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03-18-2025 Business Meeting - FINAL PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS’ BUSINESS MEETING March 18, 2025 VIRGINIA: The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors' ("Board") Business Meeting was held on March 18, 2025, in the Board Meeting Room, 39 Bank Street, SE, Chatham, Virginia 24531. CALL TO ORDER Tucker called the Meeting to Order at 7:00 PM. ROLL CALL The following Board Members were present: Robert M. Tucker, Jr. - Banister District Eddie L. Hite, Jr. - Dan River District Kenneth L. Bowman - Chatham-Blairs District Darrell W. Dalton - Callands-Gretna District Timothy W. Dudley - Staunton River District William V. (“Vic”) Ingram - Tunstall District Murray W. Whittle - Westover District AGENDA ITEMS TO BE ADDED Motion to add the following items to the Consent Agenda: • Budget Calendar Revision • VRA Funding Application. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Hite SECONDER: Ingram AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion to approve Agenda. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Bowman SECONDER: Dalton AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None CONSENT AGENDA Motion to approve Consent Agenda. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dudley SECONDER: Hite AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None a. Board Meeting Minutes Approval b. County's February 2025 Bill List Approval c. Resolution # 2025-03-01 (Roadway Abandonment; Portion of Jasper Wood Road); (Popek) Approval d. Resolution # 2025-03-02 Adoption (Honoring Cook's Volunteer Fire Service) e. Resolution # 2025-03-03 (Firefly Solar - SUP Extension) Approval f. Earth Day County Landfill Tipping Fee Waiver Approval g. Certificate of Excellence Approval (Devin Taylor; Cabins for Christ) h. Certificate of Appreciation Approval (Richard Waters; Planning Commission Service) i. Budget Calendar Revision j. VRA Funding Application PRESENTATIONS The Board presented recognitions to Jerome Cook and Devin Taylor. HEARING OF THE CITIZENS Amy Davis, Banister District, spoke against the Balico data center project. She urged the board not to destroy the rural countryside of Chalk Level, Whittles, Mill Creek, and Sheva communities. Davis expressed deep concerns about the potential 3,500 megawatt power plant and the possibility of 84 data centers, warning that this would put Chatham on the "tariff watch chart" and severely impact the region's environmental and quality of life. She highlighted the project's potential to negatively affect air, water, noise, and light conditions, and stressed that the initial 750-acre proposal could potentially expand to 2,223 acres. Joan Walker, Banister District, and speaking on behalf of the Chatham Garden Club, read a Resolution opposing the proposed Balico data center project. The Resolution highlighted several key points: the project would rezone approximately 747 acres from residential agricultural to heavy industrial, located less than three miles from Chatham town limits. The Chatham Garden Club referenced the 2010 Pittsylvania County Comprehensive Plan, which states that industrial development should be avoided in areas with prime agricultural and farmlands. Walker emphasized that the club strongly believes the Balico project would have a significant and negative environmental impact on residents and wildlife in multiple local communities, including Chalk Level, Mill Creek, Whittles, and Sheva, as well as Motley and Transco roads. The Resolution concluded by strongly opposing the Balico LLC project and rezoning request. Ceilidh Hicks, Tunstall District, shared her opposition for the Balico project, focusing on its potential negative impact on younger generations and the community. She argued that the project sends a troubling message to youth, making it difficult for young people like herself to call the county home in the future. She highlighted several risks, including home value depreciation, air and water pollution, noise disruption, and destruction of natural habitats for both wildlife and farm animals. Hicks emphasized that the proposed land use would prevent future beneficial developments like parks, playgrounds, or housing that could attract more families. She referenced the county's comprehensive plan, which prioritizes preserving prime farmland, and urged the board to vote no on the Balico project. Tim Reynolds, Staunton River District, spoke on behalf of Balico, requesting a postponement of the hearing until April. He explained that the past month has been busy for their team, during which they have been refining the project details based on community feedback and county staff input. Reynolds highlighted a community meeting in Gretna where they presented details and answered questions respectfully. He noted they had productive meetings with county staff, making specific changes to their plan to minimize community impact. Reynolds emphasized that the data center market changes rapidly, and they are continuously adapting their proposal to stay current. He stressed their ultimate goal of attracting a high-quality end user that would bring tens of millions of dollars in revenue to the county and position Pittsylvania County at the forefront of technology. Reynolds acknowledged the complexity of the project and asked for the board's patience, stating that no one wants to reach the conclusion more than their team. He expressed openness to questions and commitment to working towards a solution that could benefit the entire county. Aubrey Myers, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the Balico data center project. He began by noting that while many "Save our farmland" signs exist, none are on the land Balico is requesting to rezone. Myers argued that tobacco and textiles no longer drive the county's