10-15-2024 Business Meeting - FINAL
PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’
BUSINESS MEETING
October 15, 2024
VIRGINIA: The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors' ("Board") Business Meeting
was held on October 15, 2024, in the Board Meeting Room, 39 Bank Street, SE, Chatham, Virginia
24531.
CALL TO ORDER
Dalton called the Meeting to Order at 7:22 PM.
ROLL CALL
The following Board Members were present:
Darrell W. Dalton - Callands-Gretna District
Robert M. Tucker, Jr. - Banister District
Kenneth L. Bowman - Chatham-Blairs District
Timothy W. Dudley - Staunton River District
Eddie L. Hite, Jr. - Dan River District
William V. (“Vic”) Ingram - Tunstall District
Murray W. Whittle - Westover District
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion to approve Agenda.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Tucker
SECONDER: Dudley
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion to approve Consent Agenda.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Dudley
SECONDER: Bowman
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
a. County's September 2024 Bill List Approval
b. Open Space Use Agreement Renewal Approval (Blanks; Parcel ID # 3404-85-3596)
c. Resolution # 2024-10-01 Adoption (McGann Family Subdivision Exemption 15-Year
Restriction Removal Authorization)
d. Resolution # 2024-10-02 Local Emergency Declaration Adoption (Tornado Recovery)
e. Resolution # 2024-10-03 Adoption (Honoring Tornado First Responders)
f. Resolution # 2024-10-04 Adoption (Supporting Naming the Route 40 (West Gretna Road)
Bridge Over U.S. Highway 29 in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, Callands-Gretna District,
the “Deputy Sheriff Eugene B. McBride Memorial Bridge”)
g. Resolution # 2024-10-05 Adoption (Authorizing County’s Insulin Overpricing Litigation
Participation)
h. Resolution # 2024-10-06 Adoption (Authorization of Purchase of Former PATHS Building
for a Public Purpose)
i. Tornado Debris Landfill Tipping Fee Waiver Ratification Approval
j. Cooperative Procurement Contract Execution Approval (County Public Safety Department
Ambulance)
k. County/EMS Agencies Equipment MOUs Approvals (Drug Boxes); (2)
l. Additional Holiday Time Approval (12/26/24; 12/31/24)
m. Certificate of Recognition Approval (Mount Hermon Baptist Church 180 Year
Anniversary); (Supervisor Bowman)
n. Certificate of Recognition Approval (Crews Construction and Asphalt Paving, Inc.; 50
Years)
o. Appointment: Fire and Rescue Commission (Staunton River District); (M. Jason Lovelace)
p. Pittsylvania County Sports Hall of Fame Congratulatory Induction Letters Transmission
Approval
q. Grant Funds Appropriations (3); (AFID Grant (Aerofarms); TARE Grant (WIB); TANF
Workforce Grant (WIB); and DRF Grant (After-School Program Grant-Recreation)
r. Proclamation Adoption (Disability Rights and Resource Center 10-Year Celebration)
s. R&L Smith Waterline Extension Project Engineering and Construction Management
Services Agreement Approval
t. 2024 VACo Annual Business Meeting Voting Credentials Approval
PRESENTATIONS
The Board presented a Certificate of Recognition to Mount Hermon Baptist Church, Certificate of
Recognition to Crews Construction, Resolution # 2024-10-04, and Resolution # 2024-10-03.
HEARING OF THE CITIZENS
Phyllis Barker, Evelyn Davis, Carolyn Herndon, Judy Simpson, Sherry Moss, and Brenda Bowman
spoke on behalf of the Beautification Committee. They shared that the community cleanup event
in the County was a resounding success, exceeding expectations despite initial challenges caused
by rain and a tornado on the originally scheduled date. The event was rescheduled, drawing 150
participants who collected 225 bags of trash across approximately 50 miles, removing around 12
tons of litter and saving residents about $500 in landfill fees. Dan River District earned first place
by collecting 93 bags of trash over 10 miles with 51 participants contributing 58 man-hours.
Banister District came in second, with a strong turnout and significant contributions. Participants
displayed remarkable dedication, spending their Saturday cleaning up litter, which spoke volumes
about their character and community spirit. The event uncovered some unusual items, such as a
Batman figurine, wigs, a dollar bill, and a boat steering wheel. Gratitude was extended to
volunteers, including local supervisors, and to locations that served as supply and collection points,
such as volunteer fire departments, a church, a restaurant, and the Hurt Town administrative office.
