[4:06] Tuesday, September 8, 2026, meeting of the Louisa County Board of Supervisors to order, Mr. Bartlett.

[4:13] I'm worried that we can be in a closed session for

[4:18] Section 2.337 level, one in accordance for Section 2.337 level, eight, consultation, or leave the council.

[4:27] The board will retain by closing by regarding specific legal matters

[4:33] by Section 2. Second.

[4:35] We have currently moved and seconded that we go into closed session any discussion all those in favor signify by saying aye

[4:40] Any opposed motion passes. We're in closed session

[1:03:49] White Rabbi, move back into supply.

[1:03:54] Opposed,

[1:03:58] motion, passes. All aye. justiceoccertify.

[1:04:16] Decreases are on the move out item.

[1:04:19] Please state so, and the reason prior to Cassian vote, Mr. McCotter.

[1:04:23] Yes, Mr. Jones.

[1:04:25] Yes.

[1:04:26] Mr. Williams.

[1:04:27] Yes.

[1:04:27] Yes, Mr. Barlow.

[1:04:29] Yes.

[1:04:29] Mr. Barnes.

[1:04:30] Yes.

[1:04:30] Mr. Woodward.

[1:04:31] Yes.

[1:04:32] All right, we're back into open session.

[1:04:34] This is the Tuesday, September the 8th, 2026 meeting of the Louisa County Board of Supervisors.

[1:04:39] I'd like to welcome those of you who are here in the public meeting room, and those that are watching via online.

[1:04:46] This is, we're back now to our regular schedule where we'll have two meetings a month.

[1:04:51] And so we're glad to have you, we're going to start this evening's meeting, as we always do,

[1:04:55] with the invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

[1:04:59] The invocation will be by Mr. Barnes.

[1:05:01] If you'd like to join us, please stand.

[1:05:05] No, free.

[1:05:07] Father, I stretch my hand to the, know the help that I know.

[1:05:10] If that would draw that self for me, Father God, where should we go?

[1:05:14] But we have Father, we like to thank you for allowing us to live and see another day.

[1:05:19] Thank you for the citizens and Louise of Canada, Father God, that we make decisions, that

[1:05:23] we affect their lives, Father, and make it better.

[1:05:25] In Jesus' name, we pray.

[1:05:27] Amen.

[1:05:28] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which

[1:05:35] is Spanish, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

[1:05:41] First

[1:05:54] item is the adoption of the agenda.

[1:05:56] Yes, sir.

[1:05:57] Like the A-2 items, number one, to the consent agenda, resolution authorizing a pass through appropriation to the Fire and Emergency Services Rescue Squad Assistance Grant Funding.

[1:06:06] Number two under recognition, recognizing the photo contest winners.

[1:06:10] Please make that the first recognition, sir.

[1:06:12] Second.

[1:06:13] Just do it.

[1:06:14] It's been properly moved and seconded.

[1:06:16] Any discussion, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

[1:06:20] Aye. Aye. Aye. any opposed, motion passes United States Е�들.

[1:06:23] All сделings the next is the approve of the minutes of the move.

[1:06:26] Imp bevor you moved the second we approve the minutes all those in favor signify by saying aye

[1:06:31] Any opposed motion passes unanimously

[1:06:34] Necks is the approval of the bills so move second

[1:06:37] Complain moved aging that we approve the bills any discussion all those in favor signify by saying I

[1:06:44] Any opposed motion passes unanimously next is the approval of the contingent so move

[1:06:49] The second move and seconded that we approve the concinogened, all those in favor signify by saying aye.

[1:06:57] Motion passes unanimously.

[1:06:59] Next is recognition.

[1:07:00] Let me see.

[1:07:06] Recommendations?

[1:07:08] The first recognition will be recognizing the photo contest winners from the contest that the county had, where we have photos being displayed from all districts across the county.

[1:07:20] Miss King.

[1:07:51] Good evening, Mr. Chairman, members of the Board, members of the public, this is a resolution recognizing local photographers for winning images.

[1:07:58] Whereas Louisa County invited photographers to capture images that reflect defining characteristics of the county, to be displayed in the Louisa County public meeting room and in the executive board room.

[1:08:08] And whereas submissions showcase the county's wildlife, scenic views, local people, and the places and moments that make Louisa County a special place to live, work, and visit.

[1:08:16] And whereas the members of the Louisiana County Board of Supervisors select to the 11 winning photographs representing Louisiana County's districts,

[1:08:23] and whereas the board wishes to recognize the outstanding photographers whose talent and creativity captured the spirit of Louisiana County

[1:08:31] and who generously granted permission for their artwork to be displayed for the enjoyment of residents.

[1:08:36] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Louisiana County Board of Supervisors hereby

[1:08:40] congratulates the winners of the Louisiana County Photography Contest, Christine Reisner,

[1:08:44] the hummingbird in the Jackson District, Christine Reisner, the Mama Fox, also in the Jackson

[1:08:48] District, Toby Craig, a lake image in the Kuku District, Justin Bullock, the train depot

[1:08:53] in the Mineral District, and also the Boats in the Mineral District, and also Spring Creek

[1:08:57] in the Green Springs District.

[1:08:59] Andrew Briggs for both love the Forest Green Farm and the Patrick Henry District,

[1:09:05] and

[1:09:05] Thomas Heycraft for the Louisa train depot and the Christmas parade in the Louisa district.

[1:09:10] And be it further resolved that the board hereby extends its gratitude to all those who submitted photos.

[1:09:15] So congratulations to you all.

[1:09:17] Thank you for your efforts and I will ask supervisor McCotter if you would be willing to present this resolution.

