RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS March 13, 2025 / March 24, 2025 / April 2, 2025 MINUTES At a regular meeting ofthe Board of Supervisors for Richmond County, Virginia, held on the 13th day of March, 2025, thereof in the Public Meeting Room of the County Office Building. Present: F. Lee Sanders, Chairman J. David Parr, Member Richard E. Thomas, Vice-Chairman Robert B. Pemberton, Member JR Fidler, Member Also Present: Hope Mothershead, County Administrator Dr. Davis, Richmond County Public Schools David Beale, VDOT Sheriff Smith, Sheriff S Office/ Animal Shelter/ NNRJ Mitch Paulette, Chief of Emergency Services Kristie Brann, Treasurer David Thomas, Chief, RCVFD Approximately 10 others CALL TO ORDER Chairman Sanders opened the meeting, gave the invocation and led in the pledge. COUNTY DEPARTMENT RECOGNITION Mrs. Mothershead stated Richmond County is fortunate to have employees in place who truly care about the County and each other. Mrs. Mothershead recognized the Richmond County Library, Museum and Extension Office for all their hard work. STAFF REPORTS RICHMOND COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Dr. Davis shared academic updates with the Board and congratulated those students on there success. Dr. Davis noted Ann Sterling Motley was recognized as Student of the Month and has finished top five in her class. Dr. Davis also recognized Matthew Nanny as the recipient of the Virginia Association of Career and Education Teacher of the Year award. Dr. Davis commented students in Physics class have been building drones from scratch and learning about them. Dr. Davis added they are looking to advance that program in the next year and possibly get the kids certification to be able to fly in open air space. Dr. Davis congratulated the Robotics Team on there first place win. Dr. Davis noted what an impressive accomplished that is. Dr. Davis congratulated the athletes that earned metals in the Indoor State Track Meet: Natalie Mothershead - 1600m 4th in the state Billy Houchin = Shot Put 4th in the state Kelsie Rogers, Elena Milstead, Natalie Mothershead & Maggie Wonderling - 4x800 Relay 3rd in the state Kelsie Rogers, Elena Milstead, Mia Tignor & Riley Patterson 4x400 Relay 4th in the state Dr. Davis noted the Teachers for Tomorrow students were recognized at the March 12th school board meeting. Dr. Davis added these students worked with the young students in the elementary school throughout the school year. VDOT Mr. Beale highlighted maintenance activity completed for the Month of March: Brush Cutting (Rt 637 Piney Grove Rd, Rt 609 Mothershead Neck Rd) Winter storm response Pothole patching countywide Work orders countywide Mr. Beale mentioned upcoming activity: Brush cutting (Rt 637 Piney Grove Rd, Rt 624 Newland Rd, Rt 606 Simonson Rd, Rt 608 Farnham Creek Rd) Shoulder Repair (Rt 1014 East Monroe Ave) Beaver Dam removal (Rt 634 Naylors Beach Rd, Rt 603 Quinton Oak Rd) Grade gravel roads countywide Pothole patching countywide Work orders countywide 2 Mr. Beale noted the culvert on Havelock Scates Mill Stream is still out for bid and expects that to be under construction in the May June timeframe. COUNTY-WIDE LITTER COLLECTION Mrs. Mothershead commented Richmond County received $11,033 from the DEQ non- competitive grant this year to be used for litter programs and/ or collection. Mrs. Mothershead added after talking to David Beale from VDOT, he has advised that with the increased amount of snow cleanup expenses, their litter collection may be delayed this spring. Mrs. Mothershead stated with this money from DEQ she would like to schedule a county- wide cleanup with the VDOT contractors. Mrs. Mothershead noted primary route is $4,318.44 and secondary route is $6,431.69. Mrs. Mothershead mentioned there would be enough with that DEQ non- competitive money to go ahead and do the first clean up and as VDOT can assist with clean ups they will pitch in after July. Mr. Beale added VDOT typically picks up before they mow. Mrs. Mothershead commented there is an Earth Day Celebration being planned by some citizens towards the end of April and suggested coordinating a cleanup together with that. "On a motion made by Richard E. Thomas, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Richard E. Thomas = aye; J. David Parr aye; J.R. Fidler-aye; Robert B. Pemberton-aye; to use the DEQ grant money. for cleanup. 