane (Marsha Chen)
• Tabled dredge of 700 cubic yards and breakwater improvements at 672 Taskmaker Lane (Patrick Metcalf)

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is meeting to conduct a final review of a proposed energy (battery) storage ordinance, following a Board of Supervisors request to evaluate land uses across all zoning districts. They will also discuss whether changes are needed to the county's boathouse ordinance. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting.

• Final review of proposed battery storage ordinance
• Discussion of potential changes to county boathouse ordinance
• Board of Supervisors request to review all zoning uses (4-17-23 memo)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will review building permit reports and receive a presentation from the Virginia Tourism Commission. The meeting includes discussions regarding ARPA tourism funds, VA 250 tourism marketing, and the EDC Economic Development Plan.

• Building Permits Comparison Report: July-August 2023
• Virginia Tourism Commission presentation by Laura Messer
• Discussion of ARPA Tourism Funds
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing update
• EDC Economic Development Plan discussion

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on September 14, 2023, primarily to convene in closed session for personnel matters. After reconvening, the board voted to appoint Maurice Johnson as interim District V supervisor and Arthur Berkely as interim building official. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Appointed Maurice Johnson as interim District V supervisor until December 31, 2023
• Appointed Arthur Berkely as interim building official, subject to contract approval
• Convened closed meeting under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel discussions
• Certified closed meeting compliance with FOIA by roll call vote

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting with public hearings, approving several zoning and tax measures. Key actions included revising the solar energy facility ordinance, adopting a 40-cent per pack cigarette tax, creating a short-term rental registry, and imposing a 2% transient occupancy tax. The board also approved conditional use permits for a vacation rental and a water tank, denied a commercial tent camping request, and handled routine items like minutes and the check register.

• Approved revision to Zoning Ordinance 148-155 for solar energy facilities, including prohibiting them in R-1 and R-2 zones and requiring decommissioning within 12 months
• Adopted new cigarette tax of 40 cents per pack effective January 1, 2024, and joined the Chesapeake Bay Region Cigarette Tax Board
• Created Chapter 43 'Businesses' for a short-term rental registry
• Adopted 2% transient occupancy tax on lodging under 30 days
• Approved conditional use permit for Aqua Virginia water tank at 743 Main Street, Reedville; denied commercial tent camping at 72 Moschetti Lane

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved two shoreline permit applications and tabled a third. One application involved a self-reported unpermitted change, and the board decided not to impose a civil penalty. The tabled application will be reconsidered at the October 10, 2023 meeting.

• Approved Application 23-1709: 295 ft riprap sill, 82 ft riprap revetment, 37 ft new riprap revetment on Wilkins Creek, Mundy Point Road
• Approved Application 23-1783: 194 ft replacement timber bulkhead and wharf replacement on Cockrell Creek, 610 Menhaden Road, no civil penalty
• Tabled Application 23-1698: dredge 700 cubic yards and improve rock groin/breakwater on Taskmaker Creek, 672 Taskmaker Lane

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on September 7, 2023. They received presentations on solar and battery storage amendments and ordinances. The board convened into a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters, then reconvened and certified the closed meeting. They approved a salary increase for David Woolard by supplemental appropriation of $6,611.16 for the remaining 10 months of FY24, effective September 1, 2023.

• Presentations on solar comprehensive plan amendment, solar zoning amendment, and battery storage ordinance
• Closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) for personnel matters
• Approved $6,611.16 supplemental appropriation for David Woolard's salary increase
• Carried over to special meeting on September 14, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.

The Board of Supervisors approved a supplemental appropriation for a salary increase for David Woolard. The Board also held a joint meeting with the Planning Commission to discuss recommendations for the county's solar ordinance.

• Approved $6,611.16 salary and benefits increase for David Woolard (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Convened closed meeting for personnel discussion (4-0)
• Certified closed meeting compliance (4-0)
• Approved carry over to special meeting on September 14, 2023 (4-0)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to approve the list of 2023 Officers of Election, their precinct assignments, and training plans for the November 7 General Election. They also reviewed early voting operations, absentee ballot pre-processing, and discussed a satellite voting location for 2024. The meeting was held in lieu of the regularly scheduled September 12 meeting.

• Approved 2023 Officers of Election assignments and deputization for early voting
• Two-phase training: online/paper course plus in-person workshops on October 12
• Logic & Accuracy testing scheduled for September 18
• Requested county ordinance for 2024 satellite voting location, pending Board of Supervisors action
• Code Blue security installation at Registrar's office scheduled for September 8

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting to handle several administrative actions. They voted to start an application process to fill the vacant District V board member position, appointed a vice chair, and made appointments to the Northern Neck Regional Jail Board. The board also approved a sanitary district vehicle purchase, authorized advertising for an Assistant Chief of Emergency Services, amended a radio system policy team appointment, and moved forward with bidding for the new courthouse roof replacement. The meeting included a closed session for personnel matters and was carried over to a special meeting on September 7, 2023.

• Motion to move forward with an application process for appointing a qualified citizen as the District V Board member
• Appointment of Supervisor Brann as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Supervisors
• Appointment of Chairman Haynie as Northumberland representative on the Northern Neck Regional Jail Board
• Retroactive approval of the purchase of the Sanitary District vehicle
• Motion to move forward on the bidding process for the New Courthouse Roof Replacement

The Board of Supervisors established an application process to fill a vacant Board member position for District V. Other actions included appointing a Vice Chair and approving a courthouse roof replacement bidding process.

• Approved application process for District V Board member vacancy (4-0)
• Appointed Supervisor Brann as Vice-Chairman (3-1)
• Appointed Chairman Haynie to Northern Neck Regional Jail Board (4-0)
• Retroactively approved purchase of Sanitary District vehicle (4-0)
• Approved advertising for Assistant Chief of Emergency Services position (4-0)
• Amended County Administrator Tadlock's radio system policy role to allow a designee (4-0)
• Approved bidding process for New Courthouse Roof Replacement (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is meeting to conduct final review of a proposed energy (battery) storage ordinance. They will also review county-owned properties for future use, water access, or potential sale, as directed by the Board of Supervisors. No public hearings are scheduled, and the meeting is largely a work session.

• Final review of proposed energy (battery) storage ordinance
• Review of county-owned properties for future use, water access, or surplus sale
• Approval of minutes from July 20, 2023 meeting

The Planning Commission reviewed 58 county-owned properties and recommended that the Board of Supervisors investigate the potential sale of five specific tracts. The commission suggested that any proceeds from such sales be placed in a dedicated fund to expand public water access in Northumberland County.

