The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – The Covington City Council met on Tuesday, April 8, to address several key government matters, including tax relief measures, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives. The meeting began with a prayer from Pastor Doug Hollenbeck and a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of civic engagement for the evening’s proceedings.
Council members unanimously approved several significant resolutions that will have an impact on the local community. A notable ordinance passed was 0-2502, which provides a tax exemption for the widows of first responders who die in the line of duty. Chief Smith explained the ordinance would allow families of police, firefighters, and emergency workers who lost their lives serving the community to qualify for tax relief. The council approved a final payment of $72,789.54 to Thompson and Litton for their work on the EQ basin project. City officials noted this payment completes all financial obligations for the project.
In a show of community support, the council voted to accept a donation of $2,500 to the Alleghany Humane Society. The funds provided by Smurfit West Rock will support their spay and neuter programs for local pets. City Manager Allen Dressler highlighted several ongoing and upcoming projects during his report. A significant development had to do with the Rivermont project and a collaboration with Landmark from North Carolina. The city hopes the project will go out to bid within the next 60 days.
Infrastructure improvements are also on the horizon. The Hawthorne Street Bridge project is scheduled to go out to bid in July or August, with repairs addressing surface issues discovered during initial inspections. Additionally, the city is working diligently on sewer line replacement and street paving on many downtown Covington streets, and the public’s patience and cooperation are much appreciated. The council also celebrated upcoming community events.
An Easter Parade is planned for this weekend, followed by the spring/summer youth sports season opening at the Jackson River Sport Complex. The city expects over eight hundred young athletes to participate in baseball and softball leagues.
A notable educational initiative involves a partnership with Virginia Tech Applied Research Corporation. The program aims to engage middle school students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities, utilizing the city’s greenhouse and hydroponic development as a learning laboratory.
Board and commission appointments were another key agenda item. Julie Stanley was appointed to the Industrial Development Authority, while Lee Roe was selected for the Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation. Gene Mundy and John Crowder were appointed to the Planning Commission.
City Manager Dressler expressed excitement about the community’s ongoing development, particularly highlighting the potential of local business partnerships and youth engagement programs. He praised the recent Tea Party event hosted by Old Town Covington and upcoming community initiatives. The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to infrastructure improvement, community support, and youth development. From tax relief for first responders’ families to educational STEM programs, the council demonstrated a comprehensive approach to municipal governance. As Covington continues to evolve, these resolutions and initiatives suggest a forward-looking strategy that balances economic development with the welfare of the community. The next city council meeting will continue to address these matters and put emphasis on the community’s needs, with various board committees scheduled to meet in the coming weeks.
The meeting adjourned with unanimous approval from council members, reflecting a continued collaborative approach to governing the City of Covington.