99 Mr. Thomas noted some treel bush trimming that needs to be addressed on Cole Hill Road, Normans Corner and Canal. Mr. Thomas also noted on Canal Road past Normans Corner there are two telephone pole wires that are hanging down. HERIPFANRJANIMAL CONTROL Sheriff Smith reported there were 1,580 calls for service, 291 civil papers, 10 arrests, 16 warrants, 18 protective orders served, with 51 traffic summons for the month of] February. Animal Control had 29 calls for service, took in 6 animals, 2 surrenders, adopted 4 and returned 3 animals. Sheriff Smith reported the Jail is in good financial situation. Sheriff Smith added Alex Williams was awarded at the Jail Board Meeting as the Employee of the Year. Sheriff Smith noted Richmond County will be hosting the Jail Board Dinner on April 16th. 3 Sheriff Smith mentioned two speed signs have been placed one by Mackey Thompson School and one on Menokin Road. Sheriff Smith added they will be moving these throughout the County in hopes of getting more. Mr. Parr asked about putting a speed sign at Red Hill. CHIEF OF EMERGENCY SERVICES Chief Paulette reported Emergency Services responded to 161 calls for service in February. Total revenue recovery for the month $44,700.32 ChiefPaulette noted February continued to be busy as it was the busiest February they've ever had for calls and transports. Chief Paulette mentioned there were multiple snow events with no personnel injuries or incidents to report. ChiefPaulette reported they did a soft launch to the medication program on February 10th and had positive results. Chief Paulette noted the medication program is now fully operational and everything SO far has been good. Chief Paulette commented they did have formal training on the new LIFEPAK 35. ChiefPaulette added they are waiting on one more part before they can put them into the field. Chief] Paulette noted they have had a huge spike in transports to Richmond. Chairman Sanders encouraged the Board to go by and let Chief Paulette or Captain McDaniel go over the new drug room. RICHMOND COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT ChiefThomas reported Fire Company 1(Warsaw) 15 total calls, Fire Company 2 (Farnham) 7 total calls, Fire Company 3 (Newland) 4 total calls. Chief Thomas noted the Gun Show will be this weekend March 15th & 16th in Farnham. Chief Thomas mentioned Newland's Open House is scheduled for March 29th, > 2025, 3:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. ChiefThomas mentioned Career Day will be at Richmond County Elementary School, March 28th ChiefThomas reported the Fire Banquet was held Saturday, March gth with recognitions ofyears of service, Captains awards and special awards: Years of Service: Mathew Bryant 10 years Brian Davis 15 years Troy Sumiel 15 Years 4 Top call runners: Col Jason Lentz, Justin Slater, David Thomas Co2 David Thomas, JD Dawson, Les Clark Co3 Chris Kues, Owen Kues, James Hall Captains Award Co1 Jason Lentz Co2 Jacob Mothershead Co3 James Hall Chiefs award JD Dawson Special Award to the Mothershead's / Dawson Family With over 180 years serving the Richmond County Residents JD Dawson Fred Wayne Mothershead Brian Mothershead Wayne Mothershead Jacob Mothershead Chairman Sanders thanked ChiefThomas for the invitation to the Banquet Dinner and commented how nice it was. Chairman Sanders thanked the Fire Department for all they do for the County. TREASURER Mrs. Brann stated as for 2024, uncollected taxes set at $652,976.55. Mrs. Brann added they have started their delinquent collections. BUILDING/ ZONING/LAND USE Mrs. Mothershead stated fees collected were $36,797, construction cost was $1,687,000 for February. With 5 land disturbing permits and 8 zoning permits. Mrs. Mothershead noted Planning Commission did not meet this month but an April meeting is planned. Mrs. Mothershead added Wetlands Board is scheduled to meet towards the end of the month for discussion on a new application. SOLID WASTE Mrs. Mothershead reported there were a total of 47 hauls for the month of February. Indianfield had 24, Farnham had 12, and Newland hauled away 11. The brush site had 83 visits. Mrs. Mothershead reminded everyone with Daylight Savings time Convenient Center Hours are adjusted to 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. with Farnham closed on Tuesday's and Newland closed on Thursday's. 5 PUBLIC COMMENT Cliff Mullin, 8351 Historyland Hwy updated the Board on the Indianfield substation project and Drinking Swamp Solar project. Mr. Mullin added at the Town Council meeting it was mentioned about a solar project down Wellfords Wharf possibly on some land owned by the Town. Mr. Mullin encourages the Board to keep the public and everyone involved with this project. Mr. Mullin noted he took a tour of the Coggin Building and commented how impressive it is on what's been done. Mr. Mullin mentioned he met with one of the Clerks about the Courthouse modification and had two comments on the plan that was giving out. Mr. Mullen commented he went by EMS and he was impressed by what they do and how they utilize the medication drugs. Ken Blackley commented at a previous meeting he had asked the School Board and Board of Supervisors get together as two boards. Mr. Blackley