• Recommended investigating the sale of property between Belles Cove Rd and Lodge Rd
• Recommended investigating the sale of the Poor House Tract on Dodlyt Rd
• Recommended investigating the sale of property West of Dameron’s Marsh
• Recommended investigating the sale of property on the left side of the entrance to Indian Creek Estates
• Recommended investigating the sale of the waterfront lot on Ute Rd in Indian Creek Estates
• Recommended that proceeds from county land sales be set aside for public water access improvements
• Approved July 20, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on August 10, 2023, approving minutes, presentations, and multiple budget amendments. Key actions included funding a new Sheriff's Office deputy position, approving school-related appropriations, and advertising several FY24 budget amendments. The board also approved a resolution for Mount Olive Baptist Church's 150th anniversary and moved to advertise a public hearing on lifetime dog licenses.

• Approved $129,739 supplemental appropriation for Sheriff's Office Deputy Position
• Approved $11,665 supplemental appropriation for NCPS adult education and MOU with Rappahannock Community College
• Advertised FY24 budget amendments including $1,359,301.11 ARPA funds and $303,696 for school health insurance
• Approved $8,500 low estimate from Earth Resources for canoe/kayak launch at Glebe Point Fishing Pier
• Approved resolution to advertise public hearing on lifetime dog licenses (Chapter 34 amendment)

The Board of Supervisors approved funding for one new deputy position and vehicle. They also approved a mental health performance contract and moved to hold a public hearing on lifetime dog licenses.

• Approved $129,739 supplemental appropriation for one Sheriff's Office deputy and vehicle (4-0)
• Approved FY 24/25 Biennium Performance Contract for Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Community Services Board (4-0)
• Approved motion to advertise public hearing for lifetime dog licenses (4-0)
• Approved $11,665 supplemental appropriation for NCPS adult education and MOU with Rappahannock Community College (3-1)
• Approved revisions to Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy bylaws and charter (4-0)
• Approved resolution for Mount Olive Baptist Church 150th Anniversary (4-0)
• Approved resolution to request election split waiver for Kilmarnock Town voters (4-0)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board discussed election preparation, including assigning and training election officers before early voting begins on September 22. They unanimously decided to secure a satellite voting location, identifying the lobby of the old bank building at 6958 Northumberland Hgwy. as optimal, and will request county action. The board also discussed new post-election reporting procedures and agreed to submit monthly minutes to county administration.

• Satellite voting location needed; old bank building at 6958 Northumberland Hgwy. identified as optimal
• Election officers for CAP voting to be assigned and trained before early voting starts Sep 22
• New post-election reporting procedure (ENR) requires training and adoption
• Monthly meeting minutes to be submitted to county administration
• Annualized election calendar to be created for internal use

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved two applications for shoreline construction, each with a three-year permit. The first allows a riprap revetment along Balls Creek, and the second allows armor stone along the Potomac River. Both were approved unanimously.

• Approved Application No. 23-1515: 684 linear feet of riprap revetment along Balls Creek at 366 Brandon Lane
• Approved Application No. 23-1630: 200 linear feet of armor stone along the Potomac River at 3258 Mob Neck Road
• Both permits issued for three years

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors and School Board held a joint quarterly meeting. The main action was approving the formation of a work group/committee with members from both boards, citizens, and staff. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with only opening and adjournment motions.

• Approved formation of a joint work group with two supervisors, two school board members, two citizens, the County Administrator, and the School Superintendent

The Board of Supervisors and School Board approved the formation of a joint committee to address budget concerns and transparency. The School Board also voted to request that the Board of Supervisors return their ability to transfer appropriated funds between categories.

• Approved formation of a joint work group comprising two Supervisors, two School Board members, two citizens, the County Administrator, and the Superintendent
• School Board approved request for Board of Supervisors to return the ability to transfer funds between categories (5-0)
• School Board approved request for Board of Supervisors to return funding to lump sum status (5-0)
• Confirmed contract with Elyon Construction, LLC for the old EVB roof project

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request for a property at 122 Riverside Lane. The variance allows a dwelling to be located less than the required 60 feet from a street right-of-way.

• Approved May 2, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for dwelling setback at 122 Riverside Lane (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on revisions to the zoning ordinance for solar energy facilities, including new restrictions and requirements. The commission will also work on finalizing a proposed battery storage ordinance and review county-owned properties for potential use or sale.

• Public hearing on revisions to Zoning Ordinance § 148-155, Solar Energy Facilities
• Prohibit solar energy facilities in R-1 and R-2 residential zones
• Require environmental impact statement, landscape agreement, and surety for solar facilities
• Increase decommissioning time from 6 to 12 months and require removal of above/below ground infrastructure
• Work session on battery storage ordinance as conditional use with additional setbacks

The Planning Commission unanimously approved revisions to the solar energy facility zoning ordinance. The changes include prohibiting solar facilities in R-1 and R-2 residential zones and strengthening decommissioning requirements.

• Approved revisions to Solar Energy Facilities zoning ordinance § 148-155 (unanimous)
• Accepted June 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted July 20, 2023 meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Tabled Battery Storage Ordinance pending presence of zoning administrator

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review June 2023 building permits and previous meeting notes. The agenda includes updates from the Executive Director, County Administrator, and Commissioners, as well as discussions regarding ARPA tourism funds and VA 250 tourism marketing funding.

• Building Permits Comparison Report: June 2023
• ARPA Tourism Funds discussion
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing Funding discussion
• Callao Hometown Community Association update

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors approved several school budget adjustments, including a $154,245.98 transfer and health insurance funding for bus drivers and other employees. The Board also moved to join a regional cigarette tax board and advance short-term rental ordinances. Additionally, a roof replacement contract for the old EVB building was awarded.

• Approved $154,245.98 school budget transfer (4-0)
• Approved $84,000 for seven bus drivers' health insurance and benefits (3-1)
• Approved $219,696.00 for school employee health insurance increases (3-1)
• Approved re-appointment of Harry Towne to Wetlands Board District V (4-0)
• Approved appointment of John Kost to Planning Commission District II (4-0)
• Approved $145.23 supplemental appropriation for Sheriff's Department (4-0)
• Approved $1,100.00 supplemental appropriation for Voter Registrar's Office (4-0)
• Approved $149,400.00 roof replacement contract for old EVB building to Elyon Construction, LLC (4-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on July 13, 2023, approving minutes, presentations, and various administrative items. Key actions included approving contracts for a regional emergency radio system, accepting a fuel bid, and deciding on several conditional use permits for a restaurant and vacation rentals. Two motions related to school fund transfers failed.

• Approved Sole Source resolution for L3Harris contract for emergency radio system, subject to bank loan closing and final approval
• Approved Sole Source resolution for Microwave Networks contract for regional emergency radio system, subject to bank loan closing and final approval
• Approved conditional use permit for restaurant at 15531 Northumberland Highway (Parcel #27-(1)-304)
• Approved conditional use permits for vacation rentals at 98 and 112 Martin Lane in Chesapeake Beach Subdivision
• Carried over decisions on vacation rental permits for 134 Beach Road and 159 Harbor Road to August 10, 2023

The Board of Supervisors failed to approve a motion to transfer school funds for employee raises and insurance. A special meeting was scheduled for July 18, 2023, to review further financial data and contracts from the school system. Several administrator reports were postponed due to timing constraints.