economy, and technology is taking over. He highlighted the potential financial benefits, citing a figure of $158 million in potential revenue that could be distributed across county offices, benefiting all citizens. He pointed out that 95% of the county wouldn't even notice the data center, but 100% would benefit from its economic impact. Myers discussed the county's need for infrastructure improvements, such as parks, bicycle trails, and pickleball courts, which could be funded by this project. He specifically mentioned the potential water line from Hurt to Chatham as a project that could kick-start economic development. Concluding his remarks, Myers urged the board to vote yes for the project, arguing that if they don't, the entire county will suffer. Gary Hodnett, Staunton River District and Mayor of Town of Hurt, spoke strongly in favor of the Balico data center project. As a county leader, he urged the board to see this as an opportunity to bring development to the county. Hodnett emphasized that Pittsylvania County is geographically the largest county in the state, yet remains among the poorest, questioning past economic development decisions like lengthy tax moratoriums for new businesses. He argued that the county should stop standing outside and looking in, but instead open the door to progress. Hodnett claimed that all accusations against the data center project have been debunked, including concerns about noise, water drainage, pollution, and views. He highlighted that Balico is not asking for tax moratoriums and will begin paying taxes in year one. He emphasized that the project could provide opportunity for the majority of county residents, not just a small segment. Patti Reynolds, Staunton River District, strongly supported the Balico data center project. She drew attention to the previous unanimous rezoning of land for the Ringgold data center, noting that only three people spoke in opposition at that time. Reynolds argued that arguments about the Comprehensive Plan, environmental concerns, noise, air, water, light pollution, and scenic views somehow didn't apply to the Ringgold project but were now being raised for Balico. She pointed out that part of the proposed land is already adjacent to Transco village, zoned M2, and accessible to the Mountain Valley pipeline. Reynolds emphasized that the landowners want to sell their land and suggested that the negotiation documents were part of normal business processes. She highlighted potential benefits, including a water treatment plant and water line for the northern part of the county. Reynolds challenged opponents, suggesting that if the board votes no due to 924 petition signatures, they should also be prepared to vote against future tax increases. She argued that Balico has worked to make this a win-win opportunity for Pittsylvania County and urged the board to vote yes for what she sees as a great opportunity. Collin Adams, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the data storage facility. Drawing from his personal history of working in tobacco fields as a young man, Adams acknowledged that the farming industry has significantly changed and no longer sustains the county as it once did. He emphasized that revenue from farming has decreased, and the county faces financial challenges without alternative income sources. Adams argued that the data storage facility presents an invaluable opportunity to bring substantial income to the county, potentially alleviating the need for tax increases on residents. He highlighted that the facility would not only generate revenue but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Adams stressed that the role of the Board of Supervisors is to act in the best interest of the majority of taxpayers, ensuring decisions benefit the county long-term. He respectfully requested that each board member vote in favor of the data storage facility, positioning it as a critical step towards securing a prosperous future for Pittsylvania County. Steven Watson, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the Balico project. Drawing from his personal background of growing up on a farm just outside Chatham, Watson acknowledged his deep ties to farmland but emphasized the importance of looking towards the future. He wants to create opportunities for his children and grandchildren, hoping they will have reasons to return to the county. Watson addressed concerns about noise and environmental impact by sharing his farm experiences, noting that rural life was never quiet - citing loud tractors, irrigation equipment, and cattle noises as examples of natural disruptions. He argued that farming itself has environmental challenges, such as pesticide runoff and methane emissions from cattle. Watson pointed out that only about 100 residents would be in close proximity to the proposed facility, questioning whether decisions should be made for the few or the many. He urged the board to carefully consider the project, requesting they pray about the decision and ultimately approve the Balico project for the county's future development. Greg Buppert, a lawyer from the Southern Environmental Law Center, spoke in opposition to the Balico project. Representing Kathy Stump and other residents, he expressed frustration with Balico's repeated delays. Buppert urged the board to make April 15th the final date for project consideration. He challenged Balico's claims about the power plant's scale, pointing out that while the company describes it as a modest 300-megawatt gas plant with temporary turbines, their concept drawings show eight permanent turbines capable of producing over 10 times that amount. Buppert highlighted that Balico's website indicates the site could generate 3,500 megawatts of power, potentially making it the largest gas plant in Virginia and the second-largest in the