The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held a special ceremony on June 22, 2026, at the Historic 1917 Courthouse to announce the selection of Dr. Kevin Catlin as the county's next administrator. The event featured remarks from outgoing County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey, Board Chair Dr. Mark Miller, and the incoming administrator. Dr. Catlin will assume the role on August 24, 2026, succeeding Dr. Casey, who served for a decade. Ceremony Overview - The meeting was called to order at 12:00 PM. Dave Good, Director of Constituent Media Services, introduced the event and thanked various departments and the Board of Supervisors for their efforts in recruiting the new administrator. - Board members present included Chair Mark Miller (Midlothian District), Vice Chair Kevin Carroll (Matoaca District), Jim Ingle (Bermuda District), Jessica Schneider (Clover Hill District), and Dr. LeQuan Hylton (Dale District). Remarks by Outgoing County Administrator Dr. Joe Casey - Dr. Casey expressed gratitude for his 10 years of service and thanked the board for their thorough search process. He acknowledged his family and committed to supporting the transition. He humorously noted that he and the new administrator wear the same shoe size. Remarks by Board Chair Dr. Mark Miller - Dr. Miller recognized special guests, including former county officials and school board members. He thanked Dr. Casey for providing six months' notice, allowing a seamless search. He highlighted the board's collaborative recruitment and introduced Dr. Kevin Catlin as the next county administrator. Remarks by Incoming County Administrator Dr. Kevin Catlin - Dr. Catlin thanked the board and community for their warm welcome. He praised Dr. Casey's legacy of building a culture of trust, engagement, and accountability. He emphasized his commitment to stewardship, listening, and supporting employees and residents. Dr. Catlin noted that Chesterfield's success is rooted in its people. Key Outcomes - Dr. Kevin Catlin was officially introduced as Chesterfield County's new county administrator, effective August 24, 2026. - The board and attendees thanked Dr. Joe Casey for his decade of dedicated service and leadership. - The ceremony concluded with an invitation for fellowship and refreshments.
Public Meetings - Chesterfield County, Virginia
Public Meetings - Chesterfield County, VirginiaThe Chesterfield County Planning Commission convened on June 16, 2026, for a 3 p.m. work session, a 4 p.m. public meeting, and a 6 p.m. public hearing. The commission acted on a comprehensive plan update, a master plan for Southside Speedway, a general housekeeping code amendment, and ten zoning cases, along with several deferrals. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 19, 2026 approved (3-0). - Initiation of Zoning District Map Amendments for 6 additional properties (26PJ0007) approved for a future public hearing (3-0). - Consent Cases Approved (3-0): Duval East Lot Coverage Modification (26SN2032), Skippers Lawn Service Renewal (26SN2109), and Jennings Family Day Care Home (26SN2129), subject to staff conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - McConnell RV Parking (25SN1336): Applicant Kevin McConnell stated 16 neighbors were polled with no objections. Citizen Jury Turner spoke in opposition, arguing approval would set an undesirable precedent. Renee Eldred suggested a condition requiring the RV to be parked closer to the house if approved. - Old Gun Communications Tower (26SN2058): 24 letters of opposition and 2 of support were received. Lizzie Hogg (resident and Realtor) argued a 20% property value decrease was possible. Jan Schlesinger (HOA President, Archer Springs) cited public safety risks from poor coverage. Stephen Fanshaw (Verizon employee, parent) highlighted risks at Robious Elementary. Ginny Castle raised health concerns over radio frequency sickness. - Rathbun Family Day Care Home (26SN2062): 7 letters of support and 1 of opposition were received. Citizen Jury Turner supported the request due to the presence of a fenced-in back yard. - Code Amendment (26PJ0007): Citizen Renee Eldred questioned the definition and residential placement of crisis receiving centers and the lack of a grace period before the automatic withdrawal of inactive applications. - Unscheduled Comment Periods: No speakers were present. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) Update: Staff presented updates to the Community Facilities and Revitalization chapters. The plan aligns with the CIP and the Community Enhancement Department's structure. A public hearing is expected in October. - Southside Speedway Master Site Plan (26PR2143): Approved (3-0). Commissioner Petroski emphasized the need for the project to fulfill its long-term vision beyond initial phases of a racetrack and parking lot. - McConnell RV Parking (25SN1336): Staff recommended denial. The Commission recommended denial (3-0), finding the lot's narrow configuration on a cul-de-sac could not mitigate the visual impact of a 40-foot RV. - Old Gun Communications Tower (26SN2058): Staff recommended approval (3-0) despite a 269-ft setback from a dwelling (standard is 300 ft), citing substantial mitigating vegetation from existing trees. Commissioner Petrosky supported the taller 199-foot tower, prioritizing public safety coverage for 55+ communities and schools. He also directed staff to explore a policy requiring balloon tests for future tall structure applications. - Rathbun Family Day Care Home (26SN2062): Staff recommended approval (3-0). The applicant accepted modified conditions limiting capacity to 8 children (down from the typical 12 allowed by ordinance) and adjusted hours to mitigate neighborhood traffic concerns. - Code Amendment - General Housekeeping (26PJ0007): Staff presented the first scheduled update to the zoning ordinance, including state-mandated changes for manufactured homes, solar facilities, and parking. The Commission recommended approval (3-0). Staff agreed to consider a notice period before the automatic withdrawal of inactive applications. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Southside Speedway Master Plan; Deferrals of 5 cases to July 21; Consent Agenda (3 cases); Old Gun Tower; Rathbun Day Care; Code Amendment. - Denial: McConnell RV Parking (recommendation of denial forwarded to the Board of Supervisors). - Administrative Actions: Staff directed to explore a balloon test policy for tall structure applications; staff agreed to consider incorporating a notice period for automatic application withdrawals. - Recognition: Senior Deputy County Attorney Rob Robinson honored with a resolution for his 28 years of service (1998-2026), including attendance at 321 planning commission meetings.