• Approved agenda with revisions (4-0)
• Approved minutes from June 1, 8, 15, 20, and 22 special and regular meetings (4-0)
• Motion to carry over school funding decision failed (2-2)
• Motion to transfer school funds from Instruction to Administration, Maintenance, Transportation, and Technology failed (2-2)
• Scheduled special meeting for July 18, 2023

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met on July 11, 2023, approving the FY 23-24 budget and discussing election preparations. They addressed an unpaid invoice from Code Blue for incomplete work, planned implementation of ballot-on-demand for early in-person voting, and ordered new absentee ballot envelopes to comply with HB1948. The board also scheduled training sessions and reserved polling places for the November 7 General Election.

• FY 23-24 budget submitted and approved by Board of Supervisors
• Code Blue invoice not paid due to incomplete work; no response to contact attempts
• Ballot-on-demand to be implemented for early in-person voting; special meeting July 18 to test machines
• Ordered 3,000 each of four new absentee ballot envelopes per HB1948
• Training for early voting on Sept 5 and general election officers on Oct 12 at St. Stevens Church

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board held its regular monthly meeting and approved one application. The board unanimously approved a permit for Paul Lambrecht to remove a deteriorated bulkhead and install riprap revetment and sill along Cod Creek at 227 Muriel Drive. The permit is valid for three years.

• Approved Application No. 23-0999 for 271 linear feet of riprap revetment and 40 linear feet of riprap sill
• Project located at 227 Muriel Drive in Bay Quarter Shores Subdivision
• Three-year permit granted
• Living shoreline not considered due to north-facing shade and Potomac River exposure

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special budget meeting on June 22, 2023, to decide on the FY24 budget. They approved the county budget of $48,670,434, the school board budget of $21,653,715 (with a 5% local funding increase), and set tax rates. They also approved a 3% salary scale adjustment for county employees and a $10,000 annual compensation for board members starting in 2024.

• Approved FY24 County Budget of $48,670,434
• Approved FY24 School Board Budget of $21,653,715 with 5% local funding increase ($664,986)
• Approved FY24 tax rates resolution
• Approved 3% county salary scale adjustment for FY24
• Approved Board of Supervisors annual compensation of $10,000 starting January 1, 2024

The Board of Supervisors adopted the FY24 County Budget and set real estate and personal property tax rates. The Board also approved a 5% increase in local funding for the School Board budget and a salary adjustment for county employees.

• Approved FY24 County Budget of $48,670,434 (5-0)
• Approved FY24 School Board Budget of $21,653,715 (3-2)
• Set FY24 real estate tax at $0.61 per $100 of assessed valuation (5-0)
• Set FY24 motor vehicle tax at $3.60 per $100 of assessed valuation (5-0)
• Approved 3% adjustment to the FY24 county salary scale (5-0)
• Approved annual Board of Supervisors compensation of $10,000 starting Jan 1, 2024 (3-2)
• Approved appropriations resolution totaling $41,261,218 (5-0)
• Denied motion to approve School Board operating budget of $20,988,729 (2-3)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special budget meeting to approve a $5,608,626.65 amendment to the FY23 school budget. The board also voted on several FY24 budget adjustments, including reductions to the School Capital Improvement Plan, Capital Vehicles, and the Emergency Radio System. Additionally, the board approved level funding for local health and welfare organizations and Little League.

• Approved FY23 School Board budget amendment of $5,608,626.65
• Reduced School FY24 Capital Improvement Plan by $840,274.00
• Reduced FY24 Emergency Radio System budget by $335,000.00
• Reduced FY24 Capital Vehicles budget by $159,000.00
• Approved level funding for Food Bank, The Haven, and Northern Neck-Middlesex Free Health Clinic

The Board of Supervisors approved a resolution to amend the fiscal year 2022-2023 budget by $5,608,626.65. This includes $3,921,884.62 in appropriated funds and $1,686,742.03 in budgeted but unappropriated funds, primarily consisting of grants and construction funds.

• Approved FY23 budget amendment of $5,608,626.65 (5-0)
• Appropriated $3,921,884.62 for school expenditures (5-0)
• Budgeted $1,686,742.03 in unappropriated funds, including $1,134,172 for new construction (5-0)
• Ratified remote participation for Vice Chairman Ronald L. Jett (5-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review May 2023 building permits and previous meeting notes. The agenda includes updates from county officials and discussions regarding ARPA tourism funds and VA 250 tourism marketing funding.

• Building Permits Comparison Report: May 2023
• ARPA Tourism Funds discussion
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing Funding discussion
• Callao Hometown Community Association update

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special budget meeting to discuss and act on budget items. They voted to keep a salary increase for themselves, approved a budget amendment for the Northern Neck Regional Jail, and discussed a school board budget amendment request. The meeting was carried over to a special called meeting on June 20, 2023.

• Motion to keep Board of Supervisors' salary increase in budget (passed 3-2)
• Approved FY23 budget amendment for Northern Neck Regional Jail
• Discussed School Board Budget Amendment Request
• Presentation on Northern Neck-Middlesex Free Health Clinic
• Meeting carried over to June 20, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

The Board of Supervisors voted to maintain a salary increase for its members and approved a budget amendment for the Northern Neck Regional Jail. The Board also reviewed a list of potential budget cuts and discussed school board grant reimbursements and capital improvement projects.

• Approved remote participation for Vice Chairman Ronald L. Jett (5-0)
• Approved keeping the Board of Supervisors' salary increase in the budget (3-2)
• Approved budget amendment for the Northern Neck Regional Jail (5-0)
• Carried over remaining items to special meeting on June 20, 2023

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is meeting to finalize revisions to the Solar Zoning Ordinance, aiming to align with state law and strengthen decommissioning requirements, and to consider adding an energy storage ordinance. They will also review cost estimates for the Glebe Point Kayak facility to develop a consistent scope of work for contractors, and discuss the future use or sale of county-owned properties. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Finalize Solar Zoning Ordinance revisions to comply with state law and strengthen decommissioning section
• Consider adding an energy (battery) storage ordinance
• Review cost estimates for Glebe Point Kayak facility and prepare a scope of work for contractors
• Review county-owned properties for future use, water access, or surplus sale

The Commission reviewed staff revisions to the Solar Energy Facility Ordinance, including new requirements for conditional use permits for facilities exceeding 25Kw or 1,500 sq. feet. The Commission agreed to advertise a public hearing on these revisions for July. The meeting also included a review of bidding discrepancies for the Glebe Point Kayak facility.

• Approved agenda (All in favor)
• Approved May 18, 2023 minutes (All in favor)
• Agreed to advertise public hearing on revised solar ordinance for July

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to approve minutes, discuss a $96,000 year-to-date budgetary surplus, and plan for the November election. The surplus resulted from budgeting for three elections but holding only one. The board also discussed assigning chiefs for each precinct and reviewing the training plan by September 1.

