P. Sue Sadler, Vice Chairman, Stonehouse District

James O. Icenhour, Jr., Jamestown District

Ruth M. Larson, Berkeley District

John J. McGlennon, Roberts District

Michael J. Hipple, Chairman, Powhatan District

Scott A. Stevens, County Administrator

Adam R. Kinsman, County Attorney

Mr. Hipple requested an amendment to the published Agenda to include the Contract Award for the replacement of electronic polling books under the Consent Calendar, discussion of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding under Board Discussions, and consulting with legal counsel employment for retainage of a public body regarding a specified legal matter to require the provision of a legal advice by such counsel under Closed Session.

A motion to Amend the Agenda was made by John McGlennon, the motion result was Passed.

AYES: 5   NAYS: 0   ABSTAIN: 0   ABSENT: 0

Ayes: Hipple, Icenhour Jr, Larson, McGlennon, Sadler

Ms. Terry Banez, CEO of Greater Williamsburg Business Council, addressed the Board. Ms. Banez noted the Council recently changed its name back to the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce (GWBC). Ms. Banez further noted the Roll of the Drum Award was the highest honor bestowed by the Council.

Ms. Julie Summs, former Chair of the GWBC and Director of Economic Development Business Innovation at the College of William & Mary, read the proclamation that acknowledged the collaborative efforts of James City County, York County, and the City of Williamsburg during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Board of Supervisors expressed its appreciation for the award.

Ms. Barbara Watson, Assistant Director of Social Services, addressed the Board noting she would share a PowerPoint presentation highlighting local partners that work collaboratively to assist with homelessness in the district. She provided an overview on different definitions of homelessness, which included the three areas of literally homeless, imminent risk of homelessness, and fleeing domestic violence. Ms. Watson noted various paths to stable housing as a primary goal. She further noted available services/programs, which included capacity limitations, more flexible funding options, and increasing affordable housing stock. Ms. Watson continued the PowerPoint presentation highlighting observations of effectiveness or challenges. 

Ms. Larson asked for more detail on the expansion of additional supportive services.

Ms. Watson noted some recommendations included capacity limitations of emergency shelter options, which incorporated communal and hotel/motel uses and other factors. She further noted ongoing recommendations from the Workforce Housing Taskforce and refinement of those recommendations.

Ms. Larson inquired about additional support services and their availability. She further noted addressing funding.

Ms. Watson noted the lack of affordable housing was an issue. She further noted factors such as previous evictions presented challenges for those seeking affordable housing. Ms. Watson noted the affordability piece, adding rental assistance such as the Housing Choice Vouchers could assist people.

Ms. Larson thanked Ms. Watson for the presentation, adding this area was an important one for discussion. Ms. Larson noted the seasonal impacts to homelessness. She questioned the affordability and the possible range for rent and possible studies involving a suitable price point.

Ms. Watson noted her concerns were mainly focused on homelessness and service providers for this presentation.

Mr. Keith Denny, Manager of the Housing Office, addressed the Board. Mr. Denny noted he included information indicating the area median income of a household of four was approximately $22,600 per year. He further noted the James City County Workforce Study shows the figure closer to $35,000, adding that data was slightly older. Mr. Denny noted the figures increased over time. Mr. Denny noted the COVID-19 pandemic had not helped matters as the housing market had skyrocketed and landlords were skeptical on renting and instead selling due to prior circumstances. Mr. Denny noted it was challenging to gather concrete figures at this time. He further noted there was a national study called Out of Reach 2020 which identified the types of jobs available in specific localities, median pay for that job, and then categorized what that job could afford. Mr. Denny noted Section 8 Program or Housing Choice Voucher Program were 30% of the household income.

Ms. Watson welcomed Ms. Charvalla West, Director of Community Impact at United Way of the Virginia Peninsula and Chair of the Greater Virginia Peninsula Homelessness Consortium, to the podium.

Ms. West noted that the local partners are working collaboratively to assist with homelessness in the district. She further noted the funding and programs provided around homelessness follow a Housing First Model. She noted the Model follows someone who has experienced the trauma of losing his/her house and was now placed into a permanent housing solution. Ms. West encouraged providing support such as addiction services, mental health support, and financial counseling. She noted due to funding restrictions, partnership opportunities with local agencies had been impacted in their participation with the County, adding this created challenges to support those affected suitably. Ms. West addressed the affordability aspect of an individual who was spending more than 30% of his/her income on housing, considered housing cost burdened. She noted these were some of the various metrics to measure affordability and supportive services.