noted Mr. Pemberton has been attending the school board meetings and commended how the dialogue between the two boards has gotten SO much better. Mr. Blakley mentioned he would like to see as two boards go over to the schools one day. Tom Jeffries, Chairman of the Northern Neck Patriots, expressed concerns about the abuses occurring at the Northern Neck Regional Jail that have been reported on a regular basis for over two years to the Board of Supervisors and too the Jail Board. Mr. Jeffries stated he has looked into these concerns, they want the truth and want the abuses to end. Michael Self, 553 Self's Lane, reiterated Mr. Thomas low hanging tree comment on Normans Corner/ Canal log trucks are cutting trees off and it's a major concern. Mr. Self commented there needs to be turn lanes at Red Hill and the speed limit needs to be dropped to about 40 mph. AGENDA ITEMS EQUIPMENT DEMONSTRATION- EMS Chief Paulette gave a demonstration on the new LUCAS 3 Chest Compression System. The LUCAS chest Compression System allows the providers to shock the patient while compressions are still being done. Chief Paulette added with these new monitors they can transmit directly to a doctor real time live feed of a cardiac rhythm and talk to the doctor to make good transport decisions. Chief Paulette mentioned this monitor has a built-in sensor that not only reads your oxygen saturation in your blood it also reads carbon monoxide saturation in your blood. Mr. Thomas asked about an age limit. Chief Paulette commented the age limit is 8-12 years old depending on the size anything smaller they would be manual compressions. 6 DIESEL FUEL TANK INSTALLATION Chairman Sanders noted on February 12th he received aj phone call from the EMS truck chiefwhere they had drained nine gallons of water from one of the ambulances. Chairman Sanders added that nine gallons of water costed the county $12,900 to replace the fuel system on one of the ambulances. Chairman Sanders commented he met with Chief Paulette and they both asked why can't a tank be placed at the squad building to monitor the diesel fuel. Chairman Sanders added they have talked to school personnel and they still are draining water from their tanks. ChiefPaulette noted he has been getting prices on tanks and Fredrick Northup came in at the lowest cost looking at a 1,000-gallon fuel tank set up and placed at $6,500. Mr. Thomas added this will eliminate the congestion of parking compared to being at the school. Mrs. Mothershead thanked Robbie King for his help with looking into other technology to help the school in the future. "On a motion made by Richard E. Thomas, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Richard E. Thomas - aye; J. David Parr - aye; J.R. Fidler-aye; Robert B. Pemberton-aye; to allow Chief Paulette to proceed with the purchase of a diesel fuel tank at the EMS building. 1 INTEREST IN TM NO. 24-6 AND TM NO. 16-42 Mrs. Mothershead stated there is interest in the purchase of County-owned property (TM No. 24- 6 and 16-42) for residential development. Mrs. Mothershed noted the company interested in the purchase desires to add the 30 acres to the 13-acre contract. Mrs. Mothershead asked for a public hearing to be scheduled. "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Richard E. Thomas aye; J. David Parr aye; J.R. Fidler-aye; Robert B. Pemberton-aye; to schedule a public hearing on April 10th at 6 p.m. 99 ONGOING PROJECTS VDOT RECREATIONAL TRAIL PROJECT Mrs. Mothershead noted as previously mentioned, the cost of this project is overshadowing the funds originally set aside. Mrs. Mothershead added after conversation with Mike Fiore at Resource International and VDOT and it appears there is additional funding through another TAP round that may be available. VDOT 7 is checking to make certain that the original grant through TAP (Transportation Alternative Project) would be able to be combined with a new round of funds to move forward with the trail project. COGGIN BUILDING-RENOVATION Mrs. Mothershead commented the final touches are being identified and completed at the Coggin Building. Mrs. Mothershead noted a move date is being considered by the Commissioner's Office and Treasurers Office. They want to make certain that the moving times does not conflict with any training or transfer of data with the new computer software that both offices are. juggling. EMS STATION #2 Mrs. Mothershead noted additional information is being researched for the current well at the firehouse. These details will help the engineering team finalize plans for connection. COMMERCE PARK EDA GRANT Mrs. Mothershead noted previously there are VDOT Access Grant funds that will accompany the EDA funds for this road extension project. The Access Grant program has changed a bit and will allow additional funding. Mrs. Mothershead