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12-17-2024 Business Meeting - FINAL PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ BUSINESS MEETING December 17, 2024 VIRGINIA: The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors' ("Board") Business Meeting was held on December 17, 2024, in the Board Meeting Room, 39 Bank Street, SE, Chatham, Virginia 24531. CALL TO ORDER Dalton called the Meeting to Order at 7:00 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 AGENDA ITEMS TO BE ADDED Motion to add Planning Commission Appointment (Chatham-Blairs District) to the Consent Agenda as item 7l. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Bowman SECONDER: Dudley AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion to approve Agenda. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Ingram SECONDER: Bowman 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: Tucker AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None a. Board Meeting Minutes Approval b. County's November 2024 Bill List Approval c. Resolution # 2024-12-01 Adoption (Honoring Pastor Roger Ewing's Retirement) d. Resolution # 2024-12-02 Approval (Moral Obligation Supporting GPIN # 1366-12-5834) e. Jasper Wood Road Intent to Abandon Road Notice Approval (Popek) f. RiverStreet Wireless of Virginia, Inc. Lease Amendment Approval g. BZA Appointment Recommendations (Yeaman and Warren) h. Jail Food and Food Supplies Contract Award Approval i. Christmas Day and New Year's Day 2024 Solid Waste Plan j. Certificate of Recognition (101st Birthday; Patsy C. Carter) k. Certificate of Excellence Approval (Tunstall Volleyball) l. Planning Commission Appointment (Chatham-Blairs District); (Brent Shelton) PRESENTATIONS a. 2024 VACo Achievement Award Presentation (Pittsylvania County Event Planning Committee; Downtown Chow-Down Jeremy Bennett, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs with the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo), presented Pittsylvania County with a prestigious VACo Achievement Award for its innovative Downtown Chow Down program. VACo, established in 1934 to support county officials through advocacy, education, and member services, created the awards program in 2003 to recognize innovative public service solutions. This year, from a record 145 entries, only 45 winners were selected, making Pittsylvania County’s win particularly noteworthy. The event committee, including Kaylyn McCluster, Hollye Keesee, Kelsie Myers, Malorie Taylor, and Holly Stanfield, expressed gratitude for the recognition and shared their commitment to continuing the event as long as community interest remains strong. The award highlights the program's impact and its potential as a replicable model for other counties. b. General Presentations The Board presented Certificates of Recognition to Patsy C. Carter for her remarkable milestone of celebrating her 101st birthday, and to the Tunstall High School Volleyball Team for their outstanding 2024 season. HEARING OF THE CITIZENS Joanne Roberts, Banister District, expressed strong opposition to rezoning farmland and residential areas to heavy industrial to accommodate the proposed Balico Data Center. Speaking on behalf of her church and three others, she highlighted significant concerns about the potential impact on church services, community activities, and the broader community. Roberts emphasized the detrimental effects of noise from data center generators, which can produce 55 to 85 decibels each, with sound traveling up to 2.5 miles. She warned that prolonged exposure to such noise levels could cause hearing loss for people and animals and disrupt normal activities, including church services and outdoor gatherings. She also raised concerns about the immense water requirements of the data center, estimated at 5 million gallons, which she claimed the local infrastructure is ill-equipped to handle. Roberts concluded by underscoring the far-reaching negative impacts of the rezoning on the community's quality of life, including the inability to enjoy outdoor tranquility due to persistent noise. She urged decision-makers to consider these significant issues before approving the rezoning. Curtis Jefferson, a resident of the Dan River District and business owner at Paradise Lake Campground, reiterated concerns about the negative impact the proposed zoning changes would have on local businesses. Jefferson requested one-on-one meetings with board representatives to have more in-depth discussions about the issue, noting that the three-minute time limit during public meetings was insufficient for meaningful dialogue. He urged the board to consider this request before making any decisions on the proposed zoning changes, emphasizing the significant adverse effects the changes would bring to the area. Jeff Love, owner of Leesville Lake Campground in the Staunton River District, criticized the Berkeley Group for mishandling the proposed county zoning document by replacing current language with a template, making comparisons impossible. He called the contract with the group a mistake and warned that the proposed changes could harm local campgrounds, discourage new businesses, limit transient workers vital to infrastructure and healthcare, and deter families from moving to the area. Love urged reconsideration of the zoning proposal due to its potential negative economic impacts. Amy Walker, Callands-Gretna District, expressed concern over the Balico rezoning proposal. Drawing on lessons from the 2008 recession, she warned against pursuing short-term fixes with potentially harmful long-term consequences. Comparing the promises of Balico to candy dangled before a child, she cautioned that while the benefits may seem appealing, the long-term impacts could harm the community, farmland, roads, environment, and residents' quality of life. She urged the board to thoroughly research the facts, consider the long-term costs, and vote against the proposal in February. Amanda Sink Wydner, Callands-Gretna District, voiced opposition to Balico LLC’s rezoning request for a large-scale development project. She criticized the proposal, highlighting concerns over its extensive scope, including 760 acres, 15 power sources, and 18 entrances. Referencing information obtained through a $500 Freedom of Information Act request, she indicated significant issues with the project but withheld detailed discussion for a later time. Wydner called on the board to exhibit courageous leadership, critical thinking, common sense, and thorough due diligence. She urged them to deliver a “Christmas gift” to concerned citizens by voting against the rezoning request in February. She expressed her compassion for the community and emphasized her hope for the board to prioritize the county’s well-being. Angelee Harvey, Callands-Gretna District and owner of Smith Mountain Campground in Penhook, expressed strong opposition to the proposed zoning changes affecting campgrounds in Pittsylvania County. Harvey highlighted the detrimental impact of the proposed 180-day maximum stay, noting that long-term guests, including seasonal visitors and essential workers, are vital to her business and the local economy. She warned that approving the changes would devastate the county’s camping industry and urged the board to vote against the proposal. PUBLIC HEARINGS Rezoning Public Hearings 1. Case R-24-024 Danny Doss; Rezoning from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to A- 1, Agricultural District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. (Chairman Dalton) In Case R-24-024, Danny Doss (“Petitioner”) has petitioned to rezone 30.0 acres, from M-2, Industrial District, Heavy Industry, 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 634/Blue Ridge Drive, in the Callands-Gretna Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as part of GPIN # 2531-47-0247. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On November 7, 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 7:39 PM. Danny Doss was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:39 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 30.0 acres from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow the property to be consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned A-1. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Hite AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 2. Case R-24-025 The Washington County MD and the Franklin County Penna. Home Mission Board, Inc.; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7- 0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. (Chairman Dalton) The Washington County MD and the Franklin County Penna. Home Mission Board, Inc.is requesting to rezone 9.84 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, so that a cemetery can be placed on the property. The applicant is requesting to build a community school, church, and cemetery on the subject property. Currently, the property is zoned R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District. Both schools and churches are permitted uses in the R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District; however, a cemetery on joint church property is only permitted within the A-1, Agricultural District, requiring the property to be rezoned to A-1 before a cemetery can be placed on the property. The applicant has stated the that cemetery will be for church members only. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Section 35-178 are a permitted use. Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 7:41 PM. Elwood Martin was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:41 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 9.84 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, so that a cemetery can be placed on the property. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Bowman AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 3. Case R-24-026 Russell Wells; Rezoning from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. (Chairman Dalton) In Case R-24-026, Russell Wells (“Petitioner”) has petitioned to rezone 0.287 acres, from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District (to allow the property to be consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned R-1). The subject property is located on State Road 612/Wyatt Farm Road, in the Callands-Gretna Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as part of GPIN # 1452-78-4840. Once the property is rezoned to R-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-222 are permitted. On November 7, 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 7:44 PM. Russell Wells was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:44 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 0.287 acres from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to allow property lines to be adjusted. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Hite AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 4. Case R-24-027 Ricky and Ellen Childress; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. (Supervisor Dudley) In Case R-24-027, Ricky and Ellen Childress (“Petitioners”) have petitioned to rezone 19.0 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban 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 760/Music Street in the Staunton River Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 2522-08-4800. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On November 7, 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 7:45 PM. Ricky and Ellen Childress were present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:46 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 19.0 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow the property to be used for agricultural purposes. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Hite AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 5. Case R-24-028 Herman Cook, Jr.; Rezoning from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. (Supervisor Whittle) In Case R-24-028, Herman Cook, Jr. (“Petitioner”) has petitioned to rezone 2.34 acres, from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District (to allow the property to be consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned R-1). The subject property is located on State Road 1869/Stony Mill Road, in the Westover Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 1378-29-2433. Once the property is rezoned to R-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-222 are permitted. On November 7, 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 7:47 PM. Herman Cook, Jr. was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:47 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 2.34 acres from A-1, Agricultural District, to R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to allow property lines to be adjusted. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Whittle SECONDER: Ingram AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 6. Case R-24-029 Angela and Larry Benton; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. (Chairman Dalton) In Case R-24-029, Angela and Larry Benton (“Petitioners”) have petitioned to rezone 13.764 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District (to allow an accessory structure to be placed on the property). The subject property is located on State Road 644/Cooksburg Road, in the Callands-Gretna Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 1479-54-3145. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On October 1, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 6- 0 vote, with no opposition, that the Petitioners' request be granted. Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 7:49 PM. Angela Benton was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:50 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 13.764 acres from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow an accessory structure to be placed on the property. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Bowman AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 7. Case R-24-030 Noah and Lori Hostetler; Rezoning from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to A-1, Agricultural District. On November 7, 2024, the Planning Commission recommended by a 7-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. (Chairman Dalton) In Case R-24-030, Noah and Lori Hostetler (“Petitioners”) have petitioned to rezone twelve (12) parcels, totaling 12.74 acres, from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to A-1, Agricultural District (to allow the property to be consolidated with an adjacent parcel zoned A-1). The subject properties are located on State Road 802/Hodnetts Mill Road, in the Banister Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN #s 2416-96-8321, 2426-06-0625, 2416-96-8605, 2416-96-7765, 2416-96-3869, 2416-96-2884, 2416-96-1890, 2416-86-9699, 2416-86-8694, 2416-86-7599, 2416- 86-7514 and 2416-86-6521. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code § 35-178 are permitted. On November 7, 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 7:52 PM. Noah Hostetler was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:52 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of a total of 12.74 acres from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow property lines to be adjusted. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Hite AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None Other Public Hearings 1. Public Hearing: Pittsylvania County Code Amendments; (PCC §§ 9-110; 12-21; 17.6 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic; Offenses; Solid Waste At the October 15, 2024, Work Session, staff was instructed to bring proposed amendments to Pittsylvania County Code ("PCC") §§ 9-110, 12-21, and 17.6 before the Board. The revisions align local ordinances with state regulations on issues such as open burning, disposal of construction debris, and parking in front of fire hydrants. These revisions also allow local enforcement and ensure any fines stay within the county rather than going to the state. Dalton opened the Public Hearing at 7:55 PM. No one signed up to speak and Dalton closed the Public Hearing at 7:56 PM. Motion to approve the revisions to PCC §§ 9-110, 12-21, and 17.6 as presented. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Tucker SECONDER: Ingram AYES: Dalton, Tucker, Bowman, Dudley, Hite, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None NEW BUSINESS None. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS • Whittle expressed gratitude to the staff and board, appreciated community input, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. He also thanked Mr. Shorter for his contributions over the past few months. • Bowman shared his gratitude for holiday activities, including local parades, cantatas, and community events. He recapped attending various meetings and celebrations, including the IDA meeting, Chatham historic Christmas celebration, Gretna parade, DCC foundation celebration, and Caesars grand opening. He highlighted the approval of Project Cambridge for Ringgold Industrial Park, praised the "Chow Down" event and its team for winning the VACo award, and congratulated his wife Brenda on her birthday. He also thanked Interim County Administrator Mr. Shorter and acknowledged Diana McFarland for her service to the county ahead of her retirement. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. • Ingram reflected on various achievements and moments of recognition, including the opening of the Harville-Saunders Parkway, honoring the contributions of Coy Harville and Sherman Saunders, and celebrating the $1.351 billion Microporous industrial announcement. He commended individuals and groups for their community service, such as Ann Jennings, Devin Taylor, and hurricane relief efforts. He honored the memories of Pearl Harbor veterans, fallen officers Terry Barker and Trooper Gene Cash, and congratulated the city on the opening of Caesars casino. He expressed appreciation for outgoing Chairman Darrell Dalton, retiring staff member Diana McFarland, legal counsel Matt Evans, and Interim County Administrator Mr. Shorter for their exemplary service. He also acknowledged the Tunstall girls' volleyball team and Ms. Carter for their recent recognitions. Closing with warm wishes for the Christmas season, he reminded everyone of the true meaning of the holiday. • Hite thanked everyone for attending the meeting, expressed gratitude to the staff, and congratulated the event planning committee on winning the VACo Achievement Award. He acknowledged Mr. Shorter for his support over the past few months and extended warm wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. • Tucker expressed heartfelt gratitude to the county staff for their hard work throughout the year, emphasizing their role in making the Board's work successful. He thanked the public for their engagement, highlighted the importance of public participation, and acknowledged Mr. Evans and Mr. Shorter for their contributions. He shared an inspiring moment from attending the advanced training and defense manufacturing graduation, where a student shared his story of overcoming personal struggles and finding a fresh start in the region. Mr. Tucker praised the county's efforts in creating opportunities for people to rebuild their lives and commended the community's leadership. He concluded with warm wishes to all for a Merry Christmas. • Dudley welcomed Matt Evans to the team, praising his contributions and expertise from their work together on the Department of Social Services Board. He thanked Mr. Shorter for his dedicated service and shared an appreciation for their collaboration. He also recognized Diana McFarland, Director of Public Relations, who is retiring, expressing gratitude for her service and encouraging others to share their appreciation as well. Dudley concluded with warm holiday wishes, emphasizing the true meaning of Christmas with a heartfelt verse from Luke 2:11. • Dalton expressed heartfelt gratitude to the staff and citizens for their participation and contributions. He thanked Diana McFarland for her service, expressing that she will be missed. Appreciation was extended to Mr. Shorter for his efforts and collaboration and to Mr. Evans for joining the team, acknowledging his positive reputation and contributions. Reflecting on his tenure as Chairman, he announced it would be his last night in the role, expressing gratitude to the board for their confidence and highlighting the ability to make productive decisions, even when opinions differed. He concluded with warm wishes for a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and a safe journey home for all. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS Shorter expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Board for trusting him with the opportunity to serve his home county, acknowledging the immense support and collaboration of the county staff. He highlighted their dedication and teamwork, emphasizing how privileged the county is to have such an exceptional team. He concluded by thanking everyone again and wishing all a Merry Christmas. Evans expressed his pleasure in joining the team and serving the community he calls home. He noted his appreciation for the capable, kind, and knowledgeable staff, emphasizing their dedication and investment in the community. He shared his enthusiasm for being part of a group doing great work and thanked everyone for the opportunity. ADJOURNMENT Dalton adjourned the Meeting at 8:15 PM.