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01
OCT 28, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Meeting – October 28, 2026

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held its scheduled evening session on October 28, 2026, at the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road. The agenda also listed a 2 p.m. work session; no minutes for that session were provided, and the available transcript begins with the 6 p.m. evening session. The evening session opened with invocations by Supervisor Hylton and Supervisor Schneider and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Deputy County Administrator Matt Harris. The board approved employee retirement resolutions, appointments, a consent agenda, four zoning cases, and five public hearing items, and heard ten citizen comments. Resolutions and Special Recognitions - Recognized Corporal John C. Stone Jr. (Police Department) upon his retirement after 25 years of service, effective October 1, 2026. The resolution detailed his roles, including field training officer, school resource officer, drug court officer, and special response unit member, and his life-saving award in 2002. He received a commemorative brick, and board members thanked his family. - Recognized Firefighter Robert L. Trimmer (Fire and EMS) upon his retirement after 41 years of service, effective September 1, 2026. The resolution highlighted his work as a flight medic, EMS specialist, hazardous materials specialist, infection control officer, and equipment purchaser for more than 80 ambulances. He also received a commemorative brick. Consent Calendar - Approved appointments to the Board of Building and Fire Code Appeals. - Approved the consent agenda with no items removed. It included retirement resolutions for Corporal Matthew L. Jeffries, Corporal Jennifer S. Samuels, Lieutenant David R. Samuels, Donald Andrews, Corporal Michael J. Mellina, W. Craig Condrey, Firefighter Joseph M. Coleman, and Captain Jason M. Namola; recognition of the Village of Bon Air and Hazen Memorial Library anniversaries; approval of Mare Transportation, Inc. to operate non-emergency ambulance service; real property requests including land acceptances and a quitclaim to Converge Church Inc.; acceptance of state roads; adoption of the 2027 Legislative Program; additional funding for the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School; a National Park Service agreement with the Police Department; authorization for a VDOT easement for the Fall Line Trail southern section; and setting public hearings for November 18, 2026, and December 16, 2026 (PlanMod). Public Comments & Testimony First citizen comment period: - Amy Beth Mullen expressed concern about data centers and AI, citing Virginia’s 680 data centers and environmental incidents involving Google, including a reported 29.45 acres of protected wetland damage at Project Peanut and delayed self-reporting. She called for a moratorium and a community “make it right” campaign. - Lisa Thompson said opposition arose late because the projects were developed for almost seven years under the names Lock, Peanut, and Sky before Google’s role was publicly announced in late August 2025. She cited JLARC’s projection of 183% more energy demand by 2040 and argued data centers impose financial and environmental costs on residents. - Catherine McMahon said the county should stop asking residents “where were you before” and should adopt formal, enforceable measures to halt further data center development and strengthen oversight of existing facilities. - Thomas Carroll, speaking for Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government, requested a full public accounting of the Timmins/Springline lease and related EDA expenditures, including final lease terms, a forensic audit, an executed CETA controls MOU, and release of withheld FOIA documents by the end of 2026. - Mike Yuzell opposed the proposed 1% sales tax referendum, citing a 24-cent data center equipment tax rate compared to a $3.35 state average, roughly $700,000 in reported Timmins lease overpayments, and infrastructure strain from new housing. Second citizen comment period: - Kyle Woods described a FOIA request to the EDA that he said drew a response only at the legal deadline and a $2,000 fee, even after narrowing the scope. He said the community feels “managed, not represented.” - David Pattison, a retired teacher, said a former student died from an asthma attack and that diesel backup generators worsen asthma. He cited Chesterfield’s third-highest asthma hospitalization rate in Virginia and proposed solar-plus-battery backup, cleaner tier-four generators, and tier-two diesel only as a last resort, along with a data center moratorium and retrofits. - Evelyn Tucker, a Bermuda Hundred resident, described the village’s long residential history and said the Allied Chemical plant and later Kepone disaster were mistakes; she urged the board to acknowledge mistakes and avoid incompatible industrial uses in residential communities. - Katie Sitterson, with RVA Indivisible, said the Department of General Services policy 05-09 barred nonpartisan groups, including the NAACP, from poll greeting events while allowing political parties. She asked the board to require DGS to amend the policy to align with Virginia Code. - Vanessa Castro raised concerns about Project Peanut, citing a Google data center in New Albany, Ohio, that used over one billion gallons of water, health impacts of fossil-fuel pollution, a 22% rise in Ohio electricity bills, and Project Peanut’s ties to an ARC nuclear fusion project not expected to be active until 2030. She asked for a stop-work order or delay until air permits are adjusted. Zoning Requests - 25SN1330 Ramos Goodes Bridge Rezoning and Adjustments (Midlothian) – approved. The 4.31-acre property at 2611 Goodes Bridge Road was rezoned to CC with a conditional use for a contractor’s services business with outside storage and fleet parking, along with adjustments to parking, landscaping, buffering, and setbacks. No speakers. - 26SN2080 Charleston Landing Rezoning (Matoaca) – approved. The 60.2-acre property at 6700 Magnolia Green Parkway was rezoned to SU for a maximum of 90 single-family dwellings. Applicant Jeff Geiger described updated plans, including a dog park and a 200-foot buffer from the future Powhite Parkway. Jerry Turner spoke against densities above one unit per acre; another speaker asked about proximity to data centers. - 26SN2113 Weatherford Clay Point Road Rezoning (Matoaca) – approved. The 41.48-acre property at 620 Clay Point Road was rezoned to Agricultural A for a farm and animal keeping, consolidating a parcel lacking road frontage. Jerry Turner supported the request. - 26SN2144 Rountrey Phase 5 Lot Coverage Modification and Amendment (Clover Hill) – approved. The 51.11-acre property at 3101 Otterdale Road received an increase in the lot coverage limit from 30% to 50% for larger homes without increasing density, while keeping 30% coverage along Otterdale Road and adding right-of-way for the Swift Creek crossing. Public Hearings - Melinda Rothhaar surplus tax sale funds – approved. A 2021 tax sale produced $83,092.04 in surplus; because the owner did not claim it within two years, it passed to the county. Staff recommended returning the funds after paying delinquent taxes and utility bills; the agenda item listed amounts of $438.21, $1,225.90, and $1,431.52, plus any accrued interest. Rothhaar’s attorney, Lenny Brew, appeared pro bono and said she is a widow living on Social Security and veterans benefits. Jerry Turner objected to the board acting before the final amounts were known. The board approved returning the money in accordance with the agenda item. - Powhite Parkway Extension Phase 1 eminent domain – approved. Staff requested authorization to exercise eminent domain for nine parcels owned by three parties. Two owners were cooperative or near settlement; the Grove Apartments parcel was in opposition. Jerry Turner and Renee Aldred supported eminent domain for the apartment parcel, and a representative of one property owner spoke in favor of the project. The board approved the request. - Street naming ordinance amendments – approved. The Chapter 16 and 17.1 amendments transfer street-name approval from Environmental Engineering to Planning/Geospatial Services, clarify unique and intuitive addressing, align with USPS guidelines, and address vacant and landlocked parcels. No speakers; board members discussed the public safety need to avoid duplicate street names. - Vacation of drainage and general easements across Lot 13, Bexley East Section 2 – approved. The 16-foot drainage easement and 8-foot general easement are no longer needed, and vacating them improves lot functionality. No speakers. - Underground easements to Virginia Electric and Power Company – approved. The easements support Dominion’s Strategic Underground Program along Conifer Road and unimproved streets; the county retains prior rights in unimproved rights-of-way. Amy Beth Mullen asked for an explanation; Supervisor Hylton spoke in support, noting frequent outages and vulnerable residents in the Dale District. Key Outcomes - All motions before the board were approved by voice vote; no roll-call tallies were recorded in the transcript. - The board approved the consent agenda, appointments, four zoning cases, and all five public hearing items. - There were no deferred items from previous meetings. - The board acknowledged upcoming events: the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce annual legislative reception on November 5 at 5 p.m., Supervisor Hylton’s swearing-in ceremony on November 16 at 3 p.m., and the next Board of Supervisors meeting on November 18 at 2 p.m., before adjourning.