added if they wish to move forward a new resolution will need to be adopted. EMERGENCY RADIO INFRASTRUCTURE Mrs. Mothershead reported installation of equipment on the tower and in the control rooms are nearing completion. In addition, the grounding improvements and antenna/ line removals are also complete. Chief Paulette added if all goes well, they are looking too conditioning the site at the end of this month. Chief Paulette noted it will probably be May before they sign off on the coverage testing. DHCD- COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (SCOTTTOWN) Mrs. Mothershead mentioned after conversation with Jerry Davis from the Northern Neck Planning District Commission, he advised that monthly management team meetings are now necessary for this block grant project. They have updated financial eligibility ofe each applicant and completed inspections at each site. Mrs. Mothershead noted currently, the titles of each parcel are being reviewed and any title issues will be sorted out by a local attorney. Mrs. Mothershead added thereafter, they will work on subdividing the parcels to allow for individual residences on each parcel. Mrs. Mothershead mentioned Mr. Davis has shared that the contractors with the Warsaw Project have realized that stick-built construction with the amount of money set aside is not going to be 8 possible SO they are now looking into modular. It will also allow for those folks to not be displaced as long. Mr. Thomas asked has any funding been available for the residents to be displaced for any amount of time. Mrs. Mothershead noted when doing assessments of the home they are making the residents aware they will have to stay elsewhere but there perhaps may be funding within the grant. COURTHOUSE REMODEL Mrs. Mothershead commented planning for this project is underway with a draft plan being prepared by Mr. Ken Pope. Upon receipt of the draft plan, they will be certain that all needs are met before any additional work is approved. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION $1, 858.30- Cigarette tax received for the month ofJanuary, 2025 FY26 Budget Reminder: Monday, March 24, 2025- FY26 Budget Presentation from County Administrator and Discussion (6:00 PM) Monday, March 31, 2025- FY26 Budget Worksession (6:00 PM) Thursday, April 10, 2025- FY26 Budget Worksession (6:00 PM) BOARD APPOINTMENTS IDA - District 2, existing term expires 12-31-24. "On a motion made by J. David Parr, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Robert B. Pemberton aye; J. David Parr - aye; J.R Fidler-aye; Richard E. Thomas-aye; to appoint Norman Childs to the IDA Board. 39 MONTHLY APPROPRIATIONS RICHMOND COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIALSERVICES "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Robert B. Pemberton - aye; J. David Parr - aye; J.R Fidler-aye; Richard E. Thomas-aye; to approve the April 2025 appropriation of Richmond County Department of Social Services for $85,000.00." RICHMOND COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Robert B. Pemberton - aye; J. David Parr - ye; J.R. Fidler-aye; Richard E. Thomas-aye; to approve the 9 April 2025 appropriation of Richmond County School Board for $1,810,336 pending approval from School Board. 9 MONTHLY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS No Monthly Supplemental Appropriations. APPROVAL OF MINUTES-Fehruary 13, 2025 "On a motion made by J.R. Fidler, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Richard E. Thomas - aye; J. David Parr = aye; J.R. Fidler-aye; Robert B. Pemberton-aye; to approve the February 13th, 2025 minutes as presented" BOARD MEMBER COMMENISOTHER BUSINESS Mr. Fidler thanked Chief Paulette for his demonstration. Mr. Fidler noted Rachel Douglas has reached out with concerns on the Warsaw Solar Facility should that move forward. Mr. Fidler mentioned should this project move forward, it would go to review with the Planning Commission first making recommendations if recommended then it would go to the Board of Supervisors. Mr. Thomas mentioned he attended the Fireman's Banquet and is very appreciative and proud of the family that has served SO many years. Mr. Thomas noted the IDA parking lot has two major cracks that need to be addressed. Mr. Thomas added Richmond County Fair dates will be changed and he will have more information next month. Mr. Parr mentioned how impressive the Dawson/ Mothershead Family is for there years of service with the Fire Department. Mr. Parr commended the schools academic teams and Mr. Nanny on his award. Mr. Parr added it is good to have someone like him in our school system. Mrs. Mothershead noted there are two open positions within the County one in Admin and one to be advertised in the Clerk' s Office. Mrs. Mothershead updated on the Town Solar