• Approved May minutes electronically
• Discussed $96K YTD budgetary surplus
• 51 Election Officers accepted for next term
• Training plan review due by Sep 1
• Closed session for personnel matter

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved seven applications for shoreline projects, including bulkheads, riprap revetments, and marsh toe sills. All applications were approved unanimously, with permits valid for two or three years. The meeting was routine, with no public hearings or contentious items.

• Approved bulkhead replacement at 211 Judith Sound Circle (153 linear feet)
• Approved marsh toe sill at 97 Knights Run View (261 linear feet)
• Approved bulkhead, groin, and revetment work at 738 Bridge Creek Circle
• Approved riprap revetment at 149 Davis Way (200 linear feet)
• Approved armor stone and breakwater at 794 Gaskins Beach Road (370 linear feet)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting with public hearings, approving a lease/purchase agreement for a new emergency communications system, the FY 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $1,200,274 for FY24, and an exception to the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Ordinance for a dwelling on Leming Avenue. The board also approved several supplemental appropriations, including funds for the Sheriff's Department and paving, and moved forward with a draft ordinance on short-term rental registry. A budget amendment for the Northern Neck Regional Jail failed.

• Approved lease/purchase financing for new emergency radio system
• Approved FY 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan with $1,200,274 for FY24
• Approved exception to Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Ordinance for dwelling on Leming Avenue (Tax Map Parcel # 45-B(3)17-21)
• Approved supplemental appropriations: $2,280.45 and $2,696.88 (FBI funds), $395.96 (conference), $2,000 (Heathsville Animal Shelter), $4,084.53 (Ford Police Interceptor), $18,470 (paving at 72 Monument Place)
• Failed motion for Northern Neck Regional Jail budget amendment (1-3 vote)

The Board of Supervisors authorized a lease/purchase agreement to finance a new regional emergency radio system. Several supplemental appropriations for the Sheriff's Department and parking lot paving were approved. A budget amendment for the Northern Neck Regional Jail was denied.

• Approved lease/purchase financing up to $5M for new emergency communications system (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Karen Pica to Economic Development Commission District IV (4-0)
• Approved $2,280.45 and $2,696.88 supplemental appropriations for Sheriff's Department from FBI funds (4-0)
• Approved $395.96 supplemental appropriation for Sheriff's Department conference reimbursement (4-0)
• Approved $2,000.00 supplemental appropriation for donation to Heathsville Animal Shelter (4-0)
• Approved $4,084.53 supplemental appropriation for 2021 Ford Police Interceptor (4-0)
• Approved $18,470.00 supplemental appropriation for paving at 72 Monument Place (4-0)
• Denied budget amendment for Northern Neck Regional Jail (1-3)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors is holding a special called meeting to conduct a public hearing on the proposed FY24 budget. The budget includes a $0.14 increase in the real estate tax rate. The meeting is primarily for public comment and discussion, with no other substantive items on the agenda.

• Public hearing on FY24 budget
• Proposed $0.14 increase in real estate tax rate
• Budget documents attached: Budget Ad FY24.pdf and FY24_Draft_Budget.pdf

The Board held a public hearing regarding a proposed $53,451,771 budget for fiscal year 2024, which includes a 14-cent real estate tax increase. No formal action was taken on the budget as state code requires a seven-day waiting period after the hearing. Three supervisors stated they would not vote for a 23% tax increase.

• Held public hearing on proposed FY2024 budget
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission will hold a work session to finalize revisions to the Solar Zoning Ordinance, aiming to align with state law and strengthen decommissioning requirements. They will also evaluate whether private solar systems over 25 kilowatts should be allowed, review a first set of county properties for future use or sale, and assess land uses across all zones. No public hearings are scheduled; the meeting is procedural and discussion-focused.

• Finalize Solar Zoning Ordinance revisions for state law consistency and stronger decommissioning section
• Evaluate allowing private solar energy systems greater than 25 kilowatts
• Review first set of county properties for future use, water access, or surplus sale
• Review all uses in all zones to determine if allowed by right, conditional use, or not at all

The commission reviewed proposed changes to the solar energy facility ordinance and discussed the potential for a battery energy storage ordinance. Members also began a review of county-owned properties to determine if they should be held or sold. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 20, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Proposed moving the 25 Kw residential solar limit from the definition to the ordinance to allow for conditional use permits
• Agreed to handle solar screening vegetation height on a case-by-case basis via conditional use permits
• Staff tasked with drafting language for energy storage batteries for future review

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special budget meeting where they voted to advertise a public hearing on the FY24 budget that includes a 14-cent tax increase. They also approved a resolution honoring Police Week, discussed county administrator items, and convened a closed meeting to address personnel matters, including approving an interim building official and a salary adjustment.

• Motion to advertise for a public hearing on the FY24 County budget that reflects a 14-cent tax increase
• Resolution in honor of Police Week approved
• Mr. Paul Brunkow approved as interim building official effective May 17, 2023
• Stevie Conaway's salary reduced to $55,779.70 as Assistant Building Official
• Closed meeting held per Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1)

The Board of Supervisors voted to advertise the FY24 budget with a 14-cent tax increase, which Assistant County Administrator Basye noted is approximately a 22% increase. A public hearing is scheduled for June 1, 2023. The Board also approved a resolution for Virginia Police Week and appointed an interim building official.

• Approved advertising FY24 budget with 14-cent tax increase (4-0)
• Approved resolution designating May 14-20, 2023, as Virginia Police Week (4-0)
• Approved Paul Brunkow as interim building official effective May 17, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved reducing Stevie Conaway's salary to $55,779.70 as Assistant Building Official (4-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review the April 2023 building permits comparison report and previous meeting notes. Discussions include updates from various county officials and reviews of tourism funding.

• Building Permits Comparison Report: April 2023
• ARPA Tourism Funds
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing Funding
• Callao Hometown Community Association

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting with public hearings on the proposed Secondary Six-Year Plan for FY2024-2029 and a zoning ordinance revision requiring a conditional use permit for vacation home rentals on R-3 zoned property. The board also approved several administrative items, including a supplemental appropriation of opioid settlement funds, a GIS mapping services proposal, and waste management agreements.

• Approved revision to Zoning Ordinance requiring conditional use permit for vacation home rentals on R-3 Residential Restricted property
• Approved Secondary Six-Year Plan for FY2024-2029 and Secondary System Construction Budget for FY2023
• Approved supplemental appropriation of $38,453.03 in Opioid Abatement Settlement funds
• Approved proposal from InteractiveGIS, Inc. for web-based GIS setup and maintenance using ARPA funds, initial cost $4,500
• Approved waste management solid waste and recycling services agreement and Rite-Way recycling agreement

The Board of Supervisors preliminarily selected Bank of America for a 12-year radio financing term. The Board also approved several proclamations and resolutions recognizing public service, teachers, EMS, and boating safety.