The community is already looking forward to the next cleanup event, planned for April, with hopes
of even greater participation.
Kathy Ramsey, Banister District, raised concerns about traffic safety on specific roads in the
community, particularly 57 East of Chatham, 640 North of Highway 29, and surrounding areas,
including Spring Garden, Java, and Riceville. She emphasized issues such as excessive speeding,
the lack of road identification signs, and inadequate speed signage, particularly in the Java
community at the intersection of 640 and 57. Ramsey suggested replacing yellow speed signs with
white ones for better visibility and reducing speed limits, especially on Brownsville Heights Lane,
where children and school buses are present. She also proposed installing a stop sign with blinking
lights at the 57/640 intersection to warn drivers, noting the high frequency of accidents at this
location, including a recent collision involving a postal carrier. She also pointed out that several
road signs have been missing for 2-3 years on roads such as Elk Horn Road, Java Road, Halifax
Road, and others, and urged that these be replaced.
Roy Jones, Banister District, expressed concerns about the lack of retail options in the Spring
Garden and 640 Road area, noting the absence of even a basic store such as a Dollar General. He
shared his observation while driving through other communities, where Dollar General stores are
common, including a recent addition near Market Square in Danville and another on Route 29 in
Blairs. However, between Route 29 and Altavista, the Spring Garden area remains underserved,
leaving residents, particularly older ones, without convenient access to necessities like bread and
eggs. He emphasized the inconvenience for those in the community who must travel to Chatham or
Danville for basic items, highlighting how other areas have benefited from stores like Dollar
General while his community lacks any similar resources.
John Townes, Banister District, expressed his concerns with traffic issues on Highway 57. This area
includes residential zones and Mail Run, where speeding vehicles create significant hazards. While
traveling at high speeds in a residential area, the danger of accidents increases, and it’s only a matter
of time before something worse happens. He urged the Board to give this issue serious
consideration. Implementing measures such as a traffic light or signal controls could help manage
the flow of traffic and ensure the safety of both residents and drivers in this area.
Mike Neal, Dan River District, thanked the Board for the honor of receiving a Resolution in
recognition of his 55 years with the Ringgold Fire Department. He also mentioned the tornado on
Dry Fork Road and commended the incredible response by Blairs, Dry Fork, Chatham, and Mount
Hermon fire departments, along with others who assisted. The primary responders, including fire,
rescue, state police, and public safety personnel, worked tirelessly under challenging circumstances.
Dean Fowler, Chief of Blairs, led the command operations. When they arrived, they faced a patient
pinned under a tree. They quickly freed the individual and got them safely to the hospital despite
the chaos. The responders conducted a 25-house primary survey to assess for immediate injuries
or threats, followed by a secondary survey to ensure everyone was safe and accounted for. They
tackled numerous challenges, including trees down with live power lines entangled, making it
unsafe to use chainsaws. Their teamwork and dedication under these conditions were nothing short
of remarkable and he thanked them for their efforts.
Ben Meeks. Callands-Gretna District, expressed gratitude for the hard work of volunteers and urged
the Board to continue supporting them. He highlighted an impending budget challenge due to the
state EMS office discontinuing funding for the EMS reporting software, ESO. This change will
force all EMS agencies, including public safety, to bear the cost, creating a significant financial
burden. He plans to propose at the upcoming Fire and Rescue Commission meeting that the Board
send a recommendation to state legislators, urging the restoration of funding for this vital software.
Additionally, he briefly discussed the County's drug box program, which has undergone significant
changes this year. While all 12 agencies in the County are now in the licensing phase, the program
will require agencies to purchase their own drugs moving forward, adding further financial strain.
He concluded by urging the Board to keep these challenges in mind during budget planning and
expressed appreciation for the Board's efforts, acknowledging the difficulty of their role.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Rezoning Public Hearings
1. Case R-24-016 Realty First, LLC. Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision
District, to A-1, Agricultural District (Chairman Dalton)
In Case R-24-016, Realty First, LLC (“Petitioner”), has petitioned to rezone 1.22 acres, from R-1,
Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (to allow the property to be
consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned A-1). The subject property is located on State Road
750/Strawberry Road, in the Callands-Gretna Election District, and shown on the Tax Maps as
GPIN # 1485-07-6496. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania
County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On September 3, 2024, the Planning Commission
recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the Petitioner's request be granted.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 8:19 PM. No one signed up to speak and a representative with
Realty First, LLC., was present to represent the Petition. Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 8:19
PM.