ZONING AND LAND USE 22% · PUBLIC SAFETY 17% · PROCEDURAL 13% · DATA CENTER DEVELOPMENT 8%
02
OCT 20, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · PLANNING COMMISSION
Chesterfield County Planning Commission Meeting - October 20, 2026

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission met on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. The 4 p.m. work session was followed by a dinner recess and a 6 p.m. public hearing, which reconvened at approximately 8:01 p.m. The commission took unanimous votes on all actions: approval of the September 15, 2026 minutes, initiation of two applications, approval of four consent-agenda cases, approval of the Nunnally Village rezoning, approval of the Twin Rivers modification, a 30-day deferral of the PlanMod comprehensive plan amendment, and adjournment to November 17, 2026. Work Session - Staff demonstrated the new Listen Wi-Fi hearing assistive devices available to the public. - The September 15, 2026 Planning Commission minutes were approved unanimously. - Staff demonstrated the draft Thoroughfare Plan comparison tool for the PlanMod update, which uses a new travel demand model based on more than 145,000 parcels to compare the adopted and proposed thoroughfare maps. - Commissioner Petroski moved to initiate a rezoning application for the Midlothian Boutique Hotel on 2.54 acres, appoint Planning Director Steve Donohoe as the commission's agent, and waive disclosures. The motion passed unanimously. - Staff outlined proposed cannabis code amendment 26PJ0009. State retail cannabis sales begin July 1, 2027; license applications open February 1, 2027; and local taxes must be established by May 1, 2027. Localities may regulate hours and buffers but may not prohibit retail sales or reduce state-mandated 1,000-foot separation distances from hospitals, schools, and child day programs. The motion to initiate the code amendment passed unanimously. - The work program update noted upcoming second-round ZOMOD amendments, cannabis regulations, and the PlanMod public hearing. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda consisted of four cases, each recommended for approval by staff. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of all four to the Board of Supervisors. - 26SN2042 Cottage Glen Phase 3 (Clover Hill): 29.95 acres rezoned to Transitional Residential; maximum 145 townhouse dwelling units with amenity spaces and adjustments. - 26SN2174 Munster Battery Energy Storage Facility (Midlothian): rezone 38.74 acres from Employment Center to Employment General plus conditional use for a 100-megawatt battery storage facility. - 26SN2181 Watts Accessory Dwelling Unit (Matoaca): conditional use for one attached accessory dwelling unit on 0.3 acres with an existing single-family dwelling. - 25SN1280 Whitby East Genito Road Residential Rezoning (Midlothian): 224.63 acres rezoned to Semi-Urban Neighborhood; maximum 406 dwelling units, overall density of 1.81 units per acre, plus conditional use to retain an existing telecommunications tower. Public Comments & Testimony - During the unscheduled citizen comment period, Jerry Turner criticized the frequency of zoning exceptions, asked the commission to deny requests that do not meet zoning requirements, and advocated a one-unit-per-acre standard and a one-year development moratorium. - On the consent agenda, Jerry Turner opposed cases allowing more than one unit per acre and again requested a development moratorium. Renee Eldred suggested periodic review of battery decommissioning policies so decommissioning requirements keep pace with changing battery technology. - On the Nunnally Village case, Jerry Turner supported the proposed hospital but opposed the number of apartments, saying apartments would be a long-term disservice to the county. - On the Twin Rivers case, multiple Twin Rivers residents spoke in opposition, including Paul Vitamasso, John Leopardi, Dr. Cheryl Leverett, Angie, Robert Frazier, George Pearson, Retta Gonzalez, and Jerry Turner. Their concerns included traffic gridlock on Meadowville Road, lack of buffers, loss of privacy, environmental impacts, density, and the use of existing HOA amenities by future apartment residents. Retta Gonzalez submitted a resident petition opposing the proposal. - During the PlanMod public hearing, many speakers addressed the draft comprehensive plan amendment. Chris McConnell asked the commission not to approve the draft until it addressed land stewardship, tax-efficient growth, and housing choice, including Bonair age-wave readiness and safer walking and biking routes. Richard Hankins of Partnership for Smarter Growth said the group had no official position but supported density reductions outside Route 288 while warning of unintended sprawl and infrastructure costs, and offered six smart-growth recommendations. Annika Shun of Housing Opportunities Made Equal asked for a delay, saying the draft was not fully ready on affordability. Marilyn Breslow of the League of Women Voters Richmond Area urged an affordable housing committee and trust fund and asked that the vote not occur until affordability was addressed. Megan Stitzer, a first-time homeowner, said reducing housing capacity would make housing less attainable. Jonathan Roddelt asked the commission not to approve the amendments, arguing lower density would reduce housing choices and increase prices. John Costello said the draft was a drastic reduction in future housing supply and asked for a slower process. Courtney Sanderson, a landowner whose family property would change from phased residential to rural residential agricultural, asked the commission to remove language tying development to completion of Powhite Parkway to Genito Road. Mike Burnett urged concrete affordability methods, including inclusionary zoning, accessory dwelling units, and manufactured housing. Kelly Broad, a corporate leader with a Chesterfield hub, asked for reconsideration citing economic development, housing stock, accessibility needs, and affordability. Renee Eldred commented on mixed-use definitions and the impact of neighboring localities. Jerry Turner said the commission had a difficult decision and encouraged civic participation. Eric Drum, HOA president of The Grove, supported smart density where infrastructure already exists. Discussion Items - Nunnally Village Rezoning (25SN1222): Staff presented a proposal to rezone 204.3 acres in Matoaca from Agricultural and Corridor Commercial to Corridor Commercial and Transitional Residential, with adjustments and a conditional use for townhouses, allowing a maximum of 1,000 dwelling units. The mixed-use development would include a 200-bed HCA hospital, commercial uses, apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. Staff found the proposal consistent with Comprehensive Plan Note 18, which supports community mixed use as a village center. Applicant representative Jeff Geiger spoke in support, and HCA leadership stated the state had granted a certificate of need for the hospital. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval subject to staff conditions. - Twin Rivers Master Plan and Density Modification (26SN2145): Staff presented a zoning deviation request on 21.35 acres in Bermuda to amend a previously approved development. The request would reallocate 150 multifamily units from Tract A to Tract B, with no increase in the total 450-unit density. About 200 units in Tract B are already built, and 250 units would remain. The applicant added proffered conditions to discourage construction traffic on Outrigger Drive and to provide specific amenities. Residents opposed the transfer, but the commission noted there was no legal authority to revoke the previously approved development rights. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval subject to conditions. - Comprehensive Plan Modernization - PlanMod (26PJ0006): Staff presented a comprehensive update to the county's comprehensive plan, including revised land use categories, reduced residential densities south and west of Route 288, updates to the thoroughfare plan and active transportation plan, a new affordable housing focus, updated community facilities, and a rewritten revitalization chapter. Staff noted that the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and the Virginia Department of Transportation had both signed off. Staff requested approval with five amendments not presented at the September work session, including changes to the Hull Street frontage near Magnolia Green, a Bailey Bridge Road boundary adjustment, clarified amenity-space language, showing the Bailey Bridge Connector as existing, and recategorizing Rockshire Park as a neighborhood park. After commissioner discussion, the commission voted unanimously to defer PlanMod for 30 days to its regularly scheduled November 17, 2026 meeting. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the September 15, 2026 minutes. - Unanimously initiated the Midlothian Boutique Hotel rezoning application. - Unanimously initiated cannabis code amendment 26PJ0009. - Unanimously recommended approval of the four consent-agenda cases to the Board of Supervisors. - Unanimously recommended approval of the Nunnally Village rezoning (25SN1222) to the Board of Supervisors. - Unanimously recommended approval of the Twin Rivers master plan and density modification (26SN2145) to the Board of Supervisors. - Unanimously deferred PlanMod (26PJ0006) to November 17, 2026. - Adjourned to the next work session on Tuesday, November 17, 2026 at 4 p.m.

