Public Meetings - Albemarle County, Virginia

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors met on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The meeting included two proclamations, public comments, approval of the consent agenda, a VDOT quarterly report, a work session on the Secondary Six-Year Plan and the FY27 Operating and Capital Budget, a closed meeting for appointments, and a public hearing on the North Pointe amendment (ZMA2023-7/SP2023-9). Key outcomes included adoption of the consent agenda, approval of appointments, and unanimous passage of the North Pointe rezoning and special use permit. Consent Calendar - Approved by recorded vote: Minutes from December 1, 2025; January 7 and 14, 2026 (Supervisor Duncan noted the importance of updated meeting minutes). Also approved: FY26 appropriations, a public hearing for an ordinance on compensation and sign-on incentives, and a revised charge for the Solid Waste Alternatives Advisory Committee. - Items for information: Transportation Planning Quarterly Report and the April 2026 Board to Board school board report. Proclamations & Recognitions - National Child Abuse Prevention Month (Proclamation 26-231) – Read by Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley. Dr. Mark Mendelson (pediatrician, board chair of Foothills Children’s Advocacy Center) and Program Director Brianna Ballantino highlighted that nationally 1 in 7 children experience abuse each year, and in Albemarle County over 1,800 suspected cases were reported in 2025. The center serves approximately 300 forensic interviews annually. The board unanimously adopted the proclamation. - Dark Sky Week (Proclamation 26-232) – Read by Supervisor Mallek. Christine Putnam (Dark Skies Piedmont) noted this was the third year of the proclamation and urged the county to update its lighting ordinance to reduce light pollution, referencing the county’s Biodiversity Action Plan. She stated that $3 billion of energy is wasted annually in the U.S. due to light pollution. The board unanimously adopted the proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - First session (1:40 PM): Two speakers addressed matters previously considered or pending. - Gary Grant (Rio District): Criticized the budget process, stating it was “foolish” to ask for savings while relying on reassessment increases, and opposed a car tax increase for housing affordability. He urged keeping religious impact separate from government and moving funds from affordable housing to schools. - Rob McGuinness (Piedmont Environmental Council): Supported creating a recreational rural roads program, noting that unpaved roads provide low-stress routes for walking, biking, and running, and contribute to tourism (annual impact $1 billion). He recommended aligning the rural rustic program with comp plan policies. - Evening session (6:00 PM): Five speakers addressed matters previously considered or pending. - Rebecca Brown (Rio District): Thanked the county for commitments on housing voucher reforms, but requested that $10 million be allocated to the Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF) to activate 40 unused mainstream voucher slots for disabled residents. She emphasized that 800 people are on the unified voucher wait list. - Robert Brown (Rio District): Reinforced his sister’s comments, noting that 206 people on the wait list qualify for those slots. He asked for a locally funded bridge program for housing stability. - Alicia Lenahan (Scottsville District): Expressed concern about ICE presence and voter intimidation, urging the board to protect voting rights in upcoming elections. - Susan McCullough (Samuel Miller District): Echoed concerns about ICE and voter suppression, asking the board to ensure the April 21 election proceeds without federal law enforcement interference. - Rain Sabin (White Hall District): Thanked the board for not slashing services, but warned against federal Medicaid cuts (citing the “big beautiful bill” cutting nearly $1 trillion). She requested continued funding for local service providers and $10 million for AHIF. - Wacis Almelhan (White Hall District): Shared personal experience as a refugee and stressed that housing stability is foundational. He asked for real-time tracking of accessible units, published ACERP data, and formal anti-purge protections for wait lists. Discussion Items - VDOT Quarterly Report (Item 9): Presented by Residency Administrator Carrie Shepherd, who also introduced new assistant resident engineer Matt Mashotti. Key updates: Exit 107 Park and Ride project awarded in December with a fixed completion date of December 30, 2026. Fifth Street Hub and Trails project on track for May 2026 advertisement. Several roundabout projects under construction (Route 240-250-680 Brown’s Gap Turnpike roundabout opened March 13, 2026). Paving program underway: plant mix started in northwest; surface treatment in western county; primary asphalt (Route 20, 250, 29) starting late June/early July. Bridge replacement on Stillhouse Creek Road (Route 693) begins April 6 with detour. Board asked about night work, speed studies, and coordination on trail/ditch issues. - Secondary Six-Year Plan (Item 10): Planner Alberic Karina-Plun presented the draft plan for FY27-32, including a new Unpaved Road Improvement Program (URIP) funded by expanded state legislation. Six roads proposed for rural rustic paving: Gilbert Station Road, Genie Lane, Murray Lane, Broken Sun Road, Blacks Lane, and Old Sand Road. Three URIP candidate roads: Birchess Creek Road, Batesville Road, and Hemkscap Road. Discussion included the process for resident approvals, the do-not-pave list, and the need for a recreational road program. Supervisor Duncan requested inclusion of pedestrian and cyclist traffic counts in evaluations. Supervisor Malik clarified that Fox Mountain Road, Browns Gap Turnpike, and Wesley Chapel were maintenance requests, not paving requests. - FY27 Operating and Capital Budget (Item 11): Assistant CFO Andy Bowman led the fifth work session. The board discussed “parking lot” items: ACERP ($360,000 proposed), Foothills Child Advocacy Center ($98,000 vs. $130,000 request), Offender Aid Restoration (OAR) therapeutic docket ($70,000 gap), Charlottesville Ballet ($2,500) and Seville Band ($3,000) restoration to FY26 levels, and Dogwood Vietnam Memorial ($250 proposed vs. $600 request; city provided $100,000 cash plus in-kind land). Supervisor Pruitt proposed shifting $1 million from the Economic Development Fund and $413,000 from reserve contingencies to AHIF to reach $10 million. Supervisor Duncan suggested $1 million to AHIF and $200,000 to ACERP. Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley favored some increases but wanted to reserve funds for future risks. Supervisor Missel supported incremental AHIF increases. Supervisor Malik wanted more data on agency impact before committing. Chair Gallaway noted $313,000 in ongoing reserves above staff’s $350,000 minimum, plus $500,000 one-time contingency. Staff will provide additional information on fuel reserve impacts, economic development fund history, and school CIP requests. - Closed Meeting (Item 12-14): The board convened a closed meeting at 5:00 PM under §2.2-3711(A)(1) to discuss appointments. Upon return, they certified the meeting and approved appointments: Mike Rose (Agricultural & Forestal District Advisory Committee), Rowena Zimmerman (Natural Heritage Committee), Olivia Branch (Pantops Community Advisory Committee), Mary Catherine McLamb Brown (Planning Commission – Scottsville area), Nicole Hall (Police Department Citizens Advisory Committee), and Supervisor Sally Duncan to the ACPS Advisory Committee for Environmental Sustainability (ACES). - North Pointe Amendment (Item 17): Public hearing on ZMA2023-7/SP2023-9 to increase residential units from 893 to 1,600 (707 additional units) and reduce commercial from 400,000 sq ft to 250,000 sq ft. Applicant David Mitchell presented, citing federal Corps of Engineers regulations that eliminated 48 acres of usable land. The school site moved to a more usable 13.5-acre location. Traffic improvements include two R-cut intersections on Route 29 (eliminating the northern entrance). Proffers include 15% affordable housing (107 units at 80% AMI for rent/for-sale), a $500,000 community amenity trigger, and a school site option with $500,000 payment if not used by 2028. The planning commission recommended approval on March 10. Public speaker Gary Grant (Jack Jouett District) expressed frustration with traffic from new apartments and questioned affordability. Board members commended the project’s location in the development area, infrastructure improvements, and park amenities. Unanimously approved both the rezoning and special use permit. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved by recorded vote. - Proclamations for Child Abuse Prevention Month and Dark Sky Week adopted unanimously. - Closed meeting appointments approved unanimously. - North Pointe Amendment – Rezoning (ZMA2023-7) and Special Use Permit (SP2023-9) both approved unanimously. - Budget work session: No final decisions; staff directed to provide follow-up information on fuel reserve, economic development fund, and school CIP. The board will continue discussions on April 15 and 22 before adoption. - Public comments heard but no formal board action taken on housing or election concerns.