country. He raised significant environmental concerns, particularly about air pollution, noting that burning gas produces fine particulates linked to respiratory illnesses, congestive heart failure, and premature deaths. Buppert strongly argued against the company's suggestion to ignore the Comprehensive Plan, stating that the plan provides stability precisely for moments like this and offers multiple reasons to deny the rezoning request. Logan Mills, Callands-Gretna District, a full-time tobacco, small grain, and beef cattle farmer, spoke briefly against the Balico project. Despite being from a different part of the county, Mills expressed deep concern about the project's potential precedent. He noted that within the next year, he will be unable to travel in any direction without seeing solar panels. As a land steward, he was worried about what door this project might open for future developments in other parts of the county. Mills emphasized his primary concern: the impact on future generations. He stressed that agriculture is still alive in the county and that there are young people like himself who want to continue farming and build a future in the area. His concise testimony highlighted the importance of preserving agricultural land and opportunities for young farmers. Sandra Payne, Chatham-Blairs District, urged board members to take a car trip down Chalk Level Road to Mill Creek Church, suggesting they stop and experience the current natural beauty of the area. Payne painted a vivid picture of the meadow, describing the birds, wind, and peaceful environment that would be destroyed by the proposed project. She characterized the potential development as a "concrete jungle" that would eliminate the current natural landscape. Payne raised specific concerns about water usage, noting the project would consume over a million gallons of water daily, 365 days a year, and questioned whether the water supply could replenish fast enough. She challenged board members by asking if they would vote for such a project if it were within 500-800 feet of their own home. Payne also expressed skepticism about the projected financial benefits, referencing potential legal challenges and tax disputes. She concluded with a pointed statement that "nothing from nothing is nothing," emphasizing her belief that the project offers no real value to the community. Lexi Shelhorse, Callands-Gretna District, questioned the authenticity of letters supporting the Balico project. She highlighted two specific letters that raised suspicion. The first was from Charles City County, dated January 21st and signed by Charles Coda, an interim County Administrator who resigned a week later. She noted that the county administrator's office had no record of the letter, and it appeared to be on old letterhead, suggesting it was a personal opinion rather than an official statement. The second letter was from the local Farm Bureau, which she argued did not align with the state organization's clear policy opposing data centers on agricultural and forested land. Shelhorse pointed out that the Virginia Farm Bureau's policy explicitly states opposition to data centers on agricultural land, and the local letter was not endorsed by the state organization. She also raised the question of revenue, bringing up the Anchorstone project, which is 950 acres under construction and comparable to the Balico project. She emphasized the need for transparency and questioned the legitimacy of the supporting documentation. Robert Kee, Chatham-Blairs District, spoke on the technical details of Balico's proposed gas turbine. Referencing a press question and answer session, he discussed the FT8 mobile pack gas turbine manufactured by Mitsubishi. Key highlighted that according to the manufacturer's website, the turbine can deliver 31 megawatts of power at 36.7% efficiency. Using Balico's claimed 60% efficiency rating, he calculated that the project would consume 52.7 million megawatt hours of energy daily, with 60% powering on-site operations and 40% becoming waste heat. To put this into perspective, he noted this energy consumption would be enough to power 41,300 houses. Kee emphasized that all this energy would be converted to heat and released on-site, raising significant concerns about the ecological impact. He argued that the heat energy released would be catastrophic for the immediate area. His technical analysis aimed to demonstrate the potentially severe environmental consequences of the proposed project, challenging Balico's claims about the facility's efficiency and environmental impact. Emily Mayhew, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the Balico project. Drawing from her 20 years of management experience, she emphasized the importance of weighing pros and cons when making difficult decisions. Mayhew argued that regardless of the board's decision, some people would be unhappy. She urged the board to consider the overall benefits of the project for the entire county. Highlighting potential advantages, she noted that while Hurt would benefit from a water plant, the entire county would gain fire hydrants along the Route 29 corridor, benefiting local fire departments. Mayhew stressed that schools, fire departments, and EMS could significantly benefit from the tax revenue generated by the project. She mentioned specific infrastructure needs, such as repairs at Hurt School and Mount Airy, which could be addressed with the project's revenue. Mayhew also emphasized the potential for good-paying jobs and criticized the county's history of losing major business opportunities to other areas. She concluded by calling for a civil, Christian- like approach to the discussion, regardless of differing opinions, and thanked the board for their service. Jordan Kee, Chatham-Blairs District, highlighted what Balico has stated they