The Chesterfield County Planning Commission met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, holding a 2 p.m. work session, a 4 p.m. public meeting, and a 6 p.m. public hearing at 10001 Iron Bridge Road, Chesterfield, Va. The commission received updates on state legislation, PlanMod, and ZoMod; reviewed the Southside Speedway master plan; approved consent items; and recommended approval of the Marlbank Farms rezoning. All recorded votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the Planning Commission minutes from April 21, 2026. - Unanimously approved the public hearing consent agenda with conditions and proffers in the staff reports for the following cases: 24SN1345 Butler Setback and Buffer Exception; 25SN1121 RaceTrac at Ruffin Mill Rezoning and Adjustments; 25SN1315 Richardson Farm Animals; 26SN2022 Southside Baptist Church Child Day Care; 26SN2049 Muthusubramanian Accessory Dwelling Unit; 26SN2066 Wood Agricultural Rezoning; and 23SN0072 Midlothian Microtel. Public Comments & Testimony - Southside Speedway (26PR2143): Renee Eldred opposed approval of the master plan as submitted, saying it was not a real master plan, lacked detail, and would not be accepted from any other applicant. - Consent agenda (25SN1121 RaceTrac): Jerry Turner objected to the case being changed at the last minute from a truck stop to a gas station. Staff responded that the case substance and proffers had not changed; the addendum corrected the advertised case description to a gas station with accessory tractor-trailer fueling. - Marlbank Farms (25SN1153): Multiple speakers opposed the proposal or urged denial. Derek Hines said the community overwhelmingly opposed it and claimed the rezoning was driven by a need to obtain two lots for sewer access. Andrea Pulley cited the loss of rural way of life, high water table, wildlife, and lack of infrastructure. Karen Bourgeois cited traffic, unsafe road crossings, lack of nearby services, and wildlife habitat. Linda Kidd Fleshman, a 53-year resident, opposed density, traffic, noise, overcrowded schools, runoff, wildlife loss, and lighting. Brenda Webster cited traffic and left-turn safety on Sandy Ford Road. Rusty Sowers said 302 homes would mean at least 302 more cars and stressed school capacity concerns. Joseph Purdue cited shrink-swell blue marl clay soil, berm feasibility problems, water and sewer concerns, and school capacity. Elizabeth Goodman asked for the conservation area width and raised concerns about wells, livestock, Big Branch Creek flooding, and traffic. Jerry Turner said the county was overbuilding and overburdening infrastructure. - No speakers appeared during the first or second unscheduled citizen comment periods. Discussion Items Work Session – General Assembly Update - Intergovernmental Relations staff reported that the 2026 General Assembly session ran January 14 through March 14, 2026, ended without a budget, and remained in special session. The governor had signed 1,127 bills, accepted 137 bills with her amendments, vetoed 10 bills, and faced a May 23 deadline for remaining bills. - Staff reported that by-right multifamily bills SB 454 and HB 816 failed, and a statewide housing targets bill requiring 7.5% housing stock growth over five years also failed. - The Faith in Housing legislation, SB 388 and HB 1279, was signed into law. It requires localities to allow by-right development on qualifying tax-exempt religious or 501(c)(3) property, with at least 60% of units affordable at 80% or less of area median income and affordability preserved for at least 30 years. The law is delayed to July 1, 2027, and sunsets January 1, 2031. - Other signed legislation included HB 1212, requiring localities with a population of 50,000 or more to adopt a small lot ordinance with lots no larger than 3,000 square feet, and a statewide expansion of inclusionary zoning permissibility effective July 1, 2027. The governor vetoed the collective bargaining bill. The cannabis retail market bill was still pending, with possible action by May 23. - In response to commissioner questions about ADU legislation, staff discussed a state law effective July 1, 2027, requiring ADUs by right as accessory to single-family dwellings, with local size caps and no familial-relationship requirement. Staff recalled approximate caps of 350 square feet on lots under 2,500 square feet and 500 square feet on lots over 5,000 square feet. Commissioners raised concerns about uncontrolled density, use as rental income, and interaction with the county's existing ADU ordinance. Work Session – PlanMod Update (26PJ0006) - Staff presented the community engagement plan for Comprehensive Plan Modernization. The draft is scheduled to be publicly released in June and July, with active engagement running from late July through September, a Planning Commission public hearing in October, and a Board of Supervisors public hearing in December. Engagement tactics include library displays, office hours in each magisterial district, event tabling, virtual and in-person community meetings, and a DIY virtual meeting. - Staff presented affordable housing data: about one in four county households is cost burdened; 17% of owner households and 44% of renter households are cost burdened; 46% of households have incomes below area median income, including 39% of owners and 70% of renters. Between 2018 and 2023, owner incomes grew 26% while renter incomes grew 12%. The Richmond MSA area median income is $113,000, and Chesterfield County's median income is $101,000. - Proposed plan strategies include affordable housing distributed countywide, ADUs, smaller lots and clustering, inclusionary zoning and incentives, senior housing, manufactured housing, partnerships with nonprofits, expansion of the housing services fund, and development of an affordable dwelling unit ordinance. Work Session – ZoMod Proposed Code Amendments (26PJ0007) - Staff reviewed the first major housekeeping amendment to the zoning ordinance adopted in September 2025. State-mandated changes effective July 1, 2026 include manufactured homes by right wherever stick-built homes are allowed, with conversion to real property and a five-year age limit; solar facility condition limits; temporary telecommunications support structures; accessory battery storage tied to solar facilities; and parking reductions near transit facilities. - The parking legislation, HB 888, sets reduced minimums within half a mile of a mass transit or public transportation facility: one space per dwelling unit for single-family, duplex, and townhouse dwellings, and one-half space per dwelling unit for multifamily or mixed-use residential. Localities cannot require or accept proffers exceeding those minimums. Outside transit areas, localities may establish an administrative 20% parking reduction. - Other proposed changes include reducing the semi-urban corner side-yard setback from 25 feet to 7.5 feet, removing by-right multifamily along Route One, clarifying outside storage in the warehouse and distribution district at 50% of site acreage, regulating shipping containers, clarifying RPA buffer rules, exempting solar facilities from paved parking and driveway requirements, and automatically withdrawing stale zoning and site-plan applications after one year of inactivity. - Commissioner concerns led staff to remove the proposed crisis receiving center from the package and to defer mobile food vending and commercial vehicle parking changes, likely to a November housekeeping amendment. The zoning ordinance housekeeping amendment is scheduled for a June Planning Commission public hearing and an August Board of Supervisors hearing. Work Session – Work Program Update - Staff reviewed upcoming work: PlanMod remains the major project, with community facilities, revitalization, and possible transportation chapter items coming in June and July; transmission line setback and self-storage conditional use items are scheduled for the Board of Supervisors next week; and the ZoMod housekeeping amendment will be prepared for June. The commission also welcomed new staff member Morgan Chandler. Public Meeting – Southside Speedway Master Plan (26PR2143) - The 4 p.m. session considered the Southside Speedway master plan. The agenda listed the site as 41 acres at 12800 Genito Road; the staff presentation referenced approximately 47 acres at 12800 Genito Road and 2802 Oak Lake Boulevard. The applicant, Competitive Racing Investments, needs Planning Commission approval of the master plan under its lease with Chesterfield Economic Development. - The plan includes re-establishing the racetrack, pit areas, parking, a maintenance building, overflow parking, and a proposed gas station and convenience store south of Genito Road. Staff found the uses generally consistent with the Genito Road/Route 288 Special Focus Area Plan and recommended approval, with additional design details to be addressed at future zoning or site plan review. - Commissioners raised concerns about parking capacity, parking math, and the safety of event attendees crossing Genito Road. Applicant representative Jeff Oakley said the proposal is phase one, about 800 parking spaces are available today, crossings would be police-controlled, and future phases could include hotels, restaurants, and other complementary uses. - The commission unanimously deferred the decision to June 16, 2026, asking for more detail and direct discussions with the applicant. Public Hearing – Marlbank Farms Residential Rezoning and Adjustments (25SN1153) - Staff presented a proposal to rezone 212.99 acres at 5700 Hickory Road from Suburban Community to Semi-Urban Neighborhood on 88.33 acres and Semi-Rural Neighborhood on 124.66 acres, with a maximum of 302 single-family dwelling units and an overall density of 1.42 units per acre. The property already carries an approved 2006 zoning entitlement allowing 330 units at 1.57 units per acre, so the proposal would reduce the maximum by 28 units. - The applicant requested adjustments, including relief from a shared-use path along Hickory Road and permission for a parallel utility easement within a required buffer. Staff recommended approval, citing Comprehensive Plan compliance and quality design, but noted an inconsistency between the conceptual plan and the proffered unit count, with the proffer controlling. - The applicant's representative, Jeff Geiger, said the plan clusters homes, preserves conservation areas, reduces density from the existing entitlement, improves road safety, provides stormwater controls, and creates a 50-foot landscaped buffer with a berm along Hickory Road. - Utilities staff confirmed adequate sewer capacity for lots served by public sewer and adequate water capacity from an existing 16-inch water line. The northern portion of the development would be served by septic systems, and engineered systems would be needed if soils do not perk. - Commissioners acknowledged strong community opposition but said the existing 330-unit entitlement left no legal basis for denial. The commission unanimously recommended approval to the Board of Supervisors, subject to conditions and proffers. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 21, 2026 Planning Commission minutes unanimously. - Deferred Southside Speedway Master Plan (26PR2143) to June 16, 2026, by unanimous vote. - Deferred Spring Creek Baptist Church rezoning (25SN1184) to June 16, 2026, by unanimous vote. - Approved the consent agenda cases unanimously, including the RaceTrac case with the addendum. - Recommended approval of Marlbank Farms (25SN1153) to the Board of Supervisors unanimously. - The next Planning Commission meeting was scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors convened on April 22, 2026, for a full-day session beginning with a 2 p.m. work session followed by a 6 p.m. evening business meeting. The agenda encompassed the Planning Commission and Police Department annual reports, an extensive environmental stewardship update, a Virginia State University update, recognition of distinguished staff members, multiple public hearings, and a consent agenda with over a dozen transportation and infrastructure items. The board also held a 15-day closed session to continue interviews for the county administrator position. Consent Calendar Highlights - Adopted resolutions recognizing retiring staff, the 70th anniversary of Bermuda Hundred United Methodist Church, and policies for Design-Build/Construction Management contracting. - Approved participation in the proposed settlement of opioid-related claims. - Issued resolutions of support for speed cushions on Pocono Drive and North Pinetta Drive. - Accepted a parcel of land adjacent to Perrymont Road (pulled for individual vote) and East West Road. - Approved the Early Settlers Road Sidewalk Project ($2 million), the Powhite Parkway Extension Phase II design ($8 million federal funding), and the Courthouse Road Extension Project. - Authorized proceeding with the Reams Road Sidewalk and Mistywood Road Pedestrian Crossing project. - Set public hearings for May 27 on the Meadowville wastewater pump station lease, FY2027-2032 Secondary Road Six-Year Plan, transmission line setbacks ordinance, and the local animal cruelty registry. - Recognized retirements: Captain Bryce C. Ford (Fire/EMS, 26 years), Lori Gale (Community Enhancement, 37 years), Brad Badgerow (Police, 33 years), Corporal Ronnie D. Robinson (Police, 16 years). Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry Turner (Citizen): Expressed concern over the Route 60 pedestrian improvement project (Spring Rock Green to Rutherford Road), stating construction was anticipated for 2024 with secured funds but none has occurred. Urged the county to audit the funds. Also commented on the Beaufront Spring Drive connection. - During zoning hearings, urged the board to require public sidewalks on county streets alongside new developments and advocated for changing code to allow six-foot fences in residential backyards without special board approval. - Renee Eldred (Citizen): Raised concerns about inconsistent enforcement and conditions for fence height adjustments. Noted the Happy Hill parcels share the same address, requesting correction. - Sharon Stewart Murphy (Happy Hill Road Property Owner): Expressed profound gratitude to Supervisor Jim Ingle, Commissioner Sloan, and staff for finally resolving a 61-year-old property split and rezoning issue for her family's land (purchased 1885). - Robious Road Applicant: Requested clarity on the deferral reason, noting full staff and planning commission recommendation. - Dorsey Acres Applicant: Explained the high cost (over $500,000) of extending public water and sewer across a railroad and major road, supporting the request for utility exceptions to use private well/septic for four proposed residential lots. Work Sessions and Reports Planning Commission Annual Report Andy Gillies highlighted the adoption of ZOMOD and the Subdivision Ordinance in 2025. - Process: 247 official zoning opinions led to 139 pre-application meetings and 109 formal applications. Of 91 zoning actions, 86 were recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. Supervisor Ingle emphasized the rigorous process, noting that only about 20% of filed cases receive final approval from the Board. - Residential Mix: A notable shift was reported: 34% Single Family, 31% Townhomes, 35% Multifamily, moving towards more owner-occupied product. - Plan MOD: Upcoming modernization of the Comprehensive Plan. Staff emphasized the need for public input on the future vision for land use and density. - Community Engagement: 95+ community meetings held on code and plan updates. Police Department Annual Update Colonel Carpenter and Lieutenant Colonel Gloth reported on 2025. - Calls for Service: 218,000 calls, 5,053 crashes (20 fatal), 24,000 summonses, 970 DUIs. - Staffing: 45 sworn officer vacancies below authorized strength of 608 (target 650). Police Service Aides handled 12,594 calls, acting as a pipeline for sworn roles. - Technology: Achieved CALEA Tri-arch accreditation. Implemented real-time BWC feeds. ALPR program contributed to solving 16 homicides and recovering 365 vehicles since inception. - Animal Services: 9,931 calls handled. New 30,000 sq. ft. animal shelter under construction (triple the current size, housing 134 dogs, 120 cats), expected Fall 2026. - Crime: Crime decreased year-over-year. Homicides rose to 20 (16 cleared by arrest). Four homicides resulted from neglect of vulnerable adults/children. - Dr. Hilton requested future data on police responses to medical calls to fully capture their life-saving role. Environmental Stewardship Update A multi-departmental presentation highlighted county environmental efforts. - Land Preservation: 19,000 acres preserved in the county (equivalent to half the area of Richmond). - Water Quality: $9.3 million contract requested for phosphorus removal upgrades at Falling Creek WWTP to meet a 60% stricter state discharge limit. 372,000 pounds of phosphorus are removed annually from the James River watershed. - Parks & Athletics: 84 million gallons of water used annually on 105 irrigated athletic fields. Rockwood Park's new synthetic turf hybrid fields are designed for unlimited play, conserve water, require no pesticides, and are fully recyclable. - Energy & Waste: 12 solar arrays offset 40-45% of facility electric usage. LED streetlight conversion saves an estimated $384,000 annually. New EV charging stations (ChargePoint/Blue Whale) and composting programs launched. - Annual Earth Day event had 650+ attendees. The Chesterfield Youth Advisory Board distributed composting kits. Virginia State University Update Dr. Abdullah reported strong growth and partnership. - Enrollment grew 50% in five years (4,000 to 6,000 students). - Ranked 11 Best HBCU by US News (up 12 spots) and best value four-year college in Virginia. - New residence halls and welcome center under construction. The Governor and Attorney General are commencement speakers. - Partnership with Chesterfield County funded scholarships for six local students. Recognitions - Everyday Excellence: Tammy Weirick (Police Dept.) was recognized for 30 years of service, praised as an indispensable resource and the steady force behind the department by multiple chiefs and board members. - Captain Bryce C. Ford (Fire & EMS): A resolution was adopted recognizing his 26-year career, distinguished by six Medals of Valor for rescues during Tropical Storm Gaston (2004), structure fires, and river rescues. He was awarded a ceremonial brick. Key Outcomes, Votes, and Decisions - Closed Session: Convened and set a 15-day closed session to continue interviews for the County Administrator position. - Zoning Deferrals (Approved): - Taylor Ridge (23SN0124): Deferred to May 27 (Carroll). - Robious Road (25SN1254): Deferred to May 27 (Miller). - Zoning Consent Items (Unanimously Approved): - Chalkley Place Signage, Rivermont Multifamily (380 units), Adkins Road Subdivision (3 lots), Motley Fence Height Adjustment, Peterson Midlothian Self Storage, Happy Hill Road Rezoning. - Zoning Discussion Item (Approved): - Dorsey Acres Utility Exceptions (23SN0136): Approved with conditions (well depth 180 ft) allowing four lots to use well/septic due to prohibitive public utility extension costs (over $500,000). - Public Hearings (All Unanimously Approved): - Drewry's Bluff polling place moved back to Bensley Elementary School. - Lease amendment approved with AT&T for Bon Air Tower ($30,000/yr). - Lease amendment approved with T-Mobile at Alberta Smith ES. Board added a condition requiring regular signal strength testing. - Vacation of a drainage easement in Old Hundred Mill Section E approved. - Appointments: Approved appointments to the Airport Advisory Board and Camp Baker Management Board.