[1:09:28] I'm able to do this, but I'm not surprised that the talent is deep and amazing here in Louisa County.

[1:09:38] We looked at these photos very carefully, and took us a while, I believe they're going to be displayed at some point here in the county administrative building, and it takes a careful eye to capture an image of our community, and I would like to encourage you to keep doing so, and maybe try and inspire others to do the same thing that you have captured. Thank you very much.

[1:10:02] Taking

[1:10:27] pictures of the picture takers.

[1:10:29] A lot of pressure on your message.

[1:10:40] Thank you very much.

[1:10:43] Thank you all very much.

[1:10:44] Thank you very much.

[1:10:44] It's like a picture of a deep hug.

[1:10:46] Thank you for doing that.

[1:10:47] It's awesome.

[1:10:48] Thank you.

[1:11:02] All right.

[1:11:02] Next is a recognition.

[1:11:05] I've been working on this.

[1:11:07] Recognizing Hurley, the crease.

[1:11:09] Did I get it?

[1:11:10] No.

[1:11:11] No, missed it.

[1:11:14] I know your face because you do such a wonderful job for things in the county, for his outstanding leadership service and achievements.

[1:11:22] Hurley?

[1:11:23] We

[1:11:29] should recognize Hurley-Lukese for his outstanding leadership service and achievements.

[1:11:35] Whereas Hurley-Lukese, a distinguished senior at Luisa County High School, has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to his school and community through his involvement in family, career and career.

[1:11:47] community leaders of America.

[1:11:50] Whereas after joining FCCLA in 2023,

[1:11:54] Hurley was elected president of the

[1:11:55] Louisa County High School FCCLA chapter in 2024,

[1:11:59] where he has inspired fellow students

[1:12:01] through his commitment to leadership and service.

[1:12:04] And whereas in 2025, Hurley earned his first place

[1:12:07] in Virginia in the hospitality, tourism,

[1:12:10] and recreation star event,

[1:12:12] demonstrating outstanding professionalism,

[1:12:15] creativity, and leadership.

[1:12:16] And whereas in 2026, Hurley was elected Virginia FCCLA first vice president for the 2627 term,

[1:12:25] becoming the first Virginia FCCLA state officer from Luisa County High School, an extraordinary

[1:12:31] accomplishment reflecting his dedication and leadership.

[1:12:35] And whereas Hurley further exemplifies excellence through his many academic civic and leadership

[1:12:40] accomplishments, he serves as editor-in-chief of the Luisa County High School Reflector

[1:12:44] yearbook is a member of the Louisa 4-H in the Blue Ridge Governor School and serves as

[1:12:50] president of the Louisa Young Democrats. He is also an inductee of the National Honor

[1:12:55] Society demonstrating a strong commitment to scholarship, service, and character in leadership

[1:13:01] both inside and outside the classroom. And whereas Hurley credits his success to the lasting

[1:13:07] influence of his late father, whose strength, integrity, and encouragement continue to inspire

[1:13:12] him and to his educator Mrs. Law who's mentorship and unwavering support have helped shape

[1:13:18] his leadership journey.

[1:13:20] And whereas Hurley's achievements bring great pride to his family, Louisa County High

[1:13:25] School, Louisa County Public Schools, and the citizens of Louisa County serving as an inspiration

[1:13:30] to future generations of student leaders.

[1:13:34] Now therefore be it resolved that the Louisa County Board of Supervisors hereby recognizes

[1:13:39] Justice and congratulates Hurley Liu Keece for his outstanding leadership, academic achievement, and dedicated service, and extend sincere appreciation and best wishes for his continued success at C-Represents, Louisa County, and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

[1:13:54] And Supervisor Joan.

[1:14:07] I am honored to present this to you tonight.

[1:14:10] You know that I have known you since elementary school and you are just an inspiration to our community, our youth, and thank you so much for everything you have done for the community, and everything personally that you've gone through,

[1:14:28] you are just an inspiration, and I'm just going to cry.

[1:14:30] Congratulations,

[1:14:44] her.

[1:14:46] Next is a recognition recognizing Lily Hicks for her outstanding achievement as the

[1:14:53] state reporter of the Virginia FFA.

[1:15:01] Mr. Chairman, members of the Board, members of the public, this is a resolution recognizing Lilly Hicks for her outstanding achievement as State reporter of Virginia FFA. Whereas Ms. Lilly Hicks, the daughter of Robert and Lisa Hicks, and a graduate of Louisa County High School's class of 2026, has demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence in an unwavering commitment to agricultural education, service, and personal achievement. And whereas Ms. Hicks has earned the distinguished honor of being elected as the 100th Virginia FFA.

[1:15:30] FFA State Reporter, a prestigious statewide leadership position through which she will

[1:15:35] represent thousands of FFA members across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

[1:15:39] And whereas Messex has been an active member of the Louise FFA chapter since the sixth

[1:15:43] grade, and has faithfully served in numerous leadership roles, including middle school FFA

[1:15:47] secretary, FFA president of the middle school, Louise FFA reporter, vice president and president,

[1:15:53] exemplifying outstanding dedication to the organization's mission and values.

[1:15:57] And whereas through our FFA career,

[1:15:59] Misex has excelled in numerous career and leadership development events,

[1:16:03] earning first place in the Virginia Agricultural Issues Forum competition

[1:16:07] in 2025 before representing Virginia at the National FFA Convention,

[1:16:11] where she earned a bronze medal and later placing third in the Commonwealth

[1:16:14] in extemporaneous public speaking in 2026.