will NOT do. She quoted Balico representative Mr. Ali, who when asked about local contractor promises, said "I do not remember making any promises." Kee emphasized several key points about Balico's claims: they will not be paying taxes directly on the data centers, but rather whoever occupies them will pay taxes; they will run a water line to their entrance but then leave maintenance responsibilities to the county; they have no current tenants lined up for the proposed data centers; and their statements about not using eminent domain are vague and non-committal. She argued that their language like "does not plan" or "does not anticipate" leaves room for future actions. Kee characterized the project as unregulated and unproven, using a colorful metaphor that it "smells like three-day-old fish" and should be removed from consideration in Pittsylvania County. Alice Bond, Staunton River District, presented research from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regarding the Balico project. She spoke with Paul Jenkins from the DEQ's Blue Ridge division, who assured her that air and water emissions would be continuously monitored for as long as the facility operates. Jenkins confirmed that maintaining air and water quality would also keep the land healthy and support animal life. Bond shared her personal experience visiting the sites of Balico's power stations and a data center in Mecklenburg County, where she found the noise levels to be extremely low. She noted that only one facility produced a very minimal sound, while others were virtually silent. Regarding environmental concerns, Bond explained that while the water output might not be drinkable, it would be safe for streams and rivers according to strict DEQ standards, and water treatment plants would further filter and test the water. She acknowledged that progress is naturally disruptive but argued that the current farmland is not being actively farmed like in the past. Bond urged the board to consider the facts and the potential long-term revenue benefits for the entire county. Steve Worley, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the Balico project, focusing on the water line infrastructure benefits. He highlighted that the project would fund a new water treatment plant and construct 20 miles of water line from Hurt to Chatham, estimating a cost of $35-$50 million at no expense to the county. Worley emphasized that this water line would provide safe, dependable water along the Route 29 corridor, including approximately 200 fire hydrants, and offer water backup for Gretna and Chatham. He stressed that the county currently lacks the means to fund such a project independently. Worley discussed the county's long-term capital needs, noting $182 million in capital improvements and $27.3 million in outstanding school bonds. He estimated the project could generate around $148 million in annual tax revenue, potentially easing tax burdens for both the county and its citizens. Worley argued that rezoning 750 acres would not sacrifice the county's way of life and that the board has an obligation to provide opportunities for future generations. He urged the board to stop saying no to progress and to act now to ensure the county's survival. Darrell Campbell, Chatham-Blairs District, emphasized that while money itself is not evil, it's the love of money that becomes problematic. Campbell quoted a college president who said, "You can't do wrong to get a chance to do right." He argued that the discussion has been overwhelmingly focused on financial benefits, which he finds concerning. Campbell stressed that the core issue is location, not just monetary gain, and warned against "robbing Peter to pay Paul." He characterized the potential economic approach as "bad economics and sinful ethics." Drawing from biblical references, Campbell noted that wealth alone does not guarantee virtue, referencing the rich young ruler and a wealthy man in a biblical parable who missed something fundamental in life. His testimony suggested that while money can be a neutral tool, the community must be careful about what they ask for, warning that they might get it and then have to pay an unexpected price. Campbell's message was a moral caution against pursuing economic development at the expense of community values and ethical considerations. Richard Cocke, Staunton River District, spoke in support of the Balico project. He argued that the benefits of the data center far outweigh its potential liabilities. Cocke addressed noise concerns by comparing the project's sound levels to existing local noise sources like Norfolk Southern Railroad, tractor-trailer traffic, and dumpster loading. He suggested that the developer has worked to buffer and minimize disruption. Drawing from personal experience, Cocke noted that while people want progress like internet and power, they often resist when such developments are near their own property. He referenced his past experience on a landfill siting committee, where everyone recognized the need but no one wanted it in their backyard. Cocke characterized the project as a "win-win" for local, regional, state, and federal interests, and emphasized its importance for national security. He highlighted Virginia's leadership in data centers and the potential for the Route 29 corridor to benefit from public water infrastructure. Cocke urged the board to consider the broader implications, suggesting that the project could help avoid building a new water treatment plant and provide critical infrastructure for Chatham and Gretna. That concluded the twenty (20) speakers Tucker said were allowed to speak. The Board recessed at 8:24 PM. The Board reconvened at 8:36 PM. PUBLIC HEARINGS Rezoning Public Hearings 1. Case R-25-005 Kelly Krogmann and Kenneth Krogmann; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. The Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted.(Supervisor Dalton) In Case R-25-005, Kelly Krogmann and Kenneth Krogmann (Petitioners) have petitioned to rezone property located on State Road 921/Martin Road in the Callands-Gretna Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN #1453-17-1283. The applicant is requesting to rezone 10.733 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow the property to be used for agricultural purposes. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code Section 35-178 are a Permitted Use. The Comprehensive Plan indicates the area is suitable for Agricultural and Rural Residential uses. Zoning conditions and Ordinance standards shall control the density of allowable development. On February 4, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. Tucker opened the Public Hearing at 8:39 PM. No one signed up to speak and Tucker closed the Public Hearing at 8:40 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 10.733 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow agricultural uses on the property. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dalton SECONDER: Dudley AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 2. Case R-25-006 Robert and Elizabeth Yeatts; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. The Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. (Supervisor Dalton) In Case R-25-006, Robert and Elizabeth Yeatts (Petitioners), have petitioned to rezone property located off of State Road 751/Grassland Drive, in the CallandsGretna Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 1561-56-9795. The applicant is requesting to rezone 3.30 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. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code Section 35-178 are a Permitted Use. The Comprehensive Plan indicates the area is suitable for Agricultural and Rural Residential uses. Zoning conditions and Ordinance standards shall control the density of allowable development. On February 4, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioners' request be granted. Tucker opened the Public Hearing at 8:41 PM. No one signed up to speak and Tucker closed the Public Hearing at 8:41 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 3.30 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. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Dalton SECONDER: Dudley AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 3. Case R-25-007 East Bowles LLC; Rezoning from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, and RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District. The Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the peitioner's request be granted. (Supervisor Bowman) In Case R-25-007, East Bowles, LLC (Petitioner) has petitioned to rezone property located on U S Highway 29, in the Chatham-Blairs Election District and shown on the Tax Maps GPIN #s 2422- 35-3487, 2422-35-7963 and 2422-35-7738. The applicant is requesting to rezone three (3) parcels, totaling 28.27 acres, from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, and RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District, to M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to allow for a Convenience Store and Gasoline Station to be placed on the property. Once the property is rezoned to M-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code Section 35-383 are a Permitted Use. The Comprehensive Plan indicates the area is suitable for Mixed Commercial and Industrial uses. Zoning conditions and Ordinance standards shall control the density of allowable development. On February 4, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. Tucker opened the Public Hearing at 8:44 PM. Ryan Gatewood was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Tucker closed the Public Hearing at 8:45 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of three (3) parcels, totaling 28.27 acres, from M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, and RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District, to M-1, Industrial District, Light Industry, to allow for a Convenience Store and Gasoline Station to be placed on the property. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Bowman SECONDER: Ingram AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 4. Case R-25-008 Robert Yeaman, contract purchaser; Rezoning from RMF, Residential Multi-Family District, to RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District. The Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. (Supervisor Whittle) In Case R-25-008, Robert Yeaman, contract purchaser, (Petitioner) has petitioned to rezone property located on State Road 873/River Ridge Road in the Westover Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 1388-54-5757. The applicant is requesting to rezone 2.81 acres, from RMF, Residential Multi-Family District, to RC-1, Residential Combined Subdivision District, to allow for a single-family home to be placed on the property. Once the property is rezoned to RC-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code Section 35-267 are a Permitted Use. The Comprehensive Plan indicates the area is suitable for Agricultural and Rural Residential uses. Zoning conditions and Ordinance standards shall control the density of allowable development. On February 4, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. Tucker opened the Public Hearing at 8:46 PM. Robert Yeaman was present to represent the Petition. No one signed up to speak and Tucker closed the Public Hearing at 8:47 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 2.81 acres, from RMF, Residential Multi-Family District, to RC- 1, Residential Combined Subdivision District, to allow a single-family home to be constructed on the property. RESULT: 7-0 (Approve) MOVER: Whittle