Mr. McGlennon expressed his appreciation for the presentation. He noted the abundance of information presented was indicative of the participation and collaborative efforts to address the matter. He further noted the goal seems attainable, though the annual Census did not account for all the variables in that demographic area. Mr. McGlennon expressed his concern in finding the balance between those in need and legislative policy. Mr. McGlennon asked a series of questions pertaining to the vouchers and the value components.

Ms. Watson noted the challenges of increased prices in units during the COVD-19 pandemic and the limited availability of one-bedroom units. She further noted the voucher value for a one-bedroom unit had increased to $1,100, adding eligibility for a voucher was dependent on the income and cost of rent.

Mr. McGlennon inquired on the number of vouchers issued annually and the cost.

Mr. Denny noted 154 Housing Choice vouchers and $1.2 million of funding was received annually. He further noted the average monthly cost for 154 vouchers was approximately $700. Mr. Denny noted any difference in the cost above the issued value of the voucher was at the individual’s expense. Mr. Denny added there were 10 additional vouchers for homeless veterans and 26 vouchers for nonelderly, but disabled. He further noted if there was a program available, then that could increase the amount of vouchers. He addressed the challenge of an individual applying to the wait list with no fixed address, adding the difficulty of notifying the applicant with correspondence for eligibility.

Mr. McGlennon inquired if increasing the number of vouchers would make a significant impact on homelessness. He encouraged neighboring jurisdictions to participate in the effort. He further noted utilizing the resources and finding the most effective approach to the issue which included an identifiable cost.

Mr. Denny noted one of the challenges with the vouchers was the lack of affordable housing, adding in James City County, only 20% of the vouchers get leased before expiration.

Mr. McGlennon noted if the vouchers were not effective, there was no sense in increasing the number of vouchers. He suggested an alternative proposal to the issue.

Ms. Rebecca Vinroot, Director of Social Services, reiterated the various challenges including Housing Choice vouchers, extremity of one’s circumstances, and Supportive Services.

Ms. Larson inquired on the next steps to address this issue.

Ms. Vinroot noted she first wanted to address the Board with the presented information including available resources, recommendations on facility types such as short-term and long-term, financial figures, and potential zoning information. She further noted seeking the Board’s feedback on how to proceed.

Ms. Larson noted her recommendations were to return with a proposal that would be most beneficial to the vast majority, adding it may not appease every individual. She further noted if there was a solution that accommodated most individuals, then aim for that objective. Ms. Larson expressed her appreciation to Ms. Vinroot for all of the continued efforts.

Mr. Hipple expressed his concern of affordability within James City County, highlighting the increased financial costs in development. Mr. Hipple suggested developing an affordable subdivision; however, with stipulations to prevent potential investment.

Ms. Vinroot appreciated the empathy and support from the Board on the issue. She noted all of the recommendations would be communicated to collaborate on a more comprehensive solution to present in the near future.

Mr. Icenhour inquired on the annual number of homeless individuals in the City of Williamsburg.

Ms. Vinroot noted the Point in Time (PIN) count for the region was conducted by The Greater Virginia Peninsula Homelessness Consortium annually.

Mr. McGlennon noted approximately 35 were in James City County in a follow-up.

Ms. Vinroot further noted the count reflected whether individual or family, additionally the PIN was conducted in January annually to provide an accurate comparison. Ms. Vinroot noted a trend of decrease in numbers.

Mr. Icenhour asked about the number of applicants on the voucher waiting list.

Ms. Vinroot noted under a 1,000 applicants were on the waiting list.

Mr. Icenhour noted James City County was serving 190 and approximately 1,000 potential applicants.

Mr. McGlennon inquired if some of the potential applicants were not necessarily homeless, but were instead seeking financial assistance through the Housing Choice Vouchers.

Ms. Vinroot noted any individual can apply to the waiting list; however, there was certain criteria for eligibility.

Mr. Icenhour noted in addition to the homeless individuals, precariously housed individuals were also incorporated into that category.

Ms. Vinroot affirmed that point in various circumstances, but not under long-term sustainability.