[1:16:18] And whereas Misex has maintained a 4.0 grade point average while participating

[1:16:22] in the National Honor Society, the Buddy Club, the Fellowship of Christian

[1:16:26] Athletes, and serving as President of the Louisa County 4-H Livestock Club,

[1:16:30] while also completing dual career and technical education pathways

[1:16:35] in veterinary science and firefighting in EMT.

[1:16:38] And whereas Miss Six is demonstrated an exceptional commitment to serving her

[1:16:42] community through her volunteer work with the Louisa County Volunteer Rescue Squad

[1:16:46] and the Mental Volunteer Fire Department, while also actively participating

[1:16:49] in the Louisa County forage labs.club and the annual Louisa County fair through her market

[1:16:54] lamb projects. And whereas Miss Hicks' election as Virginia FFA State reporter is a testament

[1:17:00] to her outstanding leadership, dedication, character and work ethic, bringing great pride

[1:17:05] to Louisa County High School, Louisa County Public Schools, the Louisa FFA chapter and the

[1:17:10] entire Louisa community. Now therefore be it resolved that Louisa County Board of Supervisors

[1:17:15] hereby recognizes and congratulates Ms. Lilly Hicks for her outstanding achievement in

[1:17:20] being elected the 100th Virginia FFA State Reporter and commends her for her exemplary

[1:17:27] leadership, academic excellence, commitment to agricultural education, and service to

[1:17:32] her community.

[1:17:33] Congratulations, Lilly.

[1:17:35] Chairman Adams, I would ask that you present this.

[1:17:47] Well, you know what I asked me to do this, don't you?

[1:17:50] 45 years ago, I was state president of the FFA, and I was just thinking, as he read, I

[1:17:56] also was in extemporaneous public speaking contests, so we have that in common.

[1:18:01] Then he went to the 4.0 grade point average, but you lost me at that and let's down.

[1:18:06] I do want to congratulate you and your family, you're the second state officer we've had

[1:18:12] from Louisa County in the last several years, and Mr. Goodwin's daughter was the other, and

[1:18:17] And I told Mr. Goodwin, pardon?

[1:18:19] Don't forget, I'm Alexander.

[1:18:21] Oh, Emma, yeah, that's right, Emma Alexander said three.

[1:18:24] And I told Mr. Goodwin, when his daughter was elected to state office, and I told Savannah,

[1:18:31] I said, and I told Emma, I said, this will be a life-changing event.

[1:18:36] And I don't think any of them believed me when I told them that.

[1:18:38] At the end of their term, they all came to me and said, this was a life-changing event.

[1:18:43] It is a wonderful organization, and you should be very proud.

[1:18:47] I know the county is very proud I see the CTE directors here. I know your family is very proud

[1:18:52] It is an outstanding accomplishment and the board certainly wants to recognize

[1:18:56] We know that you will carry on Louise's name throughout the blue and gold the other thing that I'll warn you of

[1:19:02] So I have a jacket sort of like this

[1:19:05] It shrinks over the years

[1:19:08] Mine's hung in my closet when I put it in there at fit now it doesn't anymore

[1:19:42] Yeah, you're right, you're laughing at me, I know.

[1:19:47] It's tough.

[1:19:51] I believe now it gets really fun.

[1:19:53] Thank you.

[1:20:08] All right, next is public comment.

[1:20:10] I don't have any cards.

[1:20:12] Is there anyone here that would wish to address the board

[1:20:14] down public comment period?

[1:20:18] Seeing none, we'll move on to information and discussion items.

[1:20:21] The first is a discussion on Verizon Communications Network.

[1:20:25] Mr. Goodwin.

[1:20:27] Yes, sir. Mr. Chairman, the members of the board, a number of our citizens in the county of Louisiana itself actually got a letter

[1:20:33] dated August the 7th from Verizon, notifying

[1:20:36] Notifying citizens in that case that they would be

[1:20:40] Pending approval from the FCC spooling down

[1:20:42] Continuing maintenance and operation of what's called their plain old telephone system or pots for short

[1:20:50] We followed up with Verizon on this. I think a number of citizens got it

[1:20:53] that we are not the only locality in which Verizon has sent out letters like this.

[1:20:58] I believe Verizon is one of the initial providers in the state that is making this communication.

[1:21:04] And in any rate, pending, again, FCC approval after October the 23rd,

[1:21:11] Verizon will be able to discontinue that traditional copper service.

[1:21:15] Now, when I followed up with one of Verizon's representatives, he stated that copper would

[1:21:22] would remain in place unless there is a viable alternative and those viable alternatives

[1:21:26] could include wireless coverage through Verizon and Verizon Fiber, which I don't think exists

[1:21:30] in many cases in the county or approved other Fiber in the community.

[1:21:35] And then Verizon's eye is the copper needs to be replaced because of its age and because

[1:21:40] of its reliability.

[1:21:41] I think the concern that citizens would have would be, am I going to have a comparable means

[1:21:50] means to contact 911 or to communicate outside in the case of an emergency.

[1:21:55] If you're familiar with copper, it can operate in situations where electricity is down to

[1:22:00] the home because copper I believe carries its own ability to communicate outside of the

[1:22:04] electrical connection.

[1:22:07] So Verizon apparently has options that they would be willing to work with people on.

[1:22:13] And their representative's words to me, this will be a very slow process that will take

[1:22:17] place over the course of many years, but that they do intend to spool down support for

[1:22:21] that system as we move forward.

[1:22:23] I've seen some other news articles regarding other localities that have similar concerns

[1:22:28] that we have, just making sure that people are able to, again, contact 911 if they need

[1:22:34] to, so we will continue to very carefully monitor the situation, but the FCC's consideration

[1:22:38] of this will be relatively quickly.

[1:22:43] Any questions from Mr. Governor?