The Chesterfield County Planning Commission met on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for a 1 p.m. work session and a 6 p.m. public hearing in the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road, Chesterfield, VA. The work session included updates on the Fall Line Trail, Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR), Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod), and initiation of ZoMod housekeeping amendments. The evening public hearing considered deferrals, a seven-case consent agenda, two rezoning discussion cases, and a zoning ordinance amendment. All recorded votes were unanimous. Work Session - Recognized former planning staff member Mike Tompkins, who recently passed away; he served as assistant director from 2005 to 2021. - Heard a staff recap of the 11 cases scheduled for the evening hearing. - Approved the March 17, 2026 Planning Commission minutes unanimously. Fall Line Trail Update - Sportsbackers' Brantley Tyndall described the 43-mile regional Fall Line Trail vision, current fundraising of about $297 million with roughly $100 million remaining, five completed miles at the northern end, and design-build phase two nearing 90% design for the southern 10 miles, with completion expected by October 2028. - Chesterfield DOT staff reported 19 of the 43 miles are in Chesterfield; a 500-foot section has been completed, a mile-long segment is under construction, and the central four-mile gap remains unfunded at about $30 million. - Staff highlighted trail-oriented placemaking, 21 proposed spur connections, pedestrian hybrid beacons, and a study trip to Greenville, South Carolina. FOLAR Presentation - FOLAR Executive Director Jackson Bartlett and staff described the 25-mile Appomattox River Trail, partnerships on Fall Line connections near Virginia State University, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Chesterfield, and Hopewell, plus environmental stewardship work and events. No action was taken. Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) Update - Staff presented proposed changes to the county land use plan map, including reducing regional/community mixed-use areas, lowering residential densities south and west of Route 288, converting the Chester plan into countywide categories, and updating conservation/recreation/institutional designations. - District-by-district examples included Bermuda, Clover Hill, Dale, Matoaca, and Midlothian changes. - Timeline: May work session to review engagement strategy and affordable housing recommendations; June review of community facilities and transportation chapters; July first full draft; October planning commission public hearing; December Board of Supervisors hearing. ZoMod Housekeeping Amendment Initiation - Staff requested initiation of 26PJ0007, a general housekeeping amendment to the new zoning ordinance (Chapter 19.2), addressing typos, inconsistencies, state legislation, and three zoning map corrections. - The commission voted unanimously to initiate the amendment and set a public hearing for June 16, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizen comments were offered during either 15-minute unscheduled-matters period. - During consent hearings, an adjacent landowner's attorney stated no opposition to Phillips Landing and noted a meeting would be scheduled; Jerry Turner commented that conflicting virtual client meetings prevented him from reviewing the Lee ADU case. Public Hearing: Deferrals - The commission unanimously deferred 25SN1153 (Marlbank Farms, 209.9 acres, 302 units) and 25SN1184 (Spring Creek Baptist Church, 7.45 acres, 12 units) to the May 19, 2026 meeting. The chair noted the Spring Creek deferral was due to an access issue with late notice. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously, subject to staff report conditions: - 24SN1306 Phillips Landing Rezoning (336.5 acres; 50 single-family dwellings) - 24SN1353 Sawmill Station Mixed Use Rezoning and Adjustments (130.97 acres; 860 units) - 25SN1072 Oasis Transportation Amendment (removes traffic signal requirement) - 25SN1234 Professional Road Amendment and Exceptions (new office building) - 25SN1338 Lee Accessory Dwelling Unit (detached ADU) - 25SN1353 Litt Farm Animals (renewal; 2 miniature horses, 18 chickens) - 26SN2014 Footprints Childcare Family Daycare Home (up to 12 children) Discussion Case: Walton Station Rezoning (24SN1115) - Staff recommended denial, citing incompatibility with adjacent Carriage Hill's roughly 1.03-acre average lot sizes versus the proposed TR district's 4,500-square-foot minimum. The proposal was for 157 age-restricted units at 3.93 units per acre on 39.93 acres. - Applicant Jeff Geiger urged approval, saying the age-restricted, mixed-product design responded to community input and reduced peak-hour traffic to roughly 30-38 cars. - Public speakers included property owners in support and Jerry Turner opposing, urging the commission to follow staff. - Commissioner Petrovsky moved denial; the commission voted unanimously to recommend denial to the Board of Supervisors. Discussion Case: Ramey Rezoning, Adjustments, and ADU (26SN2016) - Staff recommended denial because the proposed four-lot family subdivision would have zero state-maintained road frontage on the 104.5-acre agricultural property, relying on a private easement. - The Ramey family and Jerry Turner spoke in support; Commissioner Owens moved approval subject to proffered conditions, and the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. Code Amendment: Electric Transmission Line Setback and Self-Storage (26PJ0005) - The amendment would add a 100-foot special setback between new high-voltage transmission line easements and new subdivisions, retain vegetation, and make self-storage a conditional use in Corridor Commercial and Warehouse/Distribution districts. - Public comment was generally supportive, with a suggestion to space mini-storage facilities and a concern about vegetation clearing near transmission lines. - The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the Board of Supervisors. Key Outcomes - Approved March 17, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Initiated ZoMod housekeeping amendment 26PJ0007; public hearing set for June 16, 2026. - Deferred cases 25SN1153 and 25SN1184 to May 19, 2026. - Approved all seven consent agenda cases unanimously. - Recommended denial of Walton Station (24SN1115) unanimously. - Recommended approval of Ramey (26SN2016) unanimously. - Recommended approval of code amendment 26PJ0005 unanimously. - Adjourned to the next regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2 p.m. Adjournment - The commission adjourned to its next regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2 p.m.
The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors convened at 6 p.m. on April 8, 2026, at the Public Meeting Room, 10001 Iron Bridge Road, chaired by Dr. Mark S. Miller. The meeting began with the certification of a closed session for interviewing County Administrator candidates, followed by the invocation and pledge. The primary actions of the evening included the unanimous adoption of the FY2027 budget, the annual tax levy ordinance, and utility fee amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - Carolyn Harrington, President of the Chesterfield Metro Area section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), presented the organization's history and community service initiatives, including health, education, and voter engagement programs, and expressed a commitment to partnering with the county. - Ian Richards Karamarkovich, a Bermuda district resident, voiced strong opposition to the Flock Safety contract, which he characterized as mass surveillance. He criticized recent changes to the company's terms of service, specifically citing a new perpetual license that allows Flock to use customer data to improve their products, and argued these provisions undermine trust. He requested the board cancel the contract and remove the cameras. - Lauren, a Bermuda district resident, echoed concerns regarding the Flock Safety program. She highlighted a lack of public transparency and requested a community hearing on the use of license plate readers, raised Fourth Amendment concerns regarding data collection via private contractors, and requested continued community dialogue. Discussion Items & Budget Amendments Deputy County Administrator Matt Harris presented the final set of amendments to the County Administrator's proposed FY2027 budget. Stop Arm Camera Program Support - The board discussed a $156,000 allocation for two positions to review stop arm camera enforcement footage. The cost is fully offset by program revenue. Dr. Joseph Casey emphasized the program's core purpose is student safety, not revenue generation, noting a pilot program saw over 650 violations on just 50 buses in three months. Supervisor Jim Ingle clarified the $250 fine, and Supervisor Kevin Carroll highlighted the added safety technology installed on buses. It was noted the goal is to change driver behavior so the positions become unnecessary. Community Enhancement (Signs and Medians) - The board supported a $75,000 increase to a contract for community enhancement services, specifically targeting illegal sign removal and median cleanup. VDOT's maintenance shortfalls were cited as a reason for county intervention. Dr. Casey noted that enforcement is intended to encourage voluntary compliance. Supervisor Jessica Schneider requested that staff return with a proposed fine structure for illegal signage within 60 days. Dr. LeQuan Hylton noted VDOT's reduced roadside maintenance capacity and the need to keep the county presentable. Tax Relief and Economic Context - The budget includes the largest expansion of the Senior Tax Relief program in recent years, adding a fourth income tier and converting a part-time position to full-time in the Commissioner of Revenue's office to handle the increased workload. The total tax relief provided across all programs is nearly $30 million. The county is maintaining a 40 percent relief rate for the Personal Property Tax (car tax) to offer additional relief. - Community Contracts: The budget includes funding for Mega Mentors and the VSU Summer Camp, previously funded by discretionary DIF funds. - Synthetic LEOS Benefit: Funding for this public safety benefit was adjusted for a January 1, 2027 implementation date. - Sports Backers: Funding for a potential new community event was carved from existing SVE monies, with no new general fund dollars required. - Board Discussion: Board members reflected on the fiscal discipline of the budget. Dr. Hylton thanked staff for their thorough engagement during her first budget cycle. Ms. Schneider noted the budget allows for 24-hour staffing at Firehouse 24 to address gaps left by declining volunteerism. Mr. Ingle noted the significant staff burden of Temporary Detention Orders (TDOs), costing the equivalent of six full-time police officer shifts per week. Chair Miller encouraged community volunteerism, particularly in fire and EMS. Key Outcomes - Vote on Item A (Tax Levy Ordinance): Unanimously approved by a roll call vote of 5 Ayes (Ingle, Schneider, Hylton, Carroll, Miller). - Vote on Item B (Utility Fee Changes): Unanimously approved. - Vote on Item C (FY2027 Budget, CIP, Appropriations Resolution, CDBG/HOME): Unanimously approved. - Directive: Staff was directed to research and bring back options for a fine structure on illegal signage to the board within 60 days. - Next Steps: The board adjourned to a 15-day closed session for County Administrator interviews. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 22, 2026, at 2 p.m. Closing Remarks Supervisor Carroll recognized Kayleigh Hodges, a Matoaca High School junior and Gatorade Player of the Year, for her outstanding performance in softball and academics. Supervisor Schneider mentioned a visit with a Cub Scout troop and the opening of new turf baseball fields at Rockwood Park. Chair Miller closed by commending the culture of excellence in Chesterfield County.
