The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany County Board of Supervisors took several significant actions at their Nov. 6 meeting, including approving funding for broadband expansion and the purchase of property for economic development.
The board first held a public hearing to consider an amendment to the county’s public safety code, establishing a Department of Public Safety and Emergency Services. Jonathan Fitch, a county official, explained the three-part amendment, which brings the county into compliance with state laws and labor regulations.
“This piece of code is kind of broken down into three separate titles,” Fitch said. “Point one through point three, establishes the Department of Public Safety, which is actually necessary for us to obtain our licensing through the state.”
The board unanimously approved the amendment after no public comments were made. The board then held a second public hearing regarding amendments to the county’s operating budget for fiscal year 2024-2025. Suzanne Adcock, another county official, detailed two key items: First, the county received $2.685 million in Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) funding to expand broadband access in the western part of Alleghany County. Adcock noted that the project management team had already held its first meeting, a requirement of the VHCD grant.
“Everything’s looking good, and I can step away now if anybody from the public may want to speak on this,” Suzanne said.
The second budget amendment was for $1.792 million to acquire property for economic development purposes. Adcock explained that the money was available in the county’s fund balance to cover this purchase. After no public comments, the board unanimously approved both budget amendments.
The board then heard an update from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) on its October maintenance activities, including pipe flushing, brush removal, asphalt patching, and mowing. While VDOT representative Suzan Hammond was not present, the board opted not to ask any questions, moving on to the next agenda item.
A significant discussion centered around the potential purchase of property in Clifton Forge, located at a key interstate interchange. Jonathan Fitch explained that the county had identified this as a prime economic development opportunity.
“We’ve talked about the purchase of the Cliftondale Park at one of our interstate interchanges, and come to the conclusion that potentially, we as the county can help spark some of the economic development and that needs to happen at that particular interchange,” Fitch said.
Several board members expressed support for the acquisition, noting the success of the nearby distribution center and the potential to capitalize on the interstate exposure.
“If you look at Loves, it’s been a significant surprise for the area,” said Board Chair John Smith. “If we could land something else like that, and generate income at an interstate exit. It’s been a pleasure, and it’s really eased a lot of tax burden, because we haven’t had to raise taxes, with the taxes they provide.”
After discussing the environmental studies and development requirements, the board unanimously approved the property purchase.
The meeting also included updates on other county initiatives, such as the progress of the Jackson River Trail Phase Five project and improvements to Rosedale Park using VDOT funds. During the public comment period, Susan Going of the Clifton Forge Women’s Club promoted the group’s upcoming holiday home tour and silent auction, events that raise funds for local community projects. Board members also took time to congratulate the Area 18 Special Olympics team, which recently returned from the Virginia Beach competition with several gold, silver, and bronze medals.
As the meeting drew to a close, board members expressed gratitude to veterans and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. The board then voted to adjourn to a closed session to discuss a personnel matter.
Overall, the Alleghany County Board of Supervisors took decisive action to expand broadband access, support economic development, and maintain the county’s infrastructure during the Nov. 6 meeting.