[1:22:46] Well, I can verify that it's not just Louise Accounting, my mother-in-law who lives in

[1:22:50] Poliske got the same letter, called my wife, she was in a panic about it, but she has

[1:22:56] other options as well, so it's hard to justify this.

[1:22:59] I think it's just a changing world.

[1:23:03] And as he said, the old, we're bringing in the new, unfortunately.

[1:23:08] The next is a discussion on electronic science.

[1:23:12] Will you ask this to be on the agenda, and then I think if we have any questions, we'll

[1:23:16] go to you.

[1:23:18] So, we asked the Planning Commission to consider this just as a changing of the times

[1:23:25] getting rid of copper.

[1:23:28] Phone lines is an issue, you know, our electronic science, something new in the future.

[1:23:34] And I asked from the aspect, did we make a mistake and put this ordinance in place?

[1:23:40] And the two things, number one, the biggest issue I think is the backlighting of the sign

[1:23:46] in the whites and the blues and just blairs and if you have dark background and just some

[1:23:52] white lettering, I think it tends to not be offensive or obtrusive.

[1:23:57] Asked to plan a commission to reconsider this and hear this, and they refused.

[1:24:01] So I'd like to know what our positions are and what we can do.

[1:24:05] They did write a memo back that should have been in your board pack.

[1:24:08] I'm going to read it here.

[1:24:10] It's at your desk as well, but I'm going to read it since it wasn't in the packet.

[1:24:13] So this is a memo addressed to the Louisiana Board of Supervisors from staff on behalf of the planning commission.

[1:24:20] And it reads as follows at the July 6th, 2026 meeting the Board of Supervisors requested the planning commission to review the signed regulations and to determine if the regulations for electronic message signs.

[1:24:30] should be reevaluated specifically as it relates to the zoning districts in which these signs are permitted.

[1:24:36] At their August 13th, 2026 work session, the Planning Commission discussed whether there was a need to reevaluate amendments adopted in 2025 related to electronic message signs and where they are permitted in the county.

[1:24:48] It was the consensus of the Planning Commission members present to report to the board that no further evaluation of electronic message signs was warranted to allow to allow the additional proliferation of electronic message signs.

[1:25:00] message signs throughout the county would not support the goals of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan,

[1:25:05] including maintaining the rural character of the county.

[1:25:08] In addition, a lot of time, research, and discussion went into the amendments forward

[1:25:11] and in 2025, which were ultimately adopted by the board.

[1:25:14] Well, specifically, I was talking specifically about churches that are not in the growth overlay

[1:25:20] districts that are specifically in the A1 and A2 districts, and I would like to know if we

[1:25:27] We have the ability just to bypass the planning commission and bring that straight to the board for consideration.

[1:25:31] I

[1:25:34] was on the opinion that you wanted the planning commission to go back.

[1:25:39] I would love to compel them to hear it, but we say to them and they've rebuffed us, said no.

[1:25:47] Okay, well, the normal procedure-

[1:25:49] Okay, does it go speak to your planning commission?

[1:25:51] Well, the normal procedure is that if they hold a meeting that in a work session and

[1:25:59] And you referred a matter during a work session that they're supposed to hold a formal meeting and have a vote.

[1:26:07] Since they didn't, do we have an option just to address it?

[1:26:11] If the boards have desires, I don't even know.

[1:26:13] That'll be the next question.

[1:26:15] So you do not desire to go back to the Planning Commission?

[1:26:18] Well, I feel like we went to them and they said no.

[1:26:20] And they've circumvented what we've asked them to do and said no, we're not going to do it.

[1:26:26] Did I miss something? Is that accurate?

[1:26:28] Mr. Chairman, the way I read it was they didn't refuse to discuss it.

[1:26:36] They did what they said, they did not want to change it, the existing ordinance.

[1:26:42] I may be reading it differently, but that's what I get from it.

[1:26:45] Mr. Smith, would that then be their decision, so then?

[1:26:49] Well, that's the consensus they agreed upon at the work session.

[1:26:54] But then they're supposed to have a public meeting where they're supposed to have a public

[1:27:02] meeting to discuss it further and have a public hearing and a vote on it.

[1:27:09] Which are they planning on doing that?

[1:27:12] I don't know what they're planning on doing.

[1:27:13] I don't think they are.

[1:27:15] That's what I've been told.

[1:27:18] Mr. Prime.

[1:27:19] took it during the meeting that they looked at it and decided that they felt

[1:27:25] like they you know they spent quite a bit of time reviewing the audits and

[1:27:32] stuff and they come to the conclusion they didn't really think it

[1:27:37] warned a change and so to me that's their answer without a public

[1:27:43] Exactly. In other words, I would think that's sending it back to the boat.

[1:27:51] I don't think there's, I don't, I know in an ordinance change, he goes to the Planta Commission, but if they think they have looked at it and, you know, made their review the first time around, then I agree that they were very clear about their consensus on it.

[1:28:12] Of course, that's not a legal consensus in terms of because there was no public hearing,

[1:28:17] but that was their consensus at the time.

[1:28:20] So, if I understand what I was saying, that it would not have to go back through public

[1:28:26] hearing, but what you're saying is that it would have to actually go back through public

[1:28:30] hearing.

[1:28:30] I'm saying the proper procedure would be that it would go back to the planning commission

[1:28:35] for a public hearing.

[1:28:37] I got it.

[1:28:38] That is a proper procedure because if it's not, if that's a decision in the work session,

[1:28:42] you still have to have a final public hearing decision made on the matter.

[1:28:48] Well, specifically, I didn't ask them to review the sign regulation term if the electronic

[1:28:54] sign should be reevaluated.