Mr. Icenhour noted the challenges of affordability within James City County. He further noted the efforts James City County had made in the past were mainly focused on housing for purchase, including, a program called Soft Second Mortgage. Mr. Icenhour noted the dilemma with affordable housing was once the house sold, it was no longer affordable. Mr. Icenhour recommended focusing efforts on the rental market. Mr. Icenhour noted acquiring land and collaborating with local organizations and private partnerships to build affordable renting opportunities. Mr. Icenhour inquired on a single-site development versus increasing housing vouchers, seeking recommendations on the most effective approach and cost- efficient route.

Ms. Vinroot noted along with the recommendations, the department would supply the financial costs. She further noted collaborating with a private partnership would minimize the costs on the County.

Ms. Watson noted varying criteria for homelessness based on school data for permanent addresses versus housing in hotels.

Ms. Sadler thanked Ms. Watson for the presentation.

Ms. Larson noted concerns of zoning a single-site development could create challenges to include citizens, number of homeless children in one school, and implementing support services.

Ms. Watson noted single-site development was a short-term relief opportunity and may not have such a substantial impact to the concerns.

Ms. Grace Boone, Director of General Services, addressed the Board introducing Ms. Cassie Cordova, the County’s Environmental Sustainability Coordinator. Ms. Boone noted the PowerPoint presentation and introduced Mr. Chris Lund, Senior Vice President of Gershman, Brickner & Bratton, Inc. (GBB), an international solid waste management consulting firm.

Mr. Lund addressed the Board. Mr. Lund noted that GBB’s mission was to provide more innovative, sustainable, and economical solutions to better serve the community and environment. Mr. Lund pointed out James City County’s current solid waste management did not include curbside trash collection and that all citizens contract directly through a private vendor or through a homeowners association to provide service. He noted the County provided three convenience centers, which included various services such as trash collection, bulk removal fee, leaf collection, drop off, and collection. Mr. Lund added the County provided a curbside recycling collection service which required a contract and a monthly fee. Mr. Lund noted the solid waste study would ask the pertinent questions to determine whether trash collection in the district would be an option and would be conducted over the next several months with the findings available to the Board in late fall. Mr. Lund noted there would be an opportunity for public input, with one option, adding the study would being a phone survey. Mr. Lund mentioned various questions would be incorporated in the study and noted potential advantages and other factors of the study.

Mr. Icenhour asked on the timeframe in which the phone survey would begin.

Mr. Lund stated the phone survey would begin in the next couple of weeks, with August as the timeframe.

Mr. McGlennon inquired on the verbiage that would be included on the survey to indicate recommended payment options for service.

Mr. Lund noted several revisions of the survey and verbiage had not been finalized.

Mr. McGlennon expressed his concern of impacts to the County’s current local vendors. Mr. McGlennon suggested providing the details on addressing that concern in the final report.

Ms. Sadler recommended a text link opposed to a phone survey. Ms. Sadler expressed her concern of citizens in rural areas of the County who do not participate in trash services and the challenge of getting a better representation of those individuals was in question.

Mr. Hipple noted the challenge of getting an equal amount of individuals from several districts of the County to obtain an accurate representation of the citizens’ needs.

Mr. Lund mentioned the survey would be able to identify what part of the district based on physical address for distribution purposes.

Mr. Hipple suggested a County-run pickup to allow the County to control professional services. Mr. Hipple expressed his concerns with recycling challenges.

Mr. Lund noted several communities were having similar challenges with recycling. He further noted the need to develop infrastructure to alleviate these concerns.

Ms. Larson inquired on how to obtain a list of local trash providers in the County. Ms. Larson also addressed her concerns with local trash businesses and lack of debris coverings on their trucks, resulting in excess litter and additional expenses.

Ms. Boone mentioned correspondence had been sent out to the Business License Office to obtain the requested information. Ms. Boone remarked on the points mentioned above and the challenges were being addressed with the Police Department directly.

Ms. Larson expressed her concerns with contracting out services. She recommended reviewing the pros and cons of both options on in-house or contract.

Mr. McGlennon suggested a website where the public could comment.

Ms. Boone noted providing correspondence to notify County residents of the survey and encouragement to provide necessary feedback.

Discussion ensued.

The Board thanked Mr. Lund for the presentation.

Mr. Hipple asked if any Board member wished to pull or discuss any items.

Ms. Sadler requested Item No. 11 be pulled for further discussion.

Ms. Sadler asked Ms. Dianna Moorman, Director of Elections and General Registrar, to address the Board on Item No. 11.