ZONING AND LAND USE 28% · LAND USE POLICY 20% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 11% · PROCEDURAL 10%
03
SEP 23, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Meeting Summary – September 23, 2026

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors convened for a work session at 2 p.m. and an evening session at 6 p.m. on September 23, 2026. The agenda included annual updates from Mental Health Support Services and Fire & EMS, a detailed presentation on unfunded mandates and the draft 2027 legislative program, a chapter amendment for street naming, and several public hearings and zoning cases. Significant discussion centered on the potential state mandate for a 42-hour firefighter workweek, rising operational costs, and how to allocate future data center tax revenue. Consent Calendar - The Board approved a large block of items including retirement resolutions for 10 employees (totaling 304 years of combined service), acceptance of multiple land parcels, FY2027 budget amendments (primarily bond premiums), and a $6.4 million contract for the Information Systems Technology/Employee Medical Center/Emergency Communications Classroom renovation. - 2027 healthcare rates were approved, reflecting an increase of under 10% following the removal of GLP-1 weight loss medication coverage and a switch to a generic-first pharmacy model. Dental rates remained unchanged. - A change in ownership for Colonial Ridge Apartments was approved contingent on the new owner resolving a list of outstanding maintenance items. - Appointments to the Citizens' Budget Advisory Committee, GRTC Transit System Board of Directors, and the Committee on the Future were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Phil Lohr (Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government): Criticized the county's communications department budget and the "One for the Schools" campaign, alleging it violated state neutrality laws by promising a tax reduction contingent on the referendum's passage. Called for a reduction in the communications budget. - Terry Adams (Greenbrier Subdivision Resident): Urged the Board to extend public sewer hookups to her neighborhood, citing widespread failure of private septic systems and environmental hazards. She noted that Utilities Director Matt Rembold indicated a feasibility study via an assessment district is possible. - Douglas Bradham (Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government): Asserted the county has a spending problem, not a revenue problem, and criticized the lack of Return on Investment (ROI) calculations for economic development projects, specifically citing a 41-year payback calculation for the Meadowville development. - Ben Nelson (Crestwood Farms Resident): Expressed strong support for limiting data center development in Chesterfield and urged the Board to update the zoning ordinance with stricter, enforceable restrictions. - Thomas Carroll (Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government): Called for an independent forensic audit of the Chesterfield Economic Development Authority (CEDA) following the Timmons/Springline lease controversy, alleging over $725,000 in potential overpayments due to an unexecuted lease commencement certificate. - Amy Beth Mullen (County Resident): Expressed strong opposition to gigawatt-scale data centers, citing environmental concerns for tributaries feeding Pocahontas State Park, and criticized the use of NDAs and deception in the approval process. - Wendy Little (Parent of Special Education Student): Demanded a full forensic audit of Chesterfield County Public Schools' legal fees, alleging the school division filed a fraudulent lawsuit against her and the Virginia Department of Education following a state complaint ruling. Discussion Items Mental Health Support Services (MHSS) Annual Update - MHSS Report: MHSS served approximately 8,600 residents in FY26 with a $64 million budget. The Chesterfield Recovery Academy was highlighted as the first fully accredited recovery high school in Virginia, serving over 100 students since 2022. - Crisis Response: The Co-Responder Program (mental health clinicians paired with police) handled 577 calls in FY26, the highest in the region, saving an estimated 2,275 patrol hours from hospital diversions. The arrest rate from these contacts was less than 0.1%. - Public Health Data: There were 46 drug poisoning deaths in 2025 (a decrease from 2024), with opioid-related deaths accounting for 72% of the total. Suicide data showed 325 deaths from 2019-2024, with firearms being the leading method (187 of 325). - The board commended the department, noting the Hazel Health partnership was working in tandem to fill different levels of service need. Fire and EMS Annual Update & 42-Hour Work Week - Chief Center Report: Firefighters responded to 57,498 incidents in FY26 (3.9% increase). The projected turnover rate for FY27 is 18%, the highest ever recorded. The department is 9.7% behind Henrico County in starting salary. - 42-Hour Work Week Transition: The potential state mandate to move from a 56-hour average work week to a 42-hour week was the central topic. Chief Center outlined that adding a fourth platoon would require 180 new positions at an initial cost estimate of $25.4 million and would take 3-5 years to implement. - Operational Gaps: The county's ISO rating remains Class 2/2I. Insufficient station distribution prevents a Class 1 rating. Apparatus delivery times have stretched to FY2029-2031. There were 8 civilian fire deaths in FY26, a 33% increase over five years. - Board Reaction: Board members expressed deep concern over the unfunded mandate implications, the need for competitive pay, and the balance between public safety investments and the community tax burden. The Board agreed to hold detailed briefings in the coming weeks. Unfunded Mandates and 2027 Legislative Program - Report Overview: Staff presented a comprehensive catalog of cost shifts. The Personal Property Tax Relief Act (PPTRA) now only reimburses the county at 40% of the promised 100%. The state-mandated veterans tax relief program costs the county $29.2 million entirely from local funds. The JLARC report identified a $6.6 billion statewide K-12 funding gap. Election administration costs have tripled in 10 years with no corresponding increase in state funding. - Draft 2027 Program: The draft legislative program prioritizes defending local authority (especially on the 42-hour firefighter week), fully funding K-12 Standards of Quality, and securing state funding for constitutional officer mandates. - Board Reaction: Board members (Ingle, Carroll, Hylton) expressed strong frustration with the state's continued cost-shifting, specifically highlighting the burden of funding state employee salaries and the massive gap in school funding. Chapter 16 Amendment – Street Naming - Staff proposed amendments to modernize street naming and address assignment. Key changes include increasing the character limit for street names from 16 to 20, reducing the list of allowed street types from 38 to 20 (covering 98.8% of existing addresses), and codifying the numbering baselines. A public hearing on the amendment was set for October 28, 2026. Data Center Tax Revenue Allocation (Chapter 9 Amendment) - Deferred to November 18, 2026: The Board voted to delay the decision on how to allocate data center tax revenue. - Board Positions: Kevin P. Carroll favored using the revenue to buy down the personal property tax rate to provide direct relief. Jim A. Ingle supported the commitment to citizen relief. LeQuan M. Hylton emphasized balancing relief with investments in public safety and community quality of life. Jessica L. Schneider argued that investing in services provides more impactful community benefits than a small tax break. Mark S. Miller summarized that the board is still in process and agreed a rushed decision was not appropriate. Key Outcomes - Votes: The consent agenda was approved. The board bypassed board member reports to save time. - Zoning Approvals: Cases 24SN1194 (West Hundred Road - approved with staff conditions) and 25SN1238 (Swift Creek Reserve - approved with staff conditions). - Zoning Deferrals: Cases 26SN2080 (Charleston Landing) and 26SN2144 (Rountrey Phase 5) were deferred to the Board's October 28, 2026, public hearing. - Deferrals: The discussion on Data Center Tax Revenue Allocation (Chapter 9) was deferred to November 18, 2026. The Closed Session on personnel performance was also deferred to the next meeting. - Directives: Staff will continue refining cost estimates for the 42-hour firefighter work week for upcoming legislative session preparations. Staff will explore the feasibility of a sewer assessment district for the Greenbrier subdivision in response to public comment.

PUBLIC SAFETY 17% · MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS 10% · PROCEDURAL 9% · ENGINEERING AND INFRASTRUCTURE 9%
04
SEP 15, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · PLANNING COMMISSION
Chesterfield County Planning Commission Meeting - September 15, 2026

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission held a work session at 3 p.m. and a public hearing at 6 p.m. on September 15, 2026, in the Public Meeting Room. The work session included updates on the Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) and initiation of zoning ordinance housekeeping amendments. The public hearing featured a consent agenda with two rezoning cases, both approved unanimously. Citizen comments were received during both sessions.