[1:28:56] I asked them should be reevaluated in direct context of churches.

[1:29:03] Should churches be allowed to have electronic signs?

[1:29:05] That was, that was the question that I was, I was asking to tell him the best.

[1:29:09] Put it. You go ahead. Let's chill.

[1:29:12] Yes you go. Um, I don't know why we plan around with this thing.

[1:29:17] Um, it pretty, pretty easy. They voted up a down and come back to

[1:29:21] both of them. We do what we plan to do. It pretty, I mean, it pretty

[1:29:24] stuff won't, doesn't seem hard. You know, it's not that hard.

[1:29:27] So if they voted down, whatever, come back to us, uh, they make

[1:29:30] the, they're going to tell them to hold the public hearing. Yeah.

[1:29:33] Well, and I don't care how they feel about it, but vote up or down.

[1:29:39] Anybody?

[1:29:41] I've got a comment.

[1:29:42] I'm going to make better.

[1:29:42] Make it last.

[1:29:43] No, I agree.

[1:29:44] I agree with Mr.

[1:29:45] Well, I've got several comments.

[1:29:51] I agreed with Mr. Williams' initial request to ask the Planning Commission to look at a very

[1:29:57] narrow scope.

[1:30:00] Which is churches, outside of the growth area, nay, one and a two, that the, and I don't remember the church that those folks were from. Does anybody remember? Man, all of it. Yeah. He made a very good point that some of these small, rural churches, the membership is getting older. It's easier to change the sign electronically than it is to go out, especially in a winter time, or even when it's 100%.

[1:30:29] degrees, a couple things that I'd like to add, because I think it's worth looking at.

[1:30:36] But for me to consider it in a positive way, I think a couple things, it would have to

[1:30:42] be structured so that we would limit the lumens on the sign so that it doesn't sort of aircraft

[1:30:50] beacon.

[1:30:51] Yes.

[1:30:52] And I think we could even consider limiting the time frame of when the sign was lit, because

[1:30:58] Because the big issue is the night time pollution, light pollution.

[1:31:04] So if the sign could only be 8 to 8 or 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., or something like that, and

[1:31:10] it's not 24 hours a day, and I know that some of these things can be changed remotely,

[1:31:14] and that they can have a timer on them, and you can buy them that way.

[1:31:20] I would think those were things that are worth consideration.

[1:31:22] I would actually like to see, as Mr. Barnes said, the Planning Commission make a decision one way or another and send it back to the board, but that's my opinion.

[1:31:33] I absolutely agree with you, and I agree with Supervisor Barnes, because we already have electronic signs at churches, and we have grandfathered it in, and we're continuing to allow that.

[1:31:45] We have no mechanism in the ordinance to make an exception or to do anything.

[1:31:51] That's where the rub really comes in.

[1:31:53] Well, that's what I'm saying.

[1:31:54] The church is up by me that have those signs.

[1:31:57] Let me speak.

[1:32:01] We're not telling them they have to take their sign stand.

[1:32:04] So I don't know why we're telling other churches they can't put theirs up.

[1:32:08] If we're continuing, maybe that's the wrong terminology to allow churches

[1:32:13] is to have electronic signs. We didn't, we grandfathered churches in that had them and

[1:32:18] that are using them and that are older churches. So I agree with both of you. I think we need

[1:32:22] to compel our planning commission to go back through the process.

[1:32:31] The church, my all of it, I think, came to us initially. It wasn't so much the illumination

[1:32:38] of the sign as the fact that they can now have the ability to change the message on the

[1:32:45] sign without having to go out and manually do it.

[1:32:50] I think that was one of their big things.

[1:32:52] It was.

[1:32:53] And then the other aspect is now you can adjust the luminance on it and turn it down.

[1:33:03] So you could look at that part, but I think when the planning commission discussed it, I'm

[1:33:12] sure that that was, that didn't get into that depth. It was like, well, you know, we looked

[1:33:19] at it, we don't want bright signs all over the, throughout the county. So that's the

[1:33:26] reason they, well, I think they're exactly right. We don't want bright signs throughout

[1:33:31] the county. I don't want bright signs out of church. And, and the four church, which is

[1:33:35] under us, they put this white background up sometimes, and my office is third of mile

[1:33:42] away and it's like, yes, it is. But if you just change the background to black or a dark

[1:33:49] color with some nice white lettering in it and promote the message that you're trying

[1:33:53] to put out, here's the church, here's the service, not trying to, it's a whole different

[1:33:59] thing. And the only thing we're asking for them to consider in the A1A2 outside of the

[1:34:04] The growth area is churches.

[1:34:06] That's the only thing we ask to consider.

[1:34:07] Mr. Goodman.

[1:34:08] Mr. Chairman, staff is obviously happy to do whatever the board would like us to do,

[1:34:12] but may I make a suggestion?

[1:34:14] Maybe staff work with a board member, too, since it seems like we have very specific

[1:34:18] thoughts on what we want to see from this ordinance at the board level and the planning commission.

[1:34:22] I'd like that grant.

[1:34:22] It doesn't seem as warm to a change right now.

[1:34:24] Maybe we put a draft together and ask them specifically through a public hearing to Patricia's point

[1:34:29] to consider that draft.

[1:34:30] Yes.

[1:34:31] Anybody have any objection to that?

[1:34:33] No.

[1:34:34] Mr. McCarty.

[1:34:35] Mr. Chairman, I'm not for change in the ordinance.

[1:34:38] I'll just go ahead and say that now.

[1:34:42] Mr. Chairman, do you need a motion to have the comments ready?

[1:34:45] No, thanks.

[1:34:46] I think we can appoint myself and Mr. Williams.