Ms. Moorman stated the concern was outdated pollbooks that continue to fail. Ms. Moorman noted the Department of Elections’ main focus was on election security and had decertified the current pollbooks, requiring certain new software to be installed. Ms. Moorman further noted the current pollbooks did not have the capability and memory to download the mandatory software program. Ms. Moorman mentioned the department had been using the Poll Pads and was requesting the County purchase additional Poll Pads. Ms. Moorman stated the Poll Pads had been used at the Vote Center since the Presidential Election in 2020. Ms. Moorman addressed positive feedback on Poll Pads including security, speed, and usage for the Election Officers, as well as increased speed for voter check-in time. Ms. Moorman remarked voter check-in time had been almost cut in half using Poll Pads. Ms. Moorman expressed her positive experience with the Poll Pads to ensure security certification was met with the Department of Elections and updated technology to use on Election Day.

Ms. Sadler asked Ms. Moorman if she felt confident in the Poll Pads security.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes. She noted on Election Day there was a requirement prohibiting use of the Cloud. Ms. Moorman further noted she was a Cloud advocate for tracking efficiency. Ms. Moorman commented on the additional built-in security, with Poll Pads vetted by the FBI, Homeland Security, and many other similar security organizations. Ms. Moorman noted the reduced amount of vendors as another security measure.

Ms. Sadler inquired if the voting device used were part of systems in question.

Ms. Moorman stated no, the devices in question were voting systems. Ms. Moorman noted this device was an Electronic Poll Pad. Ms. Moorman further noted the only information put on the devices was available through the Freedom of Information Act. Ms. Moorman added citizen information was redacted for further security purposes. Ms. Moorman commented on the accuracy of the check-in count and continued to express high positive feedback on the Electronic Poll Pad system.

Ms. Sadler wanted to verify funding was from the County.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes.

Mr. Icenhour asked how many Poll Pads the County was buying.

Ms. Moorman stated 130 Electronic Poll Pads would be purchased. Ms. Moorman noted the cost includes Ipads, cases, software support, and printers.

Mr. Icenhour asked if the Voter Registration list was a public docket.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes.

Mr. Icenhour noted although Voter Registration list could be used through the Cloud, it was a public document, allowing alternative ways to access. Mr. Icenhour asked Ms. Moorman if the Cloud usage on Election Day was prohibited.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes. Ms. Moorman noted potential discussion with the Commissioner of Elections and the Information Resources Management Department for use of the Cloud base on Election Day. Ms. Moorman further noted concern if the Cloud was accessible for 45 days prior to Election Day, would one additional day be a factor. Ms. Moorman mentioned tracking daily efficiency, which included ballots issued daily and check-in count.

Mr. Icenhour noted the process of casting and counting a ballot without an internet connection to ensure potential hacking was not possible.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes, voter turnout and election results were separate entities therefore not connected. Ms. Moorman noted numbers were compared to ensure tracking efficiency. Ms. Moorman further noted paper ballots were a separate entity in which voting equipment was not considered.

Ms. Sadler asked if the Cloud was connected during the election season.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes, it was connected to the secure server at the Vote Center.

Ms. Sadler questioned the concern of security precautions.

Ms. Moorman commented it was strictly used for voter turnout, to determine who checked in and at what time. Ms. Moorman noted it did not track information such as voter elections results and other criteria. She further noted the receipts were pertinent if any questions arose which would allow comparison of what was on the receipt versus the Electronic Poll Pad.

Mr. McGlennon inquired if the number of votes that were actually casted would be a check of numbers reflected in the pollbooks in terms of turnout and participation.

Ms. Moorman confirmed yes. Ms. Moorman pointed out the voting equipment used was extremely secure. Ms. Moorman noted the voting equipment were never connected to the Cloud, Bluetooth, or any Wireless server.