• Preliminarily selected Bank of America for a 12-year radio financing term (5-0)
• Approved National Safe Boating Week proclamation (5-0)
• Approved EMS Week resolution (5-0)
• Approved Teacher Appreciation Week resolution (5-0)
• Approved Public Service Recognition Week resolution (5-0)
• Ratified remote participation for Vice Chairman Jett (4-0)
• Approved April 13, 2023 regular meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved April 19 and May 2, 2023 special meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstain)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met on May 9, 2023, to handle routine election administration. They certified two candidates for the Northern Neck Soil & Water Conservation Board, discussed recruitment of election officers, and noted there will be no primary in the county this year. The board decided to pursue a satellite location for early voting, anticipating high demand for the 2024 presidential election, and will ask the County Administrator to attend their June 7 meeting to discuss it.

• Certified Robert E. Pickett and Robert G. Vanlandingham for NN Soil & Water Board
• 48 potential election officers available for November election; 6 removed from list
• No primary in Northumberland County this year, per ELECT
• Board to request County Administrator Luttrell Tadlock attend June 7 meeting on satellite early-voting site
• Approved $120/year DocuSign plan for electronic signatures

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called budget meeting on May 8, 2023, at the New Courts Building. The agenda included a budget discussion, followed by a motion to convene a closed meeting under Virginia Code for personnel matters, which was approved. The board then reconvened in open session and certified the closed meeting, before adjourning.

• Budget discussion held
• Closed meeting convened under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel matters
• Motion to convene closed meeting carried (4-0)
• Certification of closed meeting passed by roll call vote
• Meeting adjourned

The Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting to discuss the proposed FY2024 budget of $51,495,779, which includes a 7-cent increase to the tax rate (from $0.61 to $0.68 per $100). No votes were taken on the budget; the meeting was solely for discussion and review. The Board also convened a closed meeting for personnel matters, with no action taken afterward.

• Convened into closed meeting under Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel discussions (4-0)
• Reconvened into open meeting and certified closed meeting compliance (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting that included a public hearing on the proposed School Board budget for fiscal year 2024, as required by Virginia Code Section 15.2-2506. The board then voted to convene a closed meeting to discuss personnel matters, reconvened, and certified the closed session. Finally, the board authorized staff to contact Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates to research the scope of a potential new school audit and carried over remaining business to a special called meeting on May 8, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

• Public hearing on proposed School Board FY24 budget (attachment: School_Board_FY24_Budget_Ad.pdf)
• Motion to allow Vice Chairman Jett to participate via Zoom (carried)
• Closed meeting under Va. Code 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel matters (carried)
• Authorized staff to contact Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates to research scope of another school audit (carried)
• Carried over business to special called meeting on May 8, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. (carried)

The Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the School Board's proposed $23,331,811 budget, which requires a $2,343,082 increase in county funds. No action was taken, as state code mandates a seven-day waiting period before a vote. The Board also authorized staff to contact Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates to research the scope of work for another school audit.

• Ratified Chairman Haynie's approval for Supervisor Jett to participate remotely via Zoom (4-0)
• Authorized staff to contact Robinson, Farmer, Cox Associates to research scope of work for another school audit (4-0)
• Carried over meeting to May 8, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. (4-0)
• Convened into closed meeting for personnel matters (4-0)
• Reconvened into open meeting and certified closed meeting (4-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on May 2, 2023, primarily to convene into a closed session to discuss a public contract award, as permitted by Virginia Code. After reconvening, the board voted to approve the Southern Air HVAC contract and to carry over remaining business to a special meeting on May 4, 2023.

• Approved Southern Air HVAC contract as presented and reviewed by County attorney
• Convened closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(29) for contract discussion
• Certified closed meeting complied with Virginia Freedom of Information Act
• Carried over business to special called meeting on May 4, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

The Board of Supervisors received a presentation from the Rural Solar Development Coalition on solar revenue tools and legislation, but took no formal action on the topic. The board then voted unanimously to convene a closed meeting to discuss a public contract award, and later certified the closed session as compliant with Virginia FOIA.

• Approved motion to convene into closed meeting to discuss public contract award (4-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open meeting (4-0)
• Certified closed meeting as lawful under Virginia FOIA (4-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Northumberland County Board of Zoning Appeals voted 4-0 to approve three variance requests at its May 2, 2023 meeting. The variances allowed a dwelling closer than 35 feet from a street right-of-way on Forrest Hollow Lane, a dwelling with reduced frontage and setbacks on Tranquility Road, and a structure closer than 60 feet from a street center line on Hammack Lane. No public objections were received or heard for any of the requests.

• Approved variance for Haley Brooke Headley to allow dwelling closer than 35 feet from street right-of-way on Forrest Hollow Lane (4-0)
• Approved variance for Kelly Ann Carr and Deep Green Construction to allow dwelling with less than 100 feet from street, less than 450 feet frontage, and less than 75 feet side setback on Tranquility Road (4-0)
• Approved variance for John James Sadler to allow structure less than 60 feet from street center line on Hammack Lane (4-0)

Planning Commission

The commission held a public hearing regarding a proposed revision to the Zoning Ordinance. The proposal would require a conditional use permit for vacation home rentals on property zoned R-3, Residential Restricted. No final vote on the proposal was recorded in the provided text.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 16, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors is holding a joint called meeting with the School Board. The main business item is a carried-over discussion on creating a tent camping zoning ordinance, including where commercial camping would be allowed and sanitation requirements. The meeting also includes a closed session and certification.

• Discussion with School Board
• Carried-over item: create tent camping zoning ordinance section
• Commercial camping (with compensation) as conditional use in A-1, R-2, C-1 districts; prohibited elsewhere
• Camping without compensation on properties under one acre requires approved sanitation facility
• Planning Commission recommends replacing 'undeveloped land' with 'property without a dwelling unit or recreational vehicle connected to a permitted septic system'

The Board of Supervisors approved a new zoning ordinance section for tent camping, making commercial camping a conditional use in specific districts. The Board also held a joint discussion with the School Board regarding the FY 24 budget request and capital improvements.

• Approved tent camping zoning ordinance making commercial camping a conditional use in A-1, R-2, and C-1 districts (4-0)
• Approved extension of the tent camping ordinance time period to ten days instead of seven (4-0)
• Directed Planning Commission to review acreage requirements for non-commercial tent camping (4-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review the March 2023 building permits comparison report and previous meeting notes. The agenda includes discussions regarding ARPA tourism funds and VA 250 tourism marketing funding.

• March 2023 Building Permits Comparison Report
• ARPA Tourism Funds discussion
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing Funding discussion
• Callao Hometown Community Association update

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on April 13, 2023, approving multiple routine items including minutes, proclamations, and supplemental appropriations. They also voted to request the Planning Commission review all zoning district uses and evaluate the definition of small solar energy systems, and authorized seeking bids for an emergency regional radio system. The meeting included a closed session for personnel, legal, and contract discussions.