The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors met at 6 p.m. on March 25, 2026, in the Public Meeting Room at 10001 Iron Bridge Road, Chesterfield, Virginia. Chair Mark S. Miller presided; Supervisors Kevin P. Carroll (Vice Chair, Matoaca), Jim A. Ingle (Bermuda), Jessica L. Schneider (Clover Hill), and LeQuan M. Hylton (Dale) participated, with County Administrator Joseph P. Casey. The meeting opened with an invocation by Supervisor Schneider and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Deputy County Administrator Matt Harris. The evening's main business was five advertised public hearings on FY2027 budget-related items, followed by zoning cases and a private-well ordinance amendment. Reports - The board received the report on district improvement operating and capital funds, General Fund unassigned balance, debt policy ratios, and investments. No questions were raised, and the reports were accepted. County Administration Update - Natalie Spillman reported on the 2026 General Assembly session, which adjourned on March 14. More than 1,100 bills are heading to the governor. The collective bargaining bill emerged from conference without binding arbitration, but other significant provisions remain; the county and statewide organizations are continuing to express concerns. The state budget did not pass, so a reconvene session is set for April 22 and a special session for April 23. Supervisor Ingle asked whether the board could send a letter to the governor about problematic provisions, and Ms. Spillman confirmed this was possible. - Clay Bowles presented consent agenda highlights: a public hearing for April 22 to return the Drewry's Bluff Voting Precinct (105) to Bensley Elementary School; VDOT bus-loop right-of-way designations; a $2.4 million construction contract for the Center Pointe Parkway Extension; and acceptance of a 1.558-acre EDA parcel for the Falling Creek Police Station at Spring Line. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the March 11 and March 18, 2026 meetings were approved. The motion contained a verbal slip referring to March 25, which was corrected to March 18. - The consent agenda was approved with no recorded opposition. It included retirement resolutions for Captain Bryce C. Ford (Fire and EMS, 26 years), Corporal Craig V. Eckrich (Police, 22 years), and Jennifer Erisman (Mental Health Support Services, 32 years), totaling 80 years of combined county service. - Real property items included acceptance of parcels adjacent to Greenyard Road and Court Yard Road from Mary Elizabeth Fitzpatrick; adjacent to North Courthouse Road from Converge Church, Inc.; and a Midlothian Turnpike parcel from the Economic Development Authority; designation of bus-loop rights-of-way across school properties for VDOT maintenance; a quitclaim of portions of a temporary drainage easement, sewer easement, and water easement across property owned by Ravsun, LLC; and permission for a private sewer force main or lateral at 8318 Elkhardt Road. - Other consent items included acceptance of state roads; appropriation of about $267,000 in developer contributions from Thales Academy and authorization to award a $2.4 million construction contract for the Center Pointe Parkway Extension project from Tomahawk Queen Creek Road to Old Hundred Road; award of annual contracts for preliminary engineering services for transportation; and setting public hearings for April 22, 2026 on the Drewry's Bluff polling place change, vacation of a 16-foot drainage easement crossing Lots 33 and 34 of Old Hundred Mill Section E, and a lease amendment with New Cingular Wireless d/b/a AT&T. Public Comments & Testimony Five public hearings were held on the advertised budget-related items. The board took no action on these items at this meeting, stating that adoption is planned for the evening session on April 8, 2026. - Department of Utilities fee changes: No public speakers. Staff said the headline change is a proposed 4.3% increase in the bi-monthly utility bill, which would still leave Chesterfield as the lowest-cost utility provider in the region; the utility capital plan includes funding for the fourth water source. - Proposed 2026 tax rates: Staff said the real estate rate is proposed unchanged at 89 cents per $100 of assessed value, while the personal property rate is proposed at $3.25 per $100, a 10-cent reduction from $3.35. Fred DeMay of Matoaca said Chesterfield residents have long had the highest real estate taxes in central Virginia. He praised last year's one-cent real estate rate reduction to 89 cents and the one-cent rebate, but said the proposed FY2027 budget, with no rate reduction, no rebate, and about a 4.5% average assessment increase, would make the effective real estate tax rate about five cents per $100 higher than last year. He urged the board to reinstate a one-cent reduction, from 89 cents to 88 cents. Robert Taylor, a retired lifelong county resident, reported his assessment increases were 2% in 2022, 8.6% in 2024, 3.8% last year, and 4.7% this year, a 16% increase over three years. He said he does not qualify for county assistance and asked the board to study Henrico County's tax relief approach, including a $75,000 income threshold and a cap on tax bills for long-term homeowners. - FY2027 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership Annual Plan: No public speakers. Staff said the proposed plan totals $2.18 million and continues to focus most resources on home repairs and emergency housing services. - FY2027-FY2031 Capital Improvement Program: No public speakers. Staff said the proposed CIP focuses on transportation improvements, continuation of 2022 referendum projects, and major maintenance and maximization of existing facilities. - FY2027 proposed budget: Rob Hamill, president of the Chesterfield Education Association, expressed strong support for the budget, praising the collaborative process, the goal of a $60,000 starting teacher salary, the $15-per-hour support staff goal, and investments in transportation and nutrition services. He asked the county to continue advocating for state funding for secondary math and special education teachers. Fred DeMay said the proposed total county budget of almost $2.4 billion, an increase of about 4.7%, is about 1.7 times the rate of inflation. He cited the county's more than $20 million FY2026 surplus and said one cent of real estate tax yields about $6 million, again urging a reduction to 88 cents. Ian Richisker Markovich expressed concerns about the Flock Safety automated license plate reader contract, which he said costs $225,000 per year and runs through June 2029. He cited a $60,000 request for license plate reader system replacements and a $263,000 request for three new intelligence investigators, which he said could make Flock-related costs about $608,000 in 2027. He said more than 30 localities have canceled or suspended Flock contracts since 2025 and asked why the board had not given the public a say. Lauren Dixon said a petition signed by nearly 200 community members urges the board to oppose funding for Flock ALPRs, and she described hidden costs and privacy concerns, asking the county to pause the contract and conduct a full public hearing and review. Wendy Little said her son Aaron has been deprived of education for four years, that Chesterfield County Public Schools may lose federal and state grant funding, that the litigation involved alleged attorney contracts costing state taxpayers at least $250,000, and she asked the board to meet with Superintendent Murray to resolve the matter. Renee Eldridge supported the budget and thanked budget staff; she suggested holding future budget meetings one on each side of the county because attendance was about 25-30 people, and she welcomed compensation increases for police, fire, and teachers. Alexandria Wall, director of human trafficking services at Safe Harbor, thanked the county for considering funding that would help Chesterfield victims. - Private well setbacks: Jerry Turner opposed the proposed setback reductions, saying