PROCEDURAL 37% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 23% · AFFORDABLE HOUSING 11% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 11%
05
AUG 26, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Meeting, August 26, 2026

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors met on August 26, 2026, beginning with a 2 p.m. work session and continuing into an evening session that stretched past 11 p.m. The meeting included routine approvals, recognitions, and extensive discussions on the Powhite Parkway Extension, the FY2027 finance update, and a detailed data centers update. The evening session featured numerous public hearings and zoning cases, including a high-profile proposal to dedicate data center revenue to reduce the personal property (car) tax rate, which was deferred to the September 23rd meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the July 22, 2026 board meeting and the August 24, 2026 swearing-in ceremony for Dr. Kevin Catlin. - Recognized 32 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award winners, including a Best in Category award for the Read to Recovery program. - Adopted resolutions recognizing the retirements of Sergeant Rodrick W. Brown (Police Department, 31 years) and Kimberly D. Ritchey (Community Corrections Services, 30 years), as well as four other retirees on consent (Jeffrey Edwards, Newton Georgel III, Daniel Shuklis, and Weatherly Bristow), totaling 176 years of service. - Approved consent agenda items including grant acceptances (jail mental health, FAA/DOAV airport runway, opioid abatement funds), FY2027 budget amendments, CSB performance contract, Powhite Parkway Extension finance plan, and construction contracts for Ettrick Fire Station No. 12 replacement ($11.1 million), the Shared Warehouse, and Centralia Elevated Water Storage Tank. Public Comments & Testimony - Justin Goodman was the only speaker signed up for the first citizen comment period but was not present. - Pam Smith (33-year resident) urged the board to uphold its charter to protect residents, requested five-minute speaking time, and asked for physical mailings about major decisions, noting some residents lack internet access. - Jenny Castle (Bermuda district) expressed concerns about transparency and moral integrity in county decisions, stating growth without principle is "chaos" and urged leaders to consider families over developers. - Thomas Watson (McCoy's 100 subdivision) criticized DEQ and the county for handling of the landfill/leachate issue, noting the county approved the quarry fill in 1997 and the supervisor board was unaware of the 2024 leachate problem until 2026. He cited a $10 million state allocation versus a $170 million long-term need. - Sean Scott (spoke unregistered) raised concerns about Flock cameras, arguing citizens did not get to vote or attend public meetings on their deployment. - During the data centers presentation, multiple attendees expressed frustration about the lack of questions allowed and the late-night timing of the data center tax revenue public hearing. Discussion Items - Everyday Excellence – Geospatial Services: Recognized the team for process improvements reducing real estate logits processing from 28 days to 10 days, subdivision digitization from 8 days to 3 days, and address review from multiple days to 1 day. Discussed USPS coordination and public safety benefits. - Powhite Parkway Extension Update: Staff presented the full 10-mile corridor with Phase 1 (northern end, fully funded at $150 million, construction to start end of 2026) and Phase 2 (south, $565 million total project, $300 million secured). The finance plan on consent satisfied a proffer condition for Upper Magnolia Green West. Mr. Carroll noted a $10 million federal grant and $21.6 million CVTA funding, and that the 75-cent toll on Courthouse Road will end January 2027. - Finance Update: Mr. Harris and Mr. Durkin presented a $15 million net increase for schools from the state budget, allocated to teacher compensation (state share rose from 2% to 4%), special education allotment ($3.9 million for 4 teachers and 23 instructional assistants), preschool initiative ($2.4 million), technology/debt service, and a bonus program. County-side items included reallocating CASM funds to Colonial Heights Food Pantry ($5,000) and Underground Kitchen ($7,500), and a $600,000 housing service supplement pilot. Discussed the upcoming 1% sales tax referendum, the addition of a 15% tier to senior tax relief, and the business license threshold increase to $750,000. - Data Centers Update (major work session): Staff presented a comprehensive overview of existing and proposed data centers, emphasizing that data centers pay the same 89-cent real estate tax rate as residents, with a reduced 24-cent equipment rate as an incentive. The Google/Project Peanut investment is $9 billion across three campuses. Staff projected that full build-out could add $8-13 million per campus annually, shifting the residential/commercial tax burden from 79/21 to 76/24, an 18% increase in the commercial tax base. The proposal to dedicate all new data center revenue to reduce the personal property tax rate from $3.25 to potentially $2.25 was presented. Community members expressed concerns about transparency, water usage, noise, and the late-night scheduling. Zoning Requests - Deferred Items: - 24SN1115 Walton Station (Midlothian) – deferred to November 18, 2026. - 25SN1336 McConnell RV Parking (Bermuda) – Approved with condition that future complaints prompt re-evaluation. - 25SN1254 Robious Road Rezoning (Midlothian) – Denied (4-0-1), with Mr. Miller citing safety on the high-injury network and unjustified adjustment to project size. Mr. Ingle abstained. - Consent Zoning Approvals: - 24SN1350 East Hundred Road Self-Storage (Bermuda) – Approved with conditions. - 25SN1158 McDonough Equipment Wholesale & Storage (Matoaca) – Approved over staff recommendation, citing community support. - 26HP2157 George Perdue House Historic Designation Reduction (Matoaca) – Approved. - 26HP2168 Perdue-Mitchell House Historic Designation Reduction (Matoaca) – Approved. - 26SN2068 7-Eleven Convenience Store Amendment (Clover Hill) – Approved with conditions. - 26SN2080 Charleston Landing Rezoning (Matoaca) – Deferred to September 23, 2026. - 26SN2088 Womack Road Rezoning (Bermuda) – Approved. - Discussion Cases: - 22SN0073 Big E Ranch Rezoning (Matoaca) – Approved (548.88 acres, 65 lots, minimum five acres, average 10 acres). - 23SN0072 Midlothian Microtel (Midlothian) – Deferred to September 23, 2026. - 25SN1184 Spring Creek Baptist Church Rezoning (Matoaca) – Approved (up to 12 lots). Mr. Carroll referenced new state law allowing by-right multifamily on church property. - 25SN1208 Spring Run Road Rezoning (Matoaca) – Approved (199 dwellings, 1.94 units/acre), striking the cell tower conditional use. Connectivity waiver approved. - 25SN1223 Garcia Tree Service Business & ADU (Dale) – Denied home occupation but approved accessory dwelling unit. - 25SN1354 Elder Property Rezoning & Adjustments (Bermuda) – Approved with connectivity waiver; community engagement emphasized. - 26SN2139 Dominion Sycamore Springs Switching Station (Bermuda) – Approved (30 acres, electrical switching station, not a transformer substation). Public Hearings - Chapter 6 Business Licenses: Approved increasing the threshold from $550,000 to $750,000. - Chapter 9 Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief: Approved adding a fourth tier of 15% relief. Ms. Aldred and board members requested better advertising. Mr. Harris noted the program now totals $29 million in relief. - Chapter 9 Data Center-Derived Tax Revenue Allocation: This proposal to set aside all new data center revenue to reduce the personal property tax rate was deferred to September 23, 2026 after extensive discussion. Multiple speakers criticized the late posting and timing; board members Dr. Hilton, Ms. Schneider, and Mr. Carroll expressed interest in further community input. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment (Chapter 19.2): Approved, incorporating 2026 General Assembly mandates, corrections, map fixes, and cross-reference updates. - Airport FBO Lease Amendments (Vantage Aviation): Approved, adjusting fee retention to 10%, increasing transient ramp fees, and adding video production fees. - Conveyance of 4731 Black Oak Drive: Approved to convey to Habitat for Humanity, with interest in prioritizing county or school employees. - Abandonment of Meadowville Road (State Route 618): Approved. Key Outcomes - All consent items and most zoning cases were approved as recommended. - The Robious Road rezoning was denied and the Midlothian Microtel and Charleston Landing cases were deferred. - The data center revenue allocation ordinance was deferred to September 23, 2026, ensuring more public discussion. - The board approved extending the meeting beyond 11 p.m. and adjourned to September 23, 2026 at 2 p.m. in Room 502 of the County Administration Building.