• Requested Planning Commission review all uses in all zoning districts to determine if they should be by right, conditional, or not allowed
• Requested Planning Commission evaluate allowing private solar systems larger than 25 kilowatts
• Authorized Davenport to seek bids for emergency regional radio system (no obligation to County)
• Approved supplemental appropriations: $150 for Sheriff's tow bill, $245.50 for ball games
• Adopted 2023 Northern Neck Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan resolution

The Board of Supervisors approved the installation of rumble strips near the intersection of Courthouse Road and Northumberland Highway to reduce automobile accidents. The Board also adopted several proclamations and a resolution of gratitude for emergency responders. Additionally, the Board approved corrected minutes regarding zoning ordinance revisions for camping.

• Approved installation of rumble strips at Courthouse Road and Northumberland Highway (Route 360) (5-0)
• Approved resolution recognizing emergency services response for April 1, 2023 boating incident (5-0)
• Approved proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month (5-0)
• Approved proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (5-0)
• Approved proclamation for National Library Workers Day (5-0)
• Approved corrected December 8, 2022 minutes regarding camping zoning revisions (5-0)
• Rescinded January 12, 2023 motion to approve December 8, 2022 minutes (5-0)
• Approved agenda for April 13, 2023 meeting (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to review the L.E.S.S. remediation plan, approve minutes, and discuss election officer recruitment. They signed the remediation plan acknowledgment and scheduled quarterly reviews. The board also noted progress in recruiting election officers, with volunteers still needed for the 3rd Precinct.

• Signed Remediation Plan Acknowledgement for L.E.S.S. checklist
• Completed L.E.S.S. checklist and remediation plan (submitted 3/1 and 4/1)
• Instituted remote review process for monthly minutes
• Approximately 40-43 volunteers agreed to serve as officers of election
• Volunteers needed for 3rd Precinct

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special budget meeting to hear presentations from county departments and organizations for the FY24 budget. They also took action on a county administrator item, approving a quote for emergency radio equipment replacement. The meeting included discussion on a school bus update and a solar energy facility.

• Approved $16,709 quote from Radio Communications for microwave link replacement (high school tower to Lottsburg tower)
• Budget presentations from Sanitary District, RCC, Healthy Harvest Food Bank, Library, Sheriff's Department, Animal Shelter
• Discussion on school bus update
• Discussion on solar energy facility, small system

The Board of Supervisors approved a quote to replace a defective microwave link between the high school and Lottsburg towers. The meeting also included budget presentations for the sanitary district, RCC, Healthy Harvest Food Bank, the library, and the Sheriff's Department.

• Approved $16,709 quote from Radio Communications for emergency radio microwave link replacement (5-0)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will review the February 2023 building permits report and previous meeting minutes. Discussion topics include ARPA tourism funds, Callao revitalization, and VA 250 tourism marketing funding.

• Building Permits Report for February 2023
• ARPA Tourism Funds update
• Callao Revitalization discussion
• VA 250 Tourism Marketing Funding discussion
• Callao Hometown Community Association update

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is holding a work session to continue drafting possible zoning ordinance revisions for short-term rentals, review whether service stations should be allowed by right in the B-1 Business district, and consider county properties for future use, water access, or sale. They will also preliminarily review the 2024 Capital Improvement Plan Committee's prioritized projects. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Continue work on zoning ordinance revisions for short-term rentals
• Review table of usages: service stations by right in B-1 Business district
• Review county properties for future use, water access, or surplus sale
• Preliminary review of 2024 Capital Improvement Plan prioritized projects

The Planning Commission voted to require a conditional use permit (CUP) for all vacation home rentals in the R-3 zoning district. The commission also voted to maintain the current CUP requirement for service stations in B-1 zoning districts.

• Approved requirement for owners in R-3 zoning district to obtain a conditional use permit for vacation home rentals (unanimous)
• Denied motion to allow service stations as a by-right use in B-1 zoning district (2-7)
• Approved retaining current conditional use permit requirements for service stations in B-1 zoning district (7-1)

Board of Supervisors

The Board of Supervisors approved the FY24 Local Choice Renewal Rates for active employees and Cobra participants. No discussion on the school budget occurred as the School Board postponed its public hearing. The Board also convened a closed session to discuss personnel and public contracts.

• Approved FY24 Local Choice Renewal Rates for active employees with no change to employee contribution cost (5-0)
• Approved FY24 Local Choice Renewal Rates for Cobra Rates with full premium cost to eligible participants (5-0)
• Approved motion to convene into closed meeting for personnel and contract discussions (5-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open session (5-0)
• Certified that only lawful public business was discussed in closed meeting (5-0)
• Approved motion to carry over to special called meeting on March 22, 2023 (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to approve previous minutes, discuss security and election officer recruitment, and prepare for a potential June 20 primary election. They decided to use print-on-demand for early voting and directed staff to estimate ballot needs for the primary.

• Approved previous month's minutes
• Security cameras installed and operating
• L.E.S.S. remediation plan reviewed; Code Blue training scheduled for March 15 at 2PM
• Estimated ballot needs: 30% of Republican and 25% of Democratic registered voters for potential June primary
• Decided to use print-on-demand for early voting

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting with public hearings, deciding on solar energy facility permits, a zoning ordinance revision, and firearm code changes. They denied two conditional use permits for utility-scale solar facilities, sent a solar zoning revision back to the Planning Commission, and voted to advertise public hearings on repealing and amending firearm-related code sections. The board also approved several appropriations and appointments.

• Denied CUP for utility-scale solar on Old Glebe Point Road (Parcel #36-(1)-63)
• Denied CUP for utility-scale solar on Northumberland Hwy in Burgess (Parcels #27-(1)-304/304A)
• Sent solar zoning ordinance revision (§148-155) back to Planning Commission
• Voted to advertise hearings on repealing loaded firearm restrictions (Chapter 72, Article II)
• Approved $91,750 for school bus garage roof replacement

The Board of Supervisors denied two conditional use permits for utility-scale solar facilities on agricultural land. Additionally, a proposed revision to the solar energy facilities zoning ordinance was sent back to the Planning Commission for further recommendations. The Board also approved the replacement of a single-lane bridge on Gilliams Road.

• Denied solar facility permit at Old Glebe Point Road (5-0)
• Denied solar facility permit on Northumberland Hwy in Burgess (4-1)
• Sent solar energy facilities zoning ordinance revision back to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Approved replacement of single lane bridge on Gilliams Road, route 611 (5-0)
• Approved $18,470 pavement work at old courthouse via C.W. Davis Contractors (5-0)
• Approved $91,750 for school bus garage roof replacement (5-0)
• Approved re-appointment of Roger McKinley and Charles W. Williams to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Approved motion to advertise public hearing to repeal local prohibitions on carrying loaded shotguns/rifles in vehicles (4-1)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors holds two called meetings: a 4:00 PM session on the Energy Right solar discussion, and a 6:00 PM joint quarterly meeting with the School Board. The agenda includes a school highlights presentation, a discussion of Energy Right solar, information on Southern Air and the FY2022 audit update, and adjournment.