[1:34:49] Okay.

[1:34:50] We're to work with staff and take something back.

[1:34:53] All right.

[1:34:56] Next is Supervisor Comments.

[1:35:00] Is it?

[1:35:00] Do we have any super advisory comments?

[1:35:04] It's German.

[1:35:05] Right there.

[1:35:05] Yes sir.

[1:35:06] Quick.

[1:35:07] I'll be quick.

[1:35:08] I want to thank Dominion Energy for their determination to push forward with measures,

[1:35:12] including a temporary traffic signal.

[1:35:14] I can tuck his spring's road and Haley Drive and Johnson Road.

[1:35:21] This is the intersection at the Lake Antechnology campus that has gotten very busy lately and

[1:35:27] And I also wanted to thank V.Dotts pays to approval of the permits associated with this

[1:35:31] light.

[1:35:32] Those two together changed the traffic trajectory there and that's not perfect, it's

[1:35:40] better.

[1:35:41] And that's what happens when we work with V.Dotts and a good neighbor like Dominion steps

[1:35:49] up and sets a safety standard, so good for them.

[1:35:52] I also wanted to publicly thank our Sheriff's Office and other first responders that worked

[1:35:56] very hard Monday night to keep Cuckoo District roads safe as well as roads around the

[1:36:01] Weasel County.

[1:36:01] That was a terrible storm that came through Monday night and if you were out for whatever

[1:36:06] reason driving, a lot of our people were out cutting trees, making sure you didn't run

[1:36:11] into a tree that they couldn't get down as well as keeping away from parolins.

[1:36:15] So good for them.

[1:36:16] Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

[1:36:18] Anyone else?

[1:36:19] I

[1:36:22] have one thing that I want to add is three years ago this board recognized Mrs. Francis

[1:36:32] Byers at the very young age of 108 years old. Mrs. Byers passed away yesterday at 111 years

[1:36:41] old. She was the 18th oldest person in the world and she was a lifelong resident of Louisa

[1:36:49] a county. And I spoke with her son, Dan, who all of you know, one of the things that

[1:36:55] was interesting, she's one of the few people that actually had her birth certificate

[1:37:01] that could document that was her actual age. So I think it was you, Mr. Goodman, we were

[1:37:07] talking today. Just imagine what she saw, not just in this county, but in the world.

[1:37:19] Some

[1:37:19] 111 years, held Bible study at her home, was active well up into nearly her last days.

[1:37:28] So what a remarkable woman, what a remarkable person for the buyer's family to have for

[1:37:33] 111 years.

[1:37:34] And I know that this board expresses our sympathies to the buyer's family on the loss of the

[1:37:40] matriarch of their family.

[1:37:42] So I just wanted to mention that.

[1:37:45] Next is committee reports.

[1:37:53] Briefly, lack the committee met August 27th.

[1:37:58] At this meeting was noted by a Spots of Vainia representative.

[1:38:02] Luisa County was doing exemplary job,

[1:38:05] attending to Lake Anna, buoyed management,

[1:38:08] as well as aquatic weed management.

[1:38:11] And this representative from Spots of Vainia encouraged her fellow supervisors to take note.

[1:38:17] So, Hydrill Management efforts on the main lake have been completed for the year, so that's done.

[1:38:23] Also, I'm the spoke in my Supervisor comment, Storm was Friday, not Monday.

[1:38:28] Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

[1:38:29] All right.

[1:38:31] Any other committee reports?

[1:38:32] Right here.

[1:38:33] Yes, ma'am.

[1:38:34] The Flavanna Housing Foundation.

[1:38:36] Just want to give a shout out to them.

[1:38:37] They're doing a phenomenal job with building our project on 22.

[1:38:42] Ms. Highland is here tonight, we're going to talk with them a little bit more, but just

[1:38:47] they had their recent board meeting and I have to say I'm pretty proud of the efforts

[1:38:53] that our board has put forth and put forward to the Housing Foundation.

[1:38:59] There's some other counties that need a little bit of help, but we're leading the way there.

[1:39:05] So anyway, I'm very proud in thanking you all for supporting her.

[1:39:10] Anyone else?

[1:39:11] Right.

[1:39:11] Board appointments, Mr. Williams.

[1:39:13] Mr. Chairman, a move with a point, Mr. Noah Hillstrom, to the Northern Virginia emergency

[1:39:18] response system for three-year term, and Ms. Dana Reset to the Regentate Community Service

[1:39:25] Board for three-year term.

[1:39:27] Second.

[1:39:27] I'm proud to move it.

[1:39:28] And secondly, we make these two appointments any discussion.

[1:39:31] All those in favor, signify by saying aye.

[1:39:33] Aye.

[1:39:33] Any opposed?

[1:39:34] Motion passes unanimously.

[1:39:35] Obviously.

[1:39:36] Next is the County Administrators Report.

[1:39:39] Yes, sir.

[1:39:39] Mr. Chairman, the members of the board.

[1:39:41] A lot of information in the County Administrators Report this month, a lot of communications.

[1:39:45] Your monthly reports for July and some of early August are in there.

[1:39:49] I just do want to note that there will be a boat christening for the new station eight.

[1:39:55] Both that will be on September the 16th from 3 to 6 p.m. at the new bridge docks.

[1:39:59] There's a clean report from the state after their most recent visit to our animal shelter,

[1:40:04] which is always good, information in there from the Department of Historic Resources regarding the potential inclusion of Goldmine Baptist Church on the National Register of Historic Places.

[1:40:15] There's a modern modification request at the Northeast Creek Technology Park based on some more detailed engineering.

[1:40:21] It added 61 linear feet of impacts, update on the progress of vadi expenditures not only in Louisiana but throughout the region with regard to fiber placement.