ZONING AND LAND USE 26% · ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 13% · PROCEDURAL 12% · MISCELLANEOUS 7%
06
AUG 24, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Swearing-In Ceremony for County Administrator Dr. Kevin Catlin – August 24, 2026

On August 24, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held a swearing-in ceremony at the Historic 1917 Courthouse to officially install Dr. Kevin Catlin as the county administrator on his first day of work. The ceremony included remarks from Board Chair Dr. Mark Miller, the oath administered by Circuit Court Clerk Amanda Pohl, and an address from Dr. Catlin. A reception followed in Room 502 of the County Administration Building. Ceremony Highlights - David Good, Director of Constituent Media Services, served as master of ceremonies and welcomed attendees. - Board of Supervisors members present: Chair Dr. Mark Miller (Midlothian), Vice Chair Kevin Carroll (Matoaca), Jim Ingle (Bermuda), Jessica Schneider (Clover Hill), and Dr. LeQuan Hylton (Dale). - Dignitaries recognized included former County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey, former Deputy County Administrator Pete Stiff, state legislators, county constitutional officers, and other community leaders. - Matt Harris, Deputy County Administrator for Administration and Finance, was thanked for serving as interim county administrator for the past two months. Oath of Office - Circuit Court Clerk Amanda Pohl administered the oath of office to Dr. Catlin, who placed his left hand on the family Bible. - During the oath, Chair Miller initially stated the term began "April 24th, 2026," then corrected himself to "August 24th, 2026," prompting a brief lighthearted exchange. - The oath concluded with "So help me God," and Dr. Catlin was congratulated. Chair Miller's Remarks - Chair Miller welcomed Dr. Catlin, his spouse Nate, and their daughter Beckett to Chesterfield. - He described the county administrator role as one of the most important positions in local government, requiring strong leadership, commitment to public service, and collaboration. - He noted the Board of Supervisors' unanimous support and confidence in Dr. Catlin's ability to build relationships and foster collaboration. County Administrator's Remarks - Dr. Catlin expressed elation and gratitude, acknowledging the Board, employees (whom he called "co-workers"), residents, and community partners. - He reflected on the history of the position: more than 50 years ago Melvin Burnett became the first County Administrator, and the role evolved from an earlier "executive secretary" position. Only 10 county administrators have served in a role dating back to the 1930s. - He praised Dr. Joe Casey, who took the same oath 10 years earlier, and Matt Harris for carrying the torch. - Dr. Catlin committed to serving with integrity, listening, learning, and collaborating, and to building trust "day by day, and brick by brick." - He vowed to ensure Chesterfield has the support and resources to continue its strong foundation and meet the needs of the diverse growing community. Key Outcomes - Dr. Kevin Catlin was officially sworn in as Chesterfield County Administrator for a term beginning August 24, 2026. - The ceremony adjourned to a reception in Room 502 of the County Administration Building. - The next Board of Supervisors meeting was scheduled for August 26, 2026, at 2 p.m. in Room 502.

PERSONNEL MATTERS 49% · PROCEDURAL 43% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 8%
07
AUG 18, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · PLANNING COMMISSION
Chesterfield County Planning Commission Work Session and Public Hearing – August 18, 2026

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission met on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 10001 Iron Bridge Road, Chesterfield, Virginia. The 4 p.m. work session was followed by a 6 p.m. public hearing. The Commission welcomed new Matoaca District Commissioner Chris Chapman and new Planning Director Steve Donahoe. It considered five rezoning/modification cases; one case was moved from the consent agenda to the discussion agenda after a citizen objected. All votes were unanimous, and approved cases were forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for final action. Work Session - The Commission approved the July 21, 2026 minutes by unanimous vote. - Mr. Donahoe reviewed the evening’s five cases: 24SN1194, 25SN1238, 25SN1332, 26SN2055, and 26SN2144. - Commissioner Chapman introduced himself; Director Donahoe noted his prior service as assistant director and previous role in Prince William County. Initiation of 18619 Hull Street Road Rezoning and Adjustments - Planning staff described a request for the Commission to initiate case 26PJ0010, a proposed rezoning of 3.75 acres from Agricultural (A) to Commercial Corridor (CC) with adjustments. The property owner intends to redevelop the site as an automobile repair facility; the property has a history of automobile-related uses. - Commissioner Chapman initiated the request. The Commission unanimously approved the initiation; staff will return with a formal staff report and recommendation in the coming months. Planning Commission Work Program Update - Staff reported that ZOMOD housekeeping map and text amendments approved by the Commission will be heard by the Board of Supervisors next week. A second round of amendments will be initiated in coming months to incorporate state law changes from the General Assembly. - The Comprehensive Plan update (PlanMod) is in its citizen outreach phase. Residents can comment on the draft plan text through ENCODE and on the draft land use map through the interactive story map. Library displays, county fair outreach, and digital tools were highlighted. Staff expects to bring a revised draft plan to the Commission in September for public hearing. Consent Calendar The following four cases were approved unanimously as consent items, subject to the conditions in the staff reports: - 24SN1194 – West Hundred Road Rezoning & Adjustments (Bermuda District): 0.46 acre at 3740 West Hundred Road, rezoned from Semi-Urban Neighborhood (SU) to Neighborhood Business (NB), with uses limited to office and massage clinic and adjustments to buffer and village overlay requirements. - 25SN1238 – Swift Creek Reserve Rezoning (Matoaca District): 37.2 acres at 6010 Cedar Springs Road, rezoned from Agricultural (A) to Semi-Rural Neighborhood (SR), allowing a maximum of 18 dwelling units on lots of at least 2 acres with private well and septic systems. - 26SN2055 – Gallimore Accessory Buildings Rezoning & Adjustments (Midlothian District): 0.45 acre at 12101 Old Buckingham Road, rezoned SC to SC with a setback reduction for a proposed detached garage and relief for two existing sheds to remain. - 26SN2144 – Rountrey Phase 5 Lot Coverage Modification & Amendment (Clover Hill District): 51.11 acres at 3101 Otterdale Road, increasing the lot coverage limitation from 30% to 50% and amending the prior approval to add right-of-way/easement dedication for the Otterdale Road crossing of Swift Creek. The agenda spells the case name as Rountrey; transcript spellings vary. Public Comments & Testimony - No one spoke during the first unscheduled citizen comment period. - During the consent agenda hearing, Abe Bennett (16013 Clotton Court) opposed 25SN1332, so the Commission removed that case to the discussion agenda. John and Gail, adjacent Cedar Springs residents, supported the Swift Creek Reserve rezoning but had questions about well and septic impacts; staff directed them to the case manager. - A commissioner noted a portal comment on the Rountrey project concerning possible runoff; it was entered into the record. - At the public hearing for 25SN1332, Abe Bennett opposed the project as proposed, citing loss of privacy: the proposed 35-foot buffer of deciduous trees would not screen his lot, and he asked for a 50–100 foot setback or preservation area. He said neighbors Molly and Todd Meader and Brandon and Ryan Holt would submit letters. He acknowledged the developer had reached out and planned a Friday site meeting. Jury Tornor said he was not opposed to the development but was skeptical of developer commitments, asked the county to enforce buffer preservation, and raised concern about the single-access subdivision. - In the second citizen comment period, Renee Eldred flagged a citizen comment portal submission about Comprehensive Plan amendments that appeared to be routed to zoning; staff confirmed such comments are routed to the comprehensive plan team and will be part of that record. Discussion Items - 25SN1332 – The Reserve Rezoning and Adjustments (Matoaca District): The requested rezoning covers 19.52 acres at 16200 Beach Road (the transcript reads 1620 Beach Road) from Agricultural (A) to Suburban Community (SC), with a maximum of 32 dwelling units at a density of 1.64 dwelling units per acre and a minimum lot area of 10,000 square feet. The plan includes a 35-foot HOA-maintained buffer along the north and east property lines adjoining Harper’s Mill, a pedestrian trail, and an adjustment to reduce the Beach Road buffer width to accommodate a county utility project. The applicant noted a support letter from several members of the adjacent subdivision. Applicant representative Ann Miller (Westwood Professional Services) and applicant Zach Lopinski (Shell Brothers) said the buffer was added after community feedback at a March 2026 meeting and exceeds ordinance requirements (no buffer is required between SC districts). They added that principal structures would be at least 60 feet from shared property lines, the 35-foot buffer would be owned and maintained by the HOA, and a second access was not required for 32 lots. After discussion, the Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval, subject to the conditions in the staff report. Key Outcomes - Approved the July 21, 2026 Planning Commission minutes unanimously. - Approved initiation of the 18619 Hull Street Road rezoning case unanimously. - Recommended approval of all five cases to the Board of Supervisors: four on the consent agenda and 25SN1332 following a public hearing. All votes were 5–0. - No postponements, withdrawals, or emergency agenda additions were requested. - The meeting adjourned to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.