SECONDER: Ingram AYES: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None 5. Case R-25-009 Jennifer Hooks; Rezoning from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District. The Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted (Chairman Tucker) In Case R-25-009, Jennifer Hooks (Petitioner), has petitioned to rezone property located on State Road 677/White Fall Road in the Banister Election District and shown on the Tax Maps as GPIN # 2499-08-8281. The applicant is requesting to rezone 19.67 acres, from R-1, Residential Suburban Subdivision District, to A-1, Agricultural District, to allow an accessory structure to be placed on the property. Once the property is rezoned to A-1, all uses listed under Pittsylvania County Code Section 35-178 are a Permitted Use. The Comprehensive Plan indicates the area is suitable for Agricultural and Rural Residential uses. Zoning conditions and Ordinance standards shall control the density of allowable development. On February 4, 2025, the Planning Commission recommended by a 5-0 vote, with no opposition, that the petitioner's request be granted. Tucker opened the Public Hearing at 8:48 PM. No one signed up to speak and Tucker closed the Public Hearing at 8:49 PM. Motion to approve the rezoning of 19.67 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: Tucker, Hite, Bowman, Dalton, Dudley, Ingram, Whittle NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None BOARD MEMBER REPORTS • Ingram requested prayers for Delegate Danny Marshall and the Caleb Barker family. He shared positive updates about Scott Budd's recovery and a new daycare center, and celebrated the recognition of local heroes Devin Taylor and Jerome Cook. • Dalton also requested prayers for Delegate Danny Marshall and mentioned the passing of his longtime friend and coworker, Luke Jefferson. Dalton highlighted the recognition of Devin Taylor for his efforts and praised his ongoing community work. He noted the recent Young Farmers Week, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the future of agriculture. Dalton attended the Blairs Volunteer and Rescue banquet, and also mentioned an upcoming fundraiser for the Gretna Volunteer Fire and Rescue. Dalton concluded by thanking the staff for their hard work and expressing appreciation for the board members and the meeting's proceedings. • Whittle thanked the staff for their work and stated his appreciation for their patience with the board. He also asked everyone to keep Danny Marshall in their prayers. • Dudley recognized Jimmy Harding, a first-year Hurt Town Council member who was present at the meeting. He highlighted Harding's service as a United States Marine who fought in Vietnam and praised his continued community involvement. Dudley also acknowledged Harding's wife Janet, a cancer survivor. He expressed appreciation for the board members, their hard work and endurance, and thanked the staff for ensuring the meeting ran smoothly. • Bowman began by offering thoughts and prayers for Delegate Danny Marshall, expressing gratitude for his successful lung transplant and wishing him a full recovery. He shared that he recently attended the Chamber Business After Hours event in Martinsville and the West Piedmont Planning Commission meeting, both of which provided great networking opportunities. On March 4, he spoke at the Danville Rotary Club, where members asked questions about county matters, including the Balico project. He also attended the Blairs Volunteer Fire Department awards banquet on March 8 and the NRA banquet on March 13. He met with the Beautification Committee and encouraged residents to participate in the countywide cleanup in April and to apply for open seats on county boards, including the Beautification Committee and DSS Board. He read a certificate of appreciation for Richard Waters, honoring his four years of service on the Planning Commission. He closed by wishing his daughter a happy birthday on March 26, noting she’ll be home to celebrate despite her busy NASCAR travel schedule. • Hite began by thanking the staff for their support and for ensuring the Board has the information they need. He then reflected on the recent passing of Caleb Barker, who was just 31 years old, and shared that he had known Caleb since birth, as his family once lived across the street. He called it a tragic reminder of how uncertain life can be. He encouraged everyone to remember the importance of civility, even in disagreement, and to treat one another with love and respect. On a personal note, he shared that his sister and brother-in- law, Tammy and Wayne Sexton, recently moved back to Pittsylvania County from Greenville, South Carolina, and celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary. • Tucker began by thanking the Vice Chair and all the citizens who attended the meeting or tuned in via Facebook or livestream, expressing appreciation for their involvement in local government and noting how encouraging it is to see increased public engagement. He also thanked the county staff working behind the scenes, acknowledging their hard work and referring to them as the ones doing the “heavy lifting.” He extended gratitude to all Pittsylvania County employees, calling them the county’s greatest resource. While recognizing budget constraints, he encouraged employees to stay committed, emphasizing the pride and fulfillment that can come from being part of a dedicated, successful team. COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS Mr. Evans reflected on the idea that while we are free to think, plan, and act, we are never free from the consequences of our actions. He expressed appreciation for the Board’s thoughtful deliberation and the decisions made during the meeting, adding that it’s a privilege to be part of the process. ADJOURNMENT Tucker adjourned the Meeting at 9:06 PM.