• Energy Right solar discussion
• Joint quarterly meeting with School Board
• School Highlights.pdf attachment
• Southern Air information item
• FY2022 audit update

The Board of Supervisors held a joint meeting with the School Board to review the proposed FY24 school budget and capital improvement requests. Representatives from Energy Right presented information on solar energy and decommissioning. No formal votes were taken on the budget or solar proposals.

• Scheduled next joint meeting with School Board for April 12, 2023
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Supervisors

This agenda is for a joint quarterly meeting between the Northumberland County Board of Supervisors and the School Board, but the meeting was cancelled. The agenda items, including a Southern Air discussion and a Fiscal Year 2022 audit update, were not acted upon.

• Meeting cancelled
• Southern Air discussion (not held)
• Fiscal Year 2022 Audit Update (not held)

Economic Development Commission

The Northumberland County Economic Development Commission will meet on February 21, 2023, to review building permits, hear a presentation from the GO Virginia Region 6 Program Director, and discuss updates on ARPA tourism funds, including Waterway Guide advertising, as well as Callao revitalization and VA 250 tourism marketing funding.

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed zoning changes that would replace the Travel Trailer ordinance with a Recreational Vehicles ordinance, add a tent camping ordinance, and make commercial camping a conditional use in certain districts. The commission will also continue work on short-term rental regulations and discuss whether service stations should be allowed by right in the B-1 Business district. Additionally, the 2022 End of the Year Report will be presented.

• Public hearing on zoning ordinance revision to delete Travel Trailer definition, add Recreational Vehicles definition, and rename ordinance
• Proposed new tent camping zoning ordinance
• Commercial camping (with compensation) to become conditional use in A-1, R-2, and C-1 districts; prohibited elsewhere
• Work session on short-term rental zoning revisions
• Review of whether service stations should be allowed by right in B-1 Business district

The commission recommended a revised Recreational Vehicle ordinance to the Board of Supervisors. It also approved a requirement that undeveloped lots under one acre must have a health department approved sanitation device for camping. Discussions on short-term rentals and service stations were continued.

• Recommended adoption of revised Recreational Vehicle (formerly Travel Trailer) zoning ordinance (8-0)
• Approved requirement for health department approved sanitation devices on undeveloped lots under one acre for camping (8-0)
• Tabled discussion of Service Stations as a by-right use in B-1 Business General zoning district (unanimous)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to approve minutes, appoint election officers for a two-year term, discuss the LESS initiative, and review candidate filings. The board also discussed expanding video surveillance for building security and scheduled a special meeting to review survey responses.

• Approved January minutes with clarification
• Reviewed list of ~70 potential election officers
• Scheduled special meeting for Feb 21 to review LESS survey
• Certification of candidate filing by Johnny A Beauchamp for Sheriff
• Discussed expanding video surveillance and contacting security provider ODCS

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved two shoreline construction applications. One allows a riprap sill along the Great Wicomico River, and the other permits a timber bulkhead and groins on Cod Creek, both with three-year permits and conditions to avoid wetland vegetation.

• Approved 687-ft riprap sill for Robert W. Chewning on Great Wicomico River, Wicomico View Lane, parcel #37-(1)-42-B
• Approved 177-ft timber bulkhead and two 45-ft riprap groins for Edward Tuttle on Cod Creek, Walnut Point Road, parcel #11-(1)-15
• Both permits valid for three years
• Stipulation that structures not cover wetland vegetation for Chewning application

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting with public hearings, approving a conditional use permit for a larger boathouse, allowing a three-unit apartment building in Reedville, and carrying over a decision on solar energy facility zoning revisions. The board also approved several supplemental appropriations, including $137,002.16 for stormwater repair at Northumberland Elementary, and convened a closed meeting for personnel and contract discussions.

• Approved conditional use permit for boathouse larger than 700 sq ft at 1474 Lodge Road (Manna Properties, LLC)
• Approved multi-dwelling unit of three one-bedroom apartments at 181 Main Street, Reedville (Randy Coulson and Jacquelynn Konzelman)
• Carried over decision on solar energy facility zoning ordinance revision (prohibiting in R-1/R-2, requiring siting agreement, etc.)
• Approved supplemental appropriation of $137,002.16 for Northumberland Elementary stormwater repair
• Approved $14,500 estimate from B.C. Paving for pavement work at old courthouse

The Board of Supervisors approved the county's participation in a settlement for opioid-related claims against several corporate entities. They also approved multiple supplemental appropriations for the Sheriff's Department, stormwater repair, and a forestry grant. Two conditional use permits for construction were granted, while a solar energy ordinance revision was tabled.

• Approved participation in opioid litigation settlement against Teva, Allergan, Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS (5-0)
• Approved $137,002.16 supplemental appropriation for Northumberland Elementary stormwater repair (5-0)
• Approved $7,650.00 supplemental appropriation for Sheriff's Department line item 3102-5414 (5-0)
• Approved $227.50 supplemental appropriation for Sheriff's Department ball games (5-0)
• Approved $3,239.41 supplemental appropriation for Department of Forestry grant (5-0)
• Approved $14,500.00 estimate from B.C. Paving for old courthouse parking lot (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for boathouse larger than 700 sq. ft. at 1474 Lodge Road (5-0)
• Approved three one-bedroom apartments at 181 Main Street in Reedville (5-0)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a request for a variance to allow a storage structure closer than required side and rear setbacks on a property in Pine Point Estates. The Board also re-elected its leadership.

• Approved variance for structure setbacks at Tax Map Parcel #11-A(1)-207 (3-1)
• Approved July 5, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Re-elected Dandridge Crabbe as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Daniel Wiggins as Vice-Chairman (unanimous)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on February 2, 2023, primarily to discuss solar energy with the Department of Energy and to convene a closed meeting for personnel matters. After reconvening, the board voted to hire Calvin Balderson as EMS Chief with a starting salary of $92,500, and certified the closed meeting as lawful.

• Hired Calvin Balderson as EMS Chief for the Department of Emergency Services at $92,500 starting salary
• Held a solar discussion with the Department of Energy (Aaron Berryhill)
• Convened into closed meeting under Virginia Code 2.2-3711(A)(1) for personnel matters
• Certified closed meeting compliance with FOIA by roll call vote
• All votes were unanimous (5-0)

The Board of Supervisors appointed Calvin Balderson as EMS Chief for the Department of Emergency Services. The Board also received an informational presentation regarding solar energy facilities and potential zoning ordinance updates.

• Hired Calvin Balderson as EMS Chief with a starting salary of $92,500.00 (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Board held a special called meeting and convened a closed session regarding personnel matters, though no actions were taken during that session. The Board discussed a potential update to the County Code regarding the transporting of loaded rifles and shotguns but deferred the matter.

