The Shadow
LOW MOOR, Va. (VR) – On Tuesday, August 5th the Alleghany Board of Supervisors met at the government complex in Low Moor. The meeting opened with a public hearing to adjust the tax filing requirements for those who provide accommodations in the area in the form of AirBnB or VRBO rentals.
The board members unanimously agreed to accept a yearly tax filing instead of the monthly reporting requirements previously required. Susan Hammond, VDOT Resident Engineer, discussed many updates to county roads, including several repairs that were needed due to high levels of rainfall and flooding. Ms. Hammond also updated the board on the Rt. 42 bridge closure indicating that the bridge repairs and work were ongoing and behind schedule due to rainfall over the last month. Ms. Hammond indicated that the bridge closure on Rt. 42 from 7pm-7am each night would continue for the next six weeks while repairs to the bridge are completed.
In an honorary tribute to long-time area resident and respected business man, Mr. William “Lance” Carson, the board introduced a resolution of respect to him and his family. Mr. Garten, Board Chair, emphasized Mr. Carson’s service across many community organizations and recognized his loyalty to
area residents in all the Mr. Carson was able to accomplish.
Suzanne Adcock then presented a request from the Department of Public Safety to approve enhanced VRS retirement contributions for newly hired full-time firefighters and EMTS. The request was approved unanimously in support of the efforts of each individual to serve the community.
Mr. McFadyen, Alleghany County Administrator shared his update, including an exciting opportunity to explore housing needs and interventions in an upcoming housing summit that will take place on August 14th , 2025 at Mountain Gateway. McFadyen also highlighted an upcoming meeting on August 26, 2025 at Dunlap Fire House to discuss Broadband Initiatives and explore high-speed internet access for rural families.
The most pressing discussion came during board member comments when Dr. Goings offered passionate remarks regarding the Alleghany Highlands Public Schools and the recent release of state data for the Department of Education indicating low test scores on required state evaluations. Goings
raised heated concern over what actions were being taken to emphasize attendance and expressed concern beyond a parental level saying, “This is a community effort.”
The board will hold their next meeting on September 2, 2025 at 7pm.