he was not sure the county should follow state regulations and warning that contaminated wells could become the county's problem. - Both 15-minute citizen comment periods on unscheduled matters had no registered speakers. At the end of the meeting, Wendy Little said she had phoned earlier about speaking; the clerk indicated she was not on the unscheduled-matters list and offered to sign her up for the next meeting. Discussion Items - Private well setback amendments: Staff presented amendments to align local setbacks with Virginia Department of Health regulations, which were last updated in October 2024. The proposal reduces the setback between a private well and a building foundation or accessory structure from 50 feet to 15 feet, allows a further reduction to 10 feet if boron-based termite treatment is used, and reduces the setback between a private well and a property line from 50 feet to 5 feet. Supervisor Ingle said the old rule was stricter than state law and that other Virginia jurisdictions have not had problems; Supervisor Carroll supported the change, describing a constituent who was previously unable to build a garage and workshop because of the old setback. The board approved the amendments. Zoning Requests The remaining five zoning cases were on the consent agenda because applicants accepted staff recommendations and there was no prior opposition, but the board held individual public hearings and votes. - 23SN0124 Taylor Ridge (Matoaca): Request to rezone property with about 1,360 feet of frontage on Hull Street Road from Agricultural A to Community Business C3 with conditional uses for townhouse/multifamily development and plan development exceptions. Supervisor Carroll requested a deferral to the April 22, 2026 public hearing to resolve road alignment issues and clarify road cash proffer language. No one spoke on the deferral, and the deferral was approved. - 25SN1247 Lattice Hall (Matoaca): Request to rezone 12.16 acres on Genito Road and amend a prior case covering a total 163.76-acre tract, with a maximum of 333 dwelling units, including 26 cluster-style lots and reconfigured amenities. Jerry Turner asked about a small strip of land not owned by the applicant and whether the sidewalk would be continuous. Applicant representative Jeff Geiger said the shared-use path would be in the right-of-way. The board approved the request subject to staff conditions. - 25SN1288 Sanko Auto Care (Clover Hill): Request on 0.79 acres at 8259 Midlothian Turnpike to bring an existing non-conforming auto repair and sales facility into compliance, with a conditional use for automobile sales and adjustments for parking paving, landscaping, and setbacks. A speaker urged timely compliance; applicant Nassim Saman apologized, said he had a court summons, and pledged to comply. Supervisor Schneider moved approval; Supervisor Carroll suggested the county consider improving notices to new businesses about zoning restrictions. The board approved with staff recommendations. - 25SN1299 Negrete Accessory Dwelling Unit (Bermuda): Conditional use request on a 1.32-acre property at 15624 Silver Tree Lane to convert an existing detached garage into an accessory dwelling unit for a family member. Jerry Turner raised concerns about future rental use; Ian Richisker Markovich supported the ADU as a way to add housing in established suburban areas. Board discussion noted a deed restriction limiting occupancy to family relations or household employees, and Supervisor Schneider noted pending General Assembly legislation on ADUs. The board approved. - 25SN1301 Rockwood Plaza Signage Amendment (Clover Hill): Request to amend a 1986 zoning approval on 5.2 acres at 3501 Courthouse Road to allow current zoning signage requirements to apply to the property. No one spoke in opposition. Supervisor Schneider moved approval, noting the strip mall is receiving new attention and is home to her favorite restaurant. The board approved. - 25SN1318 Jones Family Day Care Home (Dale): Conditional use request on 0.21 acres at 6713 Philbrook Road to allow a family day care home caring for up to 12 children. No one spoke. Supervisor Hylton moved approval, and board members welcomed additional daycare capacity. The board approved. Key Outcomes - The board approved the consent agenda, minutes, reports, and all retirement and real property resolutions. - The five advertised public hearings on utility fees, tax rates, CDBG/HOME, the CIP, and the FY2027 budget were held without board action; final budget adoption is scheduled for the April 8, 2026 evening session. - The private-well setback ordinance amendment was approved, aligning county rules with Virginia Department of Health setbacks. - The Taylor Ridge rezoning was deferred to April 22, 2026. - The Lattice Hall, Sanko Auto Care, Negrete ADU, Rockwood Plaza signage, and Jones Family Day Care Home zoning requests were approved subject to staff conditions. - The board adjourned to closed session under Virginia Code sections 2.2-3711(A)(1) and 2.2-3712(B) to interview candidates for county administrator, and recessed to the next regular board meeting scheduled for April 8, 2026 at 6 p.m.
The Chesterfield County Planning Commission convened on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for a Work Session (3 p.m.), a Public Meeting (4 p.m.), and a Public Hearing (6 p.m.). The commission formally initiated the Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) project, accepted the 2025 Annual Report, approved multiple consent agenda items, and voted on two discussion zoning cases, including the addition of a deep-well condition on one. Consent Calendar Work Session (3 p.m.): The Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 17, 2026 meeting. Public Meeting (4 p.m.): Case 26PR2004 (ATB LLC Buffer Landscape Plan) was unanimously approved. Public Hearing (6 p.m.): The following cases were approved on consent as recommended by staff: 24SN1304 (Chalkley Place Signage, Bermuda) 25SN1095 (Rivermont Multifamily Rezoning and Exceptions, Bermuda) 25SN1169 (Adkins Road Rezoning and Adjustments, Clover Hill) 25SN1225 (Motley Fence Height Adjustment, Dale) 25SN1326 (Peterson Midlothian Self Storage, Midlothian) 26SN2017 (Happy Hill Road Rezoning, Bermuda) Public Comments & Testimony Citizen Comment Period (Unscheduled Matters): Two written comments were received regarding the future Marlbank Farms case. Jerry Turner spoke in person, requesting careful scheduling of cases to avoid conflicts with county budget meetings. 23SN0136, Dorsey Acres Utility Exceptions: Community member Kent Pond, a neighbor of the property, spoke in support of the plan. 25SN1254, Robious Road Rezoning and Adjustment: Craig Wadd (Cranbeck Road) spoke in opposition, citing concerns about traffic safety at the Robious/Cranbeck intersection, high density compared to senior facilities to the east and west, and stormwater quality. Richard Colster (Ballard Oaks) expressed opposition, arguing the density of the townhome proposal was too high for the area and would harm the character of the adjacent single-family subdivision. Jerry Turner criticized the development pace, stating infrastructure cannot keep up with the traffic generated by new projects. Discussion Items Comprehensive Plan Modernization (PlanMod) Update: Rachel Chippua and Joanne Prezocki presented the approach for updating the comprehensive plan. The presentation covered required state code updates (including transit-oriented development strategies, manufactured housing), a proposed chapter reorganization, and a timeline targeting a full draft by June 2026. The Chair and Commissioner Sloan stressed the need for robust and early public engagement to avoid past community concerns with the comprehensive plan process. 