Ms. Sharon Day, Director of Financial and Management Services, addressed the Board to provide an update on the ARPA funding, as well as discuss the next potential steps. Ms. Day noted Congress and President Biden approved a $1.9 trillion relief package in March 2021. Ms. Day further noted the main focus was the local component. Ms. Day mentioned the ARPA funding came directly to the locality as opposed to being distributed by the state. Ms. Day highlighted the timelines in which $14.8 million ARPA funding would be allocated. Ms. Day noted the allocations would be distributed in two separate equal components, with the first allocation of $7.4 million received in May 2021. Ms. Day further noted a public hearing and Board appropriation was held in June 2021. Ms. Day stated the second allotment of $7.4 million would be anticipated in May 2022, in which a public hearing would take place and a Board appropriation would be requested. Ms. Day addressed the ARPA funding guidelines which require all costs be obligated by December 2024 with those costs to be spent by December 2026. Ms. Day noted the ARPA funding terms of allowable uses included responding to the COVID-19 health emergency or its negative economic impacts, providing premium pay to essential workers of local government, providing government services to the extent of revenue reductions due to the public health emergency, and making necessary investments in water, sewer, or broadband infrastructure. Ms. Day recommended using the allocated money towards the revenue loss component as it was the most flexible in terms of use. Ms. Day explained the calculation revenue formula. Ms. Day addressed the terms for which the money could not be used included the following: reduce taxes or delay a tax increase, spend on pension deposits, pay down debt, legal settlements or judgments, and increase reserves. Ms. Day addressed the eligible terms which included the following: impacted industries, small business support, housing assistance, transportation projects, capital improvement projects, and water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure. Ms. Day recommended having a public hearing to obtain community feedback as well as the Board’s insight. Ms. Day noted the ARPA funding was put into a separate fund for various factors. Ms. Day mentioned various criteria for ARPA funding such as, developing an internal process to vet and prioritize requests, monitor sub-recipients, ensure proper coding and adequate supporting documentation, monitor FAQs from the Treasury, participate in federal, state, and local meetings, prepare and submit required periodic reporting on the use of funds as ARPA was subject to audit at local, state, and federal levels, and exercise caution given the temporary nature of these funds.

Ms. Larson recommended utilizing the funds for the hospitality industry. Ms. Larson expressed the County was a tourism town and assisting those local businesses that were impacted was a priority.

Ms. Day mentioned developing a form for local businesses to supply information. She noted with regards to the hospitality industry, ARPA funding focus was to assist with reopening as opposed to responding to the pandemic. Ms. Day noted varying criteria; however, developing a form would provide necessary guidance.

Mr. Hipple recommended utilizing the funds for fiber optics or broadband infrastructure. He expressed he would like to see every home in James City County have internet. Mr. Hipple noted New Kent County was beginning fiber optic infrastructure.

Mr. McGlennon inquired on the timeframe of the expenditures.

Ms. Day commented December 2024 to obligate and December 2026 to make payments.

Mr. McGlennon asked if the money could be spent over several years.

Ms. Day confirmed yes, adding that was the recommendation from the Treasury.

Mr. McGlennon inquired on utilizing funding for potential housing issues.

Ms. Day confirmed yes and mentioned housing would lend itself very well in regard to a regional effort. Ms. Day noted the state was using some of its ARPA funding to implement broadband and address housing issues. Ms. Day further noted looking into what potential opportunities might be available.

Mr. Brad Rinehimer, Assistant County Administrator, addressed the Board to discuss the following properties of 493, 495, and 497 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, Virginia. Mr. Rinehimer noted the owners of the buildings reached out to the County regarding a potential purchase. Mr. Rinehimer further noted after negotiating, an agreement was made on a maximum price of $6.5 million, a maximum $100,000 in closing costs, and a maximum $400,000 in renovations to provide services needed. Mr. Rinehimer further noted potentially relocating the Voter Registrar’s Office to one of the buildings. Mr. Rinehimer mentioned after reviewing the building costs and in order to proceed, it would require amending the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 budget, as the asking price was 1% over the FY22 budget. Mr. Rinehimer added the resolution presented would amend the budget to allow $7 million from the County’s fund balance to be used towards purchasing the buildings, and authorized the County Administrator to sign off once a finalized negotiation was made. Mr. Rinehimer noted commercial building inspections were still being conducted, authorizing up to the amounts previously referenced.

Mr. Hipple opened the Public Hearing.

Mr. Hipple closed the Public Hearing as there were no speakers.

Mr. Kinsman addressed the Board regarding the bond issuance for the Virginia United Methodist Homes of Williamsburg Inc. to approve Economic Development Authority's (EDA) issuance of up to $65 million in revenue bonds in order to refinance existing bonds and other support for WindsorMeade. Mr. Kinsman noted these were pass through bonds which are not a debt of the County nor the EDA. Mr. Kinsman further noted a meeting was held, with a unanimous vote to approve the request. Mr. Kinsman introduced Mr. T.W. Bruno, Bond Council for Virginia United Methodist Homes of Williamsburg. Mr. Kinsman added the County’s bondsman, Mr. Chris Kulp, was on the telephone via Zoom.