[1:40:33] And this just ended not on the report, but the state's tourism office just came out with their updated annual report on tourism statistics for 2025.

[1:40:42] So that was last year, but direct spending in Louisiana County was up 12.5%.

[1:40:48] And I think we were the third highest change in the state. So kudos to Miss King, Mr. Smith, all the folks who support tourism in this county just continue to do an amazing job.

[1:41:00] I'm so very excited about that and the fall festival is on October the 10th it'll be here on Main Street and at the Louise County Fairgrounds

[1:41:06] That concludes my prepared remarks. Happy to answer any questions you may have. Only questions from Mr. Goodman.

[1:41:11] Thank you, sir.

[1:41:13] Next, we have three public hearings. The first is an ordinance to amend Louise County Code Chapter 70

[1:41:20] Article 12 transient occupancy tax section 70 dash 269 so forth and so on. I'm going to read all those

[1:41:27] Miss Fletcher

[1:41:29] Mr.

[1:41:36] Chairman and members of the board, correct me if I'm wrong, most of the sections were

[1:41:43] just kind of clearing up definition and giving a little more information to our ordinance

[1:41:49] was kind of vague prior to.

[1:41:52] The one change is in the reports and remittances, currently if you are a property owner and you

[1:42:10] You still have to submit a monthly remittance with those calculations of tax with no money.

[1:42:18] I am requesting a change that going forward, we have an annual form that they file.

[1:42:24] If they're just doing Airbnb or no direct rentals, they can follow one time form annually saying that they're only doing those accommodations and not have to file up monthly remittance every month just with calculations.

[1:42:46] We previously had asked that because Airbnb would not provide us with who they're paying on behalf of and the amount of tax they're paying, they would just sent us to check.

[1:42:57] Now they have started sending us the information on who was for the dress, how much they're paying so we have that checks and balance.

[1:43:07] We've compared that to the remittance from the property owners and they are coming in matching.

[1:43:14] It's also helped to clear up with Potsyvania Orange County of addresses they may have been paying to us that don't belong to us and vice versa to other counties.

[1:43:26] So the biggest change is just that everybody would be sent a form annually.

[1:43:32] The form would have two sections if you're just doing accommodations, no direct, you would sign that, check it, send it back, you're done for the year.

[1:43:41] If you're still doing direct rentals, it's a section where you agreed to still file a post, ring sentences monthly or whatever months you have the direct rentals.

[1:43:51] I'm happy to answer any questions.

[1:43:54] Does anybody have any questions for the commission?

[1:44:00] I just want to make sure I'm perfectly clear on this.

[1:44:03] Someone who does not use a management agency who is doing the rental directly themselves will still have to report to our county monthly.

[1:44:11] Exactly.

[1:44:12] The only change is if somebody is paying on their behalf, they don't have to do a form for what the accommodation facility is paying on their behalf for.

[1:44:29] Isn't part of this prompted commissioner that you used to get from, I'll just pick one,

[1:44:38] Furbo, Airbnb, just a big check with no breakdown.

[1:44:43] No, nothing.

[1:44:44] So now they're providing the breakdown and this is bringing the ordinance in line.

[1:44:50] And just bringing it up to date so that people who do not have any direct filing do not have

[1:44:56] to file a form every month.

[1:44:57] So we'll continue to collect transit of...

[1:45:00] It's not changing anything with the collections, it's just to leave eating the property owner who has collected no money on their behalf, not to have to do a reputant form. And just for a little bit more clarification in case anybody finds this riveting that your office is to one who's responsible for doing that billing and that collection. Correct. And this is your suggestion to just clean up the code. Just exactly. Yes, sir.

[1:45:32] Thank you, ma'am.

[1:45:33] So I'll open the public hearing. Is there anyone that would wish to address the board on this public hearing and this ordinance change?

[1:45:41] All right. Seeing none, I'll close the public hearing and bring it back to the board. What's your move?

[1:45:47] And properly moved in second that we approve this ordinance change. All those in favor signify by saying aye.

[1:45:52] Aye.

[1:45:52] Any opposed motion passes unanimously.

[1:45:54] Next is an ordinance to amend Louisa County Chapter 70 Taxation Article 8,

[1:46:02] exemptions from property tax for non-profit section 70-232,

[1:46:07] the Fluvanta Louisa Housing Foundation.

[1:46:10] Mr. Smith, how do you move?

[1:46:15] Mr. Smith.

[1:46:17] Mr. Chairman and Supervisors, this is a proposed amendment that will amend Chapter 70-732,

[1:46:23] title of Louvanna Louisa housing foundation and to exempt from real property taxation

[1:46:29] one parcel and that parcel is being used for charitable purposes and also the

[1:46:37] requirements of the 501c3 are met. And so that's pretty much it here for any

[1:46:42] questions. Let me. Yes, sir.

[1:46:46] Mr. Williams. So you're just adding a section to the existing ordinances over

[1:46:51] It's adding one parcel to the existing section in this.

[1:46:54] So, our code specifically lists, I'm just, I'm just, well, it specifically looks like

[1:47:01] to raise the station, battlefield, boys, guys from America.

[1:47:04] It's gas, it's by parcel numbers.

[1:47:07] But it's, it's specifically called out in our code.

[1:47:11] So you can't just start a non-profit puts on men, it has to be added to that.

[1:47:15] It's not the fact that they're just a non-profit, they have to come, they have to

[1:47:19] We plead the case of what they're doing, and the force advice has to accept that.

[1:47:24] That's correct.

[1:47:25] I was getting clarification.

[1:47:26] Good.