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report: Ivy Warkow presented the report, highlighting 104 zoning case actions, the adoption of the ZOMOD and Subdivision ordinances, and over 3,700 permitted dwelling units. Commissioner Sloan commended the staff for their work on technology and transparency, which he felt the report understated. Initiation of 19.2 Code Amendments: Staff requested initiation of two amendments: (1) establishing natural buffers along future electrical transmission tower easements, and (2) requiring a conditional use permit for future self-storage facilities. A public hearing was scheduled for April 21, 2026. 23SN0136, Dorsey Acres Utility Exceptions: Warren Joslin requested an exception to mandatory public water and wastewater connections for a 4-lot subdivision, citing prohibitive costs ($500,000+ for sewer, $325,000+ for water). The Utilities Department did not support the request. The applicant agreed to a condition, proposed by Commissioner Sloan, requiring all wells to be deep wells with a minimum depth of 180 feet to address neighbor concerns about shallow wells. 25SN1254, Robious Road Rezoning and Adjustment: Brady Deal (Main Street Homes) proposed a 27-unit townhouse community on 3.45 acres. Staff supported the infill development, noting the density (7.8 units/acre) was within the RN-8 comprehensive plan designation. CDOT confirmed the intersection at Robious/Cranbeck performs at acceptable levels and noted the applicant proffered road improvements. Environmental Engineering confirmed stormwater plans meet regulations. Commissioner Petroski moved for approval, citing the comprehensive plan alignment and staff support. Key Outcomes Initiated: The PlanMod comprehensive plan update project. Initiated: 19.2 Code Amendments on transmission tower buffers and self-storage conditional use. Approved: The 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report. Deferred: Cases 24SN1306 (Phillips Landing, Matoaca) and 25SN1184 (Spring Creek Baptist Church, Matoaca) were unanimously deferred to the April 21, 2026 meeting. Approved (23SN0136): Dorsey Acres Utility Exceptions, with an added binding condition requiring all wells to be a minimum of 180 feet deep. (Unanimous: 5-0). Approved (25SN1254): Robious Road Rezoning and Adjustment. (Unanimous: 5-0). Set Public Hearing: A public hearing for the code amendments was set for April 21, 2026. Adjourned: The meeting adjourned to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors met on March 11, 2026, beginning with a work session at 2 p.m. followed by an evening session at 6 p.m. The meeting featured a VDOT update, presentations on the Chesterfield County Public Schools and County FY2027 proposed budgets, recognition of retiring employees, public hearings on eminent domain and surplus property, and citizen comments on various topics including sidewalk funding, automated license plate readers (ALPRs), and the county administrator search. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes. - Approved consent items including resolutions recognizing retiring employees and setting public hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Rogers: requested information about the status of sidewalk construction on Old Carrollton Road and the Community Connectivity Sidewalk Fund (CCSF). - Ian Richards-Karamarkovich and Lauren: opposed the county's use of Flock automated license plate readers (ALPRs), arguing that they constitute mass surveillance and have not significantly improved crime clearance rates. Ian noted a petition with 173 signatures calling for removal. Lauren cited only a 3% increase in motor vehicle theft clearance since cameras were installed. - Thomas Carroll (Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government): presented five criteria for the county administrator search: fiscal discipline, responsible growth management, radical transparency, operational excellence, and integrity with an external search. - Jerry Turner: criticized the use of eminent domain for road projects, arguing disparate land valuations, and requested a tour of the future Lego facility. - Thomas McKnight: thanked Supervisor Carroll for expediting a stop sign at Ashley Commons and Ash Lake Parkway, and raised concerns about dangerous medians on Route 360 and the need for traffic signals. Discussion Items Everyday Excellence: Sports, Visitation, and Entertainment (SVE) SVE employees Ronnie Hobson, Matt Mullen, and Shanna Howellett were recognized for their work managing sports and events. They oversaw a complete overhaul of the county's local sports policy, which went into effect March 1, 2026. The policy ensures transparent and equitable field assignments, with local resident sports organizations not charged fees. Presenters noted there are over 450 organizations renting fields, totaling over 30,000 bookings annually. Board members praised the team's customer service and the policy's fairness. VDOT Update (Ms. Worley) VDOT reported on spring maintenance activities. Since January 1, over 5,000 potholes have been patched, with 2,000 in the previous week. Mowing three cycles per year, starting late April. Street sweeping contract for FY27. Paving program: 287 lane miles in Chesterfield County in 2026, mostly in subdivisions. Chesterfield County has over 10,000 lane miles, the second largest road network in Virginia. Board discussed funding constraints and thanked VDOT for the historic ice storm response. Schools FY2027 Proposed Budget (Dr. Murray, Bob Meister, et al.) Operating budget of $1.1 billion, a 4.7% increase, with $47.9 million in new funding. Employee compensation increase of 5%. Teacher starting salary moves to $57,000 (goal $60,000). Balanced budget due to state rebenchmarking, VRS rate reduction, and $15 million county contribution. Capital projects: West Area High School opening next year, Bensley Elementary new building, Deep Creek Elementary, CTC Hull expansion, Grange Hall replacement, and new Dale District elementary with early childhood center. Major maintenance at $30 million target. Bus replacement plan: 15-year cycle using hybrid cash/finance. Board discussed competitive salaries and need for state funding. County FY2027 Proposed Budget (Matt Harris, Shane Durkin, Gerald Hill) General fund budget of $1.09 billion, 4.7% increase. Per capita cost of government flat when adjusted. County maintains lowest revenue per capita, operating cost per capita, and net debt per capita among state's ten largest jurisdictions. Tax relief proposals: new senior tax relief tier up to $80,000 income, personal property tax rate cut to $3.25, BPOL threshold increased to $750,000. 83% of resources to education, public safety, and infrastructure. Innovations include second parks field crew, cybersecurity investment, reorganization of sports administration, and housing development pilot program. Public safety presentations from Police, Sheriff, and Fire highlighted force multiplier strategies, security tech positions, apparatus funding, and volunteer EMS gaps. Other Presentations - Facilities modernization: reused space for SVE, IST, employee medical center; future projects for children's advocacy center and registrar. - Claim of Bridgeman Underground Inc.: Contractor sought $292,000 for SCADA installation, arguing it was outside scope. Board denied claim, siding with county's interpretation that contract required contractor to hire specified subcontractors. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda and retiree resolutions. - Approved readoption of absentee voting ordinance establishing North Courthouse Road Library as satellite voting location for April 21, 2026 special election. - Approved eminent domain for Meadowdale Boulevard bike/pedestrian improvements and Woolridge Road widening, with continuing negotiations. - Declared 14351 Bermuda Orchard Lane surplus and conveyed to Dominion Energy for $1.9 million for a switching station. - Approved lease amendment with Rapids Baseball Inc. for James River High School baseball facility, three-year extension after which facilities become county property. - Denied claim of Bridgeman Underground Inc. ($292,000) for SCADA controls installation. - Noted River Road eminent domain resolved by owner agreements. - Set closed session for March 18, 2026 to review county administrator applications. - Next regular board meeting March 25, 2026 at 6 p.m.