Mr. Bruno addressed the Board on behalf of Virginia United Methodist Homes of Williamsburg Inc. to seek approval of the application request. Mr. Bruno noted a history of previous bond issuances since 2007. Mr. Bruno further noted specific details on this issuance.

Mr. McGlennon inquired if the previous bond of $50 million had been utilized.

Mr. Bruno confirmed yes it was used; however, it was utilized to pay off existing debt from a previous issuance.

Ms. Sadler noted she participated in the clean-up at Audrey Simpson Jones Park in Toano, Virginia. Ms. Sadler added James City County Police Department (JCCPD) also participated in the efforts. Ms. Sadler also mentioned attending the grand opening of Kid Zone at the James City County Library. Ms. Sadler noted she attended a Ruritan dinner. Ms. Sadler further noted she attended a meeting and Ms. Kate Sipes, Assistant Director of Economic Development, provided a presentation on the Owens-Illinois Bottle Recycling Program. Ms. Sadler stated she had attended a Ruritan concert which included fundraising to offer scholarships. Ms. Sadler added she was planning on attending the EDA meeting, but was interrupted by a flat tire. Ms. Sadler was assured it was a brief and productive meeting.

Mr. Icenhour noted he attended Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization (HRTPO) and Hampton Roads Planning District Committee (HRPDC) meetings. Mr. Icenhour further noted pullback of railroad authority, observed an increased number of youth riding the trains, restoring services, and looking into a new passenger rail line between Washington, D.C. and Stafford, Virginia. Mr. Icenhour added during the HRPDC Meeting, there was discussion on offshore wind projects and legislative agenda items which included the Interstate 64 gap at mile 29. Mr. Icenhour mentioned a Business Council meeting held on July 21, which included a presentation by Dominion Offshore Wind. The presentation included implementing 25% of Virginia customers’ power and the process. Mr. Icenhour mentioned information in relation to COVID-19 patients currently hospitalized at Sentara Hospital who were not vaccinated. Mr. Icenhour mentioned the Business Council FY22 budget and surplus revenue details. Mr. Icenhour touched on the fiber optics topic and various questions that may arise if the County were to implement fiber optics or broadband. Mr. Icenhour recommended additional information in order to further the discussion.

Mr. Hipple noted he would provide further information.

Ms. Larson asked for a follow-up on the Business Council since the resignation of Ms. Von Gilbreath from the Greater Williamsburg Partnership (GWP). Ms. Larson requested an update noting the County contributes funding to the organization.

Mr. Stevens noted an agreement existed between the County and the Chamber. He further noted payment continued to be made per the agreement currently. Mr. Stevens stated the other localities were also making payments to the GWP with Ms. Gilbreath’s salary being a significant part of the payments. He noted the Business Council was moving forward to fill her vacant position quickly. Mr. Stevens noted the localities had requested several months to review the process and identify the best approach. He further noted ongoing evaluation and discussion with Mr. Doug Smith, Hampton Roads Alliance, for a possible opportunity there or to maintain the current economic development model with the GWP housed at the Chamber. Mr. Stevens noted additional information would be forthcoming with September as the target date for recommendation or direction.

Ms. Larson asked if the County was continuing to pay the fee.

Mr. Stevens noted the County had already paid the annual amount. He further noted the County was still expecting the services, but added Ms. Gilbreath’s salary had been a large part of the money.

Ms. Larson stated she had attended the Olde Towne Medical Board meeting. Ms. Larson noted partnership with Colonial Behavioral Health was unlikely. Ms. Larson further noted The Williamsburg Health Foundation had provided additional information. Ms. Larson mentioned on July 21, she had attended a volunteer breakfast at the Salvation Army. She expressed her gratitude for all the Salvation Army does for our community. Ms. Larson also noted attending a Tourism Council meeting which addressed an increase in visitation. Ms. Larson further noted daily rates had almost doubled since 2019. Ms. Larson pointed out while occupancy rates were lower than normal, the rates were still good. Ms. Larson noted a presentation presented by Mr. Eric Terry, President of the Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association. Ms. Larson further noted Ms. Victoria Cimino, CEO of Williamsburg Tourism Council, allowed opportunity to hear from industry experts. Ms. Larson mentioned individuals were welcome to join with in-person meetings beginning in September. Ms. Larson questioned the policy on mask mandating if unvaccinated.