Motion to approve the rezoning of 1.22 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District,
to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow property lines to be adjusted.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Dudley
SECONDER: Tucker
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
2. Case R-24-017: Richard Watkins; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision
District, to A-1, Agricultural District (Supervisor Ingram)
In Case R-24-017, Richard Watkins (“Petitioner”) has petitioned to rezone three (3) parcels, totaling
0.94 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (to
allow the property to be subdivided). The subject properties are located off of State Road 614/Sandy
River Road, in the Tunstall Election District, and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN #s 141-05-5210,
1441-05-4185, and 1441-05-4170. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under
Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On September 3, 2024, the Planning Commission
recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the Petitioner's request be granted.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 8:21 PM. Richard Watkins was present to represent the
Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 8:21 PM.
Motion to approve the rezoning of a total of 0.94 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision
District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow the property to be subdivided.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Ingram
SECONDER: Dudley
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. Case R-24-018: Ryan Haak; Rezoning from RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision
District, to A-1, Agricultural District (Supervisor Ingram)
In Case R-24-018, Ryan Haak (“Petitioner”) has petitioned to rezone 21.25 acres, from RC-1,
Residential Combined Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (to allow the property to
be used for agricultural purposes). The subject property is located on State Road 855/Martin Drive,
in the Tunstall Election District, and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 1349-06-4452. Once the
property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted.
On September 3, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition,
that the Petitioner's request be granted.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 8:23 PM. Ryan Haak was present to represent the Petition.
No one signed up to speak and Mr. Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 8:23 PM.
Motion to approve the rezoning of a total of 21.25 acres from RC-1, Residential Combined
Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow for agricultural uses on the property.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Ingram
SECONDER: Bowman
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. Case R-24-019: Brenda and Michael Rodgers; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban
Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (Supervisor Ingram)
In Case R-24-019, Brenda and Michael Rodgers (“Petitioners”) have petitioned to rezone 0.751
acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (to allow
the property to be consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned A-1). The subject property is located
on State Road 621/Loblolly Drive, in the Tunstall Election District, and shown on the Tax Maps as
GPIN # 1337-33-6015. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania
County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On September 3, 2024, the Planning Commission
recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the Petitioners' request be granted.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 8:25 PM. Brenda Rogers was present to represent the Petition.
No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 8:25 PM.
Motion to approve the rezoning of a total of 0.751 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban
Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow property lines to be adjusted.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Ingram
SECONDER: Tucker
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
Other Public Hearings
1. Simpson Energy Center, LLC, Solar Battery Storage
In 2021, the General Assembly passed legislation giving localities additional measures to further
regulate the development of utility-scale solar energy facilities. This legislation requires that any
solar project or an energy storage project applicant give the host locality written notice of the
applicant’s intent to locate in the locality and request a meeting to discuss a related Siting
Agreement. Once a Siting Agreement has been negotiated with the County, a Public Hearing must
be held before it can be executed. This Public Hearing has been duly and legally advertised/noticed.
For the Board’s review and
consideration, attached is a solar Siting Agreement for the East Point Solar Project, to be in the
Staunton River District, off of State Route 646 (Spring Road), and being Parcel ID #2552-03-5579.
Said Siting Agreement has been successfully negotiated with the County.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 9:05 PM. Chris Myers was present to represent the Petition.
Chris Myers presented a proposal to the Board of Supervisors regarding a siting agreement with
East Point Energy for a standalone battery energy storage project in Pittsylvania County. The
discussion focused on the financial aspects of the agreement, community engagement, safety
concerns, and the broader implications of the project. Myers explained that the proposed facility,
the Simpson Energy Center, would store energy using lithium-ion batteries, disconnected from any
solar projects. The system would charge from the transmission grid during off-peak hours and
discharge during high-demand periods, stabilizing the grid and reducing costs during peak times.
The financial agreement outlined $900,000 in capital payments before operations and a total of $2.2
million over 20 years, with payments escalating over time. Myers emphasized the project's safety
features, including fire-rated enclosures and 24/7 monitoring, addressing concerns about potential
fires, toxic fumes, and environmental impact. He cited data suggesting a low risk of contamination
or health issues. However, some board members and residents expressed skepticism about the
project's safety and its tangible benefits to the community. Their community engagement efforts
included meetings with local residents and emergency responders. Board members raised concerns
about the lack of operational projects in Virginia to demonstrate success, the long timeline before
construction begins, and the risk of the technology becoming obsolete. Questions also arose about
the project’s value to local residents, particularly during power outages caused by storms.