Project. It is her understanding that they are currently in the study period and once it gets to the County public notices will be sent to adjoining property owners prior to the Planning Commission Meeting and Board level as well. 10 CLOSED SESSION "On a motion made by. J. David. Parr, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders - aye; Richard E. Thomas - aye; J. R. Fidler aye; J. David. Parr-aye; Robert B. Pemberton - aye: as permitted by Virginia Code Section 2.2-3711 (A)3 a matter involving the use! disposition of public property. CERTIFICATION MOTION AFTER RECONVENING IN PUBLIC SESSION "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted by roll call: F. Lee Sanders = aye; Richard E. Thomas - aye; J. R. Fidler aye; J. David Parr - aye; Robert B. Pemberton aye; that the Board certifies that, in the closed. session just concluded, nothing was discussed except the matter" or matters (1) specifically identified in the motion to convene in closed session and (2) lawfully permitted to be sO discussed under the provisions of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act cited in that motion. 19 ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders aye; Robert B. Pemberton aye; J. David Parr - aye; J.R Fidler-aye; Richard E. Thomas-aye; "to move forward with the EDA Grant for Commerce Park expansion project without the benefit of the VDOT Access Grant. 9 Recess to 12:30 p.m. for Department Budget Presentations. Chairman Sanders called the meeting back to order for Department Budget Presentations at 12:30 p.m. Richmond County Public Schools Dr. Davis presented a report to the Board setting out the school's purpose, successes and budget needs. After communications with County staff, the school is requesting an additional $75,000.00 and will use a portion of the funds previously placed in their CIP for overall funding. Please see attached presentation (Exhibit I). Richmond County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Smith explained to the Board the needs of the Sheriff's Office and touched on how much items have increased in price. He shared the impact of the warrant service at Northern Neck Regional Jail and how it leaves his staff short being tied up with paper service. Sheriff Smith reviewed the amount of calls that they have already taken at this point in the year and added the need for an additional deputy and an investigator. The proposed salary adjustment plan was described and Sheriff Smith is hopeful that this will be part ofthe decisions for the FY26 budget. Richmond County Little League Julia Blackley-Rice and Loren Allison shared successes with the Board from this past year from the Little League. This will be the 45th year of Little League in Richmond County. The number of ball players this year will be close to 260. Opening day will be planned for April 12th. Richmond County Little League requests a slight increase this year to a total of $22,500.00. 11 Richmond County Social Services Vanessa Livingston shared info from Social Services and advised that legal fees would be increasing in the future year. There are no new positions being added this year, only minor adjustments to payroll. The total ask this year for Social Services is $443,934.00. Ms. Livingston also touched on CSA and the expenses that follow for out of school placements. Richmond County Volunteer Fire Department Mr. Randy Passagaluppi asked for an increase in the truck fund of $5,000.00 and an additional $5,000.00 in the operating budget. He announced the completion of the addition to the Newland Fire House and invited all to the open house on March 29th from 3:00 - 6:00. Mr. Passagaluppi notified the Board that plans were being designed for the new fire station and event venue at the property along the bypass in Warsaw. Richmond County Department of] Emergency Services Mr. Mitch Paulette shared information with the Board about challenges to his department as to costs of the medication program and other costs of the one-for-one exchange. Mr. Paulette discussed a possible adjustment of his pay scale for full time and part time employees. Replacement medic units were discussed and the cost of such unit is rising. Lastly, the need for radios was presented on behalf of all emergency departments (EMS, Police and Fire). Currently, 60 portable radios and 2 mobile radios are needed. Mr. Paulette asked for a separate line item for radios and the reorganization of the radio committee to report on further radio needs. Boys and Girls Club ofthe Northern Neck Ms. Jackie Ammons, Development Director of the Boys and Girls Club joined the Board to share some successes of their program in Richmond County. She noted that the Richmond County unit is growing and is running out of space. Ms. Ammons explained the swim lessons and cooking lessons that the students are able to share in. The Boys and Girls Club are asking for a donation of $10,000.00 this year. Healthy Harvest Ms. Cindy Balderson shared numbers of food items that have been supplied to Richmond County residents. Mr. Craig Hazzard explained the procedures that take place at Healthy Harvest. Ms. Tammi Cole shared info about the Fresh program and the Healthy Food Pharmacy program. They - have connections with the Northern Neck' Technical Center and Governor's School to engage students. Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Behavioral Health Ken Hickman, Finance Director, noted a request of $49,631.00. Mr. Hickman noted services provided to Richmond County. Mr. David Parr added that he enjoys being a part of this Board and appreciates all of the services that the group provides. This group services 13 localities. 12 Three Rivers Health Department Mr. Brenden Rivenbark shared some exciting news for changes in the Richmond County office. Mr. Rivenbark noted that with these changes, they will ask for a 5% increase to their overall budget and appreciates the past support to the Three Rivers Health Department. Richmond County Public Library Ms. Elizabeth Hadley discussed the needs and challenges of the Richmond County Public Library. The original request was $117,600.00 however, the new request will be 7% or $119,840.00. This median expenditure requirement is a moving target each year, however, it makes certain that the library can keep their state funding. Ms. Hadley shared information on Hoopla, Overdrive, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, cookbooks availability, etc. Library visits for the year of 2024 was 12,000. Richmond County YMCA Allison Cockrell, Executive Director, noted that the Richmond County Y has existed since 1996. They are committed to youth services and programs but also provide adults as needed. The YMCA asks for a contribution of $25,000 from the Board for the FY26 budget year. The Haven Ms. Ellen Yackel shared information from last year and the services that The Haven has offered to those in need. Ms. Yackel informed the Board about a program that The Haven is partnering with The Town of Warsaw on a fatality assessment. The Haven has asked for level funding however, they have lost a tremendous amount of funding from other sources. Sherry Pierson, Clerk ofthe Circuit Court Ms. Pierson noted a change in cost for the indexing system, maintenance service contracts, office supplies, etc. She reviewed grant funds received for updating old books housed in the courthouse. Legal Aid Works Ms. Ann Kloeckner, Executive Director of Legal Aid Works noted that she is asking for level funding of $2,467.00. They serve seven counties and twenty-one courts. They represent folks with low income for civil matters. Rappahannock Community College Dr. Shannon Kennedy shared updates on the Health Sciences Building. Their request for the FY26 budget year is $12,098.00. Bay Aging /1 Bay Transit Mr. Tinsley Goode shared updates on Bay Aging programs. They are asking for a 3% increase in funding for the FY26 year. As to Bay Transit, a 3% increase is also being requested for demand response services. 13 Northern Neck Soil and Water Mrs. Kathy Clarke noted the tremendous amount of money from the State for the cost share programs. She added information on the programs offered in Richmond County. Mrs. Clarke discussed level funding for FY26 in the amount of$15,000.00. Elizabeth Trible, Commonwealth's Attorney Mrs. Trible shared her budget request and broke down the funds to what is paid at the locality level and what is satisfied by comp board. Mrs. Trible noted that an unfunded mandate was in place for body worn cameras. Workforce Development Board Mrs. Jackie Davis shared benefits oft the Workforce Development Board. Mr. Giles Scott shared information on the VR program for career exploration. Mr. Scott goes into the schools and other organizations to make the program available. The request for FY26 is $2,296.00. With no further discussion, Chairman Sanders noted that the Board would be in recess until the March 24, 2025 meeting for a budget presentation from the County Administrator. RECONVENE- March 24, 2025, 6:00 P.M.