The Board of Supervisors met on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Lane Auditorium. The meeting included a proclamation, public comments, consent agenda, action items on the Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF), a budget work session, a bond issuance resolution, and public hearings on land use items. Key outcomes included approval of AHIF projects, direction to advertise a 15-cent personal property tax increase for affordable housing, approval of a $156.55 million bond issuance, and approval of the Hollymead Town Center and Sieg Property rezoning requests. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 8.1-8.4) by a recorded vote. Items included approval of minutes (November 5, November 19, December 10, 2025), scheduling a public hearing for fee schedule amendments, Rivanna Solid Waste Authority FY27 fees, and a VDOT project administration agreement for Rivanna Futures. Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Grant (Rio District): Criticized the FY27 recommended budget of $724 million, citing a 6% average reassessment increase and low public trust based on a 2023 community survey (only 36% rate quality of life as excellent, 7% rate board leadership as excellent). Called for more accountability and data-driven reporting. - Tom Strasburg (Rio District): Supported full funding ($11,000) for the Charlottesville Band, noting its free concerts, youth incentives, and community services. Pointed out a 37.5% reduction in requested funding. - Janasha Bradford (Jack Jouett District): Represented Mahogany and Friends Foundation, seeking funding for financial literacy programs. Reported serving over 500 youth and adults, with financial knowledge increasing from 42% to over 90%. - Taylor McCloyd: Development director of Computers for Kids (C4K), requested $25,000 to avoid loss of transportation and mentoring services for Albemarle County students. Noted that 36% of participants are county students and that C4K is the only provider of free one-to-one STEM/STEAM mentoring in the region. - Michael Monaco (White Hall District): Expressed support for affordable housing funding but urged a long-term strategy. Cited that over half of renters are cost-burdened and 95% of renters earning $20-35K are cost-burdened. Recommended increasing the dedicated 0.4 cents for AHIF. - Otis Amory (Jack Jouett District): Expressed concern about $120 million in new debt and an additional $340 million projected in FY27-31, calling it a significant burden on taxpayers. - Public Comments (Evening Session): - Susan McCullough (Samuel Miller District): Supported the board's February letter to federal delegation regarding ICE actions but urged clearer commitments on how the county will protect residents from federal overreach. - Alysia Lanahan (Scottsville District): Criticized the board's response to federal immigration actions, arguing that inaction compromises with evil. Referenced Virginia's history of massive resistance to Brown v. Board. - Henry Perrett (Rivanna District): Urged rejection of the bond referendum, arguing it violates the golden rule of public finance by funding short-term projects and operating expenses, and creates a future funding obligation. - Jennifer Winslow (Jack Jouett District): Represented Lighthouse Studio, requesting restoration of funding for educational programs and Vinegar Hill Theater. Cited that 43% of theater rentals serve county-based or county-serving partners. - Phil Reese (Rivanna District): Criticized the $118 million bond issuance as bypassing voter approval, noting higher interest costs. Claimed the interest rate difference is 48 basis points, costing $11 million more than if done via referendum. Discussion Items - Proclamation Recognizing March as Red Cross Month: Unanimously adopted. Bill Fisher, board vice chair of the Red Cross Central Virginia chapter, thanked the board. County Executive Richardson noted the Red Cross response to a home gas explosion in Glenmore in August 2025, which involved 80 first responders, 11 homes deemed uninhabitable, and 41 damaged homes. - Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF) Proposed Projects (Item 9): Staff presented revisions to the scoring process, removing per-unit cost and correcting a duplicated affordability score. Four projects were recommended for funding (total $3,969,000): - Support Works: $377,970 for 80 units of permanent supportive housing. - Habitat for Humanity: $1,211,464 in grants and $450,000 in low-cost loans for 20 deeply affordable rental units. - LEAP: $679,124 for 70 units of housing preservation focusing on energy efficiency. - Salvation Army: $110,000 for 7 family shelter units (staff-initiated). Supervisor Mallek expressed disappointment that the Southwood homeownership program (Woda Cooper) was not funded due to dearth of funds. The board discussed process improvements for future cycles. Motion to approve the four projects carried unanimously. - FY27 Operating and Capital Budget Work Session (Item 10): Staff presented technical adjustments and board-requested items. Key discussion points: - Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) savings ($151,000): Board voted 4-2 to place in a transit contingency reserve (Option C). Supervisors Gallaway, Lapisto-Kirtley, Missel, and Duncan supported; Supervisor Pruitt opposed. - Albemarle County Emergency Relief Program (ACERP): Discussed current funding of $360,000 vs. need. Supervisor Pruitt flagged as priority. No immediate decision; will be revisited. - Nonprofit Funding: Board debated adjustments to human services, arts/cultural, and community capital requests. Supervisors expressed support for increasing funding for Offender Aid Restoration (OAR) therapeutic docket and Foothills Child Advocacy Center, and restoring funding for Charlottesville Ballet and Charlottesville Band to prior levels. Staff indicated these would be considered within available reserves. - Affordable Housing Fund (AHIF): Supervisor Pruitt moved to advertise a 1-cent real estate tax increase dedicated to AHIF (failed 3-3). He then moved to advertise a 29-cent personal property tax increase (failed 3-3). Later, Supervisor Missel moved to advertise a 15-cent increase on personal property tax dedicated to AHIF; motion carried 5-1. - Public Schools Budget: The board adopted the county executive's recommendation (Option A) for the school operating fund ($218M transfer) and one-time transfer to CIP ($4.1M). Motion carried 5-1. - Tax Rate Advertisement: Advertised real estate tax rate at $0.894 per $100 (current recommendation). Advertised personal property tax rate at $4.43 per $100 (15-cent increase) for all three categories (tangible personal property, miscellaneous/incidental, machinery and tools) dedicated to AHIF. Motion carried 5-1. - Bond Issuance Resolution (Item 15): Resolution authorized $156.55 million in bonds: $118.14 million for capital projects (70% school, 30% local government), $24.9 million to refund a portion of the 2023 bond anticipation note (Rivanna Futures property), and $13.5 million to refund 2015 bonds (potential $400,000 savings). Discussion included comparing general obligation bonds vs. revenue bonds; staff noted negligible rate difference due to county's AAA rating. Motion to adopt carried unanimously. - FY26 Budget Amendment and Appropriation (Item 16): Public hearing held, no speakers. Approved $39.5 million budget amendment, primarily for debt and capital improvement fund appropriations related to the bond issuance. - Hollymead Town Center Area C Amendment (ZMA-2025-00006) (Item 17): Applicant sought to add 40 dwelling units and reduce non-residential square footage in Block 9 to zero. Staff recommended approval; planning commission voted 7-0 in favor. Public hearing held, no speakers. Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Utility Easements on County Parcel (SUB-2025-00176) (Item 18): Authorization for two easements (total 1,666 sq ft) to allow sewer connections for Belvedere phases 4 and 5. Public hearing held, no speakers. Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Sieg Property Rezoning (ZMA-2022-00002) (Item 19): Request to rezone 62.4 acres from R1 and HC to Neighborhood Model District for mixed-use development (275-600 residential units, up to 440,000 sq ft commercial, 20% affordable housing at 60% and 80% AMI). Also requested disturbance of 3.6 acres of preserved steep slopes for infrastructure. Staff identified concern about school capacity at Red Hill Elementary (projected 54 additional students). Planning commission recommended approval 5-2. Public hearing held; applicant presented. Discussion focused on traffic, pedestrian safety, and school impacts. Supervisor Missel opposed, citing unresolved transportation issues at Exit 118. Motion to approve carried 5-1. Key Outcomes - Red Cross Month Proclamation adopted unanimously. - AHIF Funding approved for four projects: Support Works, Habitat for Humanity, LEAP, and Salvation Army (total $3,969,000). - Budget Direction: - Advertise FY27 proposed budget including personal property tax rate of $4.43 per $100 (15-cent increase dedicated to AHIF). - Adopt county executive's recommended real estate tax rate of $0.894 per $100. - Option C for CAT savings (transit contingency reserve). - Maintain Option A for public school funding (county executive recommendation). - Bond Issuance authorized for $156.55 million. - ZMA-2025-00006 (Hollymead Town Center) approved. - SUB-2025-00176 (Utility Easements) approved. - ZMA-2022-00002 (Sieg Property) approved with 5-1 vote. - Next meeting scheduled for April 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM.

This was the third Board of Supervisors work session on the County Executive's recommended FY 2027 operating and capital budget. No action was taken; the session focused on presentations and discussions, particularly on the Albemarle County Public Schools (ACPS) funding request, technical budget updates, a "parking lot" of potential adjustments, and debt management/CIP outlook. The Board is scheduled to propose a budget and advertise tax rates on March 18, 2026, with final adoption on April 22, 2026. Discussion Items FY 2027 Operating and Capital Budget – Albemarle County Public Schools: Dr. Rebecca Berlin, School Board Chair, presented the School Board’s balanced needs-based budget request totaling $311.3 million, a $23 million increase (8.1%) over the adopted budget. She highlighted student demographics (over 14,000 students, 97 countries represented, 81 languages), student outcomes (94% graduation rate), and the need for sustained investment. Key points included: Funding Formula: The County Executive’s recommended allocation follows a 54/36/10 split of shared revenues (schools/county/joint CIP). The School Board noted that over the past 10 years, county government operating expenditures increased 117% compared to 77% for schools, and the school share of operational spending declined from 62% (FY18) to 57.5% (FY27). State Funding: ACPS will receive an estimated $11.8 million more in state funding due to the Local Composite Index (LCI) change, but the School Board argued this restores prior cuts, not new money. Budget Reductions: ACPS has made $9.1 million in reductions over the past two budget cycles, including eliminating elementary foreign language, increasing class sizes, and cutting instructional coaching. Capital Transfer Disagreement: The County Executive’s budget proposes transferring $6.4 million of the school’s shared revenue to a capital placeholder (unreserved). The School Board requests that $4.1 million be designated for school CIP projects, arguing the funds originate from the schools’ portion. Multi-Year Planning: Multiple supervisors, including Supervisor Pruitt, emphasized the need for long-term joint planning between the Board and School Board to improve predictability and reduce year-to-year uncertainty. Technical Budget Updates: Andy Bowman, Assistant CFO, presented recommended technical adjustments (net positive) to the general fund and special revenue funds, including refinements to regional jail costs, transit funding, and reinstating $40,000 to "Reclaimed Hope" (a human services agency) due to an administrative oversight. Parking Lot Items: The Board discussed potential adjustments to the proposed budget, including: Nonprofit & Cultural Agency Funding: Several supervisors questioned whether county taxpayer dollars should fund city-focused organizations. Supervisor Mallek raised concerns about the Paramount Theater, Live Arts, Virginia Discovery Museum, and the Virginia Film Festival, while supporting the Scottsville Band. Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley asked for a systematic way to review all agencies. Chair Galloway emphasized respecting the existing funding process while noting that adjustments can still be made before April 22. Affordable Housing & ACERP: Supervisor Pruitt expressed interest in increasing funding for the Affordable Housing Investment Fund and the emergency needs program (ACERP). Tax Rate Options: The Board discussed potential real estate and personal property tax rate modifications. Staff clarified that one penny on the real estate tax rate generates approximately $3.3 million ongoing and $1.6 million one-time in FY27, depending on dedication. Debt Management & Capital Improvement Program (CIP): Andy Bowman presented the debt service outlook, noting that five major projects (Courts, Rivanna Futures, three schools) total nearly $300 million and will drive debt service from $34 million in FY26 to roughly $54 million by FY31. The county maintains AAA bond rating and remains within policy caps (debt service <10% of revenues). The CIP presentation highlighted: Major Projects: Boulders Road ($41M, with state/developer contributions), Northern Feeder Pattern school design, Central Library renovation ($10.5M county share), Darden Towe athletic fields, and workplace facility renovations. CIP Placeholder: The recommended CIP includes a $12.8 million placeholder (from $6.4 million annually in FY27-FY28) for future board determination. Community Capital Requests: Staff recommended five projects for FY27-FY31, including Bennett’s Village, Dogwood Vietnam Memorial, Salvation Army shelter, Stony Point Volunteer Fire Company roof, and Scottsville levee repairs. Key Outcomes No formal decisions or votes were taken at this work session. The Board will propose a budget and advertise tax rates at the March 18, 2026 meeting. Staff will prepare additional information for the Board, including: Data on cultural agency impacts on county residents. Detailed breakdown of microtransit (MicroCAT) usage demographics. A summary of tax rate options (penny on real estate, personal property, machinery & tools). Analysis of long-term debt capacity. The Board agreed that the Chair and Vice Chair will meet with School Board counterparts post-adoption to discuss process improvements. The meeting was adjourned to March 18, 2026, 1:00 p.m., Lane Auditorium.