Clarence Oakes, Staunton River District, expressed his opposition to the proposed battery energy
storage plant. He raised concerns about the potential dangers of fires, noting that such fires can last
for days and cannot be extinguished with water. He also criticized the lack of proper communication
and outreach by East Point Energy, stating that he only learned about the project and the meeting
the day before it happened, thanks to a neighbor. He pointed out that many of his neighbors were
also unaware of the plans. His primary concern is the safety of himself, his family, and the
community, which he believes is more important than the financial benefits the project might bring.
He emphasized that the well-being of the community should take precedence over monetary gain,
voicing strong opposition to the project.
Jimmy Hendricks, Staunton River District, voiced his opposition to the proposed battery energy
storage plant. He echoed concerns about the risks of fires associated with such facilities,
emphasizing that the smoke released in these incidents is toxic. He referenced widespread
information available online about these hazards, noting that the dangers are well-documented and
not a secret. He pointed out that this is a relatively new technology, with the company only having
operated since 2020 and just one project currently running. He expressed unwillingness to risk his
and his family's safety for a project aimed at generating profit, firmly opposing its development.
Patsy Hendricks, Staunton River District, expressed her strong opposition to the project, primarily
citing safety concerns. She stated that she and her neighbors never received letters about the project,
despite claims that the company conducted outreach. She highlighted the risks associated with
lithium-ion battery storage, including the potential for fires, explosions, and the release of toxic
gases such as hydrogen fluoride, chloride, and carbon monoxide, which can cause severe lung
damage and long-term health issues. She urged the Board to prioritize the safety and welfare of the
community over potential financial gains.
Carrie Schneider, Callands-Gretna District, expressed her opposition to the proposed battery energy
storage facility. While she does not live directly near the site, many of her relatives reside on Spring
Road and Midway Road, and she lives in the town of Gretna. She voiced strong concerns about the
potential dangers of smoke from a fire at the facility, emphasizing that such smoke would travel for
miles and could not be easily contained. She referenced the hazards of the toxic gases released
during a fire, highlighting that many people would inevitably be exposed to the dangerous fumes,
which she described as unhealthy and hazardous.
Susan Oakes, Staunton River District, shared her strong opposition to the proposed battery energy
storage facility. She noted that her father-in-law, Clarence Oaks, also resides in the area and
maintains a farm with a large garden. She raised significant concerns about the dangers of lithium-
ion batteries, particularly the inability to extinguish fires with water. She highlighted the potential
catastrophe of a fire involving such a large facility, possibly spanning 16 to 193 acres, which could
burn for days and have severe environmental and health impacts. Additionally, she expressed
concerns about the lack of communication, noting she never received any notification letters about
the project. She questioned the long-term viability of the facility, asking what would happen if the
company were to go out of business, potentially leaving behind decomposing infrastructure and
leaking lithium. She urged the board to carefully consider the community's concerns before moving
forward with the project.
Justin Brown, Staunton River District, expressed his opposition to the proposed lithium battery
storage facility. He raised concerns about the significant risks posed by the facility, emphasizing
the dangers of fires, such as one in May 2024 that burned for five days despite built-in safety
measures. He highlighted the harmful emissions and toxins released during such prolonged fires,
which could be especially dangerous for the elderly residents in his community and his two children,
aged 13 and 5. He also pointed out the environmental risks, such as water contamination. Efforts
to contain a fire, like spraying water, could lead to toxins spreading into nearby creeks, eventually
reaching larger bodies of water and possibly contaminating drinking water. He also expressed
concerns about the strain on the area’s infrastructure, noting that the small, poorly maintained roads
in the area are not equipped to handle the heavy construction equipment or the transportation of
large batteries. This could lead to increased road damage and additional repair costs for the county.
He also questioned why the property is already being surveyed if the project is still under
consideration.
Sam Parsons, Staunton River District, opposed the lithium battery facility, citing safety and
environmental risks. He referenced EV battery fires in Florida during flooding and noted his Air
Force experience, where lithium batteries required special transport due to their volatility. He
criticized the notification process, stating his brother, a nearby landowner, was not informed. He
dismissed the financial benefits as insufficient and suggested investing in modern, safe nuclear
power plants instead. He urged the Board to prioritize safety over limited incentives.
