The Shadow
ALLEGHANY COUNTY, Va (VR) The Alleghany County Board of Supervisors held its first meeting of the new year Monday night, re-electing its leadership, updating the county’s comprehensive plan, and hearing public comments on community growth, infrastructure, and future priorities.
The meeting, called to order by board chairman Matthew Garten, opened with a formal invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance.
“We thank you for this wonderful new year you’ve created for us,” Mrs. Cox offered during the prayer, “and for each and every person that’s here tonight.”
In its annual organizational process, the board elected new officers. Nominations for chairman and vice chairman were swiftly taken, with Garten voted as chairman for the 2026 county year, and Bennett as vice chairman. Roll call votes confirmed unanimous support for both appointments.
Continuing the meeting’s housekeeping business, the board approved the county’s code of ethics and board files. Both documents were unchanged from the previous year. Motions to approve each were offered by Mr. Nicely and seconded by colleagues before passing unanimously in the call. Minutes from the December meeting were also submitted and approved without correction.
A public hearing was opened to consider a special use permit allowing Lucas Nicely and Heather McCully to place a manufactured home on four parcels in the Selma area of the Jackson River District. Mrs. Stull outlined how the proposed home met zoning requirements and conformed with neighborhood character, noting the availability of utilities and the absence of flood hazards.
“There should be no detrimental effect or impact on existing utilities or services,” the report summarized. Board members asked clarifying questions before public comments were solicited, though no citizens chose to speak. A motion to approve the permit was carried by roll call without opposition.
The board’s agenda then turned to the county’s comprehensive plan, a pivotal document guiding development, infrastructure, and land use. County staff explained that updates included fresh data from the 2024 census, new community goals, and collaborative input from the City of Covington.
“We’re kind of a new trial basis here,” explained Stull, noting that Alleghany County and Covington’s joint plan marked the first such initiative in Virginia. The updates included new housing analysis, updates to the school system, and transportation changes. The process involved public notices and opportunities for citizen input, with the latest draft made available online and at county offices.
During public comment, Pam Lightfoot voiced appreciation for the plan but noted inconsistencies regarding historic districts and municipal coordination.
“Consistency could be a bit better,” they suggested, encouraging collaboration among local municipalities. County leadership acknowledged the feedback and emphasized ongoing work to refine and coordinate the region’s planning efforts.
After a brief discussion, the board voted to waive further hearings and adopted the updated comprehensive plan.
The meeting also featured local civic engagement as Julie Breckenridge introduced herself as the newly appointed chairperson of the Alleghany County Covington Democratic Committee. Breckenridge described the committee’s efforts to foster civic involvement, push for strong public services, and connect citizens with information and opportunities. Details about joining and upcoming meetings were provided.
Susan Hammond of the Virginia Department of Transportation provided a status report on local roadwork, noting continued patching, brush removal, and road grading. Board members and residents asked about ongoing bridge repairs and recent concerns regarding the roadways. Hammond confirmed that the project was a high priority, with additional updates to follow.
In new business, the board approved supplemental appropriations for public safety grants and public works insurance formal measures to account for funds received outside the standard budget process. Additionally, the board reappointed Mr. Kenneth Yeagley to the Board of Building Code Appeals, confirming his willingness to serve another term.
The county’s administrator addressed the board with updates from a December planning session and summarized progress on several fronts, including:
The near completion of demolition work at the Wells Fargo building, targeted for new court services.
Collaboration with Virginia Housing on market studies and planning for future residential development.
Recruitment for the new Public Works Director.
A $35,000 grant for remediation work at the Rosedale building, where social services are based.
Ongoing conversations about water and sewer needs in Iron Gate and regional municipal partnerships.
Several board members expressed gratitude for staff diligence and community involvement, with special thanks offered for the substantial work updating the comprehensive plan and for those engaged in public comment.
The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Chairman Garten, who welcomed new board members and looked forward to a successful year. The board then moved to a closed session to discuss property acquisition and disposition pursuant to state law.