On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM in Room 241, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors held the second of five budget work sessions for the FY2027 operating and capital budget. The session was chaired by Supervisor Ned L. Gallaway (Rio District) and attended by all supervisors. Staff presentations covered non-departmental expenditures, public works, health and welfare (including the Affordable Housing Fund and Human Services Funding Process), parks/recreation/culture, community development (including transit and the Economic Development Fund), and administration. An action item to correct a parcel number in the Premier Circle Phase 2 revitalization area designation was also considered. The meeting included extensive board discussion, staff clarifications, and identification of items for future consideration. The board adjourned to March 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Discussion Items - Non-Departmental (Andy Bowman): Reviewed the revenue sharing agreement with Charlottesville ($21.9 million, up 8.5% from FY26, driven by two-year lag in tax base and city rate increases), the transfer to public schools ($9 million increase recommended, with $6.4 million redirected to a CIP placeholder instead of the formula-driven $15.4 million), and the allocation of shared revenue formula (54% schools, 36% county, 10% debt/CIP). Staff explained the rationale for the school funding adjustment, including unique state revenue growth ($14.8 million in state changes) and the opening of two new schools. The elderly/disabled tax relief program increases to $2.3 million (half a million increase). Re-engineering savings of $1.1 million were highlighted, with 18 positions eliminated (primarily in non-public safety areas) and 15 added (police, sheriff, SROs). The reserve for contingencies is $911,000. - Public Works (Kate Malcolm): This 3% of the general fund ($14.1 million) covers facilities, environmental services, and the Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA). A $300,000 one-time addition to the Climate Action Fund was noted. The plastic bag tax revenue is projected at $140,000, with over $440,000 collected since FY23, funding litter cleanup (over 1,023 miles, 3,932 bags of trash from Dec 2024 to Dec 2025). The RSWA fee increase will be on the next consent agenda. - Health and Welfare (Kate Malcolm): This 7% of the general fund ($35.4 million) includes health/human services, the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF), and human services funding process agencies. The AHF is recommended at $5 million (same as FY26), with $1.3 million recurring (from 0.4 cents tax rate) and $3.7 million one-time. Since FY19, $22 million invested has created/preserved over 1,700 affordable units, served 280 domestic violence victims, and 539 homeless individuals. The Charlottesville-Albemarle Health Department increase (8%) includes picking up two positions losing federal funding (disease investigation specialist and senior epidemiologist). Region 10's increase ($291,000) includes $234,000 to replace lost federal funding for permanent supportive housing. The Human Services Funding Process funds 29 programs at $1.6 million total (up 7.2%). The process uses four priority criteria (family homelessness, adolescent mental health, community safety, navigation for seniors) and a tier system. Board members raised concerns about long-term AHF planning, duplication among agencies, and the predictability of funding for nonprofits. - Community Development (Kate Malcolm): This 4% of the general fund ($20.2 million) includes the community development department, transit contributions, and economic development. The Economic Development Fund gets $4.15 million in one-time funding, bringing the total to nearly $5 million (with $0.8 million unallocated in FY26). Transit contributions: Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) increases by $562,000 (21%) for 10 new operators to improve frequency on county routes (routes 5 and 7 will see 15-minute service). MicroCAT is fully funded at $1.4 million; staff recommended introducing fares ($2 base, $1 for additional passengers) mid-year to generate $80,000 in revenue and improve efficiency. Jaunt is level-funded at $3.5 million. Board members questioned the ratio of county benefit to cost for CAT and the impact of fares on low-income riders. - Parks, Recreation, and Culture (Kate Malcolm): This 3% of the general fund ($13.5 million) includes parks and recreation department, Jefferson-Madison Regional Library (increase of $470,000 or 8%), and Charlottesville-Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau (slight decrease of $17,000 due to formula). Cultural arts and festivals funding totals $82,500 for 12 agencies. Board members emphasized focusing on county-based events and requested data on economic return on investment. - Administration (Kate Malcolm): This 6% of the general fund ($31.4 million) includes IT, finance, human resources, county attorney, executive leadership, board office, and voter registration/elections. IT increases $884,000 (8.9%) for contracts, cybersecurity, ADA compliance, and new software. Voter registration/elections increase $143,000 for the 2027 election cycle. All other departments have a net decrease of $40,000. Key Outcomes - Action Item – Premier Circle Phase 2 Revitalization Area Designation: Unanimously approved (6-0) a corrected resolution (March 11, 2026) to replace the March 4, 2026 version, with a corrected tax map parcel number. This was necessary for Piedmont Housing Alliance's low-income housing tax credit application due March 12, 2026. - Parking Lot Items: Several items were noted for future consideration, including: additional affordable housing funding beyond the current $5 million, potential long-term funding trajectory for the Affordable Housing Fund, possible additional funding for therapeutic docket, evaluation of duplication among human services agencies, and consideration of fare structures for MicroCAT. - Next Steps: The next work session is a joint session with the School Board on March 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM in Room 241, covering the school operating budget, CIP, and debt. The maximum tax rate must be proposed by March 18, 2026. Town halls are scheduled per magisterial district, and the final budget approval is set for April 22, 2026.