ZONING AND LAND USE 43% · PROCEDURAL 18% · COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT 18% · LAND USE POLICY 9%
08
JUL 22, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Meeting - July 22, 2026

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held a work session and evening meeting on July 22, 2026. Key actions included approving a resolution to place a one percent local sales tax for school construction on the November ballot, receiving an update on the Shoosmith Landfill remediation, and approving a contract for the County Administrator. The board also recognized retiring employees, heard public comments on data centers and other issues, and acted on several zoning requests. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the June 24 meeting. - Approved the amended agenda, moving item 15 D (sales tax referendum) after item C (appointments). - Approved numerous consent items, including recognition of retirees (totaling 276 years of service), real property requests, contract awards (e.g., $11.4 million for Environmental Engineering Operations Center, $4 million for L.C. Bird Athletic Complex field improvements, $44.3 million for Dutch Gap Parkway and bridge), and authorization to add EMTs to enhanced hazardous duty retirement benefits. - Approved the consent agenda as amended. Public Comments & Testimony - Afternoon Session: - Kyle Woods expressed concerns about data center deals, citing a loophole that binds future boards via a grant-back clause, and requested an attorney general opinion, a commission on data center tax rates, and an end to NDAs and shell company deals. - Sager Marshall questioned whether Horton could use eminent domain for a road on his agricultural property, citing VDOT restrictions. - Jason Knapp (Democratic Congressional candidate) urged residents to submit comments on Google's federal permit for wetland impacts, emphasizing water and power use issues. - Evening Session: - Tyler Moody raised cybersecurity and privacy concerns about automated license plate readers. - Crew McEldery, age 11, opposed data centers, citing environmental impacts, water use, noise, and lack of transparency (NDAs). - Catherine McMahon delivered a petition with over 2,500 signatures demanding transparency and a moratorium on data centers, criticizing Google's open house format and calling for a real public hearing. - Courtney Bernhard discussed air pollution from data centers, citing DEQ violation notices and urging the county to require Tier 4 generator standards and public participation in air permitting. - Thomas Curl criticized the security presence at Google's open house, questioned unidentified armed individuals, and demanded accountability for eroded public trust. - Curtis Pollock warned of technocratic tyranny and data centers as surveillance infrastructure. - Brian Feyman criticized NDAs and called for a moratorium and audit of data center approvals. - Justin Goodman raised health concerns about EMF from transmission lines and data centers, alleging the county withheld information. - Amy Beth Mullen expressed feeling betrayed by NDAs, citing health impacts on children and water use issues. - Mike Carabinas provided technical analysis showing Google's proposed data centers could consume up to 1.9 GW, four times the county's average draw, and warned of an AI bubble. Discussion Items - Recognitions: The board honored retiring Sheriff's Office personnel (Major Donald Huff, Captain Levi Gholson, Master Deputy Patsy Dismuke) and other retirees (Kathy Novak, Barry White, Robin Jones, William Calliott, Greg Velzy, Melissa Ahern, Christian Wilkinson), as well as Judge Melissa Hoy. - Everyday Excellence: Melody and Lindsay Force, peer recovery specialists, were recognized for their work in addiction recovery. - Intern Recognition: 16 summer interns were introduced, with Kimberly Gonzales speaking on their contributions. - Finance Update & Sales Tax for Education: Staff presented the successful bond sale ($141 million at 3.62%, saving $20 million over 20 years) and proposed a one percent local sales tax for school construction. The tax would generate an estimated $65–70 million annually, with exemptions for groceries and personal care. It would fund six school projects (Dale and Old Hundred elementary relievers, Matoaca Middle School build-out, Midlothian Middle School, L.C. Bird gym, Thomas Dale campus improvements) and a major maintenance program. Proposed property tax rate offsets: a two-cent real estate reduction and a ten-cent personal property reduction. The resolution to petition the circuit court to put the referendum on the November ballot was approved (see Key Outcomes). - Consent Agenda Highlights – Construction Contracts: Projects included the Environmental Engineering Operations Center ($11.4M, estimated completion October 2027), L.C. Bird Athletic Complex field improvements ($4M), and Dutch Gap Parkway/bridge ($44.3M, three-year construction). Transportation project authorizations and SMART Scale project selections were also highlighted. - County Administration Update: Mr. Harris announced the launch of a data center information website (chesterfield.gov/datacenters), designed to improve transparency ahead of a structured presentation at the August board meeting. - Shoosmith Landfill Update: DEQ Director Mike Rollband provided an update on the closed landfill, which has elevated temperatures, leachate issues, and a 60-foot MSE berm. The berm has shown no movement in a June 2026 survey. The state budget allocated $10.6M for FY27, with additional potential funds. A collaborative committee with the trustee, county, and DEQ will work on a long-term solution, including leachate treatment and capping. The estimated 30-year cost is $173 million. DEQ is pursuing regulatory changes to prevent future incidents. - Employment Agreement for County Administrator: The board approved an employment agreement for Dr. Kevin Catlin, effective August 24, 2026. - Appointments: Christopher Chapman was appointed to the Planning Commission for the Matoaca District. - Zoning Requests: - 25SN1336 – McConnell Recreational Vehicle Parking (Bermuda): Deferred to August 26, 2026, to allow Supervisor Ingle to contact neighbors. - 26SN2058 – Old Gun Communications Tower (Midlothian): Approved with a condition requiring all carriers on the tower to annually submit FCC compliance documentation to the planning department. The 199-foot monopole will replace a 100-foot tower to improve coverage, especially for Robious Elementary/Middle School and Archer Springs (55+ community). - Other Zoning Cases Approved as Consent: 26SN2032 (Duval East lot coverage modification), 26SN2062 (Rathbun family day care home), 26SN2109 (Skippers Lawn Service renewal), 26SN2129 (Jennings family day care home renewal). - Public Hearings: - Ordinance creating the Sawmill Station Community Development Authority was approved. - Lease renewal for U.S. General Services Administration at the airport was approved. Key Outcomes - Sales Tax Referendum: The board voted unanimously to adopt a resolution requesting the Circuit Court to place a question on the November 2026 ballot authorizing a one percent local sales tax for school construction and major maintenance. The question will include a sunset of July 2046. A two-cent real estate rate reduction and a ten-cent personal property rate reduction are proposed if the tax is enacted. - Old Gun Tower Approval: Approved (moved by Supervisor Miller, seconded) with a condition requiring annual FCC compliance reporting by all carriers to the planning department. - McConnell RV Parking Deferred: Deferred to August 26, 2026, for further neighbor consultation. - Shoosmith Landfill: The state has committed $10.6M for FY27, with potential for additional funds. A collaborative approach with DEQ, the trustee, and Chesterfield County will develop a long-term remediation plan, including leachate treatment and capping. No cost burden is intended to fall solely on county taxpayers. - Data Center Transparency: A new website (chesterfield.gov/datacenters) was launched as a living repository of information. The board plans a structured presentation at the August 26 meeting, with a question portal. - Upcoming Meetings: Joint meeting with Camp Baker Management Board on July 30; County Administrator swearing-in on August 24; Next regular board meeting on August 26.

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION 13% · WATER AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT 12% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 10% · PROCEDURAL 9%
09
JUL 21, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · PLANNING COMMISSION
Chesterfield County Planning Commission Meeting - July 21, 2026