- FY26 Budget Present: F. Lee Sanders Richard E. Thomas J. David Parr Robert B. Pemberton J. R. Fidler Also Present: Hope D. Mothershead, County Administrator Denise V. Dunaway, Director of Finance Approx: 2 others Chairman Sanders reconvened the meeting. FY26 BUDGET PRESENTATION Mrs. Mothershead presented the proposed FY26 budget presentation, highlighting increases and decreases from the departments. (SEE EXHIBITI 14 BOARD DISCUSSION The Board showed concern about an additional contribution to The Haven for this year since a large amount of funding will not be awarded to them this year. This additional contribution would be the amount of the total rent to be paid for FY26. In review of the calendar for Budget Adoption, the March 31st meeting was adjusted to April 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to meet the needs of the Board. OTHER BUSINESS Chairman Sanders shared an idea from Fluvanna County that was advertised in the County News. A program title "Buy Fluvanna First" was presented as a great idea for Richmond County to explore. RECESS Chairman Sanders recessed until the April 2nd. worksession. RECONVENE- April 2, 2025, 6:00 P.M. - FY26 Budget Worksession Present: F. Lee Sanders Richard E. Thomas J. David Parr Robert B. Pemberton J. R. Fidler Also Present: Hope D. Mothershead, County Administrator Denise V. Dunaway, Director of Finance Chairman Sanders reconvened the meeting. ADJUSTMENTS TO BUDGET Mrs. Mothershead noted that the requested adjustment to the contribution to The Haven was made. The total proposed contribution will now be $24,340.00. SHERIFF'S BUDGET Per request, the Sheriff's Budget was reviewed line by line to understand the items that were satisfied from the request and those items that were compromised. Discussion amongst the Board members was shared on the salary increase proposed to accommodate for the new salary scale. 15 PERSONAL PROPERTY ADJUSTMENT Mrs. Mothershead led a discussion on the proposed changes to the personal property rate. (SEE EXHIBIT II She noted that there are 6,795 items in the personal property category that do not qualify for PPTRA. In addition, the change oft the personal property rate would impact the public service amount because oft the values oft the automobiles and trucks. "On a motion made by Robert B. Pemberton, the Board voted: F. Lee Sanders = aye; Richard E. Thomas aye; J. R. Fidler - aye; J. David. Parr-aye; Robert B. Pemberton aye: toschedule the FY26 budget public hearing. for April 24, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. HART INFORMATION As previously discussed, Mrs. Mothershead noted that Hart would be looking for a pilot County to test new equipment once it is produced. This pilot would be completed prior to the equipment being released to other Counties and would also produce a discount on the purchase of the equipment. Chairman Sanders asked if Mrs. Cullison would be available to present information on the equipment at the April 10th meeting. ADJOURNMENT After no further business, Chairman Sanders adjourned the meeting. DL F. Lee Sanders, Chairman Richmond County Board of Supervisors 16 Exhibit I - / / VIRGIN - E - I HO - - 3 - - C 3 - 0 K V a - - - - -V ExhbtI PERSONAL PROPERTY Over the last several years, we have anticipated a decrease in vehicle values to get back to pre-pandemic numbers, however, we have not seen this move. Richmond County has been diligent to try to keep personal property tax amounts steady and have given away more money than is awarded through the PPTRA program. Therefore, I would like to make a change in the overall personal property division to decrease the amount ofpersonal property tax to $3.50 per $100.00 and then adjust the PPTRA rate accordingly once the actual values are projected and released in the fall. Based off of calculations, this plan should produce an equal amount of revenue to what has been received in the past but will reduce the PPTRA to the $803,000 value. Budgeted PP Revenue for FY25 - $2,394,500 Budgeted PP Revenue for FY26 - $2,536,617 91.5%, proposed 3% drop in value, rate of$3.50/$100, reimbursing citizens $803,000 For FY26, it is likely that the PPTRA rate will go back to the true rate, which is expected to be approximately 40%, and no additional relief will be granted above the $803,000. Until the Personal Property Book is finalized in September, setting a PPTRA rate is difficult due to the market volatility, and in order to get the most accurate number, the recommendation is to follow the same process as FY25. Set a preliminary PPTRA rate of 50%. Review actual data in September, to make necessary adjustments to the rate in October, prior to tax bills. Questions were asked about how this change would impact the additional items that are taxed under the personal property tax rate. Please see figures below using 2024 numbers: Total personal property assessment = $106,373,080 Minus: Vehicle value that qualifies for PPTRA - $ 67,362,880 $ 39,010,200 (6,795 items in the personal property category that do not qualify for PPTRA (farm equipment, boats, campers, computers/copiers, trailers, heavyweight large vehicles) $3.75 per $100 - $1,462,882 $3.50 per $100 = $1,365,357 5 97,525 PPTRA - Distributions 2021 $. 854,958 2022 $1,546,374 2023 $1,226,623 2024 $1,223,280 Public Service Assessed Value - Automobiles and Trucks $1,850,022 $3.75 per $100 - $ 69,375 $3.50 per $100 - $ 64,750 4,625