The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors held a combined work session and evening meeting on February 25, 2026, covering state legislative updates, budget and utilities proposals, recognitions, and action on a voting location ordinance and zoning cases. The board adopted an emergency ordinance for an additional satellite absentee voting location, approved consent agenda items, denied a multifamily zoning amendment, and recognized retiring employees and public safety achievements. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of January 28 meeting. - Accepted parcels of land adjacent to Cosby Road and Old Otterdale Road. - Conveyed easements for school bus loops for VDOT maintenance. - Quitclaimed portions of water easements. - Set public hearings for March 11, 2026: surplus property at 14351 Bermuda Orchard Lane, lease amendment for baseball facility at James River High School, eminent domain for River Road sidewalk, Meadowdale Boulevard bike/pedestrian improvements, and Woolridge Road widening. - Set public hearings for March 25, 2026: private well setbacks, utility rate changes, and tax rate advertisements. - Accepted $2.7 million grant from Virginia Department of Aviation for airport ramp project. - Authorized submission of FY2027 Opioid Abatement Authority funding applications. - Accepted state roads, authorized BUILD grant resolution for Powhite Parkway extension, awarded contracts for construction engineering and Walton Park waterline improvements, and endorsed Smart Scale projects. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Saunders (Midlothian resident, attorney, Chesterfield Citizens for Responsible Government): Expressed concerns about rapid growth, runaway spending (county spending growth 2.84 times CPI since 2019), real estate tax burden on families and retirees, lack of return on economic development investments, impact of data centers on infrastructure and taxes, and a planning department that is failing to manage development. - Jerry Turner (citizen): Requested that advisory committee members be better recognized during evening sessions and that larger name tags be used at committee meetings. Later, during the Bella at Westchester zoning hearing, he noted the roundabout's dangers and suggested the applicant be allowed to fix it if apartments are built. Recognitions & Awards - Valor Awards: The board recognized firefighters Captain John Jacobson, Firefighter Joe Sims, and Firefighter Tyler Younce (Virginia Task Force 8) for rescuing eight individuals and five pets during Hurricane Helene in Southwest Virginia, performing welfare checks on 90 residents, and posting evacuation notices at over 100 structures. - National Night Out: Corporal Eckrich reported that Chesterfield placed third nationally for the second consecutive year among jurisdictions of 300,000+ residents, with nearly 11,000 participants at 90 parties. - CALEA Tri-Arc Accreditation: Travis Parrish from CALEA presented accreditation certificates for the Chesterfield County Police Department, training academy, and communications center, noting the agency's voluntary commitment to high standards. - Retirement Resolutions: - Yvonne A. Hill: Retired after 30+ years from Mental Health Support Services; recognized for her work in adoption, independent living, and trauma-informed care. - Captain Randolph F. "Randy" Horowitz: Retired after 43 years from the Police Department; recognized for his work in investigations, internal affairs, and community bridge-building, including his partnership with Virginia State University. - Gerard J. Duffy: Retired after 37 years from Environmental Engineering; recognized for his work in stormwater management, emergency response, and infrastructure projects. - My Chesterfield Academy: Recognized 15 graduates from the community engagement program (9 countries of origin). Gracie Gill, a graduate and community outreach manager at YWCA Richmond, delivered remarks on the importance of the program for immigrant leadership. State Legislative Update Natalie Spillman and Ms. Walker provided an update on the 2026 General Assembly session. Key topics: - Collective Bargaining: The board voiced strong opposition to state-mandated collective bargaining, arguing it is an unfunded mandate that would cost Chesterfield approximately $0.28 on the real estate tax rate (a 33% increase). The county prefers local control, as existing 2020 law already allows localities to opt in. Bills are expected to reach the Governor's desk. - Multifamily By-Right Zoning (SB 454 / HB 318): The board unanimously opposed these bills, which would allow multifamily development by right on 75% of land zoned commercial, residential, and agricultural, effectively eviscerating local zoning. Speakers emphasized the loss of infrastructure control, business disruption, and lack of affordability guarantees. - VRS Enhanced Benefits for 911 Dispatchers: Failed again this year. - Other Bills: Waiver of sovereign immunity for speed cameras failed; housing targets and adequate public facilities bills died; teacher salary and school construction sales tax bills pending. - State Budget: House and Senate budgets are about $1 billion apart. Proposed 2% salary increases for teachers and state employees (House) and 3% (Senate). Senate provided flexibility for local matching but at a cost to the county. SNAP error rate funding and K-12 supplements included. Other topics discussed include the retail market for cannabis, additional judgeships, and Richmond water infrastructure funding. Richmond Region Tourism Update Catherine O'Donnell and Danielle Fitz reported that in 2024, visitors spent nearly $4 billion in the region (5% increase), supporting nearly 30,000 jobs. Chesterfield saw a 6.4% increase in visitor spending, generating $31.5 million in local taxes and about 6,500 jobs. Sports tourism remains a major draw. The Tourism Improvement District (TID) funded year-round advertising, including billboards and digital campaigns that drove over $1 million in trackable economic impact for Chesterfield. New initiatives include the Mimosa Trail, Always Revolutionary campaign for the 250th anniversary, and continued partnership with the airport. The RVA Sports Awards are scheduled, and the annual meeting will be May 13. FY2027 Budget & Utilities Updates - Budget Process: Matt Harris and Mr. Durkin previewed the March 11 proposed budget. Community budget meetings will be held in each district from March 12-24. Tax rate advertisement authorization was on the consent agenda. - Utilities Operating Budget & CIP: Matt Rembald and Kathy Sabzak presented: - Proposed operating budget of $120.5 million (16.5% increase), driven largely by purchased water and chemical costs. - The 10-year CIP totals $2.19 billion, with 43% for distribution infrastructure and 57% for water supply and wastewater capacity. - Proposed rate increases: average residential customer will see a $2.94/month increase (4.3%), consisting of changes to commodity, capacity, and customer charges. Water connection fees to increase 5% ($316), wastewater connection fees 5% ($284). - Strong waste surcharges for industrial customers increased for BOD and TSS by 3 cents each. - The board emphasized that data center customers will pay for their own capacity; the rate increases are not due to data centers. The department addressed that capital projects like the fourth water supply and Proctors Creek expansion predate data center demand. - A public hearing on the proposed rates is set for March 25. Voting Location Emergency Ordinance The board considered an emergency ordinance to add North Courthouse Library as an absentee voting location for the April 21, 2026 special election (regarding a proposed constitutional amendment). The ordinance required a public hearing later (March 11). After a contentious debate: - Mr. Ingle opposed, stating he believes the election is not constitutionally valid and that the ordinance should not be adopted under an emergency order. - Mr. Carroll acknowledged conflict but supported the ordinance to maximize voting opportunities, noting the election is proceeding under a stay from the Supreme Court. - Dr. Hilton and Ms. Schneider emphasized the importance of voting access, with Hilton noting his family's historical struggle for the right to vote. - Chair Miller emphasized the value of a second voting location. The motion passed 4-1 (Ingle opposed). Zoning Cases - Consent Cases (unanimously approved): - 25SN1242 – Ramos Accessory Dwelling Unit: Conditional use for a detached ADU and adjustments. - 25SN1258 – Signs and Wonders Ministry Private School: Conditional use for K-5 private school (up to 30 students). - 25SN1293 – Manning Family Day Care Home: Conditional use for a family daycare (up to 12 children). - 25SN1312 – The Sustainability Park: Conditional use for warehouse, distribution, and tractor-trailer parking. - Discussion Case – 25SN1074 Bella at Westchester Phase 2 Amendment: - Applicant (Jeff Geiger) proposed adding apartment buildings to an existing development in Midlothian, reducing traffic compared to the currently permitted retail use. The developer offered to pay for modifications to a dangerous roundabout (83 crashes from 2020-2025). - The board expressed safety concerns about the roundabout. Chair Miller moved to deny, stating he wants empirical evidence that roundabout fixes mitigate crashes before adding density. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (voice vote). Mr. Ingle noted that the roundabout will be fixed regardless, but the board supported the denial. - The board also used the case to highlight the threat of SB 454, which could allow such multifamily development by right without public process. Key Outcomes - Emergency Ordinance for Satellite Voting Location: Approved 4-1 (Ingle opposed) to establish North Courthouse Library as an absentee voting location for the April 21 special election, with a public hearing set for March 11. - Zoning Denial: Case 25SN1074 (Bella at Westchester Phase 2) denied unanimously. - Consent Agenda: All consent items (recognitions, public hearing settings, grants, contracts, road acceptances, zoning consent cases) approved as a block. - Appointments: Made to Airport Advisory Board, Preservation Committee, and Community Services Board. - Closed Session: Held to discuss real estate acquisition. - Public Hearings Scheduled: For March 11: surplus property, lease amendment, eminent domain for three transportation projects, emergency ordinance confirmation. For March 25: private well setbacks, utility rates, tax rate advertising. - Creation of Plant Medicine Ad Hoc Committee: Chair Miller announced the formation of a committee to study the potential of plant-based therapies for PTSD in veterans, with a report due by November 30, 2026. - Board Urged Public Action: Supervisors encouraged residents to contact the Governor and state legislators to oppose state mandates on collective bargaining and by-right multifamily zoning. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned; next scheduled meeting March 11, 2026 at 2 p.m.