Mr. Stevens remarked if unvaccinated individuals are indoors, they should be wearing masks. Mr. Stevens noted the mask policy had not been aggressively monitored; however, if there was a circumstance in which an individual was known to be unvaccinated, not wearing a mask, and was reported, then it would be addressed accordingly.

Ms. Larson expressed her concern of the increased number of cases and vaccinated individuals being exposed to the COVID-19 delta variant strand. Ms. Larson touched on the safety of protecting our community. Ms. Larson spoke about the lack of pool space in our County. She noted a neighborhood in her district went from being a community pool to becoming a practice facility year-round for a swim club. Ms. Larson mentioned the swim club previously used Eastern State Hospital’s pool; however, since the property is for sale and there was an issue with the pool, Eastern State Hospital had chosen not to invest in the infrastructure. Ms. Larson noted the concerns of the swim club moving its operations to the neighborhood pool and how this had now caused an issue with the neighborhood residents. Ms. Larson remarked she believed it would be an on-going issue in our area and recommended a procedure in which the community could vote on behalf of decisions made.

Mr. Stevens noted looking into that issue to see how it could be addressed with future changes.

Mr. McGlennon noted he met with Ms. Carol Sale, President and CEO of Williamsburg Community Health Foundation, to discuss new direction and more details would be provided at a later date. Mr. McGlennon further noted he attended Little Zion Baptist Church Grove Community Meet and Greet, which was held at the Grove Playground. Mr. McGlennon mentioned the numerous participants involved and thanked everyone for their efforts.

Ms. Larson expressed her gratitude to Mr. Carnifax for his tenure as Interim Assistant County Administrator.

Ms. Sadler thanked all the First Responders for their efforts.

Mr. Hipple stated he also had a meeting with Ms. Sale on the new direction. Mr. Hipple mentioned Fort Eustis had a pool which allowed groups to use as a potential option.

Ms. Larson remarked she believed Fort Eustis exclusively dealt with the Coast Guard Blue Dolphins.

Mr. Hipple noted the County’s Fire Department had been called to Ms. Sadler’s district for an incident. Mr. Hipple and Mr. Stevens were able to stop by to thank all departments for their efforts and safety measures in the event. Mr. Hipple stated his time as Chairman for Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance (HRMFFA) had been completed, and the new Chairman had taken over. Mr. Hipple noted no August meetings for the Board of Supervisors.

Mr. Stevens noted hurricane season was approaching, reminding families to have enough supplies on hand to take care of themselves for a period of three days. Mr. Stevens further noted Jamestown Jams was starting back up on Friday, July 30, with gates opening at 5:30 p.m. and concert starting at 6 p.m. with Good Shot Judy performing. Mr. Stevens recognized Mr. John Carnifax and Mr. Jason Purse for their interim roles.

At approximately 3:24 p.m., the Board entered Closed Session.

At approximately 5:15 p.m., the Board re-entered Open Session.

A motion to Certify the Board only spoke about those items indicated that it would speak about in Closed Session was made by John McGlennon, the motion result was Passed.

AYES: 5   NAYS: 0   ABSTAIN: 0   ABSENT: 0

Ayes: Hipple, Icenhour Jr, Larson, McGlennon, Sadler

A motion to Appoint Ms. Teresa Christian to the Colonial Behavioral Health Board for a term that would expire June 30, 2024, and Mr. Ryan Ashe for a term that would expire on June 30, 2024 was made by John McGlennon, the motion result was Passed.

AYES: 5   NAYS: 0   ABSTAIN: 0   ABSENT: 0
Ayes: Hipple, Icenhour Jr, Larson, McGlennon, Sadler

A motion to Appoint Ms. Laura Hill to the Social Services Advisory Board, Re-appoint for Mr. Christopher McDonald and Mr. Lawrence Goldstein for terms that expire September 30, 2025, the motion result was Passed.
AYES: 5   NAYS: 0   ABSTAIN: 0   ABSENT: 0
Ayes: Hipple, Icenhour Jr, Larson, McGlennon, Sadler

A motion to Appoint Ms. Ellen Gida to the Economic Development Authority for a four-year term that would end on August 1, 2025 was made by John McGlennon, the motion result was Passed.
AYES: 5   NAYS: 0   ABSTAIN: 0   ABSENT: 0
Ayes: Hipple, Icenhour Jr, Larson, McGlennon, Sadler

At approximately 5:17 p.m., Mr. Hipple adjourned the Board of Supervisors.