• Convened closed meeting for personnel discussions (4-0)
• Certified that only lawfully exempted business was discussed in closed session (5-0)
• Carried over discussion on transporting loaded rifles and shotguns to February 2, 2023 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Northumberland County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss zoning changes for camping and short-term rentals, and to select volunteers for the Capital Improvement Plan Committee. No public hearings are scheduled, and the meeting is largely a work session.

• Review commercial vs. private camping and tent camping zoning
• Evaluate short-term rental zoning districts and conditions
• Select two volunteers for 2023 Capital Improvement Plan Committee
• 2022 End of Year Report (if completed)

The commission approved replacing 'Travel Trailer' with 'Recreational Vehicle' in the zoning ordinance and voted to remove the seven-day stay limit and sanitation device requirement for non-commercial tent camping. Discussions regarding short-term rental regulations in R-3 zoned lands were tabled until February.

• Elected Alfred Fisher as Chairman for 2023 (Unanimous)
• Elected Garfield Parker as Vice Chairman (Unanimous)
• Approved adding a public comment section to the beginning of meetings in the Bylaws (7-0)
• Approved replacing 'Travel Trailer' with 'Recreational Vehicle' in the zoning ordinance (Unanimous)
• Approved removing the seven-day limit and VDH sanitation device requirement for non-commercial camping (4-3)
• Tabled decision on short-term rental regulations until February meeting
• Formed 2023 Capital Improvement Committee consisting of Chairman Fisher, Roger McKinley, and Garfield Parker

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on January 17, 2023, primarily to convene into a closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) for personnel matters. The board reconvened into open session and certified the closed meeting as lawful, but no actions were taken from it. The meeting was carried over to a called meeting on January 26, 2023, at 3:00 p.m.

• Convened into closed meeting for personnel discussions (Virginia Code 2.2-3711 (A)(1))
• Certified closed meeting compliance by roll call vote
• No actions taken from closed meeting
• Carried over to called meeting on January 26, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

The Board of Supervisors convened a special meeting and entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters. No actions were taken during the closed session. The meeting was carried over to January 26, 2023.

• Approved motion to convene into closed meeting (5-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open session (5-0)
• Certified that only lawful exempt business was discussed in closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to carry over meeting to January 26, 2023 (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held its regular meeting on January 12, 2023, taking action on administrative items, including officer elections, by-laws, and meeting schedules. The board also approved several expenditures, including a school bus garage roof repair, a new sheriff's patrol vehicle, and supplemental appropriations, and ratified mutual aid agreements for emergency services.

• Approved $91,750.00 for Colonial Roofing to repair the School Division's Bus Garage roof
• Approved purchase of a 2023 Ford Explorer for $42,482.10 as a replacement patrol vehicle for the Sheriff's Department
• Approved supplemental appropriation of $35,000.00 for ARPA Tourism funds (line item 10-8105-8503)
• Approved supplemental appropriation of $48,607.10 for capital vehicles (line item 10-9103-7029)
• Approved retroactive appointment of Ethan Harding as Interim Chief of Emergency Services with a $1,200/month stipend

The Board of Supervisors conducted its organizational meeting, electing leadership and approving the 2023 meeting and holiday schedules. The Board approved conditional use permits for a dwelling on Lake Road and a service station on Northumberland Highway, but denied a permit for a utility-scale solar facility. Other actions included approving a $91,750 school bus garage roof repair and a new patrol vehicle.

• Elected Richard F. Haynie as Chairman (3-2)
• Elected Ronald L. Jett as Vice Chairman (5-0)
• Approved $91,750 contract with Colonial Roofing for school bus garage roof (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 2023 Ford Explorer patrol vehicle for $42,482.10 (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for dwelling on Lake Road (5-0)
• Denied conditional use permit for utility-scale solar facility on Fairport Road (2-3)
• Approved conditional use permit for service station at 15619 and 15631 Northumberland Highway (5-0)
• Approved $35,000 supplemental appropriation for ARPA Tourism funds (5-0)

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on January 11, 2023, primarily to convene into a closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) to discuss personnel matters. The board voted unanimously to enter closed session, later reconvened in open session, and certified the closed meeting was lawful. No actions were taken following the closed session, and the meeting adjourned.

• Convened into closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) for personnel discussions
• Unanimous vote to enter closed session (5-0)
• Certified closed meeting complied with Virginia Freedom of Information Act
• No actions taken after closed session
• Meeting adjourned without further business

The Board of Supervisors convened a special called meeting and entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters. No actions were taken during the closed meeting, and the board adjourned after certifying the session.

• Approved motion to convene into closed meeting (5-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open meeting (5-0)
• Certified that only lawfully exempted business was discussed in closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

Electoral Board

The Northumberland County Electoral Board met to approve December minutes, discuss election equipment needs, and prepare for the 2023 elections. They decided not to purchase additional poll pads, discussed Hart voting machine maintenance, and reviewed a FOIA request. The board also adopted a policy for electronic meeting participation and discussed recruiting election officers.

• Approved December minutes for posting
• Decided not to purchase 2 additional poll pads; 14 current pads sufficient
• Hart InterCivic: test ballots cost $25 per precinct; vDrive lifespan ~4 years
• FOIA request from Rick J. Holmes for election records; response due by May
• Adopted policy for electronic participation in board meetings

Wetlands Board

The Northumberland County Wetlands Board approved two applications for shoreline stabilization using armor stone, one on the Potomac River and one on the Chesapeake Bay. The board also re-elected its chairman and vice-chairman. The meeting was routine, with no public comment or other business.

• Approved Application No. 22-2718: Sierco Family, LLC to install 160 linear feet of armor stone at 779 Lighthouse View Drive, Potomac River shoreline, for three years.
• Approved Application No. 22-2603: Michael Torbert to install 30 linear feet of armor stone revetment at 425 Pelican Lane, Chesapeake Bay shoreline, for three years, channelward of all wetland vegetation.
• Re-elected Harry Towne as Chairman and George Rew as Vice-Chairman.

Board of Supervisors

The Northumberland County Board of Supervisors held a special called meeting on January 9, 2023, primarily to convene a closed session under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) for discussion of personnel matters. The board reconvened in open session, certified the closed meeting as lawful, and took no actions from it. The meeting was carried over to a special called meeting on January 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

• Convened into closed meeting under Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)(1) for personnel discussions
• Certified closed meeting compliance with FOIA by roll call vote
• No actions taken from closed meeting
• Carried over to special called meeting on January 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

The Board of Supervisors convened a special meeting and entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters. No actions were taken during the closed session. The meeting concluded with a motion to carry over to January 11, 2023.

• Approved motion to convene into closed meeting for personnel discussions (5-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open meeting (5-0)
• Certified that only lawful exempt business was discussed in closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to carry-over to meeting on January 11, 2023 (5-0)