The Board of Supervisors held its first budget work session for the Fiscal Year 2027 operating and capital budget on March 9, 2026, from 5:00 PM to approximately 8:45 PM in Room 241. Staff presented an overview of the total county budget, general fund revenues, compensation and public safety expenditures, and judicial chapter. The board asked clarifying questions and provided initial feedback but took no formal action. The next work session is scheduled for March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were taken during this work session. Discussion Items Total Budget Overview - The total FY2027 recommended budget increases by $86 million (13.5%) to approximately $724 million. The three primary drivers are: (1) a 7.6% increase in general fund local revenues (primarily tax revenue), (2) nearly $13 million in new state revenue support for public schools, and (3) the $40.8 million Boulders Road capital project (with $20 million from the state, $12 million from AstraZeneca, and the remainder from county land and previously appropriated funds). - The general fund ($512 million) is the focus, as it contains all unrestricted tax revenue and offers the most policy discretion. General Fund Revenues - Tax revenue diversification challenges were highlighted: between 2015 and 2025, the residential share of the real estate tax base grew from 65% to nearly 74%, while commercial/industrial fell from 15% to 11.3%. Residential properties cost more to serve (due to schools) than they generate in taxes, while commercial/industrial are revenue positive. - Real estate revenue is projected to increase 7.6% ($20.5 million) due to a 6.2% reassessment in calendar year 2026 plus new construction. The recommended tax rate remains 89.4 cents per $100 of assessed value. The “lower tax rate” (offsetting assessment increases) would be 84.2 cents; each penny of the rate is worth $3.3 million. - Personal property tax revenue is projected to increase 17% (nearly $7 million) due to improved collection rates, a higher number of vehicles being identified, refined assessment data (VIN-based), and supply chain effects on used car values. The rate remains $4.28 per $100 of assessed value; a penny change is worth $113,000. - Other local taxes (sales, food & beverage, transient occupancy, business licenses) show modest growth. All except transient occupancy are at the state cap. The transient occupancy tax (currently 9%) is not capped; staff will provide comparative data to other metro areas. - State and federal revenues make up only 8% of the general fund. State revenues are essentially flat; federal revenues (mostly Social Services) are up 9% but are subject to uncertainty (e.g., SNAP administration). - Fund balance: $98.3 million total. The unassigned fund balance (10%, or about $51.4 million) is reserved for emergencies. A 2% budget stabilization reserve (about $12 million) is being proposed for use. The plan uses $3 million in FY27 and $3 million in FY28 (0.5% each year), leaving 1% untouched. The reserve would be replenished with any future surplus before funding other one-time priorities. General Fund Expenditures – Compensation - The largest expenditure category is the transfer to schools (52% of every tax dollar), followed by public safety (14%), community development (10% including Boulders Road), and county government operations (10%). - Compensation: The budget includes $2.9 million for a market-based adjustment for classified staff (based on the 2022 pay philosophy targeting the market average of 23 comparator agencies), a 2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), and a one-time bonus (mirroring the state’s proposal). For public safety, the recommended budget provides 11% pay scale movement (step increases) costing $0.7 million plus market adjustments. The health self-funded fund increases 8% ($2.1 million). The Virginia Retirement System rate decreased by 1.33 percentage points, saving the county $1 million (and $3 million for schools). Public Safety - Staffing Studies (ESCI): The board received the public safety staffing studies in October 2025. Implementation is phased. Tier 1 priorities: add and maintain staffing. FY27 includes 3 new police officers and a plan to pursue a FEMA SAFER grant for 6 firefighters. Compensation and retention are the immediate focus. The long-range recommendation is 39 additional police officers and 35 additional firefighters, phased into the five-year plan. - Police Department (Chief Reeves): Current sworn strength is 149 of 171 authorized positions; only 138 are deployable. Calls for service rose 23% from the prior year to nearly 93,000 (62% officer-initiated). Part 1 crimes decreased for the second straight year; gun violence dropped 30% in 2025. Response times: urban ring priority calls average under 10 minutes; rural areas take longer. Recruitment is very challenging (applicant pool shallow, many disqualified). The proposed 3 new officers are for patrol. - Fire Rescue (Chief Puckett): recent investments (FY25) added an ambulance to the Seminole area and 24/7 career staffing at North Garden Volunteer Fire Company. Positive early data: Seminole ambulance reliability increased to 80%, response times down nearly 1 minute; North Garden ambulance availability up 84%, response times down 2 minutes on nights/weekends. Current staffing: 77% of FTEs are operational; 24 in training; 8 vacancies. Service reductions (stations reduced from 3 to 2 firefighters) peaked in 2023 and are declining; 6 additional firefighters (via FEMA SAFER) are needed to phase out service reductions entirely. Attrition was 11.5% in 2025 (largely due to recruit school and retirements; core attrition 3.7%). - Office of Emergency Management: Established as a separate office (budget neutral) by pulling 2 FTEs from fire rescue, reporting to the county executive. - Regional Partner Agencies: Several agencies (e.g., Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail) have budget requests; some may be adjusted downward before adoption. Judicial Chapter - The judicial chapter (2% of general fund, $10.2 million) includes the Sheriff’s Office (53%). The budget recommends 3 new sheriff’s deputies for courthouse security, inmate transport, and civil processing, driven by the opening of renovated/expanded court facilities. Commonwealth’s Attorney, Clerk of Circuit Court, and Public Defender requests are funded at their requested levels with modest increases for COLA. Other Items - MicroCAT transit service: staff proposes a $2 per ride charge (with discounts) to begin mid-year, now that grant funds are exhausted. This will be discussed further on March 11. - Community Development fees: staff seeks authorization for a public hearing on April 15 to update fee benchmarks, with discussion on March 18. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The board provided initial direction and asked for follow-up information on: transient occupancy tax rates in peer jurisdictions, a breakdown of investment income sources, service charge details (PILOT), and the impact of insurance ratings on fire service reductions. - Staff will compile questions and “the list” of potential budget adjustments for the board’s consideration at work session 4 (March 18), where the board will be asked to propose a tax rate and budget for public hearing. - The next work session (March 11) will cover non-departmental expenditures, health and welfare, transit, and community development. The final adoption of the FY2027 budget is scheduled for April 22, 2026.

The Board of Supervisors met on March 4, 2026, starting at 1:00 PM, with a work session on zoning modernization and SMART SCALE applications, followed by a closed meeting and a public hearing on the County Executive's FY2027 Recommended Budget at 6:00 PM. The board deferred action on Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF) projects, approved the Turkey Knob Solar special exception, and heard extensive public comment on the budget, housing, and other issues. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from September 17, October 1, October 15, and December 3 (Work Session), 2025. - Approved Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations. - Approved adding Virginia Department of Health designee to the Community Policy Management Team membership. - Approved Revitalization Area Designation for Premier Circle Phase 2. - Approved Burton Road Rural Rustic Paving Updated Resolution. - Approved SE202500032 1015 Taylors Gap Road Homestay. - Approved VDOT Monthly Report and Board-to-Board School Board report for information. - Two items were pulled from the consent agenda: 8.4 (Proposed Projects for AHIF Support) and 8.8 (Turkey Knob Solar). Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Grant (public comment): Criticized the county's lack of apology for a data breach, his property assessment error, and the Affordable Housing Expenditure Fund. He questioned snow cone expenditures. - Rob Propes (CEP Solar): Expressed support for the county's by-right solar provision and the Turkey Knob Solar project. - Tom Loach: Called for transparency in the land use subsidy program, requesting inclusion of its cost in the budget and a line item on tax bills. - Neil Williamson (Free Enterprise Forum): Urged the board to evaluate zoning changes based on housing affordability, economic development, and relevance, emphasizing the need to make housing easier in development areas. - Peter Krebs (Piedmont Environmental Council): Announced the Active Mobility Summit and highlighted community wins. - Saivo Flynn (Community Climate Collaborative): Requested the board sign a joint letter asking Fluvanna County to reject a gas plant expansion, citing climate change and drought. - Susan McCullough, Alicia Lanahan, and others (public comment at 6:00 PM session): Urged the board to pass a resolution on immigration enforcement actions, similar to the city's, to protect community trust and civil rights. - Bruce Eads and Jim Carpenter (Dogwood Vietnam Memorial): Requested support for ADA access improvements, including a pedestrian bridge, and noted a $250,000 county contribution in the budget. - Tom Olivier: Proposed restructuring county planning to create a department focused on rural areas, natural resource conservation, and climate action, criticizing current development policies. - Denise Zito, Vicky Bravo, Susan Carlson, and others (Impact and religious organizations): Advocated for $10 million annually for the Affordable Housing Investment Fund, citing the housing crisis and impacts on low-income residents. - Heidi Gilman Bennett (Family Council): Opposed withholding $6.4 million from schools, urged full funding for school operating and capital needs. - Karen Clerkin (Bennett's Village): Requested CIP funding for the next phase of an inclusive playground. - Jane Colony Mills (Loaves and Fishes): Thanked the county for funding and requested a 7.3% increase to meet growing food insecurity needs. - Michael Monaco and others: Supported a one-cent real estate tax increase dedicated to affordable housing, arguing $5 million is insufficient. - Theresa Willis and Tannis Fuller (Foothills Children's Advocacy Center): Requested a $130,000 grant to cover costs for serving Albemarle County children, noting the center is the only investigative partner not fully publicly funded. - Peggy Gilgas: Urged more attention to sustainability and climate action in the budget, noting the small allocation compared to other priorities. - Phil Reese: Criticized the 13.5% budget increase, rising debt service, and the revenue sharing agreement with Charlottesville, urging general obligation loans and a renegotiation of the revenue sharing agreement. Discussion Items - Zoning Modernization - AC44 Implementation Priorities (Lea Brumfield): Staff presented a prioritized list of 30 tier-one actions for phase three of zoning modernization, focusing on affordable housing, activity centers, economic development, and streamlining review. The board generally supported the approach but requested clarity on public input and the sequencing of topics. Supervisor Malik stressed the need for environmental protection and transparency in stakeholder engagement. - SMART SCALE Transportation Project Funding Applications (Jessica Dimmick): Eight projects were presented, including improvements at Barracks Road, Ivy Road, and Fifth Street/I-64. Pre-applications are due April 1, with full applications by August 1. The board discussed project details, timeline (funding typically 4-8 years out), and the need for a transportation priorities list update. - Affordable Housing Investment Fund (AHIF) Projects (Item 8.4 pulled from consent): Staff presented four projects recommended for funding totaling $3.5 million. Supervisors raised concerns about the scoring process, transparency, calculation errors, and the lack of a standing housing advisory committee. The board decided to defer a decision to the next meeting on March 9, 2026, to allow more time for review and to address questions about the application process. - Turkey Knob Solar Farm (Item 8.8 pulled from consent): Staff recommended approval of a special exception for a 21-acre solar facility by-right with modifications. Supervisor Malik expressed concerns about insufficient information on prime soils and forest block impacts. After discussion, the board approved the resolution as amended (5-1, with Supervisor Malik voting no). - FY2027 Recommended Budget Presentation (Jeff Richardson): The county executive presented a balanced budget with no tax rate increase (89.4 cents per $100), highlighting $512 million in general fund expenditures, a 7.3% increase for schools ($20.7 million), $5 million for AHIF, $4.15 million for economic development, and $300,000 for climate action. He noted rising obligations, debt service, and the need for tax base diversification. The board discussed trade-offs, with some supervisors expressing interest in fully funding AHIF at $10 million and addressing school capital needs. - Senate Bill 443 (Supervisor Malik): Supervisor Malik proposed a board letter requesting the governor's veto of SB443, which would override local solar regulations. After discussion, the board declined to send a letter as a group, but supervisors were encouraged to send individual letters. Key Outcomes - Deferred action on AHIF projects: The board voted to postpone a decision on the four recommended projects to the March 9, 2026, work session, pending additional information on scoring, math, and transparency. - Approved Turkey Knob Solar Special Exception: Approved 5-1 (Supervisor Malik dissenting) with amendments as revised March 2, 2026. - Closed Meeting and Appointments: The board convened a closed meeting to discuss appointments and certified it. Appointments were made to various boards and commissions, including the 5th & Avon Community Advisory Committee, Crozet CAC, Equalization Board, PVCC Board, and Police Department CAC. - No board letter on SB443: The board did not reach consensus to send a letter; individual supervisors may send letters. - Budget Work Sessions Scheduled: The board will continue budget discussions on March 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM in Room 241, with additional work sessions and public hearings to follow. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:30 PM.

On February 25, 2026, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors received the County Executive's recommended budget for fiscal year 2026/2027. The presentation by County Executive Jeff Richardson outlined a balanced $512 million general fund budget with no proposed changes to the current tax rate of 89.4 cents per $100 assessed value. Key themes included multi-year planning, economic development, public safety investments, and workforce stabilization. Discussion Items - Budget Overview and Guiding Documents: Richardson emphasized the county's three lenses of community engagement: economic vibrancy, service delivery, and quality of life. He highlighted the updated AC44 comprehensive plan, the Economic Development Strategic Plan, and the Board's five-year strategic plan (SPEAR) as frameworks for resource allocation. - Tax Base Diversification: The commercial/industrial tax base has declined from 15% in 2015 to 11.3% in 2025. Recent announcements (Aptiv Scientific, AstraZeneca, Home Depot at Fashion Square) are expected to return the base to 15% within five years. For every dollar of residential tax revenue, it costs $1.00 to serve; for commercial/industrial, $0.32; for agricultural, $0.54. - Multi-Year Budget Planning: The recommended budget uses one-quarter of the 2% budget stabilization reserve in FY27 and FY28 (about $6 million per 1%), with the remaining 1% kept for flexibility. A one-time $6.4 million transfer to the CIP is proposed, to be placed in year five for future needs (potentially school capital). - Public Safety Investments: Three new police officer positions (mid-year) and continued transition of 30 firefighter positions from federal FEMA Safer grants to local funding ($1.7 million). Police salaries see $2.3 million for market competitiveness; fire rescue salaries see $900,000. Three new sheriff's deputies for expanded court facilities. Police calls for service increased 19% over three years (92,727 calls in 2025). Fire calls increased 14%. - School Funding: Total school fund grows 7.3% ($20.7 million increase), including $9 million in additional local funding. This supports the opening of two new schools (Mountain View Upper Elementary and ACE Academy at Lambs Lane), collective bargaining obligations, and competitive teacher compensation targeting 10% above market average (60th percentile). Over the past decade, school operating revenues grew an average of 5.8% annually. - Affordable Housing: An additional $5 million for the Affordable Housing Investment Fund, bringing total investment to over $22 million since FY19, supporting over 1,700 units. Also, a 20% increase to the tax relief for elderly and disabled program (total $2.8 million). - Economic Development Fund: $4.15 million one-time infusion for flexible economic development response, following depletion from the Boulders Road Extension project support. - Community Partner Agency Funding: $40.7 million to 68 partner agencies, including public safety ($14.5M, +20%), transit ($8.2M for CAT and MicroCAT), libraries and tourism ($7.7M), and public works ($3.5M for Rivanna Solid Waste Authority). Human Services Funding Program increases 7.2% to $1.6 million. - CIP and Debt Service: Five largest CIP projects total $296 million (Courts, Rivanna Futures, three schools). Debt service expected to rise from $27 million annually to $55 million by FY2031. The recommended CIP includes $196.8 million for schools over five years. - Board Questions and Discussion: Supervisor Pruitt inquired about federal cost shifts and debt capacity; Richardson stated that without the AstraZeneca announcement, he would have recommended a tax rate increase (at least 2 cents). Debt capacity is around $72 million at FY2031 tightest point; a bond referendum could improve that by 25 basis points. Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley asked about the state's one-cent sales tax referendum bill (still alive, expected to pass) and the need for growth data from Weldon Cooper Center. Supervisor Missel asked about benchmarking and reserves; staff will provide comparative data. Supervisor Duncan requested detailed reports on partner agencies like MicroCAT. Chair Gallaway emphasized data-driven decision-making and civility during the budget process. Key Outcomes - The County Executive's recommended budget was formally received by the Board. No votes were taken. - The Board will begin budget work sessions in March, followed by town halls and public hearings, leading to adoption on April 22, 2026. - Staff will provide follow-up information on debt capacity, federal cost shifts, benchmarking data, and specific partner agency reports. - Supervisor Pruitt requested a Scottsville-specific budget slide for presentation to town council; staff agreed to prepare it.