The Chesterfield County Planning Commission held a work session at 3 p.m. and a public hearing at 6 p.m. on July 21, 2026. The meeting included election of officers, a major update on the Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) project, initiation of a subdivision ordinance amendment, recognition of outgoing Planning Director Andy Gillies, and public hearings on multiple zoning and land use cases. Consent Calendar - Election of Officers: Commissioner Hardin was unanimously elected Chair, and Commissioner Petroski was unanimously elected Vice Chair for the remainder of 2026. - Addition to Agenda: Item 5B (Initiation of Subdivision Ordinance Amendment relative to Chapter 17.1-90) was added by unanimous vote. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from June 16, 2026 were unanimously approved. - Initiation of Subdivision Ordinance Amendment: The Commission initiated the amendment and set the public hearing for the 6 p.m. session (unanimous). - Historic Preservation Cases (26HP2157 & 26HP2168): Both cases requested removal of historic landmark designation from parcels while maintaining designation on the houses (George Perdue House and Perdue-Mitchell House). Staff recommended approval; the Commission voted unanimously to approve. - Consent Agenda Cases (after moving cases to discussion): The following cases were approved unanimously subject to staff conditions: - 24SN1350: East Hundred Road Self-Storage (conditional use for self-storage facility) - 26SN2068: 7-11 Convenience Store Amendment (modify permitted uses for gasoline sales) - 26SN2080: Charleston Landing Rezoning (rezoning to SU for 90 dwelling units) - 26SN2088: Womack Road Rezoning (rezoning to SU for 1 dwelling unit) Public Comments & Testimony - Work Session: No public comments on unscheduled matters. - Public Hearing (Citizen Comment Period): One portal comment was received regarding control of data centers; no one spoke in person. - Consent Agenda Public Hearing: Several citizens spoke requesting certain cases be moved to the discussion agenda: - Jerry Charmar expressed general opposition to lumping cases together on consent. - Robert Brown (2208 Point of Rocks Road) opposed the Elder Property Rezoning (25SN1354) citing infrastructure and traffic concerns; the case was moved to discussion. - A citizen spoke on Dominion Sycamore Springs Switching Station (26SN2139), noting community understanding of the need but questions about transformers and noise; the case was moved to discussion. - Another citizen clarified the status of Spring Creek Baptist Church case (already moved by Commissioner Sloan). - Spring Creek Baptist Church (25SN1184) Public Hearing: Three citizens spoke in opposition: - Ed Baumgartner (5501 Grandin Ave) cited construction traffic concerns, drainage impacts on wetlands, architectural inconsistency with existing neighborhood, and strain on HOA amenities. - Chris Bobber (Hidden Falls Drive) expressed concerns about the buffer being potentially clear-cut and requested preservation of trees. - Mark Staver (Winding Waters Drive) raised issues about property value impact, construction traffic routing, retention pond maintenance, buffer width, and lack of enforcement of construction restrictions. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) Update (26PJ0006): Staff presented Draft One of the updated comprehensive plan. Key points included: - Consolidation of chapters (from 16 to 13), including merging transportation and bikeways into one chapter. - Proposed 9.6% decrease in residential density countywide, especially south and west of Route 288 to preserve rural character. - Updated transportation thoroughfare plan: elimination of several new road alignments and downgrading of many arterials to collectors due to reduced traffic projections from lower residential densities. - Updated bikeways and trails plan with a 500-mile vision network and prioritization framework. - Land use plan changes: 10 major focus areas, including reductions in regional mixed-use designations, adjustments to preserve rural character, and new plan notes (e.g., encouraging mixed-use in Roseland overlay). - Interactive Story Map tool for public engagement, allowing residents to view proposed changes and submit location-specific comments. - Community engagement schedule: library office hours (July 30–Sep 1), virtual and in-person community meetings, billboard advertising, and displays at libraries. - Timeline: public engagement through August, Commission work session in September, public hearing in October, Board of Supervisors hearing in December 2026. - Subdivision Ordinance Amendment (Chapter 17.1-90): Initiated to align street naming authority from Environmental Engineering to Planning Department, in conjunction with a Chapter 16 amendment. Unanimously initiated and public hearing held later. - Work Program Update: Steve Hosh reported on upcoming code amendments (housekeeping items, second round of ZOMOD amendments, Chapter 16/17 amendments). - Recognition of Director Andy Gillies: The Commission adopted a resolution recognizing Mr. Gillies' 9 years of service (2017–2026), during which he presided over 112 meetings and guided 780 zoning cases. Commissioners and staff praised his leadership, team culture, and achievements (ZOMOD, PlanMod). The resolution passed unanimously. - Spring Creek Baptist Church Rezoning (25SN1184): Staff recommended approval. Applicant Dave Anderson (Timmins Group) presented the proposal for 12 homes on 7.45 acres, emphasizing infill development, construction access restrictions, and design compatibility. The public hearing was held with opposition; the transcript ends before a vote, so the Commission's decision is not recorded in the available material. Key Outcomes - Elections: Chair (Hardin) and Vice Chair (Petroski) elected unanimously. - PlanMod Update: Staff presented Draft One; public engagement begins July 30. Commission will reconvene in September to review feedback. - Subdivision Ordinance Amendment: Initiated and public hearing held; awaiting further Board action. - Historic Preservation Cases: Approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Four cases approved unanimously after three cases were moved to discussion. - Recognition of Andy Gillies: Resolution adopted unanimously. - Spring Creek Baptist Church: Public hearing held; vote not recorded in available transcript. The case remains pending from this meeting.

ZONING AND LAND USE 32% · LAND USE POLICY 21% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 12% · PROCEDURAL 9%
10
JUN 24, 2026 · CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VIRGINIA · BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Meeting - June 24, 2026