David Patterson, Banister District, voiced strong opposition to the lithium battery storage facility.
He expressed concerns about the proximity to homes and roads, citing the risks of hazardous
chemicals contaminating the water supply, which is fed by a spring. He also highlighted the
potential dangers of terrorist attacks, wildfires during dry seasons, and the inability of local fire
departments to manage such incidents effectively. He criticized the strain on inadequate roads and
questioned the limited community benefits compared to the significant gains for the company.
Emphasizing his concern for future generations, he urged the Board to reject the project.
The Board took a short recess at 9:23 PM.
The Board reconvened at 9:33 PM.
Ben Meeks, Fire Chief at Gretna Fire and Rescue and Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Fire and
Rescue Commission, voiced significant concerns about the proposed lithium battery storage
facility. He criticized the lack of early communication, stating he only learned of the project through
a citizen shortly before it was to be voted on. He highlighted the unique risks of lithium battery
fires, which can burn for days, produce toxic fumes, and require specialized equipment and large
water supplies that local fire departments currently lack. He acknowledged a recent meeting with
East Point Energy but emphasized that critical questions remain unanswered and significant
equipment upgrades would be needed to ensure proper response capabilities. He urged the Board
to allocate the project’s financial contributions toward equipping the volunteer fire departments
responsible for protecting the facility. He noted two fires at solar farms in the County where
responders lacked adequate training, making the incidents dangerous and leaving fires to burn. He
called for mandatory training and greater involvement of fire and rescue stakeholders in planning
future projects to ensure community safety. While recognizing landowners’ rights to develop their
property, Meeks stressed the need for preparedness to protect both investments and residents.
Shirley Anderson, Staunton River District, opposed the battery storage facility, which would be
directly behind her home and her grandchildren's. She stated she was only informed when a
surveyor mentioned the project while on her property, questioning why surveying began without
approval. She cited the risks of chemical fumes and uncontrollable fires, drawing from her
husband's experience at a chemical plant. If approved, she plans to sell her property, refusing to live
near the facility or expose her family to the dangers. She urged the Board to reject the proposal.
Crystal Adkins, Staunton River District, expressed strong opposition to the project. She questioned
claims about air and water safety, noting that the facilities have not been operational long enough
for thorough studies. She criticized the lack of public notification, stating she only learned about
the meeting through Facebook. She dismissed the project's supposed benefits, arguing it would not
save residents money but instead burden taxpayers. She suggested using the funds to support EMS,
fire, and volunteer agencies that address immediate community needs. She urged the Board to reject
the project.
Carroll Keatts, Staunton River District, expressed gratitude to the Board for their thorough
questioning of the project's representative and stated his opposition to the battery storage facility.
He added that all his concerns had already been addressed and chose to keep his statement brief.
Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 9:46 PM.
Myers acknowledged the validity of the community's concerns regarding the proposed battery
storage facility, admitting that East Point Energy could have done more to educate the public earlier
in the process. He apologized for not meeting with local volunteer fire departments sooner but
emphasized that his team had been in discussions with emergency response staff since February
and met with them again in September to review the project. He noted that the project complies
with or exceeds all local energy storage ordinance regulations and that staff experts had
recommended approval during the Special Use Permit (SUP) process. He proposed deferring this
item for another month to allow for further community engagement, including the scheduled
October 28, 2024, public meeting. He invited all Board members to attend and expressed his
willingness to continue educating the community before revisiting the agreement. Myers concluded
by thanking the Board for their time and consideration.
Motion to postpone this item for thirty (30) days.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Dudley
SECONDER: Tucker
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
2. Potential Disposition of Publicly Owned Property Public Hearing (Old Climax Store)
The Board is the current owner of the Old Climax Store site located in the Callands-Gretna
Magisterial District, containing 0.61 f an acre, at the intersection of Route 799 and Route 705,
also designated as Tax Parcel 1499-94-1236 (“Property). To potentially sell or negotiate a sale of
publicly owned property, a Public Hearing to receive citizen input on the proposed selling of the
Property is required.
Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 9:52 PM. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the
Public Hearing at 9:52 PM.
Motion to authorize County Staff to advertise the Property for sale to the public.
RESULT: 7-0 (Approve)
MOVER: Dudley
SECONDER: Hite
AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
NEW BUSINESS
None.