The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors convened on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Lane Auditorium for a regular meeting. The board heard presentations on the Three Notched Trail Master Plan and the bond issuance process, conducted multiple public hearings on utility easements and a lease agreement, and took action on an AstraZeneca incentive package and a letter to federal representatives regarding immigration enforcement. Consent Calendar - 26-166 Approval of Minutes from May 21 and September 3, 2025. - 26-181 Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations. - 26-148 Quarterly Tax Refund Approval Request. - 26-168 Schedule a Public Hearing for Conveyance of Utility Easements on County-Owned Parcel. - 26-171 Rivanna River Bicycle and Pedestrian Crossing Planning Study - BUILD Application. - 26-139 and 26-140 Homestay approvals in Scottsville and Rio Magisterial Districts. - All consent items were approved by a unanimous recorded vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Alicia Lenahan (Scottsville District) urged the board to establish policies regarding local law enforcement's response to ICE actions, describing incidents of agents in plain clothes and unmarked vehicles. She called for proactive planning to protect community safety and constitutional rights. - Susan McCaulay (Samuel Miller District) echoed the call for clear policies, noting the Charlottesville City Council's resolution and citing Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's experience. She asked for a plan detailing police actions if resident rights are violated and for a community dialogue to prepare for potential ICE activity. - Rebecca Brown (Rio District) requested refinements to the county's housing assistance programs, including predictable waitlist schedules, a mandatory 30-day cure period before removing residents from vouchers, and clear reinstatement pathways, emphasizing the need for preventative infrastructure for vulnerable populations. Discussion Items - Three Notched Trail Master Plan Update (Item 26-174): Deputy Director Kevin McDermott, along with consultants Chris DeWitt (VHB), Amanda Poncey (EPR), and Henry Cohen (Tool Design), presented progress on the shared-use path connecting Charlottesville to the Blue Ridge Tunnel. Community engagement included 530+ attendees at open houses, over 1,000 survey responses, and 4,000+ comments. The team detailed six route zones, with evaluation criteria including connectivity, accessibility, constructibility, user experience, and community support. Board discussion addressed environmental impacts (Supervisor Malik), landowner concerns (over 800 potentially affected parcels), project costs (no estimate yet on property control), potential for donated easements (citing the Harrisonburg Friendly City Trail as an example), and maintenance partnerships. Supervisor Pruitt noted the county's history of resistance to easements and the need for economic development integration. - Bond Issuance Process (Item 26-170): Assistant CFO Andy Bowman explained the biennial bond process, with the board expected to authorize up to $95.57 million in incentives for AstraZeneca in March. He reviewed the role of credit rating agencies, the county's AAA rating (held since 2003/2013, only 54 of 3,000+ counties have triple-A across all three agencies), and how debt service (targeting under 10% of operating revenues) affects financial flexibility. Board members asked about refinancing rules (typically bonds at least 10 years old) and the distinction between general obligation bonds and the current issuance. - AstraZeneca Incentives Resolution (Item 26-183): Economic Development Director Emily Kilroy presented the final details of the project, which will bring 600 direct jobs with a minimum salary of $125,000 to the Rivanna Futures site. The resolution authorizes up to $95.57 million in incentives over 25 years, leveraging $31 million in state funds and $12 million from AstraZeneca for road extension (Boulders Road). Total projected county revenue from the project over 25 years is approximately $79 million (based on real property, machinery and tools, and business personal property taxes). The board approved the resolution unanimously. - Letter to Federal Delegation (Item 26-179): Chair Gallaway read a draft letter addressed to Senators Warner, Kaine, and Representative McGuire expressing the board's commitment to lawful immigration enforcement while urging legislation to require ICE agents to display agency name, officer name, and unique identifier, and to prohibit face coverings during enforcement. The letter supports local police policies on de-escalation and body-worn cameras. The board voted unanimously to authorize the chair to deliver the letter during the upcoming NACo legislative conference. Key Outcomes - Approved: All consent agenda items (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Resolution to convey a utility easement to Appalachian Power at Walnut Creek Park (Item 26-165), for $1,500 one-time revenue to improve cell service at the park (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Utility easements across county-owned parcel 09100-00-00-002E0 (Item 26-150) for Dominion Power and Brightspeed, supporting the new upper elementary school at Founders Place. Easements are non-exclusive and include a license use area to allow future fire station expansion (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Lease of office space at Yancey Community Center to Health Equity and Access in Rural Regions (HEARR) (Item 26-149). HEARR will use a renovated classroom trailer at no cost, consistent with the 2018 use framework (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Utility easements on Colonnade Drive (Item 26-173) for the Skyline Ridge apartments, requiring a public hearing due to the road's private maintenance status (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Resolution authorizing development grant agreements and a directed funds agreement with VDOT for the AstraZeneca project (recorded vote, 6-0). - Approved: Motion to certify the closed meetings (both sessions) as compliant with FOIA exemptions (recorded votes, 6-0). - Upcoming: County executive's budget presentation on February 25, 2026, at noon in Room 241.