The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held a combined 2 p.m. work session and 6 p.m. evening session on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The meeting included retirements and special recognitions, annual departmental updates, a finance and state budget briefing, multiple citizen comment periods, zoning approvals, public hearings on eminent domain and ordinance changes, and the confirmation of a new county administrator. Work Session: Retirees and Everyday Excellence - The Board recognized retiring employees, with Dr. Casey noting 369 years of combined service among those honored, including Karen Aylward, Charles Knowles Jr., Janice Herron, William Yates, Laura Nelson, Roger Slate, Rebecca Summers, Scott Peach, Bryan Dewell, Amy Knight, David Watson, David Sawyer, and Thomas Spivey. - The Parks and Recreation Special Events team, led by Vicky Kiger, received the Everyday Excellence recognition for expanding events, including growing from one to five Christmas tree lightings and hosting large community gatherings. Parks and Recreation Annual Update - Marley Smith and Neil Luther presented the annual update: 125 youth attended 4-H camp, 960 campers registered for 10 summer camps with more than 600 youth on waiting lists, and one camp sold out in two minutes. Inclusion services expanded by 50%, and 46 youth scholarships were awarded; camps average $75 per week. - The new River City park drew 15,000 visitors in its opening week, up from 7,500 the prior week. July 4th planning includes a new traffic and pedestrian plan with parking up to a mile away, and a first-in-Virginia partnership with Pocahontas State Park for Outdoor Fest on September 26. - Capital projects include field renovations at multiple complexes, Horner Park community park design, Falling Creek boat access, Henricus deferred maintenance ($700,000 spent), and a proposed Brown and Williamson conservation area rename (Enon Bluffs or Bermuda Hundred Park), with Google gifting $550,000 toward design. - The county maintains 67 parks and mows roughly 44,000 acres of grass seasonally. Adult and Juvenile Probation Services Update - Commonwealth's Attorney Aaron Barr, 12th District Court Services Director William Stanley, Juvenile Justice Services Director Michelle Smith, Community Correction Services Director Gary Hughes, and Treatment Court Administrator Sahib Brown presented a collaborative update. - Juvenile detention had 291 admissions in FY25 with an average daily population of 25-30; community-based programs saw over 500 placements; the Davis Children's Advocacy Center completed 281 forensic interviews and 217 therapy sessions. - Adult community supervision averages about 2,600-2,700 individuals. A new behavioral health integrated services team had screened roughly 40 individuals as appropriate since launch, with 15 ordered to the program. - Treatment courts have served over 700 individuals since 2000; the veterans treatment court has had 22 entrants and 8 graduates since 2023. - Supervisor Dr. Hylton raised transportation access concerns for program participants, noting one participant rode a bike 17 miles to treatment, and urged improved public transportation. Finance Update - A bond sale update: staff met with four credit rating agencies; consent resolutions authorize general obligation bonds for school capital projects and revenue bonds for school major maintenance and county facility modernization, with pricing and closing expected by August 13. - County year-end projects a net surplus of about $4.2 million (about 4.4% of the revised general fund budget); schools project about $8.3 million surplus. State bonus monies will be rolled forward pending a plan. - The state budget conference report was released June 19 and approved by the General Assembly on June 22. Highlights include $24.4 million for K-12 rebenchmarking, $14.3 million for the 4% teacher salary increase (state funding covers only about 1.6%), a 3.5% raise for other state employees, $10.6 million for Shoesmith landfill (enough to fund capping, leachate hauling, and pretreatment engineering through June 30, 2027), and a 1% sales tax for school construction with a 105-day election timeline that staff said makes a November referendum impossible. - Finance staff received the GFOA Triple Crown Award for the fifth consecutive year. 2026 General Assembly Legislation - Mr. Minks reviewed mandatory and optional legislative changes: manufactured housing, temporary wireless facilities, solar canopies, EV parking, suicide fatality review teams, penny discontinuation, organic waste, eight affordable housing bills, a FOIA change barring final action on items added after a meeting begins, and an SCC pilot program for underground electric transmission lines. - Staff recommended studying most items and returning with reports. Reports and Work Session Close - The Board approved the reports without questions. Afternoon Citizen Comment Period - Justin Goodman of James River Drive reported an induced-voltage electric shock at a park near transmission lines, alleged the county has not posted warnings, and strongly criticized the Shoesmith landfill situation, saying county leaders have "turned a blind eye." - Rachel Rosado opposed data centers, citing water consumption (up to five million gallons per day per facility), toxic wastewater, air pollution, and roughly 1,300 projected premature deaths nationwide by 2030. - Carolyn DeFleece supported data center development overall but asked whether the county can reevaluate water sources, specifically drawing from the James River rather than Swift Creek Reservoir, which she said is forecast to sustain the area for only 50 more years. Closed Session - The Board held a closed session under Virginia Code sections related to real estate acquisition/disposition, public investment, and economic development information. Evening Session: Administration Update and Board Reports - Steve Donahoe was introduced as the new Planning Director, effective immediately, and thanked the Board. - Board members reported on Fire Station One groundbreaking, Leadership Metro Richmond, the Chesterfield NAACP Freedom Fund Gala, the new Westbridge High School topping out (135,000 square feet?; $135 million investment, 340,000 square feet, opening August 2027), the Falling Creek Police precinct topping out, and Google's $50 million skilled-trades training commitment. Resolutions and Special Recognitions - The Board recognized 2026 Senior Volunteer Hall of Fame inductees John Hilliard Jr., David Lipp, and Edith Lumpkin; 12 nominees contributed over 137,000 hours of service after age 60. - The Board remembered former Matoaca District Supervisor E. Merlin O'Neill Sr., presenting a county flag and letter to his family. - Retirement resolutions passed for Ellis H. Britton (30 years, Fire and EMS), Joseph Duty (26 years, Real Property), and Katherine Duke (35 years, Utilities). Commemorative bricks were presented. - The Police Department, Sheriff's Office, and Fire and EMS presented shadow boxes to outgoing County Administrator Joseph P. Casey, Ph.D., and the Board adopted a resolution honoring his decade of service. New Business: Claim, New County Administrator, Appointments - The Board denied the claim of Pocoshock, LLC alleging inverse condemnation related to reservoir dredging. County Attorney Jeff Minks recommended denial, stating the county had full easement rights. Attorney Henry Howell, representing the claimant, argued the 1958 easement was for water supply only and the dredging converted the reservoir into a stormwater facility. The Board voted to deny the claim, with Vice Chair Carroll noting the matter should be decided by a judge. - The Board confirmed Dr. Kevin Catlin as the new County Administrator, effective August 24, 2026. - The Board appointed an interim County Administrator and made appointments to the Community Criminal Justice Board, Community Transportation Advisory Committee, Economic Development Authority, First Tee of Greater Richmond, Richmond Metropolitan Transportation Authority, and Social Services Board. Consent Agenda - The consent agenda was approved, including: retirement resolutions; bond authorizations; acceptance of a Bellwood Road parcel; an easement conveyance to Virginia Electric and Power Company at Falling Creek Ironworks Park; roundabout projects (Salem Church Road and Kingsland Road, about $9 million; Chester Road and Hamlin Creek Parkway, about $13 million) with about $5 million in state funding; the Route 60 sidewalk project (just under $5 million); FY2026 year-end adjustments; a VDEM 9-1-1 call handling equipment grant; and public hearings set for July 22, 2026, including the Sawmill Station Community Development Authority ordinance and a GSA lease at the airport. Evening Citizen Comment Period - Lisa Thompson demanded a community meeting with Google, asked how Google would prevent noise, water, and air harms and pay for its own energy needs, and referenced Shoesmith as an example of failed oversight. - Carrie McAvoy, a Virginia Council on Environmental Justice appointee, urged a moratorium on data center approvals until cumulative impacts are analyzed; she said a transparency petition has gathered more than 2,000 signatures. - Mike Uzel (Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government) criticized county silence on the Shoesmith landfill and said elected officials should not operate under NDAs. - William Shoemake, a Midlothian resident, suggested the county study a leachate evaporation system using Shoesmith's methane gas as a lower-cost remediation option. - Jerry Turner pressed for the Spring Rock/Springline crosswalk project, citing the death of Josanne Basil, and urged the county to move forward promptly. - Renee Eldred said citizens bear responsibility to attend public meetings, noting the data center zoning cases were approved 13 months ago with no opposition speakers that night; she criticized rising state stormwater fees and the rehab ordinance red tape. - Sarah Widener argued the Board is elected to represent citizens, not just defer to legal compliance, and asked the Board to use zoning conditions and environmental laws to protect neighborhoods from data center impacts. - Leah McEldery, speaking on her birthday, demanded transparency and asked the Board to "say no to data centers," questioning why large data center approvals lack the same visibility as smaller residential cases. - Victoria Sagstadter, who lives near the proposed 880-acre Google site, raised concerns about diesel generator use, noise, air quality, and the school impacts for her three children. Zoning Requests - Case 23SN0072 (Midlothian Microtel) was deferred to the August 26, 2026, Board meeting. - Consent zoning approvals: 24SN1345 (Butler setback and buffer exception, Clover Hill); 25SN1121 (RaceTrac at Ruffin Mill, Bermuda, with one speaker opposing truck access); 25SN1315 (Richardson farm animals/goats, Matoaca); 26SN2022 (Southside Baptist Church child day care, Dale); 26SN2049 (Muthusubramanian accessory dwelling unit, Midlothian); and 26SN2066 (Wood Agricultural rezoning, Midlothian), which downsizes a former data center parcel back to agriculture and adds buffering. - Case 25SN1153 (Marlbank Farms, Matoaca) was a discussion item: 302 single-family lots on 213 acres at 1.42 dwelling units per acre, reducing the 2006 entitlement of 330 homes. Several residents opposed the density, traffic, stormwater, and loss of rural character. The applicant noted 25% age-targeted units, a conservation easement, road widening, and a crosswalk. The Board approved the rezoning subject to staff conditions, but struck the proffered sewer line easement condition after Vice Chair Carroll argued removing it would make future development of surrounding land less feasible. Public Hearings - A. Centerpointe Parkway Extension eminent domain: Approved. Staff reported two of three parcels settled and a verbal agreement on the third (an apartment complex awaiting lender approval). One speaker opposed eminent domain generally. - B. Western Area Infrastructure Improvements (Duval Road) eminent domain: Approved. Nine of 13 parcels settled; four remain across two owners (Main Street Homes and Mr. Gill). Staff said Main Street Homes is seeking additional concessions, including paying for a water line extension. - C. Chapter 8 Stormwater Management and Water Quality ordinance amendments: Approved. Amendments reflect state-mandated rate adjustments effective July 1, 2026, funding two part-time to full-time conversions. - D. Sawmill Station Community Development Authority: Public hearing held for comment only; the ordinance will come back at the July 22, 2026, meeting. - E. Electric transmission line setbacks: Approved with an inline amendment to allow utilities in the 100-foot setback only where vegetation is not removed. The amendment applies to new easements recorded after the effective date. - F. Rehabilitation Ordinance (County Code Sections 9-29 through 9-32): Approved. Changes include a $500,000 residential value cap, streamlined application, and strengthened review protocols. One speaker called for scrapping the program due to low usage. - G. Dissolution of the Centerpointe-Charter Colony Service District: Approved. Funds already collected will continue to be used for prescribed district purposes, but Vice Chair Carroll clarified they cannot be redirected to sidewalks. - H. T-Mobile Northeast LLC lease amendment at the Bon Air Tower: Approved. The lease extends five years with four additional five-year renewals; rent rises to $41,976.15 plus 15% each renewal term, with half paid to the Department of Juvenile Justice. Key Outcomes - Dr. Kevin Catlin confirmed as County Administrator effective August 24, 2026; an interim County Administrator was appointed. - The Pochock, LLC inverse condemnation claim was denied. - All consent items and zoning/public hearing items were approved on voice votes with no recorded dissent, except where noted. - Staff will schedule a follow-up school appropriation work session and bring back state bonus monies and salary-impact details in July or August. - Board members agreed to request Google hold community meetings to explain data center plans, and the county communications team will publicize the public process, proffers, and protections already in place for data center approvals. - The next regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors meeting is July 22, 2026, at 2 p.m. in Room 502 of the County Administration Building.

ZONING AND LAND USE 16% · PERSONNEL MATTERS 11% · PARKS AND RECREATION 9% · PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT 8%
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