[1:47:28] Is there any reason why we can't?

[1:47:31] Is there any reason why we can't tax exempt all of their property's future, and now why we keep-

[1:47:37] Because we keep coming back for each property, I know lots of paperwork has to get filed.

[1:47:41] There's no blanket policy.

[1:47:42] If you have property that are not completed or in different stages of completion, and those we do not, you have tacked the status.

[1:47:55] So properties which are being rehabbed, we don't give tax exempt status on.

[1:48:04] So we can't, they have to keep coming back for each individual property and filing the paperwork.

[1:48:11] Which

[1:48:36] is after completion of the project.

[1:48:44] And they're not paying on the vacant land, is that right?

[1:48:49] So, and they really don't charge the tax until the CO is in place.

[1:48:56] And if that gets timed right, they still don't get taxed.

[1:49:00] Okay, so I just want to be, I want to pay in a clear picture.

[1:49:02] We're not taxing them in the meantime.

[1:49:04] It's a process, and if we change the process, then you have to change it for

[1:49:08] everybody, and that becomes the mess.

[1:49:29] I don't know where I saw it, but what's the amount of tax revenue that we're talking

[1:49:44] about here?

[1:49:52] That's a loss of tax revenue to the county to the housing foundation, it's found revenue

[1:50:00] that they can, and maybe you're going to speak in a minute, but they can put back into

[1:50:04] their operation on what they do, correct?

[1:50:06] Okay.

[1:50:07] I just wanted to clarify that.

[1:50:13] Open the public hearing, is there anyone here that would wish to address the board on

[1:50:16] from this public hearing.

[1:50:20] Seeing none, I'll close the public hearing.

[1:50:22] Great.

[1:50:26] Motion.

[1:50:26] Second.

[1:50:27] This is you, I was breathing.

[1:50:29] All right, it's been promptly moved and seconded that we approve this ordinance to amend the Weasley County Code Chapter 70.

[1:50:35] All those in favor signify by saying aye.

[1:50:37] Aye.

[1:50:38] Any opposed?

[1:50:39] Motion passes unanimously.

[1:50:41] All right.

[1:50:42] Next is a resolution to approve or deny rezoning application, REC 2026-03.

[1:50:49] Three, Matthew Bird, Apigot, Wayne Orbert, Trustee, Mr. Eggland.

[1:50:54] Airman, members of the Board of Supervisors before you tonight is a request to resound three acres from Agricultural A2 Growth Area Overlay District to General Commercial C2 Growth Area Overlay District.

[1:51:06] The parcel is located just south of the intersection of Zachary Taylor Highway Route 522 and Newbridge Road Route 208.

[1:51:12] The property is further identified as parcel ID 28-109 and the mineral election district.

[1:51:18] The 1969 Historical Zoning Map shows that both the parcel, both the subject parcel in the surrounding area were originally zone active cultural since that time the subject parcel has still retained its original zoning classification.

[1:51:31] The 2040 Luisa County Comprehensive Plan's future land use map designates this parcel as mixed use in the lake and a growth area.

[1:51:39] Staff believes the proposed rezoning would align with the surrounding areas mixed use character and prizes of mainly commercial developments in some agricultural parcels.

[1:51:48] Furthermore, the proposal supports the 2040 comprehensive plan's objective of quote broadening the county's tax phase through the establishment of new businesses end quote.

[1:51:57] On a broader scale, the parcel is situated between three major projects, the Commercial Gateway Project to the west, the plan needed development of where it's crossroads to the south, and the cut along resort development to the east.

[1:52:09] The Louis the County Public Facilities Plan adopted as an amendment to the 2040 Conference of Plan allows the county the ability to identify impacts of proposed development and offers a means to consider proposed mitigation.

[1:52:20] Staff has provided analysis of this Resonant Request and the staff report.

[1:52:25] The applicant is voluntarily offered out uses as part of their application in an effort to mitigate impacts on public services.

[1:52:32] The applicant's proper statement is included as enclosure B.

[1:52:36] The applicant intends to use the existing structures as office or retail spaces on the property.

[1:52:43] A neighborhood meeting was held for the rezoning on July 8th, which no members of the public attended.

[1:52:48] that the planning commission meeting for this rezoning was held on August 13th.

[1:52:52] The commission voted five to zero to recommend approval of the rezoning to the Board of Supervisors with proffers.

[1:52:58] This concludes staff's report and the applicant's here to give you a presentation.

[1:53:05] Okay, any questions from Mr. Regan to

[1:53:11] the applicant is present?

[1:53:12] Correct.

[1:53:18] Come up, sir.

[1:53:25] My name is Matthew Bird, I'm the applicant and the cousin of the property owner, Wayne Bird.

[1:53:34] Do you have a presentation?

[1:53:36] No.

[1:53:37] I thought you had a presentation.

[1:53:39] No.

[1:53:39] Just didn't know if you had any questions.

[1:53:43] In this case, as a district supervisor for that area,

[1:53:46] that's a great presentation.

[1:53:48] That's exactly the right way.

[1:53:50] All right.

[1:53:50] Thank you, sir.

[1:53:51] All right.

[1:53:52] So open to public hearing.

[1:53:54] Is there anyone that would wish to address the board on this public hearing?

[1:53:59] Seeing none, I'll bring it back to the board.

[1:54:01] Mr. Williams.

[1:54:02] Move it.

[1:54:03] In property moved in a second that we approved this application for rezoning all those in favor signify by saying aye

[1:54:10] Any opposed motion passes unanimously mr. Burns

[1:54:16] In property moved in second that we adjourn all those in favor signify by saying aye any opposed meeting adjourn

Board of Supervisors Regular Meeting

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