Albemarle County Board of Supervisors held its regular first meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. in Lane Auditorium. Chair Ned Gallaway (Rio) presided; Supervisors Sally Duncan (Jack Jouett), Bea LaPisto-Kirtley (Rivanna), Fred Missel (Samuel Miller), and Mike Pruitt (Scottsville) were present. Supervisor Ann Mallek (White Hall) was delayed by ice and snow and joined later. County Executive Jeffrey Richardson, County Attorney Andy Herrick, and Clerk Claudette Borgersen were present. The agenda included a consent calendar, a closed meeting, board appointments, a winter storm response briefing, two public comment periods, and two public hearings. Consent Calendar - The board adopted the final agenda and, by recorded vote, approved the consent agenda. Approved items included the FY 2026 Virginia Department of Health Local Government Agreement (26-134) and the Resolution Confirming and Ending Declaration of Local Emergency (26-176). The Transportation Planning Quarterly Report (26-137) and Board to Board February 2026 report from the Albemarle County School Board (26-163) were received for information. Public Comments & Testimony — Morning Session - Gary Grant (Rio District) raised concerns about unequal public access to assessor slides shown at the January 21 meeting. He stated the average Rio District assessment increase for 2026 is 4.5%, while his own increase is 9.6% on an unimproved 48-year-old house and seven acres of ravines and critical slopes, and that the tax rate increase could add to the burden. He also asked the board to require County Executive Richardson to apologize for a June 2025 county security breach that put personal and financial information at risk, and he pressed Chair Gallaway for a promised 'Snow Cone' budget change, quoting his earlier comment, 'We'll make that budget change.' Discussion Item: Revised Brookhill License Agreements - County Engineer Frank Pohl presented revised license agreements for improvements on county property within the Brookhill development, including grading, stormwater, and landscaping license areas. The developer also proposed to take over and modify an existing VDOT-maintained stormwater facility to serve the roadway construction and the adjacent Archer North project. County Attorney Andy Herrick explained that licenses were used rather than easements to preserve the county's revocable control over its property and avoid a public hearing requirement. The board adopted the resolution (attachment H) unanimously among the members present. Closed Meeting and Appointments - The board convened a closed meeting under Virginia Code §2.2-3711(A)(1), (8), and (19) to discuss appointments, legal matters including the county's role in federal law enforcement, and building security. On reconvening, the board certified the closed meeting by a vote of 5-0-1, with Supervisor Mallek abstaining because she had not been present. - The board then approved four appointments: Jay Fennel to the Albemarle Conservation Easement Authority, Diantha McKeel to the Albemarle County Service Authority, Natalie Gomez to the Pantops Community Advisory Committee, and Willie M. Gray to the Social Services Advisory Board. County Executive Report: Winter Storm Response - Deputy County Executive Trevor Henry and Interim Emergency Management Coordinator Emily Politia briefed the board on preparation, response, and recovery from the late-January winter storm. The local emergency declaration was issued January 24; the county opened an Emergency Operations Center virtually on Thursday and in person Friday through the weekend. Outreach teams provided resources to unhoused residents, hotel rooms were held for public safety staff, and Monticello High School was pre-positioned as a potential shelter. - Storm-related calls included 84 for County Police, mostly disabled/abandoned vehicles, and 122 for Fire-Rescue, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, and specialized technical rescues. Two firefighters sustained injuries on separate incidents and were transported to the hospital. Facilities staff worked 12-hour shifts, hauled away 40 dump truck loads of snow, used 5,100 pounds of salt, and logged nearly 1,200 staff hours to reopen county buildings. VDOT reported 1,985 secondary road lane miles in the county and deployed all available equipment. - The county coordinated daily multi-agency meetings with the city and UVA from Friday through Monday. Board members asked about lessons learned; staff said an after-action report with an improvement plan would be prepared, noting efforts to streamline redundant meetings and to reconcile accepted roads that were missing from VDOT's plowing schedule. Members also warned residents to stay off potentially unsafe ice on reservoirs and rivers. Public Comments & Testimony — Evening Session - Alicia Lenahan (Scottsville District) invoked the 2017 Unite the Right rally and said the county must stand resolutely against violence instigated by federal law enforcement. She asked what officers should do if ICE enters homes without warrants or attacks community members defending democracy. - Susan McCulley (Samuel Miller District) described a peaceful protest at the Charlottesville Target and the arrival of five Albemarle County police cars with tactical gear. She asked the board to state its position on ICE activity, direct county employees on interactions with federal agents, and clarify whether county police would protect residents if federal agents commit crimes or violate rights. Public Hearing: ZMA-2025-00011 — 5546 Three Notch'd Road - Principal Planner Cameron Langille presented a request to rezone a 0.603-acre parcel in Crozet from R2 to R4 so Habitat for Humanity could build a duplex. The Crozet Master Plan recommends neighborhood-density residential at 3-6 units per acre, and the conceptual plan keeps the duplex outside the stream buffer. All proposed units would be affordable, and the proffer statement was revised to align the affordability period with Housing Albemarle. Staff recommended approval, and the Planning Commission voted 4-0 to recommend approval on November 25, 2025. - Applicant Amy George, representing Habitat for Humanity, said the land was donated and the R4 district would allow the duplex and subdivision into two 10,000-square-foot lots. Speakers supporting the request included Reverend Liz Adam of Tabor Presbyterian Church, who described the community and generational benefits of homeownership, and Michael Monaco, speaking for Livable Crozet and Our Albemarle, who said affordable homeownership had transformed his life. The applicant declined rebuttal. - Supervisor Mallek moved to adopt the ordinance attached as attachment D, citing successful affordable homes in Wickham Pond and Old Trail. The motion passed with all members present voting yes. Public Hearing: SP202400017 — Funk Brothers Furniture - Senior Planner Jered Tate presented a special use permit request for a gift, craft, and antique shop at 3756 Richmond Road, a roughly three-acre rural-area parcel with a vacant former Moose Lodge building that is nonconforming as to setbacks. The applicant proposed to reuse the building, remediate infrastructure, install landscape screening along Route 250, and operate from the portion farthest from neighbors. Staff found the use consistent with the special use permit criteria and recommended approval with five conditions, including a use-commencement/expiration condition. - Mike Funk, one of the Funk Brothers, said the business has repaired and restored items for over 40 years and has strong community support. During discussion, the applicant and staff noted the challenges of fitting artisan manufacturing within existing rural-area zoning rules. No public speakers signed up for this hearing. - Board members expressed strong support, with several criticizing the nearly two-year process and urging the upcoming zoning reboot to make rural craft shops easier to permit. The board adopted the resolution (attachment D) unanimously. Committee Reports and Other Board Business - Supervisor Missel reported on the Jefferson Area Board for Aging and the Albemarle Broadband Authority, noting Firefly's VATI-funded work is expected to bring the county within about 500 locations of universal broadband access, with a new BEAD award to Comcast expected to close the remaining gap. - Supervisor Duncan reported on a CARTA meeting focused on storm preparation. - Supervisor Mallek noted the RWSA meeting was snowed out, highlighted roughly $200 million in water/sewer capital projects, and urged public input on the Three Notch'd Trail survey. She also suggested keeping a 'tickler list' of zoning code issues, including artisan builders, duplexes, and preschool special permit requirements. - Chair Gallaway reported that Councillor Oshran was elected CARTA chair and he was elected vice-chair. Staff clarified that the current transit prioritization study addresses service priorities, not governance or asset ownership. - Supervisor LaPisto-Kirtley reported on the Pantops CAC meeting and said she would bring forward the SWAC charter regarding board liaison preferences. - Supervisor Pruitt reported on a CAC meeting about a rezoning near Cartersbook Drive, and on the Regional Housing Partnership. He said UVA's North Fork affordable housing initiative is moving forward, with phase one progress including roughly 120 senior units at 60% AMI or below, about 200 units at 60-80% AMI, and a total project scale of about 1,400 units. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda, including ending the local emergency declaration. - Approved the revised Brookhill license agreements. - Certified the closed meeting and appointed four board/commission members. - Approved ZMA-2025-00011 for the Habitat for Humanity duplex at 5546 Three Notch'd Road. - Approved SP202400017 for Funk Brothers Furniture at 3756 Richmond Road. - Adjourned to February 18, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in Lane Auditorium.