BOARD MEMBER REPORTS
• Whittle thanked everyone for attending the meeting, expressed appreciation for the
productive discussion, and concluded by looking forward to seeing everyone again next
month.
• Bowman expressed gratitude to the Beautification Committee for their hard work and
collaboration with the Chatham American Legion Post 47. He highlighted recent events,
including attending the Chamber Candidate Forum at DCC, wishing good luck to
candidates and incumbents ahead of the November 5 election, and reminding attendees
about early voting and voter registration. He praised the Chamber’s Business After Hours
event at The Bee Hotel, commending the organizers and recommending the facility. He
also attended the County employees’ luau, recognizing Hollye K. for organizing the
successful event. A reminder was given for Pittsylvania County's Annual Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony on October 20, 2024, congratulating the Class of 2024 inductees. He
also urged everyone to honor veterans on Veterans Day and requested a special unspoken
prayer for a family going through a challenging time. He acknowledged and thanked
Supervisor Pam Cobbler from Henry County for attending the meeting, noting she traveled
from Martinsville to observe.
• Ingram highlighted Breast Cancer Awareness Month, encouraging those battling the
disease to stay strong and reach out for support, mentioning his involvement with Danville-
Pittsylvania Cancer. He celebrated Brosville Elementary's 20th anniversary and recognized
Peyton Sellers for winning his third Virginia Triple Crown for racing. He thanked Carolyn
Herndon for organizing the trash cleanup, noting the collection of several items, including
a bumper. Reflecting on the 24th anniversary of the USS Cole attack, he honored local
sailor Timothy Saunders, who lost his life in the tragedy, and the 37 wounded sailors. He
commended the response to the recent tornado and hurricane, emphasizing the often-
overlooked damage in southwest Virginia. He also shared a heartfelt tribute to Gene
McBride, a deputy who died in the line of duty from a heart attack, and thanked the
McBride family for their sacrifice. Lastly, he acknowledged the late Junior Hughes for
supporting Deputy McBride during his final moments.
• Hite expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in the successful cleanup day,
humorously noting how hard they worked in their district. He thanked the volunteers and
staff who responded to the tornado for their swift and efficient efforts, and he emphasized
the importance of reorganizing the County’s emergency preparedness team, noting how
fortunate the area was to avoid more severe weather. Finally, he reminded everyone to vote
on November 5, adding, "If you don't vote, don't complain."
• Tucker expressed gratitude to the Beautification Committee, volunteers, and staff for their
contributions to the cleanup and thanked the public for attending and sharing their
concerns. He extended appreciation to first responders, both paid and volunteer, and
acknowledged his colleagues for their challenging yet vital work as supervisors,
emphasizing the importance of fostering strong partnerships between local governance and
the citizens of Pittsylvania County. He also requested prayers for staff member Kevin
Bumper’s wife, who is undergoing surgery. He shared his experience attending the
unveiling of a statue honoring Henrietta Lacks in South Boston and he highlighted her
legacy as the "mother of modern medicine," noting her cells' critical role in curing polio
and advancing medical science. He encouraged others to visit the statue in Market Square,
calling it a beautiful tribute.
• Dudley thanked everyone for their patience during the long meeting and shared a personal
prayer request for his family, as his wife recently lost her aunt, Gladys Ward, affectionately
known as "Scrapping Gladys." He extended congratulations to Jason Lovelace, the new
Chief of Police in the Town of Hurt, who will also serve as the Staunton River District
representative on the Fire and Rescue Commission. He shared an inspiring story about a
friend, whose name they withheld to preserve his blessing, who has been actively helping
Western North Carolina through God’s Pit Crew. The friend donated two truckloads of
water and one truckload of food, and committed to building 75 tiny homes for those in
need in the area. He praised God’s Pit Crew for their impactful work and emphasized the
blessing of being able to help others. He thanked the chairman for facilitating a productive
meeting.
• Dalton thanked everyone for attending the meeting and extended gratitude to Fire and
Rescue for their efforts in protecting tornado victims. He also mentioned attending a
fundraiser at the Callands Fire Department, praising the event, and noted his participation
in a successful trash cleanup in Gretna. He concluded by wishing everyone a safe journey
home and thanking them again for coming.
ADJOURNMENT
Dalton adjourned the Meeting at 10:06 PM.
____________________________________
Darrell W. Dalton, Chairman
Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors
____________________________________
Kaylyn M. McCluster, Clerk
Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors